bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reaction-diffusion in a growing 3D domain of skin scales generates a discrete cellular automaton
Authors: Fofonjka Anamarija , Milinkovitch Michel C.
Published: April 2021

We previously showed that the adult ocellated lizard skin colour pattern is effectively generated by a stochastic cellular automaton (CA) of skin scales. We additionally suggested that the canonical continuous 2D reaction-diffusion (RD) process of colour pattern development is transformed into this discrete CA by reduced diffusion coefficients at the borders of scales (justified by the corresponding thinning of the skin). Here, we use RD numerical simulations in 3D on realistic lizard skin geometries and demonstrate that skin thickness variation on its own is sufficient to cause scale-by-scale coloration and CA dynamics during RD patterning. In addition, we show that this phenomenon is robust to RD model variation. Finally, using dimensionality-reduction approaches on large networks of skin scales, we show that animal growth affects the scale-colour flipping dynamics by causing a substantial decrease of the relative length scale of the labyrinthine colour pattern of the lizard skin.
Imperceptible energy harvesting device and biomedical sensor based on ultraflexible ferroelectric transducers and organic diodes
Authors: Petritz Andreas , Karner-Petritz Esther , Uemura Takafumi , Schäffner Philipp , Araki Teppei , Stadlober Barbara , Sekitani Tsuyoshi
Published: April 2021

Energy autonomy and conformability are essential elements in the next generation of wearable and flexible electronics for healthcare, robotics and cyber-physical systems. This study presents ferroelectric polymer transducers and organic diodes for imperceptible sensing and energy harvesting systems, which are integrated on ultrathin (1-µm) substrates, thus imparting them with excellent flexibility. Simulations show that the sensitivity of ultraflexible ferroelectric polymer transducers is strongly enhanced by using an ultrathin substrate, which allows the mounting on 3D-shaped objects and the stacking in multiple layers. Indeed, ultraflexible ferroelectric polymer transducers have improved sensitivity to strain and pressure, fast response and excellent mechanical stability, thus forming imperceptible wireless e-health patches for precise pulse and blood pressure monitoring. For harvesting biomechanical energy, the transducers are combined with rectifiers based on ultraflexible organic diodes thus comprising an imperceptible, 2.5-µm thin, energy harvesting device with an excellent peak power density of 3 mW·cm−3.
Arbitrary linear transformations for photons in the frequency synthetic dimension
Authors: Buddhiraju Siddharth , Dutt Avik , Minkov Momchil , Williamson Ian A. D. , Fan Shanhui
Published: April 2021

Arbitrary linear transformations are of crucial importance in a plethora of photonic applications spanning classical signal processing, communication systems, quantum information processing and machine learning. Here, we present a photonic architecture to achieve arbitrary linear transformations by harnessing the synthetic frequency dimension of photons. Our structure consists of dynamically modulated micro-ring resonators that implement tunable couplings between multiple frequency modes carried by a single waveguide. By inverse design of these short- and long-range couplings using automatic differentiation, we realize arbitrary scattering matrices in synthetic space between the input and output frequency modes with near-unity fidelity and favorable scaling. We show that the same physical structure can be reconfigured to implement a wide variety of manipulations including single-frequency conversion, nonreciprocal frequency translations, and unitary as well as non-unitary transformations. Our approach enables compact, scalable and reconfigurable integrated photonic architectures to achieve arbitrary linear transformations in both the classical and quantum domains using current state-of-the-art technology.
RANKL regulates male reproductive function
Authors: Blomberg Jensen Martin , Andreassen Christine Hjorth , Jørgensen Anne , Nielsen John Erik , Juel Mortensen Li , Boisen Ida Marie , Schwarz Peter , Toppari Jorma , Baron Roland , Lanske Beate , Juul Anders
Published: April 2021

Infertile men have few treatment options. Here, we demonstrate that the transmembrane receptor activator of NF-kB ligand (RANKL) signaling system is active in mouse and human testis. RANKL is highly expressed in Sertoli cells and signals through RANK, expressed in most germ cells, whereas the RANKL-inhibitor osteoprotegerin (OPG) is expressed in germ and peritubular cells. OPG treatment increases wild-type mouse sperm counts, and mice with global or Sertoli-specific genetic suppression of Rankl have increased male fertility and sperm counts. Moreover, RANKL levels in seminal fluid are high and distinguishes normal from infertile men with higher specificity than total sperm count. In infertile men, one dose of Denosumab decreases RANKL seminal fluid concentration and increases serum Inhibin-B and anti-Müllerian-hormone levels, but semen quality only in a subgroup. This translational study suggests that RANKL is a regulator of male reproductive function, however, predictive biomarkers for treatment-outcome requires further investigation in placebo-controlled studies.
Brain-specific lipoprotein receptors interact with astrocyte derived apolipoprotein and mediate neuron-glia lipid shuttling
Authors: Yin Jun , Spillman Emma , Cheng Ethan S. , Short Jacob , Chen Yang , Lei Jingce , Gibbs Mary , Rosenthal Justin S. , Sheng Chengyu , Chen Yuki X. , Veerasammy Kelly , Choetso Tenzin , Abzalimov Rinat , Wang Bei , Han Chun , He Ye , Yuan Quan
Published: April 2021

Lipid shuttling between neurons and glia contributes to the development, function, and stress responses of the nervous system. To understand how a neuron acquires its lipid supply from specific lipoproteins and their receptors, we perform combined genetic, transcriptome, and biochemical analyses in the developing Drosophila larval brain. Here we report, the astrocyte-derived secreted lipocalin Glial Lazarillo (GLaz), a homolog of human Apolipoprotein D (APOD), and its neuronal receptor, the brain-specific short isoforms of Drosophila lipophorin receptor 1 (LpR1-short), cooperatively mediate neuron-glia lipid shuttling and support dendrite morphogenesis. The isoform specificity of LpR1 defines its distribution, binding partners, and ability to support proper dendrite growth and synaptic connectivity. By demonstrating physical and functional interactions between GLaz/APOD and LpR1, we elucidate molecular pathways mediating lipid trafficking in the fly brain, and provide in vivo evidence indicating isoform-specific expression of lipoprotein receptors as a key mechanism for regulating cell-type specific lipid recruitment.
Genetic interactions among Brca1, Brca2, Palb2, and Trp53 in mammary tumor development
Authors: Huo Yanying , Selenica Pier , Mahdi Amar H. , Pareja Fresia , Kyker-Snowman Kelly , Chen Ying , Kumar Rahul , Da Cruz Paula Arnaud , Basili Thais , Brown David N. , Pei Xin , Riaz Nadeem , Tan Yongmei , Huang Yu-Xiu , Li Tao , Barnard Nicola J. , Reis-Filho Jorge S. , Weigelt Britta , Xia Bing
Published: April 2021

Inherited mutations in BRCA1, BRCA2, and PALB2 cause a high risk of breast cancer. Here, we conducted parallel conditional knockout (CKO) of Brca1, Palb2, and Brca2, individually and in combination, along with one copy of Trp53, in the mammary gland of nulliparous female mice. We observed a functional equivalence of the three genes in their basic tumor-suppressive activity, a linear epistasis of Palb2 and Brca2, but complementary roles of Brca1 and Palb2 in mammary tumor suppression, as combined ablation of either Palb2 or Brca2 with Brca1 led to delayed tumor formation. Whole-exome sequencing (WES) revealed both similarities and differences between Brca1 and Palb2 or Brca2 null tumors. Analyses of mouse mammary glands and cultured human cells showed that combined loss of BRCA1 and PALB2 led to high levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and increased apoptosis, implicating oxidative stress in the delayed tumor development in Brca1;Palb2 double CKO mice. The functional complementarity between BRCA1 and PALB2/BRCA2 and the role of ROS in tumorigenesis require further investigation.
Persistent dyskinesias in patients with fetal tissue transplantation for Parkinson disease
Authors: Greene Paul E. , Fahn Stanley , Eidelberg David , Bjugstad Kimberly B. , Breeze Robert E. , Freed Curt R.
Published: April 2021

Cell transplants are being developed for patients with Parkinson disease (PD) who have insufficient benefit with standard medical treatment. We describe the clinical features of five patients who developed persistent dyskinesias after fetal dopaminergic tissue transplantation. All had levodopa-induced dyskinesias preoperatively. We implanted fetal mesencephalic dopaminergic tissue into the putamina bilaterally in 34 patients with advanced PD. They were not immunosuppressed. Five of 34 patients (15%) developed troublesome choreic or dystonic dyskinesias that persisted despite lowering or discontinuing medications. Attempts to treat the involuntary movements with amantadine, clozapine, anticholinergics, dopamine depletors and other medicines had limited success. Metyrosine eliminated dyskinesias but led to the parkinsonian “off” state. Increasing the dose of levodopa worsened the dyskinesias. Three patients required placement of pallidal stimulators, bilaterally in two and unilaterally in one patient who had only contralateral dyskinesias. The two with the bilateral stimulators had improvement in dyskinesias. The patient with the unilateral pallidal stimulator had a substantial reduction of the dyskinesias, but attempts to treat residual “off” symptoms with levodopa were limited by worsening dyskinesias. Although the number of patients developing these persistent dyskinesias was small, these five patients had dramatic improvement after transplant. As a group, they had milder Parkinson signs at baseline and improved to the point of having minimal parkinsonism, with reduction or elimination of levodopa therapy prior to developing persistent dyskinesias. These involuntary movements establish the principle that fetal dopaminergic tissue transplants can mimic the effects of levodopa, not only in reducing bradykinesia, but also in provoking dyskinesias.
An integrated landscape of protein expression in human cancer
Authors: Jarnuczak Andrew F. , Najgebauer Hanna , Barzine Mitra , Kundu Deepti J. , Ghavidel Fatemeh , Perez-Riverol Yasset , Papatheodorou Irene , Brazma Alvis , Vizcaíno Juan Antonio
Published: April 2021

Using 11 proteomics datasets, mostly available through the PRIDE database, we assembled a reference expression map for 191 cancer cell lines and 246 clinical tumour samples, across 13 lineages. We found unique peptides identified only in tumour samples despite a much higher coverage in cell lines. These were mainly mapped to proteins related to regulation of signalling receptor activity. Correlations between baseline expression in cell lines and tumours were calculated. We found these to be highly similar across all samples with most similarity found within a given sample type. Integration of proteomics and transcriptomics data showed median correlation across cell lines to be 0.58 (range between 0.43 and 0.66). Additionally, in agreement with previous studies, variation in mRNA levels was often a poor predictor of changes in protein abundance. To our knowledge, this work constitutes the first meta-analysis focusing on cancer-related public proteomics datasets. We therefore also highlight shortcomings and limitations of such studies. All data is available through PRIDE dataset identifier PXD013455 and in Expression Atlas.
Population cluster data to assess the urban-rural split and electrification in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Khavari Babak , Korkovelos Alexandros , Sahlberg Andreas , Howells Mark , Fuso Nerini Francesco
Published: April 2021

Human settlements are usually nucleated around manmade central points or distinctive natural features, forming clusters that vary in shape and size. However, population distribution in geo-sciences is often represented in the form of pixelated rasters. Rasters indicate population density at predefined spatial resolutions, but are unable to capture the actual shape or size of settlements. Here we suggest a methodology that translates high-resolution raster population data into vector-based population clusters. We use open-source data and develop an open-access algorithm tailored for low and middle-income countries with data scarcity issues. Each cluster includes unique characteristics indicating population, electrification rate and urban-rural categorization. Results are validated against national electrification rates provided by the World Bank and data from selected Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS). We find that our modeled national electrification rates are consistent with the rates reported by the World Bank, while the modeled urban/rural classification has 88% accuracy. By delineating settlements, this dataset can complement existing raster population data in studies such as energy planning, urban planning and disease response.
Predictive value of tyrosine phosphatase receptor gamma for the response to treatment tyrosine kinase inhibitors in chronic myeloid leukemia patients
Authors: Ismail Mohamed A. , Vezzalini Marzia , Morsi Hisham , Abujaber Ahmad , Al Sayab Ali , Siveen Kodappully , Yassin Mohamed A. , Monne Maria , Samara Muthanna , Cook Richard , Sorio Claudio , Modjtahedi Helmout , Al-Dewik Nader I.
Published: April 2021

Protein tyrosine phosphatase receptor gamma (PTPRG) is a member of the receptor-like family protein tyrosine phosphatases and acts as a tumor suppressor gene in different neoplasms. Recent studies reported the down-regulation of PTPRG expression levels in Chronic Myeloid Leukemia disease (CML). In addition, the BCR-ABL1 transcript level is currently a key predictive biomarker of CML response to treatment with Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors (TKIs). The aim of this study was to employ flow cytometry to monitor the changes in the expression level of PTPRG in the white blood cells (WBCs) of CML patients at the time of diagnosis and following treatment with TKIs. WBCs from peripheral blood of 21 CML patients were extracted at diagnosis and during follow up along with seven healthy individuals. The PTPRG expression level was determined at protein and mRNA levels by both flow cytometry with monoclonal antibody (TPγ B9-2) and RT-qPCR, and BCR-ABL1 transcript by RT-qPCR, respectively. PTPRG expression was found to be lower in the neutrophils and monocytes of CML patients at time of diagnosis compared to healthy individuals. Treatment with TKIs nilotinib and Imatinib Mesylate restored the expression of PTPRG in the WBCs of CML patients to levels observed in healthy controls. Moreover, restoration levels were greatest in optimal responders and occurred earlier with nilotinib compared to imatinib. Our results support the measurement of PTPRG expression level in the WBCs of CML patients by flow cytometry as a monitoring tool for the response to treatment with TKIs in CML patients.
Field multi-omics analysis reveals a close association between bacterial communities and mineral properties in the soybean rhizosphere
Authors: Yamazaki Shinichi , Mardani-korrani Hossein , Kaida Rumi , Ochiai Kumiko , Kobayashi Masaru , Nagano Atsushi J. , Fujii Yoshiharu , Sugiyama Akifumi , Aoki Yuichi
Published: April 2021

The plant root-associated environments such as the rhizosphere, rhizoplane, and endosphere are different from the outer soil region (bulk soil). They establish characteristic conditions including microbiota, metabolites, and minerals, and they can directly affect plant growth and development. However, comprehensive insights into those characteristic environments, especially the rhizosphere, and molecular mechanisms of their formation are not well understood. In the present study, we investigated the spatiotemporal dynamics of the root-associated environment in actual field conditions by multi-omics analyses (mineral, microbiome, and transcriptome) of soybean plants. Mineral and microbiome analyses demonstrated a characteristic rhizosphere environment in which most of the minerals were highly accumulated and bacterial communities were distinct from those in the bulk soil. Mantel’s test and co-abundance network analysis revealed that characteristic community structures and dominant bacterial taxa in the rhizosphere significantly interact with mineral contents in the rhizosphere, but not in the bulk soil. Our field multi-omics analysis suggests a rhizosphere-specific close association between the microbiota and mineral environment.
Parameter study of the high temperature MOCVD numerical model for AlN growth using orthogonal test design
Authors: An Jiadai , Dai Xianying , Feng Lansheng , Zheng Jieming
Published: April 2021

We investigated the process parameters of the high temperature MOCVD (HT-MOCVD) numerical model for the AlN growth based on CFD simulation using orthogonal test design. It is believed that high temperature growth condition is favorable for improving efficiency and crystallization quality for AlN film, while the flow field in the HT-MOCVD reactor is closely related to the process parameters, which will affect the uniformity of the film. An independently developed conceptual HT-MOCVD reactor was established for the AlN growth to carry out the CFD simulation. To evaluate the role of the parameters systematically and efficiently on the growth uniformity, the process parameters based on CFD simulation were analyzed using orthogonal test design. The advantages of the range, matrix and variance methods were considered and the results were analyzed comprehensively and the optimal process parameters were obtained as follows, susceptor rotational speed 400 rpm, operating pressure 40 Torr, gas flow rate 50 slm, substrate temperature 1550 K.
Deep genetic structure at a small spatial scale in the endangered land snail Xerocrassa montserratensis
Authors: Català Cristina , Bros Vicenç , Castelltort Xavier , Santos Xavier , Pascual Marta
Published: April 2021

Species with small geographic ranges do not tend to have a high genetic structure, but some land snail species seem to be an exception. Xerocrassa montserratensis, an endangered land snail endemic to Catalonia (northeastern Iberian Peninsula), is an excellent model to study the processes affecting the phylogeography of specialized species of conservation concern. This species is restricted to xerophilous stony slopes and occurs within a small and fragmented area of ca. 500 km2. We sequenced the COI barcode region of 152 individuals from eight sites covering the entire range of the species. We found four genetic groups mostly coincident with their geographic distribution: a central ancestral group containing shared haplotypes among five localities and three groups restricted to a single locality each. Two of these derived groups were geographically and genetically isolated, while the third and most differentiated group was not geographically isolated. Geomorphologic and paleoclimatic processes during the Pleistocene can explain the divergence found between populations of this low dispersal species with historical fragmentation and secondary contacts. Nonetheless, recent passive large dispersal through streams was also detected in the central group. Overall, our study uncovered four evolutionary units, partially matching morphologically described subspecies, which should be considered in future conservation actions.
An advancement in the synthesis of unique soft magnetic CoCuFeNiZn high entropy alloy thin films
Authors: Pavithra Chokkakula L. P. , Janardhana Reddy Kunda Siri Kiran , Reddy Kolan Madhav , Murapaka Chandrasekhar , Joardar Joydip , Sarada Bulusu V. , Tamboli Rameez R. , Hu Yixuan , Zhang Yumeng , Wang Xiaodong , Dey Suhash Ranjan
Published: April 2021

Discovery of advanced soft-magnetic high entropy alloy (HEA) thin films are highly pursued to obtain unidentified functional materials. The figure of merit in current nanocrystalline HEA thin films relies in integration of a simple single-step electrochemical approach with a complex HEA system containing multiple elements with dissimilar crystal structures and large variation of melting points. A new family of Cobalt–Copper–Iron–Nickel–Zinc (Co–Cu–Fe–Ni–Zn) HEA thin films are prepared through pulse electrodeposition in aqueous medium, hosts nanocrystalline features in the range of ~ 5–20 nm having FCC and BCC dual phases. The fabricated Co–Cu–Fe–Ni–Zn HEA thin films exhibited high saturation magnetization value of ~ 82 emu/g, relatively low coercivity value of 19.5 Oe and remanent magnetization of 1.17%. Irrespective of the alloying of diamagnetic Zn and Cu with ferromagnetic Fe, Co, Ni elements, the HEA thin film has resulted in relatively high saturation magnetization which can provide useful insights for its potential unexplored applications.
The BET inhibitor attenuates the inflammatory response and cell migration in human microglial HMC3 cell line
Authors: Baek Mina , Yoo Eunyoung , Choi Hae In , An Ga Yeong , Chai Jin Choul , Lee Young Seek , Jung Kyoung Hwa , Chai Young Gyu
Published: April 2021

Microglia, resident macrophages of the brain that act as primary immune cells, play essential roles in innate immunity and neuroinflammatory pathologies. Microglial cells are rapidly activated in response to infection and inflammation/injury, associated with the expression of proinflammatory genes and secretion of cytokines. The bromodomain and extra-terminal (BET) inhibitor JQ1 has been shown to be an epigenetic agent that reduces inflammation. In this study, we investigated the mechanisms underlying the anti-inflammatory and anti-migratory functions of JQ1 and the genes targeted by JQ1 in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated human microglial clone 3 (HMC3) cells using RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq). We analyzed the pattern of inflammation-related genes (chemokines, cytokines, and interferon-stimulated genes) and migration-related genes with JQ1 treatment from differentially expressed genes analysis in HMC3 cells. We found that LPS-induced IRF1 directly regulated inflammation- and migration-related genes and that JQ1 significantly reduced IRF1 and its target genes. Additionally, IRF1 attenuation significantly downregulated target genes and inhibited microglial migration. Our data suggest that the BET inhibitor JQ1 can modulate the inflammatory response and migration through the regulation of LPS-induced IRF1 in human microglia.
A computer study of the risk of cholesterol gallstone associated with obesity and normal weight
Authors: Kubica Krystian , Balbus Joanna
Published: April 2021

Obese people differ from the people of normal weight in gall bladder motility and have a higher risk of cholesterol stone formation. In this study, using a mathematical model of cholesterol homeostasis, which also considers the enterohepatic circulation of bile as well as cholesterol, we investigated the risk of cholesterol stone formation in obese and normal-weight groups who had normal blood cholesterol levels. We associated the risk of stone formation with the amount of cholesterol released into bile and the amount of de novo-synthesized cholic acid. For both groups, we determined the conditions of low and high risk. In addition, we analyzed the potential effects of changes in gall bladder motility with increased weight. The results showed that the obese group exhibited increased kinetics of enterohepatic circulation, leading to a significant increase in blood cholesterol levels, which can be reduced by increasing the amount of cholesterol in bile. Based on this finding, we suggest that for obese people, it is beneficial to reduce the amount and change the composition of circulating bile through the inhibition of cholic acid synthesis along with cholesterol synthesis. Furthermore, obese people should maintain a triglyceride-lowering diet and consume small meals containing fat, preferably in combination with agents that can reduce bile output from the gall bladder.
Social buffering in horses is influenced by context but not by the familiarity and habituation of a companion
Authors: Ricci-Bonot Claire , Romero Teresa , Nicol Christine , Mills Daniel
Published: April 2021

Social buffering occurs when the presence of one animal attenuates another’s stress response during a stressful event and/or helps the subject to recover more quickly after a stressful event. Inconsistent previous results might reflect previously unrecognised contextual influences, such as the nature of the stimulus presented or social factors. We addressed these issues in a two-part study of horses paired with familiar (16 subjects) or unfamiliar (16 subjects) companions. Each subject performed 4 tests in a counterbalanced order: novel object test (static ball)—alone or with companion; and umbrella opening test—alone or with companion. Social buffering was significantly influenced by the nature of the stimulus presented, but not by companion’s habituation status or familiarity. Importantly, the stimulus used produced differential effects on behavioural and physiological measures of buffering. A companion significantly reduced behavioural response (reactivity) in the novel object test but not in the umbrella test. However, heart rate recovered more quickly for subjects with a companion in the umbrella test but not in the novel object test. We propose that circumstances which permit greater contextual processing may facilitate demonstration of behavioural effects of social buffering, whereas buffering in response to startling events may be manifest only during post-event physiological recovery.
New species and a new record of Phylloporia from Benin
Authors: Olou Boris Armel , Yorou Nourou Soulemane , Langer Ewald
Published: April 2021

Species of the wood-decay genus Phylloporia (Hymenochaetaceae, Hymenochaetales, Basidiomycota) are widely distributed in the tropics. Phylloporia species are, however, morphologically and ecologically diverse, which makes morphology-based species identification challenging. In this study, we re-examined species of Phylloporia reported from Benin (West Africa). Using an integrative approach combining morphology, ecology, and phylogenetic analyses, we describe Phylloporia beninensis sp. nov. and report Phylloporia littoralis for the first time outside of its type locality. Phylloporia beninensis sp. nov. is characterized by its annual and imbricate basidiomata, duplex context with a black zone separating the upper context from the lower one, dimitic hyphal system, presence of cystidioles, basidia of 9–12 × 4–5 μm, and subglobose to ellipsoid basidiospores measuring 3–4.6 × 2.1–3.6 μm. Detailed descriptions with illustrations for the new species are provided. With the addition of the new species, 15 Phylloporia species are now known to occur in tropical Africa. Our discovery of a new Phylloporia species in Benin should stimulate further mycological investigations in tropical African ecosystems to discover other new polypore species. To facilitate further taxonomy studies on tropical African Phylloporia taxa, a key to the known tropical African species is provided.
A strain rate dependent thermo-elasto-plastic constitutive model for crystalline metallic materials
Authors: Chen Cen , Wang TzuChiang
Published: April 2021

The strain rate and temperature effects on the deformation behavior of crystalline metal materials have always been a research hotspot. In this paper, a strain rate dependent thermo-elasto-plastic constitutive model was established to investigate the deformation behavior of crystalline metal materials. Firstly, the deformation gradient was re-decomposed into three parts: thermal part, elastic part and plastic part. Then, the thermal strain was introduced into the total strain and the thermo-elastic constitutive equation was established. For the plastic behavior, a new relation between stress and plastic strain was proposed to describe the strain rate and temperature effects on the flow stress and work-hardening. The stress–strain curves were calculated over wide ranges of strain rates (10–6–6000 s−1) and temperatures (233–730 K) for three kinds of crystalline metal materials with different crystal structure: oxygen free high conductivity copper for face centered cubic metals, Tantalum for body centered cubic metals and Ti–6Al–4V alloy for two phase crystal metals. The comparisons between the calculation and experimental results reveal that the present model describes the deformation behavior of crystalline metal materials well. Also, it is concise and efficient for the practical application.
Ultrasound use in metastatic breast cancer to measure body composition changes following an exercise intervention
Authors: Escriche-Escuder Adrian , Trinidad-Fernández Manuel , Pajares Bella , Iglesias-Campos Marcos , Alba Emilio , Cuesta-Vargas Antonio I. , Roldán-Jiménez Cristina
Published: April 2021

Changes in body composition and muscle dysfunction are common in metastatic breast cancer (MBC). Ultrasound imaging (US) offers reliable information about muscle and fat tissue architecture (thickness) and quality (echo-intensity). This study aimed to analyze the responsiveness of thickness and echo-intensity and its possible relationship with functional and patient reported-outcomes (PRO) in MBC patients after an exercise intervention. A prospective study was conducted in 2019. A 12-week exercise program was performed, including aerobic exercise and strength training. Measurements were made at baseline and after intervention. Thickness and echo-intensity were obtained from the quadriceps and biceps brachii and brachialis (BB). Mean differences were calculated using the T-Student parametric test for dependent samples of the differences in the means before and after the intervention (p = 0.05; 95% CI). Data from 13 MBC patients showed that some US muscle variables had significant differences after intervention. Best correlations were found between the quality of life questionnaire (QLQ-BR23) PRO and variables from BB muscle thickness in contraction (r = 0.61, p < 0.01), and Non-contraction (r = 0.55, p < 0.01). BB Muscle Non-contraction Thickness also explained 70% of QLQ-BR23 variance. In conclusion, muscle architecture biomarkers showed great responsiveness and are correlated with PRO after an exercise intervention in MBC patients.
The influence of axial myopia on optic disc characteristics of glaucoma eyes
Authors: Rezapour Jasmin , Bowd Christopher , Dohleman Jade , Belghith Akram , Proudfoot James A. , Christopher Mark , Hyman Leslie , Jonas Jost B. , Fazio Massimo A. , Weinreb Robert N. , Zangwill Linda M.
Published: April 2021

This study characterizes differences in glaucomatous eyes with and without high axial myopia using custom automated analysis of OCT images. 452 eyes of 277 glaucoma patients were stratified into non (n = 145 eyes), mild (n = 214 eyes), and high axial myopia (axial length (AL) > 26 mm, n = 93 eyes). Optic disc ovality index, tilt and rotation angle of Bruch´s membrane opening (BMO) and peripapillary choroidal thickness (PCT) were calculated using automated and deep learning strategies. High myopic optic discs were more oval and had larger BMO tilt than mild and non-myopic discs (both p < 0.001). Mean PCT was thinnest in high myopic eyes followed by mild and non-myopic eyes (p < 0.001). BMO rotation angle, global retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness and BMO-minimum rim width (MRW) were similar among groups. Temporal RNFL was thicker and supranasal BMO-MRW was thinner in high myopic eyes. BMO tilt and PCT showed moderate and temporal RNFL and nasal BMO-MRW showed weak but significant associations with AL in multivariable analyses (all p < 0.05). Large BMO tilt angle and thin PCT are characteristics of highly myopic discs and were not associated with severity of glaucoma. Caution should be exercised when using sectoral BMO-MRW and RNFL thickness for glaucoma management decisions in myopic eyes.
Modeling space radiation induced cognitive dysfunction using targeted and non-targeted effects
Authors: Shuryak Igor , Brenner David J. , Blattnig Steven R. , Shukitt-Hale Barbara , Rabin Bernard M.
Published: April 2021

Radiation-induced cognitive dysfunction is increasingly recognized as an important risk for human exploration of distant planets. Mechanistically-motivated mathematical modeling helps to interpret and quantify this phenomenon. Here we considered two general mechanisms of ionizing radiation-induced damage: targeted effects (TE), caused by traversal of cells by ionizing tracks, and non-targeted effects (NTE), caused by responses of other cells to signals released by traversed cells. We compared the performances of 18 dose response model variants based on these concepts, fitted by robust nonlinear regression to a large published data set on novel object recognition testing in rats exposed to multiple space-relevant radiation types (H, C, O, Si, Ti and Fe ions), covering wide ranges of linear energy transfer (LET) (0.22–181 keV/µm) and dose (0.001–2 Gy). The best-fitting model (based on Akaike information criterion) was an NTE + TE variant where NTE saturate at low doses (~ 0.01 Gy) and occur at all tested LETs, whereas TE depend on dose linearly with a slope that increases with LET. The importance of NTE was also found by additional analyses of the data using quantile regression and random forests. These results suggest that NTE-based radiation effects on brain function are potentially important for astronaut health and for space mission risk assessments.
Ecological niche adaptation of Salmonella Typhimurium U288 is associated with altered pathogenicity and reduced zoonotic potential
Authors: Kirkwood Mark , Vohra Prerna , Bawn Matt , Thilliez Gaëtan , Pye Hannah , Tanner Jennifer , Chintoan-Uta Cosmin , Branchu Priscilla , Petrovska Liljana , Dallman Timothy , Hall Neil , Stevens Mark P. , Kingsley Robert A.
Published: April 2021

The emergence of new bacterial pathogens is a continuing challenge for agriculture and food safety. Salmonella Typhimurium is a major cause of foodborne illness worldwide, with pigs a major zoonotic reservoir. Two phylogenetically distinct variants, U288 and ST34, emerged in UK pigs around the same time but present different risk to food safety. Here we show using genomic epidemiology that ST34 accounts for over half of all S. Typhimurium infections in people while U288 less than 2%. That the U288 clade evolved in the recent past by acquiring AMR genes, indels in the virulence plasmid pU288-1, and accumulation of loss-of-function polymorphisms in coding sequences. U288 replicates more slowly and is more sensitive to desiccation than ST34 isolates and exhibited distinct pathogenicity in the murine model of colitis and in pigs. U288 infection was more disseminated in the lymph nodes while ST34 were recovered in greater numbers in the intestinal contents. These data are consistent with the evolution of S. Typhimurium U288 adaptation to pigs that may determine their reduced zoonotic potential.
The modulatory role of sulfated and non-sulfated small molecule heparan sulfate-glycomimetics in endothelial dysfunction: absolute structural clarification, molecular docking and simulated dynamics, SAR analyses and ADMET studies
Authors: Gill Daniel M. , R. Povinelli Ana Paula , Zazeri Gabriel , Shamir Sabrina A. , Mahmoud Ayman M. , Wilkinson Fiona L. , Alexander M. Yvonne , L. Cornelio Marinonio , Jones Alan M.
Published: April 2021

The conceptual technology of small molecule glycomimetics, exemplified by compounds C1–4, has shown promising protective effects against lipid-induced endothelial dysfunction.
Sodium silicate-derived aerogels: effect of processing parameters on their applications
Authors: N. Minju , Nair Balagopal N. , S. Savithri
Published: April 2021

Inorganic silica aerogels are large three-dimensional open networks with properties such as low density, high porosity, low thermal conductivity, high specific surface area, low refractive index, and high optical transmittance depending on their preparation conditions.
Hierarchical Ni–Co–Mn hydroxide hollow architectures as high-performance electrodes for electrochemical energy storage
Authors: Wei Chengzhen , Cheng Cheng , Wang Kaimin , Li Xiaochong , Xiao Hecong , Yao Qiaofei
Published: April 2021

An effective etching method is developed for the synthesis of hierarchical Ni–Co–Mn hydroxide hollow architectures, which exhibit high performance in electrochemical energy storage.
Cytosolic protein delivery via metabolic glycoengineering and bioorthogonal click reactions
Authors: Zhao Ziyin , Zhang Zhimin , Duan Shanzhou , Liu Xun , Zhou Renxiang , Hou Mengying , Sang Yonghua , Zhu Rongying , Yin Lichen
Published: April 2021

Carrier-free cytosolic protein delivery was achieved via metabolic glycoengineering and bioorthogonal click reactions.
Combined nanofiltration and advanced oxidation processes with bifunctional carbon nanomembranes
Authors: Shapira Barak , Penki Tirupathi Rao , Cohen Izaak , Elias Yuval , Dalpke Raphael , Beyer André , Gölzhäuser Armin , Avraham Eran , Aurbach Doron
Published: April 2021

A proof of concept of bi-functional membrane, for wastewater treatment, consisting of partially reduced graphene oxide and CNM is demonstrated.
Novel electroblowing synthesis of tin dioxide and composite tin dioxide/silicon dioxide submicron fibers for cobalt(ii) uptake
Authors: Paajanen Johanna , Weintraub Saara , Lönnrot Satu , Heikkilä Mikko , Vehkamäki Marko , Kemell Marianna , Hatanpää Timo , Ritala Mikko , Koivula Risto
Published: April 2021

Calcination temperature and heating rate markedly affected the structure and morphology of electroblown SnO2/SiO2composite fibers. Compared with bare SnO2fibers, the SiO2component improved the mechanical strength but slightly weakened Co2+uptake.
Impact of advanced inverter functions on low‐voltage power grids
Authors: Mentens Arjen , Chamorro Harold R. , Jacobs Valéry Ann , Topolánek David , Drápela Jiří , Martinez Wilmar
Published: April 2021

In today's power grid, a great number of inverter‐based distributed energy resources (DERs) are connected and are mainly designed to supply power without considering the voltage and frequency deviations of the grid. Therefore, distribution system operators (DSOs) are challenged with an increase in grid events because of the random implementation of DERs. Voltage levels can vary beyond predefined limits at the point of connection and are currently not evaluated by DSOs. Summarized here is the development of a simulation model for evaluating the impact of support functions integrated in inverter‐based DERs. The model aims to help grid operators simulate voltage and frequency events and study the impact of DERs to the grid with respect to different settings of integrated support functions. A model is developed in MATLAB/Simulink conforming to European standards and regulations. Grid dynamics can be evaluated by imitating voltage and frequency deviations. Support functions can be either adjusted according to the situation or turned off. Together with adjustable settings according to DSO request, this model offers flexibility and insight in the capabilities of DERs to solve voltage and frequency issues. Case studies show that the model corresponds to expected behaviour and can be used for further development.
Homogeneous study of Herbig Ae/Be stars from spectral energy distributions and Gaia EDR3
Authors: Guzmán-Díaz J. , Mendigutía I. , Montesinos B. , Oudmaijer R. D. , Vioque M. , Rodrigo C. , Solano E. , Meeus G. , Marcos-Arenal P.
Published: April 2021

Context. Herbig Ae/Be stars (HAeBes) have so far been studied based on relatively small samples that are scattered throughout the sky. Their fundamental stellar and circumstellar parameters and statistical properties were derived with heterogeneous approaches before Gaia.

Aims. Our main goal is to contribute to the study of HAeBes from the largest sample of such sources to date, for which stellar and circumstellar properties have been determined homogeneously from the analysis of the spectral energy distributions (SEDs) and Gaia EDR3 parallaxes and photometry.

Methods. Multiwavelength photometry was compiled for 209 bona fide HAeBes for which Gaia EDR3 distances were estimated. Using the Virtual Observatory SED Analyser (VOSA), photospheric models were fit to the optical SEDs to derive stellar parameters, and the excesses at infrared (IR) and longer wavelengths were characterized to derive several circumstellar properties. A statistical analysis was carried out to show the potential use of such a large dataset.

Results. The stellar temperature, luminosity, radius, mass, and age were derived for each star based on optical photometry. In addition, their IR SEDs were classified according to two different schemes, and their mass accretion rates, disk masses, and the sizes of the inner dust holes were also estimated uniformly. The initial mass function fits the stellar mass distribution of the sample within 2 < M*∕M⊙ < 12. In this aspect, the sample is therefore representative of the HAeBe regime and can be used for statistical purposes when it is taken into account that the boundaries are not well probed. Our statistical study does not reveal any connection between the SED shape from the Meeus et al. (2001, A&A, 365, 476) classification and the presence of transitional disks, which are identified here based on the SEDs that show an IR excess starting at the K band or longer wavelengths. In contrast, only ~28% of the HAeBes have transitional disks, and the related dust disk holes are more frequent in HBes than in HAes (~34% vs. 15%). The relatively small inner disk holes and old stellar ages estimated for most transitional HAes indicate that photoevaporation cannot be the main mechanism driving disk dissipation in these sources. In contrast, the inner disk holes and ages of most transitional HBes are consistent with the photoevaporation scenario, although these results alone do not unambiguously discard other disk dissipation mechanisms.

Conclusions. The complete dataset is available online through a Virtual Observatory-compliant archive, representing the most recent reference for statistical studies on the HAeBe regime. VOSA is a complementary tool for the future characterization of newly identified HAeBes.
A fuzzy inference based method for evaluating coordinated generation-grid-load-storage control ability in receiving-end power system
Authors: Yang Lu , Chen Yuanyang , Cao Yijia , Liao Changfeng , Tan Yi , Li Yong , Guo Siyuan
Published: April 2021

With the rapid development of the flexible loads and energy storage, it is of great scientific and engineering value to improve safety and economy of the receiving-end power system with HVDC feed-in power by the coordinated generation-grid-load-storage control. In this paper, a fuzzy inference based method is proposed to assess the coordinated control ability of generation-grid-load-storage control for the receiving-end power system with HVDC feed-in power. First of all, the evaluation indexes are constructed with consideration of the coordination and interaction of power generation, power grid, power load and energy storage. Both subjective weight and objective weight are considered to calculate the comprehensive weight for each evaluation index. Furthermore, the Kmeans clustering based method is proposed to the grading in each evaluation index. Finally, the coordination control ability of the modified IEEE 57-bus system in different states is evaluated by the proposed method.
An improving control strategy for grid -connected current in weak grid
Authors: Songyuan Deng , Xia Zhao
Published: April 2021

The traditional proportional feedforward control strategy can suppress the low order harmonics in the strong power grid, but in the weak power grid environment, the grid impedance will have an adverse impact on the stability of the system, resulting in the proportional feedforward control can not suppress the low order harmonics well. In order to solve this problem, a control strategy combining resonant feedforward and new repetitive proportional controller is proposed. Firstly, the stability of traditional proportional feedforward and resonant feedforward systems is analyzed and compared by impedance analysis method. Then, a new repetitive controller is added to suppress low order harmonics based on resonant feedforward control, and the stability of single-phase LCL grid connected inverter system is analyzed Matlab / Simulink is used to simulate and verify the system. The results show that the system stability and the ability to suppress low order harmonics are significantly improved.
Large area dynamic detection method for remote communication fault of power consumption information acquisition terminal
Authors: Zhu Yiqun , Zheng Jijun , Li Zhen , Liu Xiaolei
Published: April 2021

With the rapid development of power system technology, the requirements for the stability of power equipment operation are higher and higher. In order to ensure the stability of power equipment operation, this paper puts forward the dynamic detection method of long-distance communication fault of power information acquisition terminal. Through the collection of remote communication fault dynamic information, data preprocessing. And the fault area is accurately located to determine the fault location. Through the power information acquisition terminal to determine the abnormal value, the detection effect of communication fault can be realized. According to the experimental comparison, it can be seen that compared with the traditional fault detection methods, the large interval dynamic detection method of power information acquisition terminal remote communication fault has higher detection accuracy and significant advantages.
Design of Evaluation Index System of Electric Power Multilateral Trading Market Operation
Authors: Xin Li , Fu Zhaoqing , Liu Kangping , Xu Jiang , Ma Baoming
Published: April 2021

With the deepening of the reform of the electric power system and the continuous improvement of the demand level of electric power users, the psychological expectations of the market subjects have also undergone profound changes, and it is necessary to gradually strengthen and expand the key indicators and analysis dimensions that can reflect the operation situation of the electric power market, so as to adapt to the existing statistical analysis business needs. According to the current business content and demand of electricity market, this paper establishes a scientific and comprehensive evaluation index system of electricity market from the perspectives of market supply and demand, market structure, market behavior and market discipline. The system can reflect the development of power market comprehensively and objectively.
An study on the application of blockchain based 5G Technology in the Power IoT
Authors: Dan Wang , Xunwei Zhao , Jie Bai , Qing Wu , Wenhua Wang
Published: April 2021

Based on some key characteristics of 5G and blockchain, we analyze the technical feasibility and necessity of combining 5G and blockchain in IoT construction. We prove that the combination of 5G and blockchain can effectively improve network and data security of 5G by discussing the practical problems that can be solved by this method(including distributed deployment of network platforms, slicing management, network security authentication, spectrum resource management, data sharing security), while moderately reducing network complexity. Finally, we discuss the application of 5G and blockchain combined technical architecture in the construction of the Internet of Things (IoT), focusing on the requirements of power transmission, substation, distribution and consumption. We analyze the 5G network slicing management based on blockchain technology, which can realize the dynamic selection of the best resources among multiple resources to create end-to-end network slices that meet business needs and security isolation requirements, and enhance the security of the network and the data in multiple scenarios and applications, it will provide a strong network infrastructure support for the Energy IoT service system.