bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of E26 transformation-specific variant transcription factor 5 in colorectal cancer cell proliferation and cell cycle progression
Authors: Peng Yi , Feng Haoran , Wang Changgang , Song Zijia , Zhang Yaqi , Liu Kun , Cheng Xi , Zhao Ren
Published: April 2021

E26 transformation-specific variant transcription factor 5 (ETV5) contributes to tumor growth and progression and promotes colorectal cancer (CRC) angiogenesis. Previous studies indicate that ETV5 may regulate the cell cycle, but its detailed mechanism remain unclear. Gene Ontology (GO) analysis of RNA-seq data revealed that ETV5 possibly regulates the cell cycle in CRC. Here, in vitro and in vivo experiments were performed to verify that ETV5 promoted tumor progression and influenced cell cycle G1/S transition. Cell cycle PCR array and co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) helped identify the p21-CDKs pathway. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) and luciferase reporter assays were performed to determine whether ETV5 binds to the p21 promoter. ETV5 and p21 were detected by immunohistochemistry, and the effects of their expression on CRC patients were evaluated. ETV5 upregulation enhanced tumor proliferative capacity and promoted G1 phase transfer to the S phase. ETV5 knockdown slowed the growth of CRC cells and repressed the G1/S transition. We also found p21 as a downstream target of ETV5. p21 knockdown resulted in faster CRC cell growth and in more cells being driven from the G0/1 phase into the S phase. Co-IP experiments showed that p21 banding to CDK2, CDK4, and CDK6 inhibited p130 phosphorylation. Using the ChIP and luciferase reporter assay, we confirmed that ETV5 bound to the p21 promoter and repressed p21 expression. CRC patients with high ETV5 expression and low p21 expression showed the worst prognosis. Finally, by targeting p21 to regulate CDK function, ETV5 also changed drug-sensitivity to palbociclib and dinaciclib. In conclusion, ETV5 promoted cell cycle G1/S transition through transcriptional inhibition of p21, thereby accelerating tumor growth. Moreover, ETV5 changed drug-sensitivity to palbociclib and dinaciclib. Therefore, therapeutic regimens targeting ETV5 may be promising in improving the efficacy of target-CDK treatment in CRC.
SMYD2 promotes tumorigenesis and metastasis of lung adenocarcinoma through RPS7
Authors: Wu Lei , Kou Fan , Ji Zhenyu , Li Baihui , Zhang Bailu , Guo Yan , Yang Lili
Published: May 2021

The protein methyltransferase SET and MYND domain-containing protein 2 (SMYD2) is a transcriptional regulator that methylates histones and nonhistone proteins. As an oncogene, SMYD2 has been investigated in numerous types of cancer. However, its involvement in lung cancer remains elusive. The prognostic value of SMYD2 expression in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) was determined through bioinformatics analysis, reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction, western blotting, and immunohistochemistry. The effect of SMYD2 on LUAD cell proliferation and metastasis was explored in vivo and in vitro, and the underlying mechanisms were investigated via RNA-seq, and chromatin immunoprecipitation-quantitative PCR. SMYD2 expression was significantly upregulated in LUAD cell lines and tissues. High SMYD2 expression was associated with shorter overall and disease-free survival in LUAD patients. Inhibition of SMYD2 with SMYD2 knockdown or AZ505 dramatically inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion ability of GLC-82 and SPC-A1 cells and remarkably reduced tumor growth in mice. Mechanically, SMYD2 may activate the transcription of ribosomal small subunit protein 7 (RPS7) by binding to its promoter. Following overexpression of SMYD2, the proliferation, migration, and invasion of cells increased, which was partially reversed by RPS7. Thus, SMYD2 might modulate tumorigenesis and metastasis mediated by RPS7 LUAD. SMYD2 might be a prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target in LUAD.
EGFR-ERK induced activation of GRHL1 promotes cell cycle progression by up-regulating cell cycle related genes in lung cancer
Authors: He Yiming , Gan Mingxi , Wang Yanan , Huang Tong , Wang Jianbin , Han Tianyu , Yu Bentong
Published: April 2021

Grainyhead-like 1 (GRHL1) is a transcription factor involved in embryonic development. However, little is known about the biological functions of GRHL1 in cancer. In this study, we found that GRHL1 was upregulated in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and correlated with poor survival of patients. GRHL1 overexpression promoted the proliferation of NSCLC cells and knocking down GRHL1 inhibited the proliferation. RNA sequencing showed that a series of cell cycle-related genes were altered when knocking down GRHL1. We further demonstrated that GRHL1 could regulate the expression of cell cycle-related genes by binding to the promoter regions and increasing the transcription of the target genes. Besides, we also found that EGF stimulation could activate GRHL1 and promoted its nuclear translocation. We identified the key phosphorylation site at Ser76 on GRHL1 that is regulated by the EGFR-ERK axis. Taken together, these findings elucidate a new function of GRHL1 on regulating the cell cycle progression and point out the potential role of GRHL1 as a drug target in NSCLC.
A redox probe screens MTHFD1 as a determinant of gemcitabine chemoresistance in cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Pan Ruogu , Yuan Zhiqing , Liu Yingbin , Sun Xuxu , Wang Guiyang , Wang Xiaopen , Qu Junwen , Wang Jian , Yang Jie , Zhao Yuzheng , Yang Yi , Li Kewei
Published: May 2021

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a type of solid tumor derived from the bile duct epithelium that features universal gemcitabine resistance. Here, we utilized a gene-encoded ROS biosensor probe (HyPer3 probe) to sort subpopulations with different redox statuses from CCA cells. The isolated HyPer-low subpopulation CCA cells, which exhibited relatively lower cellular ROS levels, exhibited higher chemoresistance to gemcitabine than HyPer-high subpopulation CCA cells in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, increased expression ofMTHFD1was found in HyPer-low cells. Knocking downMTHFD1in HyPer-low cells enhanced cellular ROS and restored sensitivity to gemcitabine. Furthermore, theMTHFD1inhibitor antifolate compound methotrexate (MTX) increased cellular ROS, and combining gemcitabine with MTX effectively suppressed cholangiocarcinoma cell growth. In summary, theMTHFD1level mediated the heterogeneous cellular redox status in CCA, which resulted in chemoresistance to gemcitabine. Our data suggest a novel strategy for CCA chemotherapy.
Author Correction: Calcium channel blocker amlodipine besylate therapy is associated with reduced case fatality rate of COVID-19 patients with hypertension
Authors: Zhang Lei-Ke , Sun Yuan , Zeng Haolong , Wang Qingxing , Jiang Xiaming , Shang Wei-Juan , Wu Yan , Li Shufen , Zhang Yu-Lan , Hao Zhao-Nian , Chen Hongbo , Jin Runming , Liu Wei , Li Hao , Peng Ke , Xiao Gengfu
Published: May 2021

A Correction to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41421-021-00267-0
Cancer of unknown primary stem-like cells model multi-organ metastasis and unveil liability to MEK inhibition
Authors: Verginelli Federica , Pisacane Alberto , Gambardella Gennaro , D’Ambrosio Antonio , Candiello Ermes , Ferrio Marco , Panero Mara , Casorzo Laura , Benvenuti Silvia , Cascardi Eliano , Senetta Rebecca , Geuna Elena , Ballabio Andrea , Montemurro Filippo , Sapino Anna , Comoglio Paolo M. , Boccaccio Carla
Published: May 2021

Cancers of unknown primary (CUPs), featuring metastatic dissemination in the absence of a primary tumor, are a biological enigma and a fatal disease. We propose that CUPs are a distinct, yet unrecognized, pathological entity originating from stem-like cells endowed with peculiar and shared properties. These cells can be isolated in vitro (agnospheres) and propagated in vivo by serial transplantation, displaying high tumorigenicity. After subcutaneous engraftment, agnospheres recapitulate the CUP phenotype, by spontaneously and quickly disseminating, and forming widespread established metastases. Regardless of different genetic backgrounds, agnospheres invariably display cell-autonomous proliferation and self-renewal, mostly relying on unrestrained activation of the MAP kinase/MYC axis, which confers sensitivity to MEK inhibitors in vitro and in vivo. Such sensitivity is associated with a transcriptomic signature predicting that more than 70% of CUP patients could be eligible to MEK inhibition. These data shed light on CUP biology and unveil an opportunity for therapeutic intervention.
Single nucleus RNA-sequencing defines unexpected diversity of cholinergic neuron types in the adult mouse spinal cord
Authors: Alkaslasi Mor R. , Piccus Zoe E. , Hareendran Sangeetha , Silberberg Hanna , Chen Li , Zhang Yajun , Petros Timothy J. , Le Pichon Claire E.
Published: April 2021

In vertebrates, motor control relies on cholinergic neurons in the spinal cord that have been extensively studied over the past hundred years, yet the full heterogeneity of these neurons and their different functional roles in the adult remain to be defined. Here, we develop a targeted single nuclear RNA sequencing approach and use it to identify an array of cholinergic interneurons, visceral and skeletal motor neurons. Our data expose markers for distinguishing these classes of cholinergic neurons and their rich diversity. Specifically, visceral motor neurons, which provide autonomic control, can be divided into more than a dozen transcriptomic classes with anatomically restricted localization along the spinal cord. The complexity of the skeletal motor neurons is also reflected in our analysis with alpha, gamma, and a third subtype, possibly corresponding to the elusive beta motor neurons, clearly distinguished. In combination, our data provide a comprehensive transcriptomic description of this important population of neurons that control many aspects of physiology and movement and encompass the cellular substrates for debilitating degenerative disorders.
A pan-cancer analysis of CpG Island gene regulation reveals extensive plasticity within Polycomb target genes
Authors: Zheng Yueyuan , Huang Guowei , Silva Tiago C. , Yang Qian , Jiang Yan-Yi , Koeffler H. Phillip , Lin De-Chen , Berman Benjamin P.
Published: April 2021

CpG Island promoter genes make up more than half of human genes, and a subset regulated by Polycomb-Repressive Complex 2 (PRC2+-CGI) become DNA hypermethylated and silenced in cancer. Here, we perform a systematic analysis of CGI genes across TCGA cancer types, finding that PRC2+-CGI genes are frequently prone to transcriptional upregulation as well. These upregulated PRC2+-CGI genes control important pathways such as Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) and TNFα-associated inflammatory response, and have greater cancer-type specificity than other CGI genes. Using publicly available chromatin datasets and genetic perturbations, we show that transcription factor binding sites (TFBSs) within distal enhancers underlie transcriptional activation of PRC2+-CGI genes, coinciding with loss of the PRC2-associated mark H3K27me3 at the linked promoter. In contrast, PRC2-free CGI genes are predominantly regulated by promoter TFBSs which are common to most cancer types. Surprisingly, a large subset of PRC2+-CGI genes that are upregulated in one cancer type are also hypermethylated/silenced in at least one other cancer type, underscoring the high degree of regulatory plasticity of these genes, likely derived from their complex regulatory control during normal development.
Diversity amongst human cortical pyramidal neurons revealed via their sag currents and frequency preferences
Authors: Moradi Chameh Homeira , Rich Scott , Wang Lihua , Chen Fu-Der , Zhang Liang , Carlen Peter L. , Tripathy Shreejoy J. , Valiante Taufik A.
Published: May 2021

In the human neocortex coherent interlaminar theta oscillations are driven by deep cortical layers, suggesting neurons in these layers exhibit distinct electrophysiological properties. To characterize this potential distinctiveness, we use in vitro whole-cell recordings from cortical layers 2 and 3 (L2&3), layer 3c (L3c) and layer 5 (L5) of the human cortex. Across all layers we observe notable heterogeneity, indicating human cortical pyramidal neurons are an electrophysiologically diverse population. L5 pyramidal cells are the most excitable of these neurons and exhibit the most prominent sag current (abolished by blockade of the hyperpolarization activated cation current, Ih). While subthreshold resonance is more common in L3c and L5, we rarely observe this resonance at frequencies greater than 2 Hz. However, the frequency dependent gain of L5 neurons reveals they are most adept at tracking both delta and theta frequency inputs, a unique feature that may indirectly be important for the generation of cortical theta oscillations.
Wildfires increasingly impact western US fluvial networks
Authors: Ball Grady , Regier Peter , González-Pinzón Ricardo , Reale Justin , Van Horn David
Published: April 2021

Wildfires are increasing globally in frequency, severity, and extent, but their impact on fluvial networks, and the resources they provide, remains unclear. We combine remote sensing of burn perimeter and severity, in-situ water quality monitoring, and longitudinal modeling to create the first large-scale, long-term estimates of stream+river length impacted by wildfire for the western US. We find that wildfires directly impact ~6% of the total stream+river length between 1984 and 2014, increasing at a rate of 342 km/year. When longitudinal propagation of water quality impacts is included, we estimate that wildfires affect ~11% of the total stream+river length. Our results indicate that wildfire activity is one of the largest drivers of aquatic impairment, though it is not routinely reported by regulatory agencies, as wildfire impacts on fluvial networks remain unconstrained. We identify key actions to address this knowledge gap and better understand the growing threat to fluvial networks, water security, and public health risks.
Dielectric screening in perovskite photovoltaics
Authors: Su Rui , Xu Zhaojian , Wu Jiang , Luo Deying , Hu Qin , Yang Wenqiang , Yang Xiaoyu , Zhang Ruopeng , Yu Hongyu , Russell Thomas P. , Gong Qihuang , Zhang Wei , Zhu Rui
Published: April 2021

The performance of perovskite photovoltaics is fundamentally impeded by the presence of undesirable defects that contribute to non-radiative losses within the devices. Although mitigating these losses has been extensively reported by numerous passivation strategies, a detailed understanding of loss origins within the devices remains elusive. Here, we demonstrate that the defect capturing probability estimated by the capture cross-section is decreased by varying the dielectric response, producing the dielectric screening effect in the perovskite. The resulting perovskites also show reduced surface recombination and a weaker electron-phonon coupling. All of these boost the power conversion efficiency to 22.3% for an inverted perovskite photovoltaic device with a high open-circuit voltage of 1.25 V and a low voltage deficit of 0.37 V (a bandgap ~1.62 eV). Our results provide not only an in-depth understanding of the carrier capture processes in perovskites, but also a promising pathway for realizing highly efficient devices via dielectric regulation.
Epitaxy, exfoliation, and strain-induced magnetism in rippled Heusler membranes
Authors: Du Dongxue , Manzo Sebastian , Zhang Chenyu , Saraswat Vivek , Genser Konrad T. , Rabe Karin M. , Voyles Paul M. , Arnold Michael S. , Kawasaki Jason K.
Published: May 2021

Single-crystalline membranes of functional materials enable the tuning of properties via extreme strain states; however, conventional routes for producing membranes require the use of sacrificial layers and chemical etchants, which can both damage the membrane and limit the ability to make them ultrathin. Here we demonstrate the epitaxial growth of the cubic Heusler compound GdPtSb on graphene-terminated Al2O3 substrates. Despite the presence of the graphene interlayer, the Heusler films have epitaxial registry to the underlying sapphire, as revealed by x-ray diffraction, reflection high energy electron diffraction, and transmission electron microscopy. The weak Van der Waals interactions of graphene enable mechanical exfoliation to yield free-standing GdPtSb membranes, which form ripples when transferred to a flexible polymer handle. Whereas unstrained GdPtSb is antiferromagnetic, measurements on rippled membranes show a spontaneous magnetic moment at room temperature, with a saturation magnetization of 5.2 bohr magneton per Gd. First-principles calculations show that the coupling to homogeneous strain is too small to induce ferromagnetism, suggesting a dominant role for strain gradients. Our membranes provide a novel platform for tuning the magnetic properties of intermetallic compounds via strain (piezomagnetism and magnetostriction) and strain gradients (flexomagnetism).
Distinct circadian mechanisms govern cardiac rhythms and susceptibility to arrhythmia
Authors: Hayter Edward A. , Wehrens Sophie M. T. , Van Dongen Hans P. A. , Stangherlin Alessandra , Gaddameedhi Shobhan , Crooks Elena , Barron Nichola J. , Venetucci Luigi A. , O’Neill John S. , Brown Timothy M. , Skene Debra J. , Trafford Andrew W. , Bechtold David A.
Published: April 2021

Electrical activity in the heart exhibits 24-hour rhythmicity, and potentially fatal arrhythmias are more likely to occur at specific times of day. Here, we demonstrate that circadian clocks within the brain and heart set daily rhythms in sinoatrial (SA) and atrioventricular (AV) node activity, and impose a time-of–day dependent susceptibility to ventricular arrhythmia. Critically, the balance of circadian inputs from the autonomic nervous system and cardiomyocyte clock to the SA and AV nodes differ, and this renders the cardiac conduction system sensitive to decoupling during abrupt shifts in behavioural routine and sleep-wake timing. Our findings reveal a functional segregation of circadian control across the heart’s conduction system and inherent susceptibility to arrhythmia.
Author Correction: Pharmacological rescue in patient iPSC and mouse models with a rare DISC1 mutation
Authors: Kim Nam-Shik , Wen Zhexing , Liu Jing , Zhou Ying , Guo Ziyuan , Xu Chongchong , Lin Yu-Ting , Yoon Ki-Jun , Park Junhyun , Cho Michelle , Kim Minji , Wang Xinyuan , Yu Huimei , Sakamuru Srilatha , Christian Kimberly M. , Hsu Kuei-sen , Xia Menghang , Li Weidong , Ross Christopher A. , Margolis Russell L. , Lu Xin-Yun , Song Hongjun , Ming Guo-li
Published: April 2021

https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-021-23263-0
Prognostic relevance of the hexosamine biosynthesis pathway activation in leiomyosarcoma
Authors: Tolwani Angela , Matusiak Magdalena , Bui Nam , Forgó Erna , Varma Sushama , Baratto Lucia , Iagaru Andrei , Lazar Alexander J. , van de Rijn Matt , Przybyl Joanna
Published: May 2021

Metabolic reprogramming of tumor cells and the increase of glucose uptake is one of the hallmarks of cancer. In order to identify metabolic pathways activated in leiomyosarcoma (LMS), we analyzed transcriptomic profiles of distinct subtypes of LMS in several datasets. Primary, recurrent and metastatic tumors in the subtype 2 of LMS showed consistent enrichment of genes involved in hexosamine biosynthesis pathway (HBP). We demonstrated that glutamine-fructose-6-phosphate transaminase 2 (GFPT2), the rate-limiting enzyme in HBP, is expressed on protein level in a subset of LMS and the expression of this enzyme is frequently retained in patient-matched primary and metastatic tumors. In a new independent cohort of 327 patients, we showed that GFPT2 is associated with poor outcome of uterine LMS but not extra-uterine LMS. Based on the analysis of a small group of patients studied by 18F-FDG-PET imaging, we propose that strong expression of GFPT2 in primary LMS may be associated with high metabolic activity. Our data suggest that HBP is a potential new therapeutic target in one of the subtypes of LMS.
A high-resolution daily gridded meteorological dataset for Serbia made by Random Forest Spatial Interpolation
Authors: Sekulić Aleksandar , Kilibarda Milan , Protić Dragutin , Bajat Branislav
Published: April 2021

We produced the first daily gridded meteorological dataset at a 1-km spatial resolution across Serbia for 2000–2019, named MeteoSerbia1km. The dataset consists of five daily variables: maximum, minimum and mean temperature, mean sea-level pressure, and total precipitation. In addition to daily summaries, we produced monthly and annual summaries, and daily, monthly, and annual long-term means. Daily gridded data were interpolated using the Random Forest Spatial Interpolation methodology, based on using the nearest observations and distances to them as spatial covariates, together with environmental covariates to make a random forest model. The accuracy of the MeteoSerbia1km daily dataset was assessed using nested 5-fold leave-location-out cross-validation. All temperature variables and sea-level pressure showed high accuracy, although accuracy was lower for total precipitation, due to the discontinuity in its spatial distribution. MeteoSerbia1km was also compared with the E-OBS dataset with a coarser resolution: both datasets showed similar coarse-scale patterns for all daily meteorological variables, except for total precipitation. As a result of its high resolution, MeteoSerbia1km is suitable for further environmental analyses.
The effect of process variables on the physical properties and microstructure of HOPO nanoemulsion flakes obtained by refractance window
Authors: Hernández-Carrión M. , Moyano-Molano M. , Ricaurte L. , Clavijo-Romero A. , Quintanilla-Carvajal M. X.
Published: April 2021

Refractance window (RW) drying is considered an emerging technique in the food field due to its scalability, energy efficiency, cost and end-product quality. It can be used for obtaining flakes from high-oleic palm oil (HOPO) nanoemulsions containing a high concentration of temperature-sensitive active compounds. This work was thus aimed at studying the effect of temperature, thickness of the film drying, nanoemulsion process conditions, and emulsion formulation on the flakes’ physical properties and microstructure. The results showed that HOPO flakes had good physical characteristics: 1.4% to 5.6% moisture content and 0.26 to 0.58 aw. Regarding microstructure, lower fractal dimension (FDt) was obtained when RW drying temperature increased, which is related to more regular surfaces. The results indicated that flakes with optimal physical properties can be obtained by RW drying of HOPO nanoemulsions.
CB1 antagonism increases excitatory synaptogenesis in a cortical spheroid model of fetal brain development
Authors: Papariello Alexis , Taylor David , Soderstrom Ken , Litwa Karen
Published: April 2021

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) plays a complex role in the development of neural circuitry during fetal brain development. The cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1) controls synaptic strength at both excitatory and inhibitory synapses and thus contributes to the balance of excitatory and inhibitory signaling. Imbalances in the ratio of excitatory to inhibitory synapses have been implicated in various neuropsychiatric disorders associated with dysregulated central nervous system development including autism spectrum disorder, epilepsy, and schizophrenia. The role of CB1 in human brain development has been difficult to study but advances in induced pluripotent stem cell technology have allowed us to model the fetal brain environment. Cortical spheroids resemble the cortex of the dorsal telencephalon during mid-fetal gestation and possess functional synapses, spontaneous activity, an astrocyte population, and pseudo-laminar organization. We first characterized the ECS using STORM microscopy and observed synaptic localization of components similar to that which is observed in the fetal brain. Next, using the CB1-selective antagonist SR141716A, we observed an increase in excitatory, and to a lesser extent, inhibitory synaptogenesis as measured by confocal image analysis. Further, CB1 antagonism increased the variability of spontaneous activity within developing neural networks, as measured by microelectrode array. Overall, we have established that cortical spheroids express ECS components and are thus a useful model for exploring endocannabinoid mediation of childhood neuropsychiatric disease.
Rapid screening of lipase inhibitors in licorice extract by using porcine pancreatic lipase immobilized on Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticles
Authors: Zeng Fei , Wu Wenxing , Zhang Yiying , Pan Xin , Duan Jinao
Published: May 2021

Lipase inhibitors from G. inflata extracts were screened by using porcine pancreatic lipase immobilized on magnetic nanoparticles. In addition, the structure–activity relationship of the eight identified chalcones was studied.
Metallofullerene photoswitches driven by photoinduced fullerene-to-metal electron transfer
Authors: Zalibera Michal , Ziegs Frank , Schiemenz Sandra , Dubrovin Vasilii , Lubitz Wolfgang , Savitsky Anton , Deng Shihu H. M. , Wang Xue-Bin , Avdoshenko Stanislav M. , Popov Alexey A.
Published: April 2021

Photoexcitation mechanism of YxSc3−xN@C80metallofullerenes is studied by variable-temperature photoluminescence, advanced EPR techniques, and DFT calculations, revealing photoinduced rotation of the endohedral cluster.
Development of a polylactic acid-coated nanocellulose/chitosan-based film indicator for real-time monitoring of beef spoilage
Authors: Sobhan Abdus , Muthukumarappan Kasiviswanathan , Wei Lin , Zhou Ruanbao , Tummala Hemachand
Published: April 2021

Nowadays, food safety is one of the biggest challenges in global markets. Therefore, there is a critical need to develop a simple, affordable, and environmentally friendly color indicator that can rapidly and conveniently monitor and indicate the quality of packaged food products.
A multi-residue chiral liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry method for analysis of antifungal agents and their metabolites in aqueous environmental matrices
Authors: Wattanayon Rawiwan , Kasprzyk-Hordern Barbara
Published: May 2021

A new analytical method for combined separation of chiral and chiral antifungal agents in the environment has been developed.
Coked Ni/Al2O3 from the catalytic reforming of volatiles from co-pyrolysis of lignin and polyethylene: preparation, identification and application as a potential adsorbent
Authors: Zhao Jing , Wang Zhanghong , Shen Dekui , Wu Chunfei , Luo Kaihong , Gu Sai
Published: May 2021

Preparation of novel C–Ni/Al2O3 composite from the catalytic reforming of volatiles from co-pyrolysis of lignin and polyethylene and its adsorption application.
Hydrogen generation from the reaction of Al and H2O using a synthesized Al(OH)3 nanoparticle catalyst: the role of urea
Authors: Prabu Samikannu , Wang Hong-Wen
Published: May 2021

This research investigated the high catalytic activity of different crystalline phases of Al(OH)3 nano-particles (NPs) for hydrogen generation from the Al/water reaction.
Synthesis and characterization of promising insensitive energetic salts based on 3-amino-5-hydrazinopyrazole
Authors: Yang Zhen-Li , Wu Yue-Mei , He Piao , Cao Wen-li , Manzoor Saira , Zhang Jian-Guo
Published: April 2021

A series of energetic ionic salts based on 3-amino-5-hydrazinopyrazole (HAP) were designed, which served as novel and insensitive green energetic materials.
Novel symmetrical and unsymmetrical fluorine-containing metallophthalocyanines: synthesis, characterization and investigation of their biological properties
Authors: Pekbelgin Karaoğlu Hande , Sağlam Özgül , Özdemir Sadin , Gonca Serpil , Koçak Makbule Burkut
Published: April 2021

A new fluorinated phthalonitrile and its symmetrically/non-symmetrically substituted phthalocyanines were prepared and their several biological properties were tested. This is the first report of antioxidant properties of non-symmetric Pcs.
Eu3+functionalized robust membranes based on the post-synthetic copolymerization of a metal–organic framework and ethyl methacrylate
Authors: Min Jie , Lu Haifeng , Yan Bing
Published: April 2021

A novel fluorescent membrane named MOF1-Eu3+@PEMA has been prepared via post-synthetic polymerization, which is used for the identification of common volatile organic compounds.
Lactobacillus fermentumCQPC08 protects rats from lead-induced oxidative damage by regulating the Keap1/Nrf2/ARE pathway
Authors: Long Xingyao , Sun Fengjun , Wang Zhiying , Liu Tongji , Gong Jianjun , Kan Xuemei , Zou Yujie , Zhao Xin
Published: May 2021

Lactobacillus fermentumCQPC08 can adsorb lead and reduce the oxidative damage caused by heavy metals.
Epigallocatechin-3-gallate attenuates acute pancreatitis induced lung injury by targeting mitochondrial reactive oxygen species triggered NLRP3 inflammasome activation
Authors: Luo Zhu-Lin , Sun Hong-Yu , Wu Xiao-Bo , Cheng Long , Ren Jian-Dong
Published: May 2021

This study revealed that EGCG attenuated AP-induced lung injury via suppressing NLRP3 inflammasome activation. The mtROS-scavenging activity enabled EGCG to impair NLRP3 signaling by inhibiting the generation of ox-mtDNA and its binding to NLRP3.
XRD/Raman spectroscopy studies of the mechanism of (de)intercalation of Na+ from/into highly crystalline birnessite
Authors: Scheitenberger Philipp , Brimaud Sylvain , Lindén Mika
Published: April 2021

Due to its low-cost and environmental friendliness, birnessite-type manganese oxide has attracted wide interest for use as a cathode material in electrochemical energy storage applications.
Intercorrelated ferroelectrics in 2D van der Waals materials
Authors: Liang Yan , Shen Shiying , Huang Baibiao , Dai Ying , Ma Yandong
Published: April 2021

A new scheme of multilayer engineering is proposed for achieving two-dimensional intercorrelated ferroelectrics.
Preparation of micron-scale Cu@Ag conductive particles by displacement coating to reinforce epoxy conductive adhesives
Authors: Sun Zhi , Cheng Na , Chen Feng , Lou Xin-li , Tong Xia-yan , Zhao Jian-wei , Zhang Hong-wen
Published: May 2021

Silver-coated copper particles, which can enhance the performance of the conductive adhesives, are prepared by a displacement method. The conductive adhesives can be used for electronic products.
Early instability of MIL-125-NH2 in aqueous solution and mediation of the visible photogeneration of an NADH cofactor
Authors: Aguirre Matías E. , Isla Naveira Rocío , Botta Pablo M. , Altieri Tamara A. , Wolosiuk Alejandro , Churio María Sandra
Published: May 2021

MIL-125-NH2 hydrolysis can be minimized by regulating the pH of the medium, thus defining a stability window where it is possible to use it as a photocatalyst for visible light-driven production of NADH.
An efficient strategy for cancer therapy using a tumor- and lysosome-targeted organic photothermal agent
Authors: Wang Hongyu , Zhang Huiwen , Xiang Yanan , Pan Wei , Li Na , Tang Bo
Published: April 2021

A dual-targeted organic photothermal agent for tumor cells and lysosomes exhibits low cytotoxicity, good biological compatibility, and tumor inhibitory effects.
Self-assembly of virulent amyloid-derived peptides into nanoantibacterials
Authors: Tu Wenlu , Xue Ke , Lou Shaofeng , Zhu Chunlei , Yu Zhilin
Published: May 2021

Biomimetic design on the basis of the structure of virulent amyloid protein PSMα3 allows for the creation of peptides simultaneously undergoing self-assembly into well-defined nanostructures, i.e. twisted nanoribbons, and exhibiting antibacterial activity.
Direct monitoring of biocatalytic deacetylation of amino acid substrates by 1H NMR reveals fine details of substrate specificity
Authors: De Cesare Silvia , McKenna Catherine A. , Mulholland Nicholas , Murray Lorna , Bella Juraj , Campopiano Dominic J.
Published: May 2021

A convenient NMR assay was used to monitor hydrolysis of a range of N-acyl-amino acids by an acylase biocatalyst.
Distiboranes based on ortho-phenylene backbones as bidentate Lewis acids for fluoride anion chelation
Authors: You Di , Zhou Benyu , Hirai Masato , Gabbaï François P.
Published: April 2021

We report a new approach to fluorinated distiboranes by reaction of ortho-phenylene distibines with octafluorophenanthra-9,10-quinone. These new derivatives act as bidentate Lewis acids and readily chelate the fluoride anion.
Solvent-free N-Boc deprotection by ex situ generation of hydrogen chloride gas
Authors: Verschueren Rik H. , Gilles Philippe , Van Mileghem Seger , De Borggraeve Wim M.
Published: April 2021

This procedure enables the solvent-free deprotection of the most commonly used amino protecting group (N-Boc) by employing hydrogen chloride gas.
Oxa-Michael polyaddition of vinylsulfonylethanol for aliphatic polyethersulfones
Authors: Ziegenbalg Nicole , Lohwasser Ruth , D'Andola Giovanni , Adermann Torben , Brendel Johannes C.
Published: May 2021

The reactive AB-type monomer vinylsulfonylethanol polymerizes in the presence of common organic and inorganic bases forming a novel aliphatic polyethersulfone. A detailed analysis revealed different mechanisms for the organic and inorganic catalysts.
Supramolecular organogel formation behaviors of beads-on-string shaped poly(azomethine)s dependent on POSS structures in the main chains
Authors: Ishida Ayano , Fujii Shunichi , Sumida Akifumi , Kamitani Tasuku , Minami Saori , Urayama Kenji , Imoto Hiroaki , Naka Kensuke
Published: May 2021

Organogel formation was observed for isobutyl-substituted cage octasilsesquioxane (T8) in the main-chain type polyazomethines, while precipitates instead of gel formation were observed for phenyl-substituted double-decker-shaped silsesquioxanes (DDSQ)-poly(azomethine)s.
A new binary phase in the tin monoselenide system: chemical epitaxy of orthorhombic γ-SnSe thin films
Authors: Koren Bar , Abutbul Ran E. , Ezersky Vladimir , Maman Nitzan , Golan Yuval
Published: April 2021

Deposition of SnSe from alkaline solution resulted in a new binary phase of tin monoselenide, γ-SnSe. TEM and electron diffraction showed that growth on PbS substrates resulted in epitaxial monoselenide films.
Transition-metal-like bonding behaviors of a boron atom in a boron-cluster boronyl complex [(η7-B7)-B-BO]−
Authors: Tian Wen-Juan , Chen Wei-Jia , Yan Miao , Li Rui , Wei Zhi-Hong , Chen Teng-Teng , Chen Qiang , Zhai Hua-Jin , Li Si-Dian , Wang Lai-Sheng
Published: May 2021

The global minimum of the B9O− cluster is found to have an umbrella-like structure, where the central B atom exhibits transition-metal-like bonding properties, coordinated by a η7-B7 ligand on one side and a BO ligand on the other.
Carbon support tuned electrocatalytic activity of a single-site metal–organic framework toward the oxygen reduction reaction
Authors: Ma Wenjie , Wu Fei , Yu Ping , Mao Lanqun
Published: April 2021

MOF–support interactions are proposed for the first time for tuning the electrocatalytic activity of single-site MOFs in the manner of geometric and electronic effects.
Late-stage functionalisation of alkyne-modified phospha-xanthene dyes: lysosomal imaging using an off–on–off type of pH probe
Authors: Ogasawara Hiroaki , Tanaka Yoshiki , Taki Masayasu , Yamaguchi Shigehiro
Published: April 2021

A series of NIR-emissive phospha-xanthene dyes bearing an ethynyl group are reported. The late-stage functionalisation of the NIR dyes enables creation of multi-functionalised fluorescent probes that can be designed to target organelles of interest.
The correlation between tumor-associated macrophage infiltration and progression in cervical carcinoma
Authors: Guo Fan , Kong Weina , Zhao Gang , Cheng Zhenzhen , Ai Le , Lv Jie , Feng Yangchun , Ma Xiumin
Published: April 2021

Tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a particularly important role in the progression, invasion and metastasis of cervical carcinoma (CC). Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are significant components of the tumor microenvironment in CC. However, the results of studies on the correlation between TAMs and progression in CC are still controversial. This research aimed to investigate the relationship between TAMs infiltration and progression in CC. A total of 100 patients with CC were included in the study. The correlation between TAMs and clinicopathologic features was studied. Besides, a systematic literature search was conducted from legitimate electronic databases to specifically evaluate the role of TAMs in TME of cervical carcinoma. In the meta-analysis, high stromal CD68+ TAMs density was relevant to lymph node metastasis (WMD = 11.89, 95% CI: 5.30–18.47). At the same time, CD163+ M2 TAM density was associated with lymph node metastasis (OR = 2.42, 95% CI: 1.09–5.37; WMD = 39.37, 95% CI: 28.25–50.49) and FIGO stage (WMD = -33.60, 95% CI: -45.04 to -22.16). This was further confirmed in the experimental study of 100 tissues of cervical cancer. It supported a critical role of TAMs as a prospective predictor of cervical cancer. In conclusion, CD68+ TAM and CD163+ M2 TAM infiltration in CC were associated with tumor progression. And CD163+ M2 TAM infiltration was associated with more advanced FIGO stage and lymph node metastasis in CC.
Feasibility analysis and optimization design of PMSM with 120° phase belts toroidal windings for electric vehicles
Authors: Si Jikai , Gao Mengzhen , Yang Xiangyu , Gao Caixia , Feng Haichao , Hu Yihua
Published: May 2021

A permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) is introduced with 120° phase belts toroidal windings (PBTWs) (120°PBTWPMSM), in which its armature reaction field principle is elaborated. Then, the experiment concerning the 120°PBTWPMSM is conducted to verify the validity of the related analysis and the feasibility of the 120°PBTWPMSM. In addition, a method of shifting the magnetic poles (SMP) is adopted to suppress the cogging torque and the torque ripple. After this, the 120°PBTWPMSM after SMP is further optimised by the Taguchi method to obtain the structural parameters of the motor with optimal comprehensive performance. Finally, the performance of the original motor, the 120°PBTWPMSM after SMP and the optimal motor are compared, which verify the effectiveness of the optimization methods.
Medical image steganographic algorithm via modified LSB method and chaotic map
Authors: Karawia A. A.
Published: May 2021

Many methods of hiding information in an image are existing now. The least significant bit is the famous method used in steganographic algorithms. Medical image steganography is a technique used to make the transmission of these images secure so that the decision of the Specialist physician based on these images is not affected. In this paper, medical image steganographic algorithm using modified least significant bit and chaotic map is proposed. The main problem is that the selection of embedding pixels within the host image is not protected enough in most existing methods. So, the author used two‐dimensional piecewise smooth chaotic map to select the positions of these pixels randomly. On the other hand, all bits in the secret medical image are transmitted without losing any bit. To do that, the secret medical image is encrypted using one‐dimensional piecewise chaotic map (Tent map). Then, the steganographic algorithm is used to hide the bits of the encrypted secret medical image. The bits of each embedded pixel are shuffled before the embedding process randomly. After that, the stego image is created. The host image and stego image are analysed with the peak signal‐to‐noise ratio, the mean square error, histogram test, image quality measure and relative entropy test. The stego image displays acceptable result when comparing with the host image. Also, the chi‐square attack test is performed and the stego image can resist it. The proposed algorithm can assist the sending of medical images via communication media.
A confined dynamo: Magnetic activity of the K-dwarf component in the pre-cataclysmic binary system V471 Tauri
Authors: Kővári Zs. , Kriskovics L. , Oláh K. , Odert P. , Leitzinger M. , Seli B. , Vida K. , Borkovits T. , Carroll T.
Published: April 2021

Context.Late-type stars in close binary systems can exhibit strong magnetic activity owing to rapid rotation supported by tidal locking. On the other hand, tidal coupling may suppress the differential rotation which is a key ingredient of the magnetic dynamo.

Aims.We studied the red dwarf component in the eclipsing binary system V471 Tau in order to unravel the relations between the different activity layers, from the stellar surface through the chromosphere up to the corona. Our aim is to study how the magnetic dynamo in the late-type component is affected by the close white dwarf companion.

Methods.We used space photometry, high-resolution spectroscopy, and X-ray observations from different space instruments to explore the main characteristics of magnetic activity. We applied a light curve synthesis program to extract the eclipsing binary model and to analyze the residual light variations. Photometric periods were obtained using a Fourier-based period search code. We searched for flares by applying an automated flare detection code. Spectral synthesis was used to derive or specify some of the astrophysical parameters. Doppler imaging was used to reconstruct surface temperature maps, which were cross-correlated to derive surface differential rotation. We applied different conversion techniques to make it possible to compare the X-ray emissions obtained from different space instruments.

Results.From the K2 photometry we found that 5–10 per cent of the apparent surface of the red dwarf is covered by cool starspots. From seasonal photometric period changes we estimated a weak differential rotation. From the flare activity we derived a cumulative flare frequency diagram which suggests that frequent flaring could have a significant role in heating the corona. Using high-resolution spectroscopy we reconstructed four Doppler images for different epochs which reveal an active longitude, that is, a permanent dominant spot facing the white dwarf. From short term changes in the consecutive Doppler images we derived a weak solar-type surface differential rotation withαDR = 0.0026 shear coefficient, similar to that provided by photometry. The long-term evolution of X-ray luminosity reveals a possible activity cycle length of ≈12.7 yr, traces of which were also discovered in the Hαspectra.

Conclusions.We conclude that the magnetic activity of the red dwarf component in V471 Tau is strongly influenced by the close white dwarf companion. We confirm the presence of a permanent dominant spot (active longitude) on the red dwarf facing the white dwarf. The weak differential rotation of the red dwarf is very likely the result of tidal confinement by the companion. We find that the periodic appearance of the inter-binary Hαemission from the vicinity of the inner Lagrangian point is correlated with the activity cycle.
Prospects for environmentally safe mechanical biological treatment of municipal solid waste in Ukraine
Authors: Makovetska Yuliia , Omelianenko Tetiana , Omelchenko Alla
Published: May 2021

Improving waste management is currently one of the priorities for Ukraine in the environmental safety. EU experience in the use of mechanical biological waste treatment technologies should be applied now in connection with the development and implementation of Regional Waste Management Plans in Ukrainian regions. The aim of the paper is to analyse the benefits and the preconditions of using mechanical biological waste treatment technologies in Ukraine, as well as barriers that may hinder the construction of mechanical biological waste treatment plants. The analysis of the eight drafts of the Regional Waste Management Plans showed that the mechanical biological waste treatment technologies market is free in Ukraine and the best option for the regions where there are cement plants operating is production of solid recovered fuel. Such types of projects could be affordable for Ukrainians with the cost recovery period more than 8 years. On the other hand there are significant obstacles of economic, organizational and technological nature to their immediate implementation i.e. low rates on waste disposal tax, partly compliance on air emissions monitoring system, absence of necessary standards etc. The priority actions to speed up mechanical biological waste treatment technologies implementation have been defined.
Distance technologies in sustainable education: the case of Ukraine during the coronavirus pandemic
Authors: Poplavska Oksana , Danylevych Nataliia , Rudakova Svetlana , Shchetinina Liudmyla
Published: May 2021

Sustainable education systems in tertiary institutions aim to reduce the negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. To identify the readiness of educational institutions for current and future problems, a survey was conducted among a representative number of teachers and students. The purpose is to substantiate the importance of distance technologies for sustainable education in Ukraine. As the result, we’ll have fine tools to select the best distance technologies for education that can fully support academic communication. The conducted studies allowed us to conclude that distance technologies expand the accessibility of sustainable education. However, we also The article identifies problems in the introduction of distance technologies into the system of sustainable education of a technical, organizational and psychological nature. However, the pandemic motivated teachers to actively explore the new possibilities of distance technologies, as well as to implement them in the educational process. The inclusion of online education into classical education makes it possible to expand competencies through specialized training and professional platforms, significantly improving the quality of education. A feature of the spread of distance technologies in Ukraine has become a one-time, large-scale implementation of them in the educational process, which ensures the stability of educational systems in the future.
Model of formation of professional activity safety culture of future occupational safety and health engineers
Authors: Radkevych Valentyna , Abiltarova Elviza
Published: May 2021

The purpose of the article is to consider the model of the formation of the safety culture of professional activity in future occupational safety and health engineers. The urgency of the implementation of the stated research within the Concept of sustainable development has been substantiated. The study establishes the structure of the model represented by five blocks: prospective-target, theoretical-methodological, content-technological, diagnostic-resultant. The prospective-target block defines the goals and objectives of the research; the theoretical-methodological block provides for a concept, methodological approaches, principles, factors, pedagogical conditions that contribute to the effective formation of the culture of safety of professional activity; content-technological is expressed by a complex of didactic units that include content components, forms, methods and technologies of teaching; the diagnostic-resultant block contains diagnostic tools for the formation of the safety culture of professional activity among future engineers on labor protection. The conclusion is made about the dynamism and balance of the components of the proposed model, aimed at the personal growth of future occupational safety and health engineers and the development of their creative potential, most significantly focused on the prevention of the risks and harm caused by occupational hazards.