bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Therapeutic benefit of Muse cells in a mouse model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Yamashita Toru , Kushida Yoshihiro , Wakao Shohei , Tadokoro Koh , Nomura Emi , Omote Yoshio , Takemoto Mami , Hishikawa Nozomi , Ohta Yasuyuki , Dezawa Mari , Abe Koji
Published: October 2020

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease characterized by progressive motor neuron loss. Muse cells are endogenous reparative pluripotent-like stem cells distributed in various tissues. They can selectively home to damaged sites after intravenous injection by sensing sphingosine-1-phosphate produced by damaged cells, then exert pleiotropic effects, including tissue protection and spontaneous differentiation into tissue-constituent cells. In G93A-transgenic ALS mice, intravenous injection of 5.0 × 104cells revealed successful homing of human-Muse cells to the lumbar spinal cords, mainly at the pia-mater and underneath white matter, and exhibited glia-like morphology and GFAP expression. In contrast, such homing or differentiation were not recognized in human mesenchymal stem cells but were instead distributed mainly in the lung. Relative to the vehicle groups, the Muse group significantly improved scores in the rotarod, hanging-wire and muscle strength of lower limbs, recovered the number of motor neurons, and alleviated denervation and myofiber atrophy in lower limb muscles. These results suggest that Muse cells homed in a lesion site-dependent manner and protected the spinal cord against motor neuron death. Muse cells might also be a promising cell source for the treatment of ALS patients.
Infliximab concentrations in two non-switching cohorts of patients with inflammatory bowel disease: originator vs. biosimilar
Authors: Martínez-Feito Ana , Bravo-Gallego Luz Yadira , Hernández-Breijo Borja , Diez Jesús , García-Ramirez Laura , Jaquotot Marta , Plasencia-Rodríguez Chamaida , Nozal Pilar , Mezcua Araceli , Martín- Arranz María Dolores , Pascual-Salcedo Dora
Published: October 2020

Biosimilars are replacing originator compounds due to their similar effectiveness, safety and pharmacokinetics. Our objective was to compare the differences in pharmacokinetics and clinical outcomes between the originator infliximab (Ifx) and the biosimilar CT-P13 in a patient cohort with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Our cohort study included 86 patients from a historical and a prospective cohort from the start of infliximab treatment to 22 weeks later. Serum infliximab, antidrug antibody levels and other serum biomarkers were measured at weeks 0, 2, 6, 14 and 22. Remission outcomes were evaluated at weeks 14 and 22. Drug levels were measured prospectively and analysed using MANOVA. Of the 86 patients, 44 (51%) and 42 (49%) were administered the originator and CT-P13, respectively. Originator trough levels were higher than the biosimilar trough levels (35 vs. 21, 20.1 vs. 11, 6.6 vs. 2.9 and 4.3 vs. 1.7 μg/mL at weeks 2, 6, 14 and 22, respectively). A post-hoc analysis demonstrated changes in mean serum drug levels over time (p < 0.001) and according to the drug employed (p = 0.001). At week 22, 13 (81%) patients administered the originator achieved clinical remission compared with 5 (19%) patients with the biosimilar (p = 0.02). None of the patients administered the originator withdrew from the treatment compared with 7 for the biosimilar. During the study, there were significant differences in serum infliximab levels between the originator and the CT-P13 in the patients with IBD. The clinical outcomes were influenced by the type of compound administered.
Cancer risks associated with the germline MITF(E318K) variant
Authors: Guhan Samantha M. , Artomov Mykyta , McCormick Shelley , Njauw Ching -Ni , Stratigos Alexander J. , Shannon Kristen , Ellisen Leif W. , Tsao Hensin
Published: October 2020

The MITF(E318K) variant confers moderate risk for cutaneous melanoma. While there are small studies suggesting that this risk is associated with other malignancies (e.g. renal cell carcinoma), little is known about the role of this variant in specifying risk for other cancers. In this study, we perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of the published data as a backdrop to a whole-exome sequence(WES)-based characterization of MITF(E318K) risk for various cancers in sporadic samples from the TCGA and several genetically-enriched patient cohorts. We found minimal evidence of MITF(E318K)’s contribution to non-melanoma cancer risk among individuals with low inherited risks of melanoma (OR 1.168; 95% CI 0.78–1.74; p = 0.454), suggesting that earlier reports of an association between this variant and other malignancies may be related to shared environmental or polygenic risk factors rather than MITF(E318K). Interestingly, an association was observed with uterine carcinosarcoma, (OR 9.24; 95% CI 2.08–37.17; p = 0.024), which was not previously described. While more research needs to be completed, this study will help update cancer screening recommendations for patients with the MITF(E318K) variant.
Hyperthyroidism and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 are associated with a low ankle-brachial index
Authors: Li Yu-Hsuan , Lee I-Te
Published: October 2020

We aimed to assess the ankle-brachial index (ABI) in patients with Graves’ disease. In the cross-sectional assessments, 81 patients with drug-naïve Graves’ disease and 235 with euthyroidism were enrolled. ABI and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) levels were assessed. In the prospective follow-up, 32 patients with Graves’ disease were assessed again after antithyroid drugs for at least 4 weeks, and 32 age- and sex-matched controls with euthyroidism were also followed up. Patients with Graves’ disease had a higher VCAM-1 level (1309 ± 292 vs. 1009 ± 168 ng/mL, P < 0.001) and a lower ABI (0.98 ± 0.11 vs. 1.06 ± 0.10, P < 0.001) than those with euthyroidism. ABI was significantly lower in patients with hyperthyroidism and a high VCAM-1 level than in those with euthyroidism and a low VCAM-1 level (regression coefficient: − 0.050, 95% confidence interval [CI] between − 0.080 and − 0.019; P = 0.001). After treatment with antithyroid drugs, the change in free thyroxine (T4) level was inversely associated with the percentage change in ABI (regression coefficient: − 0.003, 95% CI between − 0.005 and − 0.001, P = 0.001). A synergistic effect of VCAM-1 and free T4 on ABI reduction was observed. After a longitudinal follow-up, an increase in ABI was significantly correlated with a decrease in the free T4 level.
Synthetic anticoagulant heparan sulfate attenuates liver ischemia reperfusion injury
Authors: Arnold Katelyn , Xu Yongmei , Liao Yi-En , Cooley Brian C. , Pawlinski Rafal , Liu Jian
Published: October 2020

Heparan sulfate (HS) is a sulfated glycosaminoglycan abundant on the cell surface and in the extracellular matrix and has several biological activities including anticoagulation and anti-inflammation. Liver ischemia reperfusion injury is associated with coagulation and inflammatory responses. Here, we synthesized HS oligosaccharides with defined sulfation patterns and show that synthetic anticoagulant HS oligosaccharides limit liver ischemia reperfusion injury in a mouse model. Using a small targeted HS library, we demonstrate that an oligosaccharide that possesses both anticoagulant activity and binding affinity to HMGB1, the inflammatory target, decreases injury greater than oligosaccharides that only bind to HMGB1 or only have anticoagulant activity. HS oligosaccharides may represent a potential new therapeutic option for decreasing liver damage resulting from ischemia reperfusion injury.
Individual and group level personality change across the lifespan in dogs
Authors: Turcsán Borbála , Wallis Lisa , Berczik Judit , Range Friederike , Kubinyi Enikő , Virányi Zsófia
Published: October 2020

In humans, age-related changes in personality occur in a non-random fashion with respect to their direction, timing, and magnitude. In dogs, there are still gaps in our knowledge about the detailed dynamics of age-related personality changes. We analysed the personality of 217 Border collies aged from 0.5 to 15 years both cross-sectionally and longitudinally using a test battery, to specify age periods when changes most prominently occur, assess the magnitude of changes, and analyse individual differences in personality change. We found that similar to humans, changes in personality occur unevenly during the dogs’ life course, however, their dynamics seems to be specific for each trait. Activity-independence decreased mostly from puppyhood (0.5–1 years) to adolescence (> 1–2 years), then continued to decrease in a slowing rate. Novelty seeking did not change markedly until middle age (> 3–6 years), then showed a steady linear decrease. Problem orientation increased strongly until middle age then showed no marked changes in later age periods. We also revealed individual differences in personality change over time, and showed that a few individuals with potential age-related impairments significantly affected the general age trajectory of some traits. These results raise caution against the over-generalisation of global age trends in dogs.
Comparison of three lymph node staging systems in evaluating the prognosis of patients with pT3 esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Liu Di-tian , Wang Lin-shuo , Chen Yu-ping , Chen Shao-bin
Published: October 2020

To explore the prognostic value of three lymph node staging systems, including number of positive lymph nodes (pN), lymph node ratio (LNR), and log odds of positive lymph nodes (LODDS), in patients with pT3 stage esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). Data from 1667 patients with pT3 stage ESCC who underwent surgical resection were reviewed. The log-rank test was used to assess the differences in overall survival (OS) between groups. Multivariate analysis was performed to identify independent prognostic factors. The receiver operating characteristic curve was used to assess the prognostic accuracy of the three staging methods. The median survival time for the entire group was 48.0 months, and the 1-, 3- and 5-year OS rates were 83.9%, 55.1% and 66.6%, respectively. All three lymph node staging systems were significantly correlated with OS in univariate and multivariate analyses. However, LNR and LODDS staging systems could more accurately predict survival than the pN staging system in patients with < 15 lymph nodes dissected, while LODDS have the best prognostic homogeneity. All three staging systems could be used for prognostic assessment in pT3 stage ESCC. But LODDS staging system might be superior to the others due to its prognostic homogeneity.
Textile sensors platform for the selective and simultaneous detection of chloride ion and pH in sweat
Authors: Possanzini Luca , Decataldo Francesco , Mariani Federica , Gualandi Isacco , Tessarolo Marta , Scavetta Erika , Fraboni Beatrice
Published: October 2020

The development of wearable sensors, in particular fully-textile ones, is one of the most interesting open challenges in bioelectronics. Several and significant steps forward have been taken in the last decade in order to achieve a compact, lightweight, cost-effective, and easy to wear platform for healthcare and sport activities real-time monitoring. We have developed a fully textile, multi-thread biosensing platform that can detect different bioanalytes simultaneously without interference, and, as an example, we propose it for testing chloride ions (Cl−) concentration and pH level. The textile sensors are simple threads, based on natural and synthetic fibers, coated with the conducting polymer poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene-sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) and properly functionalized with either a nano-composite material or a chemical sensitive dye to obtain Cl− and pH selective sensing functionality, respectively. The single-thread sensors show excellent sensitivity, reproducibility, selectivity, long term stability and the ability to work with small volumes of solution. The performance of the developed textile devices is demonstrated both in buffer solution and in artificial human perspiration to perform on-demand and point-of-care epidermal fluids analysis. The possibility to easily knit or sew the thread sensors into fabrics opens up a new vision for a textile wearable multi-sensing platform achievable in the near future.
Association between urinary polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and hypertension in the Korean population: data from the Second Korean National Environmental Health Survey (2012–2014)
Authors: Lee Tae-Woo , Kim Dae Hwan , Ryu Ji Young
Published: October 2020

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are environmental and occupational pollutants derived from incomplete combustion of organic materials, including wood and fossil fuels. Epidemiological studies have evaluated the association between PAH exposure and hypertension or cardiovascular disease in the general population, but the evidence is limited. In this study, we evaluated the association between urinary PAH metabolites and hypertension in the Korean adult population. A total of 6478 adults who participated in the Second Korean National Environmental Health Survey (2012–2014) were included. The differences in urinary concentrations of four PAH metabolites, including 1-hydroxypyrene, 2-hydroxyfluorene, 1-hydroxyphenanthrene, and 2-naphthol, were compared according to hypertension status using a general linear model. Adjusted odds ratios (aORs) for hypertension were calculated according to the quartile groups of urinary PAH metabolites after adjusting for age, sex, body mass index (BMI), smoking, and alcohol consumption in multiple logistic regression analyses. The estimated mean concentrations of urinary 1-hydroxyphenanthrene were significantly higher in the hypertension group than in the non-hypertension group. In 1-hydroxyphenanthrene, the OR for hypertension was significantly higher in the third and fourth quartile groups than in the first quartile group (third: OR 1.707, 95% CI 1.203–2.423, fourth: OR 1.604, 95% CI 1.158–2.223). No significant associations were detected for the other metabolites. Our results suggest an association between exposure to PAHs and hypertension in a Korean adult population. Further studies are required to evaluate the effects of low-dose long-term exposure to PAHs on hypertension and cardiovascular disease.
Electricity use is associated with residents’ vital data and lifestyles: observational study using an IT health support system in Japan
Authors: Yasukawa Keiji , Ishihara Yukio , Hirayama Fumi , Nakanishi Megumi , Utsumi Hideo , Koyama Susumu
Published: October 2020

Motivated by developments in information technology, recording personal parameters with health devices is effective in health promotion. Today’s indoor individual lifestyles often involve using electrical appliances. We developed a health support system combined with wireless electricity monitoring and investigated whether electricity use is associated with residents’ vital data and lifestyles. We recruited 116 participants in February 2013. Their vital and electricity use data were collected daily. They completed a self-administered questionnaire. Among participants living alone, electricity from 20 February to 11 March 2013 was negatively associated with high-density lipoprotein (HDL) (P = 0.008) and positively associated with low-density lipoprotein (LDL) (P = 0.007) and neutral fat (P = 0.020) levels. Among all participants, electricity use was negatively associated with vegetable intake (P = 0.044) and step count (P = 0.040). Temperature sensitivity in winter was negatively associated with the LDL/HDL ratio for both men and women. For men, temperature sensitivity in winter was negatively related with alcohol intake; for women, it was positively related to body fat percentage and abdominal circumference and negatively correlated to vegetable intake. Temperature sensitivity in summer was positively associated with vegetable intake for men and women. In conclusion, electricity use was related to vital data and lifestyles and influenced by temperature.
Selection of endogenous control genes for normalising gene expression data derived from formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tumour tissue
Authors: Smith Tim A. D. , AbdelKarem Omneya A. , Irlam-Jones Joely J. , Lane Brian , Valentine Helen , Bibby Becky A. S. , Denley Helen , Choudhury Ananya , West Catharine M. L.
Published: October 2020

Quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) data are normalised using endogenous control genes. We aimed to: (1) demonstrate a pathway to identify endogenous control genes for qPCR analysis of formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue using bladder cancer as an exemplar; and (2) examine the influence of probe length and sample age on PCR amplification and co-expression of candidate genes on apparent expression stability. RNA was extracted from prospective and retrospective samples and subject to qPCR using TaqMan human endogenous control arrays or single tube assays. Gene stability ranking was assessed using coefficient of variation (CoV), GeNorm and NormFinder. Co-expressed genes were identified from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) using the on-line gene regression analysis tool GRACE. Cycle threshold (Ct) values were lower for prospective (19.49 ± 2.53) vs retrospective (23.8 ± 3.32) tissues (p < 0.001) and shortervslonger probes. Co-expressed genes ranked as the most stable genes in the TCGA cohort by GeNorm when analysed together but ranked lower when analysed individually omitting co-expressed genes indicating bias. Stability values were < 1.5 for the 20 candidate genes in the prospective cohort. As they consistently ranked in the top ten by CoV, GeNorm and Normfinder,UBC, RPLP0, HMBS, GUSB, and TBPare the most suitable endogenous control genes for bladder cancer qPCR.
Cultural differences in food detection
Authors: Sato Wataru , Rymarczyk Krystyna , Minemoto Kazusa , Hyniewska Sylwia
Published: October 2020

The ability to detect food plays an indispensable role in our survival and wellbeing. Previous psychological studies have revealed that food is detected more rapidly than non-food items. However, whether the detection of food could be modulated by cultural factors remains unknown. We investigated this issue in the present study using a visual search paradigm with Polish and Japanese participants. Photographs of international fast food, domestic Japanese food, or kitchen tools were presented alongside images of non-food distractors (cars). Participants were asked to judge whether the stimuli were all identical or not. The reaction time data showed that participants from both cultures detected food more rapidly than kitchen tools. Japanese participants detected fast food more rapidly than Japanese food, whereas Polish participants did not display such differences between food types. These results suggest that rapid detection of food is universal, but is modulated by cultural experiences.
Predictors of outcomes in patients with mitral regurgitation undergoing percutaneous valve repair
Authors: Polimeni Alberto , Albanese Michele , Salerno Nadia , Aquila Iolanda , Sabatino Jolanda , Sorrentino Sabato , Leo Isabella , Cacia Michele , Signorile Vincenzo , Mongiardo Annalisa , Spaccarotella Carmen , De Rosa Salvatore , Indolfi Ciro
Published: October 2020

Percutaneous mitral valve repair has been increasingly performed worldwide after approval. We sought to investigate predictors of clinical outcome in patients with mitral regurgitation undergoing percutaneous valve repair. The MITRA-UMG study, a single-centre registry, retrospectively collected consecutive patients with symptomatic moderate-to-severe or severe MR undergoing MitraClip therapy. The primary endpoint was the composite of cardiovascular death or rehospitalization for heart failure. Between March 2012 and July 2018, a total of 150 consecutive patients admitted to our institution were included. Procedural success was obtained in 95.3% of patients. The composite primary endpoint of cardiovascular death or rehospitalization for HF was met in 55 patients (37.9%) with cumulative incidences of 7.6%, 26.2%, at 30 days and 1-year, respectively. In the Cox multivariate model, NYHA functional class and left ventricular end-diastolic volume index (LVEDVi), independently increased the risk of the primary endpoint at long-term follow-up. At Kaplan–Meier analysis, a LVEDVi > 92 ml/m2 was associated with an increased incidence of the primary endpoint. In this study, patients presenting with dilated ventricles (LVEDVi > 92 ml/m2) and advanced heart failure symptoms (NYHA IV) at baseline carried the worst prognosis after percutaneous mitral valve repair.
Early identification using the referral system prolonged the time to onset for hepatic encephalopathy after diagnosing severe acute liver injury
Authors: Kakisaka Keisuke , Suzuki Yuji , Abe Hiroaki , Watanabe Takuya , Yusa Kenji , Sato Hiroki , Takikawa Yasuhiro
Published: October 2020

In 2004, we implemented a referral system for patients with acute liver injury (ALI) based on an established formula that estimates the risk of progression to acute live failure (ALF); however, the benefits of the system for patients with severe acute liver injury (SLI) remain unclear. We have evaluated the clinical significance of the referral system for SLI patients. Patients with ALI/SLI who were consecutively and prospectively listed on the system between 2004 and 2018 were analyzed. Of the 371 ALI/SLI/ALF patients on the system, 124 satisfied the criteria for SLI; 34 of these 124 progressed to SLI after registration. Multivariate analysis using age, sex, AST, ALT, creatinine, total bilirubin, prothrombin, presence of hepatic encephalopathy (HE), and SLI at registration revealed that HE was associated with high mortality. Among the 23 patients who developed HE, five who progressed to SLI after registration showed an increased time to HE development compared with patients who had SLI at the time of registration. However, there was no significant difference in survival time after HE development. We concluded that early identification of SLI patients using the referral system increased the time from SLI diagnosis to HE development.
Gravistimulation effects on Oryza sativa amino acid profile, growth pattern and expression of OsPIN genes
Authors: Farooq Muhammad , Jan Rahmatullah , Kim Kyung-Min
Published: October 2020

Gravity is an important ecological factor regulating plant growth and developmental processes. Here we used various molecular and biochemical approaches to investigate artificial and normal gravistimulation’s effect on the early growth stages of rice (Oryza sativa L.) by changing the orientations of Petri dishes. Rate of amino acid formation, root and shoot growth, and OsPIN expression was significantly higher under gravistimulation compared with the control. Clinostat rotation positively affected plant growth and amino acid profile. However, under normal gravity, vertical-oriented seedlings showed high amino acid levels compared with clinostat, 90°-rotated, and control seedlings. Similarly, seedling growth significantly increased with 90°-rotated and vertical orientations. Artificial gravity and exogenous indole-3-acetic acid induced OsPIN1 expression in the roots, root shoot junction, and shoots of clinorotated seedlings. Phenyl acetic acid induced OsPIN1 expression in the roots and root shoot junction of clinorotated seedlings but not in the shoot. The current study suggests that OsPIN1 is differentially regulated and that it might be involved in the regulation of plant growth. Conversely, OsPIN2 and OsPIN3a are gravity sensors and highly induced in the roots and root shoot junctions of vertical and 90°-rotated seedlings and play an important role in stress conditions. Thus, on exposure to gravity, hormones, and UV-C radiation, these genes are highly regulated by jasmonic acid, 6-benzylaminopurine and gibberellic acid.
Cooling effect and control factors of common shrubs on the urban heat island effect in a southern city in China
Authors: Zhang Rongfei
Published: October 2020

Because the heat island effect can make cities warmer than their surroundings, it can make urban dwellers uncomfortable and even affect their health, which is particularly pronounced in developed cities in southern China. To reduce the heat island effect and improve the environment, various types of vegetation have been planted in the urban green belt. Though previous studies have been conducted on the beauty, air purification functions and cooling effect of vegetation, little is concentrated on the different cooling effects and control factors of various common shrubs on the heat island effect in cities. In this study, five of the most regionally common shrubs were selected to study the cooling effect in Guangzhou, southern China. The maximum surface temperatures of five shrubs and pavement were compared using infrared temperature sensors from April 1st 2019 to October 31st 2019. Results show that (1) All five shrubs showed noticeable seasonal variation, and the average surface temperatures of the five shrubs were between 38.0 and 42.2 °C during May–August and 30.7–34.1 °C during the other seasons (April, September and October);. (2) Murraya exotica L. exhibited the best cooling effect on the maximum surface temperature. Its value was 44.7 °C, and the absolute difference values of Murraya exotica L. (10.3 ± 1.7 °C) were higher than any other shrub during the study period; (3) Both the LAI (R2 = 0.57, p < 0.01) and plant height (R2 = 0.13, p < 0.01) are control factors of the cooling effect on vegetation surface temperature for the five shrubs. This study revealed the differences in the cooling effect and influencing factors of five regionally common shrubs on the heat island effect. Research on the functional characteristics of plants and plant selection in urban green belts has both theoretical and practical significance.
Thermostabilization of viruses via complex coacervation
Authors: Mi Xue , Blocher McTigue Whitney C. , Joshi Pratik U. , Bunker Mallory K. , Heldt Caryn L. , Perry Sarah L.
Published: October 2020

Complex coacervation shows promise as a strategy to improve the thermal stability of viruses for use in vaccine formulations.
A curious case of dynamic disorder in pyrrolidine rings elucidated by NMR crystallography
Authors: Szell Patrick M. J. , Brown Steven P. , Hughes Leslie P. , Blade Helen , Nilsson Lill Sten O.
Published: October 2020

Pseudosymmetric pyrrolidine groups exhibiting distinct dynamics are investigated by solid-state NMR and DFT, uncovering the origins to this contrast.
Recurrent π(arene)⋯π(chelate ring) motifs in four trinuclear CuII2MII (M = Cd/Zn) complexes derived from an unsymmetrical N2O2 donor ligand: structural and theoretical investigations
Authors: Maity Souvik , Ghosh Tanmoy Kumar , Gomila Rosa M. , Frontera Antonio , Ghosh Ashutosh
Published: October 2020

Detailed DFT calculations of four new trinuclear Cu2M (M = ZnII and CdII) complexes derived from a N2O2 donor unsymmetrical Schiff base ligand have been accomplished.
The wetting characteristics of molten Ag–Cu–Au on Cu substrates: a molecular dynamics study
Authors: Yang Yao , Liang Yuxin , Bi Juan , Bai Yang , He Shi , Li Bangsheng
Published: October 2020

Ag–Cu–Au ternary alloys are promising solder materials for wire bonding.
Strikingly different molecular organization and molecular order of tetracatenar mesogens in columnar mesophases revealed by XRD and13C NMR
Authors: Reddy M. Guruprasad , Lobo Nitin P. , Roy Arun , Ramanathan K. V. , Narasimhaswamy T.
Published: October 2020

XRD and13C NMR investigations of four tetracatenar mesogens reveal lamellar mesophase for a lower homologs and centre rectangular/2D hexagonal columnar mesophases for higher homologs with strikingly different molecular orientations.
Electron transfer in oriented donor–acceptor dyads, intralayer charge migration, and formation of interlayer charge separated states in multi-layered Langmuir–Schäfer films
Authors: Alekseev Alexander , Efimov Alexander , Chukharev Vladimir , Ivanov Artem , Lemmetyinen Helge
Published: October 2020

Photo-induced ET efficiencies were determined quantitatively layer-by-layer through multilayered porphyrin–fullerene dyad films.
Mechanistic understanding of ethane dehydrogenation and aromatization over Zn/ZSM-5: effects of Zn modification and CO2 co-reactant
Authors: Fan Huahua , Nie Xiaowa , Wang Haozhi , Janik Michael J. , Song Chunshan , Guo Xinwen
Published: October 2020

DFT calculations identified the promotional role of introducing a Zn modifier to HZSM-5 in ethane dehydrogenation/aromatization. The CO2-assisted effect would be achieved by using bimetallic-modified catalysts such as Zn–Pt/ZSM5 and Zn–Fe/ZSM-5.
Structure-related differential proteins identification for sous-vide cooking hairtail (Trichiurus lepturus) product
Authors: Li Yuan , Huang Jiayin , Zhou Yaqi , Wu Tiantian , Ma Peihua , Yuan Chunhong , Chen Shiguo , Hu Yaqin
Published: October 2020

Optimal heating parameters for sous-vide cooking hairtail (Trichiurus lepturus) were selected and the differential proteins related to texture change were clarified using proteomics.
Comparison of protein hydrolysates against their native counterparts in terms of structural and antioxidant properties, and when used as emulsifiers for curcumin nanoemulsions
Authors: Jin Hua , Liu Chang , Zhang Shenyi , Guo Zhuanzhuan , Li Jishu , Zhao Qingshan , Zhang Yan , Xu Jing
Published: October 2020

The stability andin vitrodigestion of nanoemulsions stabilized by natural protein hydrolysates (PPI, SPI and WPI) are discussed.
Stimuli-responsive micro/nanoporous hairy skin for adaptive thermal insulation and infrared camouflage
Authors: Choe Ayoung , Yeom Jeonghee , Kwon Yeju , Lee Youngoh , Shin Young-Eun , Kim Jinyoung , Ko Hyunhyub
Published: October 2020

A smart hairy skin with hiearchical micro/nanoporous shape memory polymer enables dynamically adaptive thermal insulation.
Iron deficiency and the loss of chloroplast iron–sulfur cluster assembly trigger distinct transcriptome changes in Arabidopsis rosettes
Authors: Kroh Gretchen Elizabeth , Pilon Marinus
Published: October 2020

Regulation of mRNA abundance revealed a genetic program for plant leaf acclimation to iron (Fe) limitation. The transcript for SUFB, a key component of the plastid iron–sulfur (Fe–S) assembly pathway is down-regulated early after Fe deficiency, and prior to down-regulation of mRNAs encoding abundant chloroplast Fe containing proteins, which should economize the use of Fe. What controls this system is unclear. We utilized RNA-seq. aimed to identify differentially expressed transcripts that are co-regulated with SUFB after Fe deficiency in leaves. To distinguish if lack of Fe or lack of Fe–S cofactors and associated loss of enzymatic and photosynthetic activity trigger transcriptome reprogramming, WT plants on low Fe were compared with an inducible sufb-RNAi knockdown. Fe deficiency targeted a limited set of genes and predominantly affected transcripts for chloroplast localized proteins. A set of glutaredoxin transcripts was concertedly down-regulated early after Fe deficiency, however when these same genes were down-regulated by RNAi the effect on known chloroplast Fe deficiency marker proteins was minimal. In promoters of differentially expressed genes, binding motifs for AP2/ERF transcription factors were most abundant and three AP2/ERF transcription factors were also differentially expressed early after low Fe treatment. Surprisingly, Fe deficiency in a WT on low Fe and a sufb-RNAi knockdown presented very little overlap in differentially expressed genes. sufb-RNAi produced expression patterns expected for Fe excess and up-regulation of a transcript for another Fe–S assembly component not affected by low Fe. These findings indicate that Fe scarcity, not Fe utilization, triggers reprogramming of the transcriptome in leaves.
Ni-Catalyzed stereoselective difunctionalization of alkynes
Authors: Liu Wenfeng , Kong Wangqing
Published: October 2020

We summarize the progress of the nickel-catalyzed alkyne difunctionalization reaction for the synthesis of tri- and tetrasubstituted olefins, with an emphasis on the strategy and control of stereochemistry.
Progresses in organocatalytic asymmetric dearomatization reactions of indole derivatives
Authors: Sheng Feng-Tao , Wang Jing-Yi , Tan Wei , Zhang Yu-Chen , Shi Feng
Published: October 2020

This review summarizes the progresses in organocatalytic asymmetric dearomatization reactions of indole derivatives and their applications in total synthesis of natural products, and gives some insights into challenging issues in this research field.
Surface refined AuQuercetinnanoconjugate stimulates dermal cell migration: possible implication in wound healing
Authors: H. Madhyastha , S. Halder , N. Queen Intan , R. Madhyastha , A. Mohanapriya , R. Sudhakaran , L. S. Sajitha , K. Banerjee , P. Bethasiwi , H. Daima , P. N. Navya , M. Maruyama , Y. Nakajima
Published: October 2020

AuQuercetinnano conjugates enhances cell migrationviaTGFβ1.
Dysprosium magnesium silicate apatite featuring field and temperature stable slow magnetization relaxation
Authors: Kazin Pavel E. , Zykin Mikhail A. , Trusov Lev A. , Vasiliev Alexander V. , Kremer Reinhard K. , Dinnebier Robert E. , Jansen Martin
Published: October 2020

The compound reveals dual magnetization relaxation with largely varying contributions from fast and slow relaxation paths controlled by field and temperature. The relaxation times retain values of a few seconds up to 40 K.
Sulfonation of alginate grafted with polyacrylamide as a potential binder for high-capacity Si/C anodes
Authors: Gendensuren Bolormaa , He Chengxiang , Oh Eun-Suok
Published: October 2020

A systematic approach for how to find an appropriate polymer binder for high-capacity LIB anodes is presented in this study.
LiFePO4-coated LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2 for lithium-ion batteries with enhanced cycling performance at elevated temperatures and high voltages
Authors: You Longzhen , Tang Jiantao , Wu Qiang , Zhang Congcong , Liu Da , Huang Tao , Yu Aishui
Published: October 2020

LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2 (NCM622) is a highly promising cathode material owing to its high capacity; however, it is characterized by inferior cycling performance and safety problems.
Improving students’ summative knowledge of introductory chemistry through the forward testing effect: examining the role of retrieval practice quizzing
Authors: Todd Kaylee , Therriault David J. , Angerhofer Alexander
Published: October 2020

Building domain knowledge is essential to a student's success in any course. Chemistry, similar to other STEM disciplines, has a strong cumulative element (i.e., topic areas continuously build upon prior coursework). We employed the testing effect, in the form of post-exam retrieval quizzes, as a way to improve students’ understanding of chemistry over an entire semester. Students (n = 146) enrolled in Introduction to Chemistry were presented with retrieval quizzes released one week after each during-term exam (that covered that exam's content). We measured students’ level of quiz participation, during-term exam scores (a control variable), and cumulative final exam scores to determine the effectiveness of implementing a post-exam retrieval quiz system. Most critically, students completing more than 50% of the retrieval quizzes performed significantly better (i.e., more than a half letter grade) on the cumulative final exam than those who were below 50% participation as determined by one-way between-subjects ANOVA and planned follow-up analyses. We found no significant differences between the participating groups on during-term exam scores, suggesting that high achieving students were not more likely than struggling students to participate in the practice testing (and thus benefit from it).
Optimal d-band-induced Cu3N as a cocatalyst on metal sulfides for boosting photocatalytic hydrogen evolution
Authors: Guo Qing , Liang Fei , Sun Zongzhao , Wang Yang , Li Xu-Bing , Xia Shu-Guang , Zhang Z. Conrad , Huang Limin , Wu Li-Zhu
Published: October 2020

The appropriate d-band center of Cu3N induced its intrinsic privileges towards H2generation as a cocatalyst with 851-fold enhancement.
Extracellular matrix coating improves the biocompatibility of polymeric heart valves
Authors: Wu Binggang , Jin Linhe , Ding Kailei , Zhou Yonghua , Yang Li , Lei Yang , Guo Yingqiang , Wang Yunbing
Published: October 2020

Prosthetic heart valve replacement is an effective therapy for patients with valvular heart disease.
Highly sensitive detection of rutin in pharmaceuticals and human serum using ITO electrodes modified with vertically-ordered mesoporous silica–graphene nanocomposite films
Authors: Ma Xinyu , Liao Wenyan , Zhou Huaxu , Tong Yun , Yan Fei , Tang Hongliang , Liu Jiyang
Published: October 2020

A vertically-ordered silica–graphene nanocomposite film modified transparent ITO electrode was prepared by a one-step electrodeposition method for antifouling detection of rutin in pharmaceuticals and human serum.
Synthesis of small Ag–Sb–Te nanocrystals with composition control
Authors: Moser Annina , Yarema Olesya , Yarema Maksym , Wood Vanessa
Published: October 2020

Ternary telluride nanocrystals have gained increasing interest as materials for thermoelectric, optoelectronic, and phase-change memory applications. This paper presents an amide-promoted synthesis for Ag–Sb–Te colloidal nanocrystals with accurate composition control.
Iridium-based polymer for memristive devices with integrated logic and arithmetic applications
Authors: Ren Yi , Lin Wei-Cheng , Ting Li-Yu , Ding Guanglong , Yang Baidong , Yang Jia-Qin , Chou Ho-Hsiu , Han Su-Ting , Zhou Ye
Published: October 2020

A multifunctional polymer memristor with combined data storage and processing abilities on the basis of a novel solution-processed Ir-based polymer (PFTBDD-IrTPy) is demonstrated.
Crystallization management for high-performance perovskite solar cells by introducing an antisolvent into the perovskite precursor
Authors: Xu Chongyang , Liu Zhihai , Lee Eun-Cheol
Published: October 2020

Mixing diethyl ether into perovskite precursor can tune the crystal formation through the entire process, yielding a quality-improved perovskite crystal.
Restoration of ceramidede novosynthesis by the synthetic retinoid ST1926 as it induces adult T-cell leukemia cell death
Authors: Ghandour Botheina , Pisano Claudio , Darwiche Nadine , Dbaibo Ghassan
Published: October 2020

Ceramide (Cer) is a bioactive cellular lipid with compartmentalized and tightly regulated levels. Distinct metabolic pathways lead to the generation of Cer species with distinguishable roles in oncogenesis. Deregulation of Cer pathways has emerged as an important mechanism for acquired chemotherapeutic resistance. Adult T-cell leukemia (ATL) cells are defective in Cer synthesis. ATL is an aggressive neoplasm that develops following infection with human T-cell lymphotropic virus-1 (HTLV-1) where the viral oncogene Tax contributes to the pathogenesis of the disease. ATL cells, resistant to all-trans-retinoic acid, are sensitive to pharmacologically achievable concentrations of the synthetic retinoid ST1926. We studied the effects of ST1926 on Cer pathways in ATL cells. ST1926 treatment resulted in early Tax oncoprotein degradation in HTLV-1-treated cells. ST1926 induced cell death and a dose- and time-dependent accumulation of Cer in malignant T cells. The kinetics and degree of Cer production showed an early response upon ST1926 treatment. ST1926 enhanced de novo Cer synthesis via activation of ceramide synthase CerS(s) without inhibiting dihydroceramide desaturase, thereby accumulating Cer rather than the less bioactive dihydroceramide. Using labeling experiments with the unnatural 17-carbon sphinganine and measuring the generated Cer species, we showed that ST1926 preferentially induces the activities of a distinct set of CerS(s). We detected a delay in cell death response and interruption of Cer generation in response to ST1926 in Molt-4 cells overexpressing Bcl-2. These results highlight the potential role of ST1926 in inducing Cer levels, thus lowering the threshold for cell death in ATL cells.
The Narrative Competence of Bilingual Jamaican Creole– and English-Speaking Preschoolers
Authors: Washington Karla N. , Westby Carol , Fritz Kristina , Crowe Kathryn , Karem Rachel Wright , Basinger Melanie
Published: October 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to characterize narrative competence of typically developing bilingual children using Jamaican Creole (JC) and English.

Method

Story comprehension and fictional storytelling tasks in JC and English were completed by 104 bilingual preschoolers aged 4–6 years. Story comprehension was analyzed using inferential story comprehension questions representing Blank's Question Hierarchy. Fictional storytelling was analyzed using the Monitoring Indicators of Scholarly Language framework for narrative macrostructure and microstructure.

Results

Story comprehension was significantly correlated within each language, but only questions from Level 4 of Blank's Question Hierarchy showed significant correlations between languages. Fictional storytelling was significantly better in English than in JC for macrostructure (total score, internal response, plan, consequence) and microstructure (total score, adverbs, elaborated noun phrases). Story complexity in JC and English was significantly correlated. In terms of developmental effects, children's macrostructure and story complexity appear to be better at 4 years than 5 years, with English outperforming JC. Furthermore, age correlated with story comprehension in JC.

Conclusion

Comparison of narrative competence in bilingual children provides much needed insights into language development, with examination of JC and English bilinguals representing an understudied bilingual context.
We Are in a Book: Using Metafictive Picture Books to Facilitate Emergent Literacy Goals
Authors: Lederer Susan Hendler , Abruzzino Toni A.
Published: October 2020

Purpose

Literature-based intervention is used to facilitate both early language and emergent literacy goals, which supports success in later reading and writing. Best practices in choosing picture books to facilitate specific goals are limited, but one line of research asserts that different genres align with different goals. However, metafiction is one genre that is yet to be explored as a context for facilitating emergent literacy goals. Metafiction uses a variety of devices to draw attention to itself as an artifact providing unique learning opportunities. The purposes of this clinical focus article are to (a) introduce the different devices authors use in metafictive writing, (b) correlate individual devices with specific foundational literacy goals targeted in therapy (i.e., oral language, phonological awareness, print awareness, and alphabet knowledge), and (c) provide a sample session. A variety of metafictive picture books will be offered to illustrate these connections.

Conclusion

Metafictive picture books provide a rich context for facilitating emergent literacy goals because of the specific devices authors use in these texts.
Design refinements of synchronous reluctance motor utilising non‐magnetic radial ribs for traction applications
Authors: Panda Sibasish , Keshri Ritesh Kumar , Tessarolo Alberto , Tiwari Gaurav , Mezzarobba Mario
Published: October 2020

The rotor structure of synchronous reluctance motor (SynRm) is usually provided with redial ribs to improve structural ruggedness for high‐speed operation. While these radial ribs contribute to mechanical robustness, they also reduce the average torque and limit the flux‐weakening capability due to an increase in inductance along the q ‐axis. To address this issue, the rotor design is refined by adopting non‐magnetic radial ribs in this study. The introduction of titanium as non‐magnetic material for radial ribs prevents magnetic leakage flux from flowing along the q ‐axis, and thereby improves the average torque, saliency ratio, efficiency and power factor of the SynRm. Furthermore, along with the electromagnetic analysis, the mechanical integrity of the proposed rotor design is also investigated. Two prototypes rated 1 kW at 1500 rpm are fabricated using both the conventional and the proposed rotor design, while the stator and other parameters are maintained constant in the two cases. The conventional design uses magnetic radial ribs whereas the proposed design uses non‐magnetic radial ribs. Finally, a thorough comparative study, including inductance tests on the prototypes, is performed between the proposed and the conventional SynRm, confirming the strengths of the technology solution being set forth.
Contribution of emergency demand response and emergency loading of overhead lines in network resilience enhancements
Authors: Abogaleela Mohamed , Kopsidas Konstantinos , Wang Keyi
Published: October 2020

High‐impact low‐probability weather hazards threaten the power network operation. One of the existing solutions is to reinforce the network with further investment, while the network hardening is restricted by environmental policies and financial conditions. Flexibility methods become increasingly important to enhance network reliability and resilience at low costs. Emergency loadings and probabilistic thermal ratings for overhead lines (OHLs) are the common flexibility options to the network operators. So far, the reliability and resilience impacts of such operations of OHLs and their associated ageing risks are not thoroughly investigated in the up‐to‐date literature. This study presents a novel resilience enhancement method against windstorms using available emergency demand response in the network and emergency loading of OHLs. The proposed methodology framework can capture the enhancement of network resilience from emergency loading and emergency demand response to provide extra flexibility and minimise network ageing. It is a novel optimisation approach to quantify the trade‐off between enhanced network resilience and ageing accounting for operators’ preferences regarding the criticality of an individual line's ageing. The proposed method is applied on the IEEE 24 bus reliability test system with having network resilience improvements up to 39% in the conditional value at risk of the energy not supplied and ageing minimisation up to 44%.
Bar resonances and low angular momentum moving groups in the Galaxy revealed by their stellar ages
Authors: Laporte Chervin F. P. , Famaey Benoit , Monari Giacomo , Hill Vanessa , Wegg Christopher , Gerhard Ortwin
Published: October 2020

We use the second Gaia data release to dissect the Milky Way disc in phase-space and relative ages. We confirm and report the existence of multiple velocity moving groups at low azimuthal velocities and angular momenta, below Arcturus, regularly separated by ∼18−20 km s−1 in azimuthal velocity. Such features were predicted to exist more than ten years ago, based on the reaction of the Milky Way to a perturbation in the disc undergoing phase-mixing. These structures appear slightly younger than their phase-space surroundings and reach up to high (solar) metallicities, which argues against an extra-galactic origin. We also identify, in terms of relative age, many of the classical ridges in the plane of azimuthal velocity versus Galactocentric radius, which are traditionally associated with resonance features. These ridges are also younger than their phase-space surroundings in accordance with predictions from recent state-of-the-art cosmological hydrodynamical simulations of Milky Way-like galaxies. We study the response of dynamically young and old stellar disc populations to resonances from an analytic model of a large bar which, remarkably, reproduces qualitatively the trends seen in the data for the classical ridges close to circularity. Our results reinforce the idea that the Galactic disc is being shaped by both internal and external perturbations, along with the fact that while absolute isochrone ages have to be taken with great care, exploring the dynamical structure of the disc in stellar ages, especially with future asteroseismic data, will provide much stronger constraints than metallicity and abundance trends alone.