bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Random forcing with a constant power input for two-dimensional gyrokinetic simulations
Authors: Numata Ryusuke
Published: March 2021

A method of random forcing with a constant power input for two-dimensional gyrokinetic turbulence simulations is developed for the study of stationary plasma turbulence. The property that the forcing term injects the energy at a constant rate enables turbulence to be set up in the desired range and energy dissipation channels to be assessed quantitatively in a statistically steady state. Using the developed method, turbulence is demonstrated in the large-scale fluid and small-scale kinetic regimes, where the theoretically predicted scaling laws are reproduced successfully.
Cystic echinococcosis in sheep and goats of Lebanon
Authors: Joanny Gaelle , Mehmood Naunain , Dessì Giorgia , Tamponi Claudia , Nonnis Francesca , Hosri Chadi , Saarma Urmas , Varcasia Antonio , Scala Antonio
Published: March 2021

Cystic echinococcosis (CE), a zoonotic disease caused by the species complex of Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato (s.l.), is endemic in Middle East and the Mediterranean basin, where pastoral activity is widespread. Despite the chronic endemicity of the disease in Lebanon and neighbouring countries, recent data are scant. The objectives of this survey were to evaluate the current epidemiology of CE in Lebanon, investigate the prevalence and determine the infecting genotypes in locally raised sheep and goats. A multidimensional approach combining post-mortem inspection of slaughtered animals and molecular diagnosis of the parasite was conducted to this end. From 2018 to 2020, 62.9% of the sheep and 20.9% of the goats were found positive for CE. The presence of hydatids varied between organs, showing higher prevalence in the liver of sheep vs the lungs of goats, however, a higher fertility rate of hydatid cyst was observed in lungs for both animals. Molecular diagnosis based on partial mitochondrial cox1 gene (795 bp) showed that the majority of isolates were identified as E. granulosus sensu stricto (98.7%) and only one isolate from goat was identified as Echinococcus canadensis (genotype G7; 1.3%). Echinococcus granulosus s.s. population among the sheep and goats was represented by 22 haplotypes having very little genetic differentiation and relatively moderate haplotype diversity. Population demographics explored through neutrality indices suggested expanding population within the intermediate hosts. These results document the high prevalence of CE in the livestock of Lebanon and reveal for the first time the presence of three different genotypes G1, G3 and G7.
Echinococcus shiquicus in Qinghai–Tibet plateau: population structure and confirmation of additional endemic areas
Authors: Yan Hong-Bin , Li Li , Li Wenhui , Zhu Guoqiang , Li Jian-Qiu , Wu Yantao , Zhang Nianzhang , Wu Yaodong , Li Min , Zhang Linsheng , Yao Gang , Tian Wenjun , Li Le , Li Wenjing , Guo Aimin , Dai Guodong , Fu Baoquan , Ohiolei John Asekhaen , Jia Wan-Zhong
Published: March 2021

Echinococcus shiquicus is currently limited to the Qinghai–Tibet plateau, a large mountainous region in China. Although the zoonotic potential remains unknown, progress is being made on the distribution and intermediate host range. In this study, we report E. shiquicus within Gansu and Qinghai provinces in regions located not only around the central areas but also the southeast edge of the plateau and describe their genetic relationship with previous isolates from the plateau. From 1879 plateau pikas examined, 2.39% (95% CI 1.79–3.18) were infected with E. shiquicus. The highest prevalence of 10.26% (4.06–23.58) was recorded in Makehe town, Qinghai province. Overall the prevalence was marginally higher in Qinghai (2.5%, CI 1.82–3.43) than in Gansu (2%, CI 1.02–3.89). The cox1 and nad1 genes demonstrated high and low haplotype and nucleotide diversities, respectively. The median-joining network constructed by the cox1–nad1 gene sequences demonstrated a star-like configuration with a median vector (unsampled haplotype) occupying the centre of the network. No peculiar distinction or common haplotype was observed in isolates originating from the different provinces. The presence of E. shiquicus in regions of the southeast and northeast edges of the Qinghai–Tibet plateau and high genetic variation warrants more investigation into the haplotype distribution and genetic polymorphism by exploring more informative DNA regions of the mitochondrial genome to provide epidemiologically useful insight into the population structure of E. shiquicus across the plateau and its axis.
A compact dual-polarized co-radiator MIMO antenna for UWB applications
Authors: Kaur Harleen , Shankar Singh Hari , Upadhyay Rahul
Published: March 2021

In this research study, a compact dual-polarized co-radiator ultra-wideband (UWB) multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) antenna with improved impedance bandwidth and isolation is proposed for wireless applications. The designed co-radiator has an overall area of 0.3λo × 0.3λo mm2 (where, λo is free space wavelength corresponding to the lower cut-off frequency, i.e., 3.1 GHz). The proposed resonator comprises of a hybrid geometry which is created with the combinations of a circular-shaped patch, a square, and two rectangular stubs. It is centrally aligned between two 50 Ω micro-strip feed lines that are positioned orthogonal to each other. Further, the modified ground plane is attached with the end-loaded line which provides broadband isolation over entire UWB frequency band. The simulated results of the proposed antenna exhibit wideband characteristics with impedance bandwidth of 3.1–16.9 GHz with minimum isolation of −15 dB. Moreover, all the radiation performance parameters are analyzed and discussed. Some important diversity parameters such as envelope correlation coefficient, mean effective gain, effective diversity gain, and channel capacity loss have also been evaluated. Furthermore, all the measured results of proposed antenna agree well with the simulated results which make the proposed antenna a suitable candidate for UWB-MIMO wireless applications.
Van Allen Probe Observations of Disappearance, Recovery and Patchiness of Plasmaspheric Hiss Following Two Consecutive Interplanetary Shocks: First Results
Authors: Chakraborty S. , Chakrabarty D. , Reeves G. D. , Baker D. N. , Claudepierre S. G. , Breneman A. W. , Hartley D. P. , Larsen B. A.
Published: March 2021

We present, for the first time, a plasmaspheric hiss event observed by the Van Allen probes in response to two successive interplanetary (IP) shocks occurring within an interval of ∼2 h on December 19, 2015. The first shock arrived at 16:16 UT and caused disappearance of hiss for ∼30 min. Combined effect of plasmapause crossing, significant Landau damping by suprathermal electrons and their gradual removal by magnetospheric compression led to the disappearance of hiss. Calculation of electron phase space density and linear wave growth rates showed that the shock did not change the growth rate of whistler waves within the core frequency range of plasmaspheric hiss (0.1–0.5 kHz) during this interval making conditions unfavorable for the generation of hiss. The recovery began at ∼16:45 UT which is attributed to an enhancement in local plasma instability initiated by the first shock‐induced substorm and additional possible contribution from chorus waves. This time, the wave growth rate peaked within the core frequency range (∼350 Hz). The second shock arrived at 18:02 UT and generated patchy hiss persisting up to ∼19:00 UT. It is shown that an enhanced growth rate and additional contribution from shock‐induced poloidal Pc5 mode (periodicity ∼240 s) ultralow frequency (ULF) waves resulted in the excitation of hiss waves during this period. The hiss wave amplitudes were found to be additionally modulated by background plasma density and fluctuating plasmapause location. The investigation highlights the important roles of IP shocks, substorms, ULF waves, and background plasma density in the variability of plasmaspheric hiss.
Tailward Flows in the Vicinity of Fast Earthward Flows
Authors: Chong Ghai Siung , De Spiegeleer A. , Hamrin M. , Pitkänen T. , Gunell H. , Aizawa S.
Published: March 2021

The occurrence of tailward flows in the magnetotail plasma sheet is closely linked to the dynamics of earthward bursty bulk flows (BBFs). Tailward flows that are observed in the vicinity of these BBFs (or TWABs – Tailward flows around BBFs) may hold unique information on its origin. In this study, we conduct a statistical survey on TWABs by using data from the Cluster mission. We find that TWABs are observed in the vicinity of ∼75% of the BBFs and their occurrence does not depend on BBF velocity magnitude. TWABs have a flow convection pattern consistent with the general tailward flows (GTWs) in the plasma sheet and they do not resemble vortical‐like flows. However, TWABs have a flow velocity magnitude twice larger than the GTWs. The plasma density and temperature of TWABs are comparable with BBFs. It is more common to observe a TWAB succeeding than preceding a BBF. However, there is no distinctive difference (in flow pattern, plasma density and temperature) between preceding and succeeding TWABs. We suggest that TWABs are likely the “freshly” rebounded BBFs from the near‐Earth region where the magnetic field is stronger. TWABs may represent the early stage of the evolution of tailward flows in the plasma sheet. We also discuss and argue that other mechanisms such as shear‐induced vortical flows and tailward slipping of depleted flux tubes cannot be the principal causes of TWABs.
Age‐Depth Stratigraphy of Pine Island Glacier Inferred From Airborne Radar and Ice‐Core Chronology
Authors: Bodart J. A. , Bingham R. G. , Ashmore D. W. , Karlsson N. B. , Hein A. S. , Vaughan D. G.
Published: March 2021

Understanding the contribution of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet (WAIS) to past and future sea level has been a major scientific priority over the last three decades. In recent years, observed thinning and ice‐flow acceleration of the marine‐based Pine Island Glacier has highlighted that understanding dynamic changes is critical to predicting the long‐term stability of the WAIS. However, relatively little is known about the evolution of the catchment during the Holocene. Internal reflecting horizons (IRHs) provide a cumulative record of accumulation, basal melt, and ice dynamics that, if dated, can be used to constrain ice‐flow models. Here, we use airborne radars to trace four spatially extensive IRHs deposited in the late Quaternary across the Pine Island Glacier catchment. We use the WAIS Divide ice‐core chronology to assign ages to three IRHs: 4.72 ± 0.28, 6.94 ± 0.31, and 16.50 ± 0.79 ka. We use a 1‐D model, constrained by observational and modeled accumulation rates, to produce an independent validation of our ice‐core‐derived ages and provide an age estimate for our shallowest IRH (2.31–2.92 ka). We find that our upper three IRHs correspond to three large peaks in sulfate concentrations in the WAIS Divide ice‐core record and hypothesize that the origin of these spatially extensive IRHs is from past volcanic activity. The clear correspondence between our IRHs and the ones previously identified over the Weddell Sea Sector, altogether representing ∼20% of the WAIS, indicates that a unique set of stratigraphic markers spanning the Holocene exists over a large part of West Antarctica.
The lncRNA Snhg1-Vps13D vesicle trafficking system promotes memory CD8 T cell establishment via regulating the dual effects of IL-7 signaling
Authors: Zhang Yanyan , Li Baohua , Bai Qiang , Wang Pengcheng , Wei Gang , Li Zhirong , Hu Li , Tian Qin , Zhou Jing , Huang Qizhao , Wang Zhiming , Yue Shuai , Wu Jialin , Yang Liuqing , Zhou Xinyuan , Jiang Lubin , Ni Ting , Ye Lilin , Wu Yuzhang
Published: March 2021

The efficient induction and long-term persistence of pathogen-specific memory CD8 T cells are pivotal to rapidly curb the reinfection. Recent studies indicated that long-noncoding RNAs expression is highly cell- and stage-specific during T cell development and differentiation, suggesting their potential roles in T cell programs. However, the key lncRNAs playing crucial roles in memory CD8 T cell establishment remain to be clarified. Through CD8 T cell subsets profiling of lncRNAs, this study found a key lncRNA-Snhg1 with the conserved naivehi-effectorlo-memoryhi expression pattern in CD8 T cells of both mice and human, that can promote memory formation while impeding effector CD8 in acute viral infection. Further, Snhg1 was found interacting with the conserved vesicle trafficking protein Vps13D to promote IL-7Rα membrane location specifically. With the deep mechanism probing, the results show Snhg1-Vps13D regulated IL-7 signaling with its dual effects in memory CD8 generation, which not just because of the sustaining role of STAT5-BCL-2 axis for memory survival, but more through the STAT3-TCF1-Blimp1 axis for transcriptional launch program of memory differentiation. Moreover, we performed further study with finding a similar high-low-high expression pattern of human SNHG1/VPS13D/IL7R/TCF7 in CD8 T cell subsets from PBMC samples of the convalescent COVID-19 patients. The central role of Snhg1-Vps13D-IL-7R-TCF1 axis in memory CD8 establishment makes it a potential target for improving the vaccination effects to control the ongoing pandemic.
FGF1ΔHBS prevents diabetic cardiomyopathy by maintaining mitochondrial homeostasis and reducing oxidative stress via AMPK/Nur77 suppression
Authors: Wang Dezhong , Yin Yuan , Wang Shuyi , Zhao Tianyang , Gong Fanghua , Zhao Yushuo , Wang Beibei , Huang Yuli , Cheng Zizhao , Zhu Guanghui , Wang Zengshou , Wang Yang , Ren Jun , Liang Guang , Li Xiaokun , Huang Zhifeng
Published: March 2021

As a classically known mitogen, fibroblast growth factor 1 (FGF1) has been found to exert other pleiotropic functions such as metabolic regulation and myocardial protection. Here, we show that serum levels of FGF1 were decreased and positively correlated with fraction shortening in diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) patients, indicating that FGF1 is a potential therapeutic target for DCM. We found that treatment with a FGF1 variant (FGF1∆HBS) with reduced proliferative potency prevented diabetes-induced cardiac injury and remodeling and restored cardiac function. RNA-Seq results obtained from the cardiac tissues of db/db mice showed significant increase in the expression levels of anti-oxidative genes and decrease of Nur77 by FGF1∆HBS treatment. Both in vivo and in vitro studies indicate that FGF1∆HBS exerted these beneficial effects by markedly reducing mitochondrial fragmentation, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and cytochrome c leakage and enhancing mitochondrial respiration rate and β-oxidation in a 5’ AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)/Nur77-dependent manner, all of which were not observed in the AMPK null mice. The favorable metabolic activity and reduced proliferative properties of FGF1∆HBS testify to its promising potential for use in the treatment of DCM and other metabolic disorders.
Dental periodontal procedures: a systematic review of contamination (splatter, droplets and aerosol) in relation to COVID-19
Authors: Johnson Ilona G , Jones Rhiannon J , Gallagher Jennifer E. , Wade William G. , Al-Yaseen Waraf , Robertson Mark , McGregor Scott , K. C Sukriti , Innes Nicola , Harris Rebecca
Published: March 2021

Introduction

The emergence of the SARS-CoV-2 virus and subsequent COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant effect on the delivery of routine dentistry; and in particular, periodontal care across the world. This systematic review examines the literature relating to splatter, droplet settle and aerosol for periodontal procedures and forms part of a wider body of research to understand the risk of contamination in relation to periodontal care procedures relevant to COVID-19.

Methods

A search of the literature was carried out using key terms and MeSH words relating to the review questions. Sources included Medline (OVID), Embase (OVID), Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Scopus, Web of Science and LILACS, ClinicalTrials.Gov. Studies meeting inclusion criteria were screened in duplicate and data extraction was carried out using a template. All studies were assessed for methodological quality and sensitivity. Narrative synthesis was undertaken.

Results

Fifty studies were included in the review with procedures including ultrasonic scaling (n = 44), air polishing (n = 4), prophylaxis (n = 2) and hand scaling (n = 3). Outcomes included bacterial (colony-forming units e.g. on settle plates) or blood contamination (e.g. visible splatter) and non bacterial, non blood (e.g. chemiluminescence or coloured dyes) contamination. All studies found contamination at all sites although the contamination associated with hand scaling was very low. Contamination was identified in all of the studies even where suction was used at baseline. Higher power settings created greater contamination. Distribution of contamination varied in relation to operator position and was found on the operator, patient and assistant with higher levels around the head of the operator and the mouth and chest of the patient. Settle was identified 30 min after treatments had finished but returned to background levels when measured at or after an hour. The evidence was generally low to medium quality and likely to underestimate contamination.

Conclusion

Ultrasonic scaling, air polishing and prophylaxis procedures produce contamination (splatter, droplets and aerosol) in the presence of suction, with a small amount of evidence showing droplets taking between 30 min and 1 h to settle. Consideration should be given to infection control, areas of cleaning particularly around the patient and appropriate personal protective equipment, with particular attention to respiratory, facial and body protection for these procedures. In addition, the use of lower power settings should be considered to reduce the amount and spread of contamination.
Nondestructive detection of photonic qubits
Authors: Niemietz Dominik , Farrera Pau , Langenfeld Stefan , Rempe Gerhard
Published: March 2021

One of the biggest challenges in experimental quantum information is to sustain the fragile superposition state of a qubit1. Long lifetimes can be achieved for material qubit carriers as memories2, at least in principle, but not for propagating photons that are rapidly lost by absorption, diffraction or scattering3. The loss problem can be mitigated with a nondestructive photonic qubit detector that heralds the photon without destroying the encoded qubit. Such a detector is envisioned to facilitate protocols in which distributed tasks depend on the successful dissemination of photonic qubits4,5, improve loss-sensitive qubit measurements6,7 and enable certain quantum key distribution attacks8. Here we demonstrate such a detector based on a single atom in two crossed fibre-based optical resonators, one for qubit-insensitive atom–photon coupling and the other for atomic-state detection9. We achieve a nondestructive detection efficiency upon qubit survival of 79 ± 3 per cent and a photon survival probability of 31 ± 1 per cent, and we preserve the qubit information with a fidelity of 96.2 ± 0.3 per cent. To illustrate the potential of our detector, we show that it can, with the current parameters, improve the rate and fidelity of long-distance entanglement and quantum state distribution compared to previous methods, provide resource optimization via qubit amplification and enable detection-loophole-free Bell tests.
Streptococcus agalactiae amylomaltase offers insight into the transglycosylation mechanism and the molecular basis of thermostability among amylomaltases
Authors: Tumhom Suthipapun , Nimpiboon Pitchanan , Wangkanont Kittikhun , Pongsawasdi Piamsook
Published: March 2021

Amylomaltase (AM) catalyzes transglycosylation of starch to form linear or cyclic oligosaccharides with potential applications in biotechnology and industry. In the present work, a novel AM from the mesophilic bacterium Streptococcus agalactiae (SaAM), with 18–49% sequence identity to previously reported AMs, was characterized. Cyclization and disproportionation activities were observed with the optimum temperature of 30 °C and 40 °C, respectively. Structural determination of SaAM, the first crystal structure of small AMs from the mesophiles, revealed a glycosyl-enzyme intermediate derived from acarbose and a second acarbose molecule attacking the intermediate. This pre-transglycosylation conformation has never been before observed in AMs. Structural analysis suggests that thermostability in AMs might be mainly caused by an increase in salt bridges since SaAM has a lower number of salt bridges compared with AMs from the thermophiles. Increase in thermostability by mutation was performed. C446 was substituted with A/S/P. C446A showed higher activities and higher kcat/Km values for starch in comparison to the WT enzyme. C446S exhibited a 5 °C increase in optimum temperature and the threefold increase in half-life time at 45 °C, most likely resulting from H-bonding interactions. For all enzymes, the main large-ring cyclodextrin (LR-CD) products were CD24-CD26 with CD22 as the smallest. C446S produced more CD35-CD42, especially at a longer incubation time.
Cardio-pathogenic variants in unexplained intrauterine fetal death: a retrospective pilot study
Authors: Muin Dana A. , Kollmann Martina , Blatterer Jasmin , Hoermann Gregor , Husslein Peter W. , Lafer Ingrid , Petek Erwin , Schwarzbraun Thomas
Published: March 2021

To describe the prevalence and spectrum of cardio-pathogenic variants in singleton fetuses after unexplained intrauterine fetal death (IUFD). DNA from post-mortem fibroblastic tissue samples of 16 fetuses after unexplained IUFD was retrieved at two tertiary university hospitals for clinical exome sequencing with subsequent filtering of 122 cardio-specific genes to elucidate underlying cardio-pathogenic variants. In total, we included 12 (75%) male and four (25%) female fetuses who were stillborn at a median gestational age of 34+6 (23+2–40+5) weeks. In two (12.5%) fetuses no cardio-pathogenic variants were found. In 14 (87.5%) fetuses, overall 33 variants were detected in 22 cardio-specific genes, involving 14 (63.63%) genes associated with cardiomyopathy, six (27.27%) arrhythmogenic susceptibility genes and two (9.09%) arrhythmia and cardiomyopathy associated genes. Among the 33 variants, five (15.2%) were classified as likely benign according to the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics; 28 (84.8%) variants were considered as variants of uncertain significance. Compared to a cohort of explained IUFDs, the cases with and without fetal variants in cardiac genes differed not significantly regarding maternal age, previous history of stillbirth, time of stillbirth or fetal sex. Unexplained stillbirth may be caused by cardio-genetic pathologies, yet a high number of variants of uncertain significance merit a more detailed post-mortem examination including family segregation analysis.
Investigating heterogeneities of live mesenchymal stromal cells using AI-based label-free imaging
Authors: Imboden Sara , Liu Xuanqing , Lee Brandon S. , Payne Marie C. , Hsieh Cho-Jui , Lin Neil Y. C.
Published: March 2021

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are multipotent cells that have great potential for regenerative medicine, tissue repair, and immunotherapy. Unfortunately, the outcomes of MSC-based research and therapies can be highly inconsistent and difficult to reproduce, largely due to the inherently significant heterogeneity in MSCs, which has not been well investigated. To quantify cell heterogeneity, a standard approach is to measure marker expression on the protein level via immunochemistry assays. Performing such measurements non-invasively and at scale has remained challenging as conventional methods such as flow cytometry and immunofluorescence microscopy typically require cell fixation and laborious sample preparation. Here, we developed an artificial intelligence (AI)-based method that converts transmitted light microscopy images of MSCs into quantitative measurements of protein expression levels. By training a U-Net+ conditional generative adversarial network (cGAN) model that accurately (mean $$r_s$$

r
s

= 0.77) predicts expression of 8 MSC-specific markers, we showed that expression of surface markers provides a heterogeneity characterization that is complementary to conventional cell-level morphological analyses. Using this label-free imaging method, we also observed a multi-marker temporal-spatial fluctuation of protein distributions in live MSCs. These demonstrations suggest that our AI-based microscopy can be utilized to perform quantitative, non-invasive, single-cell, and multi-marker characterizations of heterogeneous live MSC culture. Our method provides a foundational step toward the instant integrative assessment of MSC properties, which is critical for high-throughput screening and quality control in cellular therapies.
Microdroplet-based one-step RT-PCR for ultrahigh throughput single-cell multiplex gene expression analysis and rare cell detection
Authors: Ma Jennifer , Tran Gary , Wan Alwin M. D. , Young Edmond W. K. , Kumacheva Eugenia , Iscove Norman N. , Zandstra Peter W.
Published: March 2021

Gene expression analysis of individual cells enables characterization of heterogeneous and rare cell populations, yet widespread implementation of existing single-cell gene analysis techniques has been hindered due to limitations in scale, ease, and cost. Here, we present a novel microdroplet-based, one-step reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) platform and demonstrate the detection of three targets simultaneously in over 100,000 single cells in a single experiment with a rapid read-out. Our customized reagent cocktail incorporates the bacteriophage T7 gene 2.5 protein to overcome cell lysate-mediated inhibition and allows for one-step RT-PCR of single cells encapsulated in nanoliter droplets. Fluorescent signals indicative of gene expressions are analyzed using a probabilistic deconvolution method to account for ambient RNA and cell doublets and produce single-cell gene signature profiles, as well as predict cell frequencies within heterogeneous samples. We also developed a simulation model to guide experimental design and optimize the accuracy and precision of the assay. Using mixtures of in vitro transcripts and murine cell lines, we demonstrated the detection of single RNA molecules and rare cell populations at a frequency of 0.1%. This low cost, sensitive, and adaptable technique will provide an accessible platform for high throughput single-cell analysis and enable a wide range of research and clinical applications.
Controlling T cells spreading, mechanics and activation by micropatterning
Authors: Sadoun Anaïs , Biarnes-Pelicot Martine , Ghesquiere-Dierickx Laura , Wu Ambroise , Théodoly Olivier , Limozin Laurent , Hamon Yannick , Puech Pierre-Henri
Published: March 2021

We designed a strategy, based on a careful examination of the activation capabilities of proteins and antibodies used as substrates for adhering T cells, coupled to protein microstamping to control at the same time the position, shape, spreading, mechanics and activation state of T cells. Once adhered on patterns, we examined the capacities of T cells to be activated with soluble anti CD3, in comparison to T cells adhered to a continuously decorated substrate with the same density of ligands. We show that, in our hand, adhering onto an anti CD45 antibody decorated surface was not affecting T cell calcium fluxes, even adhered on variable size micro-patterns. Aside, we analyzed the T cell mechanics, when spread on pattern or not, using Atomic Force Microscopy indentation. By expressing MEGF10 as a non immune adhesion receptor in T cells we measured the very same spreading area on PLL substrates and Young modulus than non modified cells, immobilized on anti CD45 antibodies, while retaining similar activation capabilities using soluble anti CD3 antibodies or through model APC contacts. We propose that our system is a way to test activation or anergy of T cells with defined adhesion and mechanical characteristics, and may allow to dissect fine details of these mechanisms since it allows to observe homogenized populations in standardized T cell activation assays.
Effects of prolonged type 2 diabetes on changes in peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer thickness in diabetic eyes without clinical diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Lee Min-Woo , Lim Hyung-Bin , Kim Min-Su , Park Gi-Seok , Nam Ki-Yup , Lee Young-Hoon , Kim Jung-Yeul
Published: March 2021

To identify the effects of prolonged type 2 diabetes (T2DM) on changes in peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (pRNFL) thickness in patients without clinical diabetic retinopathy. Subjects were divided into two groups: controls and patients with T2DM (DM group). After the initial visits, the pRNFL thicknesses were measured three more times at 1-year intervals. Subgroup analyses were performed in patients with T2DM duration ≥ 10 years. The mean pRNFL thickness at each visit was 95.8 ± 8.1, 95.4 ± 8.3, 94.9 ± 8.1, and 94.5 ± 8.3 μm in the control group (P = 0.138) (n = 55); and 93.4 ± 9.1, 92.1 ± 9.3, 90.9 ± 9.3, and 89.5 ± 9.2 μm in the DM group (P < 0.001) (n = 85). The estimated rate of reduction in mean pRNFL thickness was − 0.45 μm/year in the control group and − 1.34 μm/year in the DM group, respectively. In the DM group, the BCVA and HbA1c (bothP = 0.001) were significant factors associated with pRNFL reduction. In patients with T2DM duration ≥ 10 years, the estimated pRNFL reduction rate was − 1.61 μm/year, and hypertension was a significant factor affecting the pRNFL reduction (P = 0.046). We confirmed rapid pRNFL reduction over time in T2DM, and the reduction rate was higher in patients with T2DM ≥ 10 years. Additionally, BCVA and HbA1c levels were significantly associated with the change in pRNFL thickness in T2DM patients.
Common variants in KCNK5 and FHL5 genes contributed to the susceptibility of migraine without aura in Han Chinese population
Authors: Jiang Zhao , Zhao Longrui , Zhang Xiaojie , Zhang Wenjuan , Feng Yuxing , Li Tao
Published: March 2021

A recent genome-wide meta study suggested that rs67338227 in the FHL5 gene and rs10456100 in the KCNK5 gene are associated with migraine from 27 population-based cohorts excluding Chinese population. Given that migraine without aura (MO) is the most common subtype of migraine, our aim was to systematically investigate the relationship of common variants in FHL5 and KCNK5 genes with the susceptibility to MO and provide clues as to the nature of the mechanisms involved in the etiology of migraine. A total of 3306 subjects including 1042 patients with MO and 2264 controls were recruited for the discovery stage, and 2530 individuals including 842 patients with MO and 1688 controls for the replication stage. Twenty-two tag SNPs (7 from FHL5 and 15 from KCNK5) were selected for genotyping. Genetic associations were analyzed at both single-marker and haplotype levels. Potential functional consequences of the significant SNPs were analyzed using gene expression data obtained from the GTEx database. Two SNPs, rs10456100 (KCNK5, P = 9.01 × 10–9) and rs7775721 (FHL5, P = 6.86 × 10–13), were determined to be significantly associated with MO in the discovery sample and were then replicated in another sample. In the combined sample set, the T allele of both SNPs was significantly associated with the increased risk of MO. Significant eQTL signals were identified for both SNP rs10456100 and rs7775721. Our findings suggest that the T allele carriers of SNP rs10456100 and rs7775721 are at increased risk of migraine.
Author Correction: Rapid development of strong, persistent, spatiotemporally extensive cortical synchrony and underlying oscillations following acute MCA focal ischemia
Authors: Wann Ellen G. , Wodeyar Anirudh , Srinivasan Ramesh , Frostig Ron D.
Published: March 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Author Correction: A novel digital approach to describe real world outcomes among patients with constipation
Authors: Shapiro Allison , Bradshaw Benjamin , Landes Sabine , Kammann Petra , Bois De Fer Beatrice , Lee Wei-Nchih , Lange Robert
Published: March 2021

A Correction to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41746-021-00434-3
Metal-doped carbons from polyurea-crosslinked alginate aerogel beads
Authors: Raptopoulos Grigorios , Papastergiou Maria , Chriti Despoina , Effraimopoulou Eleni , Čendak Tomaž , Samartzis Nikolaos , Mali Gregor , Ioannides Theophilos , Gurikov Pavel , Smirnova Irina , Paraskevopoulou Patrina
Published: March 2021

Polyurea-crosslinked alginate (X-M-alginate; M: Co, Ni, Cu) aerogels, prepared from the corresponding M-alginate wet-gels and the aromatic triisocyanate Desmodur RE, are precursors for metal- and nitrogen-doped carbon (X-M-C) aerogels.
β-Carboline-based molecular hybrids as anticancer agents: a brief sketch
Authors: Soni Jay Prakash , Yeole Yogesh , Shankaraiah Nagula
Published: March 2021

The present review elaborates development of β-carboline-based molecular hybrids in past 5 years, their synthesis and biological evaluation. Interestingly, these hybrids have exhibited excellent cytotoxic profile with minimal effect on normal cells.
Square patterns formed from the directed self-assembly of block copolymers
Authors: Li Weihua , Gu Xueying
Published: March 2021

Incorporation the design of AB-type block copolymers into the strategy of directed self-assembly should provide a promising perspective for the formation of large-scale ordered square patterns..
Naturally occurring polyphenols as building blocks for supramolecular liquid crystals – substitution pattern dominates mesomorphism
Authors: Balszuweit Jan , Blanke Meik , Saccone Marco , Mezger Markus , Daniliuc Constantin G. , Wölper Christoph , Giese Michael , Voskuhl Jens
Published: March 2021

The use of naturally occuring polyphenols as hydrogen bond donors in supramolecular liquid crystals was investigated using alkylated azopyridines or stilbazoles as hydrogen bond acceptors.
Nonbiomimetic total synthesis of indole alkaloids using alkyne-based strategies
Authors: Ohno Hiroaki , Inuki Shinsuke
Published: March 2021

Significance of nonbiomimetic natural product synthesis and nonbiomimetic total syntheses of indole alkaloids based on the construction of core structures using alkyne reactions are summarized in this review.
A phytochemical-based medication search for the SARS-CoV-2 infection by molecular docking models towards spike glycoproteins and main proteases
Authors: Pushkaran Anju Choorakottayil , Nath EN Prajeesh , Melge Anu R. , Puthiyedath Rammanohar , Mohan C. Gopi
Published: March 2021

Identifying best bioactive phytochemicals from different medicinal plants using molecular docking techniques demonstrates a potential pre-clinical compound discovery against SARS-CoV-2 viral infection.
Ligand-decoration determines the translational and rotational dynamics of nanoparticles on a lipid bilayer membrane
Authors: Zhang Zhihong , Ma Wendong , He Kejie , Yuan Bing , Yang Kai
Published: March 2021

A regulated correlation between the translational and rotational dynamics of ligand-decorated nanoparticles was observed on a lipid membrane.
Hepta-coordinated Ni(ii) assemblies – structure and magnetic studies
Authors: Reczyński Mateusz , Akaki Mitsuru , Fukuda Takamitsu , Sawada Yuya , Nishii Kengo , Hagiwara Masayuki , Nitek Wojciech , Sieklucka Barbara , Nowicka Beata
Published: March 2021

HF-EPR and magnetometric studies show high magnetic anisotropy of Ni(ii) ions imposed by pentagonal bipyramid coordination geometry.
Intracellular trafficking of silver nanoparticles and silver ions determined their specific mitotoxicity to the zebrafish cell line
Authors: Yan Neng , Tang Ben Zhong , Wang Wen-Xiong
Published: March 2021

AgNP toxicity was attributed to dissolved Ag+, which was released, transported, and concentrated in the mitochondria, finally leading to exhaustion of the reserve respiratory capacity and cell death.
The right tools for the job: the central role for next generation chemical probes and chemistry-based target deconvolution methods in phenotypic drug discovery
Authors: Jörg Manuela , Madden Katrina S.
Published: March 2021

High quality chemical probes and chemistry-based target deconvolution techniques will be crucial to the advancement of phenotypic drug discovery, providing new hope for treatment of diseases with highly complex biology.
SnSe, the rising star thermoelectric material: a new paradigm in atomic blocks, building intriguing physical properties
Authors: Xie Lin , He Dongsheng , He Jiaqing
Published: March 2021

Thermoelectric materials, which enable direct energy conversion between waste heat and electricity, are witnessing exciting developments due to innovative breakthroughs both in materials and the synergistic optimization of structures and properties.
Chemisorption of CO2 by diamine-tetraamido macrocyclic motifs: a theoretical study
Authors: Eftaiha Ala'a F. , Qaroush Abdussalam K. , Al-shami Bayenah O. , Assaf Khaleel I.
Published: March 2021

A series of diamine-tetraamido macrocyclic molecules with different organic linkers are explored as potential CO2 capturing agents using quantum chemical calculations.
Chiral figure-eight molecular scaffold for fluorescent probe development
Authors: Schreiber Cynthia L. , Zhai Canjia , Smith Bradley D.
Published: March 2021

Cell microscopy screening of enantiomeric fluorescent squaraine figure-eight probes reveals a large difference in mitochondrial targeting.
N,N-Dimethylformamide-stabilised palladium nanoparticles combined with bathophenanthroline as catalyst for transfer vinylation of alcohols from vinyl ether
Authors: Tabaru Kazuki , Nakatsuji Masato , Itoh Satoshi , Suzuki Takeyuki , Obora Yasushi
Published: March 2021

The DMF-stabilised palladium nanoparticles combined with bathophenanthroline serve as an efficient catalyst for transfer vinylation of alcohols from vinyl ether.
“Cooking” hierarchically porous carbons with phenolic molecules and zinc salts
Authors: Zhang Le-Le , Tong Lei , Ding Yan-Wei , Chen Lin-Wei , Bai Yu-Xia , Liu Lv-Dan , Liang Hai-Wei
Published: March 2021

Phenolic molecules with one monotopic chelating group can be thermally converted into HPCs by carbonization of their metal complexing compounds.
Dual-functional two-dimensional covalent organic frameworks for water sensing and harvesting
Authors: Jiang Shan , Meng Lingchen , Ma Wenyue , Pan Guocui , Zhang Wei , Zou Yongcun , Liu Leijing , Xu Bin , Tian Wenjing
Published: March 2021

Two-dimensional covalent organic frameworks (2D COFs) with both water detection and adsorption properties are highly attractive for both basic research and applied research.
Slip of soft permeable particles near a wall
Authors: Zakhari Monica E. A. , Bonnecaze Roger T.
Published: March 2021

Permeable particles are closer to the wall than impermeable particles and stick below a critical particle velocity.
Induced crystallization of sol–gel-derived zinc oxide for efficient non-fullerene polymer solar cells
Authors: Zheng Jiaxin , Luo Yinqi , Wen Xinbo , Zhang Qinglei , Song Yu , Zhou Jiadong , Jiang Nianqiang , Liu Linlin , Huang Fei , Xie Zengqi
Published: March 2021

We demonstrate a novel strategy for induced crystallization of zinc oxide (ic-ZnO) that shows increased crystallinity relative to sol–gel derived zinc oxide, which is also proved to reduce the interfacial charge recombination efficiently in PSCs.
Silver alloy-based metal matrix composites: a potential material for reliable transparent thin film heaters
Authors: Jang Joohee , Choi Ji-Won
Published: March 2021

A Zn–SnOx/optimized Ag-0.07 at%-0.67 at%Cr/Zn–SnOxmultilayer thin film with reliable and reversible heating performance as a flexible transparent thin film heater was fabricated.
The pancreas and the placenta: understanding gestational diabetes and why some islets fail to cope with pregnancy
Authors: Smith Lorna I.F. , Bowe James E.
Published: March 2021

During healthy pregnancy there is a progressive decrease in sensitivity of the mother’s cells to insulin signalling, known as insulin resistance, in order to divert glucose towards the growing fetus. To compensate for this, the pancreatic β-cells must adapt through various mechanisms to increase the amount of insulin produced. A failure of the β-cells to sufficiently adapt can lead to gestational diabetes and clinical consequences for both mother and baby.

The necessary β-cell adaptations are coordinated in large part by the placenta, which acts as an endocrine organ producing and releasing hormones into the maternal blood circulation. Hormones such as prolactin, placental lactogen, and kisspeptin have been identified to play important roles in initiating and maintaining the changes in the β-cells necessary for a healthy pregnancy. Further work towards understanding how the β-cells adapt to pregnancy in humans, the signals underlying these changes, and why these adaptations fail in gestational diabetes is essential in allowing us to address this increasingly prevalent form of diabetes.
An overview of the recent advances in cryo-electron microscopy for life sciences
Authors: Assaiya Anshul , Burada Ananth Prasad , Dhingra Surbhi , Kumar Janesh
Published: March 2021

Cryo-electron microscopy (CryoEM) has superseded X-ray crystallography and NMR to emerge as a popular and effective tool for structure determination in recent times. It has become indispensable for the characterization of large macromolecular assemblies, membrane proteins, or samples that are limited, conformationally heterogeneous, and recalcitrant to crystallization. Besides, it is the only tool capable of elucidating high-resolution structures of macromolecules and biological assemblies in situ. A state-of-the-art electron microscope operable at cryo-temperature helps preserve high-resolution details of the biological sample. The structures can be determined, either in isolation via single-particle analysis (SPA) or helical reconstruction, electron diffraction (ED) or within the cellular environment via cryo-electron tomography (cryoET). All the three streams of SPA, ED, and cryoET (along with subtomogram averaging) have undergone significant advancements in recent times. This has resulted in breaking the boundaries with respect to both the size of the macromolecules/assemblies whose structures could be determined along with the visualization of atomic details at resolutions unprecedented for cryoEM. In addition, the collection of larger datasets combined with the ability to sort and process multiple conformational states from the same sample are providing the much-needed link between the protein structures and their functions. In overview, these developments are helping scientists decipher the molecular mechanism of critical cellular processes, solve structures of macromolecules that were challenging targets for structure determination until now, propelling forward the fields of biology and biomedicine. Here, we summarize recent advances and key contributions of the three cryo-electron microscopy streams of SPA, ED, and cryoET.
Fluorination of Carbon Molecular Sieve as Cathode Material for Lithium Primary Batteries and its Characteristics
Authors: Jiang Shengbo , Huang Ping , Lu Jiachun , Liu Zhichao
Published: March 2021

Fluorinated carbon (CFx) is a new material with good lubricity and resistance to high temperature and corrosion. Meanwhile, CFx has excellent electrochemical properties when used as the cathode of the lithium primary batteries. Here, a series of carbon molecular sieve (CMS) is fluorinated via gas-phase fluorination. The CMS treated at 1550 °C has better electrochemical properties after fluorination. The fluorinated products named CMSF deliver specific capacity reaching 796 mAh g-1, associated with discharge potentials exceeding 3.1 V (vs. Li/Li+). The discharge voltage of CMSF is about 0.4 V ~ 0.6 V higher than that of fluorinated graphite (GF), and its energy density is about 8% ~ 13% higher than that of GF. The CMSF with the better electrochemical performances than GF as well as its low cost and scalable product demonstrated its great potential practicability in the field of lithium primary batteries.
Analysis on Path for Energy Companies to Improve Their Crisis and Emergency Management Capabilities
Authors: Zhang Caihua , Wu Xiling , Zhang Tingran
Published: March 2021

Energy is a national strategic resource affecting national welfare and people's livelihood, which also determines the social attributes of the energy industry. Thai it, its development affects both the economic development level and social security and stability. This paper will discuss how to effectively improve the crisis and emergency management capabilities of energy companies. First, it analyzes how energy companies build the modern integrated emergency response platform by adopting advanced information technologies; based on which, it will analyze the path for energy companies to improve their crisis and emergency management capabilities from company and government perspectives.
Research and Application of Spacer Installation Robot
Authors: Jinqing Shen , Hongwei Yao , Hua Chen , Shengzhong Zheng , Guiming Lin , Wei Liang , Lei Zhang
Published: March 2021

In the current construction process of high-voltage transmission lines, the installation of spacer rods mainly adopts manual stepping on the line and high-altitude operation flying vehicles. However, the existing methods still have safety hazards and are not efficient. In the process of installing the spacer rod, it is necessary to measure and locate the installation position of the spacer rod. At present, measuring tape or ground theodolite is mainly used for measurement, which requires the cooperation of multiple people, which is inconvenient to operate. This paper proposes and designs a spacer rod installation robot, gives the basic structure and control system design of the robot, and completes the mechanical processing and assembly of the robot prototype. On this basis, the key components are debugged and tested. Finally, the prototype was tested in an experimental environment and related technical indicators were tested to verify the feasibility and effectiveness of the design scheme.
Study on the thermal decomposition kinetics of DNTF
Authors: Gu Jiangshan , Liu Lu , Chen Huanhuan , Chen Wanghua , Guo Zichao , Chen Liping
Published: March 2021

3,4-Dinitrofurazanylfuroxan (DNTF) is a representative of the third-generation energetic materials with complex thermal decomposition behavior. Understanding thermal decomposition process of DNTF is of great significance for the safety of its production, storage and use. In this paper, the dynamic differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) test is carried out to study its thermal decomposition characteristics. The quench and reheat experiments and isothermal tests were performed to determine the types of decomposition reactions. A four-step consecutive reaction model, A→B→C→D→E, where each step is an N-order reaction was established for the decomposition process. The established kinetic models were verified by 250°C isothermal test.
Research On Calculation Method of Serpentine Pipe Bend
Authors: Zhu Xuchen , Du Yannan , Ren Bin , Tang Xiaoying , Yang Zhigang , Yang Jie
Published: March 2021

Because of its structural characteristics, the serpentine high-pressure heater has thinner tubesheet compared with the traditional U-tube high-pressure heater, which solves the bottleneck of tubesheet manufacturing and becomes an important auxiliary machine for millions of secondary reheating units in the future. In this paper, the typical working conditions are selected, and the bending design methods of domestic and foreign serpentine tubes are adopted respectively. The results show that compared with Chinese standards, the bending can be thinned. Subsequent tests and finite element simulations verify the reliability of foreign methods and explore the optimization design methods of domestic serpentine tubes.