bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An anchoring complex recruits katanin for microtubule severing at the plant cortical nucleation sites
Authors: Yagi Noriyoshi , Kato Takehide , Matsunaga Sachihiro , Ehrhardt David W. , Nakamura Masayoshi , Hashimoto Takashi
Published: June 2021

Microtubules are severed by katanin at distinct cellular locations to facilitate reorientation or amplification of dynamic microtubule arrays, but katanin targeting mechanisms are poorly understood. Here we show that a centrosomal microtubule-anchoring complex is used to recruit katanin in acentrosomal plant cells. The conserved protein complex of Msd1 (also known as SSX2IP) and Wdr8 is localized at microtubule nucleation sites along the microtubule lattice in interphase Arabidopsis cells. Katanin is recruited to these sites for efficient release of newly formed daughter microtubules. Our cell biological and genetic studies demonstrate that Msd1-Wdr8 acts as a specific katanin recruitment factor to cortical nucleation sites (but not to microtubule crossover sites) and stabilizes the association of daughter microtubule minus ends to their nucleation sites until they become severed by katanin. Molecular coupling of sequential anchoring and severing events by the evolutionarily conserved complex renders microtubule release under tight control of katanin activity.
Vpr counteracts the restriction of LAPTM5 to promote HIV-1 infection in macrophages
Authors: Zhao Li , Wang Shumei , Xu Meng , He Yang , Zhang Xiaowei , Xiong Ying , Sun Hong , Ding Haibo , Geng Wenqing , Shang Hong , Liang Guoxin
Published: June 2021

The HIV-1 accessory proteins Vif, Vpu, and Nef can promote infection by overcoming the inhibitory effects of the host cell restriction factors APOBEC3G, Tetherin, and SERINC5, respectively. However, how the HIV-1 accessory protein Vpr enhances infection in macrophages but not in CD4+ T cells remains elusive. Here, we report that Vpr counteracts lysosomal-associated transmembrane protein 5 (LAPTM5), a potent inhibitor of HIV-1 particle infectivity, to enhance HIV-1 infection in macrophages. LAPTM5 transports HIV-1 envelope glycoproteins to lysosomes for degradation, thereby inhibiting virion infectivity. Vpr counteracts the restrictive effects of LAPTM5 by triggering its degradation via DCAF1. In the absence of Vpr, the silencing of LAPTM5 precisely phenocopied the effect of Vpr on HIV-1 infection. In contrast, Vpr did not enhance HIV-1 infection in the absence of LAPTM5. Moreover, LAPTM5 was highly expressed in macrophages but not in CD4+ T lymphocytes. Re-expressing LAPTM5 reconstituted the Vpr-dependent promotion of HIV-1 infection in primary CD4+ T cells, as observed in macrophages. Herein, we demonstrate the molecular mechanism used by Vpr to overcome LAPTM5 restriction in macrophages, providing a potential strategy for anti-HIV/AIDS therapeutics.
Identifying the key steps determining the selectivity of toluene methylation with methanol over HZSM-5
Authors: Chen Qingteng , Liu Jian , Yang Bo
Published: June 2021

Methylation of toluene with methanol to produce p-xylene has been investigated for decades, but the origin of selectivity is still under debate. Here we report computational studies based on ab initio molecular dynamics simulations and free energy sampling methods to identify the key steps determining the selectivity. The steps of toluene methylation to protonated-xylene, deprotonation of protonated-xylenes, and diffusion of xylene in HZSM-5 channels are compared. We find the pathways of formation for protonated p-/m-xylenes have similar free energy barriers. Meanwhile, the methylation is found rate-determining, thus the probability to generate p-/m-xylenes at the active site are similar. We then find that the diffusion for m-xylene along the zigzag channel is more difficult than its isomerization to p-xylene, which in turn further promotes the selectivity of p-xylene formation. These insights obtained at the molecular level are crucial for further development of high-performance zeolite catalysts for toluene methylation.
Straintronics with van der Waals materials
Authors: Miao Feng , Liang Shi-Jun , Cheng Bin
Published: June 2021

With the outstanding mechanical properties, van der Waals (vdW) materials have attracted extensive attention in the research of straintronics in the past decade. In this perspective, we first review the recent progresses of the straintronics with vdW materials based on three different lattice deformation modes, i.e., in-plane strain, out-of-plane strain, and heterostrain. Then we discuss the current technique challenges in this field, and finally provide our perspectives on future research directions for both fundamental physics and electronic applications.
Coexistence of dynamical delocalization and spectral localization through stochastic dissipation
Authors: Weidemann Sebastian , Kremer Mark , Longhi Stefano , Szameit Alexander
Published: June 2021

Anderson’s groundbreaking discovery that the presence of stochastic imperfections in a crystal may result in a sudden breakdown of conductivity1 revolutionized our understanding of disordered media. After stimulating decades of studies2, Anderson localization has found applications in various areas of physics3–12. A fundamental assumption in Anderson’s treatment is that no energy is exchanged with the environment. Recently, a number of studies shed new light on disordered media with dissipation14–22. In particular it has been predicted that random fluctuations solely in the dissipation, introduced by the underlying potential, could exponentially localize all eigenstates (spectral localization)14, similar to the original case without dissipation that Anderson considered. We show in theory and experiment that uncorrelated disordered dissipation can simultaneously cause spectral localization and wave spreading (dynamical delocalization). This discovery implies the breakdown of the commonly known correspondence between spectral and dynamical localization known from the Hermitian Anderson model with uncorrelated disorder.
Author Correction: The lichen secondary metabolite atranorin suppresses lung cancer cell motility and tumorigenesis
Authors: Zhou Rui , Yang Yi , Park So-Yeon , Nguyen Thanh Thi , Seo Young-Woo , Lee Kyung Hwa , Lee Jae Hyuk , Kim Kyung Keun , Hur Jae-Seoun , Kim Hangun
Published: June 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Colonic dialysis can influence gut flora to protect renal function in patients with pre-dialysis chronic kidney disease
Authors: Li Yueming , Dai Minhui , Yan Jianqin , Liu Fang , Wang Xi , Lin Lizhen , Huang Mei , Li Cuifang , Wen Rui , Qin Jiao , Xu Hui
Published: June 2021

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major public health burden around the world. The gut microbiome may contribute to CKD progression and serve as a promising therapeutic target. Colonic dialysis has long been used in China to help remove gut-derived toxins to delay CKD progression. Since disturbances in the gut biome may influence disease progression, we wondered whether colonic dialysis may mitigate the condition by influencing the biome. We compared the gut microbiota, based on 16S rRNA gene sequencing, in fecal samples of 25 patients with CKD (stages 3–5) who were receiving colonic dialysis(group CD), 25 outpatients with CKD not receiving colonic dialysis(group OP), and 34 healthy subjects(group HS). Richness of gut microbiota was similar between patients on colonic dialysis and healthy subjects, and richness in these two groups was significantly higher than that in patients not on colonic dialysis. Colonic dialysis also altered the profile of microbes in the gut of CKD patients, bringing it closer to the profile in healthy subjects. Colonic dialysis may protect renal function in pre-dialysis CKD by mitigating dysbiosis of gut microbiota.
Cold and dry winter conditions are associated with greater SARS-CoV-2 transmission at regional level in western countries during the first epidemic wave
Authors: Landier Jordi , Paireau Juliette , Rebaudet Stanislas , Legendre Eva , Lehot Laurent , Fontanet Arnaud , Cauchemez Simon , Gaudart Jean
Published: June 2021

Higher transmissibility of SARS-CoV-2 in cold and dry weather conditions has been hypothesized since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic but the level of epidemiological evidence remains low. During the first wave of the pandemic, Spain, Italy, France, Portugal, Canada and USA presented an early spread, a heavy COVID-19 burden, and low initial public health response until lockdowns. In a context when testing was limited, we calculated the basic reproduction number (R0) in 63 regions from the growth in regional death counts. After adjusting for population density, early spread of the epidemic, and age structure, temperature and humidity were negatively associated with SARS-CoV-2 transmissibility. A reduction of mean absolute humidity by 1 g/m3 was associated with a 0.15-unit increase of R0. Below 10 °C, a temperature reduction of 1 °C was associated with a 0.16-unit increase of R0. Our results confirm a dependency of SARS-CoV-2 transmissibility to weather conditions in the absence of control measures during the first wave. The transition from summer to winter, corresponding to drop in temperature associated with an overall decrease in absolute humidity, likely contributed to the intensification of the second wave in north-west hemisphere countries. Non-pharmaceutical interventions must be adjusted to account for increased transmissibility in winter conditions.
Fabrication and characterization of resistive double square loop arrays for ultra-wide bandwidth microwave absorption
Authors: Jeong Ji-Young , Lee Je-Ryung , Park Hyeonjin , Jung Joonkyo , Choi Doo-Sun , Jeon Eun-chae , Shin Jonghwa , Han Jun Sae , Je Tae-Jin
Published: June 2021

Microwave absorbers using conductive ink are generally fabricated by printing an array pattern on a substrate to generate electromagnetic fields. However, screen printing processes are difficult to vary the sheet resistance values for different regions of the pattern on the same layer, because the printing process deposits materials at the same height over the entire surface of substrate. In this study, a promising manufacturing process was suggested for engraved resistive double square loop arrays with ultra-wide bandwidth microwave. The developed manufacturing process consists of a micro-end-milling, inking, and planing processes. A 144-number of double square loop array was precisely machined on a polymethyl methacrylate workpiece with the micro-end-milling process. After engraving array structures, the machined surface was completely covered with the developed conductive carbon ink with a sheet resistance of 15 Ω/sq. It was cured at room temperature. Excluding the ink that filled the machined double square loop array, overflowed ink was removed with the planing process to achieve full filled and isolated resistive array patterns. The fabricated microwave absorber showed a small radar cross-section with reflectance less than − 10 dB in the frequency band range of 8.0–14.6 GHz.
Epidemiology of tuberculosis among different occupational groups in Makkah region, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Semilan Hasan M. , Abugad Hassan A. , Mashat Husain M. , Abdel Wahab Moataza M.
Published: June 2021

Each year in Saudi Arabia, the Hajj season represents one of the world’s most significant annual mass gatherings, attracting high proportion of immigrants from different parts of the world in small crowded areas, posing a risk for Tuberculosis (TB) transmission. There is a high potential for TB contact and infection in the workplace as it is transmitted through the air. Most of the studies in Saudi Arabia assessed the TB infection among health care workers. However, the TB incidence rate among other variant occupational groups was not yet determined. This study was conducted to assess the incidence rate of tuberculosis, and determine the risk factors of TB infection among different occupational groups in the Makkah region, Saudi Arabia 2016. A cross-sectional study was carried out based on the secondary data of the patients registered in the Saudi national tuberculosis control and prevention program in 2016. Data were then organized and analyzed for age, gender, nationality, educational level, average monthly wage, average weekly working hours, and occupation of the patients. Occupations were reclassified according to the Saudi Standard Classification of Occupation (SSCO). A total of 1270 cases were included in this study, 300 (23.6%) of them were workers. The incidence rate of TB among workers in the Makkah region was 9 per 100,000 workers compared to 31 per 100,000 persons among the general population in 2016. The TB incidence rate was the highest among occupation of supporting basic engineering with 13 per 100,000 workers in 2016. The highest incidence rate of TB among occupations of supporting basic engineering could be attributed to close contact with the general population in closed spaces for long periods of time, and low socioeconomic status.
Concomitant attenuation of HMGCR expression and activity enhances the growth inhibitory effect of atorvastatin on TGF-β-treated epithelial cancer cells
Authors: Warita Katsuhiko , Ishikawa Takuro , Sugiura Akihiro , Tashiro Jiro , Shimakura Hiroaki , Hosaka Yoshinao Z. , Ohta Ken-ichi , Warita Tomoko , Oltvai Zoltán N.
Published: June 2021

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in primary tumor cells is a key prerequisite for metastasis initiation. Statins, cholesterol-lowering drugs, can delay metastasis formation in vivo and attenuate the growth and proliferation of tumor cells in vitro. The latter effect is stronger in tumor cells with a mesenchymal-like phenotype than in those with an epithelial one. However, the effect of statins on epithelial cancer cells treated with EMT-inducing growth factors such as transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) remains unclear. Here, we examined the effect of atorvastatin on two epithelial cancer cell lines following TGF-β treatment. Atorvastatin-induced growth inhibition was stronger in TGF-β-treated cells than in cells not thusly treated. Moreover, treatment of cells with atorvastatin prior to TGF-β treatment enhanced this effect, which was further potentiated by the simultaneous reduction in the expression of the statin target enzyme, 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase (HMGCR). Dual pharmacological targeting of HMGCR can thus strongly inhibit the growth and proliferation of epithelial cancer cells treated with TGF-β and may also improve statin therapy-mediated attenuation of metastasis formation in vivo.
Research on the multi-physics field coupling simulation of aero-rotor blade electrochemical machining
Authors: Huang Liang , Cao Yan , Zhang Xinyun , Zhang Jiahao , Lei Yan , Li Yao , Fan Qingming
Published: June 2021

Aimed at the problem that the quality of the formation of aero-rotor blades with complex shaped structures is difficult to predict due to the coupling of each physical field in the process of electrochemical machining, a mathematical model of electrochemical machining characterized by the conductivity of the multi-physics field is established firstly by studying the coupling action mechanism of the flow field and temperature field on electric field conductivity in the machining process. Then, utilizing the Runge–Kutta method, the relationship between the conductivity and the machine path is analysed; Finally, based on this relationship, the multi-physics field electrochemical machining erosion model is compared with the traditional single electric field electrochemical machining erosion model. The results show that the error of the multi-physical field coupling prediction model proposed in this study is in the range of 1.27–2.35%, while the accuracy of the single electric field prediction model is in the range of 4.35–5.88%. The theoretical value of the multi-physics field coupling simulation is closer to the measured value of the test and can accurately simulate the actual electrochemical machining process, which can provide a theoretical basis for the design of cathode tools and parameter optimization in the actual processing process and is of great significance to improve the quality and efficiency of the electrochemical machining of aero-rotor blades.
The effect of coarctation degrees on wall shear stress indices
Authors: Rafiei Deniz , Abazari Mohammad Amin , Soltani M. , Alimohammadi Mona
Published: June 2021

Coarctation of the aorta (CoA) is a congenital tightening of the proximal descending aorta. Flow quantification can be immensely valuable for an early and accurate diagnosis. However, there is a lack of appropriate diagnostic approaches for a variety of cardiovascular diseases, such as CoA. An accurate understanding of the disease depends on measurements of the global haemodynamics (criteria for heart function) and also the local haemodynamics (detailed data on the dynamics of blood flow). Playing a significant role in clinical processes, wall shear stress (WSS) cannot be measured clinically; thus, computation tools are needed to give an insight into this crucial haemodynamic parameter. In the present study, in order to enable the progress of non-invasive approaches that quantify global and local haemodynamics for different CoA severities, innovative computational blueprint simulations that include fluid–solid interaction models are developed. Since there is no clear approach for managing the CoA regarding its severity, this study proposes the use of WSS indices and pressure gradient to better establish a framework for treatment procedures in CoA patients with different severities. This provides a platform for improving CoA therapy on a patient-specific level, in which physicians can perform treatment methods based on WSS indices on top of using a mere experience. Results show how severe CoA affects the aorta in comparison to the milder cases, which can give the medical community valuable information before and after any intervention.
Electrical conductivity as a driver of biological and geological spatial heterogeneity in the Puquios, Salar de Llamara, Atacama Desert, Chile
Authors: Reid R. P. , Oehlert A. M. , Suosaari E. P. , Demergasso C. , Chong G. , Escudero L. V. , Piggot A. M. , Lascu I. , Palma A. T.
Published: June 2021

Reputed to be the driest desert in the world, the Atacama Desert in the Central Andes of Northern Chile is an extreme environment with high UV radiation, wide temperature variation, and minimum precipitation. Scarce lagoons associated with salt flats (salars) in this desert are the surface expression of shallow groundwater; these ponds serve as refugia for life and often host microbial communities associated with evaporitic mineral deposition. Results based on multidisciplinary field campaigns and associated laboratory examination of samples collected from the Puquios of the Salar de Llamara in the Atacama Desert during austral summer provide unprecedented detail regarding the spatial heterogeneity of physical, chemical, and biological characteristics of these salar environments. Four main lagoons (‘Puquios’) and more than 400 smaller ponds occur within an area less than 5 km2, and are characterized by high variability in electrical conductivity, benthic and planktonic biota, microbiota, lagoon bottom type, and style of mineral deposition. Results suggest that electrical conductivity is a driving force of system heterogeneity. Such spatial heterogeneity within the Puquios is likely to be expanded with temporal observations incorporating expected seasonal changes in electrical conductivity. The complexity of these Andean ecosystems may be key to their ability to persist in extreme environments at the edge of habitability.
Life history and nesting ecology of a Japanese tube-nesting spider wasp Dipogon sperconsus (Hymenoptera: Pompilidae)
Authors: Nishimoto Yutaka , Shimizu Akira , Yoshimura Jin , Endo Tomoji
Published: June 2021

To clarify the life history of the Japanese spider wasp Dipogon sperconsus, bionomical studies using bamboo-cane trap nests were carried out in Japan. Based on weekly and consecutive daily surveys of trap nests and rearing of broods from collected nests, we evaluated the production of cells and eggs per day, prey spiders, and seasonal patterns of nesting activities. We found a relatively short critical period of switching from the summer generation into the overwintering generation. We also found that the voltinism is affected by the timing of egg production of the second generation in relation to this critical period. The developmental period for each generation and sex, voltinism and cell production per day were determined based on data for a large number of individuals for the first time.
Expression of a maize SOC1 gene enhances soybean yield potential through modulating plant growth and flowering
Authors: Han Xue , Wang Dechun , Song Guo-qing
Published: June 2021

Yield enhancement is a top priority for soybean (Glycine max Merr.) breeding. SUPPRESSOR OF OVEREXPRESSION OF CONSTANS 1 (SOC1) is a major integrator in flowering pathway, and it is anticipated to be capable of regulating soybean reproductive stages through its interactions with other MADS-box genes. Thus, we produced transgenic soybean for a constitutive expression of a maize SOC1 (ZmSOC1). T1 transgenic plants, in comparison with the nontransgenic plants, showed early flowering, reduced height of mature plants, and no significant impact on grain quality. The transgenic plants also had a 13.5–23.2% of higher grain weight per plant than the nontransgenic plants in two experiments. Transcriptome analysis in the leaves of 34-day old plants revealed 58 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) responding to the expression of the ZmSOC1, of which the upregulated FRUITFULL MADS-box gene, as well as the transcription factor VASCULAR PLANT ONE-ZINC FINGER1, contributed to the promoted flowering. The downregulated gibberellin receptor GID1B could play a major role in reducing the plant height. The remaining DEGs suggested broader effects on the other unmeasured traits (e.g., photosynthesis efficiency and abiotic tolerance), which could contribute to yield increase. Overall, modulating expression of SOC1 in soybean provides a novel and promising approach to regulate plant growth and reproductive development and thus has a potential either to enhance grain yield or to change plant adaptability.
Cross-sectional imaging of intestinal barrier dysfunction by confocal laser endomicroscopy can identify patients with food allergy in vivo with high sensitivity
Authors: Rath Timo , Dieterich Walburga , Kätscher-Murad Christiane , Neurath Markus F. , Zopf Yurdagül
Published: June 2021

Food allergy (FA) affects approximately 3 to 4% of the adult population in westernized countries. Suspected FA is even more prevalent and requires extensive diagnostic work-up. Within this study, we evaluated whether assessment of the integrity of the epithelial barrier by confocal laser endomicroscopy (CLE) during colonoscopy can be used as a screening tool to identify patients with FA. 60 patients with suspected FA were prospectively included. Serology with total and food-specific IgE, anti-tissue transglutaminase, skin prick testing, food intolerance tests, food intake registration and assessment of clinical complaints were performed. During colonocopy, standardized CLE was performed in the terminal ileum and at two colorectal sites. Analysis of CLE images included functional (i.e. presence of epithelial barrier dysfunction) and quantitative parameters of intestinal architecture. 27 of 60 patients (45%) were diagnosed with FA. Barrier dysfunction was analyzed on 65.837 ileal and on 93.251 colonic images. 96% of patients with FA exhibited functional and structural barrier defects while barrier dysfunction was found in only 33% of patients without FA (p < 0.0001). Visualizing barrier dysfunction with CLE for in vivo diagnosis of FA had a sensitivity and specificity of 96% and 67%, respectively, with a positive and negative prediction of 70% and 96%, respectively. Parameters intrinsic to the crypt architecture including crypt diameter, intercrypt distance, crypt lumen diameter and colonic vasculature were not different between patients with and without FA. CLE-based imaging of the intestinal barrier during colonoscopy might help in stratifying patients with suspected FA for further diagnostic work-up.
Parsimonious neural networks learn interpretable physical laws
Authors: Desai Saaketh , Strachan Alejandro
Published: June 2021

Machine learning is playing an increasing role in the physical sciences and significant progress has been made towards embedding domain knowledge into models. Less explored is its use to discover interpretable physical laws from data. We propose parsimonious neural networks (PNNs) that combine neural networks with evolutionary optimization to find models that balance accuracy with parsimony. The power and versatility of the approach is demonstrated by developing models for classical mechanics and to predict the melting temperature of materials from fundamental properties. In the first example, the resulting PNNs are easily interpretable as Newton’s second law, expressed as a non-trivial time integrator that exhibits time-reversibility and conserves energy, where the parsimony is critical to extract underlying symmetries from the data. In the second case, the PNNs not only find the celebrated Lindemann melting law, but also new relationships that outperform it in the pareto sense of parsimony vs. accuracy.
HER2-antigen-specific humoral immune response in breast cancer lymphocytes transplanted in hu-PBL hIL-4 NOG mice
Authors: Ohno Yusuke , Ohshima Shino , Miyamoto Asuka , Kametani Fuyuki , Ito Ryoji , Tsuda Banri , Kasama Yukie , Nakada Shunsuke , Kashiwagi Hirofumi , Seki Toshiro , Yasuda Atsushi , Ando Kiyoshi , Ito Mamoru , Tokuda Yutaka , Kametani Yoshie
Published: June 2021

The status of humoral immunity of cancer patients is not clear compared to cellular immunity because the ability of specific antibody production is difficult to analyze in vitro. We previously developed a humanized mouse model to evaluate antigen-specific antibody production by transplanting human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) into NOG-hIL-4-Tg mice (hu-PBL hIL-4 NOG). In this study, these mice were transplanted with PBMCs derived from breast cancer patients (BC) and immunized with a human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) peptide, CH401MAP, to analyze humoral immunity of BCs. The hu-PBL hIL-4 NOG mice recapitulated immune environment of BCs as the ratio of CD8+/CD4+T cells was lower and that of PD-1 + T cells was higher compared to healthy donors (HDs). Diverse clusters were detected in BC-mouse (BC-M) plasma components involving immunoglobulins and complements unlike HD-M, and there was a significant diversity in CH401MAP-specific IgG titers in BC-M. The number of B cell clones producing high CH401MAP-specific IgG was not increased by immunization in BC-M unlike HD-M. These results demonstrated that the humoral immunity of BCs appeared as diverse phenotypes different from HDs in hu-PBL hIL-4 NOG mice, which may provide important information for the study of personalized medicine.
A simple and rapid diagnostic method for 13 types of high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) detection using CRISPR-Cas12a technology
Authors: Gong Jiaojiao , Zhang Guanghui , Wang Wangguo , Liang Liping , Li Qianyun , Liu Menghao , Xue Liang , Tang Guanghui
Published: June 2021

Cervical carcinoma is the second most common cancer in women worldwide with greater than 99% of the cases caused by human papillomaviruses (HPVs). Early detection of HPVs especially the high risk types (HR-HPVs) are essential to prevent the disease progression. The existing methods for HPV detection, such as qPCR are of high sensitivity and specificity, but the need for expensive machinery and well-trained personnel slow down the disease detection. The emerging Cas12a-based method presents a new technique for nucleic acid detection. However, it is time-consuming and labor-intensive when used for HPV detection, as several reactions are required in order to identify multiple HPV infections. We herein present a non-genotyping method for 13 types of HR-HPV detection in a single reaction by combining the isothermal recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) method with CRISPR-Cas12a technology. The result could be achieved in 35 min with high sensitivity (500 copies per reaction). This assay represents great advances for the application of RPA-Cas12a system and holds a great potential to address the key challenges facing the HPV diagnostics.
Ancient origin of fucosylated xyloglucan in charophycean green algae
Authors: Mikkelsen Maria Dalgaard , Harholt Jesper , Westereng Bjørge , Domozych David , Fry Stephen C. , Johansen Ida Elisabeth , Fangel Jonatan U. , Łężyk Mateusz , Feng Tao , Nancke Louise , Mikkelsen Jørn D. , Willats William G. T. , Ulvskov Peter
Published: June 2021

The charophycean green algae (CGA or basal streptophytes) are of particular evolutionary significance because their ancestors gave rise to land plants. One outstanding feature of these algae is that their cell walls exhibit remarkable similarities to those of land plants. Xyloglucan (XyG) is a major structural component of the cell walls of most land plants and was originally thought to be absent in CGA. This study presents evidence that XyG evolved in the CGA. This is based on a) the identification of orthologs of the genetic machinery to produce XyG, b) the identification of XyG in a range of CGA and, c) the structural elucidation of XyG, including uronic acid-containing XyG, in selected CGA. Most notably, XyG fucosylation, a feature considered as a late evolutionary elaboration of the basic XyG structure and orthologs to the corresponding biosynthetic enzymes are shown to be present inMesotaenium caldariorum.
Dynamic Nuclear Polarisation Enhanced NMR
Authors: Brownbill Nick J. , Blanc Frédéric
Published: June 2021

Solid-state NMR is playing a very important role in accessing the local structure and dynamics in electrochemical energy storage materials. However, the single greatest challenge faced by NMR is its poor sensitivity that often significantly restricts the type of experiment that can be performed. This chapter provides a general introduction to the field of Dynamic Nuclear Polarisation (DNP) that can enhance the sensitivity of solid-state NMR spectroscopy by multiple orders of magnitude. A brief historical perspective on the field is presented spanning its discovery in the 50s to today's development. This is then followed by a theoretical description of the various DNP mechanisms and polarisation transfer pathways to obtain optimum efficiency under a range of conditions. An overview of the required instrumentation, experimental conditions, most effective polarising agents currently used and key aspects for DNP sample formulation are also given.
Oxide-based Cathode Materials for Li- and Na-ion Batteries
Authors: Liu Xiangsi , Liang Ziteng , Zhou Ke , Wan Jiajia , Leng Qianyi , Fu Riqiang , Yang Yong
Published: June 2021

As one of the key electrode materials for alkaline-ion rechargeable batteries, lithium- and sodium-ion containing oxide-based materials play an important role in determining the energy density, cyclic stability, and rate capability of the batteries. However, their performance has yet to meet society's demands for fast-growing portable electronics, or as power battery for electric vehicles (EVs) and storage battery for smart grids. Advanced characterization techniques are very powerful tools for understanding the complex structural evolutions and their correlation with the electrochemical performance of cathode materials in rechargeable batteries. Specially, solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (ssNMR) spectroscopy plays a crucial role in systematically understanding the local structural evolutions, structure–property relationship, and decay mechanism of electrode materials. In this chapter, we highlight the ssNMR applications in the oxide-based cathodes for both lithium and sodium ions batteries. Specifically, we discuss structural features and electrochemical properties of various typical layered oxides materials at the beginning of each sub-section, followed by addressing the unique advantages of ssNMR using specific examples.
Intercalation and Alloying Anode Materials for Rechargeable Li/Na Batteries
Authors: Xiao Zhumei , Li Qi , Yang Yong , Han Jingheng , Zhong Guiming , Yin Xucai , Huo Hua
Published: June 2021

The anode candidates for Li/Na ion batteries are primarily the elements located in main groups four (IVA) and five (VA) in the periodic table, including C, Si, Ge, Sn, P, Sb, and their oxides or alloys. The electrochemical (de)lithiation or (de)sodiation processes of these materials usually involve (de)intercalation and/or alloying reaction of ions with lithium or sodium, and the formation of amorphous or nonstoichiometric compounds, which are beyond the detection range of diffraction patterns. In this chapter, we highlight the application and the importance of solid-state NMR (SSNMR) spectroscopy in the studies of anode materials. Ex situ and in situ 6,7Li and 23Na NMR studies of the most widely adopted carbon-based materials (graphite, hard carbon etc.) are introduced in the first section, followed by silicon-based (Si, SiOx) and other alloy-type anode materials in the second section. The fundamental electrochemical processes, reaction mechanisms, and Li+/Na+ transport dynamics are all analyzed in detail based on SSNMR studies, especially under in situ conditions.
Surface Structures and Their Reactions in Transition Metal Oxides
Authors: Chen Junchao , Peng Luming
Published: June 2021

Many oxide based materials show excellent pseudocapacitive properties, which are closely related to their surface structure. As a powerful technique that can give detailed local structure information, solid-state NMR spectroscopy has been used to characterize related materials. This chapter introduces the basic principles for supercapacitors, and summarizes recent developments and results in applying solid-state NMR to study surface structure, as well as charge/discharge processes of oxide pseudocapacitors.
Effect of silver electrode wetting state on oxygen reduction electrochemistry
Authors: McKee Austin , Samanta Avik , Rassoolkhani Alan , Koonce Jonathan , Huang Wuji , Fields Jacob , Shaw Scott K. , Gomes Joseph , Ding Hongtao , Mubeen Syed
Published: June 2021

Direct tuning of silver electrode wetting state affects its activity and selectivity for oxygen reduction reaction.
Metal-free dearomative [5+2]/[2+2] cycloaddition of 1H-indoles with ortho-(trimethylsilyl)aryl triflates
Authors: Chen Xinyu , Yang Na , Zeng Wen , Wang Lei , Li Pinhua , Li Hongji
Published: June 2021

A metal-free dearomative [5+2]/[2+2] cycloaddition of 1H-indoles with ortho-(trimethylsilyl)aryl triflates at room temperature was developed for the synthesis of N-heterocycles.
A ligation-driven CRISPR–Cas biosensing platform for non-nucleic acid target detections
Authors: Zhao Jiali , Tan Zhen , Wang Liu , Lei Chunyang , Nie Zhou
Published: June 2021

A ligation-driven CRISPR–Cas biosensing platform was proposed to detect different non-nucleic acid targets with high sensitivity and specificity.
Three-dimensional MOF-derived Co and N co-doped porous carbon bifunctional catalyst for the Zn–air battery
Authors: Zhou Wenhan , Li Yang , Zheng Lingcheng , Liu Jun , Tang Ranran , Shi Kejian , Zhang Yanyan
Published: June 2021

Considering their actual commercial large-scale applications, research on non-precious metal catalysts has garnered much interest.
Structural responses of model biomembranes to Mars-relevant salts
Authors: Kriegler Simon , Herzog Marius , Oliva Rosario , Gault Stewart , Cockell Charles S. , Winter Roland
Published: June 2021

High concentrations of Mars-like salts and high pressure are shown to have a marked effect on model biomembranes. Their structure and phase behavior are sensitively dictated by the nature of the salt, in particular its anion and its concentration.
Materials engineering for adsorption and catalysis in room-temperature Na–S batteries
Authors: Huang Xiang Long , Wang Yun-Xiao , Chou Shu-Lei , Dou Shi Xue , Wang Zhiming M.
Published: June 2021

Room-temperature sodium–sulfur (RT Na–S) batteries combine abundant natural resources, low cost, and outstanding energy density, thus attracting much research attention.
Disposable photonics for cost-effective clinical bioassays: application to COVID-19 antibody testing
Authors: Cognetti John S. , Steiner Daniel J. , Abedin Minhaz , Bryan Michael R. , Shanahan Conor , Tokranova Natalya , Young Ethan , Klose Alanna M. , Zavriyev Alexander , Judy Nicholas , Piorek Brian , Meinhart Carl , Jakubowicz Raymond , Warren Harold , Cady Nathaniel C. , Miller Benjamin L.
Published: June 2021

Rice-sized (1 × 4 mm) silicon nitride ring resonator photonic sensor chips paired with plastic micropillar fluidic cards for sample handling and optical detection yield a “disposable photonics” assay platform.
A high-voltage non-aqueous hybrid supercapacitor based on the N2200 polymer supported over multiwalled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Wavhal Bhaiyyasaheb Anurath , Ghosh Meena , Sharma Sandeep , Kurungot Sreekumar , SK Asha
Published: June 2021

An N2200/MWCNT composite showing a battery-type electrochemical signature performs as an efficient negative electrode in a high-voltage (2.4 V) hybrid supercapacitor comprising activated carbon as a positive electrode.
Bias-tunable two-dimensional magnetic and topological materials
Authors: Li Jie , Wu Ruqian
Published: June 2021

In this work, we proposed a strategy for using fullerenes as building blocks for the synthesis of novel 2D materials.
Stereogenic and conformational properties of medium-ring benzo-fused N-heterocycle atropisomers
Authors: de Ceuninck van Capelle Lillian A. , Macdonald James M. , Hyland Christopher J. T.
Published: June 2021

By examining the various contributions to the conformational and stereogenic stability of medium-sized benzo-fused N-heterocyclic atropisomers, this review serves to aid the design, synthesis and study of these pharmaceutically relevant heterocycles.
Stereoselective ring-opening polymerization of functional β-lactones: influence of the exocyclic side-group
Authors: Shakaroun Rama M. , Li Hui , Jéhan Philippe , Blot Marielle , Alaaeddine Ali , Carpentier Jean-François , Guillaume Sophie M.
Published: June 2021

Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) are a unique class of polyesters especially due to their chemical diversity imparted by their side-chain substituent that provides a handle to tune their properties, such as their thermal, mechanical and (bio)degradability signature.
Enantiopure isothiourea@carbon-based support: stacking interactions for recycling a lewis base in asymmetric catalysis
Authors: Yuan Yu-Chao , Abd El Sater Mariam , Mellah Mohamed , Jaber Nada , David Olivier R. P. , Schulz Emmanuelle
Published: June 2021

An enantiopure isothiourea (hyperBTM) was functionalized by a pyrene moietyviaclick chemistry; immobilized on reduced Graphene Oxide, this recyclable chiral organocatalyst promotes formal [3+2] cycloaddition of ammonium enolates with oxaziridines.
Biomimetic enterobactin analogue mediates iron-uptake and cargo transport into E. coli and P. aeruginosa
Authors: Zscherp Robert , Coetzee Janetta , Vornweg Johannes , Grunenberg Jörg , Herrmann Jennifer , Müller Rolf , Klahn Philipp
Published: June 2021

The design, synthesis and evaluation of the enterobactin derivative (AcO)EntKL is reported, which mediates iron uptake and cargo transport into E. coli and P. aeruginosa and was able to compete with human enterobactin and iron binding proteins.
Transfer of polyantimony units
Authors: Heinl Veronika , Seitz Andreas E. , Balázs Gábor , Seidl Michael , Scheer Manfred
Published: June 2021

The synthesis and characterization of the unique polyantimony complex [(Cp′′Zr)2(μ,η1:1:1:1:1:1-Sb6)] (1) is described. Compound 1 was used as antimony source to transfer Sbn units to late transition metal fragments [CpRM] (M = Fe, Co, Ni).
A therapeutic keypad lock decoded in drug resistant cancer cells
Authors: Turkoglu Gulsen , Koygun Gozde Kayadibi , Zafer Yurt Mediha Nur , Pirencioglu Seyda Nur , Erbas-Cakmak Sundus
Published: June 2021

Information processing therapeutics with an implemented keypad lock logic gate selects input order for activation in drug resistant cancer cells.
Glucose regulates expression of pro-inflammatory genes, IL-1β and IL-12, through a mechanism involving hexosamine biosynthesis pathway-dependent regulation of α-E catenin
Authors: Dissanayake Waruni C. , Oh Jin Kyo , Sorrenson Brie , Shepherd Peter R.
Published: June 2021

High glucose levels are associated with changes in macrophage polarisation and evidence indicates that the sustained or even short-term high glucose levels modulate inflammatory responses in macrophages. However, the mechanism by which macrophages can sense the changes in glucose levels are not clearly understood. We find that high glucose levels rapidly increase the α-E catenin protein level in RAW264.7 macrophages. We also find an attenuation of glucose-induced increase in α-E catenin when hexosamine biosynthesis (HB) pathway is inhibited either with glutamine depletion or with the drugs azaserine and tunicamycin. This indicates the involvement of HB pathway in this process. Then, we investigated the potential role of α-E catenin in glucose-induced macrophage polarisation. We find that the reduction in α-E catenin level using siRNA attenuates the glucose-induced changes of both IL-1β and IL-12 mRNA levels under LPS-stimulated condition but does not affect TNF-α expression. Together this indicates that α-E catenin can sense the changes in glucose levels in macrophages via HB pathway and also can modulate the glucose-induced gene expression of inflammatory markers such as IL-1β and IL-12. This identifies a new part of the mechanism by which macrophages are able to respond to changes in glucose levels.
Exploring Current Practice, Knowledge, and Training Needs for Managing Psychosocial Concerns in the Audiology Setting: Perspectives of Audiologists, Audiology Reception Staff, and Managers
Authors: Bennett Rebecca J. , Kelsall-Foreman India , Donaldson Sara , Olaithe Michelle , Saulsman Lisa , Badcock Johanna C.
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to explore the current practices and training requirements for supporting clients experiencing psychosocial concerns in the audiology setting, from the perspectives of audiology clinicians, managers, and reception staff.

Method

Convenience sampling was used to recruit audiologists, reception staff, and clinic managers (
N
= 13,
M
age
= 32.2 ± 8.1, range: 25–47 years, 11 female) through a large hearing services provider in Western Australia. A semistructured focus group was used to elicit participant views regarding current experiences relating to clients who express psychosocial concerns in the audiology setting, familiarity with psychosocial interventions, and training requirements for delivery of psychosocial interventions in the audiological setting.

Results

Twenty-four subthemes were identified across six themes: (1) awareness of psychosocial well-being, (2) the role of others, (3) identifying client's psychosocial needs, (4) managing client's psychosocial needs, (5) barriers to providing psychosocial support, and (6) broadening audiological services to include psychosocial support.

Conclusions

Participants reported an awareness of their clients' psychosocial challenges within the audiology setting, yet they described uncertainty in how best to respond in providing support and whether this was within their scope of practice. A majority of audiology staff expressed desire and motivation to broaden the scope of their service in order to better address their clients' hearing loss–related psychosocial needs.
Proposal of an integrated platoon‐based Round‐Robin algorithm with priorities for intersections with mixed traffic flows
Authors: Moradi Hossein , Sasaninejad Sara , Wittevrongel Sabine , Walraevens Joris
Published: June 2021

The growth of vehicle ownership has necessitated the adoption of new approaches to cope with the arising problems. In this regard, while technological advancement in connected and automated vehicles (CAVs) leads to a new source of information upon which effective intersection control mechanisms can be built, it also necessitates considering the issue of mixed traffic, on the one hand, and enhancing current infrastructures, on the other. This paper first proposes a framework, which enhances pre‐timed signals to incorporate CAVs and wireless communications. In this framework, Round‐Robin has been selected as the main algorithm treating vehicles' platoons as the units. Dealing with mixed traffic conditions and embedding an algorithm for prioritization of special vehicles are also discussed in the context of this framework. The result is a proposal of the Platoon‐based Round‐Robin algorithm with Priorities (the PRRP‐framework). This framework is further integrated into a speed advisory system to mutually augment each other's functions to provide for as much continuous movement of mixed traffic as possible. Performance indices obtained from the corresponding simulations show that while the PRRP‐framework is promising even with a low proportion of the CAVs, it is possible to get out considerably more benefits in the case of the proposed integration.
Design and analysis of a novel claw‐shaped modular stator relieving‐DC‐saturation doubly salient machine with 3D complementary magnetic circuit
Authors: Li Zhenghao , Niu Shuangxia
Published: June 2021

Here, a novel DC‐excited doubly salient machine with a claw‐shaped modular stator and three‐dimensional (3D) complementary magnetic circuit is proposed for wind power generation application. The key is to artificially construct a 3D complementary structure to suppress torque ripple and employ auxiliary slot‐opening PMs to relieve DC‐saturation in the stator core and improve overload capability. The novel 3D complementary structure provides an alternative magnetic path for the main flux, so the flux leakages in the air gap at open‐circuit position are effectively cancelled, and the flux in the yoke remains relatively constant. Hence, the output torque ripple is suppressed. Furthermore, the saturation issue in the stator is solved with auxiliary permanent magnets which have opposite magnetization direction to that of DC field excitation. Therefore, the torque capacity of the machine is improved. Here, the machine structure and operation principle are introduced, and a 2D equivalent model is also developed to replace the 3D model to improve the calculation efficiency. Multi‐objective optimization algorithm is developed to improve the performance of this new machine. The validity of machine design is finally verified with 2D and 3D finite element analysis.