bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Field evaluation of hermetic and synthetic pesticide-based technologies in smallholder sorghum grain storage in hot and arid climates
Authors: Mubayiwa Macdonald , Mvumi Brighton M. , Stathers Tanya , Mlambo Shaw , Nyabako Tinashe
Published: February 2021

Field evaluation of six grain storage technologies under hot and arid conditions (32–42 °C; rainfall < 450 mm/year) in two locations in Zimbabwe were conducted over two storage seasons. The treatments included three hermetic technologies (Purdue Improved Crop Storage bags, GrainPro Super Grainbags, metal silos); three synthetic pesticide-based treatments; and an untreated control, all using threshed sorghum grain. Sampling was at eight-week intervals for 32 weeks. Highly significant differences (p < 0.01) occurred between hermetic and non-hermetic treatments regarding grain damage, weight loss, insect pest populations, and grain moisture content; with the hermetic containers exhibiting superior grain protection. Weight losses were low (< 3%) in hermetic treatments compared to pesticide-based treatments (3.7 to 14.2%).Tribolium castaneumdeveloped in metal silos, deltamethrin-incorporated polypropylene bags and a pesticide treatment containing deltamethrin 0.13% and fenitrothion 1% whileSitotroga cerealelladeveloped in a pesticide treatment containing pirimiphos-methyl 0.16% + thiamethoxam 0.036%. Mechanisms of survival and development of these pests in the tested treatments and under similar climatic conditions need further elucidation. These hermetic technologies can be successfully used by smallholder farmers in developing countries as alternatives to synthetic pesticides for protecting stored-sorghum grain under hot and arid climatic conditions to attain household food security. To our knowledge, this is the first published study on modern hermetic storage of sorghum grain under typical smallholder storage conditions and involving stakeholders.
SARS-CoV-2 genomic surveillance in Rondônia, Brazilian Western Amazon
Authors: Botelho-Souza Luan Felipo , Nogueira-Lima Felipe Souza , Roca Tárcio Peixoto , Naveca Felipe Gomes , de Oliveria dos Santos Alcione , Maia Adriana Cristina Salvador , da Silva Cicileia Correia , de Melo Mendonça Aline Linhares Ferreira , Lugtenburg Celina Aparecida Bertoni , Azzi Camila Flávia Gomes , Fontes Juliana Loca Furtado , Cavalcante Suelen , de Cássia Pontello Rampazzo Rita , Santos Caio Henrique Nemeth , Di Sabatino Guimarães Alice Paula , Máximo Fernando Rodrigues , Villalobos-Salcedo Juan Miguel , Vieira Deusilene Souza
Published: February 2021

SARS-CoV-2 has spread rapidly around the world, with Brazil currently considered an epicenter of the pandemic. The Northern region has the second highest incidence coefficient, as well as the third highest mortality rate in the country. This study aimed to investigate information about the evolutionary history of epidemic spread and genetic aspects of strains isolated on the Western Amazon, in the State of Rondônia, Brazil. It was possible to detect a total of 22 mutations. Some of these alterations may possibly be related to effects on transmissibility, the fidelity of RNA replication, the ability of cancer patients to respond to infection, beyond a mutation that emerged after the introduction of SARS-CoV-2 in Rondônia. At least two events of introduction were detected, corresponding to the B.1 and B.1.1 European lineages. An introduction was observed possibly through Argentina, where strains originated that circulated in the Minas Gerais and Ceará Brazilian states, prior to Rondônia (B.1.), as well as through the Minas Gerais state and the Federal District, which gave rise to strains that spread to Rondônia, from the capital to more rural parts of the state (B.1.1.). The findings show the need to monitor the genetic epidemiology of COVID-19, in order to surveil the virus’s evolution, dispersion and diversity.
Systematic competition between strain and electric field stimuli in tuning EELS of phosphorene
Authors: Yarmohammadi Mohsen , Hoi Bui Dinh , Phuong Le Thi Thu
Published: February 2021

The strongly anisotropic properties of phosphorene makes it an attractive material for applications in deciding the specific direction for different purposes. Here we have particularly reported the competition between strain and electric field stimuli in evaluating the band gap and electron energy loss spectrum (EELS) of single-layer black phosphorus using the tight-binding method and the Kubo conductivity. We construct possible configurations for this competition and evaluate the interband optical excitations considering the corresponding band gap variations. The band gap increases with the individual electric field, while it increases (decreases) with tensile (compressive) uniaxial in-plane strain. Contrary to the in-plane strains, the uniaxial out-of-plane strain shows a critical strain at which the system suffers from a phase transition. Furthermore, the presence of these stimuli simultaneously results in an extraordinary band gap engineering. Based on the EELS response in the electromagnetic spectrum, the armchair (zigzag) direction is classified into the infrared and visible (ultraviolet) region. We report that the electric field gives rise to the blue shift in the interband optical transitions along the armchair direction, while the compressive/tensile (tensile/compressive) in-plane/out-of-plane strain provides a red (blue) shift. Moreover, we observe an inverse behavior of EELS response to the individual and combined effects of electric field and strains compared to the band gap behavior except at critical out-of-plane strain for which the physical theory of interband excitation is simply violated. Our results provide a new perspective on the applicability of phosphorene in stimulated optical applications.
Effectiveness of e-Health cardiac rehabilitation program on quality of life associated with symptoms of anxiety and depression in moderate-risk patients
Authors: Bravo-Escobar Raquel , González-Represas Alicia , Gómez-González Adela María , Heredia-Torres Ángela
Published: February 2021

Exploring new models of medical care requires evaluating the impact of new care strategies not only on physiological parameters but also on the quality of life of the patient. On the other hand the presence of anxiety together with depression requires further consideration when planning appropriate management strategies. The aim of this study was to examine the effectiveness of a home-based cardiac rehabilitation program incorporating an e-Health technology on health-related quality of life associated with symptoms of anxiety and depression in moderate-risk patients. A multicenter, randomized controlled clinical trial was designed to compare a traditional hospital based cardiac rehabilitation program (n = 38, 35 male) with a mixed home surveillance program where patients exercised at home with a remote electrocardiographic monitoring device (n = 33, 31 male). The Short Form-36 (SF-36) Health Survey and the Goldberg questionnaire were used to evaluate quality of life and the presence of symptoms of anxiety and depression respectively. The results of this study show that the type of cardiac rehabilitation program did not influence the improvement in quality of life (p = 0.854), but the presence of symptoms of anxiety and depression did (p = 0.001). Although both programs achieved a decrease in anxiety and depression symptoms and improved functional capacity (p ≤ 0.001), a significant interaction effect was found between the group with or without anxiety and depression symptoms and the type of program in the bodily pain dimension (p = 0.021). Trial registration: Retrospectively registered NCT02796404 (10/06/2016) in clinialtrials.gov.
A small-molecular inhibitor against Proteus mirabilis urease to treat catheter-associated urinary tract infections
Authors: Milo Scarlet , Heylen Rachel A. , Glancy John , Williams George T. , Patenall Bethany L. , Hathaway Hollie J. , Thet Naing T. , Allinson Sarah L. , Laabei Maisem , Jenkins A. Toby A.
Published: February 2021

Infection and blockage of indwelling urinary catheters is significant owing to its high incidence rate and severe medical consequences. Bacterial enzymes are employed as targets for small molecular intervention in human bacterial infections. Urease is a metalloenzyme known to play a crucial role in the pathogenesis and virulence of catheter-associated Proteus mirabilis infection. Targeting urease as a therapeutic candidate facilitates the disarming of bacterial virulence without affecting bacterial fitness, thereby limiting the selective pressure placed on the invading population and lowering the rate at which it will acquire resistance. We describe the design, synthesis, and in vitro evaluation of the small molecular enzyme inhibitor 2-mercaptoacetamide (2-MA), which can prevent encrustation and blockage of urinary catheters in a physiologically representative in vitro model of the catheterized urinary tract. 2-MA is a structural analogue of urea, showing promising competitive activity against urease. In silico docking experiments demonstrated 2-MA’s competitive inhibition, whilst further quantum level modelling suggests two possible binding mechanisms.
Preservation of epoxyeicosatrienoic acid bioavailability prevents renal allograft dysfunction and cardiovascular alterations in kidney transplant recipients
Authors: Duflot Thomas , Laurent Charlotte , Soudey Anne , Fonrose Xavier , Hamzaoui Mouad , Iacob Michèle , Bertrand Dominique , Favre Julie , Etienne Isabelle , Roche Clothilde , Coquerel David , Le Besnerais Maëlle , Louhichi Safa , Tarlet Tracy , Li Dongyang , Brunel Valéry , Morisseau Christophe , Richard Vincent , Joannidès Robinson , Stanke-Labesque Françoise , Lamoureux Fabien , Guerrot Dominique , Bellien Jérémy
Published: February 2021

This study addressed the hypothesis that epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs) synthesized by CYP450 and catabolized by soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH) are involved in the maintenance of renal allograft function, either directly or through modulation of cardiovascular function. The impact of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the sEH gene EPHX2 and CYP450 on renal and vascular function, plasma levels of EETs and peripheral blood monuclear cell sEH activity was assessed in 79 kidney transplant recipients explored at least one year after transplantation. Additional experiments in a mouse model mimicking the ischemia–reperfusion (I/R) injury suffered by the transplanted kidney evaluated the cardiovascular and renal effects of the sEH inhibitor t-AUCB administered in drinking water (10 mg/l) during 28 days after surgery. There was a long-term protective effect of the sEH SNP rs6558004, which increased EET plasma levels, on renal allograft function and a deleterious effect of K55R, which increased sEH activity. Surprisingly, the loss-of-function CYP2C9*3 was associated with a better renal function without affecting EET levels. R287Q SNP, which decreased sEH activity, was protective against vascular dysfunction while CYP2C8*3 and 2C9*2 loss-of-function SNP, altered endothelial function by reducing flow-induced EET release. In I/R mice, sEH inhibition reduced kidney lesions, prevented cardiac fibrosis and dysfunction as well as preserved endothelial function. The preservation of EET bioavailability may prevent allograft dysfunction and improve cardiovascular disease in kidney transplant recipients. Inhibition of sEH appears thus as a novel therapeutic option but its impact on other epoxyfatty acids should be carefully evaluated.
Rainfall as a trigger of ecological cascade effects in an Australian groundwater ecosystem
Authors: Saccò Mattia , Blyth Alison J. , Humphreys William F. , Cooper Steven J. B. , White Nicole E. , Campbell Matthew , Mousavi-Derazmahalleh Mahsa , Hua Quan , Mazumder Debashish , Smith Colin , Griebler Christian , Grice Kliti
Published: February 2021

Groundwaters host vital resources playing a key role in the near future. Subterranean fauna and microbes are crucial in regulating organic cycles in environments characterized by low energy and scarce carbon availability. However, our knowledge about the functioning of groundwater ecosystems is limited, despite being increasingly exposed to anthropic impacts and climate change-related processes. In this work we apply novel biochemical and genetic techniques to investigate the ecological dynamics of an Australian calcrete under two contrasting rainfall periods (LR—low rainfall and HR—high rainfall). Our results indicate that the microbial gut community of copepods and amphipods experienced a shift in taxonomic diversity and predicted organic functional metabolic pathways during HR. The HR regime triggered a cascade effect driven by microbes (OM processors) and exploited by copepods and amphipods (primary and secondary consumers), which was finally transferred to the aquatic beetles (top predators). Our findings highlight that rainfall triggers ecological shifts towards more deterministic dynamics, revealing a complex web of interactions in seemingly simple environmental settings. Here we show how a combined isotopic-molecular approach can untangle the mechanisms shaping a calcrete community. This design will help manage and preserve one of the most vital but underrated ecosystems worldwide.
An equation of state for insect swarms
Authors: Sinhuber Michael , van der Vaart Kasper , Feng Yenchia , Reynolds Andrew M. , Ouellette Nicholas T.
Published: February 2021

Collective behaviour in flocks, crowds, and swarms occurs throughout the biological world. Animal groups are generally assumed to be evolutionarily adapted to robustly achieve particular functions, so there is widespread interest in exploiting collective behaviour for bio-inspired engineering. However, this requires understanding the precise properties and function of groups, which remains a challenge. Here, we demonstrate that collective groups can be described in a thermodynamic framework. We define an appropriate set of state variables and extract an equation of state for laboratory midge swarms. We then drive swarms through “thermodynamic” cycles via external stimuli, and show that our equation of state holds throughout. Our findings demonstrate a new way of precisely quantifying the nature of collective groups and provide a cornerstone for potential future engineering design.
Down-regulation of habenular calcium-dependent secretion activator 2 induces despair-like behavior
Authors: Yoo Hyeijung , Yang Soo Hyun , Kim Jin Yong , Yang Esther , Park Hyung Sun , Lee Se Jeong , Rhyu Im Joo , Turecki Gustavo , Lee Hyun Woo , Kim Hyun
Published: February 2021

Calcium-dependent secretion activator 2 (CAPS2) regulates the trafficking and exocytosis of neuropeptide-containing dense-core vesicles (DCVs). CAPS2 is prominently expressed in the medial habenula (MHb), which is related to depressive behavior; however, how MHb neurons cause depressive symptoms and the role of CAPS2 remains unclear. We hypothesized that dysfunction of MHb CAPS neurons might cause defects in neuropeptide secretion and the activity of monoaminergic centers, resulting in depressive-like behaviors. In this study, we examined (1) CAPS2 expression in the habenula of depression animal models and major depressive disorder patients and (2) the effects of down-regulation of MHb CAPS2 on the animal behaviors, synaptic transmission in the interpeduncular nucleus (IPN), and neuronal activity of monoamine centers. Habenular CAPS2 expression was decreased in the rat chronic restraint stress model, mouse learned helplessness model, and showed tendency to decrease in depression patients who died by suicide. Knockdown of CAPS2 in the mouse habenula evoked despair-like behavior and a reduction of the release of DCVs in the IPN. Neuronal activity of IPN and monoaminergic centers was also reduced. These results implicate MHb CAPS2 as playing a pivotal role in depressive behavior through the regulation of neuropeptide secretion of the MHb-IPN pathway and the activity of monoaminergic centers.
Neural correlates of mating system diversity: oxytocin and vasopressin receptor distributions in monogamous and non-monogamous Eulemur
Authors: Grebe Nicholas M. , Sharma Annika , Freeman Sara M. , Palumbo Michelle C. , Patisaul Heather B. , Bales Karen L. , Drea Christine M.
Published: February 2021

Contemporary theory that emphasizes the roles of oxytocin and vasopressin in mammalian sociality has been shaped by seminal vole research that revealed interspecific variation in neuroendocrine circuitry by mating system. However, substantial challenges exist in interpreting and translating these rodent findings to other mammalian groups, including humans, making research on nonhuman primates crucial. Both monogamous and non-monogamous species exist withinEulemur, a genus of strepsirrhine primate, offering a rare opportunity to broaden a comparative perspective on oxytocin and vasopressin neurocircuitry with increased evolutionary relevance to humans. We performed oxytocin and arginine vasopressin 1a receptor autoradiography on 12Eulemurbrains from seven closely related species to (1) characterize receptor distributions across the genus, and (2) examine differences between monogamous and non-monogamous species in regions part of putative “pair-bonding circuits”. We find some binding patterns acrossEulemurreminiscent of olfactory-guided rodents, but others congruent with more visually oriented anthropoids, consistent with lemurs occupying an ‘intermediary’ evolutionary niche between haplorhine primates and other mammalian groups. We find little evidence of a “pair-bonding circuit” inEulemurakin to those proposed in previous rodent or primate research. Mapping neuropeptide receptors in these nontraditional species questions existing assumptions and informs proposed evolutionary explanations about the biological bases of monogamy.
Robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy provides better histopathological outcomes as compared to its open counterpart: a meta-analysis
Authors: Da Dong Xiang , Felsenreich Daniel Moritz , Gogna Shekhar , Rojas Aram , Zhang Ethan , Dong Michael , Azim Asad , Gachabayov Mahir
Published: February 2021

The aim of this meta-analysis was to evaluate whether robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) may provide better clinical and pathologic outcomes compared to its open counterpart. The Pubmed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library were systematically searched. Overall postoperative morbidity and resection margin involvement rate were the primary endpoints. Secondary endpoints included operating time, estimated blood loss (EBL), incisional surgical site infection (SSI) rate, length of hospital stay (LOS), and number of lymph nodes harvested. Twenty-four studies totaling 12,579 patients (2,175 robotic PD and 10,404 open PD were included. Overall postoperative mortality did not significantly differ [OR (95%CI) = 0.86 (0.74, 1.01); p = 0.06]. Resection margin involvement rate was significantly lower in robotic PD [15.6% vs. 19.9%; OR (95%CI) = 0.64 (0.41, 1.00); p = 0.05; NNT = 23]. Operating time was significantly longer in robotic PD [MD (95%CI) = 75.17 (48.05, 102.28); p < 0.00001]. EBL was significantly decreased in robotic PD [MD (95%CI) = − 191.35 (− 238.12, − 144.59); p < 0.00001]. Number of lymph nodes harvested was significantly higher in robotic PD [MD (95%CI) = 2.88 (1.12, 4.65); p = 0.001]. This meta-analysis found that robotic PD provides better histopathological outcomes as compared to open PD at the cost of longer operating time. Furthermore, robotic PD did not have any detrimental impact on clinical outcomes, with lower wound infection rates.
Efficacy of MEK inhibition in a recurrent malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor
Authors: Nagabushan Sumanth , Lau Loretta M. S. , Barahona Paulette , Wong Marie , Sherstyuk Alexandra , Marshall Glenn M. , Tyrrell Vanessa , Wegner Eva A. , Ekert Paul G. , Cowley Mark J. , Mayoh Chelsea , Trahair Toby N. , Crowe Philip , Anazodo Antoinette , Ziegler David S.
Published: February 2021

The prognosis of recurrent malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNST) is dismal, with surgical resection being the only definitive salvage therapy. Treatment with chemoradiation approaches has not significantly improved patient outcomes. Similarly, trials of therapies targeting MPNST genomic drivers have thus far been unsuccessful. Improved understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of MPNST indicates frequent activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cell signaling pathway. MEK inhibitors have shown activity in preclinical studies; however, their clinical efficacy has not been reported to date. We describe here a case of sustained complete response to MEK inhibition in an adolescent patient with a recurrent metastatic MPNST with multiple alterations in the MAPK pathway, guided by a precision oncology approach.
Predicting adverse outcomes due to diabetes complications with machine learning using administrative health data
Authors: Ravaut Mathieu , Sadeghi Hamed , Leung Kin Kwan , Volkovs Maksims , Kornas Kathy , Harish Vinyas , Watson Tristan , Lewis Gary F. , Weisman Alanna , Poutanen Tomi , Rosella Laura
Published: February 2021

Across jurisdictions, government and health insurance providers hold a large amount of data from patient interactions with the healthcare system. We aimed to develop a machine learning-based model for predicting adverse outcomes due to diabetes complications using administrative health data from the single-payer health system in Ontario, Canada. A Gradient Boosting Decision Tree model was trained on data from 1,029,366 patients, validated on 272,864 patients, and tested on 265,406 patients. Discrimination was assessed using the AUC statistic and calibration was assessed visually using calibration plots overall and across population subgroups. Our model predicting three-year risk of adverse outcomes due to diabetes complications (hyper/hypoglycemia, tissue infection, retinopathy, cardiovascular events, amputation) included 700 features from multiple diverse data sources and had strong discrimination (average test AUC = 77.7, range 77.7–77.9). Through the design and validation of a high-performance model to predict diabetes complications adverse outcomes at the population level, we demonstrate the potential of machine learning and administrative health data to inform health planning and healthcare resource allocation for diabetes management.
Histone variant H2A.B-H2B dimers are spontaneously exchanged with canonical H2A-H2B in the nucleosome
Authors: Hirano Rina , Arimura Yasuhiro , Kujirai Tomoya , Shibata Mikihiro , Okuda Aya , Morishima Ken , Inoue Rintaro , Sugiyama Masaaki , Kurumizaka Hitoshi
Published: February 2021

H2A.B is an evolutionarily distant histone H2A variant that accumulates on DNA repair sites, DNA replication sites, and actively transcribing regions in genomes. In cells, H2A.B exchanges rapidly in chromatin, but the mechanism has remained enigmatic. In the present study, we found that the H2A.B-H2B dimer incorporated within the nucleosome exchanges with the canonical H2A-H2B dimer without assistance from additional factors, such as histone chaperones and nucleosome remodelers. High-speed atomic force microscopy revealed that the H2A.B nucleosome, but not the canonical H2A nucleosome, transiently forms an intermediate “open conformation”, in which two H2A.B-H2B dimers may be detached from the H3-H4 tetramer and bind to the DNA regions near the entry/exit sites. Mutational analyses revealed that the H2A.B C-terminal region is responsible for the adoption of the open conformation and the H2A.B-H2B exchange in the nucleosome. These findings provide mechanistic insights into the histone exchange of the H2A.B nucleosome.
pH-dependent and dynamic interactions of cystatin C with heparan sulfate
Authors: Zhang Xiaoxiao , Liu Xinyue , Su Guowei , Li Miaomiao , Liu Jian , Wang Chunyu , Xu Ding
Published: February 2021

Cystatin C (Cst-3) is a potent inhibitor of cysteine proteases with diverse biological functions. As a secreted protein, the potential interaction between Cst-3 and extracellular matrix components has not been well studied. Here we investigated the interaction between Cst-3 and heparan sulfate (HS), a major component of extracellular matrix. We discovered that Cst-3 is a HS-binding protein only at acidic pH. By NMR and site-directed mutagenesis, we identified two HS binding regions in Cst-3: the highly dynamic N-terminal segment and a flexible region located between residue 70-94. The composition of the HS-binding site by two highly dynamic halves is unique in known HS-binding proteins. We further discovered that HS-binding severely impairs the inhibitory activity of Cst-3 towards papain, suggesting the interaction could actively regulate Cst-3 activity. Using murine bone tissues, we showed that Cst-3 interacts with bone matrix HS at low pH, again highlighting the physiological relevance of our discovery.
Immunoreactive peptide maps of SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Mishra Nischay , Huang Xi , Joshi Shreyas , Guo Cheng , Ng James , Thakkar Riddhi , Wu Yongjian , Dong Xin , Li Qianlin , Pinapati Richard S. , Sullivan Eric , Caciula Adrian , Tokarz Rafal , Briese Thomas , Lu Jiahai , Lipkin W. Ian
Published: February 2021

Serodiagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infection is impeded by immunological cross-reactivity among the human coronaviruses (HCoVs): SARS-CoV-2, SARS-CoV-1, MERS-CoV, OC43, 229E, HKU1, and NL63. Here we report the identification of humoral immune responses to SARS-CoV-2 peptides that may enable discrimination between exposure to SARS-CoV-2 and other HCoVs. We used a high-density peptide microarray and plasma samples collected at two time points from 50 subjects with SARS-CoV-2 infection confirmed by qPCR, samples collected in 2004–2005 from 11 subjects with IgG antibodies to SARS-CoV-1, 11 subjects with IgG antibodies to other seasonal human coronaviruses (HCoV), and 10 healthy human subjects. Through statistical modeling with linear regression and multidimensional scaling we identified specific peptides that were reassembled to identify 29 linear SARS-CoV-2 epitopes that were immunoreactive with plasma from individuals who had asymptomatic, mild or severe SARS-CoV-2 infections. Larger studies will be required to determine whether these peptides may be useful in serodiagnostics.
Nanosurface energy transfer indicating Exo III-propelled stochastic 3D DNA walkers for HIV DNA detection
Authors: Wang Na , Jiang Yong Jian , Zhang Xu , Lin Hua Rong , Cheng Feng , Li Qian , Li Chun Mei , Huang Cheng Zhi
Published: February 2021

An Exo III-propelled stochastic 3D DNA walker based on nanosurface energy transfer was developed for enzyme-assisted DNA detection with signal amplification.
An “off–on–off” fluorescence chemosensor for the sensitive detection of Cu2+ in aqueous solution based on multiple fluorescence emission mechanisms
Authors: Zhou Aimei , Han Shuhua
Published: February 2021

A new type of fluorescent chemical sensor (AHBH-PMOs) with AIE and ICT mechanisms is synthesized, which can detect copper ions in pure aqueous solution with good selectivity and high sensitivity.
An anisotropic nanocomposite hydrogel guides aligned orientation and enhances tenogenesis of human tendon stem/progenitor cells
Authors: Xu Yichi , Yin Heyong , Chu Jin , Eglin David , Serra Tiziano , Docheva Denitsa
Published: February 2021

An anisotropic magnetically-responsive collagen hydrogel loaded with iron oxide nanoparticles augments aligned cell row formation and tenogenic gene expression of tendon stem/progenitor cells.
PEGylated sequence-controlled macromolecules using supramolecular binding to target the Taspase1/Importin α interaction
Authors: Pasch Peter , Höing Alexander , Ueclue Serap , Killa Matthias , Voskuhl Jens , Knauer Shirley K. , Hartmann Laura
Published: February 2021

PEGylated sequence-controlled macromolecules using supramolecular binding motifs effectively disrupt Taspase1 interaction with Importin α in a concentration-dependent manner, thereby exploiting a novel inhibition mechanism for this protease.
A cyclic manipulation of cage isomers via anion exchange and thermal isomerism
Authors: Park Seonghyeon , Kim Dongwon , Kim Doheon , Kim Dongwook , Jung Ok-Sang
Published: February 2021

A conceptual system on “dynamic-but-tight” peanut-type cage isomers has been constructed via a template of ubiquitous anions. The anions of the cage isomers can be reversibly exchanged without any change in isomeric skeleton.
Honeycomb layered oxides: structure, energy storage, transport, topology and relevant insights
Authors: Kanyolo Godwill Mbiti , Masese Titus , Matsubara Nami , Chen Chih-Yao , Rizell Josef , Huang Zhen-Dong , Sassa Yasmine , Månsson Martin , Senoh Hiroshi , Matsumoto Hajime
Published: February 2021

A review to delineate the chemistry and physics for honeycomb layered oxides.
Effects of ethyl acetate extract fromCoreopsis tinctoriaon learning and memory impairment ind-galactose-induced aging mice and the underlying molecular mechanism
Authors: Li Hongyu , Xu Guangyu , Wu Dongmei , Li Jinlian , Cui Jiwen , Liu Jiguang
Published: February 2021

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of ethyl acetate extract fromCoreopsis tinctoria(EACC) on learning and memory impairment ind-galactose-induced aging mice and the underlying molecular mechanism.
Wide optical gap B-doped nc-Si thin films with advanced crystallinity and conductivity on transparent flexible substrates for potential low-cost flexible electronics including nc-Si superstrate p–i–n solar cells
Authors: Das Debajyoti , Patra Chandralina
Published: February 2021

The current boost in flexible energy harvesting devices demands the fabrication of solar cells on non-rigid, light-weight and cheap substrates to make roll-to-roll processing technology economically viable.
Structural modifications that increase gut restriction of bile acid derivatives
Authors: Nakhi Ali , Wong Henry L. , Weldy Melissa , Khoruts Alexander , Sadowsky Michael J. , Dosa Peter I.
Published: February 2021

Modifications can be made to bile acids that decrease their absorption from the gut by active and passive mechanisms.
Construction of heterojunctions between ReS2 and twin crystal ZnxCd1−xS for boosting solar hydrogen evolution
Authors: Guo Luyan , Yu Guiyang , Zhao Haitao , Xing Chuanwang , Hu Yujia , Chen Ting , Li Xiyou
Published: February 2021

Nanoflower-like ReS2 anchoring on nanotwins ZnxCd1−xS greatly boosts photocatalytic hydrogen evolution rate with 31-times higher than pure phase P-ZCS.
Reactive molecular dynamics simulations of hydration shells surrounding spherical TiO2nanoparticles: implications for proton-transfer reactions
Authors: Soria Federico A. , Di Valentin Cristiana
Published: February 2021

Mechanisms of proton transfer reactions at the interface between realistic TiO2nanoparticles and water by reactive molecular dynamics simulation.
Born to be different: the formation process of Cu nanoparticles tunes the size trend of the activity for CO2 to CH4 conversion
Authors: Gazzarrini Elena , Rossi Kevin , Baletto Francesca
Published: February 2021

We investigate the activity of cu nanoparticles for the electrochemical reduction of CO2 into methane. We find that the formation process affects Cu nanoparticles size-dependent activity. This finding traces a new route to the design of nanocatalysts.
Engineering the ligand states by surface functionalization: a new way to enhance the ferromagnetism of CrI3
Authors: Li Hongxing , Cheng Zi-Peng , He Bin-Guang , Zhang Wei-Bing
Published: February 2021

The ferromagnetic superexchange coupling among Cr atoms in CrI3 is enhanced by the adsorption of X (X = F, Cl and Br) atoms.
Endosome-escaping micelle complexes dually equipped with cell-penetrating and endosome-disrupting peptides for efficient DNA delivery into intact plants
Authors: Miyamoto Takaaki , Tsuchiya Kousuke , Numata Keiji
Published: February 2021

We present an endosome-escaping micelle complex that can bypass vacuolar degradation and enable enhanced DNA delivery to intact plants for basic biological researches and diverse biotechnological applications.
Rapid structural regulation, apatite-inducing mechanism and in vivo investigation of microwave-assisted hydrothermally treated titania coating
Authors: Chen Lin , Ren Junyu , Hu Narisu , Du Qing , Wei Daqing
Published: February 2021

In this work, the micro/nano scale structures of HA nanorods integrated on a titanium were prepared using MAO and MH treatment. The in vivo results indicate that HA crystals play a crucial role in the improvement of the osseointegration.
Controllable enzymatic superactivity of α-chymotrypsin activated by the electrostatic interaction with cationic gemini surfactants
Authors: Yue Zheng , Yao Meihuan , Bai Guangyue , Wang Jiuxia , Zhuo Kelei , Wang Jianji , Wang Yujie
Published: February 2021

This study proposes a novel strategy to enhance enzymatic superactivity of α-CT by controlling the charge density of cationic gemini surfactant.
Study on the treatment of sudden cadmium pollution in surface water by a polymer enhanced ultrafiltration process
Authors: Meng Qian , Nan Jun , Mu Yuxi , Zu Xuehui , Guo Mingqi
Published: February 2021

The removal of cadmium(ii) pollution in surface water by a polymer enhanced ultrafiltration (PEUF) process was investigated.
Optimal water concentration for aqueous Li+ intercalation in vanadyl phosphate
Authors: Sun Dan , Okubo Masashi , Yamada Atsuo
Published: February 2021

We demonstrate aqueous Li+ intercalation chemistry of vanadyl phosphate in the form of monohydrates, which are only stable in an optimal water-concentration environment.
Water as the reaction medium in organic chemistry: from our worst enemy to our best friend
Authors: Cortes-Clerget Margery , Yu Julie , Kincaid Joseph R. A. , Walde Peter , Gallou Fabrice , Lipshutz Bruce H.
Published: February 2021

A review that highlights water as the logical reaction medium in which organic chemistry can be practiced. The key roles that water can play in directing reaction outcomes, including impacting mechanistic features, are discussed using selected examples.
Emerging applications for living crystallization-driven self-assembly
Authors: MacFarlane Liam , Zhao Chuanqi , Cai Jiandong , Qiu Huibin , Manners Ian
Published: February 2021

The use of crystallization as a tool to control the self-assembly of polymeric and molecular amphiphiles in solution is attracting growing attention for the creation of non-spherical nanoparticles and more complex, hierarchical assemblies.
Access to P-stereogenic compounds via desymmetrizing enantioselective bromination
Authors: Huang Qiu-Hong , Zhou Qian-Yi , Yang Chen , Chen Li , Cheng Jin-Pei , Li Xin
Published: February 2021

A highly efficient desymmetrizing asymmetric bromination of bisphenol phosphine oxides was developed, providing a wide range of chiral bisphenol phosphine oxides and bisphenol phosphinates with high yields and enantioselectivities.
Propulsion of an elastic filament in a shear-thinning fluid
Authors: Qin Ke , Peng Zhiwei , Chen Ye , Nganguia Herve , Zhu Lailai , Pak On Shun
Published: February 2021

Viaa simple elastic swimmer actuated magnetically, we present a first study to examine how shear-thinning rheology impacts the fluid-structure interaction and hence the elastohydrodynamic propulsion performance at low Reynolds numbers.
Rational designs of interfacial-heating solar-thermal desalination devices: recent progress and remaining challenges
Authors: Xia Yun , Kang Yuan , Wang Zhuyuan , Yuan Shi , Li Yang , Gao Li , Wang Huanting , Zhang Xiwang
Published: February 2021

This review summarizes recent advances and presents an overview of design strategies in interfacial-heating solar-thermal desalination devices.
A membrane-less desalination battery with ultrahigh energy efficiency
Authors: Guo Lu , Shang Yang , Wang Guangzhao , Jin Jun , Leong Zhi Yi , Huang Shaozhuan , Gu Chengding , Ding Meng , Pam Mei Er , Vafakhah Sareh , Li Xue Liang , Yang Shengyuan A. , Yang Hui Ying
Published: February 2021

A novel, membrane-less desalination battery comprising negatively charged redox-active electrodes has been developed with high performance.
Impact of Al doping on a hydrothermally synthesized β-Ga2O3 nanostructure for photocatalysis applications
Authors: Kim Sunjae , Ryou Heejoong , Lee In Gyu , Shin Myunghun , Cho Byung Jin , Hwang Wan Sik
Published: February 2021

The photocatalytic activity is correlated with different parameters affecting the photocatalytic reactions; redox potential (RP), surface area (SA), crystal defect (CD), oxygen defect (OD), and grain-boundary induced defect (GD).
Tb-based silicate apatites showing slow magnetization relaxation with identical parameters for the Tb3+ and Dy3+ counter ions
Authors: Zykin Mikhail A. , Dyakonov Andrey K. , Eliseev Artem A. , Trusov Lev A. , Kremer Reinhard K. , Dinnebier Robert E. , Jansen Martin , Kazin Pavel E.
Published: February 2021

Replacing Dy3+ with Tb3+ in the apatite-type silicate (Dy,Y)8Ca2(SiO4)6O2 preserves the character of the magnetization slow relaxation.
Conducting polymer nanoparticles for a voltage-controlled release of pharmacological chaperones
Authors: Enshaei Hamidreza , Puiggalí-Jou Anna , Saperas Núria , Alemán Carlos
Published: February 2021

Sustained electrical stimuli on conducting polymer nanoparticles allow the controlled release of loaded pharmacological chaperones, which are low-molecular weight chemical molecules used for the treatment of diseases caused by protein instability.
Water management by hierarchical structures for highly efficient solar water evaporation
Authors: Sun Yukun , Zong Xupeng , Qu Dan , Chen Ge , An Li , Wang Xiayan , Sun Zaicheng
Published: February 2021

Solar water evaporation is a sustainable and efficient way to produce fresh water.
Constrained consensus over continuous‐time multi‐agent networks with state constraints, non‐convex input constraints and time delays
Authors: Mo Lipo , Yu Yongguang
Published: February 2021

This study considers the constrained consensus problem of continuous‐time multi‐agent networks with hypercube state constraints, non‐convex input constraints and non‐uniform delays. It is assumed that each agent can only perceive its own constraint sets, the communication graphs are switching over time and the joint communication graphs are strongly connected. By introducing the time‐varying gains and the constraint operators, a new distributed algorithm is proposed. Then, it is proved that the constraint consensus can be reached under the proposed algorithm by reduction, while the states and the inputs are constrained to stay at the corresponding constraint sets. Finally, simulation examples are given to examine the effectiveness of the proposed results.
Safety‐guaranteed constraint‐oriented modelling and control for bidirectional vehicular platoons
Authors: Yang Zeyu , Huang Jin , Hu Zhanyi , Yang Diange , Zhong Zhihua
Published: February 2021

The safety of a vehicular platoon is seriously threatened in the presence of actuator saturations, (possibly fast) time‐varying non‐linear uncertainties. Meanwhile, the string stability and the strong string stability cannot eliminate the potential safety hazard caused by large initial error conditions. This study focuses on safety‐guaranteed distributed control of the vehicular platoon with a bidirectional communication topology and the constant time headway policy. The authors formulate bilateral inequality constraints on the spacing error between adjacent vehicles to represent the collision‐avoidance and compact formation performance. A novel state transformation technique is proposed to convert the bounded spacing error space to an unconstrained state space. On the basis, Comprehensive equality constraints for the transformed states are established by integrating the information of proximal (preceding and following) vehicles. In addition, an anti‐windup compensation method is utilised to handle actuator saturations. Then an adaptive constraint‐following controller is designed to render the uniform boundedness and uniform ultimate boundedness performance of the transformed state. As a result, the string stability, the strong string stability, the collision‐avoidance and compact formation are guaranteed despite the presence of actuator saturations and complex uncertainties. Numerical simulations are performed to validate the effectiveness of the proposed control scheme.
Gain‐scheduled control for discrete‐time non‐linear parameter‐varying systems with time‐varying delays
Authors: Peixoto Márcia L.C. , Braga Márcio F. , Palhares Reinaldo M.
Published: February 2021

This study addresses the gain‐scheduled control problem for discrete‐time delayed non‐linear parameter‐varying (NLPV) and linear parameter‐varying (LPV) systems. First, by constructing the parameter‐dependent Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional and employing multiple auxiliary functions, delay‐dependent reciprocally convex inequality, and selecting a suitable augmented vector, novel delay‐dependent linear matrix inequality conditions for the static output‐feedback control design and state‐feedback control design for delayed NLPV are provided. Second, the results obtained for discrete‐time delayed NLPV systems are modified in a simple way to deal with discrete‐time delayed LPV systems. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed methods is illustrated by numerical examples.
Iterative PET image reconstruction using cascaded data consistency generative adversarial network
Authors: Du Qianqian , Ren Xueting , Wang Jiawen , Qiang Yan , Yang Xiaotang , Kazihise Ntikurako Guy‐Fernand
Published: February 2021

This study proposed a GAN‐based reconstruction method‐cascaded data consistency generative adversarial network (CDCGAN) to recover high‐quality PET images from filtered back projection PET images with streaking artifacts and high noise. First, the authors embed defined data consistency layer (DC layer) in their generator network to constrain the reconstruction process and adjust accurately generated faked PET images. Second, to improve the accuracy of reconstruction on average, their generator network was built iteratively to achieve better performance with simple structures. They observed that the proposed CDCGAN allows the preservation of fine anomalous features while eliminating the streaking artifacts and noise. Experimental results show that the reconstructed PET images by their methods perform well comparably to other state‐of‐the‐art methods but at a faster speed. A clinical experiment was also performed to show the validity of the CDCGAN for artifacts reduction.
Robust fault‐tolerant H∞ output feedback control of active suspension and dynamic vibration absorber with finite‐frequency constraint
Authors: Zhang Yuanzhi , Liu Mingchun , Zhang Caizhi
Published: February 2021

Currently, majorities of the robust H∞ control methods are designed for active suspensions, and seldom take the active control of the in‐wheel‐motor (IWM) into consideration for IWM driven electric vehicles (EVs). In this study, a robust fault‐tolerant H∞ output feedback control strategy with finite‐frequency constraint is proposed to synchronously control the active suspension and dynamic vibration absorber (DVA) for IWM driven EVs. Firstly, a DVA‐based electric wheel model is developed, in which the IWM is designed as DVA. Furthermore, the spring‐damper parameters of the DVA are matched by using particle swarm optimisation (PSO). Then, the robust fault‐tolerant H∞ output feedback control strategy is developed based on linear matrix inequality, in which the finite‐frequency constraint is designed in the resonance frequency range of sprung mass. Finally, simulation results validate that the PSO can effectively optimise the spring‐damper parameters of the DVA. The robust fault‐tolerant H∞ output feedback control with finite‐frequency constraint can effectively improve the ride comfort and suppress the vertical vibration caused by IWM compared with entire frequency constraint. Meanwhile, the fault‐tolerant effectiveness of the proposed method is demonstrated under the actuator faults concerning the actuator force noises and losses.
Image reconstruction of TGZ3 grating by eliminating tip‐sample convolution effect in AFM
Authors: Wu Teng , Lv Luyao , Zou Yu , Han Guoqiang
Published: February 2021

Accurate and meticulous measurement is an important prerequisite to obtain the real surface information of samples in atomic force microscopy (AFM). A severe problem is the frequent occurrence of measurement errors, which are mainly caused by the nonlinearity of the probe driver, the temperature drift of the system and the tip characteristics. The measurement errors caused by probe tip are the main source of errors in AFM nanoscale measurements. The shape and state of AFM tip will distort the AFM image from the actual sample morphology. If the information about the probe is known, the measurement error caused by the probe tip can be greatly reduced. In order to obtain accurate AFM images, a new method based on geometric measurement model and blind tip reconstruction is proposed to eliminate tip‐sample convolution in the measurement of grating samples. The static and dynamic characteristics of the AFM tip are described by four parameters: cone angle, curvature radius, scanning inclination angle and mounting inclination angle. Finally, the feasibility and effectiveness of the new calibration method are verified by evaluating the image reconstruction quality. In conclusion, the proposed method can effectively reconstruct accurate AFM images of the grating.
High angular resolution polarimetric imaging of the nucleus of NGC 1068
Authors: Grosset L. , Rouan D. , Marin F. , Gratadour D. , Lagadec E. , Hunziker S. , Montargès M. , Magnard Y. , Carle M. , Pragt J. , Petit C.
Published: February 2021

Context. Polarisation is a decisive method to study the inner region of active galactic nuclei (AGNs) since, unlike classical imaging, it is not affected by contrast issues. When coupled with high angular resolution (HAR), polarisation can help to disentangle the location of the different polarising mechanisms and then give insight into the physics taking place in the core of AGNs.

Aims. We obtained a new data set of HAR polarimetric images of the archetypal Seyfert 2 nucleus of NGC 1068 observed with SPHERE/VLT. We aim in this paper to present the polarisation maps and to spatially separate the location of the polarising mechanisms, thereby deriving constraints on the organisation of the dust material in the inner region of this AGN.

Methods. With four new narrow-band images between the visible and the near-infrared combined with older broad-band observations, we studied the wavelength dependence of the polarisation properties from 0.7 to 2.2 μm of three selected regions within the inner 2″ surrounding the central engine. We then compared these measurements to radiative transfer simulations of scattering and dichroic absorption processes, using the Monte Carlo code MontAGN.

Results. We establish a detailed table of the relative importance of the polarising mechanism as a function of aperture and wavelength. We are able to separate the dominant polarising mechanisms in the three regions of the ionisation cone, the extended envelope of the torus, and the very central bright source of the AGN. Thus, we estimate the contribution of the different polarisation mechanisms to the observed polarisation flux in these regions. Dichroic absorption is estimated to be responsible for about 99% of the polarised flux coming from the photo-centre. However, this contribution would only be restricted to this location because the double-scattering process would be the most important contributor to polarisation in the equatorial plane of the AGN and single scattering is dominant in the polar outflow bi-cone.

Conclusions. Even though results are in good agreement with larger apertures measurements, the variety of situations with different mechanisms at play highlights the importance of spatial resolution for the interpretation of polarisation measurements. We also refine the estimation of the integrated optical depth in the visible of the obscuring structure to a range of 20−100, constraining the geometry of the inner region of this AGN.