bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Skin microbiome correlates with bioclimate and Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis infection intensity in Brazil’s Atlantic Forest treefrogs
Authors: Ruthsatz Katharina , Lyra Mariana L. , Lambertini Carolina , Belasen Anat M. , Jenkinson Thomas S. , da Silva Leite Domingos , Becker C. Guilherme , Haddad Célio F. B. , James Timothy Y. , Zamudio Kelly R. , Toledo Luís Felipe , Vences Miguel
Published: December 2020

In Brazil’s Atlantic Forest (AF) biodiversity conservation is of key importance since the fungal pathogenBatrachochytrium dendrobatidis(Bd) has led to the rapid loss of amphibian populations here and worldwide. The impact of Bd on amphibians is determined by the host's immune system, of which the skin microbiome is a critical component. The richness and diversity of such cutaneous bacterial communities are known to be shaped by abiotic factors which thus may indirectly modulate host susceptibility to Bd.This study aimed to contribute to understanding the environment-host–pathogen interaction determining skin bacterial communities in 819 treefrogs (Anura: Hylidae and Phyllomedusidae) from 71 species sampled across the AF. We investigated whether abiotic factors influence the bacterial community richness and structure on the amphibian skin. We further tested for an association between skin bacterial community structure and Bd co-occurrence. Our data revealed that temperature, precipitation, and elevation consistently correlate with richness and diversity of the skin microbiome and also predict Bd infection status. Surprisingly, our data suggest a weak but significant positive correlation of Bd infection intensity and bacterial richness. We highlight the prospect of future experimental studies on the impact of changing environmental conditions associated with global change on environment-host–pathogen interactions in the AF.
Lipid metabolism in Calanus finmarchicus is sensitive to variations in predation risk and food availability
Authors: Skottene Elise , Tarrant Ann M. , Altin Dag , Olsen Rolf Erik , Choquet Marvin , Kvile Kristina Ø.
Published: December 2020

Late developmental stages of the marine copepods in the genusCalanuscan spend extended periods in a dormant stage (diapause) that is preceded by the accumulation of large lipid stores. We assessed how lipid metabolism during development from the C4 stage to adult is altered in response to predation risk and varying food availability, to ultimately understand more of the metabolic processes during development inCalanuscopepods. We used RNA sequencing to assess if perceived predation risk in combination with varied food availability affects expression of genes associated with lipid metabolism and diapause preparation inC. finmarchicus. The lipid metabolism response to predation risk differed depending on food availability, time and life stage. Predation risk caused upregulation of lipid catabolism with high food, and downregulation with low food. Under low food conditions, predation risk disrupted lipid accumulation. The copepods showed no clear signs of diapause preparation, supporting earlier observations of the importance of multiple environmental cues in inducing diapause inC. finmarchicus. This study demonstrates that lipid metabolism is a sensitive endpoint for the interacting environmental effects of predation pressure and food availability. As diapause may be controlled by lipid accumulation, our findings may contribute towards understanding processes that can ultimately influence diapause timing.
The diagnostic accuracy of isothermal nucleic acid point-of-care tests for human coronaviruses: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Subsoontorn Pakpoom , Lohitnavy Manupat , Kongkaew Chuenjid
Published: December 2020

Many recent studies reported coronavirus point-of-care tests (POCTs) based on isothermal amplification. However, the performances of these tests have not been systematically evaluated. Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Diagnostic Test Accuracy was used as a guideline for conducting this systematic review. We searched peer-reviewed and preprint articles in PubMed, BioRxiv and MedRxiv up to 28 September 2020 to identify studies that provide data to calculate sensitivity, specificity and diagnostic odds ratio (DOR). Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies 2 (QUADAS-2) was applied for assessing quality of included studies and Preferred Reporting Items for a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Diagnostic Test Accuracy Studies (PRISMA-DTA) was followed for reporting. We included 81 studies from 65 research articles on POCTs of SARS, MERS and COVID-19. Most studies had high risk of patient selection and index test bias but low risk in other domains. Diagnostic specificities were high (> 0.95) for included studies while sensitivities varied depending on type of assays and sample used. Most studies (n = 51) used reverse transcription loop-mediated isothermal amplification (RT-LAMP) to diagnose coronaviruses. RT-LAMP of RNA purified from COVID-19 patient samples had pooled sensitivity at 0.94 (95% CI: 0.90–0.96). RT-LAMP of crude samples had substantially lower sensitivity at 0.78 (95% CI: 0.65–0.87). Abbott ID Now performance was similar to RT-LAMP of crude samples. Diagnostic performances by CRISPR and RT-LAMP on purified RNA were similar. Other diagnostic platforms including RT- recombinase assisted amplification (RT-RAA) and SAMBA-II also offered high sensitivity (> 0.95). Future studies should focus on the use of un-bias patient cohorts, double-blinded index test and detection assays that do not require RNA extraction.
Metabotropic glutamate receptor 1 is associated with unfavorable prognosis in ER-negative and triple-negative breast cancer
Authors: Bastiaansen Anna E. M. , Timmermans A. Mieke , Smid Marcel , van Deurzen Carolien H. M. , Hulsenboom Esther S. P. , Prager-van der Smissen Wendy J. C. , Foekens Renée , Trapman-Jansen Anita M. A. C. , Sillevis Smitt Peter A. E. , Luider Theo M. , Martens John W. M. , vanDuijn Martijn M.
Published: December 2020

New therapies are an urgent medical need in all breast cancer subgroups. Metabotropic glutamate receptor 1 (mGluR1) is suggested as a potential new molecular target. We examined the prevalence mGluR1 expression in different clinically relevant breast cancer subgroups and determined its association with prognosis. In this retrospective cohort, 394 consecutive primary breast cancer tissues were incorporated into a tissue microarray and immunohistochemically stained for mGluR1. The prevalence of mGluR1 protein expression in different breast cancer subgroups was evaluated and correlated with metastasis-free survival (MFS) and overall survival (OS). In total, 56% (n = 219) breast cancer tissues had mGluR1 expression. In estrogen receptor (ER)-negative tumors, 31% (n = 18/58) had mGluR1 expression that was significantly associated with MFS (HR 5.00, 95% CI 1.03–24.35, p = 0.046) in multivariate analysis, independently from other prognostic factors. Of the 44 triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), 25% (n = 11) expressed mGluR1. mGluR1 expression in TNBC was significantly associated with shorter MFS (HR 8.60, 95% CI 1.06–20.39, p = 0.044) and with poor OS (HR 16.07, 95% CI 1.16–223.10, p = 0.039). In conclusion, mGluR1 is frequently expressed in breast cancer. In ER-negative breast cancer and in TNBC mGluR1 protein expression is an unfavorable prognostic marker. This study provides rationale to explore mGluR1 as a novel target for breast cancer treatment, especially for the more aggressive TNBC.
The short life of the volcanic island New Late’iki (Tonga) analyzed by multi-sensor remote sensing data
Authors: Plank Simon , Marchese Francesco , Genzano Nicola , Nolde Michael , Martinis Sandro
Published: December 2020

Satellite-based Earth observation plays a key role for monitoring volcanoes, especially those which are located in remote areas and which very often are not observed by a terrestrial monitoring network. In our study we jointly analyzed data from thermal (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectrometer MODIS and Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite VIIRS), optical (Operational Land Imager and Multispectral Instrument) and synthetic aperture radar (SAR) (Sentinel-1 and TerraSAR-X) satellite sensors to investigate the mid-October 2019 surtseyan eruption at Late’iki Volcano, located on the Tonga Volcanic Arc. During the eruption, the remains of an older volcanic island formed in 1995 collapsed and a new volcanic island, called New Late’iki was formed. After the 12 days long lasting eruption, we observed a rapid change of the island’s shape and size, and an erosion of this newly formed volcanic island, which was reclaimed by the ocean two months after the eruption ceased. This fast erosion of New Late’iki Island is in strong contrast to the over 25 years long survival of the volcanic island formed in 1995.
The RabGEF ALS2 is a hypoxia inducible target associated with the acquisition of aggressive traits in tumor cells
Authors: Rivas Solange , Silva Patricio , Reyes Montserrat , Sepúlveda Hugo , Solano Luis , Acuña Juan , Guerrero Marisol , Varas-Godoy Manuel , Quest Andrew F. G. , Montecino Martín , Torres Vicente A.
Published: December 2020

Tumor hypoxia and the hypoxia inducible factor-1, HIF-1, play critical roles in cancer progression and metastasis. We previously showed that hypoxia activates the endosomal GTPase Rab5, leading to tumor cell migration and invasion, and that these events do not involve changes in Rab protein expression, suggesting the participation of intermediate activators. Here, we identified ALS2, a guanine nucleotide exchange factor that is upregulated in cancer, as responsible for increased Rab5-GTP loading, cell migration and metastasis in hypoxia. Specifically, hypoxia augmented ALS2 mRNA and protein levels, and these events involved HIF-1α-dependent transcription, as shown by RNAi, pharmacological inhibition, chromatin immunoprecipitation and bioinformatics analyses, which identified a functional HIF-1α-binding site in the proximal promoter region of ALS2. Moreover, ALS2 and Rab5 activity were elevated both in a model of endogenous HIF-1α stabilization (renal cell carcinoma) and by following expression of stable non-hydroxylatable HIF-1α. Strikingly, ALS2 upregulation in hypoxia was required for Rab5 activation, tumor cell migration and invasion, as well as experimental metastasis in C57BL/6 mice. Finally, immunohistochemical analyses in patient biopsies with renal cell carcinoma showed that elevated HIF-1α correlates with increased ALS2 expression. Hence, this study identifies ALS2 as a novel hypoxia-inducible gene associated with tumor progression and metastasis.
Activation of T helper cells in sentinel node predicts poor prognosis in oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Kågedal Åsa , Hjalmarsson Eric , Farrajota Neves da Silva Pedro , Piersiala Krzysztof , Georén Susanna Kumlien , Margolin Gregori , Munck-Wikland Eva , Winqvist Ola , Häyry Valtteri , Cardell Lars Olaf
Published: December 2020

Recurrence in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) significantly reduces overall survival. Improved understanding of the host’s immune status in head and neck cancer may facilitate identification of patients at higher risk of recurrence and improve patients’ selection for ongoing clinical trials assessing the effectiveness of immune checkpoint inhibitors (CPI). We aimed to investigate Sentinel Node-derived T-cells and their impact on survival. We enrolled prospectively 28 OSCC patients treated at Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden with primary tumour excision and elective neck dissection. On top of the standard treatment, the enrolled patients underwent sentinel node procedure. T cells derived from Sentinel nodes, non-sentinel nodes, primary tumour and PBMC were analyzed in flow cytometry. Patients who developed recurrence proved to have significantly lower level of CD4+ CD69+ in their sentinel node (31.38 ± 6.019% vs. 43.44 ± 15.33%, p = 0.0103) and significantly higher level of CD8+ CD HLA-DR+ (38.95 ± 9.479% vs. 24.58 ± 11.36%, p = 0.0116) compared to disease-free individuals. Survival analysis of studied population revealed that patients with low proportion of CD4+ CD69+ had significantly decreased disease-free survival (DFS) of 19.7 months (95% CI 12.6–26.9) compared with 42.6 months (95% CI 40.1–45.1) in those with high CD4+ CD69+ proportion in their Sentinel Nodes (log-rank test, p = 0.033). Our findings demonstrate that characterization of T-cell activation in Sentinel Node serves as a complementary prognostic marker. Flow cytometry of Sentinel Node may be useful in both patients’ surveillance and selection for ongoing CPI clinical trials in head and neck cancer.
Central dopamine D2 receptors regulate plasma glucose levels in mice through autonomic nerves
Authors: Ikeda Hiroko , Yonemochi Naomi , Mikami Risa , Abe Manabu , Kawamura Meiko , Natsume Rie , Sakimura Kenji , Waddington John L. , Kamei Junzo
Published: December 2020

Recent evidence suggests that the central nervous system (CNS) regulates plasma glucose levels, but the underlying mechanism is unclear. The present study investigated the role of dopaminergic function in the CNS in regulation of plasma glucose levels in mice. I.c.v. injection of neither the dopamine D1 receptor agonist SKF 38393 nor the antagonist SCH 23390 influenced plasma glucose levels. In contrast, i.c.v. injection of both the dopamine D2 receptor agonist quinpirole and the antagonist l-sulpiride increased plasma glucose levels. Hyperglycemia induced by quinpirole and l-sulpiride was absent in dopamine D2 receptor knockout mice. I.c.v. injection of quinpirole and l-sulpiride each increased mRNA levels of hepatic glucose-6-phosphatase and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase, which are the key enzymes for hepatic gluconeogenesis. Systemic injection of the β2 adrenoceptor antagonist ICI 118,551 inhibited hyperglycemia induced by l-sulpiride, but not by quinpirole. In contrast, hyperglycemia induced by quinpirole, but not by l-sulpiride, was inhibited by hepatic vagotomy. These results suggest that stimulation of central dopamine D2 receptors increases plasma glucose level by increasing hepatic glucose production through parasympathetic nerves, whereas inhibition of central dopamine D2 receptors increases plasma glucose level by increasing hepatic glucose production through sympathetic nerves.
Screening of native microalgae species for carbon fixation at the vicinity of Malaysian coal-fired power plant
Authors: Yahya Liyana , Harun Razif , Abdullah Luqman Chuah
Published: December 2020

Global warming has become a serious issue nowadays as the trend of CO2 emission is increasing by years. In Malaysia, the electricity and energy sector contributed a significant amount to the nation’s CO2 emission due to fossil fuel use. Many research works have been carried out to mitigate this issue, including carbon capture and utilization (CCUS) technology and biological carbon fixation by microalgae. This study makes a preliminary effort to screen native microalgae species in the Malaysian coal-fired power plant’s surrounding towards carbon fixation ability. Three dominant species, including Nannochloropsis sp., Tetraselmis sp., and Isochrysis sp. were identified and tested in the laboratory under ambient and pure CO2 condition to assess their growth and CO2 fixation ability. The results indicate Isochrysis sp. as the superior carbon fixer against other species. In continuation, the optimization study using Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was carried out to optimize the operating conditions of Isochrysis sp. using a customized lab-scale photobioreactor under simulated flue gas exposure. This species was further acclimatized and tested under actual flue gas generated by the power plant. Isochrysis sp. had shown its capability as a carbon fixer with CO2 fixation rate of 0.35 gCO2/L day under actual coal-fired flue gas exposure after cycles of acclimatization phase. This work is the first to demonstrate indigenous microalgae species' ability as a carbon fixer under Malaysian coal-fired flue gas exposure. Thus, the findings shall be useful in exploring the microalgae potential as a biological agent for carbon emission mitigation from power plants more sustainably.
Chemical genetic approach using β-rubromycin reveals that a RIO kinase-like protein is involved in morphological development in Phytophthora infestans
Authors: Tani Shuji , Nishio Naotaka , Kai Kenji , Hagiwara Daisuke , Ogata Yoshiyuki , Tojo Motoaki , Sumitani Jun-ichi , Judelson Howard S. , Kawaguchi Takashi
Published: December 2020

To characterize the molecular mechanisms underlying life-stage transitions in Phytophthora infestans, we initiated a chemical genetics approach by screening for a stage-specific inhibitor of morphological development from microbial culture extracts prepared mostly from actinomycetes from soil in Japan. Of the more than 700 extracts, one consistently inhibited Ph. infestans cyst germination. Purification and identification of the active compound by ESI–MS, 1H-NMR, and 13C-NMR identified β-rubromycin as the inhibitor of cyst germination (IC50 = 19.8 μg/L); β-rubromycin did not inhibit growth on rye media, sporangium formation, zoospore release, cyst formation, or appressorium formation in Ph. infestans. Further analyses revealed that β-rubromycin inhibited the germination of cysts and oospores in Pythium aphanidermatum. A chemical genetic approach revealed that β-rubromycin stimulated the expression of RIO kinase-like gene (PITG_04584) by 60-fold in Ph. infestans. Genetic analyses revealed that PITG_04584, which lacks close non-oomycete relatives, was involved in zoosporogenesis, cyst germination, and appressorium formation in Ph. infestans. These data imply that further functional analyses of PITG_04584 may contribute to new methods to suppress diseases caused by oomycetes.
Self-assembled particulate vaccine elicits strong immune responses and reduces Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis infection in mice
Authors: Gupta Sandeep K. , Parlane Natalie A. , Luo Dongwen , Rehm Bernd H. A. , Heiser Axel , Buddle Bryce M. , Wedlock D. Neil
Published: December 2020

Mycobacterium aviumsubspeciesparatuberculosis(MAP) causes chronic progressive granulomatous enteritis leading to diarrhoea, weight loss, and eventual death in ruminants. Commercially available vaccines provide only partial protection against MAP infection and can compromise the use of bovine tuberculosis diagnostic tests. Here, we report the development of a protein-particle-based vaccine containing MAP antigens Ag85A202–347-SOD1–72-Ag85B173–330-74F1–148+669–786as a fusion (‘MAP fusion protein particle’). The fusion antigen displayed on protein particles was identified using mass spectrometry. Surface exposure and accessibility of the fusion antigen was confirmed by flow cytometry and ELISA. The MAP fusion protein particle vaccine induced strong antigen-specific T-cell immune responses in mice, as indicated by increased cytokine (IFN-γ and IL-17A) and costimulatory signals (CD40 and CD86) in these animals. Following MAP-challenge, a significant reduction in bacterial burden was observed in multiple organs of the mice vaccinated with the MAP fusion protein particle vaccine compared with the PBS group. The reduction in severity of MAP infection conferred by the MAP fusion protein particle vaccine was similar to that of Silirum and recombinant protein vaccines. Overall, the results provide evidence that MAP antigens can be engineered as a protein particulate vaccine capable of inducing immunity against MAP infection. This utility offers an attractive platform for production of low-cost particulate vaccines against other intracellular pathogens.
Development of a sequencing system for spatial decoding of DNA barcode molecules at single-molecule resolution
Authors: Oguchi Yusuke , Shintaku Hirofumi , Uemura Sotaro
Published: December 2020

Single-cell transcriptome analysis has been revolutionized by DNA barcodes that index cDNA libraries, allowing highly multiplexed analyses to be performed. Furthermore, DNA barcodes are being leveraged for spatial transcriptomes. Although spatial resolution relies on methods used to decode DNA barcodes, achieving single-molecule decoding remains a challenge. Here, we developed an in-house sequencing system inspired by a single-molecule sequencing system, HeliScope, to spatially decode DNA barcode molecules at single-molecule resolution. We benchmarked our system with 30 types of DNA barcode molecules and obtained an average read length of ~20 nt with an error rate of less than 5% per nucleotide, which was sufficient to spatially identify them. Additionally, we spatially identified DNA barcode molecules bound to antibodies at single-molecule resolution. Leveraging this, we devised a method, termed “molecular foot printing”, showing potential for applying our system not only to spatial transcriptomics, but also to spatial proteomics.
β-arrestin mediates communication between plasma membrane and intracellular GPCRs to regulate signaling
Authors: DeNies Maxwell S. , Smrcka Alan V. , Schnell Santiago , Liu Allen P.
Published: December 2020

It has become increasingly apparent that G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) localization is a master regulator of cell signaling. However, the molecular mechanisms involved in this process are not well understood. To date, observations of intracellular GPCR activation can be organized into two categories: a dependence on OCT3 cationic channel-permeable ligands or the necessity of endocytic trafficking. Using CXC chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4) as a model, we identified a third mechanism of intracellular GPCR signaling. We show that independent of membrane permeable ligands and endocytosis, upon stimulation, plasma membrane and internal pools of CXCR4 are post-translationally modified and collectively regulate EGR1 transcription. We found that β-arrestin-1 (arrestin 2) is necessary to mediate communication between plasma membrane and internal pools of CXCR4. Notably, these observations may explain that while CXCR4 overexpression is highly correlated with cancer metastasis and mortality, plasma membrane localization is not. Together these data support a model where a small initial pool of plasma membrane-localized GPCRs are capable of activating internal receptor-dependent signaling events.
Submolecular probing of the complement C5a receptor–ligand binding reveals a cooperative two-site binding mechanism
Authors: Dumitru Andra C. , Deepak R. N. V. Krishna , Liu Heng , Koehler Melanie , Zhang Cheng , Fan Hao , Alsteens David
Published: December 2020

A current challenge to produce effective therapeutics is to accurately determine the location of the ligand-biding site and to characterize its properties. So far, the mechanisms underlying the functional activation of cell surface receptors by ligands with a complex binding mechanism remain poorly understood due to a lack of suitable nanoscopic methods to study them in their native environment. Here, we elucidated the ligand-binding mechanism of the human G protein-coupled C5a receptor (C5aR). We discovered for the first time a cooperativity between the two orthosteric binding sites. We found that the N-terminus C5aR serves as a kinetic trap, while the transmembrane domain acts as the functional site and both contributes to the overall high-affinity interaction. In particular, Asp282 plays a key role in ligand binding thermodynamics, as revealed by atomic force microscopy and steered molecular dynamics simulation. Our findings provide a new structural basis for the functional and mechanistic understanding of the GPCR family that binds large macromolecular ligands.
Surface-wave instability without inertia in shear-thickening suspensions
Authors: Darbois Texier Baptiste , Lhuissier Henri , Forterre Yoël , Metzger Bloen
Published: December 2020

Recent simulations and experiments have shown that shear-thickening of dense particle suspensions corresponds to a frictional transition. Based on this understanding, non-monotonic rheological laws have been proposed and successfully tested in rheometers. These recent advances offer a unique opportunity for moving beyond rheometry and tackling quantitatively hydrodynamic flows of shear-thickening suspensions. Here, we investigate the flow of a shear-thickening suspension down an inclined plane and show that, at large volume fractions, surface kinematic waves can spontaneously emerge. Curiously, the instability develops at low Reynolds numbers, and therefore does not fit into the classical framework of Kapitza or ‘roll-waves’ instabilities based on inertia. We show that this instability, that we call ‘Oobleck waves’, arises from the sole coupling between the non-monotonic (S-shape) rheological laws of shear-thickening suspensions and the flow free surface.
Quantum annealing using vacuum states as effective excited states of driven systems
Authors: Goto Hayato , Kanao Taro
Published: December 2020

Quantum annealing, which is particularly useful for combinatorial optimization, becomes more powerful by using excited states, in addition to ground states. However, such excited-state quantum annealing is prone to errors due to dissipation. Here we propose excited-state quantum annealing started with the most stable state, i.e., vacuum states. This counterintuitive approach becomes possible by using effective energy eigenstates of driven quantum systems. To demonstrate this concept, we use a network of Kerr-nonlinear parametric oscillators, where we can start excited-state quantum annealing with the vacuum state of the network by appropriately setting initial detuning frequencies for the oscillators. By numerical simulations of four oscillators, we show that the present approach can solve some hard instances whose optimal solutions cannot be obtained by standard ground-state quantum annealing because of energy-gap closing. In this approach, a nonadiabatic transition at an energy-gap closing point is rather utilized. We also show that this approach is robust against errors due to dissipation, as expected, compared to quantum annealing started with physical excited (i.e., nonvacuum) states. These results open new possibilities for quantum computation and driven quantum systems.
Airborne microplastic particles detected in the remote marine atmosphere
Authors: Trainic Miri , Flores J. Michel , Pinkas Iddo , Pedrotti Maria Luiza , Lombard Fabien , Bourdin Guillaume , Gorsky Gabriel , Boss Emmanuel , Rudich Yinon , Vardi Assaf , Koren Ilan
Published: December 2020

Anthropogenic pollution from marine microplastic particles is a growing concern, both as a source of toxic compounds, and because they can transport pathogens and other pollutants. Airborne microplastic particles were previously observed over terrestrial and coastal locations, but not in the remote ocean. Here, we collected ambient aerosol samples in the North Atlantic Ocean, including the remote marine atmosphere, during the Tara Pacific expedition in May-June 2016, and chemically characterized them using micro-Raman spectroscopy. We detected a range of airborne microplastics, including polystyrene, polyethylene, polypropylene, and poly-silicone compounds. Polyethylene and polypropylene were also found in seawater, suggesting local production of airborne microplastic particles. Terminal velocity estimations and back trajectory analysis support this conclusion. For technical reasons, only particles larger than 5 µm, at the upper end of a typical marine atmospheric size distribution, were analyzed, suggesting that our analyses underestimate the presence of airborne microplastic particles in the remote marine atmosphere.
Near-complete loss of fire-resistant primary tropical forest cover in Sumatra and Kalimantan
Authors: Nikonovas Tadas , Spessa Allan , Doerr Stefan H. , Clay Gareth D. , Mezbahuddin Symon
Published: December 2020

Deforestation in Indonesia in recent decades has made increasingly large parts of the region vulnerable to fires. Burning is particularly widespread in deforested peatlands, and it leads to globally significant carbon emissions. Here we use satellite-based observations to assess loss and fragmentation of primary forests and associated changes in fire regimes in Sumatra and Kalimantan between 2001 and 2019. We find that fires did not penetrate undisturbed primary forest areas deeper than two kilometres from the forest edge irrespective of drought conditions. However, fire-resistant forest now covers only 3% of peatlands and 4.5% of non-peatlands; the majority of the remaining primary forests are severely fragmented or degraded due to proximity to the forest edge. We conclude that protection and regeneration of the remaining blocks of contiguous primary forest, as well as peatland restoration, are urgently needed to mitigate the impacts of potentially more frequent fire events under future global warming.
A molecularly imprinted poly 2-aminophenol–gold nanoparticle–reduced graphene oxide composite for electrochemical determination of flutamide in environmental and biological samples
Authors: Kadivar Mohammad , Aliakbar Alireza
Published: December 2020

A selective and sensitive electrochemical sensor based on reduced graphene oxide, gold nanoparticles, and molecularly imprinted poly 2-aminophenol was developed for electrochemical determination of flutamide in environmental and biological samples.
Stabilization of a 12-π electrons diamino-benzoquinonediimine tautomer
Authors: Longevial Jean-François , Chen Zhongrui , Pascal Simon , Canard Gabriel , Jacquemin Denis , Siri Olivier
Published: December 2020

We explore tautomerism and its consequences in the first example of diamino-benzoquinonediimine bearing both electron-donating and electron-withdrawing groups on the same 6-π electron subunit.
A Broccoli aptamer chimera yields a fluorescent K+ sensor spanning physiological concentrations
Authors: Savage Jonathan C. , Shinde Pushkar , Yao Yizhou , Davare Monika A. , Shinde Ujwal
Published: December 2020

We engineered a fluorescent mixed chemistry RNA chimera using 2′fluorinated pyrimidine analogues that detect K+ spanning 0.1–100 mM.
Terahertz response of dl-alanine: experiment and theory
Authors: Sanders T. J. , Allen J. L. , Horvat J. , Lewis R. A.
Published: December 2020

Numerical calculations and experiments have identified large-scale molecular vibrations leading to unique terahertz spectral absorptions observed in dl-alanine.
Molybdenum-decorated V2O5–WO3/TiO2: surface engineering toward boosting the acid cycle and redox cycle of NH3-SCR
Authors: Chen Ziyi , Wu Xiaomin , Ni Kaiwen , Shen Huazhen , Huang Zhiwei , Zhou Zuoming , Jing Guohua
Published: December 2020

Submonolayer Mo-decorated V2O5–WO3/TiO2 provides abundant vanadia species and unsaturated V4+ species, accelerating the acid and redox cycling of low-temperature NH3-SCR.
Magnetism in a helicate complexes arising with the tetradentate ligand
Authors: Ohmagari Hitomi , Nakaya Manabu , Tanaka Kaisei , Zenno Hikaru , Akiyoshi Ryohei , Sekine Yoshihiro , Zhang Yingjie , Min Kil Sik , Hasegawa Miki , Lindoy Leonard F. , Hayami Shinya
Published: December 2020

The synthesis of [M(dimphen)(NCS)2] (MII = Fe (1), Co (2), Mn (3)) and [Fe(dimphen)(NCSe)2] (4), where dimphen = [1,2-bis(9-methyl-1,10-phenanthrolin-2-yl)ethane], are reported. 1 shows ferromagnetic interaction, and 2 displays single-molecular magnet behaviour.
Words in supramolecular chemistry: the ineffable advances of polyiodide chemistry
Authors: Savastano Matteo
Published: December 2020

Foundations of the discording vocabulary of novel supramolecular interactions lay onto polyiodide chemistry. Reviewing advancements in the field, we tackle I⋯I contacts understanding, rationalization, and language on semantic and scientific grounds.
Correction: A comparative study on sulfide removal by HClO and KMnO4 in drinking water
Authors: Huang Yeju , Liu Zaohong , Guo Yuanyuan , Lin Qin , Liao Xiaobin , Qi Huan
Published: December 2020

Correction for ‘A comparative study on sulfide removal by HClO and KMnO4 in drinking water’ by Yeju Huang et al., Environ. Sci.: Water Res. Technol., 2020, 6, 2871–2880, DOI: 10.1039/D0EW00629G.
Staple food and health: a comparative study of physiology and gut microbiota of mice fed with potato and traditional staple foods (corn, wheat and rice)
Authors: Ruan Siyu , Wang Lin , Li Yunliang , Li Peiyu , Ren Yuhan , Gao Ruichang , Ma Haile
Published: December 2020

Potato served better than traditional staple foods in controlling bacterial infection and improving glycometabolism and immunologic function by a favorable gut microbiota modulation.
Resveratrol attenuates dapagliflozin-induced renal gluconeogenesis via activating the PI3K/Akt pathway and suppressing the FoxO1 pathway in type 2 diabetes
Authors: Sun Xiaoya , Cao Ziqiang , Ma Yuanyuan , Shao Yimin , Zhang Junqing , Yuan Geheng , Guo Xiaohui
Published: December 2020

Resveratrol ameliorated dapagliflozin-induced renal gluconeogenesis by activating the PI3K/Akt pathway and suppressing the FoxO1 signaling pathway.
Novel solid sampling electrothermal vaporization atomic absorption spectrometry for fast detection of cadmium in grain samples
Authors: Xing Peizhe , Li Xue , Feng Li , Mao Xuefei
Published: December 2020

In this work, a novel and green solid sampling method of Cd in grain samples was established based on electrothermal vaporization atomic absorption spectrometry (ETV-AAS).
Improved performance of solution processed OLEDs using N-annulated perylene diimide emitters with bulky side-chains
Authors: Dayneko Sergey V. , Cieplechowicz Edward , Bhojgude Sachin Suresh , Van Humbeck Jeffrey F. , Pahlevani Majid , Welch Gregory C.
Published: December 2020

We report the design and synthesis of three N-annulated perylene diimide (PDI) compounds containing sterically bulky alkyl-substituted benzyl moieties (PDI-X, where X = 1, 2, 3) and explore their use as light emitting materials in solution processed OLED devices.
Separation and purification of horseradish peroxidase from horseradish roots using a novel integrated method
Authors: Ji Wei , Ao Wenmei , Sun Mengqiu , Feng Chunlai , Wang Yun
Published: December 2020

The aim of the present work was to develop a novel method integrating two-step aqueous two-phase extraction and temperature-controlled affinity precipitation for the separation and purification of horseradish peroxidase (HRP) from horseradish roots.
Efficient sucrose-derived mesoporous carbon sphere electrodes with enhanced hydrophilicity for water capacitive deionization at low cell voltages
Authors: Mohamed Shaimaa K. , Elsalam Sara Abd , Shahat Ahmed , Hassan Hassan M. A. , Kamel Rasha M.
Published: December 2020

Mesoporous carbon spheres synthesized by a hard template approach. Low contact angle and better hydrophilicity. MCS electrodes can desalinate water at a low cell voltage of 0.8 V.
Silver-catalyzed tandem cycloisomerization/hydroarylation reactions and mechanistic investigations for an efficient access to 1,2-dihydroisoquinolines
Authors: De Abreu Maxime , Tang Yue , Brachet Etienne , Selkti Mohamed , Michelet Véronique , Belmont Philippe
Published: December 2020

A combination of AcOH and Ag catalyst induced an efficient tandem reaction to form 1,2-dihydroisoquinoline derivatives. Highly functionalized multiheterocyclic scaffolds are accessible straightforwardly using readily available starting materials.
Synthesis and evaluation of sensitive coumarin-based fluorogenic substrates for discovery of α-N-acetyl galactosaminidases through droplet-based screening
Authors: Chen Hong-Ming , Nasseri Seyed Amirhossein , Rahfeld Peter , Wardman Jacob F. , Kohsiek Maurits , Withers Stephen G.
Published: December 2020

Synthesis of sensitive coumarin α-GalNAc glycosides as substrates for droplet-based screening of GalNAcases.
A method to detect immunoreactions on the basis of current vs. concentration slope – an electrochemical approach
Authors: Gupta Jagriti , Bisht Jyoti , Agrawal Mini , Bhattacharya Jaydeep , Sen Prasenjit , Ghosh Moulick Ranjita
Published: December 2020

Synthesis of Cu nanoparticle by Electro-Explosion of Wire (EEW) technique for immunosensing application.
One-pot mechanochemical exfoliation of graphite andin situpolymerization of aniline for the production of graphene/polyaniline composites for high-performance supercapacitors
Authors: Jiang Yulin , Ji Jiawen , Huang Leping , He Chengen , Zhang Jinlong , Wang Xianggang , Yang Yingkui
Published: December 2020

Efficient ball-milling production of graphene/polyaniline composites as supercapacitor electrodes with enhanced capacitive contribution, rate capability, and specific capacitance.
A new synthetic route for the preparation of [Os3(CO)10(μ-OH)(μ-H)] and its reaction with bis(diphenylphosphino)methane (dppm): syntheses and X-ray structures of two isomers of [Os3(CO)8(μ-OH)(μ-H)(μ-dppm)] and [Os3(CO)7(μ3-CO)(μ3-O)(μ-dppm)]
Authors: Joy Md. Tuhinur R. , Bhoumik Nikhil C. , Ghosh Shishir , Richmond Michael G. , Kabir Shariff E.
Published: December 2020

The cluster [Os3(CO)10(μ-OH)(μ-H)] was obtained in 75% from the hydrolysis of [Os3(CO)10(NCMe)2].
A pH-stable Ag(i) multifunctional luminescent sensor for the efficient detection of organic solvents, organochlorine pesticides and heavy metal ions
Authors: Ma Jianxin , Wang Yue , Liu Guocheng , Xu Na , Wang Xiuli
Published: December 2020

3D supramolecular LCP 1 can detect Hacac, NB, 2,6-DCN, Fe2+, Hg2+, and Fe3+ with a low detection limit and pH stability.
Delocalised kinetic Monte Carlo for simulating delocalisation-enhanced charge and exciton transport in disordered materials
Authors: Balzer Daniel , Smolders Thijs J. A. M. , Blyth David , Hood Samantha N. , Kassal Ivan
Published: December 2020

The first three-dimensional model of transport in moderately disordered materials shows that a little delocalisation can dramatically enhance mobilities.
Interstitial and substitutional light elements in transition metals for heterogeneous catalysis
Authors: Chen Tianyi , Foo Christopher , Edman Tsang Shik Chi
Published: December 2020

TOC summarises some recent developments in synthesis, characterisation and catalytic applications of light elements doped to transition metals presented in this article.
Practical increases in power output from soil-based microbial fuel cells under dynamic temperature variations
Authors: Gong Lingling , Abbaszadeh Amirdehi Mehran , Miled Amine , Greener Jesse
Published: December 2020

Oscillating ambient temperatures cause spikes in output voltage of soil microbial fuel cells, independent of temperature direction. The resulting output is higher than could be achieved at any constant temperature.
Conjugated copolymers as doping- and annealing-free hole transport materials for highly stable and efficient p–i–n perovskite solar cells
Authors: Ma Hui , Yuan Ligang , Chen Qiaoyun , Fu Jianfei , Zhang Jiajia , Jiang Zhixuan , Dong Bin , Zhou Yi , Yin Shouchun , Song Bo
Published: December 2020

Significant advances in organic–inorganic halide perovskite solar cells (Pero-SCs) have been achieved in recent times.
Deep surface passivation for efficient and hydrophobic perovskite solar cells
Authors: Xia Junmin , Liang Chao , Mei Shiliang , Gu Hao , He Bingchen , Zhang Zhipeng , Liu Tanghao , Wang Kaiyang , Wang Sisi , Chen Shi , Cai Yongqing , Xing Guichuan
Published: December 2020

CF3PEAI, an amphipathic passivation agent, can passivate multiple perovskite defects leading to high performance and stability of perovskite solar cells.
Unprecedented electrocatalytic oxygen evolution performances by cobalt-incorporated molybdenum carbide microflowers with controlled charge re-distribution
Authors: Sher Shah Md. Selim Arif , Paidi Vinod K. , Jung Hyeonjung , Kim Sungsoon , Lee Geunsik , Han Jeong Woo , Lee Kug-Seung , Park Jong Hyeok
Published: December 2020

Enhanced OER properties of 3D microflowers of molybdenum carbide (MC) was realized by monitoring electron transfer from incorporated cobalt that modifies electronic structure of the former and favors adsorption of the oxygen containing intermediates.
An eco-friendly nitrate-free method for the synthesis of silver nanowires with reduced diameters
Authors: Zhao Wei , Wang Sha-Sha , Zhao Chun-Bao , Cao Hong-Tao , Zhang He , Peng Ai-Zhong , Dong Hong-jin , Xie Ling-Hai , Huang Wei
Published: December 2020

Ag NWs with reduced diameters were synthesized from an eco-friendly AgOAc precursor instead of AgNO3.
Linking Peer-Mediated Interventions to Address Conversational Difficulties in Adolescents With Autism
Authors: Bambara Linda M. , Cole Christine L. , Thomas Amanda
Published: December 2020

Purpose

Adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) commonly experience an array of pragmatic language difficulties that can interfere with their ability to engage in reciprocal or balanced conversations with their peers. Difficulties with the use of language during peer encounters can contribute to these students' social isolation even when in inclusive settings. Increasingly, researchers have identified effective approaches for teaching conversational skills to individuals with ASD, but there are few demonstrations of effective interventions in high school settings. Peer-mediated intervention (PMI) is one approach that can embody research-based recommendations for teaching conversational skills (e.g., direct instruction, teaching in natural settings, use of peer partners). This clinical focus article describes effective PMI strategies for improving the social conversations of high school students with ASD based on our (the authors') emerging research.

Conclusions

UsingFey's (1986)classification scheme, the article begins with an illustration of different conversational profiles of adolescents with ASD and associated goals for intervention. Next, key components of our PMI approach are described, followed by detailed illustrations of three research-based intervention strategies that speech-language pathologists can use to address different conversational goals. Emphasis is placed on strategies for teaching students with ASD target skills and training peers to support conversation. Outcomes and clinical reflections of our intervention research are described. Finally, the article ends with a discussion of additional considerations for speech-language pathologists regarding implementation and generalization.

Supplemental Material

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.13308470
Solar activity and responses observed in Balmer lines
Authors: Marchenko S. , Criscuoli S. , DeLand M. T. , Choudhary D. P. , Kopp G.
Published: December 2020

Context. Many stars show Sun-like magnetic activity cycles, which are frequently observed by tracking changes in the chromospherically sensitive CaII H&K doublet. However, relationships between the line profile changes related to the magnetic activity seen in strong spectral transitions in other portions of a stellar spectrum are yet to be understood.

Aims. We follow variability patterns in various solar lines in order to relate them to the emergence, passage, and decay of active solar regions.

Methods. The line activity indices (core-to-wing ratio) for the upper Balmer lines – Hβ, Hγ, and Hδ – are constructed from the near-daily solar measurements acquired by the Ozone Monitoring Instrument and the TROPOspheric Monitoring Instrument.

Results. On solar rotation timescales, the upper Balmer line activity indices closely follow variations in the total solar irradiance, r ∼ −(0.6 − 0.7), and thus frequently deviate from the behavior of the line activity indices that track chromospheric activity levels (e.g., the CH 430 nm band used in this study), specifically during passages of big sunspot groups.
Pebbles in an embedded protostellar disk: the case of CB 26
Authors: Zhang Chuan-Peng , Launhardt Ralf , Liu Yao , Tobin John J. , Henning Thomas
Published: December 2020

Context.Planetary cores are thought to form in proto-planetary disks via the growth of dusty solid material. However, it is unclear how early this process begins.

Aims.We study the physical structure and grain growth in the edge-on disk that surrounds the ≈1 Myr old low-mass (≈0.55M⊙) protostar embedded in the Bok globule CB26 to examine how much grain growth has already occurred in the protostellar phase.

Methods.We combine the spectral energy distribution between 0.9μm and 6.4 cm with high-angular-resolution continuum maps at 1.3, 2.9, and 8.1 mm and use the radiative transfer codeRADMC-3Dto conduct a detailed modeling of the dust emission from the disk and envelope of CB 26.

Results.Given the presence of a central disk cavity, we infer inner and outer disk radii of 16−8+37and 172 ± 22 au, respectively. The total gas mass in the disk is 7.610−2M⊙, which amounts to ≈14% of the mass of the central star. The inner disk contains a compact free-free emission region, which could be related to either a jet or a photoevaporation region. The thermal dust emission from the outer disk is optically thin at millimeter wavelengths, while the emission from the inner disk midplane is moderately optically thick. Our best-fit radiative transfer models indicate that the dust grains in the disk have already grown to pebbles with diameters on the order of 10 cm in size. Residual 8.1 mm emission suggests the presence of even larger particles in the inner disk. For the optically thin millimeter dust emission from the outer disk, we derive a mean opacity slope ofβmm≈ 0.7 ± 0.4, which is consistent with the presence of large dust grains.

Conclusions.The presence of centimeter-sized bodies in the CB 26 disk indicates that solids are already growing rapidly during the first million years in a protostellar disk. It is thus possible that Class II disks are already seeded with large particles and may even contain planetesimals.
Forbidden hugs in pandemic times
Authors: Pastorello A. , Fraser M. , Valerin G. , Reguitti A. , Itagaki K. , Ochner P. , Williams S. C. , Jones D. , Munday J. , Smartt S. J. , Smith K. W. , Srivastav S. , Elias-Rosa N. , Kankare E. , Karamehmetoglu E. , Lundqvist P. , Mazzali P. A. , Munari U. , Stritzinger M. D. , Tomasella L. , Anderson J. P. , Chambers K. C. , Rest A.
Published: December 2020

We present the follow-up campaign of the luminous red nova (LRN)AT 2019zhd, the third event of this class observed inM 31. The object was followed by several sky surveys for about five months before the outburst, during which it showed a slow luminosity rise. In this phase, the absolute magnitude ranged fromMr = −2.8 ± 0.2 mag toMr = −5.6 ± 0.1 mag. Then, over a four to five day period,AT 2019zhdexperienced a major brightening, reaching a peak ofMr = −9.61 ± 0.08 mag and an optical luminosity of 1.4 × 1039erg s−1. After a fast decline, the light curve settled onto a short-duration plateau in the red bands. Although less pronounced, this feature is reminiscent of the second red maximum observed in other LRNe. This phase was followed by a rapid linear decline in all bands. At maximum, the spectra show a blue continuum with prominent Balmer emission lines. The post-maximum spectra show a much redder continuum, resembling that of an intermediate-type star. In this phase, Hαbecomes very weak, Hβis no longer detectable, and a forest of narrow absorption metal lines now dominate the spectrum. The latest spectra, obtained during the post-plateau decline, show a very red continuum (Teff≈ 3000 K) with broad molecular bands of TiO, similar to those of M-type stars. The long-lasting, slow photometric rise observed before the peak resembles that of LRNV1309 Sco, which was interpreted as the signature of the common-envelope ejection. The subsequent outburst is likely due to the gas outflow following a stellar merging event. The inspection of archival HST images taken 22 years before the LRN discovery reveals a faint red source (MF555W = 0.21 ± 0.14 mag, withF555W − F814W = 2.96 ± 0.12 mag) at the position ofAT 2019zhd, which is the most likely quiescent precursor. The source is consistent with expectations for a binary system including a predominant M5-type star.