bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental and numerical studies of intestinal frictions for propulsive force optimisation of a vibro-impact capsule system
Authors: Guo Bingyong , Ley Ellis , Tian Jiyuan , Zhang Jiajia , Liu Yang , Prasad Shyam
Published: July 2020

This paper studies the intestinal frictions acting on a millimetre-scale self-propelled capsule (26 mm in length and 11 mm in diameter) for small bowel endoscopy by considering different capsule–intestine contact conditions under a wide range of capsule’s progression speeds. According to the experimental results, intestinal frictions vary from 7 mN to 4.5 N providing us with a guidance for designing the propelling mechanism of the controllable capsule endoscope. Our calculations show that the proposed vibro-impact mechanism can perform as a force magnifier generating a much larger propulsive force on the capsule than its original driving force. Therefore, the self-propelled capsule is capable of moving in the small intestine under a wide range of friction variation.
The 3D Brain Unit Network Model to Study Spatial Brain Drug Exposure under Healthy and Pathological Conditions
Authors: Vendel Esmée , Rottschäfer Vivi , de Lange Elizabeth C.M.
Published: July 2020

Purpose

We have developed a 3D brain unit network model to understand the spatial-temporal distribution of a drug within the brain under different (normal and disease) conditions. Our main aim is to study the impact of disease-induced changes in drug transport processes on spatial drug distribution within the brain extracellular fluid (ECF).

Methods

The 3D brain unit network consists of multiple connected single 3D brain units in which the brain capillaries surround the brain ECF. The model includes the distribution of unbound drug within blood plasma, coupled with the distribution of drug within brain ECF and incorporates brain capillaryblood flow, passive paracellular and transcellular BBB transport, active BBB transport, brain ECF diffusion, brain ECF bulk flow, and specific and nonspecific brain tissue binding. All of these processes may change under disease conditions.

Results

We show that the simulated disease-induced changes in brain tissue characteristics significantly affect drug concentrations within the brain ECF.

Conclusions

We demonstrate that the 3D brain unit network model is an excellent tool to gain understanding in the interdependencies of the factors governing spatial-temporal drug concentrations within the brain ECF. Additionally, the model helps in predicting the spatial-temporal brain ECF concentrations of existing drugs, under both normal and disease conditions.
On the Permissibility of Free-Riding on the Global Lingua Franca
Authors: Harb Siba
Published: July 2020

English today seems to be emerging as a global lingua franca. And a global lingua franca would be a global public good. Characteristically, being non-excludable, public goods are susceptible to free-riding: absent targeted distributive policies, some individuals can accrue a good’s benefits without having contributed to the costs of its production. In this paper, I make two arguments. First, I argue, against Philippe Van Parijs, that Anglophones are not unfairly free-riding on the efforts of non-Anglophones of producing English as a global lingua franca. I defend the view that instances of what counts as unfair free-riding should be limited to free-riding on public goods that are co-operatively produced. Second, I suggest an alternative claim that is available for Van Parijs to make. Van Parijs believes a global lingua franca is required by global justice. This is a highly controversial claim. But if he is right, then Anglophones' free-riding on the global lingua franca while not an instance of unfair free-riding, may be objectionable nonetheless.
Prolonging the Shelf Life of Cherry Tomatoes by Pullulan Coating with Ethanol Extract of Propolis During Refrigerated Storage
Authors: Pobiega Katarzyna , Przybył Jarosław L. , Żubernik Joanna , Gniewosz Małgorzta
Published: July 2020

Cherry tomatoes are one of the most popular tomato varieties known for their bioactive compounds and sensory properties. One way to reduce the contamination of tomato is to coat them with natural or antimicrobial substances. In this study, an ethanolic extract of propolis (EEP) was obtained, and its chemical composition was analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detector (HPLC-DAD), and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and the minimum bactericidal/fungicidal concentration (MBC/MFC) were determined using the serial microdilution method. The antimicrobial activity of 5 and 10% EEP and pullulan films containing EEP (5 and 10%) against Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella Typhimurium, Escherichia coli O157, Penicillium chrysogenum, Fusarium solani, and Botrytis cinerea were compared. The influence of a pullulan coating containing EEP (5 and 10%) on reducing the number of bacteria and molds, physicochemical properties (weight loss (WL), total soluble solids (TSS), titratable acidity (TA), maturity index, pH, and color), and sensory properties (color and brightness of skin, aroma, flavor, overall quality, and general preference) of cherry tomatoes during refrigerated storage was evaluated. Pullulan films with EEP inhibited the growth of microorganisms on cherry tomatoes. These coatings did not affect the TSS and pH values of tomatoes, but a slight decrease in TA and WL was observed. Cherry tomatoes coated with pullulan coatings containing EEP did not show any adverse changes in their sensory properties. It was found that the addition of EEP to the pullulan coatings enriched them with antimicrobial properties and enhanced their action while reducing the WL and maturation time of cherry tomatoes.
Correction to: Pay for performance in health care: a new best practice tariff-based tool using a log-linear piecewise frontier function and a dual–primal approach for unique solutions
Authors: Ferreira Diogo Cunha , Marques Rui Cunha , Nunes Alexandre Morais
Published: July 2020

The article Pay for performance in health care: a new best practice tariff-based tool using a log-linear piecewise frontier function and a dual–primal approach for unique solutions, written by Diogo Cunha Ferreira, Rui Cunha Marques, Alexandre Morais Nunes, was originally published electronically on the publisher’s internet portal on 19 June 2019 without open access.
Computing and Programming in Context—Introduction
Authors: Petricek Tomas
Published: July 2020

In a society where computers have become ubiquitous, it is necessary to develop a broader understanding of the nature of computing and programming, not just from a technical viewpoint but also from a historical and philosophical perspective. Computers and computer programs do not exist in a vacuum. Instead, they are a part of a rich socio-technological context that provides ways for understanding computers and reasoning about programs. This includes not only formal logic, mathematics, sciences, and technology but also cognitive sciences and sociology. The focus of this special issue is on questions that arise when we consider computing and programming in a wider context. In particular, the papers in this special issue explore the interplay between computing or programming and mathematics, formal logic, sciences, technology, and society.
The Importance of Developing Rigorous Social Science Methods for Community Engagement and Behavior Change During Outbreak Response
Authors: Ashworth Henry C. , Dada Sara , Buggy Conor , Lees Shelley
Published: July 2020

Despite growing international attention, the anthropological and socio-behavioral elements of epidemics continue to be understudied and under resourced and lag behind the traditional outbreak response infrastructure. As seen in the current 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, the importance of socio-behavioral elements in understanding transmission and facilitating control of many outbreak-prone pathogens, this is problematic. Beyond the recent strengthening of global outbreak response capacities and global health security measures, a greater focus on the socio-behavioral components of outbreak response is required. We add to the current discussion by briefly highlighting the importance of socio-behavior in the Ebola virus disease (EVD) response, and describe vital areas of future development, including methods for community engagement and validated frameworks for behavioral modeling and change in outbreak settings.
Updated Global Warming Potentials and Radiative Efficiencies of Halocarbons and Other Weak Atmospheric Absorbers
Authors: Hodnebrog Ø. , Aamaas B. , Fuglestvedt J. S. , Marston G. , Myhre G. , Nielsen C. J. , Sandstad M. , Shine K. P. , Wallington T. J.
Published: July 2020

Human activity has led to increased atmospheric concentrations of many gases, including halocarbons, and may lead to emissions of many more gases. Many of these gases are, on a per molecule basis, powerful greenhouse gases, although at present‐day concentrations their climate effect is in the so‐called weak limit (i.e., their effect scales linearly with concentration). We published a comprehensive review of the radiative efficiencies (RE) and global warming potentials (GWP) for around 200 such compounds in 2013 (Hodnebrog et al., 2013, https://doi.org/10.1002/rog.20013). Here we present updated RE and GWP values for compounds where experimental infrared absorption spectra are available. Updated numbers are based on a revised “Pinnock curve”, which gives RE as a function of wave number, and now also accounts for stratospheric temperature adjustment (Shine & Myhre, 2020, https://doi.org/10.1029/2019MS001951). Further updates include the implementation of around 500 absorption spectra additional to those in the 2013 review and new atmospheric lifetimes from the literature (mainly from WMO (2019)). In total, values for 60 of the compounds previously assessed are based on additional absorption spectra, and 42 compounds have REs which differ by >10% from our previous assessment. New RE calculations are presented for more than 400 compounds in addition to the previously assessed compounds, and GWP calculations are presented for a total of around 250 compounds. Present‐day radiative forcing due to halocarbons and other weak absorbers is 0.38 [0.33–0.43] W m−2, compared to 0.36 [0.32–0.40] W m−2 in IPCC AR5 (Myhre et al., 2013, https://doi.org/10.1017/CBO9781107415324.018), which is about 18% of the current CO2 forcing.
Reply to Comment by A. Argnani on “Geometry of the Deep Calabrian Subduction From Wide‐Angle Seismic Data and 3‐D Gravity Modeling”
Authors: Dellong David , Klingelhoefer Frauke , Dannowski Anke , Kopp Heidrun , Murphy Shane , Graindorge David , Margheriti Lucia , Moretti Milena , Barreca Giovanni , Scarfì Luciano , Polonia Alina , Gutscher Marc‐Andre
Published: July 2020

Andrea Argnani in his comment on Dellong et al. (2020, https://doi.org/10.1029/2019gc008586) (Geometry of the deep Calabrian subduction (Central Mediterranean Sea) from wide‐angle seismic data and 3‐D gravity modeling) proposes an alternate interpretation of the wide‐angle seismic velocity models presented by Dellong et al. (2018, https://doi.org/10.1002/2017JB015312) and Dellong et al. (2020) and proposes a correction of the literature citations in these paper. In this reply, we discuss in detail all points raised by Andrea Argnani.
Sedimentation of Snow Particles in Still Air in Stokes Regime
Authors: Zeugin Till , Krol Quirine , Fouxon Itzhak , Holzner Markus
Published: July 2020

We compute the resistance matrices of realistic 3‐D snow particle shapes obtained from microcomputed tomography data of snowpack samples and a phase field model. Using these resistance matrices, we calculate the sedimentation of the particles in still air in Stokes regime. We find that particles attain preferred orientations and the mode of motion is either drifting or spiraling. Simple laws, relating average drag and rotation torque coefficients to the particles' sphericity, are established which lead to a new formulation of a snow particle's average terminal velocity. The presented models are valid in Stokes regime in still air, corresponding to particle sizes up to ∼100 μm but can reasonably be extended to moderately higher Reynolds numbers (∼1 mm) and used for estimating mean settling velocity in turbulent conditions. Though not all relevant atmospheric conditions are covered, our study provides the basis for addressing more complex conditions in the future.
Aerosol‐Forced AMOC Changes in CMIP6 Historical Simulations
Authors: Menary Matthew B. , Robson Jon , Allan Richard P. , Booth Ben B. B. , Cassou Christophe , Gastineau Guillaume , Gregory Jonathan , Hodson Dan , Jones Colin , Mignot Juliette , Ringer Mark , Sutton Rowan , Wilcox Laura , Zhang Rong
Published: July 2020

The Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) has been, and will continue to be, a key factor in the modulation of climate change both locally and globally. However, there remains considerable uncertainty in recent AMOC evolution. Here, we show that the multimodel mean AMOC strengthened by approximately 10% from 1850–1985 in new simulations from the 6th Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP6), a larger change than was seen in CMIP5. Across the models, the strength of the AMOC trend up to 1985 is related to a proxy for the strength of the aerosol forcing. Therefore, the multimodel difference is a result of stronger anthropogenic aerosol forcing on average in CMIP6 than CMIP5, which is primarily due to more models including aerosol‐cloud interactions. However, observational constraints—including a historical sea surface temperature fingerprint and shortwave radiative forcing in recent decades—suggest that anthropogenic forcing and/or the AMOC response may be overestimated.
Basin‐Width Dependence of Northern Deep Convection
Authors: Youngs Madeleine K. , Ferrari Raffaele , Flierl Glenn R.
Published: July 2020

Convection penetrates to the ocean bottom in the North Atlantic but not in the North Pacific. This study examines the role of basin width in shutting down high‐latitude ocean convection. Deep convection is triggered by polar cooling, but it is opposed by precipitation. A two‐layer analytical model illustrates that the overturning circulation acts to mitigate the effect of precipitation by advecting salty, dense water from subtropical latitudes to polar latitudes. The nonlinear dependence of the overturning strength on basin width makes it more efficient in a narrow basin, resulting in a convection shutdown at a stronger freshwater forcing. These predictions are confirmed by simulations with a general circulation model configured with a single closed basin to the north and a reentrant channel to the south. This suggests that basin width may play a role in suppressing convection in the North Pacific but not in the North Atlantic.
Correction: CSN6–TRIM21 axis instigates cancer stemness during tumorigenesis
Authors: Qin Baifu , Zou Shaomin , Li Kai , Wang Huashe , Wei Wenxia , Zhang Boyu , Xiao Lishi , Choi Hyun Ho , Tang Qin , Huang Dandan , Liu Qingxin , Pan Qihao , Meng Manqi , Fang Lekun , Lee Mong-Hong
Published: July 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
The emerging role of ferroptosis in non-cancer liver diseases: hype or increasing hope?
Authors: Mao Lihong , Zhao Tianming , Song Yan , Lin Lin , Fan Xiaofei , Cui Binxin , Feng Hongjuan , Wang Xiaoyu , Yu Qingxiang , Zhang Jie , Jiang Kui , Wang Bangmao , Sun Chao
Published: July 2020

Ferroptosis is an iron- and lipotoxicity-dependent form of regulated cell death (RCD). It is morphologically and biochemically distinct from characteristics of other cell death. This modality has been intensively investigated in recent years due to its involvement in a wide array of pathologies, including cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and acute kidney injury. Dysregulation of ferroptosis has also been linked to various liver diseases and its modification may provide a hopeful and attractive therapeutic concept. Indeed, targeting ferroptosis may prevent the pathophysiological progression of several liver diseases, such as hemochromatosis, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, and ethanol-induced liver injury. On the contrary, enhancing ferroptosis may promote sorafenib-induced ferroptosis and pave the way for combination therapy in hepatocellular carcinoma. Glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPx4) and system xc−have been identified as key players to mediate ferroptosis pathway. More recently diverse signaling pathways have also been observed. The connection between ferroptosis and other forms of RCD is intricate and compelling, where discoveries in this field advance our understanding of cell survival and fate. In this review, we summarize the central molecular machinery of ferroptosis, describe the role of ferroptosis in non-cancer hepatic disease conditions and discuss the potential to manipulate ferroptosis as a therapeutic strategy.
The chromatin remodeling enzyme Chd4 regulates genome architecture in the mouse brain
Authors: Goodman Jared V. , Yamada Tomoko , Yang Yue , Kong Lingchun , Wu Dennis Y. , Zhao Guoyan , Gabel Harrison W. , Bonni Azad
Published: July 2020

The development and function of the brain require tight control of gene expression. Genome architecture is thought to play a critical regulatory role in gene expression, but the mechanisms governing genome architecture in the brain in vivo remain poorly understood. Here, we report that conditional knockout of the chromatin remodeling enzyme Chd4 in granule neurons of the mouse cerebellum increases accessibility of gene regulatory sites genome-wide in vivo. Conditional knockout of Chd4 promotes recruitment of the architectural protein complex cohesin preferentially to gene enhancers in granule neurons in vivo. Importantly, in vivo profiling of genome architecture reveals that conditional knockout of Chd4 strengthens interactions among developmentally repressed contact domains as well as genomic loops in a manner that tightly correlates with increased accessibility, enhancer activity, and cohesin occupancy at these sites. Collectively, our findings define a role for chromatin remodeling in the control of genome architecture organization in the mammalian brain.
Antisense oligonucleotide modulation of non-productive alternative splicing upregulates gene expression
Authors: Lim Kian Huat , Han Zhou , Jeon Hyun Yong , Kach Jacob , Jing Enxuan , Weyn-Vanhentenryck Sebastien , Downs Mikaela , Corrionero Anna , Oh Raymond , Scharner Juergen , Venkatesh Aditya , Ji Sophina , Liau Gene , Ticho Barry , Nash Huw , Aznarez Isabel
Published: July 2020

While most monogenic diseases are caused by loss or reduction of protein function, the need for technologies that can selectively increase levels of protein in native tissues remains. Here we demonstrate that antisense-mediated modulation of pre-mRNA splicing can increase endogenous expression of full-length protein by preventing naturally occurring non-productive alternative splicing and promoting generation of productive mRNA. Bioinformatics analysis of RNA sequencing data identifies non-productive splicing events in 7,757 protein-coding human genes, of which 1,246 are disease-associated. Antisense oligonucleotides targeting multiple types of non-productive splicing events lead to increases in productive mRNA and protein in a dose-dependent manner in vitro. Moreover, intracerebroventricular injection of two antisense oligonucleotides in wild-type mice leads to a dose-dependent increase in productive mRNA and protein in the brain. The targeting of natural non-productive alternative splicing to upregulate expression from wild-type or hypomorphic alleles provides a unique approach to treating genetic diseases.
Proton irradiation-decelerated intergranular corrosion of Ni-Cr alloys in molten salt
Authors: Zhou Weiyue , Yang Yang , Zheng Guiqiu , Woller Kevin B. , Stahle Peter W. , Minor Andrew M. , Short Michael P.
Published: July 2020

The effects of ionizing radiation on materials often reduce to “bad news”. Radiation damage usually leads to detrimental effects such as embrittlement, accelerated creep, phase instability, and radiation-altered corrosion. Here we report that proton irradiation decelerates intergranular corrosion of Ni-Cr alloys in molten fluoride salt at 650 °C. We demonstrate this by showing that the depth of intergranular voids resulting from Cr leaching into the salt is reduced by proton irradiation alone. Interstitial defects generated from irradiation enhance diffusion, more rapidly replenishing corrosion-injected vacancies with alloy constituents, thus playing the crucial role in decelerating corrosion. Our results show that irradiation can have a positive impact on materials performance, challenging our view that radiation damage usually results in negative effects.
Direct and indirect punishment of norm violations in daily life
Authors: Molho Catherine , Tybur Joshua M. , Van Lange Paul A. M. , Balliet Daniel
Published: July 2020

Across societies, humans punish norm violations. To date, research on the antecedents and consequences of punishment has largely relied upon agent-based modeling and laboratory experiments. Here, we report a longitudinal study documenting punishment responses to norm violations in daily life (k = 1507; N = 257) and test pre-registered hypotheses about the antecedents of direct punishment (i.e., confrontation) and indirect punishment (i.e., gossip and social exclusion). We find that people use confrontation versus gossip in a context-sensitive manner. Confrontation is more likely when punishers have been personally victimized, have more power, and value offenders more. Gossip is more likely when norm violations are severe and when punishers have less power, value offenders less, and experience disgust. Findings reveal a complex punishment psychology that weighs the benefits of adjusting others’ behavior against the risks of retaliation.
Th1 responses in vivo require cell-specific provision of OX40L dictated by environmental cues
Authors: Gajdasik Dominika W. , Gaspal Fabrina , Halford Emily E. , Fiancette Remi , Dutton Emma E. , Willis Claire , Rückert Timo , Romagnani Chiara , Gerard Audrey , Bevington Sarah L. , MacDonald Andrew S. , Botto Marina , Vyse Timothy , Withers David R.
Published: July 2020

The OX40-OX40L pathway provides crucial co-stimulatory signals for CD4 T cell responses, however the precise cellular interactions critical for OX40L provision in vivo and when these occur, remains unclear. Here, we demonstrate that provision of OX40L by dendritic cells (DCs), but not T cells, B cells nor group 3 innate lymphoid cells (ILC3s), is critical specifically for the effector Th1 response to an acute systemic infection with Listeria monocytogenes (Lm). OX40L expression by DCs is regulated by cross-talk with NK cells, with IFNγ signalling to the DC to enhance OX40L in a mechanism conserved in both mouse and human DCs. Strikingly, DC expression of OX40L is redundant in a chronic intestinal Th1 response and expression by ILC3s is necessary. Collectively these data reveal tissue specific compartmentalisation of the cellular provision of OX40L and define a mechanism controlling DC expression of OX40L in vivo.
Self-amplifying RNA SARS-CoV-2 lipid nanoparticle vaccine candidate induces high neutralizing antibody titers in mice
Authors: McKay Paul F. , Hu Kai , Blakney Anna K. , Samnuan Karnyart , Brown Jonathan C. , Penn Rebecca , Zhou Jie , Bouton Clément R. , Rogers Paul , Polra Krunal , Lin Paulo J. C. , Barbosa Christopher , Tam Ying K. , Barclay Wendy S. , Shattock Robin J.
Published: July 2020

The spread of the SARS-CoV-2 into a global pandemic within a few months of onset motivates the development of a rapidly scalable vaccine. Here, we present a self-amplifying RNA encoding the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein encapsulated within a lipid nanoparticle (LNP) as a vaccine. We observe remarkably high and dose-dependent SARS-CoV-2 specific antibody titers in mouse sera, as well as robust neutralization of both a pseudo-virus and wild-type virus. Upon further characterization we find that the neutralization is proportional to the quantity of specific IgG and of higher magnitude than recovered COVID-19 patients. saRNA LNP immunizations induce a Th1-biased response in mice, and there is no antibody-dependent enhancement (ADE) observed. Finally, we observe high cellular responses, as characterized by IFN-γ production, upon re-stimulation with SARS-CoV-2 peptides. These data provide insight into the vaccine design and evaluation of immunogenicity to enable rapid translation to the clinic.
Active control of broadband sound through the open aperture of a full-sized domestic window
Authors: Lam Bhan , Shi Dongyuan , Gan Woon-Seng , Elliott Stephen J. , Nishimura Masaharu
Published: July 2020

Shutting the window is usually the last resort in mitigating environmental noise, at the expense of natural ventilation. We describe an active sound control system fitted onto the opening of the domestic window that attenuates the incident sound, achieving a global reduction in the room interior while maintaining natural ventilation. The incident sound is actively attenuated by an array of control modules (a small loudspeaker) distributed optimally across the aperture. A single reference microphone provides advance information for the controller to compute the anti-noise signal input to the loudspeakers in real-time. A numerical analysis revealed that the maximum active attenuation potential outperforms the perfect acoustic insulation provided by a fully shut single-glazed window in ideal conditions. To determine the real-world performance of such an active control system, an experimental system is realized in the aperture of a full-sized window installed on a mockup room. Up to 10-dB reduction in energy-averaged sound pressure level was achieved by the active control system in the presence of a recorded real-world broadband noise. However, attenuation in the low-frequency range and its maximum power output is limited by the size of the loudspeakers.
Lifestyle preferences drive the structure and diversity of bacterial and archaeal communities in a small riverine reservoir
Authors: Borrego Carles , Sabater Sergi , Proia Lorenzo
Published: July 2020

Spatial heterogeneity along river networks is interrupted by dams, affecting the transport, processing, and storage of organic matter, as well as the distribution of biota. We here investigated the structure of planktonic (free-living, FL), particle-attached (PA) and sediment-associated (SD) bacterial and archaeal communities within a small reservoir. We combined targeted-amplicon sequencing of bacterial and archaeal 16S rRNA genes in the DNA and RNA community fractions from FL, PA and SD, followed by imputed functional metagenomics, in order to unveil differences in their potential metabolic capabilities within the reservoir (tail, mid, and dam sections) and lifestyles (FL, PA, SD). Both bacterial and archaeal communities were structured according to their life-style preferences rather than to their location in the reservoir. Bacterial communities were richer and more diverse when attached to particles or inhabiting the sediment, while Archaea showed an opposing trend. Differences between PA and FL bacterial communities were consistent at functional level, the PA community showing higher potential capacity to degrade complex carbohydrates, aromatic compounds, and proteinaceous materials. Our results stressed that particle-attached prokaryotes were phylogenetically and metabolically distinct from their free-living counterparts, and that performed as hotspots for organic matter processing within the small reservoir.
Serum vitamin D is associated with improved lung function markers but not with prevalence of asthma, emphysema, and chronic bronchitis
Authors: Ganji Vijay , Al-Obahi Asma , Yusuf Sumaya , Dookhy Zainab , Shi Zumin
Published: July 2020

Hypovitaminosis D has been linked to several non-bone diseases. Relation between 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] and lung function and lung diseases has received little attention at the global level. Cross-sectional data from three National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys, 2007–2008, 2009–2010, and 2011–2012 were used to investigate the relationship between serum 25(OH)D concentrations and lung function makers [forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1)] and lung diseases (asthma, emphysema, and chronic bronchitis) with multivariate regression models (n = 11,983; men, 6,010; women, 5,973). Serum 25(OH)D concentrations were directly associated with FVC and FEV1 (P for trend < 0.01). Individuals in the 4th quartile serum 25(OH)D had significantly higher FVC and FEV1 compared to those in the 1st quartile (P < 0.01). When data were stratified based on gender and smoking status, we found similar associations between serum 25(OH)D concentrations and lung function markers. There was no relation between serum 25(OH)D and prevalence of asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema in US adults. Serum 25(OH)D concentration is associated with improved lung function markers but not with the prevalence of asthma, emphysema, and chronic bronchitis. Controlled studies are needed to determine if the vitamin D supplementation improves lung function in adults and in smokers.
Clustering of human prion protein and α-synuclein oligomers requires the prion protein N-terminus
Authors: Rösener Nadine S. , Gremer Lothar , Wördehoff Michael M. , Kupreichyk Tatsiana , Etzkorn Manuel , Neudecker Philipp , Hoyer Wolfgang
Published: July 2020

The interaction of prion protein (PrP) and α-synuclein (αSyn) oligomers causes synaptic impairment that might trigger Parkinson’s disease and other synucleinopathies. Here, we report that αSyn oligomers (αSynO) cluster with human PrP (huPrP) into micron-sized condensates. Multivalency of αSyn within oligomers is required for condensation, since clustering with huPrP is not observed for monomeric αSyn. The stoichiometry of the heteroassemblies is well defined with an αSyn:huPrP molar ratio of about 1:1. The αSynO−huPrP interaction is of high affinity, signified by slow dissociation. The huPrP region responsible for condensation of αSynO, residues 95−111 in the intrinsically disordered N-terminus, corresponds to the region required for αSynO-mediated cognitive impairment. HuPrP, moreover, achieves co-clustering of αSynO and Alzheimer’s disease-associated amyloid-β oligomers, providing a case of a cross-interaction of two amyloidogenic proteins through an interlinking intrinsically disordered protein region. The results suggest that αSynO-mediated condensation of huPrP is involved in the pathogenesis of synucleinopathies.
Preparation of labeled aromatic amino acids via late-stage 18F-fluorination of chiral nickel and copper complexes
Authors: Craig Austin , Kolks Niklas , Urusova Elizaveta A. , Zischler Johannes , Brugger Melanie , Endepols Heike , Neumaier Bernd , Zlatopolskiy Boris D.
Published: July 2020

A practical procedure for the preparation of 18F-labeled aromatic amino acids via Cu-mediated radiofluorination of chiral Ni/Cu-BPX complexes is reported.
Soluble enzyme cross-linking via multi-component reactions: a new generation of cross-linked enzymes
Authors: Ashjari Maryam , Garmroodi Maryam , Ahrari Faezeh , Yousefi Maryam , Mohammadi Mehdi
Published: July 2020

Production of CLEs using a multi-component reaction.
Diazo coupling for surface attachment of small molecules to TiO2 nanoparticles
Authors: Troiano Jennifer L. , Hu Gongfang , Crabtree Robert H. , Brudvig Gary W.
Published: July 2020

Interfacial diazo coupling of surface-bound amines with aromatics via a robust siloxane anchor installs various small molecules on TiO2 surface.
Hydride-encapsulated bimetallic clusters supported by 1,1-dithiolates
Authors: Zhong Yu-Jie , Liao Jian-Hong , Chiu Tzu-Hao , Wu Ying-Yann , Kahlal Samia , Saillard Jean-Yves , Liu C. W.
Published: July 2020

A four-coordinated hydride lying at the center of heptanuclear bimetallic clusters was anisotropically refined to convergence by X-ray crystallography.
Copper-catalysed ortho-selective C–H bond functionalization of phenols and naphthols with α-aryl-α-diazoesters
Authors: Ma Ben , Tang Zhiqiong , Zhang Junliang , Liu Lu
Published: July 2020

An unprecedented CuCl2-catalysed chemo- and ortho-selective C–H bond functionalization of phenols and naphthols with diazoesters has been developed.
Biofouling affects the redox kinetics of outer and inner sphere probes on carbon surfaces drastically differently – implications to biosensing
Authors: Peltola Emilia , Aarva Anja , Sainio Sami , Heikkinen Joonas J. , Wester Niklas , Jokinen Ville , Koskinen Jari , Laurila Tomi
Published: July 2020

Biofouling affects the redox kinetics of outer and inner sphere probes on carbon surfaces drastically differently.
Structural characteristics of oligomers formed by pyroglutamate-modified amyloid β peptides studied by solid-state NMR
Authors: Scheidt Holger A. , Das Anirban , Korn Alexander , Krueger Martin , Maiti Sudipta , Huster Daniel
Published: July 2020

Structure of oligomers of truncated and pyroglutamate modified amyloid β variants is similar to the wild type.
The unique catalytic role of water in aromatic C–H activation at neutral pH: a combined NMR and DFT study of polyphenolic compounds
Authors: Fayaz Aneela , Siskos Michael G. , Varras Panayiotis C. , Choudhary M. Iqbal , Atia-tul-Wahab  , Ioannis Gerothanassis P.
Published: July 2020

NMR and DFT studies demonstrate the unique catalytic role of H2O in aromatic C–H activation which results in a reduction of ΔG# values by a factor of 20–30 kcal mol−1.
Mesoscopic open-eye core–shell spheroid carved anode/cathode electrodes for fully reversible and dynamic lithium-ion battery models
Authors: Khalifa H. , El-Safty S. A. , Reda A. , Eid A. , Elmarakbi A. , Shenashen M. A.
Published: July 2020

Mesoscopic super-open-eye core/shell spheroids carved anode/cathode electrodes with interiorly-uniform accommodation/storage pockets for creation of fully-reversible and dynamic Li-ion power battery (LIB)-models.
Is carboxylation an efficient method for graphene oxide functionalization?
Authors: Guo Shi , Raya Jésus , Ji Dingkun , Nishina Yuta , Ménard-Moyon Cécilia , Bianco Alberto
Published: July 2020

We investigated the carboxylation of graphene oxide using chloroacetic acid and different amounts of NaOH. Increase of carboxyl groups was observed only at high amounts of NaOH, but partial reduction attenuates the yield of further functionalization.
Engineering non-ionic carbon super- and hyperbases by a computational DFT approach: substituted allenes have unprecedented cation affinities
Authors: Saeidian Hamid , Mirjafary Zohreh
Published: July 2020

DFT calculations reveal that allenes substituted by a cyclopropene or a methylenecyclopropene group, offer suitable scaffolds for tailoring powerful carbon bases. The protonation at C(sp) site provide superbases with PAs = 879–1218 kJ mol−1.
Ce–Mn coordination polymer derived hierarchical/porous structured CeO2–MnOx for enhanced catalytic properties
Authors: Feng Junwei , Wang Yong , Gao Daowei , Kang Baotao , Li Shun , Li Chunsheng , Chen Guozhu
Published: July 2020

Catalytic performance is largely dependent on how the structures/compositions of materials are designed.
Effects of polysiloxanes with different molecular weights onin vitrocytotoxicity and properties of polyurethane/cotton–cellulose nanofiber nanocomposite films
Authors: Xu Chang-An , Nan Bingfei , Lu Mangeng , Qu Zhencai , Tan Zhiyou , Wu Kun , Shi Jun
Published: July 2020

A series of polyurethane/cotton–cellulose nanofiber nanocomposite films are manufactured using amino-terminated polydimethylsiloxane, polycarbonate diol, isophorone diisocyanate, and dispersed cotton–cellulose nanofibers.
Synthesis of the bis(cyclohexenone) core of (−)-lomaiviticin A
Authors: Rose John A. , Mahapatra Subham , Li Xin , Wang Chao , Chen Lei , Swick Steven M. , Herzon Seth B.
Published: July 2020

(−)-Lomaiviticin A is a cytotoxic, tetraglycosylated, C2-symmetric bacterial metabolite. A synthesis of the dimeric core of lomaiviticin containing two carbohydrate residues is reported
Variants and expression changes in PPAR-encoding genes display no significant association with schizophrenia
Authors: Li Xinrong , Zhu Yue , Keaton Maria , Baranova Ancha , Liu Sha , Hu Xiaodong , Li Qi , Cheng Long , Zhou Peng , Cao Hongbao , Xu Yong
Published: July 2020

A few studies suggested the contribution of PPARs to the etiology of schizophrenia (SCZ). However, it is still not clear whether variants in PPAR-encoding genes have a direct association with SCZ. The potential linkage between SCZ and the variants within PPAR encoding genes (PPARA, PPARD, and PPARG) was tested in a large cohort genome-wide association study (GWAS). Then, a mega-analysis was conducted using 14 gene expression profiling experiments in various human brain regions. Finally, the expression levels of the three PPAR-encoding genes were quantified in early-onset SCZ patients. Only one PPARG polymorphisms, rs62242085, presented a minor frequency deviation in the SCZ cohort (P-value = 0.035). None of the PPAR-encoding genes presented significant expression change within the brain regions profiled in 14 datasets acquired from different populations (P-value > 0.14) or in the whole blood of early-onset overall SCZ patients (P-value > 0.22). However, compared with healthy female controls, female early-onset SCZ patients presented a moderate but significant decrease in the expression level of PPARD (LFC = −0.55; P-value = 0.02) and a strong, but non-significant decrease in expression of PPARG (LFC = −1.30; P-value = 0.13). Our results do not support a significant association between variants in PPAR-encoding genes and SCZ, but suggest a necessity to explore the role of PPARD and PPARG in early SCZ phenotypes, specifically in females.
Integrated modernization of the gas-and-air system of a turbocharged diesel engine (21/21)
Authors: Plotnikov Leonid , Kochev Nikolay , Osipov Leonid
Published: July 2020

Improving the exploitative and environmental performance of piston engines (PICE) is an urgent task for many engineers and scientists. The article presents the results of the upgrade of a gas-and-air system of a diesel PICE, carried out through changing the turbocharging system’s configuration and modernizing the design of the admittance collector. The authors present a review of studies on the given subject and a description of the object of the research. The study was conducted on the basis of bench tests at a manufacturing plant and mathematical modeling using ACTUS program. The results of experimental studies on the main indicators of a basic and upgraded PICEs are presented. The gas exchange processes in the PICE under examination were studied in detail using mathematical modeling. For the given diesel PICE, improvement of the gas-and-air system leads to a growth in charging efficiency by 2.45-3.92%, a decrease in scavenging factor by 3.11-6.31% and a reduction of specific fuel consumption up to 3.33%. In the conclusion, new directions for increasing the efficiency of the given PICE are offered.
Increasing the efficiency of nuclear power plant equipment at the design stage
Authors: Egorov Mikle , Ukolova Anastasiya , Kovalenko Ivan , Krectunova Irina , Lavrovskaya Nataliya , Litvinova Nadezhda
Published: July 2020

It is possible to increase the efficiency of the nuclear power plants equipment in various ways. In particular, one of the most relevant is the active use of computer modeling at different stages of work. The effectiveness the software package used directly affects the quality of the installation equipment. Depending on the stage at which the software package is used, it has various priority properties for the most effective application.
Improving the reliability of electric motors during startup using electroosmotic drying of insulation
Authors: Nemirovskiy Alexandr , Sergievskaya Irina , Salikhova Regina , Udaratin Alexey
Published: July 2020

The article considers the actual problem of electric motors (EM) operation associated with wetting of winding insulation. The condition of wet insulation is getting worse due to aggressive environment of premises of agro-industrial complex, and some workshops in industry. It is noted that together with humidification, the effect of insulation “steaming” occurs after EM is put into operation. In this case, the insulation resistance R sharply decreases and its breakdown may occur, after which a major overhaul of EM is required. A new method for EM drying based on the electrokinetic phenomenon of electroosmosis has been developed. Under the influence of electric field forces, moisture is extruded from insulation capillaries onto the surface of EM winding and stator iron. R increases, and EM becomes ready to turn on. Under further operation, EM is heated and moisture evaporates into the environment. It is shown how electroosmotic drying (EOD) and the developed device (DEOD) help to get rid of the effect of insulation “steaming” and thereby ensure trouble-free EM operation.
Liquid Fungal Cocultivation as a Strategy to Access Bioactive Metabolites
Authors: Silva Airton Damasceno , Ambrozin Alessandra Regina Pepe , de Camargo Ana Flávia S. , Cruz Felipe De Paula Nogueira , Ferreira Leonardo Luiz Gomes , Krogh Renata , Silva Taynara Lopes , Camargo Ilana Lopes Baratella da Cunha , Andricopulo Adriano Defini , Vieira Paulo Cezar
Published: July 2020

Fungi are a rich source of bioactive compounds. Fungal cocultivation is a method of potentiating chemical interactions and, consequently, increasing bioactive molecule production. In this study, we evaluated the bactericidal, antiprotozoal, and cathepsin V inhibition activities of extracts from axenic cultures of 6 fungi (Fusarium guttiforme, Pestalotiopsis diospyri, Phoma caricae-papayae, Colletotrichum horii, Phytophthora palmivora, and C. gloeosporioides) that infest tropical fruits and 57 extracts obtained by their cocultivation. Our results reveal that fungal cocultivation enhances the biological activity of the samples, since all extracts that were active on Gram-positive bacteria, Gram-negative bacteria, Trypanosoma cruzi, and Leishmania infantum were obtained from cocultivation. Bacterial growth is either totally or partially inhibited by 46% of the extracts. Two extracts containing mainly fusaric and 9,10-dehydrofusaric acids were
particularly active. The presence of the fungus F. guttiforme in co-cultures that give rise to extracts with the highest activities against L. infantum. An axenic culture gave rise to the most active extract for the inhibition of cathepsin V; however, other coculture extracts also exhibited activity toward this biological target. Therefore, the results of the biological activities indicate that fungal cocultivation increased the biological potential of samples, likely due to the hostile and competitive environment that pushes microorganisms to produce substances important for defense and allows access to metabolic routes then silenced in milder cultivation conditions.
Meta-Analysis on the Association of C-Reactive Protein Polymorphisms with Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Sharafi Seyedeh Maryam , Mahdavi Manijeh , Riahi Roya , Kheirollahi Majid , Kelishadi Roya
Published: July 2020

Polymorphisms in the C-reactive protein (CRP) genes might have crucial role in the development of metabolic syndrome (MetS). In the current comprehensive meta-analyses, we aim to provide a quantitative assessment of the association between CRP single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and the risk of MetS. An electronic search was performed on several databases. After data extraction, random effect model was used to calculate the pooled odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Four independent studies including case–control, cohort, and cross-sectional methods were analyzed. Our meta-analysis indicated that CRP polymorphisms are not significantly associated with MetS (OR = 0.92, 95% CI = 0.77–1.10) with significant heterogeneity (I
2 = 55.4%; p-value = 0.008). The subgroup analysis revealed that only GG has significant association with MetS (OR = 0.32, 95% CI = 0.13–0.80, p-value = 0.015) without significant heterogeneity (I
2 = 0%, p-value > 0.05). In conclusion, this meta-analysis provides strong evidence that only some SNPs of CRP gene are associated with the risk for development of MetS; and this relationship does not exist in different ethnic populations.
Diagnostic development for parallel wave-number measurement of lower hybrid waves in EAST
Authors: Wang Y. F. , Ding B. J. , Li M. H. , Baek S. G. , Wallace G. M. , Liu L. , Zhao L. M. , Wang M. , Wu Z. G. , Liu F. K. , Shan J. F. , Zhang X. J. , Li Y. C. , Wu C. B.
Published: July 2020

An eight-channel magnetic probe diagnostic system has been designed and installed adjacent to the 4.6 GHz lower hybrid (LH) grill antenna in the low-field side of the Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak (EAST) in order to study the n∥ evolution of LH waves in the first pass from the launcher to the core plasma. The magnetic probes are separated by 6.6 mm, which allows measurement of the dominant parallel refractive index n∥ up to n∥ = 5 for 4.6 GHz LH waves. The magnetic probes are designed to be sensitive to the magnetic field component perpendicular to the background magnetic field with a slit on the casing that encloses the probe. The intermediate frequency stage, which consists of two mixing stages, down-coverts the frequency of the measured wave signals at 4.6 GHz to 20 MHz. A bench test demonstrates the phase stability of the magnetic probe diagnostic system. By evaluating the phase variation of the measured signals along the background magnetic field, the dominant n∥ of the LH wave in the scrape-off layer has been deduced during the 2019 experimental campaign. In the low density plasma, the measured dominant n∥ of the LH waves is about 2.1, corresponding to the main peak 2.04 of the launched n∥ spectrum. n∥ deduced by the least-squares linear fit method remains near this value in the low density plasma with a high spatial correlation magnitude of 0.9. With an eight-channel probe system, a wave-number spectrum has also been deduced, which has a peak near to the measured dominant n∥.
Isolated defect evolution in laser accelerated targets
Authors: Zulick C. , Aglitskiy Y. , Karasik M. , Schmitt A. J. , Velikovich A. L. , Obenschain S. P.
Published: July 2020

The hydrodynamic growth of pre-imposed isolated defects has been studied with varied laser drive. Targets were machined at NRL by etching narrow isolated grooves into thin polystyrene (CH) foils using femtosecond laser ablation. Two laser pulse shapes were used to drive the foils with and without a thin high-Z overcoat which produced a hybrid indirect–direct drive. The growth rate and saturation time were observed to vary with different laser drives as well as the initial perturbation depth and width. Faster growth was observed with a low adiabat drive both experimentally and in simulations. Hybrid drive reduced the apparent “closure” of defects at late time. Rear-surface structures were observed from the isolated defects, with the largest structures observed from high adiabat square pulses and the smallest from hybrid drive.