bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural basis of LAIR1 targeting by polymorphic Plasmodium RIFINs
Authors: Xu Kai , Wang Yiran , Shen Chen-Hsiang , Chen Yiwei , Zhang Baoshan , Liu Kevin , Tsybovsky Yaroslav , Wang Shuishu , Farney S. Katie , Gorman Jason , Stephens Tyler , Verardi Raffaello , Yang Yongping , Zhou Tongqing , Chuang Gwo-Yu , Lanzavecchia Antonio , Piccoli Luca , Kwong Peter D.
Published: July 2021

RIFIN, a large family of Plasmodium variant surface antigens, plays a crucial role in malaria pathogenesis by mediating immune suppression through activation of inhibitory receptors such as LAIR1, and antibodies with LAIR1 inserts have been identified that bind infected erythrocytes through RIFIN. However, details of RIFIN-mediated LAIR1 recognition and receptor activation have been unclear. Here, we use negative-stain EM to define the architecture of LAIR1-inserted antibodies and determine crystal structures of RIFIN-variable 2 (V2) domain in complex with a LAIR1 domain. These structures reveal the LAIR1-binding region of RIFIN to be hydrophobic and membrane-distal, to exhibit extensive structural diversity, and to interact with RIFIN-V2 in a one-to-one fashion. Through structural and sequence analysis of various LAIR1 constructs, we identify essential elements of RIFIN-binding on LAIR1. Furthermore, a structure-derived LAIR1-binding sequence signature ascertained >20 LAIR1-binding RIFINs, including some from P. falciparum field strains and Plasmodium species infecting gorillas and chimpanzees.
Ultrafast imaging of spontaneous symmetry breaking in a photoionized molecular system
Authors: Li Min , Zhang Ming , Vendrell Oriol , Guo Zhenning , Zhu Qianru , Gao Xiang , Cao Lushuai , Guo Keyu , Su Qin-Qin , Cao Wei , Luo Siqiang , Yan Jiaqing , Zhou Yueming , Liu Yunquan , Li Zheng , Lu Peixiang
Published: July 2021

The Jahn-Teller effect is an essential mechanism of spontaneous symmetry breaking in molecular and solid state systems, and has far-reaching consequences in many fields. Up to now, to directly image the onset of Jahn-Teller symmetry breaking remains unreached. Here we employ ultrafast ion-coincidence Coulomb explosion imaging with sub-10 fs resolution and unambiguously image the ultrafast dynamics of Jahn-Teller deformations of $${{\rm{CH}}}_{4}^{+}$$

CH

4

+

cation in symmetry space. It is unraveled that the Jahn-Teller deformation from C3v to C2v geometries takes a characteristic time of 20 ± 7 fs for this system. Classical and quantum molecular dynamics simulations agree well with the measurement, and reveal dynamics for the build-up of the C2v structure involving complex revival process of multiple vibrational pathways of the $${{\rm{CH}}}_{4}^{+}$$

CH

4

+

cation.
Co-factor-free aggregation of tau into seeding-competent RNA-sequestering amyloid fibrils
Authors: Chakraborty Pijush , Rivière Gwladys , Liu Shu , de Opakua Alain Ibáñez , Dervişoğlu Rıza , Hebestreit Alina , Andreas Loren B. , Vorberg Ina M. , Zweckstetter Markus
Published: July 2021

Pathological aggregation of the protein tau into insoluble aggregates is a hallmark of neurodegenerative diseases. The emergence of disease-specific tau aggregate structures termed tau strains, however, remains elusive. Here we show that full-length tau protein can be aggregated in the absence of co-factors into seeding-competent amyloid fibrils that sequester RNA. Using a combination of solid-state NMR spectroscopy and biochemical experiments we demonstrate that the co-factor-free amyloid fibrils of tau have a rigid core that is similar in size and location to the rigid core of tau fibrils purified from the brain of patients with corticobasal degeneration. In addition, we demonstrate that the N-terminal 30 residues of tau are immobilized during fibril formation, in agreement with the presence of an N-terminal epitope that is specifically detected by antibodies in pathological tau. Experiments in vitro and in biosensor cells further established that co-factor-free tau fibrils efficiently seed tau aggregation, while binding studies with different RNAs show that the co-factor-free tau fibrils strongly sequester RNA. Taken together the study provides a critical advance to reveal the molecular factors that guide aggregation towards disease-specific tau strains.
The force loading rate drives cell mechanosensing through both reinforcement and cytoskeletal softening
Authors: Andreu Ion , Falcones Bryan , Hurst Sebastian , Chahare Nimesh , Quiroga Xarxa , Le Roux Anabel-Lise , Kechagia Zanetta , Beedle Amy E. M. , Elosegui-Artola Alberto , Trepat Xavier , Farré Ramon , Betz Timo , Almendros Isaac , Roca-Cusachs Pere
Published: July 2021

Cell response to force regulates essential processes in health and disease. However, the fundamental mechanical variables that cells sense and respond to remain unclear. Here we show that the rate of force application (loading rate) drives mechanosensing, as predicted by a molecular clutch model. By applying dynamic force regimes to cells through substrate stretching, optical tweezers, and atomic force microscopy, we find that increasing loading rates trigger talin-dependent mechanosensing, leading to adhesion growth and reinforcement, and YAP nuclear localization. However, above a given threshold the actin cytoskeleton softens, decreasing loading rates and preventing reinforcement. By stretching rat lungs in vivo, we show that a similar phenomenon may occur. Our results show that cell sensing of external forces and of passive mechanical parameters (like tissue stiffness) can be understood through the same mechanisms, driven by the properties under force of the mechanosensing molecules involved.
Transcription coordinates histone amounts and genome content
Authors: Claude Kora-Lee , Bureik Daniela , Chatzitheodoridou Dimitra , Adarska Petia , Singh Abhyudai , Schmoller Kurt M.
Published: July 2021

Biochemical reactions typically depend on the concentrations of the molecules involved, and cell survival therefore critically depends on the concentration of proteins. To maintain constant protein concentrations during cell growth, global mRNA and protein synthesis rates are tightly linked to cell volume. While such regulation is appropriate for most proteins, certain cellular structures do not scale with cell volume. The most striking example of this is the genomic DNA, which doubles during the cell cycle and increases with ploidy, but is independent of cell volume. Here, we show that the amount of histone proteins is coupled to the DNA content, even though mRNA and protein synthesis globally increase with cell volume. As a consequence, and in contrast to the global trend, histone concentrations decrease with cell volume but increase with ploidy. We find that this distinct coordination of histone homeostasis and genome content is already achieved at the transcript level, and is an intrinsic property of histone promoters that does not require direct feedback mechanisms. Mathematical modeling and histone promoter truncations reveal a simple and generalizable mechanism to control the cell volume- and ploidy-dependence of a given gene through the balance of the initiation and elongation rates.
Observation of laser-assisted electron scattering in superfluid helium
Authors: Treiber Leonhard , Thaler Bernhard , Heim Pascal , Stadlhofer Michael , Kanya Reika , Kitzler-Zeiler Markus , Koch Markus
Published: July 2021

Laser-assisted electron scattering (LAES), a light–matter interaction process that facilitates energy transfer between strong light fields and free electrons, has so far been observed only in gas phase. Here we report on the observation of LAES at condensed phase particle densities, for which we create nano-structured systems consisting of a single atom or molecule surrounded by a superfluid He shell of variable thickness (32–340 Å). We observe that free electrons, generated by femtosecond strong-field ionization of the core particle, can gain several tens of photon energies due to multiple LAES processes within the liquid He shell. Supported by Monte Carlo 3D LAES and elastic scattering simulations, these results provide the first insight into the interplay of LAES energy gain/loss and dissipative electron movement in a liquid. Condensed-phase LAES creates new possibilities for space-time studies of solids and for real-time tracing of free electrons in liquids.
A mechanochromic donor-acceptor torsional spring
Authors: Raisch Maximilian , Maftuhin Wafa , Walter Michael , Sommer Michael
Published: July 2021

Mechanochromic polymers are intriguing materials that allow to sense force of specimens under load. Most mechanochromic systems rely on covalent bond scission and hence are two-state systems with optically distinct “on” and “off” states where correlating force with wavelength is usually not possible. Translating force of different magnitude with gradually different wavelength of absorption or emission would open up new possibilities to map and understand force distributions in polymeric materials. Here, we present a mechanochromic donor-acceptor (DA) torsional spring that undergoes force-induced planarization during uniaxial elongation leading to red-shifted absorption and emission spectra. The DA spring is based on ortho-substituted diketopyrrolopyrrole (o-DPP). Covalent incorporation of o-DPP into a rigid yet ductile polyphenylene matrix allows to transduce sufficiently large stress to the DA spring. The mechanically induced deflection from equilibrium geometry of the DA spring is theoretically predicted, in agreement with experiments, and is fully reversible upon stress release.
The evolution of convex trade-offs enables the transition towards multicellularity
Authors: Bernardes Joana P. , John Uwe , Woltermann Noemi , Valiadi Martha , Hermann Ruben J. , Becks Lutz
Published: July 2021

The evolutionary transition towards multicellular life often involves growth in groups of undifferentiated cells followed by differentiation into soma and germ-like cells. Theory predicts that germ soma differentiation is facilitated by a convex trade-off between survival and reproduction. However, this has never been tested and these transitions remain poorly understood at the ecological and genetic level. Here, we study the evolution of cell groups in ten isogenic lines of the unicellular green algaeChlamydomonas reinhardtiiwith prolonged exposure to a rotifer predator. We confirm that growth in cell groups is heritable and characterized by a convex trade-off curve between reproduction and survival. Identical mutations evolve in all cell group isolates; these are linked to survival and reducing associated cell costs. Overall, we show that just 500 generations of predator selection were sufficient to lead to a convex trade-off and incorporate evolved changes into the prey genome.
Native flagellar MS ring is formed by 34 subunits with 23-fold and 11-fold subsymmetries
Authors: Kawamoto Akihiro , Miyata Tomoko , Makino Fumiaki , Kinoshita Miki , Minamino Tohru , Imada Katsumi , Kato Takayuki , Namba Keiichi
Published: July 2021

The bacterial flagellar MS ring is a transmembrane complex acting as the core of the flagellar motor and template for flagellar assembly. The C ring attached to the MS ring is involved in torque generation and rotation switch, and a large symmetry mismatch between these two rings has been a long puzzle, especially with respect to their role in motor function. Here, using cryoEM structural analysis of the flagellar basal body and the MS ring formed by full-length FliF from Salmonella enterica, we show that the native MS ring is formed by 34 FliF subunits with no symmetry variation. Symmetry analysis of the C ring shows a variation with a peak at 34-fold, suggesting flexibility in C ring assembly. Finally, our data also indicate that FliF subunits assume two different conformations, contributing differentially to the inner and middle parts of the M ring and thus resulting in 23- and 11-fold subsymmetries in the inner and middle M ring, respectively. The internal core of the M ring, formed by 23 subunits, forms a hole of the right size to accommodate the protein export gate.
Integration of photocatalytic and dark-operating catalytic biomimetic transformations through DNA-based constitutional dynamic networks
Authors: Wang Chen , O’Hagan Michael P. , Neumann Ehud , Nechushtai Rachel , Willner Itamar
Published: July 2021

Nucleic acid-based constitutional dynamic networks (CDNs) have recently emerged as versatile tools to control a variety of catalytic processes. A key challenge in the application of these systems is achieving intercommunication between different CDNs to mimic the complex interlinked networks found in cellular biology. In particular, the possibility to interface photochemical ‘energy-harvesting’ processes with dark-operating ‘metabolic’ processes, in a similar way to plants, represents an up to now unexplored yet enticing research direction. The present study introduces two CDNs that allow the intercommunication of photocatalytic and dark-operating catalytic functions mediated by environmental components that facilitate the dynamic coupling of the networks. The dynamic feedback-driven intercommunication of the networks is accomplished via information transfer between the two CDNs effected by hairpin fuel strands in the environment of the system, leading to the coupling of the photochemical and dark-operating modules.
Identification of small molecules that interfere with c-di-GMP signaling and induce dispersal of Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms
Authors: Andersen Jens Bo , Hultqvist Louise Dahl , Jansen Charlotte Uldahl , Jakobsen Tim Holm , Nilsson Martin , Rybtke Morten , Uhd Jesper , Fritz Blaine Gabriel , Seifert Roland , Berthelsen Jens , Nielsen Thomas Eiland , Qvortrup Katrine , Givskov Michael , Tolker-Nielsen Tim
Published: July 2021

Microbial biofilms are involved in a number of infections that cannot be cured, as microbes in biofilms resist host immune defenses and antibiotic therapies. With no strict biofilm-antibiotic in the current pipelines, there is an unmet need for drug candidates that enable the current antibiotics to eradicate bacteria in biofilms. We used high-throughput screening to identify chemical compounds that reduce the intracellular c-di-GMP content in Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This led to the identification of a small molecule that efficiently depletes P. aeruginosa for c-di-GMP, inhibits biofilm formation, and disperses established biofilm. A combination of our lead compound with standard of care antibiotics showed improved eradication of an implant-associated infection established in mice. Genetic analyses provided evidence that the anti-biofilm compound stimulates the activity of the c-di-GMP phosphodiesterase BifA in P. aeruginosa. Our work constitutes a proof of concept for c-di-GMP phosphodiesterase-activating drugs administered in combination with antibiotics as a viable treatment strategy for otherwise recalcitrant infections.
Deep learning for visualization and novelty detection in large X-ray diffraction datasets
Authors: Banko Lars , Maffettone Phillip M. , Naujoks Dennis , Olds Daniel , Ludwig Alfred
Published: July 2021

We apply variational autoencoders (VAE) to X-ray diffraction (XRD) data analysis on both simulated and experimental thin-film data. We show that crystal structure representations learned by a VAE reveal latent information, such as the structural similarity of textured diffraction patterns. While other artificial intelligence (AI) agents are effective at classifying XRD data into known phases, a similarly conditioned VAE is uniquely effective at knowing what it doesn’t know: it can rapidly identify data outside the distribution it was trained on, such as novel phases and mixtures. These capabilities demonstrate that a VAE is a valuable AI agent for aiding materials discovery and understanding XRD measurements both ‘on-the-fly’ and during post hoc analysis.
Towards an odour-baited trap to control Musca sorbens, the putative vector of trachoma
Authors: Robinson Ailie , Bickford-Smith Jack , Abdurahman Shafi Oumer , Abraham Aga Muluadam , Shuka Gemeda , Debela Dereje , Hordofa Gebreyes , Alemayehu Wondu , Sarah Virginia , Last Anna , MacLeod David , Burton Matthew J. , Logan James G.
Published: July 2021

Musca sorbens is a synanthropic filth fly that aggressively attacks people to feed from mucous membranes of the eyes, nose or mouth, from open sores, or from sweat. It has long been suspected that this fly contributes to the transmission of eye infections, particularly trachoma, and recent work has added to the evidence base that M. sorbens is a trachoma vector in Ethiopia. There are few options to control M. sorbens, largely due to a lack of evidence. Space spraying with insecticides is effective, but an environmentally sound and long-term sustainable solution would be better, for example, mass trapping. We tested commercially available and homemade trap types in a pilot (laboratory) study and three field studies. A homemade design, built from a bucket and two empty water bottles, baited with a commercially available lure, The Buzz, was found to be most effective. This trap caught 3848 M. sorbens over 26 trap ‘events’ (3- or 4-day periods); mean/median per 24 h 43.6 (standard deviation 137.10)/2.25 (IQR 0.25–12.67). The Buzz lure is cheap and effective for 4 weeks, and trap components cheap and locally available. Further studies are needed to understand the impact of this trap on local fly populations and the local transmission of trachoma.
Parametric excitation and mode control using an Oersted field in a NiFe nanowire
Authors: Hwang S. , Yoon Seungha , Seo Dongpyo , Han S. H. , Cho B. K.
Published: July 2021

Parametric pumping is a nonlinear wave phenomenon and a promising technique for electronic devices based on spin waves, so-called “magnonics”. For parametric excitation, a magnetic nanowire system that has a built-in dc current line to produce an Oersted field is designed, and for spin wave detection, a micro-Brillouin light scattering (μ-BLS) system is used. A spin wave with a frequency of fsw = 5.6 GHz is observed when a pumping microwave with a frequency of fmw = 11.2 GHz is applied. The wave is found to be of the n = 1 width mode (n is the antinode number), and its mode changes to an edge-localized (or possibly n > 1) mode when the Oersted field (or current) varies. Joule heating effects are not observed in the pumping process. Thus, spin wave mode control by the built-in current would be a convenient and useful method to enhance the efficiency and compatibility in applications of spin-based electronics.
Low-temperature and atmospheric pressure plasma for palm biodiesel hydrogenation
Authors: Kongprawes Grittima , Wongsawaeng Doonyapong , Ngaosuwan Kanokwan , Kiatkittipong Worapon , Assabumrungrat Suttichai
Published: July 2021

Partially hydrogenated fatty acid methyl ester (H-FAME) is conventionally produced through partial hydrogenation under high pressure and elevated temperature in the presence of a catalyst. Herein, a novel green, catalyst-free, non-thermal and atmospheric pressure dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma was employed instead of a conventional method to hydrogenate palm FAME. H-FAME became more saturated with the conversion of C18:2 and C18:3 of 47.4 and 100%, respectively, at 100 W input power, 1 mm gas-filled gap size and 80% H2 in the mixed gas at room temperature for 5 h, causing a reduction of the iodine value from 50.2 to 43.5. Oxidation stability increased from 12.8 to 20 h while a cloud point changed from 13.5 to 16 °C. Interestingly, DBD plasma hydrogenation resulted in no trans-fatty acid formation which provided a positive effect on the cloud point. This green DBD plasma system showed a superior performance to a conventional catalytic reaction. It is an alternative method that is safe from explosion due to the mild operating condition, as well as being highly environmentally friendly by reducing waste and energy utilization from the regeneration process required for a catalytic process. This novel green plasma hydrogenation technique could also be applied to other liquid-based processes.
The benefit of the diffusion kurtosis imaging in presurgical evaluation in patients with focal MR-negative epilepsy
Authors: Bartoňová Michaela , Bartoň Marek , Říha Pavel , Vojtíšek Lubomír , Brázdil Milan , Rektor Ivan
Published: July 2021

The effectivity of diffusion-weighted MRI methods in detecting the epileptogenic zone (EZ) was tested. Patients with refractory epilepsy (N=25) who subsequently underwent resective surgery were recruited. First, the extent of white matter (WM) asymmetry from mean kurtosis (MK) was calculated in order to detect the lobe with the strongest impairment. Second, a newly developed metric was used, reflecting a selection of brain areas with concurrently increased mean Diffusivity, reduced fractional Anisotropy, and reduced mean Kurtosis (iDrArK). A two-step EZ detection was performed as (1) lobe-specific detection, (2) iDrArK voxel-wise detection (with a possible lobe-specific restriction if the result of the first step was significant in a given subject). The method results were compared with the surgery resection zones. From the whole cohort (N=25), the numbers of patients with significant results were: 10 patients in lobe detection and 9 patients in EZ detection. From these subsets of patients with significant results, the impaired lobe was successfully detected with 100% accuracy; the EZ was successfully detected with 89% accuracy. The detection of the EZ using iDrArK was substantially more successful when compared with solo diffusional parameters (or their pairwise combinations). For a subgroup with significant results from step one (N=10), iDrArK without lobe restriction achieved 37.5% accuracy; lobe-restricted iDrArK achieved 100% accuracy. The study shows the plausibility of MK for detecting widespread WM changes and the benefit of combining different diffusional voxel-wise parameters.
Long range correlations and slow time scales in a boundary driven granular model
Authors: Plati Andrea , Puglisi Andrea
Published: July 2021

We consider a velocity field with linear viscous interactions defined on a one dimensional lattice. Brownian baths with different parameters can be coupled to the boundary sites and to the bulk sites, determining different kinds of non-equilibrium steady states or free-cooling dynamics. Analytical results for spatial and temporal correlations are provided by analytical diagonalisation of the system’s equations in the infinite size limit. We demonstrate that spatial correlations are scale-free and time-scales become exceedingly long when the system is driven only at the boundaries. On the contrary, in the case a bath is coupled to the bulk sites too, an exponential correlation decay is found with a finite characteristic length. This is also true in the free cooling regime, but in this case the correlation length grows diffusively in time. We discuss the crucial role of boundary driving for long-range correlations and slow time-scales, proposing an analogy between this simplified dynamical model and dense vibro-fluidized granular materials. Several generalizations and connections with the statistical physics of active matter are also suggested.
Morphological, molecular characterization, plant pathogenicity and biocontrol of Cladosporium complex groups associated with faba beans
Authors: El-Dawy Eman Gamal Abd Elnaser Mohamed , Gherbawy Youssuf Ahmed , Hussein Mohamed Ahmed
Published: July 2021

Vicia faba (faba bean) is one of the most significant leguminous crops. The faba bean is specialized by maximum nutritional value, in energy and protein content, which leads it to be suitable for food and feed production. Diseases caused with fungi are amongst the biotic factors responsible for decreasing in faba bean yields. In this work, Cladosporium isolates were recorded in cultivated faba bean leaves and pods collected from markets in Qena, Upper Egypt; morphological features and molecular characterization based on actin gene were performed. The ability of the pathogens to cause disease in faba bean seedlings and the biocontrol method to avoid the pathogenic effect of Cladosporium were determined. Results showed that Cladosporium is the main genera isolated from faba beans, and the morphological criteria showed presence of three species complex groups of Cladosporium (C. cladosporioides, C. herbarum and C. sphaerospermum) and the confirmation with molecular characterization revealed the existence of four species in the three groups. All the 26 tested strains of Cladosporium were able to cause leaf lesions on Vicia faba seedlings with different levels. Chaetomium globosum is a biocontrol agent could inhibit the growth of the majority strains of Cladosporium.
Time course profiling of host cell response to herpesvirus infection using nanopore and synthetic long-read transcriptome sequencing
Authors: Maróti Zoltán , Tombácz Dóra , Moldován Norbert , Torma Gábor , Jefferson Victoria A. , Csabai Zsolt , Gulyás Gábor , Dörmő Ákos , Boldogkői Miklós , Kalmár Tibor , Meyer Florencia , Boldogkői Zsolt
Published: July 2021

Third-generation sequencing is able to read full-length transcripts and thus to efficiently identify RNA molecules and transcript isoforms, including transcript length and splice isoforms. In this study, we report the time-course profiling of the effect of bovine alphaherpesvirus type 1 on the gene expression of bovine epithelial cells using direct cDNA sequencing carried out on MinION device of Oxford Nanopore Technologies. These investigations revealed a substantial up- and down-regulatory effect of the virus on several gene networks of the host cells, including those that are associated with antiviral response, as well as with viral transcription and translation. Additionally, we report a large number of novel bovine transcript isoforms identified by nanopore and synthetic long-read sequencing. This study demonstrates that viral infection causes differential expression of host transcript isoforms. We could not detect an increased rate of transcriptional readthroughs as described in another alphaherpesvirus. According to our knowledge, this is the first report on the use of LoopSeq for the analysis of eukaryotic transcriptomes. This is also the first report on the application of nanopore sequencing for the kinetic characterization of cellular transcriptomes. This study also demonstrates the utility of nanopore sequencing for the characterization of dynamic transcriptomes in any organisms.
Digital printing of a novel electrode for stable flexible organic solar cells with a power conversion efficiency of 8.5%
Authors: Wageh S. , Raïssi Mahfoudh , Berthelot Thomas , Laurent Matthieu , Rousseau Didier , Abusorrah Abdullah M. , Al-Hartomy Omar A. , Al-Ghamdi Ahmed A.
Published: July 2021

Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) mixed with single-wall nanotubes (SWNTs) (10:1) and doped with (0.1 M) perchloric acid (HClO4) in a solution-processed film, working as an excellent thin transparent conducting film (TCF) in organic solar cells, was investigated. This new electrode structure can be an outstanding substitute for conventional indium tin oxide (ITO) for applications in flexible solar cells due to the potential of attaining high transparency with enhanced conductivity, good flexibility, and good durability via a low-cost process over a large area. In addition, solution-processed vanadium oxide (VOx) doped with a small amount of PEDOT-PSS(PH1000) can be applied as a hole transport layer (HTL) for achieving high efficiency and stability. From these viewpoints, we investigate the benefit of using printed SWNTs-PEDOT-PSS doped with HClO4 as a transparent conducting electrode in a flexible organic solar cell. Additionally, we applied a VOx-PEDOT-PSS thin film as a hole transporting layer and a blend of PTB7 (polythieno[3,4-b] thiophene/benzodithiophene): PC71BM (phenyl-C71-butyric acid methyl ester) as an active layer in devices. Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles were applied as an electron transport layer and Ag was used as the top electrode. The proposed solar cell structure showed an enhancement in short-circuit current, power conversion efficiency, and stability relative to a conventional cell based on ITO. This result suggests a great carrier injection throughout the interfacial layer, high conductivity and transparency, as well as firm adherence for the new electrode.
Tumor heterogeneity evaluated by computed tomography detects muscle-invasive upper tract urothelial carcinoma that is associated with inflammatory tumor microenvironment
Authors: Goto Keisuke , Honda Yukiko , Ikeda Kenichiro , Takemoto Kenshiro , Higaki Toru , Hayashi Tetsutaro , Kobatake Kohei , Nakamura Yuko , Sekino Yohei , Inoue Shogo , Awai Kazuo , Yasui Wataru , Teishima Jun
Published: July 2021

To detect muscle-invasive upper tract urothelial carcinoma, we evaluated the internal texture of the tumor using texture analysis of computed tomography images in 86 cases of upper tract urothelial carcinoma. The internal texture of the tumor was evaluated as the value of computed tomography attenuation number of the unenhanced image, and the median, standard deviation, skewness and kurtosis were calculated. Each parameter was compared with clinicopathological factors, and their associations with postoperative prognosis were investigated. Immunohistochemistry was performed to investigate the histological and molecular mechanisms of the inflammatory tumor microenvironment. The histogram of computed tomography attenuation number in non-muscle invasive tumor was single-peaked, whereas muscle invasive tumor showed a multi-peaked shape. In the parameters obtained by texture analysis, standard deviation was significantly associated with pathological stage (p < 0.0001), tumor grade (p = 0.0053), lymphovascular invasion (p = 0.0078) and concomitant carcinoma in situ (p = 0.0177) along with recurrence-free (p = 0.0191) and overall survival (p = 0.0184). The standard deviation value correlated with the amount of stromal components (p < 0.0001) and number of tumor-infiltrating macrophages (p < 0.0001). In addition, higher expression of high mobility group box 1 was found in heterogeneous tumor. Tumor heterogeneity evaluated by texture analysis was associated with muscle-invasive upper tract urothelial carcinoma and represented an inflammatory tumor microenvironment and useful as the clinical assessment to differentiate muscle invasive tumor.
In vitro protein digestibility and biochemical characteristics of soaked, boiled and fermented soybeans
Authors: Ketnawa Sunantha , Ogawa Yukiharu
Published: July 2021

Protein digestibility of soybean obtained from the main manufacturing steps for natto, such as soaking (soaked soybeans ‘S’), boiling (boiled soybeans ‘B’), and fermentation (fermented soybeans ‘F’), was examined in this study. Biochemical indices for the processed soybeans from each manufacturing step and those digested fractions by simulated in vitro gastrointestinal digestion were also evaluated. The result showed a significant (P < 0.05) increase in the protein digestibility of B (48.71 ± 0.04%) and F (50.21 ± 0.45%) compared to that of S (20.58 ± 0.25%), accompanying the accumulation of small protein sub-fractions and essential amino acids. Besides, antioxidant activity indices of all digested fractions increased around two to fourfold at the end of the simulated digestion. F showed a consistently increasing trend when the digestion stage progressed and maximum values overall at the final digestion stage.  Soybeans from fermentation step showed higher protein digestibility and indispensable amino acids as well as potential bioactivities than those from boiling and soaking step. The results demonstrated that manufacturing steps improved nutritional values of soybean protein, such as bioavailability of amino acids and certain bioactivities.
Analysis of diagnostic delay and its influencing factors in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Dai Zhongshang , Ma Yiming , Zhan Zijie , Chen Ping , Chen Yan
Published: July 2021

To explore the status of diagnostic delay and to clarify its potentially influencing factors in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). A cross-sectional study was conducted in a Chinese tertiary hospital between July 2019 and February 2020. A total of 408 eligible outpatients with COPD were recruited, and relevant data were collected in the form of questionnaires. Diagnostic delay was compared among different characteristics using the Wilcoxon test and Kruskal–Wallis H test. Multivariable linear regression analysis was performed to determine the factors related to diagnostic delay. The median (interquartile range [IQR]) duration of diagnostic delay was 230 (50–720) days. The proportions of COPD patients who chose tertiary, secondary, and first-level hospitals for the first visit were 53.7%, 29.9%, and 16.4%, respectively. Additionally, the proportions of patients who underwent pulmonary function tests for the first visit in tertiary, secondary, and first-level hospitals were 74.0%, 24.6%, and 1.5% (p < 0.001), respectively. In terms of characteristics related to diagnostic delay, there was a significant difference in residence, resident manner, COPD assessment test (CAT) score, modified Medical British Research Council (mMRC) dyspnea scale, age, forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) % predicted, and years of education (all p < 0.01). Linear regression analysis showed that significant predictors of diagnostic delay included FEV1% predicted (p < 0.05), resident manner (p < 0.001), and years of education (p < 0.01). Our study indicates that varying degrees of diagnostic delay may exist in patients with COPD. Measures are needed to intervene in the potential factors associated with diagnostic delay.
Coseismic fault-slip distribution of the 2019 Ridgecrest Mw6.4 and Mw7.1 earthquakes
Authors: Gao Yang , Duan HuRong , Zhang YongZhi , Chen JiaYing , Jian HeTing , Wu Rui , Yin WenHao
Published: July 2021

The 2019 Ridgecrest, California seismic sequence, including an Mw6.4 foreshock and Mw7.1 mainshock, represent the largest regional seismic events within the past 20 years. To obtain accurate coseismic fault-slip distribution, we used precise positioning data of small earthquakes from January 2019 to October 2020 to determine the dip parameters of the eight fault geometry, and used the Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR) data processed by Xu et al. (Seismol Res Lett 91(4):1979–1985, 2020) at UCSD to constrain inversion of the fault-slip distribution of both earthquakes. The results showed that all faults were sinistral strike-slips with minor dip-slip components, exception for dextral strike-slip fault F2. Fault-slip mainly occurred at depths of 0–12 km, with a maximum slip of 3.0 m. The F1 fault contained two slip peaks located at 2 km of fault S4 and 6 km of fault S5 depth, the latter being located directly above the Mw7.1hypocenter. Two slip peaks with maximum slip of 1.5 m located 8 and 20 km from the SW endpoint of the F2 fault were also identified, and the latter corresponds to the Mw6.4 earthquake. We also analyzed the influence of different inversion parameters on the fault slip distribution, and found that the slip momentum smoothing condition was more suitable for the inversion of the earthquakes slip distribution than the stress-drop smoothing condition.
Trans-sacral bar osteosynthesis provides low mortality and high mobility in patients with fragility fractures of the pelvis
Authors: Wagner Daniel , Kisilak Miha , Porcheron Geoffrey , Krämer Sven , Mehling Isabella , Hofmann Alexander , Rommens Pol M.
Published: July 2021

Operative treatment of osteoporosis-associated fragility fractures of the pelvis (FFP) and the sacrum is advocated with immobilizing or longstanding pain, fracture progression and displacement. We analyzed clinical outcomes regarding mobility, quality of life, and mortality of patients with FFP treated with trans-sacral bar (TB) osteosynthesis through S1. Demographics, clinical data, and operation-related data of patients with an FFP treated with TB were acquired from chart review. We assessed mortality, quality of life (EQ-5D), mobility, and residential status at follow-up. Seventy-nine females and six males with a median age of 78.0 years (IQR 73–84) were included, median follow-up was 3.2 years. Medical complications during hospitalization occurred in 28%. Operative revision was carried out in 15% of patients. One-year survival was 90.4%, this was associated with shorter preoperative and total length of stay in hospital (p 0.006 and 0.025, respectively). At follow-up, 85% lived at home and 82% walked with or without walking aid. Higher EQ-5D was reached with higher mobility status and living at home (p < 0.001 and < 0.001, respectively). TB osteosynthesis is an adequate and reliable method for fixation of FFP in the posterior pelvic ring to ensure timely mobilization. Shorter preoperative and total length of stay had lower mortality rates, advocating a standardized management protocol to limit time delay to operative therapy. Patients treated with TB osteosynthesis had low 1-year mortality of less than 10%.
Pain sensitivity increases with sleep disturbance under predictable chronic mild stress in mice
Authors: Dalanon Junhel , Chikahisa Sachiko , Shiuchi Tetsuya , Shimizu Noriyuki , Chavan Parimal , Suzuki Yoshitaka , Okura Kazuo , Séi Hiroyoshi , Matsuka Yoshizo
Published: July 2021

Even though it has been well documented that stress can lead to the development of sleep disorders and the intensification of pain, their relationships have not been fully understood. The present study was aimed at investigating the effects of predictable chronic mild stress (PCMS) on sleep–wake states and pain threshold, using the PCMS rearing conditions of mesh wire (MW) and water (W) for 21 days. Exposure to PCMS decreased the amount of non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep during the dark phase. Moreover, the chronicity of PCMS decreased slow-wave activity (SWA) during NREM sleep in the MW and W groups in both the light and dark phases. Mechanical and aversively hot thermal hyperalgesia were more intensified in the PCMS groups than the control. Higher plasma corticosterone levels were seen in mice subjected to PCMS, whereas TNF-α expression was found higher in the hypothalamus in the W and the trigeminal ganglion in the MW group. The W group had higher expression levels of IL-6 in the thalamus as well. The PCMS paradigm decreased SWA and may have intensified mechanical and thermal hyperalgesia. The current study also suggests that rearing under PCMS may cause impaired sleep quality and heightened pain sensation to painful mechanical and aversively hot thermal stimuli.
Mortality among patients with sepsis associated with a bispectral electroencephalography (BSEEG) score
Authors: Yamanashi Takehiko , Marra Pedro S. , Crutchley Kaitlyn J. , Wahba Nadia E. , Malicoat Johnny R. , Sullivan Eleanor J. , Akers Cade C. , Nicholson Catherine A. , Herrmann Felipe M. , Karam Matthew D. , Noiseux Nicolas O. , Kaneko Koichi , Shinozaki Eri , Iwata Masaaki , Cho Hyunkeun Ryan , Lee Sangil , Shinozaki Gen
Published: July 2021

We have previously developed a bispectral electroencephalography (BSEEG) device, which was shown to be effective in detecting delirium and predicting patient outcomes. In this study we aimed to apply the BSEEG approach for a sepsis. This was a retrospective cohort study conducted at a single center. Sepsis-positive cases were identified based on retrospective chart review. EEG raw data and calculated BSEEG scores were obtained in the previous studies. The relationship between BSEEG scores and sepsis was analyzed, as well as the relationship among sepsis, BSEEG score, and mortality. Data were analyzed from 628 patients. The BSEEG score from the first encounter (1st BSEEG) showed a significant difference between patients with and without sepsis (p = 0.0062), although AUC was very small indicating that it is not suitable for detection purpose. Sepsis patients with high BSEEG scores showed the highest mortality, and non-sepsis patients with low BSEEG scores showed the lowest mortality. Mortality of non-sepsis patients with high BSEEG scores was as bad as that of sepsis patients with low BSEEG scores. Even adjusting for age, gender, comorbidity, and sepsis status, BSEEG remained a significant predictor of mortality (p = 0.008). These data are demonstrating its usefulness as a potential tool for identification of patients at high risk and management of sepsis.
Effect of nonuniform perpendicular anisotropy in ferromagnetic resonance spectra in magnetic nanorings
Authors: Saavedra E. , Riveros A. , Palma J. L.
Published: July 2021

The high frequency dynamic behaviors of magnetic nanorings with variable anisotropy along their radius have been studied using micromagnetic simulations. The dynamic susceptibility spectrum and spatial localization of the ferromagnetic resonance modes are investigated by varying anisotropy gradients in nanorings of 200 nm of external radius, with different internal radii. Both the resonant frequencies and the number of peaks depend on the lower energy magnetization configuration which in turn is a function of anisotropy gradients. Besides, it is shown that the effects of the anisotropy gradient are relevant even for the narrowest ring of 10 nm wide. The idea of controlling frequencies by modifying the anisotropy gradients of the system suggests the possibility of using these nanostructures in potential magnetic controllable frequency devices.
MicroRNA-378a-3p is overexpressed in psoriasis and modulates cell cycle arrest in keratinocytes via targeting BMP2 gene
Authors: Soonthornchai Wipasiri , Tangtanatakul Pattarin , Meesilpavikkai Kornvalee , Dalm Virgil , Kueanjinda Patipark , Wongpiyabovorn Jongkonnee
Published: July 2021

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin disease driven by dysregulations at the cellular, genomic and genetic levels. MicroRNAs are key mediators of gene expression regulation. However, how microRNAs control the pathogenesis of psoriasis is still unclear. Here, we reported a significant up-regulation of miR-378a-3p (miR-378a) in skin biopsies from active psoriatic lesions while it was down-regulated after treatment with methotrexate or narrow-band ultraviolet B phototherapy. Using the keratinocyte in vitro model, we showed that miR-378a disturbed the cell cycle progression, causing cell cycle arrest at G1 phase. Transcriptomic analysis of keratinocytes with miR-378a overexpression and depletion revealed several important biological mechanisms related to inflammation and tight junction. Target mRNA transcript assessed by luciferase assay identified bone morphogenetic protein 2 as a novel target gene of miR-378a. These findings offer a mechanistic model where miR-378a contributes to the pathogenesis of psoriasis.
The effects of sleep deprivation on the processing of emotional facial expressions in young adults with and without ADHD
Authors: Cohen Ami , Asraf Kfir , Saveliev Ivgeny , Dan Orrie , Haimov Iris
Published: July 2021

The ability to recognize emotions from facial expressions is essential to the development of complex social cognition behaviors, and impairments in this ability are associated with poor social competence. This study aimed to examine the effects of sleep deprivation on the processing of emotional facial expressions and nonfacial stimuli in young adults with and without attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Thirty-five men (mean age 25.4) with (n = 19) and without (n = 16) ADHD participated in the study. During the five days preceding the experimental session, the participants were required to sleep at least seven hours per night (23:00/24:00–7:00/9:00) and their sleep was monitored via actigraphy. On the morning of the experimental session, the participants completed a 4-stimulus visual oddball task combining facial and nonfacial stimuli, and repeated it after 25 h of sustained wakefulness. At baseline, both study groups had poorer performance in response to facial rather than non-facial target stimuli on all indices of the oddball task, with no differences between the groups. Following sleep deprivation, rates of omission errors, commission errors and reaction time variability increased significantly in the ADHD group but not in the control group. Time and target type (face/non-face) did not have an interactive effect on any indices of the oddball task. Young adults with ADHD are more sensitive to the negative effects of sleep deprivation on attentional processes, including those related to the processing of emotional facial expressions. As poor sleep and excessive daytime sleepiness are common in individuals with ADHD, it is feasible that poor sleep quality and quantity play an important role in cognitive functioning deficits, including the processing of emotional facial expressions that are associated with ADHD.
Herbicidal properties of antihypertensive drugs: calcium channel blockers
Authors: Abdullah Hannan Safiyyah Tan Sian Hui , Chia Poh Wai , Omar Dzolkhifli , Chuah Tse Seng
Published: July 2021

Herbicide resistance is a worldwide problem in weed control. This prompts researchers to look for new modes of action to slow down the evolution of herbicide-resistant weeds. This research aims to determine the herbicidal action of thiazolo[3,2-a]pyrimidines derivatives, which are well known as antihypertensive drugs. The phytotoxic effects of ten compounds were investigated using leaf disc discoloration test and seed germination bioassay. At concentrations of 125 to 250 mg/L, the 5-(3-Fluoro-phenyl)-7-methyl-5H-thiazolo[3,2-a]pyrimidine-6-carboxylic acid ethyl ester (c) was highly active against Oldenlandia verticillata and Eleusine indica. At application rates of 1.25 to 2.5 kg ai/ha, formulated c demonstrated selective post-emergence and pre-emergence herbicidal activity against O. verticillata, E. indica and Cyperus iria. In the crop tolerance test, formulated c outperformed the commercial herbicide diuron, with aerobic Oryza sativa being the most tolerant, followed by Zea mays, and Brassica rapa. The addition of calcium chloride partially nullified compound c's inhibitory effects on weed shoot growth, indicating that it has potential as a calcium channel blocker. Compound c acted by triggering electrolyte leakage without affecting photosystem II. These findings imply that c could be explored further as a template for developing new herbicides with novel modes of action.