bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Defining and distinguishing infant behavioral states using acoustic cry analysis: is colic painful?
Authors: Parga Joanna J. , Lewin Sharon , Lewis Juanita , Montoya-Williams Diana , Alwan Abeer , Shaul Brianna , Han Carol , Bookheimer Susan Y. , Eyer Sherry , Dapretto Mirella , Zeltzer Lonnie , Dunlap Lauren , Nookala Usha , Sun Daniel , Dang Bianca H. , Anderson Ariana E.
Published: October 2019

Background

To characterize acoustic features of an infant’s cry and use machine learning to provide an objective measurement of behavioral state in a cry-translator. To apply the cry-translation algorithm to colic hypothesizing that these cries sound painful.

Methods

Assessment of 1000 cries in a mobile app (ChatterBabyTM). Training a cry-translation algorithm by evaluating >6000 acoustic features to predict whether infant cry was due to a pain (vaccinations, ear-piercings), fussy, or hunger states. Using the algorithm to predict the behavioral state of infants with reported colic.

Results

The cry-translation algorithm was 90.7% accurate for identifying pain cries, and achieved 71.5% accuracy in discriminating cries from fussiness, hunger, or pain. The ChatterBaby cry-translation algorithm overwhelmingly predicted that colic cries were most likely from pain, compared to fussy and hungry states. Colic cries had average pain ratings of 73%, significantly greater than the pain measurements found in fussiness and hunger (p < 0.001, 2-samplettest). Colic cries outranked pain cries by measures of acoustic intensity, including energy, length of voiced periods, and fundamental frequency/pitch, while fussy and hungry cries showed reduced intensity measures compared to pain and colic.

Conclusions

Acoustic features of cries are consistent across a diverse infant population and can be utilized as objective markers of pain, hunger, and fussiness. The ChatterBaby algorithm detected significant acoustic similarities between colic and painful cries, suggesting that they may share a neuronal pathway.
Prebiotic condensation through wet–dry cycling regulated by deliquescence
Authors: Campbell Thomas D. , Febrian Rio , McCarthy Jack T. , Kleinschmidt Holly E. , Forsythe Jay G. , Bracher Paul J.
Published: October 2019

Wet–dry cycling is widely regarded as a means of driving condensation reactions under prebiotic conditions to generate mixtures of prospective biopolymers. A criticism of this model is its reliance on unpredictable rehydration events, like rainstorms. Here, we report the ability of deliquescent minerals to mediate the oligomerization of glycine during iterative wet–dry cycles. The reaction mixtures evaporate to dryness at high temperatures and spontaneously reacquire water vapor to form aqueous solutions at low temperatures. Deliquescent mixtures can foster yields of oligomerization over ten-fold higher than non-deliquescent controls. The deliquescent mixtures tightly regulate their moisture content, which is crucial, as too little water precludes dissolution of the reactants while too much water favors hydrolysis over condensation. The model also suggests a potential reason why life evolved to favor the enrichment of potassium: so living systems could acquire and retain sufficient water to serve as a solvent for biochemical reactions.
Mitochondrial calcium exchange links metabolism with the epigenome to control cellular differentiation
Authors: Lombardi Alyssa A. , Gibb Andrew A. , Arif Ehtesham , Kolmetzky Devin W. , Tomar Dhanendra , Luongo Timothy S. , Jadiya Pooja , Murray Emma K. , Lorkiewicz Pawel K. , Hajnóczky György , Murphy Elizabeth , Arany Zoltan P. , Kelly Daniel P. , Margulies Kenneth B. , Hill Bradford G. , Elrod John W.
Published: October 2019

Fibroblast to myofibroblast differentiation is crucial for the initial healing response but excessive myofibroblast activation leads to pathological fibrosis. Therefore, it is imperative to understand the mechanisms underlying myofibroblast formation. Here we report that mitochondrial calcium (mCa2+) signaling is a regulatory mechanism in myofibroblast differentiation and fibrosis. We demonstrate that fibrotic signaling alters gating of the mitochondrial calcium uniporter (mtCU) in a MICU1-dependent fashion to reduce mCa2+ uptake and induce coordinated changes in metabolism, i.e., increased glycolysis feeding anabolic pathways and glutaminolysis yielding increased α-ketoglutarate (αKG) bioavailability. mCa2+-dependent metabolic reprogramming leads to the activation of αKG-dependent histone demethylases, enhancing chromatin accessibility in loci specific to the myofibroblast gene program, resulting in differentiation. Our results uncover an important role for the mtCU beyond metabolic regulation and cell death and demonstrate that mCa2+ signaling regulates the epigenome to influence cellular differentiation.
Author Correction: Mitochondria-specific drug release and reactive oxygen species burst induced by polyprodrug nanoreactors can enhance chemotherapy
Authors: Zhang Wenjia , Hu Xianglong , Shen Qi , Xing Da
Published: October 2019

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Restoration of visual function by transplantation of optogenetically engineered photoreceptors
Authors: Garita-Hernandez Marcela , Lampič Maruša , Chaffiol Antoine , Guibbal Laure , Routet Fiona , Santos-Ferreira Tiago , Gasparini Sylvia , Borsch Oliver , Gagliardi Giuliana , Reichman Sacha , Picaud Serge , Sahel José-Alain , Goureau Olivier , Ader Marius , Dalkara Deniz , Duebel Jens
Published: October 2019

A major challenge in the treatment of retinal degenerative diseases, with the transplantation of replacement photoreceptors, is the difficulty in inducing the grafted cells to grow and maintain light sensitive outer segments in the host retina, which depends on proper interaction with the underlying retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). Here, for an RPE-independent treatment approach, we introduce a hyperpolarizing microbial opsin into photoreceptor precursors from newborn mice, and transplant them into blind mice lacking the photoreceptor layer. These optogenetically-transformed photoreceptors are light responsive and their transplantation leads to the recovery of visual function, as shown by ganglion cell recordings and behavioral tests. Subsequently, we generate cone photoreceptors from human induced pluripotent stem cells, expressing the chloride pump Jaws. After transplantation into blind mice, we observe light-driven responses at the photoreceptor and ganglion cell levels. These results demonstrate that structural and functional retinal repair is possible by combining stem cell therapy and optogenetics.
Arctigenin attenuates diabetic kidney disease through the activation of PP2A in podocytes
Authors: Zhong Yifei , Lee Kyung , Deng Yueyi , Ma Yueming , Chen Yiping , Li Xueling , Wei Chengguo , Yang Shumin , Wang Tianming , Wong Nicholas J. , Muwonge Alecia N. , Azeloglu Evren U. , Zhang Weijia , Das Bhaskar , He John Cijiang , Liu Ruijie
Published: October 2019

Arctigenin (ATG) is a major component ofFructus Arctii, a traditional herbal remedy that reduced proteinuria in diabetic patients. However, whether ATG specifically provides renoprotection in DKD is not known. Here we report that ATG administration is sufficient to attenuate proteinuria and podocyte injury in mouse models of diabetes. Transcriptomic analysis of diabetic mouse glomeruli showed that cell adhesion and inflammation are two key pathways affected by ATG treatment, and mass spectrometry analysis identified protein phosphatase 2 A (PP2A) as one of the top ATG-interacting proteins in renal cells. Enhanced PP2A activity by ATG reduces p65 NF-κB-mediated inflammatory response and high glucose-induced migration in cultured podocytes via interaction with Drebrin-1. Importantly, podocyte-specificPp2adeletion in mice exacerbates DKD injury and abrogates the ATG-mediated renoprotection. Collectively, our results demonstrate a renoprotective mechanism of ATG via PP2A activation and establish PP2A as a potential target for DKD progression.
Gate-tunable giant nonreciprocal charge transport in noncentrosymmetric oxide interfaces
Authors: Choe Daeseong , Jin Mi-Jin , Kim Shin-Ik , Choi Hyung-Jin , Jo Junhyeon , Oh Inseon , Park Jungmin , Jin Hosub , Koo Hyun Cheol , Min Byoung-Chul , Hong Seokmin , Lee Hyun-Woo , Baek Seung-Hyub , Yoo Jung-Woo
Published: October 2019

A polar conductor, where inversion symmetry is broken, may exhibit directional propagation of itinerant electrons, i.e., the rightward and leftward currents differ from each other, when time-reversal symmetry is also broken. This potential rectification effect was shown to be very weak due to the fact that the kinetic energy is much higher than the energies associated with symmetry breaking, producing weak perturbations. Here we demonstrate the appearance of giant nonreciprocal charge transport in the conductive oxide interface, LaAlO3/SrTiO3, where the electrons are confined to two-dimensions with low Fermi energy. In addition, the Rashba spin–orbit interaction correlated with the sub-band hierarchy of this system enables a strongly tunable nonreciprocal response by applying a gate voltage. The observed behavior of directional response in LaAlO3/SrTiO3 is associated with comparable energy scales among kinetic energy, spin–orbit interaction, and magnetic field, which inspires a promising route to enhance nonreciprocal response and its functionalities in spin orbitronics.
Tailoring the component of protein corona via simple chemistry
Authors: Lu Xiang , Xu Peipei , Ding Hong-Ming , Yu You-Sheng , Huo Da , Ma Yu-Qiang
Published: October 2019

Control over the protein corona of nanomaterials allows them to function better. Here, by taking graphene/gold as examples, we comprehensively assessed the association of surface properties with the protein corona. As revealed by in vitro measurements and computations, the interaction between graphene/gold and HSA/IgE was inversely correlated with the hydroxyl group availability, whereas the interaction between that and ApoE was comparatively less relevant. Molecular simulations revealed that the number and the distribution of surface hydroxyl groups could regulate the manner in which nanomaterials interact with proteins. Moreover, we validated that ApoE pre-adsorption before injection enhances the blood circulation of nanomaterials relative to their pristine and IgE-coated counterparts. This benefit can be attributed to the invulnerability of the complementary system provided by ApoE, whose encasement does not increase cytotoxicity. Overall, this study offers a robust yet simple way to create protein corona enriched in dysopsonins to realize better delivery efficacy.
Monitoring cytosolic H2O2 fluctuations arising from altered plasma membrane gradients or from mitochondrial activity
Authors: Carmona Mercè , de Cubas Laura , Bautista Eric , Moral-Blanch Marta , Medraño-Fernández Iria , Sitia Roberto , Boronat Susanna , Ayté José , Hidalgo Elena
Published: October 2019

Genetically encoded probes monitoring H2O2 fluctuations in living organisms are key to decipher redox signaling events. Here we use a new probe, roGFP2-Tpx1.C169S, to monitor pre-toxic fluctuations of peroxides in fission yeast, where the concentrations linked to signaling or to toxicity have been established. This probe is able to detect nanomolar fluctuations of intracellular H2O2 caused by extracellular peroxides; expression of human aquaporin 8 channels H2O2 entry into fission yeast decreasing membrane gradients. The probe also detects H2O2 bursts from mitochondria after addition of electron transport chain inhibitors, the extent of probe oxidation being proportional to the mitochondrial activity. The oxidation of this probe is an indicator of steady-state levels of H2O2 in different genetic backgrounds. Metabolic reprogramming during growth in low-glucose media causes probe reduction due to the activation of antioxidant cascades. We demonstrate how peroxiredoxin-based probes can be used to monitor physiological H2O2 fluctuations.
De novo identification of essential protein domains from CRISPR-Cas9 tiling-sgRNA knockout screens
Authors: He Wei , Zhang Liang , Villarreal Oscar D. , Fu Rongjie , Bedford Ella , Dou Jingzhuang , Patel Anish Y. , Bedford Mark T. , Shi Xiaobing , Chen Taiping , Bartholomew Blaine , Xu Han
Published: October 2019

High-throughput CRISPR-Cas9 knockout screens using a tiling-sgRNA design permit in situ evaluation of protein domain function. Here, to facilitate de novo identification of essential protein domains from such screens, we propose ProTiler, a computational method for the robust mapping of CRISPR knockout hyper-sensitive (CKHS) regions, which refer to the protein regions associated with a strong sgRNA dropout effect in the screens. Applied to a published CRISPR tiling screen dataset, ProTiler identifies 175 CKHS regions in 83 proteins. Of these CKHS regions, more than 80% overlap with annotated Pfam domains, including all of the 15 known drug targets in the dataset. ProTiler also reveals unannotated essential domains, including the N-terminus of the SWI/SNF subunit SMARCB1, which is validated experimentally. Surprisingly, the CKHS regions are negatively correlated with phosphorylation and acetylation sites, suggesting that protein domains and post-translational modification sites have distinct sensitivities to CRISPR-Cas9 mediated amino acids loss.
The midbody interactome reveals unexpected roles for PP1 phosphatases in cytokinesis
Authors: Capalbo Luisa , Bassi Zuni I. , Geymonat Marco , Todesca Sofia , Copoiu Liviu , Enright Anton J. , Callaini Giuliano , Riparbelli Maria Giovanna , Yu Lu , Choudhary Jyoti S. , Ferrero Enrico , Wheatley Sally , Douglas Max E. , Mishima Masanori , D’Avino Pier Paolo
Published: October 2019

The midbody is an organelle assembled at the intercellular bridge between the two daughter cells at the end of mitosis. It controls the final separation of the daughter cells and has been involved in cell fate, polarity, tissue organization, and cilium and lumen formation. Here, we report the characterization of the intricate midbody protein-protein interaction network (interactome), which identifies many previously unknown interactions and provides an extremely valuable resource for dissecting the multiple roles of the midbody. Initial analysis of this interactome revealed that PP1β-MYPT1 phosphatase regulates microtubule dynamics in late cytokinesis and de-phosphorylates the kinesin component MKLP1/KIF23 of the centralspindlin complex. This de-phosphorylation antagonizes Aurora B kinase to modify the functions and interactions of centralspindlin in late cytokinesis. Our findings expand the repertoire of PP1 functions during mitosis and indicate that spatiotemporal changes in the distribution of kinases and counteracting phosphatases finely tune the activity of cytokinesis proteins.
Archaeal lipid biomarker constraints on the Paleocene-Eocene carbon isotope excursion
Authors: Elling Felix J. , Gottschalk Julia , Doeana Katiana D. , Kusch Stephanie , Hurley Sarah J. , Pearson Ann
Published: October 2019

A negative carbon isotope excursion recorded in terrestrial and marine archives reflects massive carbon emissions into the exogenic carbon reservoir during the Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum. Yet, discrepancies in carbon isotope excursion estimates from different sample types lead to substantial uncertainties in the source, scale, and timing of carbon emissions. Here we show that membrane lipids of marine planktonic archaea reliably record both the carbon isotope excursion and surface ocean warming during the Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum. Novel records of the isotopic composition of crenarchaeol constrain the global carbon isotope excursion magnitude to −4.0 ± 0.4‰, consistent with emission of >3000 Pg C from methane hydrate dissociation or >4400 Pg C for scenarios involving emissions from geothermal heating or oxidation of sedimentary organic matter. A pre-onset excursion in the isotopic composition of crenarchaeol and ocean temperature highlights the susceptibility of the late Paleocene carbon cycle to perturbations and suggests that climate instability preceded the Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum.
A Modified Collagen Dressing Induces Transition of Inflammatory to Reparative Phenotype of Wound Macrophages
Authors: Das Amitava , Abas Motaz , Biswas Nirupam , Banerjee Pradipta , Ghosh Nandini , Rawat Atul , Khanna Savita , Roy Sashwati , Sen Chandan K.
Published: October 2019

Collagen containing wound-care dressings are extensively used. However, the mechanism of action of these dressings remain unclear. Earlier studies utilizing a modified collagen gel (MCG) dressing demonstrated improved vascularization of ischemic wounds and better healing outcomes. Wound macrophages are pivotal in facilitating wound angiogenesis and timely healing. The current study was designed to investigate the effect of MCG on wound macrophage phenotype and function. MCG augmented recruitment of macrophage at the wound-site, attenuated pro-inflammatory and promoted anti-inflammatory macrophage polarization. Additionally, MCG increased anti-inflammatory IL-10, IL-4 and pro-angiogenic VEGF production, indicating a direct role of MCG in resolving wound inflammation and improving angiogenesis. At the wound-site, impairment in clearance of apoptotic cell bioburden enables chronic inflammation. Engulfment of apoptotic cells by macrophages (efferocytosis) resolves inflammationviaa miR-21-PDCD4-IL-10 pathway. MCG-treated wound macrophages exhibited a significantly bolstered efferocytosis index. Such favorable outcome significantly induced miR-21 expression. MCG-mediated IL-10 production was dampened under conditions of miR-21 knockdown pointing towards miR-21 as a causative factor. Pharmacological inhibition of JNK attenuated IL-10 production by MCG, implicating miR-21-JNK pathway in MCG-mediated IL-10 production by macrophages. This work provides direct evidence demonstrating that a collagen-based wound-care dressing may influence wound macrophage function and therefore modify wound inflammation outcomes.
Mutational analysis of renal angiomyolipoma associated with tuberous sclerosis complex and the outcome of short-term everolimus therapy
Authors: Ni Jianxin , Yan Fengqi , Qin Weijun , Yu Lei , Zhang Geng , Liu Fei , Yang Xiaojian , Yang Bo , Hao Chunlin , Wang Teng , Liu Pengfei , Yuan Jianlin , Wu Guojun
Published: October 2019

To identify clinical characteristics and mutation spectra in Chinese patients with renal angiomyolipoma (AML) associated with the tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC, TSC-AML), examined the efficacy and safety of short-term everolimus therapy (12 weeks). We analyzed the frequency distribution of each TSC-related clinical feature and investigated gene mutations by genetic testing. Some subjects received everolimus for 12 weeks at a dose of 10 mg/day, and the efficacy and safety of short-term everolimus therapy were examined. Finally, 82 TSC-AML patients were enrolled for analysis in this study. Of the 47 patients who underwent genetic testing, 22 patients (46.81%) had at least one detectable mutation in the TSC1 or TSC2 gene: 7 were TSC1 gene mutations, 13 were TSC2 gene mutations, and 2 were found in both TSC1 and TSC2. Everolimus treatment had a statistically significant effect on the renal AML volume reduction during follow-up (P < 0.05), and the mean reduction rate of volume for all cases was 56.47 ± 23.32% over 12 weeks. However, 7 patients (7/25; 28.00%) experienced an increase in renal AML tumor volume within 12 weeks after discontinuation of the everolimus treatment. Although most patients (27/30, 90.00%) experienced some adverse events during the treatment period, all such events were mild, and no patients discontinued or needed dose reduction because of adverse events. Overall, in this study, the mutation rate of TSC-AML patients is much lower than other reports. Short-term everolimus treatment for TSC-AML is effective and safe, but the stability is much lower than long-term therapy.
Winding number selection on merons by Gaussian curvature’s sign
Authors: Elías Ricardo Gabriel , Vidal-Silva Nicolás , Carvalho-Santos Vagson L.
Published: October 2019

We study the relationship between the winding number of magnetic merons and the Gaussian curvature of two-dimensional magnetic surfaces. We show that positive (negative) Gaussian curvatures privilege merons with positive (negative) winding number. As in the case of unidimensional domain walls, we found that chirality is connected to the polarity of the core. Both effects allow to predict the topological properties of metastable states knowing the geometry of the surface. These features are related with the recently predicted Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya emergent term of curved surfaces. The presented results are at our knowledge the first ones drawing attention about a direct relation between geometric properties of the surfaces and the topology of the hosted solitons.
Ozone-assisted catalytic oxidation of aqueous nitrite ions on HZSM-5 zeolites
Authors: Ying Mengyue , Zhang Mengdi , Liu Yue , Wu Zhongbiao
Published: October 2019

Simultaneous removal of NOx and SO2 during the wet absorption process has made it possible for nitrogen resource utilization. However, nitrites formation at high ratio in absorption solution would limit its application. In this study, the catalytic oxidation behaviors of aqueous nitrite ions assisted by ozone on HZSM-5 zeolites with different SiO2/Al2O3 ratios have been investigated. The experimental results revealed that the oxidation and disproportionation reactions of nitrite ions took place competitively, both of which were accelerated under acidic condition. Moreover, the introduction of HZSM-5 zeolites and ozone would significantly improve the nitrite oxidation rate, where the zeolites with high SiO2/Al2O3 ratios were found to be more effective owing to the enhanced adsorption of nitrite ions and ozone. Based on the results under different operating conditions (such as O3 concentration, HZSM-5 dosage, pH values and presence of radical scavengers etc.), the reaction mechanism was then proposed. The disproportionation reaction of nitrite ions mainly occurred in the bulk solution. And the catalytic oxidation of nitrite ions over zeolites proceeded via a non-radical surface reaction between the adsorbed nitrite ions and ozone/oxygen molecular.
Biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles employing Trichoderma harzianum with enzymatic stimulation for the control of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum
Authors: Guilger-Casagrande Mariana , Germano-Costa Tais , Pasquoto-Stigliani Tatiane , Fraceto Leonardo Fernandes , Lima Renata de
Published: October 2019

Biogenic synthesis of silver nanoparticles employing fungi offers advantages, including the formation of a capping from fungal biomolecules, which provides stability and can contribute to biological activity. In this work, silver nanoparticles were synthesized usingTrichoderma harzianumcultivated with (AgNP-TS) and without enzymatic stimulation (AgNP-T) by the cell wall ofSclerotinia sclerotiorum. The nanoparticles were evaluated for the control ofS.sclerotiorum. The specific activity of theT.harzianumhydrolytic enzymes were determined in the filtrates and nanoparticles. Cytotoxicity and genotoxicity were also evaluated. Both the nanoparticles exhibited inhibitory activity towardsS.sclerotiorum, with no new sclerotia development, however AgNP-TS was more effective against mycelial growth. Both the filtrates and the nanoparticles showed specific enzymatic activity. Low levels of cytotoxicity and genotoxicity were observed. This study opens perspectives for further exploration of fungal biogenic nanoparticles, indicating their use for the control ofS.sclerotiorumand other agricultural pests.
TFEB activates Nrf2 by repressing its E3 ubiquitin ligase DCAF11 and promoting phosphorylation of p62
Authors: Park Jee-Yun , Kim Sunhyo , Sohn Hee Young , Koh Young Ho , Jo Chulman
Published: October 2019

Transcriptional factor EB (TFEB) and nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) play crucial roles in the biological response against cellular stressors; however, their relationship has not yet been investigated. Here, we constructed human neuroglioma cell lines stably expressing TFEB. The expression of Nrf2-response genes, including heme oxygenase (HO)-1, glutathione-s-transferase-mu1 (GSTM1), and p62, was induced in the cell line, independent of oxidative stress. Of note, the protein level of Nrf2 was significantly increased, and its ubiquitinated fraction was reduced in stable cells compared to that in the control cells. Among E3 ubiquitin ligases known to be involved in the ubiquitination of Nrf2, DDB1 and Cullin4 associated factor 11 (DCAF11) was down-regulated at both protein and mRNA levels in stable cells, indicating that the repression of DCAF11 by TFEB may be mainly involved in the stabilization of Nrf2. In addition, the level of phosphorylated p62 at S349 was highly increased in stable cells compared to that in control cells, which could allow it to interfere with the association of Keap1 and Nrf2, thus stabilizing Nrf2. We suggest for the first time that TFEB could activate Nrf2 by increasing its stability under conditions devoid of oxidative stress.
Mechanical strain promotes skin fibrosis through LRG-1 induction mediated by ELK1 and ERK signalling
Authors: Gao Ya , Zhou Jia , Xie Zhibo , Wang Jing , Ho Chia-kang , Zhang Yifan , Li Qingfeng
Published: October 2019

Biomechanical force and pathological angiogenesis are dominant features in fibro-proliferative disorders. Understanding the role and regulation of the mechanical microenvironment in which pathological angiogenesis occurs is an important challenge when investigating numerous angiogenesis-related diseases. In skin fibrosis, dermal fibroblasts and vascular endothelial cells are integral to hypertrophic scar formation. However, few studies have been conducted to closely investigate their relationship. Here we show, that leucine-rich-alpha-2-glycoprotein 1 (LRG-1) a regulator of pathological angiogenesis, links biomechanical force to angiogenesis in skin fibrosis. We discover that LRG-1 is overexpressed in hypertrophic scar tissues, and that depletion of Lrg-1 in mouse skin causes mild neovascularization and skin fibrosis formation in a hypertrophic scarring model. Inhibition of FAK or ERK attenuates LRG-1 expression through the ELK1 transcription factor, which binds to the LRG-1 promoter region after transcription initiation by mechanical force. Using LRG-1 to uncouple mechanical force from angiogenesis may prove clinically successful in treating fibro-proliferative disorders.
Early stage prion assembly involves two subpopulations with different quaternary structures and a secondary templating pathway
Authors: Igel-Egalon Angélique , Laferrière Florent , Moudjou Mohammed , Bohl Jan , Mezache Mathieu , Knäpple Tina , Herzog Laetitia , Reine Fabienne , Jas-Duval Christelle , Doumic Marie , Rezaei Human , Béringue Vincent
Published: October 2019

The dynamics of aggregation and structural diversification of misfolded, host-encoded proteins in neurodegenerative diseases are poorly understood. In many of these disorders, including Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and prion diseases, the misfolded proteins are self-organized into conformationally distinct assemblies or strains. The existence of intrastrain structural heterogeneity is increasingly recognized. However, the underlying processes of emergence and coevolution of structurally distinct assemblies are not mechanistically understood. Here, we show that early prion replication generates two subsets of structurally different assemblies by two sequential processes of formation, regardless of the strain considered. The first process corresponds to a quaternary structural convergence, by reducing the parental strain polydispersity to generate small oligomers. The second process transforms these oligomers into larger ones, by a secondary autocatalytic templating pathway requiring the prion protein. This pathway provides mechanistic insights into prion structural diversification, a key determinant for prion adaptation and toxicity.
Mechanistic insights into the non-bifunctional hydrogenation of esters by Co(ii) pincer complexes: a DFT study
Authors: Chowdhury Animesh , Biswas Santu , Pramanik Anup , Sarkar Pranab
Published: October 2019

Mechanistic details have been investigated for the catalytic hydrogenation of esters to alcohols by Co(ii) pincer complexes.
Modern coordination chemistry
Authors: Kostakis George E. , Brooker Sally
Published: October 2019

This special issue of Dalton Transactions is to mark the 60th birthday of Professor Dr. Annie K. Powell. The issue highlights advances in Modern Coordination Chemistry.
A multiwavelength emission detector for analytical ultracentrifugation
Authors: Wawra Simon E. , Onishchukov Georgy , Maranska Maria , Eigler Siegfried , Walter Johannes , Peukert Wolfgang
Published: October 2019

The new analytical ultracentrifugation setup allows coupling hydrodynamic, thermodynamic and emission properties of nanoparticles and macromolecules.
Synergistic effects of dual-presenting VEGF- and BDNF-mimetic peptide epitopes from self-assembling peptide hydrogels on peripheral nerve regeneration
Authors: Lu Jiaju , Yan Xiaoqing , Sun Xun , Shen Xuezhen , Yin Heyong , Wang Chenhao , Liu Yifan , Lu Changfeng , Fu Haitao , Yang Shuhui , Wang Yu , Sun Xiaodan , Zhao Lingyun , Lu Shibi , Mikos Antonios G. , Peng Jiang , Wang Xiumei
Published: October 2019

We developed the functionalized self-assembling peptide nanofiber hydrogel RAD/KLT/RGI that was dual-functionalized with VEGF- and BDNF-mimetic peptide epitopes for peripheral nerve regeneration.
Engineered nanoparticles for systemic siRNA delivery to malignant brain tumours
Authors: Karlsson Johan , Rui Yuan , Kozielski Kristen L. , Placone Amanda L. , Choi Olivia , Tzeng Stephany Y. , Kim Jayoung , Keyes Jamal J. , Bogorad Max I. , Gabrielson Kathleen , Guerrero-Cazares Hugo , Quiñones-Hinojosa Alfredo , Searson Peter C. , Green Jordan J.
Published: October 2019

Bioreducible nanoparticles were engineered for safe and effective systemic siRNA delivery, including crossing the blood–brain barrier to achieve in vivo gene silencing in an orthotopic glioblastoma mouse model.
Directed nanoscale metal deposition by the local perturbation of charge screening at the solid–liquid interface
Authors: Aarts Mark , Alarcon-Llado Esther
Published: October 2019

Understanding and directing electrochemical reactions below the micrometer scale is a long-standing challenge in electrochemistry. Here, we demonstrate the directed electrochemical deposition of copper nanostructures by using an oscillating nanoelectrode operated with an atomic force microscope.
Functionalization of activated methylene C–H bonds with nitroarenes and sulfur for the synthesis of thioamides
Authors: Do Nhan T. , Tran Khoa M. , Phan Hao T. , To Tuong A. , Nguyen Tung T. , Phan Nam T. S.
Published: October 2019

Synthesis of arylthioamides from nitroarenes is reported for the first time. Phenylacetic acids or benzyl alcohols could be used as benzyl synthons.
From molecular biaxiality of real board-shaped mesogens to phase biaxiality? On the hunt for the holy grail of liquid crystal science
Authors: Lehmann Matthias , Maisch Stefan , Scheuring Nikolai , Carvalho José , Cruz Carlos , Sebastião Pedro J. , Dong Ronald Y.
Published: October 2019

In the search of the predicted biaxial nematic phase, a series of shape-persistent board-shaped mesogens with maximum molecular biaxiality and a dipole along the minor molecular axis were designed to form nematic (N) mesophases.
Geometric effects in random assemblies of ellipses
Authors: Lovrić Jakov , Kaliman Sara , Barfuss Wolfram , Schröder-Turk Gerd E. , Smith Ana-Sunčana
Published: October 2019

In this paper, we analysed the geometrical effects in ellipse assemblies over the range of packing fractions and elongations.
Hinode EIS line widths in the quiet corona up to 1.5 R⊙
Authors: Del Zanna G. , Gupta G. R. , Mason H. E.
Published: October 2019

We present an analysis of several Hinode Extreme-ultraviolet Imaging Spectrometer (EIS) observations of coronal line widths in the quiet Sun, up to 1.5 R⊙ radial distances. Significant variations are found, which indicates no damping of Alfvén waves in the quiescent corona. However, the uncertainties in estimating the instrumental width mean that a firm conclusion cannot be reached. We present a discussion of various EIS instrumental issues and suggest that the strongest lines, from Fe XII at 193.5 Å and 195.1 Å, have anomalous instrumental widths. We also show how line widths in EIS are uncertain when the signal is low, and that the instrumental variation along the slit is also uncertain. We also find an anomalous decrease (up to 40%) in the intensities of these lines in many off-limb and active region observations, and provide evidence that this is due to opacity effects. We find that the most reliable measurements are obtained from the weaker lines.
Eruptions and flaring activity in emerging quadrupolar regions
Authors: Syntelis P. , Lee E. J. , Fairbairn C. W. , Archontis V. , Hood A. W.
Published: October 2019

Context. Solar observations suggest that some of the most dynamic active regions are associated with complex photospheric magnetic configurations such as quadrupolar regions, and especially those that have a δ-spot configuration and a strong polarity inversion line (PIL).

Aims. We study the formation and eruption of magnetic flux ropes in quadrupolar regions.

Methods. We performed 3D magnetohydrodynamics simulations of the partial emergence of a highly twisted flux tube from the solar interior into a non-magnetised stratified atmosphere. We introduced a density deficit at two places along the length of the subphotospheric flux tube to emerge as two Ω-shaped loops, forming a quadrupolar region.

Results. At the photosphere, the emerging flux forms two initially separated bipoles, which later come in contact, forming a δ-spot central region. Above the two bipoles, two magnetic lobes expand and interact through a series of current sheets at the interface between them. Two recurrent confined eruptions are produced. In both cases, the reconnection between sheared low-lying field lines forms a flux rope. The reconnection between the two lobes higher in the atmosphere forms field lines that retract down and push against the flux rope, creating a current sheet between them. It also forms field lines that create a third magnetic lobe between the two emerged lobes, that later acts as a strapping field. The flux rope eruptions are triggered when the reconnection between the flux ropes and the field above the ropes becomes efficient enough to remove the tension of the overlying field. These reconnection events occur internally in the quadrupolar system, as the atmosphere is non-magnetised. The flux rope of the first, weaker, eruption almost fully reconnects with the overlying field. The flux rope of the second, more energetic, eruption is confined by the overlying strapping field. During the second eruption, the flux rope is enhanced in size, flux, and twist, similar to confined-flare-to-flux-rope observations. Proxies of the emission reveal the two erupting filaments channels. A flare arcade is only formed in the second eruption owing to the longer lasting and more efficient reconnection at the current sheet below the flux rope.
Extreme ionised outflows are more common when the radio emission is compact in AGN host galaxies
Authors: Molyneux S. J. , Harrison C. M. , Jarvis M. E.
Published: October 2019

Using a sample of 2922 z <  0.2, spectroscopically identified active galactic nuclei (AGN), we explore the relationship between radio size and the prevalence of extreme ionised outflows, as traced using broad [O III] emission-line profiles in spectra obtained by the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS). To classify radio sources as compact or extended, we combined a machine-learning technique for morphological classification with size measurements from two-dimensional Gaussian models to data from all-sky radio surveys. We find that the two populations have statistically different [O III] emission-line profiles; the compact sources tend to have the most extreme gas kinematics. When the radio emission is confined within 3″ (i.e. within the spectroscopic fibre or ≲5 kpc at the median redshift), the chance of observing broad [O III] emission-line components, which are indicative of very high velocity outflows and have a full width at half-maximum > 1000 km s−1, is twice as high. This difference is greatest for the highest radio luminosity bin of log[L1.4 GHz/W Hz−1] = 23.5−24.5 where the AGN dominate the radio emission; specifically, > 1000 km s−1 components are almost four times as likely to occur when the radio emission is compact in this subsample. Our follow-up ≈0.3″–1″ resolution radio observations for a subset of targets in this luminosity range reveal that radio jets and lobes are prevalent, and suggest that compact jets might be responsible for the stronger outflows in the wider sample. Our results are limited by the available relatively shallow all-sky radio surveys, but forthcoming surveys will provide a more complete picture of the connection between radio emission and outflows. Overall, our results add to the growing body of evidence that ionised outflows and compact radio emission in highly accreting “radiative” AGN are closely connected, possibly as a result of young or weak radio jets.
Overview of non-transientγ-ray binaries and prospects for the Cherenkov Telescope Array
Authors: Chernyakova M. , Malyshev D. , Paizis A. , La Palombara N. , Balbo M. , Walter R. , Hnatyk B. , van Soelen B. , Romano P. , Munar-Adrover P. , Vovk Ie. , Piano G. , Capitanio F. , Falceta-Gonçalves D. , Landoni M. , Luque-Escamilla P. L. , Martí J. , Paredes J. M. , Ribó M. , Safi-Harb S. , Saha L. , Sidoli L. , Vercellone S.
Published: October 2019

Aims.Despite recent progress in the field, there are still many open questions regardingγ-ray binaries. In this paper we provide an overview of non-transientγ-ray binaries and discuss how observations with the Cherenkov Telescope Array (CTA) will contribute to their study.

Methods.We simulated the spectral behaviour of the non-transientγ-ray binaries using archival observations as a reference. With this we tested the CTA capability to measure the spectral parameters of the sources and detect variability on various timescales.

Results.We review the known properties ofγ-ray binaries and the theoretical models that have been used to describe their spectral and timing characteristics. We show that the CTA is capable of studying these sources on timescales comparable to their characteristic variability timescales. For most of the binaries, the unprecedented sensitivity of the CTA will allow studying the spectral evolution on a timescale as short as 30 min. This will enable a direct comparison of the TeV and lower energy (radio to GeV) properties of these sources from simultaneous observations. We also review the source-specific questions that can be addressed with these high-accuracy CTA measurements.
Temporal and spatial variation of soil moisture of small watershed in gully catchment of the Loess Plateau of China
Authors: Dong Qiguang , Han Jichang , Lei Na , He Jing , Sun Zenghui , Xiong Yufei , Li Ya’nan
Published: October 2019

The temporal and spatial variation characteristics of soil moisture in typical slope and gully of Jiulongquangou small watershed were studied in the hilly and gully region of the Loess Plateau of China. The variation of soil moisture in the 0-30 cm layer on the surface of the hilly and gully region of the Loess Plateau is greater than the variation of soil moisture in each layer between 40 and 100 cm. In the study area, the model parameters such as coefficient of variation (Cv), nugget (C0), sill (C0+C), spatial degrees of freedom(C0/(C+C0)) and variable change can be used to quantitative analysis the spatial varying law. On the slope surface, the average soil water content and the coefficient of variation are negatively correlated, and can be approximated by an exponential function, while the two are positively correlated in the gully.
Research on Security Architecture of Global Energy Internet Standard Support System
Authors: Shen Pei , Wang Sining , Ling Nie
Published: October 2019

The global energy Internet standard support system plays a vital role in global energy interconnection. However, the system brings convenience to the global energy interconnection and introduces new security issues. Due to the diversity of users, the complexity of the environment and the internationalization, there will be more and more malicious network intrusions from outside and inside. The security system of the global energy Internet standard support system faces great challenges. To this end, this paper proposes a security architecture that combines active and passive, establishing a chain of trust between the active security architecture and the passive security architecture, ensuring a new security architecture, a security organization framework, a security policy framework, a security operation framework, and a closed-loop system that integrates the security technology framework. A deep learning algorithm was introduced for network intrusion learning to achieve sustainable management of the information security life cycle. The combination of active and passive security systems and continuous monitoring strategies based on deep learning fully ensure the security of the global energy Internet standard support system.
Research on Building Insulation and Energy Efficiency
Authors: Yang Li , Shi Zedao , Qin Wen
Published: October 2019

The purpose of this research is to investigate built building envelope renovation methods. Earlier studies on built building renovation have shown that the significant influence of using built building instead of the new building in terms of the energy crisis. However, these have not yet compared various renovation methods for building surface. Therefore, this study classified several reconstruction means into three types and evaluated their performances under three indicators: 1) construction; 2) material; 3) impact on original building appearance. The result shows that the integrated system of insulation and decoration is the best, and the method of additional components is the worst for building enclosure renovation.
Synthesis of Carbon Doped TiO2 Quantum Dots for Photocatalytic Sterilization under the Visible Light Irradiation and the Mechanisms
Authors: Xiong Wei , Cheung Altair T.F. , Leung Michael K.H.
Published: October 2019

In this article, the carbon doped TiO2 (C-TiO2) quantum dots (QDs) were prepared through the hydrothermal method and calcination. The size of the C-TiO2 QDs is about 5.7 nm. The doping amount of carbon can be tuned by adjusting the volumes of the carbon source, ethylene glycol added. The carbon atoms are proved to be doped into the interstitial sites of TiO2 lattice and induce the change of chemical states of Ti 2p and C 1s. The doping of carbon leads to the increasing photocatalytic sterilization of E. coli under the visible light irradiation. The survival rate of E. coli cells over C-TiO2 is only 1.5 % after 6 h. The reactive oxygen species (ROS), such as hydroxyl radical and superoxide radical, are considered as the primary factors for the photocatalytic sterilization. Due to oxidative stress of the attack by ROS, the enzyme activity per cells increases for self-protection during the photocatalytic sterilization.
Policies and Standards for “Double Control” of Total Energy Consumption and Energy Intensity
Authors: Ding Qing , Li Pengcheng , Chen Haihong , Liu Meng , Zhang Sinan
Published: October 2019

This paper introduces the background of goals regarding “double control” of total energy consumption and energy intensity, sorts out policies regarding “double control” action and their implementation, and points out that the standards for “double control” are efficient for the realization of “double control” goals. This paper also analyzes the shortcomings of standards for “double control” and gives some suggestions on the construction of the standard system for “double control” considering the demands of standards for “double control” and current status of the energy conservation standardizations in China.
Role of different plants on nitrogen and phosphorus removal at low temperature in lab-scale constructed wetlands
Authors: Xiao Liwei , Jiang Hong , Shen Chao , Li Ke , Hu Lei
Published: October 2019

In this study, plant growth and nitrogen and phosphorus removal efficiency in lab-scale CWs by five plants (H. vulgaris, N. peltatum, N. tetragona, N. pumilum, S. trifolia) in winter in Sichuan basin was evaluated. H. vulgaris and N. tetragona would well adapt to the winter wetland environment, and the relative growth at the end of the experiment was 89.83% and 66.85%, respectively. In winter, H. vulgaris kept growing with accumulated stems and leaves, while growth of N. tetragona was mainly caused by the growth of roots and stems underwater. In addition, during the winter, removal efficiencies were 66.29%, 57.47%, 54.78%, 55.47%, 41.66% of TN and 62.40%, 69.75%, 69.97%, 65.65%, 76.55% of TP for each planted CWs respectively. The results indicated that the removal of nitrogen and phosphorus from CWs was mainly achieved by substrate, while a small portion was attributed by plant. However, plants like H. vulgaris and N. tetragona, in the CWs in winter can play the role of landscaping. Thus, H. vulgaris could be considered as a suitable and effective nutrient removal plant for treatment of nitrogen and phosphorus water in winter wetlands in Sichuan basin.
Research on combustion performance of PVC foam in fire propagation apparatus
Authors: Zhang Guoan , Wei Lingling , Gao Junhao , Qiu Tingting , Yuan Rongnan , Lu Shouxiang
Published: October 2019

Polyvinyl chloride foam (PVC) is widely used as the wall materials of the high-speed train. The combustion characteristics of PVC foam under the heat fluxes of 20-60 kW/m2 are investigated by fire Propagation Apparatus (FPA). The results show that the ignition time of PVC foam decreases with the increase of heat flux. The peak of heat release rate, mass loss rate and smoke production rate increase with the increase of heat flux. Under the condition of 60 kW/m2, the heat release rate has the peak value of 109.10 kW/m2. The research on the combustion characteristics of the PVC can be used to analyse the fire risk of the train and guide the formulation of safety measures.
Research on New Energy High-rate Dissipation Strategy under the Background of Renewable Energy Quota System
Authors: Xiao Daqiang , Liu Dunnan , Yang Ruixing , Wang Xiongfei
Published: October 2019

In recent years, China’s new energy has developed rapidly, and at the same time there have been serious problems of abandoning wind and abandoning light. In order to better solve the problem of new energy consumption, China officially implemented the renewable energy quota system in January 2019. Therefore, based on the current situation of new energy consumption in China, this paper first analyzes the impact of renewable energy quota policy from two aspects: capacity efficiency and grid connectivity effect, and then based on tapping local energy potential, accepting trans-regional power transmission, and optimizing outside the region. The corresponding new energy consumption strategy is proposed in the power transmission curve. Finally, based on the time series production simulation model, an empirical analysis is made on the consumption situation of a certain provincial power grid under different strategies in 2020. This paper provides a reference for promoting the proportion of new energy consumption in China.