bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increased circulating levels of ouabain‐like factor in patients with asymptomatic left ventricular dysfunction
Authors: Balzan Silvana , Neglia Danilo , Ghione Sergio , D'Urso Giuseppina , Baldacchino Maria Carmela , Montali Umberto , L'Abbate Antonio
Published: July 2002

Background:

Much evidence has been accumulated that human plasma contains digitalis‐like factor(s) with Na/K ATPase inhibitor properties. Increased concentrations of ouabain‐like factor (OLF) have been reported in patients with moderate to severe hypertension and in patients with overt congestive heart failure due to dilated cardiomyopathy.

Aim:

The presence of circulating OLF has not been investigated in borderline to mild hypertension or in the early stage of dilated cardiomyopathy.

Methods and Results:

The study population consisted of 18 normal volunteers, 24 patients with borderline to mild hypertension, 47 patients with asymptomatic left ventricular dysfunction (ALVD) due to dilated cardiomyopathy and 26 patients with cardiac arrhythmias but normal left ventricular function. OLF values (pM ouabain equivalent) were assayed in extracted plasma, using a radioimmunoassay for ouabain. OLF was, respectively, 29.4 ± 20.6 pM in normal controls, 39.1 ± 23.8 pM in hypertensives, 35 ± 18 pM in patients with cardiac arrhythmias, 52.3 ± 25.8 pM in ALVD patients not treated with digoxin and 64.6 ± 29.6 pM in ALVD patients treated with digoxin. Patients with ALVD, both treated and not treated with digoxin, had OLF significantly higher (P < 0.05) than all the other groups. In patients with ALVD no correlation between OLF and left ventricular ejection fraction was observed. In the hypertensive group no correlation between OLF and both diastolic and systolic pressure was found.

Conclusion:

Increased concentrations of OLF were observed in patients with left ventricular dysfunction due to dilated cardiomyopathy, before the occurrence of overt heart failure, suggesting that OLF may be an early marker of the disease.
Tunable Stochasticity in an Artificial Spin Network
Authors: Sanz‐Hernández Dédalo , Massouras Maryam , Reyren Nicolas , Rougemaille Nicolas , Schánilec Vojtěch , Bouzehouane Karim , Hehn Michel , Canals Benjamin , Querlioz Damien , Grollier Julie , Montaigne François , Lacour Daniel
Published: March 2021

Metamaterials present the possibility of artificially generating advanced functionalities through engineering of their internal structure. Artificial spin networks, in which a large number of nanoscale magnetic elements are coupled together, are promising metamaterial candidates that enable the control of collective magnetic behavior through tuning of the local interaction between elements. In this work, the motion of magnetic domain‐walls in an artificial spin network leads to a tunable stochastic response of the metamaterial, which can be tailored through an external magnetic field and local lattice modifications. This type of tunable stochastic network produces a controllable random response exploiting intrinsic stochasticity within magnetic domain‐wall motion at the nanoscale. An iconic demonstration used to illustrate the control of randomness is the Galton board. In this system, multiple balls fall into an array of pegs to generate a bell‐shaped curve that can be modified via the array spacing or the tilt of the board. A nanoscale recreation of this experiment using an artificial spin network is employed to demonstrate tunable stochasticity. This type of tunable stochastic network opens new paths toward post‐Von Neumann computing architectures such as Bayesian sensing or random neural networks, in which stochasticity is harnessed to efficiently perform complex computational tasks.
Hyperbolic Metamaterials with Extreme Mechanical Hardness
Authors: Calzolari Arrigo , Catellani Alessandra , Buongiorno Nardelli Marco , Fornari Marco
Published: March 2021

Hyperbolic metamaterials (HMMs) are highly anisotropic optical materials that behave as metals or as dielectrics depending on the direction of propagation of light. They are becoming essential for a plethora of applications, ranging from aerospace to automotive, from wireless to medical and IoT. These applications often work in harsh environments or may sustain remarkable external stresses. This calls for materials that show enhanced optical properties as well as tailorable mechanical properties. Depending on their specific use, both hard and ultrasoft materials can be required, although the combination with optical hyperbolic response is rarely addressed. Here, the possibility to combine optical hyperbolicity and tunable mechanical properties in the same (meta)material is demonstrated, focusing on the case of extreme mechanical hardness. Using high‐throughput calculations from first principles and effective medium theory, a large class of layered materials with hyperbolic optical activity in the near‐IR and visible range is explored, and a reduced number of ultrasoft and hard HMMs is identified among more than 1800 combinations of transition metal rocksalt crystals. Once validated by the experiments, this new class of metamaterials may foster previously unexplored optical/mechanical applications.
COPD risk among older construction workers—Updated analyses 2020
Authors: Dement John M. , Cloeren Marianne , Ringen Knut , Quinn Patricia , Chen Anna , Cranford Kim , Haas Scott , Hines Stella
Published: March 2021

Background

A 2010 study of construction workers participating in medical screening programs at the Department of Energy (DOE) nuclear facilities demonstrated increased chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) risk. The current study of a larger worker cohort allowed for a more nuanced analysis of COPD risk, including for employment beginning after the mid‐1990s.

Methods

Study participants included 17,941 workers with demographic and smoking data and spirometry with a minimum of three recorded expiratory efforts and reproducibility of forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) of 0.2 L or less. COPD was defined as a FEV1/FVC ratio below the lower limit of normal using established prediction equations without use of bronchodilation. Stratified analyses explored COPD prevalence by demographic variables and trade. Logistic regression analyses assessed risks by trade and time periods of trade and DOE site work, controlling for age, gender, race/ethnicity, body mass index, and smoking.

Results

Overall COPD prevalence was 13.4% and 67.4% of cases were classified as moderate to severe. Compared to nonconstruction workers, construction trade workers were at significantly increased risk of all COPD (OR = 1.34, 95% CI = 1.29–1.79) and even more so for severe COPD (OR = 1.61, 95% CI = 1.32–1.96). The highest risk trades were cement masons/bricklayers (OR = 2.36; 95% CI = 1.71–3.26) and roofers (OR = 2.22; 95% CI = 1.48–3.32). Risk among workers employed after 1995 was elevated but not statistically significant.

Conclusions

Construction workers are at increased COPD risk. Results support the prevention of both smoking and occupational exposures to reduce these risks. While the number of participants employed after 1995 was small, patterns of risk were consistent with findings in the overall cohort.
Reversible Ratiometric NADH Sensing Using Semiconducting Polymer Dots
Authors: Chen Haobin , Yu Jiangbo , Men Xiaoxiao , Zhang Jicheng , Ding Zhaoyang , Jiang Yifei , Wu Changfeng , Chiu Daniel T.
Published: March 2021

Reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) is a key coenzyme in living cells due to its role as an electron carrier in redox reactions, and its concentration is an important indicator of cell metabolic state. Abnormal NADH levels are associated with age‐related metabolic diseases and neurodegenerative disorders, creating a demand for a simple, rapid analytical method for point‐of‐care NADH sensing. Here we develop a series of NADH‐sensitive semiconducting polymer dots (Pdots) as nanoprobes for NADH measurement, and test their performance in vitro and in vivo. NADH sensing is based on electron transfer from semiconducting polymer chains in the Pdot to NADH upon UV excitation, quenching Pdot fluorescence emission. In polyfluorene‐based Pdots, this mechanism resulted in an on‐off NADH sensor; in DPA‐CNPPV Pdots, UV excitation resulted in NADH‐sensitive emission at two wavelengths, enabling ratiometric detection. Ratiometric NADH detection using DPA‐CNPPV Pdots exhibits high sensitivity (3.1 μM limit of detection), excellent selectivity versus other analytes, reversibility, and a fast response (less than 5 s). We demonstrate applications of the ratiometric NADH‐sensing Pdots including smartphone‐based NADH imaging for point‐of‐care use.
Functionalized High Mannose‐Specific Lectins for the Discovery of Type I Mannosidase Inhibitors
Authors: Kurhade Suresh E. , Weiner Jack D. , Gao Fei Philip , Farrell Mark P.
Published: March 2021

An engineered cyanovirin‐N homologue that exhibits specificity for high mannose N‐glycans has been constructed to aid type I α 1,2‐mannosidase inhibitor discovery and development. Engineering the lectins C‐terminus permitted facile functionalization with fluorophores via a sortase and click strategy. The resulting lectin constructs exhibit specificity for cells presenting high mannose N‐glycans. Importantly, these lectin constructs can also be applied to specifically assess changes in cell surface glycosylation induced by type I mannosidase inhibitors. Testing the utility of these lectin constructs led to the discovery of type I mannosidase inhibitors with nanomolar potency. Cumulatively, these findings reveal the specificity and utility of the functionalized cyanovirin‐N homologue constructs, and highlight their potential in analytical contexts that require high mannose‐specific lectins.
Exploiting Reaction‐Diffusion Conditions to Trigger Pathway Complexity in the Growth of a MOF
Authors: Calvo Galve Néstor , Abrishamkar Afshin , Sorrenti Alessandro , Di Rienzo Lorenzo , Satta Mauro , D'Abramo Marco , Coronado Eugenio , de Mello Andrew J. , Mínguez Espallargas Guillermo , Puigmartí‐Luis Josep
Published: March 2021

Coordination polymers (CPs), including metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), are crystalline materials with promising applications in electronics, magnetism, catalysis, and gas storage/separation. However, the mechanisms and pathways underlying their formation remain largely undisclosed. Herein, we demonstrate that diffusion‐controlled mixing of reagents at the very early stages of the crystallization process (i.e., within ≈40 ms), achieved by using continuous‐flow microfluidic devices, can be used to enable novel crystallization pathways of a prototypical spin‐crossover MOF towards its thermodynamic product. In particular, two distinct and unprecedented nucleation‐growth pathways were experimentally observed when crystallization was triggered under microfluidic mixing. Full‐atom molecular dynamics simulations also confirm the occurrence of these two distinct pathways during crystal growth. In sharp contrast, a crystallization by particle attachment was observed under bulk (turbulent) mixing. These unprecedented results provide a sound basis for understanding the growth of CPs and open up new avenues for the engineering of porous materials by using out‐of‐equilibrium conditions.
Lignin Compounds to Monoaromatics: Selective Cleavage of C−O Bonds over a Brominated Ruthenium Catalyst
Authors: Wu Dan , Wang Qiyan , Safonova Olga V. , Peron Deizi V. , Zhou Wenjuan , Yan Zhen , Marinova Maya , Khodakov Andrei Y. , Ordomsky Vitaly V.
Published: March 2021

The cleavage of C−O linkages in aryl ethers in biomass‐derived lignin compounds without hydrogenation of the aromatic rings is a major challenge for the production of sustainable mono‐aromatics. Conventional strategies over the heterogeneous metal catalysts require the addition of homogeneous base additives causing environmental problems. Herein, we propose a heterogeneous Ru/C catalyst modified by Br atoms for the selective direct cleavage of C−O bonds in diphenyl ether without hydrogenation of aromatic rings reaching the yield of benzene and phenol as high as 90.3 % and increased selectivity to mono‐aromatics (97.3 vs. 46.2 % for initial Ru) during depolymerization of lignin. Characterization of the catalyst indicates selective poisoning by Br of terrace sites over Ru nanoparticles, which are active in the hydrogenation of aromatic rings, while the defect sites on the edges and corners remain available and provide higher intrinsic activity in the C−O bond cleavage.
A Homage to Siegfried Hünig and His Research
Authors: Reissig Hans‐Ulrich
Published: March 2021

Examples from different research areas of Siegfried Hünig are displayed to remind us that organic chemistry owes much more than Hünig's base to this exceptionally versatile and creative chemist. The main research lines dealing with the synthesis and physical characterization of new dyes, multistage redox systems, and organic metals will be presented as well as his contributions to enamine chemistry, the discovery of diimine as a hydrogenation agent, and nucleophilic acylation with trimethylsilyl cyanide, which are less well‐known nowadays. In addition, exotic compounds with parallel C=C and N=N bonds were systematically studied in Hünig's group. Reflecting on the development of his research demonstrates both the importance of a systematic approach and how fruitful entirely unexpected results are if they meet a “well‐prepared mind”. During Hünig's academic career, teaching played an indisputable role. His efforts in modernizing the chemistry institute at Würzburg and his support of young researchers in the academic system in Germany are also highlighted.
The Electrophilicity of Surface Carbon Species in the Redox Reactions of CuO‐CeO2 Catalysts
Authors: Kang Liqun , Wang Bolun , Güntner Andreas T. , Xu Siyuan , Wan Xuhao , Liu Yiyun , Marlow Sushila , Ren Yifei , Gianolio Diego , Tang Chiu C. , Murzin Vadim , Asakura Hiroyuki , He Qian , Guan Shaoliang , Velasco‐Vélez Juan J. , Pratsinis Sotiris E. , Guo Yuzheng , Wang Feng Ryan
Published: March 2021

Electronic metal–support interactions (EMSI) describe the electron flow between metal sites and a metal oxide support. It is generally used to follow the mechanism of redox reactions. In this study of CuO‐CeO2 redox, an additional flow of electrons from metallic Cu to surface carbon species is observed via a combination of operando X‐ray absorption spectroscopy, synchrotron X‐ray powder diffraction, near ambient pressure near edge X‐ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy, and diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy. An electronic metal–support–carbon interaction (EMSCI) is proposed to explain the reaction pathway of CO oxidation. The EMSCI provides a complete picture of the mass and electron flow, which will help predict and improve the catalytic performance in the selective activation of CO2, carbonate, or carbonyl species in C1 chemistry.
Mechanistic Understanding of Oxygen Electrodes in Rechargeable Multivalent Metal‐Oxygen Batteries
Authors: Liang Zhuojian , Lu Yi‐Chun
Published: March 2021

Rechargeable multivalent metal‐O2 batteries (Mg−O2, Zn−O2 and Al−O2 etc.) are promising next‐generation battery technologies for electric automobiles and large‐scale energy storage owing to their high energy density, low cost, and sustainability. To realize the full potentials of these systems, an in‐depth mechanistic understanding of the underlying chemistries is crucial for rational development. However, compared with the intensively studied Li−O2 batteries, reaction mechanisms of multivalent metal‐O2 batteries are much less understood. Here, we discuss the current status of mechanistic understanding of oxygen reduction and evolution reactions in rechargeable multivalent metal‐O2 batteries. We discuss the key open questions and future research directions of multivalent metal‐O2 batteries using examples and experiences from Li−O2 batteries, which could guide and inspire the development of multivalent metal‐O2 batteries.
Exploring effects of differential observing responses on vocal tact acquisition
Authors: Devine Bailey , Petursdottir Anna I.
Published: March 2021

Two studies were conducted to explore the effects of differential observing responses (DORs) on vocal tact acquisition in preschool‐age children of typical development. In Study 1 with three participants, an identity‐matching DOR was incorporated into tact instruction trials with novel visual stimuli. Acquisition rates were similar in the DOR condition and in a non‐DOR condition. In Study 2 with five new participants, the identity‐matching DOR was implemented as an intervention when standard discrete‐trial instruction failed to produce acquisition of tacts of compound stimuli. Two participants reached mastery after the identity‐matching DOR was introduced, whereas three participants' progress was unaffected. For those three, the identity‐matching DOR was replaced with a verbal DOR (tacting of stimulus components), but although one participant's correct responding increased, none reached mastery. Two participants ultimately reached mastery after a non‐DOR intervention. Conditions under which DORs facilitate stimulus control outside of MTS tasks remain to be identified.
Enhancement of microalgae growth using magnetic artificial cilia
Authors: Verburg Thijn , Schaap Allison , Zhang Shuaizhong , den Toonder Jaap , Wang Ye
Published: March 2021

Microalgae have shown great potential as a source of biofuels, food, and other bioproducts. More recently, microfluidic devices have been employed in microalgae‐related studies. However, at small fluid volumes, the options for controlling flow conditions are more limited and mixing becomes largely reliant on diffusion. In this study, we fabricated magnetic artificial cilia (MAC) and implemented them in millimeter scale culture wells and conducted growth experiments with Scenedesmus subspicatus while actuating the MAC in a rotating magnetic field to create flow and mixing. In addition, surface of MAC was made hydrophilic using plasma treatment and its effect on growth was compared with untreated, hydrophobic MAC. The experiments showed that the growth was enhanced by ten and two times with hydrophobic and hydrophilic MAC, respectively, compared with control groups which contain no MAC. This technique can be used to investigate mixing and flow in small sample volumes, and the enhancement in growth can be beneficial for the throughput of screening studies. Moreover, the methods used for creating and controlling MAC can be easily adopted in labs without microfabrication infrastructures, and they can be mastered by people with little prior experience in microfluidics.
Concept mapping toward competency: Teaching and assessing undergraduate evidence‐informed practice
Authors: Lafave Lynne M. Z. , Yeo Michelle , Lafave Mark R.
Published: March 2021

Background

Undergraduate students in healthcare professions need to develop critical thinking skills in order to be prepared to deliver patient‐centered high‐quality care upon graduation. The new Canadian Athletic Therapy Association (CATA) competency framework includes a “scholar” role, placing emphasis on knowledge and skills related to evidence‐informed practices (EIP). Educators are expected to develop their student's EIP skills; however, little is known about the optimal educational approaches to accomplish this task. The study objective was to examine concept mapping as a teaching and learning strategy to deepen the understanding of EIP and examine the validity and reliability of a concept mapping scoring rubric.

Method

A concept mapping approach to teaching EIP was piloted in an upper‐level research methods and statistics course. Students (N = 15) participated in a pretest post‐test concurrent nested mixed‐method intervention study that analyzed the impact of concept mapping on students' understanding of EIP and assessed initial validity and reliability of the grading rubric.

Results

Students demonstrated a deeper understanding of EIP and its relationship to healthcare practice following the concept mapping activity compared to a note‐taking activity (Cohen's d = 1.79). The concept mapping rubric used to assess EIP competence demonstrated strong construct validity and content validity with moderate inter‐rater reliability.

Conclusions

Employing the concept mapping technique as a teaching and learning tool proved to be effective to teach EIP principles and concepts based on student grades. An analytic rubric method was found valid and reliable for grading student concept maps underpinning EIP competency.
Proteomic analysis of thyroid tissue reveals enhanced catabolic activity in Graves' disease compared to toxic multinodular goitre
Authors: Temiz Karadag Duygu , Cetinarslan Berrin , Kasap Murat , Canturk Nuh Zafer , Akpinar Gurler , Canturk Zeynep , Tarkun Ilhan , Simsek Turgay , Selek Alev
Published: March 2021

Graves' disease (GD) and toxic multinodular goitre (TMNG) are the most common thyroid diseases which mainly lead to thyrotoxicosis, however, the underlying mechanism of distinct clinical presentations remains unclear. Protein extracts from the thyroid tissue specimens of the patients with GD and TMNG were subjected to Difference Gel Electrophoresis (DIGE). Differentially regulated protein spots were determined by image analysis, and the spots displaying statistically significant differences were identified by Matrix‐Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization Time of Flight Mass Spectrometer (MALDI‐TOF) followed by MASCOT search. Western blot analysis was used to verify changes occurring at the protein levels. The identified proteins were classified based on their functions in metabolic pathways using bioinformatics algorithms. Fifteen proteins showed significant alterations in abundance between the two disease groups. Bioinformatic analysis revealed the differentially regulated proteins were particularly related to catabolism, oxidative stress and especially energy utilization pathways, including glycolysis, proteolysis, ketone body catabolism and other energy metabolism‐related pathways.

Significance of the study

Previously, GD has been the subject of many studies that performed the proteomics approaches in the orbital tissue samples or tear. This is one of the very few studies that investigate the changes in the proteome of thyroid tissue in GD. We demonstrated mainly the upregulation of catabolic activity‐related proteins in patients with GD compared to TMNG. Although it remains to be elucidated, some of these proteins can be used as markers for GD or have a role in the pathogenesis of the disease. Our study contributes the increasing data over time by providing new biomarker candidates for GD.
Impact of glyphosate applied preharvest on oat kernel quality
Authors: Vegi Anuradha , Stebbins Bethany R. , Ransom Joel K. , Simsek Senay
Published: March 2021

Background and objectives

Preharvest glyphosate is applied to oats for weed control and as a desiccant. The effect of glyphosate applied at various stages of oat physiological maturity on oat end product quality has not been reported previously. In this study, the effects of glyphosate application at two separate stages of physiological maturity on oat groat quality and rolled oats quality were determined.

Findings

Oat was grown at two locations. Glyphosate was applied at the soft dough, physiological maturity stages, or not applied. Effect of preharvest glyphosate application at the oat soft dough stage on groat hardness, groat percentage (0.7%–3.7% decrease by cultivar), and percent plump groats (0.3%–6.1% decrease by cultivar), when compared to untreated oats, was noticeable. However, glyphosate applied at physiological maturity (manufacturer's recommendation) did not detrimentally affect groat starch (average 60.3%) or end product quality.

Conclusions

Therefore, from an end‐user perspective, applying glyphosate preharvest at oat physiological maturity does not impact oat quality.

Significance and novelty

Glyphosate when applied preharvest to oats can control weed and facilitate harvest, a boon to farmers. Final oat quality, a decisive factor for commercial processor use, was not detrimentally affected when glyphosate was applied at oat physiological maturity.
Anions‐Exchange‐Induced Efficient Carrier Transport at CsPbBrxCl3‐x/TiO2 Interface for Photocatalytic Activation of C(sp3)−H bond in Toluene Oxidation
Authors: Zhao Yizhou , Dai Yi , Wang Qiuhe , Dong Yuanyuan , Song Tinglu , Mudryi Alexander , Chen Qi , Li Yujing
Published: March 2021

Inspired by the unique band structure of CsPbBr3, we have developed an asymmetric Cl‐exchange strategy based on the CsPbBrxCl3‐x/TiO2 heterojunction‐type catalyst and achieved photocatalytic activation of C(sp3)−H bond using the toluene oxidation reaction as a proof‐of‐concept application. The anion exchange at the supported CsPbBr3 surface results in the CsPbBrxCl3‐x/TiO2 structure with an asymmetric distribution of halide. The resultant heterojunction‐type catalysts exhibit significantly improved photocatalytic activity for toluene oxidation reaction with the highest benzaldehyde production rate at 1874 μmol g−1 h−1 (∼4 times that of the naked CsPbBr3 nanocrystals). The remarkable photocatalytic performance can be ascribed to the improved carrier transport at CsPbBrxCl3‐x/TiO2 interface enabled by the unique band structure due to the asymmetric halide distribution, verified by the micro‐strain discovered through the X‐ray diffraction. This work demonstrates a new pathway to fabricate highly‐efficient halide perovskite heterojunction‐type catalysts for photocatalytic activation of C(sp3)−H bond.
Towards the Electrochemical Conversion of CO2 to Formic Acid at an Applicative Scale: Technical and Economic Analysis of Most Promising Routes
Authors: Proietto Federica , Galia Alessandro , Scialdone Onofrio
Published: March 2021

In the last decade, the electrochemical conversion of CO2 to formic acid, FA, using Sn‐based cathodes, was widely investigated. In this work, the technical feasibility and economic viability of this process were evaluated considering the most promising electrochemical routes reported in the literature. Five case studies, based on the utilisation of gas diffusion electrode (GDE) technologies or high CO2 pressures, were analysed. The cost for producing FA by the electrochemical route was compared with that of the conventional chemical route. Several scenarios were envisioned finding the target figures of merit, the potential bottlenecks (including low FA concentration, GDE cost and high energy consumption) of each technology and the challenges that need to be faced. It was shown that the performances of these processes are not still adequate from an economic point of view and the improvements that should be achieved were identified. To be suitable for the commercialisation, the process should reach simultaneously high current density, faradaic efficiency and actual FA concentration as well as good stability with time and a limited cost of electrodes. In addition, it was shown that the utilisation of the excess electric energy generated from renewable sources could significantly reduce the costs of the process.
Adaptive immunity to human coronaviruses is widespread but low in magnitude
Authors: Tan Hyon‐Xhi , Lee Wen Shi , Wragg Kathleen M , Nelson Christina , Esterbauer Robyn , Kelly Hannah G , Amarasena Thakshila , Jones Robert , Starkey Graham , Wang Bao Zhong , Yoshino Osamu , Tiang Thomas , Grayson Michael Lindsay , Opdam Helen , D'Costa Rohit , Vago Angela ,   The Austin Liver Transplant Perfusionist Group, Mackay Laura K , Gordon Claire L , Wheatley Adam K , Kent Stephen J , Juno Jennifer A
Published: March 2021

Objectives

Endemic human coronaviruses (hCoVs) circulate worldwide but cause minimal mortality. Although seroconversion to hCoV is near ubiquitous during childhood, little is known about hCoV‐specific T‐cell memory in adults.

Methods

We quantified CD4 T‐cell and antibody responses to hCoV spike antigens in 42 SARS‐CoV‐2‐uninfected individuals. Antigen‐specific memory T cells and circulating T follicular helper (cTFH) cells were identified using an activation‐induced marker assay and characterised for memory phenotype and chemokine receptor expression.

Results

T‐cell responses were widespread within conventional memory and cTFH compartments but did not correlate with IgG titres. SARS‐CoV‐2 cross‐reactive T cells were observed in 48% of participants and correlated with HKU1 memory. hCoV‐specific T cells exhibited a CCR6+ central memory phenotype in the blood, but were enriched for frequency and CXCR3 expression in human lung‐draining lymph nodes.

Conclusion

Overall, hCoV‐specific humoral and cellular memory are independently maintained, with a shared phenotype existing among coronavirus‐specific CD4 T cells. This understanding of endemic coronavirus immunity provides insight into the homeostatic maintenance of immune responses that are likely to be critical components of protection against SARS‐CoV‐2.
Cell size, genome size, and maximum growth rate are near‐independent dimensions of ecological variation across bacteria and archaea
Authors: Westoby Mark , Nielsen Daniel Aagren , Gillings Michael R. , Litchman Elena , Madin Joshua S. , Paulsen Ian T. , Tetu Sasha G.
Published: March 2021

Among bacteria and archaea, maximum relative growth rate, cell diameter, and genome size are widely regarded as important influences on ecological strategy. Via the most extensive data compilation so far for these traits across all clades and habitats, we ask whether they are correlated and if so how. Overall, we found little correlation among them, indicating they should be considered as independent dimensions of ecological variation. Nor was correlation evident within particular habitat types. A weak nonlinearity (6% of variance) was found whereby high maximum growth rates (temperature‐adjusted) tended to occur in the midrange of cell diameters. Species identified in the literature as oligotrophs or copiotrophs were clearly separated on the dimension of maximum growth rate, but not on the dimensions of genome size or cell diameter.
Activation of the renal GLP‐1R leads to expression of Ren1 in the renal vascular tree
Authors: Bjørnholm Katrine Dahl , Ougaard Maria Elm , Skovsted Gry Freja , Knudsen Lotte Bjerre , Pyke Charles
Published: March 2021

The GLP‐1 receptor (GLP‐1R) in the kidney is expressed exclusively in vascular smooth muscle cells in arteries and arterioles. Downstream effects of the activation of the renal vascular GLP‐1R are elusive but may involve regulation of the renin‐angiotensin‐aldosterone system (RAAS). The expression of Ren1 in the mouse renal vasculature was investigated by in situ hybridization after a single subcutaneous dose of liraglutide, semaglutide and after repeated injections of liraglutide. Single and repeated exposure to GLP‐1R agonists induced expression of Ren1 in the renal vascular smooth muscle cell compartment compared with vehicle injected controls (p < .0001) for both semaglutide and liraglutide. The present data show a robust induction of Ren1 expression in the vascular smooth muscle cells of the kidney after single and repeated GLP‐1R activation and this renin recruitment may be involved in the effects of GLP‐1R agonist treatment on kidney disease.
Viral infections in humans and mice with genetic deficiencies of the type I IFN response pathway
Authors: Meyts Isabelle , Casanova Jean‐Laurent
Published: March 2021

Type I IFNs are so‐named because they interfere with viral infection in vertebrate cells. The study of cellular responses to type I IFNs led to the discovery of the JAK‐STAT signaling pathway, which also governs the response to other cytokine families. We review here the outcome of viral infections in mice and humans with engineered and inborn deficiencies, respectively, of (i) IFNAR1 or IFNAR2, selectively disrupting responses to type I IFNs, (ii) STAT1, STAT2, and IRF9, also impairing cellular responses to type II (for STAT1) and/or III (for STAT1, STAT2, IRF9) IFNs, and (iii) JAK1 and TYK2, also impairing cellular responses to cytokines other than IFNs. A picture is emerging of greater redundancy of human type I IFNs for protective immunity to viruses in natural conditions than was initially anticipated. Mouse type I IFNs are essential for protection against a broad range of viruses in experimental conditions. These findings suggest that various type I IFN‐independent mechanisms of human cell‐intrinsic immunity to viruses have yet to be discovered.
Low‐Resistive LiCoO2/Li1.3Al0.3Ti2(PO4)3 Interface Formation by Low‐Temperature Annealing Using Aerosol Deposition
Authors: Sakakura Miyuki , Suzuki Yasuhiro , Yamamoto Takayuki , Yamamoto Yuta , Motoyama Munekazu , Iriyama Yasutoshi
Published: March 2021

Interfacial resistance at electrode‐high Li+ conductive solid electrolytes must be reduced well to develop high‐power all‐solid‐state batteries using oxide‐based solid electrolytes (Ox‐SSBs). Herein, crystalline electrode films of LiCoO2 (LCO) are formed on a high Li+ conductive crystalline‐glass solid electrolyte sheet, Li1.3Al0.3Ti2(PO4)3 (LATP) (σ25 °C = 1 × 10−4 S cm−1), at room temperature by aerosol deposition (AD), and the effects of the annealing temperature on the interfacial resistivities (Rint) at the LCO/LATP are investigated. The Rint visibly increases by annealing over 500 °C with the growth of Co3O4 as a reactant. In contrast, Rint is reduced to ≈100 Ω cm2 by low‐temperature annealing at 250–350 °C due to superior contact through the structural rearrangement of an artificial metastable interface formed by the AD. These results are applied to bulk‐type Ox‐SSB, Li/Li7La3Zr2O12(LLZ)/LCO–LATP, and our best Ox‐SSB delivers a discharge capacity of 100 mA cm−2 at 100 °C.
Incorporating European GWAS findings improve polygenic risk prediction accuracy of breast cancer among East Asians
Authors: Ji Ying , Long Jirong , Kweon Sun‐Seog , Kang Daehee , Kubo Michiaki , Park Boyoung , Shu Xiao‐Ou , Zheng Wei , Tao Ran , Li Bingshan
Published: March 2021

Previous genome‐wide association studies (GWASs) have been largely focused on European (EUR) populations. However, polygenic risk scores (PRSs) derived from EUR have been shown to perform worse in non‐EURs compared with EURs. In this study, we aim to improve PRS prediction in East Asians (EASs). We introduce a rescaled meta‐analysis framework to combine both EUR (N = 122,175) and EAS (N = 30,801) GWAS summary statistics. To improve PRS prediction in EASs, we use a scaling factor to up‐weight the EAS data, such that the resulting effect size estimates are more relevant to EASs. We then derive PRSs for EAS from the rescaled meta‐analysis results of EAS and EUR data. Evaluated in an independent EAS validation data set, this approach increases the prediction liability‐adjusted Nagelkerke's pseudoR2by 40%, 41%, and 5%, respectively, compared with PRSs derived from an EAS GWAS only, EUR GWAS only, and conventional fixed‐effects meta‐analysis of EAS and EUR data. The PRS derived from the rescaled meta‐analysis approach achieved an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of 0.6059, higher than AUC = 0.5782, 0.5809, 0.6008 for EAS, EUR, and conventional meta‐analysis of EAS and EUR. We further compare PRSs constructed by single‐nucleotide polymorphisms that have different linkage disequilibrium (LD) scores and minor allele frequencies (MAFs) between EUR and EAS, and observe that lower LD scores or MAF in EAS correspond to poorer PRS performance (AUC = 0.5677, 0.5530, respectively) than higher LD scores or MAF (AUC = 0.589, 0.5993, respectively). We finally build a PRS stratified by LD score differences in EUR and EAS using rescaled meta‐analysis, and obtain an AUC of 0.6096, with improvement over other strategies investigated.
LncRNA PAINT is associated with aggressive prostate cancer and dysregulation of cancer hallmark genes
Authors: Hasan Md Faqrul , Ganapathy Kavya , Sun Jiao , Khatib Ayman , Andl Thomas , Soulakova Julia N. , Coppola Domenico , Zhang Wei , Chakrabarti Ratna
Published: March 2021

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play regulatory role in cellular processes and their aberrant expression may drive cancer progression. Here we report the function of a lncRNA PAINT (prostate cancer associated intergenic noncoding transcript) in promoting prostate cancer (PCa) progression. Upregulation of PAINT was noted in advanced stage and metastatic PCa. Inhibition of PAINT decreased cell proliferation, S‐phase progression, increased expression of apoptotic markers, and improved sensitivity to docetaxel and Aurora kinase inhibitor VX‐680. Inhibition of PAINT decreased cell migration and reduced expression of Slug and Vimentin. Ectopic expression of PAINT suppressed E‐cadherin, increased S‐phase progression and cell migration. PAINT expression in PCa cells induced larger colony formation, increased tumor growth and higher expression of mesenchymal markers. Transcriptome analysis followed by qRT‐PCR validation showed differentially expressed genes involved in epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT), apoptosis and drug resistance in PAINT‐expressing cells. Our study establishes an oncogenic function of PAINT in PCa.
First case of ductal adenocarcinoma of the prostate with MAP3K1 homozygous deletion
Authors: Shojo Kazunori , Kosaka Takeo , Nakamura Kohei , Hongo Hiroshi , Kobayashi Hiroaki , Mikami Shuji , Nishihara Hiroshi , Oya Mototsugu
Published: March 2021

Introduction

Ductal adenocarcinoma of the prostate is a rare prostate cancer variant and associated with higher stage and greater risk of mortality. Optimal systemic therapy for metastatic ductal adenocarcinoma is not known.

Case presentation

A 67‐year‐old man presented with ductal adenocarcinoma of the prostate accompanied by multiple lung metastases and advanced bone metastases. We performed channel transurethral resection of the prostate and confirmed the diagnosis of ductal adenocarcinoma of the prostate. DNA sequencing identified a TP53 somatic point mutation (p.Gly245Ser) as the pathogenic variant. Furthermore, a homozygous deletion was observed in mitogen‐activated protein kinase kinase kinase 1. The patient received enzalutamide but deceased 5 months after presenting to our institution.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this is the first report of ductal adenocarcinoma of the prostate with a mitogen‐activated protein kinase kinase kinase 1 homozygous deletion. Accumulation of whole‐exome sequencing data is expected to inform future advances in therapy development.
Indoor photovoltaics, The Next Big Trend in solution‐processed solar cells
Authors: Li Benxuan , Hou Bo , Amaratunga Gehan A. J.
Published: March 2021

Indoor photovoltaics (IPVs) have attracted considerable interest for their potential to power small and portable electronics and photonic devices. The recent advancemes in circuit design and device optimizations has led to the power required to operate electronics for the internet of things (IoT), such as distributed sensors, remote actuators, and communication devices, being remarkably reduced. Therefore, various types of sensors and a large number of nodes can be wireless or even batteryless powered by IPVs. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the recent developments in IPVs. We primarily focus on third‐generation solution‐processed solar cell technologies, which include organic solar cells, dye‐sensitized solar cells, perovskite solar cells, and newly developed colloidal quantum dot indoor solar cells. Besides, the device design principles are also discussed in relation to the unique characteristics of indoor lighting conditions. Challenges and prospects for the development of IPV are also summarized, which, hopefully, can lead to a better understanding of future IPV design as well as performance enhancement.
Adipose‐derived mesenchymal stem cell‐secreted exosome alleviates dextran sulfate sodium‐induced acute colitis by Treg cell induction and inflammatory cytokine reduction
Authors: Heidari Neda , Abbasi‐Kenarsari Hajar , Namaki Saeed , Baghaei Kaveh , Zali Mohammad Reza , Ghaffari Khaligh Sahar , Hashemi Seyed Mahmoud
Published: March 2021

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, is an inflammatory condition that results in gastrointestinal tract damage. Various factors, including environmental and genetic agents, disrupt the function of the intestinal immune system that can lead to IBD. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) display an immunoregulatory function and demonstrate regenerative potential by paracrine action. In this study, we evaluated the immunomodulatory effects of MSCs’ derived exosomes in the acute form of dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)‐induced colitis. Exosomes were isolated from adipose‐derived MSCs. Acute colitis was induced by DSS. The exosome was used by intraperitoneal injection into mice with acute colitis. Stool consistency, body weight changes, bleeding severity, colon length, and weight were examined. At the experimental endpoint (Day 7), the changes in the colon tissue were evaluated. The level of cytokines of interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ), tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), interleukin‐17 (IL‐17), IL‐4, IL‐12, transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) and, IL‐10, and Treg cells percentage were assayed. Results showed that exosome administration diminished colon shortening, bodyweight loss, bleeding, and colon injury. The levels of IFN‐γ, TNF‐α, IL‐12, and IL‐17 were decreased, and the level of TGF‐β, IL‐4, and IL‐10 were increased in lymph node and spleen of mice treated with exosome.  Percentages of CD4+ CD25+ Foxp3+ Treg cells were grown in the lymph node and spleen of mice treated with exosomes. Overall, current data suggest that MSC‐derived exosome could regulate the Treg population and improves inflammation in DSS‐induced acute colitis.
Profiling homicide cases based on matched victim‐offender demographic characteristics
Authors: Avdija Avdi S. , Gallagher Christian W. , Woods DeVere D.
Published: March 2021

The purpose of this study is to develop an evidence‐based set of inductive profiles based on matched victim‐offender characteristics of homicide cases. To develop these homicide profiles, we used national data from the FBI's supplementary homicide reports that were reported by law enforcement agencies for a period of 42 years, from 1976 to 2017 in the United States. The findings that emerged from the study show that female offenders tend to kill victims of the opposite gender; whereas male offenders kill more victims within their own gender. The probability of becoming a victim of homicide increases for white people and decreases for black people as the offender's age increases. Overall, offenders tend to kill victims about their own age, and as offenders get older, they are more likely to kill female victims than male victims.
The impact of awareness diffusion on the spread of COVID‐19 based on a two‐layer SEIR/V–UA epidemic model
Authors: Zhao Xueke , Zhou Qingming , Wang Anjing , Zhu Fenping , Meng Zeyang , Zuo Chao
Published: March 2021

In this paper, we propose a new susceptible–vaccinated–exposed–infected–recovered with unaware–aware (SEIR/V‐UA) model to study the mutual effect between the epidemic spreading and information diffusion. We investigate the dynamic processes of the model with a Kinetic equation and derive the expression for epidemic stability by the eigenvalues of the Jacobian matrix. Then, we validate the model by the Monte Carlo method and numerical simulation on a two‐layer scale‐free network. With the outbreak of COVID‐19, the spread of the epidemic in China prompted drastic measures for transmission containment. We examine the effects of these interventions based on modeling of the information‐epidemic and the data of the COVID‐19 epidemic case. The results further demonstrate that the epidemic spread can be affected by the effective transmission rate of awareness.
Genomic resources for lupins are coming of age
Authors: Kamphuis Lars G. , Garg Gagan , Foley Rhonda , Singh Karam B.
Published: March 2021

Lupins are underutilised pulse crops subject to increasing interest for human consumption of the high‐protein grain. They are also valued as a source of animal nutrition and make an excellent break crop in agricultural production systems. Like other orphan legumes, the genomic revolution has made it cost‐effective to also apply modern genetic and genomic approaches in lupins. These have predominantly been conducted in the two major domesticated lupin species, namely, narrow‐leafed lupin (NLL; Lupinus angustifolius) and white lupin (Lupinus albus), with transcriptome studies also emerging in other domesticated and undomesticated species. This review provides an overview of the current lupin genomic resources developed including two reference genomes for NLL and white lupin, several transcriptome resources and the development of pan‐genomes for NLL and white lupin, and describes how these offer great potential to increase grain yield and quality for these recently domesticated pulse crops. Furthermore, we highlight the importance of lupins to further our understanding of many aspects of fundamental legume biology. Combined, this will aid breeders and growers to improve lupin crops to help meet the increasing demand for plant protein in more sustainable cropping systems.
Corrosion behavior of friction stir‐welded AZ31 Mg alloy after plastic deformation
Authors: Liu Dejia , Yu Jiaxin , Zhang Yafeng , Zhang Yonggan , Shen Mingxue
Published: March 2021

Postweld plastic deformation was reported to be able to largely enhance the mechanical properties of friction stir‐welded (FSW) Mg alloys by changing microstructures in the regions with a soft‐oriented texture. However, few studies have concentrated on the effects of postweld plastic deformations on the corrosion behavior of FSW Mg alloys, which has an impact on their application. In the present study, electrochemical measurements, hydrogen evolution, and mass loss tests were used to study the influences of postweld compression along the transverse direction and subsequent annealing on the corrosion rate of FSW AZ31 Mg alloys. It was found that owing to the grain refinement in the weld zones, an improvement in the corrosion resistance and hardness was observed in the FSW AZ31 sample compared to the base metal (BM) sample. Postweld compression was very harmful to the corrosion resistance of the FSW AZ31 alloys. On the basis of the mass loss results, the corrosion rate of the compressed FSW sample was ~17.62 mm/year, which was ~8.99 times that of the FSW sample (~1.96 mm/year). Subsequent annealing could slightly reduce the corrosion rate of the compressed FSW AZ31 plates, whereas the corrosion rate of the FSW‐C‐T sample (~13.63 mm/year) was much worse than that of the BM sample (~4.73 mm/year).
Effect of agarose concentration on coated micro‐bottle resonators for humidity detection
Authors: Zain Huda Adnan , Batumalay Malathy , Abdul Rahim Hazli Rafis , Yasin Moh , Harun S. W.
Published: March 2021

Agarose is a stable hydrophilic material commonly used for relative humidity sensing application. Agarose porous nature causes changes in its refractive index as relative humidity change. Micro bottle resonators are a promising choice for sensing applications due to their good quality factor. In this work, the effect of agarose gel concentration on micro‐bottle ability to detect relative humidity changes was investigated. The agarose gel coating was made in two different concentrations 0.5% and 1%. These two concentrations were used as coating for microbottle resonators with the diameter of 190 μm. The micro‐bottle samples were made by the soften‐and‐compress technique. In the humidity range of 35%–85% RH, the 0.5% agarose gel coated microbottle had a sensitivity of 0.1077 dB/RH%. The microbottle resonator coated with the 1% solution showed a lower sensitivity of 0.0899 dB/RH%. This improvement in sensitivity with lower agarose gel concentration is due to the pore size of agarose gel. Yet, both concentrations showed improvement in sensitivity compared to the bare micro‐bottle showing that agarose can be a potential choice for building sensitive efficient relative humidity sensors.