bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Independent and combined effects of age, body mass index and gestational weight gain on the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus
Authors: Yong Heng Yaw , Mohd Shariff Zalilah , Mohd Yusof Barakatun Nisak , Rejali Zulida , Tee Yvonne Yee Siang , Bindels Jacques , van der Beek Eline M.
Published: May 2020

This study aimed to identify the independent and combined effects of age, BMI at first prenatal visit and GWG on the risk of GDM. A retrospective cohort study of 1,951 pregnant women in Seremban district, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia. GDM was defined as fasting plasma glucose (FPG) ≥5.6 mmol/l and/or 2-hour postprandial plasma glucose (2hPPG) ≥7.8 mmol/l. A higher percentage of women with GDM had 2 risk factors (29.0%) or >2 risk factors (8.6%) compared to non-GDM women (2 risk factors: 25.5%; >2 risk factors: 5.0%). In general, women with ≥2 risk factors were respectively 1.36–2.06 times more likely to have GDM compared to those without risk factors. Older maternal age and being overweight/obese were significantly associated with risk of GDM. Overweight/obese women with age ≥35 years had 2.45 times higher risk of GDM and having excessive GWG at second trimester further increased the risk of GDM. Age and BMI are independent risk factors for GDM but not GWG in the first and second trimester. The findings emphasize the need to focus on a healthy BMI before pregnancy and optimal GWG during pregnancy to improve pregnancy outcomes.
Effect of SWCNT and MWCNT on the flow of micropolar hybrid nanofluid over a curved stretching surface with induced magnetic field
Authors: Al-Hanaya A. M. , Sajid Farrah , Abbas Nadeem , Nadeem S.
Published: May 2020

We considered the magnetized micro polar fluid with hybrid nanomaterial flow over a curved stretching surface. We discussed the effects of single wall carbon nanotube and multiwall carbon nanotube with base fluids (water and propylene glycol). Under the flow assumptions, we developed the mathematical model and applied the boundary layer approximations to reduce the system of partial differential equations. Further, the suitable similarity transformations are applied on the partial differential equations to make dimensionless system. The dimensionless system solved by means of numerical scheme via bvp4c shooting methods. Involving the dimensionless physical parameters effects are highlighted in the form of graphs and tables. Additionally, significant physical quantities i.e. Nusselt number, Couple stress coefficient and Skin friction coefficient are also presented and evaluated numerically. These results are more important which may use in the field of engineering and industrial.
Temperature-dependent infrared ellipsometry of Mo-doped VO2 thin films across the insulator to metal transition
Authors: Amador-Alvarado S. , Flores-Camacho J. M. , Solís-Zamudio A. , Castro-García R. , Pérez-Huerta J. S. , Antúnez-Cerón E. , Ortega-Gallegos J. , Madrigal-Melchor J. , Agarwal V. , Ariza-Flores D.
Published: May 2020

We present a spectroscopic ellipsometry study of Mo-doped VO2 thin films deposited on silicon substrates for the mid-infrared range. The dielectric functions and conductivity were extracted from analytical fittings of Ψ and Δ ellipsometric angles showing a strong dependence on the dopant concentration and the temperature. Insulator-to-metal transition (IMT) temperature is found to decrease linearly with increasing doping level. A correction to the classical Drude model (termed Drude-Smith) has been shown to provide excellent fits to the experimental measurements of dielectric constants of doped/undoped films and the extracted parameters offer an adequate explanation for the IMT based on the carriers backscattering across the percolation transition. The smoother IMT observed in the hysteresis loops as the doping concentration is increased, is explained by charge density accumulation, which we quantify through the integral of optical conductivity. In addition, we describe the physics behind a localized Fano resonance that has not yet been demonstrated and explained in the literature for doped/undoped VO2 films.
Mortality of a large wide-ranging mammal largely caused by anthropogenic activities
Authors: Gantchoff M. G. , Hill J. E. , Kellner K. F. , Fowler N. L. , Petroelje T. R. , Conlee L. , Beyer D. E. , Belant J. L.
Published: May 2020

With efforts to restore large mammal populations following extirpations, it is vital to quantify how they are impacted by human activities and gain insights into population dynamics in relation to conservation goals. Our objective was to characterize cause-specific mortality of black bears (Ursus americanus) throughout their range. We first quantified cause-specific mortality for 247 black bears in one harvested and two non-harvested populations. We then simulated a small recolonizing population with and without anthropogenic mortality. Lastly, we conducted a meta-analysis of all published black bear mortality studies throughout North America (31 studies of 2630 bears). We found anthropogenic mortality was greater than natural mortality, non-harvest anthropogenic mortality (e.g. poaching, defense of property, etc.) was greater in non-harvested populations, and harvesting was one of the major causes of mortality for bears throughout their range. Our simulation indicated that removing anthropogenic mortality increased population size by an average of 23% in 15 years. We demonstrated that bears are exposed to high levels of anthropogenic mortality, and the potential for human activities to slow population growth in expanding populations. Management and conservation of wide-ranging mammals will depend on holistic strategies that integrate ecological factors with socio-economic issues to achieve successful conservation and coexistence.
Three-dimensional pore characterization of intact loess and compacted loess with micron scale computed tomography and mercury intrusion porosimetry
Authors: Zhang Linxin , Qi Shengwen , Ma Lina , Guo Songfeng , Li Zhiqing , Li Guoliang , Yang Jijin , Zou Yu , Li Tonglu , Hou Xiaokun
Published: May 2020

The pore structure is one of the most important properties of soil, which can directly affect the other properties such as water content, permeability and strength. It is of great significance to study the soil pore structure for agricultural cultivation, water and soil conservation and engineering construction. This paper investigates the 3D pore characterization of intact loess and four kinds of compacted loess (with different dry density) in northwest China. Micro scale computed tomography and mercury intrusion porosimetry tests were performed to get the porosity, specific surface area, pore size distribution, connected pores content and isolated pores content of different samples. Results show that the intact loess has more connected pores than the compacted loess, and the compacted loess whose dry density appears to be modelled well still have different pore structure with the intact loess. In addition, as the compactness increasing, the large pores (>13 μm) were firstly broken into medium pores (8~13 μm) and some small pores (<8 μm) until the pore structure was close to the natural structure of the intact loess, after that medium pores began to be broken into small pores.
Opposing effects of acute and repeated nicotine exposure on boldness in zebrafish
Authors: Dean Rachel , Duperreault Erika , Newton Dustin , Krook Jeffrey , Ingraham Erica , Gallup Joshua , Franczak Brian C. , Hamilton Trevor J.
Published: May 2020

Nicotine is an addictive compound that activates neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) and causes behavioural effects that vary with dose, schedule of administration, and animal model. In zebrafish (Danio rerio), acute doses of nicotine have been consistently found to have anxiolytic properties, whereas, chronic exposure elicits anxiogenic effects. To date, however, studies on repeated nicotine administration and the effects of nicotine withdrawal have not been well explored using this model. In this study, we administered nicotine with three different dosing regimens: 1. Single exposures of a “high” dose (25, 50, 100, or 400 mg/L) for 3 minutes. 2. Single exposures to a “low” dose (2.5, 5, or 20 mg/L) for one hour. 3. Repeated one-hour exposure to a “low” dose (2.5, 5, or 20 mg/L) for 21 days. The novel object approach test was used to examine boldness based on the tendency of the fish to explore a novel object. Acutely, nicotine significantly increased the time spent approaching the object with both three-minute and onehour durations of exposure, indicating increased boldness. Conversely, after repeated nicotine exposure for 21 days, fish spent less time approaching the object suggesting a decrease in boldness. Distance moved was unaffected one hour after repeated nicotine exposure, yet decreased after a two-day withdrawal period. Our work suggests that nicotine can have opposing effects on boldness that vary based on dosage and schedule of exposure.
Using Artificial Intelligence and Novel Polynomials to Predict Subjective Refraction
Authors: Rampat Radhika , Debellemanière Guillaume , Malet Jacques , Gatinel Damien
Published: May 2020

This work aimed to use artificial intelligence to predict subjective refraction from wavefront aberrometry data processed with a novel polynomial decomposition basis. Subjective refraction was converted to power vectors (M, J0, J45). Three gradient boosted trees (XGBoost) algorithms were trained to predict each power vector using data from 3729 eyes. The model was validated by predicting subjective refraction power vectors of 350 other eyes, unknown to the model. The machine learning models were significantly better than the paraxial matching method for producing a spectacle correction, resulting in a mean absolute error of 0.301 ± 0.252 Diopters (D) for the M vector, 0.120 ± 0.094 D for the J0 vector and 0.094 ± 0.084 D for the J45 vector. Our results suggest that subjective refraction can be accurately and precisely predicted from novel polynomial wavefront data using machine learning algorithms. We anticipate that the combination of machine learning and aberrometry based on this novel wavefront decomposition basis will aid the development of refined algorithms which could become a new gold standard to predict refraction objectively.
A novel exopolysaccharide-producing and long-chain n-alkane degrading bacterium Bacillus licheniformis strain DM-1 with potential application for in-situ enhanced oil recovery
Authors: Fan Yanhui , Wang Jun , Gao Chunming , Zhang Yumiao , Du Wen
Published: May 2020

A novel Bacillus licheniformis strain (DM-1) was isolated from a mature reservoir in Dagang oilfield of China. DM-1 showed unique properties to utilize petroleum hydrocarbons and agroindustrial by-product (molasses) for exopolysaccharide (EPS) production under oil recovery conditions. The DM-1 EPS was proven to be a proteoglycan with a molecular weight of 568 kDa. The EPS showed shear thinning properties and had high viscosities at dilute concentrations (<1%, w/v), high salinities, and elevated temperatures. Strain DM-1 could degrade long-chain n-alkanes up to C36. Viscosity reduction test have shown that the viscosity of the crude oil was reduced by 40% compared with that before DM-1 treatment. Sand pack flooding test results under simulated reservoir conditions have shown that the enhanced oil recovery efficiency was 19.2% after 7 days of in-situ bioaugmentation with B. licheniformis DM-1. The obtained results indicate that strain DM-1 is a promising candidate for in situ microbial enhanced oil recovery (MEOR).
Characteristics and outcomes of acute-on-chronic liver failure patients with or without cirrhosis using two criteria
Authors: Dong Xiaotian , He Jianqin , Chen Wenyi , Su Rong , Xu Yanping , Sheng Xinyu , Li Lanjuan , Cao Hongcui
Published: May 2020

The aim of the study was to identify the characteristics and outcomes in acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) patients with or without cirrhosis using two criteria. Patients with acute deterioration of chronic hepatic disease or acute decompensation of cirrhosis were included retrospectively from April 10, 2016 to April 10, 2019. European Association for the Study of the Liver-chronic liver failure (EASL-CLIF) criterion except for consideration of cirrhosis and Chinese Group on the Study of Severe Hepatitis B (COSSH) criterion were used. Clinical features, laboratory data and survival curves were compared between the ACLF patients with and without cirrhosis. A total of 799 patients were included. Among them, 328 had COSSH and EASL ACLF, 197 had COSSH alone, and 104 had EASL alone. There were 11.6% more ACLF with COSSH criterion. Furthermore, EASL ACLF patients with non-cirrhosis vs. cirrhosis had different laboratory characteristics: ALT (423 vs. 154, p < 0.001), AST (303 vs. 157, p < 0.001), γ-GT (86 vs. 75, p < 0.01), and INR (2.7 vs. 2.6, p < 0.001) were significantly higher but creatinine (71 vs. 77, p < 0.01) were significantly lower; but importantly there was no statistical changes between non-cirrhosis and cirrhosis in EASL ACLF patients on 28-day (p = 0.398) and 90-day (p = 0.376) survival curves. However, 90-day (p = 0.030) survival curve was different between non-cirrhosis and cirrhosis in COSSH ACLF patients. COSSH ACLF score (auROC = 0.778 or 0.792, 95%CI 0.706–0.839 or 0.721–0.851) displayed the better prognostic ability for EASL ACLF patients with non-cirrhosis, but CLIF-C ACLF score (auROC = 0.757 or 0.796, 95%CI 0.701–0.807 or 0.743–0.843) still was the best prognostic scoring system in EASL ACLF patients with cirrhosis. In conclusions, EASL definition exhibited better performance on homogeneous identification of ACLF regardless of cirrhosis or non-cirrhosis. And COSSH ACLF score displayed the better prognostic ability for EASL ACLF patients without cirrhosis.
Enhancement of guinea pig cytomegalovirus infection by two endogenously expressed components of the pentameric glycoprotein complex in epithelial cells
Authors: Okumura Misaki , Matsuura-Miura Miku , Makino Reina , Miura Takuya , Noguchi Kazuma , Majima Ryuichi , Koshizuka Tetsuo , Inoue Naoki
Published: May 2020

A better understanding of the mechanisms underlying cell tropisms and the efficiency of viral infection is critical for the development of vaccines and antiviral drugs for viral diseases. In this study, we worked on the entry mechanisms of guinea pig cytomegalovirus and found that endogenous expression of a combination of two components (GP131 and GP133) of the pentameric glycoprotein complex, which is required for non-fibroblast cell tropisms, enhanced viral infection more than 10-fold. In addition, D138A alteration in GP131 increased this enhancement by an additional 10-fold. Although differences in the efficiency of viral infection among various cell types are usually explained by differences in viral entry or traffic processes, our experimental evidences dismissed such possibilities. Instead, our findings that i) endogenous expression of GP131 and GP133 after nuclear delivery of viral DNA still enhanced infection and ii) an HDAC inhibitor overcame the need of the endogenous expression led us to hypothesize a novel mechanism that controls the efficiency of viral infection through the activation of gene expression from viral DNA delivered to the nuclei. Further studies of this unexpected phenomena warrant to understand novel but also general mechanisms for cell tropisms of viral infection and determinants that control infection efficiency.
The Hepatic Plasma Membrane Citrate Transporter NaCT (SLC13A5) as a Molecular Target for Metformin
Authors: Kopel Jonathan , Higuchi Kei , Ristic Bojana , Sato Toshihiro , Ramachandran Sabarish , Ganapathy Vadivel
Published: May 2020

Metformin is the first-line treatment for type 2 diabetes. Inhibition of hepatic gluconeogenesis is the primary contributor to its anti-diabetic effect. Metformin inhibits complex I and α-glycerophosphate shuttle, and the resultant increase in cytoplasmic NADH/NAD+ ratio diverts glucose precursors away from gluconeogenesis. These actions depend on metformin-mediated activation of AMP kinase (AMPK). Here we report on a hitherto unknown mechanism. Metformin inhibits the expression of the plasma membrane citrate transporter NaCT in HepG2 cells and decreases cellular levels of citrate. 5-Aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleotide (AICAR), an AMPK activator, elicits a similar effect. The process involves a decrease in maximal velocity with no change in substrate affinity. The decrease in NaCT expression is associated with decreased mRNA levels. AMPK inhibits mTOR, and the mTOR inhibitor rapamycin also decreases NaCT expression. The transcription factor downstream of AMPK that is relevant to cAMP signaling is CREB; decreased levels of phospho-CREB seem to mediate the observed effects of metformin on NaCT. Citrate is known to suppress glycolysis by inhibiting phosphofructokinase-1 and activate gluconeogenesis by stimulating fructose-1,6-bisphophatase; therefore, the decrease in cellular levels of citrate would stimulate glycolysis and inhibit gluconeogenesis. These studies uncover a novel mechanism for the anti-diabetic actions of metformin.
Development of 60-GHz millimeter wave, electromagnetic bandgap ground planes for multiple-input multiple-output antenna applications
Authors: Ullah Sana , Yeo Woon-Hong , Kim Hongjoon , Yoo Hyoungsuk
Published: May 2020

For 60-GHz band communications, both the mutual coupling and transmission distance restrict the performance of a multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) antenna array. Several studies presented different types of meta-materials and electromagnetic bandgap (EBG) structures to improve the performance of a MIMO antenna array at the 60-GHz band. In this paper, we presented the four-element MIMO patch antenna with different types of EBG structures for the millimeter wave (mmW)communications at the 60-GHz unlicensed industrial, scientific, and medical band. The single element of the MIMO antenna array covered the mmW band from 57 GHz to 63 GHz having the dimensions of 1.3 mm × 1.8 mm × 0.1 mm. We developed a set of square-shaped, cross-shaped, and complex-slotted EBG ground planes between the antenna elements for the performance improvement. All the three EBG ground planes provided significant coupling reduction between the mmW MIMO antenna elements. The proposed EBG structures exhibited wide bandgap characteristics and improved scattering parameters in the desired frequency band. In contrast with the cross- and complex-slotted, the square-shaped EBG structure substantially improved the overall gain of MIMO antenna array. In addition, the square-shaped EBG reformed the maximum beam and enhanced the far-field gain pattern in the desired direction. Experimental results conducted with the fabricated prototypes showed a good agreement with the simulation results and adequately covered the 60-GHz band. The low-profile and salient features of the proposed MIMO antenna array shows the potential for on-chip applications at 60 GHz.
Genetically modified crops are superior in their nitrogen use efficiency-A meta-analysis of three major cereals
Authors: Li Mengjiao , Xu Jili , Gao Zhiyuan , Tian Hui , Gao Yajun , Kariman Khalil
Published: May 2020

It is currently uncertain to what extent genetic transformations of strategic crops (targeting diverse traits) have improved their N use efficiency (NUE), and what the key factors affecting their NUE are. Based on data collected from 130 publications, the effect sizes of genetic transformations and the key factors influencing NUE for three major cereal crops (rice, maize, and wheat), were investigated using a meta-analysis approach. Genetic transformations increased yield, shoot biomass, N uptake efficiency (NUpE), and partial factor productivity of N (PFPN) in the crops, but decreased shoot NUE (SNUE) and grain NUE (GNUE). Transporter genes improved yield and NUE parameters more efficiently, than did the other gene types. The effect sizes for some NUE parameters varied according to crop species and experimental conditions but did not differ between the overexpression and ectopic expression methods. Most effect sizes did not correlate with gene overexpression levels. These results indicate a promising potential of genetic transformations approaches for improving certain NUE parameters.
Synapse elimination activates a coordinated homeostatic presynaptic response in an autaptic circuit
Authors: Velasco Cecilia D. , Llobet Artur
Published: May 2020

The number of synapses present in a neuronal circuit is not fixed. Neurons must compensate for changes in connectivity caused by synaptic pruning, learning processes or pathological conditions through the constant adjustment of the baseline level of neurotransmission. Here, we show that cholinergic neurons grown in an autaptic circuit in the absence of glia sense the loss of half of their synaptic contacts triggered by exposure to peptide p4.2, a C-terminal fragment of SPARC. Synaptic elimination is driven by a reorganization of the periodic F-actin cytoskeleton present along neurites, and occurs without altering the density of postsynaptic receptors. Neurons recover baseline neurotransmission through a homeostatic presynaptic response that consists of the coordinated activation of rapid synapse formation and an overall potentiation of presynaptic calcium influx. These results demonstrate that neurons establishing autaptic connections continuously sense and adjust their synaptic output by tweaking the number of functional contacts and neurotransmitter release probability.
Phosphoproteomics identifies dual-site phosphorylation in an extended basophilic motif regulating FILIP1-mediated degradation of filamin-C
Authors: Reimann Lena , Schwäble Anja N. , Fricke Anna L. , Mühlhäuser Wignand W. D. , Leber Yvonne , Lohanadan Keerthika , Puchinger Martin G. , Schäuble Sascha , Faessler Erik , Wiese Heike , Reichenbach Christa , Knapp Bettina , Peikert Christian D. , Drepper Friedel , Hahn Udo , Kreutz Clemens , van der Ven Peter F. M. , Radziwill Gerald , Djinović-Carugo Kristina , Fürst Dieter O. , Warscheid Bettina
Published: May 2020

The PI3K/Akt pathway promotes skeletal muscle growth and myogenic differentiation. Although its importance in skeletal muscle biology is well documented, many of its substrates remain to be identified. We here studied PI3K/Akt signaling in contracting skeletal muscle cells by quantitative phosphoproteomics. We identified the extended basophilic phosphosite motif RxRxxp[S/T]xxp[S/T] in various proteins including filamin-C (FLNc). Importantly, this extended motif, located in a unique insert in Ig-like domain 20 of FLNc, is doubly phosphorylated. The protein kinases responsible for this dual-site phosphorylation are Akt and PKCα. Proximity proteomics and interaction analysis identified filamin A-interacting protein 1 (FILIP1) as direct FLNc binding partner. FILIP1 binding induces filamin degradation, thereby negatively regulating its function. Here, dual-site phosphorylation of FLNc not only reduces FILIP1 binding, providing a mechanism to shield FLNc from FILIP1-mediated degradation, but also enables fast dynamics of FLNc necessary for its function as signaling adaptor in cross-striated muscle cells.
Proton spin relaxation study with pulsed NMR on the plasticization of Na+ ion-selective electrode membranes prepared from PVCs with different degrees of polymerization
Authors: Moriuchi-Kawakami Takayo , Sekiguchi Yuria , Hattori Shintaro , Otsuki Takahiro , Fujimori Keiichi , Moriuchi Toshiyuki , Urahama Yoshiaki
Published: May 2020

The proton spin–spin relaxation times (T2) of ion-selective electrode membranes with differences in the polymerization degree of the incorporated poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) polymers were investigated.
What works? What's missing? An evaluation model for science curricula that analyses learning outcomes through five lenses
Authors: Raycroft Mark A. R. , Flynn Alison B.
Published: May 2020

Science is rapidly changing with vast amounts of new information and technologies available. However, traditional instructional formats do not adequately prepare a diverse population of learners who need to evaluate and use knowledge, not simply memorize facts. Moreover, curricular change has been glacially slow. One starting goal for curricular change can be identifying the features of a current curriculum, including potential areas for improvement, but a model is needed to accomplish that goal. The vast majority of studies related to curricular change have been conducted in K-12 environments, with an increasing number in post-secondary environments. Herein, we describe a model for science curriculum evaluation that we designed by integrating a number of different approaches. That model evaluates the intended, enacted, and achieved components of the curriculum, anchored by analyzing learning outcomes through five lenses: (i) a scientific Framework reported by the US National Research Council, (ii) systems thinking, (iii) equity, diversity, and inclusion, (iv) professional skills, and (v) learning skills. No curriculum evaluation models to date have used the five learning outcomes lenses that we describe herein. As a proof of principle, we applied the evaluation model to one organic chemistry course, which revealed areas of strength and possible deficiencies. This model could be used to evaluate other science courses or programs. Possible deficiencies may be addressed in other courses, in the course at hand, or may not be deemed necessary or important to address, demonstrating the potential for this evaluation to generate areas for discussion and ultimately, improvements to post-secondary science education.
Exploring the impact of the reasoning flow scaffold (RFS) on students’ scientific argumentation: based on the structure of observed learning outcomes (SOLO) taxonomy
Authors: Luo Xiuling , Wei Bing , Shi Min , Xiao Xin
Published: May 2020

Using the Structure of Observed Learning Outcomes (SOLO) taxonomy as the analytic framework, this study examined the impact of the reasoning flow scaffold (RFS) on students’ written arguments. Two classes with a total of 88 10th grade students in a school participated in this study. One class, set as the experimental group, was taught scientific argumentation with RFS whereas the control class received conventional argumentation teaching. They all experienced three argument assignments of writing scientific arguments and the measurement task before and after the teaching intervention. The results of data analysis showed that after teaching intervention, students in the experimental group performed significantly better than those in the control group on evidence and rebuttal while there were no significant differences on claim or reason between the two groups. Some implications and suggestions are provided in the last part of this paper.
Colorimetric detection of class A soybean saponins by coupling DNAzyme with the gap ligase chain reaction
Authors: Li Wenshuai , Wu Guorui , Wang Min , Yue Aiqin , Du Weijun , Liu Dingbin , Zhao Jinzhong
Published: May 2020

We propose a colorimetric assay based on the coupling of gap ligase chain reaction (Gap-LCR) with DNAzyme to detect the target GmSg-1 genes of class A soybean saponins with the naked eye, without the involvement of expensive instruments.
Rational regulation of transition metals in polyoxometalate hybrids without noble metal assistance for efficient light-driven H2 production
Authors: Li Bonan , Yu Xiaojing , Pang Haijun , Shen Qingbo , Hou Yan , Ma Huiyuan , Xin Jianjiao
Published: May 2020

Four new noble metal-free hybrids are reported with a maximum photocatalytic hydrogen evolution rate of 12245.59 μmol g−1 h−1, which outperform all known polyoxometalate (POM)-based metal–organic photocatalysts.
One-step coating of commercial Ni nanoparticles with a Ni, N-co-doped carbon shell towards efficient electrocatalysts for CO2 reduction
Authors: Mao Fangxin , Liu Peng Fei , Yang Pengfei , Gu Jinlou , Yang Hua Gui
Published: May 2020

Commercial nickel nanoparticles (Ni NPs) were directly converted to efficient electrocatalysts for CO2 reduction by urea–Ni solid powder pyrolysis, in which a Ni, N-co-doped graphite carbon shell wraps the Ni NPs in situ.
Radical-mediated oxidative annulations of 1,n-enynes involving C–H functionalization
Authors: Li Yang , Pan Gao-Ang , Luo Mu-Jia , Li Jin-Heng
Published: May 2020

Recent progress in oxidative annulations of 1,n-enynes involving C–H functionalization is summarized.
Novel hybrid aluminium(iii)–catalen complexes as highly active catalysts for lactide polymerisation: towards industrial relevance
Authors: Payne Jack , McKeown Paul , Kociok-Köhn Gabriele , Jones Matthew D.
Published: May 2020

A series of novel Al(iii) complexes are prepared that show remarkable activity under the industrially preferred conditions.
Fluorogenic iminosydnones: bioorthogonal tools for double turn-on click-and-release reactions
Authors: Riomet Margaux , Porte Karine , Wijkhuisen Anne , Audisio Davide , Taran Frédéric
Published: May 2020

Iminosydnones are able to quench two fluorophores when connected to their core structure. Bioorthogonal click and release reaction with cyclooctynes provokes significant fluorescence enhancement of the two products, allowing their tracking in cells.
Controlled protein crystal nucleation in microreactors: the effect of the droplet volumeversushigh supersaturation ratios
Authors: Ferreira Joana , Castro Filipa , Kuhn Simon , Rocha Fernando
Published: May 2020

Control of the enhanced lysozyme nucleation under high supersaturation ratios for a broad range of droplet volumes.
Effect of the interplay between layering sequence permutations and thickness on the magnetic features of Fe/Ni/Gd hetero-films
Authors: Mokkath Junais Habeeb
Published: May 2020

The effect of the interplay between layering sequence permutations and film thickness on the temperature-dependent magnetization and spin structure of Fe/Ni/Gd hetero-films (sizes: 10 nm × 10 nm × d nm and 20 nm × 20 nm × d nm, where d is the film thickness and with all possible layer sequence permutations) is investigated in the framework of an atomistic spin dynamics formalism.
Predicting the phase diagram of titanium dioxide with random search and pattern recognition
Authors: Reinhardt Aleks , Pickard Chris J. , Cheng Bingqing
Published: May 2020

Predicting phase stabilities of crystal polymorphs is central to computational materials science and chemistry.
Correction: QSAR without borders
Authors: Muratov Eugene N. , Bajorath Jürgen , Sheridan Robert P. , Tetko Igor V. , Filimonov Dmitry , Poroikov Vladimir , Oprea Tudor I. , Baskin Igor I. , Varnek Alexandre , Roitberg Adrian , Isayev Olexandr , Curtarolo Stefano , Fourches Denis , Cohen Yoram , Aspuru-Guzik Alan , Winkler David A. , Agrafiotis Dimitris , Cherkasov Artem , Tropsha Alexander
Published: May 2020

Correction for ‘QSAR without borders’ by Eugene N. Muratov et al., Chem. Soc. Rev., 2020, DOI: 10.1039/d0cs00098a.
Enhanced production of C2–C4 alkanes from syngas via a metal sulfide–support interaction over Ni–MoS2/Ce1−xLaxO2−δ
Authors: Shen Jindong , Li Maoshuai , Li Wei , Lin Shuangxi , Hao Ziwen , Chang Xiao , Lv Jing , Ma Xinbin
Published: May 2020

The metal sulfide–support interaction and dual active sites over Ni–MoS2/Ce1−xLaxO2−δ facilitated selective conversion of syngas to C2–C4 alkanes.
Emerging investigator series: nanotechnology to develop novel agrochemicals: critical issues to consider in the global agricultural context
Authors: Kah Melanie , Kookana Rai
Published: May 2020

A better recognition of the agronomic context and geographical differences, including economic, political and social constrains, are needed to support the development of viable and sustainable nano-innovations in agriculture.
Biotransformation of natural hydroxycinnamic acids by gut microbiota from normal and cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injured rats: a comparative study
Authors: Shen Huihui , Tong Xin , Yang Jiehong , Yu Li , Zhou Huifen , Wang Yu , He Yu , Wan Haitong , Li Chang
Published: May 2020

Hydroxycinnamic acids can undergo decarboxylation and dehydrogenation by gut microbiota from normal and cerebral I/R injured rats.
Influence of soy and whey protein, gelatin and sodium caseinate on carotenoid bioaccessibility
Authors: Iddir Mohammed , Dingeo Giulia , Porras Yaruro Juan Felipe , Hammaz Faiza , Borel Patrick , Schleeh Thomas , Desmarchelier Charles , Larondelle Yvan , Bohn Torsten
Published: May 2020

Proteins differentially affect carotenoid bioaccessibility and physicochemical characteristics of the digesta and constituents, depending on carotenoid and protein species/concentration.
2-Arylamino-6-ethynylpurines are cysteine-targeting irreversible inhibitors of Nek2 kinase
Authors: Matheson Christopher J. , Coxon Christopher R. , Bayliss Richard , Boxall Kathy , Carbain Benoit , Fry Andrew M. , Hardcastle Ian R. , Harnor Suzannah J. , Mas-Droux Corine , Newell David R. , Richards Mark W. , Sivaprakasam Mangaleswaran , Turner David , Griffin Roger J. , Golding Bernard T. , Cano Céline
Published: May 2020

Renewed interest in covalent inhibitors of enzymes implicated in disease states has afforded several agents targeted at protein kinases of relevance to cancers.
Defeating the trypanosomatid trio: proteomics of the protozoan parasites causing neglected tropical diseases
Authors: Parthasarathy Anutthaman , Kalesh Karunakaran
Published: May 2020

This review highlights the key roles of proteomic techniques in the study ofLeishmaniaspp.,Trypanosoma cruziandTrypanosoma bruceiparasites.
Ultrafast lattice and electronic dynamics in single-walled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Zheng Dingguo , Zhu Chunhui , Li Zian , Li Zhongwen , Li Jun , Sun Shuaishuai , Zhang Yongzhao , Wang Fengqiu , Tian Huanfang , Yang Huaixin , Li Jianqi
Published: May 2020

Understanding the photoinduced ultrafast structural transitions and electronic dynamics in single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) is important for the development of SWCNT-based optoelectronic devices.
Rational design of multiple Prussian-blue analogues/NF composites for high-performance surpercapacitors
Authors: Xiong Dengke , Wang Shi-Cheng , Chen Chen , Gu Minli , Yi Fei-Yan
Published: May 2020

Multiple Prussian-blue analogues/NF composites were successfully fabricated through a one-pot chemical etching and growing process. The target materials NiCoxFe1−x-PBA/NF exhibited excellent electrochemical performance.
Highly distorted mesoporous S/C/Ti3+ doped black TiO2 for simultaneous visible light degradation of multiple dyes
Authors: Patil Shivaraj B. , Phattepur Harish , Nagaraju G. , Gowrishankar B. S.
Published: May 2020

S–B-TiO2 exhibited 90 and 96% visible light simultaneous degradation of rose bengal and methylene blue dyes in 80 min, respectively.
Improved method for the preparation of nonyl acridine orange analogues and utilization in detection of cardiolipin
Authors: Dimitrijevs Pavels , Domracheva Ilona , Arsenyan Pavel
Published: May 2020

This study was designed to develop a fast and convenient methodology for the preparation of 10-nonyl acridine orange (NAO) and its silyl analogues to improve their photo-physical properties for the detection and quantification of cardiolipin (CL).
Cobalt and nitrogen co-doped porous carbon/carbon nanotube hybrids anchored with nickel nanoparticles as high-performance electrocatalysts for oxygen reduction reactions
Authors: Wu Yan , Ge Liya , Veksha Andrei , Lisak Grzegorz
Published: May 2020

A highly active and cost-effective ORR catalyst was made from metal–organic frameworks and shows an excellent ORR performance, comparable to that of commercial Pt/C.
Continuous production and properties of mutil-level nanofiber air filters by blow spinning
Authors: Song Jianan , Liu Zhenglian , Li Ziwei , Wu Hui
Published: May 2020

Nanofibers are gradually being widely used in air filtration due to their unique characteristics.
g-C3N4 synthesized from NH4SCN in a H2 atmosphere as a high performance photocatalyst for blue light-driven degradation of rhodamine B
Authors: Zhang Shuting , Li Guoqiang , Duan Liyuan , Wang Hongyu , Zhao Yongle , Zhang Yongfa
Published: May 2020

Graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) was prepared by a simple thermal polymerization method in this work.
A novel substrate directed multicomponent reaction for the syntheses of tetrahydro-spiro[pyrazolo[4,3-f]quinoline]-8,5′-pyrimidines and tetrahydro-pyrazolo[4,3-f]pyrimido[4,5-b]quinolines via selective multiple C–C bond formation under metal-free conditions
Authors: Patel Divyang M. , Patel Hetal J. , Padrón José M. , Patel Hitendra M.
Published: May 2020

Substrate selectivity in the novel multi-component reaction of 5-aminoindazole, barbituric acid derivatives and aldehyde is explored.
Synthesis of tricyclic carbohydrate–benzene hybrids as selective inhibitors of galectin-1 and galectin-8 N-terminal domains
Authors: Wu Chunxia , Yong Can , Zhong Qiuju , Wang Zhouyu , Nilsson Ulf J. , Zhang Yuanyuan
Published: May 2020

Fused tricyclic carbohydrate–benzene hybrids carrying substituents at C10 and/or C11 were designed, synthesized and evaluated as inhibitors for galectin-1 and the N-terminal domain of galectin-8.
An efficient enantioselective approach to multifunctionalized γ-butyrolactone: concise synthesis of (+)-nephrosteranic acid
Authors: Gehlawat Anju , Prakash Ranjana , Pandey Satyendra Kumar
Published: May 2020

A short, efficient and novel approach for multifunctionalized γ-butyrolactone paraconic acids and its application to the total synthesis of (+)-nephrosteranic acid from readily available PMB (R)-glycidyl ether as a starting material are described.
Correction: Modelling and prediction of the thermophysical properties of aqueous mixtures of choline geranate and geranic acid (CAGE) using SAFT-γ Mie
Authors: Di Lecce Silvia , Lazarou Georgia , Khalit Siti H. , Pugh David , Adjiman Claire S. , Jackson George , Galindo Amparo , McQueen Lisa
Published: May 2020

Correction for ‘Modelling and prediction of the thermophysical properties of aqueous mixtures of choline geranate and geranic acid (CAGE) using SAFT-γ Mie’ by Silvia Di Lecce et al., RSC Adv., 2019, 9, 38017–38031. DOI: 10.1039/C9RA07057E
Developing high-voltage spinel LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 cathodes for high-energy-density lithium-ion batteries: current achievements and future prospects
Authors: Liang Gemeng , Peterson Vanessa K. , See Khay Wai , Guo Zaiping , Pang Wei Kong
Published: May 2020

This paper highlights current research progress and future prospects of high-voltage spinel LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 cathode for next-generation high-enegy-density lithium-ion batteries.
Aggregation of non-fullerene acceptors in organic solar cells
Authors: Li Donghui , Zhang Xue , Liu Dan , Wang Tao
Published: May 2020

Various types of molecular stacking can form in NFAs, which influence light absorption and efficiency of organic solar cells.
Correction: A disorder-free conformation boosts phonon and charge transfer in an electron-deficient-core-based non-fullerene acceptor
Authors: Zhang Chujun , Yuan Jun , Chiu Ka Lok , Yin Hang , Liu Weifang , Zheng Guanhaojie , Ho Johnny Ka Wai , Su Zhenhuang , Gao Xingyu , Gao Feng , Zou Yingping , So Shu Kong
Published: May 2020

Correction for ‘A disorder-free conformation boosts phonon and charge transfer in an electron-deficient-core-based non-fullerene acceptor’ by Chujun Zhang et al., J. Mater. Chem. A, 2020, 8, 8566–8574, DOI: 10.1039/d0ta01260b.
Magnetic lanthanum-doped hydroxyapatite/chitosan scaffolds with endogenous stem cell-recruiting and immunomodulatory properties for bone regeneration
Authors: Wang Qiyang , Tang Yaqi , Ke Qinfei , Yin Wenjing , Zhang Changqing , Guo Yaping , Guan Junjie
Published: May 2020

Magnetic lanthanum hydroxyapatite/chitosan scaffolds can better repair bone defects through stem cell recruitment and immunomodulation.
Au–NiOx nanocomposite for hot electron-assisted plasmonic photocatalysis
Authors: Fragua Diana , Noguera-Gomez Jaume , Rodríguez-Canto Pedro J. , Valencia L. M. , de la Mata M. , Herrera M. , Molina S. I. , Abargues Rafael
Published: May 2020

Nanocomposites of NiOx thin films containing Au nanoparticles shows sunlight-driven highly efficient photocatalytic properties by plasmon-induced hot electrons.
Bioinformatic and experimental evidence for suicidal and catalytic plant THI4s
Authors: Joshi Jaya , Beaudoin Guillaume A.W. , Patterson Jenelle A. , García-García Jorge D. , Belisle Catherine E. , Chang Lan-Yen , Li Lei , Duncan Owen , Millar A. Harvey , Hanson Andrew D.
Published: May 2020

Like fungi and some prokaryotes, plants use a thiazole synthase (THI4) to make the thiazole precursor of thiamin. Fungal THI4s are suicide enzymes that destroy an essential active-site Cys residue to obtain the sulfur atom needed for thiazole formation. In contrast, certain prokaryotic THI4s have no active-site Cys, use sulfide as sulfur donor, and are truly catalytic. The presence of a conserved active-site Cys in plant THI4s and other indirect evidence implies that they are suicidal. To confirm this, we complemented the Arabidopsistz-1 mutant, which lacks THI4 activity, with a His-tagged Arabidopsis THI4 construct. LC–MS analysis of tryptic peptides of the THI4 extracted from leaves showed that the active-site Cys was predominantly in desulfurated form, consistent with THI4 having a suicide mechanism in planta. Unexpectedly, transcriptome data mining and deep proteome profiling showed that barley, wheat, and oat have both a widely expressed canonical THI4 with an active-site Cys, and a THI4-like paralog (non-Cys THI4) that has no active-site Cys and is the major type of THI4 in developing grains. Transcriptomic evidence also indicated that barley, wheat, and oat grains synthesize thiamin de novo, implying that their non-Cys THI4s synthesize thiazole. Structure modeling supported this inference, as did demonstration that non-Cys THI4s have significant capacity to complement thiazole auxotrophy in Escherichia coli. There is thus a prima facie case that non-Cys cereal THI4s, like their prokaryotic counterparts, are catalytic thiazole synthases. Bioenergetic calculations show that, relative to suicide THI4s, such enzymes could save substantial energy during the grain-filling period.
Potential role of miR-155-5p in fat deposition and skeletal muscle development of chicken
Authors: Xu Sifan , Chang Yang , Wu Guanxian , Zhang Wanting , Man Chaolai
Published: May 2020

miR-155 has multiple functions in many physiological and pathological processes. However, little is known about the expression characteristics of avian miR-155. In the present study, partial pri-miR-155 sequences were cloned from AA+ broiler, Sanhuang broiler and Hy-Line Brown layer, respectively. Stem–loop qRT-PCR was performed to detect the miR-155-5p spatiotemporal expression profiles of each chicken breed, and the target genes of miR-155-5p were predicted in Gene Oncology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways. The results showed that the partial pri-miR-155 sequences of different breeds of chicken were high conserved. The expression patterns of miR-155-5p between broiler and layer were basically similar, and miR-155-5p was expressed highly in immune related tissues (spleen, thymus and bursa). In the same old chicken (14 days old), miR-155-5p expression activity of fat tissue all had higher level in the three chicken breeds, but the expression activities in skeletal muscle of broilers were significantly lower than that of layer (P<0.05). In different development stages of Hy-Line Brown layer, miR-155-5p expression activities in skeletal muscle of 14-day-old and 10-month-old layers were significantly lower than that of 24-month-old layer (P<0.05). Fat related target genes (ACOX1, ACOT7, FADS1, SCD and HSD17B12) and skeletal muscle related target genes (CCNT2, DMD, CFL2, MAPK14, FLNB, ZBTB18 and CDK5) of miR-155-5p were predicted, respectively. The results indicate that miR-155-5p may be an important factor inhibiting the fat deposition and skeletal muscle development in chicken.
Migration of immortalized nasopharyngeal epithelia and carcinoma cells through porous membrane in 3D platforms
Authors: Liu Ziyu , Zhang Weiguan , Pang Stella W.
Published: May 2020

In the present study, 3D biomimetic platforms were fabricated with guiding grating to mimic extracellular matrix topography, porous membrane to resemble the epithelial porous interface and trenches below to represent blood vessels as an in vitro tissue microenvironment. Fabrication technologies were developed to integrate the transparent biocompatible polydimethylsiloxane platforms with preciously controlled dimensions. Cell migration behaviors of an immortalized nasopharyngeal epithelial cell line (NP460) and a nasopharyngeal carcinoma cell line (NPC43) were studied on the 2D and 3D platforms. The NP460 and NPC43 cells traversing through the porous membrane and migrating in the trenches below were studied by time-lapse imaging. Before traversing through the pores, NP460 and NPC43 cells migrated around the pores but NPC43 cells had a lower migration speed with less lamellipodia spreading. After traversing to trenches below, NPC43 cells moved faster with an alternated elongated morphology (mesenchymal migration mode) and round morphology (amoeboid migration mode) compared with only mesenchymal migration mode for NP460 cells. The cell traversing probability through porous membrane on platforms with 30 μm wide trenches below was found to be the highest when the guiding grating was perpendicular to the trenches below and the lowest when the guiding grating was parallel to the trenches below. The present study shows important information on cell migration in complex 3D microenvironment with various dimensions and could provide insight for pathology and treatment of nasopharyngeal carcinoma.
Long non-coding RNA PVT1-mediated miR-543/SERPINI1 axis plays a key role in the regulatory mechanism of ovarian cancer
Authors: Qu Chong , Dai Chunmei , Guo Yahua , Qin Rui , Liu Junbao
Published: May 2020

Purpose: To investigate the regulation mechanism of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) plasmocytoma variant translocation 1 (PVT1) in ovarian cancer (OC).

Methods: The levels of PVT1, microRNA (miR)-543, serpin peptidase inhibitor-clade I (neuroserpin)-member 1 (SERPINI1) in OC tissues and OVCAR-3, A2780, TOV-112D of OC cell lines were detected by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and Western Blot (WB). Cell proliferation, migration, invasion, apoptosis and the regulatory relationship between genes and target genes were analyzed by 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT), Transwell, flow cytometry and dual luciferase reporter (DLR). The OC patients were followed up for 5 years to analyze the relationship between PVT1 and 5-year overall survival (OS).

Results: In contrast with miR-543, PVT1 and SERPINI1 were highly expressed in OC tissues and cell lines, and high levels of PVT1 were significantly associated with lower 5-year OS of patients. Down-regulating PVT1 not only inhibited the malignant proliferation, migration and invasion of OC cells, but promoted cell apoptosis. PVT1 regulated miR-543 in a targeted manner, and its overexpression could attenuate the anticancer effect of miR-543 on OC cells. In addition, miR-543 also directly targeted SERPINI1, and miR-543 knockdown weakened the inhibitory effect of down-regulated SERPINI1 on OC progression. Furthermore, we found that PVT1 acted as a competitive endogenous RNA to sponge miR-543, thereby regulating the expression of SERPINI1.

Conclusion: PVT1 can mediate the molecular mechanism of OC by miR-543/SERPINI1 axis regulatory network, which is a new therapeutic direction for OC.