bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inactivation of ribosomal protein S27-like impairs DNA interstrand cross-link repair by destabilization of FANCD2 and FANCI
Authors: Sun Siyuan , He Hengqian , Ma Yuanyuan , Xu Jie , Chen Guoan , Sun Yi , Xiong Xiufang
Published: October 2020

Ribosomal protein S27-like (RPS27L), an evolutionarily conserved ribosomal protein and a direct p53 target, plays an important role in maintenance of genome integrity. We have previously reported that RPS27L regulates radiation sensitivity via the MDM2-p53 and MDM2-MRN-ATM axes. Whether and how RPS27L modulates DNA interstrand cross-link (ICL) repair is unknown. Here we identified that RPS27L binds to FANCD2 and FANCI, two Fanconi anemia (FA) proteins functioning in ICL repair pathway. Upon RPS27L knockdown, the levels of FANCD2 and FANCI are reduced due to accelerated degradation via p62-mediated autophagy-lysosome pathway, which is abrogated by chloroquine (CQ) treatment or Beclin 1 knockdown. Biologically, RPS27L knockdown suppresses FANCD2 foci formation and impairs ICL repair upon exposure to ICL-inducing agent mitomycin C (MMC) in lung cancer cells. This effect of MMC sensitization can be partially reversed by CQ treatment. Together, our study shows that RPS27L positively regulates ICL repair by binding with FANCD2 and FANCI to prevent their degradation via autophagy-lysosome system.
Nanoparticle-directed and ionically forced polyphosphate coacervation: a versatile and reversible core–shell system for drug delivery
Authors: Müller Werner E. G. , Tolba Emad , Wang Shunfeng , Neufurth Meik , Lieberwirth Ingo , Ackermann Maximilian , Schröder Heinz C. , Wang Xiaohong
Published: October 2020

A drug encapsulation/delivery system using a novel principle is described that is based on an intra-particle migration of calcium ions between a central Ca2+-enriched nanoparticle core and the surrounding shell compartment. The supply of Ca2+ is needed for the formation of a coacervate shell around the nanoparticles, acting as the core of drug-loadable core–shell particles, using the physiological inorganic polymer polyphosphate (polyP). This polyanion has the unique property to form, at an alkaline pH and in the presence of a stoichiometric surplus of calcium ions, water-insoluble and stabile amorphous nanoparticles. At neutral pH a coacervate, the biologically active form of the polymer, is obtained that is composed of polyP and Ca2+. The drug-loaded core–shell particles, built from the Ca–polyP core and the surrounding Ca–polyP shell, were fabricated in two successive steps. First, the formation of the nanoparticle core at pH 10 and a superstoichiometric 2:1 molar ratio between CaCl2 and Na–polyP into which dexamethasone, as a phosphate derivative, was incorporated. Second, the preparation of the coacervate shell, loaded with ascorbic acid, by exposure of the Ca–polyP core to soluble Na–polyP and L-ascorbate (calcium salt). EDX analysis revealed that during this step the Ca2+ ions required for coacervate formation migrate from the Ca–polyP core (with a high Ca:P ratio) to the shell. Electron microscopy of the particles show an electron-dense 150–200 nm sized core surrounded by a less sharply delimited electron-sparse shell. The core–shell particles exhibited strong osteogenic activity in vitro, based on the combined action of polyP and of dexamethasone and ascorbic acid, which reversibly bind to the anionic polyP via ionic Ca2+ bonds. Drug release from the particles occurs after contact with a peptide/protein-containing serum, a process which is almost complete after 10 days and accompanied by the conversion of the nanoparticles into a coacervate. Human osteosarcoma SaOS-2 cells cultivated onto or within an alginate hydrogel matrix showed increased growth/viability and mineralization when the hybrid particles containing dexamethasone and ascorbic acid were embedded in the matrix. The polyP-based core–shell particles have the potential to become a suitable, pH-responsive drug encapsulation/release system, especially for bone, cartilage and wound healing.
Novel use of culturomics to identify the microbiota in hospital sink drains with and without persistent VIM-positive Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Pirzadian Jannette , Harteveld Susan P. , Ramdutt Shanice N. , van Wamel Willem J. B. , Klaassen Corné H. W. , Vos Margreet C. , Severin Juliëtte A.
Published: October 2020

In hospitals, Verona Integron-encoded Metallo-beta-lactamase (VIM)-positive Pseudomonas aeruginosa may colonize sink drains, and from there, be transmitted to patients. These hidden reservoirs are difficult to eradicate since P. aeruginosa forms biofilms that resist disinfection. However, little is known on the composition of these biofilms. Therefore, culturomics was used for the first time to investigate the viable microbiota in four hospital sink drain samples with longstanding VIM-positive P. aeruginosa drain reservoirs (inhabited by high-risk clone, sequence type ST111), and four drain samples where VIM-positive P. aeruginosa was not present. Microbial load and composition varied between samples, yielding between 471–18,904 distinct colonies and 8–20 genera. In two VIM-positive drain samples, P. aeruginosa was the most abundantly-isolated microorganism, and found in combination with other Gram-negative bacteria, Citrobacter, Enterobacter, or Stenotrophomonas. P. aeruginosa was in low abundance in the other two VIM-positive samples, and found with Gram-positive cocci (Enterococcus and Staphylococcus) or Sphingomonas. In VIM-negative drain samples, high abundances of Gram-negative non-fermenting bacteria, including Acinetobacter, non-aeruginosa Pseudomonas spp., Acidovorax, Chryseobacterium, Flavobacterium, and Sphingobium, as well as Candida, were cultured. Although additional experiments are needed to draw more firm conclusions on which microorganisms enable or inhibit VIM-positive P. aeruginosa persistence, our data provide unique insights into the microbial compositions of sink drain inlets.
Most abundant metabolites in tissues of freshwater fish pike-perch (Sander lucioperca)
Authors: Tsentalovich Yuri P. , Zelentsova Ekaterina A. , Yanshole Lyudmila V. , Yanshole Vadim V. , Odud Iliya M.
Published: October 2020

Quantitative metabolomic analysis was performed for eleven tissues of freshwater fish pike-perch (Sander lucioperca), including gill, heart, liver, kidney, spleen, muscle, brain, milt, lens, aqueous (AH) and vitreous (VH) humors with the use of NMR spectroscopy. The absolute values of concentrations were determined for more than 65 most abundant metabolites in every tissue. It was found that from the metabolomic viewpoint, kidney and gill are the most similar tissues, while the metabolomic compositions of ocular tissues—lens, AH, and VH significantly differ from that of other tissues. The combinations of intracellular osmolytes and antioxidants are specific for every tissue. In particular, the concentration of antioxidant ovothiol A in the lens is much higher than in any other tissue, while the brain enjoys the elevated level of ascorbate. The most abundant osmolyte in the fish spleen, muscle, and heart is taurine, and in the brain, gill, and lens—myo-inositol. Other important osmolytes specific for particular tissues are N-acetyl-histidine, N-acetyl-aspartate, betaine, threonine-phosphoethanolamine, and serine-phosphoethanolamine. The quantitative data obtained in the present work can be used as the baseline metabolite concentrations in the fish tissues to evaluate the influence of seasonal, ecological and other factors on the fish metabolism.
Identification of sulfur components enhancing the anti-Candida effect of Lactobacillus rhamnosus Lcr35
Authors: Dausset Caroline , Bornes Stéphanie , Miquel Sylvie , Kondjoyan Nathalie , Angenieux Magaly , Nakusi Laurence , Veisseire Philippe , Alaterre Elina , Bermúdez-Humarán Luis G. , Langella Philippe , Engel Erwan , Forestier Christiane , Nivoliez Adrien
Published: October 2020

GYNOPHILUS (Lcr REGENERANS) is a live biotherapeutic product (LBP) aimed at restoring the vaginal microbiome and contains the live biotherapeutic microorganism Lactobacillus rhamnosus Lcr35. In this study, the LBP formulation and manufacturing process significantly enhanced the anti-Candida activity of L. rhamnosus Lcr35, with a complete loss of viability of the yeast after 48 h of coincubation. Sodium thiosulfate (STS), one excipient of the product, was used as a potentiator of the anti-Candida spp. activity of Lactobacilli. This contact-independent phenomenon induced fungal cell disturbances, as observed by electron microscopy observations. Nonverbal sensory experiments showed clear odor dissimilarities between cocultures of L. rhamnosus Lcr35 and C. albicans in the presence and absence of STS, suggesting an impact of odor-active metabolites. A volatolomic approach allowed the identification of six odor-active compounds, including one sulfur compound that was identified as S-methyl thioacetate (MTA). MTA was associated with the antifungal effect of Lcr35, and its functional link was established in vitro. We show for the first time that the LBP GYNOPHILUS, which is a highly active product in the reduction of vulvovaginal candidiasis, requires the presence of a sulfur compound to fully achieve its antifungal effect.
Analysis of expression, epigenetic, and genetic changes of HNF1B in 130 kidney tumours
Authors: Bártů Michaela , Hojný Jan , Hájková Nikola , Michálková Romana , Krkavcová Eva , Hadravský Ladislav , Kleissnerová Lenka , Bui Quang Hiep , Stružinská Ivana , Němejcová Kristýna , Čapoun Otakar , Šlemendová Monika , Dundr Pavel
Published: October 2020

Hepatocyte nuclear factor 1 beta (HNF1B) is a transcription factor which plays a crucial role in nephronogenesis, and its germline mutations have been associated with kidney developmental disorders. However, the effects of HNF1B somatic exonic mutations and its role in the pathogenesis of kidney tumours has not yet been elucidated. Depending on the type of the tumour HNF1B may act as a tumour suppressor or oncogene, although the exact mechanism by which HNF1B participates in the process of cancerogenesis is unknown. Using an immunohistochemical approach, and methylation and mutation analysis, we have investigated the expression, epigenetic, and genetic changes of HNF1B in 130 cases of renal tumours (121 renal cell carcinomas, 9 oncocytomas). In the subset of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC), decreased HNF1B expression was associated with a higher tumour grade and higher T stage. The mutation analysis revealed no mutations in the analysed samples. Promoter methylation was detected in two ccRCCs and one oncocytoma. The results of our work on a limited sample set suggest that while in papillary renal cell carcinoma HNF1B functions as an oncogene, in ccRCC and chRCC it may act in a tumour suppressive fashion.
PAK4 methylation by the methyltransferase SETD6 attenuates cell adhesion
Authors: Vershinin Zlata , Feldman Michal , Levy Dan
Published: October 2020

P21-activated kinase 4 (PAK4), a member of serine/threonine kinases family is over-expressed in numerous cancer tumors and is associated with oncogenic cell proliferation, migration and invasion. Our recent work demonstrated that the SET-domain containing protein 6 (SETD6) interacts with and methylates PAK4 at chromatin in mammalian cells, leading to activation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. In our current work, we identified lysine 473 (K473) on PAK4 as the primary methylation site by SETD6. Methylation of PAK4 at K473 activates β-catenin transcriptional activity and inhibits cell adhesion. Specific methylation of PAK4 at K473 also attenuates paxillin localization to focal adhesions leading to overall reduction in adhesion-related features, such as filopodia and actin structures. The altered adhesion of the PAK4 wild-type cells is accompanied with a decrease in the migrative and invasive characteristics of the cells. Taken together, our results suggest that methylation of PAK4 at K473 plays a vital role in the regulation of cell adhesion and migration.
Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitor exposure reduces ovarian reserve followed by dysfunction in granulosa cells
Authors: Nakamura Kentaro , Takae Seido , Shiraishi Eriko , Shinya Kiemi , Igualada Arby Jane , Suzuki Nao
Published: October 2020

The use of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors is expected to increase, but their effect on fertility is still unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of PARP inhibitors on ovarian function. In an in vitro study, cultures of ovaries and granulosa cells (GCs) exposed to the PARP inhibitor olaparib were evaluated by real-time RT-PCR, histological study, and hormone assays. In an in vivo study, mice were administered olaparib orally and evaluated via in vitro fertilization (IVF), follicle count, immunohistochemical staining, and real-time RT-PCR. In vitro, the gene expression of GC markers decreased in the olaparib-treated group. Olaparib also negatively affected estradiol production and the expression of GC markers in cultured GCs, with abnormal morphology of GCs observed in the treated group. The follicle number indicated depletion of follicles due to atretic changes in the treatment group, both in vitro and in vivo. Also, olaparib reduced the number of retrieved oocytes and the fertilization rate of IVF, but they recovered after 3 weeks of cessation. Our results indicate that olaparib is toxic to ovaries.
A model study of the combined effect of above and below ground plant traits on the ecomorphodynamics of gravel bars
Authors: Caponi Francesco , Vetsch David F. , Siviglia Annunziato
Published: October 2020

Both above- and below-ground plant traits are known to modulate feedbacks between vegetation and river morphodynamic processes. However, how they collectively influence vegetation establishment on gravel bars remains less clear. Here we develop a numerical model that couples above- and below-ground vegetation dynamics with hydromorphological processes. The model dynamically links plant growth rate to water table fluctuations and includes plant mortality by uprooting and burial. We considered a realistic hydrological regime and used the model to simulate the coevolution of alternate gravel bars and vegetation that displays trade-offs in investment of above- and below-ground biomass. We found that a balanced plant growth above- and below-ground facilitates vegetation to establish on steady, stable bars, because it allows plants to develop traits that maximise growth performance during low flow periods and thus survival during floods. Regardless of the growth strategy, vegetation could not establish on migrating bars because of large plant loss by uprooting during floods. These findings add on previous studies suggesting that morphodynamic processes play a key role on determining plant trait distributions and highlight the importance of including the dynamics of both above- and below-ground plant traits for predicting shifts between bare and vegetated states in river bars.
Fluoroless and contrast-free catheter ablation without a lead apron in routine clinical practice
Authors: Matsubara Takumi J. , Fujiu Katsuhito , Shimizu Yu , Oshima Tsukasa , Matsuda Jun , Matsunaga Hiroshi , Oguri Gaku , Hasumi Eriko , Kojima Toshiya , Komuro Issei
Published: October 2020

The technique of catheter ablation has been improved within the past few decades, especially by three-dimensional (3D) mapping system. 3D mapping system has reduced radiation exposure but ablation procedures still require fluoroscopy. Our previous study showed the safety and efficacy of catheter ablation based on intracardiac echogram combined with CARTOSOUND/CARTO3 system, however fluoroscopy use for an average of 16 min is required for this procedure. The present study was aimed to reduce radiation exposure to zero and establish a radiation free catheter ablation method with the goal of utilizing it in routine clinical practice. We conducted single center, retrospective study during 2019 April to 2020 February. Consecutive 76 patients were enrolled. In the first 18 cases, the previously reported procedure (CARTOSOUND/CARTO3 method) was used. The remaining 58 cases were transitioned to fluoroless catheter ablation. The procedure time, success rates and complication rates were analyzed. Not only AF patients but atrial flutter (AFL), paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT) and ventricular arrhythmia patients were included. Catheter positioning, catheter visualization and collecting the geometry of each camber of the heart were conducted by using contact force and ICE based geometry on CARTO system without either prior computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance image (MRI). In fluoroless group, all catheter ablations were successfully performed without lead aprons. No complications occurred in either group. There were no significant differences in procedure time in any type of procedure (Total procedure time Fluoro-group; 149 ± 51 min vs. Fluoroless-group; 162 ± 43 min, N.S.), (PSVT 170 ± 53 min vs. 162 ± 29 min, N.S.), (AFL 110 ± 70 min vs. 123 ± 43 min, N.S.), (AF 162 ± 43 min vs. 163 ± 32 min, N.S.). The total radiation time was reduced to zero in fluoroless group. Catheter ablation with ICE and 3D mapping system guide without fluoroscopy could be safely performed with a high success rate, without any prior CT/MRI 3D images. Radiation was reduced completely for patients and staff, negating the need for protective wear for operators.
Vicarious conditioned fear acquisition and extinction in child–parent dyads
Authors: Marin Marie-France , Bilodeau-Houle Alexe , Morand-Beaulieu Simon , Brouillard Alexandra , Herringa Ryan J. , Milad Mohammed R.
Published: October 2020

The biological mechanisms involved in fear transmission within families have been scarcely investigated in humans. Here we studied (1) how children acquired conditioned fear from observing their parent, or a stranger, being exposed to a fear conditioning paradigm, and (2) the subsequent fear extinction process in these children. Eighty-three child-parent dyads were recruited. The parent was filmed while undergoing a conditioning procedure where one cue was paired with a shock (CS + Parent) and one was not (CS −). Children (8 to 12 years old) watched this video and a video of an adult stranger who underwent conditioning with a different cue reinforced (CS + Stranger). Children were then exposed to all cues (no shocks were delivered) while skin conductance responses (SCR) were recorded. Children exhibited higher SCR to the CS + Parent and CS + Stranger relative to the CS −. Physiological synchronization between the child’s SCR during observational learning and the parent’s SCR during the actual process of fear conditioning predicted higher SCR for the child to the CS + Parent. Our data suggest that children acquire fear vicariously and this can be measured physiologically. These data lay the foundation to examine observational fear learning mechanisms that might contribute to fear and anxiety disorders transmission in clinically affected families.
Biogenic and chemically synthesized Solanum tuberosum peel–silver nanoparticle hybrid for the ultrasonic aided adsorption of bromophenol blue dye
Authors: Akpomie Kovo G. , Conradie Jeanet
Published: October 2020

This work was aimed at the synthesis of a hybrid (STpe-AgNP), obtained by impregnation of silver nanoparticles (AgNP) onto Solanum tuberosum peel (STpe), for the ultrasonic assisted adsorption of bromophenol blue (BB) dye. SEM, FTIR, XRD, EDX, TGA and BET techniques were used to characterize the adsorbents. The XRD, SEM and EDX confirmed successful impregnation of AgNPs onto STpe to form the hybrid. The AgNPs impregnated onto the hybrid were found to be water stable at various pH values of 2.0–9.0. Chi-square (χ2 < 0.024) and linear regression (R2 > 0.996) showed that the Freundlich model was best fitted among the isotherm models, corroborated by the oriented site model. Kinetic analysis conformed to the intraparticle diffusion and pseudo-first-order rate equations, while thermodynamics displayed a physical, spontaneous and endothermic adsorption process. The presence of competing Pb(II), Ni(II), Cd(II) and Zn(II) metal ions in solution interfered with the adsorption of BB onto the biosorbents. In terms of reusability, STpe and STpe-AgNP showed BB desorption of 91.3% and 88.5% respectively, using NaOH as eluent. Ultra-sonication significantly enhanced the adsorption of BB by both adsorbents, but the impregnation of AgNPs only slightly improved adsorption of the dye from the simulated wastewater. This study also illustrated that pristine STpe biomass waste is a cheap viable option for the decontamination of BB from water.
Wettability and confinement size effects on stability of water conveying nanotubes
Authors: Shaat M. , Javed U. , Faroughi S.
Published: October 2020

This study investigates the wettability and confinement size effects on vibration and stability of water conveying nanotubes. We present an accurate assessment of nanotube stability by considering the exact mechanics of the fluid that is confined in the nanotube. Information on the stability of nanotubes in relation to the fluid viscosity, the driving force of the fluid flow, the surface wettability of the nanotube, and the nanotube size is missing in the literature. For the first time, we explore the surface wettability dependence of the nanotube natural frequencies and stability. By means of hybrid continuum-molecular mechanics (HCMM), we determined water viscosity variations inside the nanotube. Nanotubes with different surface wettability varying from super-hydrophobic to super-hydrophilic nanotubes were studied. We demonstrated a multiphase structure of nanoconfined water in nanotubes. Water was seen as vapor at the interface with the nanotube, ice shell in the middle, and liquid water in the nanotube core. The average velocity of water flow in the nanotube was obtained strongly depend on the surface wettability and the confinement size. In addition, we report the natural frequencies of the nanotube as functions of the applied pressure and the nanotube size. Mode divergence and flutter instabilities were observed, and the activation of these instabilities strongly depended on the nanotube surface wettability and size. This work gives important insights into understanding the stability of nanotubes conveying fluids depending on the operating pressures and the wettability and size of confinement. We revealed that hydrophilic nanotubes are generally more stable than hydrophobic nanotubes when conveying fluids.
An enzyme-free fluorescent biosensor for highly sensitive detection of carcinoembryonic antigen based on aptamer-induced entropy-driven circuit
Authors: Lin Xiaojuan , Li Shengqiang , Zhang Bogang , Yang Hua , Zhang Kai , Huang Hongge
Published: October 2020

Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is a disease biomarker, which can reflect the existence of tumors.
Synthesis and decarbonylation chemistry of gallium phosphaketenes
Authors: Wilson Daniel W. N. , Myers William K. , Goicoechea Jose M.
Published: October 2020

A series of gallium phosphaketenyl complexes supported by a 1,2-bis(aryl-imino)acenaphthene ligand (Dipp-Bian) are reported.
Microkinetic model for pH- and potential-dependent oxygen evolution during water splitting on Fe-doped β-NiOOH
Authors: Govind Rajan Ananth , Carter Emily A.
Published: October 2020

Understanding and predicting the effect of reactor operating conditions on electrochemical water splitting is essential to optimize sustainable hydrogen production using excess renewable electricity and to adapt it for commercial use.
Tris(triazolo)triazine-based emitters for solution-processed blue thermally activated delayed fluorescence organic light-emitting diodes
Authors: Hundemer Fabian , Crovini Ettore , Wada Yoshimasa , Kaji Hironori , Bräse Stefan , Zysman-Colman Eli
Published: October 2020

We report a new emitter 3,4,5-3TCz-TTT based on a tris(triazolo)triazine acceptor that shows thermally activated delayed fluorescence and cross-compare its performance with the recently reported analogue, 3DMAC-TTT.
Design principles for the ultimate gas deliverable capacity material: nonporous to porous deformations without volume change
Authors: Witman Matthew , Ling Sanliang , Stavila Vitalie , Wijeratne Pavithra , Furukawa Hiroyasu , Allendorf Mark D.
Published: October 2020

A rotating slit pore motif yields a non-porous to porous structural transition without a change in unit cell volume.
Correction: Two-dimensional polar metal of a PbTe monolayer by electrostatic doping
Authors: Xu Tao , Zhang Jingtong , Zhu Yuquan , Wang Jie , Shimada Takahiro , Kitamura Takayuki , Zhang Tong-Yi
Published: October 2020

Correction for ‘Two-dimensional polar metal of a PbTe monolayer by electrostatic doping’ by Tao Xu et al., Nanoscale Horiz., 2020, 5, 1400–1406, DOI: 10.1039/D0NH00188K.
Structure–activity prediction networks (SAPNets): a step beyond Nano-QSAR for effective implementation of the safe-by-design concept
Authors: Rybińska-Fryca Anna , Mikolajczyk Alicja , Puzyn Tomasz
Published: October 2020

SAPNet, a network of meta-models that is built layer by layer from the endpoint (e.g. toxicity or other properties of interest) to descriptors that describe the structure.
Non-thermal microwave effects in radical polymerization of bio-based terpenoid (meth)acrylates
Authors: Castagnet Thibault , Agirre Amaia , Ballard Nicholas , Billon Laurent , Asua José M.
Published: October 2020

Non-thermal microwave effects are operative for terpenoid acrylates but not for methacrylates, provided that a minimum irradiation power is applied.
An ICT-based fluorescence enhancement probe for detection of Sn2+ in cancer cells
Authors: Meng Xiangying , You Lai , Li Siyuan , Sun Qi , Luo Xiaogang , He Haifeng , Wang Jinglan , Zhao Feng
Published: October 2020

Development of a novel fluorescence enhancement probe for detection of Sn2+ in organisms, with high selectivity and sensitivity, is of great interest but remains a great challenge.
Surface site density and utilization of platinum group metal (PGM)-free Fe–NC and FeNi–NC electrocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction
Authors: Luo Fang , Wagner Stephan , Onishi Ichiro , Selve Sören , Li Shuang , Ju Wen , Wang Huan , Steinberg Julian , Thomas Arne , Kramm Ulrike I. , Strasser Peter
Published: October 2020

The gravimetric surface density and ORR catalytic turnover frequency of Fe–NC and Fe/Ni–NC catalysts were investigated. Both catalysts feature chemically identical Fe sites, but the presence of Ni lowered the gravimetric surface density of Fe sites.
Optimal and strategic delivery of CO2 for Chlorella minutissima-mediated valorization of domestic wastewater with concomitant production of biomass and biofuel
Authors: Dineshkumar Ramalingam , Chauhan Ashutosh Singh , Sen Ramkrishna
Published: October 2020

Strategic development of an algal biorefinery for valorizing CO2 and wastewater: a value proposition for energy, environment and water.
Highly active Co–N-doped graphene as an efficient bifunctional electrocatalyst (ORR/HER) for flexible all-solid-state zinc–air batteries
Authors: Jia Hai-Lang , Zhao Jiao , Gu Lei , Peng Zhi-Jie , Bao Zheng-Lv , Sun Xuan-Long , Guan Ming-Yun
Published: October 2020

A highly active Co–N-doped graphene bifunctional electrocatalysts was prepared, the flexible ZABs fabricated using PVA + PEO + GO solid electrolyte demonstrate a high Voc (1.49 V) and large peak power density (57 mW cm−2).
The coil–globule transition in self-avoiding active polymers
Authors: Das S. , Kennedy N. , Cacciuto A.
Published: October 2020

We study the coil globule transition of an active fully flexible polymer. We show how the Θ-point changes with the strength of the active forces.
Effect of Nd content on the energetics of H2O adsorption and defect structure in the Ce(1−x)NdxO(2−0.5x) system
Authors: Mordekovitz Y. , Sagi S. , Barzilai S. , Hayun S.
Published: October 2020

The effect of Nd on the bond length distribution and excess adsorption enthalpy of H2O (relative to pure CeO2) in the Ce(1−x)NdxO(2−0.5x) system.
Layered cobalt oxide epitaxial films exhibiting thermoelectric ZT = 0.11 at room temperature
Authors: Takashima Yugo , Zhang Yu-qiao , Wei Jiake , Feng Bin , Ikuhara Yuichi , Cho Hai Jun , Ohta Hiromichi
Published: October 2020

A high ZT of 0.11 at room temperature was realized in layered cobalt oxide by substitution of heavy atomic mass Ba.
Investigation of cogging torque reduction for a 6/10 hybrid axial field flux‐switching permanent magnet machine by harmonic field current injection
Authors: Xu Da , Jiang Xuefeng , Tu Yixiang , Li Nian , Li Qiang
Published: October 2020

Hybrid axial field flux‐switching permanent magnet (HAFFSPM) machine exhibits a high‐cogging torque due to its doubly salient structure and flux focusing effect. In consideration of the armature and field windings are both equipped in the HAFFSPM machine, a cogging torque reduction method by the harmonic field current injection is proposed in this study. Initially, the mathematical model of the HAFFSPM machine is analysed. Moreover, the theoretical principle of the proposed method is investigated based on the analytical model of the machine. The amplitude and phase angle of the injected current are calculated according to the harmonic component of the cogging torque. The feasibility of the proposed method is analysed and validated by both the finite‐element analysis method and experiments on the prototype. Finally, the comparison between the proposed method and several topology optimisation methods of the HAFFSPM machine is given to indicate the priority of the harmonic field current injection method on cogging torque reduction.
Influence of lightning surges on wideband‐frequency model of LCC‐UHVDC converter station
Authors: Masood Bilal , Guobing Song , Hou Junjie , Zhanfeng Fan , Jinhai Huang
Published: October 2020

One of the leading causes of power system outages is lightning surges. A precise calculation of lightning overvoltages across insulators has vital significance for the investigation of lightning outages. This study investigates the impact of different lightning surges for the analysis of transient frequency characteristics of line commutated converter (LCC) based 800 kV ultra‐high‐voltage direct current (UHVDC) converter station by developing a wideband (WB) model of the converter station. The influence of lightning flashover criterion (LFC) of double exponential and Heidler surges methods on insulator/gap for precise lightning withstand level is examined. An analytical comparison for LFC of insulator/gap installed at high altitude transmission lines by incorporating the IEEE volt/time curve, CIGRE leader propagation (LP) and improved LP methods is presented. The proposed WB model explores the novel attributes of high‐frequency transfer characteristics and the coupling mechanism of transient frequencies passing through the converter station. Moreover, the effect of internal frequency dependant DC line faults on the WB model is examined. The analysis presented here aims to investigate issues like overvoltage, electromagnetic disturbance prediction, insulation design of the equipment and standardisation of sensitivity issues that are being faced by the present relay protection systems.
Gaia18aen: First symbiotic star discovered by Gaia
Authors: Merc J. , Mikołajewska J. , Gromadzki M. , Gałan C. , Iłkiewicz K. , Skowron J. , Wyrzykowski Ł. , Hodgkin S. T. , Rybicki K. A. , Zieliński P. , Kruszyńska K. , Godunova V. , Simon A. , Reshetnyk V. , Lewis F. , Kolb U. , Morrell M. , Norton A. J. , Awiphan S. , Poshyachinda S. , Reichart D. E. , Greet M. , Kolgjini J.
Published: October 2020

Context. Besides the astrometric mission of the Gaia satellite, its repeated and high-precision measurements also serve as an all-sky photometric transient survey. The sudden brightenings of the sources are published as Gaia Photometric Science Alerts and are made publicly available, allowing the community to photometrically and spectroscopically follow up on the object.

Aims. The goal of this paper is to analyze the nature and derive the basic parameters of Gaia18aen, a transient detected at the beginning of 2018. This object coincides with the position of the emission-line star WRAY 15-136. The brightening was classified as a “nova?” on the basis of a subsequent spectroscopic observation.

Methods. We analyzed two spectra of Gaia18aen and collected the available photometry of the object covering the brightenings in 2018 and also the preceding and following periods of quiescence. Based on this observational data, we derived the parameters of Gaia18aen and discussed the nature of the object.

Results. Gaia18aen is the first symbiotic star discovered by Gaia satellite. The system is an S-type symbiotic star and consists of an M giant of a slightly super-solar metallicity, where Teff ∼ 3500 K, a radius of ∼230 R⊙, and a high luminosity L ∼ 7400 L⊙. The hot component is a hot white dwarf. We tentatively determined the orbital period of the system ∼487 d. The main outburst of Gaia18aen in 2018 was accompanied by a decrease in the temperature of the hot component. The first phase of the outburst was characterized by the high luminosity L ∼ 27 000 L⊙, which remained constant for about three weeks after the optical maximum, later followed by the gradual decline of luminosity and increase of temperature. Several re-brightenings have been detected on the timescales of hundreds of days.
ATOMIUM: A high-resolution view on the highly asymmetric wind of the AGB starπ1Gruis
Authors: Homan Ward , Montargès Miguel , Pimpanuwat Bannawit , Richards Anita M. S. , Wallström Sofia H. J. , Kervella Pierre , Decin Leen , Zijlstra Albert , Danilovich Taissa , de Koter Alex , Menten Karl , Sahai Raghvendra , Plane John , Lee Kelvin , Waters Rens , Baudry Alain , Tat Wong Ka , Millar Tom J. , Van de Sande Marie , Lagadec Eric , Gobrecht David , Yates Jeremy , Price Daniel , Cannon Emily , Bolte Jan , De Ceuster Frederik , Herpin Fabrice , Nuth Joe , Philip Sindel Jan , Kee Dylan , Grey Malcolm D. , Etoka Sandra , Jeste Manali , Gottlieb Carl A. , Gottlieb Elaine , McDonald Iain , El Mellah Ileyk , Müller Holger S. P.
Published: October 2020

The nebular circumstellar environments of cool evolved stars are known to harbour a rich morphological complexity of gaseous structures on different length scales. A large part of these density structures are thought to be brought about by the interaction of the stellar wind with a close companion. The S-type asymptotic giant branch (AGB) starπ1Gruis, which has a known companion at ∼440 au and is thought to harbour a second, closer-by (< 10 au) companion, was observed with the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array as part of the ATOMIUMLarge programme. In this work, the brightest CO, SiO, and HCN molecular line transitions are analysed. The continuum map shows two maxima, separated by 0.04″ (6 au). The CO data unambiguously reveal thatπ1Gru’s circumstellar environment harbours an inclined, radially outflowing, equatorial density enhancement. It contains a spiral structure at an angle of ∼38 ± 3° with the line-of-sight. The HCN emission in the inner wind reveals a clockwise spiral, with a dynamical crossing time of the spiral arms consistent with a companion at a distance of 0.04″ from the AGB star, which is in agreement with the position of the secondary continuum peak. The inner wind dynamics imply a large acceleration region, consistent with a beta-law power of ∼6. The CO emission suggests that the spiral is approximately Archimedean within 5″, beyond which this trend breaks down as the succession of the spiral arms becomes less periodic. The SiO emission at scales smaller than 0.5″ exhibits signatures of gas in rotation, which is found to fit the expected behaviour of gas in the wind-companion interaction zone. An investigation of SiO maser emission reveals what could be a stream of gas accelerating from the surface of the AGB star to the companion. Using these dynamics, we have tentatively derived an upper limit on the companion mass to be ∼1.1M⊙.
The impact for retailer’s policy in supply chain system under trade credit and quantity discounts
Authors: Lin Tien-Yu , Li Ying-Chun , Li Q.-S.
Published: October 2020

This paper develops a powerful retailer inventory model under trade credit and quantity discounts in which the retailer’s order quantity is calculated for each setup and shipped in equal lots over multiple deliveries. Furthermore, the trade credit condition is that the retailer must make partial payments in cash for a given number of sub-shipments, with the remaining balance paid in trade credit time that expires after the inventory is depleted. This integrated powerful retailer supply chain model has not yet been discussed in previous supply chain coordination systems literature. We propose an annual total cost function and properties and develop theorems to illustrate that a unique optimal solution minimizes the relevant cost per year. We also develop an efficient algorithm to determine the optimal set of the replenishment time and the number of shipments. Numerical examples are provided to demonstrate the proposed model and algorithm. A sensitivity analysis is explored to examine the effects of four important parameters (i.e., setup cost, unit holding cost, interest rate, and receiving cost) on the optimal strategy. Finally, managerial insights are drawn.
Screening of Bufadienolides from Toad Venom Identifies Gammabufotalin as a Potential Anti-inflammatory Agent
Authors: Zheng Yuanru , Deng Lijuan , Cao Huihui , Xu Nishan , Zhang Dongmei , Tian Haiyan , Li Baojing , Lu Zibin , Ye Wencai , Yu Linzhong , Fan Chunlin , Liu Junshan
Published: October 2020

Toad venom (Chansu) is used in the treatment of infectious and inflammatory diseases in China and East/Southeast Asian countries. However, the anti-inflammatory components of toad venom have not yet been systematically evaluated and clearly defined. To investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of toad venom and identify new anti-inflammatory ingredients, we used zebrafish, an alternative drug screening model, to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effects of 14 bufadienolides previously isolated from toad venom. Most of the bufadienolides were found to exert significant anti-inflammatory effects on lipopolysaccharide-, CuSO4-, or tail transection-induced zebrafish inflammatory models. Moreover, gammabufotalin (

6) inhibits lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation by suppressing the myeloid differentiation primary response 88/nuclear factor-kappa B and STAT3 signal pathways. This study confirms the potential of zebrafish in drug screening, clarifies the anti-inflammatory effects of bufadienolides from toad venom, and indicates that gammabufotalin may be developed as a novel therapeutic agent for inflammatory diseases in the future.
Importance and Evidence of Extent of Resection in Glioblastoma
Authors: Wykes Victoria , Zisakis Athanasios , Irimia Mihaela , Ughratdar Ismail , Sawlani Vijay , Watts Colin
Published: October 2020

Maximal safe resection is an essential part of the multidisciplinary care of patients with glioblastoma. A growing body of data shows that gross total resection is an independent prognostic factor associated with improved clinical outcome. The relationship between extent of glioblastoma (GB) resection and clinical benefit depends critically on the balance between cytoreduction and avoiding neurologic morbidity. The definition of the extent of tumor resection, how this is best measured pre- and postoperatively, and its relation to volume of residual tumor is still discussed. We review the literature supporting extent of resection in GB, highlighting the importance of a standardized definition and measurement of extent of resection to allow greater collaboration in research projects and trials. Recent developments in neurosurgical techniques and technologies focused on maximizing extent of resection and safety are discussed.
Intraoperative Neurophysiologic Assessment in Deep Brain Stimulation Surgery and its Impact on Lead Placement
Authors: Krauss Philipp , Oertel Markus Florian , Baumann-Vogel Heide , Imbach Lukas , Baumann Christian Rainer , Sarnthein Johannes , Regli Luca , Stieglitz Lennart Henning
Published: October 2020

Objectives While the efficacy of deep brain stimulation (DBS) to treat various neurological disorders is undisputed, the surgical methods differ widely and the importance of intraoperative microelectrode recording (MER) or macrostimulation (MS) remains controversially debated. The objective of this study is to evaluate the impact of MER and MS on intraoperative lead placement.

Patients and Methods We included 101 patients who underwent awake bilateral implantation of electrodes in the subthalamic nucleus with MER and MS for Parkinson's disease from 2009 to 2017 in a retrospective observational study. We analyzed intraoperative motor outcomes between anatomically planned stimulation point (PSP) and definite stimulation point (DSP), lead adjustments and Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale Item III (UPDRS-III), levodopa equivalent daily dose (LEDD), and adverse events (AE) after 6 months.

Results We adjusted 65/202 leads in 47/101 patients. In adjusted leads, MS results improved significantly when comparing PSP and DSP (p < 0.001), resulting in a number needed to treat of 9.6. After DBS, UPDRS-III and LEDD improved significantly after 6 months in adjusted and nonadjusted patients (p < 0.001). In 87% of leads, the active contact at 6 months still covered the optimal stimulation point during surgery. In total, 15 AE occurred.

Conclusion MER and MS have a relevant impact on the intraoperative decision of final lead placement and prevent from a substantial rate of poor stimulation outcome. The optimal stimulation points during surgery and chronic stimulation strongly overlap. Follow-up UPDRS-III results, LEDD reductions, and DBS-related AE correspond well to previously published data.
Artificial intelligence for brain diseases: A systematic review
Authors: Segato Alice , Marzullo Aldo , Calimeri Francesco , De Momi Elena
Published: October 2020

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a major branch of computer science that is fruitfully used for analyzing complex medical data and extracting meaningful relationships in datasets, for several clinical aims. Specifically, in the brain care domain, several innovative approaches have achieved remarkable results and open new perspectives in terms of diagnosis, planning, and outcome prediction. In this work, we present an overview of different artificial intelligent techniques used in the brain care domain, along with a review of important clinical applications. A systematic and careful literature search in major databases such as Pubmed, Scopus, and Web of Science was carried out using “artificial intelligence” and “brain” as main keywords. Further references were integrated by cross-referencing from key articles. 155 studies out of 2696 were identified, which actually made use of AI algorithms for different purposes (diagnosis, surgical treatment, intra-operative assistance, and postoperative assessment). Artificial neural networks have risen to prominent positions among the most widely used analytical tools. Classic machine learning approaches such as support vector machine and random forest are still widely used. Task-specific algorithms are designed for solving specific problems. Brain images are one of the most used data types. AI has the possibility to improve clinicians' decision-making ability in neuroscience applications. However, major issues still need to be addressed for a better practical use of AI in the brain. To this aim, it is important to both gather comprehensive data and build explainable AI algorithms.
Economic hardship and mental health complaints during COVID-19
Authors: Witteveen Dirk , Velthorst Eva
Published: October 2020

Significance

This study measures the impact of the COVID-19 lockdowns on workers’ economic hardship and mental health. In data representative of the active labor force, we document two interconnected layers of rapidly exacerbating inequalities. We find that occupational ranking is highly predictive of experiencing a range of instant economic hardships, such as workload decrease and income loss. Subsequent analyses indicate that such economic hardships lead to much higher prevalence of expressing adverse mental health, including feelings of depression and health anxiety. As the unprecedented societal shock of COVID-19 bears little comparison with prior economic recessions, we assert survey data of the labor force are paramount in understanding how workers’ mental health complaints came about.
The evolution of consonant mutation and noun class marking in Wolof
Authors: Merrill John T. M.
Published: October 2020

This paper analyzes the origins and evolution of the Wolof (Atlantic: Senegal) consonant mutation and noun class
marking systems. I attribute Wolof mutation to the earlier presence of CV(C)- class prefixes on nouns, the (usually final)
consonants of which fused with the following root-initial consonant to yield the modern mutation alternations. I reconstruct these
original class prefixes using newly-proposed internal and comparative evidence, drawing on early documentary sources dating from
the late 17th century. An understanding of the history of Wolof mutation allows for a better account of the synchronic system, in
which mutation is triggered by specific noun classes rather than sporadically marking deverbal derivation. This study contributes
to the broader understanding of how consonant mutation systems emerge and evolve, and of phonological considerations in noun class
assignment.
On the nature of inverse systems
Authors: Konnerth Linda
Published: October 2020

Previous theoretical discussion about inverse systems has largely revolved around the synchronic and diachronic relationship between the inverse and the passive. In contrast, this study argues for the antipassive origins of two inverse constructions in Monsang (Trans-Himalayan), which are used for 3→SAP and 2→1 scenarios. This questions central assumptions from previous accounts about the functional motivation underlying inverse systems, and suggests that strategies of avoiding overt reference may be at play. The diachronic pathway proposed here connects the traditional inverse with other special marking patterns that involve speech act participant objects, in particular the “pseudo-inverse” construction of innovative first person object indexation.
Dispersion relation for transverse waves in pre-stressed irregular single-walled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Selim Mahmoud M
Published: October 2020

This article studies the dispersion relation of transverse waves in an initially stresses single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) with surface irregularity using Flügge shell theory. Taking into account the effects of surface irregularity and initial stresses, propagation of transverse waves is studied and dispersion curves are plotted for optical transverse waves in several figures. The effects of surface irregularity and initial stresses are confirmed by comparing obtained numerical results with those in cases of uniform and initial stress–free SWCNT. Obtained results turn out that, the increase of irregularity parameter increases the phase velocity of transverse waves, while the increase of the initial stress parameter decreases the phase velocity of transverse waves propagating in SWCNTs. To the author best knowledge, effects of surface irregularity and initial stresses on transverse waves propagation, especially propagation in single-walled carbon nanotubes, have not been done before. The previous studies were devoted to the uniform and initial stresses-free carbon nanotubes. It should be emphasized that the transverse waves propagation in pre-stressed and irregular single-walled carbon nanotubes is novel, workable, and at the beginning of the path. İn this manner, understanding the influences of surface irregularity as well as initial stresses on the phase velocity of transverse waves may serve as useful references for the applications and designs of nano oscillators and nanodevices, in which single-walled carbon nanotubes act as the most prevalent nanocomposite structural element.