bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamics and interactions of highly resolved marine plankton via automated high-frequency sampling
Authors: Needham David M , Fichot Erin B , Wang Ellice , Berdjeb Lyria , Cram Jacob A , Fichot Cédric G , Fuhrman Jed A
Published: June 2018

Short timescale observations are valuable for understanding microbial ecological processes. We assessed dynamics in relative abundance and potential activities by sequencing the small sub-unit ribosomal RNA gene (rRNA gene) and rRNA molecules (rRNA) of Bacteria, Archaea, and Eukaryota once to twice daily between March 2014 and May 2014 from the surface ocean off Catalina Island, California. Typically Ostreococcus, Braarudosphaera, Teleaulax, and Synechococcus dominated phytoplankton sequences (including chloroplasts) while SAR11, Sulfitobacter, and Fluviicola dominated non-phytoplankton Bacteria and Archaea. We observed short-lived increases of diatoms, mostly Pseudo-nitzschia and Chaetoceros, with quickly responding Bacteria and Archaea including Flavobacteriaceae (Polaribacter & Formosa), Roseovarius, and Euryarchaeota (MGII), notably the exact amplicon sequence variants we observed responding similarly to another diatom bloom nearby, 3 years prior. We observed correlations representing known interactions among abundant phytoplankton rRNA sequences, demonstrating the biogeochemical and ecological relevance of such interactions: (1) The kleptochloroplastidic ciliate Mesodinium 18S rRNA gene sequences and a single Teleaulax taxon (via 16S rRNA gene sequences) were correlated (Spearman r = 0.83) yet uncorrelated to a Teleaulax 18S rRNA gene OTU, or any other taxon (consistent with a kleptochloroplastidic or karyokleptic relationship) and (2) the photosynthetic prymnesiophyte Braarudosphaera bigelowii and two strains of diazotrophic cyanobacterium UCYN-A were correlated and each taxon was also correlated to other taxa, including B. bigelowii to a verrucomicrobium and a dictyochophyte phytoplankter (all r > 0.8). We also report strong correlations (r > 0.7) between various ciliates, bacteria, and phytoplankton, suggesting interactions via currently unknown mechanisms. These data reiterate the utility of high-frequency time series to show rapid microbial reactions to stimuli, and provide new information about in situ dynamics of previously recognized and hypothesized interactions.
Signal beyond nutrient, fructose, exuded by an arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus triggers phytate mineralization by a phosphate solubilizing bacterium
Authors: Zhang Lin , Feng Gu , Declerck Stéphane
Published: June 2018

Cooperation is a prevalent phenomenon in nature and how it originates and maintains is a fundamental question in ecology. Many efforts have been made to understand cooperation between individuals in the same species, while the mechanisms enabling cooperation between different species are less understood. Here, we investigated under strict in vitro culture conditions if the exchange of carbon and phosphorus is pivotal to the cooperation between the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus (AMF) Rhizophagus irregularis and the phosphate solubilizing bacterium (PSB) Rahnella aquatilis. We observed that fructose exuded by the AMF stimulated the expression of phosphatase genes in the bacterium as well as the rate of phosphatase release into the growth medium by regulating its protein secretory system. The phosphatase activity was subsequently increased, promoting the mineralization of organic phosphorus (i.e., phytate) into inorganic phosphorus, stimulating simultaneously the processes involved in phosphorus uptake by the AMF. Our results demonstrated for the first time that fructose not only is a carbon source, but also plays a role as a signal molecule triggering bacteria-mediated organic phosphorus mineralization processes. These results highlighted the molecular mechanisms by which the hyphal exudates play a role in maintaining the cooperation between AMF and bacteria.
Eavesdropping and crosstalk between secreted quorum sensing peptide signals that regulate bacteriocin production in Streptococcus pneumoniae
Authors: Miller Eric L , Kjos Morten , Abrudan Monica I , Roberts Ian S , Veening Jan-Willem , Rozen Daniel E
Published: June 2018

Quorum sensing (QS), where bacteria secrete and respond to chemical signals to coordinate population-wide behaviors, has revealed that bacteria are highly social. Here, we investigate how diversity in QS signals and receptors can modify social interactions controlled by the QS system regulating bacteriocin secretion in Streptococcus pneumoniae, encoded by the blp operon (bacteriocin-like peptide). Analysis of 4096 pneumococcal genomes detected nine blp QS signals (BlpC) and five QS receptor groups (BlpH). Imperfect concordance between signals and receptors suggested widespread social interactions between cells, specifically eavesdropping (where cells respond to signals that they do not produce) and crosstalk (where cells produce signals that non-clones detect). This was confirmed in vitro by measuring the response of reporter strains containing six different blp QS receptors to cognate and non-cognate peptides. Assays between pneumococcal colonies grown adjacent to one another provided further evidence that crosstalk and eavesdropping occur at endogenous levels of signal secretion. Finally, simulations of QS strains producing bacteriocins revealed that eavesdropping can be evolutionarily beneficial even when the affinity for non-cognate signals is very weak. Our results highlight that social interactions can mediate intraspecific competition among bacteria and reveal that competitive interactions can be modified by polymorphic QS systems.
Long non-coding RNA HOTAIR promotes osteoarthritis progression via miR-17-5p/FUT2/β-catenin axis
Authors: Hu Jialei , Wang Zi , Shan Yujia , Pan Yue , Ma Jia , Jia Li
Published: June 2018

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic joint disease and hard to cure at present. Accumulating evidence suggests long noncoding RNA-HOTAIR (lncRNA-HOTAIR) plays important role in OA progression. However, the underlying molecular mechanism of HOTAIR in OA progression has not been well elucidated. In the present study, we identified that HOTAIR level was upregulated in OA cartilage tissues. High expression of HOTAIR was correlated with modified Mankin scale, extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation and chondrocytes apoptosis. The expression of miR-17-5p was down-regulated, while alpha-1, 2 fucosyltransferase 2 (FUT2) was increased in OA progression. Luciferase reporter and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays indicated that HOTAIR could directly bind to miR-17-5p and indirectly upregulate FUT2 level. Functional investigation revealed HOTAIR and FUT2 aggravated ECM degradation and chondrocytes apoptosis, and this effect could be reversed by miR-17-5p. Altered FUT2 modulated the activity of wnt/β-catenin pathway and HOTAIR/miR-17-5p also mediated wnt/β-catenin pathway through FUT2. Collectively, our findings indicated that HOTAIR/miR-17-5p/FUT2 axis contributed to OA progression via wnt/β-catenin pathway, which might provide novel insights into the function of lncRNA-driven in OA.
Mitotic polarization of transcription factors during asymmetric division establishes fate of forming cancer cells
Authors: Liu Yongqing , Siles Laura , Lu Xiaoqin , Dean Kevin C. , Cuatrecasas Miriam , Postigo Antonio , Dean Douglas C.
Published: June 2018

A model of K-Ras-initiated lung cancer was used to follow the transition of precancerous adenoma to adenocarcinoma. In hypoxic, Tgf-β1-rich interiors of adenomas, we show that adenoma cells divide asymmetrically to produce cancer-generating cells highlighted by epithelial mesenchymal transition and a CD44/Zeb1 loop. In these cells, Zeb1 represses the Smad inhibitor Zeb2/Sip1, causing Pten loss and launching Tgf-β1 signaling that drives nuclear translocation of Yap1. Surprisingly, the nuclear polarization of transcription factors during mitosis establishes parent and daughter fates prior to cytokinesis in sequential asymmetric divisions that generate cancer cells from precancerous lesions. Mutation or knockdown of Zeb1 in the lung blocked the production of CD44hi, Zeb1hi cancer-generating cells from adenoma cells. A CD44/Zeb1 loop then initiates two-step transition of precancerous cells to cancer cells via a stable intermediate population of cancer-generating cells. We show these initial cancer-generating cells are independent of cancer stem cells generated in tumors by p53-regulated reprogramming of existing cancer cells.
Conformational switching of the pseudokinase domain promotes human MLKL tetramerization and cell death by necroptosis
Authors: Petrie Emma J. , Sandow Jarrod J. , Jacobsen Annette V. , Smith Brian J. , Griffin Michael D. W. , Lucet Isabelle S. , Dai Weiwen , Young Samuel N. , Tanzer Maria C. , Wardak Ahmad , Liang Lung-Yu , Cowan Angus D. , Hildebrand Joanne M. , Kersten Wilhelmus J. A. , Lessene Guillaume , Silke John , Czabotar Peter E. , Webb Andrew I. , Murphy James M.
Published: June 2018

Necroptotic cell death is mediated by the most terminal known effector of the pathway, MLKL. Precisely how phosphorylation of the MLKL pseudokinase domain activation loop by the upstream kinase, RIPK3, induces unmasking of the N-terminal executioner four-helix bundle (4HB) domain of MLKL, higher-order assemblies, and permeabilization of plasma membranes remains poorly understood. Here, we reveal the existence of a basal monomeric MLKL conformer present in human cells prior to exposure to a necroptotic stimulus. Following activation, toggling within the MLKL pseudokinase domain promotes 4HB domain disengagement from the pseudokinase domain αC helix and pseudocatalytic loop, to enable formation of a necroptosis-inducing tetramer. In contrast to mouse MLKL, substitution of RIPK3 substrate sites in the human MLKL pseudokinase domain completely abrogated necroptotic signaling. Therefore, while the pseudokinase domains of mouse and human MLKL function as molecular switches to control MLKL activation, the underlying mechanism differs between species.
Effects of overlayer capping and lattice strain on perpendicular magnetic anisotropy of TM|FePt|MgO heterostructures
Authors: Han Xiaocui , Cui Hong , Liu Bo , Tian Cunling , Wang Junzhong , Chen Hong , Yuan Hongkuan
Published: June 2018

Magnetic tunnel junctions (MTJs) with ferromagnetic electrodes possessing the strong perpendicular magnetocrystalline anisotropy (PMA) are of great interest as they have a potential for realizing next-generation high-density non-volatile memory and logic chips. To date, it is an urgent and critical issue to continuously promote the PMAs through feasible modifications such as the substitution of ferromagnetic layers as well as the overlayer coating on them. Here, we perform the relativistic first principles calculations of TM|L10-FePt|MgO sandwich systems, and demonstrate that the changes in PMAs by capping TM layers are always giant and positive, e.g., PMA of Fe|FePt|MgO, the largest one among all our studied systems, is about 2 times larger than that of FePt|MgO. The interfacial PMAs at TM|FePt and FePt|MgO interfaces are extracted to be 3.31~9.40 meV and 3.32 meV, respectively, which are at least 3 times larger than 0.93 meV/ML of interior FePt layer. We illustratively verify that PMAs of TM|FePt|MgO can be turned in a large range by varying the TM layer and in-plane strain. Our results and model analyses provide useful insights for how these magnetic quantities are linked, and pave a way for the promotion of PMAs of FePt-based heterostructures via contact with TM overlayers.
Quantitative association analysis between PM2.5 concentration and factors on industry, energy, agriculture, and transportation
Authors: Zhang Nan , Huang Hong , Duan Xiaoli , Zhao Jinlong , Su Boni
Published: June 2018

Rapid urbanization is causing serious PM2.5 (particulate matter ≤2.5 μm) pollution in China. However, the impacts of human activities (including industrial production, energy production, agriculture, and transportation) on PM2.5 concentrations have not been thoroughly studied. In this study, we obtained a regression formula for PM2.5 concentration based on more than 1 million PM2.5 recorded values and data from meteorology, industrial production, energy production, agriculture, and transportation for 31 provinces of mainland China between January 2013 and May 2017. We used stepwise regression to process 49 factors that influence PM2.5 concentration, and obtained the 10 primary influencing factors. Data of PM2.5 concentration and 10 factors from June to December, 2017 was used to verify the robustness of the model. Excluding meteorological factors, production of natural gas, industrial boilers, and ore production have the highest association with PM2.5 concentration, while nuclear power generation is the most positive factor in decreasing PM2.5 concentration. Tianjin, Beijing, and Hebei provinces are the most vulnerable to high PM2.5 concentrations caused by industrial production, energy production, agriculture, and transportation (IEAT).
Development of a Novel Backbone Cyclic Peptide Inhibitor of the Innate Immune TLR/IL1R Signaling Protein MyD88
Authors: Dishon Shira , Schumacher Adi , Fanous Joseph , Talhami Alaa , Kassis Ibrahim , Karussis Dimitrios , Gilon Chaim , Hoffman Amnon , Nussbaum Gabriel
Published: June 2018

MyD88 is a cytoplasmic adaptor protein that plays a central role in signaling downstream of the TLRs and the IL1R superfamily. We previously demonstrated that MyD88 plays a critical role in EAE, the murine model of multiple sclerosis, and showed that the MyD88 BB-loop decoy peptide RDVLPGT ameliorates EAE. We now designed and screened a library of backbone cyclized peptides based on the linear BB loop peptide, to identify a metabolically stable inhibitor of MyD88 that retains the binding properties of the linear peptide. We identified a novel cyclic peptide protein mimetic that inhibits inflammatory responses to TLR ligands, and NFκB activation in response to IL-1 activation. The inhibitor, c(MyD 4-4), is metabolically stable in comparison to the linear peptide, blocks MyD88 in a specific manner, and inhibits MyD88 function by preventing MyD88 dimerization. Finally, treatment of mice with c(MyD 4-4) reduced the severity of clinical disease in the murine EAE model of multiple sclerosis. Thus, modulation of MyD88-dependent signaling using c(MyD 4-4) is a potential therapeutic strategy to lower innate immune inflammation in autoimmune CNS disease.
Amelioration of High Fructose-Induced Cardiac Hypertrophy by Naringin
Authors: Park Jung Hyun , Ku Hyeong Jun , Kim Jae Kyeom , Park Jeen-Woo , Lee Jin Hyup
Published: June 2018

Heart failure is a frequent unfavorable outcome of pathological cardiac hypertrophy. Recent increase in dietary fructose consumption mirrors the rise in prevalence of cardiovascular diseases such as cardiac hypertrophy leading to concerns raised by public health experts. Mitochondria, comprising 30% of cardiomyocyte volume, play a central role in modulating redox-dependent cellular processes such as metabolism and apoptosis. Furthermore, mitochondrial dysfunction is a key cause of pathogenesis of fructose-induced cardiac hypertrophy. Naringin, a major flavanone glycoside in citrus species, has displayed strong antioxidant potential in models of oxidative stress. In this study, we evaluated protective effects of naringin against fructose-induced cardiac hypertrophy and associated mechanisms of action, usingin vitroandin vivomodels. We found that naringin suppressed mitochondrial ROS production and mitochondrial dysfunction in cardiomyocytes exposed to fructose and consequently reduced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy by regulating AMPK-mTOR signaling axis. Furthermore, naringin counteracted fructose-induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis, and this function of naringin was linked to its ability to inhibit ROS-dependent ATM-mediated p53 signaling. This result was supported by observations inin vivomouse model of cardiac hypertrophy. These findings indicate a novel role for naringin in protecting against fructose-induced cardiac hypertrophy and suggest unique therapeutic strategies for prevention of cardiovascular diseases.
Comprehensive in-silico prediction of damage associated SNPs in Human Prolidase gene
Authors: Bhatnager Richa , Dang Amita S.
Published: June 2018

Prolidase is cytosolic manganese dependent exopeptidase responsible for the catabolism of imido di and tripeptides. Prolidase levels have been associated with a number of diseases such as bipolar disorder, erectile dysfunction and varied cancers. Single nucleotide polymorphism present in coding region of proteins (nsSNPs) has the potential to alter the primary structure as well as function of the protein. Hence, it becomes necessary to differentiate the potential harmful nsSNPs from the neutral ones. 19 nsSNPs were predicted as damaging by in-silico analysis of 298 nsSNPs retrieved from dbSNP database. Consurf analysis showed 18 out of 19 substitutions were present in the conserved regions. 4 substitutions (D276N, D287N, E412K, and G448R) that observed to have damaging effect are present in catalytic pocket. Four SNPs listed in splice site region were found to affect splicing of mRNA by altering acceptor site. On 3′UTR scan of 77 SNPs listed in SNP database, 9 SNPs were lead to alter miRNA target sites. These results provide a filtered data to explore the effect of uncharacterized nsSNP and SNP related to UTRs and splice site of prolidase to find their association with the disease susceptibility and to design the target dependent drugs for therapeutics.
The dynamic change of neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio can predict clinical outcome in stage I-III colon cancer
Authors: Li Zhigui , Zhao Rui , Cui Yaping , Zhou Yong , Wu Xiaoting
Published: June 2018

Whether the dynamic change of neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (delta-NLR) can predict the outcome in various malignancies remained controversial. The delta-NLR has not been evaluated in colon cancer. Thus, we conducted the study to evaluate the predictive value of the delta-NLR in patients with colon cancer who underwent curative resection. Three-hundred and fifty-four patients with stage I-III colon cancer were retrospectively analysed. Clinicopathological features, preoperative NLR and postoperative NLR were collected. Prognostic factors were evaluated by univariate and multivariate analysis. The one, three and five-year overall survival rate in the delta-NLR < 0 group was 98.2%, 90.7% and 83.6%, respectively; and in the delta-NLR ≥ 0 group was 98.4%, 96.9% and 95.3%, respectively (log-rank test, P = 0.002). Univariate and multivariate analysis showed that there was a strong relationship between delta-NLR and overall survival. In conclusion, the delta-NLR was an independent prognostic factor for overall survival in early stage colon cancer. Patients with increased delta-NLR had an favourable clinical outcome.
A peptide-based fluorescent probe images ERAAP activity in cells and in high throughput assays
Authors: Zhang Jingtuo , Yang Soo Jung , Gonzalez Federico , Yang Jiaying , Zhang Yumiao , He Maomao , Shastri Nilabh , Murthy Niren
Published: June 2018

We present a new fluorescent peptide, termed Ep, which can image the activity of the amino-peptidase ERAAP.
Switchable ferroelectric photovoltaic effects in epitaxial h-RFeO3 thin films
Authors: Han Hyeon , Kim Donghoon , Chae Sangmin , Park Jucheol , Nam Sang Yeol , Choi Mingi , Yong Kijung , Kim Hyo Jung , Son Junwoo , Jang Hyun Myung
Published: June 2018

Switchable ferroelectric photovoltaic effects in hexagonal ferrite (h-RFeO3) thin films having narrow band gaps are presented.
Investigating the autophagy pathway in silver@gold core–shell nanoparticles-treated cells using surface-enhanced Raman scattering
Authors: Hou Yuqing , Zhang Wen , Li Shengtao , Wang Zhen , Zhong Huiqing , Liu Zhiming , Guo Zhouyi
Published: June 2018

The autophagic pathway was first clarified by SERS combined with a modified reference-based PCA-LDA methodology.
A DNA–linker–DNA bifunctional probe for simultaneous SERS detection of miRNAs via symmetric signal amplification
Authors: Ye Sujuan , Wang Menglei , Wang Zhenxing , Zhang Na , Luo Xiliang
Published: June 2018

A symmetric signal amplification (SSA) assay using a dual functional DNA–linker–DNA (DLD) probe is fabricated to simultaneously detect miRNAs.
Surface heterogeneity in Li0.5CoO2 within a porous composite electrode
Authors: Lu Mi , Mao Yongzhi , Wang Jian , Hu Yongfeng , Zhou Jigang
Published: June 2018

Surface phase heterogeneity mapping of the same LCO particles in a charged composite electrode deciphers the interactions among the electrode components.
Asymmetric synthesis of functionalized tetrahydrofluorenones via an NHC-catalyzed homoenolate Michael addition
Authors: Shu Tao , Li Sun , Chen Xiang-Yu , Liu Qiang , von Essen Carolina , Rissanen Kari , Enders Dieter
Published: June 2018

The first example of an N-heterocyclic carbene-catalyzed asymmetric desymmetrization of enal-tethered cyclohexadienones via an intramolecular homoenolate Michael addition/esterification reaction is described.
The heterogeneous crystallization of a novel solvate of clozapine base in the presence of excipients
Authors: Verma Vivek , Bannigan Pauric , Lusi Matteo , Crowley Clare M. , Hudson Sarah , Hodnett Benjamin K. , Davern Peter
Published: June 2018

This paper reports the heterogeneous crystallization of a novel solvate of clozapine base in the presence of excipients.
Effect of environmental parameters on the nano mechanical properties of hyaluronic acid/poly(l-lysine) multilayers
Authors: Hellwig Johannes , Strebe Julia , v. Klitzing Regine
Published: June 2018

Atomic force microscopy (AFM) was used to determine the mechanical properties as the indentation modulus of native and crosslinked poly(l-lysine) (PLL)/hyaluronic acid (HA) multilayer films by static force measurements.
Preparation, characterization, and catalytic performances of a pyrazine dicarboxylate-bridging rare-earth-containing polytungstoarsenate aggregate for selective oxidation of thiophenes and deep desulfurization of model fuels
Authors: Niu Yanjun , Xu Qiaofei , Wang Yuan , Li Zhao , Lu Jingkun , Ma Pengtao , Zhang Chao , Niu Jingyang , Wang Jingping
Published: June 2018

A new polytungstoarsenate, K6LiH6[Ce4(H2O)14(pzdc)(H2pzdc)As3W29O103]·22H2O (1), was synthesized via a conventional aqueous solution method.
Magnetic relaxation in cobalt(ii)-based single-ion magnets influenced by distortion of the pseudotetrahedral [N2O2] coordination environment
Authors: Böhme Michael , Ziegenbalg Sven , Aliabadi Azar , Schnegg Alexander , Görls Helmar , Plass Winfried
Published: June 2018

Cobalt(ii) complexes with different dihedral angles between the bidentate ligands show a significant variation in their magnetic relaxation behavior.
Insight into the mechanism of decarbonylation of methanol by ruthenium complexes; a deuterium labelling study
Authors: Lorusso Patrizia , Eastham Graham R. , Cole-Hamilton David J.
Published: June 2018

In the reaction of [RuHClP3] (P = PPh3) with NaOMe in methanol, the product is [RuH2(CO)P3] with RuH4P4.
Anticancer activity of complexes of the third row transition metals, rhenium, osmium, and iridium
Authors: Konkankit Chilaluck C. , Marker Sierra C. , Knopf Kevin M. , Wilson Justin J.
Published: June 2018

A summary of recent developments on the anticancer activity of complexes of rhenium, osmium, and iridium is described.
Structural characterization of a novel acidic polysaccharide from Rosa roxburghii Tratt fruit and its α-glucosidase inhibitory activity
Authors: Wang Lei , Chen Chun , Zhang Bin , Huang Qiang , Fu Xiong , Li Chao
Published: June 2018

An acidic polysaccharide (RTFP-3) extracted from Rosa roxburghii Tratt fruit can inhibit the activity of α-glucosidase.
Targeting miRNA by tunable small molecule binders: peptidic aminosugar mediated interference in miR-21 biogenesis reverts epithelial to mesenchymal transition
Authors: Ghosh Arpita , Degyatoreva Natalya , Kukielski Casey , Story Sandra , Bhaduri Sayantan , Maiti Krishnagopal , Nahar Smita , Ray Arjun , Arya Dev P. , Maiti Souvik
Published: June 2018

miR21, a potent regulator of the tumor suppressor gene PTEN, can be silenced to reverse EMT providing an attractive target for abrogating the malignant behavior of breast cancer.
Bifunctional mannoside–glucosinolate glycoconjugates as enzymatically triggered isothiocyanates and FimH ligands
Authors: Cutolo G. , Reise F. , Schuler M. , Nehmé R. , Despras G. , Brekalo J. , Morin P. , Renard P.-Y. , Lindhorst T. K. , Tatibouët A.
Published: June 2018

The synthesis of glucosinolate–mannoside glycoconjugates combining both the structural features of a myrosinase substrate and a FimH ligand is described.
Using benzoxazine chemistry and bio-based triblock copolymer to prepare functional porous polypeptide capable of efficient dye adsorption
Authors: Tsai Cheng-Chang , Gan Zhihua , Kuo Shiao-Wei
Published: June 2018

A functional porous PTyr with phenolic OH and amide units through the selective cancelation of the PCL-b-PEO block segment from PCL-b-PEO-b-PTyrBZ triblock copolymer and used for dye adsorption.
New electroactive macromonomers and multi-responsive PEDOT graft copolymers
Authors: Marina Sara , Mantione Daniele , ManojKumar Kasina , Kari Vijayakrishna , Gutierrez Junkal , Tercjak Agnieszka , Sanchez-Sanchez Ana , Mecerreyes David
Published: June 2018

Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxithiophene) (PEDOT) is the conducting polymer with the biggest prospects in the field of organic electronics due to its high electrical conductivity and transparency as thin films.
Synthesis of fused chromenes by the indium(iii)-catalyzed cascade hydroarylation/cycloisomerization reactions of polyyne-type aryl propargyl ethers
Authors: Alonso-Marañón Lorena , Sarandeses Luis A. , Martínez M. Montserrat , Pérez Sestelo José
Published: June 2018

Fused chromenes are prepared by cascade hydroarylation/cycloisomerization reactions under indium(iii) catalysis.
Osteoinductive 3D scaffolds prepared by blend centrifugal spinning for long-term delivery of osteogenic supplements
Authors: Vera Lukasova , Matej Buzgo , Karolina Vocetkova , Tereza Kubíková , Zbyněk Tonar , Miroslav Doupnik , Veronika Blahnova , Andrej Litvinec , Vera Sovkova , Barbora Voltrová , Andrea Staffa , Petr Svora , Milena Kralickova , Evzen Amler , Eva Filova , Franco Rustichelli , Michala Rampichova
Published: June 2018

Bone regeneration is a long-term process requiring proper scaffolding and drug delivery systems.
Cellulose triacetate synthesis via one-pot organocatalytic transesterification and delignification of pretreated bagasse
Authors: Suzuki Shiori , Shibata Yoshiki , Hirose Daisuke , Endo Takatsugu , Ninomiya Kazuaki , Kakuchi Ryohei , Takahashi Kenji
Published: June 2018

Cellulose triacetate was synthesised by the transesterification reaction of mild acid-pretreated lignocellulosic biomass with a stable acetylating reagent in an ionic liquid, EmimOAc, which enabled the dissolution of lignocellulose as well as the organocatalytic reaction.
A two-qubit molecular architecture for electron-mediated nuclear quantum simulation
Authors: Atzori Matteo , Chiesa Alessandro , Morra Elena , Chiesa Mario , Sorace Lorenzo , Carretta Stefano , Sessoli Roberta
Published: June 2018

A molecular architecture where two vanadyl-based qubits are linked together is herein described and investigated as a platform for quantum simulation.
Granular chain escape from a pore in a wall in the presence of particles on one side: a comparison to polymer translocation
Authors: Samadi Taheri Fereshteh , Fazli Hossein , Doi Masao , Habibi Mehdi
Published: June 2018

Macro-scale experiment and nano-scale simulation of a chain/polymer show the same escape behavior through the pore in the wall in the presence of particles.
Tuneable spheroidal hydrogel particles for cell and drug encapsulation
Authors: Bjørge Isabel M. , Costa Ana M. S. , Silva A. Sofia , Vidal João P. O. , Nóbrega J. Miguel , Mano João F.
Published: June 2018

Straight-forward production of spheroidal particles allows the assessment of the impact of geometry on cell encapsulation viability and drug release kinetics.
Intramolecular deformation of zeotype-borogermanate toward a three-dimensional porous germanium anode for high-rate lithium storage
Authors: Yoon Taeseung , Song Gyujin , Harzandi Ahmad M. , Ha Miran , Choi Sungho , Shadman Sahar , Ryu Jaegeon , Bok Taesoo , Park Soojin , Kim Kwang S.
Published: June 2018

Three-dimensional porous Ge material has been fabricated via a thermal deformation of artificial Ge-rich zeolite, etching with warm water, and subsequent hydrogen reduction.
A novel thixotropic magnesium phosphate-based bioink with excellent printability for application in 3D printing
Authors: Chen You , Wang Yihan , Yang Qian , Liao Yuxi , Zhu Bin , Zhao Guoru , Shen Ru , Lu Xiaobo , Qu Shuxin
Published: June 2018

A novel magnesium phosphate-based gel (TMP-BG) with excellent printability was developed for application in 3D printing.
Experimental and computational conductivity study of multilayer graphene in polypropylene nanocomposites
Authors: del Castillo Roxana M. , del Castillo Luis F. , Calles Alipio G. , Vicente Compañ
Published: June 2018

We study experimentally and computationally the electric conductivity of graphene–polypropylene nanocomposites.
Zero-dimensional Cs4EuX6 (X = Br, I) all-inorganic perovskite single crystals for gamma-ray spectroscopy
Authors: Wu Yuntao , Han Dan , Chakoumakos Bryan C. , Shi Hongliang , Chen Shiyou , Du Mao-Hua , Greeley Ian , Loyd Matthew , Rutstrom Daniel J. , Stand Luis , Koschan Merry , Melcher Charles L.
Published: June 2018

The zero-dimensional all-inorganic perovskites are self-activated blue emitters with slight hygroscopicity, scalable synthesis, and high radiation detection efficiency.
Hydrogen bond-driven columnar self-assembly of electroluminescent D–A–D configured cyanopyridones
Authors: Vinayakumara D. R. , Ulla Hidayath , Kumar Sandeep , Pandith Anup , Satyanarayan M. N. , Rao D. S. Shankar , Prasad S. Krishna , Adhikari Airody Vasudeva
Published: June 2018

Flying bird-shaped cyanopyridone-based mesogens were designed and synthesized; their optoelectronic properties were studied in detail.
Large-area patterned 2D conjugated microporous polymers via photomask-assisted solid-state photopolymerization
Authors: Liu Zhengdong , Yin Yuhang , Xiu Fei , Wang Xiangjing , Ju Shang , Song Mengya , Chang Qing , Chen Jie , Liu Juqing , Huang Wei
Published: June 2018

Large-area patterned 2D conjugated microporous polymers (2D CMPs) were directly grown on SiO2/Si or reduced graphene oxide (rGO) surfaces with controllable film thickness and shape.
Pilot allocation approaches for channel estimation in MIMO relay networks
Authors: Akbarpour‐Kasgari Abbas , Ardebilipour Mehrdad
Published: June 2018

Distributed‐compressed sensing (DCS)‐based channel estimation of multiple‐input multiple‐output (MIMO) orthogonal frequency division multiplexing for relay communication is considered in this study. Specifically, the pilot allocation is addressed to optimise the channel estimation performance. All the existing works on DCS‐based channel estimation pilot placement discussed on the mean square error (MSE) of the estimation probabilistically based on the mutual coherence. On the contrary, the authors try to address the MSE of the estimation directly and optimise the MSE directly and design a pilot pattern to optimise the performance of the estimation. By taking into account the optimisation approach, two combinatorial stochastic algorithms have been presented. These two algorithms utilise cross entropy approach in sequential and parallel form. Simulation results represent that the DCS‐based MIMO relay channel estimation using optimised pilot placements will increase the performance from 3 to 12 dB as compared with the conventional least squares (LS) method. Furthermore, parallelism has demonstrated the performance gain. Moreover, the DCS‐based MIMO relay channel estimation shows improvement in spectrum efficiency under the same bit error rate performance over the traditional LS‐based channel estimation approach, respectively.
Novel application of integral‐tilt‐derivative controller for performance evaluation of load frequency control of interconnected power system
Authors: Kumari Sandhya , Shankar Gauri
Published: June 2018

The primary aim of load frequency control (LFC) is to provide a good quality of electrical power to the consumers within a prescribed limit of frequency and scheduled tie‐line power deviation. To achieve this objective, LFC needs highly efficient and intelligent control mechanism. Subsequently, here, a novel integral‐tilt‐derivative (I‐TD) controller, fine‐tuned by a powerful heuristic optimisation technique [called as water cycle algorithm (WCA)], is proposed for the LFC study of a two‐area interconnected thermal‐hydro‐nuclear generating units. The studied system involves non‐linearities like generation rate constraints, governor dead band, and boiler dynamics. To explore the effectiveness of the proposed controller, dynamic responses of the studied system, as obtained using I‐TD controller, are compared to those yielded by other controllers such as tilt‐integral‐derivative and conventional proportional–integral–derivative controllers. The investigation demonstrates that the proposed I‐TD controller delivers better performance in comparison to the other counterparts. Furthermore, sensitivity analysis is carried out to show robustness of the WCA tuned proposed I‐TD controller by varying system parameters and loading condition. It is perceived that the proposed I‐TD controller is robust and offers better transient response under varying operating conditions.
Prolonging the lifetime of large‐scale wireless sensor networks using distributed cooperative transmissions
Authors: El Monser Malika , Ben Chikha Haithem , Attia Rabah
Published: June 2018

Reducing energy consumption is a key challenge in the design of any routing protocol dedicated to wireless sensor networks (WSNs). In this study, the authors introduce a new low energy consumption protocol based on a cooperative relaying technique. The proposed protocol is called distributed cooperative relaying low energy adaptive clustering hierarchy (DCR‐LEACH) protocol, and is a way of improving the LEACH protocol. The authors have exploited cooperative relaying transmission techniques, in order to enhance LEACH for large‐scale WSNs, whereby, a cluster head cooperates with the most energetic nodes in order to transmit collected data to the sink. To evaluate the energy efficiency of the proposed DCR‐LEACH, they derive the expressions of energy consumption by applying a cooperative relaying technique and simulate the DCR‐LEACH using NS‐2 for three different scenarios. To confirm the efficiency of the DCR‐LEACH protocol, they compare the proposed scheme with both LEACH and multi‐hop routing LEACH (MR‐LEACH) protocols. The experimental results prove that for large‐scale WSNs, the performance of DCR‐LEACH protocol is better than MR‐LEACH and conventional LEACH in terms of network lifetime, energy consumption, and number of data transmission.
Survey on person re‐identification based on deep learning
Authors: Wang Kejun , Wang Haolin , Liu Meichen , Xing Xianglei , Han Tian
Published: June 2018

Person re‐identification (Re‐ID) is a fundamental subject in the field of the computer vision technologies. The traditional methods of person Re‐ID have difficulty in solving the problems of person illumination, occlusion and attitude change under complex background. Meanwhile, the introduction of deep learning opens a new way of person Re‐ID research and becomes a hot spot in this field. This study reviews the traditional methods of person Re‐ID, then the authors focus on the related papers about different person Re‐ID frameworks on the basis of deep learning, and discusses their advantages and disadvantages. Finally, they propose the direction of further research, especially the prospect of person Re‐ID methods based on deep learning.
Migration of planets in circumbinary discs
Authors: Thun Daniel , Kley Wilhelm
Published: June 2018

Aims. The discovery of planets in close orbits around binary stars raises questions about their formation. It is believed that these planets formed in the outer regions of the disc and then migrated through planet-disc interaction to their current location. Considering five different systems (Kepler-16, -34, -35, -38, and -413) we model planet migration through the disc, with special focus on the final orbital elements of the planets. We investigate how the final orbital parameters are influenced by the disc and planet masses.

Methods. Using two-dimensional, locally isothermal, and viscous hydrodynamical simulations, we first model the disc dynamics for all five systems, followed by a study of the migration properties of embedded planets with different masses. To strengthen our results, we apply two grid-based hydrodynamical codes using different numerics (PLUTO and FARGO3D).

Results. For all systems, we find that the discs become eccentric and precess slowly. We confirm the bifurcation feature in the precession period – gap-size diagram for different binary mass ratios. The Kepler-16, -35, -38, and -413 systems lie on the lower branch and Kepler-34 on the upper one. For systems with small binary eccentricity, we find a new non-monotonic, loop-like feature.

In all systems, the planets migrate to the inner edge of the disc cavity. Depending on the planet-disc mass ratio, we observe one of two different regimes. Massive planets can significantly alter the disc structure by compressing and circularising the inner cavity and they remain on nearly circular orbits. Lower-mass planets are strongly influenced by the disc, their eccentricity is excited to high values, and their orbits are aligned with the inner disc in a state of apsidal corotation.

In our simulations, the final locations of the planets are typically too large with respect to the observations because of the large inner gaps of the discs. The migrating planets in the most eccentric discs (around Kepler-34 and -413) show the largest final eccentricity in agreement with the observations.
CO envelope of the symbiotic star R Aquarii seen by ALMA
Authors: Ramstedt S. , Mohamed S. , Olander T. , Vlemmings W. H. T. , Khouri T. , Liljegren S.
Published: June 2018

The symbiotic star R Aqr is part of a small sample of binary AGB stars observed with the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA). The sample stars are: R Aqr, Mira, W Aql, and π1 Gru. The sample covers a range in binary separation and wind properties, where R Aqr is the source with the smallest separation. The R Aqr binary pair consists of an M-type AGB star and a white dwarf at a separation of 45 mas, equivalent to about 10 AU at 218 pc. The aim of the ALMA study is to investigate the dependence of the wind shaping on the binary separation and to provide constraints for hydrodynamical binary interaction models. R Aqr is particularly interesting as the source with the smallest separation and a complex circumstellar environment that is strongly affected by the interaction between the two stars and by the high-energy radiation resulting from this interaction and from the hot white dwarf companion.

The CO(J = 3 →2) line emission has been observed with ALMA at ~0.5′′ spatial resolution. The CO envelope around the binary pair is marginally resolved, showing what appears to be a rather complex distribution. The outer radius of the CO emitting region is estimated from the data and found to be about a factor of 10 larger than previously thought. This implies an average mass-loss rate during the past ~100 yr of Ṁ ≈ 2×10−7 M⊙ yr−1, a factor of 45 less than previous estimates. The channel maps are presented and the molecular gas distribution is discussed and set into the context of what was previously known about the system from multiwavelength observations. Additional molecular line emission detected within the bandwidth covered by the ALMA observations is also presented.

Because of the limited extent of the emission, firm conclusions about the dynamical evolution of the system will have to wait for higher spatial resolution observations. However, the data presented here support the assumption that the mass-loss rate from the Mira star strongly varies and is focused on the orbital plane.
On site deployment of 3D printing for the building construction – The case of YhnovaTM
Authors: Poullain Philippe , Paquet Elodie , Garnier Sébastien , Furet Benoît
Published: June 2018

The University of Nantes has developed a 3D printing technique (BatiPrint3DTM) dedicated to the construction of the walls of a house. This innovative on site construction technique is based on the deposition of two layers of expansive foam used as a formwork for a third concrete layer. It allows to build at the same time the structure and the insulation. This new construction technology has first been developed at the laboratory, but rapidly, we decided to deploy it on site, in order to demonstrate its technical viability. We present the technology Batiprint3DTM and the demonstrator YhnovaTM, a 95m2 social dwelling built for the social landlord Nantes Métropole Habitat (NMH).
Low cement content SCC (Eco-SCC) – the alternative for ready-mix traditional concrete
Authors: Urban Maciej
Published: June 2018

Self-Compacting Concrete (SCC) is often regarded for in-situ applications as a more expensive and less environmentally friendly version of traditional concrete for use in places where the latter is highly inconvenient for various reasons. To counteract this belief, a new type of SCC has been proposed, called Eco-SCC or green-SCC. In comparison to typical SCC this building material has lower powder content resulting in low cement content and a slightly lower paste volume. The disadvantage of this approach is high water content and low viscosity resulting in high vulnerability of fresh concrete to sedimentation. Additionally, comparing to EN-206 limits, mixes with too low cement content are often obtained. This is why a research program has been undertaken to check the possibility of obtaining fresh Eco-SCCs of higher viscosity, thereby fulfilling all EN-206 requirements. It was possible to obtain concretes of C25/30-C35/45, SF2, VF2, PL2, containing 265-300 kg/m3of cement and 165-190 kg/m3of water owing to the use of limestone powder and typical rounded aggregate of local origin with very low sand to a total aggregate ratio ofs/a= 0.4. Based on Global Warming Potential (GWP) analysis, a modification of Eco-SCC definition is proposed: Eco-SCC is an SCC having cementitious materials volumetric content no greater than 100 dm3/m3(or mass content no greater than 315 kg/m3).
Concrete propensity to fire spalling: testing and observations
Authors: Hager Izabela , Mróz Katarzyna , Tracz Tomasz
Published: June 2018

This article presents results of fire spalling tests on small concrete slabs and studies of material parameters that may increase its occurrence. Experimental techniques enabling to study and determination of material features are presented and discussed. Experimental studies on spalling behaviour of elements were carried out on seven different concrete mixes with constant content of cement paste and mortar. Research aimed at determining influence of the following parameters: w/c ratio (0.30; 0.45; 0.60), cement type (CEM I, CEM III) and type of aggregates (riverbed gravel, granite, basalt) on fire concrete spalling. Paper discusses also the influence of cold rim that forms while testing slab-like element is subjected to one-side heating.
Influence of cement type on carbonation of concrete mixtures
Authors: Tassos Christos , Sideris Kosmas , Chatzopoulos Alexandros , Pistofidis Nikolaos , Chaniotakis Emmanouil
Published: June 2018

This research aims to investigate the influence of cement type to carbonation. For this purpose mixtures of four different cement mortars and eight different concretes that have been prepared with four different cements were left exposed for one year in open air in northern Greece. Results indicate that the type of cement influences the carbonation rate. Concrete mixtures produced according to the definitions of EN 206 standard perform lower service life against carbonation induced corrosion if the choice of the cement type is not carefully examined.
Impact of the air-entrained concrete with the blast-furnace slag cement on the intensity of reinforcement corrosion process
Authors: Raczkiewicz Wioletta , Grzmil Wioletta , Zapała – Sławeta Justyna
Published: June 2018

The concrete cover has significant impact on the intensity of reinforcement corrosion process in reinforced concrete elements. Depending on the type of corrosion risk different types of cement are recommended for concrete. In conditions of chloride corrosion, due to, for example, the use of de-icing agents in winter, it is recommended to use concrete with cement containing granulated blast-furnace slag. The risk of chloride corrosion due to the use of de-icing agents is often additionally associated with the frost and repeated freezing and thawing actions of structural elements. The liquid freezing in the pores of concrete increases its volume, which causes the increase of internal stresses and leads to cracks in the concrete cover increasing the diffusion of chlorides. In order to reduce this phenomenon the introduction of air-entraining admixture is beneficial. The paper presents the experimental results that allow to determinate the effect of the air-entraining admixture addition on the intensity of reinforcement corrosion in concrete with blast-furnace slag cement. The tests were carried out on two groups of reinforced concrete specimens subjected to freezing and thawing cycles in 3% NaCl solution. One group of specimens was prepared with the airentraining admixture addition and the other without it. The electrochemical tests of the reinforcement corrosion activity, based on the measurements of the corrosion current density were curried. The phase composition by X-ray diffraction and microstructure of concrete under the scanning electron microscope (SEM) coupled with the X-ray microanalyser (EDS) were examined. The results allowed to comprehensively assess the effect of airentrained concrete with blast-furnace slag cement on the degree of reinforcement corrosion risk in concrete caused by the simultaneous action of chlorides and frost.
Toward a better understanding of the effects of cement treatment on microstructural and hydraulic properties of compacted soils
Authors: Ranaivomanana Harifidy , Razakamanantsoa Andry
Published: June 2018

This study deals with the problem of the experimental characterization of cement-treated compacted soils in terms of microstructural and hydraulic properties. Some tests are conducted on two different types of soil: silty sand and clay as fine soils and gravelous sand and alterite as granular soil. Some samples are mixed with 5% of cement and compacted at different levels (i.e., 85%, 95%, 100% and 105% of the maximum dry density, respectively, as achieved using the standard compaction method). The results of the mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP) tests performed on these cement-treated soils reveal significant changes as regards macropores due to the combined effects of treatment and compaction. Consequently, a decrease in the permeability is clearly observed for all the tested soils when the degree of compaction increases. This decrease is significantly greater in fine soils, which are more sensitive to compaction effects than granular soils.