bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Geometry transformation of ionic surfactants and adsorption behavior on water/n-decane-interface: calculation by molecular dynamics simulation and DFT study
Authors: Zhang Wannian , Zhang Ming-Yuan , Wang Kai , Sun Ruixia , Zhao Shanlin , Zhang Zhiqiang , He Yu-Peng , Yu Fang
Published: August 2021

The difference of weak interactions may contribute to the conformational change and finally affect the interface properties of these ionic surfactants.
Growth of binary anatase–rutile on phosphorylated graphene through strong P–O–Ti bonding affords a stable visible-light photocatalyst
Authors: Zirar Fatima-Ezzahra , Anouar Aicha , Katir Nadia , Ichou Ihya Ait , El Kadib Abdelkrim
Published: August 2021

Phosphorylated graphene sheets covalently bind, grow and stabilize biphasic anatase–rutile clusters through strong P–O–Ti bridges. The resulting nanocomposites stands as efficient visible-light photocatalysts for the degradation of dyes from water.
Gas evolution in electrochemical flow cell reactors induces resistance gradients with consequences for the positioning of the reference electrode
Authors: Jännsch Yannick , Hämmerle Martin , Leung Jane J. , Simon Elfriede , Fleischer Maximilian , Moos Ralf
Published: August 2021

The gas evolution during electrolysis in flow cells results in inhomogeneous distributions of resistance, current and voltage along the flow axis.
Engineering the structure of ZIF-derived catalysts by revealing the critical role of temperature for enhanced oxygen reduction reaction
Authors: Wang Zelin , Ke Xiaoxing , Zhou Kailing , Xu Xiaolong , Jin Yuhong , Wang Hao , Sui Manling
Published: August 2021

The critical role of the pyrolysis temperature for ZIF-derived ORR catalysts is revealed byin situTEM in detail. A facile low temperature strategy is inspired to achieve an outstanding ORR performance.
Synthesis of colloidal MnAsxSb1−x nanoparticles: compositional inhomogeneity and magnetic consequences
Authors: Hettiarachchi Malsha A. , Su’a Tepora , Abdelhamid Ehab , Pokhrel Shiva , Nadgorny Boris , Brock Stephanie L.
Published: August 2021

Colloidal synthesis of MnAsxSb1−x (x = 0.1–0.9) results in As-deficient crystalline cores with amorphous oxide shells. Magnetic studies reveal size and phase dependent magnetic properties, with a clear relationship between core size and coercivity.
Active area dependence of optoelectronic characteristics of perovskite LEDs
Authors: Goldberg Iakov , Qiu Weiming , Elkhouly Karim , Annavarapu Nirav , Mehta Ankit Nalin , Rolin Cedric , Ke Tung-Huei , Gehlhaar Robert , Genoe Jan , Heremans Paul
Published: August 2021

Active area scaling enables high operational stabilities and extreme brightness
Methods for the solubilisation of membrane proteins: the micelle-aneous world of membrane protein solubilisation
Authors: Ratkeviciute Giedre , Cooper Benjamin F. , Knowles Timothy J.
Published: August 2021

The solubilisation of membrane proteins (MPs) necessitates the overlap of two contradictory events; the extraction of MPs from their native lipid membranes and their subsequent stabilisation in aqueous environments. Whilst the current myriad of membrane mimetic systems provide a range of modus operandi, there are no golden rules for selecting the optimal pipeline for solubilisation of a specific MP hence a miscellaneous approach must be employed balancing both solubilisation efficiency and protein stability. In recent years, numerous diverse lipid membrane mimetic systems have been developed, expanding the pool of available solubilisation strategies. This review provides an overview of recent developments in the membrane mimetic field, with particular emphasis placed upon detergents, polymer-based nanodiscs and amphipols, highlighting the latest reagents to enter the toolbox of MP research.
Heterogeneity among enhancer RNAs: origins, consequences and perspectives
Authors: Syed Khaja Mohieddin , Hon Chung-Chau
Published: August 2021

Enhancer RNAs (eRNAs) are non-coding RNAs transcribed from distal cis-regulatory elements (i.e. enhancers), which are stereotyped as short, rarely spliced and unstable. In fact, a non-negligible fraction of eRNAs seems to be longer, spliced and more stable, and their cognate enhancers are epigenomically and functionally distinguishable from typical enhancers. In this review, we first summarized the genomic and molecular origins underlying the observed heterogeneity among eRNAs. Then, we discussed how their heterogeneous properties (e.g. stability) affect the modes of interaction with their regulatory partners, from promiscuous cis-interactions to specific trans-interactions. Finally, we highlighted the existence of a seemingly continuous spectrum of eRNA properties and its implications in the genomic origins of non-coding RNA genes from an evolutionary perspective.
The non-coding genome in genetic brain disorders: new targets for therapy?
Authors: Medico-Salsench Eva , Karkala Faidra , Lanko Kristina , Barakat Tahsin Stefan
Published: August 2021

The non-coding genome, consisting of more than 98% of all genetic information in humans and once judged as ‘Junk DNA’, is increasingly moving into the spotlight in the field of human genetics. Non-coding regulatory elements (NCREs) are crucial to ensure correct spatio-temporal gene expression. Technological advancements have allowed to identify NCREs on a large scale, and mechanistic studies have helped to understand the biological mechanisms underlying their function. It is increasingly becoming clear that genetic alterations of NCREs can cause genetic disorders, including brain diseases. In this review, we concisely discuss mechanisms of gene regulation and how to investigate them, and give examples of non-coding alterations of NCREs that give rise to human brain disorders. The cross-talk between basic and clinical studies enhances the understanding of normal and pathological function of NCREs, allowing better interpretation of already existing and novel data. Improved functional annotation of NCREs will not only benefit diagnostics for patients, but might also lead to novel areas of investigations for targeted therapies, applicable to a wide panel of genetic disorders. The intrinsic complexity and precision of the gene regulation process can be turned to the advantage of highly specific treatments. We further discuss this exciting new field of ‘enhancer therapy’ based on recent examples.
Mineralocorticoid receptor actions in cardiovascular development and disease
Authors: Young Morag J. , Clyne Colin D.
Published: August 2021

Mineralocorticoid receptors (MRs) are transcriptional regulators that mediate the diverse physiological and pathophysiological actions of corticosteroid hormones across many tissues. In the kidney aldosterone control of sodium/water resorption via DNA-binding actions of the MR is established. MRs also regulate tissues not involved in electrolyte homeostasis such as the heart, adipose tissue, brain, and inflammatory cells where the MRs can respond to both aldosterone and cortisol. The pathology of inappropriate MR activation in non-epithelial tissues are well-described, and steroidal antagonists of the MR have been clinically beneficial in the management of heart failure and blood pressure for decades. However, the role of cortisol-dependent MR activation in the physiological setting is less well defined. Like other steroid hormone receptors, the MR also regulates non-DNA-binding pathways including MAPK pathways and G protein coupled receptors to provide diversity to MR signaling. Whether nonDNA binding pathways are more relevant for MR activation in non-epithelial, versus epithelial, tissues remain unclear. This review will focus on molecular regulation of ligand-dependent MR activation and the physiology and pathophysiology of MR actions in the heart with a focus on the cardiomyocyte and provide a discussion of relevant genomic and non-genomic MR pathways and potential new transcriptional partners for the MR and their relevance for health and disease. Understanding MR actions in the heart will provide new insights into cell-selective mechanisms that underpin the therapeutic benefits of MRAs, and are a critical step towards developing next-generation tissue selective MR modulators with improved safety profiles.
Rab GTPases in Parkinson's disease: a primer
Authors: Lara Ordóñez Antonio Jesús , Fasiczka Rachel , Naaldijk Yahaira , Hilfiker Sabine
Published: August 2021

Parkinson's disease is a prominent and debilitating movement disorder characterized by the death of vulnerable neurons which share a set of structural and physiological properties. Over the recent years, increasing evidence indicates that Rab GTPases can directly as well as indirectly contribute to the cellular alterations leading to PD. Rab GTPases are master regulators of intracellular membrane trafficking events, and alterations in certain membrane trafficking steps can be particularly disruptive to vulnerable neurons. Here, we describe current knowledge on the direct links between altered Rab protein function and PD pathomechanisms.
Formal specification and verification of fault location, isolation and service restoration of local topology model based on distributed processing for active distribution network
Authors: Weng Jiaming , Liu Dong , Liu Yingxu
Published: August 2021

Active distribution network (ADN) technology, as an important trend of the future smart distribution grid, is able to effectively absorb distributed energy resource (DER), to reasonably optimise grid‐load operation characteristics, and to safely support the reliability of power supply. Through enhancing energy utilisation efficiency and friendly interaction with user access, ADN technology is also able to comprehensively improve the power supply reliability of the distribution network. However, distributed feeder automation (FA), as an important part of ADN technology, will also meet new problems and challenges with the access of DER in the distribution network. The formal method can analyse the correctness and effectiveness of a distributed fault processing algorithm from mathematical logic, which provides an important theoretical basis for distributed fault processing. The focus herein is on the formal description and verification of topology modelling in fault location, isolation, and service restoration (FLISR) based on distributed processing. By abstracting and simplifying the complex power system features, the adaptability of the formal method is solved. The logical correctness of the topology model in FLISR based on distributed processing is verified. Finally, the distributed local topology model and algorithm is verified through a formal method using an actual ADN example.
Novel cascading scheme of VSC‐HVDC with DC voltage synchronisation control for system frequency support
Authors: Yuan Xiaotian , Du Zhengchun , Li Yujun , Wu Guihong , Li Jiapeng , Wu Xiaofang , Li Chongtao
Published: August 2021

This paper introduces a novel cascading frequency regulation scheme (CFRS) for VSC‐HVDC to provide strong support for the connected weak AC grid without phase‐locked loop and remote‐communication considering the cost‐effective property. The proposed CFRS utilises a DC voltage synchronisation control to enable the self‐synchronisation of VSC‐HVDC without phase‐locked loop, while the corresponding inertia response can be exerted via utilising the stored HVDC capacitor energy. Meanwhile, the DC voltage acts as the reflection of system frequency, enabling the coordination between two‐end VSC stations without communication. More importantly, to fully utilise the VSC‐HVDC potentials, the CFRS that sequentially activates HVDC capacitor and primary frequency control is implemented so that the energy loss and the detrimental control impacts on the sending‐end systems can be minimised while making sure the requirement of system frequency support. Analytical derivations have been done to evaluate the contribution of the proposed CFRS to system frequency regulation. Furthermore, the effectiveness of the proposed scheme has been well validated in PSCAD/EMTDC under several power system contingencies by fully comparing with existing control schemes. The proposed CFRS stands out by the reduced complexity of the control structure, the robustness for connecting the very weak AC grid and the fast frequency regulation ability with consideration of cost‐effective property.
High-resolution Hα imaging of the northern Galactic plane and the IGAPS image database
Authors: Greimel R. , Drew J. E. , Monguió M. , Ashley R. P. , Barentsen G. , Eislöffel J. , Mampaso A. , Morris R. A. H. , Naylor T. , Roe C. , Sabin L. , Stecklum B. , Wright N. J. , Groot P. J. , Irwin M. J. , Barlow M. J. , Fariña C. , Fernández-Martín A. , Parker Q. A. , Phillipps S. , Scaringi S. , Zijlstra A. A.
Published: August 2021

The INT Galactic Plane Survey (IGAPS) is the merger of the optical photometric surveys IPHAS and UVEX based on data from the Isaac Newton Telescope (INT) obtained between 2003 and 2018. It captures the entire northern Galactic plane within the Galactic coordinate range |b|< 5° and 30° < ℓ < 215°. From the beginning, the incorporation of narrow-band Hα imaging has been a unique and distinctive feature of this effort. Alongside a focused discussion of the nature and application of the Hα data, we present the IGAPS world-accessible database of images for all five survey filters, i, r, g, URGO, and narrow-band Hα, observed on a pixel scale of 0.33 arcsec and at an effective (median) angular resolution of 1.1−1.3 arcsec. The background, noise, and sensitivity characteristics of the narrow-band Hα filter images are outlined. Typical noise levels in this band correspond to a surface brightness at full ∼1 arcsec resolution of around 2 × 10−16 erg cm−2 s−1 arcsec−2. Illustrative applications of the Hα data to planetary nebulae and Herbig-Haro objects are outlined and, as part of a discussion of the mosaicking technique, we present a very large background-subtracted narrow-band mosaic of the supernova remnant Simeis 147. Finally, we lay out a method that exploits the database via an automated selection of bright ionised diffuse interstellar emission targets for the coming generation of wide-field massive-multiplex spectrographs. Two examples of the diffuse Hα map output from this selection process are presented and compared with previously published data.
Dosimetric comparison of intensity-modulated proton radiotherapy versus intensity-modulated photon-based radiotherapy for breast cancer
Authors: Lin Ruihe , Shan Jie , Yuan Taize , Qian Chaonan
Published: August 2021

Purpose: This study aims to compare the dosimetric differences in intensity-modulated proton therapy (IMPT) using pencil beam scanning technology and intensity-modulated photon-based radiotherapy (IMRT) in hypofractionated whole-breast irradiation (HF-WBI) and find out the more beneficial technique.

Methods and Materials: Eight breast cancer (BC) patients with pathological stage T1 ~ 2N0M0 were immobilized and underwent 4D-CT scanning used deep inspiration breath-hold (DIBH) technology. The IMPT and IMRT plans were designed for each patient. The IMPT plans used two en-face beam angles. IMRT plans were designed using the field in field technique. The optimization constraints of the two types of plans were identical. Prescription dose and regimen was 40.05 Gy (relative biological effect [RBE])/15 fx with a 10 Gy (RBE)/5 fx boost, five fractions a week. A dose of 95% of the target volume should not be less than the prescribed dose. The target coverage was evaluated using D1, D2, D50, D95, D98, and D99. The target dose distribution and conformity were evaluated using the Conformity index (CI) and the homogeneity index (HI). The Organs at risk (OARs) were evaluated using mean dose (Dmean) and maximum dose (Dmax). Ipsilateral Lung and Contralateral Lung were evaluated additionally using V5, V10, V20, V30.

Results: The mean dose (Dmean) of the Heart (P = 0.012), Ipsilateral Lung (P = 0.036), Contralateral Lung (P = 0.012), and Spinal Cord (P = 0.012) were significantly reduced in IMPT plans. The IMPT also showed a tendency to reduce the V20 (P = 0.05) and V30 (P = 0.05) of the Ipsilateral Lung. But there was no significant difference in target coverage, homogeneity, and conformity between the IMRT and IMPT plans.

Conclusion: Compared to IMRT, the IMPT using pencil beam scanning technology can spare OARs without compromising target coverage in BC patients undergoing HF-WBI, which potentially reduce the incidence of radiation-related adverse effects and thus may positively impact long-term survival.
A Nonhybrid Model of Transitioning Pediatric to Adult Critical Care during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Surge: A Single Unit Experience
Authors: Holliday Kathryn , Horner Rebecca , Ramesh Pavanasam , Bebbington Mark B. , Kanaris Constantinos
Published: August 2021

To accommodate the unprecedented demand for critical care beds during the first surge of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in the United Kingdom, hospitals had to adapt, restructure, and collaborate to provide the best possible care for the pediatric and adult populations. This single-center experience outlines the considerations our hospital took into account when planning for this restructure and the steps taken to ensure a successful execution of the task. Cross-specialty collaboration between the pediatric and adult critical care teams adopted a unique approach to care for only critically ill COVID-19 positive adult patients in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU), transferring out critically unwell children at an early stage before the adult intensive care unit (AICU) became overwhelmed (nonhybrid model). This was designed to be in a staggered fashion, before allowing the AICU to overflow. This approach enabled the adult critical care team to support pediatric colleagues in learning the nuances of looking after critically ill adults prior to the service being saturated by the predicted supersurge. The success of the operation hinged on two things. First, PICU staff continuing to work in a familiar environment with their usual clinical team and second, the gradual and controlled admission of adult patients into PICU before the peak in demand for critical care beds. This design helped protect staff morale and build confidence in their new clinical role. The overall case fatality of invasively ventilated patients with COVID-19 in our hospital during the first surge was 32%, which is lower than the global average of 45%. This serves as evidence that this nonhybrid model is safe and sustainable.
Temperature and humidity sensor based on MEMS technology
Authors: Zhao Dongyan , Wang Yubo , Shao Jin , Zhang Peng , Chen Yanning , Fu Zhen , Wang Shuaipeng , Zhao Wenlong , Zhou Zhimei , Yuan Yuandong , Fu Dengyuan , Zhu Yinfang
Published: August 2021

This work presents a monolithically integrated temperature and humidity sensor based on microelectromechanical systems technology. The temperature sensor working on the “bi-metallic” effect has the advantages of wide temperature range, high sensitivity, and fast detection. The humidity sensor has a polyimide parallel plate capacitive structure with the microporous array on the upper electrode designed for high sensitivity and fast response. Numerical analysis and COMSOL simulation showed that the temperature detection sensitivity is 0.2 mV/°C in the range of 193–393 K and humidity sensitivity is 0.405 pF/% relative humidity (RH) with the response time of 34 s in the humidity range of 0%–100% RH. The integrated temperature and humidity sensor has the advantages of small dimension, wide detection range, high precision, and fast response.
Structure and tunneling magneto-dielectric properties of Co–SrF2 nano-granular thin films
Authors: Wang Cheng , Cao Yang , Kobayashi Nobukiyo , Ohnuma Shigehiro , Masumoto Hiroshi
Published: August 2021

Nano-granular thin films with a new composition designed to enhance the tunneling magneto-dielectric (TMD) effect of Co–SrF2 were successfully deposited using the co-sputtering method. This study explored the influence of the crystallinity of the matrix material on nano-granular structures. Cobalt contents were controlled from 0 to 19 at. % by changing the power of the cobalt cathode from 0 to 205 W. The structures in which the Co granules (Φ 3–4 nm) were homogeneously dispersed in the crystallized SrF2 matrix were clearly observed by transmission electron microscopy and its diffraction patterns. The dielectric constant of the Co19–(SrF2)81 thin film peaked at the giant value of 648 and the saturation magnetization peaked at 3.1 kG, but this material still exhibited a TMD response Δε′/ε′0 of 1.0%. For the Co16–(SrF2)84 thin film, the TMD response peaked at 3.5%, which is higher than previously reported. This study confirmed that increased matrix crystallinity can enhance the TMD response. It also provides motivation for other microstructure improvements.
Influence of the pivot location on the thrust and propulsive efficiency performance of a two-dimensional flapping elliptic airfoil in a forward flight
Authors: Sinha Jit , Lua Kim Boon , Dash Sunil Manohar
Published: August 2021

In this article, the effect of the pivot point location on the thrust performance of a two-dimensional sinusoidal flapping elliptic airfoil in a forward flight condition is investigated using numerical simulations and in-house water tunnel experiments. On the chord line, three different pivot locations at a distance of 0.25c, 0.5c, and 0.75c from the leading edge of the airfoil are considered, where c is the chord length of the airfoil. The flapping frequency and effective angle of attack are varied to investigate the propulsive performance of the airfoil at a Reynolds number of 5000. It is noticed that a modification in the pivot location significantly influences the linear velocity distribution, the evolution of the leading-edge vortex, and the near wake region on the airfoil. Consequently, both the transient and time-averaged thrust coefficient of the flapping airfoil is considerably affected. In addition, we have observed when the flapping frequency is increased, the time-averaged thrust coefficient of the airfoil tends to increase up to a critical Strouhal number and deteriorates thereafter. The same trend of time-averaged thrust coefficient is seen at all considered pivot locations and effective angle of attacks. Our finding suggests, at the high flapping frequency, the formation of rotation induced adverse suction region around the airfoil and delay in the shedding of the leading edge vortex developed in the previous flapping stroke are the primary sources, attributing to the thrust deterioration of the flapping airfoil with symmetric pivot location 0.5c. On the other hand, the thrust degrading effects at the two asymmetric pivot locations, 0.25c and 0.75c, are triggered by the adverse suction regions induced by asymmetric airfoil-surface velocity distribution as well as airfoil-wake vortices interaction. Moreover, the thrust degradation can be postponed to a higher critical Strouhal number if the airfoil pivot location is set near the leading edge and higher amplitude of effective angle of attack is followed. Besides, we found that the airfoil propulsive efficiency is affected due to a change in the aerodynamic power co-efficient with the modification of the pivot location. Furthermore, our observation concludes that the pivot location at 0.25c from the leading edge has maximum time-averaged thrust and propulsive efficiency performances at least for the range of pivot locations, flapping frequencies, and effective angle of attacks examined here.
Flow characteristics of low pressure chemical vapor deposition in the micro-channel
Authors: Yang Zhou , Zhang Yue , Cheng Yi , Liu Zhongfan , Chen Songze
Published: August 2021

Chemical vapor deposition is a method of producing thin films by chemical reactions on the substrate surface. The preparation of semiconductor devices, graphene fiber materials, carbon nanotubes, and other materials by this method involves the reaction of the rarefied gas flows. In this paper, the flow characteristics of two-component dilute gases containing methane and hydrogen are studied by numerical simulation, which also provides an explanation for the experimental phenomena of graphene growth in rarefied conditions. To reveal the reaction mechanism from the perspective of molecular collision effects, the competitive mechanism between the collision effects in the bulk region and on the substrate surface is studied over a wide range of Kn. It is found that the collisions in the bulk region dominate at moderate Kn (0.1–5), while the surface collisions are prevailing at large Kn (Kn > 5). Furthermore, the influence of inlet gas temperature, Kn, and aspect ratio of a single channel on system temperature distribution is also studied. The results show that the temperature distribution is symmetrical for a rarefied system, while it is asymmetric when the system is in the near continuum regime. Furthermore, the change in aspect ratio has little effect on the temperature distribution.
Sexual and reproductive health service utilisation of adolescents and young people from migrant and refugee backgrounds in high-income settings: a qualitative evidence synthesis (QES)
Authors: Maheen Humaira , Chalmers Kate , Khaw Sarah , McMichael Celia
Published: August 2021

Young people with migrant or refugee backgrounds from low- and middle-income countries settle in high-income countries and tend to underutilise sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services. This review aimed to explore perceptions and experiences of SRH services and the factors that shape their use among migrant youth. It focuses on qualitative studies that examine SRH service use among young migrants living in high-income countries. Seven peer-review databases and web-based grey literature were searched using pre-determined search criteria. The review includes 16 articles that met the inclusion criteria. The qualitative evidence synthesis (QES) method was used to synthesise findings. Thematic analysis resulted in five main themes and 11 sub-themes. Findings suggest that despite diversity of countries of origin and host countries, there were considerable similarities in their perceptions of and experiences with SRH services. Some young migrants reported experiences of discrimination by service providers. Cost of care was a deterrent to SRH service use in countries without universal healthcare coverage. Lack of information about SRH services, concerns about confidentiality, community stigma around sexually transmitted infections and premarital sex were key barriers to SRH service use. Health systems should integrate flexible service delivery options to address access barriers of SRH service use in young migrants. Engagement with parents and communities can help to destigmatise sexual health problems, including STIs. Host countries need to equip young migrants with the knowledge required to make informed SRH decisions and access relevant SRH services and resources.
Experimentally testing the response of feral cats and their prey to poison baiting
Authors: Doherty Tim S. , Hall Michelle L. , Parkhurst Ben , Westcott Vanessa
Published: August 2021

Abstract Context Feral cats, Felis catus, have caused the decline and extinction of many species worldwide, particularly on islands and in Australia where native species are generally naïve to the threat of this introduced predator. Effectively reducing cat populations to protect wildlife is challenging because cats have a cryptic nature, high reproductive rate and strong reinvasion ability. Aims We experimentally tested the response of feral cats and their native prey to an Eradicat® poison baiting program at a conservation reserve. Methods Baits were distributed by hand along roads and tracks every 50 m (~10 baits km−2). We used camera traps to monitor the response of cats to baiting using a repeated before–after, control–impact design over 6 years. We also measured introduced rabbit, Oryctolagus cuniculus, activity by using sand pads and small mammal and reptile captures by using pitfall trapping. Key results Dynamic occupancy modelling showed only modest effects of baiting on cats in 2 of 6 years, with occupancy in the baited area decreasing from 54% to 19% in 2014 (–35%) and from 89% to 63% in 2017 (–26%). Baiting effectiveness was not related to antecedent rainfall or prey availability. Bait availability was reduced by non-target interference; 73% of 41 monitored baits were removed by non-target species. We found no evidence for persistent changes in small mammal or reptile capture rates in the baited area relative to the unbaited area over the life of the project. Conclusions Relatively low baiting density and non-target interference with baits are likely to have reduced baiting efficacy. Further testing and refinement of ground baiting is needed, including trialling higher baiting densities and/or frequencies. Implications We highlight key areas for future research that should benefit feral cat management not only in Australia, but also on the many islands worldwide where cats threaten native wildlife.
Oculo-retinal dynamics can explain the perception of minimal recognizable configurations
Authors: Gruber Liron Zipora , Ullman Shimon , Ahissar Ehud
Published: August 2021

Significance

Humans move their eyes continuously to scan their environment. Yet, the role of eye movements in object recognition is not known. In this work, we recorded eye movements of participants attempting to recognize images that are just above and below the threshold of human recognition. To assess the contribution of retinal dynamics, we modeled the activation patterns resulting from the continuous interactions of eye movements with the viewed image. We then trained a classifier to differentiate recognized from unrecognized trials. We show that recognition could be classified only when the continuous interactions between eye movements and the image were used. We suggest that vision is mediated by continuous interactions between eye movements and the environment, resulting in dynamic oculo-retinal coding.
Dynamic localization of a helper NLR at the plant–pathogen interface underpins pathogen recognition
Authors: Duggan Cian , Moratto Eleonora , Savage Zachary , Hamilton Eranthika , Adachi Hiroaki , Wu Chih-Hang , Leary Alexandre Y. , Tumtas Yasin , Rothery Stephen M. , Maqbool Abbas , Nohut Seda , Martin Toby Ross , Kamoun Sophien , Bozkurt Tolga Osman
Published: August 2021

Significance

Plant NLRs function as intracellular immune sensors of pathogen virulence factors known as effectors. In the resting state, NLRs localize to subcellular sites where the effectors they sense operate. However, the extent to which NLRs alter their subcellular distribution during infection remains elusive. We describe dynamic changes in spatiotemporal localization of an NLR protein in infected plant cells. Specifically, the NLR protein accumulates at the newly synthesized plant–pathogen interface membrane, where the corresponding effectors are deployed. Following immune recognition, the activated receptor reorganizes to form punctate structures that target the cell periphery. We propose that NLRs are not necessarily stationary receptors but instead may spread to other cellular membranes from the primary site of activation to boost immune responses.
Cryo-EM structures of
Escherichia coli
cytochrome
bo

3

reveal bound phospholipids and ubiquinone-8 in a dynamic substrate binding site
Authors: Li Jiao , Han Long , Vallese Francesca , Ding Ziqiao , Choi Sylvia K. , Hong Sangjin , Luo Yanmei , Liu Bin , Chan Chun Kit , Tajkhorshid Emad , Zhu Jiapeng , Clarke Oliver , Zhang Kai , Gennis Robert
Published: August 2021

Significance

Quinol oxidases that are members of the heme–copper superfamily of respiratory oxygen reductases have evolved from cytochrome
c
oxidases. They directly oxidize quinol and reduce oxygen to water. Here, we describe two high-resolution cryogenic electron microscopy structures of the proton-pumping cytochrome
bo

3

ubiquinol oxidase in styrene–maleic acid copolymer nanodiscs and in membrane scaffold protein nanodiscs. Each structure contains one equivalent of well-resolved ubiquinone-8 in the substrate binding site as well as several phospholipid molecules. These structures indicate that H98
I
has two conformations that allow H98
I
hydrogen bonded to carbonyl O4 of the UQ8 or with E14
I
. We propose that H98
I
dynamics serves to shuttle protons from ubiquinol-8 via E14
I
to the bulk aqueous phase upon ubiquinol-8 oxidation.
Synergistic dispersal of plant pathogen spores by jumping-droplet condensation and wind
Authors: Mukherjee Ranit , Gruszewski Hope A. , Bilyeu Landon T. , Schmale David G. , Boreyko Jonathan B.
Published: August 2021

Significance

Some fungal diseases spread within and among crops via the aerial dispersal of microscopic spores. Existing studies have characterized the liberation and dispersal of spores via wind and/or rain splash. Here, we show that dew droplets spontaneously jumping from superhydrophobic wheat leaves can disperse adhered spores, even in the complete absence of rain or strong winds. We found that the jumping-droplet effect results in short-range spore dispersal in the absence of wind. Long-range dispersal was possible when jumped droplets became suspended in a gentle wind, which is a synergistic effect as the wind alone was unable to dislodge dry spores. Finally, we show that proactive measures, such as applying a fungicide to suppress jumping-droplet condensation, can prevent dew-induced disease spread.
A recombinant herpes virus expressing influenza hemagglutinin confers protection and induces antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity
Authors: Kaugars Katherine , Dardick Joseph , de Oliveira Anna Paula , Weiss Kayla A. , Lukose Regy , Kim John , Leung Lawrence , Rajagopalan Saranathan , Wolin Sydney , Akabas Leor , Knipe David M. , Bajic Goran , Jacobs William R.
Published: August 2021

Significance

Despite decades of research, we lack an effective vaccine against influenza, a deadly virus that costs the United States nearly $90 billion annually. Current strategies do not translate into highly protective immunity against circulating and novel influenza strains. Here, we demonstrate that a herpes simplex viral (HSV) vector expressing hemagglutinin can be used to elicit a protective response against influenza. The efficacy of this vector is not abrogated by preexisting immunity to HSV, protects against lethal HSV challenge, and elicits highly functional FcγRIV-binding antibodies that can activate immune cell effector function. Expanding the use of ΔgD-2 as a viral vector in general could generate vaccines that are highly protective, quickly synthesized, and simultaneously effective against multiple pathogens.
Who did what to whom, and what did we already know?
Authors: Ionin Tania , Goldshtein Maria , Luchkina Tatiana , Styrina Sofya
Published: August 2021

This paper reports on an experimental investigation of what second language (L2) learners and heritage speakers of
Russian know about the relationship between word order and information structure in Russian. The participants completed a bimodal
acceptability judgment task, rating the acceptability of SVO and OVS word orders in narrow-focus contexts, under neutral prosody.
Heritage speakers behaved like the control group of baseline speakers, preferring SVO order in answer to object questions, and OVS
order in answer to subject questions. In contrast, L2 learners preferred SVO order regardless of the context. While the heritage
speaker group was more proficient than the L2 group, proficiency alone cannot account for differences in performance:
specifically, with regard to acceptance of OVS order for subject narrow focus, heritage speakers improved with proficiency, but L2
learners did not. It is proposed that heritage speakers have an advantage in this domain due to early age of acquisition (cf.
Montrul, 2008). This finding is consistent with prior literature on narrow focus
with heritage speakers of other languages, and suggests that this phenomenon is not particularly vulnerable in heritage
languages.
The role of existing language knowledge in bilingual and multilingual toddlers’ repetition of cross-linguistic and language-specific nonwords
Authors: Verhagen Josje , Andringa Sible
Published: August 2021

Previous studies have shown that bilingual children typically score more poorly on nonword repetition (NWR) tasks than monolingual peers, which has been attributed to bilinguals’ lower proficiency in the language that the NWR task is based on. To enable fairer assessments of bilingual children, Cross-Linguistic NWR tasks (CL-NWR tasks) have been developed that are based on the linguistic properties of many languages. The aim of this study is to investigate whether young children’s performance on a CL-NWR is less dependent on existing knowledge of a specific language than performance on a Language-Specific (Dutch-based) NWR (LS-NWR). Bilingual and multilingual two- and three-year-olds (N = 216) completed a CL-NWR and LS-NWR, as well as a Dutch receptive vocabulary task. Parents reported the number of languages children spoke other than Dutch. Results of linear mixed-effect regressions showed that Dutch vocabulary scores related to performance on the CL-NWR task less strongly than to performance on the LS-NWR task. The number of non-Dutch languages spoken did not differentially relate to performance on the two tasks. These findings indicate that CL-NWR tasks – at least as used here – allow for more language-neutral NWR assessments within linguistically diverse samples, already at toddler age.
Constructing sites of memory and practising nationalism beyond the homeland: Georgian migrants in the USA and Germany
Authors: Araviashvili Maia , Ladaria Konstantine
Published: August 2021

The article deals with constructing and/or reproducing sites of national memory and cultural heritage among Georgian immigrant communities in the USA (New York City) and Germany (Berlin and Regensburg). Georgian immigrant communities in the USA and Germany consist of “old” and “new” arrivals, with people of various ages as well as different professional and employment backgrounds. We try to address the questions: how do socioeconomic challenges, legal immigration status, job opportunities and living conditions influence immigrants’ attitudes toward national identity and culture? How do plans to stay and integrate into host societies define the ways immigrants “practice” nationalism? The symbolic realm of Georgian immigrant communities in the USA and Germany consists of both tangible and intangible sites of national identity and memory, as well as cultural heritage. We reflect on how national identity is “crystalized” and represented in material and physical settings (churches, and icon corners at home, for instance) and in certain national, cultural, and religious practices. These practices as cultural expressions manifest in preserving the native language, adhering to the Christian faith, celebrating Orthodox Christian holidays, learning national songs and dances, maintaining traditional cuisine, and eating habits, and more.
Multi-scale perturbation theory II:
Solutions and leading-order bispectrum in the ΛCDM universe
Authors: Gallagher Christopher S. , Clifton Timothy , Clarkson Chris
Published: August 2021

Two-parameter perturbation theory (2PPT) is a framework designed to include the relativistic gravitational effects of small-scale nonlinear structures on the large-scale properties of the Universe. In this paper we use the 2PPT framework to calculate and study the bispectrum of matter in a spatially-flat ΛCDM cosmology. This is achieved by deploying Newtonian perturbation theory to model the gravitational fields of quasi-nonlinear structures, and then subsequently using them as source terms for the large-scale cosmological perturbations. We find that our approach reproduces some of the expected relativistic effects from second-order cosmological perturbation theory, but not all. This work therefore provides a first step in deploying a formalism that can simultaneously model the weak gravitational fields of both linear and nonlinear structures in a realistic model of the Universe.
African continental free trade area (AfCFTA): projected economic impact assessment under future warming in CMIP6
Authors: Arreyndip Nkongho Ayuketang
Published: August 2021

Launched on 1 January 2021, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) aims to bring together 1.3 billion people in a US$3.4 trillion economic bloc. The World Bank estimates that the AfCFTA could lift tens of millions of people out of poverty by 2035. Previous studies have shown that an increase in annual mean temperature can significantly affect economic growth. The AfCFTA economy will therefore be affected by future warming. However, without the AfCFTA, the impact of the increased annual average temperature on local economies could be severe, further depriving low-income African countries of economic recovery. To assess the damage to regional economic growth caused by future warming, trend analyses are conducted in the aggregated historical CFSR/NCEP and CMIP6 (GFDL-ESM4) climate projection data from 1979 to 2100 for different emission pathways over some major continental economic centres. The long-term impact of surface temperature increase on gross regional product (GRP) per capita growth rates are investigated by fitting CMIP6 daily and annual mean temperatures to a log-polynomial regression model. The results show that an increase in annual mean temperature will significantly affect the economic growth of low latitude and altitude regions compared to high latitude and altitude regions. Most emerging African economies and many member states of the African Union and AfCFTA are located in this low latitude zone. This makes the economies of the newly created AfCFTA very vulnerable to climate change. Several studies suggest that FTAs can help reduce the economic vulnerability of developing countries. The results presented here can contribute to better design and implementation of economic, trade and climate policies in the AfCFTA to mitigate the economic impacts of future warming.
The peppermint breath test benchmark for PTR-MS and SIFT-MS
Authors: Henderson Ben , Slingers Gitte , Pedrotti Michele , Pugliese Giovanni , Malásková Michaela , Bryant Luke , Lomonaco Tommaso , Ghimenti Silvia , Moreno Sergi , Cordell Rebecca , Harren Frans J M , Schubert Jochen , Mayhew Chris A , Wilde Michael , Di Francesco Fabio , Koppen Gudrun , Beauchamp Jonathan D , Cristescu Simona M
Published: August 2021

A major challenge for breath research is the lack of standardization in sampling and analysis. To address this, a test that utilizes a standardized intervention and a defined study protocol has been proposed to explore disparities in breath research across different analytical platforms and to provide benchmark values for comparison. Specifically, the Peppermint Experiment involves the targeted analysis in exhaled breath of volatile constituents of peppermint oil after ingestion of the encapsulated oil. Data from the Peppermint Experiment performed by proton transfer reaction mass spectrometry (PTR-MS) and selected ion flow tube mass spectrometry (SIFT-MS) are presented and discussed herein, including the product ions associated with the key peppermint volatiles, namely limonene, α- and β-pinene, 1,8-cineole, menthol, menthone and menthofuran. The breath washout profiles of these compounds from 65 individuals were collected, comprising datasets from five PTR-MS and two SIFT-MS instruments. The washout profiles of these volatiles were evaluated by comparing the log-fold change over time of the product ion intensities associated with each volatile. Benchmark values were calculated from the lower 95% confidence interval of the linear time-to-washout regression analysis for all datasets combined. Benchmark washout values from PTR-MS analysis were 353 min for the sum of monoterpenes and 1,8-cineole (identical product ions), 173 min for menthol, 330 min for menthofuran, and 218 min for menthone; from SIFT-MS analysis values were 228 min for the sum of monoterpenes, 281 min for the sum of monoterpenes and 1,8-cineole, and 370 min for menthone plus 1,8-cineole. Large inter- and intra-dataset variations were observed, whereby the latter suggests that biological variability plays a key role in how the compounds are absorbed, metabolized and excreted from the body via breath. This variability seems large compared to the influence of sampling and analytical procedures, but further investigations are recommended to clarify the effects of these factors.
Establishment and optimization of sensor fault identification model based on classification and regression tree and particle swarm optimization
Authors: Jiang Xie , Zhang Xin , Zhang Yuxiang
Published: August 2021

The accuracy of structural state evaluation may be affected by the damaged piezoelectric sensors. Therefore, it is necessary to identify the sensor fault during monitoring. This paper proposes a method based on classification and regression tree (CART) and particle swarm optimization (PSO) to improve the efficiency of potential feature sets selection for sensor fault classification and build an identification model with the best performance. Firstly, the signal features of three structural changes and four sensor faults were extracted with five indexes. Then the decision trees (DT) for sensor fault classification were built based on different index combinations whose performances were then evaluated by the designed fitness function. Finally, PSO was used to optimize the searching for the best index combination. The results show that compared with the exhaustive method, adopting PSO for DT optimization can greatly simplify the search process. When the particle population is 5 and 10, the fitness converges to the optimal solution after only 6 and 4 iterations respectively. Although the DT with the best fitness is trained with only two indexes, its accuracy is higher than those trained with more indexes and the classification accuracy of 64 samples reaches 98.4% which shows the feasibility and practicability of the method.
Enhancing blue light absorption by Sm3+ Co-doing in Ca9Nd(PO4)7: Eu3+ for white light-emitting diodes
Authors: Zhao Jianwen , Dong Jun , Zhou Jian , Wang Linsheng
Published: August 2021

White light-emitting diodes (WLEDs) is widely concerned as the next-generation source of displays and lighting on account of many advantages. In this work, Sm3+ ions were introduced into Ca9Nd(PO4)7: Eu3+ (CNPO: Eu3+) red phosphors as a co-dopant to boost the blue-light excitation. X-ray diffraction (XRD) data confirm the successful preparation of the materials. Rietveld refinements were employed to investigate the site occupation and lattice parameter variation. All obtained materials have showed red emission under blue light or near-ultraviolet light excitation. The photoluminescence (PL) emission spectra features both signals from the two dopants, and the introduction of Sm3+ could effectively boost the red-light emission and blue-light excitation. Theoretical simulations help evidence the capability of the CNPO materials as host matrix of luminescent centers. Finally, a blue LED chip-based WLED was assembled in demonstration of their potential applications. Compared to the controlling device made with Eu3+ single-doped samples, the co-doped one has stronger blue light excitation and red light emission that guarantees a high luminous efficacy of over 90 lm W−1. The device also shows a superb long-term stability under continuous working. All in all, the CNPO: Eu3+, Sm3+ phosphors have shown many promising aspects in blue chip-based WLED applications.