bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An ultrastrongly coupled single terahertz meta-atom
Authors: Rajabali Shima , Markmann Sergej , Jöchl Elsa , Beck Mattias , Lehner Christian A. , Wegscheider Werner , Faist Jérôme , Scalari Giacomo
Published: May 2022

Free-space coupling to subwavelength individual optical elements is a central theme in quantum optics, as it allows the control over individual quantum systems. Here we show that, by combining an asymmetric immersion lens setup and a complementary resonating metasurface we are able to perform terahertz time-domain spectroscopy of an individual, strongly subwavelength meta-atom. We unravel the linewidth dependence as a function of the meta-atom number indicating quenching of the superradiant coupling. On these grounds, we investigate ultrastrongly coupled Landau polaritons at the single resonator level, measuring a normalized coupling ratio $$\frac{{{\Omega }}}{\omega }=0.6$$

Ω

ω

=
0.6
. Similar measurements on a lower density two dimensional electron gas yield a coupling ratio $$\frac{{{\Omega }}}{\omega }=0.33$$

Ω

ω

=
0.33
with a cooperativity C = 94. Our findings pave the way towards the control of ultrastrong light-matter interaction at the single electron/ resonator level. The proposed technique is way more general and can be useful to characterize the complex conductivity of micron-sized samples in the terahertz domain.
Plasma membrane phosphatidylinositol (4,5)-bisphosphate is critical for determination of epithelial characteristics
Authors: Kanemaru Kaori , Shimozawa Makoto , Kitamata Manabu , Furuishi Rikuto , Kayano Hinako , Sukawa Yui , Chiba Yuuki , Fukuyama Takatsugu , Hasegawa Junya , Nakanishi Hiroki , Kishimoto Takuma , Tsujita Kazuya , Tanaka Kazuma , Itoh Toshiki , Sasaki Junko , Sasaki Takehiko , Fukami Kiyoko , Nakamura Yoshikazu
Published: May 2022

Epithelial cells provide cell-cell adhesion that is essential to maintain the integrity of multicellular organisms. Epithelial cell-characterizing proteins, such as epithelial junctional proteins and transcription factors are well defined. However, the role of lipids in epithelial characterization remains poorly understood. Here we show that the phospholipid phosphatidylinositol (4,5)-bisphosphate [PI(4,5)P2] is enriched in the plasma membrane (PM) of epithelial cells. Epithelial cells lose their characteristics upon depletion of PM PI(4,5)P2, and synthesis of PI(4,5)P2 in the PM results in the development of epithelial-like morphology in osteosarcoma cells. PM localization of PARD3 is impaired by depletion of PM PI(4,5)P2 in epithelial cells, whereas expression of the PM-targeting exocyst-docking region of PARD3 induces osteosarcoma cells to show epithelial-like morphological changes, suggesting that PI(4,5)P2 regulates epithelial characteristics by recruiting PARD3 to the PM. These results indicate that a high level of PM PI(4,5)P2 plays a crucial role in the maintenance of epithelial characteristics.
Moisture adsorption-desorption full cycle power generation
Authors: Wang Haiyan , He Tiancheng , Hao Xuanzhang , Huang Yaxin , Yao Houze , Liu Feng , Cheng Huhu , Qu Liangti
Published: May 2022

Environment-adaptive power generation can play an important role in next-generation energy conversion. Herein, we propose a moisture adsorption-desorption power generator (MADG) based on porous ionizable assembly, which spontaneously adsorbs moisture at high RH and desorbs moisture at low RH, thus leading to cyclic electric output. A MADG unit can generate a high voltage of ~0.5 V and a current of 100 μA at 100% relative humidity (RH), delivers an electric output (~0.5 V and ~50 μA) at 15 ± 5% RH, and offers a maximum output power density approaching to 120 mW m−2. Such MADG devices could conduct enough power to illuminate a road lamp in outdoor application and directly drive electrochemical process. This work affords a closed-loop pathway for versatile moisture-based energy conversion.
SARS-CoV-2 infection induces inflammatory bone loss in golden Syrian hamsters
Authors: Qiao Wei , Lau Hui En , Xie Huizhi , Poon Vincent Kwok-Man , Chan Chris Chung-Sing , Chu Hin , Yuan Shuofeng , Yuen Terrence Tsz-Tai , Chik Kenn Ka-Heng , Tsang Jessica Oi-Ling , Chan Chris Chun-Yiu , Cai Jian-Piao , Luo Cuiting , Yuen Kwok-Yung , Cheung Kenneth Man-Chee , Chan Jasper Fuk-Woo , Yeung Kelvin Wai-Kwok
Published: May 2022

Extrapulmonary complications of different organ systems have been increasingly recognized in patients with severe or chronic Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). However, limited information on the skeletal complications of COVID-19 is known, even though inflammatory diseases of the respiratory tract have been known to perturb bone metabolism and cause pathological bone loss. In this study, we characterize the effects of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection on bone metabolism in an established golden Syrian hamster model for COVID-19. SARS-CoV-2 causes significant multifocal loss of bone trabeculae in the long bones and lumbar vertebrae of all infected hamsters. Moreover, we show that the bone loss is associated with SARS-CoV-2-induced cytokine dysregulation, as the circulating pro-inflammatory cytokines not only upregulate osteoclastic differentiation in bone tissues, but also trigger an amplified pro-inflammatory cascade in the skeletal tissues to augment their pro-osteoclastogenesis effect. Our findings suggest that pathological bone loss may be a neglected complication which warrants more extensive investigations during the long-term follow-up of COVID-19 patients. The benefits of potential prophylactic and therapeutic interventions against pathological bone loss should be further evaluated.
Gut microbiota regulates acute myeloid leukaemia via alteration of intestinal barrier function mediated by butyrate
Authors: Wang Ruiqing , Yang Xinyu , Liu Jinting , Zhong Fang , Zhang Chen , Chen Yuhong , Sun Tao , Ji Chunyan , Ma Daoxin
Published: May 2022

The gut microbiota has been linked to many cancers, yet its role in acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) progression remains unclear. Here, we show decreased diversity in the gut microbiota of AML patients or murine models. Gut microbiota dysbiosis induced by antibiotic treatment accelerates murine AML progression while faecal microbiota transplantation reverses this process. Butyrate produced by the gut microbiota (especially Faecalibacterium) significantly decreases in faeces of AML patients, while gavage with butyrate or Faecalibacterium postpones murine AML progression. Furthermore, we find the intestinal barrier is damaged in mice with AML, which accelerates lipopolysaccharide (LPS) leakage into the blood. The increased LPS exacerbates leukaemia progression in vitro and in vivo. Butyrate can repair intestinal barrier damage and inhibit LPS absorption in AML mice. Collectively, we demonstrate that the gut microbiota promotes AML progression in a metabolite-dependent manner and that targeting the gut microbiota might provide a therapeutic option for AML.
Molecular basis for cooperative binding and synergy of ATP-site and allosteric EGFR inhibitors
Authors: Beyett Tyler S. , To Ciric , Heppner David E. , Rana Jaimin K. , Schmoker Anna M. , Jang Jaebong , De Clercq Dries J. H. , Gomez Gabriel , Scott David A. , Gray Nathanael S. , Jänne Pasi A. , Eck Michael J.
Published: May 2022

Lung cancer is frequently caused by activating mutations in the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). Allosteric EGFR inhibitors offer promise as the next generation of therapeutics, as they are unaffected by common ATP-site resistance mutations and synergize with the drug osimertinib. Here, we examine combinations of ATP-competitive and allosteric inhibitors to better understand the molecular basis for synergy. We identify a subset of irreversible EGFR inhibitors that display positive binding cooperativity and synergy with the allosteric inhibitor JBJ-04-125-02 in several EGFR variants. Structural analysis of these complexes reveals conformational changes occur mainly in the phosphate-binding loop (P-loop). Mutation of F723 in the P-loop reduces cooperative binding and synergy, supporting a mechanism in which F723-mediated contacts between the P-loop and the allosteric inhibitor are critical for synergy. These structural and mechanistic insights will aid in the identification and development of additional inhibitor combinations with potential clinical value.
The flying spider-monkey tree fern genome provides insights into fern evolution and arborescence
Authors: Huang Xiong , Wang Wenling , Gong Ting , Wickell David , Kuo Li-Yaung , Zhang Xingtan , Wen Jialong , Kim Hoon , Lu Fachuang , Zhao Hansheng , Chen Song , Li Hui , Wu Wenqi , Yu Changjiang , Chen Su , Fan Wei , Chen Shuai , Bao Xiuqi , Li Li , Zhang Dan , Jiang Longyu , Khadka Dipak , Yan Xiaojing , Liao Zhenyang , Zhou Gongke , Guo Yalong , Ralph John , Sederoff Ronald R. , Wei Hairong , Zhu Ping , Li Fay-Wei , Ming Ray , Li Quanzi
Published: May 2022

To date, little is known about the evolution of fern genomes, with only two small genomes published from the heterosporous Salviniales. Here we assembled the genome of Alsophila spinulosa, known as the flying spider-monkey tree fern, onto 69 pseudochromosomes. The remarkable preservation of synteny, despite resulting from an ancient whole-genome duplication over 100 million years ago, is unprecedented in plants and probably speaks to the uniqueness of tree ferns. Our detailed investigations into stem anatomy and lignin biosynthesis shed new light on the evolution of stem formation in tree ferns. We identified a phenolic compound, alsophilin, that is abundant in xylem, and we provided the molecular basis for its biosynthesis. Finally, analysis of demographic history revealed two genetic bottlenecks, resulting in rapid demographic declines of A. spinulosa. The A. spinulosa genome fills a crucial gap in the plant genomic landscape and helps elucidate many unique aspects of tree fern biology.
Association between inflammatory bowel disease and Parkinson’s disease: A Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Freuer D. , Meisinger C.
Published: May 2022

Emerging evidence from observational studies suggests an increased risk of Parkinson’s disease (PD) in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). However, to date it is not clear whether a causal relationship exists. To investigate whether IBD is causally related to PD, a two-sample Mendelian randomization study was carried out. Independent genetic instruments from the largest available genome-wide association study (GWAS) for IBD (7045 cases, 456,327 controls) including European participants were used to investigate the association with PD (56,306 cases; 1.4 million controls). The results were validated by using a second IBD sample (12,882 cases; 21,770 controls) including the main subtypes ulcerative colitis (UC; 6968 cases; 20,464 controls) and Crohn’s disease (CD; 5956 cases; 14,927 controls). The radial inverse-variance weighted (IVW) approach was used in the primary analysis, and the robustness of the findings were confirmed in a number of sensitivity analyses. Finally, the recently proposed CAUSE approach was performed. There was no evidence of an association between IBD and PD (ORIVW = 0.98; 95% CI: [0.93; 1.04]; P = 0.48). This finding could be validated using a second sample of IBD cases (ORIVW = 0.98; 95% CI: [0.95; 1.02]; P = 0.36). Furthermore, MR analyses did not support a causal effect of CD (ORIVW = 1.00; 95% CI: [0.98; 1.03]; P = 0.96) or UC (ORIVW = 1.02; 95% CI: [0.98; 1.06]; P = 0.45) on PD. The present study suggests that neither IBD nor its subtypes CD and UC causally affect Parkinson’s disease in the European population. Further research is necessary to investigate whether intestinal inflammation impacts the development of PD.
A multiscale model of the regulation of aquaporin 2 recycling
Authors: Leberecht Christoph , Schroeder Michael , Labudde Dirk
Published: May 2022

The response of cells to their environment is driven by a variety of proteins and messenger molecules. In eukaryotes, their distribution and location in the cell are regulated by the vesicular transport system. The transport of aquaporin 2 between membrane and storage region is a crucial part of the water reabsorption in renal principal cells, and its malfunction can lead to Diabetes insipidus. To understand the regulation of this system, we aggregated pathways and mechanisms from literature and derived three models in a hypothesis-driven approach. Furthermore, we combined the models to a single system to gain insight into key regulatory mechanisms of Aquaporin 2 recycling. To achieve this, we developed a multiscale computational framework for the modeling and simulation of cellular systems. The analysis of the system rationalizes that the compartmentalization of cAMP in renal principal cells is a result of the protein kinase A signalosome and can only occur if specific cellular components are observed in conjunction. Endocytotic and exocytotic processes are inherently connected and can be regulated by the same protein kinase A signal.
Directional ballistic transport in the two-dimensional metal PdCoO2
Authors: Bachmann Maja D. , Sharpe Aaron L. , Baker Graham , Barnard Arthur W. , Putzke Carsten , Scaffidi Thomas , Nandi Nabhanila , McGuinness Philippa H. , Zhakina Elina , Moravec Michal , Khim Seunghyun , König Markus , Goldhaber-Gordon David , Bonn Douglas A. , Mackenzie Andrew P. , Moll Philip J. W.
Published: May 2022

In an idealized infinite crystal, the material properties are constrained by the symmetries of the unit cell. The point-group symmetry is broken by the sample shape of any finite crystal, but this is commonly unobservable in macroscopic metals. To sense the shape-induced symmetry lowering in such metals, long-lived bulk states originating from an anisotropic Fermi surface are needed. Here we show how a strongly facetted Fermi surface and the long quasiparticle mean free path present in microstructures of PdCoO2 yield an in-plane resistivity anisotropy that is forbidden by symmetry on an infinite hexagonal lattice. We fabricate bar-shaped transport devices narrower than the mean free path from single crystals using focused ion beam milling, such that the ballistic charge carriers at low temperatures frequently collide with both of the side walls that define the channel. Two symmetry-forbidden transport signatures appear: the in-plane resistivity anisotropy exceeds a factor of 2, and a transverse voltage appears in zero magnetic field. Using ballistic Monte Carlo simulations and a numerical solution of the Boltzmann equation, we identify the orientation of the narrow channel as the source of symmetry breaking.
Army liposome formulation containing QS-21 render human monocyte-derived macrophages less permissive to HIV-1 infection by upregulating APOBEC3A
Authors: Jobe Ousman , Kim Jiae , Pinto Daniel O. , Villar Zuzana , Hewitt Tiffany , Duncan Elizabeth H. , Anderson Alexander , Gohain Neelakshi , Gong Hua , Tucker Courtney , Alving Carl R. , Matyas Gary R. , Bergmann-Leitner Elke , Rao Mangala
Published: May 2022

Monocyte-derived macrophages (MDM) are highly permissive to HIV-1 infection potentially due to the downregulation of innate factors during the differentiation process. The environmental milieu and innate anti-viral factors which are modulated during macrophage differentiation, have been associated with their increased permissiveness to HIV-1 infection. Here, we demonstrate that the Army Liposome Formulation containing MPLA, and QS-21 (ALFQ) activated MDM that are normally permissive to HIV-1 infection to generate a proinflammatory environment and upregulated anti-viral factors notably APOBEC3A. Induction of APOBEC3A by ALFQ decreased permissiveness to HIV-1 infection, while knockdown of APOBEC3A with APOBEC3AsiRNA resulted in a significant loss in the restriction of HIV-1 infectivity. The liposome formulation ALF55, with identical lipid composition but lacking QS-21 had no effect. Furthermore, the capacity of ALFQ to modulate MDM permissiveness to HIV-1 infection was predominantly mediated by large ALFQ liposomes. Our findings highlight a relationship between innate immune activation, proinflammatory milieu, and upregulation of anti-HIV proteins. Induction of these responses can switch the HIV-1 permissive MDM into a more refractory phenotype.
A randomised clinical trial to assess the adjuvant potential of methotrexate to corticosteroids in mucosal or limited mucocutaneous pemphigus vulgaris
Authors: Jain Khimit , Thakur Vishal , Handa Sanjeev , Thakur Neha , Shilpa  , Sachdeva Naresh , Mahajan Rahul , De Dipankar
Published: May 2022

Glucocorticoids are the mainstay of treatment for pemphigus vulgaris (PV). However, the requirement of high doses for long durations often leads to serious adverse events. Methotrexate as an adjuvant has shown potential in retrospective studies but randomized trials are lacking. The objective of the study was to assess the adjuvant potential of methotrexate in mucosal/limited mucocutaneous PV. In this randomised prospective study, 44 patients with mucosal/limited mucocutaneous PV were randomised (1:1) to receive either prednisolone 1 mg/kg/day (later fixed at a maximum dose of 60 mg/day) alone or with methotrexate 0.3 mg/kg/week for 9-months study period. Prednisolone dose was tapered once there was an 80% reduction in Pemphigus Disease Activity Index. Outcome measures were total cumulative dose of prednisolone, the proportion of patients achieving disease control, time taken for disease control and remission on minimal treatment, and adverse effects. No significant difference in the total cumulative dose of prednisolone among the groups was observed (p = 0.68). Disease control was achieved in 95.5% and 86.4% of patients in the prednisolone alone group, and prednisolone and methotrexate group respectively (p = 0.61). No statistically significant difference was observed among the groups with respect to the proportion of patients achieving remission, time taken for disease control and remission, and the number of adverse events. Our study showed no additional benefit of methotrexate to prednisolone in the treatment of mucosal/limited mucocutaneous PV.

Trial registration: CTRI/2018/07/015002; Registered on 23/07/2018]; Trial Registered Retrospectively. http://ctri.nic.in/Clinicaltrials/pdf_generate.php?trialid=24964&EncHid=&modid=&compid=%27,%2724964det%27.
An allometric model-based approach for estimating biomass in seven Indian bamboo species in western Himalayan foothills, India
Authors: Kaushal R. , Islam S. , Tewari Salil , Tomar J. M. S. , Thapliyal S. , Madhu M. , Trinh T. L. , Singh Tarun , Singh Avnindra , Durai J.
Published: May 2022

The rapid growth rate, high biomass production, and annual harvesting make bamboo a suitable species for commercial production. Allometric equations for many broadleaf and conifer tree species are available. However, knowledge of biomass production and allometric equations of bamboos is limited. This study aims to develop species- specific allometric models for predicting biomass and synthetic height values as a proxy variable for seven bamboo species in Himalayan foothills. Two power form-based allometric models were used to predict aboveground and culm biomass using diameter at breast height (D) alone and D combined with culm height (H) as an independent variable. This study also extended to establishing an H–D allometric model that can be used to generate synthetic H values as a proxy to missing H. In the seven bamboo species studied, among three major biomass components (culm, branch and foliage), culm is the most important component with the highest share (69.56–78.71%). The distribution of percentage (%) share of culm, branch and foliage to above-ground fresh weight varies significantly between different bamboo species. D. hamiltonii has the highest productivity for above-ground biomass components. Ratio of dry to fresh weight of seven bamboo species was estimated for culm, branch, foliage and above-ground biomass to convert fresh weight to dry weight.
Animal-vehicle collisions during the COVID-19 lockdown in early 2020 in the Krakow metropolitan region, Poland
Authors: Basak Sayantani M. , O’Mahony Declan T. , Lesiak Maciej , Basak Arpan Kumar , Ziółkowska Elżbieta , Kaim Dominik , Hossain Md Sarwar , Wierzbowska Izabela A.
Published: May 2022

The interrelations between human activity and animal populations are of increasing interest due to the emergence of the novel COVID-19 and the consequent pandemic across the world. Anthropogenic impacts of the pandemic on animals in urban-suburban environments are largely unknown. In this study, the temporal and spatial patterns of urban animal response to the COVID-19 lockdown were assessed using animal-vehicle collisions (AVC) data. We collected AVC data over two 6-month periods in 2019 and 2020 (January to June) from the largest metropolis in southern Poland, which included lockdown months. Furthermore, we used traffic data to understand the impact of lockdown on AVC in the urban area. Our analysis of 1063 AVC incidents revealed that COVID-19 related lockdown decreased AVC rates in suburban areas. However, in the urban area, even though traffic volume had significantly reduced, AVC did not decrease significantly, suggesting that lockdown did not influence the collision rates in the urban area. Our results suggest that there is a need to focus on understanding the effects of changes in traffic volume on both human behaviour and wildlife space use on the resulting impacts on AVC in the urban area.
Proton pump inhibitor therapy usage and associated hospitalization rates and critical care outcomes of COVID-19 patients
Authors: Shupp Brittney , Mehta Sagar V. , Chirayath Subin , Patel Nishit , Aiad Mina , Sapin Jared , Stoltzfus Jill , Schneider Yecheskel
Published: May 2022

Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPI) are one of the most prescribed medications in the United States. However, PPIs have been shown to increase the risk of enteric infections. Our study aims to evaluate the correlation between PPI and COVID-19 severity. We performed a retrospective cohort study on patients who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 from March to August 2020. Patients were categorized based on PPI user status. Primary outcomes included need for hospital or ICU admission and 30-day mortality. Secondary outcomes looked to determine the severity of COVID-19 infection and effect of comorbid conditions. 2,594 patients were reviewed. The primary outcomes of our study found that neither active nor past PPI use was associated with increased hospital admission or 30-day mortality following completion of multivariate analysis. Additionally, there was no association between COVID-19 infection and the strength of PPI dosing (low, standard, high). However, the following covariates were independently and significantly associated with increased admission: age, male gender, diabetes, COPD, composite cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, and obesity. The following covariates were associated with increased mortality: age, male gender, COPD, and kidney disease. In conclusion, the high risk features and comorbidities of PPI users were found to have a stronger correlation to severe COVID-19 infection and poor outcomes as opposed to the use of PPI therapy.
High-efficiency dual-polarized broadband reflecting metasurface using continuous polarization conversion technique and element with multi degree of freedom
Authors: Karimipour Majid , Aryanian Iman
Published: May 2022

In this study, two effective approaches are combined which are implemented at the element design level and system design level to simultaneously improve the frequency bandwidth and aperture efficiency of a dual-polarized single-layer reflecting metasurface. At the element design level, a broadband behavior is realized by using the polarization conversion technique (PCT) which is a novel technique to enhance the bandwidth of the element. To this end, an anisotropic metasurface with the I-shaped metal patch is proposed for rotating the polarization of the wave emitted from a point source by 90$$^{\circ }$$

∘

and making a continuous phase shift in a full range of 360$$^{\circ }$$

∘

within 8-18 GHz. Therefore, a completely equiphase aperture is achieved leading to enhancing the metasurface performance such as directivity and aperture efficiency and reducing the sidelobe level compared to reflecting metasurface developed by 1-bit phase quantization technique. At the system design level, the three-frequency phase synthesis (TFPS) method, which is based on determining the best constant reference phase for the aperture, is used and the corresponding constant reference phases are optimized to minimize the phase error in the whole band. The combination of TFPS and PCT enhances the effectiveness of the TFPS method considerably. An 841 element reflecting metasurface with aperture dimensions of 290 cm $$\times $$
×
290 cm is designed, simulated, and fabricated in Ku-band to verify the concept. The measurement results show that the 1-dB gain bandwidth before and after combining PCT and TFPS techniques are 17.47% (14.1–16.8 GHz) and 30.3% (14–19 GHz), respectively. In addition, the maximum aperture efficiency of the proposed metasurface is 63.62% which occurs at 14.5 GHz.
Prediction and prevention of pandemics via graphical model inference and convex programming
Authors: Krechetov Mikhail , Esmaieeli Sikaroudi Amir Mohammad , Efrat Alon , Polishchuk Valentin , Chertkov Michael
Published: May 2022

Hard-to-predict bursts of COVID-19 pandemic revealed significance of statistical modeling which would resolve spatio-temporal correlations over geographical areas, for example spread of the infection over a city with census tract granularity. In this manuscript, we provide algorithmic answers to the following twointer-related public health challenges of immense social impact which have not been adequately addressed(1)Inference Challengeassuming that there areNcensus blocks (nodes) in the city, and given an initial infection at any set of nodes, e.g. anyNof possible single node infections, any$$N(N-1)/2$$N(N-1)/2of possible two node infections, etc, what is the probability for a subset of census blocks to become infected by the time the spread of the infection burst is stabilized? (2)Prevention ChallengeWhat is the minimal control action one can take to minimize the infected part of the stabilized state footprint? To answer the challenges, we build a Graphical Model of pandemic of the attractive Ising (pair-wise, binary) type, where each node represents a census tract and each edge factor represents the strength of the pairwise interaction between a pair of nodes, e.g. representing the inter-node travel, road closure and related, and each local bias/field represents the community level of immunization, acceptance of the social distance and mask wearing practice, etc.Resolving the Inference Challengerequires finding the Maximum-A-Posteriory (MAP), i.e. most probable, state of the Ising Model constrained to the set of initially infected nodes. (An infected node is in the$$+ \, 1$$+1state and a node which remained safe is in the$$- \, 1$$-1state.) We show that almost all attractive Ising Models on dense graphs result in either of the two possibilities (modes) for the MAP state: either all nodes which were not infected initially became infected, or all the initially uninfected nodes remain uninfected (susceptible). This bi-modal solution of the Inference Challenge allows us to re-state thePrevention Challengeas the followingtractable convex programming: for the bare Ising Model with pair-wise and bias factors representing the system without prevention measures, such that the MAP state is fully infected for at least one of the initial infection patterns, find the closest, for example in$$l_1$$l1,$$l_2$$l2or any other convexity-preserving norm, therefore prevention-optimal, set of factors resulting in all the MAP states of the Ising model, with the optimal prevention measures applied, to become safe. We have illustrated efficiency of the scheme on a quasi-realistic model of Seattle. Our experiments have also revealed useful features, such as sparsity of the prevention solution in the case of the$$l_1$$l1norm, and also somehow unexpected features, such as localization of the sparse prevention solution at pair-wise links which are NOT these which are most utilized/traveled.
Moroccan entomopathogenic nematodes as potential biocontrol agents against Dactylopius opuntiae (Hemiptera: Dactylopiidae)
Authors: El Aalaoui Mohamed , Mokrini Fouad , Dababat Abdelfattah A. , Lahlali Rachid , Sbaghi Mohamed
Published: May 2022

Dactylopius opuntiae(Cockerell) (Hemiptera: Dactylopiidae) or prickly pear cochineal, is the most damaging pest on cactus species with heavy economic losses worldwide. The efficacy of two Moroccan EPN isolates;Steinernema feltiae(Filipjev) (Rhabditida: Steinernematidae) andHeterorhabditis bacteriophora(Poinar) (Rhabditida: Heterorhabditidae) (applied at 25, 50, and 75 IJs cm−2) againstD. opuntiaenymphs and young females were evaluated under both laboratory bioassays and field conditions. Results showed thatS. feltiaewas more effective, causing higher mortality of nymphs and adult females (98.8% and 97.5%, respectively) after 8 days of exposure, resulting in an LT50value of 5.9 days (nymph) and 6.0 days (young female). While,H. bacteriophorahad lower mortalities (83.8% for nymph and 81.3% for adult females). For the cochineal nymphs and adult females, no significant difference was observed amongS. feltiaeat 25, 50, and 75 IJs cm−2, and the positive control,d-limonene applied at 0.5 g/L which was used due to its high effectiveness against nymphs and females ofD. opuntiae. In the field experiment,d-limonene at 0.5 g/L andS. feltiaeapplied at 75 IJs cm−2were effective in reducing nymph and adult female populations by 85.3–93.9% at 12 days of post exposure period. To our knowledge, this work is the first report on the use of EPNs to controlD. opuntiae. Thus, in addition tod-limonene, both Moroccan EPN isolatesS. feltiae, andH. bacteriophoracould be used as part of the integrated pest management strategy againstD. opuntiae. Many factors such as temperature can affect the establishment and effectiveness of EPNs under field conditions. Therefore, additional studies under field conditions are needed.
Functional and structural characterization of interactions between opposite subunits in HCN pacemaker channels
Authors: Kondapuram Mahesh , Frieg Benedikt , Yüksel Sezin , Schwabe Tina , Sattler Christian , Lelle Marco , Schweinitz Andrea , Schmauder Ralf , Benndorf Klaus , Gohlke Holger , Kusch Jana
Published: May 2022

Hyperpolarization-activated and cyclic nucleotide (HCN) modulated channels are tetrameric cation channels. In each of the four subunits, the intracellular cyclic nucleotide-binding domain (CNBD) is coupled to the transmembrane domain via a helical structure, the C-linker. High-resolution channel structures suggest that the C-linker enables functionally relevant interactions with the opposite subunit, which might be critical for coupling the conformational changes in the CNBD to the channel pore. We combined mutagenesis, patch-clamp technique, confocal patch-clamp fluorometry, and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to show that residue K464 of the C-linker is relevant for stabilizing the closed state of the mHCN2 channel by forming interactions with the opposite subunit. MD simulations revealed that in the K464E channel, a rotation of the intracellular domain relative to the channel pore is induced, which is similar to the cAMP-induced rotation, weakening the autoinhibitory effect of the unoccupied CL-CNBD region. We suggest that this CL-CNBD rotation is considerably involved in activation-induced affinity increase but only indirectly involved in gate modulation. The adopted poses shown herein are in excellent agreement with previous structural results.
Speciation and population divergence in a mutualistic seed dispersing bird
Authors: de Raad Jordi , Päckert Martin , Irestedt Martin , Janke Axel , Kryukov Alexey P. , Martens Jochen , Red’kin Yaroslav A. , Sun Yuehua , Töpfer Till , Schleuning Matthias , Neuschulz Eike Lena , Nilsson Maria A.
Published: May 2022

Bird-mediated seed dispersal is crucial for the regeneration and viability of ecosystems, often resulting in complex mutualistic species networks. Yet, how this mutualism drives the evolution of seed dispersing birds is still poorly understood. In the present study we combine whole genome re-sequencing analyses and morphometric data to assess the evolutionary processes that shaped the diversification of the Eurasian nutcracker (Nucifraga), a seed disperser known for its mutualism with pines (Pinus). Our results show that the divergence and phylogeographic patterns of nutcrackers resemble those of other non-mutualistic passerine birds and suggest that their early diversification was shaped by similar biogeographic and climatic processes. The limited variation in foraging traits indicates that local adaptation to pines likely played a minor role. Our study shows that close mutualistic relationships between bird and plant species might not necessarily act as a primary driver of evolution and diversification in resource-specialized birds.
Optimized single-step optical clearing solution for 3D volume imaging of biological structures
Authors: Kim Kitae , Na Myeongsu , Oh Kyoungjoon , Cho Eunji , Han Seung Seok , Chang Sunghoe
Published: May 2022

Various optical clearing approaches have been introduced to meet the growing demand for 3D volume imaging of biological structures. Each has its own strengths but still suffers from low transparency, long incubation time, processing complexity, tissue deformation, or fluorescence quenching, and a single solution that best satisfies all aspects has yet been developed. Here, we develop OptiMuS, an optimized single-step solution that overcomes the shortcomings of the existing aqueous-based clearing methods and that provides the best performance in terms of transparency, clearing rate, and size retention. OptiMuS achieves rapid and high transparency of brain tissues and other intact organs while preserving the size and fluorescent signal of the tissues. Moreover, OptiMuS is compatible with the use of lipophilic dyes, revealing DiI-labeled vascular structures of the whole brain, kidney, spleen, and intestine, and is also applied to 3D quantitative and comparative analysis of DiI-labeled vascular structures of glomeruli turfs in normal and diseased kidneys. Together, OptiMuS provides a single-step solution for simple, fast, and versatile optical clearing method to obtain high tissue transparency with minimum structural changes and is widely applicable for 3D imaging of various whole biological structures.
Economics and the Commercialization of Anticorrosive Nanomaterials
Authors: Singh Ajay Kumar
Published: May 2022

Corrosion and the economy are related to the longevity of engineering materials depending upon the corrosion experienced by them in industrial media. Industries, consequently, spend billions of dollars annually due to corrosion related issues. There are ways to mitigate corrosion. Selection of anticorrosion materials is an option with ‘nanomaterials’ being an upcoming alternative. This chapter discusses the synthesis of nanomaterials and their utility vis-à-vis conventional materials. The data shows an increase in the number of research publications, between 1998–2016 and the evolution of nanotechnology during 1970–2020. On the basis of data on marketing and commercialization, ‘compound annual growth rate’ CAGR of nanomaterials and nano-coating, has been compared for the duration of 2017–2024. With an increase in the production capacity of nanomaterials, the prices of nanomaterials are expected to fall leading to further enhancement in their usage.
Pressure-induced evolution in the durability of nickel–metal hydride batteries under high-current charge
Authors: Maeda Kouji , Moritoki Masato , Yae Shinji , Fukui Keisuke , Fukumuro Naoki , Sugahara Takeshi
Published: May 2022

We found that an AAA-type battery (min. 750 mAh) pressurized with Ar or N2 at pressures of up to 5 MPa exhibited a significant durability enhancement even under high-current conditions.
A two-dimensional MXene/BN van der Waals heterostructure as an anode material for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Yuan Kun , Hao Pengju , Zhou Yang , Hu Xianchao , Zhang Jianbo , Zhong Shengwen
Published: May 2022

A q-Ti3C2Tx/BNNS heterostructure was prepared by means of high energy ball-milling, and exhibited a long-term cycling stability with 84.4% capacity retention after 1400 cycles at 0.5 A g−1.
Manno-oligosaccharides from cassia seed gum ameliorate inflammation and improve glucose metabolism in diabetic rats
Authors: Wu Chenxuan , Liu Jun , Li Yanxiao , Wang Nannan , Yan Qiaojuan , Jiang Zhengqiang
Published: May 2022

A working model is presented for the anti-diabetic effects of manno-oligosaccharides from cassia seed gum (CMOS) via inflammation and glucose metabolism pathways. CMOS regulated the microbiota composition and the AKT/IRS/AMPK signaling pathway.
Quadrupolar active stress induces exotic patterns of defect motion in compressible active nematics
Authors: Sultan Salik A. , R. Nejad Mehrana , Doostmohammadi Amin
Published: May 2022

Exotic patterns of topological defect organisation is revealed in a compressible active nematics in contact with substrate.
Plastic-based lateral flow immunoassay device for electrochemical detection of NT-proBNP
Authors: Raj Nikhil , Crooks Richard M.
Published: May 2022

A low-cost plastic-based lateral flow device was developed to detect NT-proBNP, a heart failure marker, using the electrochemical metalloimmunoassay technique.
Development of a fluorescent test strip sensor based on surface positively-charged magnetic bead separation for the detection of Listeria monocytogenes
Authors: Du Juan , Liu Jialei , Liu Kai , Zhao Dianbo , Sagratini Gianni , Tao Jing , Bai Yanhong
Published: May 2022

A novel fluorescent strip sensor based on magnetic beads (Fe3O4@aptamer) and PCR amplification was developed for rapid detection of Listeria monocytogenes.
Mitochondria-targeted fluorescent probe for visualization of exogenous and endogenous methylglyoxal in living cells
Authors: Wang Zhiming , Bian Yaye , Liu Chang , He Song , Zhao Liancheng , Zeng Xianshun
Published: May 2022

A mitochondria-targeted red emission fluorescent probe Hcy-OPD was synthesized for the detection of methylglyoxal (MGO) in living cells.
γ-Cyclodextrin-based [2]rotaxane stoppered with gold(i)–ethynyl complexation: phosphorescent sensing for nitroaromatics
Authors: Yu Xingke , Wan Shigang , Wu Wanhua , Yang Cheng , Lu Wei
Published: May 2022

A sweet wheel with a golden axle: the phosphorescence of Au(i)–diethynyldiphenyl was switched-on in aerated aqueous solutions upon rotaxanation with γ-CD and then sensitively quenched by nitroaromatics including TNT.
Effect of chelator content on the structural and electrochemical performance of Na3V2(PO4)2F3 by sol–gel preparation
Authors: Qin Yuanyuan , Li Long , Zhao Hongyang , Wang Mingyue , Li Xinyang , Zhao Jing , Wu Hu , Ding Shujiang
Published: May 2022

This work provides a reliable view that the chelator content severely affects the valence state of the V element, the bonding state of the F element, and the particle size, crystal structure and sodium storage performance of NVPF samples.
Systematic arrangement control of functional organic molecules
Authors: Akai Ryota , Oka Kouki , Nishida Ryunosuke , Tohnai Norimitsu
Published: May 2022

Systematic and precise arrangement control of functional organic molecules without changing both their molecular and layered structure was established.
A theoretical study of asymmetric ketone hydrogenation catalyzed by Mn complexes: from the catalytic mechanism to the catalyst design
Authors: Zhao Yaqi , Zhang Lin , Tang Yanhui , Pu Min , Lei Ming
Published: May 2022

A DFT study was performed to investigate asymmetric ketone hydrogenation catalyzed by Mn pincer complexes which has potentially high catalytic activity. This work may shed light on the design of cheap metal catalysts with new ligand frameworks.
Temperature dependence in fast-atom diffraction at surfaces
Authors: Pan Peng , Debiossac Maxime , Roncin Philippe
Published: May 2022

We investigate the influence of the temperature in Fast Atom Diffraction at surfaces. The inelastic profiles broaden rapidly while the elastic one is constant but its intensity decreases with a Debye-Waller factor adapted to grazing incidences.
Correlated quantum treatment of the photodissociation dynamics of formaldehyde oxide CH2OO
Authors: Nikoobakht Behnam , Köppel Horst
Published: May 2022

We addressed the low-energy part of the excitation spectrum of CH2OO for the first time using ab initio quantum dynamics method.
Quantum mechanics/molecular mechanics studies on the mechanistic photophysics of sunscreen oxybenzone in methanol solution
Authors: Chang Xue-Ping , Yu Li , Zhang Teng-Shuo , Cui Ganglong
Published: May 2022

We report a QM(CASPT2//CASSCF)/MM study on the photophysical and photochemical mechanism of oxybenzone (OB) in methanol solution.
Ligand-assisted nickel catalysis enabling sp3 C–H alkylation of 9H-fluorene with alcohols
Authors: Biswas Ayanangshu , Bains Amreen K. , Adhikari Debashis
Published: May 2022

A nickel catalysed chemoselective sp3 C–H alkylation of 9H-fluorene with alcohols is reported which follows a radical pathway employing the borrowing hydrogen route.
Ru supported on activated carbon and coated with a polydopamine layer for effective acetylene hydrochlorination
Authors: Zhang Miaomiao , Zhang Haiyang , Li Feng , Yao Lisha , Peng Wencai , Zhang Jinli
Published: May 2022

Ru/AC@PDA-T catalysts were synthesized by coating a protective layer of PDA derivatives on the Ru/AC catalyst. Significantly improved activity and stability provide directions for the development of environmentally friendly and economical catalysts.
Carbene chemistry of arsenic, antimony, and bismuth: origin, evolution and future prospects
Authors: Deka Rajesh , Orthaber Andreas
Published: May 2022

Stabilization of pnictogens by carbenes, especially heterocyclic carbenes, is a constantly evolving and expanding field of research. In this perspective we summarize recent efforts towards the heavy triad of pnictogens As, Sb and Bi.
Effect of nickel doping on the structure, morphology and oxygen evolution reaction performance of Cu-BTC derived CuCoO2
Authors: Yang Miao , Han Na , Shi Lifen , Gao Han , Liu Xing , Mi Yue , Zeng Xianwei , Bai Jilin , Xiong Dehua
Published: May 2022

The enhancement in the OER activity of Cu-BTC derived CuCoO2 upon Ni doping was attributed to Ni ions entering the layered structure of CuCoO2 and replacing Co, resulting in decreased grain size and increased specific surface area.
Size determination of nanoparticles by ICP-ToF-MS using isotope dilution in microdroplets
Authors: Au Marcus von der , Faßbender Sebastian , Chronakis Michail Ioannis , Vogl Jochen , Meermann Björn
Published: May 2022

Combination of microdroplet generator and ICP-ToF-MS for nanoparticle sizing via on-line ID (on-line ID-MDG-sp-ICP-ToF-MS). 194Pt/195Pt ratio was used for sizing of the particles, while 182W/183W ratio used simultaneously for mass bias correction.
Systematic characterization of effect of flow rates and buffer compositions on double emulsion droplet volumes and stability
Authors: Calhoun Suzanne G. K. , Brower Kara K. , Suja Vineeth Chandran , Kim Gaeun , Wang Ningning , McCully Alexandra L. , Kusumaatmaja Halim , Fuller Gerald G. , Fordyce Polly M.
Published: May 2022

Measured double emulsion droplet sizes across hundreds of flow rate and surfactant conditions parameterize core/shell volumes and droplet stability.
Shape-based separation of drug-treated Escherichia coli using viscoelastic microfluidics
Authors: Zhang Tianlong , Liu Hangrui , Okano Kazunori , Tang Tao , Inoue Kazuki , Yamazaki Yoichi , Kamikubo Hironari , Cain Amy K. , Tanaka Yo , Inglis David W. , Hosokawa Yoichiroh , Yaxiaer Yalikun , Li Ming
Published: May 2022

A viscoelastic microfluidic device for shape-based separation of drug-treated Escherichia coli.
Scalable fabrication of LDH-based adsorbent for the removal of nitrate with enhanced performance
Authors: Jiang Zhuwu , Yu Hai , Liu Xinru , Zheng Zhongjian , Shen Jyunhong , Zhang Hongyu , Bai Xue
Published: May 2022

The exploration of LDHs for the selective adsorption of NO3− from water has been proposed for a long time; however, their complex fabrication methods and unclear adsorption mechanism limit their further utilization.
A density functional theory study on the strain modulated electronic and photocatalytic properties of a GaSe monolayer for photocatalytic water splitting and artificial photosynthesis
Authors: Nayak Dipali , Thangavel R.
Published: May 2022

The strain modulated electronic and photocatalytic properties of GaSe monolayer for photocatalytic water splitting and artificial photosynthesis using DFT study.
Facile construction of highly luminescent and biocompatible gold nanoclusters by shell rigidification for two-photon pH-edited cytoplasmic and in vivo imaging
Authors: Peng Yaowei , Gao Lu , Pidamaimaiti Guligena , Zhao Dan , Zhang Lumin , Yin Guowei , Wang Fu
Published: May 2022

The biocompatible and highly luminescent PVP-AuNCs were synthesized by using a facile mixture of HAuCl4, ATT and PVP solutions, which can be used for intracellular pH response and in vivo two-photon fluorescence imaging.
Tailoring magnetic anisotropy by graphene-induced selective skyhook effect on 4f-metals
Authors: Herman Alexander , Kraus Stefan , Tsukamoto Shigeru , Kämmerer Lea , Caciuc Vasile , Lojewski Tobias , Günzing Damian , Dreiser Jan , Delley Bernard , Ollefs Katharina , Michely Thomas , Atodiresei Nicolae , Wende Heiko
Published: May 2022

XANES and XMCD measurements accompanied by theoretical ab initio CDD plots highlighting the graphene-induced selective skyhook effect.
Borane promoted aryl transfer reaction for the synthesis of α-aryl functionalised β-hydroxy and β-keto esters
Authors: Kaehler Tanja , Lorenz Jonas , Ould Darren M. C. , Engl Dorothea , Santi Micol , Gierlichs Lukas , Wirth Thomas , Melen Rebecca L.
Published: May 2022

The synthesis of a series of α-aryl or α-alkyl functionalised β-hydroxy and β-keto esters has been achieved by reacting α-diazoesters with boranes, and aldehydes, ketones, anhydrides, nitriles, esters or isocyanates.
Facile construction of functional poly(monothiocarbonate) copolymers under mild operating conditions
Authors: Habets Thomas , Siragusa Fabiana , Müller Alejandro J. , Grossman Quentin , Ruffoni Davide , Grignard Bruno , Detrembleur Christophe
Published: May 2022

Functional poly(monothiocarbonate)-based copolymers are easily prepared by terpolymerization of a CO2-sourced bis(cyclic carbonate) with dithiols and diamines under ambient conditions.
Recent advances in helical polyacetylene derivatives used as coated chiral stationary phases for enantioseparation
Authors: Wu Guanzhao
Published: May 2022

The development of helical polyacetylene derivatives bearing different kinds of chiral pendants and the enantioseparation based on these helical polymers as coated CSPs for HPLC will be described.
Molecular recognition of catechols on the crystal-like surface of periodic mesoporous organosilica containing pyridinylethynylpyridine
Authors: Waki Minoru , Inagaki Shinji
Published: May 2022

We synthesized a novel periodic mesoporous organosilica (PMO) containing pyridinylethynylpyridine (PEPy) as a molecular recognition host material. Catechol guests were specifically adsorbed on the PEPy moieties of the PMO surface.
Visible light-driven [3 + 3] annulation reaction of 2H-azirines with Huisgen zwitterions and synthesis of 1,2,4-triazines
Authors: Cao Shixuan , Tang Tong , Li Jiatian , He Zhengjie
Published: May 2022

A visible light-driven [3 + 3] annulation reaction of 2H-azirines with Huisgen zwitterions is developed for the first time.