bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimating the potential effects of COVID-19 pandemic on food commodity prices and nutrition security in Nepal
Authors: Singh Samrat , Nourozi Sara , Acharya Laxman , Thapa Sridhar
Published: October 2020

The objective of the paper is to analyse changes in food commodity prices and estimate the potential effects of food price change on nutrition security in Nepal in the context of COVID-19 contagion control measures. It presents a comparative intra-country observational study design looking at events before and during the pandemic (after implementation of contagion control measures). The study design includes three districts, enabling comparison between diverse agro-ecological zones and geographical contexts. The methodology consists of primary data collection, modelling and quantitative analysis. The analysis is based on actual school meal food baskets which represent culturally and nutritionally optimised food baskets, developed by the local community and notional typical household food baskets. End May/early June 2020 is the ‘Post-COVID-19’ reference point, the same time period in 2019 i.e. June 2019 is the ‘Pre-COVID-19’ reference point. The study finds a substantial increase in food commodity prices across food groups and districts with marked inter-district variation. For school meal basket, all micronutrients show large average declines ranging from 9⋅5 % for zinc to 11 % for vitamin-A. For household food baskets on average, vitamin-A reduced 37 % followed by iron at 19 %, reduction in zinc is low due to the high zinc content in whole grain cereals. COVID-19 control measures are likely to have contributed to substantial price inflation over the reference period with potentially damaging effects on nutrition security in Nepal with serious implications for vulnerable populations.
A dual-tube sampling technique for snowpack studies
Authors: Dallmayr Remi , Freitag Johannes , Hörhold Maria , Laepple Thomas , Lemburg Johannes , Della-Lunga Damiano , Wilhelms Frank
Published: October 2020

The validity of any glaciological paleo proxy used to interpret climate records is based on the level of understanding of their transfer from the atmosphere into the ice sheet and their recording in the snowpack. Large spatial noise in snow properties is observed, as the wind constantly redistributes the deposited snow at the surface routed by the local topography. To increase the signal-to-noise ratio and getting a representative estimate of snow properties with respect to the high spatial variability, a large number of snow profiles is needed. However, the classical way of obtaining profiles via snow-pits is time and energy-consuming, and thus unfavourable for large surface sampling programs. In response, we present a dual-tube technique to sample the upper metre of the snowpack at a variable depth resolution with high efficiency. The developed device is robust and avoids contact with the samples by exhibiting two tubes attached alongside each other in order to (1) contain the snow core sample and (2) to access the bottom of the sample, respectively. We demonstrate the performance of the technique through two case studies in East Antarctica where we analysed the variability of water isotopes at a 100 m and 5 km spatial scales.
A multiproxy record of sedimentation, pedogenesis, and environmental history in the north of West Siberia during the late Pleistocene based on the Belaya Gora section
Authors: Sheinkman Vladimir , Sedov Sergey , Shumilovskikh Lyudmila S. , Bezrukova Elena , Dobrynin Dmitriy , Timireva Svetlana , Rusakov Alexey , Maksimov Fedor
Published: October 2020

Recent revision of the Pleistocene glaciation boundaries in northern Eurasia has encouraged the search for nonglacial geological records of the environmental history of northern West Siberia. We studied an alluvial paleosol-sedimentary sequence of the high terrace of the Vakh River (middle Ob basin) to extract the indicators of environmental change since Marine Oxygen Isotope Stage (MIS) 6. Two levels of the buried paleosols are attributed to MIS 5 and MIS 3, as evidenced by U/Th and radiocarbon dates. Palynological and pedogenetic characteristics of the lower pedocomplex recorded the climate fluctuations during MIS 5, from thePicea-Larixtaiga environment during MIS 5e to the establishment of the tundra-steppe environment due to the cooling of MIS 5d or MIS 5b and partial recovery of boreal forests withPiceaandPinusin MIS 5c or MIS 5a. The upper paleosol level shows signs of cryogenic hydromorphic pedogenesis corresponding to the tundra landscape, with permafrost during MIS 3. Boulders incorporated in a laminated alluvial deposit between the paleosols are dropstones brought from the Enisei valley by ice rafting during the cold MIS 4. An abundance of eolian morphostructures on quartz grains from the sediments that overly the upper paleosol suggests a cold, dry, and windy environment during the MIS 2 cryochron.
Mechanisms linking the human gut microbiome to prophylactic and treatment strategies for COVID-19
Authors: Walton Gemma E. , Gibson Glenn R. , Hunter Kirsty A.
Published: October 2020

The recent COVID-19 pandemic has altered the face of biology, social interaction and public health worldwide. It has had a destructive effect upon millions of people and is approaching a devastating one million fatalities. Emerging evidence has suggested a link between the infection and gut microbiome status. This is one of the several factors that may contribute towards severity of infection. Given the fact that the gut is heavily linked to immunity, inflammatory status and the ability to challenge pathogens, it is worthwhile to consider dietary intervention of the gut microbiota as means of potentially challenging the viral outcome. In this context, probiotics and prebiotics have been used to mitigate similar respiratory infections. Here, we summarise links between the gut microbiome and COVID-19 infection, as well as propose mechanisms whereby probiotic and prebiotic interventions may act.
Genetic characterization and divergence studies of maize (Zea maysL.) lines developed from landraces indigenous to North Eastern Hill Region (NEHR) of India
Authors: Naveenkumar K. L. , Sen Devyani , Vashum Shimreiso , Sanjenbam Miranda
Published: October 2020

The current study focused on characterization of the underlying genetic divergence in inbred lines developed from local landraces of North Eastern Hill Region of India – a designated Asiatic maize diversity centre – following six generations of inbreeding. Substantial genetic differentiation was indicated based on very high to moderateFstvalues for 22 of the 38 simple sequence repeat markers studied. STRUCTURE analysis partitioned the subset into two distinct and one admixture subgroup (Populations I, II and III respectively) accompanied by a significant reduction in heterozygosity. Population II was further subdivided into subpopulations Pop-M9 and Pop-T9. Nei's pairwise genetic distance and populationFstvalues indicated that Populations I and II were more divergent with neighbour joining clustering analysis clearly defining landraces originating from the states of Tripura (Population II) and Sikkim (Population I) as most divergent. Principal coordinates analysis could explain 31.26% of the variation present in the subgroups wherein Population I was more variable. Analysis of molecular variance andFstcoefficients (P< 0.001) indicated 17% population structuring with 55% variation detected for individuals within populations. These results combined with the presence of phenotypic variability in the subgroups for yield traits supported by results of a preliminary partial diallel analysis strongly suggest the existence of distinct heterotic groups. Divergence studies are crucial for exploiting heterosis, and the current study would go a long way to help establish a germplasm base for developing varieties with improved agronomic performance and surer commercial prospects no reports of which are available thus far.
Searching for low-mass companions around white dwarfs and subdwarfs from Kepler field
Authors: Krzesinski Jurek , Blokesz Adam
Published: October 2020

Knowing the late stages of the stellar evolution is crucial for understanding the fate of planets around subdwarfs and white dwarfs. Simulations by (Staff et al.2016) show, that exoplanets engulfed in the extending stellar envelope will quickly spiral down onto the parent star. Therefore, we do not expect to find planets on close by orbits to the subdwarfs (Blokesz et al.2019) or white dwarfs. However, the recent observation of planetary debris around WD 1145+017 white dwarf suggests, there might exists planets farther away from these stars. Using binarograms, O-C diagrams and Fourier transform for the Kepler space telescope data, we investigate a problem of missing planets around white dwarfs in binary systems, single white dwarfs and subdwarfs type B. The last ones, being the only stars which (due to the lack of hydrogen) go directly to the white dwarf cooling track after their red giant phase.
The chemical structure of the hot pulsating DB white dwarf KIC 08626021 from asteroseismology
Authors: Charpinet S. , Brassard P. , Giammichele N. , Fontaine Gilles
Published: October 2020

Giammichele et al. (2018) proposed a full determination, largely independent of evolution calculations, of the chemical composition and stratification inside the hot pulsating DB white dwarf KIC 08626021. However, Timmes et al. (2018) pointed out that neglecting the effects of neutrino cooling, such as in the static models used in Giammichele et al. study, could impact significantly the derived seismic solution and compromise conclusions drawn upon it. Here we present a reanalysis of KIC 08626021, using improved static models which now incorporate more realistic luminosity profiles that reflect the still significant energy losses induced by neutrino emission mechanisms in hot DB white dwarfs. We show that this effect has only a limited impact on the derived seismic model properties and, more importantly, that all the conclusions brought by Giammichele et al. (2018) remain entirely valid.
Realistic models of Globular Clusters with white dwarfs, neutron stars and black holes using GPU supercomputer
Authors: Kayastha Bhusan , Wang Long , Berczik Peter , Pang Xiaoying , Arca Sedda Manuel , Kamlah Albrecht , Spurzem Rainer
Published: October 2020

We present some results from the DRAGON simulations, a set of four direct N-body simulations of globular clusters (GCs) with a million stars and five percent initial (primordial) binaries. These simulations were undertaken with the NBODY6++GPU code, which allowed us to follow dynamical and stellar evolution of individual stars and binaries, formation and evolution of white dwarfs, neutron stars, and black holes, and the effect of a galactic tidal field. The simulations are the largest existing models of a realistic globular cluster over its full lifetime of 12 billion years. In particular we will show here an investigation of the population of binaries including compact objects (such as white dwarfs - cataclysmic variables and merging black hole binaries in the model as counterparts of LIGO/Virgo sources); their distribution in the cluster and evolution with time.
Neutral helium line profiles through the simulation of local interactions
Authors: Tremblay Patrick , Beauchamp Alain , Bergeron Pierre
Published: October 2020

For the past 25 years, we have been considering the Stark effect for neutral helium lines in DB white dwarfs using the standard Stark broadening theory in both the impact regime (in the center of the lines) and the quasi-static regime (in the wings) for the electrons, while neglecting the effect of ions in motion. Although this is probably a good approximation based on previous theoretical work, the transition between the two regimes for the electrons and the contribution of the ions very near the core might be poorly represented. To better represent these particularities, we report here the results of a new series of simulations that treat the local dynamics and interactions of both electrons and ions around a neutral helium atom. From these simulations, we produce new improved line profiles, which we compare with our previous analytical results.
Statistics of white dwarf properties in intermediate polars
Authors: Suleimanov Valery F. , Doroshenko Victor A. , Werner Klaus
Published: October 2020

Many intermediate polars are hard X-ray sources. The theory of their hard X-ray radiation is well developed and allows us to determine white dwarf masse in this kind of cataclysmic variables. Here we present the results of determination the masses of 35 white dwarfs in the intermediate polars observed by observatories NuSTAR (10 sources) and Swift/BAT (25 sources). The corresponding mass accrerion rates and the luminosity function were also derived due to accurate distance to the sources well known now after Gaia DR2.
Double degenerate candidates in the open cluster NGC 6633
Authors: Barnett Joseph W. , Williams Kurtis A.
Published: October 2020

The study of white dwarfs, the end stage of stellar evolution for more than 95% of stars, is critical to bettering our understanding of the late stages of the lives of low mass stars. In particular, the post main sequence evolution of binary star systems is complex, and the identification and analysis of double degenerate systems is a crucial step in constraining models of binary star systems. Binary white dwarfs in open star clusters are particularly useful because cluster parameters such as distance, metal content, and total system age are more tightly constrained than for field double degenerates. Here we use the precision astrometry from the Gaia Data Release 2 catalog to study two other white dwarfs which were identified as candidate double degenerates in the field of the open star cluster NGC 6633. One of the two objects, LAWDS 4, is found to have astrometric properties fully consistent with that of the cluster. In such a case, the object is significantly overluminous for a single white dwarf, strongly indicating binarity. The second candidate binary, LAWDS 7, appears to be inconsistent with cluster membership, though a more thorough analysis is necessary to properly quantify the probability. At present we are proceeding to model the photometric and spectroscopic data for both objects as if they were cluster member double degenerates. Results of this latter analysis are forthcoming. Our results will add crucial data to the study of binary star evolution in open star clusters.
Evolution and asteroseismology of ultra-massive DA white dwarfs
Authors: De Gerónimo F. C. , Córsico A. H. , Camisassa M. E. , Althaus L. G.
Published: October 2020

Ultra-massive (⩾M⊙) oxygen/neon (ONe) core white dwarfs (WDs) are the result of the evolution of isolated progenitor stars with masses above 6−M⊙. It is expected that hydrogen-rich (DA) ultra-massive WDs harbor crystallized cores at the typical temperatures of the ZZ Ceti instability strip. These stars offer a unique opportunity to study the processes of crystallization and to infer their core chemical composition. We present a study of the evolution and asteroseismology of ultra-massive DA WDs. We found that all pulsating WDs known to date with M⩾1.1M⊙ should have more than 80% of their mass crystallized, if a ONe-core is assumed. Finally, we present a complete asteroseismological analysis to the well known ZZ Ceti BPM 37093 and a preliminary analysis to GD 518 and SDSS J0840+5222.
What can ISM and non-photospheric highly ionised lines in white dwarf spectra reveal about the β CMa tunnel?
Authors: Finch Nicolle L. , Preval S. P. , Barstow M. A. , Casewell S. L. , Ayres T. , Welsh B. , Bainbridge M. , Reindl N.
Published: October 2020

White dwarfs are useful objects with which to study the local interstellar medium (ISM). High ionisation state absorption features that cannot be attributed to the photosphere or the ISM have been observed along the line-of-sight to a number of white dwarf stars. Suggested origins of these lines include ionisation from past supernovae, stellar winds, circumstellar disks, photoionisation from nearby hot stars or also from the white dwarf itself. In this study we consider the origin of these non-photospheric highly ionised lines in two stars towards a rarefied region of the galaxy known as the extended β CMa Tunnel. We present preliminary results from our analysis of the first of these two stars.
A Bayesian analysis of white dwarfs in open clusters observed with Gaia
Authors: Jeffery Elizabeth J. , von Hippel Ted , Robinson Elliot , van Dyk David , Stenning David
Published: October 2020

We analyze individual white dwarfs in open clusters observed by Gaia. In particular, we determine ages when different model ingredients are used. We also explore fundamental properties of the white dwarfs, including temperature and mass, when using different filter combinations. Such tests are important to understanding any systematic effects when applying similar techniques to field stars.
SARS-CoV-2 Pandemie und Suchterkrankungen: Schwerpunkt Opioidabhängigkeit und Substitution
Authors: Pogarell Oliver , Wodarz von Essen Heike , Wodarz Norbert
Published: October 2020

Zusammenfassung. Hintergrund: Die Auswirkungen der SARS-CoV-2 Pandemie betreffen Menschen mit Suchterkrankungen auf vielfältige Weise. Psychosoziale Stressoren wie die Sorge vor Ansteckung oder die Folgen der öffentlichen und privaten Kontaktbeschränkungen können zu Destabilisierung, Rückfällen oder Zunahme eines Substanzkonsums führen. Gleichzeitig sind stationäre, ambulante oder rehabilitative Versorgungsangebote nur noch begrenzt verfügbar. Besonders vulnerabel sind Personen mit Opioidabhängigkeit, die aufgrund der hohen psychischen und somatischen Komorbiditätsraten eine erhöhte Infektanfälligkeit aufweisen und im Rahmen einer Substitutionsbehandlung zwingend auf stabile ambulante Versorgungsstrukturen angewiesen sind. Ziel: Es werden am Beispiel der Erfahrungen in Bayern die Auswirkungen auf Opioidabhängige und die Substitution dargestellt. Schlussfolgerungen: Um die Folgen des Lockdowns für diese Patient_innen zu minimieren und das Betreuungsangebot verlässlich aufrechtzuerhalten sind verschiedene Vorgehensweisen in Betracht zu ziehen, die neben allgemeinen Hygieneschulungen der Betroffenen, Anpassungen der Ambulanzorganisation ebenso wie regulatorische Maßnahmen umfassen.
Investigating Suicide-Related Subliminal Messages on Instagram
Authors: Arendt Florian , Markiewitz Antonia , Scherr Sebastian
Published: October 2020

Abstract. Background: Suicide is the second-leading cause of death among 15–29-year-olds and Instagram is one of the most popular and fastest-growing social media platforms among this age group. A previous study presented preliminary evidence for suicide-related "subliminal messages" on Instagram, defined as very brief presentations of suicide-related content in video posts that users have no conscious awareness of. Aim: A systematic quantitative study was pending. Method: We conducted a quantitative content analysis of 100 Instagram video posts. A frame-by-frame coding procedure allowed for an assessment of whether suicide-related content was depicted in very brief segments, even when this content could not be consciously recognized when watched at regular speed. Results: Analysis indicates that a substantial amount of suicide-related content is presented in very brief shots. We identified 67 very brief shots that appeared in 21 video posts. Of interest, 13 of these video posts presented more than one very brief suicide-related shot. Limitation: The subjective threshold of conscious awareness differs inter-individually. This complicates the operationalization of subliminal messages. Conclusion: Subliminal messages are ethically highly problematic. There is a need for a greater awareness of possible suicide-related subliminal messages on Instagram.
Discovery of a novel EGFR ligand DPBA that degrades EGFR and suppresses EGFR-positive NSCLC growth
Authors: Yao Nan , Wang Chen-Ran , Liu Ming-Qun , Li Ying-Jie , Chen Wei-Min , Li Zheng-Qiu , Qi Qi , Lu Jin-Jian , Fan Chun-Lin , Chen Min-Feng , Qi Ming , Li Xiao-Bo , Hong Jian , Zhang Dong-Mei , Ye Wen-Cai
Published: October 2020

Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) activation plays a pivotal role in EGFR-driven non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and is considered as a key target of molecular targeted therapy. EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have been canonically used in NSCLC treatment. However, prevalent innate and acquired resistances and EGFR kinase-independent pro-survival properties limit the clinical efficacy of EGFR TKIs. Therefore, the discovery of novel EGFR degraders is a promising approach towards improving therapeutic efficacy and overcoming drug resistance. Here, we identified a 23-hydroxybetulinic acid derivative, namely DPBA, as a novel EGFR small-molecule ligand. It exerted potent in vitro and in vivo anticancer activity in both EGFR wild type and mutant NSCLC by degrading EGFR. Mechanistic studies disclosed that DPBA binds to the EGFR extracellular domain at sites differing from those of EGF and EGFR. DPBA did not induce EGFR dimerization, phosphorylation, and ubiquitination, but it significantly promoted EGFR degradation and repressed downstream survival pathways. Further analyses showed that DPBA induced clathrin-independent EGFR endocytosis mediated by flotillin-dependent lipid rafts and unaffected by EGFR TKIs. Activation of the early and late endosome markers rab5 and rab7 but not the recycling endosome marker rab11 was involved in DPBA-induced EGFR lysosomal degradation. The present study offers a new EGFR ligand for EGFR pharmacological degradation and proposes it as a potential treatment for EGFR-positive NSCLC, particularly NSCLC with innate or acquired EGFR TKI resistance. DPBA can also serve as a chemical probe in the studies on EGFR trafficking and degradation.
Optotracing for selective fluorescence-based detection, visualization and quantification of live S. aureus in real-time
Authors: Butina Karen , Tomac Ana , Choong Ferdinand X. , Shirani Hamid , Nilsson K. Peter R. , Löffler Susanne , Richter-Dahlfors Agneta
Published: October 2020

Methods for bacterial detection are needed to advance the infection research and diagnostics. Based on conformation-sensitive fluorescent tracer molecules, optotracing was recently established for dynamic detection and visualization of structural amyloids and polysaccharides in the biofilm matrix of gram-negative bacteria. Here, we extend the use of optotracing for detection of gram-positive bacteria, focussing on the clinically relevant opportunistic human pathogen Staphylococcus aureus. We identify a donor-acceptor-donor-type optotracer, whose binding-induced fluorescence enables real-time detection, quantification, and visualization of S. aureus in monoculture and when mixed with gram-negative Salmonella Enteritidis. An algorithm-based automated high-throughput screen of 1920 S. aureus transposon mutants recognized the cell envelope as the binding target, which was corroborated by super-resolution microscopy of bacterial cells and spectroscopic analysis of purified cell wall components. The binding event was essentially governed by hydrophobic interactions, which permitted custom-designed tuning of the binding selectivity towards S. aureus versus Enterococcus faecalis by appropriate selection of buffer conditions. Collectively this work demonstrates optotracing as an enabling technology relevant for any field of basic and applied research, where visualization and detection of S. aureus is needed.
Identification of 4-carboxyglutamate residue sites based on position based statistical feature and multiple classification
Authors: Shah Asghar Ali , Khan Yaser Daanial
Published: October 2020

Glutamic acid is an alpha-amino acid used by all living beings in protein biosynthesis. One of the important glutamic acid modifications is post-translationally modified 4-carboxyglutamate. It has a significant role in blood coagulation. 4-carboxyglumates are required for the binding of calcium ions. On the contrary, this modification can also cause different diseases such as bone resorption, osteoporosis, papilloma, and plaque atherosclerosis. Considering its importance, it is necessary to predict the occurrence of glutamic acid carboxylation in amino acid stretches. As there is no computational based prediction model available to identify 4-carboxyglutamate modification, this study is, therefore, designed to predict 4-carboxyglutamate sites with a less computational cost. A machine learning model is devised with a Multilayered Perceptron (MLP) classifier using Chou’s 5-step rule. It may help in learning statistical moments and based on this learning, the prediction is to be made accurately either it is 4-carboxyglutamate residue site or detected residue site having no 4-carboxyglutamate. Prediction accuracy of the proposed model is 94% using an independent set test, while obtained prediction accuracy is 99% by self-consistency tests.
Phylogenetic inference enables reconstruction of a long-overlooked outbreak of almond leaf scorch disease (Xylella fastidiosa) in Europe
Authors: Moralejo Eduardo , Gomila Margarita , Montesinos Marina , Borràs David , Pascual Aura , Nieto Alicia , Adrover Francesc , Gost Pere A. , Seguí Guillem , Busquets Antonio , Jurado-Rivera José A. , Quetglas Bàrbara , García Juan de Dios , Beidas Omar , Juan Andreu , Velasco-Amo María P. , Landa Blanca B. , Olmo Diego
Published: October 2020

The recent introductions of the bacterium Xylella fastidiosa (Xf) into Europe are linked to the international plant trade. However, both how and when these entries occurred remains poorly understood. Here, we show how almond scorch leaf disease, which affects ~79% of almond trees in Majorca (Spain) and was previously attributed to fungal pathogens, was in fact triggered by the introduction of Xf around 1993 and subsequently spread to grapevines (Pierceʼs disease). We reconstructed the progression of almond leaf scorch disease by using broad phylogenetic evidence supported by epidemiological data. Bayesian phylogenetic inference predicted that both Xf subspecies found in Majorca, fastidiosa ST1 (95% highest posterior density, HPD: 1990–1997) and multiplex ST81 (95% HPD: 1991–1998), shared their most recent common ancestors with Californian Xf populations associated with almonds and grapevines. Consistent with this chronology, Xf-DNA infections were identified in tree rings dating to 1998. Our findings uncover a previously unknown scenario in Europe and reveal how Pierce’s disease reached the continent.
Rechargeable proton exchange membrane fuel cell containing an intrinsic hydrogen storage polymer
Authors: Miyake Junpei , Ogawa Yasunari , Tanaka Toshiki , Ahn Jinju , Oka Kouki , Oyaizu Kenichi , Miyatake Kenji
Published: October 2020

Proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) are promising clean energy conversion devices in residential, transportation, and portable applications. Currently, a high-pressure tank is the state-of-the-art mode of hydrogen storage; however, the energy cost, safety, and portability (or volumetric hydrogen storage capacity) presents a major barrier to the widespread dissemination of PEMFCs. Here we show an ‘all-polymer type’ rechargeable PEMFC (RCFC) that contains a hydrogen-storable polymer (HSP), which is a solid-state organic hydride, as the hydrogen storage media. Use of a gas impermeable SPP-QP (a polyphenylene-based PEM) enhances the operable time, reaching up to ca. 10.2 s mgHSP−1, which is more than a factor of two longer than that (3.90 s mgHSP−1) for a Nafion NRE-212 membrane cell. The RCFCs are cycleable, at least up to 50 cycles. The features of this RCFC system, including safety, ease of handling, and light weight, suggest applications in mobile, light-weight hydrogen-based energy devices.
Rapid access to discrete and monodisperse block co-oligomers from sugar and terpenoid toward ultrasmall periodic nanostructures
Authors: Isono Takuya , Komaki Ryoya , Lee Chaehun , Kawakami Nao , Ree Brian J. , Watanabe Kodai , Yoshida Kohei , Mamiya Hiroaki , Yamamoto Takuya , Borsali Redouane , Tajima Kenji , Satoh Toshifumi
Published: October 2020

Discrete block co-oligomers (BCOs) are gaining considerable attention due to their potential to form highly ordered ultrasmall nanostructures suitable for lithographic templates. However, laborious synthetic routes present a major hurdle to the practical application. Herein, we report a readily available discrete BCO system that is capable of forming various self-assembled nanostructures with ultrasmall periodicity. Click coupling of propargyl-functionalized sugars (containing 1–7 glucose units) and azido-functionalized terpenoids (containing 3, 4, and 9 isoprene units) afforded the discrete and monodisperse BCOs with a desired total degree of polymerization and block ratio. These BCOs microphase separated into lamellar, gyroid, and cylindrical morphologies with the domain spacing (d) of 4.2–7.5 nm. Considering easy synthesis and rich phase behavior, presented BCO systems could be highly promising for application to diverse ~4-nm nanofabrications.
Deglacial to Holocene variability in surface water characteristics and major floods in the Beaufort Sea
Authors: Wu Junjie , Stein Ruediger , Fahl Kirsten , Syring Nicole , Nam Seung-Il , Hefter Jens , Mollenhauer Gesine , Geibert Walter
Published: October 2020

Surface water characteristics of the Beaufort Sea have global climate implications during the last deglaciation and the Holocene, as (1) sea ice is a critical component of the climate system and (2) Laurentide Ice Sheet meltwater discharges via the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean and further, to its outflow near the deep-water source area of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation. Here we present high-resolution biomarker records from the southern Beaufort Sea. Multi-proxy biomarker reconstruction suggests that the southern Beaufort Sea was nearly ice-free during the deglacial to Holocene transition, and a seasonal sea-ice cover developed during the mid-late Holocene. Superimposed on the long-term change, two events of high sediment flux were documented at ca. 13 and 11 kyr BP, respectively. The first event can be attributed to the Younger Dryas flood and the second event is likely related to a second flood and/or coastal erosion.
Multifunctional, histidine-tagged polymers: antibody conjugation and signal amplification
Authors: Zhang Yichuan , Gambardella Alessia , Üçüncü Muhammed , Geng Jin , Clavadetscher Jessica , Bradley Mark , Lilienkampf Annamaria
Published: October 2020

A polymer scaffold, with multiple reactive centres, was synthesised by RAFT polymerisation and conjugated to the antibody herceptin. A hexahistidine RAFT agent enabled simple purification of polymer–protein conjugates.
Photo-dissociation of self-assembled (anthracene-2-carbonyl)amino acid hydrogels
Authors: Chivers Phillip R. A. , Dookie Rebecca S. , Gough Julie E. , Webb Simon J.
Published: October 2020

Anthracene-amino acids self-assemble into supramolecular hydrogels upon the addition of salts in water or cell culture medium; subsequent exposure to 365 nm UV light disassembles the hydrogel by photodimerising the gelators.
A two-photon fluorescence self-reporting black phosphorus nanoprobe for the in situ monitoring of therapy response
Authors: Guan Kesong , Wang Peng , Zhou Fang , Wang Youjuan , Liu Hong-Wen , Xie Qingji , Song Guosheng , Yin Xia , Huan Shuangyan , Zhang Xiao-Bing
Published: October 2020

We developed a black phosphorus based two-photon fluorescent nanoprobe (TPBP) for the in situ and real-time reporting of the therapeutic response of black phosphorus.
X-ray excited ultralong room-temperature phosphorescence for organic afterglow scintillators
Authors: Tang Lele , Zan Jie , Peng Hao , Yan Xi , Tao Ye , Tian Dan , Yang Qingqing , Li Huanhuan , Chen Qiushui , Huang Wei , Chen Runfeng
Published: October 2020

An X-ray excited organic afterglow scintillator is realized by embedding lone-pair electron involved n–π* transitions and charge transfer characters into H-aggregations.
Effect of charge status on the ion transport and antimicrobial activity of synthetic channels
Authors: Xin Pengyang , Zhao Lingyu , Mao Linlin , Xu Linqi , Hou Shuaimin , Kong Huiyuan , Fang Haodong , Zhu Haofeng , Jiang Tao , Chen Chang-Po
Published: October 2020

The charge status of channels formed by pillararene–gramicidin hybrid molecules has a significant impact on their trans-membrane transport properties, membrane-association abilities and antimicrobial activities.
Bi-reforming of methane with steam and CO2 under pressurized conditions on a durable Ir–Ni/MgAl2O4 catalyst
Authors: Liu Zhongxian , Gao Feifan , Zhu Yi-An , Liu Zhicheng , Zhu Kake , Zhou Xinggui
Published: October 2020

Ir–Ni/MgAl2O4 is found to be a durable catalyst for methane reforming with steam and carbon dioxide under high pressure conditions.
Fast Raman mapping and in situ TEM observation of metal induced crystallization of amorphous silicon
Authors: Uebel David , Kayser Stefan , Markurt Toni , Ernst Owen C. , Teubner Thomas , Boeck Torsten
Published: October 2020

Crystalline silicon is grown onto an amorphous silicon (a-Si) seed layer from a liquid tin solution (steady state liquid phase epitaxy, SSLPE).
A new polymorph of strontium hexaferrite stabilized at the nanoscale
Authors: Makovec D. , Dražić G. , Gyergyek S. , Lisjak D.
Published: October 2020

During hydrothermal synthesis the magnetoplumbite strontium-ferrite nanoplatelets formviathe growth of primary discoid nanoplatelets with a new, incredibly complex hexagonal structure.
Transport phenomena of Cu–S–Te chalcogenide nanocomposites: frequency response and AC conductivity
Authors: Ojha Swarupa , Roy Madhab , Chamuah Anil , Bhattacharya Koyel , Bhattacharya Sanjib
Published: October 2020

In this work, the development and electrical characterization of several chalcogenide glassy-nanocomposites have been reported.
NMR investigations on binding and dynamics of imidazolium-based ionic liquids with HEWL
Authors: Reddy R. Ravikanth , Reddy Jithender G. , Kumar B. V. N. Phani
Published: October 2020

Ligand and protein-based approaches depicting the interaction of IL with HEWL.
Constant-potential environment for activating and synchronizing cardiomyocyte colonies with on-chip ion-depleting perm-selective membranes
Authors: Yadav Vivek , Chong Nicholas , Ellis Bradley , Ren Xiang , Senapati Satyajyoti , Chang Hsueh-Chia , Zorlutuna Pinar
Published: October 2020

An ion depleted zone was used to impose a high and uniform constant extracellular potential over an entire ∼1000 cell rat cardiomyocyte (rCM) colony on-a-chip, extending single-cell voltage-clamp ion channel studies to an entire normalized colony.
NiFe2O4nanoparticles: an efficient and reusable catalyst for the selective oxidation of benzyl alcohol to benzaldehyde under mild conditions
Authors: Iraqui Saddam , Kashyap Siddhartha Shankar , Rashid Md. Harunar
Published: October 2020

NiFe2O4nanoparticles of well-controlled sizes have been synthesized for use as a catalyst in the selective oxidation of benzyl alcohol.
The functionality of tetrahedral units in fluoroxoiodates: fluorine-modulating effects in iodates with lone pair electrons
Authors: Zeng Hao , Jing Qun , Zhang Jun
Published: October 2020

The relationship between performance and properties can be modulated by the F element in iodates. This strategy greatly enhances the application of iodates in nonlinear optical crystals.
Re-engineering natural products to engage new biological targets
Authors: Motika Stephen E. , Hergenrother Paul J.
Published: October 2020

Incorporating natural product-like features within small-molecule screening collections is of great interest. We highlight an emerging strategy that achieves this goal by using abundant natural products as starting points for compound construction.
Enzymes in natural product total synthesis
Authors: Moore Bradley S. , Gulder Tobias A. M.
Published: October 2020

The Natural Product Reports themed collection on Enzymes in natural product total synthesis is introduced by the Guest Editors, Tobias A. M. Gulder and Bradley S. Moore.
Recent insight into functional crystalline porous frameworks for cancer photodynamic therapy
Authors: Feng Jie , Ren Wen-Xiu , Kong Fei , Dong Yu-Bin
Published: October 2020

We summarize and illustrate the recent developments of MOF- and COF-based nanomedicines for PDT and its combined antitumor treatments. Furthermore, major challenges and future development prospects in this field are also discussed.
A techno-economic perspective on solar-to-hydrogen concepts through 2025
Authors: Grube Thomas , Reul Julian , Reuß Markus , Calnan Sonya , Monnerie Nathalie , Schlatmann Rutger , Sattler Christian , Robinius Martin , Stolten Detlef
Published: October 2020

With this comparative study, we present an advanced approach to the techno-economic assessment of solar-based hydrogen production.
Maurocalcin and its analog MCaE12A facilitate Ca2+ mobilization in cardiomyocytes
Authors: De Waard Stephan , Montnach Jérome , Cortinovis Charly , Chkir Olfa , Erfanian Morteza , Hulin Philippe , Gaborit Nathalie , Lemarchand Patricia , Mesirca Pietro , Bidaud Isabelle , Mangoni Matteo E. , De Waard Michel , Ronjat Michel
Published: October 2020

Ryanodine receptors are responsible for the massive release of calcium from the sarcoplasmic reticulum that triggers heart muscle contraction. Maurocalcin (MCa) is a 33 amino acid peptide toxin known to target skeletal ryanodine receptor. We investigated the effect of MCa and its analog MCaE12A on isolated cardiac ryanodine receptor (RyR2), and showed that they increase RyR2 sensitivity to cytoplasmic calcium concentrations promoting channel opening and decreases its sensitivity to inhibiting calcium concentrations. By measuring intracellular Ca2+ transients, calcium sparks and contraction on cardiomyocytes isolated from adult rats or differentiated from human-induced pluripotent stem cells, we demonstrated that MCaE12A passively penetrates cardiomyocytes and promotes the abnormal opening of RyR2. We also investigated the effect of MCaE12A on the pacemaker activity of sinus node cells from different mice lines and showed that, MCaE12A improves pacemaker activity of sinus node cells obtained from mice lacking L-type Cav1.3 channel, or following selective pharmacologic inhibition of calcium influx via Cav1.3. Our results identify MCaE12A as a high-affinity modulator of RyR2 and make it an important tool for RyR2 structure-to-function studies as well as for manipulating Ca2+ homeostasis and dynamic of cardiac cells.
A novel prognostic risk score model based on immune-related genes in patients with stage IV colorectal cancer
Authors: Xu Ke , He Jie , Zhang Jie , Liu Tao , Yang Fang , Ren Tao
Published: October 2020

Purpose: The aims of the present study were to explore immune-related genes (IRGs) in stage IV colorectal cancer (CRC) and construct a prognostic risk score model to predict patient overall survival (OS), providing a reference for individualized clinical treatment.

Methods: High-throughput RNA-sequencing, phenotype, and survival data from patients with stage IV CRC were downloaded from TCGA. Candidate genes were identified by screening for differentially expressed IRGs (DE-IRGs). Univariate Cox regression, LASSO, and multivariate Cox regression analyses were used to determine the final variables for construction of the prognostic risk score model. GSE17536 from the GEO database was used as an external validation dataset to evaluate the predictive power of the model.

Results: A total of 770 candidate DE-IRGs were obtained, and a prognostic risk score model was constructed by variable screening using the following 12 genes: FGFR4, LGR6, TRBV12-3, NUDT6, MET, PDIA2, ORM1, IGKV3D-20, THRB, WNT5A, FGF18, and CCR8. In the external validation set, the survival prediction C-index was 0.685, and the AUC values were 0.583, 0.731, and 0.837 for 1-, 2- and 3-year OS, respectively. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses demonstrated that the risk score model was an independent prognostic factor for patients with stage IV CRC. High- and low-risk patient groups had significant differences in the expression of checkpoint coding genes (ICGs).

Conclusion: The prognostic risk score model for stage IV CRC developed in the present study based on immune-related genes has acceptable predictive power, and is closely related to the expression of ICGs.
Innovative neon refrigeration unit operating down to 30 K
Authors: Dalakov Petar , Neuber Erik , Klier Jürgen , Herzog Ralf
Published: October 2020

A new compact, low-cost, economically competitive and environmentally friendly cryogenic system for cooling a continuous gas flow down to about 30 K is under developing at the ILK Dresden, reported in this paper. The paper shows thermodynamic calculations of cycles on neon and neon-helium mixtures. The assessment of the degree of thermodynamic perfection of the neon cycles in comparison of neon-helium cycles is provided. The use of neon and neon-helium mixture in cryogenic cycles for cryostatting at a temperature level of 27…63 K will increase the thermodynamic efficiency of the cryogenic system and reduce the energy costs of obtaining cold at this temperature level. A technological chain/process, as well as the main economic indicators of the system under development are presented. The availability of such an innovative refrigeration system can be used in a wide range of cryogenic and cooling applications.
Device for increasing the efficiency of the packed heat and mass transfer column and manufacturing method
Authors: Kozlov Aleksandr V. , Ignatiev Vladislav G. , Zheltoukhov Ivan V. , Ovcharov Victor G. , Skripkin Valery V. , Popov Alexander N.
Published: October 2020

The article presents the developed design of the heat and mass transfer column device with contact elements made of skewed sheets, which makes it possible to mitigate the disadvantages of using structural nozzles. The results of the study of the method of manufacturing the device from polymeric materials are presented.
Calculated and experimental evaluation heat pump distiller on pentane as working substance
Authors: Ilyn Gennady A. , Malafeev Ilya I. , Sapojnikov Vladimir B.
Published: October 2020

One of the most common and reliable methods of water treatment is the method of thermal distillation. Despite the reliability of the method, its application is constrained by high energy intensity. The most effective way to reduce the cost of production of distillate is the use of thermal transformers, providing regenerate and heat recovery phase transformations of the distillate.

The use of working fluid with the most favorable thermodynamic properties is of paramount importance for the creation of high efficiency thermotransformers.

The work is considered working fluid for high-temperature heat pumps and the results of the calculation-experimental study of high-temperature vapor compression heat-pumping distiller on natural working substance n-pentan.
Entropy-Statistical Analysis of the Air Conditioning System of a Passenger Airplane
Authors: Tishchenko Igor Valerievich , Abalakin Sergey Aleksandrovich , Merkulov Vladislav Ivanovich , Zharov Anton Andreevich
Published: October 2020

This article discusses a static mathematical model of the air conditioning system of a passenger aircraft with moisture control. The model was developed to calculate various operation modes of this system, for one of which the entropy-statistical analysis was performed. In the analysis, the main nodes of the circuit are considered, an assessment of their influence on the overall efficiency of the air conditioning system is carried out, as well as the advantages of the given entropy-statistical analysis method for such systems are evaluated. The mathematical model was developed in the Matlab Simulink software package.
Study of air jet characteristics in air-conditioned rooms
Authors: Kareeva Yulia R. , Posokhin Vladimir N. , Safiullin Rinat G. , Bliznyakova Ksenia A.
Published: October 2020

The research deals with supply air jets in air-conditioned rooms which have different lengths. The study was conducted according to the numerical method using the Fluent software package. Discharge conditions are equal in all cases. As a result, dependences of main kinematic and geometric jet’s characteristics (width and jet range, longitudinal velocity profiles, axial velocity, average velocity of the back flow, flow rates in the cross sections of the direct and back flows, distribution of static pressure along the length of the jet) on longitudinal constraint parameter are determined (length of room). The calculation results are presented in the form of corrections to the characteristics of a free jet, taking into account the influence of longitudinal constraint. It is found that influence of Archimede’s buoyant force on the temperature distribution along the length of non-isothermal jet is inconsequential. Dependence of dimensionless temperature on the jet axis of dimensionless length of the room of the coordinate x̄ is determined. The results can be used in calculation of airflow circulation in different purpose air-conditioned rooms.
Imaging of Mixed and Radiopaque Jaw Lesions
Authors: Vanhoenacker Filip M. , Bosmans Frederik , Vanhoenacker Charlotte , Bernaerts Anja
Published: October 2020

Radiopaque lesions and lesions of mixed density are less frequent than radiolucent lesions of the jawbones. They comprise a spectrum of odontogenic and non-odontogenic lesions. The latter group includes inherited and developmental disorders, osteomyelitis, and benign and malignant primary bone tumors and metastases. Most odontogenic radiopaque or mixed lesions are either related to the apex or more rarely to the crown of the tooth, although there are exceptions to this rule. Some lesions, such as a torus mandibularis and torus palatinus, have a characteristic location, whereas others show no relationship to the dentition. This article describes the most characteristic and prevalent radiopaque and mixed lesions of the jaws and their imaging characteristics. Paget's disease, fibrous dysplasia, and rare sclerotic bone diseases of the maxillofacial bones are discussed elsewhere in this issue. Careful correlation of clinical presentation, panoramic radiographs, cone beam computed tomography, and histopathology are the cornerstones for appropriate lesion characterization.
Dental and Skeletal Imaging in Forensic Age Estimation: Disparities in Current Approaches and the Continuing Search for Optimization
Authors: De Tobel Jannick , Ottow Christian , Widek Thomas , Klasinc Isabella , Mörnstad Håkan , Thevissen Patrick Werner , Verstraete Koenraad Luc
Published: October 2020

Medical imaging for forensic age estimation in living adolescents and young adults continues to be controversial and a subject of discussion. Because age estimation based on medical imaging is well studied, it is the current gold standard. However, large disparities exist between the centers conducting age estimation, both between and within countries. This review provides an overview of the most common approaches applied in Europe, with case examples illustrating the differences in imaging modalities, in staging of development, and in statistical processing of the age data. Additionally, the review looks toward the future because several European research groups have intensified studies on age estimation, exploring four strategies for optimization: (1) increasing sample sizes of the reference populations, (2) combining single-site information into multifactorial information, (3) avoiding ionizing radiation, and (4) conducting a fully automated analysis.