bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of Ka-band Radar Observations for Different Rain Types over Akure, Nigeria
Authors: Ojo Joseph S. , Alabi Babatunde A. , Ajewole Moses O.
Published: May 2020

Radar is a unique tool that can measure precipitation parameters over a large aerial coverage. Its application spans over study of climate change and radiowave propagation. Inter-relation between the rain parameters can also be derived with the height of radar especially on vertical profiling or aloft ground level. Hence effect of precipitation parameters can be assessed along the satellite propagation path with the help of space-borne radar. Satellite communication links operating at frequencies above 10 GHz are usually affected by hydrometeors especially rainfall. These effects are expected to be quite severe in the tropical region like Akure due to the nature of precipitation which is mainly convective and stratiform rain type. Therefore, information on vertical rain structure is important for precise quantitative estimation of precipitation. Thus, the focus of this work is to characterize the vertical profile of rain structures using vertically-pointing Ka-band Micro Rain Radar (MRR) at Akure, Nigeria. This has been achieved by using 2-year (2013 and 2014) data of rain parameters namely: rain rate, reflectivity, liquid water content and fall velocity obtained from MRR to determine the bright band heights under different rain types and its implications on satellite and radio waves propagation in this region. Rain rate in this region has been categorized into four groups namely: 0.02- 0.2 mm/h, 0.2- 2 mm/h, 2-40 mm/h, and 40 - 200 mm/h. The very low rain rate group is related to the stratiform rain types whereas highest rain rate groups are for the convective rain type. Study shows that parameters that are much associated with rain attained peak value at different height depending on the period of the year. The vertical profile of Z shows peak around 3 to 4.2 km height. The peak region is associated with the bright band height and contribution to the melting layer. This study revealed that the occurrence of bright band heights varies with rain types. The overall results will be useful for determining rain height needed for the prediction of rain attenuation in this region.
The Influence of Social Media Advertising on Purchase Intention Through Utilitarian and Hedonic Shopping Motivation: A Study at Beauty Care and Anti-Aging Clinic Service in Surabaya
Authors: Fernandes Ervina , Semuel Hatane , Adiwijaya Michael
Published: May 2020

This study examines whether online advertising on social media Instagram influences purchase intention

through shopping motivation. The study uses causal quantitative research methods with 110 respondents using

purposive sampling techniques. The results show that Instagram social media online advertising has a positive

effect on buying interest and utilitarian and hedonic shopping motivations for beauty care products and services.

Hedonic motivation influences the customer's desire to buy beauty care products and services, but conversely,

utilitarian motivation does not affect the interest in buying beauty care products and services. Online advertising

can affect utilitarian shopping motivation but does not affect buying interest, while online advertising affects

hedonic motivation and then affects customers in buying beauty care at Favourite Beauty Care Surabaya.
Understanding the development patterns of informal settlements in Nairobi
Authors: Ono Haruka , Kidokoro Tetsuo
Published: May 2020

Informal settlements are a widespread phenomenon in African cities. This study explores the development patterns of informal settlements in Nairobi, Kenya, with a focus on the physical patterns, affordability of plots and rented rooms, and characteristics of developers. The results of the study were as follows:

Spatial characteristics and conditions in informal settlements are not uniform. We identified squatter areas with iron‐sheet houses and narrow streets, planned areas with high‐rise buildings made of concrete blocks arranged in a perfect array, and intermediate conditions.

Housing plot prices are unaffordable for most residents, while room rentals are generally fixed in accordance with the area and offer low‐income residents a wide range of choices.

The owners of some structures reside in their own structure, and others are non‐residents who build and rent structures for profit. Therefore, informal settlements are not so much a place to live, but rather an attractive investment opportunity for structure owners or developers.
Archaellum
Authors: Jarrell Ken F , Tripp Patrick , Albers Sonja‐Verena
Published: May 2020

Each of the three domains of life contains its own unique swimming apparatus. The archaellum (formerly called archaeal flagellum) is a unique, ‘tail‐like’ structure used for motility by single‐celled organisms belonging to the domain Archaea. Although archaella are functionally similar to the flagella found on bacteria, they differ significantly in structure and mode of assembly. Archaella are evolutionarily related to type IV pili, and each of the two systems shares several key homologues required for assembly of the respective structures. Recent studies have contributed much to our knowledge concerning the regulation of the operon encoding the archaellum proteins. In addition, the elucidation of the structures of most of the Fla proteins involved in archaella structure and function, coupled with detailed atomic models of the archaellum, including the motor, has provided major insights into how this unique motility organelle is assembled and functions, often in harsh environments inhabited by many archaea.

Key Concepts

Each of the three domains of life has a unique motility apparatus, which have recently been assigned distinct names (Archaea: archaellum; Bacteria: flagellum and Eukaryotes: cilium).

The archaellum is functionally equivalent to flagellum but is evolutionarily related to a type IV pilus, with the archaella and type IV pili systems sharing important homologues.

Archaea have the ability to regulate the synthesis of archaella depending on growth conditions, such as available nutrients and temperature.

There can be crosstalk in the regulation of archaella with adhesive pili, allowing the cells under certain conditions to make only one type of appendage, either for swimming or adhesion.

N‐Glycosylation of the major filament proteins, the archaellins, is widespread and essential under normal conditions for assembly of filaments.

The ATPase responsible for assembly of the archaellins into the filament, that is, FlaI, is also responsible for the hydrolysis of ATP that powers the rotation of archaella.

In many archaea, the archaellum interacts with a bacterial‐like chemotaxis system that requires novel chemotaxis proteins to act as adaptors to connect the systems.

Not all archaellated species have an associated chemotaxis system.

Knowledge of the structure and assembly of archaella has greatly increased in the past 5 years with atomic models of several archaella structures as well as structures of most of the individual archaella proteins and their interaction partners.
Mutated RAP1GDS1 causes a new syndrome of dysmorphic feature, intellectual disability & speech delay
Authors: Asiri Abdulaziz , Aloyouni Essra , Umair Muhammad , Alyafee Yusra , Al Tuwaijri Abeer , Alhamoudi Kheloud M. , Almuzzaini Bader , Al Baz Abeer , Alwadaani Deemah , Nashabat Marwan , Alfadhel Majid
Published: May 2020

Background

RAP1GDS1 (RAP1, GTP‐GDP dissociation stimulator 1), also known as SmgGDS, is a guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) that regulates small GTPases, including, RHOA, RAC1, and KRAS. RAP1GDS1 was shown to be highly expressed in different tissue types including the brain. However, mutations in the RAP1GDS1 gene associated with human diseases have not previously been reported.

Methods

We report on four affected individuals, presenting intellectual disability, global developmental delay (GDD), and hypotonia. The probands’ DNA was subjected to whole‐genome sequencing, revealing a homozygous splice acceptor site mutation in the RAP1GDS1 gene (1444‐1G > A). Sanger sequencing was performed to confirm the segregation of the variant in two Saudi families. The possible aberrant splicing in the patients’ RNA was investigated using RT‐PCR and changes in mRNA expression of the patients were confirmed using qRT‐PCR.

Results

The identified splice variant was found to segregate within the two families. RT‐PCR showed that the mutation affected RAP1GDS1 gene splicing, resulting in the production of aberrant transcripts in the affected individuals. Quantitative gene expression analysis demonstrated that the RAP1GDS1 mRNA expression in all the probands was significantly decreased compared to that of the control, and Sanger sequencing of the probands’ cDNA revealed skipping of exon 13, further strengthening the pathogenicity of this variant.

Conclusion

We are the first to report the mutation of the RAP1GDS1 gene as a potential cause of GDD and hypotonia. However, further investigations into the molecular mechanisms involved are required to confirm the role of RAP1GDS1 gene in causing GDD and hypotonia.
Methotrexate in Linear Scleroderma: Long‐Term Efficacy in Fifty Children From a Single Pediatric Rheumatology Center
Authors: Fadanelli Gloria , Agazzi Anna , Vittadello Fabio , Meneghel Alessandra , Zulian Francesco , Martini Giorgia
Published: May 2020

Objective

To study disease course and long‐term outcome in children with linear scleroderma (SSc) treated with methotrexate (MTX) since diagnosis.

Methods

The present study was retrospective and cross‐sectional and included consecutive children with linear SSc who were treated with MTX for >1 year and were followed up for at least 2 years. Disease course was analyzed by the number of relapses and treatment changes. Relapse‐free survival was examined by Kaplan‐Meier analysis, comparing patients with linear SSc and those with other juvenile localized scleroderma (JLS) disease subtypes. Disease activity and damage were assessed by the Localized Scleroderma Cutaneous Assessment Tool and thermography.

Results

Fifty patients with a mean follow‐up duration of 7.8 years and a mean MTX treatment duration of 3.1 years were included. Sixteen percent of patients did not respond to the first course of MTX, and 16% had at least 1 flare. Complete remission was observed in 18.2% of patients who were followed up for 2–5 years, in 80.0% of patients followed up for 10 years, and in 87.5% of patients followed up for >10 years. No significant difference in relapse‐free survival between patients with linear SSc and in 17 patients with other JLS disease subtypes was observed. Tissue damage was mild in 42% of patients, moderate in 32%, and severe in 26%. The correlations between severity of tissue damage and linear SSc subtype, disease duration, relapses, and remission were not significant. The relationships between treatment duration and disease relapses (P < 0.05) and severity of tissue damage (P < 0.005) were significant.

Conclusion

Most patients with linear SSc who are treated with MTX achieve complete and long‐lasting remission. Overall aesthetic and functional sequelae are moderate, most likely because tissue damage is established early and treatment likely stabilizes the damage. Early diagnosis and MTX treatment, as well as long‐term monitoring, are crucial to improve outcome and promptly identify flares.
Tacky Elastomers to Enable Tear‐Resistant and Autonomous Self‐Healing Semiconductor Composites
Authors: Zhang Song , Cheng Yu‐Hsuan , Galuska Luke , Roy Anirban , Lorenz Matthias , Chen Beibei , Luo Shaochuan , Li Yen‐Ting , Hung Chih‐Chien , Qian Zhiyuan , St. Onge Peter Blake Joseph , Mason Gage T. , Cowen Lewis , Zhou Dongshan , Nazarenko Sergei I. , Storey Robson F. , Schroeder Bob C. , Rondeau‐Gagné Simon , Chiu Yu‐Cheng , Gu Xiaodan
Published: May 2020

Mechanical failure of π‐conjugated polymer thin films is unavoidable under cyclic loading conditions, due to intrinsic defects and poor resistance to crack propagation. Here, the first tear‐resistant and room‐temperature self‐healable semiconducting composite is presented, consisting of conjugated polymers and butyl rubber elastomers. This new composite displays both a record‐low elastic modulus (<1 MPa) and ultrahigh deformability with fracture strain above 800%. More importantly, failure behavior is not sensitive to precut notches under deformation. Autonomous self‐healing at room temperature, both mechanical and electronic, is demonstrated through the physical contact of two separate films. The composite film also shows device stability in the ambient environment over 5 months due to much‐improved barrier property to both oxygen and water. Butyl rubber is broadly applicable to various p‐type and n‐type semiconducting polymers for fabricating self‐healable electronics to provide new resilient electronics that mimic the tear resistance and healable property of human skin.
Vertical Phase Separated Cesium Fluoride Doping Organic Electron Transport Layer: A Facile and Efficient “Bridge” Linked Heterojunction for Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Xia Jianxing , Luo Junsheng , Yang Hua , Zhao Fengjiao , Wan Zhongquan , Malik Haseeb Ashraf , Shi Yu , Han Keli , Yao Xiaojun , Jia Chunyang
Published: May 2020

In perovskite solar cells (PSCs), the interfaces of the halide perovskite/electron transport layer (ETL) and ETL/metal oxide electrode (MOE) always attract and trap free carriers via the surface electrostatic force, altering quasi‐Fermi level (EFq) splitting of contact interfaces, and significantly limit the charge extraction efficiency and intrinsic stability of devices. Herein, a graded “bridge” is first reported to link the MOE and perovskite interfaces by self vertical phase separation doping (PSD), diminishing the side effect of notorious ionic defects via both reinforced interface Ebi and the vacancies filling. Experimental and theoretical results prove that the inhomogeneous distribution of CsF in the bulk or surface of PC61BM would not only form metal–oxygen (M–O) dipole on MOE, reinforcing the interface Ebi, but also create a graded energy bridge to alleviate the disadvantage of band offset raised by the enhanced interface Ebi, which significantly avoid the carrier accumulation and recombination at defective interfaces. Employing PSD, the power conversion efficiency of the devices approaches 21% with a high open‐circuit voltage (1.148 V) and delivers a high stability of 89% after aging 60 days in atmosphere without encapsulation, which is the highest efficiency of organic electron transport layers for n–i–p PSCs.
Reconfigurable and Latchable Shape‐Morphing Dielectric Elastomers Based on Local Stiffness Modulation
Authors: Aksoy Bekir , Shea Herbert
Published: May 2020

Programmable soft materials exhibiting dynamically reconfigurable, reversible, fast, and latchable shape transformation are key for applications ranging from wearable tactile actuators to deployable soft robots. Multimorph soft actuator sheets with high load‐bearing capacity are reported, capable of bending on multiple axis, made by combining a single dielectric elastomer actuator (DEA) with two layers of shape memory polymers (SMPs) fibers and an array of stretchable heaters. The rigidity of the SMP fibers can be reduced by two orders of magnitude by Joule heating, thus allowing the orientation and location of soft and hard regions to be dynamically defined by addressing the heaters. When the DEA is then actuated, it bends preferentially along the soft axis, enabling the device to morph into multiple distinct configurations. Cooling down the SMPs locks these shape changes into place. A tip deflection angle of over 300° at 5 kV is achieved with a blocking force of over 27 mN. Devices using two antagonistic DEAs are also reported that attain more complex shapes. Multimorphing is demonstrated by gripping objects with different shapes. An analytical model is developed to determine the design parameters that offers the best trade‐off between large actuation and high holding forces.
Cationic Peptidopolysaccharide with an Intrinsic AIE Effect for Combating Bacteria and Multicolor Imaging
Authors: Dong Zhenzhen , Wang Yandong , Wang Chunlei , Meng He , Li Yan , Wang Caiqi
Published: May 2020

An antibacterial polymer peptidopolysaccharide (COS‐AMP) that integrates antibacterial and detection functions is constructed with a simple synthetic method. The COS‐AMP is constructed by simulating the structure of peptidoglycan of the bacterial cell wall with chitooligosaccharide with intrinsic aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) effect as the main chain, as well as a peptide polymer grafted onto its amino group. Based on the AIE effect and excitation‐dependent fluorescence of COS‐AMP, it is tentatively applied to multicolor imaging and quantification of bacteria. This multicolor imaging helps to match different excitation sources of fluorescent instrument for straightforward imaging and detection. The structural similarity with the bacterial cell wall component facilitates the passage of COS‐AMP across the cell wall and destroys the bacterial structure, thus it has a good broad‐spectrum antibacterial activity. In addition, aromatic fluorophores are not needed, and excellent biocompatibility will make it have broad application prospects.
Low Temperature Growth of Crystalline Semiconductors on Nonepitaxial Substrates
Authors: Sarkar Debarghya , Weng Sizhe , Yang Dingzhu , Tao Jun , Naik Shreyas , Kale Salil , Chae Hyun Uk , Xu Yunpeng , Mesri Bamdad , Cronin Stephen B. , Greer Frank , Kapadia Rehan
Published: May 2020

In this work, a low temperature templated liquid phase (LT‐TLP) growth process is presented, that enables one to directly grow high optoelectronic quality single crystalline compound semiconductors (InP and InAs) on amorphous dielectrics at temperatures below 400 °C. Uniquely, the material quality is optimal when InP is grown at 300 °C, a temperature which is low enough to enable back‐end‐of‐line growth on fully fabricated Si complementary metal oxide semiconductor circuits. Using this low‐temperature grown InP, a transistor fabrication process is then entirely carried out at 300 °C or below, and an indium phosphide nanoribbon field effect transistor with excellent on/off ratios is demonstrated, indicating low defect density in the material. Overall, this approach enables growth of large area (tens of micron) single crystal compound semiconductor at low temperatures, establishing a back‐end‐of‐line (BEOL) compatible process for monolithic 3D device integration.
Distortion‐Free Stretchable Light‐Emitting Diodes via Imperceptible Microwrinkles
Authors: Jeong Sujin , Yoon Hyungsoo , Lee Byeongmoon , Lee Seunghwan , Hong Yongtaek
Published: May 2020

Stretchable organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs) have been considered as a promising technology for next‐generation free‐form and wearable displays. However, an approach to ensure both high device performance and high resolution has not yet been suggested. While introducing a wrinkled structure in the active pixel areas is a decent method, the formation of out‐of‐plane macroscopic wrinkles having a wavelength of a few hundred µm has caused distortion in the shape of the pixel, which is a critical drawback for a matrix‐configured display demanding a sharp pixel definition. Herein, microwrinkled OLEDs are fabricated to define a distortion‐free pixel by direct deposition of OLEDs on biaxially prestretched elastomeric substrate, being feasible by a low‐temperature‐based solution process. The total thickness of the device can be significantly reduced up to 350 nm, producing the imperceptible microwrinkles having a wavelength under 20 µm. The microwrinkled OLEDs show a luminance over 8000 cd m−2 and maximum current efficiency of 7.76 cd A−1, which is comparable to the device without wrinkled structure. Finally, a stretchable 4 × 4 OLED pixel array with a microwrinkled structure is demonstrated showing sharply defined square‐patterned emission, proving the potential in the future high‐resolution stretchable display.
Self‐Assembled Nanoparticle‐Mediated Chemophototherapy Reverses the Drug Resistance of Bladder Cancers through Dual AKT/ERK Inhibition
Authors: Yu Weimin , Xue Xiangdong , Ma Ai‐Hong , Ruan Yuan , Zhang Hongyong , Cheng Fan , Li Yuanpei , Pan Chong‐Xian , Lin Tzu‐Yin
Published: May 2020

Current treatments for both non‐myoinvasive and advanced bladder cancer are suboptimal, associated with high disease recurrence rate and poor quality of life. In this work, the efficacy and mechanistic studies of the newly developed pheophorbide a (Ppa)‐hydrazone‐doxorubicin (DOX) (PhD) nanoparticles (NPs) as a triple‐modal therapeutic agent, including chemotherapy, photothermal therapy, and photodynamic therapy, to improve bladder cancer care are reported. Spherical PhD NPs are ≈71 nm in diameter. Treatments with light and/or pH similar to the acidic tumor microenvironment accelerate DOX drug release. In comparison with DOX, trimodal therapy with PhD NPs increases cytotoxicity by 58 and 109 times in 5637 and TCCSUP cell lines, respectively, and antitumor efficacy is light‐dose dependent. In vivo studies on patient‐derived xenografts reveal that trimodal therapy of PhD NPs induces anti‐tumor effects and overcomes drug resistance to cytotoxic chemotherapy and molecularly targeted therapy matches the underlying genetic alteration of PI3K activation mutation. Both the in vitro cytotoxicity and in vivo anti‐tumor activity are realized by the inhibition of both AKT and ERK pathways and caspase‐3 mediated apoptosis. In conclusion, PhD NPs with multiple therapeutic functions show enormous potential to improve bladder cancer treatment and overcome resistance.
Electroformed, Self‐Connected Tin Oxide Nanoparticle Networks for Electronic Reservoir Computing
Authors: Le Phuong Y. , Murdoch Billy J. , Barlow Anders J. , Holland Anthony S. , McCulloch Dougal G. , McConville Chris F. , Partridge Jim G.
Published: May 2020

Interconnected SnOx nanoparticle (NP) networks are electroformed within a semi‐insulating SnOx thin‐film and between lateral electrodes. During this top‐down process, Joule heating, disproportionation, and de‐wetting of the SnOx thin‐film precede the formation of the NP networks. The same lateral electrodes used for electroforming are used to probe the network and reveal its complex electrical characteristics. Higher‐order harmonic generation is observed and the internal short‐term memory effects of the NP networks enable temporal inputs to be mapped into reservoir states for subsequent linear readout without training. Reservoir computing functionality is demonstrated with no requirement for high‐vacuum or cryo‐cooled environments.
Photoelectrodes with Polydopamine Thin Films Incorporating a Bacterial Photoenzyme
Authors: Lo Presti Marco , Giangregorio Maria Michela , Ragni Roberta , Giotta Livia , Guascito Maria Rachele , Comparelli Roberto , Fanizza Elisabetta , Tangorra Roberto R. , Agostiano Angela , Losurdo Maria , Farinola Gianluca M. , Milano Francesco , Trotta Massimo
Published: May 2020

A fabrication strategy of photoactive biohybrid electrodes based on the immobilization of the bacterial reaction center (RC) onto indium tin oxide (ITO) is proposed. The RC is an integral photoenzyme that converts photons into stable charge‐separated states with a quantum yield close to one. The photogenerated electron–hole pair can be eventually exploited, with suitable redox mediators, to produce photocurrents. To this purpose, RC must be effectively anchored on the electrode surface and simple strategies for its stable immobilization ensuring prolonged enzyme photoactivity are strongly desired. In this work, polydopamine (PDA), a polymer reminiscent of the natural melanin, is used to anchor the RC on the electrode surface. PDA is easily prepared in situ by spontaneous polymerization of dopamine in slightly alkaline aerated buffered RC solution. This reaction, carried out in the presence of an ITO substrate dipped into the solution, directly leads to a stable RC‐PDA/ITO photoelectrode with 20 nm film thickness and 50% of fully functional RC occupancy. Photocurrents densities recorded using this photoelectrode are comparable to those obtained with far more sophisticated immobilization techniques. The RC‐PDA films are fully characterized by visible–near‐infrared absorption spectroscopy, ellipsometry, atomic force, and scanning electron microscopies.
Facile Fabrication of Highly Uniform Tellurium Nanorods for Self‐Powered Flexible Optoelectronics
Authors: Xiao Qi , Li Xiang‐Yang , Zhang Ze‐Qi , Hu Chen‐Xia , Dun Guan‐Hua , Sun Bing , Peng Yong , Wang Qiang , Zheng Zijian , Zhang Hao‐Li
Published: May 2020

Nanoscale tellurium (Te) materials are promising for advanced optoelectronics owing to their many intriguing properties. However, the facile fabrication of highly uniform 1D Te nanostructures has been a challenge. Herein, an electrochemical exfoliation method is developed to prepare uniform Te nanorod (NRs), which can form stable and high concentration suspension in organic solvents. The morphology of the Te NRs can be well tuned by the electrochemical exfoliation condition. Flexible photodetectors based on Te NRs show an excellent responsivity of 6.1 A W−1. The detectivity achieves 1.2 × 1011 Jones, which is the highest among Te‐based photodetectors. Moreover, self‐powered photodetectors based on Te NRs are successfully fabricated, which exhibits a responsivity of 3 µA W−1. This new method paves the way for the applications of Te NRs in self‐powered flexible optoelectronics.
Half‐Heusler Thermoelectric Module with High Conversion Efficiency and High Power Density
Authors: Yu Junjie , Xing Yunfei , Hu Chaoliang , Huang Zhijie , Qiu Qinyi , Wang Chao , Xia Kaiyang , Wang Zhenyi , Bai Shengqiang , Zhao Xinbing , Chen Lidong , Zhu Tiejun
Published: May 2020

Half‐Heusler (HH) compounds have shown great potential in waste heat recovery. Among them, p‐type NbFeSb and n‐type ZrNiSn based alloys have exhibited the best thermoelectric (TE) performance. However, TE devices based on NbFeSb‐based HH compounds are rarely studied. In this work, bulk volumes of p‐type (Nb0.8Ta0.2)0.8Ti0.2FeSb and n‐type Hf0.5Zr0.5NiSn0.98Sb0.02 compounds are successfully prepared with good phase purity, compositional homogeneity, and matchable TE performance. The peak zTs are higher than 1.0 at 973 K for Hf0.5Zr0.5NiSn0.98Sb0.02 and at 1200 K for (Nb0.8Ta0.2)0.8Ti0.2FeSb. Based on an optimal design by a full‐parameters 3D finite element model, a single stage TE module with 8 n‐p HH couples is assembled. A high conversion efficiency of 8.3% and high power density of 2.11 W cm−2 are obtained when hot and cold side temperatures are 997 and 342 K, respectively. Compared to the previous TE module assembled by the same materials, the conversion efficiency is enhanced by 33%, while the power density is almost the same. Given the excellent mechanical robustness and thermal stability, matchable thermal expansion coefficient and TE properties of NbFeSb and ZrNiSn based HH alloys, this work demonstrates their great promise for power generation with both high conversion efficiency and high power density.
Diversity, distribution, development, and evolution of medullary bundles in Nyctaginaceae
Authors: da Cunha Neto Israel L. , Pace Marcelo R. , Douglas Norman A. , Nee Michael H. , de Sá Cyl Farney C. , Moore Michael J. , Angyalossy Veronica
Published: May 2020

Premise

Medullary bundles, i.e., vascular units in the pith, have evolved multiple times in vascular plants. However, no study has ever explored their anatomical diversity and evolution within a phylogenetic framework. Here, we investigated the development of the primary vascular system within Nyctaginaceae showing how medullary bundles diversified within the family.

Methods

Development of 62 species from 25 of the 31 genera of Nyctaginaceae in stem samples was thoroughly studied with light microscopy and micro‐computed tomography. Ancestral states were reconstructed using a maximum likelihood approach.

Results

Two subtypes of eusteles were found, the regular eustele, lacking medullary bundles, observed exclusively in representatives of Leucastereae, and the polycyclic eustele, containing medullary bundles, found in all the remaining taxa. Medullary bundles had the same origin and development, but the organization was variable and independent of phyllotaxy. Within the polycyclic eustele, medullary bundles developed first, followed by the formation of a continuous concentric procambium, which forms a ring of vascular bundles enclosing the initially formed medullary bundles. The regular eustele emerged as a synapomorphy of Leucastereae, while the medullary bundles were shown to be a symplesiomorphy for Nyctaginaceae.

Conclusions

Medullary bundles in Nyctaginaceae developed by a single shared pathway, that involved the departure of vascular traces from lateral organs toward the pith. These medullary bundles were encircled by a continuous concentric procambium that also constituted the polycyclic eustele, which was likely a symplesiomorphy for Nyctaginaceae with one single reversion to the regular eustele.
The behavioral profile of children aged 1–5 years with sex chromosome trisomy (47,XXX, 47,XXY, 47,XYY)
Authors: Urbanus Evelien , Swaab Hanna , Tartaglia Nicole , Cordeiro Lisa , van Rijn Sophie
Published: May 2020

Children with SCT have an increased risk of suboptimal neurodevelopment. Previous studies have shown an elevated risk for neurobehavioral problems in individuals with SCT. However, not much is known about neurobehavioral problems in very young children; knowledge that could help with early identification of children at risk for suboptimal development, and that could help establish targets for early intervention. This study addressed the question of what the behavioral profile of children with SCT aged 1–5 years looks like. In total, 182 children aged 1–5 years participated in this study (NSCT=87, Nnonclinical controls = 95). Recruitment and assessment took place in the Netherlands and the United States. The SCT group was recruited through prospective follow‐up (50%), information seeking parents (31%), and clinical referral (18%). Behavioral profiles were assessed with the child behavior checklist and the ages‐and‐stages social–emotional questionnaire.

Levels of parent‐rated problem behavior were higher in children with SCT. Difficulties with overall social–emotional functioning were already present in 1‐year‐olds, and elevated scores were persistent across the full age range. Affective and pervasive developmental behaviors were seen in late toddlerhood and prominent at preschool age. Anxiety, attention deficit, and oppositional defiant behaviors were seen in preschool‐aged children. Within this cross‐sectional study, the developmental trajectory of affective, pervasive developmental, and oppositional defiant behaviors seemed to be different for SCT children than nonclinical controls.

Collectively, these results demonstrate the importance of behavioral screening for behavioral problems in routine clinical care for children with SCT from a young age. Social–emotional problems may require special attention, as these problems seem most prominent, showing increased risk across the full age range, and with these problems occurring regardless of the timing of diagnosis, and across all three SCT karyotypes.
Construction of Liposomes Mimicking Cell Membrane Structure through Frame‐Guided Assembly
Authors: Wang Chao , Piao Jiafang , Li Yujie , Tian Xiancheng , Dong Yuanchen , Liu Dongsheng
Published: May 2020

The shape of eukaryotic cells is determined by the cytoskeleton associated with membrane proteins; however, the detailed mechanism of how the integral morphologies with structural stability is generated and maintained is still not fully understood. Here, based on the Frame‐Guided Assembly (FGA) strategy, we successfully prepared hetero‐liposomes with structural composition similar to that of eukaryotic cells by screening a series of transmembrane peptides as the leading hydrophobic groups (LHGs). It was demonstrated that the conformation and transmembrane mode of the LHGs played dominant roles during the FGA process. The FGA liposomes were formed with excellent stability, which may further provide evidence for the cytoskeleton–membrane protein–lipid bilayer model. Taking advantage of the biocompatibility and stability, the FGA liposomes were also applied to prepare novel drug delivery vehicles, which is promising in diagnostic imaging and cancer therapy applications.
Innovative Verfahren zur Synthese von Luminogenen mit aggregationsinduzierter Emission
Authors: Yan Dingyuan , Wu Qian , Wang Dong , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: May 2020

Wegen ihrer Vorteile haben Luminogene mit aggregationsinduzierter Emission (AIEgene) in einer Reihe von Anwendungsbereichen weltweit wachsendes Interesse auf sich gezogen. Während allgemeine Verfahren zur Synthese von AIEgenen im Wesentlichen auf schwierigen Abläufen und eingeschränkten Reaktionstypen beruhen, haben sich in diesem Zusammenhang verschiedene innovative Syntheseverfahren als ergänzende oder sogar alternative Strategien herausgebildet. In diesem Aufsatz zeigen wir systematisch die neuesten Fortschritte bei der metallkatalysierten Funktionalisierung und den nicht metallgeförderten Wegen zum Aufbau von AIEgenen der letzten fünf Jahre auf und erläutern kurz neue Perspektiven auf diesem Gebiet. Die Entwicklung innovativer Verfahren ist vielversprechend für die zukünftige Herstellung von AIEgenen, wobei eine einfache Synthese, eine große Strukturvielfalt und multifunktionale Anwendungen ermöglicht werden sollen.
Femtosecond Polarization Switching in the Crystal of a [CrCo] Dinuclear Complex
Authors: Kuramochi Hikaru , Aoyama Genki , Okajima Hajime , Sakamoto Akira , Kanegawa Shinji , Sato Osamu , Takeuchi Satoshi , Tahara Tahei
Published: May 2020

Capability to control macroscopic molecular properties with external stimuli offers the possibility to exploit molecules as switching devices of various types. However, application of such molecular‐level switching has often been limited by its speed and thus efficiency. Herein, we demonstrate ultrafast, photoinduced polarization switching in the crystal of a [CrCo] dinuclear complex by ultrafast pump–probe spectroscopy in the visible and mid‐infrared regions. The photoinduced polarization switching was found to have a time constant of 280 fs, which makes the [CrCo] complex crystal the fastest polarization‐switching material realized using the metastable state. Moreover, the pump–probe data in the visible region reveal the pronounced appearance of coherent nuclear wavepacket motion with a frequency as low as 22 cm−1, which we attribute to a lattice vibrational mode. The pronounced non‐Condon effect for its resonance Raman enhancement implies that this mode couples the relevant electronic states, thereby facilitating the ultrafast polarization switching.
Heteroatom Dopants Promote Two‐Electron O2 Reduction for Photocatalytic Production of H2O2 on Polymeric Carbon Nitride
Authors: Zhang Peng , Tong Yawen , Liu Yong , Vequizo Junie Jhon M. , Sun Hongwei , Yang Can , Yamakata Akira , Fan Fengtao , Lin Wei , Wang Xinchen , Choi Wonyong
Published: May 2020

Polymeric carbon nitride modified with selected heteroatom dopants was prepared and used as a model photocatalyst to identify and understand the key mechanisms required for efficient photoproduction of H2O2 via selective oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). The photochemical production of H2O2 was achieved at a millimolar level per hour under visible‐light irradiation along with 100 % apparent quantum yield (in 360–450 nm region) and 96 % selectivity in an electrochemical system (0.1 V vs. RHE). Spectroscopic analysis in spatiotemporal resolution and theoretical calculations revealed that the synergistic association of alkali and sulfur dopants in the polymeric matrix promoted the interlayer charge separation and polarization of trapped electrons for preferable oxygen capture and reduction in ORR kinetics. This work highlights the key features that are responsible for controlling the photocatalytic activity and selectivity toward the two‐electron ORR, which should be the basis of further development of solar H2O2 production.
An insight into the potent antioxidant activity of a dithiocarbohydrazone appended cis‐dioxidomolybdenum (VI) complexes
Authors: Asha T.M. , Prathapachandra Kurup M.R.
Published: May 2020

In search of antioxidants with enriched potency, the present study focus on the design and synthesis of a dithiocarbohydrazone, H3TCL derived from thiocarbohydrazide and 3‐ethoxysalicylaldehyde and its coordination complexes with molybdenum, viz, [MoO2(HTCL)D] (1–2) (where D = methanol (1), DMSO (2)) and [MoO2(HTCL)D]·DMF (where D = H2O (3)). The synthesized compounds were characterised by elemental analysis, spectroscopic techniques (FT‐IR, UV–vis and 1H‐NMR), conductivity measurements and cyclic voltammetry. Moreover the solid state structures of all the three complexes were established by single crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis as mononuclear neutral species in which the molybdenum centre assumes a distorted octahedral geometry. The dithiocarbohydrazone binds to the molybdenum centre through its phenolate oxygen, O(1), azomethine nitrogen, N(1) and thioenolate sulfur, S(1) in a dianionic tridentate mode. The assessment of intermolecular contacts in the crystal arrangement was quantified using Hirshfeld surface analysis. Further the antioxidant potential of the dithiocarbohydrazone, H3TCL and its molybdenum complexes 1–3 were evaluated using 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl(DPPH), 2,2′‐azinobis‐3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid (ABTS) and total antioxidant assays. The antioxidant activities were then compared with standard antioxidant, L‐ascorbic acid. The antioxidant potential of the synthesized compounds were then validated by molecular docking studies. Molecular modelling study was achieved to evaluate the recognition of target compound at the binding pocket of the human antioxidant enzyme, 3MNG. The docking results showed that the complexes selectively bond to the vital amino acids present in the binding pocket of the target enzyme, 3MNG.
“To protect my health or to protect my health privacy?” A mixed‐methods investigation of the privacy paradox
Authors: Fox Grace
Published: May 2020

This paper examines the role of privacy in the health context by investigating the influence of privacy concerns and perceived benefits on individuals' acceptance of health technologies used by healthcare providers and their own adoption of mobile health technologies. The study adopts a two‐stage sequential mixed‐methods design. The first stage is a quantitative survey of 447 citizens from two countries. The second stage involves 50 qualitative interviews which further untangle the roles of privacy concern and benefits. The integrated findings provide evidence that a privacy paradox exists. While individuals continue to express a high desire for privacy, their consideration of the benefits and privacy concerns prior to adoption is largely skewed toward the benefits, due to a lack of privacy knowledge, emphasis on immediate gratification, overestimation of the benefits, and underestimation of the risks. The study further extends the privacy calculus theory to the health context and acknowledges the factors impacting this comparison of benefits and privacy concerns prior to and postadoption of a new technology. The study provides actionable insights for practice, highlighting the importance of privacy education to foster awareness and control mechanisms to negate the potential negative effects of privacy concern.
Alteration in faecal bile acids, gut microbial composition and diversity after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy
Authors: Ikeda T , Aida M , Yoshida Y , Matsumoto S , Tanaka M , Nakayama J , Nagao Y , Nakata R , Oki E , Akahoshi T , Okano S , Nomura M , Hashizume M , Maehara Y
Published: May 2020

Background

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is a well established treatment for severe obesity and type 2 diabetes. Although the gut microbiota is linked to the efficacy of LSG, the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. The effect of LSG for morbid obesity on the gut microbiota and bile acids was assessed here.

Methods

Severely obese subjects who were candidates for LSG were included and followed until 6 months after surgery. The composition and abundance of the microbiota and bile acids in faeces were assessed by 16S ribosomal RNA sequencing, quantitative PCR and liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry.

Results

In total, 28 patients with a mean(s.d.) BMI of 44·2(6·6) kg/m2 were enrolled. These patients had achieved excess weight loss of 53·2(19·0) per cent and showed improvement in metabolic diseases by 6 months after LSG, accompanied by an alteration in the faecal microbial community. The increase in α-diversity and abundance of specific taxa, such as Rikenellaceae and Christensenellaceae, was strongly associated with reduced faecal bile acid levels. These changes had a significant positive association with excess weight loss and metabolic alterations. However, the total number of faecal bacteria was lower in patients before (mean(s.d.) 10·26(0·36) log10 cells per g faeces) and after (10·39(0·29) log10 cells per g faeces) operation than in healthy subjects (10·83(0·27) log10 cells per g faeces).

Conclusion

LSG is associated with a reduction in faecal bile acids and greater abundance of specific bacterial taxa and α-diversity that may contribute to the metabolic changes.
Effects of different graphene‐based nanomaterials as elicitors on growth and ganoderic acid production by Ganoderma lucidum
Authors: Darzian Rostami Arash , Yazdian Fatemeh , Mirjani Rohallah , Soleimani Mohammad
Published: May 2020

Graphene‐based nanomaterials (GBNs) have attracted considerable interest nowadays due to their wide range of applications. However, very little attention has been paid to the application of nanomaterials as potential elicitors for production of valuable metabolites. Herein, aiming to earn insight into effects of nanomaterials on secondary metabolite biosynthesis by medicinal fungi, we evaluated the influence of GBNs on growth and production of ganoderic acid (GA) by Ganoderma lucidum in submerged culture. Graphene oxide (GO), reduced graphene oxide (rGO), and rGO/Fe3O4 nanocomposite were synthesized successfully and characterized by X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy analysis. The prepared nanomaterials were added to the culture of G. lucidum at final concentrations of 50, 100, and 150 mg/L on Day 5. The results showed that the elicitation of G. lucidum with GO and rGO decreased the cell dry weight and GA production slightly, especially in higher concentrations. However, rGO/Fe3O4 nanocomposite not negatively affected cell growth and improved GA production. G. lucidum growth rate responded to elicitation experiments differently and depended on the type of nanomaterials and their concentrations, but almost all GBNs caused an increase in GA content (mg/100 mg dry weight). Also, field emission scanning electron microscopy morphological study showed that under elicitation, mycelia were more condensed and tightly stacked together. The findings from this study may suggest that GBNs in low concentrations could be applied as elicitors to secondary metabolites production from higher fungus, but further environmental, physiological, and biological studies required.
Chemistry and Bioactivities of Secondary Metabolites from the Genus Talaromyces
Authors: Lan Donghe , Wu Bin
Published: May 2020

Fungi have especially captured the interest and fascination of natural product chemists in that they produce a dizzying array of natural organic molecules with many unique functional groups and atom arrangements. In this review, we focus on the genus Talaromyces (Trichocomaceae) which has been a hot spot of natural product studies over the last three decades. This review summarized the discovery, structures, and bioactivities of various classes of 151 compounds isolated from both terrestrial and marine derived fungal strains of the genus Talaromyces reported from 1994 to 2019.
Robotic‐assisted percutaneous coronary intervention in a COVID‐19 patient
Authors: Tabaza Luai , Virk Hafeez ul Hassan , Janzer Sean , George Jon C.
Published: May 2020

Coronavirus disease‐2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic is the biggest global health threat in the 21st century. We describe a case of a patient with suspected COVID‐19 who needed urgent coronary artery interrogation, in which we utilized robotic assistance to minimize the risk of exposure to COVID‐19 and reduced personal protective equipment needed by the procedural team.
Successful treatment of HIV‐associated lupus‐like glomerulonephritis with mycophenolic acid
Authors: Tiong Mark , Wilson Scott , Pham Alan , Chrysostomou Anastasia
Published: May 2020

HIV‐associated lupus‐like glomerulonephritis is an uncommon but well‐described entity. Treatment has traditionally focused on control of HIV viremia with some using adjuvant steroids. Mycophenolic acid may prove to be a novel, nonsteroid, therapy in patients with active glomerulonephritis despite control of the underlying infection.
Cyclization from Higher Excited States of Diarylethenes Having a Substituted Azulene Ring
Authors: Hattori Yohei , Maejima Tatsuya , Sawae Yumi , Kitai Jun‐ichiro , Morimoto Masakazu , Toyoda Ryojun , Nishihara Hiroshi , Yokojima Satoshi , Nakamura Shinichiro , Uchida Kingo
Published: May 2020

The cyclization reaction of diarylethenes having an azulene ring occurs only via higher excited states. Novel diarylethenes having an azulene ring with a strong donor or acceptor were synthesized and examined in these reactions. A derivative having an electron‐donating 1,3‐benzodithiol‐2‐ylidenemethyl group at the 1‐position of the azulene ring showed photochromism, whereas neither a derivative having a π‐conjugated electron‐donating group at the 3‐position of the azulene ring nor derivatives having a π‐conjugated electron‐withdrawing group at the 1‐ or 3‐position of the azulene ring showed any photochromism. The photoreactivities of these compounds were explained by calculating forces and bond orders on the excited states using density functional theory (DFT) and time‐dependent (TD)‐DFT.
Synthetic cultivar parent number impacts on genetic drift and disease resistance in alfalfa
Authors: Steinmetz Olivia J. , Huset David E. , Rouse Douglas I. , Raasch John A. , Gutiérrez Lucia , Riday Heathcliffe
Published: May 2020

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) varieties are generally bred as synthetics. The number of selected parents to create a variety is important during breeding, as alfalfa suffers from severe inbreeding depression. In this study, we tested if there was more genetic drift in synthetic populations with fewer parents (i.e., narrow‐based synthetics) as measured by two parameters: a loss of allelic richness and changes in disease resistance. Out of five base germplasms, parents were selected based on plant field vigor to create derived narrow‐based (six‐parent) and broad‐based (56‐ to 86‐parent) synthetics in order to test the new synthetics compared with their base populations for resistance to four diseases: anthracnose, Phytophthora root rot (PRR), Aphanomyces root rot (ARR), and Fusarium wilt (FW). Using simple sequence repeat (SSR) DNA markers, we also calculated allele frequency changes and allele richness for the original populations and the selected parents of the derived synthetics. Based on the DNA markers, we saw strong evidence of greater genetic drift in the narrow‐based selections compared with the broad‐based selections. The narrow selections had greater allele frequency changes and had fewer (11.5–33.9% fewer) alleles compared with the broad selections and original populations. There was only moderate evidence of genetic drift affecting disease resistance. Within some populations, parent number had an effect on anthracnose and FW resistance, but not PRR or ARR resistance. We suspect that because disease resistance is a complex, often multigenic trait in alfalfa, disease resistance is less influenced by genetic drift, particularly compared with neutral DNA markers.