bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physicochemical characterization of Gozitan Honey
Authors: Attard Everaldo , Mizzi Joseph
Published: January 2020

Honey quality is clearly defined in the EU Directive 2001/110/EC, and by Codex Alimentarius (Codex Stan 12-1981) and the International Honey Commission (IHC, 2002). Our investigation aimed to characterize the physicochemical properties of honey produced on a small island, Gozo which is situated near Malta.  Ten randomly collected honey samples were analysed for moisture content, pH, free acidity, water insoluble content, hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) content and total phenolic compounds.  Moisture content, pH, free acidity, water insoluble content, and HMF content were within the range specified in standards but the electrical conductivity was generally higher than 0.800 mS cm-1. This may be the result of the relatively high atmospheric and soil salinity on this small island. All the samples analysed were within the 40 mg kg-1 HMF limit, which is an indicator of honey quality. The total phenolic compounds, which represent some of the constituents derived from the nectar and pollen obtained during foraging, ranged between 236.555 and 294.209 GAE kg-1 honey. Principal Component Analysis showed the properties of polyfloral honey samples obtained from the southern part of the island to be different from those obtained from the northern part.
Cardiac mitochondrial function depends on BUD23 mediated ribosome programming
Authors: Baxter Matthew , Voronkov Maria , Poolman Toryn , Galli Gina , Pinali Christian , Goosey Laurence , Knight Abigail , Krakowiak Karolina , Maidstone Robert , Iqbal Mudassar , Zi Min , Prehar Sukhpal , Cartwright Elizabeth J , Gibbs Julie , Matthews Laura C , Adamson Antony D , Humphreys Neil E , Rebelo-Guiomar Pedro , Minczuk Michal , Bechtold David A , Loudon Andrew , Ray David
Published: January 2020

Efficient mitochondrial function is required in tissues with high energy demand such as the heart, and mitochondrial dysfunction is associated with cardiovascular disease. Expression of mitochondrial proteins is tightly regulated in response to internal and external stimuli. Here we identify a novel mechanism regulating mitochondrial content and function, through BUD23-dependent ribosome generation. BUD23 was required for ribosome maturation, normal 18S/28S stoichiometry and modulated the translation of mitochondrial transcripts in human A549 cells. Deletion of Bud23 in murine cardiomyocytes reduced mitochondrial content and function, leading to severe cardiomyopathy and death. We discovered that BUD23 selectively promotes ribosomal interaction with low GC-content 5’UTRs. Taken together we identify a critical role for BUD23 in bioenergetics gene expression, by promoting efficient translation of mRNA transcripts with low 5’UTR GC content. BUD23 emerges as essential to mouse development, and to postnatal cardiac function.
A polyomavirus peptide binds to the capsid VP1 pore and has potent antiviral activity against BK and JC polyomaviruses
Authors: Kane Joshua R , Fong Susan , Shaul Jacob , Frommlet Alexandra , Frank Andreas O , Knapp Mark , Bussiere Dirksen E , Kim Peter , Ornelas Elizabeth , Cuellar Carlos , Hyrina Anastasia , Abend Johanna R , Wartchow Charles A
Published: January 2020

In pursuit of therapeutics for human polyomaviruses, we identified a peptide derived from the BK polyomavirus (BKV) minor structural proteins VP2/3 that is a potent inhibitor of BKV infection with no observable cellular toxicity. The thirteen-residue peptide binds to major structural protein VP1 with single-digit nanomolar affinity. Alanine-scanning of the peptide identified three key residues, substitution of each of which results in ~1000 fold loss of binding affinity with a concomitant reduction in antiviral activity. Structural studies demonstrate specific binding of the peptide to the pore of pentameric VP1. Cell-based assays demonstrate nanomolar inhibition (EC50) of BKV infection and suggest that the peptide acts early in the viral entry pathway. Homologous peptide exhibits similar binding to JC polyomavirus VP1 and inhibits infection with similar potency to BKV in a model cell line. Lastly, these studies validate targeting the VP1 pore as a novel strategy for the development of anti-polyomavirus agents.
A genetic, genomic, and computational resource for exploring neural circuit function
Authors: Davis Fred P , Nern Aljoscha , Picard Serge , Reiser Michael B , Rubin Gerald M , Eddy Sean R , Henry Gilbert L
Published: January 2020

The anatomy of many neural circuits is being characterized with increasing resolution, but their molecular properties remain mostly unknown. Here, we characterize gene expression patterns in distinct neural cell types of the Drosophila visual system using genetic lines to access individual cell types, the TAPIN-seq method to measure their transcriptomes, and a probabilistic method to interpret these measurements. We used these tools to build a resource of high-resolution transcriptomes for 100 driver lines covering 67 cell types, available at http://www.opticlobe.com. Combining these transcriptomes with recently reported connectomes helps characterize how information is transmitted and processed across a range of scales, from individual synapses to circuit pathways. We describe examples that include identifying neurotransmitters, including cases of apparent co-release, generating functional hypotheses based on receptor expression, as well as identifying strong commonalities between different cell types.
Myosin V executes steps of variable length via structurally constrained diffusion
Authors: Hathcock David , Tehver Riina , Hinczewski Michael , Thirumalai D
Published: January 2020

The molecular motor myosin V transports cargo by stepping on actin filaments, executing a random diffusive search for actin binding sites at each step. A recent experiment suggests that the joint between the myosin lever arms may not rotate freely, as assumed in earlier studies, but instead has a preferred angle giving rise to structurally constrained diffusion. We address this controversy through comprehensive analytical and numerical modeling of myosin V diffusion and stepping. When the joint is constrained, our model reproduces the experimentally observed diffusion, allowing us to estimate bounds on the constraint energy. We also test the consistency between the constrained diffusion model and previous measurements of step size distributions and the load dependence of various observable quantities. The theory lets us address the biological significance of the constrained joint and provides testable predictions of new myosin behaviors, including the stomp distribution and the run length under off-axis force.
Symptom evolution following the emergence of maize streak virus
Authors: Monjane Adérito L , Dellicour Simon , Hartnady Penelope , Oyeniran Kehinde A , Owor Betty E , Bezuidenhout Marion , Linderme Daphné , Syed Rizwan A , Donaldson Lara , Murray Shane , Rybicki Edward P , Kvarnheden Anders , Yazdkhasti Elham , Lefeuvre Pierre , Froissart Rémy , Roumagnac Philippe , Shepherd Dionne N , Harkins Gordon W , Suchard Marc A , Lemey Philippe , Varsani Arvind , Martin Darren P
Published: January 2020

For pathogens infecting single host species evolutionary trade-offs have previously been demonstrated between pathogen-induced mortality rates and transmission rates. It remains unclear, however, how such trade-offs impact sub-lethal pathogen-inflicted damage, and whether these trade-offs even occur in broad host-range pathogens. Here, we examine changes over the past 110 years in symptoms induced in maize by the broad host-range pathogen, maize streak virus (MSV). Specifically, we use the quantified symptom intensities of cloned MSV isolates in differentially resistant maize genotypes to phylogenetically infer ancestral symptom intensities and check for phylogenetic signal associated with these symptom intensities. We show that whereas symptoms reflecting harm to the host have remained constant or decreased, there has been an increase in how extensively MSV colonizes the cells upon which transmission vectors feed. This demonstrates an evolutionary trade-off between amounts of pathogen-inflicted harm and how effectively viruses position themselves within plants to enable onward transmission.
Phrenic-specific transcriptional programs shape respiratory motor output
Authors: Vagnozzi Alicia N , Garg Kiran , Dewitz Carola , Moore Matthew T , Cregg Jared M , Jeannotte Lucie , Zampieri Niccolò , Landmesser Lynn T , Philippidou Polyxeni
Published: January 2020

The precise pattern of motor neuron (MN) activation is essential for the execution of motor actions; however, the molecular mechanisms that give rise to specific patterns of MN activity are largely unknown. Phrenic MNs integrate multiple inputs to mediate inspiratory activity during breathing and are constrained to fire in a pattern that drives efficient diaphragm contraction. We show that Hox5 transcription factors shape phrenic MN output by connecting phrenic MNs to inhibitory premotor neurons. Hox5 genes establish phrenic MN organization and dendritic topography through the regulation of phrenic-specific cell adhesion programs. In the absence of Hox5 genes, phrenic MN firing becomes asynchronous and erratic due to loss of phrenic MN inhibition. Strikingly, mice lacking Hox5 genes in MNs exhibit abnormal respiratory behavior throughout their lifetime. Our findings support a model where MN-intrinsic transcriptional programs shape the pattern of motor output by orchestrating distinct aspects of MN connectivity.
Expression Pattern of Mitogen-inducible Gene 6 in Relation to the Extracellular Signal-regulated Kinase Pathway and Redox Status in Patients with Endometriosis
Authors: Ayad Nada Hashem , Gaballah Hanaa Hibishy , El-Aziz Salem Hesham Abd , El-Hamid Hassan Sobhy Abd , Mohamed Kasem Safwat
Published: January 2020

Background: Endometriosis is a gynecological disorder characterized by the presence of ectopic endometrium outside the uterus. It is a multi-factorial disease, where different processes facilitate the implantation and survival of ectopic endometrial tissue. 

The Aim: This study aims to evaluate the levels of the expression patterns of mitogen-inducible gene 6 (Mig-6) in eutopic and ectopic endometrial tissues of endometriosis patients and their relevance to the levels of phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (pERK1/2) and redox status.

Methods: Relative gene expression levels of Mig-6 and the levels of pERK1/2 were assessed in endometrial tissues of control group and in both eutopic and ectopic endometrial tissues of endometriosis patients .Serum levels of total protein thiols and total protein carbonyls were also assessed in endometriosis and control groups.

Results: Relative gene expression levels of Mig- 6 showed significant lower values in endometriosis group as compared to control group, and they were associated with significant increase in pERK 1/2 levels and altered redox status.

Conclusion: These data, signified a significant role of downregulated Mig-6 expression, and activated ERK 1/2 signaling in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. Moreover, it suggested that oxidative stress indicated by high protein carbonyls level contributes to the pathogenesis of endometriosis and that protein thiols have a defensive role against oxidative stress.
Unacknowledged Potential Factors in Catastrophic Bat Die-off Arising from Coal Fly Ash Geoengineering
Authors: Marvin Herndon J. , Whiteside Mark
Published: January 2020

Bats have great economic and environmental importance, including nocturnal insect control, pollination, seed dispersal and forest regeneration. Bats, however, like insects and birds are suffering a precipitous global decline due to anthropogenic causes. Deliberate air pollution in the form of undisclosed tropospheric aerosol geoengineering (TAG) has extremely damaging effects throughout the biosphere. Forensic scientific evidence implicates coal fly ash (CFA), the toxic waste product of coal-burning, as the main constituent of the jet-sprayed particulate trails seen around the world. Coal fly ash is a primary source of the ultrafine and nano-sized particulate fraction of air pollution that adversely impacts human and environmental health. Recently, countless exogenous magnetic pollution particles from combustion sources were found in human brains and heart tissue. Previous studies reveal that aerosolized CFA is a significant factor in the catastrophic global decline of birds and insects. Insects can accumulate aerosolized CFA on their body surfaces and/or ingest CFA particulates that insectivorous bats then consume. Bats are excellent mammalian bioindicators of environmental contaminants and it is known that their tissue contains high levels of metals and persistent organic pollutants. From a review of the literature, we show that the pollutant element ratios in bat tissue and bat guano are consistent with an origin in CFA-type air pollution. These findings suggest that CFA, including its use in covert climate engineering operations, is an unacknowledged factor in the morbidity and mortality of bats. Bats, therefore, are an important "canary in the coal mine" pointing to the urgency of halting covert climate engineering and greatly reducing ultrafine particulate air pollution.
Effect of Soybean and Finger Millet Flours on the Physicochemical and Sensory Quality of Beef Meat Sausage
Authors: Behailu B. , Abebe M.
Published: January 2020

Aims: Nowadays increasing costs of animal protein has necessitated the need to investigate uses of cheaper and nutritive alternatives various food formulations. To increase nutritional value and sensory qualities of sausage from soybean and finger millet flours and beef meat and to reduce the formulation costs of the product.

Study Design: The experiment was set in single factor experiments. Blending ratio (soy-millet flour and beef meat ratios of 10:90, 20:80, 30:70 and 0:100%) with four levels and triplicate. blend proportion of soybean and finger millet flours is similar.

Place and Duration of Study: Sample preparation, product processing and quality analysis was carried out in Bahir Dar institute of technology, Department of Food Engineering, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia between April 2017 and June 2018.

Methodology: Four batches of beef sausages were investigated in which finger millet and soy flours were substituted with beef meat. Proximate composition with selected mineral contents, sensory characteristics, physical properties and production cost of sausages were determined. Percentage proximate composition were determined by using the standard methods of Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC). Calcium and zinc were analyzed by EDTA titration and Modified AOAC respectively and physical property of sausage were also analyzed.

Results: As soy and finger millet flours inclusion increase, the nutritional value of sausage increased such as moisture, crude protein, crude fat, crude fibre, crude ash and the cooking yield from 56.91(control) to 77.24% (30% inclusion) by reducing weight loss. The sausage products were generally accepted and 20% soy and millet flour inclusion was “liked very much. Soy and finger millet flour inclusion reduced production cost from 177 (control) to 142 ETB (30% inclusion) per mix (1150 g).

Conclusion: Soybean and finger millet flours were used in beef sausage products to improve nutritional value, consumer acceptability and reduce the formulation cost. These results suggest that beef meat can be used successfully for the production of beef meat sausage as an alternative uses of different flours.
Monitoring of the Project to Convert Cereal Production into Olive Plantations in the Province of Tetouan (Northern Morocco)
Authors: Hajar Ettakifi , Hicham Barbara , Bouzdoudi Brahim El , Tomader Errabii , Mohammed L’bachir El Kbiach
Published: January 2020

The agricultural sector occupies an important economic and social position in Morocco. In this sense, in recent years our country has adopted a new strategy for the agricultural sector called the "Green Morocco Plan". This plan is based on two pillars, the first is that which provides agriculture with high added value, high productivity, and competitiveness, the second is that which offers solidarity-based agriculture, based on the fight against poverty, increasing the income of small farmers, particularly in disadvantaged areas (such as unfavourable stock areas, mountains or oases, plains and plateaus in semi-arid regions).

In our present study, we are particularly interested in the project to convert 760 ha of cereal crops into olive groves in the province of Tetouan. On the one hand, all stages of olive tree planting in cereal crops were monitored, as well as a comparison of yields, area, income, productivity and employment before and after the project was carried out. And on the other hand, an analysis of the various positive (social, economic and environmental) and negative (ecological) impacts of the project on the rural population in the province of Tetouan and on the environment in general. On the contrary, this project encountered several constraints, including natural, economic and social constraints.
Fiscal Federalism and Economic Growth in Nigeria: An Empirical Analysis
Authors: Morohunmubo Omosehin Foluke , Adeshina Kelani Fatai , Ajibola Ladega Razak
Published: January 2020

Nigeria as a nation operates a federal structure of government, ‘Federalism’ refers to the existence in a country of more than one level of government, each with different expenditure responsibilities and taxing powers. The major aim of this work is to assess the impact of fiscal federalism and government expenditure on economic growth in Nigeria.

Secondary data employed in this work was collected from the Central Bank of Nigeria's (CBN) Statistical Bulletin, CBN Annual Report and Statement of Accounts, National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) and The World Bank Group for years 2000, 2017 and 2018 and part of 2019, respectively. The data covers the period, 1990-2017 on an annual basis. Ordinary Least Square (OLS) was used to estimate multiple regression model where Gross Domestic Product (GDP) as dependent variable and independent variables were interest rate, inflation rate, exchange rate, growth rate of share of federal government from the Federation account, growth rate of share of state government from the federal account, growth rate of share of local government from the Federation account. The results obtained from the regression shows that there exists a positive relationship between the economic growth and share of federal revenue, state government revenue, exchange rate and interest rate from the federation account and economic process in Nigeria. From the above result, it can, therefore, be concluded that a policy to maintain macroeconomic stability by controlling the rate of inflation within the reasonable limit is required to promote economic growth.
Copper‐Catalyzed Addition of Diboron Species
Authors: Parra Alejandro , Trulli Laura , Tortosa Mariola
Published: January 2020

Boronic acids and derivatives are highly versatile intermediates in synthetic chemistry. The development of modern borylation reactions has contributed to the emergence of boronic acid derivatives as a popular class of reagents. In recent years, catalytic borylation reactions have gained significant attention due to their efficiency, selectivity, and functional group compatibility. In this context, copper‐catalyzed borylations have become a powerful new tool for introducing boronic esters into organic molecules. The lower price and toxicity of copper versus other transition metals and the unique reactivity of the copper‐boryl intermediates make these processes particularly attractive. In this chapter, we will offer an overview of the most important copper‐catalyzed borylation reactions that involve addition of a copper(I)‐boryl complex to a π‐bond.
Control of Astrocyte Quiescence and Activation in a Synthetic Brain Hydrogel
Authors: Galarza Sualyneth , Crosby Alfred J. , Pak ChangHui , Peyton Shelly R.
Published: January 2020

Bioengineers have designed numerous instructive brain extracellular matrix (ECM) environments with tailored and tunable protein compositions and biomechanical properties in vitro to study astrocyte reactivity during trauma and inflammation. However, a major limitation of both protein‐based and synthetic model microenvironments is that astrocytes within fail to retain their characteristic stellate morphology and quiescent state without becoming activated under “normal” culture conditions. Here, a synthetic hydrogel is introduced, which for the first time demonstrates maintenance of astrocyte quiescence and activation on demand. With this synthetic brain hydrogel, the brain‐specific integrin‐binding and matrix metalloprotease‐degradable domains of proteins are shown to control astrocyte star‐shaped morphologies, and an ECM condition that maintains astrocyte quiescence with minimal activation can be achieved. In addition, activation can be induced in a dose‐dependent manner via both defined cytokine cocktails and low molecular weight hyaluronic acid. This synthetic brain hydrogel is envisioned as a new tool to study the physiological role of astrocytes in health and disease.
Promising and Eco‐Friendly Cu2X‐Based Thermoelectric Materials: Progress and Applications
Authors: Liu Wei‐Di , Yang Lei , Chen Zhi‐Gang , Zou Jin
Published: January 2020

Due to the nature of their liquid‐like behavior and high dimensionless figure of merit, Cu2X (X = Te, Se, and S)‐based thermoelectric materials have attracted extensive attention. The superionicity and Cu disorder at the high temperature can dramatically affect the electronic structure of Cu2X and in turn result in temperature‐dependent carrier‐transport properties. Here, the effective strategies in enhancing the thermoelectric performance of Cu2X‐based thermoelectric materials are summarized, in which the proper optimization of carrier concentration and minimization of the lattice thermal conductivity are the main focus. Then, the stabilities, mechanical properties, and module assembly of Cu2X‐based thermoelectric materials are investigated. Finally, the future directions for further improving the energy conversion efficiency of Cu2X‐based thermoelectric materials are highlighted.
Light‐Responsive Colloidal Crystals Engineered with DNA
Authors: Zhu Jinghan , Lin Haixin , Kim Youngeun , Yang Muwen , Skakuj Kacper , Du Jingshan S. , Lee Byeongdu , Schatz George C. , Van Duyne Richard P. , Mirkin Chad A.
Published: January 2020

A novel method for synthesizing and photopatterning colloidal crystals via light‐responsive DNA is developed. These crystals are composed of 10–30 nm gold nanoparticles interconnected with azobenzene‐modified DNA strands. The photoisomerization of the azobenzene molecules leads to reversible assembly and disassembly of the base‐centered cubic (bcc) and face‐centered cubic (fcc) crystalline nanoparticle lattices. In addition, UV light is used as a trigger to selectively remove nanoparticles on centimeter‐scale thin films of colloidal crystals, allowing them to be photopatterned into preconceived shapes. The design of the azobenzene‐modified linking DNA is critical and involves complementary strands, with azobenzene moieties deliberately staggered between the bases that define the complementary code. This results in a tunable wavelength‐dependent melting temperature (Tm) window (4.5–15 °C) and one suitable for affecting the desired transformations. In addition to the isomeric state of the azobenzene groups, the size of the particles can be used to modulate the Tm window over which these structures are light‐responsive.
A Cobalt‐Free Multi‐Phase Nanocomposite as Near‐Ideal Cathode of Intermediate‐Temperature Solid Oxide Fuel Cells Developed by Smart Self‐Assembly
Authors: Song Yufei , Chen Yubo , Xu Meigui , Wang Wei , Zhang Yuan , Yang Guangming , Ran Ran , Zhou Wei , Shao Zongping
Published: January 2020

An ideal solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) cathode should meet multiple requirements, i.e., high activity for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), good conductivity, favorable stability, and sound thermo‐mechanical/chemical compatibility with electrolyte, while it is very challenging to achieve all these requirements based on a single‐phase material. Herein, a cost‐effective multi‐phase nanocomposite, facilely synthesized through smart self‐assembly at high temperature, is developed as a near‐ideal cathode of intermediate‐temperature SOFCs, showing high ORR activity (an area‐specific resistance of ≈0.028 Ω cm2 and a power output of 1208 mW cm−2 at 650 °C), affordable conductivity (21.5 S cm−1 at 650 °C), favorable stability (560 h operation in single cell), excellent chemical compatibility with Sm0.2Ce0.8O1.9 electrolyte, and reduced thermal expansion coefficient (≈16.8 × 10−6 K−1). Such a nanocomposite (Sr0.9Ce0.1Fe0.8Ni0.2O3–δ) is composed of a single perovskite main phase (77.2 wt%), a Ruddlesden–Popper (RP) second phase (13.3 wt%), and surface‐decorated NiO (5.8 wt%) and CeO2 (3.7 wt%) minor phases. The RP phase promotes the oxygen bulk diffusion while NiO and CeO2 nanoparticles facilitate the oxygen surface process and O2− migration from the surface to the main phase, respectively. The strong interaction between four phases in nanodomain creates a synergistic effect, leading to the superior ORR activity.
Strategies for Designing Stretchable Strain Sensors and Conductors
Authors: Wu Shuying , Peng Shuhua , Yu Yuyan , Wang Chun‐Hui
Published: January 2020

Flexible and stretchable electronics are attracting tremendous attention for their enormous future potential in wearable technologies. Flexible and stretchable sensors and conductors are the key components of wearable devices for potential applications such as human motion detection, human health monitoring, and human–machine interfaces. One critical requirement for them is to show high level of wearability (bendability and stretchability) and meanwhile to retain their functionality and reliability under large mechanical deformation. To this end, a wide range of materials and structural designs are developed to construct these sensors and conductors. Here, the recent advances in the development of new piezoresistive materials and microstructural motifs that endow electronics with flexibility and stretchability are summarized. Challenges and future opportunities are discussed in terms of the multimodal and multidirectional sensing capabilities, the trade‐off between sensitivity/conductivity and stretchability, multifunctionality, linearity (multiple linear region phenomenon), and integration with flexible power and communication devices.
Eco‐Friendly Spray Deposition of Perovskite Films on Macroscale Textured Surfaces
Authors: Sansoni Simone , De Bastiani Michele , Aydin Erkan , Ugur Esma , Isikgor Furkan Halis , Al‐Zahrani Areej , Lamberti Francesco , Laquai Frederic , Meneghetti Moreno , De Wolf Stefaan
Published: January 2020

An innovative sequential eco‐friendly spray coating (SEF‐SC) technique is developed to uniformly deposit metal halide perovskite films on macroscale textured surfaces, such as textured crystalline‐silicon wafers. Contrasting with previous work on spray‐coated perovskite solar cells, the method presented in this work completely avoids the use of toxic and dangerous solvents. Both MAPbI3 and CsFAMAPbI3−xBrx perovskite films deposited by SEF‐SC show excellent optoelectronic properties and no phase segregation, even when synthesized in ambient conditions. Uniform perovskite coatings are obtained on textured‐silicon heterojunction solar cells underlining the promise of this method, which holds the potential for scalable wet processing of perovskites on rough substrates, such as for low‐cost perovskite/silicon tandem solar cell fabrication.
Waterproof Flexible InP@ZnSeS Quantum Dot Light‐Emitting Diode
Authors: Shin Dong‐Wook , Suh Yo‐Han , Lee Sanghyo , Hou Bo , Han Soo Deok , Cho Yuljae , Fan Xiang‐Bing , Bang Sang Yun , Zhan Shijie , Yang Jiajie , Choi Hyung Woo , Jung Sungmin , Mocanu Felix C. , Lee Hanleem , Occhipinti Luigi , Chun Young Tea , Amaratunga Gehan , Kim Jong Min
Published: January 2020

The development of flexible displays for wearable electronics applications has created demand for high‐performance quantum dot (QD) light‐emitting diodes (QLEDs) based on QD core@shell structures. Emerging indium phosphide (InP)‐based core@shell QDs show promise as lighting material in the field of optoelectronics because they are environmentally friendly material, can be produced in a cost‐effective manner, and are capable of tunable emission. While efforts have been made to enhance the performance of InP‐based QLED, the stabilities of InP@ZnSeS QDs film and InP@ZnSeS‐based QLED in water/air are not yet fully understood, limiting their practical applications. Herein, a highly durable, flexible InP@ZnSeS QLED encapsulated in an ultrathin film of CYTOP, a solution‐based amorphous fluoropolymer, is demonstrated. The CYTOP‐encapsulated green flexible QLED shows an external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 0.904% and a high luminescence of 1593 cd m−2 as well as outstanding waterproof performance. The flexible device emits strong luminescence after being immersed in water for ≈20 min. Even when subjected to continuous tensile stress with a 5 mm bending radius, the high luminescence is preserved. This waterproof architecture can be a promising strategy for wearable electronics applications.
Multi‐Layer Feature Selection Incorporating Weighted Score‐Based Expert Knowledge toward Modeling Materials with Targeted Properties
Authors: Liu Yue , Wu Jun‐Ming , Avdeev Maxim , Shi Si‐Qi
Published: January 2020

Selecting proper descriptors or features is one of the central problems in exploring structure–activity relationships of materials using machine learning models. The current feature selection algorithms usually require tedious hyperparameter tuning and do not actively consider the prior knowledge of domain experts about the features. Here, this work proposes a data‐driven multi‐layer feature selection method incorporating domain expert knowledge named DML‐FSdek, which is automated, with users entering training data without manual tuning of the hyperparameters. The domain expert knowledge is quantified by means of weighted scoring and integrated into the selection process to eliminate the risk of crucial features being removed. The test studies on ten material properties datasets demonstrate the potential of the approach to automatically search for a reduced feature set with lower root mean square errors than those for the initial feature set. Essentially, the most relevant material features, the number of which is much smaller than that in the original feature set, are automatically selected to establish a closer and more accurate structure–activity relationship for the materials of interest. As a result, the method represents the targeted properties of materials with a smaller and more interpretable set of features while ensuring equal or better prediction accuracy.
Electronic Transport Inhibiting of Carbon Nanotubes by 5f Elements
Authors: Wang Jia , Gong Kui , Lu Feifei , Xie Weiyu , Zhu Yu , Wang Zhigang
Published: January 2020

Based on the combination of the non‐equilibrium Green's function and density functional theory, a theoretical method for studying the transport behavior of high angular momentum 5f electrons is developed and the transport properties of the structure for actinide atoms embedded in carbon nanotubes (An@CNTs, An = Ac, Th, Pa and U) is reported. Results show that An@CNTs have lower transmission coefficients than that of CNTs. Furthermore, electrical bias to the U@(4, 4)/(5, 5) CNTs induces an additional transition spectral peak, which demonstrates that the U@(4, 4)/(5, 5) CNTs has a lower resistance. Therefore, 5f electrons of actinide atoms inhibit the electronic transport of CNTs. These findings may provide fresh insight into the transport properties of systems having higher angular momentum electrons.
Tackling Challenges in Seebeck Coefficient Measurement of Ultra‐High Resistance Samples with an AC Technique
Authors: Pan Zhenyu , Zhu Zheng , Wilcox Jonathon , Urban Jeffrey J. , Yang Fan , Wang Heng
Published: January 2020

Seebeck coefficient is a widely studied semiconductor property. Conventional Seebeck coefficient measurements are based on DC voltage measurement. Normally this is performed on samples with moderate resistances (e.g., below a few MΩ level). Certain semiconductors are intrinsic and highly resistive. Many examples can be found in optical and photovoltaic materials. The hybrid halide perovskites that have gained extensive attention recently are a good example. Despite great attention from the materials and physics communities, few successful studies exist of the Seebeck coefficient of these compounds, for example CH3NH3PbI3. An AC‐technique‐based Seebeck coefficient measurement is reported, which makes high‐quality Seebeck voltage measurements on samples with resistances up to the 100 GΩ level. This is achieved through a specifically designed setup to enhance sample isolation and increase capacitive impedance. As a demonstration, Seebeck coefficient measurement of a CH3NH3PbI3 thin film is performed at dark, with sample resistance 150 GΩ, and found S = +550 µV K−1. The strategy reported could be applied to the studies of fundamental transport parameters of all intrinsic semiconductors that have not been feasible.
A Disquisition on the Active Sites of Heterogeneous Catalysts for Electrochemical Reduction of CO2 to Value‐Added Chemicals and Fuel
Authors: Daiyan Rahman , Saputera Wibawa Hendra , Masood Hassan , Leverett Josh , Lu Xunyu , Amal Rose
Published: January 2020

Renewable‐electricity‐powered electrocatalytic CO2 reduction reactions (CO2RR) have been identified as an emerging technology to address the issue of rising CO2 emissions in the atmosphere. While the CO2RR has been demonstrated to be technically feasible, further improvements in catalyst performance through active sites engineering are a prerequisite to accelerate its commercial feasibility for utilization in large CO2‐emitting industrial sources. Over the years, the improved understanding of the interaction of CO2 with the active sites has allowed superior catalyst design and subsequent attainment of prominent CO2RR activity in literature. This review tracks the evolution of the understanding of CO2RR active sites on different electrocatalysts such as metals, metal‐oxides, single atoms, metal‐carbon, and subsequently metal‐free carbon‐based catalysts. Despite the tremendous research efforts in the field, many scientific questions on the role of various active sites in governing CO2RR activity, selectivity, stability, and pathways are still unanswered. These gaps in knowledge are highlighted and a discussion is set forth on the merits of utilizing advanced in‐situ and operando characterization techniques and machine learning (ML). Using this technique, the underlying mechanisms can be discerned, and as a result new strategies for designing active sites may be uncovered. Finally, this review advocates an interdisciplinary approach to discover and design CO2RR active sites (rather than focusing merely on catalyst activity) in a bid to stimulate practical research for industrial application.
Formation and Fate of Formaldehyde in Methanol‐to‐Hydrocarbon Reaction: In Situ Synchrotron Radiation Photoionization Mass Spectrometry Study
Authors: Wen Wu , Yu Shengsheng , Zhou Chaoqun , Ma Hao , Zhou Zhongyue , Cao Chuangchuang , Yang Jiuzhong , Xu Minggao , Qi Fei , Zhang Guobin , Pan Yang
Published: January 2020

HCHO has been confirmed as an active intermediate in the methanol‐to‐hydrocarbon (MTH) reaction, and is critical for interpreting the mechanisms of coke formation. Here, HCHO was detected and quantified during the MTH process over HSAPO‐34 and HZSM‐5 by in situ synchrotron radiation photoionization mass spectrometry. Compared with conventional methods, excellent time‐resolved profiles were obtained to study the formation and fate of HCHO, and other products during the induction, steady‐state reaction, and deactivation periods. Similar formation trends of HCHO and methane, and their close correlation in yields suggest that they are derived from disproportionation of methanol at acidic sites. In the presence of Y2O3, the amount of HCHO changes, affecting the hydrogen‐transfer processes of olefins into aromatics and aromatics into cokes. The yield of HCHO affects the aromatic‐based cycle and the formation of ethylene, indicating that ethylene is mainly formed from the aromatic‐based cycle.
Characterization and anti‐acute T cell leukemia properties of silver nanoparticles synthesized by a green approach for bioremediation applications: Introducing a new chemotherapeutic drug for clinical trial studies
Authors: Ahmeda Ahmad , Zangeneh Akram , Zangeneh Mohammad Mahdi
Published: January 2020

In recent years, biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles using plant extracts and bioactive compounds has gained much attention. Green synthesis of nanoparticles is eco‐friendly, cost‐effective, and is a promising substitute for the chemical synthesis of silver nanoparticles. Also, the previous experiments have revealed that plants raise the cytotoxicity potentials of silver nanoparticles against several cell lines especially tumor cell lines. The present study confirms the potential of aqueous extract of Glycyrrhiza glabra L leaf grown under in vitro condition for the biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Also, in this study, we revealed the antioxidant and anti‐acute T cell leukemia properties of AgNPs against J45.01, Jurkat, Clone E6–1, J.CaM1.6, and J.RT3‐T3.5 cell lines. Silver nanoparticles were characterized and analyzed using common nanotechnology techniques including UV–Vis. and FT‐IR spectroscopy, TEM, and FE‐SEM. DPPH free radical scavenging test was carried out to assess the antioxidant potentials of AgNO3, G. glabra, and AgNPs. MTT assay was used on normal cell line (HUVEC) and acute T cell leukemia cell lines (J45.01, Jurkat, Clone E6–1, J.CaM1.6, and J.RT3‐T3.5) for analyzing of anti‐acute T cell leukemia properties of AgNO3, G. glabra, and AgNPs. FT‐IR analysis revealed antioxidant compounds in the nanoparticles were the sources of reducing power, reducing silver ions to AgNPs. TEM and FE‐SEM images indicated a uniform spherical morphology in size of 20 nm for silver nanoparticles. DPPH test indicated similar antioxidant activities for G. glabra, AgNPs, and butylated hydroxytoluene. Silver nanoparticles had very low cell viability dose‐dependently against J45.01, Jurkat, Clone E6–1, J.CaM1.6, and J.RT3‐T3.5 cell lines without any cytotoxicity on HUVEC cell line. The best result of cytotoxicity property of AgNPs against above cell lines was seen in the case of J.CaM1.6 cell line. Above findings confirm the significant antioxidant and anti‐acute T cell leukemia properties of AgNPs. After confirming these results in clinical trial studies, AgNPs can be used as a chemotherapeutic drug for the treatment of acute T cell leukemia in human.
Observability of probabilistic Boolean multiplex networks
Authors: Liu Fengqiu , Cui Yuxin , Wang Jianmin , Ji Donghai
Published: January 2020

This study focuses on the observability of the probabilistic Boolean multiplex network. Firstly, the dynamical model and structure of probabilistic Boolean multiplex network are proposed. Using the semi‐tensor product method, the logical dynamics of probabilistic Boolean multiplex network is converted into an equivalent algebraic representation. Then, the condition for the observability of probabilistic Boolean multiplex network is obtained. Finally, the proposed result is effectively illustrated by a numerical example.
Comparative pharmacokinetics and tissue distribution of cryptotanshinone, tanshinone IIA, dihydrotanshinone I, and tanshinone I after oral administration of pure tanshinones and liposoluble extract of Salvia miltiorrhiza to rats
Authors: Wang Daifei , Yu Weibang , Cao Lin , Xu Chuncao , Tan Guoyao , Zhao Zhongxiang , Huang Min , Jin Jing
Published: January 2020

Salvia miltiorrhiza is one of the most commonly used traditional Chinese medicines in the treatment of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Cryptotanshinone (CTS), tanshinone IIA (Tan IIA), dihydrotanshinone I (diTan I), and tanshinone I (Tan I) are the main active compounds in the liposoluble extract of Salvia miltiorrhiza. The differences in the pharmacokinetic and tissue distribution behaviors of the four tanshinones after oral administration of the liposoluble extract of Salvia miltiorrhiza and pure compounds are not clear. This study aims to compare the pharmacokinetics and tissue distribution of the four tanshinones after oral administration of pure tanshinone monomers and the liposoluble extract of Salvia miltiorrhiza. An ultra‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC–MS/MS) analysis method was developed for the determination of the four tanshinones. The results showed that the AUC and Cmax of tanshinones in rats receiving the extract of Salvia miltiorrhiza were significantly increased compared with those receiving the pure tanshinones. In the tissue distribution experiments, the AUC of the four tanshinones in the extract was much greater than the AUC of the monomers in the lung, heart, kidney, liver, and brain, and the coexisting constituents particularly promoted the distribution of tanshinones into tissues that the drug cannot sufficiently penetrate. These findings suggested that the coexisting constituents in the liposoluble extract of Salvia miltiorrhiza play an important role in the alteration of plasma concentration and tissue distribution of the four tanshinones. Understanding these differences could be of significance for the development and application of Salvia miltiorrhiza extract and tanshinone components.
Automatic segmentation of true color sectioned images using FMRIB Software Library: First trial in brain, gray matter, and white matter
Authors: Chung Beom Sun , Park Jin Seo
Published: January 2020

Three‐dimensional (3D) models of the brain made from magnetic resonance images (MRI) are used in various medical fields. 3D models assembled from grayscale color and low‐resolution can be complemented with true color sectioned images of the Visible Korean. The purpose of this study is to apply the MRI automatic segmentation technique to the sectioned images. 3D models of the sectioned images, which have true color and high resolution, can be produced without manual segmentation. The Brain Extraction Tool and the Automated Segmentation Tool of the FMRIB Software Library (FSL) were chosen for automatic segmentation. Using those tools, true color sectioned images were reconstructed from gray 3D models of brain, gray matter, and white matter. Color 3D models of those structures were generated from the gray 3D models using MRIcroGL. The color 3D models made from the sectioned images revealed details of brain anatomy that could not be observed on the 3D models from MRI. This trial suggests that convergence of the MRI segmentation technique with color sectioned images is a time‐efficient method for producing color 3D models of various structures. In future, the method of this study will be used for various sectioned images of cadavers. The resulting color sectioned images and 3D models will be made available to other researchers.
Endoscopic anatomy of the sellar barrier: From the anatomical model to the operating room
Authors: Villalonga Juan F. , Fuchssteiner Christoph , Solari Domenico , Campero Alvaro , Cavallo Luigi M. , Cappabianca Paolo , Hirtler Lena
Published: January 2020

Background

The sellar barrier concept reflects the association between the components of the roof of the pituitary fossa and the risk of intraoperative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak in the surgery of pituitary adenomas. We based our concept in previous reports on the microsurgical anatomy of the pituitary fossa's superior wall. However, proof of the usefulness of this concept in endoscopic approaches is yet missing. The aim of this study was to describe the endoscopic anatomy of the sellar barrier and its subtypes in a laboratory setting and to provide evidence of its clinical usefulness.

Methods

We provided anatomical models in six fresh‐frozen head and neck specimens. We performed an endoscopic endonasal approach and recreated a pathological model of each possible subtype of sellar barrier. To demonstrate the usefulness of this model in clinical practice, we conducted a prospective study including all patients with pituitary adenoma operated by an endoscopic approach between June and July 2019.

Results

We successfully recreated the models for each subtype of sellar barrier. When analyzing the clinical cases, we found that intraoperatively, 73.69% (14) had a strong sellar barrier; 21.05% (4) had mixed sellar barrier, and 5.26% (1) had weak sellar barrier. We recorded one case of intraoperative CSF leak in a patient with a weak sellar barrier by magnetic resonance imaging.

Conclusion

We described the endoscopic anatomy of the sellar barrier and we recreated the three subtypes in anatomical models. We also identified these subtypes in a series of clinical cases, proving its clinical usefulness.
Experimental mummification—In the tracks of the ancient Egyptians
Authors: Öhrström Lena , Tekin Ahmed , Biedermann Philipp , Morozova Irina , Habicht Michael , Gascho Dominic , Bode‐Lesniewska Beata , Imhof Alexander , Rühli Frank , Eppenberger Patrick
Published: January 2020

Understanding natural and artificial postmortem alterations in different tissues of the human body is essential for bioarchaeology, paleogenetics, physical anthropology, forensic medicine, and many related disciplines. With this study, we tried to gain a better understanding of tissue alterations associated with the artificial mummification techniques of ancient Egypt, in particular for mummified visceral organs. We used several entire porcine organs and organ sections (liver, lung, stomach, ileum, and colon), which provided a close approximation to human organs. First, we dehydrated the specimens in artificial natron, before applying natural ointments, according to the ancient literary sources and recent publications. We periodically monitored the temperature, pH value, and weight of the specimens, in addition to radiodensity and volumetric measurements by clinical computed tomography and sampling for histological, bacteriological, and molecular analyses. After seven weeks, mummification was seen completed in all specimens. We observed a considerable loss of weight and volume, as well as similar courses in the decay of tissue architecture but varying levels of DNA degradation. Bacteriologically we did not detect any of the initially identified taxa in the samples by the end of the mummification process, nor any fungi. This feasibility study established an experimental protocol for future experiments modeling ancient Egyptian mummification of visceral organs using human specimens. Understanding desiccation and mummification processes in non‐pathological tissues of specific visceral organs may help to identify and interpret disease‐specific alterations in mummified tissues in ancient Egyptian canopic jars and organ packages contained in whole mummies.
Molecular Design, Synthesis and Docking Study of Alkyl and Benzyl Derivatives of Robustic Acid as Topoisomerase I Inhibitors
Authors: Chen Rui , Huang Jiayong , Jaiswal Yogini , Wei Jianhua , Huo Lini , Xia Xing , Zhong Jing , Williams Leonard , Huang Maochun , Liang Yan
Published: January 2020

Robustic acid is reported to be a bioactive compound, isolated from the medicinal plant Dalbergia benthamii Prain. Ten alkyl and benzyl derivatives (2a–2j) of robustic acid were designed and synthesized based on molecular docking approaches. The biological activities of most of the synthesized compounds (such as 2g, 2h, and 2i) were closely consistent with the docking results. In particular, 4‐O‐phenylpropyl substituted compound 2g displayed potent topoisomerase I inhibitory activity as well as cytotoxicity against SMMC‐7721, HepG2, and HeLa cell lines. Further biological testing suggests that compound 2g acted mainly by an arrest of the tumor cells in G1 phase of the cell cycle and suppressed cell proliferation by inducing apoptosis. The findings of this study are encouraging with respect to potential utilization of these compounds as new topoisomerase I inhibitors.