bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cytoplasmic organization promotes protein diffusion in Xenopus extracts
Authors: Huang William Y. C. , Cheng Xianrui , Ferrell James E.
Published: September 2022

The cytoplasm is highly organized. However, the extent to which this organization influences the dynamics of cytoplasmic proteins is not well understood. Here, we use Xenopus laevis egg extracts as a model system to study diffusion dynamics in organized versus disorganized cytoplasm. Such extracts are initially homogenized and disorganized, and self-organize into cell-like units over the course of tens of minutes. Using fluorescence correlation spectroscopy, we observe that as the cytoplasm organizes, protein diffusion speeds up by about a factor of two over a length scale of a few hundred nanometers, eventually approaching the diffusion time measured in organelle-depleted cytosol. Even though the ordered cytoplasm contained organelles and cytoskeletal elements that might interfere with diffusion, the convergence of protein diffusion in the cytoplasm toward that in organelle-depleted cytosol suggests that subcellular organization maximizes protein diffusivity. The effect of organization on diffusion varies with molecular size, with the effects being largest for protein-sized molecules, and with the time scale of the measurement. These results show that cytoplasmic organization promotes the efficient diffusion of protein molecules in a densely packed environment.
Tunable two-dimensional superconductivity and spin-orbit coupling at the EuO/KTaO3(110) interface
Authors: Hua Xiangyu , Meng Fanbao , Huang Zongyao , Li Zhaohang , Wang Shuai , Ge Binghui , Xiang Ziji , Chen Xianhui
Published: September 2022

Unconventional quantum states, most notably the two-dimensional (2D) superconductivity, have been realized at the interfaces of oxide heterostructures where they can be effectively tuned by the gate voltage (VG). Here we report that the interface between high-quality EuO (111) thin film and KTaO3 (KTO) (110) substrate shows superconductivity with onset transition temperature $$T_{{{\mathrm{c}}}}^{{{{\mathrm{onset}}}}}$$

T

c

onset

 = 1.35 K. The 2D nature of superconductivity is verified by the large anisotropy of the upper critical field and the characteristics of a Berezinskii–Kosterlitz-Thouless transition. By applying VG, $$T_{{{\mathrm{c}}}}^{{{{\mathrm{onset}}}}}$$

T

c

onset

can be tuned from ~1 to 1.7 K; such an enhancement can be possibly associated with a boosted spin-orbit energy $$\varepsilon _{{{{\mathrm{so}}}}} = \hbar /\tau _{{{{\mathrm{so}}}}}$$

ε

so

=
ħ
/

τ

so

, where τso is the spin-orbit relaxation time. Further analysis of τso based on the upper critical field (Hc2) and magnetoconductance reveals complex nature of spin-orbit coupling (SOC) at the EuO/KTO(110) interface with different mechanisms dominating the influence of SOC effects on the superconductivity and the magnetotransport in the normal state. Our results demonstrate that the SOC should be considered an important factor in determining the 2D superconductivity at oxide interfaces.
Inactivated rabies-vectored SARS-CoV-2 vaccine provides long-term immune response unaffected by vector immunity
Authors: Yankowski Catherine , Wirblich Christoph , Kurup Drishya , Schnell Matthias J.
Published: September 2022

The objective of this study is to further analyze recombinant rabies virus-vectored SARS-CoV-2 vaccine, CORAVAX, as an effective COVID-19 vaccine strategy. CORAVAX has proven immunogenic and protective against SARS-CoV-2 in animal models. Here, we have screened adjuvants for the highest quality antibody titers, negated the concern of pre-existing rabies-vector immunity, and established its potential as a long-term COVID-19 vaccine. We have tested toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) agonists, inflammasome activators, and alum adjuvants in CORAVAX and found TLR4-activating MPLA-AddaVax to have the greatest potential. We followed the humoral immune response to CORAVAX in mice with pre-existing rabies virus immunity and saw no significant differences compared to naive mice. We then followed the immune response to CORAVAX over several months and 1-year post-immunization. Mice maintained high antigen-specific serum antibody titers as well as long-lived antibody-secreting cells in the spleen and bone marrow. We believe this rabies-vector strategy combats the problem of waning immunity of other COVID-19 vaccines. These results together support CORAVAX’s potential during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
SARS-CoV-2 Delta and Omicron variants evade population antibody response by mutations in a single spike epitope
Authors: He Ping , Liu Banghui , Gao Xijie , Yan Qihong , Pei Rongjuan , Sun Jing , Chen Qiuluan , Hou Ruitian , Li Zimu , Zhang Yanjun , Zhao Jincun , Sun Hao , Feng Bo , Wang Qian , Yi Haisu , Hu Peiyu , Li Pingchao , Zhang Yudi , Chen Zhilong , Niu Xuefeng , Zhong Xiaolin , Jin Liang , Liu Xiaofeng , Qu Kun , Ciazynska Katarzyna A. , Carter Andrew P. , Briggs John A. G. , Chen Jizheng , Liu Jinsong , Chen Xinwen , He Jun , Chen Ling , Xiong Xiaoli
Published: September 2022

Population antibody response is thought to be important in selection of virus variants. We report that SARS-CoV-2 infection elicits a population immune response that is mediated by a lineage of VH1-69 germline antibodies. A representative antibody R1-32 from this lineage was isolated. By cryo-EM, we show that it targets a semi-cryptic epitope in the spike receptor-binding domain. Binding to this non-ACE2 competing epitope results in spike destruction, thereby inhibiting virus entry. On the basis of epitope location, neutralization mechanism and analysis of antibody binding to spike variants, we propose that recurrent substitutions at 452 and 490 are associated with immune evasion of the identified population antibody response. These substitutions, including L452R (present in the Delta variant), disrupt interactions mediated by the VH1-69-specific hydrophobic HCDR2 to impair antibody-antigen association, enabling variants to escape. The first Omicron variants were sensitive to antibody R1-32 but subvariants that harbour L452R quickly emerged and spread. Our results provide insights into how SARS-CoV-2 variants emerge and evade host immune responses.
Characterization and evaluation of cold atmospheric plasma as seedborne fungal disinfectant and promoting mediator for physico-chemical characteristics of Moringa oleifera seedlings
Authors: Ouf Salama A. , Almarashi Jamal Q. M. , Mohamed Abdel-Aleam H.
Published: September 2022

Non-thermal atmospheric pressure plasmas are a powerful tool to impact seed germination and microbial decontamination. Air large volume atmospheric pressure glow discharge plasma was developed and investigated to improve the biological activities ofMoringa oleiferaseeds. Ninty ns magnetic pulse compression high voltage system was used to generate the plasma. The plasma discharges current increases with increasing applied voltage and it decreases with increasing discharge gap. There was a steady reduction in the count of seedborne fungi on the application of air cold plasma with complete elimination of fungi at ≥ 10.94 mJ per pulse. The low doses of plasma (2.46 and 4.35 mJ) induced an increase in the seed germination, a significant increase in chlorophyll content (chlaand chlb) and antioxidant activities of the seedlings emerged from soaked or wet seeds rather than dry seeds. At lower plasma doses (2.46 and 4.35 mJ) there was a significant increase in leaf area and chlorophyll content (chlaand chlb) of the seedlings that emerged from H2O2soaked seeds rather than that of free from H2O2. The plasma was harmful when applied at higher doses (≥ 10.94 mJ) and more harmful to the wet seeds compared to the dry ones.
Non-local triple quantum dot thermometer based on Coulomb-coupled systems
Authors: Dhongade Suraj G. , Haque Afreen A. , Roy Sayan Saha , Singha Aniket
Published: September 2022

Recent proposals towards non-local thermoelectric voltage-based thermometry, in the conventional dual quantum dot set-up, demand an asymmetric step-like system-to-reservoir coupling around the ground states for optimal operation (Physica E, 114, 113635, 2019). In addition to such demand for unrealistic coupling, the sensitivity in such a strategy also depends on the average measurement terminal temperature, which may result in erroneous temperature assessment. In this paper, we propose non-local current based thermometry in the dual dot set-up as a practical alternative and demonstrate that in the regime of high bias, the sensitivity remains robust against fluctuations of the measurement terminal temperature. Proceeding further, we propose a non-local triple quantum dot thermometer, that provides an enhanced sensitivity while bypassing the demand for unrealistic step-like system-to-reservoir coupling and being robust against fabrication induced variability in Coulomb coupling. In addition, we show that the heat extracted from (to) the target reservoir, in the triple dot design, can also be suppressed drastically by appropriate fabrication strategy, to prevent thermometry induced drift in reservoir temperature. The proposed triple dot setup thus offers a multitude of benefits and could potentially pave the path towards the practical realization and deployment of high-performance non-local “sub-Kelvin range” thermometers.
Identification and expression of functionally conserved circadian clock genes in lichen-forming fungi
Authors: Valim Henrique F. , Dal Grande Francesco , Otte Jürgen , Singh Garima , Merges Dominik , Schmitt Imke
Published: September 2022

Lichen-forming fungi establish stable symbioses with green algae or cyanobacteria. Many species have broad distributions, both in geographic and ecological space, making them ideal subjects to study organism-environment interactions. However, little is known about the specific mechanisms that contribute to environmental adaptation in lichen-forming fungi. The circadian clock provides a well-described mechanism that contributes to regional adaptation across a variety of species, including fungi. Here, we identify the putative circadian clock components in phylogenetically divergent lichen-forming fungi. The core circadian genes (frq, wc-1, wc-2, frh) are present across the Fungi, including 31 lichen-forming species, and their evolutionary trajectories mirror overall fungal evolution. Comparative analyses of the clock genes indicate conserved domain architecture among lichen- and non-lichen-forming taxa. We used RT-qPCR to examine the core circadian loop of two unrelated lichen-forming fungi, Umbilicaria pustulata (Lecanoromycetes) and Dermatocarpon miniatum (Eurotiomycetes), to determine that the putative frq gene is activated in a light-dependent manner similar to the model fungus Neurospora crassa. Together, these results demonstrate that lichen-forming fungi retain functional light-responsive mechanisms, including a functioning circadian clock. Our findings provide a stepping stone into investigating the circadian clock in the lichen symbiosis, e.g. its role in adaptation, and in synchronizing the symbiotic interaction.
Urine creatinine concentration influences the prognostic value of proteinuria for MACE prediction from the findings of the KNOW-CKD study
Authors: Oh Yun Jung , Ro Han , Chung Wookyung , Hyun Young Youl , Park Sue Kyung , Kim Yong-Soo , Kim Soo Wan , Oh Yun Kyu , Oh Kook-Hwan , Jung Ji Yong
Published: September 2022

Proteinuria is typically quantified according to the spot urine protein–creatinine ratio (UPCR) and an association with cardiovascular events has not been thoroughly investigated in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. We investigated whether the severity of proteinuria assessed by spot UPCR is associated with an increased risk for cardiovascular outcomes in the CKD population, and whether the relationship is influenced by urine creatinine concentration. We analyzed 1746 patients enrolled as part of The KoreaN cohort study for Outcome in patients With Chronic Kidney Disease (KNOW-CKD). Multivariable Cox proportional hazard analysis was performed to evaluate models with proteinuria as a predictor of renal events and extended major adverse cardiovascular events (eMACEs). Risk for renal events was significantly associated with proteinuria across all eGFR and UPCR categories. By contrast, risk for eMACEs increased significantly with UPCR in patients with eGFR ≥ 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 (hazard ratio [HR] 2.109; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.375–3.235; P = 0.001), but not in patients with eGFR < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 (HR 1.086; 95% CI 0.910–1.296; P = 0.358). However, in those with the lower eGFR, risk for eMACEs increased significantly with UPCR in participants with urine creatinine concentration ≥ 95 mg/dL (HR 1.503; 95% CI 1.047–2.159; P = 0.027). In non-dialysis CKD patients, the prognostic value of UPCR for eMACEs is weakened in patients with reduced eGFR levels, for whom it has prognostic significance only in patients with high urine creatinine concentration.
The potential of one-part alkali-activated materials (AAMs) as a concrete patch mortar
Authors: Yusslee Eddy , Beskhyroun S.
Published: September 2022

One-part alkali-activated materials (AAMs) are developed to improve conventional two-part systems. One-part AAMs technology has been used in cement binders to produce concrete, mortar, and paste. Current research mainly focuses on synthesizing raw materials obtained from industrial and agricultural waste as the main aluminosilicate precursors of the cement binder for a concrete application. The one-part AAMs were reported to have higher early compressive strength at 7 days of age, contributed by its fast-setting time, mainly when the binder activates by a higher dosage of alkaline activator and containing OPC-rich. Due to bonding issues, single or combination, FA/GGBFS/MK precursors were reported as unsuitable for use as a concrete repair material. They were the reason for the lack of one-part AAMs application of mortar compared to concrete usage. This study was conducted to determine the potential of one-part AAMs used as concrete patch mortar by investigating its rheology and mechanical properties. The compressive strength of the mortar was tested under lab ambient temperature in the tropical climate country of Malaysia. The setting time of fresh mortar and bonding strength were set under controlled lab temperature. The one-part alkali-activated mortar was composed of hybrid aluminosilicate precursors between fly ash (FA), Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag (GGBFS) and ordinary Portland cement (OPC). A low alkaline activator of solid potassium carbonate was used for the geopolymerization process. Three types of solid admixtures were added to complete the composition of the new mix design. The experiment's outcome showed that the mortar composed with the combination of conventional Portland cement and industrial waste products has compressive and pull-off adherence strength that meets with Class R3—EN1504-3 standard for structural concrete repair materials requirement.
Effects of pyrroloquinoline quinone on noise-induced and age-related hearing loss in mice
Authors: Gao Ying , Kamogashira Teru , Fujimoto Chisato , Iwasaki Shinichi , Yamasoba Tatsuya
Published: September 2022

We investigated whether the oxidoreductase cofactor pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) prevents noise-induced and age-related hearing loss (NIHL and ARHL) in mice. To assess NIHL, 8 week-old mice with and without PQQ administration were exposed to noise for 4 h. PQQ was orally administered for one week before and after noise exposure and subcutaneously once before noise exposure. For ARHL evaluation, mice were given drinking water with or without PQQ starting at 2 months of age. In the NIHL model, PQQ-treated mice had auditory brainstem response (ABR) thresholds of significantly reduced elevation at 8 kHz, a significantly increased number of hair cells at the basal turn, and significantly better maintained synapses beneath the inner hair cells compared to controls. In the ARHL model, PQQ significantly attenuated the age-related increase in ABR thresholds at 8 and 32 kHz at 10 months of age compared to controls. In addition, the hair cells, spiral ganglion cells, ribbon synapses, stria vascularis and nerve fibers were all significantly better maintained in PQQ-treated animals compared to controls at 10 months of age. These physiological and histological results demonstrate that PQQ protects the auditory system from NIHL and ARHL in mice.
Concept, hardware development, and clinical trials of a Galinstan based Mercury free sphygmomanometer: Merkfree
Authors: Kumar Ravinder , Kumar Mohit , Wander Gurpreet Singh , Sahani Ashish Kumar
Published: September 2022

The aim of this work is to develop Merkfree—a mercury-free sphygmomanometer that looks, feels, and operates just like a traditional mercury sphygmomanometer (MS). For this we use Galinstan as a substitute for mercury, which is a non-toxic alloy of Gallium, Indium and Tin. Galinstan is nearly half as dense as mercury and sticks to class. To work with the lower density, we designed an enclosure and scale that is nearly double the length of MS. The issue of stickiness with glass was resolved by maintaining a small meniscus of a reducing agent in the measuring tube and tank of Merkfree. Clinical trials to validate the accuracy of Merkfree against MS and oscillometric sphygmomanometer (OS) were conducted over 252 patients. The results show a good correlation of the systolic and diastolic BP measurements from Merkfree with respect to MS and the OS. The mean absolute percentage error is less than 10% for both SBP and DBP. We also found that Merkfree has lower rounding-off errors compared to MS. Merkfree can be a viable alternative to mercury sphygmomanometer that can help achieve the goal of WHO in eliminating mercury from healthcare, while simultaneously making sure that gold standard technique of sphygmomanometry continues to be available to the clinicians.
Solid state thin electrolyte to overcome transparency-capacity dilemma of transparent supercapacitor
Authors: Seo Jongseon , Han Geonhui , Kim Hyejin , Lee Daeseok
Published: September 2022

For portable and transparent electronic applications, transparent supercapacitor (T-SC) is developed to act as an energy storing device. Because electric and optical characteristics of the supercapacitor are strongly dependent on its thickness, all solid state T-SC was developed based on sensitively controllable fabrication process. We were able to attain an optimum thickness for the T-SC such that it exhibited an excellent transparency as well as capacity. Thus, the transparency-capacity dilemma, that is, the thickness of a T-SC increases with respect to its capacity while it is inversely proportional to its transparency, was solved through our proposed T-SC structure. Consequently, more than 60% transparency and 80% capacitance retention of 1500 charge/discharge cycles were achieved. The overcoming of transparency-capacity dilemma can enhance the T-SC applicability as a core energy storage device.
DYRK1A antagonists rescue degeneration and behavioural deficits of in vivo models based on amyloid-β, Tau and DYRK1A neurotoxicity
Authors: Zhu Bangfu , Parsons Tom , Foley Christopher , Shaw Yeng , Dunckley Travis , Hulme Christopher , Hodge James J. L.
Published: September 2022

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) involves pathological processing ofamyloid precursor protein(APP) into amyloid-β andmicrotubule associated protein Tau(MAPT)into hyperphosphorylated Tau tangles leading to neurodegeneration. Only 5% of AD cases are familial making it difficult to predict who will develop the disease thereby hindering our ability to treat the causes of the disease. A large population who almost certainly will, are those with Down syndrome (DS), who have a 90% lifetime incidence of AD. DS is caused by trisomy of chromosome 21 resulting in three copies ofAPPand other AD-associated genes, like dual specificity tyrosine-phosphorylation-regulated kinase 1A (DYRK1A) overexpression. This implies that DYRK1a inhibitors may have therapeutic potential for DS and AD, however It is not clear how overexpression of each of these genes contributes to the pathology of each disease as well as how effective a DYRK1A inhibitor would be at suppressing any of these. To address this knowledge gap, we usedDrosophilamodels with humanTau, humanamyloid-βor flyDYRK1A(minibrain(mnb)) neuronal overexpression resulting in photoreceptor neuron degeneration, premature death, decreased locomotion, sleep and memory loss. DYRK1A small molecule Type 1 kinase inhibitors (DYR219 and DYR533) were effective at suppressing these disease relevant phenotypes confirming their therapeutic potential.
Analysis of tire wear airstrip particles (TWAP)
Authors: Spanheimer Vanessa , Katrakova-Krüger Danka
Published: September 2022

Tire wear is a main contributor to microplastics. As we cannot fully avoid tire wear, otherwise we could not brake and stop, new solutions are needed to address this problem. Not only on roads tire wear is released to the environment, even more can be found at airports. The advantage there is that the Tire Wear Airstrip Particles are gathered while cleaning the pavement. This collection is an opportunity to recycle and add new value to it. Whereas rubber powder is a common way to recycle and reuse end-of-life-tires as raw material in rubber compounds, the question is if TWAP is reusable in the same or similar way. In this study TWAP and rubber powder from truck tire treads are analyzed and compared with regard to their morphology, particle size distribution and composition. The particle size distribution of TWAP is broader than rubber powder containing also much smaller particles. The mineral content of TWAP is about 60%. These minerals can be residues of the pavement, brake wear but also rubber ingredients. In comparison to rubber powder, the impurities of TWAP are expected to have an impact with regard to potential applications and should be better separated.
Gamma ray detection performance of newly developed MAPD-3NM-II photosensor with LaBr3(Ce) crystal
Authors: Holik M. , Ahmadov F. , Sadigov A. , Ahmadov G. , Berikov D. , Mamedov F. , Naghiyev J. , Stekl I. , Sadygov Z. , Mammadli A. , Garibli A. , Urban O. , Zich J.
Published: September 2022

This paper presents the gamma-ray detection performance of the newly developed MAPD-3NM-II type SiPM sensor array (4 $$\times$$
×
4) with $$\hbox {LaBr}_3$$

LaBr
3

(Ce) scintillator. The gamma-ray spectra of various sources have been measured in the energy range from 26 keV up to 1332 keV. The newly developed array based on MAPD-3NM-II sensors proved $$\sim$$
∼
 22% enhancement in energy resolution in comparison to the former MAPD-3NM-I based array. The energy resolution of 662 keV gamma-rays measured by MAPD-3NM-II was 3.3% while clearly surpassing 4.25% resolution of MAPD-3NM-I predecessor. The enhancement is related to the high PDE of the new MAPD-3NM-II. Obtained results show that the new MAPD-3NM-II demonstrated good energy resolution and linearity in the studied energy region. The energy resolution of the new detector developed based on MAPD-3NM-II was better than all previous products of MAPD.
Mental distress along the cascade of care in managing hypertension
Authors: Ang Chiew Way , Tan Min Min , Bärnighausen Till , Reininghaus Ulrich , Reidpath Daniel , Su Tin Tin
Published: September 2022

Hypertension might be a contributing factor of mental illness. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between different levels of hypertension care and mental distress among hypertensive individuals in Malaysia. We constructed a hypertension care cascade using data of 6531 hypertensive individuals aged ≥ 35 years that were collected as part of the community health survey conducted in 2013 in the South East Asia Community Observatory. We examined the association between the status of hypertension care and mental distress using multiple logistic regressions. Respondents who had not been screened for hypertension and those who had uncontrolled blood pressure (BP) had higher odds of depression, anxiety and, stress compared to those who had been screened and those who had controlled BP, respectively. Respondents who were not taking antihypertensive medication had lower odds of depression and anxiety compared to those who were on medication. There was an association between different levels of hypertension care and mental distress. The application of a hypertension care cascade may help improve the provision of mental health support in primary care clinics. Specific mental health interventions could be provided for patients with particular needs along the cascade.
Effects of ruminal lipopolysaccharides on growth and fermentation end products of pure cultured bacteria
Authors: Sarmikasoglou Efstathios , Ferrell Jessica , Vinyard James R. , Flythe Michael D. , Tuanyok Apichai , Faciola Antonio P.
Published: September 2022

Elevated levels of ruminal lipopolysaccharides (LPS) have been linked to ruminal acidosis; however, they result in reduced endotoxicity compared to LPS derived from species like Escherichia coli. Additionally, there is a knowledge gap on the potential effect of LPS derived from ruminal microbiome on ruminal bacteria species whose abundance is associated with ruminal acidosis. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of LPS-free anaerobic water (CTRL), E. coli-LPS (E. COLI), ruminal-LPS (RUM), and a 1:1 mixture of E. coli and ruminal-LPS (MIX) on the growth characteristics and fermentation end products of lactate-producing bacteria (Streptococcus bovis JB1, Selenomonas ruminantium HD4) and lactate-utilizing bacterium (Megasphaera elsdenii T81). The growth characteristics were predicted based on the logistic growth model, the ammonia concentration was determined by the phenolic acid/hypochlorite method and organic acids were analyzed with high performance liquid chromatography. Results indicate that, compared to the CTRL, the maximum specific growth rate of S. bovis JB1 decreased by approximately 19% and 23% when RUM and MIX were dosed, respectively. In addition, acetate and lactate concentrations in Se. ruminantium HD4 were reduced by approximately 30% and 18%; respectively, in response to MIX dosing. Compared to CTRL, lactate concentration from S. bovis JB1 was reduced approximately by 31% and 22% in response to RUM and MIX dosing; respectively. In summary, RUM decreased the growth and lactate production of some lactate-producing bacteria, potentially mitigating the development of subacute ruminal acidosis by restricting lactate availability to some lactate-utilizing bacteria that metabolize lactate into VFAs thus further contributing to the development of acidosis. Also, RUM did not affect Megasphaera elsdenii T81 growth.
Mining logical circuits in fungi
Authors: Roberts Nic , Adamatzky Andrew
Published: September 2022

Living substrates are capable for nontrivial mappings of electrical signals due to the substrate nonlinear electrical characteristics. This property can be used to realise Boolean functions. Input logical values are represented by amplitude or frequency of electrical stimuli. Output logical values are decoded from electrical responses of living substrates. We demonstrate how logical circuits can be implemented in mycelium bound composites. The mycelium bound composites (fungal materials) are getting growing recognition as building, packaging, decoration and clothing materials. Presently the fungal materials are passive. To make the fungal materials adaptive, i.e. sensing and computing, we should embed logical circuits into them. We demonstrate experimental laboratory prototypes of many-input Boolean functions implemented in fungal materials from oyster fungiP. ostreatus. We characterise complexity of the functions discovered via complexity of the space-time configurations of one-dimensional cellular automata governed by the functions. We show that the mycelium bound composites can implement representative functions from all classes of cellular automata complexity including the computationally universal. The results presented will make an impact in the field of unconventional computing, experimental demonstration of purposeful computing with fungi, and in the field of intelligent materials, as the prototypes of computing mycelium bound composites.
Glial cell derived neurotrophic factor prevents western diet and palmitate-induced hepatocyte oxidative damage and death through SIRT3
Authors: Mwangi Simon Musyoka , Li Ge , Balasubramaniam Arun , Merlin Didier , Dawson Paul A. , Jang Young C. , Hart C. Michael , Czaja Mark J. , Srinivasan Shanthi
Published: September 2022

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is associated with increased oxidative stress that leads to hepatocyte and mitochondrial damage. In this study we investigated the mechanisms involved in the induction of oxidative stress and impairment of mitochondrial quality control and mitophagy in hepatocytes by the saturated fatty acid palmitate and Western diet feeding in mice and if their harmful effects could be reversed by the neurotrophic factor glial cell derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF). Western diet (WD)-feeding increased hepatic lipid peroxidation in control mice and, in vitro palmitate induced oxidative stress and impaired the mitophagic clearance of damaged mitochondria in hepatocytes. This was accompanied by reductions in hepatocyte sirtuin 3 (SIRT3) deacetylase activity, gene expression and protein levels as well as in superoxide dismutase enzyme activity. These reductions were reversed in the liver of Western diet fed GDNF transgenic mice and in hepatocytes exposed to palmitate in the presence of GDNF. We demonstrate an important role for Western diet and palmitate in inducing oxidative stress and impairing mitophagy in hepatocytes and an ability of GDNF to prevent this. These findings suggest that GDNF or its agonists may be a potential therapy for the prevention or treatment of NAFLD.
Metal chelating and anti-radical activity of Salvia officinalis in the ameliorative effects against uranium toxicity
Authors: Aydin Deniz , Yalçin Emine , Çavuşoğlu Kültiğin
Published: September 2022

Uranium is a highly radioactive heavy metal that is toxic to living things. In this study, physiological, cytogenetic, biochemical and anatomical toxicity caused by uranium and the protective role of sage (Salvia officinalis L.) leaf extract against this toxicity were investigated with the help of Allium test. Germination percentage, root length, weight gain, mitotic index (MI), micronucleus (MN) formation, chromosomal aberrations (CAs), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) enzyme activities, malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and changes in root meristem cells were used as indicators of toxicity. In the experimental stage, a total of six groups, one of which was the control, were formed. Group I was treated with tap water, while group II and III were treated only with sage (190 mg/L and 380 mg/L). Groups IV, V and VI were germinated with uranyl acetate dihydrate (0.1 mg/mL), uranyl acetate dihydrate + 190 mg/L sage and uranyl acetate dihydrate + 380 mg/L sage, respectively. Allium cepa L. bulbs of each group were germinated for 72 h, and at the end of the period, routine preparation techniques were applied and physiological, cytogenetic, biochemical and anatomical analyzes were performed. As a result, uranium application caused a significant decrease (p < 0.05) in all physiological parameters and MI values. MN, CAs numbers, SOD and CAT enzyme activities and MDA levels increased significantly (p < 0.05) with uranium application. Uranium promoted CAs in the root tip cells in the form of fragment, vagrant chromosome, sticky chromosome, bridge and unequal distribution of chromatin. In addition, it caused anatomical damages such as epidermis cell damage, cortex cell damage and flattened cell nucleus in root tip meristem cells. Sage application together with uranium caused significant (p < 0.05) increases in physiological parameters and MI values and significant decreases in MN, CAs, SOD and CAT activities and MDA levels. In addition, the application of sage resulted in improvement in the severity of anatomical damages induced by uranium. It was determined that the protective role of sage observed for all parameters investigated was even more pronounced at dose of 380 mg/L. The protective role of sage against uranium toxicity is related to its antioxidant activity, and sage has 82.8% metal chelating and 72.9% DPPH removal activity. As a result, uranyl acetate exhibited versatile toxicity in A. cepa, caused cytotoxicity by decreasing the MI rate, and genotoxicity by increasing the frequencies of MN and CAs. And also, Sage acted as a toxicity-reducing agent by displaying a dose-dependent protective role against the toxic effects induced by uranyl acetate.
A unified Gaussian copula methodology for spatial regression analysis
Authors: Hughes John
Published: September 2022

Spatially referenced data arise in many fields, including imaging, ecology, public health, and marketing. Although principled smoothing or interpolation is paramount for many practitioners, regression, too, can be an important (or even the only or most important) goal of a spatial analysis. When doing spatial regression it is crucial to accommodate spatial variation in the response variable that cannot be explained by the spatially patterned explanatory variables included in the model. Failure to model both sources of spatial dependence—regression and extra-regression, if you will—can lead to erroneous inference for the regression coefficients. In this article I highlight an under-appreciated spatial regression model, namely, the spatial Gaussian copula regression model (SGCRM), and describe said model’s advantages. Then I develop an intuitive, unified, and computationally efficient approach to inference for the SGCRM. I demonstrate the efficacy of the proposed methodology by way of an extensive simulation study along with analyses of a well-known dataset from disease mapping.
Superconducting quantum circuit of NOR in quantum annealing
Authors: Saida Daisuke , Hidaka Mutsuo , Miyake Kouhei , Imafuku Kentaro , Yamanashi Yuki
Published: September 2022

The applicability of quantum annealing to various problems can be improved by expressing the Hamiltonian using a circuit satisfiability problem. We investigate the detailed characteristics of the NOR/NAND functions of a superconducting quantum circuit, which are the basic building blocks to implementing various types of problem Hamiltonians. The circuit is composed of superconducting flux qubits with all-to-all connectivity, where direct magnetic couplers are utilized instead of the variable couplers in the conventional superconducting quantum circuit. This configuration provides efficient scalability because the problem Hamiltonian is implemented using fewer qubits. We present an experiment with a complete logic operation of NOR/NAND, in which the circuit produces results with a high probability of success for arbitrary combinations of inputs. The features of the quantum circuit agree qualitatively with the theory, especially the mechanism for an operation under external flux modulation. Moreover, by calibrating the bias conditions to compensate for the offset flux from the surrounding circuit, the quantum circuit quantitatively agrees with the theory. To achieve true quantum annealing, we discuss the effects of the reduction in electric noise in quantum annealing.
Forecasting admissions in psychiatric hospitals before and during Covid-19: a retrospective study with routine data
Authors: Wolff J. , Klimke A. , Marschollek M. , Kacprowski T.
Published: September 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has strong effects on most health care systems. Forecasting of admissions can help for the efficient organisation of hospital care. We aimed to forecast the number of admissions to psychiatric hospitals before and during the COVID-19 pandemic and we compared the performance of machine learning models and time series models. This would eventually allow to support timely resource allocation for optimal treatment of patients. We used admission data from 9 psychiatric hospitals in Germany between 2017 and 2020. We compared machine learning models with time series models in weekly, monthly and yearly forecasting before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. A total of 90,686 admissions were analysed. The models explained up to 90% of variance in hospital admissions in 2019 and 75% in 2020 with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The best models substantially outperformed a one-step seasonal naïve forecast (seasonal mean absolute scaled error (sMASE) 2019: 0.59, 2020: 0.76). The best model in 2019 was a machine learning model (elastic net, mean absolute error (MAE): 7.25). The best model in 2020 was a time series model (exponential smoothing state space model with Box-Cox transformation, ARMA errors and trend and seasonal components, MAE: 10.44). Models forecasting admissions one week in advance did not perform better than monthly and yearly models in 2019 but they did in 2020. The most important features for the machine learning models were calendrical variables. Model performance did not vary much between different modelling approaches before the COVID-19 pandemic and established forecasts were substantially better than one-step seasonal naïve forecasts. However, weekly time series models adjusted quicker to the COVID-19 related shock effects. In practice, multiple individual forecast horizons could be used simultaneously, such as a yearly model to achieve early forecasts for a long planning period and weekly models to adjust quicker to sudden changes.
Construction and validation model of necroptosis-related gene signature associates with immunity for osteosarcoma patients
Authors: Hua Long , Lei Pengfei , Hu Yihe
Published: September 2022

Osteosarcoma is the most common malignant tumor in children and adolescents and its diagnosis and treatment still need to be improved. Necroptosis has been associated with many malignancies, but its significance in diagnosing and treating osteosarcoma remains unclear. The objective is to establish a predictive model of necroptosis-related genes (NRGs) in osteosarcoma for evaluating the tumor microenvironment and new targets for immunotherapy. In this study, we download the osteosarcoma data from the TARGET and GEO websites and the average muscle tissue data from GTEx. NRGs were screened by Cox regression analysis. We constructed a prediction model through nonnegative matrix factorization (NMF) clustering and the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) algorithm and verified it with a validation cohort. Kaplan–Meier survival time, ROC curve, tumor invasion microenvironment and CIBERSORT were assessed. In addition, we establish nomograms for clinical indicators and verify them by calibration evaluation. The underlying mechanism was explored through the functional enrichment analysis. Eight NRGs were screened for predictive model modeling. NRGs prediction model through NMF clustering and LASSO algorithm was established. The survival, ROC and tumor microenvironment scores showed significant statistical differences among subgroups (P < 0.05). The validation model further verifies it. By nomogram and calibration, we found that metastasis and risk score were independent risk factors for the poor prognosis of osteosarcoma. GO and KEGG analyses demonstrate that the genes of osteosarcoma cluster in inflammatory, apoptotic and necroptosis signaling pathways. The significant role of the correlation between necroptosis and immunity in promoting osteosarcoma may provide a novel insight into detecting molecular mechanisms and targeted therapy.
Co-ingestion of glutamine and leucine synergistically promotes mTORC1 activation
Authors: Yoshimura Ryoji , Nomura Shuichi
Published: September 2022

Leucine (Leu) regulates protein synthesis and degradation via activation of mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1). Glutamine (Gln) synergistically promotes mTORC1 activation with Leu via glutaminolysis and Leu absorption via an antiporter. However, Gln has also been shown to inhibit mTORC1 activity. To resolve this paradox, we aimed to elucidate the effects of Gln on Leu-mediated mTORC1 activation. We administered Leu, Gln, tryptophan, Leu + Gln, or Leu + tryptophan to mice after 24-h fasting. The mice were then administered puromycin to evaluate protein synthesis and the gastrocnemius muscle was harvested 30 min later. Phosphorylated eukaryotic initiation factor 4E-binding protein 1, 70-kDa ribosomal protein S6 kinase 1, and Unc-51 like kinase 1 levels were the highest in the Leu + Gln group and significantly increased compared with those in the control group; however, Gln alone did not increase the levels of phosphorylated proteins. No difference in glutamate dehydrogenase activity was observed between the groups. Leu concentrations in the gastrocnemius muscle were similar in the Leu-intake groups. Our study highlights a novel mechanism underlying the promotive effect of Gln on Leu-mediated mTORC1 activation, providing insights into the pathway through which amino acids regulate muscle protein metabolism.
Positive geographic correlation between soldiers’ weapon size and defensive prowess in a eusocial aphid, Ceratovacuna japonica
Authors: Hattori Mitsuru , Ono Masato , Itino Takao
Published: September 2022

Some aphid species produce a soldier caste with enlarged forelegs and horns (weapons). It has been hypothesised that the evolution of morphological specialization by soldiers in social aphids is accelerated by high predation pressure, but this possibility has not been tested. Here, we investigated the relationship between local predator abundance and soldiers’ weapon size and aggressiveness in a prey–predator system comprising a eusocial aphid, Ceratovacuna japonica, and its predators (larvae of the butterfly Taraka hamada and of the moth Atkinsonia ignipicta) in two populations with different predator abundances. We found that the soldiers in the predator-abundant population had larger weapons and were more aggressive than those in the population with lower predator abundance. Furthermore, the soldiers’ defensive prowess (evaluated as the survival of aphids in the presence of predators) was greater in the predator-abundant population. These results provide the first evidence that a population of eusocial aphids experiencing high predation pressure has soldiers with pronounced defensive traits and defensive prowess.
Experimental demonstration of multiple Fano resonances in a mirrored array of split-ring resonators on a thick substrate
Authors: Kamarauskas Andrius , Seliuta Dalius , Šlekas Gediminas , Sadauskas Modestas , Kvietkauskas Evaldas , Trusovas Romualdas , Ratautas Karolis , Kancleris Žilvinas
Published: September 2022

This work demonstrates the first experimental observation of multiple Fano resonances in the terahertz range in a system based on an array of mirror-symmetric split-ring resonators deposited on low-loss and low-refractive index polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) substrate. For the first time, selective surface activation induced by laser technology has been used to deposit a copper layer on a PTFE substrate with the further application of standard mask lithography for metasurface manufacturing.
New monoclinic ruthenium dioxide with highly selective hydrogenation activity
Authors: Yang Hee Jung , Redington Morgan , Miller Daniel P. , Zurek Eva , Kim Minseob , Yoo Choong-Shik , Lim Soo Yeon , Cheong Hyeonsik , Chae Seen-Ae , Ahn Docheon , Hur Nam Hwi
Published: September 2022

HxRuO2 acts as a standalone catalyst exhibiting selective hydrogenation under mild conditions. Mobile protons embedded in the oxide lattice play an important role in stabilizing the distorted structure, and facile proton dynamics is key to improving catalytic properties.
Anionic ordering in Pb2Ti4O9F2 revisited by nuclear magnetic resonance and density functional theory
Authors: Oka Kengo , Ichibha Tom , Kato Daichi , Noda Yasuto , Tominaga Yusuke , Yamada Kosei , Iwasaki Mitsunobu , Noma Naoki , Hongo Kenta , Maezono Ryo , Reboredo Fernando A.
Published: September 2022

A combination of 19F magic angle spinning (MAS) nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and density functional theory (DFT) were used to study the ordering of F atoms in Pb2Ti4O9F2.
Differential effects of a cafeteria diet and GSPE preventive treatments on the enterohormone secretions of aged vs. young female rats
Authors: Miguéns-Gómez Alba , Sierra-Cruz Marta , Pérez-Vendrell Anna Maria , Rodríguez-Gallego Esther , Beltrán-Debón Raúl , Terra Ximena , Ardévol Anna , Pinent Montserrat
Published: September 2022

Ageing modifies nutrient sensing. The cafeteria diet acts mainly on the duodenum and colon, while procyanidins have a larger effect on the ileum.
Lactobacillus crispatus-derived exopolysaccharides with antibacterial activity limit Salmonella typhimurium invasion by inhibiting inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis
Authors: Ding Chenchen , Wu Huixian , Cao Xiuyun , Gao Zhangshan , Tang Zhihui , Fan Wentao , Yan Liping , Liu Bin , Lin Hong , Song Suquan
Published: September 2022

A Lactobacillus crispatus-derived exopolysaccharide (EPS 7-4) has considerable potential as a natural antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and health-promoting functional food or medicine.
Intelligent hydrogels and their biomedical applications
Authors: Chakrapani Gayathri , Zare Mina , Ramakrishna Seeram
Published: September 2022

Intelligent hydrogels behaviour concerning various external stimuli and their majorin vitroapplications are illustrated.
Optimization of spray-coated nanochitin/nanocellulose films as renewable oxygen barrier layers via thermal treatment
Authors: Ji Yue , Shen D. Eric , Young Elizabeth K. , Goins Callie L. , Reynolds John R. , Shofner Meisha L. , Meredith J. Carson
Published: September 2022

A simple method of enhancing the oxygen barrier property of a renewable polysaccharide-based multilayer film by increasing the processing temperatures.
Structure–activity relationship study of PROTACs against hematopoietic prostaglandin D2 synthase
Authors: Murakami Yuki , Osawa Hinata , Kurohara Takashi , Yanase Yuta , Ito Takahito , Yokoo Hidetomo , Shibata Norihito , Naito Mikihiko , Aritake Kosuke , Demizu Yosuke
Published: September 2022

SAR studies of PROTACs that target H-PGDS, focusing on the E3 ligase ligand and the H-PGDS ligand, are described.
From cavity optomechanics to cavity-less exciton optomechanics: a review
Authors: Chang Haonan , Zhang Jun
Published: September 2022

Cavity optomechanics investigates the interaction between electromagnetic waves and mechanical motion enhanced by the resonant cavity. In cavity-less exciton optomechanics, the resonant cavity is replaced by excitonic resonance.
Progressive study on ruthenium catalysis for de(hydrogenative) alkylation and alkenylation using alcohols as a sustainable source
Authors: Sharma Rahul , Samanta Arup , Sardar Bitan , Roy Mithu , Srimani Dipankar
Published: September 2022

This review focuses on the Ru-catalyzed de(hydrogenative) formation of C–C and CC bonds. The comparative reactivity of different Ru-complexes to gain selectivity in product formation is presented, together with brief mechanistic insights.
Microwave-assisted direct synthesis of BODIPY dyes and derivatives
Authors: Da Lama Ana , Pérez Sestelo José , Sarandeses Luis A. , Martínez M. Montserrat
Published: September 2022

A practical and efficient microwave-assisted one-pot sequence to access BODIPY dyes and derivatives was developed under sustainable conditions.
Triplet–triplet energy transfer from Bi3+to Sb3+in zero-dimensional indium hybridsviaa B-site co-doping strategy toward white-light emission
Authors: Ren Qiqiong , Zhang Jian , Molokeev Maxim S. , Zhou Guojun , Zhang Xian-Ming
Published: September 2022

The co-doping strategy of Bi3+(6s2) and Sb3+(5s2) is implemented in a zero-dimensional indium hybrid. As a result, an uncommon triplet–triplet energy transfer from Bi3+to Sb3+contributes to tunable dual emissions.
Molecular engineering with triptycene groups endows homoleptic Ir(iii) complexes with enhanced electroluminescence properties
Authors: Tao Zheng-Yu , Pan Ze-Hui , Wang Ying-Jie , Zhang Jialing , Wang Qing-Song , Zhang Qian-Feng , Tong Bi-Hai , Fung Man-Keung , Kong Hui
Published: September 2022

Complex Ir2 exhibited a high PLQY of 0.87, a Td of 445 °C and a peak EQE of 27.5%.