bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Accelerating Groundwater Data Assimilation With a Gradient‐Free Active Subspace Method
Authors: Yan Hengnian , Hao Chenyu , Zhang Jiangjiang , Illman Walter A. , Lin Guang , Zeng Lingzao
Published: October 2021

Groundwater models always involve high‐dimensional parameters, which makes computationally tractable data assimilation using surrogate models very challenging. To address this issue, one common practice is to employ dimension reduction (DR) techniques. Nevertheless, traditional DR methods are usually implemented based on prior parameter statistics, that is, without considering the inherent system dynamics. Here, we show that when significant difference in parameter sensitivity exists, further efficiency can be achieved by adopting a supervised DR method, that is, the active subspace (AS) method. To avoid non‐trivial efforts in calculating the gradient information needed in the standard AS method, a cluster‐based gradient‐free AS (GFAS) method is developed in this study. By combining GFAS with Gaussian process regression, a surrogate model for the CPU‐demanding groundwater model can be adaptively constructed to accelerate data assimilation. Furthermore, a compensation scheme is proposed to cope with uncertainty underestimation caused by DR. The developed approach is tested with numerical experiments and field cases, which illustrated that the new approach is more efficient than the previously developed unsupervised ones by incorporating sensitivity information. Although an iterative ensemble smoother is employed in this study, the proposed method can also be used in other data assimilation approaches, such as Markov chain Monte Carlo and ensemble Kalman filter.
The ADEPT study: a comparative study of dentists' ability to detect enamel-only proximal caries in bitewing radiographs with and without the use of AssistDent artificial intelligence software
Authors: Devlin Hugh , Williams Tomos , Graham Jim , Ashley Martin
Published: October 2021

Introduction Reversal of enamel-only proximal caries by non-invasive treatments is important in preventive dentistry. However, detecting such caries using bitewing radiography is difficult and the subtle patterns are often missed by dental practitioners.

Aims To investigate whether the ability of dentists to detect enamel-only proximal caries is enhanced by the use of AssistDent artificial intelligence (AI) software.

Materials and methods In the ADEPT (AssistDent Enamel-only Proximal caries assessmenT) study, 23 dentists were randomly divided into a control arm, without AI assistance, and an experimental arm, in which AI assistance provided on-screen prompts indicating potential enamel-only proximal caries. All participants analysed a set of 24 bitewings in which an expert panel had previously identified 65 enamel-only carious lesions and 241 healthy proximal surfaces.

Results The control group found 44.3% of the caries, whereas the experimental group found 75.8%. The experimental group incorrectly identified caries in 14.6% of the healthy surfaces compared to 3.7% in the control group. The increase in sensitivity of 71% and decrease in specificity of 11% are statistically significant (p <0.01).

Conclusions AssistDent AI software significantly improves dentists' ability to detect enamel-only proximal caries and could be considered as a tool to support preventive dentistry in general practice.
JWA suppresses proliferation in trastuzumab-resistant breast cancer by downregulating CDK12
Authors: Liang Yan , Qian Chao , Xie Yinghong , Huang Xiang , Chen Junjie , Ren Yanlin , Fu Ziyi , Li Yongfei , Zeng Tianyu , Yang Fan , Zhou Jianwei , Li Wei , Yin Yongmei , Wang Changqing
Published: October 2021

Breast cancer is the most common cancer worldwide. JWA is a microtubule-associated protein that has been identified as a tumor suppressor, and its downregulation in tumors is an independent adverse prognostic factor. The objective of this study was to explore the expression, regulation, and mechanism of JWA in trastuzumab-resistant breast cancers. In this study, we found that JWA expression was lower in trastuzumab-resistant breast cancers than that in trastuzumab-sensitive breast cancers. Furthermore, it was confirmed that overexpression of JWA inhibited proliferation and promoted apoptosis in trastuzumab-resistant breast cancers both in vitro and in vivo. In addition, the low expression of JWA in trastuzumab-resistant breast cancers is associated with a poor prognosis. Combining RNA-sequence datasets and next-generation sequencing, it was found that JWA negatively regulated CDK12, and was involved in the G1-to-S transition of the cell cycle. It has been reported that CDK12 drives breast cancer initiation and induces trastuzumab resistance. Taken together, high expression of JWA could inhibit the growth of trastuzumab-resistant breast cancer, and JWA is a potential predictive marker for trastuzumab resistance. In addition, targeted therapy with JWA may be a novel therapeutic strategy to improve the survival rate of trastuzumab-resistant breast cancer.
State-independent test of quantum contextuality with either single photons or coherent light
Authors: Qu Dengke , Wang Kunkun , Xiao Lei , Zhan Xiang , Xue Peng
Published: October 2021

Contextuality is a phenomenon at the heart of quantum mechanics different from classical behavior and has been recently identified as a resource in quantum information processing. Experimental demonstration of contextuality is thus an important goal. We experimentally demonstrate a test of state-independent contextuality in a four-dimensional Hilbert space with single photons and violate the inequality by at least 387 standard deviations. Despite imperfections and possible measurement disturbance, our results cannot be explained in non-contextual models. We also provide a theoretical analysis of a test of contextuality with a coherent light field and show how the definitions affect the emergence of non-classical correlations. Our result sheds new light on the conflict between quantum and classical physics.
No guts, no glory: underestimating the benefits of providing children with mechanistic details
Authors: Chuey Aaron , McCarthy Amanda , Lockhart Kristi , Trouche Emmanuel , Sheskin Mark , Keil Frank
Published: October 2021

Previous research shows that children effectively extract and utilize causal information, yet we find that adults doubt children’s ability to understand complex mechanisms. Since adults themselves struggle to explain how everyday objects work, why expect more from children? Although remembering details may prove difficult, we argue that exposure to mechanism benefits children via the formation of abstract causal knowledge that supports epistemic evaluation. We tested 240 6–9 year-olds’ memory for concrete details and the ability to distinguish expertise before, immediately after, or a week after viewing a video about how combustion engines work. By around age 8, children who saw the video remembered mechanistic details and were better able to detect car-engine experts. Beyond detailed knowledge, the current results suggest that children also acquired an abstracted sense of how systems work that can facilitate epistemic reasoning.
The role of Medieval road operation on cultural landscape transformation
Authors: Słowiński Michał , Brauer Achim , Guzowski Piotr , Związek Tomasz , Obremska Milena , Theuerkauf Martin , Dietze Elizabeth , Schwab Markus , Tjallingii Rik , Czaja Roman , Ott Florian , Błaszkiewicz Mirosław
Published: October 2021

Connecting pathways are essential for cultural and economic exchange. Commonly, historians investigate the role of routes for cultural development, whereas the environmental impacts of historical routes attract less attention. Here, we present a high-resolution reconstruction of the impact of the major trade route viaMarchionisin the southern Baltic lowlands on landscape evolution since more than 800 years. We combine precisely dated annually laminated sediments from Lake Czechowskie alongside viaMarchionisand pollen data at 5-year resolution together with historical data. The transformation from a quasi-natural to a cultural landscape occurred in three phases (1) an early phase until the mid-fourteenth century with slowly increasing human impact. (2) an intensification of environmental disturbance until (3) the mid-nineteenth century when viaMarchionisbecame a modern traffic route with strong environmental impacts. Superimposed on the long-term development were repeated interruptions by short-term downturns related to societal crisis and political decisions.
Sociability strongly affects the behavioural responses of wild guanacos to drones
Authors: Schroeder Natalia M. , Panebianco Antonella
Published: October 2021

Drones are being increasingly used in research and recreation but without an adequate assessment of their potential impacts on wildlife. Particularly, the effect of sociability on behavioural responses to drone-associated disturbance remains largely unknown. Using an ungulate with complex social behaviour, we (1) assessed how social aggregation and offspring presence, along with flight plan characteristics, influence the probability of behavioural reaction and the flight distance of wild guanacos (Lama guanicoe) to the drone's approach, and (2) estimated reaction thresholds and flight heights that minimise disturbance. Sociability significantly affected behavioural responses. Large groups showed higher reaction probability and greater flight distances than smaller groups and solitary individuals, regardless of the presence of offspring. This suggests greater detection abilities in large groups, but we cannot rule out the influence of other features inherent to each social unit (e.g., territoriality) that might be working simultaneously. Low flight heights increased the probability of reaction, although the effect of drone speed was less clear. Reaction thresholds ranged from 154 m (solitary individuals) to 344 m (mixed groups), revealing that the responsiveness of this guanaco population to the drone is the most dramatic reported so far for a wild species.
Proteomic analysis of peritoneal fluid identified COMP and TGFBI as new candidate biomarkers for endometriosis
Authors: Janša V. , Klančič T. , Pušić M. , Klein M. , Vrtačnik Bokal E. , Ban Frangež H. , Rižner T. Lanišnik
Published: October 2021

Endometriosis is a common non-malignant gynecological disease that significantly compromises fertility and quality of life of the majority of patients. The gold standard for diagnosis is visual inspection of the pelvic organs by surgical laparoscopy and there are no biomarkers that would allow non-invasive diagnosis. The pathogenesis of endometriosis is not completely understood, thus analysis of peritoneal fluid might contribute in this respect. Our prospective case–control study included 58 patients undergoing laparoscopy due to infertility, 32 patients with peritoneal endometriosis (cases) and 26 patients with unexplained primary infertility (controls). Discovery proteomics using antibody microarrays that covered 1360 proteins identified 16 proteins with different levels in casesversusthe control patients. The validation using an ELISA approach confirmed significant differences in the levels of cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP) and transforming growth factor-β-induced protein ig-h3 (TGFBI) and nonsignificant differences in angiotensinogen (AGT). A classification model based on a linear support vector machine revealed AUC of > 0.83, sensitivity of 0.81 and specificity of 1.00. Differentially expressed proteins represent candidates for diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers or drug targets. Our findings have brought new knowledge that will be helpful in the understanding of the pathophysiology of endometriosis and warrant further studies in blood samples.
Bioinformatic identification of genomic instability-associated lncRNAs signatures for improving the clinical outcome of cervical cancer by a prognostic model
Authors: Zhang Jian , Ding Nan , He Yongxing , Tao Chengbin , Liang Zhongzhen , Xin Wenhu , Zhang Qianyun , Wang Fang
Published: October 2021

The research is executed to analyze the connection between genomic instability-associated long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and the prognosis of cervical cancer patients. We set a prognostic model up and explored different risk groups' features. The clinical datasets and gene expression profiles of 307 patients have been downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas database. We established a prognostic model that combined somatic mutation profiles and lncRNA expression profiles in a tumor genome and identified 35 genomic instability-associated lncRNAs in cervical cancer as a case study. We then stratified patients into low-risk and high-risk groups and were further checked in multiple independent patient cohorts. Patients were separated into two sets: the testing set and the training set. The prognostic model was built using three genomic instability-associated lncRNAs (AC107464.2, MIR100HG, and AP001527.2). Patients in the training set were divided into the high-risk group with shorter overall survival and the low-risk group with longer overall survival (p < 0.001); in the meantime, similar comparable results were found in the testing set (p = 0.046), whole set (p < 0.001). There are also significant differences in patients with histological grades, FIGO stages, and different ages (p < 0.05). The prognostic model focused on genomic instability-associated lncRNAs could predict the prognosis of cervical cancer patients, paving the way for further research into the function and resource of lncRNAs, as well as a key approach to customizing individual care decision-making.
Preclinical pharmacology of glucosylceramide synthase inhibitor venglustat in a GBA-related synucleinopathy model
Authors: Viel Catherine , Clarke Jennifer , Kayatekin Can , Richards Amy M. , Chiang Ming Sum R. , Park Hyejung , Wang Bing , Shihabuddin Lamya S. , Sardi S. Pablo
Published: October 2021

Mutations in GBA, the gene encoding the lysosomal enzyme glucocerebrosidase (GCase), represent the greatest genetic risk factor for developing synucleinopathies including Parkinson’s disease (PD). Additionally, PD patients harboring a mutant GBA allele present with an earlier disease onset and an accelerated disease progression of both motor and non-motor symptoms. Preclinical studies in mouse models of synucleinopathy suggest that modulation of the sphingolipid metabolism pathway via inhibition of glucosylceramide synthase (GCS) using a CNS-penetrant small molecule may be a potential treatment for synucleinopathies. Here, we aim to alleviate the lipid storage burden by inhibiting the de novo synthesis of the primary glycosphingolipid substrate of GCase, glucosylceramide (GlcCer). We have previously shown that systemic GCS inhibition reduced GlcCer and glucosylsphingosine (GlcSph) accumulation, slowed α-synuclein buildup in the hippocampus, and improved cognitive deficits. Here, we studied the efficacy of a brain-penetrant clinical candidate GCS inhibitor, venglustat, in mouse models of GBA-related synucleinopathy, including a heterozygous Gba mouse model which more closely replicates the typical GBA-PD patient genotype. Collectively, these data support the rationale for modulation of GCase-related sphingolipid metabolism as a therapeutic strategy for treating GBA-related synucleinopathies.
A cold seep triggered by a hot ridge subduction
Authors: Villar-Muñoz Lucía , Kinoshita Masataka , Bento Joaquim P. , Vargas-Cordero Ivan , Contreras-Reyes Eduardo , Tinivella Umberta , Giustiniani Michela , Abe Natsue , Anma Ryo , Orihashi Yuji , Iwamori Hikaru , Nishikawa Tomoaki , Veloso Eugenio Andres , Haraguchi Satoru
Published: October 2021

The Chile Triple Junction, where the hot active spreading centre of the Chile Rise system subducts beneath the South American plate, offers a unique opportunity to understand the influence of the anomalous thermal regime on an otherwise cold continental margin. Integrated analysis of various geophysical and geological datasets, such as bathymetry, heat flow measured directly by thermal probes and calculated from gas hydrate distribution limits, thermal conductivities, and piston cores, have improved the knowledge about the hydrogeological system. In addition, rock dredging has evidenced the volcanism associated with ridge subduction. Here, we argue that the localized high heat flow over the toe of the accretionary prism results from fluid advection promoted by pressure-driven discharge (i.e., dewatering/discharge caused by horizontal compression of accreted sediments) as reported previously. However, by computing the new heat flow values with legacy data in the study area, we raise the assumption that these anomalous heat flow values are also promoted by the eastern flank of the currently subducting Chile Rise. Part of the rift axis is located just below the toe of the wedge, where active deformation and vigorous fluid advection are most intense, enhanced by the proximity of the young volcanic chain. Our results provide valuable information to current and future studies related to hydrothermal circulation, seismicity, volcanism, gas hydrate stability, and fluid venting in this natural laboratory.
Gestational diabetes triggers postpartum cardiac hypertrophy via activation of calcineurin/NFAT signaling
Authors: Verma Nirmal , Srodulski Sarah , Velmurugan Sathya , Hoskins Amanda , Pandey Vivek K. , Despa Florin , Despa Sanda
Published: October 2021

Population-based studies identified an association between a prior pregnancy complicated by gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and cardiac hypertrophy and dysfunction later in life. It is however unclear whether GDM initiates this phenotype and what are the underlying mechanisms. We addressed these questions by using female rats that express human amylin (HIP rats) as a GDM model and their wild-type (WT) littermates as the normal pregnancy model. Pregnant and two months postpartum HIP females had increased left-ventricular mass and wall thickness compared to non-pregnant HIP females, which indicates the presence of concentric hypertrophy. These parameters were unchanged in WT females during both pregnancy and postpartum periods. Hypertrophic Ca2+-dependent calcineurin/NFAT signaling was stimulated two months after giving birth in HIP females but not in the WT. In contrast, the CaMKII/HDAC hypertrophy pathway was active immediately after giving birth and returned to the baseline by two months postpartum in both WT and HIP females. Myocytes from two months postpartum HIP females exhibited slower Ca2+ transient relaxation and higher diastolic Ca2+ levels, which may explain calcineurin activation. No such effects occurred in the WT. These results suggest that a GDM-complicated pregnancy accelerates the development of pathological cardiac remodeling likely through activation of calcineurin/NFAT signaling.
Nkx3-1 and Fech genes might be switch genes involved in pituitary non-functioning adenoma invasiveness
Authors: Khayer Nasibeh , Jalessi Maryam , Jahanbakhshi Amin , Tabib khooei Alireza , Mirzaie Mehdi
Published: October 2021

Non-functioning pituitary adenomas (NFPAs) are typical pituitary macroadenomas in adults associated with increased mortality and morbidity. Although pituitary adenomas are commonly considered slow-growing benign brain tumors, numerous of them possess an invasive nature. Such tumors destroy sella turcica and invade the adjacent tissues such as the cavernous sinus and sphenoid sinus. In these cases, the most critical obstacle for complete surgical removal is the high risk of damaging adjacent vital structures. Therefore, the development of novel therapeutic strategies for either early diagnosis through biomarkers or medical therapies to reduce the recurrence rate of NFPAs is imperative. Identification of gene interactions has paved the way for decoding complex molecular mechanisms, including disease-related pathways, and identifying the most momentous genes involved in a specific disease. Currently, our knowledge of the invasion of the pituitary adenoma at the molecular level is not sufficient. The current study aimed to identify critical biomarkers and biological pathways associated with invasiveness in the NFPAs using a three-way interaction model for the first time. In the current study, the Liquid association method was applied to capture the statistically significant triplets involved in NFPAs invasiveness. Subsequently, Random Forest analysis was applied to select the most important switch genes. Finally, gene set enrichment (GSE) and gene regulatory network (GRN) analyses were applied to trace the biological relevance of the statistically significant triplets. The results of this study suggest that “mRNA processing” and “spindle organization” biological processes are important in NFAPs invasiveness. Specifically, our results suggestNkx3-1 and Fechas two switch genes in NFAPs invasiveness that may be potential biomarkers or target genes in this pathology.
Experimental analysis of control technology and deformation failure mechanism of inclined coal seam roadway using non-contact DIC technique
Authors: Xiong Xianyu , Dai Jun , Ouyang Yibo , Shen Pan
Published: October 2021

The deformation and failure forms of inclined coal seam roadway under the joint action of dip angle and various geological conditions are complex, and there is a lack of targeted support measures, which brings great problems to the stability control of roadway surrounding rock. In order to safely and economically mine inclined coal seams, taking the engineering geology of Shitanjing No. 2 mining area as the background, and the physical similarity model of right-angle trapezoidal roadway in inclined coal seam, in which the non-contact digital image correlation (DIC) technology and the stress sensor is employed to provide full-field displacement and stress measurements. The deformation control technology of the roadway surrounding rock was proposed, verified by numerical simulation and applied to engineering practice. The research results show that the stress and deformation failure of surrounding rock in low sidewall of roadway are greater than those in high sidewall, showing asymmetric characteristics, and the maximum stress concentration coefficients of roadway sidewall, roof and floor are 4.1, 3.4 and 2.8, respectively. A concept of roadway "cyclic failure" mechanism is proposed that is, the cyclic interaction of the two sidewalls, the sharp angles and roof aggravated the failure of roadway, resulting in the overall instability of roadway. The roadway sidewall is serious rib spalling, the roof is asymmetric "Beret" type caving arch failure, and the floor is slightly bulging. On this basis, the principle of roadway deformation control is revealed and asymmetric support design is adopted, and the deformation of roadway is controlled, which support scheme is effective.
A glutamate synthase mutant of Bradyrhizobium sp. strain ORS285 is unable to induce nodules on Nod factor-independent Aeschynomene species
Authors: Nouwen Nico , Chaintreuil Clémence , Fardoux Joel , Giraud Eric
Published: October 2021

The Bradyrhizobium sp. strain ORS285 is able to establish a nitrogen-fixing symbiosis with both Nod factor (NF) dependent and NF-independent Aeschynomene species. Here, we have studied the growth characteristics and symbiotic interaction of a glutamate synthase (GOGAT; gltD::Tn5) mutant of Bradyrhizobium ORS285. We show that the ORS285 gltD::Tn5 mutant is unable to use ammonium, nitrate and many amino acids as nitrogen source for growth and is unable to fix nitrogen under free-living conditions. Moreover, on several nitrogen sources, the growth rate of the gltB::Tn5 mutant was faster and/or the production of the carotenoid spirilloxanthin was much higher as compared to the wild-type strain. The absence of GOGAT activity has a drastic impact on the symbiotic interaction with NF-independent Aeschynomene species. With these species, inoculation with the ORS285 gltD::Tn5 mutant does not result in the formation of nodules. In contrast, the ORS285 gltD::Tn5 mutant is capable to induce nodules on NF-dependent Aeschynomene species, but these nodules were ineffective for nitrogen fixation. Interestingly, in NF-dependent and NF-independent Aeschynomene species inoculation with the ORS285 gltD::Tn5 mutant results in browning of the plant tissue at the site of the infection suggesting that the mutant bacteria induce plant defence responses.
Identification of ecological networks and nodes in Fujian province based on green and blue corridors
Authors: Zhou Qingqing , van den Bosch Cecil C. Konijnendijk , Chen Jingru , Zhang Wenbing , Dong Jianwen
Published: October 2021

China's Green Space System Planning (GSSP) research has gradually expanded from central urban areas to municipal and provincial scales in recent years. Besides, the research on the role of green space in the water environment has also attracted much attention. However, the study of green corridors usually ignored hydrological data, which widespread absence especially in the large area scale. And the scale of green corridor construction mainly focused on central urban areas. This paper took China's Fujian province as an example. Based on the DEM elevation data, the article identified blue corridors without hydrological data. In addition, the green corridors were determined based on the land use data. According to the green corridors and blue corridors protection, we identified the ecological networks and nodes by the network analysis method. The results showed that the blue corridors identified by DEM data were consistent with the hydrological status quo. The regional status of the identified ecological networks and nodes were basically in line with their characteristics, proving the value of the planning methods. Finally, based on the identification results, suggestions for Fujian's ecological networks and nodes are put forward.
Morphological differences in the calcaneus among extant great apes investigated by three-dimensional geometric morphometrics
Authors: Nozaki Shuhei , Amano Hideki , Oishi Motoharu , Ogihara Naomichi
Published: October 2021

Investigating the morphological differences of the calcaneus in humans and great apes is crucial for reconstructing locomotor repertories of fossil hominins. However, morphological variations in the calcaneus of the great apes (chimpanzees, gorillas, and orangutans) have not been sufficiently studied. This study aims to clarify variations in calcaneal morphology among great apes based on three-dimensional geometric morphometrics. A total of 556 landmarks and semilandmarks were placed on the calcaneal surface to calculate the principal components of shape variations among specimens. Clear interspecific differences in calcaneal morphology were extracted, corresponding to the degree of arboreality of the three species. The most arboreal orangutans possessed comparatively more slender calcaneal tuberosity and deeper pivot region of the cuboid articular surface than chimpanzees and gorillas. However, the most terrestrial gorillas exhibited longer lever arm of the triceps surae muscle, larger peroneal trochlea, more concave plantar surface, more inverted calcaneal tuberosity, more everted cuboid articular surface, and more prominent plantar process than the orangutans and chimpanzees. These interspecific differences possibly reflect the functional adaptation of the calcaneus to locomotor behavior in great apes. Such information might be useful for inferring foot functions and reconstructing the locomotion of fossil hominoids and hominids.
Induction of inverted morphology in brain organoids by vertical-mixing bioreactors
Authors: Suong Dang Ngoc Anh , Imamura Keiko , Inoue Ikuyo , Kabai Ryotaro , Sakamoto Satoko , Okumura Tatsuya , Kato Yoshikazu , Kondo Takayuki , Yada Yuichiro , Klein William L. , Watanabe Akira , Inoue Haruhisa
Published: October 2021

Organoid technology provides an opportunity to generate brain-like structures by recapitulating developmental steps in the manner of self-organization. Here we examined the vertical-mixing effect on brain organoid structures using bioreactors and established inverted brain organoids. The organoids generated by vertical mixing showed neurons that migrated from the outer periphery to the inner core of organoids, in contrast to orbital mixing. Computational analysis of flow dynamics clarified that, by comparison with orbital mixing, vertical mixing maintained the high turbulent energy around organoids, and continuously kept inter-organoid distances by dispersing and adding uniform rheological force on organoids. To uncover the mechanisms of the inverted structure, we investigated the direction of primary cilia, a cellular mechanosensor. Primary cilia of neural progenitors by vertical mixing were aligned in a multidirectional manner, and those by orbital mixing in a bidirectional manner. Single-cell RNA sequencing revealed that neurons of inverted brain organoids presented a GABAergic character of the ventral forebrain. These results suggest that controlling fluid dynamics by biomechanical engineering can direct stem cell differentiation of brain organoids, and that inverted brain organoids will be applicable for studying human brain development and disorders in the future.
Activation of the adipocyte CREB/CRTC pathway in obesity
Authors: Yoon Young-Sil , Liu Weiyi , Van de Velde Sam , Matsumura Shigenobu , Wiater Ezra , Huang Ling , Montminy Marc
Published: October 2021

Obesity is a major risk factor for the development of type II diabetes. Increases in adipose tissue mass trigger insulin resistance via the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines from adipocytes and macrophages. CREB and the CRTC coactivators have been found to promote insulin resistance in obesity, although the mechanism is unclear. Here we show that high fat diet feeding activates the CREB/CRTC pathway in adipocytes by decreasing the expression of SIK2, a Ser/Thr kinase that phosphorylates and inhibits CRTCs. SIK2 levels are regulated by the adipogenic factor C/EBPα, whose expression is reduced in obesity. Exposure to PPARγ agonist rescues C/EBPα expression and restores SIK2 levels. CRTC2/3 promote insulin resistance via induction of the chemokines CXCL1/2. Knockout of CRTC2/3 in adipocytes reduces CXCL1/2 expression and improves insulin sensitivity. As administration of CXCL1/2 reverses salutary effects of CRTC2/3 depletion, our results demonstrate the importance of the CREB/CRTC pathway in modulating adipose tissue function.
AdRoit is an accurate and robust method to infer complex transcriptome composition
Authors: Yang Tao , Alessandri-Haber Nicole , Fury Wen , Schaner Michael , Breese Robert , LaCroix-Fralish Michael , Kim Jinrang , Adler Christina , Macdonald Lynn E. , Atwal Gurinder S. , Bai Yu
Published: October 2021

Bulk RNA sequencing provides the opportunity to understand biology at the whole transcriptome level without the prohibitive cost of single cell profiling. Advances in spatial transcriptomics enable to dissect tissue organization and function by genome-wide gene expressions. However, the readout of both technologies is the overall gene expression across potentially many cell types without directly providing the information of cell type constitution. Although several in-silico approaches have been proposed to deconvolute RNA-Seq data composed of multiple cell types, many suffer a deterioration of performance in complex tissues. Here we present AdRoit, an accurate and robust method to infer the cell composition from transcriptome data of mixed cell types. AdRoit uses gene expression profiles obtained from single cell RNA sequencing as a reference. It employs an adaptive learning approach to alleviate the sequencing technique difference between the single cell and the bulk (or spatial) transcriptome data, enhancing cross-platform readout comparability. Our systematic benchmarking and applications, which include deconvoluting complex mixtures that encompass 30 cell types, demonstrate its preferable sensitivity and specificity compared to many existing methods as well as its utilities. In addition, AdRoit is computationally efficient and runs orders of magnitude faster than most methods.
Residue-resolved monitoring of protein hyperpolarization at sub-second time resolution
Authors: Negroni Mattia , Kurzbach Dennis
Published: October 2021

Signal-enhancement techniques for NMR spectroscopy are important to amplify the weak resonances provided by nuclear spins. Recently, ‘hyperpolarization’ techniques have been intensively investigated. These provide nuclear spin states far from equilibrium yielding strong signal boosts up to four orders of magnitude. Here we propose a method for real-time NMR of ‘hyperpolarized’ proteins at residue resolution. The approach is based on dissolution dynamic nuclear polarization (d-DNP), which enables the use of hyperpolarized buffers that selectively boost NMR signals of solvent-exposed protein residues. The resulting spectral sparseness and signal enhancements enable recording of residue-resolved spectra at a 2 Hz sampling rate. Thus, we monitor the hyperpolarization level of different protein residues simultaneously under near-physiological conditions. We aim to address two points: 1) NMR experiments are often performed under conditions that increase sensitivity but are physiologically irrelevant; 2) long signal accumulation impedes fast real-time monitoring. Both limitations are of fundamental relevance to ascertain pharmacological relevance and study protein kinetics.
Designs from single junctions, heterojunctions to multijunctions for high-performance perovskite solar cells
Authors: Wu Xin , Li Bo , Zhu Zonglong , Chueh Chu-Chen , Jen Alex. K.-Y.
Published: October 2021

This review comprehensively summarized the mechanisms and progress of single-junction, heterojunction and multijunction designs of perovskite-based solar cells, providing guidelines for the further development of this field.
Studies on activation factors for oxidative coupling of methane over lithium-based silicate/germanate catalysts
Authors: Matsumoto Tomohiro , Ishikawa Satoshi , Saito Miwa , Ueda Wataru , Motohashi Teruki
Published: October 2021

Activation factors for improving oxidative coupling of methane (OCM) catalytic performance have been identified. Potential OCM catalysts, Li4SiO4and Li4GeO4, have been discovered.
Controlling the size and circular dichroism of chiral gold helicoids
Authors: Kim Jeong Won , Cho Nam Heon , Lim Yae-Chan , Im Sang Won , Han Jeong Hyun , Nam Ki Tae
Published: October 2021

A comprehensive investigation of size- and optical-response-controlled chiral nanomaterials from morphological analysis to a fundamental understanding.
Structural complexity in Prussian blue analogues
Authors: Cattermull John , Pasta Mauro , Goodwin Andrew L.
Published: October 2021

We survey the most important kinds of structural complexity in Prussian blue analogues and their implications for materials function. In particular, we explore the challenges for K2Mn[Fe(CN)6], the leading cathode material for K-ion batteries.
Bismuth metal organic framework-derived Bi2Se3@C for high performance supercapacitors
Authors: Qin Hengjie , Lv Ying , Li Ping , Xiao Meixia , Song Haiyang , Zhang Qian , Yang Jialun
Published: October 2021

The synthesis of Bi2Se3@C materials for high performance supercapacitors through a bismuth metal organic framework (CAU-17) assisted hydrothermal selenization method followed by carbonized annealing.
Scalable manufacturing of flexible and highly conductive Ti3C2Tx/PEDOT:PSS thin films for electromagnetic interference shielding
Authors: Ghaffarkhah Ahmadreza , Kamkar Milad , Riazi Hossein , Hosseini Ehsan , Dijvejin Zahra Azimi , Golovin Kevin , Soroush Masoud , Arjmand Mohammad
Published: October 2021

A micrometer-thick film of Ti3C2Tx/PEDOT:PSS with exceptional electrical conductivity and EMI shielding was prepared via a simple casting approach and transferred onto various geometries.
Toward the synthesis of the hypoxia selective anticancer agent BE-43547 A2
Authors: Kranthikumar Ramagonolla
Published: October 2021

The stereoselective synthesis of the 19-epi-BE-43547 A2 chiral framework is achieved from d-glucose by employing an unusual (Z)-selective Julia–Kocienski olefination and hydroboration as key steps.
Mo6+–P5+ co-doped Li2ZnTi3O8 anode for Li-storage in a wide temperature range and applications in LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4/Li2ZnTi3O8 full cells
Authors: Zhang Zhongxue , Feng Lianjing , Liu Huanhuan , Wang Lijuan , Wang Song , Tang Zhiyuan
Published: October 2021

LZM7TP3O co-doped with Mo6+ and P5+, with excellent electrochemical performance at 0–55 °C, has been synthesized using a simple solid-state method. The LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4/LZM7TP3O full cell can power LED bulbs that emit different colors of light.
Direct intramolecular C(sp3)–H bond sulfonamidation to synthesize benzosultam derivatives under metal-free conditions
Authors: Zhang He , Sun Meng-Chan , Yin Li-Ming , Wei Donghui , Song Mao-Ping , Yang Dandan , Niu Jun-Long
Published: October 2021

An efficient intramolecular C(sp3)–H bond amination under metal-free conditions has been developed to provide a straightforward method for the synthesis of 5-membered cyclic sulfonamides (benzosultams).
Co-assembled nanotubes with controlled curvature radius using a hydrogen bond regulation strategy
Authors: Zhou Lai-Cheng , Yang Yun-Han , He Ran , Qin Yang , Zhang Ling
Published: October 2021

The design of co-organized nanotube systems with controlled curvature radius that are realized by tilt modulation of co-assembled molecules, induced by the strength of non-covalent interactions in aqueous media, remains a significant challenge.
Cellulose citrate: a convenient and reusable bio-adsorbent for effective removal of methylene blue dye from artificially contaminated water
Authors: Olivito Fabrizio , Algieri Vincenzo , Jiritano Antonio , Tallarida Matteo Antonio , Tursi Antonio , Costanzo Paola , Maiuolo Loredana , De Nino Antonio
Published: October 2021

In the present work, we proved the efficacy of cellulose citrate to remove methylene blue (MB) from artificially contaminated water.
Co-precipitation polymerization of dual functional monomers and polystyrene-co-divinylbenzene for ciprofloxacin imprinted polymer preparation
Authors: Nguyen Huy Truong , Vuong Bui Nhat Thao , Kanhounnon Wilfried G. , Vu Huynh Kim Long , Nguyen Tran-Van-Anh , Nguyen Hien Minh , Do Minh Huy , Badawi Michael , Thach Ut Dong
Published: October 2021

Ciprofloxacin imprinted polymers were prepared using co-precipitation polymerization of methacrylic acid, 2-vinylpyridine and polystyrene-co-divinylbenzene.
Tb3+-Doped Ag-MOFs for fluorescent detection of formaldehyde in a novel smartphone platform and its removal applications in milk products and wastewater
Authors: Li Mengwen , Shen Ao , Du Man , Hao Xiaohui , Wang Hongquan , Du Xiaoyu , Ma Shufeng , Yuan Jiaxin , Yang Yunxu
Published: October 2021

Tb3+-Doped Ag-MOFs for fluorescent detection of formaldehyde in a novel smartphone platform and their removal applications in milk products and wastewater.
Expanded scope of Griesbaum co-ozonolysis for the preparation of structurally diverse sensors of ferrous iron
Authors: Chen Jun , Gonciarz Ryan L. , Renslo Adam R.
Published: October 2021

Improved, low temperature conditions for Griesbaum co-ozonolysis enables the preparation of structurally diverse 1,2,4-trioxolane-based sensors of ferrous iron for caging of reporters and therapeutic payloads.
Optimization of synthetic parameters of high-purity trifunctional mercaptoesters and their curing behavior for the thiol–epoxy click reaction
Authors: Hong Seung-Mo , Kim Oh Young , Hwang Seok-Ho
Published: October 2021

The direct esterification reaction between 3-mercaptopropionic acid and trimethylolpropane was conducted in the presence of various catalyst concentrations to find a synthetic route for high-purity trimethylolpropane-tris(3-mercaptopropionate).
Photoelectron photofragment coincidence spectroscopy of carboxylates
Authors: Gibbard J. A. , Continetti R. E.
Published: October 2021

Photoelectron photofragment coincidence spectroscopy studies of a range of carboxylate anions are reviewed, revealing details of the decarboxylation dynamics of carboxyl radicals.
Combinatorial design of a sialic acid imprinted binding site exploring a dual ion receptor approach
Authors: Mavliutova Liliia , Verduci Elena , Sellergren Börje
Published: October 2021

Dual-ion imprinting of sialic acid via cooperatively acting ureido- and crown ether functionalities leads to charge neutral sialic acid receptors with strong sialoglycopeptide affinity.
Two-dimensional N/O co-doped porous turbostratic carbon nanomeshes with expanded interlayer spacing as host material for potassium/lithium half/full batteries
Authors: Qu Dongyang , Zhao Bolin , Song Zhongqian , Wang Dandan , Kong Huijun , Gan Shiyu , Ma Yingming , Dong Xiandui , Han Dongxue , Niu Li
Published: October 2021

Two-dimensional N/O co-doped porous turbostratic carbon nanomeshes (NOPTCs) with ultralarge interlayer spacing synthesized via copolymerization and carbonization strategy achieve excellent electrochemical performance for potassium/lithium batteries.
Recent progress in tackling Zn anode challenges for Zn ion batteries
Authors: Hu Wei , Ju Jingge , Deng Nanping , Liu Mengyao , Liu Weicui , Zhang Yixuan , Fan Lanlan , Kang Weimin , Cheng Bowen
Published: October 2021

Recent process in tackling Zn anode challenges is summarized, including designing anode structure, modifying electrolyte, optimizing separator and developing polymer electrolytes, which present a reference for constructing high-performance ZIBs.
CdAgAlloy@polymer dots of Biginelli polyamide for the highly sensitive and selective recognition of nerve agent mimics in an aqueous and vapor phase
Authors: Kaur Manpreet , Kaur Navneet , Singh Narinder
Published: October 2021

The fluorescence detection of nerve agent mimics (DCP/DCNP) is demonstrated with bimetallic CdAg alloy coated Biginelli-based non-conjugated Pdots. The Pdots can be used for real-world on-site detection of gaseous DCP using a portable UV-light lamp.
Organic clusters with time-dependent color-tunable dual persistent room-temperature phosphorescence
Authors: Chen Zijian , Li Mengke , Qiu Weidong , Xie Wentao , Gu Qing , Su Shi-Jian
Published: October 2021

Time-dependent dual p-RTP  was discovered in a series of organic clusters with different ring-members of heterocyclics and the relationship between molecular configurations and phosphorescence lifetimes was uncovered.
Solvent/UV driven information encryption based on a multilayer quasi-amorphous photonic heterostructure
Authors: Wen Xiaoxiang , Lu Xuegang , Li Jianing , Wei Chaoping , Yang Sen
Published: October 2021

A simple anti-counterfeiting strategy based on multi-layer quasi-amorphous photonic structures (QAPS) composed of different refractive index materials is developed. The QAPS multi-layers can realize solvent/ultraviolet (UV) driven multiple information encryption and decryption.
Application status and development trends for intelligent perception of distribution network
Authors: Yan Yingjie , Liu Yadong , Fang Jian , Lu Yuefeng , Jiang Xiuchen
Published: October 2021

Intelligent perception is the cornerstone of digitalisation of power grid. Due to the closest connection with users, the information perception ability of distribution network directly affects the reliability of power supply. Distribution network has a wide range of geographical distribution and equipment types. The application of intelligent perception is with high complexity and dynamics under the limitation of both technology and management. Therefore, the study first sorts out the current application status of intelligent perception technology and equipment in distribution network from three application fields including distribution automation, metering systems, and inspection. Then, the constraints of existing intelligent perception applications and the key points of further research are pointed out. Finally, the development trends of intelligent perception technology in distribution network are presented from the three aspects of basic technology, perception equipment, and advanced applications. With the improvement of sensing, communication, energy acquisition, chips and perception equipments, the depth and breadth of advanced applications in distribution network will be expanded. The research results can provide references for the follow‐up research and practice of intelligent perception in distribution networks.
SiC MOSFET switching – Lower losses without increased EMI – A technique to evaluate and achieve this goal
Authors: Maier Robert W. , Bakran Mark‐M.
Published: October 2021

With increasing switching speed of new power semiconductors like the SiC MOSFET, special attention has to be paid on the electromagnetic interference and its limitations. In this work, an evaluation criterion is developed as an optimisation tool for maximum exploitation of conducted electromagnetic interference limit by optimizing the switching process of a SiC MOSFET. The switching losses of power semiconductors can be reduced by increasing their switching speed. Unfortunately, at the same time, the electromagnetic interference will increase due to higher voltage and current slopes and higher switching oscillations. The electromagnetic interference caused by the switching process can be reduced by decreasing the switching speed. This also reduces the switching oscillation but inevitably increases the switching losses. The electromagnetic interference criterion developed in this paper will help to identify the proper switching speed for minimum losses under compliance with switching process related electromagnetic interference. It can be used to evaluate the benefit of more advanced gate control methods that allow increasing the switching speed without increasing the switching oscillation amplitude. The proposed method will not replace the final electromagnetic interference testing, but it will help determine the proper gate control method for lowest possible switching losses without violating the electromagnetic interference restrictions in an early development state. Measurements show that the switching losses can be reduced by 75% with a proper gate control method, where the proposed method assures the compliance with the electromagnetic interference limit.