bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cross-resistance to diquat in glyphosate/paraquat-resistant hairy fleabane (Conyza bonariensis) and horseweed (Conyza canadensis) and confirmation of 2,4-D resistance in Conyza bonariensis
Authors: Moretti Marcelo L. , Bobadilla Lucas K. , Hanson Bradley D.
Published: February 2021

Hairy fleabane and horseweed are pervasive weed species in agriculture. Glyphosate-resistant (GR) and glyphosate/paraquat–resistant (GPR) biotypes challenge current management strategies. These GR and GPR biotypes have non–target site resistance, which can confer resistance to herbicides with different sites of action (SOAs). This study’s objective was to characterize the response of GR, GPR, and glyphosate/paraquat–susceptible (GPS) biotypes of both weed species to herbicides with a different SOA. Whole-plant dose–response bioassays indicated a similar response among tested biotypes of both weed species to rimsulfuron, dicamba, hexazinone, glufosinate, flumioxazin, saflufenacil, or mesotrione. The hairy fleabane GR and GPR biotypes were 2.7- and 2.9-fold resistant to 2,4-D relative to the GPS biotype (GR50 766.7 g ai ha–1), confirming 2,4-D resistance in hairy fleabane for the first time in California. The GR and GPR biotypes were not cross-resistant to dicamba. No differences in response to 2,4-D were observed among horseweed biotypes with a GR50 ranging from 150.2 to 277.4 g ai ha–1. The GPR biotypes of both species were cross-resistant to diquat, with a 44.0-fold resistance in hairy fleabane (GR50 863.7 g ai ha–1) and 15.6-fold resistance in horseweed (GR50 563.1 g ai ha–1). The confirmation of multiple resistances to glyphosate, paraquat, and 2,4-D in hairy fleabane curtails herbicide SOA alternatives and jeopardizes resistance management strategies based on herbicide rotation and tank mixtures, underscoring the critical need for nonchemical weed control alternatives.
A mycovirus modulates the endophytic and pathogenic traits of a plant associated fungus
Authors: Zhou Lingling , Li Xuepei , Kotta-Loizou Ioly , Dong Kaili , Li Shifang , Ni Dejiang , Hong Ni , Wang Guoping , Xu Wenxing
Published: February 2021

Fungi are generally thought to live in host plants with a single lifestyle, being parasitism, commensalism, or mutualism. The former, known as phytopathogenic fungi, cause various plant diseases that result in significant losses every year; while the latter, such as endophytic fungi, can confer fitness to the host plants. It is unclear whether biological factors can modulate the parasitic and mutualistic traits of a fungus. In this study, we isolated and characterized a mycovirus from an endophytic strain of the fungus Pestalotiopsis theae, a pathogen of tea (Camellia sinensis). Based on molecular analysis, we tentatively designated the mycovirus as Pestalotiopsis theae chrysovirus-1 (PtCV1), a novel member of the family Chrysoviridae, genus Alphachrysovirus. PtCV1 has four double-stranded (ds) RNAs as its genome, ranging from 0.9 to 3.4 kbp in size, encapsidated in isometric particles. PtCV1 significantly reduced the growth rates of its host fungus in vitro (ANOVA; P-value < 0.001) and abolished its virulence in planta (ANOVA; P-value < 0.001), converting its host fungus to a non-pathogenic endophyte on tea leaves, while PtCV1-free isolates were highly virulent. Moreover, the presence of PtCV1 conferred high resistance to the host plants against the virulent P. theae strains. Here we report a mycovirus that modulates endophytic and phytopathogenic fungal traits and provides an alternative approach to biological control of plant diseases caused by fungi.
Accelerated polymerization of N-carboxyanhydrides catalyzed by crown ether
Authors: Xia Yingchun , Song Ziyuan , Tan Zhengzhong , Xue Tianrui , Wei Shiqi , Zhu Lingyang , Yang Yingfeng , Fu Hailin , Jiang Yunjiang , Lin Yao , Lu Yanbing , Ferguson Andrew L. , Cheng Jianjun
Published: February 2021

The recent advances in accelerated polymerization of N-carboxyanhydrides (NCAs) enriched the toolbox to prepare well-defined polypeptide materials. Herein we report the use of crown ether (CE) to catalyze the polymerization of NCA initiated by conventional primary amine initiators in solvents with low polarity and low hydrogen-bonding ability. The cyclic structure of the CE played a crucial role in the catalysis, with 18-crown-6 enabling the fastest polymerization kinetics. The fast polymerization kinetics outpaced common side reactions, enabling the preparation of well-defined polypeptides using an α-helical macroinitiator. Experimental results as well as the simulation methods suggested that CE changed the binding geometry between NCA and propagating amino chain-end, which promoted the molecular interactions and lowered the activation energy for ring-opening reactions of NCAs. This work not only provides an efficient strategy to prepare well-defined polypeptides with functionalized C-termini, but also guides the design of catalysts for NCA polymerization.
Association of PET-based estradiol-challenge test for breast cancer progesterone receptors with response to endocrine therapy
Authors: Dehdashti Farrokh , Wu Ningying , Ma Cynthia X. , Naughton Michael J. , Katzenellenbogen John A. , Siegel Barry A.
Published: February 2021

Estrogen receptor (ER) testing of breast cancer imperfectly predicts response to endocrine therapy (ET). We hypothesize that a brief estradiol challenge will increase tumor progesterone receptor (PgR) levels only in tumors with functional ER. In this prospective, phase 2, single-center, single-arm trial (NCT02455453), we report the association of response to ET with change in tumor uptake of the progestin analog, 21-[18F]fluorofuranylnorprogesterone (FFNP), before and after a one-day estradiol challenge. In 43 postmenopausal women with advanced ER+ breast cancer, we show a post-challenge increase in tumor FFNP uptake only in 28 subjects with clinical benefit from ET (responders), but not in 15 without clinical benefit (nonresponders) (p < 0.0001), indicating 100% sensitivity and specificity. We further show significantly longer survival (p < 0.0001) in the responding subjects. Our results demonstrate that change in tumor FFNP uptake after estradiol challenge is highly predictive of response to ET in women with ER+ breast cancer.
Photoactivatable CaMKII induces synaptic plasticity in single synapses
Authors: Shibata Akihiro C. E. , Ueda Hiromi H. , Eto Kei , Onda Maki , Sato Aiko , Ohba Tatsuko , Nabekura Junichi , Murakoshi Hideji
Published: February 2021

Optogenetic approaches for studying neuronal functions have proven their utility in the neurosciences. However, optogenetic tools capable of inducing synaptic plasticity at the level of single synapses have been lacking. Here, we engineered a photoactivatable (pa)CaMKII by fusing a light-sensitive domain, LOV2, to CaMKIIα. Blue light or two-photon excitation reversibly activated paCaMKII. Activation in single spines was sufficient to induce structural long-term potentiation (sLTP) in vitro and in vivo. paCaMKII activation was also sufficient for the recruitment of AMPA receptors and functional LTP in single spines. By combining paCaMKII with protein activity imaging by 2-photon FLIM-FRET, we demonstrate that paCaMKII activation in clustered spines induces robust sLTP via a mechanism that involves the actin-regulatory small GTPase, Cdc42. This optogenetic tool for dissecting the function of CaMKII activation (i.e., the sufficiency of CaMKII rather than necessity) and for manipulating synaptic plasticity will find many applications in neuroscience and other fields.
Structural basis for ligand recognition of the neuropeptide Y Y2 receptor
Authors: Tang Tingting , Hartig Christin , Chen Qiuru , Zhao Wenli , Kaiser Anette , Zhang Xuefeng , Zhang Hui , Qu Honge , Yi Cuiying , Ma Limin , Han Shuo , Zhao Qiang , Beck-Sickinger Annette G. , Wu Beili
Published: February 2021

The human neuropeptide Y (NPY) Y2 receptor (Y2R) plays essential roles in food intake, bone formation and mood regulation, and has been considered an important drug target for obesity and anxiety. However, development of drugs targeting Y2R remains challenging with no success in clinical application yet. Here, we report the crystal structure of Y2R bound to a selective antagonist JNJ-31020028 at 2.8 Å resolution. The structure reveals molecular details of the ligand-binding mode of Y2R. Combined with mutagenesis studies, the Y2R structure provides insights into key factors that define antagonistic activity of diverse antagonists. Comparison with the previously determined antagonist-bound Y1R structures identified receptor-ligand interactions that play different roles in modulating receptor activation and mediating ligand selectivity. These findings deepen our understanding about molecular mechanisms of ligand recognition and subtype specificity of NPY receptors, and would enable structure-based drug design.
Tumour heterogeneity and intercellular networks of nasopharyngeal carcinoma at single cell resolution
Authors: Liu Yang , He Shuai , Wang Xi-Liang , Peng Wan , Chen Qiu-Yan , Chi Dong-Mei , Chen Jie-Rong , Han Bo-Wei , Lin Guo-Wang , Li Yi-Qi , Wang Qian-Yu , Peng Rou-Jun , Wei Pan-Pan , Guo Xiang , Li Bo , Xia Xiaojun , Mai Hai-Qiang , Hu Xue-Da , Zhang Zemin , Zeng Yi-Xin , Bei Jin-Xin
Published: February 2021

The heterogeneous nature of tumour microenvironment (TME) underlying diverse treatment responses remains unclear in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). Here, we profile 176,447 cells from 10 NPC tumour-blood pairs, using single-cell transcriptome coupled with T cell receptor sequencing. Our analyses reveal 53 cell subtypes, including tumour-infiltrating CD8+T, regulatory T (Treg), and dendritic cells (DCs), as well as malignant cells with different Epstein-Barr virus infection status. Trajectory analyses reveal exhausted CD8+T and immune-suppressive TNFRSF4+Treg cells in tumours might derive from peripheral CX3CR1+CD8+T and naïve Treg cells, respectively. Moreover, we identify immune-regulatory and tolerogenic LAMP3+DCs. Noteworthily, we observe intensive inter-cell interactions among LAMP3+DCs, Treg, exhausted CD8+T, and malignant cells, suggesting potential cross-talks to foster an immune-suppressive niche for the TME. Collectively, our study uncovers the heterogeneity and interacting molecules of the TME in NPC at single-cell resolution, which provide insights into the mechanisms underlying NPC progression and the development of precise therapies for NPC.
Structure of papain-like protease from SARS-CoV-2 and its complexes with non-covalent inhibitors
Authors: Osipiuk Jerzy , Azizi Saara-Anne , Dvorkin Steve , Endres Michael , Jedrzejczak Robert , Jones Krysten A. , Kang Soowon , Kathayat Rahul S. , Kim Youngchang , Lisnyak Vladislav G. , Maki Samantha L. , Nicolaescu Vlad , Taylor Cooper A. , Tesar Christine , Zhang Yu-An , Zhou Zhiyao , Randall Glenn , Michalska Karolina , Snyder Scott A. , Dickinson Bryan C. , Joachimiak Andrzej
Published: February 2021

The pandemic caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) continues to expand. Papain-like protease (PLpro) is one of two SARS-CoV-2 proteases potentially targetable with antivirals. PLpro is an attractive target because it plays an essential role in cleavage and maturation of viral polyproteins, assembly of the replicase-transcriptase complex, and disruption of host responses. We report a substantive body of structural, biochemical, and virus replication studies that identify several inhibitors of the SARS-CoV-2 enzyme. We determined the high resolution structure of wild-type PLpro, the active site C111S mutant, and their complexes with inhibitors. This collection of structures details inhibitors recognition and interactions providing fundamental molecular and mechanistic insight into PLpro. All compounds inhibit the peptidase activity of PLpro in vitro, some block SARS-CoV-2 replication in cell culture assays. These findings will accelerate structure-based drug design efforts targeting PLpro to identify high-affinity inhibitors of clinical value.
Impaired visual working memory and reduced connectivity in undergraduates with a history of mild traumatic brain injury
Authors: Arciniega Hector , Shires Jorja , Furlong Sarah , Kilgore-Gomez Alexandrea , Cerreta Adelle , Murray Nicholas G. , Berryhill Marian E.
Published: February 2021

Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), or concussion, accounts for 85% of all TBIs. Yet survivors anticipate full cognitive recovery within several months of injury, if not sooner, dependent upon the specific outcome/measure. Recovery is variable and deficits in executive function, e.g., working memory (WM) can persist years post-mTBI. We tested whether cognitive deficits persist in otherwise healthy undergraduates, as a conservative indicator for mTBI survivors at large. We collected WM performance (change detection, n-back tasks) using various stimuli (shapes, locations, letters; aurally presented numbers and letters), and wide-ranging cognitive assessments (e.g., RBANS). We replicated the observation of a general visual WM deficit, with preserved auditory WM. Surprisingly, visual WM deficits were equivalent in participants with a history of mTBI (mean 4.3 years post-injury) and in undergraduates with recent sports-related mTBI (mean 17 days post-injury). In seeking the underlying mechanism of these behavioral deficits, we collected resting state fMRI (rsfMRI) and EEG (rsEEG). RsfMRI revealed significantly reduced connectivity within WM-relevant networks (default mode, central executive, dorsal attention, salience), whereas rsEEG identified no differences (modularity, global efficiency, local efficiency). In summary, otherwise healthy current undergraduates with a history of mTBI present behavioral deficits with evidence of persistent disconnection long after full recovery is expected.
Computational 4D-OCM for label-free imaging of collective cell invasion and force-mediated deformations in collagen
Authors: Mulligan Jeffrey A. , Ling Lu , Leartprapun Nichaluk , Fischbach Claudia , Adie Steven G.
Published: February 2021

Traction force microscopy (TFM) is an important family of techniques used to measure and study the role of cellular traction forces (CTFs) associated with many biological processes. However, current standard TFM methods rely on imaging techniques that do not provide the experimental capabilities necessary to study CTFs within 3D collective and dynamic systems embedded within optically scattering media. Traction force optical coherence microscopy (TF-OCM) was developed to address these needs, but has only been demonstrated for the study of isolated cells embedded within optically clear media. Here, we present computational 4D-OCM methods that enable the study of dynamic invasion behavior of large tumor spheroids embedded in collagen. Our multi-day, time-lapse imaging data provided detailed visualizations of evolving spheroid morphology, collagen degradation, and collagen deformation, all using label-free scattering contrast. These capabilities, which provided insights into how stromal cells affect cancer progression, significantly expand access to critical data about biophysical interactions of cells with their environment, and lay the foundation for future efforts toward volumetric, time-lapse reconstructions of collective CTFs with TF-OCM.
Inner and outer retinal layer thickness alterations in pediatric and juvenile craniopharyngioma
Authors: Lee Ga-In , Park Kyung-Ah , Oh Sei Yeul , Kong Doo-Sik , Hong Sang Duk
Published: February 2021

We evaluated postoperative retinal thickness in pediatric and juvenile craniopharyngioma (CP) patients with chiasmal compression using optical coherence tomography (OCT) auto-segmentation. We included 18 eyes of 18 pediatric or juvenile patients with CP and 20 healthy controls. Each thickness of the macular retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL), ganglion cell layer (GCL), inner plexiform layer (IPL), inner nuclear layer, outer plexiform layer, outer nuclear layer, and photoreceptor layer was compared between the CP patients and healthy controls. There was significant thinning in the macular RNFL (estimates [μm], superior, − 10.68; inferior, − 7.24; nasal, − 14.22), all quadrants of GCL (superior, − 16.53; inferior, − 14.37; nasal, − 24.34; temporal, − 9.91) and IPL (superior, − 11.45; inferior, − 9.76; nasal, − 15.25; temporal, − 4.97) in pediatric and juvenile CP patients postoperatively compared to healthy control eyes after adjusting for age and refractive errors. Thickness reduction in the average and nasal quadrant of RNFL, GCL, and IPL was associated with peripapillary RNFL thickness, and reduced nasal quadrant GCL and IPL thicknesses were associated with postoperative visual field defects. In pediatric and juvenile patients with CP, decreased inner retinal layer thickness following chiasmal compression was observed. The changes in retinal structures were closely related to peripapillary RNFL thinning and functional outcomes.
Imaging of photoacoustic-mediated permeabilization of giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs)
Authors: Pereira Diogo A. , Silva Alexandre D. , Martins Patricia A. T. , Piedade Ana P. , Martynowych Dmitro , Veysset David , Moreno Maria João , Serpa Carlos , Nelson Keith A. , Arnaut Luis G.
Published: February 2021

Target delivery of large foreign materials to cells requires transient permeabilization of the cell membrane without toxicity. Giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs) mimic the phospholipid bilayer of the cell membrane and are also useful drug delivery vehicles. Controlled increase of the permeability of GUVs is a delicate balance between sufficient perturbation for the delivery of the GUV contents and damage to the vesicles. Here we show that photoacoustic waves can promote the release of FITC-dextran or GFP from GUVs without damage. Real-time interferometric imaging offers the first movies of photoacoustic wave propagation and interaction with GUVs. The photoacoustic waves are seen as mostly compressive half-cycle pulses with peak pressures of ~ 1 MPa and spatial extent FWHM ~ 36 µm. At a repetition rate of 10 Hz, they enable the release of 25% of the FITC-dextran content of GUVs in 15 min. Such photoacoustic waves may enable non-invasive targeted release of GUVs and cell transfection over large volumes of tissues in just a few minutes.
Elevated hemoglobin is independently associated with enlarged perivascular spaces in the central semiovale
Authors: Huo Yingchao , Huang Siyuan , Li Rui , Gong Xue , Zhang Wenyu , Zhang Rongrong , Qin Xinyue
Published: February 2021

Enlarged perivascular spaces (EPVS) are widely considered as a feature of cerebral small vessel diseases (SVD), but its underlying pathology is still under active investigation. The aim of this study was to explore the association between hemoglobin level and the severity of EPVS. Consecutive patients with acute ischemic stroke who underwent baseline MRI scan and hemoglobin testing were evaluated. EPVS in basal ganglia (BG) and central semiovale (CS) were rated with a validated 4-point semiquantitative scale (0 = none; 1 = 1–10; 2 = 11–20; 3 = 21–40; and 4 ≥ 40). Bivariate logistic regression models were used to identify the associations of hemoglobin with predefined high-degree (score > 1) CS-EPVS and BG-EPVS. Multinomial logistic regression models were used to analyze the associations between hemoglobin and CS-/BG-EPVS predominance patterns. A total of 401 patients were included in the final analysis, 94 patients (23.4%) had a high degree of CS-EPVS and 45 patients (11.2%) had a high degree of BG-EPVS. Compared with tertile 1 of hemoglobin, tertile 3 of hemoglobin was independently associated with high degree of CS-EPVS after adjusting for other features of SVD (odds ratio [OR] 2.399, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.315–4.379, P = 0.004) and potential confounding factors (OR 2.611, 95% CI 1.346–5.066, P = 0.005). In multinomial logistic regression models, compared with tertile 1 of hemoglobin, tertile 2 (OR 2.463, 95% CI 1.195–5.075, P = 0.015) and tertile 3 (OR 2.625, 95% CI 1.102–6.251, P = 0.029) of hemoglobin were associated with higher odds of BG-EPVS = CS-EPVS pattern, and tertile 3 of hemoglobin (OR 2.576, 95% CI 1.004–6.608, P = 0.049) was associated with higher odds of BG-EPVS < CS-EPVS pattern. Elevated hemoglobin level was independently associated with high degree of CS-EPVS and higher odds of CS-EPVS predominance pattern, but not with BG-EPVS, which support that the topography of EPVS is characteristic. However, the pathogenesis linking hemoglobin and CS-EPVS is unclear and still needs further investigation.
Correlation between serum carbohydrate antigen 19-9 levels and computed tomography severity score in patients with nontuberculous mycobacterial pulmonary disease
Authors: Kim Kangjoon , Yong Seung Hyun , Lee Su Hwan , Lee Sang Hoon , Leem Ah Young , Kim Song Yee , Chung Kyungsoo , Kim Eun Young , Jung Ji Ye , Park Moo Suk , Kim Young Sam , Lee Hye-Jeong , Kang Young Ae
Published: February 2021

There is no validated clinical biomarker for disease severity or treatment response for nontuberculous mycobacterial pulmonary disease (NTM-PD). We investigated the correlation between elevated serum carbohydrate antigen (CA) 19-9 levels and NTM-PD disease activity, defined using an imaging severity score based on chest computed tomography (CT). We retrospectively examined 79 patients with NTM-PD who underwent serum CA19-9 level assessments and chest CT less than 1 month apart. NTM-PD severity was rated using a CT-based scoring system. The correlation between the CT score and serum CA19-9 levels was evaluated. Chest CT revealed nodular bronchiectasis without cavitation in most patients (78.5%). Serum CA19-9 levels were elevated in 19 (24%) patients. Serum CA19-9 levels were positively correlated with the total CT score and bronchiectasis, bronchiolitis, cavity, and consolidation subscores. Partial correlation analysis revealed a significant positive correlation between serum CA19-9 levels and CT scores for total score and bronchiectasis, bronchiolitis, cavitation, and consolidation subscores after controlling for age, sex, and BMI. Serum CA19-9 levels were positively correlated with the CT severity score for NTM-PD. Serum CA19-9 may be useful in evaluating disease activity or therapeutic response in patients with NTM-PD.
In a model of SAH-induced neurogenic fever, BAT thermogenesis is mediated by erythrocytes and blocked by agonism of adenosine A1 receptors
Authors: Tupone Domenico , Cetas Justin S.
Published: February 2021

Neurogenic fever (NF) after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is a major cause of morbidity that is associated with poor outcomes and prolonged stay in the neurointensive care unit (NICU). Though SAH is a much more common cause of fever than sepsis in the NICU, it is often a diagnosis of exclusion, requiring significant effort to rule out an infectious source. NF does not respond to standard anti-pyretic medications such as COX inhibitors, and lack of good medical therapy has led to the introduction of external cooling systems that have their own associated problems. In a rodent model of SAH, we measured the effects of injecting whole blood, blood plasma, or erythrocytes on the sympathetic nerve activity to brown adipose tissue and on febrile thermogenesis. We demonstrate that following SAH the acute activation of brown adipose tissue leading to NF, is not dependent on PGE2, that subarachnoid space injection of whole blood or erythrocytes, but not plasma alone, is sufficient to trigger brown adipose tissue thermogenesis, and that activation of adenosine A1 receptors in the CNS can block the brown adipose tissue thermogenic component contributing to NF after SAH. These findings point to a distinct thermogenic mechanism for generating NF, compared to those due to infectious causes, and will hopefully lead to new therapies.
Time course of the sensitivity and specificity of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgM and IgG antibodies for symptomatic COVID-19 in Japan
Authors: Nakano Yuki , Kurano Makoto , Morita Yoshifumi , Shimura Takuya , Yokoyama Rin , Qian Chungen , Xia Fuzhen , He Fan , Kishi Yoshiro , Okada Jun , Yoshikawa Naoyuki , Nagura Yutaka , Okazaki Hitoshi , Moriya Kyoji , Seto Yasuyuki , Kodama Tatsuhiko , Yatomi Yutaka
Published: February 2021

The accurate and prompt diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infection is required for the control and treatment of the coronavirus infection disease 2019 (COVID-19). In this study, we aimed to investigate the time courses of the anti-severe acute corona respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) IgM and IgG titers and to evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of such tests according to the specific day after the onset of COVID-19 among a patient population in Japan. We measured the titers of SARS-CoV-2 IgM and IgG in sera from 105 subjects, including 26 symptomatic COVID-19 patients, using chemiluminescent immunoassay (CLIA) methods utilizing magnetic beads coated with SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein and spike protein. The results of a ROC analysis suggested the possibility that the cutoff values in Japan might be lower than the manufacturer’s reported cutoff (10 AU/mL): 1  AU/mL for IgM and 5  AU/mL for IgG. The sensitivity of the test before Day 8 after symptom onset was less than 50%; at Days 9–10, however, we obtained a much higher sensitivity of 81.8% for both IgM and IgG. At 15 days or later after symptom onset, the SARS-CoV-2 IgG test had a sensitivity of 100%. These results suggest that if the number of days since disease onset is taken into consideration, these antibody tests could be very useful for the diagnosis of COVID-19 and similar diseases.
Volatile 1-octanol of tea (Camellia sinensis L.) fuels cell division and indole-3-acetic acid production in phylloplane isolate Pseudomonas sp. NEEL19
Authors: Neelakandan Poovarasan , Young Chiu-Chung , Hameed Asif , Wang Yu-Ning , Chen Kui-Nuo , Shen Fo-Ting
Published: February 2021

Tea leaves possess numerous volatile organic compounds (VOC) that contribute to tea’s characteristic aroma. Some components of tea VOC were known to exhibit antimicrobial activity; however, their impact on bacteria remains elusive. Here, we showed that the VOC of fresh aqueous tea leaf extract, recovered through hydrodistillation, promoted cell division and tryptophan-dependent indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) production in Pseudomonas sp. NEEL19, a solvent-tolerant isolate of the tea phylloplane. 1-octanol was identified as one of the responsible volatiles stimulating cell division, metabolic change, swimming motility, putative pili/nanowire formation and IAA production, through gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, microscopy and partition petri dish culture analyses. The bacterial metabolic responses including IAA production increased under 1-octanol vapor in a dose-dependent manner, whereas direct-contact in liquid culture failed to elicit such response. Thus, volatile 1-octanol emitting from tea leaves is a potential modulator of cell division, colonization and phytohormone production in NEEL19, possibly influencing the tea aroma.
Implications of monsoon season and UVB radiation for COVID-19 in India
Authors: Moozhipurath Rahul Kalippurayil , Kraft Lennart
Published: February 2021

India has recorded 142,186 deaths over 36 administrative regions placing India third in the world after the US and Brazil for COVID-19 deaths as of 12 December 2020. Studies indicate that south-west monsoon season plays a role in the dynamics of contagious diseases, which tend to peak post-monsoon season. Recent studies show that vitamin D and its primary source Ultraviolet-B (UVB) radiation may play a protective role in mitigating COVID-19 deaths. However, the combined roles of the monsoon season and UVB radiation in COVID-19 in India remain still unclear. In this observational study, we empirically study the respective roles of monsoon season and UVB radiation, whilst further exploring, whether the monsoon season negatively impacts the protective role of UVB radiation in COVID-19 deaths in India. We use a log-linear Mundlak model to a panel dataset of 36 administrative regions in India from 14 March 2020–19 November 2020 (n = 6751). We use the cumulative COVID-19 deaths as the dependent variable. We isolate the association of monsoon season and UVB radiation as measured by Ultraviolet Index (UVI) from other confounding time-constant and time-varying region-specific factors. After controlling for various confounding factors, we observe that a unit increase in UVI and the monsoon season are separately associated with 1.2 percentage points and 7.5 percentage points decline in growth rates of COVID-19 deaths in the long run. These associations translate into substantial relative changes. For example, a permanent unit increase of UVI is associated with a decrease of growth rates of COVID-19 deaths by 33% (= − 1.2 percentage points) However, the monsoon season, mitigates the protective role of UVI by 77% (0.92 percentage points). Our results indicate a protective role of UVB radiation in mitigating COVID-19 deaths in India. Furthermore, we find evidence that the monsoon season is associated with a significant reduction in the protective role of UVB radiation. Our study outlines the roles of the monsoon season and UVB radiation in COVID-19 in India and supports health-related policy decision making in India.
Magnetic nozzle radiofrequency plasma thruster approaching twenty percent thruster efficiency
Authors: Takahashi Kazunori
Published: February 2021

Development of a magnetic nozzle radiofrequency (rf) plasma thruster has been one of challenging topics in space electric propulsion technologies. The thruster typically consists of an rf plasma source and a magnetic nozzle, where the plasma produced inside the source is transported along the magnetic field and expands in the magnetic nozzle. An imparted thrust is significantly affected by the rf power coupling for the plasma production, the plasma transport, the plasma loss to the wall, and the plasma acceleration process in the magnetic nozzle. The rf power transfer efficiency and the imparted thrust are assessed for two types of rf antennas exciting azimuthal mode number of $$m=+1$$

m
=
+
1

and $$m=0$$

m
=
0

, where propellant argon gas is introduced from the upstream of the thruster source tube. The rf power transfer efficiency and the density measured at the radial center for the $$m=+1$$

m
=
+
1

mode antenna are higher than those for the $$m=0$$

m
=
0

mode antenna, while a larger thrust is obtained for the $$m=0$$

m
=
0

mode antenna. Two-dimensional plume characterization suggests that the lowered performance for the $$m=+1$$

m
=
+
1

mode case is due to the plasma production at the radial center, where contribution on a thrust exerted to the magnetic nozzle is weak due to the absence of the radial magnetic field. Subsequently, the configuration is modified so as to introduce the propellant gas near the thruster exit for the $$m=0$$

m
=
0

mode configuration and the thruster efficiency approaching twenty percent is successfully obtained, being highest to date in the kW-class magnetic nozzle rf plasma thrusters.
Vulnerability of the foot's morphological structure to deformities caused by foot loading paradigm in school-aged children: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Szczepanowska-Wolowiec Beata , Sztandera Paulina , Kotela Ireneusz , Zak Marek
Published: February 2021

The study aimed to assess the association between the key predictive foot structure variables and its loading paradigm in 625 school-aged children. Clinical appraisal relied primarily on having the plantar parts of their feet comprehensively assessed with Podoscan 2D Foot CAD, and a dynamometer platform, the research tools of choice widely acknowledged for their overall accuracy and reliability, with a view to determining the distribution of respective foot loads, as well as addressing both balance and gait issues. The Clarke's angle, Wejsflog index, length and width of the feet, regardless of gender, proved the key predictive variables for the foot-loading paradigm. Notably the Clarke's angle, construed the most sensitive variable in assessing flat-footedness, offered an extra added value in overall investigative effort. The actual design of the study protocol effectively complements a standard clinical assessment procedure, whereas by comprehensively addressing those variables, it is also believed to aid clinicians in gaining an extra, hands-on, diagnostic potential, so that any teenagers exposed to the highest risk of developing foot deformities could effectively be identified through pertinent screening tests, and consequently offered a task-oriented, therapeutic management, specifically aimed at preventing potential postural complaints in later life.
MiRNA10b-directed nanotherapy effectively targets brain metastases from breast cancer
Authors: Yoo Byunghee , Ross Alana , Pantazopoulos Pamela , Medarova Zdravka
Published: February 2021

RNA interference represents one of the most appealing therapeutic modalities for cancer because of its potency, versatility, and modularity. Because the mechanism is catalytic and affects the expression of disease-causing antigens at the post-transcriptional level, only small amounts of therapeutic need to be delivered to the target in order to exert a robust therapeutic effect. RNA interference is also advantageous over other treatment modalities, such as monoclonal antibodies or small molecules, because it has a much broader array of druggable targets. Finally, the complementarity of the genetic code gives us the opportunity to design RNAi therapeutics using computational, rational approaches. Previously, we developed and tested an RNAi-targeted therapeutic, termed MN-anti-miR10b, which was designed to inhibit the critical driver of metastasis and metastatic colonization, miRNA-10b. We showed in animal models of metastatic breast cancer that MN-anti-miR10b accumulated into tumors and metastases in the lymph nodes, lungs, and bone, following simple intravenous injection. We also found that treatment incorporating MN-anti-miR10b was effective at inhibiting the emergence of metastases and could regress already established metastases in the lymph nodes, lungs, and bone. In the present study, we extend the application of MN-anti-miR10b to a model of breast cancer metastatic to the brain. We demonstrate delivery to the metastatic lesions and obtain evidence of a therapeutic effect manifested as inhibition of metastatic progression. This investigation represents an additional step towards translating similar RNAi-targeted therapeutics for the systemic treatment of metastatic disease.
Red light-induced structure changes in phytochrome A from Pisum sativum
Authors: Oide Mao , Nakasako Masayoshi
Published: February 2021

Phytochrome A (phyA) is a photoreceptor protein of plants that regulates the red/far-red light photomorphogenic responses of plants essential for growth and development. PhyA, composed of approximately 1100 amino acid residues, folds into photosensory and output signaling modules. The photosensory module covalently binds phytochromobilin as a chromophore for photoreversible interconversion between inactive red light-absorbing (Pr) and active far-red light-absorbing (Pfr) forms to act as a light-driven phosphorylation enzyme. To understand the molecular mechanism in the initial process of photomorphogenic response, we studied the molecular structures of large phyA (LphyA) from Pisum sativum, which lacks the 52 residues in the N-terminal, by small-angle X-ray scattering combined with multivariate analyses applied to molecular models predicted from the scattering profiles. According to our analyses, Pr was in a dimer and had a four-leaf shape, and the subunit was approximated as a bent rod of 175 × 50 Å. The scattering profile of Pfr was calculated from that recorded for a mixture of Pr and Pfr under red-light irradiation by using their population determined from the absorption spectrum. The Pfr dimer exhibited a butterfly shape composed of subunits with a straight rod of 175 × 50 Å. The shape differences between Pr and Pfr indicated conformational changes in the Pr/Pfr interconversion which would be essential to the interaction with protein molecules involved in transcriptional control.
Impact of the southern annular mode on extreme changes in indian rainfall during the early 1990s
Authors: Huang Pao-Wei , Lin Yong-Fu , Wu Chau-Ron
Published: February 2021

The variability in rainfall amounts in India draws much attention because it strongly influences the country’s ecological and social systems. Indian rainfall is associated with climate factors, including El Niño/Southern Oscillation and the Indian Ocean Dipole. Here we identified the Southern Annular Mode (SAM), the primary pattern of climate variability in the Southern Hemisphere, as the ultimate forcing leading to decadal changes in Indian rainfall. Through statistical analyses using observational data covering the period from 1979 to 2015, we show an increase in the decadal rainfall amount in the early 1990s over the Indian region. Examining atmospheric environmental conditions, we demonstrate that conditions have become more favorable over the past few decades. Specifically, during the positive SAM phase since the early 1990s, changes in the atmospheric fields have evoked anomalous vertical motion over the continent and the Indian Ocean, enhancing the southerly cross-equatorial flow by increased land–sea thermal contrast, thereby increasing decadal rainfall in the region.
Illuminating endosomal escape of polymorphic lipid nanoparticles that boost mRNA delivery
Authors: Herrera Marco , Kim Jeonghwan , Eygeris Yulia , Jozic Antony , Sahay Gaurav
Published: February 2021

Galectin8-GFP cytosolic redistribution to bright puncta serve as sensor for LNP escape from endosomal compartments.
Recent progresses in luminescent metal–organic frameworks (LMOFs) as sensors for the detection of anions and cations in aqueous solution
Authors: Jin Jing , Xue Juanjuan , Liu Yanchen , Yang Guoping , Wang Yao-Yu
Published: February 2021

This work mainly reviews the recent progresses in luminescent metal–organic frameworks (LMOFs) as sensors for detecting various metal ions and anions in aqueous solutions.
On the role of Zr substitution in structure modification and photoluminescence of Li5+2xLa3(Ta1−xZrx)2O12:Eu garnet phosphors
Authors: Du Panpan , Li Siyuan , Wang Xuejiao , Zhu Qi , Li Ji-Guang
Published: February 2021

The role of Zr substitution in structure modification for a series of garnet-type Li5+2xLa3(Ta1−xZrx)2O12:Eu phosphors was identified, with which the observed luminescence behaviors of Eu3+ were successfully deciphered.
Facile and rapid synthesis of functionalized Zr-BTC for the optical detection of the blistering agent simulant 2-chloroethyl ethyl sulfide (CEES)
Authors: Abuzalat Osama , Homayoonnia Setareh , Wong Danny , Tantawy Hesham R. , Kim Seonghwan
Published: February 2021

2-Chloroethyl ethyl sulfide (CEES) is a simulant for the chemical warfare agent, bis(2-chloroethyl) sulfide, also known as mustard gas. Functionalized Zr-BTC is synthesized and exploited for the optical detection of CEES.
Technoeconomic analysis of metal–organic frameworks for bulk hydrogen transportation
Authors: Anastasopoulou Aikaterini , Furukawa Hiroyasu , Barnett Brandon R. , Jiang Henry Z. H. , Long Jeffrey R. , Breunig Hanna M.
Published: February 2021

The analysis presents a novel method for evaluating the technology status and cost of metal–organic frameworks for H2delivery.
Reductive processing of single walled carbon nanotubes for high volumetric performance supercapacitors
Authors: Sirisinudomkit Pichamon , Senokos Evgeny , Rubio Noelia , Shaffer Milo S. P.
Published: February 2021

A new reductive route produces dense SWCNT buckypapers with a high degree of individualization. These buckypapers are excellent supercapacitor electrodes, in particular offering exceptional volumetric performance in full cell devices, when combined with a new class of ultrathin bacterial nanocellulose separator.
Interconnected NiCo2O4 nanosheet arrays grown on carbon cloth as a host, adsorber and catalyst for sulfur species enabling high-performance Li–S batteries
Authors: Zhou Junli , Yang Xiaolan , Zhang Yajun , Jia Jinzhu , He Xinjian , Yu Lin , Pan Yuede , Liao Jingwen , Sun Ming , He Jun
Published: February 2021

Interconnected NiCo2O4 nanosheet arrays grown on carbon cloth as an efficient host and catalyst for sulfur species enabling high-performance Li–S batteries.
Donor acceptor fluorophores: synthesis, optical properties, TD-DFT and cytotoxicity studies
Authors: Essam Zahraa M. , Ozmen Guliz Ersoy , Setiawan Dani , Hamid Riri Rizkianty , Abd El-Aal Reda M. , Aneja Ritu , Hamelberg Donald , Henary Maged
Published: February 2021

We report a series of NIR D–A fluorophores with a cyanoacrylic acid acceptor and various donor units. The cytotoxicity of selected fluorophores against triple negative breast cancer cell lines showed stronger activity than that of anticancer agent docetaxel.
Synthesis of an isomer of lycoplanine A via cascade cyclization to construct the spiro-N,O-acetal moiety
Authors: Gao Weiwei , Wang Xiaodong , Yao Linbin , Tang Bencan , Mu Guohao , Shi Tao , Wang Zhen
Published: February 2021

A 6/10/5/5 tetracyclic isomer of lycoplanine A is synthesized using D–A reaction and cascade cyclization to respectively establish the [9.2.2] pentadecane skeleton and spirocenter, providing sufficient experience to synthesize lycoplanine A.
Slow kinetic evolution of nanohelices based on gemini surfactant self-assemblies with various enantiomeric excess; chiral segregation towards a racemic mixture
Authors: Gao Jie , Okazaki Yutaka , Pouget Emilie , Nlate Sylvain , Kauffmann Brice , Artzner Franck , Buffeteau Thierry , Oda Reiko
Published: February 2021

Very slow kinetic evolution (days) of chiral nanoribbons based on amphiphilic molecular assemblies is investigated for various enantiomeric excess.
Leaching of iron from copper tailings by sulfuric acid: behavior, kinetics and mechanism
Authors: Tao Lei , Wang Langlang , Yang Kanghuai , Wang Xueqian , Chen Lu , Ning Ping
Published: February 2021

Leaching behavior of copper tailings with sulfuric acid was expounded. Leaching was optimized: 1 M H2SO4, S/L of 1 : 10, T = 40 °C, 120 min. Fe2SiO4 was preferentially leached than Fe3O4. Leaching of Fe is controlled by solid-phase diffusion.
Comparison of diamond nanoparticles captured on the floating and grounded membranes in the hot filament chemical vapor deposition process
Authors: Kim Hwan-Young , Kim Da-Seul , Hwang Nong-Moon
Published: February 2021

Various carbon allotropes were captured on the floating and grounded membrane.
The enhancement of reactive red 24 adsorption from aqueous solution using agricultural waste-derived biochar modified with ZnO nanoparticles
Authors: Van Huu Tap , Nguyen Lan Huong , Dang N. V. , Chao Huan-Ping , Nguyen Quang Trung , Nguyen Thu Huong , Nguyen Thi Bich Lien , Thanh Dang Van , Nguyen Hai Duy , Thang Phan Quang , Thanh Pham Thi Ha , Hoang Vinh Phu
Published: February 2021

In this study, two types of agricultural wastes, sugarcane bagasse (SB) and cassava root husks (CRHs), were used to fabricate biochars.
I2/DMSO-catalyzed one-pot approach for the synthesis of 1,3,4-selenadiazoles
Authors: Bowroju Suresh Kuarm , Bavanthula Rajitha
Published: February 2021

A three-component cascade reaction for the synthesis of 1,3,4-selenadiazoles and their derivatives from arylaldehydes, hydrazine, and elemental selenium by using molecular iodine is reported.
Mechanochemical synthesis of pure phase mixed-cation/anion (FAPbI3)x(MAPbBr3)1−xhybrid perovskite materials: compositional engineering and photovoltaic performance
Authors: Tang Sheng , Xiao Xinyu , Hu Jing , Gao Bo , Chen Hunglin , Zuo Zhuang , Qi Qi , Peng Zongyang , Wen Jianchun , Zou Dechun
Published: February 2021

Pure phase mixed-cation/anion (α-FAPbI3)x(MAPbBr3)1−x (0 ≤x≤ 1) hybrid perovskites are efficiently preparedviaMCS, and the band gaps can be tuned easily. PSCs based on 5% K-doped perovskite exhibit lowI–Vhysteresis, with a maximum PCE of 16.7%.
Flexible polyfluorinated bis-diazirines as molecular adhesives
Authors: Simhadri Chakravarthi , Bi Liting , Lepage Mathieu L. , Takaffoli Mahdi , Pei Zhipeng , Musolino Stefania F. , Milani Abbas S. , DiLabio Gino A. , Wulff Jeremy E.
Published: February 2021

Flexible, highly fluorinated covalent adhesives are synthesized, and are shown to afford comparable C–H insertion efficiency and adhesion strength relative to a rigid analogue, while providing improved mechanical compliance in the adhesion layer.
A theory of ordering of elongated and curved proteins on membranes driven by density and curvature
Authors: Tozzi Caterina , Walani Nikhil , Le Roux Anabel-Lise , Roca-Cusachs Pere , Arroyo Marino
Published: February 2021

A mean-field density functional theory is developed to describe the density and curvature dependent isotropic-to-nematic transition of elongated and bendable proteins.
Self-assembly in mixtures with competing interactions
Authors: Patsahan Oksana , Litniewski Marek , Ciach Alina
Published: February 2021

Coexistence lines between gas and ordered phases in binary microsegregating mixtures are studied theoretically and by MD simulations.
The first year of RSC Chemical Biology – a new journal was born
Authors: Suga Hiroaki
Published: February 2021

News from Hiroaki Suga, the Editorial Board Chair of RSC Chemical Biology.
A nanoscale vacuum field emission gated diode with an umbrella cathode
Authors: Han Jin-Woo , Seol Myeong-Lok , Meyyappan M.
Published: February 2021

A nanoscale field emission vacuum channel gated diode with an umbrella-like cathode is fabricated. The bottom silicon plate is the gate with the anode located between the cathode and the gate, which reduces leakage current.
Periodicities in an active region correlated with Type III radio bursts observed by Parker Solar Probe
Authors: Cattell Cynthia , Glesener Lindsay , Leiran Benjamin , Dombeck John , Goetz Keith , Martínez Oliveros Juan Carlos , Badman Samuel T. , Pulupa Marc , Bale Stuart D.
Published: February 2021

Context.Periodicities have frequently been reported across many wavelengths in the solar corona. Correlated periods of ~5 min, comparable to solarp-modes, are suggestive of coupling between the photosphere and the corona.

Aims.Our study investigates whether there are correlations in the periodic behavior of Type III radio bursts which are indicative of nonthermal electron acceleration processes, and coronal extreme ultraviolet (EUV) emission used to assess heating and cooling in an active region when there are no large flares.

Methods.We used coordinated observations of Type III radio bursts from the FIELDS instrument on Parker Solar Probe (PSP), of EUV emissions by the Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO) Atmospheric Imaging Assembly (AIA) and white light observations by SDO Helioseismic and Magnetic Image (HMI), and of solar flare X-rays by Nuclear Spectroscopic Telescope Array (NuSTAR) on April 12, 2019. Several methods for assessing periodicities are utilized and compared to validate periods obtained.

Results.Periodicities of ~5 min in the EUV in several areas of an active region are well correlated with the repetition rate of the Type III radio bursts observed on both PSP and Wind. Detrended 211 and 171 Å light curves show periodic profiles in multiple locations, with 171 Å peaks sometimes lagging those seen in 211 Å. This is suggestive of impulsive events that result in heating and then cooling in the lower corona. NuSTAR X-rays provide evidence for at least one microflare during the interval of Type III bursts, but there is not a one-to-one correspondence between the X-rays and the Type III bursts. Our study provides evidence for periodic acceleration of nonthermal electrons (required to generate Type III radio bursts) when there were no observable flares either in the X-ray data or the EUV. The acceleration process, therefore, must be associated with small impulsive events, perhaps nanoflares.