bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
miRNA activity inferred from single cell mRNA expression
Authors: Nielsen Morten Muhlig , Pedersen Jakob Skou
Published: April 2021

High throughput single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq) can provide mRNA expression profiles for thousands of cells. However, miRNAs cannot currently be studied at the same scale. By exploiting that miRNAs bind well-defined sequence motifs and typically down-regulate target genes, we show that motif enrichment analysis can be used to derive miRNA activity estimates from scRNAseq data. Motif enrichment analyses have traditionally been used to derive binding motifs for regulatory factors, such as miRNAs or transcription factors, that have an effect on gene expression. Here we reverse its use. By starting from the miRNA seed site, we derive a measure of activity for miRNAs in single cells. We first establish the approach on a comprehensive set of bulk TCGA cancer samples (n = 9679), with paired mRNA and miRNA expression profiles, where many miRNAs show a strong correlation with measured expression. By downsampling we show that the method can be used to estimate miRNA activity in sparse data comparable to scRNAseq experiments. We then analyze a human and a mouse scRNAseq data set, and show that for several miRNA candidates, including liver specific miR-122 and muscle specific miR-1 and miR-133a, we obtain activity measures supported by the literature. The methods are implemented and made available in the miReact software. Our results demonstrate that miRNA activities can be estimated at the single cell level. This allows insights into the dynamics of miRNA activity across a range of fields where scRNAseq is applied.
Discovery, optimization, and evaluation of non-bile acid FXR/TGR5 dual agonists
Authors: Miyata Sachiho , Kawashima Yuji , Sakai Miku , Matsubayashi Masaya , Motoki Keisuke , Miyajima Yui , Watanabe Yousuke , Chikamatsu Noriko , Taniguchi Tetsuya , Tokuyama Ryukou
Published: April 2021

Although several potent bile acid Farnesoid X receptor (FXR) and Takeda G-protein-coupled receptor 5 (TGR5, GPBAR1) dual agonists such as INT-767 have been reported, no non-bile acid FXR/TGR5 dual agonist has been investigated to date. Therefore, we attempted to discover potent non-bile acid FXR/TGR5 dual agonists and identified some non-bile acid FXR/TGR5 dual agonists, such as isonicotinamide derivatives in vitro assay. Compound 20p was evaluated in C57BL/6J mice, that were administered a choline-deficient, L-amino acid-defined, high-fat diet (CDAHFD) consisting of 60 kcal% fat and 0.1% methionine by weight for one week. Compound 20p dose-dependently induced small heterodimer partner (SHP) mRNA and decreased cytochrome P450 7A1 (CYP7A1) in the liver at 10 and 30 mg/kg, respectively, which were used as FXR agonist markers. Compound 20p significantly increased the plasma levels of GLP-1 as a TGR5 agonist, and a high concentration of GLP-1 lowered blood glucose levels. We confirmed that compound 20p was a non-bile acid FXR/TGR5 dual agonist.
Temporal dynamics of viral load and false negative rate influence the levels of testing necessary to combat COVID-19 spread
Authors: Jarvis Katherine F. , Kelley Joshua B.
Published: April 2021

Colleges and other organizations are considering testing plans to return to operation as the COVID-19 pandemic continues. Pre-symptomatic spread and high false negative rates for testing may make it difficult to stop viral spread. Here, we develop a stochastic agent-based model of COVID-19 in a university sized population, considering the dynamics of both viral load and false negative rate of tests on the ability of testing to combat viral spread. Reported dynamics of SARS-CoV-2 can lead to an apparent false negative rate from ~ 17 to ~ 48%. Nonuniform distributions of viral load and false negative rate lead to higher requirements for frequency and fraction of population tested in order to bring the apparent Reproduction number (Rt) below 1. Thus, it is important to consider non-uniform dynamics of viral spread and false negative rate in order to model effective testing plans.
Multiscale analysis of the hydrate based carbon capture from gas mixtures containing carbon dioxide
Authors: Zhou Xuebing , Zang Xiaoya , Long Zhen , Liang Deqing
Published: April 2021

To reveal the kinetic performance of gas molecules in hydrate growth, hydrate formation from pure CO2, flue gas, and biogas was measured using in-situ Raman and macroscopic methods at 271.6 K. In the in-situ Raman measurements, Raman peaks of gases in the hydrate phase were characterised and normalised by taking the water bands from 2800 to 3800 cm−1 as a reference, whose line shapes were not found to have a noticeable change in the conversion from Ih ice to sI hydrate. The hydrate growth was suggested to start with the formation of unsaturated hydrate nuclei followed by gas adsorption. In hydrate formed from all tested gases, CO2 concentrations in hydrate nuclei were found to be 23–33% of the saturation state. In the flue gas system, the N2 concentration reached a saturation state once hydrate nuclei formed. In the biogas system, competitive adsorption of CH4 and CO2 molecules was observed, while N2 molecules hardly evolved in hydrate formation. Combined with micro- and macroscopic analysis, small molecules such as N2 and CO2 were suggested to be more active in the formation of hydrate nuclei, and the preferential adsorption of CO2 molecules took place in the subsequent gas adsorption process.
Prenatal transplantation of human amniotic fluid stem cell could improve clinical outcome of type III spinal muscular atrophy in mice
Authors: Shaw Steven W. , Peng Shao-Yu , Liang Ching-Chung , Lin Tzu-Yi , Cheng Po-Jen , Hsieh T’sang-T’ang , Chuang Hao-Yu , De Coppi Paolo , David Anna L.
Published: April 2021

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a single gene disorder affecting motor function in uterus. Amniotic fluid is an alternative source of stem cell to ameliorate SMA. Therefore, this study aims to examine the therapeutic potential of Human amniotic fluid stem cell (hAFSC) for SMA. Our SMA model mice were generated by deletion of exon 7 of Smn gene and knock-in of human SMN2. A total of 16 SMA model mice were injected with 1 × 105 hAFSC in uterus, and the other 16 mice served as the negative control. Motor function was analyzed by three behavioral tests. Engraftment of hAFSC in organs were assessed by flow cytometry and RNA scope. Frequency of myocytes, neurons and innervated receptors were estimated by staining. With hAFSC transplantation, 15 fetuses survived (93.75% survival) and showed better performance in all motor function tests. Higher engraftment frequency were observed in muscle and liver. Besides, the muscle with hAFSC transplantation expressed much laminin α and PAX-7. Significantly higher frequency of myocytes, neurons and innervated receptors were observed. In our study, hAFSC engrafted on neuromuscular organs and improved cellular and behavioral outcomes of SMA model mice. This fetal therapy could preserve the time window and treat in the uterus.
Reproductive success of the parasitic mite (Varroa destructor) is lower in honeybee colonies that target infested cells with recapping
Authors: Oddie Melissa A. Y. , Burke Ashley , Dahle Bjørn , Le Conte Yves , Mondet Fanny , Locke Barbara
Published: April 2021

Cell recapping is a behavioural trait of honeybees (Apis mellifera) where cells with developing pupae are uncapped, inspected, and then recapped, without removing the pupae. The ectoparasitic mite Varroa destructor, unarguably the most destructive pest in apiculture world-wide, invades the cells of developing pupae to feed and reproduce. Honeybees that target mite infested cells with this behaviour may disrupt the reproductive cycle of the mite. Hence, cell recapping has been associated with colony-level declines in mite reproduction. In this study we compared the colony-level efficacy of cell recapping (how often infested cells are recapped) to the average mite fecundity in A. mellifera. Our study populations, known to be adapted to V. destructor, were from Avignon, France, Gotland, Sweden, and Oslo, Norway, and were compared to geographically similar, treated control colonies. The results show that colonies with a higher recapping efficacy also have a lower average mite reproductive success. This pattern was likely driven by the adapted populations as they had the largest proportion of highly-targeted cell recapping. The consistent presence of this trait in mite-resistant and mite-susceptible colonies with varying degrees of expression may make it a good proxy trait for selective breeding on a large scale.
Effects of GLP-1 receptor agonist on changes in the gut bacterium and the underlying mechanisms
Authors: Kato Shunsuke , Sato Takehiro , Fujita Hiroki , Kawatani Masahiro , Yamada Yuichiro
Published: April 2021

There is a close relationship between the gut microbiota and metabolic disorders. In this study, acute administration of the glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1RA) liraglutide to mice increased the cecal levels of caseinolytic protease B, a component of Escherichia coli, and of norepinephrine. Chemical sympathectomy blocked these events. Norepinephrine was found to pass into the intestinal lumen in vitro. c-Fos staining of the intermediolateral nucleus was identified as indirect evidence of sympathetic nervous system activation of the intestinal tract by GLP-1RA. Under normal conditions, the increase in E. coli did not affect the host. However, in mice with colitis, bacterial translocation was observed with attenuation of tight junction gene expression. This is the first study to investigate the unique underlying mechanisms related the effects of GLP-1RA on changes in the gut bacterium.
MicroRNA-138 suppresses glioblastoma proliferation through downregulation of CD44
Authors: Yeh Margaret , Wang Yin-Ying , Yoo Ji Young , Oh Christina , Otani Yoshihiro , Kang Jin Muk , Park Eun S. , Kim Eunhee , Chung Sangwoon , Jeon Young-Jun , Calin George A. , Kaur Balveen , Zhao Zhongming , Lee Tae Jin
Published: April 2021

Tumor suppressive microRNAs (miRNAs) are increasingly implicated in the development of anti-tumor therapy by reprogramming gene network that are aberrantly regulated in cancer cells. This study aimed to determine the therapeutic potential of putative tumor suppressive miRNA, miR-138, against glioblastoma (GBM). Whole transcriptome and miRNA expression profiling analyses on human GBM patient tissues identified miR-138 as one of the significantly downregulated miRNAs with an inverse correlation with CD44 expression. Transient overexpression of miR-138 in GBM cells inhibited cell proliferation, cell cycle, migration, and wound healing capability. We unveiled that miR-138 negatively regulates the expression of CD44 by directly binding to the 3′ UTR of CD44. CD44 inhibition by miR-138 resulted in an inhibition of glioblastoma cell proliferation in vitro through cell cycle arrest as evidenced by a significant induction of p27 and its translocation into nucleus. Ectopic expression of miR-138 also increased survival rates in mice that had an intracranial xenograft tumor derived from human patient-derived primary GBM cells. In conclusion, we demonstrated a therapeutic potential of tumor suppressive miR-138 through direct downregulation of CD44 for the treatment of primary GBM.
Activation of (pro)renin by (pro)renin receptor in extracellular vesicles from osteoclasts
Authors: Murray Jonathan B. , Mikhael Christy , Han Guanghong , de Faria Lorraine Perciliano , Rody Wellington J. , Holliday L. Shannon
Published: April 2021

The (pro)renin receptor (PRR) is a multifunctional integral membrane protein that serves as a component of the vacuolar H+-ATPase (V-ATPase) and also activates (pro)renin. We recently showed that full-length PRR, found as part of a V-ATPase sub-complex, is abundant in extracellular vesicles shed by osteoclasts. Here, we tested whether these extracellular vesicles stimulate (pro)renin. Extracellular vesicles isolated from the conditioned media of RAW 264.7 osteoclast-like cells or primary osteoclasts were characterized and counted by nanoparticle tracking. Immunoblotting confirmed that full-length PRR was present. Extracellular vesicles from osteoclasts dose-dependently stimulated (pro)renin activity, while extracellular vesicles from 4T1 cancer cells, in which we did not detect PRR, did not activate (pro)renin. To confirm that the ability of extracellular vesicles from osteoclasts to stimulate (pro)renin activity was due to the PRR, the “handle region peptide” from the PRR, a competitive inhibitor of PRR activity, was tested. It dose-dependently blocked the ability of extracellular vesicles to stimulate the enzymatic activity of (pro)renin. In summary, the PRR, an abundant component of extracellular vesicles shed by osteoclasts, stimulates (pro)renin activity. This represents a novel mechanism by which extracellular vesicles can function in intercellular regulation, with direct implications for bone biology.
Importance of Angomonas deanei KAP4 for kDNA arrangement, cell division and maintenance of the host-bacterium relationship
Authors: Gonçalves Camila Silva , Catta-Preta Carolina Moura Costa , Repolês Bruno , Mottram Jeremy C. , De Souza Wanderley , Machado Carlos Renato , Motta Maria Cristina M.
Published: April 2021

Angomonas deanei coevolves in a mutualistic relationship with a symbiotic bacterium that divides in synchronicity with other host cell structures. Trypanosomatid mitochondrial DNA is contained in the kinetoplast and is composed of thousands of interlocked DNA circles (kDNA). The arrangement of kDNA is related to the presence of histone-like proteins, known as KAPs (kinetoplast-associated proteins), that neutralize the negatively charged kDNA, thereby affecting the activity of mitochondrial enzymes involved in replication, transcription and repair. In this study, CRISPR-Cas9 was used to delete both alleles of the A. deanei KAP4 gene. Gene-deficient mutants exhibited high compaction of the kDNA network and displayed atypical phenotypes, such as the appearance of a filamentous symbionts, cells containing two nuclei and one kinetoplast, and division blocks. Treatment with cisplatin and UV showed that Δkap4 null mutants were not more sensitive to DNA damage and repair than wild-type cells. Notably, lesions caused by these genotoxic agents in the mitochondrial DNA could be repaired, suggesting that the kDNA in the kinetoplast of trypanosomatids has unique repair mechanisms. Taken together, our data indicate that although KAP4 is not an essential protein, it plays important roles in kDNA arrangement and replication, as well as in the maintenance of symbiosis.
Regulatory role of non-coding RNA in ginseng rusty root symptom tissue
Authors: Bian Xingbo , Yu Pengcheng , Dong Ling , Zhao Yan , Yang He , Han Yongzhong , Zhang Lianxue
Published: April 2021

Ginseng rusty root symptom (GRS) is one of the primary diseases of ginseng. It leads to a severe decline in the quality of ginseng and significantly affects the ginseng industry. The regulatory mechanism of non-coding RNA (ncRNA) remains unclear in the course of disease. This study explored the long ncRNAs (lncRNAs), circular RNAs (circRNAs), and microRNAs (miRNAs) in GRS tissues and healthy ginseng (HG) tissues and performed functional enrichment analysis of the screened differentially expressed ncRNAs. Considering the predictive and regulatory effects of ncRNAs on mRNAs, we integrated ncRNA and mRNA data to analyze and construct relevant regulatory networks. A total of 17,645 lncRNAs, 245 circRNAs, and 299 miRNAs were obtained from HG and GRS samples, and the obtained ncRNAs were characterized, including the classification of lncRNAs, length and distribution of circRNA, and the length and family affiliations of miRNAs. In the analysis of differentially expressed ncRNA target genes, we found that lncRNAs may be involved in the homeostatic process of ginseng tissues and that lncRNAs, circRNAs, and miRNAs are involved in fatty acid-related regulation, suggesting that alterations in fatty acid-related pathways may play a key role in GRS. Besides, differentially expressed ncRNAs play an essential role in regulating transcriptional translation processes, primary metabolism such as starch and sucrose, and secondary metabolism such as alkaloids in ginseng tissues. Finally, we integrated the correlations between ncRNAs and mRNAs, constructed corresponding interaction networks, and identified ncRNAs that may play critical roles in GRS. These results provide a basis for revealing GRS's molecular mechanism and enrich our understanding of ncRNAs in ginseng.
Investigating the status of transgenic crops in Iran in terms of cultivation, consumption, laws and rights in comparison with the world
Authors: Baghbani-Arani Abolfazl , Poureisa Mona , Alekajbaf Hossein , Borz-Abad Rezvan Karami , Khodadadi-Dashtaki Khodadad
Published: April 2021

Recently, there has been a development in transgenic technologies in many countries to meet nutritional needs of increasing worlds҆ population. However, there are some concerns about possible risks in the field of growing genetically modified (GM) food, such as threats of biodiversity and food allergies making their use a challenge. Therefore, the present study was conducted to investigate the economic effects and political scopes of GM foods in production sector and policies made by different countries in the world and Iran. Moreover, essential (practical and legal) solutions and guidelines were provided for production and consumption of GM foods, which are useful for governmental entities, Iranian politicians, and consumers' rights. The latest situation of transgenic crops in the countries with which Iran has the highest exchange of agricultural products (including Turkey, Pakistan, and the European Union (EU)) was also studied. Although, Iran has been one of leading Asian countries not only in the field of transfer of technical knowledge of genetic engineering, but also in development of the specialized knowledge of biosafety, and despite production of several transgenic plant lines by Iranian researchers, unfortunately no GM crop has obtained release and cultivation license except for GM rice that its growing process was banned after change of government. According to findings of this study, in Iran, growing and production process of GM crops does not follow the global trend owing to scientific and legal infrastructures.
Hybrid Raman-erbium random fiber laser with a half open cavity assisted by artificially controlled backscattering fiber reflectors
Authors: Perez-Herrera R. A. , Roldan-Varona P. , Galarza M. , Sañudo-Lasagabaster S. , Rodriguez-Cobo L. , Lopez-Higuera J. M. , Lopez-Amo M.
Published: April 2021

A hybrid Raman-erbium random fiber laser with a half-open cavity assisted by chirped artificially controlled backscattering fiber reflectors is presented. A combination of a 2.4 km-long dispersion compensating fiber with two highly erbium-doped fiber pieces of 5 m length were used as gain media. A single random laser emission line centered at 1553.8 nm with an optical signal to noise ratio of 47 dB were obtained when pumped at 37.5 dBm. A full width at half maximum of 1 nm and a 100% confidence level output power instability as low as 0.08 dB were measured. The utilization of the new laser cavity as a temperature and strain sensor is also experimentally studied.
Development of a highly specific serodiagnostic ELISA for West Nile virus infection using subviral particles
Authors: Maezono Keisuke , Kobayashi Shintaro , Tabata Koshiro , Yoshii Kentaro , Kariwa Hiroaki
Published: April 2021

West Nile virus (WNV), a member of the Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) serocomplex group, causes lethal encephalitis in humans and horses. Because serodiagnosis of WNV and JEV is hampered by cross-reactivity, the development of a simple, secure, and WNV-specific serodiagnostic system is required. The coexpression of prM protein and E protein leads to the secretion of subviral particles (SPs). Deletion of the C-terminal region of E protein is reported to affect the production of SPs by some flaviviruses. However, the influence of such a deletion on the properties and antigenicity of WNV E protein is unclear. We analyzed the properties of full-length E protein and E proteins lacking the C-terminal region as novel serodiagnostics for WNV infection. Deletion of the C-terminal region of E protein suppressed the formation of SPs but did not affect the production of E protein. The sensitivity of an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) using the full-length E protein was higher than that using the truncated E proteins. Furthermore, in the ELISA using full-length E protein, there was little cross-reactivity with anti-JEV antibodies, and the sensitivity was similar to that of the neutralization test.
Surface reactions of ammonia on ruthenium nanoparticles revealed by15N and13C solid-state NMR
Authors: Rothermel Niels , Limbach Hans-Heinrich , del Rosal Iker , Poteau Romuald , Mencia Gabriel , Chaudret Bruno , Buntkowsky Gerd , Gutmann Torsten
Published: April 2021

Ruthenium nanoparticles (Ru NPs) stabilized by bis-diphenylphosphinobutane (dppb) and surface-saturated with hydrogen have been exposed to gaseous15NH3and13CO and studied using solid-state NMR and DFT calculations.
A new role of Yb3+—an energy reservoir for lanthanide upconversion luminescence
Authors: Xu Li , Liu Yu , Zhou Ziwen , Sun Xianhao , Ud Din Isam , Khan Fahim , Li Yanzeng , Li Hanyang , Ren Jing , Carvajal Joan J. , Zhang Jianzhong , Liu Lu
Published: April 2021

We proposed a novel energy cycling mechanism by introducing Yb3+ as an energy reservoir to improve the Ln3+ upconversion intensity. The key of the energy cycling mechanism is suppressing the energy dissipation and/or facilitating the ESA population.
Solvent- and initiator-free fabrication of efficient and stable perovskite-polystyrene surface-patterned thin films for LED backlights
Authors: Shi Shuangshuang , Cao Liya , Gao Heng , Tian Zhongzhi , Bi Wengang , Geng Chong , Xu Shu
Published: April 2021

One-pot synthesized CsPbBr3 PNC-polystyrene pre-polymer enables solvent- and initiator-free fabricating efficient and stable micropatterned thin films. This method provides a bright prospect for PNC-PS composites in display application.
Roles of water in the formation and preparation of graphene oxide
Authors: Zhang Qiang , Yang Yuying , Fan Huiqing , Feng Liu , Wen Guangwu , Qin Lu-Chang
Published: April 2021

Water content in the sulfuric acid for the synthesis of graphene oxide results in fewer structural defects and a greater interlayer spacing.
Investigating the structural properties of hydrophobic solvent-rich lipid bilayers
Authors: Zoni Valeria , Campomanes Pablo , Vanni Stefano
Published: April 2021

In vitro reconstitutions of lipid membranes can contain residual hydrophobic solvents. We investigate the influence of residual solvents on lipid bilayers properties using Molecular Dynamics simulations.
Cell-free hemoglobin is a marker of systemic inflammation in mouse models of sepsis: a Raman spectroscopic study
Authors: Verma Taru , Majumdar Shamik , Yadav Shikha , Ahmed Syed Moiz , Umapathy Siva , Nandi Dipankar
Published: April 2021

Raman spectroscopy detects cell-free hemoglobin in sera of mice with systemic inflammation, achieved by injection of live bacteria or endotoxin, but not thioglycolate-induced localized peritonitis.
Structural influence of antibody recruiting glycodendrimers (ARGs) on antitumoral cytotoxicity
Authors: Todaro Biagio , Achilli Silvia , Liet Benjamin , Laigre Eugénie , Tiertant Claire , Goyard David , Berthet Nathalie , Renaudet Olivier
Published: April 2021

A series of Antibody Recruiting Glycodendrimer (ARG) was screened against the melanoma cell line M21. We identified lead ARGs that promote up to 57% of selective cytotoxicity in the presence of human serum as the unique source of immunity effectors.
Sulfur modification in natural RNA and therapeutic oligonucleotides
Authors: Zheng Ya Ying , Wu Ying , Begley Thomas J. , Sheng Jia
Published: April 2021

In this review, we highlight the importance of sulfur modifications in natural cellular RNAs and therapeutic nucleic acids. Sulfur modifications on RNA confer structural diversity, stability and enhance its functionality.
Diastereodivergent synthesis of 4-oxocyclohexanecarbaldehydes by using the modularly designed organocatalysts upon switching on their iminium catalysis
Authors: Bora Pranjal , Jakkampudi Satish , Parella Ramarao , Sakkani Nagaraju , Dai Qipu , Bihani Manisha , Arman Hadi D. , Zhao John C.-G.
Published: April 2021

The inhibited iminium catalysis of the MDOs was switched on by using trans-cinnamic acid and the activated MDOs were used for catalyzing the domino Mannich condensation/Michael/Michael reaction between ketones and α,β-unsaturated aldehydes.
The diverse reactivity of NOBF4 towards silylene, disilene, germylene and stannylene
Authors: Parvin Nasrina , Sen Nilanjana , Muhasina Puthan Veetil , Tothadi Srinu , Parameswaran Pattiyil , Khan Shabana
Published: April 2021

Herein, we report an unprecedented reactivity pattern of NOBF4 towards the low-valent group 14 compounds, starting from oxygenation to a fluorinating agent.
High temperature supercapacitors using water-in-salt electrolytes: stability above 100 °C
Authors: Le Fevre Lewis W. , Ejigu Andinet , Todd Rebecca , Forsyth Andrew J. , Dryfe Robert A. W.
Published: April 2021

The high temperature performance of water-in-salt electrolytes was investigated using a carbon-based electrode with commercial cell components.
Co-catalytic Fc/HGQs/Fe3O4 nanocomposite mediated enzyme-free electrochemical biosensor for ultrasensitive detection of MicroRNA
Authors: Zhu Liang , Zhang Xiaolong , Chang Yuanyuan , Xu Sai , Yuan Ruo , Chai Yaqin
Published: April 2021

A novel co-catalytic ferrocene/hemin/G-quadruplexes/Fe3O4 nanoparticle (Fc/HGQs/Fe3O4) was applied to construct ultrasensitive electrochemical biosensor through synergistic catalysis of hemin/G-quadruplexes (HGQs) and Fe3O4 nanoparticles.
Enantioselective hydrogenation of cyclic tetrasubstituted-olefinic dehydroamino acid derivatives
Authors: Wan Feng , Wang Nan , Zhu Yuxin , Tang Chuyan , Claverie Jerome , Tang Wenjun
Published: April 2021

The Rh-ArcPhos catalyst has enabled the asymmetric hydrogenation of cyclic tetrasubstituted-olefinic dehydroamino acid derivatives, affording α-acylamino-β-alkyl tetrahydropyranones with two contiguous chiral centers in up to 96% ees and 1000 TONs.
Pd(ii)-Catalyzed enantioselective arylation of unbiased methylene C(sp3)–H bonds enabled by a 3,3′-F2-BINOL ligand
Authors: Yang Xu , Jiang Meng-Xue , Zhou Tao , Han Ye-Qiang , Xu Xue-Tao , Zhang Kun , Shi Bing-Feng
Published: April 2021

Pd(ii)-Catalyzed highly enantioselective arylation of unbiased methylene C(sp3)–H bonds using easily accessible 3,3′-F2-BINOL as a ligand was reported.
Nucleocapsid protein preferentially binds the stem-loop of duplex/quadruplex hybrid that unfolds the quadruplex structure
Authors: Sheng Yaping , Cao Bei , Ou Mingxi , Wang Yu , Yuan Siming , Zhang Na , Zou Taotao , Liu Yangzhong
Published: April 2021

HIV nucleocapsid protein unfolds the duplex/quadruplex hybrid structure by binding to the stem-loop region, which induces dynamic fluctuation of G-tetrad and K+ ejection.
Enantioselective synthesis of polycyclic pyrrole derivatives by iridium-catalyzed asymmetric allylic dearomatization and ring-expansive migration reactions
Authors: Huang Lin , Xie Jia-Hao , Cai Yue , Zheng Chao , Hou Xue-Long , Dai Li-Xin , You Shu-Li
Published: April 2021

A cascade Ir-catalyzed asymmetric allylic daromatization/ring-expansive migration reaction affords tetrahydropyrrolo[1,2-c]pyrimidine derivatives in good yields with high enantioselectivity.
Intermolecular dynamics of NH3-rare gas complexes in the ν2 umbrella region of NH3 investigated by rovibrational laser jet-cooled spectroscopy and ab initio calculations
Authors: Belkhodja Y. , Loreau J. , van der Avoird A. , Berger Y. , Asselin P.
Published: April 2021

High resolution jet-cooled spectrum and simulation of the Πe/f(j = 1,k = 0) ← Σf(j = 1,k = 0) transition of NH3-Kr.
Improved insights in time-resolved photoelectron imaging
Authors: Kotsina Nikoleta , Townsend Dave
Published: April 2021

We review new light source developments and data analysis considerations relevant to the time-resolved photoelectron imaging technique. Case studies illustrate how these themes may enhance understanding in studies of excited state molecular dynamics.
Biosynthesis and synthetic biology of psychoactive natural products
Authors: Jamieson Cooper S. , Misa Joshua , Tang Yi , Billingsley John M.
Published: April 2021

The biosynthetic logic employed by Nature in the construction of psychoactive natural products is reviewed, in addition to biological activities, methodologies enabling pathway discovery, and engineering applications.
Nitrogen doped graphene quantum dots as a cocatalyst of SrTiO3(Al)/CoOx for photocatalytic overall water splitting
Authors: Liu Yuxiang , Xu Xuejun , Lv Shangchun , Li Hewen , Si Zhichun , Wu Xiaodong , Ran Rui , Weng Duan
Published: April 2021

Nitrogen doped graphene quantum dots as a cocatalyst of SrTiO3(Al)/CoOx for photocatalytic overall water splitting.
π-Hole spodium bonding in tri-coordinated Hg(ii) complexes
Authors: Gomila Rosa M. , Bauza Antonio , Mooibroek Tiddo J. , Frontera Antonio
Published: April 2021

This article evidences the existence and importance of spodium bonds (SpB) in solid state structures involving a three-coordinated Hg(ii) spodium atom.
A simple and reversible glass–glass bonding method to construct a microfluidic device and its application for cell recovery
Authors: Funano Shun-ichi , Ota Nobutoshi , Tanaka Yo
Published: April 2021

A simple method, using only neutral detergent for surface cleaning, produces reversible glass–glass bonding to enable use of a glass microfluidic device repeatedly and enable switching a microchannel from closed for cell cultivation to open for cell recovery.
Waterborne, non-fluorinated and durable anti-icing superhydrophobic coatings based on diatomaceous earth
Authors: Xie Hua , Zhao Xia , Li Bucheng , Zhang Jiaojiao , Wei Jinfei , Zhang Junping
Published: April 2021

Superhydrophobic coatings have great potential for anti-icing compared with conventional techniques (e.g., thermal melting, chemical release and mechanical vibration), but suffer from short water freezing time, environment-unfriendliness, low stability, etc.
Facile access to foldable redox-active flavin-peptide conjugates
Authors: Stricker Friedrich , Kölsch Jonas Christopher , Beil Sebastian B. , Preiß Sebastian , Waldvogel Siegfried R. , Opatz Till , Besenius Pol
Published: April 2021

A convenient approach for the synthesis of foldable redox-active flavin peptide conjugates was established.
Conductive chitosan/polyaniline hydrogel with cell-imprinted topography as a potential substrate for neural priming of adipose derived stem cells
Authors: Eftekhari Behnaz Sadat , Eskandari Mahnaz , Janmey Paul A. , Samadikuchaksaraei Ali , Gholipourmalekabadi Mazaher
Published: April 2021

A conductive chitosan/polyaniline hydrogel with cell-imprinted topography was used for neural priming of adipose derived stem cells.
Synthesis and biological evaluation of indazole derivatives as anti-cancer agents
Authors: Wei Wei , Liu Zhihao , Wu Xiuli , Gan Cailing , Su Xingping , Liu Hongyao , Que Hanyun , Zhang Qianyu , Xue Qiang , Yue Lin , Yu Luoting , Ye Tinghong
Published: April 2021

One of the synthesized indazole derivatives, 2f, displayed inhibitory activities against proliferation, migration and invasion of breast cancer cell line 4T1, with the potential of inducing cell apoptosis, and suppressing tumor growth in vivo.
Dual utility of a single diphosphine–ruthenium complex: a precursor for new complexes and, a pre-catalyst for transfer-hydrogenation and Oppenauer oxidation
Authors: Mukherjee Aparajita , Bhattacharya Samaresh
Published: April 2021

The [Ru(dppbz)(CO)2Cl2] (dppbz = 1,2-bis(diphenylphosphino)benzene) complex serves as an useful precursor for the synthesis of new complexes, and also as an efficient pre-catalyst for catalytic transfer-hydrogenation and Oppenauer oxidation.
Co/N-Doped hierarchical porous carbon as an efficient oxygen electrocatalyst for rechargeable Zn–air battery
Authors: Zhou Wenshu , Liu Yanyan , Liu Huan , Wu Dichao , Zhang Gaoyue , Jiang Jianchun
Published: April 2021

The surface-oxidized Co nanoparticles incorporated in N-doped hierarchically porous carbon materials are designed as ORR/OER catalyst for rechargeable Zn–air batteries via dual-templating strategy and pyrolysis process.
Nitrogen versus carbon in planar pentacoordinate environments supported by Be5Hn rings
Authors: Bian Jian-Hong , Jin Bo , Zhao Xue-Feng , Sun Rui , Yuan Caixia , Zhou Cheng-Yong , Wu Yan-Bo
Published: April 2021

Nitrogen is a better fit for Be5Hn rings, both geometrically and electronically, than carbon, leading to the viable planar pentacoordinate nitrogen species.
Tumor chemical suffocation therapy by dual respiratory inhibitions
Authors: Xu Yingying , Guo Yuedong , Chen Lei , Ni Dalong , Hu Ping , Shi Jianlin
Published: April 2021

The EDTA- and Rotenone-loaded MPER nanoparticles have been synthesized to suffocate tumor cells to death through inhibiting glycolytic process and mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation simultaneously in vitro and in vivo.
Parasitic behavior in competing chemically fueled reaction cycles
Authors: Schwarz Patrick S. , Laha Sudarshana , Janssen Jacqueline , Huss Tabea , Boekhoven Job , Weber Christoph A.
Published: April 2021

Non-equilibrium, fuel-driven reaction cycles serve as model systems of the intricate reaction networks of life.
Stable sodium metal anodes with a high utilization enabled by an interfacial layer composed of yolk–shell nanoparticles
Authors: Zhu Nanhe , Mao Xiaoge , Wang Guangyao , Zhu Ming , Wang Hongyong , Xu Gang , Wu Minghong , Liu Hua Kun , Dou Shi-Xue , Wu Chao
Published: April 2021

An interfacial layer composed of C@Ag nanoparticles with a well-designed yolk–shell structure is a very effective route to achieve a highly reversible and dendrite-free Na anode.
Supramolecular polymer-assisted manipulation of triblock copolymers: understanding the relationships between microphase structures and mechanical properties
Authors: Shentu Zhexian , Zhang Zhaoming , Zhao Jun , Chen Chuanshuang , Wu Qian , Wang Lei , Yan Xuzhou
Published: April 2021

We demonstrate that supramolecular polymers could be utilized to modulate the mechanical properties of triblock copolymers by means of phase-separation engineering.
l-Dopa release from mesoporous silica nanoparticles engineered through the concept of drug-structure-directing agents for Parkinson's disease
Authors: Morales V. , McConnell J. , Pérez-Garnes M. , Almendro N. , Sanz R. , García-Muñoz R. A.
Published: April 2021

l-Dopa@MSNs based on the concept of drug-structure-directing agents were successfully prepared and proved to be programmed oral l-Dopa release nanosystem pH responsive for the treatment of Parkinson's disease.
A tumor extracellular pH-sensitive PD-L1 binding peptide nanoparticle for chemo-immunotherapy of cancer
Authors: Zhu Wangwei , Bai Yun , Zhang Nan , Yan Jianqing , Chen Jun , He Ziyun , Sun Qiqi , Pu Yuji , He Bin , Ye Xueting
Published: April 2021

A tumor extracellular pH-sensitive, PD-L1 biding peptide conjugate was designed for efficient chemo-immunotherapy by aggregation-enhanced retention and immune response.
Dual-recognition colorimetric sensing of thrombin based on surface-imprinted aptamer–Fe3O4
Authors: Shen Mingmei , Wang Yuanyuan , Kan Xianwen
Published: April 2021

A convenient and effective colorimetric approach was developed for the sensitive and selective detection of thrombin based on blocking the peroxidase-like activity of inner Fe3O4 nanoparticles by the adsorption of thrombin in imprinted cavities.
Revealing long–range orbit–orbit interaction between coherent light-emitting excitons occurring in amplified spontaneous emission in CsPbBr3 microstructures
Authors: Wang Miaosheng , Zhang Jia , Zhu Xixiang , Xu Hengxing , Hu Bin
Published: April 2021

This paper reports a new phenomenon that long–range orbit–orbit interaction is established through orbital polarizations between coherent light-emitting excitons during the generation of amplified spontaneous emission in CsPbBr3 microrods.
Synthesis and characterization of a new family of layered PbxSn4−xAs3alloys
Authors: Koster Karl G. , Wang Yaxian , Scudder Michael R. , Moore Curtis E. , Windl Wolfgang , Goldberger Joshua E.
Published: April 2021

Pb alloying tunes the structural, electronic, and thermoelectric properties of Sn4As3.
Tetra-indole core as a dual agent: a hole selective layer that passivates defects in perovskite solar cells
Authors: Pegu Meenakshi , Kazim Samrana , Huang Peng , Lezama Luis , Ahmad Shahzada
Published: April 2021

An organic small molecule composed of a tetra-indole core was introduced as a hole selective layer that can also act a passivating agent to supress the surface defects in perovskite solar cells (PSCs).
Boosting the thermoelectric performance of GeTe by manipulating the phase transition temperature via Sb doping
Authors: Jin Yang , Wang Dongyang , Qiu Yuting , Zhao Li-Dong
Published: April 2021

With rising Sb content, the crystal symmetry of Sb-doped GeTe elevates by lowing phase transition temperature, thus leading to superior thermoelectric properties. A ZTmax of ∼1.8 at 773 K and ZTave of ∼1.1 can be obtained in Ge0.9Sb0.1Te.
Does Voicing Affect Patterns of Transfer in Nonnative Cluster Learning?
Authors: Cheng Hung-Shao , Buchwald Adam
Published: April 2021

Purpose

Previous studies have demonstrated that speakers can learn novel speech sequences, although the content and specificity of the learned speech motor representations remain incompletely understood. We investigated these representations by examining transfer of learning in the context of nonnative consonant clusters. Specifically, we investigated whether American English speakers who learn to produce either voiced or voiceless stop–stop clusters (e.g., /gd/ or /kt/) exhibit transfer to the other voicing pattern.

Method

Each participant (n= 34) was trained on disyllabic nonwords beginning with either voiced (/gd/, /db/, /gb/) or voiceless (/kt/, /kp/, /tp/) onset consonant clusters (e.g., /gdimu/, /ktaksnæm/) in a practice-based speech motor learning paradigm. All participants were tested on both voiced and voiceless clusters at baseline (prior to practice) and in two retention sessions (20 min and 2 days after practice). We compared changes in cluster accuracy and burst-to-burst duration between baseline and each retention session to evaluate learning (performance on the trained clusters) and transfer (performance on the untrained clusters).

Results

Participants in both training conditions improved with respect to cluster accuracy and burst-to-burst duration for the clusters they practiced on. A bidirectional transfer pattern was found, such that participants also improved the cluster accuracy and burst-to-burst duration for the clusters with the other untrained voicing pattern. Post hoc analyses also revealed that improvement in the production of untrained stop–fricative clusters that originally were added as filler items.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest the learned speech motor representations may encode the information about the coordination of oral articulators for stop–stop clusters independently from information about the coordination of oral and laryngeal articulators.
Transforming a well into a chip: A modular 3D-printed microfluidic chip
Authors: Rauti Rossana , Ess Adi , Le Roi Baptiste , Kreinin Yevgeniy , Epshtein Mark , Korin Netanel , Maoz Ben M.
Published: April 2021

Organ-on-a-Chip platforms provide rich opportunities to observe interactions between different cell types under in vivo-like conditions, i.e., in the presence of flow. Yet, the costs and know-how required for the fabrication and implementation of these platforms restrict their accessibility. This study introduces and demonstrates a novel Insert-Chip: a microfluidic device that provides the functionality of an Organ-on-a-Chip platform, namely, the capacity to co-culture cells, expose them to flow, and observe their interactions—yet can easily be integrated into standard culture systems (e.g., well plates or multi-electrode arrays). The device is produced using stereolithograpy 3D printing and is user-friendly and reusable. Moreover, its design features overcome some of the measurement and imaging challenges characterizing standard Organ-on-a-Chip platforms. We have co-cultured endothelial and epithelial cells under flow conditions to demonstrate the functionality of the device. Overall, this novel microfluidic device is a promising platform for the investigation of biological functions, cell–cell interactions, and response to therapeutics.
Study on three droplet sequential burning characteristics of coal direct liquefied diesel
Authors: Wang Tengfei , Qiao Xinqi , Li Tie , Wei Yijie
Published: April 2021

Coal direct liquefied diesel (DDCL) is a new alternative fuel with high cleanliness and quality. Its hydrocarbon composition and physicochemical properties are quite different from those of petrochemical diesel. In order to study the difference in evaporative burning characteristics between DDCL and diesel during the sequential burning of multiple droplets, three fuel droplets are suspended on fibers in order by a micro-injector. The first droplet was ignited by an electrode igniter, and then the sequential burning process of three droplets was captured by a high-speed camera. An automatic processing program is written based on Matlab software to calculate the equivalent diameter of each fuel droplet. The result shows that the burning process of the DDCL droplet can be divided into three stages: initial thermal expansion, steady burning, and late micro-explosion burning. DDCL is much easier to form the burning mixture and has better flammability than diesel. The droplet spacing and fuel type have significant effects on ignition delay. The square of the normalized diameter of droplets decreases linearly with time during the steady burning period, which follows the D2 law. The reduction rates of normalized squared diameter for DDCL droplets are higher than that for diesel. The pyrolysis of macromolecular components at high temperature produces many small molecules and low boiling point components, which induce the micro-explosions in the late burning stage. The micro-explosion intensity of DDCL droplets is obviously lower than that of diesel.
Calculation of rovibrational eigenstates of H3+ using ScalIT
Authors: Sarka János , Das Debojyoti , Poirier Bill
Published: April 2021

H 3 + is a key player in molecular astrophysics, appearing in the interstellar medium and in the atmospheres of gas giants. It also plays an important role in star formation, and it has also been detected in supernova remnants. In theoretical chemistry, H3+ has long been a benchmark polyatomic system for high-level electronic-structure computations, as well as for quantum dynamics studies. In this work, exact quantum dynamical calculations are carried out for H3+, using the ScalIT suite of parallel codes, applied to two spectroscopically accurate potential energy surfaces. Specifically, rovibrational energy levels and wavefunctions are computed and labeled. Sixty vibrational states (for J = 0) are first determined, and then, rotational excitations for each of these “vibrational parent” states are computed up to total angular momentum J = 46, which is the highest value for which bound states of this molecule exist (D0 ∼ 35 000 cm−1). For these calculations, a very tight basis set convergence of a few 10−4 cm−1 (or less) has been achieved for almost all the computed energy levels. Where comparisons can be made, our results are found to agree well with earlier calculations and experimental data.
Power waves and scattering parameters in magneto-inductive systems
Authors: Voronov A. , Sydoruk O. , Syms R. R. A.
Published: April 2021

Difficulties arise in the definition of power flow in transmission-line systems with a complex propagation constant. These were resolved by Kurokawa using quantities known as “power waves,” which contain both voltage and current terms and correctly separate power flow into forward- and backward-traveling components. Similar difficulties must arise for electromagnetic metamaterials since any discrete, periodic structure leads to band-limited propagation, with a complex propagation constant both inside and outside the bands due to loss and cutoff, respectively. Here, discrete power waves are defined for magneto-inductive (MI) systems, metamaterials based on chains of magnetically coupled LC resonators. These waves are shown to satisfy the discrete power conservation equation for MI waves and are used to calculate scattering parameters for multi-port MI devices without the anomalous predictions of conventional methods. The results will allow correct evaluation of internal scattering parameters in MI systems.
Corrigendum to: Habitat associations of zoophagic bat ensembles in north-western Australia
Authors: McKenzie N. L. , Bullen R. D. , Gibson L. A.
Published: April 2021

North-western Australia comprises the Kimberley Craton and parts of three adjacent sedimentary basins. It has a tropical climate and habitats that range from semiarid plains supporting grasslands to mesic uplands supporting woodlands as well as narrow riparian forests and patches of rainforest; mangrove forests occur along the coast. Its bat fauna comprises three obligate phytophages and 27 obligate zoophages. Analysis of zoophagic bats at 171 sites scattered throughout this study area revealed two compositionally distinct ensembles. One, comprising 19 species, occupies mangrove forest and includes three species known only to occupy mangroves in Western Australia. The other, comprising 20 species, occupies landward habitats and includes four species that are found only in landward ecosystems. Both ensembles are structured in terms of resource allocation, but nestedness observed in assemblage composition can be explained by environmental factors, implying the influence of environmental controls. Sixteen species belong to both ensembles, but seven of these require cave roosts and occur only near cavernous country while three others are confined to rocky riparian habitats. The richest assemblages were recorded in rugged cavernous landscapes in complex vegetation structures near permanent freshwater pools in the most mesic areas.
Manipulating Berry curvature of SrRuO3thin films via epitaxial strain
Authors: Tian Di , Liu Zhiwei , Shen Shengchun , Li Zhuolu , Zhou Yu , Liu Hongquan , Chen Hanghui , Yu Pu
Published: April 2021

Significance

Berry phase and Berry curvature contribute significantly to a large collection of intriguing properties in quantum materials, particularly intrinsic anomalous Hall effect (AHE). One of the central steps is to explore the evolution of Berry curvature and related properties under external stimulus. Here, we report that the epitaxial strain effectively tunes the Berry curvature and the magnitude and sign of corresponding intrinsic AHE in SrRuO3films, which are due to modification of electronic structures induced by strain. We further reveal the Berry curvature can also be modulated with the rotation of magnetization, resulting in an exotic nonmonotonic change of anomalous Hall resistively. Our findings suggest that epitaxial strain provides a nice approach for manipulating Berry curvature and its related physics.