bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Salibacter
Authors: Lu De‐Chen , Du Zong‐Jun
Published: March 2021

Sa.li.bac'ter. L. masc. n.
sal
,
salis
salt; N.L. masc. n.
bacter
a rod; N.L. masc. n.
Salibacter
a salted rod.

Bacteroidetes / Flavobacteriia / Flavobacteriales / Cryomorphaceae / Salibacter

Salibacter
is a genus in the family
Cryomorphaceae
, order
Flavobacteriales
, class
Flavobacteriia
, and phylum
Bacteroidetes
. It currently includes one species,
Salibacter halophilus,
which was isolated from a saltern. Colonies of
Salibacter
are circular and orange.
Salibacter
is a mesophilic and neutrophilic moderate halophile with a broad salt tolerance range (2–18% NaCl). The major respiratory quinone of strain JZ3C34
T
, the only isolated strain of the species, is menaquinone MK‐7, and its dominant fatty acids are iso‐C
15:0
and iso‐C
15:1
G. In addition to phosphatidylethanolamine, the strain contains two other poorly characterized polar lipids. The cells of
S. halophilus
are rod shaped and contain a genome of 3.12 Mb and a DNA G + C content of 40.3 mol%. 16S rRNA sequencing indicated that
Salibacter
is a member of the family
Cryomorphaceae
, the closest phylogenetic relative being the genus
Owenweeksia
.

DNA G + C content (mol%)
: 40.3 (Genome).

Type species
:
Salibacter halophilus
Lu et al. 2017
VP
.
Agaribacter
Authors: Zhang Jin‐Yu , Du Zong‐Jun , Mu Da‐Shuai
Published: March 2021

A.ga.ri.bac'ter. N.L. neut. n.
agarum
, agar; N.L. masc. n.
bacter
, rod; N.L. masc. n.
agaribacter
; Gram‐stain‐negative; aerobic, an agar (‐degrading) rod, because the type species degrades agar.

Proteobacteria / Gammaproteobacteria / Alteromonadales / Alteromonadaceae / Agaribacter

Agaribacter
is a genus in the family
Alteromonadaceae
, order
Alteromonadales
, class
Gammaproteobacteria
, and phylum
Proteobacteria
. It currently includes two species,
Agaribacter marinus
and
Agaribacter flavus
, which were isolated from surface seawater and red algae, respectively. Cells are Gram‐stain‐negative, motile or nonmotile, mesophilic, aerobic, and rod shaped. Colonies of this genus are circular, convex, and smooth. Catalase‐positive. The predominant cellular fatty acids are C
16:1
ω7
c
and/or iso‐C
15:0
2‐OH, C
12:0
3‐OH, C
16:0
, and C
18:1
ω7
c
. The major isoprenoid quinone is Q‐8. The major polar lipids are phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) and phosphatidylglycerol (PG).

DNA G+C content (mol%)
: 41.8–43.4 (HPLC).

Type species
:
Agaribacter marinus
Teramoto and Nishijima 2014
VP
.
Insights into the Micromechanics of Organic Aerogels Based on Experimental and Modeling Results
Authors: Aney Shivangi , Schettler Jessica , Schwan Marina , Milow Barbara , Rege Ameya
Published: March 2021

While the characteristics of the macroscopic mechanical behavior of organic aerogels are well known, the mechanisms responsible for the substructural evolution of their networks under mechanical deformation are not fully understood. Herein, organic aerogels from the aqueous sol−gel polymerization of resorcinol with formaldehyde are first prepared. Specifically, the resorcinol to water (R:W) molar ratio is varied for obtaining diverse highly open‐cellular porous structures with mean pore sizes ranging between 30 and 50 nm. The corresponding network structures are then characterized and exhibit different morphological and mechanical properties. Furthermore, a micromechanical constitutive model based on the pore‐wall kinematics is proposed. While the arrays of particles forming the pore walls are moderately connected, the pore walls are considered to behave as solid beams under mechanical deformation. Moreover, the damage mechanisms in the pore walls that result in the network collapse are defined. All model parameters are shown to be physically derived, and their sensitivity to the macroscopic network behavior is analyzed. The model predictions are shown to be in good agreement with the experimental stress−strain data of the different aerogels.
Electrolyte Interphase Built from Anionic Covalent Organic Frameworks for Lithium Dendrite Suppression
Authors: Li Xinru , Tian Yue , Shen Li , Qu Zhibin , Ma Tianqiong , Sun Fei , Liu Xiaoyan , Zhang Chen , Shen Jianqiang , Li Xianyang , Gao Lina , Xiao Shengxiong , Liu Taifeng , Liu Yi , Lu Yunfeng
Published: March 2021

Lithium (Li) metal batteries hold considerable promise for numerous energy‐dense applications. However, the dendritic Li anode produced during Li+/Li deposition‐stripping endangers battery safety and shortens cycle lifespan. Herein, an electrolyte interphase built from 2D anionic covalent organic frameworks (ACOF) is coated on Li for dendrite suppression. The ACOF with Li+‐affinity facilitates rapid and exclusive passage of Li‐ions from the electrolyte, yielding near‐unity Li+ transference number (0.82) and ionic conductivity beyond 3.7 mS cm‐1 at the interphase. Such high transport efficiency of Li‐ions can fundamentally circumvent the Li+ deficiency that results in dendrite formation. Pairing the ACOF‐coated Li against a high‐voltage LiCoO2 cathode (4.5 V) achieves exceptional cycle stability, mitigated polarization, as well as improved rate capability. Accordingly, this strategy vastly expands the pool of electrolyte interphases that can be used for coating and protecting Li anode.
An Iontronic Multiplexer Based on Spatiotemporal Dynamics of Multiterminal Organic Electrochemical Transistors
Authors: Koutsouras Dimitrios A. , Amiri Morteza Hassanpour , Blom Paul W. M. , Torricelli Fabrizio , Asadi Kamal , Gkoupidenis Paschalis
Published: March 2021

The seamless integration of electronics with biology requires new bio‐inspired approaches that, analogously to nature, rely on the presence of electrolytes for signal multiplexing. On the contrary, conventional multiplexing schemes mostly rely on electronic carriers and require peripheral circuitry for their implementation, which imposes severe limitations toward their adoption in bio‐applications. Here, a bio‐inspired iontronic multiplexer based on spatiotemporal dynamics of organic electrochemical transistors (OECTs), with an electrolyte as the shared medium of communication, is shown. The iontronic system discriminates locally random‐access events with no need of peripheral circuitry or address assignment, thus deceasing significantly the integration complexity. The form factors of OECTs that allow for intimate biointerfacing as well as the electrochemical nature of the communication medium, open new avenues for unconventional multiplexing in the emerging fields of bioelectronics, wearables, and neuromorphic computing or sensing.
The Triboelectric Nanogenerator as an Innovative Technology toward Intelligent Sports
Authors: Luo Jianjun , Gao Wenchao , Wang Zhong Lin
Published: March 2021

In the new era of the Internet‐of‐Things, athletic big data collection and analysis based on widely distributed sensing networks are particularly important in the development of intelligent sports. Conventional sensors usually require an external power supply, with limitations such as limited lifetime and high maintenance cost. As a newly developed mechanical energy harvesting and self‐powered sensing technology, the triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) shows great potential to overcome these limitations. Most importantly, TENGs can be fabricated using wood, paper, fibers, and polymers, which are the most frequently used materials for sports. Recent progress on the development of TENGs for the field of intelligent sports is summarized. First, the working mechanism of TENG and its association with athletic big data are introduced. Subsequently, the development of TENG‐based sports sensing systems, including smart sports facilities and wearable equipment is highlighted. At last, the remaining challenges and open opportunities are also discussed.
Recent Progress in Cartilage Lubrication
Authors: Lin Weifeng , Klein Jacob
Published: March 2021

Healthy articular cartilage, covering the ends of bones in major joints such as hips and knees, presents the most efficiently‐lubricated surface known in nature, with friction coefficients as low as 0.001 up to physiologically high pressures. Such low friction is indeed essential for its well‐being. It minimizes wear‐and‐tear and hence the cartilage degradation associated with osteoarthritis, the most common joint disease, and, by reducing shear stress on the mechanotransductive, cartilage‐embedded chondrocytes (the only cell type in the cartilage), it regulates their function to maintain homeostasis. Understanding the origins of such low friction of the articular cartilage, therefore, is of major importance in order to alleviate disease symptoms, and slow or even reverse its breakdown. This progress report considers the relation between frictional behavior and the cellular mechanical environment in the cartilage, then reviews the mechanism of lubrication in the joints, in particular focusing on boundary lubrication. Following recent advances based on hydration lubrication, a proposed synergy between different molecular components of the synovial joints, acting together in enabling the low friction, has been proposed. Additionally, recent development of natural and bio‐inspired lubricants is reviewed.
Van Der Waals Epitaxial Growth and Phase Transition of Layered FeSe2 Nanocrystals
Authors: Liu Hongtao , Xue Yunzhou
Published: March 2021

Layered iron chalcogenides (FeX, X = S, Se, Te) provide excellent platforms to study intertwined phase transitions, superconductivity, and magnetism. However, layered iron dichalcogenides (FeX2, X = S, Se, Te) are rarely reported and their intrinsic properties are still unknown. Here, phase‐pure layered iron diselenide (FeSe2) nanocrystals are epitaxially grown on mica by the sublimed‐salt‐assisted chemical vapor deposition method at atmospheric pressure. The layered atomic structure of FeSe2 is confirmed by X‐ray diffraction and atomic‐resolution scanning transmission electron microscopy. Electrical transport shows that the layered FeSe2 is a metal with high conductivity and a phase transition at ≈11 K. The phase transition manifests itself as a kink in the temperature‐dependent resistivity, as well as anomalous magnetoresistance (MR) appearing around the phase‐transition temperature. The MR changes from negative to positive, accompanied by large hysteresis near the phase‐transition temperature upon cooling. The negative MR and hysteresis might originate from magnetic field suppression scattering of spin fluctuations and competition of magnetic interactions induced by the phase transition, respectively. Layered iron dichalcogenide will be potential candidate to explore novel quantum phenomena and other applications.
Metal Nitride Electrode Stress and Chemistry Effects on Phase and Polarization Response in Ferroelectric Hf0.5Zr0.5O2 Thin Films
Authors: Fields Shelby S. , Smith Sean W. , Fancher Chris M. , Henry Michael David , Wolfley Steve L. , Sales Maria G. , Jaszewski Samantha T. , Rodriguez Mark A. , Esteves Giovanni , Davids Paul S. , McDonnell Stephen J. , Ihlefeld Jon F.
Published: March 2021

Ferroelectric phase stability in hafnium oxide is reported to be influenced by factors that include composition, biaxial stress, crystallite size, and oxygen vacancies. In the present work, the ferroelectric performance of atomic layer deposited Hf0.5Zr0.5O2 (HZO) prepared between TaN electrodes that are processed under conditions to induce variable biaxial stresses is evaluated. The post‐processing stress states of the HZO films reveal no dependence on the as‐deposited stress of the adjacent TaN electrodes. All HZO films maintain tensile biaxial stress following processing, the magnitude of which is not observed to strongly influence the polarization response. Subsequent composition measurements of stress‐varied TaN electrodes reveal changes in stoichiometry related to the different preparation conditions. HZO films in contact with Ta‐rich TaN electrodes exhibit higher remanent polarizations and increased ferroelectric phase fractions compared to those in contact with N‐rich TaN electrodes. HZO films in contact with Ta‐rich TaN electrodes also have higher oxygen vacancy concentrations, indicating that a chemical interaction between the TaN and HZO layers ultimately impacts the ferroelectric orthorhombic phase stability and polarization performance. The results of this work demonstrate a necessity to carefully consider the role of electrode processing and chemistry on performance of ferroelectric hafnia films.
Self‐Powered Broad Spectral Photodetector with Ultrahigh Responsivity and Fast Response Based on Sb2Se3/VO2 Heterojunction
Authors: Xin Yun , Jiang Jinchun , Lu Yangfan , Liang Huawei , Zeng Yu‐Jia , Ye Zhizhen
Published: March 2021

Sb2Se3/VO2 heterojunction is successfully fabricated on a sapphire substrate using pulsed laser deposition (PLD) and magnetron sputtering. The device shows prominent self‐powered broadband photoresponse with ultrafast response speed at both rise and decay processes. The highest responsivity of the device is acquired under 520 nm wavelength light incidence. The optimized responsivity reaches 0.244 A W–1 and the response times are 200 and 360 µs at rise and decay, respectively. Sb2Se3/VO2 heterojunction is promising for self‐powered broadband photodetectors.
Bifunctional In Situ Polymerized Interface for Stable LAGP‐Based Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Zhang Shengnan , Zeng Zhen , Zhai Wei , Hou Guangmei , Chen Lina , Ci Lijie
Published: March 2021

All‐solid‐state lithium metal batteries (ASSLMBs) have attracted intensive research attention since their incomparable energy density and the further advance of ASSLMBs is severely dependent on the development of solid electrolytes. Unfortunately, as one of the most studied solid electrolytes, the practical applications of (NASICON)‐type Li1.5Al0.5Ge0.5P3O12 (LAGP) electrolyte is hindered by not only its inferior interfacial contact with electrodes but also its undesirable instability toward Li metal anodes. In this work, a bifunctional in situ formed poly(vinylene carbonate) (PVCA)‐based buffer layer is introduced between the LAGP electrolyte and the metallic Li anode to improve interface compatibility and the electrolyte stability. The improved interface contact between LAGP and electrodes and the enhanced stability of LAGP enable ASSLMBs with excellent electrochemical performance. The Li/LAGP/Li symmetric cell with the PVCA‐based interlayer can maintain a low overpotential of 80 mV for 800 h at 0.05 mA cm–2. Inspiringly, the as‐assembled ASSLMBs with LiFePO4 as the cathode also present excellent cyclic stability with a high initial discharge capacity of 150 mAh g–1 at 0.5 C and superior capacity retention of 96% after 200 cycles.
Mesoscopic TiO2/Nb2O5 Electron Transfer Layer for Efficient and Stable Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Chavan Rohit D. , Parikh Nishi , Tavakoli Mohammad Mahdi , Prochowicz Daniel , Kalam Abul , Yadav Pankaj , Bhoite Pravin H. , Hong Chang Kook
Published: March 2021

There has been tremendous advancement in the field of perovskite photovoltaics by means of interfacial engineering, compositional engineering and optimization of charge collection efficiency. The large bandgap oxides deposited using atomic layer deposition (ALD) technique have proven to be successfully passivating the interfacial defects owing to the advantages offered by this technique. Here, the effect of surface modification of mesoporous TiO2 (ms‐TiO2) layer with a transition metal oxide named niobium pentoxide (Nb2O5) deposited by ALD technique on the performance and stability of perovskite solar cells (PSCs) is investigated. The results reveal that functionalization with ultrathin Nb2O5 layer improve the optoelectronic properties and morphology of the deposited perovskite films. Moreover, the charge transfer is improved and hence the interfacial recombination is reduced. This results in improved power conversion efficiency (PCE) from 19.11% to 21.04% and open‐circuit voltage (VOC) from 1.118 to 1.147 V for the modified champion device. Additionally, the device shows negligible hysteresis with enhanced shelf life thermal and UV stabilities.
A Self‐Powered Minimalistic Glucometer: A Lean Approach to Sustainable Single‐Use Point‐of‐Care Devices
Authors: Merino‐Jimenez Irene , Llorella Anna , Navarro‐Segarra Marina , Agramunt Jordi , Grandas Anna , Minteer Shelley D. , Esquivel Juan Pablo , Sabaté Neus
Published: March 2021

In this work, a novel glucose quantification strategy is presented in a self‐powered biosensing device. The analyte in the sample is oxidized in an enzymatic fuel cell and the generated charge is transferred to a capacitor. The built‐up capacitor voltage at a specific time can be directly correlated with the concentration of analyte. An electro‐fluidic switch placed on a paper‐based microfluidic channel connects a minimalistic electronic circuit to the fuel cell. The circuit modules discriminate the built‐up capacitor voltage, which corresponds to a particular glucose range. The digital semi‐quantitative result is visualized vía electrochromic displays. As a practical application of this working principle, the self‐powered single‐use device has been designed to perform screening of gestational diabetes mellitus. The device discriminates between healthy (<7.8 mm), pre‐diabetes (>7.8 mm), and diabetes (>11.1 mm) condition providing a reliable result. This single use, printable, and disposable self‐powered glucose biosensing device is autonomous and fully powered by the glucose contained in a 3.5 µL sample. It offers an energy‐saving, environmentally friendly, and low‐cost solution for Point‐of‐Care testing. By replacing the selective enzyme in the fuel cell, this strategy can be used for measuring other health parameters such as creatinine, cholesterol, or uric acid, among others.
“Back‐to‐Front” Type Synthesis of Polyfunctionalized Indazoles: Nitromethane Mediated, Domino Benzannulation of o‐Chloropyrazolyl Ynones
Authors: Beesu Mallesh , Mehta Goverdhan
Published: March 2021

A one‐pot domino benzannulation protocol involving strapping of o‐chloropyrazolyl ynones with various nitromethane derivatives has been devised as a entry to diversely functionalized indazole frameworks. These preparatively useful transformations proceed via tandem Michael addition‐intramolecular SNAr reaction pathway to efficiently furnish a range of functionally enriched indazoles with bioactivity potential from readily accessible precursors.

magnified image
Single‐Cell Transcriptome Analysis Uncovers Intratumoral Heterogeneity and Underlying Mechanisms for Drug Resistance in Hepatobiliary Tumor Organoids
Authors: Zhao Yan , Li Zhi‐Xuan , Zhu Yan‐Jing , Fu Jing , Zhao Xiao‐Fang , Zhang Ya‐Ni , Wang Shan , Wu Jian‐Min , Wang Kai‐Ting , Wu Rui , Sui Cheng‐Jun , Shen Si‐Yun , Wu Xuan , Wang Hong‐Yang , Gao Dong , Chen Lei
Published: March 2021

Molecular heterogeneity of hepatobiliary tumor including intertumoral and intratumoral disparity always leads to drug resistance. Here, seven hepatobiliary tumor organoids are generated to explore heterogeneity and evolution via single‐cell RNA sequencing. HCC272 with high status of epithelia‐mesenchymal transition proves broad‐spectrum drug resistance. By examining the expression pattern of cancer stem cells markers (e.g., PROM1, CD44, and EPCAM), it is found that CD44 positive population may render drug resistance in HCC272. UMAP and pseudo‐time analysis identify the intratumoral heterogeneity and distinct evolutionary trajectories, of which catenin beta‐1 (CTNNB1), glyceraldehyde‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH), and nuclear paraspeckle assembly transcript 1 (NEAT1) advantage expression clusters are commonly shared across hepatobiliary organoids. CellphoneDB analysis further implies that metabolism advantage organoids with enrichment of hypoxia signal upregulate NEAT1 expression in CD44 subgroup and mediate drug resistance that relies on Jak‐STAT pathway. Moreover, metabolism advantage clusters shared in several organoids have similar characteristic genes (GAPDH, NDRG1 (N‐Myc downstream regulated 1), ALDOA, and CA9). The combination of GAPDH and NDRG1 is an independent risk factor and predictor for patient survival. This study delineates heterogeneity of hepatobiliary tumor organoids and proposes that the collaboration of intratumoral heterogenic subpopulations renders malignant phenotypes and drug resistance.
Get the shovel: morphological and evolutionary complexities of belowground organs in geophytes
Authors: Tribble Carrie M. , Martínez‐Gómez Jesús , Howard Cody Coyotee , Males Jamie , Sosa Victoria , Sessa Emily B. , Cellinese Nico , Specht Chelsea D.
Published: March 2021

Herbaceous plants collectively known as geophytes, which regrow from belowground buds, are distributed around the globe and throughout the land plant tree of life. The geophytic habit is an evolutionarily and ecologically important growth form in plants, permitting novel life history strategies, enabling the occupation of more seasonal climates, mediating interactions between plants and their water and nutrient resources, and influencing macroevolutionary patterns by enabling differential diversification and adaptation. These taxa are excellent study systems for understanding how convergence on a similar growth habit (i.e., geophytism) can occur via different morphological and developmental mechanisms. Despite the importance of belowground organs for characterizing whole‐plant morphological diversity, the morphology and evolution of these organs have been vastly understudied with most research focusing on only a few crop systems. Here, we clarify the terminology commonly used (and sometimes misused) to describe geophytes and their underground organs and highlight key evolutionary patterns of the belowground morphology of geophytic plants. Additionally, we advocate for increasing resources for geophyte research and implementing standardized ontological definitions of geophytic organs to improve our understanding of the factors controlling, promoting, and maintaining geophyte diversity.
Organocatalytic Enantioselective Michael Addition of Pyrazol‐5‐ones to β‐Silylmethylene Malonates: Synthesis of Chiral Organosilanes Under Metal‐ free Conditions
Authors: Chowdhury Raghunath , Dubey Akhil K. , Ghosh Sunil K.
Published: March 2021

Herein, we report a Michael addition reaction of pyrazolin‐5‐ones with β‐silylmethylene malonates using a squaramide catalyst derived from quinidine under mild reaction conditions. This protocol delivered chiral organosilanes appendage with pyrazole moiety in high yields (up to 90%) and good to excellent enantioselectivities (up to 98 : 2 er). A quinine derived thiourea catalyst deliver corresponding antipode for enantiomers with almost similar level of yields (up to 93%) and good to excellent enantioselectivities (up to 2 : 98 er). The scale‐up reaction for synthesis of two chiral organosilanes confirmed the practical reliability of this protocol.
The role of hunting onSapajus xanthosternos'landscape of fear in the Atlantic Forest, Brazil
Authors: Suscke Priscila , Presotto Andrea , Izar Patrícia
Published: March 2021

Habitats with spatial variation in food availability, predation risk, and hunting pressure allow us to study how animals resolve the trade‐off between food searching and predator avoidance. We investigated the influence of food availability, predation risk, and the perceived predation risk on habitat use by a primate living under high hunting pressure, the yellow‐breasted capuchin monkeys,Sapajus xanthosternos, at Una Biological Reserve (ReBio Una). We hypothesized that the hunting pressure occurring in the capuchins' home range would favor predator avoidance to the detriment of searching for food. We characterized a set of covariates related to resource availability (fruit and invertebrate biomasses, feeding on dispersed and clumped food items, sleeping sites), perceived predation risk (alarm calls given to terrestrial and aerial predators, silent group movement, and vigilance behavior), and actual predation risk (evidence of hunting) and estimated their effects on how one group of capuchin monkeys uses its habitat. The group divides its time among three major forest types within their home range: agroforest, mature, and secondary. Our results suggest that the actual and perceived risk of hunting by humans, as well as the perceived predation risk by both terrestrial and aerial predators, were significant determinants of capuchin monkeys' space use. Yellow‐breasted capuchin monkeys' space use was negatively related to the risk of hunting by humans (actual evidence and silent behavior), the perceived risk of predation by both aerial and terrestrial predators, and the presence of sleeping sites. Capuchin monkeys' use of space was not related to the biomass of fruits in the habitat, and the biomass of invertebrates had a very low positive effect. We confirmed our prediction that in a habitat with high hunting pressure, the risk of predation, both perceived and actual, had a more significant impact on how yellow‐breasted capuchins used space than did food availability.
Generation and expression analysis of BAC humanized mice carrying HLA‐DP401 haplotype
Authors: Li Feng , Zhu Meng‐min , Niu Bo‐wen , Liu Ling‐ling , Peng Xiu‐hua , Yang Hua , Qin Bo‐yin , Wang Meixiang , Ren Xiaonan , Zhou Xiaohui
Published: March 2021

Background

Human leukocyte antigen (HLA)‐DP is much less studied than other HLA class II antigens, that is, HLA‐DR and HLA‐DQ, etc. However, the accumulating data have suggested the important roles of DP‐restricted responses in the context of cancer, allergy, and infectious disease. Lack of animal models expressing these genes as authentic cis‐haplotypes blocks our understanding for the role of HLA‐DP haplotypes in immunity.

Methods

To explore the potential cis‐acting control elements involved in the transcriptional regulation of the HLA‐DPA1/DPB1 gene, we performed the expression analysis using bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC)‐based transgenic humanized mice in the C57BL/6 background, which carried the entire HLA‐DP401 gene locus. We further developed a mouse model of Staphylococcus aureus pneumonia in HLA‐DP401 humanized transgenic mice, and performed the analysis on the expression pattern of HLA‐DP401 and immunological responses in the model.

Results

In this study, we screened and identified a BAC clone spanning the entire HLA‐DP gene locus. DNA from this clone was analyzed for integrity by pulsed‐field gel electrophoresis and then microinjected into fertilized mouse oocytes to produce transgenic founder animals. Nine sets of PCR primers for regional markers with an average distance of 15 kb between each primer were used to confirm the integrity of the transgene in the five transgenic lines carrying the HLA‐DPA1/DPB1 gene. Transgene copy numbers were determined by real‐time PCR analysis. HLA‐DP401 gene expression was analyzed at the mRNA and protein level. Although infection with S aureus Newman did not alter the percentage of immune cells in the spleen and thymus from the HLA‐DP401‐H2‐Aβ1 humanized mice. Increased expression of HLA‐DP401 was observed in the thymus of the humanized mice infected by S aureus.

Conclusions

We generated several BAC transgenic mice, and analyzed the expression of HLA‐DPA1/DPB1 in those mice. A model of S aureus‐induced pneumonia in the HLA‐DP401‐H2‐Aβ1−/− humanized mice was further developed, and S aureus infection upregulated the HLA‐DP401 expression in thymus of those humanized mice. These findings demonstrate the potential of those HLA‐DPA1/DPB1 transgenic humanized mice for developing animal models of infectious diseases and MHC‐associated immunological diseases.
Palladium‐Catalyzed Defluorinative Alkylation of gem‐Difluorocyclopropanes: Switching Regioselectivity via Simple Hydrazones
Authors: Lv Leiyang , Li Chao‐Jun
Published: March 2021

Conventional approaches for Pd‐catalyzed ring‐opening cross‐couplings of gem‐difluorocyclopropanes with nucleophiles predominantly deliver the β‐fluoroalkene scaffolds (linear selectivity). Herein, we report a cooperative strategy that can completely switch the reaction selectivity to give the alkylated α‐fluoroalkene skeletons (branched selectivity). The unique reactivity of hydrazones that enables analogous inner‐sphere 3,3′‐reductive elimination driven by denitrogenation, as well as the assistance of steric‐embedded N‐heterocyclic carbene ligand, are the key to switch the regioselectivity. A wide range of hydrazones derived from naturally abundant aryl and alkyl aldehydes are well applicable, and various gem‐difluorocyclopropanes, including modified pharmaceutical and biological molecules, can be efficiently functionalized with high value alkylated α‐fluorinated alkene motifs under mild conditions.
Novel roles of Tsukushi in signaling pathways and multiple disease processes
Authors: Deng Xia , Li Yanyan , Guo Chang , Zhao Zhicong , Yuan Guoyue
Published: March 2021

Tsukushi (TSK), a newly identified hepatokine, is a member of the small leucine‐rich proteoglycans (SLRPs) family. TSK was originally isolated and identified in the lens of the chicken. Preliminary research on TSK has focused on its role in various physiological processes such as growth and development, wound healing, and cartilage formation. In recent years, the role of TSK in regulating cell signaling pathways, cell proliferation, and differentiation has been studied. In addition, the research has gradually expanded to the fields of glycolipid metabolism and energy balance. This article briefly reviews the role of TSK in the physiological and pathological process.
Selegiline reduces daytime sleepiness in patients with Parkinson's disease
Authors: Gallazzi Marco , Mauri Marco , Bianchi Maria Laura , Riboldazzi Giulio , Princiotta Cariddi Lucia , Carimati Federico , Rebecchi Valentina , Versino Maurizio
Published: March 2021

Objectives

Excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) affects a large percentage of Parkinson's disease (PD) patients, and it is enhanced by dopamine agonist drugs. Currently, there is no treatment of choice for EDS in PD. Our aim was to check the clinical impression that some patients who were given selegiline, a selective inhibitor of monoamine oxidase B, experienced an improvement in their daytime somnolence.

Methods

In the present study, we retrospectively identified 45 Parkinson's disease patients (21 females and 24 males) among those referred to the PD Center in Varese that (a) showed excessive daytime sleepiness, usually developed after the introduction of a dopamine agonist, (b) were given selegiline 10 mg to improve their treatment schedule independently of excessive sleepiness, and (c) in whom the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) and the Parkinson's Disease Sleep Scale (PDSS) scores were available both before and 3 months after the introduction of selegiline.

Results

We compared the corresponding scores (ESS, PDSS, and UPDRS III) evaluated before and 3 months after the introduction of selegiline by the nonparametric Mann–Whitney U test: The differences showed a statistically significant improvement of somnolence but no change in the UPDRS III scores.

Conclusion

Despite some limitations, our data suggest that selegiline may be a valuable add‐on therapy in PD patients to reduce their daytime somnolence.
Electroencephalography resting‐state networks in people with Stroke
Authors: Snyder Dylan B. , Schmit Brian D. , Hyngstrom Allison S. , Beardsley Scott A.
Published: March 2021

Introduction

The purpose of this study was to characterize resting‐state cortical networks in chronic stroke survivors using electroencephalography (EEG).

Methods

Electroencephalography data were collected from 14 chronic stroke and 11 neurologically intact participants while they were in a relaxed, resting state. EEG power was normalized to reduce bias and used as an indicator of network activity. Correlations of orthogonalized EEG activity were used as a measure of functional connectivity between cortical regions.

Results

We found reduced cortical activity and connectivity in the alpha (p < .05;p = .05) and beta (p < .05;p = .03) bands after stroke while connectivity in the gamma (p = .031) band increased. Asymmetries, driven by a reduction in the lesioned hemisphere, were also noted in cortical activity (p = .001) after stroke.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that stroke lesions cause a network alteration to more local (higher frequency), asymmetric networks. Understanding changes in cortical networks after stroke could be combined with controllability models to identify (and target) alternate brain network states that reduce functional impairment.
Application of graduate‐level numerical tools to teach phase equilibria of liquid ternary systems
Authors: Binous Housam , Mejbri Khalifa , Bellagi Ahmed
Published: March 2021

The present paper describes a numerical technique to compute phase equilibria of ternary liquid systems. First, particle swarm optimization is used to estimate the binary interaction parameters of the NRTL (Non‐Random Two Liquid) and UNIQUAC (Universal Quasi‐Chemical) models. We show how the arc‐length continuation method allows the calculation of the liquid–liquid equilibrium diagram for any ternary system. A total of seven case studies of industrially important mixtures are described. Both Type I systems (oleic acid–water–ethanol, water–1‐propanol–toluene, DEC–ethanol–water, water–propionic acid–n‐hexane, and water–TMA–benzene) and Type II mixtures (water–1‐butanol–n‐hexane) are discussed. In addition, a system with temperature‐dependent behavior (n‐hexane–methyl cyclopentane–aniline) is studied. The numerical techniques and the thermodynamic problem involved in this paper are suitable for a first‐year graduate‐level course in chemical engineering. All computer coding is based either on Mathematica© or Matlab®. This is an ideal opportunity to introduce graduate students to advanced commands and programming syntax of state‐of‐the‐art mathematical software.
Heterogeneous Catalysis of Second Generation Oil for Biodiesel Production: A Review
Authors: Aderibigbe Fatai A. , Shiru Suleiman , Saka H. B. , Amosa M. K. , Mustapha Sherif Ishola , Alhassan Mohammed I , Adejumo Ayoade L. , Abdulraheem Morufudeen , Owolabi R. U.
Published: March 2021

The demand for cleaner fuels has been on the rise lately, prompting researchers to explore alternative cleaner technologies to meet the growing demand. This has led to the introduction of renewable fuels such as bioethanol and biodiesel. Depending on the feedstock employed for production, renewable fuels can be divided into first, second, and third generation. Reliance on first generation biofuel feedstocks has led to inherent competition between foods versus fuels in the society in the last decade. Further technological prospects in research and development have provided insight into the use of second generation biofuel feed‐stocks from non‐edible agricultural waste products, energy crops, and crop residues. Zeolites and modified zeolites as heterogeneous catalysts have been highly prospective for the transesterification process of these oils. Modified zeolite can act as a bi‐functional catalyst because of its acidic and basic sites. Here, a review of transesterification reaction technology, zeolite and modified zeolite as a heterogeneous catalyst to generate biodiesel was discussed. Current status, challenges and future prospects are also discussed.
Increased Valency Improves Inhibitory Activity of Peptides Targeting Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin Type 9 (PCSK9)
Authors: Tombling Benjamin J. , Lammi Carmen , Bollati Carlotta , Anoldi Anna , Craik David J. , Wang Conan K.
Published: March 2021

Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) is a clinically validated target for treating hypercholesterolemia. Peptide‐based PCSK9 inhibitors have attracted pharmaceutical interest, but the effect of multivalency on bioactivity is poorly understood. Here we designed bivalent and tetravalent dendrimers, decorated with the PCSK9 inhibitory peptides Pep2‐8[RRG] or P9‐38, to study relationships between peptide binding affinity, peptide valency, and PCSK9 inhibition. Increased valency resulted in improved PCSK9 inhibition for both peptides, with activity improvements of up to 100‐fold achieved for the P9‐38‐decorated dendrimers compared to monomeric P9‐38 in in vitro competition binding assays. Furthermore, the P9‐38‐decorated dendrimers showed improved potency at restoring functional low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor levels and internalizing LDL in the presence of PCSK9, demonstrating significant cell‐based activity at picomolar concentrations. This study demonstrates the potential of increasing valency as a strategy for increasing the efficacy of peptide‐based PCSK9 therapeutics.
Effects of environment, nitrogen, and sulfur on total phenolic content and phenolic acid composition of winter wheat grain
Authors: Tian Wenfei , Wilson Tara L. , Chen Gengjun , Guttieri Mary J. , Nelson Nathan O. , Fritz Allan , Smith Gordon , Li Yonghui
Published: March 2021

Background and objectives

Health benefits of whole wheat are partially attributed to phenolic compounds. This study reports the effects of harvest year (Y), nitrogen (N) and sulfur (S) fertilization, and wheat variety (V) on total phenolic content (TPC) and phenolic acid composition of wheat grains.

Findings

The year effect was significant for TPC and all phenolic acids except for syringic acid. The TPC and phenolic acid composition significantly differed among the varieties, except for vanillic acid concentration. Increased nitrogen fertilizer led to increased production of trans‐ferulic acid, and sulfur application affected the response to nitrogen fertilizer application. Varieties also differed in the response of phenolic acid concentration and composition to sulfur application.

Conclusions

Year, sulfur fertilization, and wheat variety significantly influenced the total phenolic content and phenolic acid composition of wheat grains. Though nitrogen and sulfur applications had significant effect on wheat phytochemicals, environment (e.g., year), and variety, differences dominated the analysis of variance.

Significance and novelty

To our knowledge, this is the first study that reports the effects of nitrogen, sulfur, variety, harvest year, and their interactions on phenolic profiles of hard red winter wheat grains. These results will benefit future wheat production practices that aim to produce wheat grains enriched with natural antioxidants.
Micellar Catalysis for Sustainable Hydroformylation
Authors: Migliorini Francesca , Dei Filippo , Calamante Massimo , Maramai Samuele , Petricci Elena
Published: March 2021

It is here reported a fully sustainable and generally applicable protocol for the regioselective hydroformylation of terminal alkenes, using cheap commercially available catalysts and ligands, in mild reaction conditions (70 °C, 9 bar, 40 min). The process can take advantages from both micellar catalysis and microwave irradiation to obtain the linear aldehydes as the major or sole regioisomers in good to high yields. The substrate scope is largely explored as well as the application of hydroformylation in tandem with intramolecular hemiacetalization thus demonstrating the compatibility with a broad variety of functional groups. The reaction is efficient even in large scale and the catalyst and micellar water phase can be reused at least 5 times without any impact in reaction yields. The efficiency and sustainability of this protocol is strictly related to the in situ transformation of the aldehyde into the corresponding Bertagnini's salt that precipitates in the reaction mixture avoiding organic solvent mediated purification steps to obtain the final aldehydes as pure compounds.
Changes in the Wettability of Microporous Copper Layers Prepared by Different Modes of Electrodeposition
Authors: Johnsan R. , Das Sudev , Sujith Kumar C. S.
Published: March 2021

The architecture of microporous nanostructured copper was surface engineered by an improvised conventional electrodeposition technique enabled with a dynamic hydrogen template over a copper substrate. The dependency of the copper architecture on the electrochemical parameters, the current density, and the deposition time are studied in detail. Single‐step electrodeposition resulted in the formation of a fragile microporous nanostructure over the bare copper substrate. Focusing on structural stability, a two‐step electrodeposition was carried out to make the copper architecture competitive in an adverse environment. Due to the grain growth in two‐step electrodeposition, the structural stability was visibly enhanced, and the microporous nanostructure remained intact. The interaction of the microporous nanostructure with water was evaluated by measuring the contact angle, exhibiting both superhydrophobicity and superhydrophilicity.
Low‐Cost and Heat‐Resistant Poly(catechol/polyamine)‐Silica Composite Membrane for High‐Performance Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhu Tianming , Chen Qiuyu , Xie Dongming , Liu Jiansheng , Chen Xinli , Nan Junmin , Zuo Xiaoxi
Published: March 2021

A composite membrane based on SiO2 and a low‐cost poly(catechol/polyamine) (PCPA) multicomponent system was prepared by using a simple dip‐coating processes. The results indicate that the formation of an inorganic/organic composite coating on the surface of the polyethylene (PE) separator is beneficial for improving the comprehensive performance, especially for the thermal stability and wettability. Compared to the PE separator, the thermal stability of the PE@SiO2‐PCPA composite membrane is greatly improved, showing a higher decomposition temperature (426 °C) and a smaller heat shrinkage rate at 160 °C. Moreover, the Li/LiCoO2 battery assembled with the PE@SiO2‐PCPA composite membrane shows an excellent initial discharge capacity and a remarkable capacity retention (171.5 mAh g−1, 86.1 %) at 4.4 V after 200 cycles at 0.5 C, which much higher than the PE membrane (165.2 mAh g−1, 61.4 %). This study provides a potential application for membranes with low cost, high thermal stability, and good wettability in the field of lithium‐ion batteries.
CO2‐to‐HCOOH Electrochemical Conversion on Nanostructured CuxPd100−x/Carbon Catalysts
Authors: Şahin Nihat Ege , Comminges Clément , Arrii Sandrine , Napporn Teko W. , Kokoh Kouakou B.
Published: March 2021

Selective electrochemical conversion of CO2 to HCOOH is obtained at the surface of a carbon‐supported bimetallic cathode material composed of copper and palladium nanoparticles. Polycrystalline copper or large copper particles are well‐known to catalyze CO2 reduction to hydrocarbons at relatively negative potentials, or when their surface is covered by copper oxides (Cu2O and CuO). Cu‐based materials modified by various palladium contents (0<×<100), were synthesized by using the microwave‐assisted polyol method to serve as a cathode in the selective CO2‐into‐HCOOH transformation. Herein, we developed a targeted preparation route toward the metal content/catalytic activity relationship correlating atomic ratio with faradaic efficiency (FE) to formate formation (ca. 60 % FE) at −0.72 V vs. RHE, which represents a 703 mV overpotential at pH=7. Consequently, the occurrence of this reduction reaction slows down the parallel H2 production from the solvent consumption, while the neighboring Cu−Pd provides excellent activity and a good efficiency toward CO2 reduction via the hydridation of the CO2 molecule to orientate the reaction to formate rather than carbon monoxide or H2 evolution.
Shi Epoxidation: A Great Shortcut to Complex Compounds
Authors: Feng Xiangqing , Du Haifeng
Published: March 2021

Shi epoxidation provides an extremely powerful tool to access optically active epoxides, which undoubtedly belongs to one of the earliest and most successful organocatalytic systems. Several generations of chiral ketones have been developed to realize the asymmetric epoxidation of each type of unfunctionalized alkenes, including trans‐, trisubstituted olefins, cis‐olefins, terminal olefins, and tetrasubstituted olefins. Due to its reliability and high regio‐ and enantioselectivity, Shi epoxidation has been widely applied in the synthesis of complex natural products and biologically active molecules.
Low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol lowering in real‐world patients treated with evolocumab
Authors: Desai Nihar R. , Wade Rolin L. , Xiang Pin , Pinto Lionel , Nunna Sasikiran , Wang Xin , Exter Jason , Mues Katherine E. , Habib Mohdhar , Chen Chi‐Chang
Published: March 2021

Background

Low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) is a risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). There are limited real‐world data on LDL‐C lowering with evolocumab in United States clinical practice.

Hypothesis

We assessed LDL‐C lowering during 1 year of evolocumab therapy.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study used linked laboratory (Prognos) and medical claims (IQVIA Dx/LRx and PharMetrics Plus®) data. Patients with a first fill for evolocumab between 7/1/2015 and 10/31/2019 (index event) and LDL‐C ≥ 70 mg/dL were included (overall cohort; N = 5897). Additionally, a patient subgroup with a recent myocardial infarction (MI) within 12 months (median 130 days) before the first evolocumab fill was identified (N = 152). Reduction from baseline LDL‐C was calculated based on the lowest LDL‐C value recorded during a 12‐month follow‐up period.

Results

The mean (SD) age was 65 (10) years; 61.9% of patients had ASCVD diagnoses and 70.7% of patients were in receipt of lipid‐lowering therapy. Following evolocumab treatment, changes in LDL‐C from baseline were −60% in the overall cohort (median [interquartile range (IQR)] 146 [115–180] mg/dL to 58 [36–84] mg/dL) and −65% in the recent MI subgroup (median [IQR] 137 [109–165] mg/dL to 48 [30–78] mg/dL). In the overall cohort and recent MI subgroup, 62.1% and 69.7% of patients achieved LDL‐C < 70 mg/dL, respectively.

Conclusions

In this real‐world analysis, evolocumab was associated with significant reductions in LDL‐C comparable to that seen in the FOURIER clinical trial, which were durable over 1 year of treatment.