bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transport of pseudothermal photons through an anharmonic cavity
Authors: Shapiro Dmitriy S.
Published: April 2021

Under nonequilibrium conditions, quantum optical systems reveal unusual properties that might be distinct from those in condensed matter. The fundamental reason is that photonic eigenstates can have arbitrary occupation numbers, whereas in electronic systems these are limited by the Pauli principle. Here, we address the steady-state transport of pseudothermal photons between two waveguides connected through a cavity with Bose–Hubbard interaction between photons. One of the waveguides is subjected to a broadband incoherent pumping. We predict a continuous transition between the regimes of Lorentzian and Gaussian chaotic light emitted by the cavity. The rich variety of nonequilibrium transport regimes is revealed by the zero-frequency noise. There are three limiting cases, in which the noise-current relation is characterized by a power-law, $$S\propto J^\gamma$$

S
∝

J
γ

. The Lorentzian light corresponds to Breit-Wigner-like transmission and $$\gamma =2$$

γ
=
2

. The Gaussian regime corresponds to many-body transport with the shot noise ($$\gamma =1$$

γ
=
1

) at large currents; at low currents, however, we find an unconventional exponent $$\gamma =3/2$$

γ
=
3
/
2

indicating a nontrivial interplay between multi-photon transitions and incoherent pumping. The nonperturbative solution for photon dephasing is obtained in the framework of the Keldysh field theory and Caldeira-Leggett effective action. These findings might be relevant for experiments on photon blockade in superconducting qubits, thermal states transfer, and photon statistics probing.
Behavioral and brain mechanisms mediating conditioned flight behavior in rats
Authors: Totty Michael S. , Warren Naomi , Huddleston Isabella , Ramanathan Karthik R. , Ressler Reed L. , Oleksiak Cecily R. , Maren Stephen
Published: April 2021

Environmental contexts can inform animals of potential threats, though it is currently unknown how context biases the selection of defensive behavior. Here we investigated context-dependent flight responses with a Pavlovian serial-compound stimulus (SCS) paradigm that evokes freeze-to-flight transitions. Similar to previous work in mice, we show that male and female rats display context-dependent flight-like behavior in the SCS paradigm. Flight behavior was dependent on contextual fear insofar as it was only evoked in a shock-associated context and was reduced in the conditioning context after context extinction. Flight behavior was only expressed to white noise regardless of temporal order within the compound. Nonetheless, rats that received unpaired SCS trials did not show flight-like behavior to the SCS, indicating it is associative. Finally, we show that pharmacological inactivation of two brain regions critical to the expression of contextual fear, the central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA) and bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST), attenuates both contextual fear and flight responses. All of these effects were similar in male and female rats. This work demonstrates that contextual fear can summate with cued and innate fear to drive a high fear state and transition from post-encounter to circa-strike defensive modes.
Performance and quality attributes of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench) fruits grown under soil applied Zn-fertilizer, green biomass and poultry manure
Authors: Aboyeji Christopher Muyiwa , Dahunsi Samuel Olatunde , Olaniyan Deborah Oluwatosin , Dunsin Oluwagbenga , Adekiya Aruna Olasekan , Olayanju Adeniyi
Published: April 2021

Field experiments were carried out in 2018 and 2019 cropping seasons at Landmark University Teaching and Research farm, Omu-Aran Kwara state, Nigeria, to determine the effect of soil applied Zn-fertilizer, Tithonia diversifolia (Ti), Chromolaena odorata (Ch) and poultry manure (PM) on the performance, yield, minerals and vitamins composition of okra fruits. Treatments were combined and tested as follows:—Control (T1), Control + 10 kg ha−1 Zn (T2), 5 t ha−1 Ti + 5 t ha−1 PM (T3), 5 t ha−1 Ch + 5 t ha−1 PM (T4), 5 t ha−1 Ch + 5 t ha−1 Ti (T5), 10 t ha−1 Ti + 0 kg ha−1 Zn (T6), 10 t ha−1 Ti + 10 kg ha−1 Zn (T7), 10 t ha−1 Ch + 0 kg ha−1 Zn (T8), 10 t ha−1 Ch + 10 kg ha−1 Zn (T9), 10 t ha−1 PM + 0 kg ha−1 Zn (T10), and 10 t ha−1 PM + 10 kg ha−1 Zn (T11). The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design with four repetitions. Vegetative, yield and quality parameters of okra were taken. Data were subjected to analysis of variance and means were compared using Duncan Multiple Range Test (DMRT) at p ≤ 0.05. Variations were observed on the vegetative parameters, yield, minerals and vitamin composition of okra among the applied amendments. The combined application of green biomass, poultry manure, and Zn-fertilizer improved all the variables tested as compared to when they were applied singly. Application of Zn-fertilizer to some selected plots significantly increased yield, Zn, Mg and vitamins concentration of okra. Application of 5 t ha−1 Ti + 5 t ha−1 PM + 10 kg ha−1 Zn (T3) and 5 t ha−1 Ch + 5 t ha−1 PM + 10 kg ha−1 Zn (T4) significantly improved all the parameters tested but the use of 5 t ha−1 Ti + 5 t ha−1 PM + 10 kg ha−1 Zn (T3) resulted in optimum yield and at the same time increase minerals and vitamin concentration of okra. The results of this study therefore showed that Tithonia diversifolia (Ti) as green biomass contained and released more and quality nutrients than Chromolaena odorata (Ch) when combined with equal rate of Zn fertilizer and poultry manure.
Macrophages with reduced expressions of classical M1 and M2 surface markers in human bronchoalveolar lavage fluid exhibit pro-inflammatory gene signatures
Authors: Takiguchi Hiroto , Yang Chen X. , Yang Cheng Wei Tony , Sahin Basak , Whalen Beth A. , Milne Stephen , Akata Kentaro , Yamasaki Kei , Yang Julia Shun Wei , Cheung Chung Yan , Vander Werff Ryan , McNagny Kelly M. , Leitao Filho Fernando Sergio , Shaipanich Tawimas , van Eeden Stephan F. , Obeidat Ma’en , Leung Janice M. , Sin Don D.
Published: April 2021

The classical M1/M2 polarity of macrophages may not be applicable to inflammatory lung diseases including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) due to the complex microenvironment in lungs and the plasticity of macrophages. We examined macrophage sub-phenotypes in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid in 25 participants with CD40 (a M1 marker) and CD163 (a M2 marker). Of these, we performed RNA-sequencing on each subtype in 10 patients using the Illumina NextSeq 500. Approximately 25% of the macrophages did not harbor classical M1 or M2 surface markers (double negative, DN), and these cells were significantly enriched in COPD patients compared with non-COPD patients (46.7% vs. 14.5%, p < 0.001). 1886 genes were differentially expressed in the DN subtype compared with  all other subtypes at a 10% false discovery rate. The 602 up-regulated genes included 15 mitochondrial genes and were enriched in 86 gene ontology (GO) biological processes including inflammatory responses. Modules associated with cellular functions including oxidative phosphorylation were significantly down-regulated in the DN subtype. Macrophages in the human BAL fluid, which were negative for both M1/M2 surface markers, harbored a gene signature that was pro-inflammatory and suggested dysfunction in cellular homeostasis. These macrophages may contribute to the pathogenesis and manifestations of inflammatory lung diseases such as COPD.
HIV-1 subtype diversity and transmission strain source among men who have sex with men in Guangxi, China
Authors: Chen Yi , Shen Zhiyong , Feng Yi , Ruan Yuhua , Li Jianjun , Tang Shuai , Tang Kailing , Liang Shujia , Pang Xianwu , McNeil Edward B. , Xing Hui , Chongsuvivatwong Virasakdi , Lin Mei , Lan Guanghua
Published: April 2021

With the rapid increase in HIV prevalence of men who have sex with men (MSM) in recent years and common human migration and travelling across different provinces in China, MSM are now finding it easier to meet each other, which might contribute to local HIV epidemics as well as fueling cross-province transmission. We performed a cross-sectional survey in 2018–2019 to investigate the current HIV subtype diversity and inferred HIV strain transmission origin among MSM in Guangxi province, China based on a phylogenetic analysis. Based on 238 samples, we found that the HIV-1 subtype diversity was more complicated than before, except for three major HIV subtypes/circulating recombinant forms (CRFs): CRF07_BC, CRF01_AE, CRF55_01B, five other subtypes/CRFs (CRF59_01B, B, CRF08_BC, CRF67_01B, CRF68_01B) and five unique recombinant forms (URFs) were detected. In total, 76.8% (169/220) of samples were infected with HIV from local circulating strains, while others originated from other provinces, predominantly Guangdong and Shanghai. The high diversity of HIV recombinants and complicated HIV transmission sources in Guangxi MSM indicates that there has been an active sexual network between HIV positive MSM both within and outside Guangxi without any effective prevention. Inter-province collaboration must be enforced to provide tailored HIV prevention and control services to MSM in China.
Effects of transcranial static magnetic stimulation over the primary motor cortex on local and network spontaneous electroencephalogram oscillations
Authors: Shibata Sumiya , Watanabe Tatsunori , Yukawa Yoshihiro , Minakuchi Masatoshi , Shimomura Ryota , Ichimura Sachimori , Kirimoto Hikari , Mima Tatsuya
Published: April 2021

Transcranial static magnetic stimulation (tSMS) is a novel non-invasive brain stimulation technique that reduces cortical excitability at the stimulation site. We investigated the effects of tSMS over the left primary motor cortex (M1) for 20 min on the local electroencephalogram (EEG) power spectrum and interregional EEG coupling. Twelve right-handed healthy subjects participated in this crossover, double-blind, sham-controlled study. Resting-state EEG data were recorded for 3 min before the intervention and 17 min after the beginning of the intervention. The power spectrum at the left central electrode (C3) and the weighted phase lag index (wPLI) between C3 and the other electrodes was calculated for theta (4–8 Hz), alpha (8–12 Hz), and beta (12–30 Hz) frequencies. The tSMS significantly increased theta power at C3 and the functional coupling in the theta band between C3 and the parietal midline electrodes. The tSMS over the left M1 for 20 min exhibited modulatory effects on local cortical activity and interregional functional coupling in the theta band. The neural oscillations in the theta band may have an important role in the neurophysiological effects induced by tSMS over the frontal cortex.
A novel tissue specific alternative splicing variant mitigates phenotypes in Ets2 frame-shift mutant models
Authors: Kishimoto Yuki , Nishiura Iori , Hirata Wataru , Yuri Shunsuke , Yamamoto Nami , Ikawa Masahito , Isotani Ayako
Published: April 2021

E26 avian leukemia oncogene 2, 3′ domain (Ets2) has been implicated in various biological processes. An Ets2 mutant model (Ets2db1/db1), which lacks the DNA-binding domain, was previously reported to exhibit embryonic lethality caused by a trophoblast abnormality. This phenotype could be rescued by tetraploid complementation, resulting in pups with wavy hair and curly whiskers. Here, we generated new Ets2 mutant models with a frame-shift mutation in exon 8 using the CRISPR/Cas9 method. Homozygous mutants could not be obtained by natural mating as embryonic development stopped before E8.5, as previously reported. When we rescued them by tetraploid complementation, these mice did not exhibit wavy hair or curly whisker phenotypes. Our newly generated mice exhibited exon 8 skipping, which led to in-frame mutant mRNA expression in the skin and thymus but not in E7.5 Ets2em1/em1 embryos. This exon 8-skipped Ets2 mRNA was translated into protein, suggesting that this Ets2 mutant protein complemented the Ets2 function in the skin. Our data implies that novel splicing variants incidentally generated after genome editing may complicate the phenotypic analysis but may also give insight into the new mechanisms related to biological gene functions.
Extra virgin olive oil improved body weight and insulin sensitivity in high fat diet-induced obese LDLr−/−.Leiden mice without attenuation of steatohepatitis
Authors: Álvarez-Amor Leticia , Sierra Amparo Luque , Cárdenas Antonio , López-Bermudo Lucía , López-Beas Javier , Andújar Eloísa , Pérez-Alegre Mónica , Gallego-Durán Rocío , Varela Lourdes M. , Martin-Montalvo Alejandro , Berná Genoveva , Rojas Anabel , Robles-Frías Mª José , Hmadcha Abdelkrim , Romero-Gómez Manuel , Kleemann Robert , Martín Franz
Published: April 2021

Dietary fatty acids play a role in the pathogenesis of obesity-associated non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which is associated with insulin resistance (IR). Fatty acid composition is critical for IR and subsequent NAFLD development. Extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO) is the main source of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) in Mediterranean diets. This study examined whether EVOO-containing high fat diets may prevent diet-induced NAFLD using Ldlr−/−. Leiden mice. In female Ldlr−/−.Leiden mice, the effects of the following high fat diets (HFDs) were examined: a lard-based HFD (HFD-L); an EVOO-based HFD (HFD-EVOO); a phenolic compounds-rich EVOO HFD (HFD-OL). We studied changes in body weight (BW), lipid profile, transaminases, glucose homeostasis, liver pathology and transcriptome. Both EVOO diets reduced body weight (BW) and improved insulin sensitivity. The EVOOs did not improve transaminase values and increased LDL-cholesterol and liver collagen content. EVOOs and HFD-L groups had comparable liver steatosis. The profibrotic effects were substantiated by an up-regulation of gene transcripts related to glutathione metabolism, chemokine signaling and NF-kappa-B activation and down-regulation of genes relevant for fatty acid metabolism. Collectivelly, EVOO intake improved weight gain and insulin sensitivity but not liver inflammation and fibrosis, which was supported by changes in hepatic genes expression.
New insights on microscopic properties of metal-porphyrin complexes attached to quartz crystal sensor
Authors: Alyousef Haifa , Alotaibi Badriah M. , Ben Yahia Mohamed , Alanazi Meznah M. , Alsaif Norah A.
Published: April 2021

A quartz crystal adsorbent coated with 5,10,15,20-tetrakis(4-methylphenyl) porphyrin was used to examine the complexation phenomenon of three metallic ions [aluminum(III), iron(III) and indium(III)]. The aim is to select the appropriate adsorbate for metalloporphyrin fabrication. The equilibrium adsorption isotherms of tetrakis(4-methylphenyl) porphyrin were performed at four temperatures (from 300 to 330 K) through the quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) method. Subsequently, the experimental data were analyzed in order to develop a thorough explanation of the complexation mechanisms. The experimental results indicated that the aluminum(III) chloride is the adequate material for metalloporphyrin application. Theoretical investigation was established through physics adsorption models in order to analyze the experimental isotherms. The AlCl3 isotherms were modeled via a single-layer adsorption model which is developed using the ideal gas law. Whereas, the FeCl3 isotherms were interpreted via a single-layer adsorption which includes the lateral interactions parameters (real gas law), indicating the lowest stability of the formed iron-porphyrin complex. The participation of the chloride ions in the double-layers adsorption of InCl3 was interpreted via layer by layer formulation. Interestingly, the physicochemical investigation of the three adopted models indicated that the tetrakis(4-methylphenyl) porphyrin adsorption was an endothermic process and that the aluminum(III) chloride can be recommended for an industrial application because it presents the highest adsorption energy (chemical bonds with porphyrins).
Ceramide kinase regulates TNF-α-induced immune responses in human monocytic cells
Authors: Al-Rashed Fatema , Ahmad Zunair , Snider Ashley J. , Thomas Reeby , Kochumon Shihab , Melhem Motasem , Sindhu Sardar , Obeid Lina M. , Al-Mulla Fahd , Hannun Yusuf A. , Ahmad Rasheed
Published: April 2021

Ceramide kinase (CERK) phosphorylates ceramide to produce ceramide-1-phosphate (C1P), which is involved in the development of metabolic inflammation. TNF-α modulates inflammatory responses in monocytes associated with various inflammatory disorders; however, the underlying mechanisms remain not fully understood. Here, we investigated the role of CERK in TNF-α-induced inflammatory responses in monocytes. Our results show that disruption of CERK activity in monocytes, either by chemical inhibitor NVP-231 or by small interfering RNA (siRNA), results in the defective expression of inflammatory markers including CD11c, CD11b and HLA-DR in response to TNF-α. Our data show that TNF-α upregulates ceramide phosphorylation. Inhibition of CERK in monocytes significantly reduced the secretion of IL-1β and MCP-1. Similar results were observed in CERK-downregulated cells. TNF-α-induced phosphorylation of JNK, p38 and NF-κB was reduced by inhibition of CERK. Additionally, NF-κB/AP-1 activity was suppressed by the inhibition of CERK. Clinically, obese individuals had higher levels of CERK expression in PBMCs compared to lean individuals, which correlated with their TNF-α levels. Taken together, these results suggest that CERK plays a key role in regulating inflammatory responses in human monocytes during TNF-α stimulation. CERK may be a relevant target for developing novel therapies for chronic inflammatory diseases.
Diversification of terpenoid emissions proposes a geographic structure based on climate and pathogen composition in Japanese cedar
Authors: Hiura Tsutom , Yoshioka Hayate , Matsunaga Sou N. , Saito Takuya , Kohyama Tetsuo I. , Kusumoto Norihisa , Uchiyama Kentaro , Suyama Yoshihisa , Tsumura Yoshihiko
Published: April 2021

Biogenic volatile organic compounds emitted from plants are important constituents of atmospheric chemistry and play a major role in the resistance of plants against various environmental stresses. However, little is known about how abiotic and biotic environments on a geographic scale relate to diversifications of the emission. Here, we present variations of terpenes stored in and emitted from leaves of a single species in a common garden, using genetically differentiated local populations of Japanese cedar, the most dominant and widely distributed tree species in Japan. Furthermore, we determined the composition of fungal communities in 50 locations, based on the presence or absence of 158 fungal species inhabiting the cedar. The results showed that terpenoids, especially those that are emitted, were highly diversified and geographically structured among the 12 populations. The total amount of stored terpenes was negatively affected by warm and less-snow climates. On the other hand, variations in some emitted terpenoid species among the populations were correlated to antagonistic fungal species inhabiting the Japanese cedar. We propose that the diversification of composition and amount of stored and emitted terpenoids in the tree species is not only structured by climate, but also antagonistic fungal communities through biological interactions.
Impact of physiologically shaped pancreatic stent for chronic pancreatitis
Authors: Hori Yasuki , Ichino Yuka , Naitoh Itaru , Hayashi Kazuki , Yoshida Michihiro , Natsume Makoto , Jinno Naruomi , Kato Akihisa , Kachi Kenta , Asano Go , Atsuta Naoki , Sahashi Hidenori , Kataoka Hiromi , Ohara Hirotaka
Published: April 2021

Endoscopic pancreatic stenting is used to prevent main pancreatic duct obstruction and relieve painful symptoms of chronic pancreatitis. However, the stent typically needs to be exchanged and the rate of adverse events is high. Few studies have evaluated the effect of stent shape on those outcomes. We evaluated the adverse events, stent patency, and total medical cost within 90 days of patients who received an 8.5 French (Fr) physiologically shaped pancreatic stent by comparing these features with those associated with a conventional straight-type stent for ≥ 90 days. The total stent-related adverse event rate was significantly lower for the physiologically shaped pancreatic stent (physiologically shaped, 6.7% [2/30]; straight-type, 50.6% [44/87]; P < 0.001). Stent occlusion was significantly less frequent (P < 0.001) and the total medical costs were significantly lower (P = 0.002) for the physiologically shaped stent. The stent-related adverse event rate was significantly higher for the 10 Fr straight type stent than for the 8.5 Fr physiologically shaped stent (10 Fr, straight-type vs. 8.5 Fr, physiologically shaped: 36.1% [13/36] vs. 6.7% [2/30]; P = 0.007). In conclusion, a physiologically shaped pancreatic stent was superior to a straight-type stent in terms of the patency rate and medical costs.
A biological agent modulates the physiology of barley infected with Drechslera teres
Authors: Backes Aurélie , Vaillant-Gaveau Nathalie , Esmaeel Qassim , Ait Barka Essaid , Jacquard Cédric
Published: April 2021

Recognized as the causal agent of net blotch,Drechslera teresis responsible for major losses of barley crop yield. The consequences of this leaf disease are due to the impact of the infection on the photosynthetic performance of barley leaves. To limit the symptoms of this ascomycete, the use of beneficial bacteria known as “Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria” constitutes an innovative and environmentally friendly strategy. A bacterium named as strain B25 belonging to the genusBurkholderiashowed a strong antifungal activity againstD. teres. The bacterium was able to limit the development of the fungus by 95% in detached leaves of bacterized plants compared to the non-bacterized control. In this study, in-depth analyses of the photosynthetic performance of young barley leaves infected withD. teresand/or in the presence of the strain B25 were carried out both in and close to the necrotic area. In addition, gas exchange measurements were performed only near the necrotic area. Our results showed that the presence of the beneficial bacterium reduced the negative impact of the fungus on the photosynthetic performance and modified only the net carbon assimilation rate close to the necrotic area. Indeed, the presence of the strain B25 decreased the quantum yield of regulated non-photochemical energy loss in PSII noted as Y(NPQ) and allowed to maintain the values stable of maximum quantum yield of PSII photochemistry known as Fv/Fmand close to those of the control in the presence ofD. teres. To the best of our knowledge, these data constitute the first study focusing on the impact of net blotch fungus and a beneficial bacterium on photosynthesis and respiratory parameters in barley leaves.
Epigenetic alteration contributes to the transcriptional reprogramming in T-cell prolymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Tian Shulan , Zhang Henan , Zhang Pan , Kalmbach Michael , Lee Jeong-Heon , Ordog Tamas , Hampel Paul J. , Call Timothy G. , Witzig Thomas E. , Kay Neil E. , Klee Eric W. , Slager Susan L. , Yan Huihuang , Ding Wei
Published: April 2021

T cell prolymphocytic leukemia (T-PLL) is a rare disease with aggressive clinical course. Cytogenetic analysis, whole-exome and whole-genome sequencing have identified primary structural alterations in T-PLL, including inversion, translocation and copy number variation. Recurrent somatic mutations were also identified in genes encoding chromatin regulators and those in the JAK-STAT signaling pathway. Epigenetic alterations are the hallmark of many cancers. However, genome-wide epigenomic profiles have not been reported in T-PLL, limiting the mechanistic study of its carcinogenesis. We hypothesize epigenetic mechanisms also play a key role in T-PLL pathogenesis. To systematically test this hypothesis, we generated genome-wide maps of regulatory regions using H3K4me3 and H3K27ac ChIP-seq, as well as RNA-seq data in both T-PLL patients and healthy individuals. We found that genes down-regulated in T-PLL are mainly associated with defense response, immune system or adaptive immune response, while up-regulated genes are enriched in developmental process, as well as WNT signaling pathway with crucial roles in cell fate decision. In particular, our analysis revealed a global alteration of regulatory landscape in T-PLL, with differential peaks highly enriched for binding motifs of immune related transcription factors, supporting the epigenetic regulation of oncogenes and genes involved in DNA damage response and T-cell activation. Together, our work reveals a causal role of epigenetic dysregulation in T-PLL.
Chd8 regulates X chromosome inactivation in mouse through fine-tuning control of Xist expression
Authors: Cerase Andrea , Young Alexander N. , Ruiz Nerea Blanes , Buness Andreas , Sant Gabrielle M. , Arnold Mirjam , Di Giacomo Monica , Ascolani Michela , Kumar Manish , Hierholzer Andreas , Trigiante Giuseppe , Marzi Sarah J. , Avner Philip
Published: April 2021

Female mammals achieve dosage compensation by inactivating one of their two X chromosomes during development, a process entirely dependent on Xist, an X-linked long non-coding RNA (lncRNA). At the onset of X chromosome inactivation (XCI), Xist is up-regulated and spreads along the future inactive X chromosome. Contextually, it recruits repressive histone and DNA modifiers that transcriptionally silence the X chromosome. Xist regulation is tightly coupled to differentiation and its expression is under the control of both pluripotency and epigenetic factors. Recent evidence has suggested that chromatin remodelers accumulate at the X Inactivation Center (XIC) and here we demonstrate a new role for Chd8 in Xist regulation in differentiating ES cells, linked to its control and prevention of spurious transcription factor interactions occurring within Xist regulatory regions. Our findings have a broader relevance, in the context of complex, developmentally-regulated gene expression.
Multimodal, label-free fluorescence and Raman imaging of amyloid deposits in snap-frozen Alzheimer’s disease human brain tissue
Authors: Lochocki Benjamin , Boon Baayla D. C. , Verheul Sander R. , Zada Liron , Hoozemans Jeroen J. M. , Ariese Freek , de Boer Johannes F.
Published: April 2021

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) neuropathology is characterized by hyperphosphorylated tau containing neurofibrillary tangles and amyloid-beta (Aβ) plaques. Normally these hallmarks are studied by (immuno-) histological techniques requiring chemical pretreatment and indirect labelling. Label-free imaging enables one to visualize normal tissue and pathology in its native form. Therefore, these techniques could contribute to a better understanding of the disease. Here, we present a comprehensive study of high-resolution fluorescence imaging (before and after staining) and spectroscopic modalities (Raman mapping under pre-resonance conditions and stimulated Raman scattering (SRS)) of amyloid deposits in snap-frozen AD human brain tissue. We performed fluorescence and spectroscopic imaging and subsequent thioflavin-S staining of the same tissue slices to provide direct confirmation of plaque location and correlation of spectroscopic biomarkers with plaque morphology; differences were observed between cored and fibrillar plaques. The SRS results showed a protein peak shift towards the β-sheet structure in cored amyloid deposits. In the Raman maps recorded with 532 nm excitation we identified the presence of carotenoids as a unique marker to differentiate between a cored amyloid plaque area versus a non-plaque area without prior knowledge of their location. The observed presence of carotenoids suggests a distinct neuroinflammatory response to misfolded protein accumulations.
Personalized predictions and non-invasive imaging of human brain temperature
Authors: Sung Dongsuk , Kottke Peter A. , Risk Benjamin B. , Allen Jason W. , Nahab Fadi , Fedorov Andrei G. , Fleischer Candace C.
Published: April 2021

Brain temperature is an important yet understudied medical parameter, and increased brain temperature after injury is associated with worse patient outcomes. The scarcity of methods for measuring brain temperature non-invasively motivates the need for computational models enabling predictions when clinical measurements are challenging. Here, we develop a biophysical model based on the first principles of energy and mass conservation that uses data from magnetic resonance imaging of individual brain tissue and vessel structure to facilitate personalized brain temperature predictions. We compare model-predicted 3D thermal distributions with experimental temperature measured using whole brain magnetic resonance-based thermometry. We find brain thermometry maps predicted by the model capture unique spatial variations for each subject, which are in agreement with experimentally-measured temperatures. As medicine becomes more personalized, this foundational study provides a framework to develop an individualized approach for brain temperature predictions.
Sterol sulfate alleviates atherosclerosis via mediating hepatic cholesterol metabolism in ApoE−/− mice
Authors: Ding Lin , Xu Zhen-Jing , Shi Hao-Hao , Xue Chang-Hu , Huang Qing-Rong , Yanagita Teruyoshi , Wang Yu-Ming , Zhang Tian-Tian
Published: April 2021

Sterol sulfate (SCS) supplementation ameliorates atherosclerosis via decreasing cholesterol levels. Mechanistically, SCS increases cholesterol uptake by hepatocytes, decreases cholesterol synthesis, and regulates bile acid metabolism in the liver.
Influence of surface charge of graphene quantum dots on their uptake and clearance in melanoma cells
Authors: Ramana Lakshmi Narashimhan , Dinh Le N. M. , Agarwal Vipul
Published: April 2021

Role of graphene quantum dots (GQDs) surface charge on their cellular uptake and clearance.
Gold nanomaterials for optical biosensing and bioimaging
Authors: Si Peng , Razmi Nasrin , Nur Omer , Solanki Shipra , Pandey Chandra Mouli , Gupta Rajinder K. , Malhotra Bansi D. , Willander Magnus , de la Zerda Adam
Published: April 2021

In this minireview, we discuss the emerging optical biosensing and bioimaging techniques that leverage the unique optical properties of gold nanoparticles.
Enhancing subcutaneous injection and target tissue accumulation of nanoparticles via co-administration with macropinocytosis inhibitory nanoparticles (MiNP)
Authors: Stack Trevor , Liu Yugang , Frey Molly , Bobbala Sharan , Vincent Michael , Scott Evan
Published: April 2021

Macropinocytosis inhibitory nanoparticles reduce non-specific uptake of an “effector” nanoparticle by cells of the mononuclear phagocyte system thereby, allowing for greater accumulation and uptake of targeted nanoparticles in tissues of interest.
A topochemically constructed flexible heterogeneous vanadium-based electrocatalyst for boosted conversion kinetics of polysulfides in Li–S batteries
Authors: Yang Yadong , Li Xingxing , Luo Rongjie , Zhang Xuming , Fu Jijiang , Zheng Yang , Huo Kaifu , Zhou Tengfei
Published: April 2021

A novel flexible V2O3/VN heterostructure was constructed by a facile topochemical nitridation strategy and synergistically promoted the conversion of polysulfides in Li–S batteries.
High efficiency blue light-emitting devices based on quantum dots with core-shell structure design and surface modification
Authors: Zhao Bin , Chen Lixuan , Liu Wenyong , Wu Longjia , Lu Zizhe , Cao Weiran
Published: April 2021

The exposed Se on QD surface causes non-radiative relaxations which results in a low PLQY. However, the PLQY was improved from less than 8.0% up to above 85.0% by adding tributyl phosphine which can terminate the dangling bonds of the Se.
Water oxidation kinetics of nanoporous BiVO4 photoanodes functionalised with nickel/iron oxyhydroxide electrocatalysts
Authors: Francàs Laia , Selim Shababa , Corby Sacha , Lee Dongho , Mesa Camilo A. , Pastor Ernest , Choi Kyoung-Shin , Durrant James R.
Published: April 2021

Elucidating the role of charge accumulation and reaction kinetics in governing the performance of Ni/Fe oxyhydroxides as electrocatalysts and as co-catalysts on BiVO4 photoanodes water oxidation.
Sulfur-stabilised copper nanoparticles for the aerobic oxidation of amines to imines under ambient conditions
Authors: Martín-García Iris , Díaz-Reyes Gloria , Sloan George , Moglie Yanina , Alonso Francisco
Published: April 2021

Nanodroplets of sulfur-stabilised copper nanoparticles effectively catalyse the aerobic oxidation of amines to imines under ambient conditions.
6-Aminopyridine-3-boronic acid functionalized magnetic nanoparticles for highly efficient enrichment of cis-diol-containing biomolecules
Authors: Li Daojin , Dong Sihan
Published: April 2021

Boronate affinity materials, as efficient sorbents for extraction, separation and enrichment of cis-diol-containing biomolecules, have attracted more and more attention in recent years.
Multiresidue determination of 19 anabolic steroids in animal oil using enhanced matrix removal lipid cleanup and ultrahigh performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Jiafeng Yu , Decheng Suo , Xiaoyong Lei , Yang Li , Guangyu Lin , Min Bi Su
Published: April 2021

A method for sensitive analysis of 19 anabolic steroids (AS) in animal oil using enhanced matrix removal lipid (EMR-Lipid) cleanup and ultrahigh performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) was developed.
Diethylamine fluorescence sensor based on silica hollow sphere photonic crystals
Authors: Li Lu , Li Jingru , Meng Tiantian , Liu Zhanfang , Zhou Hong , Zhu Jun , Shi Junqing
Published: April 2021

Based on silica hollow sphere photonic crystals (SHSPCs), a simple and selective fluorescence sensor for high-performance diethylamine detection was developed.
Multifunctional hybrid sponge for in situ postoperative management to inhibit tumor recurrence
Authors: Wang Haixia , Jin Yuanyuan , Chen Yanyan , Luo Yun , Lv Shixian , Li Mingqiang , Tao Yu
Published: April 2021

A multifunctional sandwich-like composite with hemostatic, antibacterial, and synergetic chemotherapeutic capabilities was developed to inhibit tumor recurrence in postoperative administration.
Catalogue of self-targeting nano-medical inventions to accelerate clinical trials
Authors: Alsudir Samar A. , Almalik Abdulaziz , Alhasan Ali H.
Published: April 2021

A proposed catalogue of self-targeting nano-innovations offering fast-tracking of pre-clinical and clinical testing of repurposed drugs and newly developed vaccines during pandemics.
β-Diketone boron difluoride dye-functionalized conjugated microporous polymers for efficient aerobic oxidative photocatalysis
Authors: Gong Weitao , Dong Kaixun , Liu Lu , Hassan Mehdi , Ning Guiling
Published: April 2021

Two new conjugated microporous polymers, TPB-B-CMP and TPA-B-CMP, with β-diketone-boron difluoride dye as the key building block were designed and successfully prepared. They were further employed as efficient metal-free heterogeneous photocatalysts.
Microwave-initiated recombination of hydrogen bonds of a perylene diimide supramolecule for PPCP photodegradation
Authors: Bai Xiaojuan , Sun Boxuan , Wang Cong , Wang Xuyu , Jia Tianqi , Hao Derek , Zhang Junying
Published: April 2021

Rec-PDI-HCl with “recombinant holes” shows the capability to form an intermolecular polarized electric field to enhance its photocatalytic properties.
Enhancing water permeability with super-hydrophilic metal–organic frameworks and hydrophobic straight pores
Authors: Habibollahzadeh Mehdi , Noh Juran , Feng Liang , Zhou Hong-Cai , Abdel-Wahab Ahmed , Yu Choongho
Published: April 2021

Hydrophobic straight pores and super-hydrophilic metal–organic framework (MOF) in the supporting and active layers reduced flow resistance and improved wettability, raising water permeability with low internal concentration polarization.
Recent advances in membrane distillation using electrospun membranes: advantages, challenges, and outlook
Authors: Zhong Lingling , Wang Yu , Liu Dongmei , Zhu Zhigao , Wang Wei
Published: April 2021

Electrospun nanofiber membranes with different modification strategies can supplement freshwater from abundant saltwater resources containing different contaminants.
Enhanced phase transition and infrared photoresponse characteristics in VO2(M1) thin films synthesized by DC reactive sputtering on different substrates
Authors: Tadeo Inyalot Jude , Krupanidhi Saluru B. , Umarji Arun M.
Published: April 2021

VO2(M1) films synthesized by sputtering on quartz and c-sapphire substrates exhibited good semiconductor-to-metal transition (SMT) and IR photoresponse properties.
Room-temperature ppb-level trimethylamine gas sensors functionalized with citric acid-doped polyvinyl acetate nanofibrous mats
Authors: Rianjanu Aditya , Aflaha Rizky , Khamidy Nur Istiqomah , Djamal Mitra , Triyana Kuwat , Wasisto Hutomo Suryo
Published: April 2021

A quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) chip functionalized with citric acid-doped polyvinyl acetate (PVAc/CA) nanofibers is used as a highly sensitive and selective trimethylamine (TMA) gas sensor operating at room temperature.
Sonochemical preparation of polymer–metal nanocomposites with catalytic and plasmonic properties
Authors: Wan Jing , Fan Bo , Thang San H.
Published: April 2021

Ultrasound is employed for in situ preparation of polymer–Au and polymer–Pd nanocomposites, which possess superior plasmonic properties and improved catalytic activities.
A plasmon-based nanoruler to probe the mechanical properties of synthetic and biogenic nanosized lipid vesicles
Authors: Caselli Lucrezia , Ridolfi Andrea , Cardellini Jacopo , Sharpnack Lewis , Paolini Lucia , Brucale Marco , Valle Francesco , Montis Costanza , Bergese Paolo , Berti Debora
Published: April 2021

A plasmon-based “stiffness nanoruler” paves the way for a cost-effective and high-throughput determination of the mechanical properties of synthetic and biogenic nanometric vesicles at a collective level.
Near-infrared inorganic nanomaterial-based nanosystems for photothermal therapy
Authors: Wang Yufei , Meng Hong-Min , Li Zhaohui
Published: April 2021

We summarize the recent advances in near-infrared inorganic nanomaterial-based nanosystems for photothermal therapy in this review.
Ordered inverse-opal scaffold based on bionic transpiration to create a biomimetic spine
Authors: Yang Yanru , Gao Bingbing , Hu Yangnan , Wei Hao , Zhang Chen , Chai Renjie , Gu Zhongze
Published: April 2021

Inverse-opal scaffolds are fabricated through carbonization and corrosion after replication using bionic transpiration photonic crystal templates. The architectures allow the formation of a dense network of neurons.
Air-stable and efficient electron doping of monolayer MoS2 by salt–crown ether treatment
Authors: Ogura Hiroto , Kaneda Masahiko , Nakanishi Yusuke , Nonoguchi Yoshiyuki , Pu Jiang , Ohfuchi Mari , Irisawa Toshifumi , Lim Hong En , Endo Takahiko , Yanagi Kazuhiro , Takenobu Taishi , Miyata Yasumitsu
Published: April 2021

The present doping technique demonstrates the highly efficient electron doping of monolayer MoS2 with high stability under ambient conditions using KOH/benzo-18-crown-6 as the dopant.
Biofriendly molecular and protein release substrate with integrated piezoelectric motivation and anti-oxidative stress capabilities
Authors: Zhang Yi , Ma Zequn , Zhang Yihe , Li Biao , Feng Mengchun , Zhao Yantao , An Qi
Published: April 2021

A multifunctional molecular delivery substrate was confirmed to promote molecular releases, molecules/proteins storage and ROS elimination in drug delivery.
Reprocessable covalent adaptable networks with excellent elevated-temperature creep resistance: facilitation by dynamic, dissociative bis(hindered amino) disulfide bonds
Authors: Bin Rusayyis Mohammed A. , Torkelson John M.
Published: April 2021

BiTEMPS dynamic chemistry offers a simple method to prepare reprocessable polymer networks with excellent long-term creep resistance at elevated temperatures and full recovery of cross-link density after recycling.
A bimetal hierarchical layer structure MOF grown on Ni foam as a bifunctional catalyst for the OER and HER
Authors: Mou Qiuxiang , Xu Zhenhang , Wang Guannan , Li Erlei , Liu Jinyan , Zhao Pingping , Liu Xinghai , Li Houbin , Cheng Gongzhen
Published: April 2021

The as-synthesized NiFe-MOF-5 exhibited an overpotential of 168 mV at 10 mA cm−2 for OER and a voltage of 1.57 V at 10 mA cm−2 for overall water splitting, outperforming most non-noble metal catalysts reported in 1 M KOH.
Structural parameter-modulated nonlinear optical amplitude of acceptor–π–D–π–donor-configured pyrene derivatives: a DFT approach
Authors: Khalid Muhammad , Lodhi Hafiza Munnazza , Khan Muhammad Usman , Imran Muhammad
Published: April 2021

In the present study, organic pyrene-based derivatives were selected for NLO investigation.
Tris-imidazolinium-based porous poly(ionic liquid)s as an efficient catalyst for decarboxylation of cyclic carbonate to epoxide
Authors: Li Yang , Wang Liguo , Cao Yan , Xu Shuang , He Peng , Li Huiquan , Liu Hui
Published: April 2021

The tris-imidazolium-based porous poly(ionic liquid)s with plentiful ionic sites prepared by free-radical polymerization exhibited superior catalytic performance toward the heterogeneous conversion of butylene carbonate to butylene oxide.
Fabrication and evaluation of melamine-formaldehyde resin crosslinked PVA composite coating membranes with enhanced oxygen barrier properties for food packaging
Authors: Zhu Qingmei , Wang Xianghui , Chen Xiuqiong , Yu Changjiang , Yin Qi , Yan Huiqiong , Lin Qiang
Published: April 2021

Since PVA membrane is limited use for food packaging applications in moist conditions, PVA/MF composite coating membranes with various contents of MF were fabricated by a chemical crosslinking method to reduce the sensitivity of PVA to moisture.
Spatial correlation of cell stiffness and traction forces in cancer cells measured with combined SICM and TFM
Authors: Rheinlaender Johannes , Wirbel Hannes , Schäffer Tilman E.
Published: April 2021

Using combined SICM and TFM we identified a subcellular correlation between the local stiffness and traction force density in living cells. We found this correlation in normal breast epithelial cells, but not in cancerous breast epithelial cells.
A high performance barium-promoted cobalt catalyst supported on magnesium–lanthanum mixed oxide for ammonia synthesis
Authors: Ronduda Hubert , Zybert Magdalena , Patkowski Wojciech , Ostrowski Andrzej , Jodłowski Przemysław , Szymański Damian , Kępiński Leszek , Raróg-Pilecka Wioletta
Published: April 2021

A high performance barium-promoted cobalt catalyst supported on magnesium–lanthanum mixed oxide for ammonia synthesis.
Self-shutdown function induced by sandwich-like gel polymer electrolytes for high safety lithium metal batteries
Authors: Xie Binxuan , Chen Shimou , Chen Yong , Liu Lili
Published: April 2021

The SGPE can achieve high performance and high safety features simultaneously.
Bright luminescent lithium and magnesium carbene complexes
Authors: Pinter Piermaria , Schüßlbauer Christoph M. , Watt Fabian A. , Dickmann Nicole , Herbst-Irmer Regine , Morgenstern Bernd , Grünwald Annette , Ullrich Tobias , Zimmer Michael , Hohloch Stephan , Guldi Dirk M. , Munz Dominik
Published: April 2021

Lithium- and magnesium complexes of a CNC pincer ligand composed of carbazole and two mesoionic carbenes are bright luminescent, because the metals prevent molecular distortions upon excitation.
In situ reversible tuning of chemical interface damping in single gold nanorod-based recyclable platforms through manipulation of supramolecular host–guest interactions
Authors: Jeon Hui Bin , Park Sehoon , Ryu Kyeong Rim , Ghosh Suman Kr , Jung Jaehoon , Park Kyeng Min , Ha Ji Won
Published: April 2021

This study has paved a new route to achieve in situ reversible tuning of chemical interface damping (CID) in the same gold nanorod (AuNR) and to investigate the CID process using cucurbituril (CB)-based host–guest chemistry with various guest molecules in single AuNRs.
Folding-controlled assembly of ortho-phenylene-based macrocycles
Authors: Kirinda Viraj C. , Hartley C. Scott
Published: April 2021

The folding propensity of ortho-phenylene foldamers dictates the outcome of their self-assembly into macrocycles.
Strain-release 2-azaallyl anion addition/borylation of [1.1.1]propellane: synthesis and functionalization of benzylamine bicyclo[1.1.1]pentyl boronates
Authors: Shelp Russell A. , Ciro Anthony , Pu Youge , Merchant Rohan R. , Hughes Jonathan M. E. , Walsh Patrick J.
Published: April 2021

We report a 3-component reaction between N-benzyl ketimines, [1.1.1]propellane, and pinacol boronates to generate benzylamine bicyclo[1.1.1]pentane (BCP) pinacol boronates.
FeS encapsulated hierarchical porous S, N-dual-doped carbon for oxygen reduction reaction facilitation in Zn–air batteries
Authors: Xu Hao , Wang Dan , Yang Peixia , Liu Anmin , Li Ruopeng , Xiao Lihui , Zhang Jinqiu , Qu Zhenshen , An Maozhong
Published: April 2021

A novel strategy is developed to synthesize FeS encapsulated hierarchical porous S, N-dual-doped carbon for the ORR.
Surface and bulk reconstruction of CoW sulfides during pH-universal electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution
Authors: Fan Ke , Zou Haiyuan , Dharanipragada N. V. R. Aditya , Fan Lizhou , Inge A. Ken , Duan Lele , Zhang Biaobiao , Sun Licheng
Published: April 2021

Electrolytes of varying pH lead to varied reconstruction and influence the true catalytically active species responsible for electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution by CoW sulfides.
Organic cathode interfacial materials for non-fullerene organic solar cells
Authors: Kyeong Minkyu , Lee Jinho , Daboczi Matyas , Stewart Katherine , Yao Huifeng , Cha Hyojung , Luke Joel , Lee Kwanghee , Durrant James R. , Kim Ji-Seon , Hong Sukwon
Published: April 2021

Functionalized polyethyleneimines that are compatible with non-fullerene acceptors have been developed by protecting the reactive amine groups, leading to non-fullerene solar cells with high power conversion efficiency and enhanced thermal stability.
Structural engineering of metal–organic framework derived tin sulfides for advanced Li/Na storage
Authors: Cheng Qiaohuan , Yu Xuebin
Published: April 2021

A metal–organic framework template-based strategy is firstly developed to fabricate various nanostructured tin sulfides, which exhibit superior Li+/Na+ storage behavior.
Functional polymers in electrolyte optimization and interphase design for lithium metal anodes
Authors: Zhang Caihong , Jin Tong , Cheng Guang , Yuan Shuai , Sun Zongjie , Li Nian-Wu , Yu Le , Ding Shujiang
Published: April 2021

Functional polymers are arousing tremendous interest in electrolyte optimization and interface design for Li metal anodes (LMAs). In this review, we provide a conceptual understanding of functional polymers for LMAs and discuss some future trends.
Amine-functionalized Cu-MOF nanospheres towards label-free hepatitis B surface antigen electrochemical immunosensors
Authors: Rezki Muhammad , Septiani Ni Luh Wulan , Iqbal Muhammad , Harimurti Suksmandhira , Sambegoro Poetro , Adhika Damar Rastri , Yuliarto Brian
Published: April 2021

Label-free hepatitis B surface antigen electrochemical immunosensors by Cu-NH2BDC MOFs.
Surface activation of medical grade polyurethane for the covalent immobilization of an anti-adhesive biopolymeric coating
Authors: Matinha-Cardoso Jorge , Mota Rita , Gomes Luciana C. , Gomes Marisa , Mergulhão Filipe J. , Tamagnini Paula , Martins M. Cristina L. , Costa Fabíola
Published: April 2021

Evaluation of the surface activation of medical grade polyurethane through different processes towards the covalent immobilization of an anti-adhesive biopolymeric coating.
Thermosensitive polymer hydrogel as a physical shield on colonic mucosa for colitis treatment
Authors: Guo Zhaoyuan , Bai Yun , Zhang Zhuangzhuang , Mei Heng , Li Jing , Pu Yuji , Zhao Nan , Gao Wenxia , Wu Fang , He Bin , Xie Jing
Published: April 2021

A thermo-sensitive polymer hydrogel as a physical shield and drug depot was developed for the potential treatment of ulcerative colitis.