bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
From Slater to Mott physics by epitaxially engineering electronic correlations in oxide interfaces
Authors: Lupo Carla , Sheridan Evan , Fertitta Edoardo , Dubbink David , Pickard Chris J. , Weber Cedric
Published: June 2021

Using spin-assisted ab initio random structure searches, we explore an exhaustive quantum phase diagram of archetypal interfaced Mott insulators, i.e. lanthanum-iron and lanthanum-titanium oxides. In particular, we report that the charge transfer induced by the interfacial electronic reconstruction stabilises a high-spin ferrous Fe2+ state. We provide a pathway to control the strength of correlation in this electronic state by tuning the epitaxial strain, yielding a manifold of quantum electronic phases, i.e. Mott-Hubbard, charge transfer and Slater insulating states. Furthermore, we report that the electronic correlations are closely related to the structural oxygen octahedral rotations, whose control is able to stabilise the low-spin state of Fe2+ at low pressure previously observed only under the extreme high pressure conditions in the Earth’s lower mantle. Thus, we provide avenues for magnetic switching via THz radiations which have crucial implications for next generation of spintronics technologies.
Highly tunable magneto-optical response from magnesium-vacancy color centers in diamond
Authors: Pershin Anton , Barcza Gergely , Legeza Örs , Gali Adam
Published: June 2021

Defect quantum bits (qubits) constitute an important emerging technology. However, it is necessary to explore new types of defects to enable large-scale applications. In this article, we examine the potential of magnesium-vacancy (MgV) in diamond to operate as a qubit by computing the key electronic- and spin properties with robust theoretical methods. We find that the electronic structure of MgV permits the coexistence of two loosely separated spin-states, where both can emerge as a ground state and be interconverted depending on the temperature and external strain. These results demonstrate a route to control the magneto-optical response of a qubit by modulating the operational conditions.
Josephson detection of time-reversal symmetry broken superconductivity in SnTe nanowires
Authors: Trimble C. J. , Wei M. T. , Yuan N. F. Q. , Kalantre S. S. , Liu P. , Han H.-J. , Han M.-G. , Zhu Y. , Cha J. J. , Fu L. , Williams J. R.
Published: June 2021

A Josephson junction (JJ) couples the supercurrent flowing between two weakly linked superconductors to the phase difference between them via a current-phase relation (CPR). While a sinusoidal CPR is expected for conventional junctions with insulating weak links, devices made from some exotic materials may give rise to unconventional CPRs and unusual Josephson effects. In this work, we present such a case: we investigate the proximity-induced superconductivity in SnTe nanowires by incorporating them as weak links in JJs and observe a deviation from the standard CPR. We report on indications of an unexpected breaking of time-reversal symmetry in these devices, detailing the unconventional characteristics that reveal this behavior. These include an asymmetric critical current in the DC Josephson effect, a prominent second harmonic in the AC Josephson effect, and a magnetic diffraction pattern with a minimum in critical current at zero magnetic field. The analysis examines how multiband effects and the experimentally visualized ferroelectric domain walls give rise to this behavior, giving insight into the Josephson effect in materials that possess ferroelectricity and/or multiband superconductivity.
In-flight positional and energy use data set of a DJI Matrice 100 quadcopter for small package delivery
Authors: Rodrigues Thiago A. , Patrikar Jay , Choudhry Arnav , Feldgoise Jacob , Arcot Vaibhav , Gahlaut Aradhana , Lau Sophia , Moon Brady , Wagner Bastian , Matthews H. Scott , Scherer Sebastian , Samaras Constantine
Published: June 2021

We autonomously directed a small quadcopter package delivery Uncrewed Aerial Vehicle (UAV) or “drone” to take off, fly a specified route, and land for a total of 209 flights while varying a set of operational parameters. The vehicle was equipped with onboard sensors, including GPS, IMU, voltage and current sensors, and an ultrasonic anemometer, to collect high-resolution data on the inertial states, wind speed, and power consumption. Operational parameters, such as commanded ground speed, payload, and cruise altitude, were varied for each flight. This large data set has a total flight time of 10 hours and 45 minutes and was collected from April to October of 2019 covering a total distance of approximately 65 kilometers. The data collected were validated by comparing flights with similar operational parameters. We believe these data will be of great interest to the research and industrial communities, who can use the data to improve UAV designs, safety, and energy efficiency, as well as advance the physical understanding of in-flight operations for package delivery drones.
Baseline T-lymphocyte subset absolute counts can predict both outcome and severity in SARS-CoV-2 infected patients: a single center study
Authors: Iannetta Marco , Buccisano Francesco , Fraboni Daniela , Malagnino Vincenzo , Campogiani Laura , Teti Elisabetta , Spalliera Ilaria , Rossi Benedetta , Di Lorenzo Andrea , Palmieri Raffaele , Crea Angela , Zordan Marta , Vitale Pietro , Voso Maria Teresa , Andreoni Massimo , Sarmati Loredana
Published: June 2021

The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of baseline lymphocyte subset counts in predicting the outcome and severity of COVID-19 patients. Hospitalized patients confirmed to be infected with Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) were included and classified according to in-hospital mortality (survivors/nonsurvivors) and the maximal oxygen support/ventilation supply required (nonsevere/severe). Demographics, clinical and laboratory data, and peripheral blood lymphocyte subsets were retrospectively analyzed. Overall, 160 patients were retrospectively included in the study. T-lymphocyte subset (total CD3+, CD3+ CD4+, CD3+ CD8+, CD3+ CD4+ CD8+ double positive [DP] and CD3+ CD4− CD8− double negative [DN]) absolute counts were decreased in nonsurvivors and in patients with severe disease compared to survivors and nonsevere patients (p < 0.001). Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that absolute counts of CD3+ T-lymphocytes < 524 cells/µl, CD3+ CD4+ < 369 cells/µl, and the number of T-lymphocyte subsets below the cutoff (T-lymphocyte subset index [TLSI]) were independent predictors of in-hospital mortality. Baseline T-lymphocyte subset counts and TLSI were also predictive of disease severity (CD3+  < 733 cells/µl; CD3+ CD4+ < 426 cells/µl; CD3+ CD8+ < 262 cells/µl; CD3+ DP < 4.5 cells/µl; CD3+ DN < 18.5 cells/µl). The evaluation of peripheral T-lymphocyte absolute counts in the early stages of COVID-19 might represent a useful tool for identifying patients at increased risk of unfavorable outcomes.
Peripheral leucocyte molecular indicators of inflammation and oxidative stress are altered in dairy cows with embryonic loss
Authors: Dirandeh Essa , Sayyar M. A. , Ansari-Pirsaraei Z. , Deldar H. , Thatcher W. W.
Published: June 2021

Objective of experiment was to determine whether oxidative stress (OS) and inflammation altered embryonic loss in dairy cows. Blood samples were collected at days 0, 16, 32 and 60 after timed (AI) from 200 Holstein cows to determine embryonic loss based on interferon-stimulated gene-15 (ISG15) mRNA expression (day 16) and ultrasound at day 32 and day 60. Leucocyte expressions of mRNA TLR2, TLR4, TNF-α, IL1B, IL10, STAT3 (inflammation), PTGS2, PTGES (prostaglandin synthesis), and PLA2G4A and ALOX5AP (eicosanoid metabolism) at days 0 and 16 were determined. Plasma redox status for antioxidant enzymatic activities of glutathione peroxidase (GPX), superoxide dismutase (SOD), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and concentrations of malondialdehyde (MDA) were determined at days 0, 16, 32 and 60. All antioxidant-redox responses were beneficially significant in pregnant cows diagnosed pregnant at day16 and sustained pregnancy to day 60 compared to non-pregnant cows at day16 or pregnant at day16 and lost embryos by days 32 or 60. The leucocyte mRNA expressions of TLR2, TLR4, STAT 3, IL1B, PTGS2, PLA2G4A and ALOX5AP were greater and PTGES was lower at day16 in pregnant cows that lost embryos early (P < 0.05). In conclusion peripheral leucocyte molecular indicators of inflammation and plasma indicators of OS were altered in pregnant cows undergoing embryonic losses compared to cows with a sustained pregnancy.
Uridine and pyruvate protect T cells’ proliferative capacity from mitochondrial toxic antibiotics: a clinical pilot study
Authors: Battaglia Stefano , De Santis Stefania , Rutigliano Monica , Sallustio Fabio , Picerno Angela , Frassanito Maria Antonia , Schaefer Ingo , Vacca Angelo , Moschetta Antonio , Seibel Peter , Battaglia Michele , Villani Gaetano
Published: June 2021

Antibiotics that inhibit bacterial protein or nucleic acid synthesis and function can exert an off-target action on mitochondria (mitotoxic antibiotics), making actively dividing mammalian cells dependent on uridine and pyruvate supplementation. Based on this rationale, we carried out, for the first time, a randomized pilot study in 55 patients with asymptomatic bacteriuria or positive sperm culture, each treated with a single mitotoxic antibiotic with or without oral supplementation of uridine + pyruvate (Uripyr, Mitobiotix, Italy). The in vivo and ex vivo data show a a 3.4-fold higher value in the differential (before and after the antibiotic treatment) lymphocytes count and a 3.7-fold increase in the percentage of dividing T cells, respectively, in the Uripyr vs the control group. Our findings lay the groundwork to enhance the synergy between antibiotics and the immune system in order to optimize the administration protocols and widen the application potentials of antibiotic therapies as well as to re-evaluate old “forgotten” molecules to fight bacterial infections in the antibiotics resistance era.
Event-based backpropagation can compute exact gradients for spiking neural networks
Authors: Wunderlich Timo C. , Pehle Christian
Published: June 2021

Spiking neural networks combine analog computation with event-based communication using discrete spikes. While the impressive advances of deep learning are enabled by training non-spiking artificial neural networks using the backpropagation algorithm, applying this algorithm to spiking networks was previously hindered by the existence of discrete spike events and discontinuities. For the first time, this work derives the backpropagation algorithm for a continuous-time spiking neural network and a general loss function by applying the adjoint method together with the proper partial derivative jumps, allowing for backpropagation through discrete spike events without approximations. This algorithm, EventProp, backpropagates errors at spike times in order to compute the exact gradient in an event-based, temporally and spatially sparse fashion. We use gradients computed via EventProp to train networks on the Yin-Yang and MNIST datasets using either a spike time or voltage based loss function and report competitive performance. Our work supports the rigorous study of gradient-based learning algorithms in spiking neural networks and provides insights toward their implementation in novel brain-inspired hardware.
Yearly changes in the composition of gut microbiota in the elderly, and the effect of lactobacilli intake on these changes
Authors: Amamoto Ryuta , Shimamoto Kazuhito , Park Sungjin , Matsumoto Hoshitaka , Shimizu Kensuke , Katto Miyuki , Tsuji Hirokazu , Matsubara Satoshi , Shephard Roy J. , Aoyagi Yukitoshi
Published: June 2021

The onset and worsening of some diseases are related to the variation and instability of gut microbiota. However, studies examining the personal variation of gut microbiota in detail are limited. Here, we evaluated the yearly variation of individual gut microbiota in 218 Japanese subjects aged 66–91 years, using Jensen-Shannon distance (JSD) metrics. Approximately 9% of the subjects showed a substantial change, as their formerly predominant bacterial families were replaced over the year. These subjects consumed fermented milk products less frequently than their peers. The relationship between the intake frequencies of fermented milk products containingLacticaseibacillus paracaseistrain Shirota (LcS) and JSD values was also investigated. The intra-individual JSD of subjects ingesting LcS products ≥ 3 days/week over the past 10 years was statistically lower than the < 3 days/week group (P = 0.045). Focusing on subjects with substantial gut microbiota changes, only 1.7% of the subjects were included in the LcS intake ≥ 3 days/week group whereas 11.3% were found in the < 3 days/week group (P = 0.029). These results suggest that about one-tenth of the elderly Japanese could experience a substantial change in their gut microbiota during a 1-year period, and that the habitual intake of probiotics may stabilize their gut microbiota.
Smell of green leaf volatiles attracts white storks to freshly cut meadows
Authors: Wikelski Martin , Quetting Michael , Cheng Yachang , Fiedler Wolfgang , Flack Andrea , Gagliardo Anna , Salas Reyes , Zannoni Nora , Williams Jonathan
Published: June 2021

Finding food is perhaps the most important task for all animals. Birds often show up unexpectedly at novel food sources such as freshly tilled fields or mown meadows. Here we test whether wild European white storks primarily use visual, social, auditory or olfactory information to find freshly cut farm pastures where insects and rodents abound. Aerial observations of an entire local stork population documented that birds could not have become aware of a mown field through auditory, visual or social information. Only birds within a 75° downwind cone over 0.4–16.6 km approached any mown field. Placing freshly cut grass from elsewhere on selected unmown fields elicited similarly immediate stork approaches. Furthermore, uncut fields that were sprayed with a green leaf volatile organic compound mix ((Z)-3-hexenal, (Z)-3-hexenol, hexenyl acetate), the smell of freshly cut grass, immediately attracted storks. The use of long-distance olfactory information for finding food may be common in birds, contrary to current perception.
Unfolded protein response triggers differential apoptotic mechanisms in ovaries and early embryos exposed to maternal type 1 diabetes
Authors: Okan Aslı , Demir Necdet , Sozen Berna
Published: June 2021

Diabetes mellitus (DM) has profound effects on the female mammalian reproductive system, and early embryonic development, reducing female reproductive outcomes and inducing developmental programming in utero. However, the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms remain poorly defined. Accumulating evidence implicates endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-stress with maternal DM associated pathophysiology. Yet the direct pathologies and causal events leading to ovarian dysfunction and altered early embryonic development have not been determined. Here, using an in vivo mouse model of Type 1 DM and in vitro hyperglycaemia-exposure, we demonstrate the activation of ER-stress within adult ovarian tissue and pre-implantation embryos. In diabetic ovaries, we show that the unfolded protein response (UPR) triggers an apoptotic cascade by the co-activation of Caspase 12 and Cleaved Caspase 3 transducers. Whereas DM-exposed early embryos display differential ER-associated responses; by activating Chop in within embryonic precursors and Caspase 12 within placental precursors. Our results offer new insights for understanding the pathological effects of DM on mammalian ovarian function and early embryo development, providing new evidence of its mechanistic link with ER-stress in mice.
Bird-feeder cleaning lowers disease severity in rural but not urban birds
Authors: Schaper Laren , Hutton Pierce , McGraw Kevin J.
Published: June 2021

Animals inhabiting urban areas often experience elevated disease threats, putatively due to factors such as increased population density and horizontal transmission or decreased immunity (e.g. due to nutrition, pollution, stress). However, for animals that take advantage of human food subsidies, like feeder-visiting birds, an additional mechanism may include exposure to contaminated feeders as fomites. There are some published associations between bird feeder presence/density and avian disease, but to date no experimental study has tested the hypothesis that feeder contamination can directly impact disease status of visiting birds, especially in relation to the population of origin (i.e. urban v. rural, where feeder use/densities naturally vary dramatically). Here we used a field, feeder-cleaning experimental design to show that rural, but not urban, house finches (Haemorhous mexicanus) showed increased infection from a common coccidian endoparasite (Isospora spp.) when feeders were left uncleaned and that daily cleaning (with diluted bleach solution) over a 5-week period successfully decreased parasite burden. Moreover, this pattern in rural finches was true for males but not females. These experimental results reveal habitat- and sex-specific harmful effects of bird feeder use (i.e. when uncleaned in rural areas). Our study is the first to directly indicate to humans who maintain feeders for granivorous birds that routine cleaning can be critical for ensuring the health and viability of visiting avian species.
Evidence for competition and cannibalism in wormlions
Authors: Scharf Inon , Reshef May Hershkovitz , Avidov Bar , Ovadia Ofer
Published: June 2021

Trap-building predators, such as web-building spiders and pit-building antlions, construct traps to capture their prey. These predators compete over sites that either enable the construction of suitable traps, are prey rich, or simply satisfy their abiotic requirements. We examined the effect of intraspecific competition over suitable space in pit-building wormlions. As expected, the ability of wormlions to select their favorable microhabitats—shaded or deep sand over lit or shallow sand—decreased with increasing density. Favorable microhabitats were populated more frequently by large than by small individuals and the density of individuals in the favorable microhabitat decreased with their increase in body mass. The advantage of large individuals in populating favorable microhabitats is nevertheless not absolute: both size categories constructed smaller pits when competing over a limited space compared to those constructed in isolation. The outcome of competition also depends on the type of habitat: deep sand is more important for large wormlions than small ones, while shade is similarly important for both size classes. Finally, in contrast to previous reports, cannibalism is shown here to be possible in wormlions. Its prevalence however is much lower compared to that documented in other trap-building predators. Our findings show that the advantage of large individuals over small ones should not be taken for granted, as it can depend on the environmental context. We present suggestions for the relative lack of competitive advantage of large wormlion individuals compared to other trap-building predators, which may stem from the absence of obvious weaponry, such as sharp mandibles.
Transmitted HIV drug resistance and subtype patterns among blood donors in Poland
Authors: Parczewski Miłosz , Sulkowska Ewa , Urbańska Anna , Scheibe Kaja , Serwin Karol , Grabarczyk Piotr
Published: June 2021

Surveillance on the HIV molecular variability, risk of drug resistance transmission and evolution of novel viral variants among blood donors remains an understudied aspect of hemovigilance. This nationwide study analyses patterns of HIV diversity and transmitted resistance mutations. Study included 185 samples from the first time and repeat blood donors with HIV infection identified by molecular assay. HIV protease, reverse transcriptase and integrase were sequenced using population methods. Drug resistance mutation (DRM) patterns were analyzed based on the Stanford Interpretation Algorithm and standardized lists of transmitted mutations. Phylogeny was used to investigate subtyping, clustering and recombination patterns. HIV-1 subtype B (89.2%) followed by subtype A6 (7.6%) were predominant, while in three (1.6%) cases, novel recombinant B/A6 variants were identified. Non-B variants were more common among repeat donors (14.5%) compared to the first time ones (1.8%), p = 0.011, with higher frequency (9.9%) of A6 variant in the repeat donor group, p = 0.04. Major NRTI DRMs were observed in 3.8%, NNRTI and PI in 0.6% and INSTI 1.1% of cases. Additionally, E157Q polymorphism was observed in 9.8% and L74I in 11.5% of integrase sequences. Transmission of drug resistance among blood donors remains infrequent. Subtype patters increase in complexity with emergence of novel intersubtype A6B recombinants.
Large air pressure changes triggered by P-SV ground motion in a cave in northern Taiwan
Authors: Chen Chieh-Hung , Sun Yang-Yi , Lin Li-Ching , Han Peng , Yu Huai-Zhong , Zhang XueMin , Tang Chi-Chia , Chen Chun-Rong , Yen Horng-Yuan , Lin Cheng-Horng , Liu Jann-Yenq , Lin Ching-Ren
Published: June 2021

Acoustic-gravity waves are generally considered to be one of the major factors that drive changes of the total electron content in the ionosphere. However, causal mechanisms of couplings between sources in the lithosphere and responses in the atmosphere and the ionosphere are not fully understood, yet. A barometer in the cave of the SBCB station records an unusual phenomenon of larger amplitudes in air pressure changes inside than those at the Xinwu station (outside). Accordingly, the comparison between the recorded data at the SBCB and Xinwu station can drive investigations of potential sources of the unusual phenomenon. Analytical results of phase angle differences reveal that the air pressure outside the cave at the Xinwu station often leads air pressure changes inside at the SBCB station at relatively low frequency bands. In contrast, the larger pressure changes at frequencies >  ~ 5 × 10–4 Hz inside the cave at the SBCB station lead smaller changes outside at the Xinwu station. To expose causal mechanisms of the unusual phenomenon, continuous seismic waveforms are further conducted for examination. When the horizontal and vertical ground velocities of ground vibrations yield a difference in the phase angle close to 90°, coherence values between the air pressure changes and ground vibrations become large. This suggests that the pressure-shear vertical ground vibrations can drive air pressure changes. Meanwhile, the results shed light on investigating the existence of acoustic waves near the Earth’s surface using a partially confined space underground due to that the assumptions of the waves can propagate upward into the atmosphere driving changes in the ionosphere.
Sex disparity in laparoscopic bariatric surgery outcomes: a matched-pair cohort analysis
Authors: Mousapour Pouria , Tasdighi Erfan , Khalaj Alireza , Mahdavi Maryam , Valizadeh Majid , Taheri Hamidreza , Hosseinpanah Farhad , Barzin Maryam
Published: June 2021

Men have been historically considered to be higher-risk patients for bariatric surgery compared to women, the perception of which is suggested to be a barrier to bariatric surgery in men. The purpose of this study is to conduct a matched-pair analysis to evaluate sex disparities in laparoscopic bariatric surgery outcomes. Data on patients who underwent laparoscopic bariatric surgery from March 2013 to 2017 was collected prospectively. Then, 707 men and 707 women pair-matched for age, preoperative body mass index (BMI) and the procedure type (i.e., sleeve gastrectomy, Roux-en-Y, or one-anastomosis gastric bypass) were compared in terms of weight loss, remission of obesity-related comorbidities, and postoperative complications classified according to the Clavien–Dindo classification. There was no difference between the two sexes regarding the operation time, bleeding during surgery and length of postoperative hospital stay. We observed similar total weight loss, BMI loss, and percentage of excess BMI loss at 12, 24, and 36 months postoperatively between men and women, with no difference in remission of diabetes mellitus, hypertension and dyslipidemia at 12 months. The rate of in-hospital, 30-day and late complications according to Clavien–Dindo classification grades was similar between men and women. Our matched-pair cohort analysis demonstrated that bariatric surgery results in comparable short- and mid-term efficacy in men and women, and is associated with similar rate and severity of postoperative complications between sexes. These findings suggest bariatric surgeons not to consider sex for patient selection in bariatric surgery.
Perineural invasion as a risk factor for locoregional recurrence of invasive breast cancer
Authors: Narayan Priyanka , Flynn Jessica , Zhang Zhigang , Gillespie Erin F. , Mueller Boris , Xu Amy J. , Cuaron John , McCormick Beryl , Khan Atif J. , Cahlon Oren , Powell Simon N. , Wen Hannah , Braunstein Lior Z.
Published: June 2021

Perineural invasion (PNI) is a pathologic finding observed across a spectrum of solid tumors, typically with adverse prognostic implications. Little is known about how the presence of PNI influences locoregional recurrence (LRR) among breast cancers. We evaluated the association between PNI and LRR among an unselected, broadly representative cohort of breast cancer patients, and among a propensity-score matched cohort. We ascertained breast cancer patients seen at our institution from 2008 to 2019 for whom PNI status and salient clinicopathologic features were available. Fine-Gray regression models were constructed to evaluate the association between PNI and LRR, accounting for age, tumor size, nodal involvement, estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), HER2 status, histologic tumor grade, presence of lymphovascular invasion (LVI), and receipt of chemotherapy and/or radiation. Analyses were then refined by comparing PNI-positive patients to a PNI-negative cohort defined by propensity score matching. Among 8864 invasive breast cancers, 1384 (15.6%) were noted to harbor PNI. At a median follow-up of 6.3 years, 428 locoregional recurrence events were observed yielding a 7-year LRR of 7.1% (95% CI 5.5–9.1) for those with PNI and 4.7% (95% CI 4.2–5.3; p = 0.01) for those without. On univariate analysis throughout the entire cohort, presence of PNI was significantly associated with an increased risk of LRR (HR 1.39, 95% CI 1.08–1.78, p < 0.01). Accounting for differences in salient clinicopathologic and treatment parameters by multivariable Fine-Gray regression modeling, the association between PNI and LRR was potentiated (HR 1.57, 95% CI 1.2–2.07, p = 0.001). We further conducted propensity score matching to balance clinicopathologic parameters and treatments between the two groups (PNI vs not), again showing a similar significant association between PNI and LRR (HR 1.46, 95% CI 1.03–2.08, p = 0.034). PNI is significantly associated with LRR following the definitive treatment of invasive breast cancer. The excess risk conferred by PNI is similar in magnitude to that observed with LVI, or by ER/PR negativity. Breast cancer prognostication and therapeutic decision-making should consider the presence of PNI among other salient risk factors. Larger studies among more uniform breast cancer presentations may elucidate the extent to which these findings apply across breast cancer subtypes and stages.
Homeostasis of mucosal glial cells in human gut is independent of microbiota
Authors: Inlender Timna , Nissim-Eliraz Einat , Stavely Rhian , Hotta Ryo , Goldstein Allan M. , Yagel Simcha , Gutnick Michael J. , Shpigel Nahum Y.
Published: June 2021

In mammals, neural crest cells populate the gut and form the enteric nervous system (ENS) early in embryogenesis. Although the basic ENS structure is highly conserved across species, we show important differences between mice and humans relating to the prenatal and postnatal development of mucosal enteric glial cells (mEGC), which are essential ENS components. We confirm previous work showing that in the mouse mEGCs are absent at birth, and that their appearance and homeostasis depends on postnatal colonization by microbiota. In humans, by contrast, a network of glial cells is already present in the fetal gut. Moreover, in xenografts of human fetal gut maintained for months in immuno-compromised mice, mEGCs persist following treatment with antibiotics that lead to the disappearance of mEGCs from the gut of the murine host. Single cell RNAseq indicates that human and mouse mEGCs differ not only in their developmental dynamics, but also in their patterns of gene expression.
Majority and popularity effects on norm formation in adolescence
Authors: Pinho Ana da Silva , Molleman Lucas , Braams Barbara R. , van den Bos Wouter
Published: June 2021

Personal norms consist of individuals’ attitudes about the appropriateness of behaviour. These norms guide adolescents’ behaviour in countless domains that are fundamental for their social functioning and well-being. Peers are known to have a marked influence on adolescent risk-taking and prosocial behaviour, but little is known about how peers shape personal norms underlying those behaviours. Here we show that adolescents’ personal norms are decisively moulded by the norms of the majority and popular peers in their social network. Our experiment indicates that observing peer norms substantially impacts adolescents’ normative evaluation of risk-taking and prosocial behaviours. The majority norm had a stronger impact than the norm of a single popular peer, and norm adjustments were largest when adolescents observed strong disapproval of risk-taking or strong approval of prosocial behaviour. Our study suggests that learning about peer norms likely promotes adolescents to hold views and values supporting socially desirable behaviour.
Dissecting the midlife crisis: disentangling social, personality and demographic determinants in social brain anatomy
Authors: Kiesow Hannah , Uddin Lucina Q. , Bernhardt Boris C. , Kable Joseph , Bzdok Danilo
Published: June 2021

In any stage of life, humans crave connection with other people. In midlife, transitions in social networks can relate to new leadership roles at work or becoming a caregiver for aging parents. Previous neuroimaging studies have pinpointed the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) to undergo structural remodelling during midlife. Social behavior, personality predisposition, and demographic profile all have intimate links to the mPFC according in largely disconnected literatures. Here, we explicitly estimated their unique associations with brain structure using a fully Bayesian framework. We weighed against each other a rich collection of 40 UK Biobank traits with their interindividual variation in social brain morphology in ~10,000 middle-aged participants. Household size and daily routines showed several of the largest effects in explaining variation in social brain regions. We also revealed male-biased effects in the dorsal mPFC and amygdala for job income, and a female-biased effect in the ventral mPFC for health satisfaction.
Structural identification of N-glycan isomers using logically derived sequence tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Liew Chia Yen , Yen Chu-Chun , Chen Jien-Lian , Tsai Shang-Ting , Pawar Sujeet , Wu Chung-Yi , Ni Chi-Kung
Published: June 2021

N-linked glycosylation is one of the most important protein post-translational modifications. Despite the importance of N-glycans, the structural determination of N-glycan isomers remains challenging. Here we develop a mass spectrometry method, logically derived sequence tandem mass spectrometry (LODES/MSn), to determine the structures of N-glycan isomers that cannot be determined using conventional mass spectrometry. In LODES/MSn, the sequences of successive collision-induced dissociation are derived from carbohydrate dissociation mechanisms and apply to N-glycans in an ion trap for structural determination. We validate LODES/MSn using synthesized N-glycans and subsequently applied this method to N-glycans extracted from soybean, ovalbumin, and IgY. Our method does not require permethylation, reduction, and labeling of N-glycans, or the mass spectrum databases of oligosaccharides and N-glycan standards. Moreover, it can be applied to all types of N-glycans (high-mannose, hybrid, and complex), as well as the N-glycans degraded from larger N-glycans by any enzyme or acid hydrolysis.
Unveiling the structure and dynamics of peeling mode in quiescent high-confinement tokamak plasmas
Authors: Kamiya Kensaku , Itoh Kimitaka , Aiba Nobuyuki , Oyama Naoyuki , Honda Mitsuru , Isayama Akihiko
Published: June 2021

Quiescent high-confinement mode plasmas with edge-harmonic oscillations do not exhibit the explosive instabilities associated with edge-localized modes. Instead, an additional means of enhanced transport is considered to maintain the plasma edge under conditions just below the boundary of the peeling mode instability. Although the potential of the peeling mode has been widely recognized in plasma physics, no direct evidence for this mode has been revealed previously because decisive diagnostics were lacking. Herein, we report evidence of the structure and dynamical steady state of peeling mode in quiescent high-confinement mode. Edge-harmonic oscillations are dominated by fundamental mode at both the low- and high-field sides. Edge perturbations are confirmed to have kink parity and exhibit the frozen-in-condition predicted by linear stability analysis. The envelope signal of the fundamental mode exhibits repeated cycles of growth and damping in association with minor changes in the edge gradient. Results from this study are quantitatively consistent with limit-cycle-oscillation model.
Environmental DNA signatures distinguish between tsunami and storm deposition in overwash sand
Authors: Yap Wenshu , Switzer Adam D. , Gouramanis Chris , Marzinelli Ezequiel , Wijaya Winona , Yan Yu Ting , Dominey-Howes Dale , Labbate Maurizio , Srinivasalu Seshachalam , Jankaew Kruawun , Lauro Federico M.
Published: June 2021

Sandy onshore deposits from tsunamis are difficult to distinguish from storm deposits, which makes it difficult to assess coastal hazards from the geological record. Here we analyse environmental DNA from microbial communities preserved in known tsunami and storm-deposited sediments and intercalating soils and non-marine sediments near Cuddalore, India, and Phra Thong Island, Thailand. Both sites were impacted by the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami and a subsequent storm flooding event (2011 Cyclone Thane at Cuddalore and a 2007 storm at Phra Thong Island). We show that the microbial communities in the overwash deposits are significantly different from soil and sediments that are not derived by overwash processes at both locations. Our method also successfully discriminates between modern tsunami deposits and storm deposits. We suggest molecular techniques have the potential to accurately discriminate overwash deposits from catastrophic natural events.
Novel metagenome-assembled genomes involved in the nitrogen cycle from a Pacific oxygen minimum zone
Authors: Sun Xin , Ward Bess B
Published: June 2021

Oxygen minimum zones (OMZs) are unique marine regions where broad redox gradients stimulate biogeochemical cycles. Despite the important and unique role of OMZ microbes in these cycles, they are less characterized than microbes from the oxic ocean. Here we recovered 39 high- and medium-quality metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) from the Eastern Tropical South Pacific OMZ. More than half of these MAGs were not represented at the species level among 2631 MAGs from global marine datasets. OMZ MAGs were dominated by denitrifiers catalyzing nitrogen loss and especially MAGs with partial denitrification metabolism. A novel bacterial genome with nitrate-reducing potential could only be assigned to the phylum level. A Marine-Group II archaeon was found to be a versatile denitrifier, with the potential capability to respire multiple nitrogen compounds including N2O. The newly discovered denitrifying MAGs will improve our understanding of microbial adaptation strategies and the evolution of denitrification in the tree of life.
Electrolyte Evolution and SEI Interfaces
Authors: Jin Yanting
Published: June 2021

Key properties of electrolytes dictate the interfacial chemistry, thereby heavily influencing battery performance. Extensive research effort has been devoted to optimizing electrolyte formulations to achieve wide operational temperature, extended voltage window, and fast charging capabilities. Such functionalities hinge on the interfacial layer formed between the electrolyte and electrode, which is intrinsically difficult to characterize. In-depth knowledge is required to understand electrolyte evolution and the nature of solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) within rechargeable batteries. This chapter focuses on the application of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy in characterizing electrolytes and the SEI layer. First, we focus on multi-nuclei solution NMR spectroscopy, which has been used to reveal ion solvation structure and electrolyte decomposition products. Then we detail recent studies using various solid-state NMR techniques to understand the chemical compositions of the SEI and the functionality of electrolyte additives. Lastly, an emerging technique – dynamic nuclear polarization (DNP) is introduced, which enhances the interphase signals via the hyperpolarization method and holds great promise in revealing surface species. Applying various NMR techniques to electrolyte systems provides exciting opportunities for studying the chemical compositions, chemical structures, and ion dynamics of electrolytes as well as the interfacial species that are critical to the battery performance.
Organic and Organic–Inorganic Composite Solid Electrolytes
Authors: Zhu H. , Wang W. , Chen Q. , Yao Y.-F. , Zheng J. , Chien P.-H. , Tang M. , Hu Y.-Y.
Published: June 2021

The development of high-performance electrolytes, which possess high ionic conductivity, good chemical and electrochemical stabilities, and robust mechanical properties, is essential to realizing the next-generation rechargeable Li-ion batteries with higher energy and power densities and superior safety. Solid electrolytes are considered to be promising replacements for conventional liquid electrolytes, which are flammable and incompatible with Li metal anodes. Organic solids, including organic ionic plastic crystals and polymers, and organic–inorganic composites have attracted attention in recent decades owing to their favourable flexibility and good wettability. Advanced solid-state NMR techniques are powerful tools in the study of the structure and ion dynamics of organic and organic–inorganic composite solid electrolytes, which will be discussed in detail in this chapter.
Electrocatalyst and Electrode Reactions in Fuel Cells
Authors: Cao Shuo-Hui , Sun Hui-Jun , Ni Zu-Rong , Sun Shi-Gang , Chen Zhong
Published: June 2021

It is always desirable to entirely understand the related electrochemical and electrocatalysis reactions of fuel cells, which is essential in order for scientists to engineer better materials and devices for energy conversion. In this chapter, readers will see how powerful the electrochemical NMR combination will be to provide insights into the processes occurring inside fuel cells. With solid NMR spectroscopy to probe surface states under electric potentials, nanocatalysts and adsorbed ligand substances have been investigated. With the merits of high-resolution liquid NMR spectroscopy, soluble intermediates and products in electrochemical and electrocatalysis reactions can be real-time monitored and identified. Unless stated otherwise, liquid NMR spectra are described in this chapter for the demonstration of recent advances in methodology and appliancation for in situ electrochemical NMR studies. Under in situ and even operando conditions, a series of characterization and diagnosis approaches for fuel cells have been developed, which will provide opportunities to explore the full cell devices and accordingly improve their performances.
Mo single atoms in the Cu(111) surface as improved catalytic active centers for deoxygenation reactions
Authors: Martínez Biel , Viñes Francesc , McBreen Peter H. , Illas Francesc
Published: June 2021

The surface Mo-doped Cu(111) catalyst feature improved performance towards deoxygenation reactions, acting as a single-atom alloy capable of breaking Brønsted–Evans–Polanyi relations for carbonyl bond scissions.
Two-photon, visible light water splitting at a molecular ruthenium complex
Authors: Schneidewind Jacob , Argüello Cordero Miguel A. , Junge Henrik , Lochbrunner Stefan , Beller Matthias
Published: June 2021

A new mechanism for light-driven water splitting is described, which decreases the reaction's complexity and offers a new way to extend the range of usable wavelengths far into the visible region.
Lattice oxygen redox chemistry in solid-state electrocatalysts for water oxidation
Authors: Zhang Ning , Chai Yang
Published: June 2021

Lattice oxygen redox chemistry in solid-state electrocatalysts rationalizes the remarkable OER activity by lattice oxygen-mediated mechanism. Here we elucidate the fundamental principle of this mechanism and summarize recently related developments.
Rationally segmented triboelectric nanogenerator with a constant direct-current output and low crest factor
Authors: Chen Pengfei , An Jie , Cheng Renwei , Shu Sheng , Berbille Andy , Jiang Tao , Wang Zhong Lin
Published: June 2021

A multi-phase TENG (MP-TENG) was constructed only through a simple method involving electrode misalignment and circuit connection to generate a constant direct-current output with an ultra-low crest factor (1.05), which has widespread application prospects in the field of energy harvesting.
Extraction and characterization of matrix protein from pacific oyster (Crassostrea gigs) shell and its anti-osteoporosis properties in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Feng Xue , Jiang Suisui , Zhang Fan , Wang Runfang , Zhang Tietao , Zhao Yuanhui , Zeng Mingyong
Published: June 2021

Matrix protein is an acidic secreted protein that regulates biomineralization.
Advances in static in vitro digestion models after the COST action Infogest consensus protocol
Authors: Colombo Raffaella , Ferron Lucia , Frosi Ilaria , Papetti Adele
Published: June 2021

In vitro static methods are essential to predictively evaluate the bioaccessibility and bioactivity of food molecules.
Fabrication of a novel one-step coating hyper-hydrophobic fluorine-free TiO2 decorated hollow composite membrane for use in longer-term VMD with enhanced flux, rejection, anti-wetting and anti-fouling performances
Authors: Ding Zhaokun , Liu Zhen , Xiao Changfa
Published: June 2021

Despite recent efforts, there are still significant challenges in preparing hyper-hydrophobic membranes using environmental-friendly materials and simple methods.
Visible-light-induced C(sp3)–H functionalizations of piperidines to 3,3-dichloro-2-hydroxy-piperidines with N-chlorosuccinimide
Authors: Wang Fang , Liu Xiaoli , Wang Lei
Published: June 2021

A visible light induced synthesis of 3,3-dichloro-2-hydroxy-piperidines via a site-selective functionalization of C(sp3)−H bond in N-substituted piperidines was developed.
The cascade coupling/iodoaminocyclization reaction of trifluoroacetimidoyl chlorides and allylamines: metal-free access to 2-trifluoromethyl-imidazolines
Authors: Song Yufei , Wang Le-Cheng , Du Shiying , Chen Zhengkai , Wu Xiao-Feng
Published: June 2021

A metal-free cascade coupling/iodoaminocyclization reaction for the rapid assembly of 2-trifluoromethyl-imidazolines has been disclosed.
Novel fleximer pyrazole-containing adenosine analogues: chemical, enzymatic and highly efficient biotechnological synthesis
Authors: Khandazhinskaya Anastasia , Eletskaya Barbara , Fateev Ilja , Kharitonova Maria , Konstantinova Irina , Barai Vladimir , Azhayev Alex , Hyvonen Mervi T. , Keinanen Tuomo A. , Kochetkov Sergey , Seley-Radtke Katherine , Khomutov Alex , Matyugina Elena
Published: June 2021

An eco-friendly and scalable biotechnological method for fleximer nucleoside synthesis using E. coli cells overexpressing nucleoside phosphorylases.
Designed synthesis of CD@Cu-ZIF-8 composites as excellent peroxidase mimics for assaying glutathione
Authors: Wang Yufei , Wang Mengke , Wang Xiaoxue , Ma Wenyan , Liu Junxue , Li Jiyang
Published: June 2021

CD@Cu-ZIF-8 nanozymes with excellent peroxidase-like activity and good glutathione (GSH) detection are designed and synthesized.
In situ structural reconstruction triggers the hydrothermal synthesis of hierarchical Ti-Beta zeolites for oxidative desulfurization
Authors: Ma Haikuo , Lin Haoyi , Liu Xiuquan , Lü Hongying , Zhu Zhiguo
Published: June 2021

Hierarchical Ti-Beta zeolite was hydrothermally synthesized via in situ structural reconstruction strategy, triggering unique catalytic performance in oxidative desulfurization.
Tunable synthesis of chalcophosphinic amides and tertiary phosphinates using tert-butyl N,N-dialkylperoxyamidate
Authors: Liu Kun , Chang Xuexue , He Yimiao , Su Zhongfu , Huang Yanmin , Huang Chusheng , Lei Jian , Zhu Qiang
Published: June 2021

The tunable amidation and esterification of phosphine chalcoxide have been developed, in which tert-butyl N,N-dialkylperoxyamidate plays a dual role as a secondary amine and a tertiary alcohol precursor.
Controllable synthesis and characterization of Mg2SiO4 nanostructures via a simple hydrothermal route using carboxylic acid as capping agent and their photocatalytic performance for photodegradation of azo dyes
Authors: Moshtaghi Saeed , Hamadanian Masoud , Amiri Omid , Goli Maryam , Salavati-Niasari Masoud
Published: June 2021

Mg2SiO4 nanostructures have been synthesized via a facile hydrothermal approach. The photocatalytic behavior of Mg2SiO4 nanostructures prepared by different carboxylic acids have been investigated to degrade azo dyes under UV and visible light.
Determination of halogenated hydrocarbons in urine samples using a needle trap device packed with Ni/Zn–BTC bi-MMOFviathe dynamic headspace method
Authors: Rahimpoor Razzagh , Firoozichahak Ali , Nematollahi Davood , Alizadeh Saber , Alizadeh Parsa Mohammad , Alinaghi Langari Ali Akbar
Published: June 2021

Designed setup for sampling of halogenated hydrogens in urine using the HS-NTD:Ni/Zn–BTC bi-MMOF.
Infrared crystallography for framework and linker orientation in metal–organic framework films
Authors: Baumgartner Bettina , Ikigaki Ken , Okada Kenji , Takahashi Masahide
Published: June 2021

Polarization-dependent infrared spectroscopy of oriented metal organic framework films fills the information gap left by diffraction methods and gives access to the orientation of the aromatic linker and initial orientation of ultra-thin films.
Boosting the electrochemical properties of CoCo2O4 porous nanowire arrays by microwave-assisted synthesis for battery–supercapacitor hybrid devices
Authors: Sun Yin , Sun Xiannian , Zhang Junjie , Liu Sen , Guo Likui , Bi Jiapeng , Huang Naibao
Published: June 2021

Cobalt oxide (CoCo2O4) porous nanowires are synthesized by a microwave assisted hydrothermal process (MHP) followed by annealing.
A cocoon-based 3D solar steam generator for high-performance saline water desalination
Authors: Song Changyuan , Chen Xuying , Hao Rui , Cai Dongna , Zhu Xiangwei , Liu Hao , Chen Jinzhou , Liu Wentao
Published: June 2021

A self-cleaning 3D solar steam generator prepared by local modification of cocoons exhibits high evaporation rate and low heat loss in seawater desalination.
Regulation of the adsorption sites of Ni2P by Ru and S co-doping for ultra-efficient alkaline hydrogen evolution
Authors: Wang Xiaodeng , Hu Qi , Li Guodong , Wei Shaomin , Yang Hengpan , He Chuanxin
Published: June 2021

Benefiting from the 3D nanosheets and highly active Ru and S co-doped Ni2P, the prepared electrocatalysts displayed excellent performance for the alkaline HER.