bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationships Between Precipitation Properties and Large‐Scale Conditions During Subsidence at the Eastern North Atlantic Observatory
Authors: Lamer Katia , Naud Catherine M. , Booth James F.
Published: March 2020

Three years of reanalysis and ground‐based observations collected at the Eastern North Atlantic (ENA) observatory are analyzed to document the properties of rain and boundary layer clouds and their relationship with the large‐scale environment during general subsidence conditions and following cold front passages. Clouds in the wake of cold fronts exhibit on average a 10% higher propensity to precipitate and higher rain‐to‐cloud fraction than cloud found in general subsidence conditions. Similarities in the seasonal cycle of rain and of large‐scale properties suggest that the large‐scale conditions created by the cold front passage are responsible for the unique properties of the rain forming in its wake. The identification of monotonic relationships between rain‐to‐cloud fraction and rain rate with surface forcing and boundary layer stability parameters as well as between virga base height with stability and humidity measures further supports that large‐scale conditions impact precipitation variability. That being said, these relationships between the large‐scale and rain properties are less clear than those established between cloud and rain properties, suggesting that cloud macrophysics have a more direct impact on the properties of rain than the large‐scale environment. The applicability of previously documented relationships between cloud thickness and rain properties is tested and the relationships adjusted to accommodate the complex shallow clouds and melting precipitation observed to occur in the ENA region. Establishing these relationships opens up opportunities for parametrization development and suggests that a realistic representation of precipitation properties in models relies on the accurate representation of both clouds and the large‐scale environment.
Comment on “Additional Boundary Condition for Electric Quadrupolar Continua Derived from Maxwell's Differential Equations” by A.D. Yaghjian and M.G. Silveirinha
Authors: Yaghjian A. D. , Silveirinha M. G.
Published: March 2020

The accuracy of the fundamental electric quadrupolar constitutive relation used in the paper by Yaghjian and Silveirinha (2016, https://doi.org/10.1002/2016RS006066) is determined and used to improve upon the derivation of one of the boundary conditions for electric quadrupolar media. In addition, three typographical errors in the aforementioned paper are noted.
Tackling the Trickle: Ensuring Sustainable Water Management in the Arab Region
Authors: Borgomeo Edoardo , Fawzi Nadia Al‐Mudaffar , Hall Jim W. , Jägerskog Anders , Nicol Alan , Sadoff Claudia W. , Salman Maher , Santos Nuno , Talhami Michael
Published: March 2020

Water scarcity in the Arab region is intensifying due to population growth, economic development, and the impacts of climate change. It is manifested in groundwater depletion, freshwater ecosystem degradation, deteriorating water quality, low levels of water storage per capita, and added pressures on transboundary water resources. High‐income Arab countries have sought to circumvent the ever‐present challenges of water scarcity through agricultural imports (virtual water trade), desalination, and, increasingly, wastewater reuse. In this review article, we argue that the narrative of water scarcity and supply‐side technological fixes masks more systemic issues that threaten sustainable water management, including underperforming water utilities, protracted armed conflict and displacement, agricultural policies aimed at self‐sufficiency, evolving food consumption behaviors, the future of energy markets, and educational policy. Water management challenges, particularly on the demand side, and responses in the Arab region cannot be understood in isolation from these broader regional and international political and socioeconomic trends. Recognizing the complex and interdependent challenges of water management is the first step in reforming approaches and shifting to more sustainable development outcomes and stability in the Arab region and beyond.
The microbiome and resistome of chimpanzees, gorillas, and humans across host lifestyle and geography
Authors: Campbell Tayte P , Sun Xiaoqing , Patel Vishal H , Sanz Crickette , Morgan David , Dantas Gautam
Published: March 2020

The gut microbiome can vary across differences in host lifestyle, geography, and host species. By comparing closely related host species across varying lifestyles and geography, we can evaluate the relative contributions of these factors in structuring the composition and functions of the microbiome. Here we show that the gut microbial taxa, microbial gene family composition, and resistomes of great apes and humans are more related by host lifestyle than geography. We show that captive chimpanzees and gorillas are enriched for microbial genera commonly found in non-Westernized humans. Captive ape microbiomes also had up to ~34-fold higher abundance and up to ~5-fold higher richness of all antibiotic resistance genes compared with wild apes. Through functional metagenomics, we identified a number of novel antibiotic resistance genes, including a gene conferring resistance to colistin, an antibiotic of last resort. Finally, by comparing our study cohorts to human and ape gut microbiomes from a diverse range of environments and lifestyles, we find that the influence of host lifestyle is robust to various geographic locations.
Self-reported hearing loss questions provide a good measure for genetic studies: a polygenic risk score analysis from UK Biobank
Authors: Cherny Stacey S. , Livshits Gregory , Wells Helena R. R. , Freidin Maxim B. , Malkin Ida , Dawson Sally J. , Williams Frances M. K.
Published: March 2020

Age-related hearing impairment (ARHI) is very common in older adults and has major impact on quality of life. The heritability of ARHI has been estimated to be around 50%. The present study aimed to estimate heritability and environmental contributions to liability of ARHI and the extent to which a polygenic risk score (PRS) derived from a recent genome-wide association study of questionnaire items regarding hearing loss using the UK Biobank is predictive of hearing loss in other samples. We examined (1) a sample from TwinsUK who have had hearing ability measured by pure-tone audiogram and the speech-to-noise ratio test as well as questionnaire measures that are comparable with the UK Biobank questionnaire items and (2) European and non-European samples from the UK Biobank which were not part of the original GWAS. Results indicated that the questionnaire items were over 50% heritable in TwinsUK and comparable with the objective hearing measures. In addition, we found very high genetic correlation (0.30–0.84) between the questionnaire responses and objective hearing measures in the TwinsUK sample. Finally, PRS computed from weighted UK Biobank GWAS results were predictive of both questionnaire and objective measures of hearing loss in the TwinsUK sample, as well as questionnaire-measured hearing loss in Europeans but not non-European subpopulations. These results demonstrate the utility of questionnaire-based methods in genetic association studies of hearing loss in adults and highlight the differences in genetic predisposition to ARHI by ethnic background.
The cryo-EM structure of the SNX–BAR Mvp1 tetramer
Authors: Sun Dapeng , Varlakhanova Natalia V. , Tornabene Bryan A. , Ramachandran Rajesh , Zhang Peijun , Ford Marijn G. J.
Published: March 2020

Sorting nexins (SNX) are a family of PX domain-containing proteins with pivotal roles in trafficking and signaling. SNX-BARs, which also have a curvature-generating Bin/Amphiphysin/Rvs (BAR) domain, have membrane-remodeling functions, particularly at the endosome. The minimal PX-BAR module is a dimer mediated by BAR-BAR interactions. Many SNX-BAR proteins, however, additionally have low-complexity N-terminal regions of unknown function. Here, we present the cryo-EM structure of the full-length SNX-BAR Mvp1, which is an autoinhibited tetramer. The tetramer is a dimer of dimers, wherein the membrane-interacting BAR surfaces are sequestered and the PX lipid-binding sites are occluded. The N-terminal low-complexity region of Mvp1 is essential for tetramerization. Mvp1 lacking its N-terminus is dimeric and exhibits enhanced membrane association. Membrane binding and remodeling by Mvp1 therefore requires unmasking of the PX and BAR domain lipid-interacting surfaces. This work reveals a tetrameric configuration of a SNX-BAR protein that provides critical insight into SNX-BAR function and regulation.
Long noncoding RNA AGPG regulates PFKFB3-mediated tumor glycolytic reprogramming
Authors: Liu Jia , Liu Ze-Xian , Wu Qi-Nian , Lu Yun-Xin , Wong Chau-Wei , Miao Lei , Wang Yun , Wang Zixian , Jin Ying , He Ming-Ming , Ren Chao , Wang De-Shen , Chen Dong-Liang , Pu Heng-Ying , Feng Lin , Li Bo , Xie Dan , Zeng Mu-Sheng , Huang Peng , Lin Aifu , Lin Dongxin , Xu Rui-Hua , Ju Huai-Qiang
Published: March 2020

Tumor cells often reprogram their metabolism for rapid proliferation. The roles of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in metabolism remodeling and the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. Through screening, we found that the lncRNA Actin Gamma 1 Pseudogene (AGPG) is required for increased glycolysis activity and cell proliferation in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). Mechanistically, AGPG binds to and stabilizes 6-phosphofructo-2-kinase/fructose-2,6-biphosphatase 3 (PFKFB3). By preventing APC/C-mediated ubiquitination, AGPG protects PFKFB3 from proteasomal degradation, leading to the accumulation of PFKFB3 in cancer cells, which subsequently activates glycolytic flux and promotes cell cycle progression. AGPG is also a transcriptional target of p53; loss or mutation of TP53 triggers the marked upregulation of AGPG. Notably, inhibiting AGPG dramatically impaired tumor growth in patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models. Clinically, AGPG is highly expressed in many cancers, and high AGPG expression levels are correlated with poor prognosis, suggesting that AGPG is a potential biomarker and cancer therapeutic target.
Metastasis-initiating cells induce and exploit a fibroblast niche to fuel malignant colonization of the lungs
Authors: Pein Maren , Insua-Rodríguez Jacob , Hongu Tsunaki , Riedel Angela , Meier Jasmin , Wiedmann Lena , Decker Kristin , Essers Marieke A. G. , Sinn Hans-Peter , Spaich Saskia , Sütterlin Marc , Schneeweiss Andreas , Trumpp Andreas , Oskarsson Thordur
Published: March 2020

Metastatic colonization relies on interactions between disseminated cancer cells and the microenvironment in secondary organs. Here, we show that disseminated breast cancer cells evoke phenotypic changes in lung fibroblasts, forming a supportive metastatic niche. Colonization of the lungs confers an inflammatory phenotype in metastasis-associated fibroblasts. Specifically, IL-1α and IL-1β secreted by breast cancer cells induce CXCL9 and CXCL10 production in lung fibroblasts via NF-κB signaling, fueling the growth of lung metastases. Notably, we find that the chemokine receptor CXCR3, that binds CXCL9/10, is specifically expressed in a small subset of breast cancer cells, which exhibits tumor-initiating ability when co-transplanted with fibroblasts and has high JNK signaling that drives IL-1α/β expression. Importantly, disruption of the intercellular JNK-IL-1-CXCL9/10-CXCR3 axis reduces metastatic colonization in xenograft and syngeneic mouse models. These data mechanistically demonstrate an essential role for the molecular crosstalk between breast cancer cells and their fibroblast niche in the progression of metastasis.
OXPHOS remodeling in high-grade prostate cancer involves mtDNA mutations and increased succinate oxidation
Authors: Schöpf Bernd , Weissensteiner Hansi , Schäfer Georg , Fazzini Federica , Charoentong Pornpimol , Naschberger Andreas , Rupp Bernhard , Fendt Liane , Bukur Valesca , Giese Irina , Sorn Patrick , Sant’Anna-Silva Ana Carolina , Iglesias-Gonzalez Javier , Sahin Ugur , Kronenberg Florian , Gnaiger Erich , Klocker Helmut
Published: March 2020

Rewiring of energy metabolism and adaptation of mitochondria are considered to impact on prostate cancer development and progression. Here, we report on mitochondrial respiration, DNA mutations and gene expression in paired benign/malignant human prostate tissue samples. Results reveal reduced respiratory capacities with NADH-pathway substrates glutamate and malate in malignant tissue and a significant metabolic shift towards higher succinate oxidation, particularly in high-grade tumors. The load of potentially deleterious mitochondrial-DNA mutations is higher in tumors and associated with unfavorable risk factors. High levels of potentially deleterious mutations in mitochondrial Complex I-encoding genes are associated with a 70% reduction in NADH-pathway capacity and compensation by increased succinate-pathway capacity. Structural analyses of these mutations reveal amino acid alterations leading to potentially deleterious effects on Complex I, supporting a causal relationship. A metagene signature extracted from the transcriptome of tumor samples exhibiting a severe mitochondrial phenotype enables identification of tumors with shorter survival times.
The mechanism of a high-affinity allosteric inhibitor of the serotonin transporter
Authors: Plenge Per , Abramyan Ara M. , Sørensen Gunnar , Mørk Arne , Weikop Pia , Gether Ulrik , Bang-Andersen Benny , Shi Lei , Loland Claus J.
Published: March 2020

The serotonin transporter (SERT) terminates serotonin signaling by rapid presynaptic reuptake. SERT activity is modulated by antidepressants, e.g., S-citalopram and imipramine, to alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. SERT crystal structures reveal two S-citalopram binding pockets in the central binding (S1) site and the extracellular vestibule (S2 site). In this study, our combined in vitro and in silico analysis indicates that the bound S-citalopram or imipramine in S1 is allosterically coupled to the ligand binding to S2 through altering protein conformations. Remarkably, SERT inhibitor Lu AF60097, the first high-affinity S2-ligand reported and characterized here, allosterically couples the ligand binding to S1 through a similar mechanism. The SERT inhibition by Lu AF60097 is demonstrated by the potentiated imipramine binding and increased hippocampal serotonin level in rats. Together, we reveal a S1-S2 coupling mechanism that will facilitate rational design of high-affinity SERT allosteric inhibitors.
An acid-tolerance response system protecting exponentially growing Escherichia coli
Authors: Xu Ying , Zhao Zhe , Tong Wenhua , Ding Yamei , Liu Bin , Shi Yixin , Wang Jichao , Sun Shenmei , Liu Min , Wang Yuhui , Qi Qingsheng , Xian Mo , Zhao Guang
Published: March 2020

The ability to grow at moderate acidic conditions (pH 4.0–5.0) is important toEscherichia colicolonization of the host’s intestine. Several regulatory systems are known to control acid resistance inE. coli, enabling the bacteria to survive under acidic conditions without growth. Here, we characterize an acid-tolerance response (ATR) system and its regulatory circuit, required forE. coliexponential growth at pH 4.2. A two-component system CpxRA directly senses acidification through protonation of CpxA periplasmic histidine residues, and upregulates thefabAandfabBgenes, leading to increased production of unsaturated fatty acids. Changes in lipid composition decrease membrane fluidity, F0F1-ATPase activity, and improve intracellular pH homeostasis. The ATR system is important forE. colisurvival in the mouse intestine and for production of higher level of 3-hydroxypropionate during fermentation. Furthermore, this ATR system appears to be conserved in other Gram-negative bacteria.
Oral biofilms exposure to chlorhexidine results in altered microbial composition and metabolic profile
Authors: Chatzigiannidou Ioanna , Teughels Wim , Van de Wiele Tom , Boon Nico
Published: March 2020

Oral diseases (e.g., dental caries, periodontitis) are developed when the healthy oral microbiome is imbalanced allowing the increase of pathobiont strains. Common practice to prevent or treat such diseases is the use of antiseptics, like chlorhexidine. However, the impact of these antiseptics on the composition and metabolic activity of the oral microbiome is poorly addressed. Using two types of oral biofilms—a 14-species community (more controllable) and human tongue microbiota (more representative)—the impact of short-term chlorhexidine exposure was explored in-depth. In both models, oral biofilms treated with chlorhexidine exhibited a pattern of inactivation (>3 log units) and fast regrowth to the initial bacterial concentrations. Moreover, the chlorhexidine treatment induced profound shifts in microbiota composition and metabolic activity. In some cases, disease associated traits were increased (such as higher abundance of pathobiont strains or shift in high lactate production). Our results highlight the need for alternative treatments that selectively target the disease-associated bacteria in the biofilm without targeting the commensal microorganisms.
Ambipolar device simulation based on the drift-diffusion model in ion-gated transition metal dichalcogenide transistors
Authors: Ueda Akiko , Zhang Yijin , Sano Nobuyuki , Imamura Hiroshi , Iwasa Yoshihiro
Published: March 2020

Ionic gating is known as a powerful tool for investigation of electronic functionalities stemming from low voltage transistor operation to gate-induced electronic phase control including superconductivity. Two-dimensional (2D) material is one of the archetypal channel materials which exhibit a variety of gate-induced phenomena. Nevertheless, the device simulations on such ion-gated transistor devices have never been reported, despite its importance for the future design of device structures. In this paper, we developed a drift-diffusion (DD) model on a 2D material, WSe2 monolayer, attached with an ionic liquid, and succeeded in simulating the transport properties, potential profile, carrier density distributions in the transistor configuration. In particular, the simulation explains the ambipolar behavior with the gate voltage comparable to the band gap energy, as well as the formation of p-n junctions in the channel reported in several experimental papers. Such peculiar behavior becomes possible by the dramatic change of the potential profiles at the Schottky barrier by the ionic gating. The present result indicates that the DD model coupled to the Poisson equation is a fascinating platform to explain and predict further functionalities of ion-gated transistors through including the spin, valley, and optical degrees of freedom.
High-performance phosphorene electromechanical actuators
Authors: Wu Bozhao , Deng Hui-Xiong , Jia Xiangzheng , Shui Langquan , Gao Enlai , Liu Ze
Published: March 2020

Phosphorene, a two-dimensional material that can be exfoliated from black phosphorus, exhibits remarkable mechanical, thermal, electronic, and optical properties. In this work, we demonstrate that the unique structure of pristine phosphorene endows this material with exceptional quantum-mechanical performance by using first-principles calculations. Upon charge injection, the maximum actuation stress is 7.0 GPa, corresponding to the maximum actuation strain as high as 36.6% that is over seven times larger than that of graphene (4.7%) and comparable with natural muscle (20–40%). Meanwhile, the maximum volumetric work density of phosphorene (207.7 J/cm3) is about three orders of magnitude larger than natural muscle (0.008–0.04 J/cm3) and approximately six times larger than graphene (35.3 J/cm3). The underlying mechanism of this exceptional electromechanical performance in phosphorene is well revealed from the analysis of atomic structure and electronic structure. Finally, the influence of charge on the mechanical behaviors of phosphorene is examined by mechanical tests, indicating the sufficient structural integrity of phosphorene under the combined electromechanical loading. These findings shed light on phosphorene for promising applications in developing nanoelectromechanical actuators.
Planned primary health care asthma contacts during 12-year follow-up after Finnish National Asthma Programme: focus on spirometry
Authors: Takala Jaana , Ilmarinen Pinja , Tuomisto Leena E. , Vähätalo Iida , Niemelä Onni , Kankaanranta Hannu
Published: March 2020

Primary health care (PHC) providers are at the front line of asthma management. To evaluate how planned asthma follow-up occurred in PHC and whether lung function tests were used, 203 patients were followed for 12 years as part of a real-life asthma cohort Seinäjoki Adult Asthma Study (SAAS). A total of 152 patients had visits in PHC attending on average to four planned contacts during 12-year follow-up corresponding to one visit every third year. National guideline recommends annual visits. Patients with ≥4 contacts seemed to have more difficult asthma and better adherence to inhaled corticosteroid medication. Lung function tests were performed on average in 87.5% of annual planned follow-up contacts. Spirometry was performed in 70%, 71% and 97% of all contacts depending on whether it was a contact to GP, nurse or both. Overall, the frequency of follow-up contacts was insufficient but PHC adherence to lung function testing was excellent.
The global dataset of historical yields for major crops 1981–2016
Authors: Iizumi Toshichika , Sakai Toru
Published: March 2020

Knowing the historical yield patterns of major commodity crops, including the trends and interannual variability, is crucial for understanding the current status, potential and risks in food production in the face of the growing demand for food and climate change. We updated the global dataset of historical yields for major crops (GDHY), which is a hybrid of agricultural census statistics and satellite remote sensing, to cover the 36-year period from 1981 to 2016, with a spatial resolution of 0.5°. Four major crops were considered: maize, rice, wheat and soybean. The updated version 1.3 was developed and then aligned with the earlier version 1.2 to ensure the continuity of the yield time series. Comparisons with different global yield datasets and published results demonstrate that the GDHY-aligned version v1.2 + v1.3 dataset is a valuable source of information on global yields. The aligned version dataset enables users to employ an increased number of yield samples for their analyses, which ultimately increases the confidence in their findings.
Tracing the transmission dynamics of HIV-1 CRF55_01B
Authors: Zai Junjie , Liu Haizhou , Lu Zhenzhen , Chaillon Antoine , Smith Davey , Li Yi , Li Xingguang
Published: March 2020

To investigate the genetic diversity, spatiotemporal dynamics, and transmission networks of HIV-1 CRF55_01B epidemic in China. A total of 209 partial pol gene sequences of HIV-1 CRF55_01B were sampled during 2007–2015 from 7 provinces of China. Phylogenetic analyses and trait diffusion process of these sequences were performed using Bayesian methods. Distance-based molecular network analyses were performed to infer putative relationships. Characteristics of genetically linked individuals were analyzed. Our study identified that HIV-1 CRF55_01B likely originated among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Guangdong province in January 2003 (April 2000–April 2005), and that Guangdong province and MSM are major hubs for the spread of the HIV-1 CRF55_01B epidemic in China. A Bayesian Skygrid plot revealed that the effective population size of HIV-1 CRF55_01B experienced increased phase followed by a plateau. All sequences from persons of unknown risk clustered within groups who reported MSM risk. This could be because Chinese MSM may not report such risk due to HIV/AIDS-related stigmatization and discrimination. This study inferred the transmission dynamics of the HIV-1 CRF55_01B epidemic in China at high resolution. The methods developed in this study may be critical for designing effective HIV prevention strategies in China and beyond.
Uranium in Ohio, USA Surface Waters: Implications for a Fertilizer Source in Waters Draining Agricultural lands
Authors: Lyons W. Berry , Gardner Christopher B. , Welch Susan A. , Israel Samantha
Published: March 2020

Synthetic fertilizer is a potential source of uranium to natural waters, yet evidence is lacking. We analyzed dissolved uranium concentrations in lakes, reservoirs, and rivers in Ohio, USA during the summer of 2017. All water bodies drain areas of extensive agriculture where phosphate-rich fertilizer is applied. Uranium concentrations ranged from 0.3 to 3.9 µg L−1, with the lowest concentrations observed in the most offshore Lake Erie samples. These results, especially when placed in the context of previous work on both surface and groundwater, suggest that dissolved uranium concentrations in this water emanating from agricultural lands are higher than background, and uranium should be categorized similarly to nitrate and phosphate in that it originates in part from fertilizer application.
Discrimination of bovine milk from non-dairy milk by lipids fingerprinting using routine matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry
Authors: England Philippa , Tang Wenhao , Kostrzewa Markus , Shahrezaei Vahid , Larrouy-Maumus Gerald
Published: March 2020

An important sustainable development goal for any country is to ensure food security by producing a sufficient and safe food supply. This is the case for bovine milk where addition of non-dairy milks such as vegetables (e.g., soya or coconut) has become a common source of adulteration and fraud. Conventionally, gas chromatography techniques are used to detect key lipids (e.g., triacylglycerols) has an effective read-out of assessing milks origins and to detect foreign milks in bovine milks. However, such approach requires several sample preparation steps and a dedicated laboratory environment, precluding a high throughput process. To cope with this need, here, we aimed to develop a novel and simple method without organic solvent extractions for the detection of bovine and non-dairy milks based on lipids fingerprint by routine MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry (MS). The optimized method relies on the simple dilution of milks in water followed by MALDI-TOF MS analyses in the positive linear ion mode and using a matrix consisting of a 9:1 mixture of 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid and 2-hydroxy-5-methoxybenzoic acid (super-DHB) solubilized at 10 mg/mL in 70% ethanol. This sensitive, inexpensive, and rapid method has potential for use in food authenticity applications.
Enhanced purification coupled with biophysical analyses shows cross-β structure as a core building block for Streptococcus mutans functional amyloids
Authors: Barran-Berdon Ana L. , Ocampo Sebastian , Haider Momin , Morales-Aparicio Joyce , Ottenberg Gregory , Kendall Amy , Yarmola Elena , Mishra Surabhi , Long Joanna R. , Hagen Stephen J. , Stubbs Gerald , Brady L. Jeannine
Published: March 2020

Streptococcus mutans is an etiologic agent of human dental caries that forms dental plaque biofilms containing functional amyloids. Three amyloidogenic proteins, P1, WapA, and Smu_63c were previously identified. C123 and AgA are naturally occurring amyloid-forming fragments of P1 and WapA, respectively. We determined that four amyloidophilic dyes, ThT, CDy11, BD-oligo, and MK-H4, differentiate C123, AgA, and Smu_63c amyloid from monomers, but non-specific binding to bacterial cells in the absence of amyloid precludes their utility for identifying amyloid in biofilms. Congo red-induced birefringence is a more specific indicator of amyloid formation and differentiates biofilms formed by wild-type S. mutans from a triple ΔP1/WapA/Smu_63c mutant with reduced biofilm forming capabilities. Amyloid accumulation is a late event, appearing in older S. mutans biofilms after 60 hours of growth. Amyloid derived from pure preparations of all three proteins is visualized by electron microscopy as mat-like structures. Typical amyloid fibers become evident following protease digestion to eliminate non-specific aggregates and monomers. Amyloid mats, similar in appearance to those reported in S. mutans biofilm extracellular matrices, are reconstituted by co-incubation of monomers and amyloid fibers. X-ray fiber diffraction of amyloid mats and fibers from all three proteins demonstrate patterns reflective of a cross-β amyloid structure.
Electrochemical biosensing platforms on the basis of reduced graphene oxide and its composites with Au nanodots
Authors: Mei Liang , Zhang Qingyong , Du Min , Zeng Zhiyuan
Published: March 2020

rGO and AuNDs-rGO, synthesized by a simple photochemical reduction method, are used for electrochemical biosensors and show good glucose detection.
The statistical molecular fragmentation model compared to experimental plasma induced hydrocarbon decays
Authors: Désesquelles Pierre , Pasquiers Stéphane , Blin-Simiand Nicole , Magne Lionel , Van-Oanh Nguyen-Thi , Thomas Sébastien , Domin Dominik
Published: March 2020

We compare the predictions of our recently developed statistical molecular fragmentation model with experimental results from plasma induced decay of propene and other small hydrocarbons.
Comparative evaluation of MAX, MXene, NanoMAX, and NanoMAX-derived-MXene for microwave absorption and Li ion battery anode applications
Authors: Sengupta Arundhati , Rao B. V. Bhaskara , Sharma Neha , Parmar Swati , Chavan Vinila , Singh Sachin Kumar , Kale Sangeeta , Ogale Satishchandra
Published: March 2020

Bulk and nanosized MAX and MXene phases are comparatively evaluated for microwave absorption and Li-ion battery anode applications.
Pore engineering of an Fe–N–C electrocatalyst to enhance the performance for the oxygen reduction reaction by adding g-C3N4 into polyaniline and cyanamide as a precursor
Authors: Sun Zhen , Lin Jinbao , Hou Kun , Guan Lunhui , Zhan Hongbing
Published: March 2020

g-C3N4 was added during the pyrolysis process of polyaniline and cyanamide, increasing the number of active sites and pore volume of the resulting material.
A novel elastic and controlled-release poly(ether-ester-urethane)urea scaffold for cartilage regeneration
Authors: Chen Chang’an , Huang Kai , Zhu Jingjing , Bi Yikang , Wang Liren , Jiang Jia , Zhu Tonghe , Yan Xiaoyu , Zhao Jinzhong
Published: March 2020

Combination of a novel elastic poly(ether-ester-urethane)urea scaffold and kartogenin for cartilage regeneration.
Construction of a novel “ball-and-rod” MSNs-pp-PEG system: a promising antitumor drug delivery system with a particle size switchable function
Authors: He Xin , Wang Dong , Chen Peng , Qiao Youbei , Yang Tiehong , Yu Zhe , Wang Chaoli , Wu Hong
Published: March 2020

The “ball-and-rod” drug delivery system achieved a size-switchable goal in tumors due to its properties of long circulation and deep penetration.
Supramolecular self-healing materials from non-covalent cross-linking host–guest interactions
Authors: Sinawang Garry , Osaki Motofumi , Takashima Yoshinori , Yamaguchi Hiroyasu , Harada Akira
Published: March 2020

Self-healing materials constructed from host–guest interactions between macrocyclic compounds as host molecules and specific guest molecules.
Fabrication of ordered bi-metallic array with superstructure of gold micro-rings via templated-self-assembly procedure and its SERS application
Authors: Yin Zhangyu , Zhou Yuchen , Cui Pengcheng , Liao Jinhua , Rafailovich Miriam H. , Sun Wei
Published: March 2020

Bi-metallic patterns with array of Pt discs decorated by Au rings were fabricated onto the substrate by a templated-self-assembly procedure in which multi-step self-assembly processes were involved.
Top-down fabrication of colloidal plasmonic MoO3−x nanocrystals via solution chemistry hydrogenation
Authors: Qi Shaopeng , Liu Guoning , Tan Lu , Chen Jinxi , Lou Yongbing , Zhao Yixin
Published: March 2020

The top-town fabrication of colloidal α-MoO3−x nanocrystals via the synergistic effect of oleic acid and oleylamine is proposed in this study.
Graphene-modulated assembly of zinc phthalocyanine on BiVO4 nanosheets for efficient visible-light catalytic conversion of CO2
Authors: Bian Ji , Feng Jiannan , Zhang Ziqing , Sun Jiawen , Chu Mingna , Sun Ling , Li Xin , Tang Dongyan , Jing Liqiang
Published: March 2020

Graphene-modulated ZnPc/BiVO4 Z-scheme heterojunctions for efficient visible-light catalytic CO2 conversion are achieved by increasing the optimized amount of highly dispersed ZnPc.
Structural origin of physicochemical properties differences upon dehydration and polymorphic transformation of ciprofloxacin hydrochloride revealed by structure determination from powder X-ray diffraction data
Authors: Putra Okky Dwichandra , Pettersen Anna , Yonemochi Etsuo , Uekusa Hidehiro
Published: March 2020

Crystallochemical study of three phases of ciprofloxacin hydrochloride reveals the mechanisms of dehydration, polymorphic transformation, and differences in physicochemical properties.
NMR absolute shielding scales and nuclear magnetic dipole moments of transition metal nuclei
Authors: Antušek Andrej , Repisky Michal
Published: March 2020

This work reports new, accurate nuclear magnetic dipole moments for transition metal nuclei where the long-standing systematic error due to obsolete diamagnetic correction has been eliminated by ab initio calculations of NMR shielding constants.
Are 2D fingerprints still valuable for drug discovery?
Authors: Gao Kaifu , Nguyen Duc Duy , Sresht Vishnu , Mathiowetz Alan M. , Tu Meihua , Wei Guo-Wei
Published: March 2020

Recently, low-dimensional mathematical representations have overshadowed other methods in drug discovery. This work reassesses eight 2D fingerprints on 23 molecular datasets and reveals that they can perform as well as mathematical representations in tasks involving only small molecules.
Second order Jahn–Teller interactions at unusually high molecular orbital energy separations
Authors: Wedler Henry B. , Wendelboe Paul , Tantillo Dean J. , Power Philip P.
Published: March 2020

Calculations suggest an upper limit of approximately 12 eV energy separation of the interacting levels for second order Jahn–Teller effects to be significant, which is considerably larger than previously thought.
Phase transition tuning by Fe(iii)/Co(iii) substitution in switchable cyano-bridged perovskites: (C3H5N2)2[KFexCo1−x(CN)6]
Authors: Rok Magdalena , Moskwa Marcin , Pawlukojć Andrzej , Janicki Rafał , Zuba Iga , Zieliński Piotr , Sobieszczyk Paweł , Bator Grażyna
Published: March 2020

The single-crystals of mixed (C3H5N2)2[KFexCo1−x(CN)6] crystals, with different ratios of x = 0, 0.29, 0.42, 0.51, 0.63, 0.70, 0.85, and 1, have been grown from aqueous solutions.
Novel photocatalytic performance of nanocage-like MIL-125-NH2 induced by adsorption of phenolic pollutants
Authors: Shen Yi , Zhu Chao , Chen Baoliang , Chen Jianmeng , Fang Qile , Wang Jun , He Zhiqiao , Song Shuang
Published: March 2020

The present work elucidates that the photocatalytic activity of nanocage-like MIL-125-NH2 is enhanced by adsorption of an electron-withdrawing pollutant (p-nitrophenol) but suppressed by adsorption of an electron-donating pollutant (p-methylphenol).
Synthesis of a flower-like MoS2/carbon nanocomposite with enhanced adsorption performance toward Eu(iii): the cooperative effects between S atoms and carboxyl groups
Authors: Zhao Chaofeng , Gu Pengcheng , Liu Xuewei , Wen Tao , Ai Yuejie
Published: March 2020

Combining experimental studies and theoretical calculations to investigate the performance and mechanism of a MoS2/carbon composite for the effective elimination of Eu(iii) from wastewater.
A disposable acoustofluidic chip for nano/microparticle separation using unidirectional acoustic transducers
Authors: Zhao Shuaiguo , Wu Mengxi , Yang Shujie , Wu Yuqi , Gu Yuyang , Chen Chuyi , Ye Jennifer , Xie Zhemiao , Tian Zhenhua , Bachman Hunter , Huang Po-Hsun , Xia Jianping , Zhang Peiran , Zhang Heying , Huang Tony Jun
Published: March 2020

A disposable acoustofluidic platform was developed for nano/microparticle separation with high versatility, precision, and biocompatibility.
N,N′-Bis(l-alanine tert-butylester)-3,4:9,10-perylene diimide molecule for volatile organic vapor detection
Authors: Ozkaya Cansu , Capan Rifat , Erdogan Matem , Ozcil Furkan , Yukruk Funda
Published: March 2020

Langmuir–Blodgett (LB) thin films were prepared using an N,N′-bis(l-alanine tert-butylester)-3,4:9,10-perylene diimide derivative to determine the optimum thin film forming conditions and their sensing properties towards volatile organic vapors.
Inkless multi-color writing and copying of laser-programmable photonic crystals
Authors: Wang Yunlong , Zhao Qilong , Du Xuemin
Published: March 2020

Shape-memory-polymer-based photonic crystals can be precisely programmed by a NIR laser at the nanoscale, resulting in multi-color writing and copying capabilities.
Enhancing curcumin's solubility and antibiofilm activityviasilica surface modification
Authors: Barros Caio H. N. , Devlin Henry , Hiebner Dishon W. , Vitale Stefania , Quinn Laura , Casey Eoin
Published: March 2020

Conjugation of curcumin to silica nanoparticles increases the bioavailability of the natural compound and enhances its antibiofilm activity.
[NH2CHNH2]3Sb2I9: a lead-free and low-toxicity organic–inorganic hybrid ferroelectric based on antimony(iii) as a potential semiconducting absorber
Authors: Szklarz Przemysław , Jakubas Ryszard , Gągor Anna , Bator Grażyna , Cichos Jakub , Karbowiak Mirosław
Published: March 2020

A novel room-temperature ferroelectric crystal with the complex sequence of phase transitions.
Inhibiting cancer metabolism by aromatic carbohydrate amphiphiles that act as antagonists of the glucose transporter GLUT1
Authors: Brito Alexandra , Pereira Patrícia M. R. , Soares da Costa Diana , Reis Rui L. , Ulijn Rein V. , Lewis Jason S. , Pires Ricardo A. , Pashkuleva Iva
Published: March 2020

We report on aromatic N-glucosides that inhibit selectively the cancer metabolism via two coexistent mechanisms: by deprivation of the glucose uptake through blocking of GLUT1 and by formation of sequestering nanonet through biocatalytic self-assembly.
An in situ cross-linked vinylphosphonic acid-modified aminosilicon oxide gel electrolyte for proton exchange membrane fuel cells
Authors: Huang Henghui , Ni Liwen , Xu Jiaoyan , Xie Xiaojun , Zhang Li , Yang Cheng , Fan Jiantao , Li Hui , Wang Haijiang
Published: March 2020

Highly conductive and water-retentive vinylphosphonic acid-modified aminosilicon oxide cross-linked polymer/perfluorosulfonic acid membranes were prepared.
A practical guide to active colloids: choosing synthetic model systems for soft matter physics research
Authors: Wang Wei , Lv Xianglong , Moran Jeffrey L. , Duan Shifang , Zhou Chao
Published: March 2020

This review article provides practical, experimentally relevant details on six common types of active colloids useful for soft matter research.
In situ construction of hydrazone-linked COF-based core–shell hetero-frameworks for enhanced photocatalytic hydrogen evolution
Authors: Chen Yao , Yang Dong , Shi Benbing , Dai Wei , Ren Hanjie , An Ke , Zhou Zhiyuan , Zhao Zhanfeng , Wang Wenjing , Jiang Zhongyi
Published: March 2020

Octahedral MOF@COF core–shell hetero-framework photocatalysts were designed which achieved superior photocatalytic H2-evolution activity.
Self-assembly of paramagnetic amphiphilic copolymers for synergistic therapy
Authors: Gao Zhiliang , Mu Weiwei , Tian Yuan , Su Yimao , Sun Huanli , Zhang Gaorui , Li Anning , Yu Dexin , Zhang Na , Hao Jingcheng , Liu Yongjun , Cui Jiwei
Published: March 2020

Theranostic nanoparticles composed of amphiphilic paramagnetic polymers are assembled for dual mode imaging and synergistic therapy.
Tunable layer-by-layer films containing hyaluronic acid and their interactions with CD44
Authors: Amorim Sara , Pashkuleva Iva , Reis Celso A. , Reis Rui L. , Pires Ricardo A.
Published: March 2020

We developed hyaluronic acid (HA):poly-l-lysine (PLL) layer-by-layer (LbL) constructs whose viscoelastic properties and bioactivity can be finely tuned by using polyanions of different molecular weight and/or crosslinking.
Customizing coaxial stacking VS2 nanosheets for dual-band microwave absorption with superior performance in the C- and Ku-bands
Authors: Zhang Deqing , Zhang Huibin , Cheng Junye , Raza Hassan , Liu Tingting , Liu Bin , Ba Xuewei , Zheng Guangping , Chen Guohua , Cao Maosheng
Published: March 2020

Engineering microwave absorption materials with absorption in multiple bands and strong absorption performance in the C-band remains challenging to date.
Current research into snake antivenoms, their mechanisms of action and applications
Authors: Silva Anjana , Isbister Geoffrey K.
Published: March 2020

Snakebite is a major public health issue in the rural tropics. Antivenom is the only specific treatment currently available. We review the history, mechanism of action and current developments in snake antivenoms. In the late nineteenth century, snake antivenoms were first developed by raising hyperimmune serum in animals, such as horses, against snake venoms. Hyperimmune serum was then purified to produce whole immunoglobulin G (IgG) antivenoms. IgG was then fractionated to produce F(ab) and F(ab′)2 antivenoms to reduce adverse reactions and increase efficacy. Current commercial antivenoms are polyclonal mixtures of antibodies or their fractions raised against all toxin antigens in a venom(s), irrespective of clinical importance. Over the last few decades there have been small incremental improvements in antivenoms, to make them safer and more effective. A number of recent developments in biotechnology and toxinology have contributed to this. Proteomics and transcriptomics have been applied to venom toxin composition (venomics), improving our understanding of medically important toxins. In addition, it has become possible to identify toxins that contain epitopes recognized by antivenom molecules (antivenomics). Integration of the toxinological profile of a venom and its composition to identify medically relevant toxins improved this. Furthermore, camelid, humanized and fully human monoclonal antibodies and their fractions, as well as enzyme inhibitors have been experimentally developed against venom toxins. Translation of such technology into commercial antivenoms requires overcoming the high costs, limited knowledge of venom and antivenom pharmacology, and lack of reliable animal models. Addressing such should be the focus of antivenom research.
Effects of sebum properties on skin friction: investigation using a bench test
Authors: Korbeld Kerlen T. , Klaassen Michel , Jobanputra Rikeen D. , de Vries Erik G. , Masen Marc A.
Published: March 2020

The hydro lipid film is an emulsion of sweat and sebum that covers the surface of the human skin and affects the tribological properties of the human skin. This study investigates the effects of the composition of the sebum on the average coefficient of friction. A range of simplified sebums was developed and the friction behaviour was investigated. Five realistic sebums showed a strong variation in friction results, indicating that interpersonal differences in frictional behaviour might have their origin in differences in sebum composition. A more detailed investigation employing controlled variations of individual ingredients showed that friction is highly sensitive to the amount of squalene in the sebum. The amount of fatty acids in the sebum also showed some effects, whilst the amount of cholesterol does not appear to be relevant for the friction behaviour. The main new outcome from this study is that the composition of sebum has a significant effect on the friction response of skin in ways that are currently not yet fully understood.
Identification of contributing factors on travel mode choice among different resident types with bike‐sharing as an alternative
Authors: Ye Mao , Zeng Simeng , Yang Guixin , Chen Yajing
Published: March 2020

This study mainly studies the contributing factors on residents’ travel mode choices after the emergence of bike‐sharing. In contrast to existing studies, the authors divided the travellers into commuters, students, and other travellers by travel purposes, and analysed their travel mode choice by a mix logit model, respectively. It is found that the factors on residents’ travel mode choices have many similarities and differences. Gender, private car ownership, travel cost, travel distance, and travel time are the common factors for all travellers; economy and comfort preference are the factors that affect commuters and students; commuters and other travellers are affected by age, income, and safety preference. However, occupation and an environmental preference are unique significant factors on commuters; students are affected by owning a bike; and a good understanding of bike‐sharing is the only significant factor that affects other travellers. In addition, comfort preference has a significant negative influence on the choice of public transport and bike‐sharing for students, while it has a significant positive impact on the choice of a private car for commuters.
Efficient energy management strategy for hybrid electric vehicles/plug‐in hybrid electric vehicles: review and recent advances under intelligent transportation system
Authors: Yang Chao , Zha Mingjun , Wang Weida , Liu Kaijia , Xiang Changle
Published: March 2020

Efficient operation technique has always been one of the common goals for researches both in automobile industrial and academic areas. With the great progress of automobile technology, hybrid electric vehicle/plug‐in hybrid electric vehicle (HEV/PHEV) has already become the main achievement of transportation electrification, due to its excellent fuel‐saving performance. Energy management strategy (EMS) is an important link during the HEV/PHEV design procedure, which can govern the energy flow between the fuel tank and the electric energy storage by solving the energy distribution problem. As the continuous development of intelligent connected vehicle technology, designing an efficient EMS with vehicle to infrastructure/vehicle to vehicle (V2I/V2V) information for HEV/PHEV is still a challenge and hot issue. This study presents a deep review of the various EMSs for both conventional HEV/PHEV and that using V2I/V2V information, providing a thorough survey of EMSs using different methodologies. In terms of single‐vehicle and multi‐vehicle scenarios, the EMSs for HEV/PHEV under intelligent transport system is in‐depth reviewed. Finally, the challenges for future research are also identified. This study could provide a comprehensive reference for researchers in field of HEV/PHEV.
Dynamic real‐time high‐capacity ride‐sharing model with subsequent information
Authors: Wang Yanglan , Zhang Yi , Zhang Yi , Ma Jiangshan
Published: March 2020

Real‐time, on‐demand mobility systems have gradually revolutionised the transportation means. However, they continue to exhibit problems on inadequate vehicles at peak times. The popularity of ‘sharing’ may ultimately solve such problems as more passengers are served over time, particularly in high‐demand (high‐density) locations, thereby realising efficient, comfortable, and environmentally friendly transportation. While, existing sharing methods only arrange each order based on current information and do not apply subsequently received information to pursue more optimal route arrangements. Their research explicitly improves large‐scale vehicle sharing methods using subsequent information and proposes the concept of a ‘wait time threshold ’ for a vehicle, to manage the constraint contradictions in this process. Based on a representative high‐demand case of serving all inbound and outbound passengers at Shenzhen Bao’ an International Airport, a system with consideration of subsequent information provides significant improvements comparing to a system without it. The improvement performance varies with dates under different demand scenarios, high demand indicating a more optimistic influence. Therefore, having such a city‐scale sharing model makes it possible to provide decision support to the transportation management department, which encourages to establish a low carbon city.