bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative transcriptome analysis to identify candidate genes involved in 2-methoxy-1,4-naphthoquinone (MNQ) biosynthesis in Impatiens balsamina L.
Authors: Foong Lian Chee , Chai Jian Yi , Ho Anthony Siong Hock , Yeo Brandon Pei Hui , Lim Yang Mooi , Tam Sheh May
Published: September 2020

Impatiens balsamina L. is a tropical ornamental and traditional medicinal herb rich in natural compounds, especially 2-methoxy-1,4-naphthoquinone (MNQ) which is a bioactive compound with tested anticancer activities. Characterization of key genes involved in the shikimate and 1,4-dihydroxy-2-naphthoate (DHNA) pathways responsible for MNQ biosynthesis and their expression profiles in I. balsamina will facilitate adoption of genetic/metabolic engineering or synthetic biology approaches to further increase production for pre-commercialization. In this study, HPLC analysis showed that MNQ was present in significantly higher quantities in the capsule pericarps throughout three developmental stages (early-, mature- and postbreaker stages) whilst its immediate precursor, 2-hydroxy-1,4-naphthoquinone (lawsone) was mainly detected in mature leaves. Transcriptomes of I. balsamina derived from leaf, flower, and three capsule developmental stages were generated, totalling 59.643 Gb of raw reads that were assembled into 94,659 unigenes (595,828 transcripts). A total of 73.96% of unigenes were functionally annotated against seven public databases and 50,786 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified. Expression profiles of 20 selected genes from four major secondary metabolism pathways were studied and validated using qRT-PCR method. Majority of the DHNA pathway genes were found to be significantly upregulated in early stage capsule compared to flower and leaf, suggesting tissue-specific synthesis of MNQ. Correlation analysis identified 11 candidate unigenes related to three enzymes (NADH-quinone oxidoreductase, UDP-glycosyltransferases and S-adenosylmethionine-dependent O-methyltransferase) important in the final steps of MNQ biosynthesis based on genes expression profiles consistent with MNQ content. This study provides the first molecular insight into the dynamics of MNQ biosynthesis and accumulation across different tissues of I. balsamina and serves as a valuable resource to facilitate further manipulation to increase production of MNQ.
Extensive new Anopheles cryptic species involved in human malaria transmission in western Kenya
Authors: Zhong Daibin , Hemming-Schroeder Elizabeth , Wang Xiaoming , Kibret Solomon , Zhou Guofa , Atieli Harrysone , Lee Ming-Chieh , Afrane Yaw A. , Githeko Andrew K. , Yan Guiyun
Published: September 2020

A thorough understanding of malaria vector species composition and their bionomic characteristics is crucial to devise effective and efficient vector control interventions to reduce malaria transmission. It has been well documented in Africa that malaria interventions in the past decade have resulted in major changes in species composition from endophilicAnopheles gambiaeto exophilicAn. arabiensis. However, the role of cryptic rare mosquito species in malaria transmission is not well known. This study examined the species composition and distribution, with a particular focus on malaria transmission potential of novel, uncharacterizedAnophelescryptic species in western Kenya. Phylogenetic analysis based on ITS2 and COX1 genes revealed 21Anophelesmosquito species, including two previously unreported novel species. Unusually high rates ofPlasmodiumsporozoite infections were detected inAn. funestus,An. gambiaeand eight cryptic rare species.Plasmodium falciparum, P. malariae and P. ovalesporozoite infections were identified with large proportion of mixed species infections in these vectors. This study, for the first time, reports extensive newAnophelescryptic species involved in the malaria transmission in western Kenya. These findings underscore the importance of non-commonAnophelesspecies in malaria transmission and the need to target them in routine vector control and surveillance efforts.
Taller staff occupationally exposed to less radiation to the temple in cardiac procedures, but risk higher doses during vascular cases
Authors: Wilson-Stewart Kelly S. , Fontanarosa Davide , Li Dan , Drovandi Chris C. , Anderson Rebecca K. , Trapp Jamie V.
Published: September 2020

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of nurse and doctor height on occupational dose to the temple during fluoroscopically guided cardiovascular procedures. Additionally, an evaluation of the relationship between doctor height and table height was performed. Staff exposed during fluoroscopic procedures may be at elevated risk of cardiovascular damage or oncogenesis and have demonstrated a higher incidence of subscapular cataracts. The heads of taller staff may be exposed to reduced levels of radiation due to the increased distance from the area of highest intensity X-ray scatter. Limited research has been performed investigating height as a predictor of head dose to nursing staff. The level of radiation dose at the level of the temple to the doctor (n = 25), scrub (n = 28), and scout nurse (n = 29) was measured in a prospective single-center, observational study using Philips DoseAware badges. Procedural characteristics were recorded for vascular and cardiac cases performed in three dedicated angiography suites. Data were also collected to investigate relationships between doctor height and table height. Data were collected for 1585 cardiac and 294 vascular procedures. Staff height was a statistically significant predictor of temple dose for doctors, scrub, and scout nurses when considering the full data sample. The log temple dose demonstrated an inverse relationship to staff height during cardiac procedures, but a positive relationship for scrub and scout nurses during vascular studies. This observational study has demonstrated that taller staff are exposed to less cranial exposure dose during fluoroscopically guided cardiac examinations but has revealed a positive correlation between height and temple dose during vascular procedures. It was also determined that doctor height was correlated with average procedural table height and that vascular access point influences the choice of table elevation.
Ancestral function of Inhibitors-of-kappaB regulates Caenorhabditis elegans development
Authors: Brena David , Bertran Joan , Porta-de-la-Riva Montserrat , Guillén Yolanda , Cornes Eric , Kukhtar Dmytro , Campos-Vicens Lluís , Fernández Lierni , Pecharroman Irene , García-López Albert , Islam Abul B. M. M. K. , Marruecos Laura , Bigas Anna , Cerón Julián , Espinosa Lluís
Published: September 2020

Mammalian IκB proteins (IκBs) exert their main function as negative regulators of NF-κB, a central signaling pathway controlling immunity and inflammation. An alternative chromatin role for IκBs has been shown to affect stemness and cell differentiation. However, the involvement of NF-κB in this function has not been excluded. NFKI-1 and IKB-1 are IκB homologs in Caenorhabditis elegans, which lacks NF-κB nuclear effectors. We found that nfki-1 and ikb-1 mutants display developmental defects that phenocopy mutations in Polycomb and UTX-1 histone demethylase, suggesting a role for C. elegans IκBs in chromatin regulation. Further supporting this possibility (1) we detected NFKI-1 in the nucleus of cells; (2) NFKI-1 and IKB-1 bind to histones and Polycomb proteins, (3) and associate with chromatin in vivo, and (4) mutations in nfki-1 and ikb-1 alter chromatin marks. Based on these results, we propose that ancestral IκB inhibitors modulate Polycomb activity at specific gene subsets with an impact on development.
Next-generation sequencing in the diagnosis of viral encephalitis: sensitivity and clinical limitations
Authors: Perlejewski Karol , Bukowska-Ośko Iwona , Rydzanicz Małgorzata , Pawełczyk Agnieszka , Caraballo Cortѐs Kamila , Osuch Sylwia , Paciorek Marcin , Dzieciątkowski Tomasz , Radkowski Marek , Laskus Tomasz
Published: September 2020

Identification of pathogens causing viral encephalitis remains challenging, and in over 50% of cases the etiologic factor remains undetermined. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) based metagenomics has been successfully used to detect novel and rare infections, but its value for routine diagnosis of encephalitis remains unclear. The aim of the present study was to determine the sensitivity of shotgun metagenomic sequencing protocols, which include preamplification, and testing it against cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples from encephalitis patients. For sensitivity testing HIV and HBV positive sera were serially diluted in CSF from an uninfected patient. NGS repeatedly detected HIV and HBV sequences present at concentrations from 105 to 102 and from 105 to 10 viral copies/reaction, respectively. However, when the same protocols were applied to RT-PCR/PCR positive CSF samples from 6 patients with enteroviral encephalitis (median viral load 47 copies/ml) and 15 patients with HSV, CMV or VZV encephalitis (median viral load 148 copies/ml), only 7 (28.6%) were identified as positive. In conclusions, while NGS has the advantage of being able to identify a wide range of potential pathogens it seems to be less sensitive compared to the standard amplification-based assays in the diagnosis of encephalitis, where low viral loads are common.
High-fat diet and estrogen impacts the colon and its transcriptome in a sex-dependent manner
Authors: Hases L. , Archer A. , Indukuri R. , Birgersson M. , Savva C. , Korach-André M. , Williams C.
Published: September 2020

There is a strong association between obesity and colorectal cancer (CRC), especially in men, whereas estrogen protects against both the metabolic syndrome and CRC. Colon is the first organ to respond to high-fat diet (HFD), and estrogen receptor beta (ERβ) can attenuate CRC development. How estrogen impacts the colon under HFD and related sex differences has, however, not been investigated. To dissect this, mice were fed control diet or HFD for 13 weeks and administered receptor-selective estrogenic ligands for the last three weeks. We recorded impact on metabolism, colon crypt proliferation, macrophage infiltration, and the colon transcriptome. We found clear sex differences in the colon transcriptome and in the impact by HFD and estrogens, including on clock genes. ERα-selective activation reduced body weight and generated systemic effects, whereas ERβ-selective activation had local effects in the colon, attenuating HFD-induced macrophage infiltration and epithelial cell proliferation. We here demonstrate how HFD and estrogens modulate the colon microenvironment in a sex- and ER-specific manner.
Asymmetries in ionization of atomic superposition states by ultrashort laser pulses
Authors: Venzke J. , Becker A. , Jaron-Becker A.
Published: September 2020

Progress in ultrafast science allows for probing quantum superposition states with ultrashort laser pulses in the new regime where several linear and nonlinear ionization pathways compete. Interferences of pathways can be observed in the photoelectron angular distribution and in the past they have been analyzed for atoms and molecules in a single quantum state via anisotropy and asymmetry parameters. Those conventional parameters, however, do not provide comprehensive tools for probing superposition states in the emerging research area of bright and ultrashort light sources, such as free-electron lasers and high-order harmonic generation. We propose a new set of generalized asymmetry parameters which are sensitive to interference effects in the photoionization and the interplay of competing pathways as the laser pulse duration is shortened and the laser intensity is increased. The relevance of the parameters is demonstrated using results of state-of-the-art numerical solutions of the time-dependent Schrödinger equation for ionization of helium atom and neon atom.
Investigating mechanical properties and biocement application of CaCO3 precipitated by a newly-isolated Lysinibacillus sp. WH using artificial neural networks
Authors: Ekprasert Jindarat , Fongkaew Ittipon , Chainakun Poemwai , Kamngam Rungtiwa , Boonsuan Wachiraya
Published: September 2020

A newly-isolated Lysinibacillus sp. strain WH could precipitate CaCO3 using calcium acetate (Ca(C2H3O2)2), calcium chloride (CaCl2) and calcium nitrate (Ca(NO3)2) via non-ureolytic processes. We developed an algorithm to determine CaCO3 crystal structures by fitting the simulated XRD spectra to the experimental data using the artificial neural networks (ANNs). The biogenic CaCO3 crystals when using CaCl2 and Ca(NO3)2 are trigonal calcites with space group R3c, while those when using Ca(C2H3O2)2 are hexagonal vaterites with space group P6522. Their elastic properties are derived from the Voigt–Reuss–Hill (VRH) approximation. The bulk, Young's, and shear moduli of biogenic calcite are 77.812, 88.197, and 33.645 GPa, respectively, while those of vaterite are 67.082, 68.644, 25.818 GPa, respectively. Their Poisson’s ratios are ~ 0.3–0.33, suggesting the ductility behavior of our crystals. These elastic values are comparable to those found in limestone cement, but are significantly larger than those of Portland cement. Based on the biocement experiment, the maximum increase in the compressive strength of Portland cement (27.4%) was found when Ca(NO3)2 was used. An increased strength of 26.1% was also found when Ca(C2H3O2)2 was used, implying the transformation of less-durable vaterite to higher-durable calcite. CaCO3 produced by strain WH has a potential to strengthen Portland cement-based materials.
Drugs with anti-inflammatory effects to improve outcome of traumatic brain injury: a meta-analysis
Authors: Begemann Marieke , Leon Mikela , van der Horn Harm Jan , van der Naalt Joukje , Sommer Iris
Published: September 2020

Outcome after traumatic brain injury (TBI) varies largely and degree of immune activation is an important determinant factor. This meta-analysis evaluates the efficacy of drugs with anti-inflammatory properties in improving neurological and functional outcome. The systematic search following PRISMA guidelines resulted in 15 randomized placebo-controlled trials (3734 patients), evaluating progesterone, erythropoietin and cyclosporine. The meta-analysis (15 studies) showed that TBI patients receiving a drug with anti-inflammatory effects had a higher chance of a favorable outcome compared to those receiving placebo (RR = 1.15; 95% CI 1.01–1.32, p = 0.041). However, publication bias was indicated together with heterogeneity (I2 = 76.59%). Stratified analysis showed that positive effects were mainly observed in patients receiving this treatment within 8 h after injury. Subanalyses by drug type showed efficacy for progesterone (8 studies, RR 1.22; 95% CI 1.01–1.47, p = 0.040), again heterogeneity was high (I2 = 62.92%) and publication bias could not be ruled out. The positive effect of progesterone covaried with younger age and was mainly observed when administered intramuscularly and not intravenously. Erythropoietin (4 studies, RR 1.20; p = 0.110; I2 = 76.59%) and cyclosporine (3 studies, RR 0.75; p = 0.189, I2 = 0%) did not show favorable significant effects. While negative findings for erythropoietin may reflect insufficient power, cyclosporine did not show better outcome at all. Current results do not allow firm conclusions on the efficacy of drugs with anti-inflammatory properties in TBI patients. Included trials showed heterogeneity in methodological and sample parameters. At present, only progesterone showed positive results and early administration via intramuscular administration may be most effective, especially in young people. The anti-inflammatory component of progesterone is relatively weak and other mechanisms than mitigating overall immune response may be more important.
Herbivorous damselfishes expand their territories after causing white scars on Porites corals
Authors: Hata Hiroki , Takano Shota , Masuhara Hiroyuki
Published: September 2020

Turf algae become the most abundant benthic group on coral reefs after mass coral bleaching. By defending feeding territories, damselfishes enhance the growth of turf algae in so-called algal farms and affect coral communities both directly and indirectly. We found several white scars (i.e., bite lesions) on massive Porites colonies around feeding territories. In this study, we examined the occurrence of white scars on corals and their function in coral–algal competition at the boundaries between algal farms of two damselfish species—the intensive farmer Stegastes nigricans, and the intermediate farmer S. lividus—and adjacent Porites corals for 3 years around Okinawa Island, Japan. White scars occurred on Porites colonies only adjacent to the territories of both damselfish species. Of the white scars on corals around S. nigricans territories, 73% of the area was covered by algae within 2 weeks, while the remaining was re-covered by Porites tissues. The coral–algal boundaries encroached further into areas of coral when the area of white scars were larger. These results suggest that both intensive and intermediate farmers bite adjacent Porites colonies causing white scars on corals, and expand their territories onto corals using algae-covered white scars as stepping stones.
Pre-clinical dose-ranging efficacy, pharmacokinetics, tissue biodistribution, and toxicity of a targeted contrast agent for MRI of amyloid deposition in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Badachhape Andrew A. , Working Peter K. , Srivastava Mayank , Bhandari Prajwal , Stupin Igor V. , Devkota Laxman , Tanifum Eric A. , Annapragada Ananth V. , Ghaghada Ketan B.
Published: September 2020

In these preclinical studies, we describe ADx-001, an Aβ-targeted liposomal macrocyclic gadolinium (Gd) imaging agent, for MRI of amyloid plaques. The targeting moiety is a novel lipid-PEG conjugated styryl-pyrimidine. An MRI-based contrast agent such as ADx-001 is attractive because of the lack of radioactivity, ease of distribution, long shelf life, and the prevalence of MRI scanners. Dose-ranging efficacy studies were performed on a 1 T MRI scanner using a transgenic APP/PSEN1 mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease. ADx-001 was tested at 0.10, 0.15, and 0.20 mmol Gd/kg. Gold standard post-mortem amyloid immunostaining was used for the determination of sensitivity and specificity. ADx-001 toxicity was evaluated in rats and monkeys at doses up to 0.30 mmol Gd/kg. ADx-001 pharmacokinetics were determined in monkeys and its tissue distribution was evaluated in rats. ADx-001-enhanced MRI demonstrated significantly higher (p < 0.05) brain signal enhancement in transgenic mice relative to wild type mice at all dose levels. ADx-001 demonstrated high sensitivity at 0.20 and 0.15 mmol Gd/kg and excellent specificity at all dose levels for in vivo imaging of β amyloid plaques. ADx-001 was well tolerated in rats and monkeys and exhibited the slow clearance from circulation and tissue biodistribution typical of PEGylated nanoparticles.
GALNT2 regulates ANGPTL3 cleavage in cells and in vivo of mice
Authors: Li Xuedan , Zhang Yiliang , Zhang Minzhu , Wang Yan
Published: September 2020

Angiopoietin-like protein 3 (ANGPTL3) is an important inhibitor of lipoprotein lipase and endothelial lipase that plays critical roles in lipoprotein metabolism. It specifically expresses in the liver and undergoes proprotein convertase-mediated cleavage during secretion, which generates an N-terminal coiled-coil domain and C-terminal fibrinogen-like domain that has been considered as the activation step for its function. Previous studies have reported that the polypeptide GalNAc-transferase GALNT2 mediates the O-glycosylation of the ANGPTL3 near the cleavage site, which inhibits the proprotein convertase (PC)-mediated cleavage in vitro and in cultured cells. However, loss-of-function mutation for GALNT2 has no effect on ANGPTL3 cleavage in human. Thus whether GALNT2 regulates the cleavage of ANGPTL3 in vivo is unclear. In present study, we systematically characterized the cleavage of Angptl3 in cultured cells and in vivo of mice. We found that endogenous Angptl3 is cleaved in primary hepatocytes and in vivo of mice, and this cleavage can be blocked by Galnt2 overexpression or PC inhibition. Moreover, suppressing galnt2 expression increases the cleavage of Angptl3 in mice dramatically. Thus, our results support the conclusion that Galnt2 is a key endogenous regulator for Angptl3 cleavage both in vitro and in vivo.
Sphingolipid composition of circulating extracellular vesicles after myocardial ischemia
Authors: Burrello J. , Biemmi V. , Dei Cas M. , Amongero M. , Bolis S. , Lazzarini E. , Bollini S. , Vassalli G. , Paroni R. , Barile L.
Published: September 2020

Sphingolipids are structural components of cell membrane, displaying several functions in cell signalling. Extracellular vesicles (EV) are lipid bilayer membrane nanoparticle and their lipid composition may be different from parental cells, with a significant enrichment in sphingolipid species, especially in pathological conditions. We aimed at optimizing EV isolation from plasma and describing the differential lipid content of EV, as compared to whole plasma. As pilot study, we evaluated the diagnostic potential of lipidomic signature of circulating EV in patients with a diagnosis of ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). STEMI patients were evaluated before reperfusion and 24-h after primary percutaneous coronary intervention. Twenty sphingolipid species were quantified by liquid-chromatography tandem-mass-spectrometry. EV-ceramides, -dihydroceramides, and -sphingomyelins increased in STEMI vs. matched controls and decreased after reperfusion. Their levels correlated to hs-troponin, leucocyte count, and ejection fraction. Plasma sphingolipids levels were 500-to-700-fold higher as compared to EV content; nevertheless, only sphingomyelins differed in STEMI vs. control patients. Different sphingolipid species were enriched in EV and their linear combination by machine learning algorithms accurately classified STEMI patients at pre-PCI evaluation. In conclusion, EV lipid signature discriminates STEMI patients. These findings may contribute to the identification of novel biomarkers and signaling mechanisms related to cardiac ischemia.
Wearable sensors for continuous oral cavity and dietary monitoring toward personalized healthcare and digital medicine
Authors: Hong Wonki , Lee Won Gu
Published: September 2020

Recent advances in wearable sensors for dietary monitoring and saliva analysis are presented to discuss super-aged/aging societies, non-face-to-face social life, and global pandemic disease issues toward personalized healthcare and digital medicine.
Enhanced dimethyl methylphosphonate detection based on two-dimensional WSe2 nanosheets at room temperature
Authors: Li Bolong , Chen Xinwei , Su Chen , Han Yutong , Wang Huaizhang , Zeng Min , Wang Ying , Liang Ting , Yang Zhi , Xu Lin
Published: September 2020

A high performance gas sensor based on two-dimensional WSe2 nanosheets was fabricated for dimethyl methylphosphonate detection at room-temperature.
Complete capillary electrophoresis process on a drone: towards a flying micro-lab
Authors: Drevinskas Tomas , Maruška Audrius , Girdauskas Valdas , Dūda Gediminas , Gorbatsova Jelena , Kaljurand Mihkel
Published: September 2020

A drone-mountable capillary electrophoresis-contactless conductivity detection system performs automated sampling and analysis in situ.
An innovative highly sensitive electrochemical sensor based on modified electrode with carbon quantum dots and multiwall carbon nanotubes for determination of methadone hydrochloride in real samples
Authors: Rezaei Behzad , Tajaddodi Atena , Ensafi Ali. A.
Published: September 2020

To enhance the properties of a pencil graphite electrode (PGE), highly functionalized carbon quantum dots (CQDs) were synthesized and mixed with multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) as novel modifiers for the preparation of working electrodes.
Molecular-layer-deposited tincone: a new hybrid organic–inorganic anode material for three-dimensional microbatteries
Authors: Zhu Hongzheng , Aboonasr Shiraz Mohammad Hossein , Yao Lu , Adair Keegan , Wang Zhiqiang , Tong Huan , Song Xueyang , Sham Tsun-Kong , Arjmand Mohammad , Song Xiping , Liu Jian
Published: September 2020

A molecular-layer-deposited tincone film exhibited high Li-storage performance, and represents a new group of organic–inorganic electrode materials for 3D microbatteries.
A biotin-guided fluorescent probe for dual-mode imaging of viscosity in cancerous cells and tumor tissues
Authors: Ren Mingguang , Xu Qingyu , Wang Shoujuan , Liu Lu , Kong Fangong
Published: September 2020

A new tumor-targeted fluorescent viscosity probe Biotin-V was developed, which can be used for dual-mode imaging of viscosity in cancerous cells and tumor tissues.
Boronic acid-mediated ring-opening and Ni-catalyzed arylation of 1-arylcyclopropyl tosylates
Authors: Mills L. Reginald , Monteith John J. , Rousseaux Sophie A. L.
Published: September 2020

We describe a procedure for the ring-opening and arylation of 1-arylcyclopropyltosylates to yield 2-substituted allyl products using boronic acids and Ni catalysis.
Triple responsive room temperature luminescence, photochromism and photomagnetism in a Dy(iii)-based linear chain complex
Authors: Wei Wu-Ji , Zhang Qian , Li Qi , Chen Yao-Yao , Gao Pei , Wei Li , Hu Ji-Xiang , Wang Guo-Ming
Published: September 2020

Triple responses of room temperature fluorescence, photochromism and photomagnetism tuned by photo/thermo-switched radicals were realized in a Dy(iii)-based metal–organic complex.
Saturation profile based conformality analysis for atomic layer deposition: aluminum oxide in lateral high-aspect-ratio channels
Authors: Yim Jihong , Ylivaara Oili M. E. , Ylilammi Markku , Korpelainen Virpi , Haimi Eero , Verkama Emma , Utriainen Mikko , Puurunen Riikka L.
Published: September 2020

Thin films by atomic layer deposition (ALD) raise global interest through unparalleled conformality. Saturation profiles of the archetypical trimethylaluminum-water ALD process in narrow rectangular channels create a benchmark for future studies.
Anharmonic coupling behind vibrational spectra of solvated ammonium: lighting up overtone states by Fermi resonance through tuning solvation environments
Authors: Lin Chih-Kai , Huang Qian-Rui , Kuo Jer-Lai
Published: September 2020

Fascinating Fermi resonance bands emerge from anharmonic couplings between NH stretching fundamentals and bending overtones in ammonium-centered clusters.
Charge transport mechanisms in potassium superoxide
Authors: Hu Zongxiang , Tan Wenchang , Li Shunning , Pan Feng
Published: September 2020

The variable valence states of oxygen dimers are the key to the formation of small polarons that contribute to conductivity.
Accurate predictions of aqueous solubility of drug moleculesviathe multilevel graph convolutional network (MGCN) and SchNet architectures
Authors: Gao Peng , Zhang Jie , Sun Yuzhu , Yu Jianguo
Published: September 2020

Deep learning based methods have been widely applied to predict various kinds of molecular properties in the pharmaceutical industry with increasingly more success.
The accuracy challenge of the DFT-based molecular assignment of13C MAS NMR characterization of surface intermediates in zeolite catalysis
Authors: Kolganov Alexander A. , Gabrienko Anton A. , Chernyshov Ivan Yu. , Stepanov Alexander G. , Pidko Evgeny A.
Published: September 2020

The influence of model and method choice on the DFT-computed NMR signatures of intrazeolite methoxide intermediates was investigated.
Lithium vanadium oxide (Li1.1V3O8) thick porous electrodes with high rate capacity: utilization and evolution upon extended cycling elucidatedvia operandoenergy dispersive X-ray diffraction and continuum simulation
Authors: McCarthy Alison H. , Mayilvahanan Karthik , Dunkin Mikaela R. , King Steven T. , Quilty Calvin D. , Housel Lisa M. , Kuang Jason , Takeuchi Kenneth J. , Takeuchi Esther S. , West Alan C. , Wang Lei , Marschilok Amy C.
Published: September 2020

Thick electrode design and charge transport across electrode were probedvia operandoEDXRD and an expanded continuum model.
Redox mediators as charge agents for changing electrochemical reactions
Authors: Tamirat Andebet Gedamu , Guan Xuze , Liu Jingyuan , Luo Jiayan , Xia Yongyao
Published: September 2020

This review provides a comprehensive discussion toward understanding the effects of RMs in electrochemical systems, underlying redox mechanisms, and reaction kinetics both experimentally and theoretically.
The bacterial 4S pathway – an economical alternative for crude oil desulphurization that reduces CO2 emissions
Authors: Sousa João P. M. , Ferreira Pedro , Neves Rui P. P. , Ramos Maria J. , Fernandes Pedro A.
Published: September 2020

We discuss structural and mechanistic aspects of the Dsz enzymes in the 4S pathway, with a focus on rational molecular strategies for enzyme engineering, aiming at enzyme catalytic rate and efficiency improvement to meet industrial demands.
Acoustofluidic generation of droplets with tunable chemical concentrations
Authors: Park Jinsoo , Destgeer Ghulam , Afzal Muhammad , Sung Hyung Jin
Published: September 2020

An acoustofluidic device to generate droplets with tunable chemical concentrations.
Microwave-assisted synthesis of a AuCeO2/C catalyst and its application for the oxidation of alcohols in an alkaline medium
Authors: Kepenienė V. , Stagniūnaitė R. , Balčiūnaitė A. , Tamašauskaitė-Tamašiūnaitė L. , Norkus E.
Published: September 2020

Deposition of AuNPs onto a CeO2/C substrate results in the enhanced electrocatalytic activity of the formed AuCeO2/C catalyst for the oxidation reaction of methanol, ethanol, ethylene glycol, and glycerol compared with the prepared Au/C catalyst.
Birefringence and photoluminescence properties of diphenylacetylene-based liquid crystal dimers
Authors: Arakawa Yuki , Sasaki Shunsuke , Igawa Kazunobu , Tokita Masatoshi , Konishi Gen-ichi , Tsuji Hideto
Published: September 2020

We herein report phase transitions, mesomorphism, birefringence behavior and photoluminescence properties of symmetric liquid crystal (LC) dimers based on diphenylacetylene or tolane.
Correction: Light-triggered explosion of lipid vesicles
Authors: Malik Vinit Kumar , Shin Sangwoo , Feng Jie
Published: September 2020

Correction for ‘Light-triggered explosion of lipid vesicles’ by Vinit Kumar Malik et al., Soft Matter, 2020, DOI: 10.1039/d0sm01027h.
Pharyngoesophageal Segment Distention Across Volumes and Pathology
Authors: Logan Ashley M. , Gawlik Alexandria E. , Aden James K. , Jarvis Natalie C. , Dion Gregory R.
Published: September 2020

Purpose

Patients receive multiple bolus trials during a videofluoroscopic swallowing study (VFSS) to assess swallow function, inclusive of narrowing within the pharyngoesophageal segment (PES). While differences in the narrowest and widest segments are visualized, the ratio of distention across boluses is not well understood.

Method

A retrospective review of 50 consecutive VFSSs with five boluses of varied viscosity and volume was performed. Still images at maximal PES distention were captured and scaled using a 19-mm disk. Measurements of the narrowest and widest segments were obtained, and a distention ratio was calculated. Studies were categorized by PES phenotype as normal, esophageal web, cricopharyngeal bar, or narrow PES. PES distention ratios were evaluated across bolus trials and within PES phenotypes using a mixed-methods repeated-measures analysis of variance.

Results

Of the 50 studies, there were 11 normal, 16 web, 10 bar, and 13 narrow PES. Quantitative differences were present for the narrowest (
p
= .01) and widest (
p
= .002) points across bolus volumes. No difference was present in distention ratio (
p
= .2) across volumes. Evaluating the PES phenotype, web, normal, bar, and narrow PES distention ratios differed (
p
= .03). Bar and PES narrow distention ratios were lower compared to that of the normal group (
p
= .01 for normal vs. bar and
p
= .02 for normal vs. PES narrow).

Conclusions

PES distention ratio stability across varying bolus volumes and phenotypes suggests that a reduction in trials during a VFSS may permit an equivalent PES evaluation to traditional exams. Ultimately, this could improve our understanding and accurate diagnosis of PES dysfunction.
Liquid crystal‐based beam switchable three‐element microstrip parasitic array
Authors: Xu Guanghui , Yang Li‐Xia , Huang Zhi‐Xiang , Peng Hong‐Li , Yin Wen‐Yan
Published: September 2020

A liquid crystal (LC)‐based three‐element microstrip parasitic array with beam switching is presented in this study. To understand the beam switching mechanism, a simple theoretical model of three‐element Yagi antenna on the ground is given and analysed. In the proposed microstrip parasitic array, LC permittivities under three elements can be adjusted by bias voltages to control their resonant electrical lengths. In the tuning process, the LC‐based antenna array can operate at three modes to obtain three beam switching directions. The measured results show that three beam tilt directions (θ = 59°, −2°, −57°) in the H‐plane are achieved.
Minimising power losses and torque ripples of permanent‐magnet synchronous motor by parallel execution of a two‐stage predictive control system
Authors: Vafaie Mohammad Hossein , Mirzaeian Dehkordi Behzad
Published: September 2020

In this study, an advanced predictive control system is proposed which consists of two cascade predictive controllers; the first one minimises the power losses while the second one minimises the torque ripple. In the first controller, motor losses are formulated as a function of stator‐flux linkage components. Then, the optimal stator‐flux linkage vector which causes the minimum losses is found by adopting fast‐iterative shrinkage thresholding algorithm (FISTA). The second controller is a predictive direct torque controller adopted to control the stator‐flux linkage and torque directly. In this controller, torque ripple is formulated as a function of the stator‐voltage vector. Then, the optimal voltage vector which causes the minimum torque ripple is found by adopting FISTA. In the second controller, deadbeat control of the stator‐flux linkage is considered as a constraint in minimisation of torque ripple. To assess the effectiveness of the proposed control system, performance of the motor is assessed through various experimental tests, where the results confirm that the proposed control system minimises the power losses and torque ripple, simultaneously. The comparative assessment with the recent predictive controllers indicates that the proposed control system has higher efficiency as well as lower torque ripples in all operating points.
Features of formation of karst falls on the earth’s surface
Authors: Trofimov Vitaly , Shipovskii Ivan
Published: September 2020

Karst manifestations are widespread in many regions and pose a significant danger to residence and economic activity. Failing funnels arise during the collapse of rocks over underground voids (caves, workings, etc.), formed during karst formation or in the process of anthropogenic doing in the rock massive. However, not every karst or technogenic cavity gives rise to a failure of the earth’s surface, and as a rule, its occurrence is unexpected. In this work, we consider the dynamics of the formation of dips of the earth’s surface in the form of a collapse pipe. To do this, the geomechanical problem is solved by the meshless code Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH). The method allows to obtain a solution to the problem taking into account large deformations and possible discontinuities in the process of changing the stress-strain state. The Drucker-Prager fracture criterion is used, the parameters of which change over time in accordance with the accumulation of damage, which determines the temporary development of the fracture process, its beginning and speed. Various options for the formation of a vertical dip are considered depending on the geometrical parameters of the initial cavity, its depth and materials composing the rock mass, as well as the features of the destruction of various materials composing the mass during the formation of the dip. Relations are obtained that relate the depth of the cavity, the horizontal size of the hole, the strength properties of the rocks (adhesion, angle of internal friction), the coefficient of lateral pressure in the array. The features of wave processes generated by the formation of a dip are considered, for which a velocity field is obtained near the fracture zone at various time points in the fracture process.
Influence of the parameters of the layer of ore being brought down on its freezing and losses during the face ore draw
Authors: Zubkov Vladimir , Petrov Dmitrii , Bekbergenov Dosanbai
Published: September 2020

Application of mining systems with ore caving and adjacent strata, which do not entail high expenditures on delivery of freed ore and rock pressure management, allows to considerably increase efficiency of underground mining of ore deposits in the cryolithic zone. However, their use where permafrost formations are prevalent, requires taking into account factors complicating mining operations, in particular, the congealing of broken ore in the stoping zone. In order to assess the impact of thermal and humidity conditions on the completeness of reserves recovery, a study was carried out to determine the dependence between the volume of losses of broken ore prone to congealing and the width and height of the layer being brought down. Experimental studies were conducted by physical simulation in a cryo chamber on a laboratory bench. The ore drawing was conducted in a uniform sequence at the temperature in the stoping zone of minus 5 ˚C. The final parameter to be determined the loss of ore prone to congealing, was defined as the difference between the mass of ore in the block and the mass of ore drawn. It has been established that the losses of the broken ore due to congealing increase significantly when the depth of the layer being freed decreases and the width increases.

The established patterns of influence of parameters of a beaten layer on losses of ore mass will be used during development of recommendations on technology of drawing of ore mass prone to congealing in the negative thermal conditions of underground mines of a cryolithic zone.
Using the method of electrical imaging for obtaining the modulus of elasticity in open cast mining
Authors: Zuev Pavel , Vedernikov Andrey , Grigoriev Danila
Published: September 2020

The article presents a description of the methodology for obtaining data on the physical properties of rocks that compose the sides of the open pit for technological optimization of drilling and blasting operations. The methodology is based on field measurements and calculation methods for determining the hardness of rocks at a chrysotile asbestos deposit, which is being mined by an open pit. The physical properties are obtained by comparing a priori geological data with the values of electrical resistivity and the velocities of elastic waves in the rocks. Based on these data, the values of the Young’s modulus are calculated, which characterizes the strength of the rocks composing the array.
Experimental studies on the disintegration of high-clay sands and the enrichment of heavy minerals in an experimental scrubber-free washing plant
Authors: Shirman Grigoriy , Matveyev Andrey , Eremeyeva Natalia , Matveyev Igor , Ochosov Oleg
Published: September 2020

The Chersky Mining Institute of the North, Siberian Branch, the Russian Academy of Sciences offered for development a new type of scrubber-free washing device, focused on the processing of gold-bearing sands with a high content of silty-clay fractions. The wash plant includes a disintegration and classification device, a steeply inclined concentrator and a centrifugal vibration concentrator. Experimental tests on a model unit made it possible to obtain end-to-end acceptable values for sand disintegration and gold concentration. The results obtained showed the possibility of obtaining a concentrate with a gold recovery of 70.31% at a rational productivity of the model of 2 m3/h.
Research of efficiency of lignite chemical modification and steam-gas activation combining for sorbents preparation*
Authors: Vorsina Elena , Moskalenko Tatiana , Mikheev Valery , Bilen Mehmet
Published: September 2020

The paper presents the results of research for sorbents preparation when combining the processes of chemical modification and steam-gas activation of lignite from the Kharanorsk deposit (Zabaikalsky Krai). The experimental studies were carried out by two ways of activation methods combination: parallel and successive exposure on feedstock. The lignite processed by chemical reagent (KOH) was exposed to steam during the whole period of thermolysis under the parallel action. Under successive exposure, the thermolysis was performed in two stages - first without steam supply, then with steam-gas activation. In the work the optimal parameters of the process of combining the chemical and steam-gas lignite activation methods were determined and the quality of the generated sorbents was studied. The efficiency of combined activation was estimated by comparing the sorption characteristics of the samples with the results obtained during chemical and steam-gas activation as autonomous processes and with the requirements to these characteristics of industrially produced active carbon grades. Combined activation of lignite allowed to increase the value of iodine adsorption activity in comparison with autonomous steam-gas activation by 1.8-2 times, chemical activation - by 2.7-10 %. The obtained values of iodine adsorption activity at combination of chemical modification and steam-gas activation exceed the value of 100 % (1000 mg/g) that meets the requirements to high quality industrially produced active carbons of SKT-0 grade.
Features of metallurgy waste mainly processing with account for raw material contrast
Authors: Burdonov Alexander , Barakhtenko Vyacheslav , Prokhorov Konstantin , Novikov Yuri
Published: September 2020

This work presents research studies of alumina-containing estimates formed during the production of aluminum on electrolyzers with self-burning anodes during technological operations at PJSC RUSAL Bratsk. Material from the territory of the electrolysis workshop, with a mark of ± 0, is a mixture of finely dispersed powder, 2.5 mm in size (on average 62.78% by weight) with pieces of material from 0.5 to 6 cm in size. , 26% by weight). As a result of the work, the particle size and chemical-metallurgical properties of an alumina-containing estimate were studied. During the research, the content of valuable components and impurities in the sample of various classes was determined. In the process of mineralogical analysis, two phases were identified in the products: dark, black-gray and light, grayish-white. It is proved that these phases have significant differences in the chemical composition of the feed. Spectroscopic studies showed significant differences in the colorimetric characteristics of the raw materials, which is a fundamental factor for the use of photometric separation. Based on preliminary studies on the separation of alumina-containing estimates by photometric separation, the fundamental possibility of purifying contaminated material from technological impurities has been established.
Complex exploitation of the Far East mineral resources: effects “new model” of the macroregional development
Authors: Lomakina Natalia
Published: September 2020

The responses of economic agents in the mineral resources sector to the implantation of instruments of the “new model” of development of the Far Eastern Federal District in 2014-2020 is investigated. At the same time, the emphasis is put on assessing the capabilities of these instruments to stimulate the integrated development of the region’s strategic mineral resources. It was reveal is that within the framework of the “new model” there are no targets and measures aimed at technological modernization and development of processing industries in the mineral resources sector of the region. At the same time, the implemented measures of state support are actually aim at hypertrophied development of the raw stock component of the mineral resources sector. The potential and key directions in connection with the formation of new sub-sectors for the final processing of mineral resources of the Far Eastern Federal District have been shown. Changes to the model of state incentives for the development of the mineral resources sector in the Far East are proposed.
Gold in ash and slag material of the Primorsk hydroelectric power
Authors: Lavrik Natalia , Henning Peter
Published: September 2020

The paper shows the results of studies on the identification of noble-metal mineralization in various components of ash and slag formations: underburning, aluminosilicate microspheres, initial ash (fed to the magnetic separation of the technological section of Primorsk SDPP), magnetic and non-magnetic fractions – using analytical and mineralogical methods, electronic microscopy. An integrated approach made it possible to reliably establish significant concentrations of gold, to identify the factors of technological persistence of anthropogenic materials. All products contain free gold grains ranging in size from 50 to 230 micrometers and microscopic inclusions of 0.5-20 microns. The content of free grains of gold is from 0.4 to 1.37 mg / kg. The gold is pure or with an admixture of silver (up to 17% of the mass). Depending on the research materials, gold contains variable inclusions of magnetite, ilmenite, quartz, glass, amphiboles, pyroxenes, clay minerals, and carbonaceous formations. Gold grains have complex structure and morphology. Micronized inclusions, usually rounded, also contain an admixture of silver.
Structural and mineragenetic features of the Getkan area
Authors: Manilov Yury
Published: September 2020

Deep structural features of tectonic and mineragenetic zones of the region have been established based on the comprehensive analysis of geological, gravity, magnetic, and petrophysical data. Geophysical methods that are based on different physical principles have been shown to reflect different characteristics of lithosphere. Considering structural features and physical characteristics of mineragenetic objects, the obtained data allow genesis of endogenous mineralization of different types were identified and new approaches to the forecasting process was developed.
Use of unmanned aerial systems for assessing the dynamics of hazardous engineering and geocryological processes on linear facilities
Authors: Grib Nikolay , Melnikov Andrey , Grib Galina , Kachaev Andrey
Published: September 2020

Linear engineering facilities, such as gas transportation systems, extend from 30 to 500 metres in width and several hundred kilometres in length. Such routes pass through areas characterized by sufficiently diverse engineering, geological, geocryological and seismotectonic conditions. The safe and reliable functioning of gas transportation systems is ensured by their regular monitoring to prevent the development of hazardous exogenous geological processes. In particular, when monitoring ice formation, the greatest efficiency can be achieved by using unmanned aerial vehicles for low-altitude aerial surveys. In this research, remote sensing methods based on unmanned technologies were applied to assess the aufeis hazard in a section of the Power of Siberia gas pipeline in South Yakutia. The authors’ successful experience of using unmanned systems during an aeromagnetic exploration of iron ore deposits in South Yakutia was also considered. A series of studies, including georadar and electrical exploration profiling, as well as thermal imaging and high-resolution aerial photography by an aerial complex, was conducted to assess the dynamics of ice development over time in the area under study and to establish the signs of a developing hazardous process.