bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modelling gas and dust around carbon stars in the Large Magellanic Cloud
Authors: Srinivasan Sundar , Chen I.-K. , Scicluna P. , Cami J. , Kemper F.
Published: January 2020

In order to investigate the effect of dust production on the molecular absorption, we model the dust continuum and the 7.5 and 13.7 μm acetylene absorption features in the Spitzer IRS spectra of 148 carbon stars in the Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC). Our preliminary investigation does not find a strong correlation between the dust-production rate and the column density of acetylene for the LMC sample. However, we will construct more models at high optical depths and probe a larger range of dust properties for more robust results.
Resolved stellar populations: the outlook for JWST and ELT
Authors: Tolstoy Eline
Published: January 2020

The study of the resolved stellar populations in nearby galaxies and star clusters through the analysis of colour-magnitude diagrams provides the most detailed and quantitative determination of the star formation histories of these systems. The properties of different age populations provide an insight into distinct physical processes taking place during the entire history of the stellar system. The detection of the oldest main sequence turn-offs is currently restricted to stellar systems within the Local Group due to the limitations in spatial resolution and flux sensitivity of available telescopes. Individual stars need to be detected and accurately distinguished from their neighbours. To improve this situation we need to build new telescopes with larger primary mirrors that can deliver a very stable image quality at the diffraction limit. Over the next decade we can look forward to new larger telescope in space: the James Webb Space Telescope, currently scheduled to be launched in 2021; and several large telescope projects, the largest of which is the 39m ESO extremely large telescope on Cerro Armazones in Chile, currently scheduled to start operations in 2024.
Infrared Studies of the Variability and Mass Loss of Some of the Dustiest Asymptotic Giant Branch Stars in the Magellanic Clouds
Authors: Sargent B. , Srinivasan S. , Boyer M. , Feast M. , Whitelock P. , Marengo M. , Groenewegen M. A. T. , Meixner M. , Hora J. L. , Otsuka M.
Published: January 2020

The asymptotic giant branch (AGB) stars with the reddest colors have the largest amounts of circumstellar dust. AGB stars vary in their brightness, and studies show that the reddest AGB stars tend to have longer periods than other AGB stars and are more likely to be fundamental mode pulsators than other AGB stars. Such stars are difficult to study, as they are often not detected at optical wavelengths. Therefore, they must be observed at infrared wavelengths. Using the Spitzer Space Telescope, we have observed a sample of very dusty AGB stars in the Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC) and Small Magellanic Cloud (SMC) over Cycles 9 through 12 during the Warm Spitzer mission. For each cycle’s program, we typically observed a set of AGB stars at both 3.6 and 4.5 μm wavelength approximately monthly for most of a year. We present results from our analysis of the data from these programs.
AGB stars in binaries and the common envelope interaction
Authors: De Marco Orsola
Published: January 2020

One may argue that, today, proceedings articles are not useful. Results belong in refereed papers and even reviews are best in publications that are long enough to do justice to the topic reviewed. In this short review, reflecting a presentation that was given at the IAU343 symposium, Why Galaxies Care about AGB Stars, I have therefore endeavoured to include some practical snippets that, while remaining true to the presentation, also provide a quick look up reference. After a reminder of how few AGB stars actually interact with a companion, and a pictorial summary of the types of interactions that can happen, I list the rapidly growing body of 3D common envelope simulations. Next, I highlight shortfalls and successes of simulations, and then spend some time comparing the two simulations of planetary nebulae from common envelope interactions to date. Finally, I summarise a handful of results pertaining to common envelope interactions between giants and planets.
The mass-loss characteristics of AGB stars An observational view
Authors: Ramstedt Sofia
Published: January 2020

The massive outflows of gas and dust which characterize giant stars on the Asymptotic Giant Branch (AGB), build cool circumstellar envelopes readily observed at infrared (IR) and sub-millimeter wavelengths. The observations will give the amount of matter lost by the star, the wind velocity (in the case of spectral line observations), and, when the spatial resolution is sufficient, the wind evolution over time. To gain detailed insight into the mass-loss process, we study the nearby (closer than 1 kpc) stars. Through these investigations we aim to determine the best constrained wind properties available. By combining this with theoretical results, mass-loss estimates for more distant sources can also be significantly improved. ALMA has opened up new opportunities to study the winds of AGB stars. The DEATHSTAR project (www.astro.uu.se/deathstar) has mapped the circumstellar CO emission from so far ∼50 nearby M- and C-type AGB stars. The data will initially be used to give a definitive mass-loss prescription for the sample sources, but the large-bandwidth observations opens for many different legacy projects. The current status and results are presented.
Observing the mass-loss of nearby red supergiants through high-contrast imaging
Authors: Scicluna Peter , Siebenmorgen R. , Blommaert J. A. D. L. , Kemper F. , Wesson R. , Wolf S.
Published: January 2020

We present observations of nearby red supergiants with SPHERE.
Abundances of C, N, and O in AGB Giants and Model Atmospheres
Authors: Aringer B. , Marigo P. , Nowotny W. , Girardi L. , Mečina M. , Nanni A.
Published: January 2020

Based on hydrostatic models we discuss the effects of molecular opacities and abundance changes concerning C, N or O on the atmospheric structures, spectra and photometric properties of C/M AGB giants.
Forecast Skill of Minimum and Maximum Temperatures on Subseasonal‐to‐Seasonal Timescales Over South Africa
Authors: Phakula Steven , Landman Willem A. , Engelbrecht Christien J. , Makgoale Thabo
Published: January 2020

Forecast skill of three subseasonal‐to‐seasonal models and their ensemble mean outputs are evaluated in predicting the surface minimum and maximum temperatures at subseasonal timescales over South Africa. Three skill scores (correlation of anomaly, root‐mean‐square error, and Taylor diagrams) are used to evaluate the models. It is established that the subseasonal‐to‐seasonal models considered here have skill in predicting both minimum and maximum temperatures at subseasonal timescales. The correlation of anomaly indicates that the multimodel ensemble outperforms the individual models in predicting both minimum and maximum temperatures for the day 1–14, day 11–30, and full calendar month timescales during December months. The Taylor diagrams suggest that the European Centre for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts model and MM performs better for the day 11–30 timescale for both minimum and maximum temperatures. In general, the models perform better for minimum than maximum temperatures in terms of root‐mean‐square error. In fact, the skill difference in terms of correlation of anomalies (CORA) is small.
New Technique to Retrieve Tropospheric Temperature Using Vibrational and Rotational Raman Backscattering
Authors: Su Jia , McCormick M. Patrick , Lei Liqiao
Published: January 2020

A new technique is advanced to obtain tropospheric temperature profile using vibrational Raman (VR) and rotational Raman (RR) backscattering. The proposed technique can obtain tropospheric temperature and decrease retrieval errors caused by insufficient suppression of the Mie backscattering in the RR detection channels. The retrieval equations are obtained using VR and RR lidar equations. The feasibility of this technique is demonstrated by applying the algorithm to the Hampton University VR and RR lidar signals. Intercomparisons of these atmospheric temperature retrievals from the Hampton University lidar show good agreement with local radiosonde measurements. Moreover, the proposed technique is applied to a cloudy case and is further validated by showing the good agreements with radiosonde measurements of cloud temperature.
The Physics of Sediment Transport Initiation, Cessation, and Entrainment Across Aeolian and Fluvial Environments
Authors: Pähtz Thomas , Clark Abram H. , Valyrakis Manousos , Durán Orencio
Published: January 2020

Predicting the morphodynamics of sedimentary landscapes due to fluvial and aeolian flows requires answering the following questions: Is the flow strong enough to initiate sediment transport, is the flow strong enough to sustain sediment transport once initiated, and how much sediment is transported by the flow in the saturated state (i.e., what is the transport capacity)? In the geomorphological and related literature, the widespread consensus has been that the initiation, cessation, and capacity of fluvial transport, and the initiation of aeolian transport, are controlled by fluid entrainment of bed sediment caused by flow forces overcoming local resisting forces, whereas aeolian transport cessation and capacity are controlled by impact entrainment caused by the impacts of transported particles with the bed. Here the physics of sediment transport initiation, cessation, and capacity is reviewed with emphasis on recent consensus‐challenging developments in sediment transport experiments, two‐phase flow modeling, and the incorporation of granular physics' concepts. Highlighted are the similarities between dense granular flows and sediment transport, such as a superslow granular motion known as creeping (which occurs for arbitrarily weak driving flows) and system‐spanning force networks that resist bed sediment entrainment; the roles of the magnitude and duration of turbulent fluctuation events in fluid entrainment; the traditionally overlooked role of particle‐bed impacts in triggering entrainment events in fluvial transport; and the common physical underpinning of transport thresholds across aeolian and fluvial environments. This sheds a new light on the well‐known Shields diagram, where measurements of fluid entrainment thresholds could actually correspond to entrainment‐independent cessation thresholds.
Active‐C Realization of Multifunction Biquadratic Filter and Third‐Order Oscillator
Authors: Mohan J. , Chaturvedi B. , Kumar A. , Jitender
Published: January 2020

The paper introduces a new circuit of voltage‐mode multifunction biquadratic filter employing one fully differential second‐generation current conveyor, three active resistors, and two capacitors. The circuit uses metal oxide semiconductor‐based active resistors instead of passive resistors to make the circuit more suitable for monolithic integration as well as to provide additional feature of electronically controllable pole frequency. Low‐pass, high‐pass, band‐pass, and band‐reject filtering functions are simultaneously realizable without need of any component matching constraints from the proposed multifunction biquadratic filter. Additionally, the nonideal aspects of multifunction biquadratic filter circuit are studied. Furthermore, a third‐order dual‐mode quadrature oscillator is also derived from the low‐pass function of the proposed multifunction filter to check its applicability. The proposed oscillator structure makes the output current readily available from high‐impedance terminals. The performance of both multifunction biquadratic filter circuit and oscillator circuit is examined with the help of HSPICE simulations.
Radio propagation measurements and modeling for standardization of the site general path loss model in International Telecommunications Union recommendations for 5G wireless networks
Authors: Salous S. , Lee J. , Kim M. D. , Sasaki M. , Yamada W. , Raimundo X. , Cheema A. A.
Published: January 2020

The International Telecommunications Union Radiocommunication Sector (ITU‐R) Study Group 3 identified the need for a number of radio channel models in anticipation of the World Radiocommunications Conference in 2019 when the frequency allocation for 5G will be discussed. In response to the call for propagation path loss models, members of the study group carried out measurements in the frequency bands between 0.8 GHz up to 73 GHz in urban low‐rise and urban high‐rise as well as suburban environments. The data were subsequently merged to generate site general path loss models. The paper presents an overview of the radio channel measurements, the measured environments, the data analysis, and the approach for the derivation of the path loss model adopted in Recommendation ITU‐R P.1411‐10 (2019‐08).
OT-82, a novel anticancer drug candidate that targets the strong dependence of hematological malignancies on NAD biosynthesis
Authors: Korotchkina Lioubov , Kazyulkin Denis , Komarov Pavel G. , Polinsky Alex , Andrianova Ekaterina L. , Joshi Sangeeta , Gupta Mahima , Vujcic Slavoljub , Kononov Eugene , Toshkov Ilia , Tian Yuan , Krasnov Peter , Chernov Mikhail V. , Veith Jean , Antoch Marina P. , Middlemiss Shiloh , Somers Klaartje , Lock Richard B. , Norris Murray D. , Henderson Michelle J. , Haber Michelle , Chernova Olga B. , Gudkov Andrei V.
Published: January 2020

Effective treatment of some types of cancer can be achieved by modulating cell lineage-specific rather than tumor-specific targets. We conducted a systematic search for novel agents selectively toxic to cells of hematopoietic origin. Chemical library screenings followed by hit-to-lead optimization identified OT-82, a small molecule with strong efficacy against hematopoietic malignancies including acute myeloblastic and lymphoblastic adult and pediatric leukemias, erythroleukemia, multiple myeloma, and Burkitt’s lymphoma in vitro and in mouse xenograft models. OT-82 was also more toxic towards patients-derived leukemic cells versus healthy bone marrow-derived hematopoietic precursors. OT-82 was shown to induce cell death by inhibiting nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (NAMPT), the rate-limiting enzyme in the salvage pathway of NAD synthesis. In mice, optimization of OT-82 dosing and dietary niacin further expanded the compound’s therapeutic index. In toxicological studies conducted in mice and nonhuman primates, OT-82 showed no cardiac, neurological or retinal toxicities observed with other NAMPT inhibitors and had no effect on mouse aging or longevity. Hematopoietic and lymphoid organs were identified as the primary targets for dose limiting toxicity of OT-82 in both species. These results reveal strong dependence of neoplastic cells of hematopoietic origin on NAMPT and introduce OT-82 as a promising candidate for the treatment of hematological malignancies.
Polygenic risk for Alzheimer's disease shapes hippocampal scene-selectivity
Authors: Chandler Hannah L. , Hodgetts Carl J. , Caseras Xavier , Murphy Kevin , Lancaster Thomas M.
Published: January 2020

Preclinical models of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) suggest APOE modulates brain function in structures vulnerable to AD pathophysiology. However, genome-wide association studies now demonstrate that AD risk is shaped by a broader polygenic architecture, estimated via polygenic risk scoring (AD-PRS). Despite this breakthrough, the effect of AD-PRS on brain function in young individuals remains unknown. In a large sample (N = 608) of young, asymptomatic individuals, we measure the impact of both (i) APOE and (ii) AD-PRS on a vulnerable cortico-limbic scene-processing network heavily implicated in AD pathophysiology. Integrity of this network, which includes the hippocampus (HC), is fundamental for maintaining cognitive function during ageing. We show that AD-PRS, not APOE, selectively influences activity within the HC in response to scenes, while other perceptual nodes remained intact. This work highlights the impact of polygenic contributions to brain function beyond APOE, which could aid potential therapeutic/interventional strategies in the detection and prevention of AD.
Dietary determinants of aflatoxin B1-lysine adduct in pregnant women consuming a rice-dominated diet in Nepal
Authors: Andrews-Trevino Johanna Y. , Webb Patrick , Shively Gerald , Rogers Beatrice , Baral Kedar , Davis Dale , Paudel Krishna , Pokharel Ashish , Shrestha Robin , Wang Jia-Sheng , Xue Kathy S. , Ghosh Shibani
Published: January 2020

Background

Aflatoxins are found in diverse foods widely consumed worldwide. This study investigated the association between aflatoxin exposure and (a) consumption of specific foods, (b) dietary diversity (DD), and (c) seasonality.

Methods

Women enrolled in the AflaCohort Study in Banke, Nepal (n = 1648) were asked how often they ate certain food items in the past 7 days and 24 h. Serum aflatoxin B1-lysine (AFB1-lys) adduct levels, measured during pregnancy, were determined using high-performance liquid chromatography. Multivariable ordinary least squares and quantile regression models were used to examine incremental increases in AFB1-lys adduct levels per frequency of food consumption and the relationship between DD, seasonality, and increases in AFB1-lys adduct.

Results

Roughly 94% of women were exposed to aflatoxin (geometric mean 1.37 pg/mg). Women in the 30th, 50th, and 70th quantiles of aflatoxin exposure who reported one more occasion of maize consumption in the past week showed increases in AFB1-lys adduct levels: 0.094, 0.112, and 0.109 pg/mg (p < 0.05, all). Women in the 30th, 50th, 70th, and 90th quantiles of exposure who reported one more occasion of groundnut consumption in the past week also showed increases in AFB1-lys adduct levels: 0.058 (p < 0.001), 0.085 (p < 0.01), 0.133 (p < 0.001), and 0.133 (p < 0.001) pg/mg. Winter month recruitment was positively associated with AFB1-lys adduct levels at all quantiles of aflatoxin exposure (range: 0.313–1.101 pg/mg,p < 0.001). DD was not predictive of aflatoxin exposure.

Conclusions

Our findings justify integrated approaches to aflatoxin reduction, including regulatory, agricultural, and food safety interventions across the value chain and at the household level.
Microfluidic control over topological states in channel-confined nematic flows
Authors: Čopar Simon , Kos Žiga , Emeršič Tadej , Tkalec Uroš
Published: January 2020

Compared to isotropic liquids, orientational order of nematic liquid crystals makes their rheological properties more involved, and thus requires fine control of the flow parameters to govern the orientational patterns. In microfluidic channels with perpendicular surface alignment, nematics discontinuously transition from perpendicular structure at low flow rates to flow-aligned structure at high flow rates. Here we show how precise tuning of the driving pressure can be used to stabilize and manipulate a previously unresearched topologically protected chiral intermediate state which arises before the homeotropic to flow-aligned transition. We characterize the mechanisms underlying the transition and construct a phenomenological model to describe the critical behaviour and the phase diagram of the observed chiral flow state, and evaluate the effect of a forced symmetry breaking by introduction of a chiral dopant. Finally, we induce transitions on demand through channel geometry, application of laser tweezers, and careful control of the flow rate.
Early-exposure to new sex pheromone blends alters mate preference in female butterflies and in their offspring
Authors: Dion Emilie , Pui Li Xian , Weber Katie , Monteiro Antónia
Published: January 2020

While the diversity of sex pheromone communication systems across insects is well documented, the mechanisms that lead to such diversity are not well understood. Sex pheromones constitute a species-specific system of sexual communication that reinforces interspecific reproductive isolation. When odor blends evolve, the efficacy of male-female communication becomes compromised, unless preference for novel blends also evolves. We explore odor learning as a possible mechanism leading to changes in sex pheromone preferences in the butterfly Bicyclus anynana. Our experiments reveal mating patterns suggesting that mating bias for new blends can develop following a short learning experience, and that this maternal experience impacts the mating outcome of offspring without further exposure. We propose that odor learning can be a key factor in the evolution of sex pheromone blend recognition and in chemosensory speciation.
Direct observation of dynamic protein interactions involving human microtubules using solid-state NMR spectroscopy
Authors: Luo Yanzhang , Xiang ShengQi , Hooikaas Peter Jan , van Bezouwen Laura , Jijumon A. S. , Janke Carsten , Förster Friedrich , Akhmanova Anna , Baldus Marc
Published: January 2020

Microtubules are important components of the eukaryotic cytoskeleton. Their structural organization is regulated by nucleotide binding and many microtubule-associated proteins (MAPs). While cryo-EM and X-ray crystallography have provided detailed views of interactions between MAPs with the microtubule lattice, little is known about how MAPs and their intrinsically disordered regions interact with the dynamic microtubule surface. NMR carries the potential to directly probe such interactions but so far has been precluded by the low tubulin yield. We present a protocol to produce [13C, 15N]-labeled, functional microtubules (MTs) from human cells for solid-state NMR studies. This approach allowed us to demonstrate that MAPs can differently modulate the fast time-scale dynamics of C-terminal tubulin tails, suggesting distinct interaction modes. Our results pave the way for in-depth NMR studies of protein dynamics involved in MT assembly and their interactions with other cellular components.
Differentiation of neural-type cells on multi-scale ordered collagen-silica bionanocomposites
Authors: Debons Nicolas , Dems Dounia , Hélary Christophe , Le Grill Sylvain , Picaut Lise , Renaud Flore , Delsuc Nicolas , Schanne-Klein Marie-Claire , Coradin Thibaud , Aimé Carole
Published: January 2020

Cells respond to biophysical and biochemical signals. We developed a composite filament from collagen and silica particles which combines scaffolding and signaling. We show that local tuning of collagen organization enhances cell differentiation.
Direct cyclohexanone oxime synthesis via oxidation–oximization of cyclohexane with ammonium acetate
Authors: Peng Ling , Liu Chan , Li Na , Zhong Wenzhou , Mao Liqiu , Kirk Steven Robert , Yin Dulin
Published: January 2020

One-step preparation of cyclohexanone oxime from cyclohexane and ammonium acetate. 13.6% cyclohexane conversion and 51% cyclohexanone oxime selectivity are achieved. Varieties of different ammonias as readily available starting materials.
Manipulating clusters by regulating N,O chelating ligands: structures and multistep assembly mechanisms
Authors: Wang Hai-Ling , Liu Zi-Yuan , Zhu Zhong-Hong , Peng Jin-Mei , Ma Xiong-Feng , Bai Juan , Zou Hua-Hong , Mo Kai-Qiang , Liang Fu-Pei
Published: January 2020

This work is the first study on how changes in ligand chelation sites regulate the assembly and ultimately control lanthanide clusters with different linkages.
A mutually isolated nanodiamond/porous carbon nitride nanosheet hybrid with enriched active sites for promoted catalysis in styrene production
Authors: Ge Guifang , Guo Xinwen , Song Chunshan , Zhao Zhongkui
Published: January 2020

A mutually isolated nanodiamond/porous carbon nitride nanosheet hybrid with enriched catalytic sites is fabricated by a facile two-step molten salt-oxidation strategy, generating an excellent catalyst for clean and energy-saving styrene production.
Black phosphorus quantum dots facilitate carrier separation for enhancing hydrogen production over hierarchical Cu7S4/ZnIn2S4 composites
Authors: Zhang Quan , Zhang Juhua , Zhang Lu , Yang Fengli , Li Lingfeng , Dai Wei-Lin
Published: January 2020

Efficient charge separation of Cu7S4/ZnIn2S4 and the carrier transfer facilitator of BPQDs are responsible for the enhanced H2 production, resulting in the H2 evolution rate of 885 μmol g−1 h−1, 6.8 times higher than that of pristine ZnIn2S4.
Hydrogel microcapsules with photocatalytic nanoparticles for removal of organic pollutants
Authors: Liu Jinrun , Chen Hong , Shi Xiaojie , Nawar Saraf , Werner Jörg G. , Huang Gaoshan , Ye Miaomiao , Weitz David A. , Solovev Alexander A. , Mei Yongfeng
Published: January 2020

Droplet-based microfluidics is used to fabricate hydrogel microcapsules with water permeable shells and aqueous core containing encapsulated photocatalytic nanoparticles for the removal of methylene blue from aqueous solutions.
Drying of African leafy vegetables for their effective preservation: the difference in moisture sorption isotherms explained by their microstructure
Authors: van 't Hag Leonie , Danthe Jessica , Handschin Stephan , Mutuli Gibson P. , Mbuge Duncan , Mezzenga Raffaele
Published: January 2020

Controlled drying preserves African leafy vegetables and fight micronutrient deficiency during droughts. The palisade parenchyma cell length determines their rehydration capacity and starch granules the texture upon cooking.
Upscale synthesis of a binary pillared layered MOF for hydrocarbon gas storage and separation
Authors: Bonneau Mickaele , Lavenn Christophe , Ginet Patrick , Otake Ken-ichi , Kitagawa Susumu
Published: January 2020

Scaling up the synthesis of metal organic frameworks (MOFs) is necessary in order to demonstrate their potential in industrial applications.
Preparation and luminescence properties of core–shell structure composites SiO2@ANA-Si–Eu and SiO2@ANA-Si–Eu–L and core–shell–shell structure composites SiO2@ANA-Si–Eu@SiO2 and SiO2@ANA-Si–Eu–L@SiO2
Authors: Qiao Yan , Li Yilian , Li Wenxian , Bao Jinrong , Zheng Yushan , Feng Lina , Ma Yangyang , Yang Kuisuo , Wu Anping , Bai He , Yang Yunjiang
Published: January 2020

Preparation and properties of core–shell and core–shell–shell structure composites with good luminescence properties.
Extracellular nanofiber-orchestrated cytoskeletal reorganization and mediated directional migration of cancer cells
Authors: Wang Yiqun , Gong Jinkang , Yao Yuan
Published: January 2020

Extracellular matrix anisotropy tunes the organization and movement of surrounding cells.
Ethylene free radical polymerization in supercritical ethylene/CO2 mixture
Authors: Hmayed Ali Al Rida , Norsic Sébastien , Monteil Vincent , Raynaud Jean
Published: January 2020

Ethylene free radical polymerization in supercritical CO2/ethylene mixture under mild conditions (<100 °C and <300 bar) has been achieved to produce polyethylene, functionalized with benzoate moieties when benzoyl peroxide was used as initiator.
Topotactic transformation of homogeneous phosphotungastomolybdic acid materials to heterogeneous solid acid catalyst for carbohydrate conversion to alkyl methylfurfural and alkyl levulinate
Authors: Gupta Dinesh , Mukesh Chandrakant , Pant Kamal K.
Published: January 2020

The strong interaction of higher transition metal oxides with inorganic non-metals can be promising for generating highly acidic three-dimensional materials by design.
Comparative metabolomics unveils molecular changes and metabolic networks of syringin against hepatitis B mice by untargeted mass spectrometry
Authors: Jiang Yi-chang , Li Yuan-feng , Zhou Ling , Zhang Da-peng
Published: January 2020

Untargeted metabolomics technology was used to discover the metabolic pathways and biomarkers for revealing the potential biological mechanism of syringin on hepatitis B virus.
Antimicrobial peptides fromBombyx mori: a splendid immune defense response in silkworms
Authors: Nesa Jannatun , Sadat Abdul , Buccini Danieli F. , Kati Ahmet , Mandal Amit K. , Franco Octavio L.
Published: January 2020

AMPs produced byB. moriinduced by microbial challenge in the fat body.
Continuous-wave laser annealing of metallic layers for CuInSe2 solar cell applications: effect of preheating treatment on grain growth
Authors: Arnou Panagiota , Lomuscio Alberto , Weiss Thomas P. , Siopa Daniel , Giraldo Sergio , Saucedo Edgardo , Scarpulla Michael A. , Dale Phillip J.
Published: January 2020

Ultra-fast thermal annealing of semiconductor materials using a laser can be revolutionary for short processing times and low manufacturing costs.
Elucidating π–π interaction-induced extension effect in sandwich phthalocyaninato compounds
Authors: Chen Xin , Qi Dongdong , Liu Chao , Wang Hailong , Xie Zheng , Chen Tse-Wei , Chen Shen-Ming , Tseng Tien-Wen , Jiang Jianzhuang
Published: January 2020

π–π interaction-linked extension in the perpendicular direction to the monomers and corresponding effect on nonlinear optic properties have been clearly disclosed over the multiple-decker sandwich-type phthalocyaninato metal compounds.
Atomic scale study of black phosphorus degradation
Authors: Hyun Changbae , Kim Jong Hun , Lee Jong-Young , Lee Gwan-Hyoung , Kim Kwang S.
Published: January 2020

Atomic scale degradation of black phosphorus has been revealed by atomic force microscopy.
Molecular modeling provides a structural basis for PERK inhibitor selectivity towards RIPK1
Authors: Chintha Chetan , Carlesso Antonio , Gorman Adrienne M. , Samali Afshin , Eriksson Leif A.
Published: January 2020

Molecular modelling explains the lack of selectivity for inhibitors GSK2606414 and GSK2656157, as compared to inhibitor AMG44.
Chitosan-derived N-doped carbon catalysts with a metallic core for the oxidative dehydrogenation of NH–NH bonds
Authors: Thombal Priyanka Raju , Thombal Raju S. , Han Sung Soo
Published: January 2020

Sustainable metal-encased (Ni–Co/Fe/Cu)@N-doped-C catalysts were prepared from bio-waste and used for the oxidative dehydrogenation reaction.
Modeling the effect of interfacial conductivity between polymer matrix and carbon nanotubes on the electrical conductivity of nanocomposites
Authors: Zare Yasser , Rhee Kyong Yop
Published: January 2020

This article presents the role of interfacial conductivity between the polymer matrix and nanoparticles in the electrical conductivity of polymer carbon nanotube (CNT) nanocomposites (PCNT) by simple equations.
Suppressing H2 evolution by using a hydrogel for reversible Na storage in Na3V2(PO4)3
Authors: Fan Xianying , Gao Xiaoyu , Zhang Xuan , Cui Guijia , Lu Huichao , Xu Zhixin , Yang Jun
Published: January 2020

Hydrogen evolution suppression of hydrogel electrolyte with 3 wt% poly(acrylate sodium) (PAAS) ensures reversible Na-ion storage of Na3V2(PO4)3 as negative electrode.
Production of green diesel from catalytic deoxygenation of chicken fat oil over a series binary metal oxide-supported MWCNTs
Authors: Aliana-Nasharuddin N. , Asikin-Mijan N. , Abdulkareem-Alsultan G. , Saiman Mohd Izham , Alharthi Fahad A. , Alghamdi Abdulaziz Ali , Taufiq-Yap Y. H.
Published: January 2020

Deoxygenation processes that exploit milder reaction conditions under H2-free atmospheres appear environmentally and economically effective for the production of green diesel.
Novel continuous flow synthesis of Pt NPs with narrow size distribution for Pt@carbon catalysts
Authors: Singh Ankit , Miyabayashi Keiko
Published: January 2020

A novel continuous flow synthesis method was performed to achieve ultra-small Pt NPs (2.3 to 2.5 nm) with narrow size distribution. This method expedites the synthesis of Pt NPs without any harsh reducing agent or capping agent.
Fluorene benzothiadiazole co-oligomer based aqueous self-assembled nanoparticles
Authors: Schill J. , Ferrazzano L. , Tolomelli A. , Schenning A. P. H. J. , Brunsveld L.
Published: January 2020

Self-assembled π-conjugated nanoparticles with tunable optical characteristics are appealing for sensing and imaging applications due to their intrinsic fluorescence, supramolecular organization and dynamics.
Gold dipyrrin-bisphenolates: a combined experimental and DFT study of metal–ligand interactions
Authors: Thomas Kolle E. , Desbois Nicolas , Conradie Jeanet , Teat Simon J. , Gros Claude P. , Ghosh Abhik
Published: January 2020

The first gold dipyrrin-bisphenolates have been synthesized. Like their corrole analogues, they exhibit AuIII–L3− ground states, providing rare innocent paradigms for a class of complexes that commonly occur as metalloradicals.
Novel isatin–indole derivatives as potential inhibitors of chorismate mutase (CM): their synthesis along with unexpected formation of 2-indolylmethylamino benzoate ester under Pd–Cu catalysis
Authors: Reddy Gangireddy Sujeevan , Hossain Kazi Amirul , Kumar Jetta Sandeep , Thirupataiah B. , Edwin Rebecca Kristina , Giliyaru Varadaraj Bhat , Chandrashekhar Hariharapura Raghu , Shenoy G. Gautham , Misra Parimal , Pal Manojit
Published: January 2020

Design, synthesis and evaluation of isatin–indole derivatives were undertaken to identify potent inhibitors of chorismate mutase.
Nickel oxide decorated MoS2nanosheet-based non-enzymatic sensor for the selective detection of glucose
Authors: Jeevanandham Gayathri , Jerome R. , Murugan N. , Preethika M. , Vediappan Kumaran , Sundramoorthy Ashok K.
Published: January 2020

This study reported that NiO/MoS2based nanocomposite can be used as an electrocatalytic material to detect glucose with high selectivity in a blood serum.
Beetle-like droplet-jumping superamphiphobic coatings for enhancing fog collection of sheet arrays
Authors: Wang Xikui , Zeng Jia , Yu Xinquan , Liang Caihua , Zhang Youfa
Published: January 2020

Fog collection from atmosphere is an effective way to solve the water resource crisis in arid or semi-arid areas.
Antibiotic activities of propanolamine containing 1,4-benzoxazin-3-ones against phytopathogenic bacteria
Authors: Rao Jiarui , Liu Liwei , Zeng Dan , Wang Mingwei , Xiang Meng , Yang Song
Published: January 2020

Various 1,4-benzoxazin-3-one derivatives containing propanolamine groups have been shown to exhibit good antibacterial activity againstPseudomonas syringaepvactinidiae(Psa),X. axonopodispvcitri(Xac) andXanthomonas oryzaepvoryzae(Xoo).
Ti-superoxide catalyzed oxidative amidation of aldehydes with saccharin as nitrogen source: synthesis of primary amides
Authors: Kamble Rohit B. , Mane Kishor D. , Rupanawar Bapurao D. , Korekar Pranjal , Sudalai A. , Suryavanshi Gurunath
Published: January 2020

Heterogeneous catalytic system using Ti-superoxide and saccharin with TBHP has been developed which catalyzes oxidative amidation of aldehyde to produce primary amides. It tolerates a wide range of substrates with different functional groups.
Independent control over size, valence, and elemental composition in the synthesis of DNA–nanoparticle conjugates
Authors: Bai Yugang , Xing Hang , Bai Yunhao , Tan Li Huey , Hwang Kevin , Li Ji , Lu Yi , Zimmerman Steven C.
Published: January 2020

DNA–nanoparticle conjugates can be synthesized with independent control over size, valence and elemental composition using a template-based strategy.
Correction: Electrochemical energy storage by aluminum as a lightweight and cheap anode/charge carrier
Authors: Eftekhari Ali , Corrochano Pablo
Published: January 2020

Correction for ‘Electrochemical energy storage by aluminum as a lightweight and cheap anode/charge carrier’ by Ali Eftekhari and Pablo Corrochano, Sustainable Energy Fuels, 2017, 1, 1246–1264.
Correction: Energy efficiency: a critically important but neglected factor in battery research
Authors: Eftekhari Ali
Published: January 2020

Correction for ‘Energy efficiency: a critically important but neglected factor in battery research’ by Ali Eftekhari, Sustainable Energy Fuels, 2017, 1, 2053–2060.
Manganese hexacyanoferrate reinforced by PEDOT coating towards high-rate and long-life sodium-ion battery cathode
Authors: Wang Xiao , Wang Baoqi , Tang Yuxin , Xu Ben Bin , Liang Chu , Yan Mi , Jiang Yinzhu
Published: January 2020

In situpolymerization is used to obtain PEDOT tightly coated MnHCF, inhibiting phase transition and Mn dissolution during cycling.
Principal eigenvalues of fully nonlinear integro-differential elliptic equations with a drift term
Authors: Quaas Alexander , Salort Ariel , Xia Aliang
Published: January 2020

We study existence of principal eigenvalues of a fully nonlinear integro-differential elliptic equations with a drift term via the Krein–Rutman theorem and regularity estimates up to boundary of viscosity solutions. We also show simplicity of eigenfunctions in the viscosity sense by using a nonlocal version of the ABP estimate and a “sweeping lemma”.
Actualités des anticorps monoclonaux dans les maladies monogéniques aujourd’hui
Authors: Bauvois Adeline , Larivière Mélusine , Watier Hervé , Maillot François
Published: January 2020

Les maladies monogéniques sont des maladies génétiques rares mais très nombreuses, avec une sévérité variable. Les premières utilisations des anticorps monoclonaux dans ces maladies remontent aux années 2000 et de nombreux essais sont désormais en cours. Les anticorps monoclonaux anti-(interleukine)IL-1β ont profondément transformé la prise en charge des maladies auto-inflammatoires en modulant la composante inflammatoire et en diminuant le risque d’amylose secondaire ; les anticorps monoclonaux anti-TNF-α et anti-IL-6 sont également prescrits dans ces maladies. Dans le syndrome hémolytique et urémique atypique lié à des défauts de régulation de la voie alterne du complément, l’éculizumab, un anticorps monoclonal anti-C5, a permis d’améliorer le pronostic rénal des patients traités. Plus récemment, le lanadélumab, un anticorps monoclonal anti-kallicréïne plasmatique, est venu renforcer l’arsenal thérapeutique des angiœdèmes héréditaires et le burosumab, un anticorps monoclonal anti-FGF23, celui du rachitisme hypophosphatémique lié à l’X. Ces exemples illustrent bien l’importance de l’utilisation des anticorps monoclonaux dans la prise en charge des maladies monogéniques, l’intérêt de considérer cette option thérapeutique dans ce domaine et la nécessité de poursuivre des recherches.
Variabilité pharmacocinétique des anticorps thérapeutiques
Authors: Ternant David , Chhun Stéphanie
Published: January 2020

Les anticorps thérapeutiques sont de plus en plus utilisés dans le traitement de différentes pathologies, dont les cancers et les maladies inflammatoires chroniques. La variabilité pharmacocinétique interindividuelle des anticorps est grande et influence la réponse clinique. Certaines caractéristiques de l’individu jouent un rôle majeur car elles modifient fortement cette pharmacocinétique, telles les dimensions corporelles, l’immunisation contre les anticorps thérapeutiques utilisés ou la masse antigénique. D’autres jouent un rôle mineur, comme l’âge, le sexe ou des polymorphismes génétiques. Cette variabilité doit être décrite avec soin pour déterminer le schéma posologique optimal.
Exemples d’études de développabilité apportant un éclairage à la prise de décision
Authors: Dumas Jacques , Sévérac Anne , Lemoine Cendrine , Huille Sylvain , Rak Alexey , Prades Catherine
Published: January 2020

De nos jours, la génération d’anticorps thérapeutiques doit être plus rapide avec des coûts de développement moins importants. Pour cela, des prédictions in silico sont associées à des technologies de criblage et de caractérisation de pointe. Les exemples choisis ici sont non-exhaustifs mais illustrent ce besoin de travailler en parallèle.
Giant Non-Functioning Pituitary Adenoma: Clinical Characteristics and Therapeutic Outcomes
Authors: Iglesias Pedro , Arcano Karina , Triviño Vanessa , Guerrero-Pérez Fernando , Rodríguez Berrocal Víctor , Vior Carlos , Cordido Fernando , Villabona Carles , Díez Juan J
Published: January 2020

Background Giant pituitary adenoma (≥4 cm) is a rare tumor whose clinical features and prognosis are not well known.

Aim To evaluate the clinical characteristics and therapeutic outcomes of giant non-functioning PA (gNFPA).

Patients and Methods A retrospective multicenter study of gNFPA patients diagnosed in a 12-year period was performed. In each patient, clinical data and therapeutic outcomes were registered.

Results Forty patients (24 men, age 54.2 ± 16.2 years) were studied. The maximum tumor diameter [median (interquartile range)] was 4.6 cm (4.1–5.1). Women had larger tumors [4.8 cm (4.2–5.4) vs. 4.5 cm (4.0–4.9); p=0.048]. Hypopituitarism [partial (n=22, 55%) or complete (n=9, 22.5%)] at diagnosis was present in 77.5% of the patients. Visual field defects were found in 90.9%. The most used surgical technique was endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal (EET) surgery (n=31, 77.5%). Radiotherapy was used in 11 (27.5%) patients (median dose 50.4 Gy, range 50–54). Thirty-seven patients were followed for 36 months (10–67 months). Although more than half of these patients showed tumor persistence (n=25, 67.6%), tumor size was significantly reduced [0.8 cm (0–2.5); p<0.001]. At last visit, 12 patients (32.4%) showed absence of tumor on MRI. Hypopituitarism rate was similar (75.0%), although with significant changes (p<0.001) in the distribution of the type of hypopituitarism. The absence of tumor at the last visit was positively associated with positive immunohistochemical staining for FSH (p=0.01) and LH (p=0.006) and negatively with female sex (p=0.011), cavernous sinus invasion (p=0.005) and the presence of Knosp grade 4 (p=0.013).

Conclusion gNFPAs are more frequent in men but tumors are larger in women. Surgical treatment is followed by a complete tumor resection rate of approximately 30%. Positive immunostaining for gonadotropins is associated with tumor absence at last revision, while female sex and invasion of the cavernous sinuses with tumor persistence.
Organo-f-Complexes for Efficient and Selective Hydroborations
Authors: Liu Heng , Eisen Moris S.
Published: January 2020

Organo-f-complexes catalyzing small molecule transformations have been a hot topic in the past few years. Compared to other transformations, the hydroboration of C=X (X = C, N, O) unsaturated bonds serves as an important strategy to prepare organoborane derivatives, which are important intermediates in organic synthesis. This review outlines recent advances in organolanthanide and organoactinide complexes promoting the hydroboration of C=X containing substrates. After a brief introduction, three types of hydroboration will be presented: alkene hydroboration, carbonyl hydroboration, and imine and nitrile hydroborations. The catalytic performance, mechanism, and kinetic studies are discussed in detail, aiming to emphasize the catalytic differences between the diverse organo-f-catalysts. Additionally, challenges and future directions of this field are also presented.

1 Introduction

2 Alkene Hydroboration

3 Carbonyl Hydroboration

4 Imine and Nitrile Hydroboration

5 Conclusions and Outlook
Selective Synthesis of exo-Spiro[2′,2′-difluorocyclopropane-3′,2′-tropanes]
Authors: Gerasov Andrii , Dolgonos Grygoriy A. , Mandzhulo Aleksandr Yu. , Ryabitsky Alexey , Fetyukhin Volodymyr , Lukin Oleg , Shivanyuk Alexander
Published: January 2020

Conformationally restrained exo-isomers of N-Boc-protected spiro[2′,2′-difluorocyclopropane-3′,2′-tropanes] were synthesized in 62–83% yield via absolutely diastereoselective cycloaddition of CF2, generated in situ from Me3SiCF3/NaI in refluxing THF, to double bonds of 3-alkylidenetropanes. Standard removal of Boc protecting groups afforded corresponding exo-spiro[2′,2′-difluorocyclopropane-3′,2′-tropane] hydrochlorides in 82–94% yields. DFT and CCSD(T) calculations revealed that the observed exo-selectivity of difluorocarbene addition is likely to be caused by a lower activation barrier of the exo-difluorocyclopropanation compared to the endo-reaction.
Excitation of VLF perturbations in the F-region of the ionosphere by beating HF O-mode waves
Authors: Borisov N.
Published: January 2020

Action of two HF O-mode pump waves with different frequencies on the ionosphere is suggested as a source of artificial quasielectrostatic VLF perturbations in the F-layer. Such perturbations with the beat frequency are excited in the vicinity of small-scale artificial plasma irregularities (striations) by upper hybrid resonance (UHR) oscillations. While UHR oscillations are trapped inside striations, the generated VLF perturbations are not trapped in such small-scale plasma depletions. These VLF oscillations propagate at small angles with respect to the background magnetic field. Estimates show that the excited VLF electric fields are strong enough, while magnetic perturbations are much weaker. The scattering of quasielectrostatic VLF perturbations on small-scale plasma irregularities in the F-layer provides the generation of the whistler mode waves that can be detected on board satellites.
An inexpensive programmable optogenetic platform for controlled neuronal activation regimens in C. elegans
Authors: Crawford Zachary , San-Miguel Adriana
Published: January 2020

In Caenorhabditis elegans, optogenetic stimulation has been widely used to assess neuronal function, control animal movement, or assay circuit responses to controlled stimuli. Most studies are performed on single animals and require high-end components such as lasers and shutters. We present an accessible platform that enables controlled optogenetic stimulation of C. elegans in two modes: single animal stimulation with locomotion tracking and entire population stimulation for neuronal exercise regimens. The system consists of accessible electronic components: a high-power light-emitting diode, Arduino board, and relay are integrated with MATLAB to enable programmable optogenetic stimulation regimens. This system provides flexibility in optogenetic stimulation in freely moving animals while providing quantitative information of optogenetic-driven locomotion responses. We show the applicability of this platform in single animals by stimulation of cholinergic motor neurons in C. elegans and quantitative assessment of contractile responses. In addition, we tested synaptic plasticity by coupling the entire-population stimulation mode with measurements of synaptic strength using an aldicarb assay, where clear changes in synaptic strength were observed after regimens of neuronal exercise. This platform is composed of inexpensive components, while providing the illumination strength of high-end systems, which require expensive lasers, shutters, or automated stages. This platform requires no moving parts but provides flexibility in stimulation regimens.
Giant enhancement in coercivity of ferromagnetic α-Fe2O3 nanosheet grown on MoS2
Authors: Debnath Anup , Bhattacharya Shatabda , Mondal Tapas Kumar , Tada Hirokazu , Saha Shyamal K.
Published: January 2020

To study the 2D materials, an interface interaction is very important to tune the physical properties because of the large specific surface area. When the antiferromagnetic α-Fe2O3 is grown in a single-crystalline form on a diamagnetic MoS2, enormous changes in magnetic properties are observed in the 2D composite system. Strong ferromagnetism with a giant coercivity of 1.8 T is observed in this single-crystalline α-Fe2O3/MoS2 heterostructure. It is noted that thinner sheets show better coercivity than the thicker sheets, and the coercivity decreases with the increase in temperature. This huge coercivity in larger and thinner single-crystalline α-Fe2O3 sheets grown on a MoS2 arises due to charge transfer from “S” to “Fe” and the surface pinning effect at the interface. A large negative magnetoresistance with a maximum value of 15% is achieved due to the spin-spin interaction, and a positive magnetoresistance is also observed at low field and high temperature as a result of the spin splitting effect.