bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multifluorescence High‐Resolution Episcopic Microscopy for 3D Imaging of Adult Murine Organs
Authors: Walsh Claire , Holroyd Natalie A. , Finnerty Eoin , Ryan Sean G. , Sweeney Paul W. , Shipley Rebecca J. , Walker-Samuel Simon
Published: May 2021

3D microscopy of large biological samples (>0.5 cm3) is transforming biological research. Many existing techniques require trade‐offs between image resolution, sample size, and method complexity. A simple robust instrument with the potential to conduct large‐volume 3D imaging currently exists in the form of the optical high‐resolution episcopic microscopy (HREM). However, the development of the instrument to date is limited to single‐fluorescent wavelength imaging with nonspecific eosin staining. Herein, developments to realize the potential of the HREM to become multifluorescent high‐resolution episcopic microscopy (MF‐HREM) are presented. MF‐HREM is a serial‐sectioning and block‐facing wide‐field fluorescence imaging technique, which does not require tissue clearing or optical sectioning. Multiple developments are detailed in sample preparation and image postprocessing to enable multiple specific stains in large samples and show how these enable segmentation and quantification of the data. The application of MF‐HREM is demonstrated in a variety of biological contexts: 3D imaging of whole tumor vascular networks and tumor cell invasion in xenograft tumors up to 7.5 mm3 at resolutions of 2.75 μm, quantification of glomeruli volume in the adult mouse kidney, and quantification of vascular networks and white‐matter track orientation in adult mouse brain.
Quantitative trait locus mapping reveals an independent genetic basis for joint divergence in leaf function, life‐history, and floral traits between scarlet monkeyflower (Mimulus cardinalis) populations
Authors: Nelson Thomas C. , Muir Christopher D. , Stathos Angela M. , Vanderpool Daniel D. , Anderson Kayli , Angert Amy L. , Fishman Lila
Published: May 2021

Premise

Across taxa, vegetative and floral traits that vary along a fast‐slow life‐history axis are often correlated with leaf functional traits arrayed along the leaf economics spectrum, suggesting a constrained set of adaptive trait combinations. Such broad‐scale convergence may arise from genetic constraints imposed by pleiotropy (or tight linkage) within species, or from natural selection alone. Understanding the genetic basis of trait syndromes and their components is key to distinguishing these alternatives and predicting evolution in novel environments.

Methods

We used a line‐cross approach and quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping to characterize the genetic basis of twenty leaf functional/physiological, life history, and floral traits in hybrids between annualized and perennial populations of scarlet monkeyflower (Mimulus cardinalis).

Results

We mapped both single and multi‐trait QTLs for life history, leaf function and reproductive traits, but found no evidence of genetic co‐ordination across categories. A major QTL for three leaf functional traits (thickness, photosynthetic rate, and stomatal resistance) suggests that a simple shift in leaf anatomy may be key to adaptation to seasonally dry habitats.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that the co‐ordination of resource‐acquisitive leaf physiological traits with a fast life‐history and more selfing mating system results from environmental selection rather than functional or genetic constraint. Independent assortment of distinct trait modules, as well as a simple genetic basis to leaf physiological traits associated with drought escape, may facilitate adaptation to changing climates.
Expanding the genotypic spectrum of PYCR2 and a common ancestry in Thai patients with hypomyelinating leukodystrophy 10
Authors: Manaspon Chawan , Boonsimma Ponghatai , Phokaew Chureerat , Theerapanon Thanakorn , Sriwattanapong Kanokwan , Porntaveetus Thantrira , Shotelersuk Vorasuk
Published: May 2021

PYCR2 pathogenic variants lead to an autosomal recessive hypomyelinating leukodystrophy 10 (HLD10), characterized by global developmental delay, microcephaly, facial dysmorphism, movement disorder, and hypomyelination. This study identified the first two unrelated Thai patients with HLD10. Patient 1 harbored the novel compound heterozygous variants, c.257T>G (p.Val86Gly) and c.400G>A (p.Val134Met), whereas patient 2 possessed the homozygous variant, c.400G>A (p.Val134Met), in PYCR2. Haplotype analysis revealed that the two families' members shared a 2.3 Mb region covering the c.400G>A variant, indicating a common ancestry. The variant was estimated to age 1450 years ago. Since the c.400G>A was detected in three out of four mutant alleles and with a common ancestry, this variant might be common in Thai patients. We also reviewed the phenotype and genotype of all 35 previously reported PYCR2 patients and found that majorities of cases were homozygous with a consanguineous family history, except patient 1 and another reported case who were compound heterozygous. All patients had microcephaly and developmental delay. Hypotonia and peripheral spasticity were common. Hypomyelination or delayed myelination was a typical radiographic feature. Here, we report the first two Thai patients with HLD10 with the novel PYCR2 variants expanding the genotypic spectrum and suggest that the c.400G>A might be a common mutation in Thai patients.
Creation of High‐Performance Heterogeneous Photocatalysts by Controlling Ligand Desorption and Particle Size of Gold Nanocluster
Authors: Kawawaki Tokuhisa , Kataoka Yuki , Hirata Momoko , Akinaga Yuki , Takahata Ryo , Wakamatsu Kosuke , Fujiki Yu , Kataoka Miori , Kikkawa Soichi , Alotabi Abdulrahman S. , Hossain Sakiat , Osborn D. J. , Teranishi Toshiharu , Andersson Gunther G. , Metha Gregory F. , Yamazoe Seiji , Negishi Yuichi
Published: May 2021

Recently, the creation of new heterogeneous catalysts using the unique electronic/geometric structures of small metal nanoclusters (NCs) has received considerable attention. However, to achieve this, it is extremely important to establish methods to remove the ligands from ligand‐protected metal NCs while preventing the aggregation of metal NCs. In this study, the ligand‐desorption process during calcination was followed for metal‐oxide‐supported 2‐phenylethanethiolate‐protected gold (Au) 25‐atom metal NCs using five experimental techniques. The results clearly demonstrate that the ligand‐desorption process consists of ligand dissociation on the surface of the metal NCs, adsorption of the generated compounds on the support and desorption of the compounds from the support, and the temperatures at which these processes occurred were elucidated. Based on the obtained knowledge, we established a method to form a metal‐oxide layer on the surface of Au NCs while preventing their aggregation, thereby succeeding in creating a water‐splitting photocatalyst with high activity and stability.
Silicone‐based biomaterials for biomedical applications: Antimicrobial strategies and 3D printing technologies
Authors: Zare Mina , Ghomi Erfan Rezvani , Venkatraman Prabhuraj D. , Ramakrishna Seeram
Published: May 2021

Silicone is a synthetic polymer widely used in the biomedical industry as implantable devices since 1940, owing to its excellent mechanical properties and biocompatibility. Silicone biomaterials are renowned for their biocompatibility due to their inert nature and hydrophobic surface. A timeline illustration shows critical development periods of using silicone in varied biomedical applications. In this review, silicone properties are discussed along with several biomedical applications, including medical inserts, speciality contact lenses, drains and shunts, urinary catheters, reconstructive gel fillers, craniofacial prosthesis, nerve conduits, and metatarsophalangeal joint implants. Silicones are prone to microbial infections when exposed and interactions with the host tissue. As in the case of medical inserts, the development of specific antimicrobial strategies is essential. The review highlights silicone implants' interaction with soft and bone tissue and various antimicrobial strategies, including surface coating, physical or chemical modifications, treating with antibiotics or plasma‐activated surfaces to develop the resistance to bacterial infection. Finally, 3D printing technology, tissue engineering, regenerative medicine applications, and future trends are also critically presented, indicating the silicone's potential as a biomaterial.
The pandemic crisis as a crisis of the symbolic order and psychoanalytic work regarding imaginary objects
Authors: Küchenhoff Joachim
Published: May 2021

The title of the article already indicates the structure of the text. In the first part, it is argued that the Corona crisis is a crisis as it challenges the symbolic order in many ways. The virus becomes an imaginary object that is uncanny. In the second part, psychoanalytic work on the uncanny object (how is it dealt with?) and work with the uncanny object (how can work be done under the conditions of the uncanny?) are discussed.
3D bioprinting and microscale organization of vascularized tissue constructs using collagen‐based bioink
Authors: Muthusamy Senthilkumar , Kannan Sathya , Lee Marcus , Sanjairaj Vijayavenkataraman , Lu Wen Feng , Fuh Jerry Y. H. , Sriram Gopu , Cao Tong
Published: May 2021

Bioprinting three‐dimensional (3D) tissue equivalents have progressed tremendously over the last decade. 3D bioprinting is currently being employed to develop larger and more physiologic tissues, and it is of particular interest to generate vasculature in biofabricated tissues to aid better perfusion and transport of nutrition. Having an advantage over manual culture systems by bringing together biological scaffold materials and cells in precise 3D spatial orientation, bioprinting could assist in placing endothelial cells in specific spatial locations within a 3D matrix to promote vessel formation at these predefined areas. Hence, in the present study, we investigated the use of bioprinting to generate tissue‐level capillary‐like networks in biofabricated tissue constructs. First, we developed a bioink using collagen type‐1 supplemented with xanthan gum (XG) as a thickening agent. Using a commercial extrusion‐based multi‐head bioprinter and collagen‐XG bioink, the component cells were spatially assembled, wherein the endothelial cells were bioprinted in a lattice pattern and sandwiched between bioprinted fibroblasts layers. 3D bioprinted constructs thus generated were stable, and maintained structural shape and form. Post‐print culture of the bioprinted tissues resulted in endothelial sprouting and formation of interconnected capillary‐like networks within the lattice pattern and between the fibroblast layers. Bioprinter‐assisted spatial placement of endothelial cells resulted in fabrication of patterned prevascularized constructs that enable potential regenerative applications in the future.
Trait aggression is associated with five‐factor personality traits in males
Authors: Dam Vibeke H. , Hjordt Liv Vadskjær , da Cunha‐Bang Sofi , Sestoft Dorte , Knudsen Gitte Moos , Stenbæk Dea Siggaard
Published: May 2021

Background

Although aggression is conceptualized as a dimensional construct with violent behavior representing the extreme end of a spectrum, studies on the involvement of personality traits in human aggression have typically only included data representing a restricted spectrum of aggressive behaviors.

Methods

In the current study, we therefore examine whether trait aggression is associated with five‐factor model personality traits in an enriched sample of 259 men with a broad continuum of trait aggression, ranging from very low to very high including 39 incarcerated aggressive violent offenders. All participants completed the NEO Personality Inventory‐Revised (NEO PI‐R) and the Buss–Perry Aggression Questionnaire (BPAQ). The association between each of the five NEO PI‐R personality traits and trait aggression (BPAQ) was investigated using five linear regression models, covarying for group status, age and educational level.

Results

Higher BPAQ scores were positively associated with Neuroticism and negatively associated with Agreeableness and Conscientiousness.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that those high in Neuroticism and low in Agreeableness and Conscientiousness are at higher risk of exhibiting aggressive behavior, underlining the relevance of these higher order personality traits in understanding aggressive behavior. We argue that studying individual personality differences should be offered a greater attention within violent and criminal behaviors.
Applying the reduce, reuse, and recycle principle in the hospitality sector: Its antecedents and performance implications
Authors: Ioannidis Alexis , Chalvatzis Konstantinos J. , Leonidou Leonidas C. , Feng Zhiteng
Published: May 2021

Although the literature on eco‐friendly strategies followed by firms is abundant, the focus on the reduce, reuse, and recycle (3Rs) policies as the cornerstone of environmental sustainability is scarce. This study examines the 3Rs environmental strategy among 143 large organizations in the hospitality industry. We use the resource‐based view (RBV) of the firm theory to test the strategy's determinants and its impact on business performance on a suggested conceptualization level. As hypothesized, green corporate governance and environmental management systems, along with slack financial resources, were found to positively influence the adoption of a 3Rs environmental strategy. In turn, the implementation of the latter leads to superior business performance, measured in terms of operating profits and Tobin's Q. The study has several implications on a theoretical, managerial, and public policy level where intriguing directions for future research are provided.
Corporate climate‐related voluntary disclosures: Does potential greenwash exist among Australian high emitters reports?
Authors: Wedari Linda Kusumaning , Jubb Christine , Moradi‐Motlagh Amir
Published: May 2021

This study examines the issue of greenwashing among corporate high emitters subject to government scrutiny. To do so, we investigate the relationship between the actual environmental performance, measured as carbon emissions, of companies subject to the Australian National Greenhouse Energy Reporting Act 2007 (NGER) and their climate‐related voluntary disclosures. To measure climate‐related disclosure, we construct a climate‐related disclosure index based on four prominent frameworks and score corporate report content against that Index. Using a sample of 150 companies with NGER emissions data for Years 2016 and 2017, a period that precedes the issuance of recommendations for disclosure by the Task Force on Climate‐Related Financial Disclosure (TCFD), our regression results show a disappointingly low level of climate‐related disclosure by most companies. We also find a negative relationship between climate‐related disclosure and 1‐year lagged environmental performance among companies exhibiting a year‐on‐year rise in carbon emissions. That is, our findings provide evidence of potential greenwashing by poor environmental performers, presumably to change negative perceptions by stakeholders, as predicted by socio‐political theories. In contrast, we find no evidence of greenwashing among companies experiencing a year‐on‐year decrease in emissions.
E3 ligase activity of Carboxyl terminus of Hsc70 interacting protein (CHIP) in Wharton's jelly derived mesenchymal stem cells improves their persistence under hyperglycemic stress and promotes the prophylactic effects against diabetic cardiac damages
Authors: Ali Ayaz , Kuo Wei‐Wen , Kuo Chia‐Hua , Lo Jeng‐Fan , Chen Michael Y. C. , Daddam Jayasimha R. , Ho Tsung‐Jung , Viswanadha Vijaya Padma , Shibu Marthandam Asokan , Huang Chih‐Yang
Published: May 2021

Recent studies indicate that umbilical cord stem cells are cytoprotective against several disorders. One critical limitation in using stem cells is reduction in their viability under stressful conditions, such as diabetes. However, the molecular intricacies responsible for diabetic conditions are not fully elucidated. In this study, we found that high glucose (HG) conditions induced loss of chaperone homeostasis, stabilized PTEN, triggered the downstream signaling cascade, and induced apoptosis and oxidative stress in Wharton's jelly derived mesenchymal stem cells (WJMSCs). Increased Carboxyl terminus of Hsc70 interacting protein (CHIP) expression promoted phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) degradation via the ubiquitin‐proteasome system and shortened its half‐life during HG stress. Docking studies confirmed the interaction of CHIP with PTEN and FOXO3a with the Bim promoter region. Further, it was found that the chaperone system is involved in CHIP‐mediated PTEN proteasomal degradation. CHIP depletion stabilizes PTEN whereas PTEN inhibition showed an inverse effect. CHIP overactivation suppressed the binding of FOXO3a with bim. Coculturing CHIP overexpressed WJMSCs suppressed HG‐induced apoptosis and oxidative stress in embryo derived cardiac cell lines. CHIP overexpressing and PTEN silenced WJMSCs ameliorated diabetic effects in streptozotocin (STZ) induced diabetic rats and further improved their body weight and heart weight, and rescued from hyperglycemia‐induced cardiac injury. Considering these, the current study suggests that CHIP confers resistance to apoptosis and acts as a potentiation factor in WJMSCs to provide protection from degenerative effects of diabetes.
Do buyer–seller personality similarities impact compulsive buying behaviour?
Authors: Ali Fayaz , Tauni Muhammad Z. , Ali Ayaz , Ahsan Tanveer
Published: May 2021

This study investigates the influence of buyer–seller personality similarities on compulsive buying behaviour in a dyadic setting. To provide insights into the gaps in previous research, we collected both buyer and corresponding seller data, and considered sellers' personalities. Specifically, using difference score analyses and variance‐based structural equation modelling, we analysed 1038 buyer–seller dyads in service encounters. Compared with the effects of individual buyers' personalities on compulsive buying, the combined personality results showed that buyer–seller agreeableness similarities increase the compulsive buying behaviour of agreeable buyers. On the other hand, buyer–seller similarities in openness and neuroticism reduce compulsive buying. A further analysis showed that buyer–seller interactions mediate the effect of their extraversion and openness similarities on compulsive buying, while buyers' shopping enjoyment mediates the effect of their extraversion and neuroticism similarities on compulsive buying. Overall, compulsive buyers have interpersonally different buying behaviours when their personalities match (differ) with their corresponding sellers'. Thus, marketers can match agreeable buyers with similar sellers to promote sales, while dissimilar sellers should be complemented with open‐minded and neurotic buyers, in particular, to reduce losses.
Simple Synthetic Routes to Carbene‐M‐Amido (M=Cu, Ag, Au) Complexes for Luminescence and Photocatalysis Applications
Authors: Tzouras Nikolaos V. , Martynova Ekaterina A. , Ma Xinyuan , Scattolin Thomas , Hupp Benjamin , Busen Hendrik , Saab Marina , Zhang Ziyun , Falivene Laura , Pisanò Gianmarco , Van Hecke Kristof , Cavallo Luigi , Cazin Catherine S. J. , Steffen Andreas , Nolan Steven P.
Published: May 2021

The development of novel and operationally simple synthetic routes to carbene‐metal‐amido (CMA) complexes of copper, silver and gold relevant for photonic applications are reported. A mild base and sustainable solvents allow all reactions to be conducted in air and at room temperature, leading to high yields of the targeted compounds even on multigram scales. The effect of various mild bases on the N−H metallation was studied in silico and experimentally, while a mechanochemical, solvent‐free synthetic approach was also developed. Our photophysical studies on [M(NHC)(Cbz)] (Cbz=carbazolyl) indicate that the occurrence of fluorescent or phosphorescent states is determined primarily by the metal, providing control over the excited state properties. Consequently, we demonstrate the potential of the new CMAs beyond luminescence applications by employing a selected CMA as a photocatalyst. The exemplified synthetic ease is expected to accelerate the applications of CMAs in photocatalysis and materials chemistry.
ImageJ and CellProfiler: Complements in Open‐Source Bioimage Analysis
Authors: Dobson Ellen T.A. , Cimini Beth , Klemm Anna H. , Wählby Carolina , Carpenter Anne E. , Eliceiri Kevin W
Published: May 2021

ImageJ and CellProfiler have long been leading open‐source platforms in the field of bioimage analysis. ImageJ's traditional strength is in single‐image processing and investigation, while CellProfiler is designed for building large‐scale, modular analysis pipelines. Although many image analysis problems can be well solved with one or the other, using these two platforms together in a single workflow can be powerful. Here, we share two pipelines demonstrating mechanisms for productively and conveniently integrating ImageJ and CellProfiler for (1) studying cell morphology and migration via tracking, and (2) advanced stitching techniques for handling large, tiled image sets to improve segmentation. No single platform can provide all the key and most efficient functionality needed for all studies. While both programs can be and are often used separately, these pipelines demonstrate the benefits of using them together for image analysis workflows. ImageJ and CellProfiler are both committed to interoperability between their platforms, with ongoing development to improve how both are leveraged from the other. © 2021 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Studying cell morphology and cell migration in time‐lapse datasets using TrackMate (Fiji) and CellProfiler

Basic Protocol 2: Creating whole plate montages to easily assess adaptability of segmentation parameters
Environmental and cultivar effects on technological quality of the bread wheat produced in the Pampean plain of Argentina
Authors: Molfese Elena R. , Castro Franco Mauricio , Domenech Marisa , Fritz Noemí , Yanniccari Marcos E.
Published: May 2021

The quality of the wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) grain is determined by several factors that lead to different physical, chemical, and/or rheological characteristics. Our aim was to evaluate the effects of the type of cultivar quality and agricultural region of production on parameters that define the commercial and industrial quality of wheat. A total of 3,486 wheat samples were collected from producer lots. The samples corresponded to commercial cultivars classified according to the quality type following a system used in Argentina which is based on the combination of commercial and baking quality indicators. These wheat varieties were produced in three different regions according to resource availability (fertility of the soil and average rainfall). The technological quality of the different grain samples and flours was determined by means of physicochemical analyses. The samples from the region of high resource availability with higher productivity and lower industrial quality differed from those from the regions of low and medium resource availability. Grain test weight and ash content were significantly affected by the interaction between the quality group of the cultivars and the region of origin. Grain protein and gluten contents were mainly conditioned by the resource availability of the region. However, the quality of the gluten was genetically conditioned by quality group of the cultivars. As results of the relationships among these parameters, most of the variables of flour quality (color, deformation energy, tenacity/extensibility ratio, and farinograph stability) would be explained by the interaction between the cultivar and the environment where it was grown.
Resting heart rate is associated with the risk of metabolic syndrome and its components among Dong adults in southwest China: Cross‐sectional findings of the China Multi‐Ethnic Cohort Study
Authors: Zhang Xiao , Hong Feng , Qin Zixiu , Liu Leilei , Yang Jun , Tang Xuejie , Li Xi , Zhang Jiangping , Luo Peng
Published: May 2021

Aims

High resting heart rate (RHR), one abnormal manifestation of autonomic nervous system, is associated with metabolic disorders. However, the association between RHR and metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its components remains controversial. We aimed to explore the link between these two parameters.

Materials and Methods

The study included 6589 Dong adults (1434 cases of MetS) from the cross‐sectional survey of the China Multi‐Ethnic Cohort Study. Logistic regression model was used to calculate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) and assess the association between RHR and MetS, clustered metabolic risk, and MetS components. Restricted cubic splines model was used to evaluate the dose response association.

Results

A positive association existed between RHR and MetS, and people in the highest RHR quartile had a higher MetS risk (OR 1.75 [95% CI 1.42–2.15]) than those in the lowest quartile. The clustered metabolic risk associated with RHR (p < 0.05). Furthermore, RHR was related to elevated blood pressure (BP), elevated triglycerides (TG) and elevated fasting plasma glucose (FPG); the ORs (95% CIs) for the highest versus lowest RHR quartile were 2.06 (1.75–2.43), 1.37 (1.17–1.62) and 2.53 (2.04–3.14), respectively. Similar results were found in sensitivity and subgroup analyses. Also, non‐linear dose response association existed between RHR and MetS and elevated levels of BP, TG and FPG (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

RHR was related to increased risk of MetS, three MetS components (elevated BP, elevated TG and elevated FPG) and the clustered metabolic risk. RHR may be a useful indicator for MetS.
Apoptosis and cell proliferation during metamorphosis of the planula larva of Clytia hemisphaerica (Hydrozoa, Cnidaria)
Authors: Krasovec Gabriel , Pottin Karen , Rosello Marion , Quéinnec Éric , Chambon Jean‐Philippe
Published: May 2021

Background

Metamorphosis in marine species is characterized by profound changes at the ecophysiological, morphological, and cellular levels. The cnidarian Clytia hemisphaerica exhibits a triphasic life cycle that includes a planula larva, a colonial polyp, and a sexually reproductive medusa. Most studies so far have focused on the embryogenesis of this species, whereas its metamorphosis has been only partially studied.

Results

We investigated the main morphological changes of the planula larva of Clytia during the metamorphosis, and the associated cell proliferation and apoptosis. Based on our observations of planulae at successive times following artificial metamorphosis induction using GLWamide, we subdivided the Clytia's metamorphosis into a series of eight morphological stages occurring during a pre‐settlement phase (from metamorphosis induction to planula ready for settlement) and the post‐settlement phase (from planula settlement to primary polyp). Drastic morphological changes prior to definitive adhesion to the substrate were accompanied by specific patterns of stem‐cell proliferation as well as apoptosis in both ectoderm and endoderm. Further waves of apoptosis occurring once the larva has settled were associated with morphogenesis of the primary polyp.

Conclusion

Clytia larval metamorphosis is characterized by distinct patterns of apoptosis and cell proliferation during the pre‐settlement phase and the settled planula‐to‐polyp transformation.
Many ways to make darker flies: Intra‐ and interspecific variation in Drosophila body pigmentation components
Authors: Lafuente Elvira , Alves Filipa , King Jessica G. , Peralta Carolina M. , Beldade Patrícia
Published: May 2021

Body pigmentation is an evolutionarily diversified and ecologically relevant trait with substantial variation within and between species, and important roles in animal survival and reproduction. Insect pigmentation, in particular, provides some of the most compelling examples of adaptive evolution, including its ecological significance and genetic bases. Pigmentation includes multiple aspects of color and color pattern that may vary more or less independently, and can be under different selective pressures. We decompose Drosophila thorax and abdominal pigmentation, a valuable eco‐evo‐devo model, into distinct measurable traits related to color and color pattern. We investigate intra‐ and interspecific variation for those traits and assess its different sources. For each body part, we measured overall darkness, as well as four other pigmentation properties distinguishing between background color and color of the darker pattern elements that decorate each body part. By focusing on two standard D. melanogaster laboratory populations, we show that pigmentation components vary and covary in distinct manners depending on sex, genetic background, and temperature during development. Studying three natural populations of D. melanogaster along a latitudinal cline and five other Drosophila species, we then show that evolution of lighter or darker bodies can be achieved by changing distinct component traits. Our results paint a much more complex picture of body pigmentation variation than previous studies could uncover, including patterns of sexual dimorphism, thermal plasticity, and interspecific diversity. These findings underscore the value of detailed quantitative phenotyping and analysis of different sources of variation for a better understanding of phenotypic variation and diversification, and the ecological pressures and genetic mechanisms underlying them.
C−C Bond Formation between the μ‐Alkylidyne Ligands in a Diruthenium Bis(μ‐alkylidyne) Complex; σ‐ and π‐Aromaticity of the Ru2C2 Core
Authors: Takao Toshiro , Seki Koichi
Published: May 2021

Zn‐free μ‐ethylidyne‐μ‐propylidyne complex, [(Cp*Ru)2(μ‐CMe)(μ‐CEt)] (2 b; Cp*=C5Me5) was synthesized by the treatment of [(Cp*Ru)2(μ‐CMe)(μ‐CEt)(μ‐ZnCl2)] (1 b) with ethylenediamine. Similarly, bis(μ‐ethylidyne) complex [Cp*Ru(μ‐CMe)]2 (2 a) was synthesized from [Cp*RuCl2]2. Although the bis(μ‐alkylidyne) complexes 2 a, b adopted a coordinatively unsaturated 32‐electron configuration, these complexes were unreactive toward acetylene, ethylene, and H2. Adaptive natural density partitioning (AdNDP) analysis suggested that the enhanced stability of 2 a and 2 b was due to the dual aromaticity of the planar Ru2C2 core, viz. σ‐ and π‐aromaticity. On the other hand, complexes 2 a and 2 b reacted with π‐acidic CO to yield a μ‐η2:η2‐alkyne complex, [(Cp*Ru)2(μ‐η2:η2‐MeCCR)(μ‐CO)] (6 a, R=Me; 6 b, R=Et) via C−C bond formation between the μ‐alkylidyne ligands, along with Ru−Ru bond formation. Dearomatization of the Ru2C2 core is crucial for this transformation. Complex 6 a further reacted with CO in the presence of methanol to yield [Cp*Ru(CO)(μ‐CO)]2 (7) by liberating 2‐butyne.
Operational Limits of Redox Metal Oxides Performing Thermochemical Water Splitting
Authors: Bayon Alicia , de la Calle Alberto , Stechel Ellen B. , Muhich Christopher
Published: May 2021

Solar thermochemical hydrogen production is an attractive technology that stores intermittent solar energy in the form of chemical bonds. Efficient operation requires the identification of a redox‐active metal oxide (MOx) material that can achieve high conversion of water to hydrogen at minimal energy input. Water splitting occurs by consecutive reduction and reoxidation reactions of MOx. MOx is reduced to MOx−δ and, in the second step, is reoxidized by water recovering the initial MOx and generate H2. The material must reduce at temperatures achievable in concentrated solar receiver/reactors, while maintaining a thermodynamic driving force to split water. At equilibrium, extent of reduction depends on temperature and oxygen partial pressure, and in this analysis, a set of thermodynamic properties, namely, enthalpy and entropy of oxygen vacancy formation, is sufficient to represent MOx. Herein, a method to easily classify materials based on these thermodynamic properties under any condition of oxygen partial pressure and temperature is presented. This method is based on fundamental thermodynamic principles and is applicable for any redox material with known thermodynamic properties. Despite the simplicity of the method, it is believed that this analysis will support future research in targeting thermodynamic properties of redox‐active metal oxides.
Successive interferencecancelation‐inspiredchannel estimation for downlinknon‐orthogonalmultiple access
Authors: Sekokotoana Lehlohonolo , Takawira Fambirai , Oyerinde Olutayo
Published: May 2021

This paper proposes a channel estimation (CE) scheme composed of two successive interference cancelation‐inspired approaches for a two‐user power domain downlink non‐orthogonal multiple access system. One approach is intended for the weaker user, and the other approach is intended for the stronger user. Both CE approaches employ a constant step‐size least mean squares (CSS‐LMS) algorithm, using partial pilots to estimate a Rayleigh flat fading channel with a Jake's Doppler spectrum. Closed‐form analytical expressions for the CE error variance are presented for each approach and the mean square error (MSE) is used as the performance metric. Through simulation, the CE performance of the stronger user and the weaker user is assessed for different probabilities of error in detection of the unknown pilot. A reasonable probability of error in detection is then selected and employed in evaluating the CE performance of both schemes against their theoretical analyses. Overall, the theoretical analysis matches the simulation results.
How trading in commodity futures option markets impacts commodity futures prices
Authors: Luo Xingguo , Lin Yuting , Yu Xiaoli , He Feng
Published: May 2021

This paper investigates the information content of the futures option markets trading activities in determining commodity futures returns. Our findings suggest that position changes in the commodity futures option markets provide incremental predictive power for commodity futures returns in addition to the effects of commodity futures markets position changes. Particularly, for both commercial traders and noncommercial traders, options position changes impact the futures price in the same direction as futures position changes. Furthermore, the nonmomentum of position changes of options market contributes overwhelmingly relative to the idiosyncratic risk and hedging pressure in the case of noncommercial trading.
Early water management in South Asia: Geochronology and micromorphology of rock pools and small‐scale water catchment features in Karnataka, India
Authors: Gaggioli Amanda M. , Bauer Andrew M. , Morrison Kathleen D. , Lycett Mark T.
Published: May 2021

Archaeologists and historians of South Asia have long emphasized the significance of large‐scale irrigation reservoirs to historical developments and precolonial land use. However, comparatively little attention has been directed at an extensive corpus of small‐scale water‐retention features, such as culturally modified weathering pans and rock pools. In this contribution, we provide the first geoarchaeological evidence from such features in southern India. Geochronological assessments, depositional models, and sediment and micromorphological analyses from two sites in northern Karnataka indicate that inhabitants used and modified these features in at least the first millennium BCE. Throughout later historical periods, even after the development of large‐scale, primarily elite‐sponsored, irrigation reservoirs, inhabitants continued to rely on small, dispersed water‐retention features. Our findings have implications for current debates concerning the introduction of water‐management practices in southern India, which appear to begin in association with dispersed land‐use practices rather than intensive irrigated agriculture, and also corroborate the importance of decentralized water management to historical processes more globally.
Regulation of aquaporin‐4 expression in the central nervous system investigated using M23‐AQP4 null mouse
Authors: Pisani Francesco , Simone Laura , Mola Maria Grazia , De Bellis Manuela , Frigeri Antonio , Nicchia Grazia Paola , Svelto Maria
Published: May 2021

In astrocytes, unknown mechanisms regulate the expression of M1 and M23 isoforms of water channel aquaporin‐4 (M1‐AQP4 and M23‐AQP4). The ratio between these two isoforms controls the AQP4 assembly state in the plasma membrane known as orthogonal arrays of particles (OAPs). To give new insights into these mechanisms, here, we explore the regulation of AQP4 expression in the spinal cord of a CRISPR/Cas9 M23‐null mouse model (M23‐null). In the M23‐null spinal cord OAP assembly, the perivascular localization of AQP4 and M1‐AQP4 protein were drastically reduced. In heterozygous, M1‐AQP4 was proportionally reduced with M23‐AQP4, maintaining the isoform ratio unaffected. We hypothesize a role of the M23‐AQP4 in the regulation of M1‐AQP4 expression. M1‐AQP4 transcription, splicing and M1‐AQP4 protein degradation were found to be unaffected in M23‐null spinal cord and in M23‐null astrocyte primary culture. The translational control was investigated by mRNA‐protein pull down and quantitative mass spectrometry, to isolate and quantify AQP4 mRNA binding proteins (AQP4‐RBPs). Compared to WT, in M23‐null spinal cord, the interaction between AQP4 mRNA and polypyrimidine tract binding protein 1, a positive regulator of AQP4 translation, was higher, while interaction with the RNA helicase DDX17 was lower. In astrocyte primary cultures, DDX17 knockdown upregulated AQP4 protein expression and increased cell swelling, leaving AQP4 mRNA levels unchanged. Here, we identify AQP4‐RBPs and provide evidence that in mouse spinal cord M23‐AQP4 deletion changes the interaction between AQP4 mRNA and some RBPs involved in AQP4 translation. We describe for the first time the RNA helicase DDX17 as a regulator of AQP4 expression in astrocytes.
Lenvatinib Targets FGF Receptor 4 to Enhance Antitumor Immune Response of Anti–Programmed Cell Death‐1 in HCC
Authors: Yi Chenhe , Chen Lirong , Lin Zhifei , Liu Lu , Shao Weiqing , Zhang Rui , Lin Jing , Zhang Jubo , Zhu Wenwei , Jia Huliang , Qin Lunxiu , Lu Lu , Chen Jinhong
Published: May 2021

Background and Aims

Recently, clinical trials of lenvatinib plus pembrolizumab in HCC have displayed an impressive objective response rate. This study aimed to clarify the mechanism for optimal patient selection.

Approach and Results

First, in patients with HCC, lenvatinib‐treated recurrent tumors had lower programmed death ligand 1 (PD‐L1) expression and regulatory T cell (Treg) infiltration compared with matched primary tumors. Consistently, in C57BL/6 wild‐type mice receiving anti–programmed cell death 1 (PD‐1) therapy, PD‐L1 expression and Treg infiltration in s.c. tumors were reduced when adding lenvatinib to the scheme. Mechanistically, on the one hand, FGF receptor 4 (FGFR4) was the most pivotal target in PD‐L1 down‐regulation by lenvatinib in vitro. Furthermore, lenvatinib reinforced the proteasomal degradation of PD‐L1 by blocking the FGFR4–glycogen synthase kinase 3β axis and rescued the sensitivity of interferon‐γ‐pretreated HCC cells to T‐cell killing by targeting FGFR4. On the other hand, the level of IL‐2 increased after anti‐PD‐1 treatment, but IL‐2‐mediated Treg differentiation was blocked by lenvatinib through targeting FGFR4 to restrain signal transducer and activator of transcription 5 (STAT5) phosphorylation. By regulating the variations in the number of Tregs and the tumor FGFR4 level in C57BL/6–forkhead box protein P3 (Foxp3DTR
) mice, we found that high levels of FGFR4 and Treg infiltration sensitized tumors to the combination treatment. Finally, high levels of FGFR4 and Foxp3 conferred immune tolerance but better response to the combined therapy in patient cohorts.

Conclusions

Lenvatinib reduced tumor PD‐L1 level and Treg differentiation to improve anti‐PD‐1 efficacy by blocking FGFR4. Levels of FGFR4 expression and Treg infiltration in tumor could serve as biomarkers for screening patients with HCC using lenvatinib plus anti‐PD‐1 combination therapy.
Macro‐ and microstructures of the digestive tract in the Eurasian collared dove, Streptopelia decaocto (Frivaldszky 1838): Adaptive interplay between structure and dietary niche
Authors: El‐Mansi Ahmed A. , El‐Bealy Eman A. , Rady Ahmed M. , Abumandour Mohamed A. , El‐Badry Dina A.
Published: May 2021

We describe the functional morphology of the digestive tract of the Eurasian collared dove, Streptopelia decaocto using anatomical, morphometric, histological, histochemical, and ultrastructure techniques, and relate our findings to the species' dietary niche. Our results revealed that the esophagus is displaced on both sides of the neck and has highly folded tunica mucosa, which confer greater elasticity for efficient swallowing and passage of food to the crop. The proventriculus is delicate and its mucosal layer contains polymorphic glands with dense profound and superficial secretory units that open to the luminal surface by gastric pores. The ventriculus is biconvex and lined with a keratinized koilin membrane. The tubular glands within the mucosal lining include the isthmus, the neck, and the basal segment that comprise chief and basal cells with prominent nuclei. At the cuticle‐mucosal interface, pyramidal vertical rodlets of the cuticle are secreted and superficially covered by a thin film of a horizontal matrix. The mucosa of the ileum form pyramidal villi that are oriented perpendicularly to the central lumen. Enterocytes infiltrated with goblet cells make up the epithelial lining of the villi. There are subtle differences in the thicknesses of corresponding tunics together with histochemical reactions of alcian blue (AB) and Masson–Goldner trichrome (MT) for their microstructures. Overall, our findings reveal remarkable convergence of both macro‐and microstructures in S. decaocto to other granivorous species, and offer further evidence of the close association between functional morphology and feeding style relative to food swallowing, digestion, and absorption.
Submesoscale physicochemical dynamics directly shape bacterioplankton community structure in space and time
Authors: Fadeev Eduard , Wietz Matthias , von Appen Wilken‐Jon , Iversen Morten H. , Nöthig Eva‐Maria , Engel Anja , Grosse Julia , Graeve Martin , Boetius Antje
Published: May 2021

Submesoscale eddies and fronts are important components of oceanic mixing and energy fluxes. These phenomena occur in the surface ocean for a period of several days, on scales between a few hundred meters and few tens of kilometers. Remote sensing and modeling suggest that eddies and fronts may influence marine ecosystem dynamics, but their limited temporal and spatial scales make them challenging for observation and in situ sampling. Here, the study of a submesoscale filament in summerly Arctic waters (depth 0–400 m) revealed enhanced mixing of Polar and Atlantic water masses, resulting in a ca. 4 km wide and ca. 50 km long filament with distinct physical and biogeochemical characteristics. Compared to the surrounding waters, the filament was characterized by a distinct phytoplankton bloom, associated with depleted inorganic nutrients, elevated chlorophyll a concentrations, as well as twofold higher phyto‐ and bacterioplankton cell abundances. High‐throughput 16S rRNA gene sequencing of bacterioplankton communities revealed enrichment of typical phytoplankton bloom‐associated taxonomic groups (e.g., Flavobacteriales) inside the filament. Furthermore, linked to the strong water subduction, the vertical export of organic matter to 400 m depth inside the filament was twofold higher compared to the surrounding waters. Altogether, our results show that physical submesoscale mixing can shape distinct biogeochemical conditions and microbial communities within a few kilometers of the ocean. Hence, the role of submesoscale features in polar waters for surface ocean biodiversity and biogeochemical processes need further investigation, especially with regard to the fate of sea ice in the warming Arctic Ocean.
Wavepacket Self‐Rotation and Helical Zitterbewegung in Symmetry‐Broken Honeycomb Lattices
Authors: Liu Xiuying , Lunić Frane , Song Daohong , Dai Zhixuan , Xia Shiqi , Tang Liqin , Xu Jingjun , Chen Zhigang , Buljan Hrvoje
Published: May 2021

The toolbox quantities used for manipulating the flow of light include typically amplitude, phase, and polarization. Pseudospins, such as those arising from valley degrees of freedom in photonic structures, have recently emerged as an excellent candidate for this toolbox, in parallel with rapid development of spintronics and valleytronics in condensed‐matter physics. Here, by employing symmetry‐broken honeycomb photonic lattices, valley‐dependent wavepacket self‐rotation manifested in spiraling intensity patterns is demonstrated, which occurs without any initial orbital angular momentum. Theoretically, it is shown that such wavepacket self‐rotation is induced by the Berry phase and results in Zitterbewegung oscillations. The frequency of Zitterbewegung is proportional to the gap size, while the helicity of self‐rotation is valley‐dependent, i.e., correlated with the Berry curvature. These results lead to new understanding of the venerable Zitterbewegung phenomenon from the perspective of topology and are readily applicable on other platforms such as 2D Dirac materials and ultracold atoms.
Stable CsPbBr3‐Glass Nanocomposite for Low‐Étendue Wide‐Color‐Gamut Laser‐Driven Projection Display
Authors: Lin Shisheng , Lin Hang , Chen Guoxin , Wang Bo , Yue Xiangming , Huang Qiugui , Xu Ju , Cheng Yao , Wang Yuansheng
Published: May 2021

Up‐to‐date laser‐driven projection technology puts an urgent demand for green phosphor with stringent requirements on its performance. Herein, by virtue of a new architecture design based on CsPbBr3‐glass nanocomposite, i.e., CsPbBr3 glass ceramic film sintered on sapphire plate, the application availability of this famous green‐emitting phosphor is demonstrated in laser‐driven projection. The mono‐dispersed perovskite CsPbBr3 nanostructure in amorphous glass matrix and the negligible thermal corrosion during co‐sintering with low‐melting‐glass ensure good luminescent properties. The robust glass host and the carried sapphire substrate with high thermal conductivity contribute to good resistances to thermal shock, moisture, and blue laser irradiation. It is revealed that the thermal accumulation effect is relieved due to the pulsed excitation of rotatory “phosphor wheel,” and so the luminescence saturation threshold gets increased. The constructed prototype lighting source yields a low étendue of ≈0.41 mm2, a wide color gamut of 128.4% NTSC (95.9% Rec. 2020), and a moderate luminous flux of 174 lm. The present work highlights an unprecedented design that makes the seemingly impossible application of CsPbBr3 come true.
Development of hybrid fuzzy multi‐criteria decision approach to evaluate key factors for marketing strategic alliance formation based on multiple theories
Authors: Tang Jia‐Wei , Chen Chih‐Jou , Tsai Pei‐Hsuan
Published: May 2021

This study integrates three methods for evaluating the interaction and importance of key factors, while mapping the differences between development and maintenance stages during the formation of marketing strategic alliances in the telecommunications industry. A systematic, quantitative, integrated measurement is proposed to evaluate the importance of factors. Moreover, it provides a holistic picture of similarities and differences across stages for establishing marketing strategic alliance relationships. The factors' evaluation results show that the maintenance stage is critical for the relationship as it relates to sustaining the collaboration and can determine whether a marketing strategic alliance will continue or terminate.