bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Low-energy electron beam has severe impact on seedling development compared to cold atmospheric pressure plasma
Authors: Waskow A. , Butscher D. , Oberbossel G. , Klöti D. , Rudolf von Rohr P. , Büttner-Mainik A. , Drissner D. , Schuppler M.
Published: August 2021

Sprouts are germinated seeds that are often consumed due to their high nutritional content and health benefits. However, the conditions for germination strongly support the proliferation of present bacteria, including foodborne pathogens. Since sprouts are consumed raw or minimally processed, they are frequently linked to cases of food poisoning. Therefore, a seed decontamination method that provides efficient inactivation of microbial pathogens, while maintaining the germination capacity and quality of the seeds is in high demand. This study aimed to investigate and compare seed decontamination by cold atmospheric-pressure plasma and low-energy electron beam with respect to their impact on seed and seedling quality. The results show that both technologies provide great potential for inactivation of microorganisms on seeds, while cold plasma yielded a higher efficiency with 5 log units compared to a maximum of 3 log units after electron beam treatment. Both techniques accelerated seed germination, defined by the percentage of hypocotyl and leaf emergence at 3 days, with short plasma treatment (< 120 s) and all applied doses of electron beam treatment (8–60 kGy). However, even the lowest dose of electron beam treatment at 8 kGy in this study caused root abnormalities in seedlings, suggesting a detrimental effect on the seed tissue. Seeds treated with cold plasma had an eroded seed coat and increased seed wettability compared to electron beam treated seeds. However, these effects cannot explain the increase in the germination capacity of seeds as this was observed for both techniques. Future studies should focus on the investigation of the mechanisms causing accelerated seed germination and root abnormalities by characterizing the molecular and physiological impact of cold plasma and electron beam on seed tissue.
A molecular test based on RT-LAMP for rapid, sensitive and inexpensive colorimetric detection of SARS-CoV-2 in clinical samples
Authors: Amaral Catarina , Antunes Wilson , Moe Elin , Duarte Américo G. , Lima Luís M. P. , Santos Cristiana , Gomes Inês L. , Afonso Gonçalo S. , Vieira Ricardo , Teles Helena Sofia S. , Reis Marisa S. , da Silva Manuel A. Ramalho , Henriques Ana Margarida , Fevereiro Miguel , Ventura M. Rita , Serrano Mónica , Pimentel Catarina
Published: August 2021

Until there is an effective implementation of COVID-19 vaccination program, a robust testing strategy, along with prevention measures, will continue to be the most viable way to control disease spread. Such a strategy should rely on disparate diagnostic tests to prevent a slowdown in testing due to lack of materials and reagents imposed by supply chain problems, which happened at the beginning of the pandemic. In this study, we have established a single-tube test based on RT-LAMP that enables the visual detection of less than 100 viral genome copies of SARS-CoV-2 within 30 min. We benchmarked the assay against the gold standard test for COVID-19 diagnosis, RT-PCR, using 177 nasopharyngeal RNA samples. For viral loads above 100 copies, the RT-LAMP assay had a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 96.1%. Additionally, we set up a RNA extraction-free RT-LAMP test capable of detecting SARS-CoV-2 directly from saliva samples, albeit with lower sensitivity. The saliva was self-collected and the collection tube remained closed until inactivation, thereby ensuring the protection of the testing personnel. As expected, RNA extraction from saliva samples increased the sensitivity of the test. To lower the costs associated with RNA extraction, we performed this step using an alternative protocol that uses plasmid DNA extraction columns. We also produced the enzymes needed for the assay and established an in-house-made RT-LAMP test independent of specific distribution channels. Finally, we developed a new colorimetric method that allowed the detection of LAMP products by the visualization of an evident color shift, regardless of the reaction pH.
Effect of L-shaped heat source and magnetic field on heat transfer and irreversibilities in nanofluid-filled oblique complex enclosure
Authors: Zhang Xiao-Hong , Saeed Tareq , Algehyne Ebrahem A. , El-Shorbagy M. A. , El-Refaey Adel M. , Ibrahim Muhammad
Published: August 2021

In this paper, the natural convection heat transfer of water/alumina nanofluid is investigated in a closed square cavity. An oblique magnetic field is applied on the cavity of angle $$\gamma$$
γ
. There is also radiation heat transfer in the cavity. The cavity includes a high-temperature source of L-shape. A low-temperature source as a quadrant of a circle is placed at the corner of the cavity. All other walls are well insulated. The novelty of this work is a low-temperature obstacle embedded in the cavity. Simulations are conducted with a Fortran code based on the control volume method and simple algorithm. Entropy generation rate, Bejan number, and heat transfer are studied by changing different parameters. Results indicate that the highest rates of heat transfer and entropy generation have occurred for the perpendicular magnetic field at high values of the Rayleigh number. At these Rayleigh numbers, the minimum value of the Bejan number is obtained for 15° magnetic field. The magnetic field variation can lead to a change up to 53% in Nusselt number and up to 34% in generated entropy. In a weak magnetic field, the involvement of the radiation heat transfer mechanism leads to an increase in the heat transfer rate so that the Nusselt number can be increased by ten units considering the radiation heat transfer when there is no magnetic field. The maximum heat transfer rate occurs in the horizontal cavity and the minimum value in the cavity of 60° angle. For water, these values are 10.75 and 9.98 for 0 and 60 angles, respectively. Moreover, a weak magnetic field increases the heat transfer rate in the absence of the radiation mechanism, while it is reduced by considering a strong magnetic field.
A simple mathematical model for the evaluation of the long first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil
Authors: Tang Yuanji , Serdan Tamires D. A. , Alecrim Amanda L. , Souza Diego R. , Nacano Bruno R. M. , Silva Flaviano L. R. , Silva Eliane B. , Poma Sarah O. , Gennari-Felipe Matheus , Iser-Bem Patrícia N. , Masi Laureane N. , Tang Sherry , Levada-Pires Adriana C. , Hatanaka Elaine , Cury-Boaventura Maria F. , Borges Fernanda T. , Pithon-Curi Tania C. , Curpertino Marli C. , Fiamoncini Jarlei , Leandro Carol Gois , Gorjao Renata , Curi Rui , Hirabara Sandro Massao
Published: August 2021

We propose herein a mathematical model to predict the COVID-19 evolution and evaluate the impact of governmental decisions on this evolution, attempting to explain the long duration of the pandemic in the 26 Brazilian states and their capitals well as in the Federative Unit. The prediction was performed based on the growth rate of new cases in a stable period, and the graphics plotted with the significant governmental decisions to evaluate the impact on the epidemic curve in each Brazilian state and city. Analysis of the predicted new cases was correlated with the total number of hospitalizations and deaths related to COVID-19. Because Brazil is a vast country, with high heterogeneity and complexity of the regional/local characteristics and governmental authorities among Brazilian states and cities, we individually predicted the epidemic curve based on a specific stable period with reduced or minimal interference on the growth rate of new cases. We found good accuracy, mainly in a short period (weeks). The most critical governmental decisions had a significant temporal impact on pandemic curve growth. A good relationship was found between the predicted number of new cases and the total number of inpatients and deaths related to COVID-19. In summary, we demonstrated that interventional and preventive measures directly and significantly impact the COVID-19 pandemic using a simple mathematical model. This model can easily be applied, helping, and directing health and governmental authorities to make further decisions to combat the pandemic.
Evaluation of acetylation and methylation in oral rinse of patients with head and neck cancer history exposed to valproic acid
Authors: Gama Ricardo Ribeiro , Arantes Lidia Maria Rebolho Batista , Sorroche Bruna Pereira , De Marchi Pedro , Melendez Matias Eliseo , Carvalho Raiany Santos , de Lima Marcos Alves , Vettore André Luiz , Carvalho André Lopes
Published: August 2021

Evaluate the biological action of valproic acid in the acetylation of histones and in the methylation of tumor suppressor genes via oral rinse in patients with a previous history of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Forty-two active or former smokers were included in this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Oral rinse samples were collected prior to treatment with valproic acid or placebo and after 90 days of treatment. The methylation status of five tumor suppressor genes and histone acetylation were evaluated by pyrosequencing and ELISA techniques, respectively. Differences between the 90-day and baseline oral rinse acetylation and methylation results were analyzed by comparing groups. Thirty-four patients were considered for analysis. The mean percentage adherence in the valproic and placebo groups was 93.4 and 93.0, respectively (p = 0.718). There was no statistically significant difference between groups when comparing the medians of the histone acetylation ratio and the methylation ratio for most of the studied genes. A significant reduction in the DCC methylation pattern was observed in the valproic group (p = 0.023). The use of valproic acid was safe and accompanied by good therapeutic adherence. DCC methylation was lower in the valproic acid group than in the placebo group.
shRNA transgenic swine display resistance to infection with the foot-and-mouth disease virus
Authors: Hu Wenping , Zheng Haixue , Li Qiuyan , Wang Yuhang , Liu Xiangtao , Hu Xiaoxiang , Liu Wenjie , Liu Shen , Chen Zhisheng , Feng Wenhai , Cai Xuepeng , Li Ning
Published: August 2021

Foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) is one of the most important animal pathogens in the world. FMDV naturally infects swine, cattle, and other cloven-hoofed animals. FMD is not adequately controlled by vaccination. An alternative strategy is to develop swine that are genetically resistant to infection. Here, we generated FMDV-specific shRNA transgenic cells targeting either nonstructural protein 2B or polymerase 3D of FMDV. The shRNA-positive transgenic cells displayed significantly lower viral production than that of the control cells after infection with FMDV (P < 0.05). Twenty-three transgenic cloned swine (TGCS) and nine non-transgenic cloned swine (Non-TGCS) were produced by somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT). In the FMDV challenge study, one TGCS was completely protected, no clinical signs, no viremia and no viral RNA in the tissues, no non-structural antibody response, another one TGCS swine recovered after showing clinical signs for two days, whereas all of the normal control swine (NS) and Non-TGCS developed typical clinical signs, viremia and viral RNA was determined in the tissues, the non-structural antibody was determined, and one Non-TGCS swine died. The viral RNA load in the blood and tissues of the TGCS was reduced in both challenge doses. These results indicated that the TGCS displayed resistance to the FMDV infection. Immune cells, including CD3+, CD4+, CD8+, CD21+, and CD172+ cells, and the production of IFN-γ were analyzed, there were no significant differences observed between the TGCS and NS or Non-TGCS, suggesting that the FMDV resistance may be mainly derived from the RNAi-based antiviral pathway. Our work provides a foundation for a breeding approach to preventing infectious disease in swine.
DNA sequence and community structure diversity of multi-year soil fungi in Grape of Xinjiang
Authors: Xue Feng , Liu Tong
Published: August 2021

This study is designed to understand the community structure and diversity of fungi in the rhizosphere soil of grape. As the sample for this study, the rhizosphere soil of Crimson seedless grape with different planting years was collected from Shihezi in Xinjiang to carry out high-throughput sequencing, by which the complete sequence of soil fungi DNA was identified, and accordingly, the richness and diversity index of fungi were determined. The results showed that the dominant phyla of fungi in the grape rhizosphere soil with different planting years were Ascomycota and Basidiomycota, and the dominant classes of fungi were Sordariomycetes and Dothideomycetes. Soil organic matter, total potassium, total nitrogen and available phosphorus were the main soil fertility factors affecting the abundance and diversity of soil fungal communities, among which soil organic matter had the most significant influence. In addition, the fungal diversity and richness were highest in the middle layer (20–35 cm) of the grape rhizosphere soil with 12 planting years and lowest in the lower layer (35–50 cm) of the grape rhizosphere soil with 5 planting years. Linear discriminant analysis suggested that there were more biomarkers in the vineyard rhizosphere soil with 10 planting years, which meant there were more fungal communities with significant difference in the soil, especially in the middle layer (20–35). The results of this study can provide data reference and theoretical basis for improving vineyard soil quality, evaluating soil microecological effects and improving ecological environment of vineyard soil.
Hematopoietic upstream stimulating factor 1 deficiency is associated with increased atherosclerosis susceptibility in LDL receptor knockout mice
Authors: Hoekstra Menno , Ren Baoyan , Laurila Pirkka-Pekka , Hildebrand Reeni B. , Soronen Jarkko , Frodermann Vanessa , Li Zhuang , Boon Mariëtte R. , Geerling Janine J. , Rensen Patrick C. N. , Jauhiainen Matti , Van Eck Miranda
Published: August 2021

Total body upstream stimulatory factor 1 (USF1) deficiency in mice is associated with brown adipose tissue activation and a marked protection against the development of obesity and atherosclerotic lesions. Functional expression of USF1 has also been detected in monocytes and monocyte-derived macrophages. In the current study we therefore tested whether selective hematopoietic USF1 deficiency can also beneficially impact the development of atherosclerosis. For this purpose, LDL receptor knockout mice were transplanted with bone marrow from USF1 knockout mice or their wild-type littermate controls and subsequently fed a Western-type diet for 20 weeks to stimulate atherosclerotic lesion development. Strikingly, absence of USF1 function in bone marrow-derived cells was associated with exacerbated blood leukocyte (+ 100%;P < 0.01) and peritoneal leukocyte (+ 50%;P < 0.05) lipid loading and an increased atherosclerosis susceptibility (+ 31%;P < 0.05). These effects could be attributed to aggravated hyperlipidemia, i.e. higher plasma free cholesterol (+ 33%;P < 0.001) and cholesteryl esters (+ 39%;P < 0.001), and the development of hepatosteatosis. In conclusion, we have shown that hematopoietic USF1 deficiency is associated with an increased atherosclerosis susceptibility in LDL receptor knockout mice. These findings argue against a contribution of macrophage-specific USF1 deficiency to the previously described beneficial effect of total body USF1 deficiency on atherosclerosis susceptibility in mice.
Oral health and all-cause, cardiovascular disease, and respiratory mortality in older people in the UK and USA
Authors: Kotronia Eftychia , Brown Heather , Papacosta A. Olia , Lennon Lucy T. , Weyant Robert J. , Whincup Peter H. , Wannamethee S. Goya , Ramsay Sheena E.
Published: August 2021

Preventing deterioration of oral health in older age can be crucial for survival. We aimed to examine associations of oral health problems with all-cause, cardiovascular disease (CVD), and respiratory mortality in older people. We used cohort data from the British Regional Health Study (BRHS) (N = 2147, 71–92 years), and the Health, Aging and Body Composition (HABC) Study (USA) (N = 3075, 71–80 years). Follow-up was 9 years (BRHS) and 15 years (HABC Study). Oral health comprised tooth loss, periodontal disease, dry mouth, and self-rated oral health. Cox regression was performed for all-cause mortality, competing risks for CVD mortality, and accelerated failure time models for respiratory mortality. In the BRHS, tooth loss was associated with all-cause mortality (hazard ratio (HR) = 1.59, 95% CI 1.09, 2.31). In the HABC Study, tooth loss, dry mouth, and having ≥ 3 oral problems were associated with all-cause mortality; periodontal disease was associated with increased CVD mortality (subdistribution hazard ratio (SHR) = 1.49, 95% CI 1.01, 2.20); tooth loss, and accumulation of oral problems were associated with high respiratory mortality (tooth loss, time ratio (TR) = 0.73, 95% CI 0.54, 0.98). Findings suggest that poor oral health is associated with mortality. Results highlight the importance of improving oral health to lengthen survival in older age.
Effect of environmental enrichment and group size on the water use and waste in grower-finisher pigs
Authors: Misra Shilpi , Bokkers Eddie A. M. , Upton John , Quinn Amy J. , O’Driscoll Keelin
Published: August 2021

The grower-finisher stage accounts for 64% of the total on-farm herd water use. Part of this is consumed by the pigs, but a part is also wasted. Drinking water usage and wastage is affected by different factors. We investigated how different group sizes and different levels of enrichment affect water usage (ingested plus wasted), water wastage, behavior and performance in grower-finisher pigs. Pigs (n = 672), 11 weeks of age (77 ± 2 days) were used for the experiment. The effect of group size: SMALL (12 pigs), MEDIUM (24 pigs), and LARGE (48 pigs) was assessed across two levels of enrichment (LOW—wooden post, hanging rubber toy, HIGH—Same as LOW + fresh grass). There was no effect of group size on water use or wastage. Pigs with HIGH enrichment (10.4 ± 0.4 L/pig/day) used less water than LOW enrichment (11.0 ± 0.4 L/pig/day; p < 0.001). The water wastage/drinker/hour was lower in pens with HIGH enrichment than LOW (p = 0.003). The drinking bout number (p = 0.037) and total occupancy/hour (p = 0.048) was also higher for pens with LOW than HIGH enrichment. Aggressive and harmful behaviour were performed less in LARGE groups and pens with HIGH enrichment. Thus, HIGH enrichment allowance reduced water usage and wastage so may have benefits for the environment, as well as animal welfare.
Untargeted metabolomics of purple and orange-fleshed sweet potatoes reveals a large structural diversity of anthocyanins and flavonoids
Authors: Bennett Alexandra A. , Mahood Elizabeth H. , Fan Kai , Moghe Gaurav D.
Published: August 2021

Anthocyanins are economically valuable phytochemicals of significant relevance to human health. Industrially extracted from multiple fruit and vegetable sources, anthocyanin yield and profiles can vary between sources and growing conditions. In this study, we focused on three purple-fleshed and one orange-fleshed cultivars of sweet potato—a warm-weather, nutritious crop of substantial interest to growers in northern, cooler latitudes—to determine the yield and diversity of anthocyanins and flavonoids. Acidified ethanol extraction of lyophilized roots yielded ~ 800 mg average anthocyanins/100 g dry weight from all three cultivars. UHPLC-DAD-Orbitrap analysis of sweet potato extracts identified 18 high-confidence, mostly acylated peonidin and cyanidin derivatives contributing to > 90% of the total anthocyanin signal. Further assessment of the untargeted Liquid Chromatography–Tandem Mass Spectrometry data using deep learning and molecular networking identified over 350 flavonoid peaks with variable distributions in different sweet potato cultivars. These results provide a novel insight into anthocyanin content of purple-fleshed sweet potatoes grown in the northern latitudes, and reveal the large structural diversity of anthocyanins and flavonoids in this popular crop.
Metabolic signatures in the conversion from gestational diabetes mellitus to postpartum abnormal glucose metabolism: a pilot study in Asian women
Authors: Wang Xi-Meng , Gao Yan , Eriksson Johan G. , Chen Weiqing , Chong Yap Seng , Tan Kok Hian , Zhang Cuilin , Zhou Lei , Li Ling-Jun
Published: August 2021

We aimed to identify serum metabolites related to abnormal glucose metabolism (AGM) among women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). The study recruited 50 women diagnosed with GDM during mid-late pregnancy and 50 non-GDM matchees in a Singapore birth cohort. At the 5-year post-partum follow-up, we applied an untargeted approach to investigate the profiles of serum metabolites among all participants. We first employed OPLS-DA and logistic regression to discriminate women with and without follow-up AGM, and then applied area under the curve (AUC) to assess the incremental indicative value of metabolic signatures on AGM. We identified 23 candidate metabolites that were associated with postpartum AGM among all participants. We then narrowed down to five metabolites [p-cresol sulfate, linoleic acid, glycocholic acid, lysoPC(16:1) and lysoPC(20:3)] specifically associating with both GDM and postpartum AGM. The combined metabolites in addition to traditional risks showed a higher indicative value in AUC (0.92–0.94 vs. 0.74 of traditional risks and 0.77 of baseline diagnostic biomarkers) and R2 (0.67–0.70 vs. 0.25 of traditional risks and 0.32 of baseline diagnostic biomarkers) in terms of AGM indication, compared with the traditional risks model and traditional risks and diagnostic biomarkers combined model. These metabolic signatures significantly increased the AUC value of AGM indication in addition to traditional risks, and might shed light on the pathophysiology underlying the transition from GDM to AGM.
Genetic analyses reveal demographic decline and population differentiation in an endangered social carnivore, Asiatic wild dog
Authors: Modi Shrushti , Mondol Samrat , Nigam Parag , Habib Bilal
Published: August 2021

Deforestation and agricultural intensification have resulted in an alarming change in the global land cover over the past 300 years, posing a threat to species conservation. Dhole is a monophyletic, social canid and, being an endangered and highly forest-dependent species, is more prone to the loss of favorable habitat in the Anthropocene. We determined the genetic differentiation and demographic history of dhole across the tiger reserves of Maharashtra using the microsatellite data of 305 individuals. Simulation-based analyses revealed a 77–85% decline in the major dhole sub-populations. Protected areas have provided refuge to the historically declining dhole population resulting in clustering with strong genetic structure in the remnant dhole population. The historical population decline coincides with the extreme events in the landscape over the past 300 years. The study highlights the pattern of genetic differentiation and diversity of a highly forest-dependent species which can be associated with the loss of forest cover outside tiger reserves. It also warrants attention to develop conservation plans for the remnant surviving population of dholes in India.
Vision based supervised restricted Boltzmann machine helps to actuate novel shape memory alloy accurately
Authors: Dutta Ritaban , Chen Cherry , Renshaw David , Liang Daniel
Published: August 2021

Extraordinary shape recovery capabilities of shape memory alloys (SMAs) have made them a crucial building block for the development of next-generation soft robotic systems and associated cognitive robotic controllers. In this study we desired to determine whether combining video data analysis techniques with machine learning techniques could develop a computer vision based predictive system to accurately predict force generated by the movement of a SMA body that is capable of a multi-point actuation performance. We identified that rapid video capture of the bending movements of a SMA body while undergoing external electrical excitements and adapting that characterisation using computer vision approach into a machine learning model, can accurately predict the amount of actuation force generated by the body. This is a fundamental area for achieving a superior control of the actuation of SMA bodies. We demonstrate that a supervised machine learning framework trained with Restricted Boltzmann Machine (RBM) inspired features extracted from 45,000 digital thermal infrared video frames captured during excitement of various SMA shapes, is capable to estimate and predict force and stress with 93% global accuracy with very low false negatives and high level of predictive generalisation.
New Cretaceous antlion-like lacewings promote a phylogenetic reappraisal of the extinct myrmeleontoid family Babinskaiidae
Authors: Lu Xiumei , Wang Bo , Liu Xingyue
Published: August 2021

Babinskaiidae is an extinct family of the lacewing superfamily Myrmeleontoidea, currently only recorded from the Cretaceous. The phylogenetic position of this family is elusive, with inconsistent inferences in previous studies. Here we report on three new genera and species of Babinskaiidae from the mid-Cretaceous Kachin amber of Myanmar, namelyCalobabinskaia xiaigen. et sp. nov.,Stenobabinskaia punctatagen. et sp. nov., andXiaobabinskaia lepidotrichagen. et sp. nov. These new babinskaiids are featured by having specialized characters, such as the rich number of presectoral crossveins and the presence of scaly setae on forewing costal vein, which have not yet been found in this family. The exquisite preservation of the Kachin amber babinskaiids facilitate a reappraisal of the phylogenetic placement of this family based on adult morphological characters. Our result from the phylogenetic inference combining the data from fossil and extant myrmeleontoids recovered a monophyletic clade composed of Babinskaiidae and another extinct family Cratosmylidae, and further assigned this clade to be sister group to a clade including Nemopteridae, Palaeoleontidae, and Myrmeleontidae. Babinskaiidae appears to be a transitional lineage between Nymphidae and advanced myrmeleontoids, with ancient morphological diversification.
Hydropower-induced selection of behavioural traits in Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar)
Authors: Haraldstad Tormod , Haugen Thrond O. , Olsen Esben M. , Forseth Torbjørn , Höglund Erik
Published: August 2021

Renewable energy projects such as hydropower facilities contribute towards meeting the world`s growing energy demands and urgent need for mitigating climate change. However, such infrastructure has the potential to substantially alter the environment which, in turn, can induce new challenges related to for instance fish migration conditions. As a consequence, local adaptations related to pre-development migration conditions may be affected for influenced populations. To explore selection regimes operating at a river hydropower plant, we monitored Atlantic salmon smolt individuals during their seaward migration. When passing the hydropower plant, the smolts chose between a surface fish passage or a submerged turbine intake. Smolts were scored for behavioural type (basal locomotor activity, net restrain (a measure of escape responses) and willingness to leave a familiar environment) prior to their migration choice, and we found that smolts with high basal activity had higher probability of using the fish passage than the turbine intake. In addition, migration route choice was a partly consistent trait in that fish that had previously passed a hydroelectric facility by using a fish passage rather than the turbine intake were significantly more likely to use it again when faced with the same choice. Higher mortality among turbine migrants could potentially reduce or eliminate particular behaviour types within populations- and the corresponding population genetic diversity that is essential to cope with future environmental challenges.
Hybrid external-cavity lasers (ECL) using photonic wire bonds as coupling elements
Authors: Xu Yilin , Maier Pascal , Blaicher Matthias , Dietrich Philipp-Immanuel , Marin-Palomo Pablo , Hartmann Wladislaw , Bao Yiyang , Peng Huanfa , Billah Muhammad Rodlin , Singer Stefan , Troppenz Ute , Moehrle Martin , Randel Sebastian , Freude Wolfgang , Koos Christian
Published: August 2021

Combining semiconductor optical amplifiers (SOA) on direct-bandgap III–V substrates with low-loss silicon or silicon-nitride photonic integrated circuits (PIC) has been key to chip-scale external-cavity lasers (ECL) that offer wideband tunability along with small optical linewidths. However, fabrication of such devices still relies on technologically demanding monolithic integration of heterogeneous material systems or requires costly high-precision package-level assembly, often based on active alignment, to achieve low-loss coupling between the SOA and the external feedback circuits. In this paper, we demonstrate a novel class of hybrid ECL that overcome these limitations by exploiting 3D-printed photonic wire bonds as intra-cavity coupling elements. Photonic wire bonds can be written in-situ in a fully automated process with shapes adapted to the mode-field sizes and the positions of the chips at both ends, thereby providing low-loss coupling even in presence of limited placement accuracy. In a proof-of-concept experiment, we use an InP-based reflective SOA (RSOA) along with a silicon photonic external feedback circuit and demonstrate a single-mode tuning range from 1515 to 1565 nm along with side mode suppression ratios above 40 dB and intrinsic linewidths down to 105 kHz. Our approach combines the scalability advantages of monolithic integration with the performance and flexibility of hybrid multi-chip assemblies and may thus open a path towards integrated ECL on a wide variety of integration platforms.
Liquid biopsy uncovers distinct patterns of DNA methylation and copy number changes in NSCLC patients with different EGFR-TKI resistant mutations
Authors: Nguyen Hoai-Nghia , Cao Ngoc-Phuong Thi , Van Nguyen Thien-Chi , Le Khang Nguyen Duy , Nguyen Dat Thanh , Nguyen Quynh-Tho Thi , Nguyen Thai-Hoa Thi , Van Nguyen Chu , Le Ha Thu , Nguyen Mai-Lan Thi , Nguyen Trieu Vu , Tran Vu Uyen , Luong Bac An , Le Linh Gia Hoang , Ho Quoc Chuong , Pham Hong-Anh Thi , Vo Binh Thanh , Nguyen Luan Thanh , Dang Anh-Thu Huynh , Nguyen Sinh Duy , Do Duc Minh , Do Thanh-Thuy Thi , Hoang Anh Vu , Dinh Kiet Truong , Phan Minh-Duy , Giang Hoa , Tran Le Son
Published: August 2021

Targeted therapy with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) provides survival benefits to a majority of patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, resistance to TKI almost always develops after treatment. Although genetic and epigenetic alterations have each been shown to drive resistance to TKI in cell line models, clinical evidence for their contribution in the acquisition of resistance remains limited. Here, we employed liquid biopsy for simultaneous analysis of genetic and epigenetic changes in 122 Vietnamese NSCLC patients undergoing TKI therapy and displaying acquired resistance. We detected multiple profiles of resistance mutations in 51 patients (41.8%). Of those, genetic alterations in EGFR, particularly EGFR amplification (n = 6), showed pronounced genome instability and genome-wide hypomethylation. Interestingly, the level of hypomethylation was associated with the duration of response to TKI treatment. We also detected hypermethylation in regulatory regions of Homeobox genes which are known to be involved in tumor differentiation. In contrast, such changes were not observed in cases with MET (n = 4) and HER2 (n = 4) amplification. Thus, our study showed that liquid biopsy could provide important insights into the heterogeneity of TKI resistance mechanisms in NSCLC patients, providing essential information for prediction of resistance and selection of subsequent treatment.
Mechanisms for log normal concentration distributions in the environment
Authors: Andersson August
Published: August 2021

Log normal-like concentration distributions are ubiquitously observed in the environment. However, the mechanistic origins are not well understood. In this paper, we show that first order exponential kinetics onsets log-normal concentration distributions, under certain assumptions. Given the ubiquity of exponential kinetics, e.g., source and sink processes, this model suggests an explanation for the frequent observation in the environment, and elsewhere. We compare this model to other mechanisms affecting concentration distributions, e.g., source mixing. Finally, we discuss possible implications for data analysis and modelling, e.g., log-normal rates and fluxes.
Self-replication of a quantum artificial organism driven by single-photon pulses
Authors: Valente Daniel
Published: August 2021

Imitating the transition from inanimate to living matter is a longstanding challenge. Artificial life has achieved computer programs that self-replicate, mutate, compete and evolve, but lacks self-organized hardwares akin to the self-assembly of the first living cells. Nonequilibrium thermodynamics has achieved lifelike self-organization in diverse physical systems, but has not yet met the open-ended evolution of living organisms. Here, I look for the emergence of an artificial-life code in a nonequilibrium physical system undergoing self-organization. I devise a toy model where the onset of self-replication of a quantum artificial organism (a chain of lambda systems) is owing to single-photon pulses added to a zero-temperature environment. I find that spontaneous mutations during self-replication are unavoidable in this model, due to rare but finite absorption of off-resonant photons. I also show that the replication probability is proportional to the absorbed work from the photon, thereby fulfilling a dissipative adaptation (a thermodynamic mechanism underlying lifelike self-organization). These results hint at self-replication as the scenario where dissipative adaptation (pointing towards convergence) coexists with open-ended evolution (pointing towards divergence).
Clearance of peripheral nerve misfolded mutant protein by infiltrated macrophages correlates with motor neuron disease progression
Authors: Shiraishi Wataru , Yamasaki Ryo , Hashimoto Yu , Ko Senri , Kobayakawa Yuko , Isobe Noriko , Matsushita Takuya , Kira Jun-ichi
Published: August 2021

Macrophages expressing C–C chemokine receptor type 2 (CCR2) infiltrate the central and peripheral neural tissues of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients. To identify the functional role of CCR2+ macrophages in the pathomechanisms of ALS, we used an ALS animal model, mutant Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase 1G93A (mSOD1)-transgenic (Tg) mice. To clarify the CCR2 function in the model, we generated SOD1G93A/CCR2Red fluorescence protein (RFP)/Wild type (WT)/CX3CR1Green fluorescence protein (GFP)/WT-Tg mice, which heterozygously express CCR2-RFP and CX3CR1-GFP, and SOD1G93A/CCR2RFP/RFP-Tg mice, which lack CCR2 protein expression and present with a CCR2-deficient phenotype. In mSOD1-Tg mice, mSOD1 accumulated in the sciatic nerve earlier than in the spinal cord. Furthermore, spinal cords of SOD1G93A/CCR2RFP/WT/CX3CR1GFP/WT mice showed peripheral macrophage infiltration that emerged at the end-stage, whereas in peripheral nerves, macrophage infiltration started from the pre-symptomatic stage. Before disease onset, CCR2+ macrophages harboring mSOD1 infiltrated sciatic nerves earlier than the lumbar cord. CCR2-deficient mSOD1-Tg mice showed an earlier onset and axonal derangement in the sciatic nerve than CCR2-positive mSOD1-Tg mice. CCR2-deficient mSOD1-Tg mice showed an increase in deposited mSOD1 in the sciatic nerve compared with CCR2-positive mice. These findings suggest that CCR2+ and CX3CR1+ macrophages exert neuroprotective functions in mSOD1 ALS via mSOD1 clearance from the peripheral nerves.
A bioinspired multifunctional hydrogel patch targeting inflammation and regeneration in chronic intestinal wounds
Authors: Araújo Marco , Silveira João , Sousa Aureliana , Bessa-Gonçalves Mafalda , Santos Susana G. , Barrias Cristina C.
Published: August 2021

Healing of intestinal chronic wounds remains a major challenge as current therapies are ineffective in promoting proper regeneration of the damaged intestinal wall.
A novel lanthanide-based NIR-II nanoprobe for lung squamous cell carcinoma identification
Authors: Zhu Jun , Lu Lingfei , Fan Yong , Zhou Caicun
Published: August 2021

High-Er3+-doped lanthanide nanoprobes are used for the efficientin vivoidentification of lung squamous cell carcinoma.
A sulfonate-based polypeptide toward infection-resistant coatings
Authors: Xue Ruizhong , Zhang Xu , Wei Yuansong , Zhao Ziyin , Liu Hao , Yang Fangping , Yin Lichen , Song Ziyuan , Luan Shifang , Tang Haoyu
Published: August 2021

We developed a mono-component and sulfonate-based polypeptide coating with reversible on-demand bactericidal and antifouling properties.
Squaric acid as a new chemoselective moiety for mass spectrometry-based metabolomics analysis of amines
Authors: Lin Weifeng , Yang Zhen , Kaur Amanpreet , Block Annika , Vujasinovic Miroslav , Löhr J.-Matthias , Globisch Daniel
Published: August 2021

First application of squaric acids with excellent stability and chemoselective reactivity in mass spectrometry-based metabolomics analysis of amine-containing metabolites.
Slow magnetic relaxation in distorted tetrahedral Dy(iii) aryloxide complexes
Authors: Parmar Vijay S. , Gransbury Gemma K. , Whitehead George F. S. , Mills David P. , Winpenny Richard E. P.
Published: August 2021

Magnetostructural correlations: The magnetic relaxation dynamics of three distorted tetrahedral dysprosium aryloxide complexes are shown to vary according to their local coordination environments.
A non-planar 2D covalent organic framework derived from a Z-shaped building unit
Authors: Shan Zhen , Wu Miaomiao , Gu Zhangjie , Nishiyama Yusuke , Zhang Gen
Published: August 2021

Herein, a novel non-planar 2D COF with a stair-stepped structure was constructed from a Z-shaped building block for the first time.
Grain boundary-induced premelting and solid ↔ melt phase transformations: effect of interfacial widths and energies and triple junctions at the nanoscale
Authors: Basak Anup
Published: August 2021

Grain boundary-induced transformations between solid, premelt, and melt are studied using a phase field approach. The effect of grain boundary width and energy and triple junction energy is studied.
Parameter space exploration reveals interesting Mn-doped SrTiO3 structures
Authors: Repa Gil M. , Fredin Lisa A.
Published: August 2021

The electronic and geometric structure of defected SrTiO3 show high variability with supercell size. Particularly Mn-dopants show different properties at lower dopant loadings that can be used to guide additional experimental investigation.
Local structure and NO adsorption/desorption property of Pd2+ cations at different paired Al sites in CHA zeolite
Authors: Yasumura Shunsaku , Ueda Taihei , Ide Hajime , Otsubo Katsumasa , Liu Chong , Tsunoji Nao , Toyao Takashi , Maeno Zen , Shimizu Ken-ichi
Published: August 2021

The present study, based on a combination of theoretical and experimental techniques, shows that the NO adsorption/desorption properties over Pd-CHA can be tuned by controlling the Pd loading amount and the type of paired Al sites.
Development of trash exclusion for mechanized pit latrine emptying
Authors: Portiolli Giovanna F. , Rogers Tate W. , Beckwith Walter , Tsai Jocelyn , ole-MoiYoi Payan , Wilson Noel , de los Reyes Francis L.
Published: August 2021

The trash-excluding attachment (Excluder) can be connected to a custom vacuum (such as the Flexcrevator), a vacuum truck, or a sludge pump. The system allows the mechanized emptying of pit latrines with high levels of trash without manual “fishing”.
Oat β-glucan alleviates DSS-induced colitisviaregulating gut microbiota metabolism in mice
Authors: Bai Junying , Zhao Jiajia , AL-Ansi Waleed , Wang Jing , Xue Lamei , Liu Jinxin , Wang Yu , Fan Mingcong , Qian Haifeng , Li Yan , Wang Li
Published: August 2021

Oat β-glucan supplementation ameliorated DSS-induced colitis concurrently through regulating gut-derived SCFAs and intestinal microbial metabolic profiles.
Correction: Chemical compounds with a neuroprotective effect from the seeds of Celosia argentea L.
Authors: Guo Jinggong , Shen Shan , Zhang Xiao , Wang Guoying , Lu Yiqing , Liu Xiping , Wang Shuyun , Li Qin , Cong Yue , Shi Bingyang
Published: August 2021

Correction for ‘Chemical compounds with a neuroprotective effect from the seeds of Celosia argentea L.’ by Jinggong Guo et al., Food Funct., 2021, 12, 83–96, DOI: 10.1039/D0FO02033H.
An unprecedented spike of the electroluminescence turn-on transience from guest-doped OLEDs with strong electron-donating abilities of host carbazole groups
Authors: Chen Jing , Zhao Xi , Tang Xiantong , Ning Yaru , Wu Fengjiao , Chen Xiaoli , Zhu Hongqiang , Xiong Zuhong
Published: August 2021

An unreported spike of ∼μs line-width, followed by an overshoot, was discovered at the rising edge of transient electroluminescence from guest-doped organic light-emitting diodes with strong electron-donating abilities from the host carbazole groups.
Nano-evolution and protein-based enzymatic evolution predicts novel types of natural product nanozymes of traditional Chinese medicine: cases of herbzymes of Taishan-Huangjing (Rhizoma polygonati) and Goji (Lycium chinense)
Authors: Nazarbek Guldan , Kutzhanova Aidana , Nurtay Lazzat , Mu Chenglin , Kazybay Bexultan , Li Xugang , Ma Cuiping , Amin Amr , Xie Yingqiu
Published: August 2021

Nanozymes and natural product-derived herbzymes have been identified in different types of enzymes simulating the natural protein-based enzyme function.
Hierarchical porous biochar with ultra-high specific surface area for rapid removal of antibiotics from water
Authors: Liu Shujian , Wang Yi , Feng Zhongmin , Wang Yun , Sun Ting
Published: August 2021

Onion skin derived hierarchical porous biochar prepared by a facile and cost-efficient strategy exhibited rapid and efficient adsorption properties for antibiotics in water.
BioinspiredCamellia japonicacarbon dots with high near-infrared absorbance for efficient photothermal cancer therapy
Authors: Kim Dohun , Jo Gayoung , Chae Yujin , Subramani Surendran , Lee Bo Young , Kim Eun Jeong , Ji Min-Kyung , Sim Uk , Hyun Hoon
Published: August 2021

Bioinspired sulfur-doped carbon dots with strong NIR absorbance are prepared fromCamellia japonicaflowersviaa facile hydrothermal method for enhancing photothermal cancer therapy.
A photo–thermal dual-regulated latent monomer strategy for sequence control of polymers
Authors: Zhang Liuqiao , Song Yuyang , Cao Yuhang , Wang Zhen , Huang Zhihao , Xuan Sunting , Zhang Zhengbiao
Published: August 2021

A photo–thermal dual-regulated latent monomer was used for the synthesis of polymers with advanced sequence structures.
Study on graphene oxide as a hole extraction layer for stable organic solar cells
Authors: Kim Jaehoon , Sarker Ashis K. , Park Yeseul , Kwak Jeonghun , Song Hyung-Jun , Lee Changhee
Published: August 2021

Graphene oxide (GO) offers comparable efficiency in organic solar cells (OSCs) compared to the hole extraction layer (HEL), poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS), while the shelf lifetime shows a 6-fold increase.
Antifouling hydrogel film based on a sandwich array for salivary glucose monitoring
Authors: Zhang Zifeng , Wang Shiwen , Liu Guanjiang , Hu Debo , Yang Bei , Dai Qing , Dou Qian
Published: August 2021

The synergistic effect originating from pSBMA brushes on the surface of HSA and inside the HSA matrix provides a suitable physical barrier (∼28 nm) and robust hydration layer for HSA, which can enhance its sensitivity and antifouling.
Efficient tuning of zinc phthalocyanine-based dyes for dye-sensitized solar cells: a detailed DFT study
Authors: Siddique Sabir Ali , Arshad Muhammad , Naveed Sabiha , Mehboob Muhammad Yasir , Adnan Muhammad , Hussain Riaz , Ali Babar , Siddique Muhammad Bilal Ahmed , Liu Xin
Published: August 2021

We used a quantum chemical approach to investigate the optoelectronic properties of dyes T1–T5 for dye-sensitized solar cells using DFT and TD-DFT computation. The newly designed molecules exhibited outstanding photovoltaic and optoelectronic properties.
Catechin or quercetin guests in an intrinsically microporous polyamine (PIM-EA-TB) host: accumulation, reactivity, and release
Authors: Wang Lina , Malpass-Evans Richard , Carta Mariolino , McKeown Neil B. , Reeksting Shaun B. , Marken Frank
Published: August 2021

Microporous polymer materials based on molecularly “stiff” structures provide intrinsic microporosity, typical micropore sizes of 0.5 nm to 1.5 nm, and the ability to bind guest species.
Removal of toluene as a toxic VOC from methane gas using a non-thermal plasma dielectric barrier discharge reactor
Authors: Saleem Faisal , Rehman Abdul , Ahmad Farhan , Khoja Asif Hussain , Javed Farhan , Zhang Kui , Harvey Adam
Published: August 2021

The removal of toluene as a toxic volatile organic compound from methane gas, which is the major component of biogas, is carried out using a non-thermal plasma dielectric barrier discharge reactor.
A review: the botany, ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, pharmacology of Cinnamomi cortex
Authors: Liu Songtao , Yang Liu , Zheng Senwang , Hou Ajiao , Man Wenjing , Zhang Jiaxu , Wang Song , Wang Xuejiao , Yu Huan , Jiang Hai
Published: August 2021

Cinnamomi Cortex (CC) is the dried bark of Cinnamomum cassia (L.) J. Presl.
Synthesis of holey graphene for advanced nanotechnological applications
Authors: Rajput Nitul S. , Al Zadjali Shroq , Gutierrez Monserrat , Esawi Amal M. K. , Al Teneiji Mohamed
Published: August 2021

The review paper presents a systematic understanding of different synthesis routes to obtain holey graphene, its properties, and key applications in different fields. The article also evaluates the current progress and future opportunities of HG.
Multiple-mRNA-controlled and heat-driven drug release from gold nanocages in targeted chemo-photothermal therapy for tumors
Authors: Zhang Hao , Gao Ze , Li Xiaoxiao , Li Lu , Ye Sujuan , Tang Bo
Published: August 2021

Schematic illustration of the multiple-mRNA-controlled and heat-driven drug release from gold nanocages.
Direct fabrication of phosphorus-doped nickel sulfide and eco-friendly biomass-derived humic acid as efficient electrodes for energy storage applications
Authors: Hekmat Farzaneh , Shahi Mahdiyeh , Shahrokhian Saeed
Published: August 2021

High-performance asymmetric energy storage systems, benefit from both high energy and power densities, as well as long-term stability, have been developed using P-doped NiS–NF and carbonized humic acid as positive and negative electrodes, respectively.
Relaxation in aging thermoreversible gels: the role of thermal history
Authors: Buzzaccaro Stefano , Mollame Andrea Francesco , Piazza Roberto
Published: August 2021

The dynamic heterogeneity in colloidal gels can be tuned by thermal cycles resembling those used in the annealing of molecular amorphous solids.
Near infrared photothermal conversion materials: mechanism, preparation, and photothermal cancer therapy applications
Authors: Li Jie , Zhang Wei , Ji Wenhui , Wang Jiqing , Wang Nanxiang , Wu Wanxia , Wu Qiong , Hou Xiyan , Hu Wenbo , Li Lin
Published: August 2021

We outlined NIR photothermal materials for photothermal cancer therapy and proposed three key metrics for evaluating the materials from physical, chemical, and bio/medical perspectives.
High-energy-density shape memory materials with ultrahigh strain for reconfigurable artificial muscles
Authors: Zheng Xu , Chen Yujie , Chen Chi , Chen Zhen , Guo Yutong , Li Hua , Liu Hezhou
Published: August 2021

The high-energy-density shape memory materials with ultrahigh strain for reconfigurable artificial muscles are highly promising to be applied as soft robotics, flexible devices, and biomedical devices.