bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The ER stress response mediator ERO1 triggers cancer metastasis by favoring the angiogenic switch in hypoxic conditions
Authors: Varone Ersilia , Decio Alessandra , Chernorudskiy Alexander , Minoli Lucia , Brunelli Laura , Ioli Federica , Piotti Arianna , Pastorelli Roberta , Fratelli Maddalena , Gobbi Marco , Giavazzi Raffaella , Zito Ester
Published: February 2021

Solid tumors are often characterized by a hypoxic microenvironment which contributes, through the hypoxia-inducible factor HIF-1, to the invasion-metastasis cascade. Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress also leads tumor cells to thrive and spread by inducing a transcriptional and translational program, the Unfolded Protein Response (UPR), aimed at restoring ER homeostasis. We studied ERO1 alpha (henceforth ERO1), a protein disulfide oxidase with the tumor-relevant characteristic of being positively regulated by both ER stress and hypoxia. Analysis of the redox secretome indicated that pro-angiogenic HIF-1 targets, were blunted in ERO1-devoid breast cancer cells under hypoxic conditions. ERO1 deficiency reduced tumor cell migration and lung metastases by impinging on tumor angiogenesis, negatively regulating the upstream ATF4/CHOP branch of the UPR and selectively impeding oxidative folding of angiogenic factors, among which VEGF-A. Thus, ERO1 deficiency acted synergistically with the otherwise feeble curative effects of anti-angiogenic therapy in aggressive breast cancer murine models and it might be exploited to treat cancers with pathological HIF-1-dependent angiogenesis. Furthermore, ERO1 levels are higher in the more aggressive basal breast tumors and correlate inversely with the disease- and metastasis-free interval of breast cancer patients. Thus, taking advantage of our in vitro data on ERO1-regulated gene products we identified a gene set associated with ERO1 expression in basal tumors and related to UPR, hypoxia, and angiogenesis, whose levels might be investigated in patients as a hallmark of tumor aggressiveness and orient those with lower levels toward an effective anti-angiogenic therapy.
Single-dose intraoperative radiotherapy during lumpectomy for breast cancer: an innovative patient-centred treatment
Authors: Vaidya Jayant S. , Bulsara Max , Baum Michael , Tobias Jeffrey S. ,   on behalf of the TARGIT-A trial authors, Wenz Frederik , Massarut Samuele , Pigorsch Steffi , Alvarado Michael , Douek Michael , Saunders Christobel , Flyger Henrik L. , Eiermann Wolfgang , Brew-Graves Chris , Williams Norman R. , Potyka Ingrid , Roberts Nicholas , Bernstein Marcelle , Brown Douglas , Sperk Elena , Laws Siobhan , Sütterlin Marc , Corica Tammy , Lundgren Steinar , Holmes Dennis , Vinante Lorenzo , Bozza Fernando , Pazos Montserrat , Le Blanc-Onfroy Magali , Gruber Günther , Polkowski Wojciech , Dedes Konstantin J. , Niewald Marcus , Blohmer Jens , McCready David , Hoefer Richard , Kelemen Pond , Petralia Gloria , Falzon Mary , Joseph David J.
Published: February 2021

In the randomised TARGIT-A trial, risk-adapted targeted intraoperative radiotherapy (TARGIT-IORT) during lumpectomy was non-inferior to whole-breast external beam radiotherapy, for local recurrence. In the long-term, no difference was found in any breast cancer outcome, whereas there were fewer deaths from non-breast-cancer causes. TARGIT-IORT should be included in pre-operative consultations with eligible patients.
The impact of COVID-19 on systemic anticancer treatment delivery in Scotland
Authors: Baxter Mark A. , Murphy John , Cameron David , Jordan Judith , Crearie Christine , Lilley Christina , Sadozye Azmat , Maclean Mary , Hall Peter , Phillips Angela , Greger Alex , Madeleine Jude , Petty Russell D.
Published: February 2021

Understanding the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on systemic anticancer therapy delivery (SACT) is crucial to appreciate the short- and long-term consequences for cancer patients and plan future care. Here, we report real-time national SACT delivery data from NHS Scotland. We demonstrate an initial rapid reduction in patient attendance of 28.7% with subsequent rapid recovery following service redesign. The smallest decrease was seen in breast cancer (19.7%), which also had the most rapid recovery and the largest decrease seen in colorectal cancer (43.4%). Regional variation in the magnitude of impact on SACT delivery was observed, but nadirs occurred at the same time and the rate of recovery was similar across all regions. This recovery reflected a coordinated national approach and associated patient and clinician support structures, which facilitated the creation of COVID-19-protected areas for SACT delivery in Scottish cancer centres enabling rapid sharing of successful and innovative strategies. The data show that these actions have limited the disadvantage to cancer patients.
Genome editing for Duchenne muscular dystrophy: a glimpse of the future?
Authors: Kupatt Christian , Windisch Alina , Moretti Alessandra , Wolf Eckhard , Wurst Wolfgang , Walter Maggie C.
Published: February 2021

Mutations in Dystrophin, one of the largest proteins in the mammalian body, are causative for a severe form of muscle disease, Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), affecting not only skeletal muscle, but also the heart. In particular, exons 45–52 constitute a hotspot for DMD mutations. A variety of molecular therapies have been developed, comprising vectors encoding micro- and minidystrophins as well as utrophin, a protein with partially overlapping functions. With the advent of the CRISPR-Cas9-nuclease, genome editing offers a novel option of correction of the disease-cuasing mutations. Full restoration of the healthy gene by homology directed repair is a rare event. However, non-homologous end-joining (NHEJ) may restore the reading frame by causing exon excision. This approach has first been demonstrated in mice and then translated to large animals (dogs, pigs). This review discusses the potential opportunities and limitations of genome editing in DMD, including the generation of appropriate animal models as well as new developments in genome editing tools.
TGFβ signalling acts as a molecular brake of myoblast fusion
Authors: Melendez Julie , Sieiro Daniel , Salgado David , Morin Valérie , Dejardin Marie-Julie , Zhou Chan , Mullen Alan C. , Marcelle Christophe
Published: February 2021

Fusion of nascent myoblasts to pre-existing myofibres is critical for skeletal muscle growth and repair. The vast majority of molecules known to regulate myoblast fusion are necessary in this process. Here, we uncover, through high-throughput in vitro assays and in vivo studies in the chicken embryo, that TGFβ (SMAD2/3-dependent) signalling acts specifically and uniquely as a molecular brake on muscle fusion. While constitutive activation of the pathway arrests fusion, its inhibition leads to a striking over-fusion phenotype. This dynamic control of TGFβ signalling in the embryonic muscle relies on a receptor complementation mechanism, prompted by the merging of myoblasts with myofibres, each carrying one component of the heterodimer receptor complex. The competence of myofibres to fuse is likely restored through endocytic degradation of activated receptors. Altogether, this study shows that muscle fusion relies on TGFβ signalling to regulate its pace.
Dual functions of SPOP and ERG dictate androgen therapy responses in prostate cancer
Authors: Bernasocchi Tiziano , El Tekle Geniver , Bolis Marco , Mutti Azzurra , Vallerga Arianna , Brandt Laura P. , Spriano Filippo , Svinkina Tanya , Zoma Marita , Ceserani Valentina , Rinaldi Anna , Janouskova Hana , Bossi Daniela , Cavalli Manuela , Mosole Simone , Geiger Roger , Dong Ze , Yang Cai-Guang , Albino Domenico , Rinaldi Andrea , Schraml Peter , Linder Simon , Carbone Giuseppina M. , Alimonti Andrea , Bertoni Francesco , Moch Holger , Carr Steven A. , Zwart Wilbert , Kruithof-de Julio Marianna , Rubin Mark A. , Udeshi Namrata D. , Theurillat Jean-Philippe P.
Published: February 2021

Driver genes with a mutually exclusive mutation pattern across tumor genomes are thought to have overlapping roles in tumorigenesis. In contrast, we show here that mutually exclusive prostate cancer driver alterations involving the ERG transcription factor and the ubiquitin ligase adaptor SPOP are synthetic sick. At the molecular level, the incompatible cancer pathways are driven by opposing functions in SPOP. ERG upregulates wild type SPOP to dampen androgen receptor (AR) signaling and sustain ERG activity through degradation of the bromodomain histone reader ZMYND11. Conversely, SPOP-mutant tumors stabilize ZMYND11 to repress ERG-function and enable oncogenic androgen receptor signaling. This dichotomy regulates the response to therapeutic interventions in the AR pathway. While mutant SPOP renders tumor cells susceptible to androgen deprivation therapies, ERG promotes sensitivity to high-dose androgen therapy and pharmacological inhibition of wild type SPOP. More generally, these results define a distinct class of antagonistic cancer drivers and a blueprint toward their therapeutic exploitation.
Physical networks from entropy-driven non-covalent interactions
Authors: Yu Anthony C. , Lian Huada , Kong Xian , Lopez Hernandez Hector , Qin Jian , Appel Eric A.
Published: February 2021

Physical networks typically employ enthalpy-dominated crosslinking interactions that become more dynamic at elevated temperatures, leading to network softening. Moreover, standard mathematical frameworks such as time-temperature superposition assume network softening and faster dynamics at elevated temperatures. Yet, deriving a mathematical framework connecting the crosslinking thermodynamics to the temperature-dependent viscoelasticity of physical networks suggests the possibility for entropy-driven crosslinking interactions to provide alternative temperature dependencies. This framework illustrates that temperature negligibly affects crosslink density in reported systems, but drastically influences crosslink dynamics. While the dissociation rate of enthalpy-driven crosslinks is accelerated at elevated temperatures, the dissociation rate of entropy-driven crosslinks is negligibly affected or even slowed under these conditions. Here we report an entropy-driven physical network based on polymer-nanoparticle interactions that exhibits mechanical properties that are invariant with temperature. These studies provide a foundation for designing and characterizing entropy-driven physical crosslinking motifs and demonstrate how these physical networks access thermal properties that are not observed in current physical networks.
A practical solution to pseudoreplication bias in single-cell studies
Authors: Zimmerman Kip D. , Espeland Mark A. , Langefeld Carl D.
Published: February 2021

Cells from the same individual share common genetic and environmental backgrounds and are not statistically independent; therefore, they are subsamples or pseudoreplicates. Thus, single-cell data have a hierarchical structure that many current single-cell methods do not address, leading to biased inference, highly inflated type 1 error rates, and reduced robustness and reproducibility. This includes methods that use a batch effect correction for individual as a means of accounting for within-sample correlation. Here, we document this dependence across a range of cell types and show that pseudo-bulk aggregation methods are conservative and underpowered relative to mixed models. To compute differential expression within a specific cell type across treatment groups, we propose applying generalized linear mixed models with a random effect for individual, to properly account for both zero inflation and the correlation structure among measures from cells within an individual. Finally, we provide power estimates across a range of experimental conditions to assist researchers in designing appropriately powered studies.
A multiplex chemiluminescent immunoassay for serological profiling of COVID-19-positive symptomatic and asymptomatic patients
Authors: Grossberg Allison N. , Koza Lilia A. , Ledreux Aurélie , Prusmack Chad , Krishnamurthy Hari Krishnan , Jayaraman Vasanth , Granholm Ann-Charlotte , Linseman Daniel A.
Published: February 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic affects more than 81 million people worldwide with over 1.7 million deaths. As the population returns to work, it is critical to develop tests that reliably detect SARS-CoV-2-specific antibodies. Here we present results from a multiplex serology test for assessing the antibody responses to COVID-19. In an initial large cohort, this test shows greater than 99% agreement with COVID-19 PCR test. In a second outpatient cohort consisting of adults and children in Colorado, the IgG responses are more robust in positive/symptomatic participants than in positive/asymptomatic participants, the IgM responses in symptomatic participants are transient and largely fall below the detection limit 30 days after symptom onset, and the levels of IgA against SARS-CoV-2 receptor binding domain are significantly increased in participants with moderate-to-severe symptoms compared to those with mild-to-moderate symptoms or asymptomatic individuals. Our results thus provide insight into serology profiling and the immune response to COVID-19.
Author Correction: Genetic architecture of host proteins involved in SARS-CoV-2 infection
Authors: Pietzner Maik , Wheeler Eleanor , Carrasco-Zanini Julia , Raffler Johannes , Kerrison Nicola D. , Oerton Erin , Auyeung Victoria P. W. , Luan Jian’an , Finan Chris , Casas Juan P. , Ostroff Rachel , Williams Steve A. , Kastenmüller Gabi , Ralser Markus , Gamazon Eric R. , Wareham Nicholas J. , Hingorani Aroon D. , Langenberg Claudia
Published: February 2021

A Correction to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-021-21370-6
Automating the assessment of biofouling in images using expert agreement as a gold standard
Authors: Mannix Evelyn J. , Wei Susan , A. Woodham Bartholomew , Wilkinson Peter , Robinson Andrew P.
Published: February 2021

Biofouling is the accumulation of organisms on surfaces immersed in water. It is of particular concern to the international shipping industry because it increases fuel costs and presents a biosecurity risk by providing a pathway for non-indigenous marine species to establish in new areas. There is growing interest within jurisdictions to strengthen biofouling risk-management regulations, but it is expensive to conduct in-water inspections and assess the collected data to determine the biofouling state of vessel hulls. Machine learning is well suited to tackle the latter challenge, and here we apply deep learning to automate the classification of images from in-water inspections to identify the presence and severity of fouling. We combined several datasets to obtain over 10,000 images collected from in-water surveys which were annotated by a group biofouling experts. We compared the annotations from three experts on a 120-sample subset of these images, and found that they showed 89% agreement (95% CI: 87–92%). Subsequent labelling of the whole dataset by one of these experts achieved similar levels of agreement with this group of experts, which we defined as performing at most 5% worse (p $$=$$
=
0.009–0.054). Using these expert labels, we were able to train a deep learning model that also agreed similarly with the group of experts (p $$=$$
=
0.001–0.014), demonstrating that automated analysis of biofouling in images is feasible and effective using this method.
Mantle-flow diversion beneath the Iranian plateau induced by Zagros’ lithospheric keel
Authors: Kaviani Ayoub , Mahmoodabadi Meysam , Rümpker Georg , Pilia Simone , Tatar Mohammad , Nilfouroushan Faramarz , Yamini-Fard Farzam , Moradi Ali , Ali Mohammed Y.
Published: February 2021

Previous investigation of seismic anisotropy indicates the presence of a simple mantle flow regime beneath the Turkish-Anatolian Plateau and Arabian Plate. Numerical modeling suggests that this simple flow is a component of a large-scale global mantle flow associated with the African superplume, which plays a key role in the geodynamic framework of the Arabia-Eurasia continental collision zone. However, the extent and impact of the flow pattern farther east beneath the Iranian Plateau and Zagros remains unclear. While the relatively smoothly varying lithospheric thickness beneath the Anatolian Plateau and Arabian Plate allows progress of the simple mantle flow, the variable lithospheric thickness across the Iranian Plateau is expected to impose additional boundary conditions on the mantle flow field. In this study, for the first time, we use an unprecedented data set of seismic waveforms from a network of 245 seismic stations to examine the mantle flow pattern and lithospheric deformation over the entire region of the Iranian Plateau and Zagros by investigation of seismic anisotropy. We also examine the correlation between the pattern of seismic anisotropy, plate motion using GPS velocities and surface strain fields. Our study reveals a complex pattern of seismic anisotropy that implies a similarly complex mantle flow field. The pattern of seismic anisotropy suggests that the regional simple mantle flow beneath the Arabian Platform and eastern Turkey deflects as a circular flow around the thick Zagros lithosphere. This circular flow merges into a toroidal component beneath the NW Zagros that is likely an indicator of a lateral discontinuity in the lithosphere. Our examination also suggests that the main lithospheric deformation in the Zagros occurs as an axial shortening across the belt, whereas in the eastern Alborz and Kopeh-Dagh a belt-parallel horizontal lithospheric deformation plays a major role.
A quantum-inspired classifier for clonogenic assay evaluations
Authors: Sergioli Giuseppe , Militello Carmelo , Rundo Leonardo , Minafra Luigi , Torrisi Filippo , Russo Giorgio , Chow Keng Loon , Giuntini Roberto
Published: February 2021

Recent advances in Quantum Machine Learning (QML) have provided benefits to several computational processes, drastically reducing the time complexity. Another approach of combining quantum information theory with machine learning—without involving quantum computers—is known as Quantum-inspired Machine Learning (QiML), which exploits the expressive power of the quantum language to increase the accuracy of the process (rather than reducing the time complexity). In this work, we propose a large-scale experiment based on the application of a binary classifier inspired by quantum information theory to the biomedical imaging context in clonogenic assay evaluation to identify the most discriminative feature, allowing us to enhance cell colony segmentation. This innovative approach offers a two-fold result: (1) among the extracted and analyzed image features, homogeneity is shown to be a relevant feature in detecting challenging cell colonies; and (2) the proposed quantum-inspired classifier is a novel and outstanding methodology, compared to conventional machine learning classifiers, for the evaluation of clonogenic assays.
Research on region selection super resolution restoration algorithm based on infrared micro-scanning optical imaging model
Authors: Chen Jian , Li Yan , Cao LiHua
Published: February 2021

With spring up of infrared imaging related industry, infrared imaging technology has become mainstream development direction of intelligent photoelectrical detection due to its good concealment, wide detection range, high positioning accuracy, long distant penetration, light weight, little volume, low power dissipation and high solidity. However, the features of infrared dim-small target image such as less details and low SNR become bottleneck of infrared image application. How to enhance imaging effect of infrared dim-small target becomes research hotspot. Starting from the point of ‘restoration as foundation’, the theory and technology of infrared dim-small target super-resolution restoration by utilizing the theory and technology of super-resolution restoration are explored in this paper. This paper mainly focuses on the research of super-resolution restoration algorithm of infrared dim-small target based on infrared micro-scanning optical model. Aiming at solving super-resolution restoration problem of infrared dim-small target, the traditional super-resolution restoration algorithm is optimized and the improved algorithm is proposed. Meanwhile, infrared micro-scanning optical model is introduced to break theoretical limit of simple image processing algorithm. And the performance of infrared image super-resolution restoration is improved.
Photocathodes beyond NiO: charge transfer dynamics in a π-conjugated polymer functionalized with Ru photosensitizers
Authors: Wahyuono Ruri A. , Seidler Bianca , Bold Sebastian , Dellith Andrea , Dellith Jan , Ahner Johannes , Wintergerst Pascal , Lowe Grace , Hager Martin D. , Wächtler Maria , Streb Carsten , Schubert Ulrich S. , Rau Sven , Dietzek Benjamin
Published: February 2021

A conductive polymer (poly(p-phenylenevinylene), PPV) was covalently modified with RuII complexes to develop an all-polymer photocathode as a conceptual alternative to dye-sensitized NiO, which is the current state-of-the-art photocathode in solar fuels research. Photocathodes require efficient light-induced charge-transfer processes and we investigated these processes within our photocathodes using spectroscopic and spectro-electrochemical techniques. Ultrafast hole-injection dynamics in the polymer were investigated by transient absorption spectroscopy and charge transfer at the electrode–electrolyte interface was examined with chopped-light chronoamperometry. Light-induced hole injection from the photosensitizers into the PPV backbone was observed within 10 ps and the resulting charge-separated state (CSS) recombined within ~ 5 ns. This is comparable to CSS lifetimes of conventional NiO-photocathodes. Chopped-light chronoamperometry indicates enhanced charge-transfer at the electrode–electrolyte interface upon sensitization of the PPV with the RuII complexes and p-type behavior of the photocathode. The results presented here show that the polymer backbone behaves like classical molecularly sensitized NiO photocathodes and operates as a hole accepting semiconductor. This in turn demonstrates the feasibility of all-polymer photocathodes for application in solar energy conversion.
Alterations in erythrocyte membrane transporter expression levels in type 2 diabetic patients
Authors: Szabó Edit , Kulin Anna , Korányi László , Literáti-Nagy Botond , Cserepes Judit , Somogyi Anikó , Sarkadi Balázs , Várady György
Published: February 2021

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is one of the most common multifactorial diseases and several membrane transporters are involved in its development, complications and treatment. We have recently developed a flow-cytometry assay panel for the quantitative determination of red cell membrane protein levels with potential relevance in diseases. Here we report a detailed phenotypic analysis of a medium scale, clinically based study on the expression of T2DM-related membrane proteins, the GLUT1, GLUT3, MCT1, URAT1, ABCA1, ABCG2 and the PMCA4 transporters in erythrocytes. By comparing age-matched control subjects and three groups of T2DM patients (recently diagnosed, successfully managed, and patients with disease-related complications), we found significant differences in the membrane expression levels of the transporters in these groups. This is a first detailed analysis of T2DM related alterations in erythrocyte membrane transporter protein levels, and the results suggest significant changes in some of the transporter expression levels in various patient groups. By performing a further, more detailed analysis of the clinical and molecular biology parameters, these data may serve as a basis of establishing new, personalized diagnostic markers helping the prevention and treatment of type 2 diabetes.
Antibacterial FANA oligonucleotides as a novel approach for managing the Huanglongbing pathosystem
Authors: Sandoval-Mojica Andrés F. , Hunter Wayne B. , Aishwarya Veenu , Bonilla Sylvia , Pelz-Stelinski Kirsten S.
Published: February 2021

Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (CLas), a bacterium transmitted by the Asian citrus psyllid, Diaphorina citri, is the causal agent of citrus greening disease, or Huanglongbng (HLB). Currently, vector population suppression with insecticides and tree removal are the most effective strategies for managing the HLB pathosystem. In this study, we assessed the bactericidal capabilities of 2′-deoxy-2′-fluoro-d-arabinonucleic acid antisense oligonucleotides (FANA ASO) both in vitro and in vivo by (1) confirming their capacity to penetrate insect cells, (2) silencing bacterial essential genes, and (3) quantifying reductions in bacterial titer and D. citri transmission. We confirmed that FANA ASO are able to penetrate insect cells without the use of a delivery agent. Expression of an essential gene in the D. citri endosymbiont, Wolbachia (wDi), significantly decreased by 30% following incubation with a wDi-specific FANA ASO. Viability of isolated wDi cells also decreased in response to the FANA ASO treatment. Delivery of a CLas-specific FANA ASO to infected adult D. citri in feeding assays resulted in significant silencing of a CLas essential gene. CLas relative density and transmission were significantly lower among D. citri fed FANA ASO in diet compared to untreated insects. Root infusions of a CLas-specific FANA ASO into infected Citrus trees significantly reduced CLas titer during a 30-day trial. Our results suggest that FANA ASO targeting insect-transmitted plant bacteria or insect endosymbionts may be useful tool for integrated management of agricultural pathogens.
Estimation of radiation dose from ingested tritium in humans by administration of deuterium-labelled compounds and food
Authors: Masuda Tsuyoshi , Yoshioka Toshitada
Published: February 2021

Radiation doses from organically bound tritium (OBT) in foods have been a major concern near nuclear facilities. The current dose coefficient for OBT is calculated using a standard model from the International Commission on Radiological Protection, in which some biokinetic values are not based on human metabolic data. Here, the biokinetics of ingested OBT, and radiation doses from them, were estimated by administering labelled compounds and foods to volunteers, using a deuterium (D) tracer as a substitute for tritium. After the administration of D-labelled glucose, alanine, palmitic acid, or soybean, the D/H ratios in urine were measured for up to 119 days, and the biokinetic parameter values were determined for OBT metabolism. The slow degradation rates of OBT could not be obtained, in many volunteers administered glucose and alanine. The estimated committed effective dose for 1 Bq of tritium in palmitic acid varied from 3.2 × 10–11 to 3.5 × 10–10 Sv Bq−1 among volunteers and, for those administered soybean, it varied from 1.9 × 10–11 to 1.8 × 10–10 Sv Bq−1. These results suggest that OBT, present in some ingested ingredients, gives higher doses than the current dose coefficient value of 4.2 × 10–11 Sv Bq−1.
The brain dynamics of architectural affordances during transition
Authors: Djebbara Zakaria , Fich Lars Brorson , Gramann Klaus
Published: February 2021

Action is a medium of collecting sensory information about the environment, which in turn is shaped by architectural affordances. Affordances characterize the fit between the physical structure of the body and capacities for movement and interaction with the environment, thus relying on sensorimotor processes associated with exploring the surroundings. Central to sensorimotor brain dynamics, the attentional mechanisms directing the gating function of sensory signals share neuronal resources with motor-related processes necessary to inferring the external causes of sensory signals. Such a predictive coding approach suggests that sensorimotor dynamics are sensitive to architectural affordances that support or suppress specific kinds of actions for an individual. However, how architectural affordances relate to the attentional mechanisms underlying the gating function for sensory signals remains unknown. Here we demonstrate that event-related desynchronization of alpha-band oscillations in parieto-occipital and medio-temporal regions covary with the architectural affordances. Source-level time–frequency analysis of data recorded in a motor-priming Mobile Brain/Body Imaging experiment revealed strong event-related desynchronization of the alpha band to originate from the posterior cingulate complex, the parahippocampal region as well as the occipital cortex. Our results firstly contribute to the understanding of how the brain resolves architectural affordances relevant to behaviour. Second, our results indicate that the alpha-band originating from the occipital cortex and parahippocampal region covaries with the architectural affordances before participants interact with the environment, whereas during the interaction, the posterior cingulate cortex and motor areas dynamically reflect the affordable behaviour. We conclude that the sensorimotor dynamics reflect behaviour-relevant features in the designed environment.
Interobserver variability in clinical target volume delineation in anal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Kim Kyung Su , Cheong Kwang-Ho , Kim Kyubo , Koo Taeryool , Koh Hyeon Kang , Chang Ji Hyun , Chang Ah Ram , Park Hae Jin
Published: February 2021

We evaluated the inter-physician variability in the target contouring of the radiotherapy for anal squamous cell carcinoma (ASCC). Clinical target volume (CTV) of three patients diagnosed with ASCC was delineated by seven experienced radiation oncologists from multi-institution. These patients were staged as pT1N1a, cT2N0, and cT4N1a, respectively, according to 8th edition of the American Joint Committee on Cancer staging system. Expert agreement was quantified using an expectation maximization algorithm for Simultaneous Truth and Performance Level Estimation (STAPLE). The maximum distance from the boundaries of the STAPLE generated volume with confidence level of 80% to those of the contour of each CTV in 6 directions was compared. CTV of pelvis which includes primary tumor, perirectal tissue and internal/external iliac lymph node (LN) area (CTV-pelvis) and CTV of inguinal area (CTV-inguinal) were obtained from the seven radiation oncologists. One radiation oncologist did not contain inguinal LN area in the treatment target volume of patient 2 (cT2N0 stage). CTV-inguinal displayed moderate agreement for each patient (overall kappa 0.58, 0.54 and 0.6, respectively), whereas CTV-pelvis showed substantial agreement (overall kappa 0.66, 0.68 and 0.64, respectively). Largest variation among each contour was shown in the inferior margin of the CTV-inguinal. For CTV-pelvis, anterior and superior margin showed the biggest variation. Overall, moderate to substantial agreement was shown for CTV delineation. However, large variations in the anterior and cranial boarder of the CTV-pelvis and the caudal margin of the CTV-inguinal suggest that further studies are needed to establish a clearer target volume delineation guideline.
Terahertz characterization of two-dimensional low-conductive layers enabled by metal gratings
Authors: Gopalan Prashanth , Wang Yunshan , Sensale-Rodriguez Berardi
Published: February 2021

While terahertz spectroscopy can provide valuable information regarding the charge transport properties in semiconductors, its application for the characterization of low-conductive two-dimensional layers, i.e., σs <  < 1 mS, remains elusive. This is primarily due to the low sensitivity of direct transmission measurements to such small sheet conductivity levels. In this work, we discuss harnessing the extraordinary optical transmission through gratings consisting of metallic stripes to characterize such low-conductive two-dimensional layers. We analyze the geometric tradeoffs in these structures and provide physical insights, ultimately leading to general design guidelines for experiments enabling non-contact, non-destructive, highly sensitive characterization of such layers.
Publisher Correction: Crocus-derived compounds alter the aggregation pathway of Alzheimer’s Disease - associated beta amyloid protein
Authors: Koulakiotis Nikolaos Stavros , Purhonen Pasi , Gikas Evangelos , Hebert Hans , Tsarbopoulos Anthony
Published: February 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
DeePaN: deep patient graph convolutional network integrating clinico-genomic evidence to stratify lung cancers for immunotherapy
Authors: Fang Chao , Xu Dong , Su Jing , Dry Jonathan R , Linghu Bolan
Published: February 2021

Immuno-oncology (IO) therapies have transformed the therapeutic landscape of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, patient responses to IO are variable and influenced by a heterogeneous combination of health, immune, and tumor factors. There is a pressing need to discover the distinct NSCLC subgroups that influence response. We have developed a deep patient graph convolutional network, we call “DeePaN”, to discover NSCLC complexity across data modalities impacting IO benefit. DeePaN employs high-dimensional data derived from both real-world evidence (RWE)-based electronic health records (EHRs) and genomics across 1937 IO-treated NSCLC patients. DeePaN demonstrated effectiveness to stratify patients into subgroups with significantly different (P-value of 2.2 × 10−11) overall median survival of 20.35 months and 9.42 months post-IO therapy. Significant differences in IO outcome were not seen from multiple non-graph-based unsupervised methods. Furthermore, we demonstrate that patient stratification from DeePaN has the potential to augment the emerging IO biomarker of tumor mutation burden (TMB). Characterization of the subgroups discovered by DeePaN indicates potential to inform IO therapeutic insight, including the enrichment of mutated KRAS and high blood monocyte count in the IO beneficial and IO non-beneficial subgroups, respectively. Our work has proven the concept that graph-based AI is feasible and can effectively integrate high-dimensional genomic and EHR data to meaningfully stratify cancer patients on distinct clinical outcomes, with potential to inform precision oncology.
Label-free and highly sensitive detection of DNA adenine methylation methyltransferase through cathodic photoelectrochemistry
Authors: Li Fang , Wu Xiuming , Gu Mengmeng , Wang Guang-Li
Published: February 2021

A schematic representation of a cathodic photoelectrochemical assay of Dam MTase by controlling the efficient flux of K3[Fe(CN)6] on the photoelectrode surface.
Growth and characterization of diamond single crystals grown in the Fe–S–C system by the temperature gradient method
Authors: Fang Shuai , Cai Zhenghao , Wang Yongkui , Lu Zhiyun , Fang Chao , Zhao Zhandong , Ma Hongan , Chen Liangchao , Jia Xiaopeng
Published: February 2021

Diagram of the apparatus for the HPHT diamond synthesis: (a) alloy hammer + pyrophyllite assembly block; (b) sample assembly.
Highly-crystalline 6 inch free-standing GaN observed using X-ray diffraction topography
Authors: Kim Jaemyung , Seo Okkyun , Kumara L. S. R. , Nabatame Toshihide , Koide Yasuo , Sakata Osami
Published: February 2021

We demonstrate the crystal quality of a 6 inch (0001) plane free-standing GaN substrate grown using a Na-flux based liquid phase epitaxy method.
MOF-74-type frameworks: tunable pore environment and functionality through metal and ligand modification
Authors: Kim Hyojin , Hong Chang Seop
Published: February 2021

This highlight demonstrates a comprehensive overview of MOF-74-type frameworks in terms of synthetic approaches and pre- or post-synthetic modification approaches.
Giant exchange bias induced via tuning interfacial spins in polycrystalline Fe3O4/CoO bilayers
Authors: Tian Fanghua , Li Yebei , Zhao Qizhong , Cao Kaiyan , Wang Dingchen , Dai Zhiyong , Yu Zhonghai , Ke Xiaoqin , Zhang Yin , Zhou Chao , Zuo Wenliang , Yang Sen , Song Xiaoping
Published: February 2021

A giant exchange bias of 9600 Oe was achieved under a magnetic field HFC = 20 kOe in Fe3O4/CoO films.
Computational assessment of the crystallization tendency of 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium ionic liquids
Authors: Červinka Ctirad , Štejfa Vojtěch
Published: February 2021

A test set of 20 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium ionic liquids is subjected to a computational study with an aim to interpret the experimental difficulties related to the preparation of crystalline phases of the selected species.
Supramolecular cancer nanotheranostics
Authors: Zhou Jiong , Rao Lang , Yu Guocan , Cook Timothy R. , Chen Xiaoyuan , Huang Feihe
Published: February 2021

Supramolecular cancer nanotheranostics have shown promising potentials in early-stage diagnosis and personal therapy. Herein, we summarize the progress of supramolecular cancer nanotheranostics and provide guidance for designing new targeted supramolecular theranostic agents.
Exploring the redox decomposition of ethylene carbonate–propylene carbonate in Li-ion batteries
Authors: Zhang Jiaxiang , Yang Junwen , Yang Limin , Lu Hai , Liu Huan , Zheng Bin
Published: February 2021

A small difference caused by a single methyl group between EC and PC could cause a large difference in lithium alkyl carbonates.
The role of the protein–water interface in dictating proton conduction across protein-based biopolymers
Authors: Agam Yuval , Nandi Ramesh , Bulava Tatiana , Amdursky Nadav
Published: February 2021

The role of different water states and their interface with a protein microstructure in mediating protons has been investigated using several approaches, concluding on the importance of the protein/water interface in proton transport.
Synthesis of a luminescent g-C3N4–WO3–Bi2WO6/SrAl2O4:Eu2+,Dy3+ nanocomposite as a double z-scheme sunlight activable photocatalyst
Authors: Aliabadi Hossein Moradi , Zargoosh Kiomars , Afshari Mohaddeseh , Dinari Mohammad , Maleki Mohammad Hassan
Published: February 2021

Synthesis of the phosphorescent double z-scheme g-C3N4–WO3–Bi2WO6/SrAl2O4:Eu2+,Dy3+ nanocomposite especially suitable for the removal of pollutants under cloudy weather.
An inquisitive fluorescence method for the real-time detection of trace moisture in polar aprotic solvents with the application of water rancidity in foodstuffs
Authors: Roy Snigdha , Das Sanju , Ray Ambarish , Parui Partha Pratim
Published: February 2021

A simple fluorometric approach to quantify atmospheric moisture incorporation in polar aprotic solvents with application for moisture sensitive oil-based foods is reported.
Superiority of graphite coated metallic-nanoparticles over graphite coated insulating-nanoparticles for enhancing EMI shielding
Authors: Choudhary Harish Kumar , Kumar Rajeev , Pawar Shital Patangrao , Sundararaj Uttandaraman , Sahoo Balaram
Published: February 2021

A superior EMI shielding effectiveness (SE) for composites with a metallic(Ni)@graphite core and lower SE for a dielectric(MnO)@graphitic core of carbonaceous materials.
Polariton waveguide modes in two-dimensional van der Waals crystals: an analytical model and correlative nano-imaging
Authors: Sun Fengsheng , Huang Wuchao , Zheng Zebo , Xu Ningsheng , Ke Yanlin , Zhan Runze , Chen Huanjun , Deng Shaozhi
Published: February 2021

An analytical waveguide model is developed to describe the polaritons in two-dimensional van der Waals crystals.
Water-soluble green-emitting carbon nanodots with enhanced thermal stability for biological applications
Authors: Khan Waheed Ullah , Qin Liying , Alam Abid , Zhou Ping , Peng Yong , Wang Yuhua
Published: February 2021

Water soluble and thermally stable green emitting CNDs are prepared via a hydrothermal method. The as-obtained CNDs demostrate stable performance in T-ca cells at high temperatures.
Electrospun nanofibers and their applications in rechargeable zinc–air batteries
Authors: Batool Nadia , Ahmad Nazir , Liu Jiao , Han Xiao-Feng , Zhang Tian-Heng , Wang Wen-Tao , Yang Ruizhi , Tian Jing-Hua
Published: February 2021

Electrospinning, as an efficient approach to fabricate 1D nanomaterials, has been used widely to prepare electrocatalysts and membranes for ZABs.
Formation pathways of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in butane or butadiene flames
Authors: Zhang Tingting , Mu Guizhi , Zhang Shourong , Hou Jialin
Published: February 2021

The reaction pathways from phenyl radicals to phenanthrene (A3) and pyrene (A4) via C2H3 and C4H4 additions were investigated using the G3(MP2, CC) method.
Structural and electronic properties of layered nanoporous organic nanocrystals
Authors: Moses Isaiah A. , Barone Veronica
Published: February 2021

The effect of dispersion interactions on the geometric and electronic properties of novel porous organic nanocrystals.
Carbon nanotubes for rapid capturing of SARS-COV-2 virus: revealing a mechanistic aspect of binding based on computational studies
Authors: Patel Shivkumar , Srivastav Amit Kumar , Gupta Sanjeev K. , Kumar Umesh , Mahapatra S. K. , Gajjar P. N. , Banerjee I.
Published: February 2021

Investigation of the binding interactions of synthesized multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) with SARS-CoV-2 virus.
Research development on graphitic carbon nitride and enhanced catalytic activity on ammonium perchlorate
Authors: Ma Danna , Li Xiaomeng , Wang Xiaoqing , Luo Yunjun
Published: February 2021

Recent advances of g-C3N4 including structure, preparation methods, exfoliation strategies and potential application in ammonium perchlorate are illustrated.
Research on the mechanisms of polyacrylamide nanospheres with different size distributions in enhanced oil recovery
Authors: Wang Shuo , Tang Zhongli , Qu Jin , Wu Tongbo , Liu Yuxing , Wang Jing , Liu Xiaofei , Ju Ye , Liu Fenggang
Published: February 2021

In this study, we synthesized polyacrylamide nanospheres with different size distributions and found that the oil displacement mechanisms of polyacrylamide nanospheres are composed of three aspects.
Surface modification of liquid metal as an effective approach for deformable electronics and energy devices
Authors: Bark Hyunwoo , Lee Pooi See
Published: February 2021

In this review, we summarize the recent progress in chemical surface modification and interfacial manipulations of liquid metal particles and discuss the modification method or requirement of liquid metal particles in emerging applications.
Self-assembled low-molecular-weight gelator injectable microgel beads for delivery of bioactive agents
Authors: Piras Carmen C. , Kay Alasdair G. , Genever Paul G. , Smith David K.
Published: February 2021

We report microgel beads with diameters ofca.800 nm based on interpenetrating networks of a low-molecular-weight gelator and a polymer gelator, and demonstrate their use as heparin delivery vehicles to enhance stem cell growth.
Pressure-driven, solvation-directed planar chirality switching of cyclophano-pillar[5]arenes (molecular universal joints)
Authors: Yao Jiabin , Mizuno Hiroaki , Xiao Chao , Wu Wanhua , Inoue Yoshihisa , Yang Cheng , Fukuhara Gaku
Published: February 2021

Pressure switches the in/out conformation of cyclophano-pillararenes with accompanying inversion of the chiroptical properties.
Electrospun nanofiber fabric: an efficient, breathable and wearable moist-electric generator
Authors: Sun Zhaoyang , Feng Lanlan , Xiong Chengdong , He Xinyang , Wang Liming , Qin Xiaohong , Yu Jianyong
Published: February 2021

A breathable, flexible and deformable nanofiber fabric was reported and used for MEG due to the coexisting concentration difference and streaming potential in the fabric. Various wearable applications were demonstrated with the nanofiber fabric based MEGs.
[Fe(bpy)3]2+-based porous organic polymers with boosted photocatalytic activity for recyclable organic transformations
Authors: Liu Hong-Kun , Lei Yi-Fei , Tian Peng-Ju , Wang Hui , Zhao Xin , Li Zhan-Ting , Zhang Dan-Wei
Published: February 2021

[Fe(bpy)3]2+ complex-connected porous organic polymers rival or surpass homogeneous control complexes for visible light-induced catalysis of organic transformations with high recyclability.
An ultralow dose paclitaxel coated drug balloon with an outer protective sheath for peripheral arterial disease treatment
Authors: Zhang Tingchao , Guo Gaoyang , Yang Li , Wang Yunbing
Published: February 2021

In this paper, an ultralow dose paclitaxel-coated balloon was developed. Benefiting from the unique design of the meglumine matrix and outer protective sheath, its therapeutic effect was comparable to those of commercial high-dose counterparts in the swine model.
Rapid and sensitive detection of dual lung cancer-associated miRNA biomarkers by a novel SERS-LFA strip coupling with catalytic hairpin assembly signal amplification
Authors: Cao Xiaowei , Sun Yue , Mao Yu , Ran Menglin , Liu Yifan , Lu Dan , Bi Caili
Published: February 2021

A novel surface-enhanced Raman scattering-lateral flow assay strip in combination with catalytic hairpin assembly signal amplification has been developed for rapid and sensitive detection of miR-196a-5p and miR-31-5p associated with lung cancer.
Angiopep-2-functionalized nanoparticles enhance transport of protein drugs across intestinal epithelia by self-regulation of targeted receptors
Authors: Liu Xi , Wu Ruinan , Li Yuting , Wang Lingling , Zhou Rui , Li Lian , Xiang Yucheng , Wu Jiawei , Xing Liyun , Huang Yuan
Published: February 2021

The ANG NPs we developed have enhanced epithelial transport efficiency and superior in vivo oral absorption by targeting LRP-1 and self-regulating the distribution of LRP-1 to the basolateral side.
Silver(i) coordination polymers based on halogenated cyanoformamidine: roles of oxyanions and halogen atoms in the structural diversity
Authors: Cheng Fu-Hung , Liu Yu-Hsiang , Lee Wei-Te , Hu Ji-Hong , Hu Hui-Ling , Mahat Chhetri Pradhumna , Chen Jhy-Der
Published: February 2021

Halogen substituents on cyanoformamidine ligands and oxyanions affect the structures of complexes due to differences in their electronegativity and volume.
Retraction: Linc00472 suppresses breast cancer progression and enhances doxorubicin sensitivity through regulation of miR-141 and programmed cell death 4
Authors: Fisher Laura
Published: February 2021

Retraction of ‘Linc00472 suppresses breast cancer progression and enhances doxorubicin sensitivity through regulation of miR-141 and programmed cell death 4’ by Pengwei Lu et al., RSC Adv., 2018, 8, 8455–8468, DOI: 10.1039/C8RA00296G
Low-crystallinity mesoporous NiGaFe hydroxide nanosheets on macroporous Ni foam for high-efficiency oxygen evolution electrocatalysis
Authors: Zai Shi Feng , Dong An Qi , Li Jian , Wen Zi , Yang Chun Cheng , Jiang Qing
Published: February 2021

Ni0.65Ga0.30Fe0.05 hydroxide electrode with a hierarchical structure was fabricated through an electrodeposition method, which shows superior OER electrocatalytic performances, outperforming most of the reported OER catalysts.
Multi‐channel underdetermined blind source separation for recorded audio mixture signals using an unmanned aerial vehicle
Authors: Xie Kan , Jiang Kanyang , Yang Qiyu
Published: February 2021

Unmanned aerial vehicles as an important role for 5G and beyond networks are becoming more and more popular and have been equipped with various sensors to enable diverse emerging applications, e.g. locating sound‐emitting targets. Multi‐channel blind source separation algorithm has been applied into the unmanned aerial vehicles and micro aerial vehicles, where underdetermined mixture blind source separation is a challenging problem, i.e. the number of sources is more than the number of microphones. An optimization underdetermined blind source separation algorithm to separate the multi‐channel audio mixture signals recorded by an unmanned aerial vehicle is proposed. In the algorithm, firstly a hierarchical clustering to estimate channel as the mixing matrix initialization is employed, while using direction of arrival permutation algorithm to deal with the permutation alignment and update the mixing matrix using multiplication update method. Then the model parameters are estimated using improved expectation‐maximization update rules for the fast convergence. Finally, the frequency‐domain sources are estimated through Wiener filtering and time‐domain sources are obtained via inverse short‐time Fourier transform. Experimental results covering synthetic and real‐recorded speech source mixtures show that the proposed algorithm achieves better separation results than the state‐of‐the‐art methods.