bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long-term and transgenerational phenotypic, transcriptional and metabolic effects in rabbit males born following vitrified embryo transfer
Authors: Garcia-Dominguez Ximo , Marco-Jiménez Francisco , Peñaranda David S. , Diretto Gianfranco , García-Carpintero Víctor , Cañizares Joaquín , Vicente José S.
Published: July 2020

The advent of assisted reproductive technologies (ART) in mammals involved an extraordinary change in the environment where the beginning of a new organism takes place. Under in vitro conditions, in which ART is currently being performed, it likely fails to mimic optimal in vivo conditions. This suboptimal environment could mediate in the natural developmental trajectory of the embryo, inducing lasting effects until later life stages that may be inherited by subsequent generations (transgenerational effects). Therefore, we evaluated the potential transgenerational effects of embryo exposure to the cryopreservation-transfer procedure in a rabbit model on the offspring phenotype, molecular physiology of the liver (transcriptome and metabolome) and reproductive performance during three generations (F1, F2 and F3). The results showed that, compared to naturally-conceived animals (NC group), progeny generated after embryo exposure to the cryopreservation-transfer procedure (VT group) exhibited lower body growth, which incurred lower adult body weight in the F1 (direct effects), F2 (intergenerational effects) and F3 (transgenerational effects) generations. Furthermore, VT animals showed intergenerational effects on heart weight and transgenerational effects on liver weight. The RNA-seq data of liver tissue revealed 642 differentially expressed transcripts (DETs) in VT animals from the F1 generation. Of those, 133 were inherited from the F2 and 120 from the F3 generation. Accordingly, 151, 190 and 159 differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs) were detected from the F1, F2 and F3, respectively. Moreover, targeted metabolomics analysis demonstrated that transgenerational effects were mostly presented in the non-polar fraction. Functional analysis of molecular data suggests weakened zinc and fatty acid metabolism across the generations, associated with alterations in a complex molecular network affecting global hepatic metabolism that could be associated with the phenotype of VT animals. However, these VT animals showed proper reproductive performance, which verified a functional health status. In conclusion, our results establish the long-term transgenerational effects following a vitrified embryo transfer procedure. We showed that the VT phenotype could be the result of the manifestation of embryonic developmental plasticity in response to the stressful conditions during ART procedures.
Lighting system bioinspired by Haworthia obtusa
Authors: Gonome Hiroki , Watanabe Kazuya , Nakamura Kae , Kono Takahiro , Yamada Jun
Published: July 2020

Electricity plays an important role in modern societies, with lighting and illumination accounting for approximately one-fifth of the global demand for electricity. Haworthia obtusa has the remarkable ability to collect solar light through a so-called ‘window’ which allows it to photosynthesise in the dark. Inspired by this unique characteristic, we developed a novel lighting system that does not use electricity. The ‘window’ of H. obtusa is replicated using a scattering medium that collects solar light and guides it to an optical fibre. The optical fibre then carries the light indoors, where illumination is needed. The efficacy of this unique lighting system was confirmed both numerically and experimentally. The developed system should help in lowering energy consumption.
Drivers of piscivory in a globally distributed aquatic predator (brown trout): a meta-analysis
Authors: Sánchez-Hernández Javier
Published: July 2020

There is growing interest in the delineation of feeding patterns in animals, but little is known about the interaction of multiple explanatory factors across broad geographical scales. The goal of this study was to identify the factors that together determine population-level patterns in piscivory in a globally distributed aquatic predator, the brown trout (Salmo trutta). A meta-analysis of peer-reviewed studies revealed that the prevalence (frequency of occurrence, %) of piscivory increases from riverine to marine ecosystems, with fish community type and the size-structure (ontogeny) of brown trout populations being the key drivers. Thus, piscivory was related to ecosystem-specific differences in predator body size (increasing in populations with large individuals) and fish community configurations (increasing with fish species richness). Fish species richness imposes important limitations on (i.e. in low diversity scenarios) or facilitate (i.e. in high diversity scenarios) piscivory in brown trout populations, with a low prevalence expected in low-diversity fish communities. In fresh water, piscivory is higher in lentic than lotic ecosystems and, in the former, increases with latitude. Competition in multi-species systems is expected to be higher than in simpler systems because the size-structure and species composition of fish assemblages, explaining cross-ecosystem differences in piscivory.
Anti-integrin αv therapy improves cardiac fibrosis after myocardial infarction by blunting cardiac PW1+ stromal cells
Authors: Bouvet Marion , Claude Olivier , Roux Maguelonne , Skelly Dan , Masurkar Nihar , Mougenot Nathalie , Nadaud Sophie , Blanc Catherine , Delacroix Clément , Chardonnet Solenne , Pionneau Cédric , Perret Claire , Yaniz-Galende Elisa , Rosenthal Nadia , Trégouët David-Alexandre , Marazzi Giovanna , Silvestre Jean-Sébastien , Sassoon David , Hulot Jean-Sébastien
Published: July 2020

There is currently no therapy to limit the development of cardiac fibrosis and consequent heart failure. We have recently shown that cardiac fibrosis post-myocardial infarction (MI) can be regulated by resident cardiac cells with a fibrogenic signature and identified by the expression of PW1 (Peg3). Here we identify αV-integrin (CD51) as an essential regulator of cardiac PW1+ cells fibrogenic behavior. We used transcriptomic and proteomic approaches to identify specific cell-surface markers for cardiac PW1+ cells and found that αV-integrin (CD51) was expressed in almost all cardiac PW1+ cells (93% ± 1%), predominantly as the αVβ1 complex. αV-integrin is a subunit member of the integrin family of cell adhesion receptors and was found to activate complex of latent transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ at the surface of cardiac PW1+ cells. Pharmacological inhibition of αV-integrin reduced the profibrotic action of cardiac PW1+CD51+ cells and was associated with improved cardiac function and animal survival following MI coupled with a reduced infarct size and fibrotic lesion. These data identify a targetable pathway that regulates cardiac fibrosis in response to an ischemic injury and demonstrate that pharmacological inhibition of αV-integrin could reduce pathological outcomes following cardiac ischemia.
Characterization of outdoor air pollution from solid fuel combustion in Xuanwei and Fuyuan, a rural region of China
Authors: Hu Wei , Downward George , Wong Jason Y. Y. , Reiss Boris , Rothman Nathaniel , Portengen Lützen , Li Jihua , Jones Rena R. , Huang Yunchao , Yang Kaiyun , Chen Ying , Xu Jun , He Jun , Bassig Bryan , Seow Wei Jie , Hosgood H. Dean , Zhang Linlin , Wu Guoping , Wei Fusheng , Vermeulen Roel , Lan Qing
Published: July 2020

Outdoor air pollution is a growing public health concern, particularly in urban settings. However, there are limited epidemiological data on outdoor air pollution in rural areas with substantial levels of air pollution attributed to solid fuel burning for household cooking and heating. Xuanwei and Fuyuan are rural counties in China where the domestic combustion of locally sourced bituminous (“smoky”) coal has been associated with the highest lung cancer rates in China. We previously assessed indoor and personal air pollution exposures in this area; however, the influence of indoor coal combustion and household ventilation on outdoor air pollution has not been assessed. Therefore, we measured outdoor fine particulate matter (PM2.5), species of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) including naphthalene (NAP) and the known carcinogen benzo(a)pyrene (BaP), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) over two consecutive 24-h sampling periods in 29 villages. Just over half of the villages were revisited two to nine months after the initial sampling period to repeat all measurements. The overall geometric mean (GM) of outdoor PM2.5, BaP, NAP, and NO2 were 45.3 µg/m3, 9.7 ng/m3, 707.7 ng/m3, and 91.5 µg/m3, respectively. Using linear mixed effects models, we found that burning smoky coal was associated with higher outdoor BaP concentrations [GM ratio (GMR) = 2.79] and lower outdoor SO2 detection rates (GMR = 0.43), compared to areas burning smokeless coal. Areas with predominantly ventilated stoves (> 50% of stoves) had higher outdoor BaP (GMR = 1.49) compared to areas with fewer ventilated stoves. These results show that outdoor air pollution in a rural region of China was associated with the type of coal used for cooking and heating indoors and the presence of stove ventilation. Our findings suggest that efforts of household stove improvement to reduce indoor air pollution have resulted in higher outdoor air pollution levels. Further reducing adverse health effects in rural villages from household coal combustion will require the use of cleaner fuel types.
Forty-year prognosis after plaque brachytherapy of uveal melanoma
Authors: Stålhammar Gustav
Published: July 2020

In this study, the long-term patient survival after plaque brachytherapy of uveal melanoma is examined. All patients treated between 1980 and 1999 at a single institution were included (n = 677). 533 (79%) had deceased before the end of follow-up. The median follow-up for the 144 survivors was 25.4 years (SD 5.2). Uveal melanoma-related mortality was 18% by 5 years, 28% by 10 years, 32% by 15 years, 35% by 20 years, and 36% by 25 to 40 years. 172 of 209 (82%) uveal melanoma-related deaths occurred within the first decade after brachytherapy. Relative survival rates were 74% at 5 years, 64% at 10 years, 62% at 20 years, 83% at 30 years and ≥100% at 32 to 40 years. Tumor diameter and local recurrence were independent predictors of uveal melanoma-related mortality in multivariate Cox proportional hazards analysis. In conclusion, uveal melanoma has a high mortality rate and most uveal melanoma-related deaths occur in the first decade after treatment. Long-term survivors may have a survival advantage to individuals of the same sex and age from the general population.
Hybrid nanofilms as topical anesthetics for pain-free procedures in dentistry
Authors: Ribeiro Lígia N. M. , Franz-Montan Michelle , Alcântara Ana C. S. , Breitkreitz Márcia C. , Castro Simone R. , Guilherme Viviane A. , Muniz Bruno V. , Rodrigues da Silva Gustavo H. , de Paula Eneida
Published: July 2020

Topical anesthetics are widely applied in order to relieve the discomfort and anxiety caused by needle insertion and other painful superficial interventions at the oral cavity. So far, there are no commercially available effective topical anesthetic formulations for that purpose, and the most of developments are related to hydrophilic and low mucoadhesive forms. Therefore, we have prepared different hybrid nanofilms composed of biopolymer matrices (chitosan, pectin, and chitosan-pectin) blended with nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) loading the eutectic mixture of 5% lidocaine–prilocaine (LDC–PLC), in order to fulfill this gap in the market. These dual systems were processed as hybrid nanofilms by the solvent/casting method, and its mucoadhesive, structural and mechanical properties were detailed. The most appropriate hybrid nanofilm combined the advantages of both pectin (PCT) and NLC components. The resultant material presented sustained LDC–PLC release profile for more than 8 h; permeation across porcine buccal mucosa almost twice higher than control and non-cytotoxicity against 3T3 and HACAT cell lines. Then, the in vivo efficacy of PCT/NLC formulation was compared to biopolymer film and commercial drug, exhibiting the longest-lasting anesthetic effect (> 7 h), assessed by tail flick test in mice. These pectin-based hybrid nanofilms open perspectives for clinical trials and applications beyond Dentistry.
Impact of strain, pressure, and electron correlation on magnetism and crystal structure of Mn2GaC from first-principles
Authors: Dahlqvist Martin , Rosen Johanna
Published: July 2020

The atomically laminated Mn2GaC has previously been synthesized as a heteroepitaxial thin film and found to be magnetic with structural changes linked to the magnetic anisotropy. Related theoretical studies only considered bulk conditions and thus neglected the influence from possible strain linked to the choice of substrate. Here we employ first principles calculations considering different exchange–correlation functionals (PBE, PW91, PBEsol, AM05, LDA) and effect from use of + U methods (or not) combined with a magnetic ground-state search using Heisenberg Monte Carlo simulations, to study influence from biaxial in-plane strain and external pressure on the magnetic and crystal structure of Mn2GaC. We find that PBE and PBE + U, with Ueff ≤ 0.25 eV, gives both structural and magnetic properties in quantitative agreement with available experimental data. Our results also indicate that strain related to choice of substrate or applied pressure is a route for accessing different spin configurations, including a ferromagnetic state. Moreover, the easy axis is parallel to the atomic planes and the magnetocrystalline anisotropy energy can be increased through strain engineering by expanding the in-plane lattice parameter a. Altogether, we show that a quantitative description of the structural and magnetic properties of Mn2GaC is possible using PBE, which opens the way for further computational studies of these and related materials.
Bio-inspired TiO2 nano-cone antireflection layer for the optical performance improvement of VO2 thermochromic smart windows
Authors: Liu Sai , Tso Chi Yan , Lee Hau Him , Zhang Yi , Yu Kin Man , Chao Christopher Y. H.
Published: July 2020

Vanadium dioxide (VO2) is a promising material for thermochromic glazing. However, VO2 thermochromic smart windows suffer from several problems that prevent commercialization: low luminous transmittance (Tlum) and low solar modulation ability (ΔTsol). The solution to these problems can be sought from nature where the evolution of various species has enabled them to survive. Investigations into the morphology of moths eyes has shown that their unique nanostructures provide an excellent antireflection optical layer that helps moths sharply capture the light in each wavelength from a wide angle. Inspired by this mechanism, a VO2 thermochromic smart window coated with a TiO2 antireflection layer with a novel nano-cone structure, is presented in this study to achieve high Tlum and ΔTsol. Optimization for the key structure parameters is summarized based on the FDTD numerical simulations. The optimized structure exhibits a Tlum of 55.4% with ΔTsol of 11.3%, an improvement of about 39% and 72% respectively compared to the VO2 window without an antireflection layer. Furthermore, wide-angle antireflection and polarization independence are also demonstrated by this nano-cone coating. This work provides an alternative method to enhance the optical performance of VO2 smart windows.
Enzymatic reaction mechanism of cis-aconitate decarboxylase based on the crystal structure of IRG1 from Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Chun Hye Lin , Lee So Yeon , Lee Sung Hoon , Lee Chang Sup , Park Hyun Ho
Published: July 2020

Itaconate, which is formed by decarboxylation of cis-aconitate—an intermediate metabolite in the tricarboxylic acid cycle—has been used as a building block in polymer synthesis and is an important chemical in several biomedical and industrial applications. Itaconate is an immunometabolite with antibacterial, antiviral, immunoregulatory, and tumor-promoting activities. Recent focus has been on the role of itaconate in the field of immunology, with immune-responsive gene 1 (IRG1) being identified as the cis-aconitate decarboxylase responsible for itaconate production. We solved the structure of IRG1 from Bacillus subtilis (bsIRG1) and showed that IRG1 adopts either a closed or an open conformation; bsIRG1 was in the open form. A1 and A2 loops around the active site are flexible and can control the formation of the open and closed forms of IRG1. An in silico docking simulation showed that only the open form of IRG1 can accommodate the substrate. The most energetically favorable position of cis-aconitate in the active site of bsIRG1 involved the localization of C2 and C5 of cis-aconitate into the H102 region and H151 region of bsIRG1, respectively. Based on the structural study of bsIRG1, compared with IDS epimerase, and in silico docking simulation, we proposed two tentative enzymatic reaction mechanisms of IRG1, a two-base model and a one-base model.
Natural and engineered chemokine (C-X-C motif) receptor 4 agonists prevent acute respiratory distress syndrome after lung ischemia–reperfusion injury and hemorrhage
Authors: Babu Favin S. , Liang Xiaomei , Enten Garrett A. , DeSantis Anthony J. , Volkman Brian F. , Gao Xianlong , Majetschak Matthias
Published: July 2020

We compared therapeutic properties of natural and engineered chemokine (C-X-C motif) receptor 4 (CXCR4) agonists in a rat acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) model utilizing the PaO2/FiO2-ratio as a clinically relevant primary outcome criterion. Ventilated rats underwent unilateral lung ischemia from t = 0–70 min plus hemorrhage to a mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) of 30 mmHg from t = 40–70 min, followed by reperfusion/fluid resuscitation until t = 300 min. Natural CXCR4 agonists (CXCL12, ubiquitin) and engineered CXCL12 variants (CXCL121, CXCL22, CXCL12K27A/R41A/R47A, CXCL12 (3–68)) were administered within 5 min of fluid resuscitation. Animals treated with vehicle or CXCL12 (3–68) reached criteria for mild and moderate ARDS between t = 90–120 min and t = 120–180 min, respectively, and remained in moderate ARDS until t = 300 min. Ubiquitin, CXCL12, CXCL121 and CXCL122 prevented ARDS development. Potencies of CXCL12/CXCL121/CXCL122 were higher than the potency of ubiquitin. CXCL12K27A/R41A/R47A was inefficacious. CXCL121 > CXCL12 stabilized MAP and reduced fluid requirements. CXCR4 agonists at doses that preserved lung function reduced histological injury of the post-ischemic lung and reduced mortality from 55 to 9%. Our findings suggest that CXCR4 protein agonists prevent development of ARDS and reduce mortality in a rat model, and that development of new engineered protein therapeutics with improved pharmacological properties for ARDS is possible.
The electrophysiology correlation of the cognitive bias in anxiety under uncertainty
Authors: Yang Shiyan , Zhang Meng , Xu Junye , Wang Li , Li Zhaoxian , Zou Feng , Wu Xin , Wang Yufeng
Published: July 2020

The intolerance of uncertainty (IU) model holds that excessive emotional response under uncertain conditions is conducive to the maintenance of anxiety, and individuals with a high anxiety level may exhibit a negative bias and experience anxiety when processing uncertain information. However, the dynamic electrophysiological correlation of this negative bias is not clear. Therefore, we used an adapted study–test paradigm to explore the changes in the electroencephalography (EEG) of subjects when processing uncertain cues and certain cues (certain neutral and certain threatening) and correlated the differences with anxiety level. The behavioral results showed that there was a significant positive correlation between the trait anxiety score and β value under the threatening condition, which indicated that individuals with high trait anxiety take a more conservative approach in the face of negative stimuli. The results of EEG showed that during the test stage, the components N1 and P2, which are related to early perception, had significant conditional main effects. Meanwhile, under uncertain conditions, the N1 peak was positively correlated with the state anxiety score. In the study stage, we found that the N400 component was significantly larger in the early study stage than in the late study stage under uncertain conditions. In sum, individuals with high anxiety levels had a negative bias in the early cue processing of the test stage, and anxiety did not affect the study stage.
Artificial intelligence to improve back pain outcomes and lessons learnt from clinical classification approaches: three systematic reviews
Authors: Tagliaferri Scott D. , Angelova Maia , Zhao Xiaohui , Owen Patrick J. , Miller Clint T. , Wilkin Tim , Belavy Daniel L.
Published: July 2020

Artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML) could enhance the ability to detect patterns of clinical characteristics in low-back pain (LBP) and guide treatment. We conducted three systematic reviews to address the following aims: (a) review the status of AI/ML research in LBP, (b) compare its status to that of two established LBP classification systems (STarT Back, McKenzie). AI/ML in LBP is in its infancy: 45 of 48 studies assessed sample sizes <1000 people, 19 of 48 studies used ≤5 parameters in models, 13 of 48 studies applied multiple models and attained high accuracy, 25 of 48 studies assessed the binary classification of LBP versus no-LBP only. Beyond the 48 studies using AI/ML for LBP classification, no studies examined use of AI/ML in prognosis prediction of specific sub-groups, and AI/ML techniques are yet to be implemented in guiding LBP treatment. In contrast, the STarT Back tool has been assessed for internal consistency, test−retest reliability, validity, pain and disability prognosis, and influence on pain and disability treatment outcomes. McKenzie has been assessed for inter- and intra-tester reliability, prognosis, and impact on pain and disability outcomes relative to other treatments. For AI/ML methods to contribute to the refinement of LBP (sub-)classification and guide treatment allocation, large data sets containing known and exploratory clinical features should be examined. There is also a need to establish reliability, validity, and prognostic capacity of AI/ML techniques in LBP as well as its ability to inform treatment allocation for improved patient outcomes and/or reduced healthcare costs.
Perceptual metacognition of human faces is causally supported by function of the lateral prefrontal cortex
Authors: Lapate Regina C. , Samaha Jason , Rokers Bas , Postle Bradley R. , Davidson Richard J.
Published: July 2020

Metacognitive awareness—the ability to know that one is having a particular experience—is thought to guide optimal behavior, but its neural bases continue to be the subject of vigorous debate. Prior work has identified correlations between perceptual metacognitive ability and the structure and function of lateral prefrontal cortex (LPFC); however, evidence for a causal role of this region in promoting metacognition is controversial. Moreover, whether LPFC function promotes metacognitive awareness of perceptual and emotional features of complex, yet ubiquitous face stimuli is unknown. Here, using model-based analyses following a causal intervention to LPFC in humans, we demonstrate that LPFC function promotes metacognitive awareness of the orientation of faces—although not of their emotional expressions. Collectively, these data support the causal involvement of the prefrontal cortex in metacognitive awareness, and indicate that the role of LPFC in metacognition encompasses perceptual experiences of naturalistic social stimuli.
Evaluation of molecular subtypes and clonal selection during establishment of patient-derived tumor xenografts from gastric adenocarcinoma
Authors: Peille Anne-Lise , Vuaroqueaux Vincent , Wong Swee-Seong , Ting Jason , Klingner Kerstin , Zeitouni Bruno , Landesfeind Manuel , Kim Woo Ho , Lee Hyuk-Joon , Kong Seong-Ho , Wulur Isabella , Bray Steven , Bronsert Peter , Zanella Nina , Donoho Greg , Yang Han-Kwang , Fiebig Heinz-Herbert , Reinhard Christoph , Aggarwal Amit
Published: July 2020

Patient-derived xenografts (PDX) have emerged as an important translational research tool for understanding tumor biology and enabling drug efficacy testing. They are established by transfer of patient tumor into immune compromised mice with the intent of using them as Avatars; operating under the assumption that they closely resemble patient tumors. In this study, we established 27 PDX from 100 resected gastric cancers and studied their fidelity in histological and molecular subtypes. We show that the established PDX preserved histology and molecular subtypes of parental tumors. However, in depth investigation of the entire cohort revealed that not all histological and molecular subtypes are established. Also, for the established PDX models, genetic changes are selected at early passages and rare subclones can emerge in PDX. This study highlights the importance of considering the molecular and evolutionary characteristics of PDX for a proper use of such models, particularly for Avatar trials.
STK11 (LKB1) missense somatic mutant isoforms promote tumor growth, motility and inflammation
Authors: Granado-Martínez Paula , Garcia-Ortega Sara , González-Sánchez Elena , McGrail Kimberley , Selgas Rafael , Grueso Judit , Gil Rosa , Naldaiz-Gastesi Neia , Rhodes Ana C. , Hernandez-Losa Javier , Ferrer Berta , Canals Francesc , Villanueva Josep , Méndez Olga , Espinosa-Gil Sergio , Lizcano José M. , Muñoz-Couselo Eva , García-Patos Vicenç , Recio Juan A.
Published: July 2020

Elucidating the contribution of somatic mutations to cancer is essential for personalized medicine.STK11(LKB1) appears to be inactivated in human cancer. However, somatic missense mutations also occur, and the role/s of these alterations to this disease remain unknown. Here, we investigated the contribution of four missense LKB1 somatic mutations in tumor biology. Three out of the four mutants lost their tumor suppressor capabilities and showed deficient kinase activity. The remaining mutant retained the enzymatic activity of wild type LKB1, but induced increased cell motility. Mechanistically, LKB1 mutants resulted in differential gene expression of genes encoding vesicle trafficking regulating molecules, adhesion molecules and cytokines. The differentially regulated genes correlated with protein networks identified through comparative secretome analysis. Notably, three mutant isoforms promoted tumor growth, and one induced inflammation-like features together with dysregulated levels of cytokines. These findings uncover oncogenic roles of LKB1 somatic mutations, and will aid in further understanding their contributions to cancer development and progression.
Correlation of fluorescence microscopy, electron microscopy, and NanoSIMS stable isotope imaging on a single tissue section
Authors: Loussert-Fonta Céline , Toullec Gaëlle , Paraecattil Arun Aby , Jeangros Quentin , Krueger Thomas , Escrig Stephane , Meibom Anders
Published: July 2020

Correlative light and electron microscopy allows localization of specific molecules at the ultrastructural level in biological tissue but does not provide information about metabolic turnover or the distribution of labile molecules, such as micronutrients. We present a method to directly correlate (immuno)fluorescent microscopy, (immuno)TEM imaging and NanoSIMS isotopic mapping of the same tissue section, with nanometer-scale spatial precision. The process involves chemical fixation of the tissue, cryo sectioning, thawing, and air-drying under a thin film of polyvinyl alcohol. It permits to effectively retain labile compounds and strongly increases NanoSIMS sensitivity for 13C-enrichment. The method is illustrated here with correlated distribution maps of a carbonic anhydrase enzyme isotype, β-tubulin proteins, and 13C- and 15N-labeled labile micronutrients (and their anabolic derivates) within the tissue of a reef-building symbiotic coral. This broadly applicable workflow expands the wealth of information that can be obtained from multi-modal, sub-cellular observation of biological tissue.
Electron transfer in the confined environments of metal–organic coordination supramolecular systems
Authors: Jin Yunhe , Zhang Qingqing , Zhang Yongqiang , Duan Chunying
Published: July 2020

In this review, we overview regulatory factors and diverse applications of electron transfer in confined environments of supramolecular host–guest systems.
Interactive human–machine learning framework for modelling of ferroelectric–dielectric composites
Authors: Liu Ning , Ihalage Achintha , Zhang Hangfeng , Giddens Henry , Yan Haixue , Hao Yang
Published: July 2020

Modelling of ferroelectric–dielectric composites by knowledge and data fusion, powered by inherent natures of learning abilities of humans and machines.
Direct preparation of unprotected aminimides (R3N+–NH−) from natural aliphatic tertiary alkaloids (R3N) by [Mn(TDCPP)Cl]-catalysed N-amination reaction
Authors: Zhang Shilong , Liu Yungen , Xing Fangrong , Che Chi-Ming
Published: July 2020

One-step N-amination of the natural aliphatic tertiary alkaloids R3N directly afforded R3N+–NH− in good yields under mild reaction conditions.
Nb2Se2C: a new compound as a combination of transition metal dichalcogenide and MXene for oxygen evolution reaction
Authors: Pang Xin , Wu Tong , Gu Yuhao , Wang Dong , Che Xiangli , Sun Du , Huang Fuqiang
Published: July 2020

A new compound Nb2Se2C of the “TMD–MXene”-like structure reveals great oxygen evolution reaction performance which is better than NbSe2, Nb2C, RuO2, IrO2, and most other reported TMDs or MXenes catalysts.
Control by one drop of solvent: selective preparation of guest release/trap-triggered interconvertible molecular crystals
Authors: Yakiyama Yumi , Fujinaka Takahisa , Nishimura Mio , Seki Ryotaro , Sakurai Hidehiro
Published: July 2020

The selective preparation of two molecular crystals of the 4-pyridyl-1,3-indanedione dimer, which are interconvertible by guest trapping/release, was achieved.
Specific features of the electronic structure of CoxTiSe2according to the resonant photoemission data
Authors: Shkvarin A. S. , Merentsov A. I. , Postnikov M. S. , Yarmoshenko Yu. M. , Shkvarina E. G. , Titov A. N.
Published: July 2020

The effect of atomic ordering in the Co sublattice on the electronic structure of the CoxTiSe2compounds has been studied using a complex of spectral techniques – XPS, XAS, and ResPES, along with theoretical calculations of the total and partial DOS.
Assessing the structure and first hyperpolarizability of Li@B10H14 in solution: a sequential QM/MM study using the ASEC–FEG method
Authors: Brandão Idney , Fonseca Tertius L. , Georg Herbert C. , Castro Marcos A. , Pontes Renato B.
Published: July 2020

The structure and first hyperpolarizability of the lithium decahydroborate (Li@B10H14) complex in chloroform and water in normal thermodynamic conditions have been investigated using sequential QM/MM calculations by means of the ASEC-FEG method.
The absorption and fluorescence spectra of 4-(3-methoxybenzylidene)-2-methyl-oxazalone interpreted by Franck–Condon simulation in various pH solvent environments
Authors: Liu Yu-Hui , Peng Ya-Jing , Su Hang , Zhu Chaoyuan , Lin Sheng-Hsien
Published: July 2020

The excited state dynamics of m-MeOBDI in acidic methanol–water (pH = 0.6) investigated through FC simulation interpretation.
Polarization-dependent vibrational shifts on dielectric substrates
Authors: Yang C. , Wang W. , Nefedov A. , Wang Y. , Mayerhöfer T. G. , Wöll C.
Published: July 2020

On dielectrics, infrared spectra of adsorbed molecules recorded in reflection can depend strongly on the polarization of the incident light.
In search of molecular ions for optical cycling: a difficult road
Authors: Ivanov Maxim V. , Jagau Thomas-C. , Zhu Guo-Zhu , Hudson Eric R. , Krylov Anna I.
Published: July 2020

Optical cycling, a continuous photon scattering off atoms or molecules, is the key tool in quantum information science.
Heavy atom tunnelling on XeF6 pseudorotation
Authors: Sedgi Itzhak , Kozuch Sebastian
Published: July 2020

XeF6 has multiple C3v equivalent minima due to the Jahn–Teller effect. Through computational means we prove that the rearrangement between isomers occurs through fluorine quantum mechanical tunnelling.
Biological responses to physicochemical properties of biomaterial surface
Authors: Rahmati Maryam , Silva Eduardo A. , Reseland Janne E. , A. Heyward Catherine , Haugen Håvard J.
Published: July 2020

Biomedical scientists use chemistry-driven processes found in nature as an inspiration to design biomaterials as promising diagnostic tools, therapeutic solutions, or tissue substitutes.
Novel multifunctional and multitarget homo- (Fe2) and heterobimetallic [(Fe,M) with M = Re or Mn] sulfonyl hydrazones
Authors: Huentupil Yosselin , Chung Patricio , Novoa Néstor , Arancibia Rodrigo , Roussel Pascal , Oyarzo Juan , Klahn A. Hugo , Silva Carlos , Calvis Carme , Messeguer Ramon , Bosque Ramón , López Concepción
Published: July 2020

The novel ferrocenyl sulfonyl hydrazide (2) and its homo (4) and heterobimetallic (5aand5b) imines were prepared and characterized. A comparative study of their electrochemical, spectroscopic and antitumor properties is also described.
Synthesis and initial pharmacology of dual-targeting ligands for putative complexes of integrin αVβ3 and PAR2
Authors: Majewski Mark W. , Gandhi Disha M. , Holyst Trudy , Wang Zhengli , Hernandez Irene , Rosas Ricardo , Zhu Jieqing , Weiler Hartmut , Dockendorff Chris
Published: July 2020

The first examples of dual-targeting ligands for protease-activated receptors (PARs) and integrins are described, with potential anti-inflammatory applications.
Nickel platinum (NixPt1−x) nanoalloy monodisperse particles without the core–shell structure by colloidal synthesis
Authors: Moreira Da Silva Cora , Girard Armelle , Dufond Maxime , Fossard Frédéric , Andrieux-Ledier Amandine , Huc Vincent , Loiseau Annick
Published: July 2020

Versatile colloidal route towards the synthesis of nanoalloys with controlled size and chemical composition, based on the correlation between the oxidation–reduction potential of metal cations in the precursors and the synthesis temperature.
Barrier-assisted vapor phase CVD of large-area MoS2 monolayers with high spatial homogeneity
Authors: Durairaj Santhosh , Krishnamoorthy P. , Raveendran Navanya , Ryu Beo Deul , Hong Chang-Hee , Seo Tae Hoon , Chandramohan S.
Published: July 2020

Vapor phase chemical vapor deposition of large-area homogeneous MoS2 monolayers with strong band-edge emission due to oxygen bonding at sulphur vacancies is demonstrated.
Visible light-emitting diode light-driven one-pot four component synthesis of poly-functionalized imidazoles under catalyst- and solvent-free conditions
Authors: Patel Geetika , Patel Ashok Raj , Banerjee Subhash
Published: July 2020

A visible light-emitting diode light-driven green and sustainable protocol has been demonstrated for the one-pot four component synthesis of poly-functionalized imidazoles under catalyst- and solvent-free conditions.
Long-term STED imaging of amyloid fibers with exchangeable Thioflavin T
Authors: Torra Joaquim , Bondia Patricia , Gutierrez-Erlandsson Sylvia , Sot Begoña , Flors Cristina
Published: July 2020

We report the use of the amyloid probe Thioflavin T (ThT) as a specific and exchangeable fluorophore for stimulated emission depletion (STED) super-resolution imaging of amyloid fibers.
Cobalt-tungsten diselenide-supported nickel foam as a battery-type positive electrode for an asymmetric supercapacitor device: comparison with various MWSe2 (M = Ni, Cu, Zn, and Mn) on the structural and capacitance characteristics
Authors: Sakthivel Mani , Ramki Settu , Chen Shen-Ming , Ho Kuo-Chuan
Published: July 2020

New exploration in nanomaterial research has been greatly encouraged so as to discover active electrode materials with extraordinary properties and performances.
Acid-cleavable polymers for simultaneous fast and slow release of functional molecules
Authors: Dararatana Naruphorn , Seidi Farzad , Crespy Daniel
Published: July 2020

Hydrophobic copolymers are designed to respond to acid stimuli for both simultaneous rapid and sustained release of multiple cargos.
Interface catalysis by Pt nanocluster@Ni3N for bifunctional hydrogen evolution and oxygen evolution
Authors: Pei Yu , Rezaei Babak , Zhang Xuyang , Li Zichuang , Shen Hangjia , Yang Minghui , Wang Jiacheng
Published: July 2020

Pt@Ni3N catalysts with plentiful contact between Ni3N and Pt species were fabricated by a facile strategy. The Pt@Ni3N with low amount of Pt clusters shows excellent electrocatalytic activity of HER and OER in alkaline media.
Bleomycin modulates amyloid aggregation in β-amyloid and hIAPP
Authors: Kumari Anchala , Sharma Ritika , Shrivastava Nidhi , Somvanshi Pallavi , Grover Abhinav
Published: July 2020

Bleomycin acts as a dual inhibitor against both amyloid β and human islet amyloid polypeptide by binding to the β-sheet grooves considered as the amyloids hotspot.
Highly efficient H2S scavengersviathiolysis of positively-charged NBD amines
Authors: Ismail Ismail , Chen Zhuoyue , Sun Lu , Ji Xiuru , Ye Haishun , Kang Xueying , Huang Haojie , Song Haibin , Bolton Sarah G. , Xi Zhen , Pluth Michael D. , Yi Long
Published: July 2020

We demonstrate that positively-charged NBD amines can effectively scavenge biological H2S in live cells and in mice.
Palladium-catalyzed direct asymmetric C–H bond functionalization enabled by the directing group strategy
Authors: Yang Ke , Song Mengjie , Liu Hao , Ge Haibo
Published: July 2020

This minireview introduces Pd-catalyzed direct asymmetric C–H functionalization reactions using a directing group strategy.
Theoretical insights into the factors affecting the electrochemical reduction of CO2
Authors: Mustafa Azeem , Lougou Bachirou Guene , Shuai Yong , Wang Zhijiang , Razzaq Samia , Zhao Jiupeng , Tan Heping
Published: July 2020

The harmonious condition between nature and humans experiences severe challenges due to the continuous consumption of fossil fuels and the consequent rapid release of large CO2 levels into the atmosphere.
Selective conversion of furfural into tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol using a heteropoly acid-based material as a hydrogenation catalyst
Authors: Koley Paramita , Rao B. Srinivasa , Sabri Ylias M. , Bhargava Suresh K. , Tardio James , Lingaiah N.
Published: July 2020

Tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol (THFAL) is a green solvent as well as a significant platform chemical which can be obtained from biomass derived furfural.
Hybrid cocatalysts in semiconductor-based photocatalysis and photoelectrocatalysis
Authors: Zhong Shuxian , Xi Yamin , Wu Shijie , Liu Qian , Zhao Leihong , Bai Song
Published: July 2020

The functions, architectures, component cooperation mechanisms, and applications of hybrid cocatalysts in advancing semiconductor-based photocatalysis and photoelectrocatalysis are systematically reviewed.
Hydrogen bonding-induced hydrophobic assembly yields strong affinity of an adsorptive membrane for ultrafast removal of trace organic micropollutants from water
Authors: Gui Qilin , Zhang Jinxing , Hu Kexing , Ouyang Qi , Shi Shuxian , Chen Xiaonong
Published: July 2020

Hydrogen bonding-induced hydrophobic assembly yields strong affinity of an adsorptive membrane for ultrafast removal of trace organic micropollutants from water.
High-mobility organic single-crystalline transistors with anisotropic transport based on high symmetrical “H”-shaped heteroarene derivatives
Authors: Fan Hanghong , Zou Sufen , Gao Jianhua , Chen Ru , Ma Qingfang , Ma Wangjing , Zhang Huarong , Chen Guangjin , Huo Xinwei , Liu Zheyuan , Dang Yanfeng , Hu Wenping
Published: July 2020

Two highly symmetrical “H”-configuration heteroarene derivatives are synthesized with mobility of up to 15.6 cm2 V−1 s−1 for single-crystalline field effect transistors.
Convergence of terahertz radiation and nanotechnology
Authors: Lawler Nicholas B. , Ho Diwei , Evans Cameron W. , Wallace Vincent P. , Iyer K. Swaminathan
Published: July 2020

The integration of terahertz frequencies and nanomaterials enables development of technologies to improve generation, detection and sensing applications.
An electrically conductive polymer composite with a co-continuous segregated structure for enhanced mechanical performance
Authors: Xu Ying-Te , Wang Yan , Zhou Chang-Ge , Sun Wen-Jin , Dai Kun , Tang Jian-Hua , Lei Jun , Yan Ding-Xiang , Li Zhong-Ming
Published: July 2020

Carbon nanotube (CNT)/thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) composite containing a novel co-continuous segregated structure was developed. And the electrical conductivity and mechanical performance were simultaneously improved.
α2A-adrenoceptor deficiency attenuates lipopolysaccharide-induced lung injury by increasing norepinephrine levels and inhibiting alveolar macrophage activation in acute respiratory distress syndrome
Authors: Cong Zhukai , Li Dan , Lv Xiangpeng , Yang Cui , Zhang Qiang , Wu Changyi , Wang Zongyu , Zhu Xi
Published: July 2020

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a severe condition with high morbidity and mortality and few interventions. The role of sympathetic stress in the pathogenesis of ARDS has attracted recent research attention. Blockade of α-2 or α2A-adrenoceptor (α2A-AR) has been shown to attenuate lung injury induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in rats. However, the mechanism is unclear. We confirmed the role of α2A-AR in ARDS using knockout mice and alveolar macrophages following LPS stimulation to assess the underlying mechanisms. We found that α2A-AR deficiency decreased the permeability of the alveolar capillary barrier in ARDS mice and suppressed lung inflammation by reducing inflammatory cell infiltration and the production of TNF-α, interleukin (IL)-6, and CXCL2/MIP-2. LPS stimulation decreased NF-κB activation in lung tissues of α2A-AR deficient mice and increased norepinephrine concentrations. In vitro, we found that norepinephrine inhibited the production of TNF-α, IL-6, and CXCL2/MIP-2 and promoted the secretion of IL-10 from LPS-stimulated murine alveolar macrophages. Blockade of α2A-AR by a specific antagonist further inhibited the production of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-10. Furthermore, norepinephrine down-regulated NF-κB activation in stimulated alveolar macrophages. Altogether, these results suggest that α2A-AR deficiency ameliorates lung injury by increasing norepinephrine concentrations in lung tissues and inhibiting the activation of alveolar macrophages.
Modeling and analysis of vector control systems for asynchronous motor
Authors: Meshcheryakov Viktor , Sinyukova Tatyana , Sinyukov Alexey , Boikov Andrei , Mukhametzhanov Rustem
Published: July 2020

The study aims at the analysis of vector control asynchronous electric drive systems. For comparison and evaluation, mathematical models of systems are implemented in the environment of simulation modeling Matlab Simulink. The evaluation criteria selected were: complexity of implementation, energy efficiency of the inverter, accuracy of speed maintenance, torque ripple, reaction speed of the system to disturbances from the side of the drive mechanism, impact on the supply network. Vector control systems by ensuring the maintenance of accuracy of the moment in the entire range of speed control are more widespread. The study of vector systems, the formation of the stator voltage vector in which is carried out using pulse-width modulation. The signal organization during the study was carried out by several methods. At the initial stage, the signal was formed due to relay-vector control in a closed loop for monitoring the instantaneous values of current errors without forced modulation; at the next stage of the study, the signal was generated using sinusoidal pulse-width modulation based on a comparison of control signals with some reference vector, the final stage became a spatial-vector modulation method.
High Speed Electrical Drives – Perspective of VFD Manufacturer
Authors: Bruha Martin , Pietiläinen Kai , Rauber Axel
Published: July 2020

This paper deals with high-speed electrical drives utilizing power electronic converters (commonly abbreviated as ASD, VFD or VSD). Existing solutions vary mainly on the motor side while the power electronic converter is very similar for all cases. Various advantages as well as technical challenges are discussed and illustrated. At certain stages comparisons between conventional and high-speed drives are made. The paper summarizes the experience of a VFD manufacturer based on state of the art technology in medium voltage and multi-megawatt power range. The authors believe that main complexity around high-speed drives is the motor design while the VFD requires only small adaptations or can sometimes be used directly without any modifications of standard design. The technology readiness is evaluated to be on a medium to high level.
Analysis of power quality in presence of frequency distortions
Authors: Zatsepina Violetta , Zatsepin Evgeniy , Shachnev Oleg , Shachnev Alexander , Petrov Timur
Published: July 2020

Today, semiconductor elements are becoming more popular in power supply networks. Their presence in any objects of electrical equipment provides high performance with high operating efficiency. However, modern research shows the semiconductor element base negatively affects quality of electricity when they are used in parallel. In lowand medium-voltage networks, this is fraught with the appearance of frequency «noise», which negatively affects parameters equipment with presence of latter, as well their control system. To detect them, a special approach is necessary, since such harmonics can appear both from directly semiconductor elements and from operating mode of equipment where element base is applied. The purpose of this article identifies higher harmonic distortions generated by objects containing semiconductor elements.
Computational experiment on determination of load on the rollers of continuous casting machine
Authors: Bashirov Navak , Zaripova Daniya , Bashirova Irina
Published: July 2020

The article is devoted to calculations of load on rollers of a curvilinear continuous casting machine during bending of the ingot in the levelling section. The calculation takes into account the elastic and plastic characteristics of metal and the flexibility of the roller apparatus. Determination of load on rollers together with meeting other requirements such as reducing the cooling water consumption, minimizing the energy consumption enables optimizing the technology of slab cooling in the secondary cooling zone (SCZ) and obtaining metal of the required quality.
Automatic voltage regulation system construction for synchronous generator of a small hydro power plant using thyristor pathogens
Authors: Kadyrov Ishembek , Karaeva Nurzat , Andarbekov Zheenbek , Azamat Bakytuulu , Fedorov Oleg , Vladimirov Oleg
Published: July 2020

The article presents indicators of the hydropower potential of Kyrgyzstan, shows the share of small hydropower plants in the production of electric energy in the energy sector of the republic, reveals the problematic issues that need to be revealed in this work. A brief description of the existing automatic voltage regulation system and automatic field blanking system is given. Based on the analysis of existing systems, their shortcomings were identified and the main functions formulated for automatic voltage regulation systems in both static and dynamic modes associated with starting and stopping the generator, loading and dumping, as well as protective measures taken to ensure reliability operation of the hydraulic unit. The result of the research is the development of the main functional blocks in the system of automatic voltage regulation with a thyristor pathogen and a brief explanation of their work. The synthesis technique of the excitation current regulator of a synchronous generator and the main indicators obtained in the modernization process are shown. In conclusion, all the functions inherent in the modernized system for automatically controlling the excitation of a synchronous generator, aimed at the safe operation of the hydraulic unit, are noted.