bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Parameter optimization of double‐blade normal milk processing and mixing performance based on RSM and BP‐GA
Authors: Qi Jiangtao , Zhao Wenwen , Kan Za , Meng Hewei , Li Yaping
Published: September 2019

Temperature stability was taken as the evaluation index of processing performance, and the three factors that influence normal milk processing and mixing performance were optimized by response surface analysis and BP‐GA neural network algorithm. Analysis results showed the influence order of the factors on temperature stability was as follows: shape > height > rotating speed. In the optimization by response surface methodology (RSM), when rotating speed was 30 r/min, height was 31 mm, and blade shape was a full trapezoid, predicted value and actual value of variable coefficient were 0.0046 and 0.0044 respectively, with relative error of 4.5%. In the optimization by BP‐GA neural network algorithm, when rotating speed was 34 r/min, height was 25 mm, and blade shape was a full trapezoid, the predicted value and actual value of variable coefficient were 0.0036 and 0.0035 respectively, with relative error of 2.9%. The predicted root‐mean‐square error of the model by the BP‐GA neural network algorithm was 0.0013, determination coefficient was 0.9960, and relative percent deviation was 8.4961, which showed better performance than the RSM model. Thus, the BP‐GA neural network algorithm has better fitting performance, and then, the optimal working parameter combination was confirmed, which could provide reference to improving double‐blade normal milk processing and mixing device design and milk processing quality.
Zircon U–Pb and molybdenite Re–Os geochronology and whole‐rock geochemistry of the Baishan porphyry Mo deposit: Insights into Triassic mineralisation and tectonic setting in the eastern Tianshan, NW China
Authors: Wang Yang‐Shuang , Zou Hao , Tu Qi‐Jun , Xu Mo , Yang Chang , Fu Yu‐Zhen
Published: September 2019

The Baishan Mo deposit in the eastern Tianshan Mountains is representative of the local metallogenic Triassic Mo belt. In this study, the geological characteristics, petrography, and geochemistry of the granite porphyry and the Mo deposit were examined using zircon U–Pb dating, molybdenite Re–Os isotope dating, whole‐rock geochemistry, and fluid inclusions. Results show that the crystallisation age of the Baishan granite porphyry is 229.8 ± 1.4 Ma and the Re–Os age of molybdenite in the ore body quartz vein is 225.0 ± 1.2 Ma. Therefore, the ore formed basically at the same time as diagenesis in the Late Triassic. The Baishan granite porphyry has high levels of Si, Al, and alkalis (K2O + Na2O = 5.72–8.88%) and low levels of Mg. The differentiation index is high (81.68–91.20), while the aluminium saturation index is low, indicating that the pluton belongs to metaluminous–weak peraluminous highly fractionated I‐type granite. The rock is also enriched in light rare earth elements (LREE) and large‐ion lithophile elements but depleted in heavy rare earth elements (HREE) and high‐field‐strength elements, with a distinct differentiation between LREEs and HREEs. δEu is weakly negative. The high Sr/Y and La/Yb ratios indicate geochemical characteristics similar to adakite rocks. The formation of the deposit is closely related to Mo‐rich, low‐salinity (1.23‐ to 9.73‐wt.% NaCl eqv.), and medium‐ to low‐temperature (91–280°C) magmatic fluid in the plate extension setting. The magma was derived from partial melting of thickened lower crust and possibly mixed with intrusive mantle‐derived magma. The ore‐forming fluids were uplifted, transported, mixed with meteoric water, and precipitated to form the Mo ore.
Effect of heat source/sink on MHD flow due to porous rotating disk with variable thickness in the presence of cross diffusion
Authors: Sravanthi C. S.
Published: September 2019

An analysis of steady magnetohydrodynamic axisymmetric flow of a viscous incompressible electrically conducting fluid due to porous rotating disk with variable thickness in the presence of heat source/sink is presented. Soret and Dufour effects (cross‐diffusion) are also considered. The governing partial differential equations are transformed into a system of nonlinear ordinary differential equations. The homotopy analysis method is used to solve the resulting coupled nonlinear equations under appropriate transformed boundary conditions. A parametric study of the physical parameters is made and results are presented through graphs and tables. The results indicate that the thermal boundary layer is thicker for the flow problems having a heat source when compared with that of the problems without a heat source. It is also found that thickness of the disk is having a high impact on fluid velocity, temperature, and concentration.
Preschoolers' self‐regulation and developmental trajectories of sleep problems in early childhood
Authors: Jusienė Roma , Breidokienė Rima
Published: September 2019

Present study explores developmental trajectories of sleep problems and its associations with self‐regulation. Sleep problems, emotional, and behavioural problems were reported by mothers of 128 children aged 2 and 4 years, and children's self‐regulatory abilities were laboratory tested with “hot” (e.g., delay of gratification) and “cool” (e.g., cognitive control and anticipation) tasks at age 4. Two latent class mixture models for trajectories of sleep problems were built with separately incorporated “hot” and “cool” self‐regulation as the distal variables. In both models, nearly two thirds of children developed a stable low sleep problems trajectory, while 19.5% with distal variable of “hot” self‐regulation and 32% with distal variable of “cool” self‐regulation displayed a decreasing sleep problems trajectory. These children scored highly on emotional and behavioural problems and moderately on inhibitory control. With regard to “hot” self‐regulation as a distal variable, 17% of children had very low self‐regulatory abilities and high scores on emotional and behavioural problems yet remained good sleepers at preschool age. Conversely, with regard to “cool” self‐regulation, 14% of children displayed an increasing sleep problems trajectory. They scored high on emotional and behavioural problems at age 4 and obtained the highest scores on “cool” self‐regulation and medium scores on “hot” self‐regulation. To conclude, hot and cool systems of self‐regulation could provide distinct interactional effects with sleep problems throughout early childhood.

Highlights

The study analyzes mother‐reported sleep problems trajectories from toddlerhood to preschool age and preschoolers' laboratory tested self‐regulation.

High cognitive inhibitory control is linked with increasing sleep problems, and low affective inhibitory control is related with medium or decreasing sleep problems in considerable number of children.

Parents and clinicians should help young children with high cognitive control and anticipation cope with anxious thoughts, especially before bedtime.
Upregulation of Systemic Inflammatory Pathways Following Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury Relates to Both Cartilage and Muscular Changes: A Pilot Study
Authors: Hunt Emily R. , Villasanta‐Tezanos Alejandro G. , Butterfield Timothy A. , Lattermann Christian , Jacobs Cale A.
Published: September 2019

In conjunction with cartilage breakdown, muscle maladaptation including atrophy and increased fibrosis have been observed in the quadriceps following anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. Previously observed upregulated muscle‐related proteins in the synovial fluid following ACL rupture allude to cellular communication between the joint and muscle. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine whether muscle‐related analytes are differentially expressed in the serum. Sixteen patients with an acute ACL tear participated in this IRB‐approved study. Serum was obtained at two different time points at a mean of 6 and 14 days post‐injury, and serum was analyzed by a highly multiplexed assay of 1,300 proteins. Pathway analysis using DAVID was performed; genes included met three criteria: significant change between the two study time points using a paired t test, significant change between the two study time points using a Mann–Whitney non‐parametric test, and significant Benjamini post hoc analysis. Twelve analytes significantly increased between time points. Proteins chitinase‐3‐like protein 1 (p = 0.01), insulin‐like growth factor binding protein 1 (p = 0.01), insulin‐like growth factor binding protein 5 (p = 0.02), renin (p = 0.004), and lymphotoxin alpha 1: beta 2 (p = 0.03) were significantly upregulated in serum following acute ACL injury. The current results confirm the inflammatory pattern previously seen in the synovial fluid thought to play a role in the progression of post‐traumatic osteoarthritis after ACL injury, and this data also provides further insights into important communication between the joint and quadriceps group, whose function is important in long term health. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 38:387‐392, 2020
Aged Mice Demonstrate Greater Muscle Degeneration of Chronically Injured Rotator Cuff
Authors: Sharma Abhinav K. , Levian Brandon , Shah Paras , Mosich Gina M. , Husman Regina , Ariniello Allison , Gatto Jonathan D. , Hu Vivian J. , McClintick Daniel J. , Jensen Andrew R. , McAllister David R. , Péault Bruno , Dar Ayelet , Petrigliano Frank A.
Published: September 2019

Massive tears of the rotator cuff (RC) are often associated with progressive and irreversible muscle degeneration due to fibrosis, fatty infiltration, and muscle atrophy. RC tears are common in individuals older than 60 years and the repair of these tears is amongst the most prevalent of orthopedic procedures. However, most current models of this injury are established in young animals, which may not accurately recapitulate the clinical condition. In this study, we used a murine model of massive RC tears to evaluate age‐related muscle degeneration following chronic injury. The expression of the fibro‐adipogenic genes encoding collagen type III and leptin was higher in aged RC compared with matched injured young tissue at 2 weeks post‐injury, and development of fibrosis was accelerated in aged mice within 5 days post‐injury. Furthermore, the synthesis of collagens type I and III and fat tissue accumulation were significantly higher in injured RCs of aged mice. Similar frequency of fibro‐adipogenic PDGFRβ+PDGFRα+ progenitor cells was measured in non‐injured RC of aged and young mice, but PDGFRβ+PDGFRα+ cells contributed to significantly larger fibrotic lesions in aged RCs within 2 weeks post‐injury, implying a more robust fibrotic environment in the aged injured muscle. Altogether, these findings demonstrate age‐dependent differences in RC response to chronic injury with a more profound fibro‐adipogenic change in aged muscles. Clinically, cell therapies for muscular pathologies should not only consider the cell type being transplanted but also the recipient milieu into which these cells are seeded. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 38:320‐328, 2020
Synthesis, Characterization, Surface, and Thermodynamic Studies of Alkyl Tetrachloroferrates: Performance Evaluation of Their Nanostructures as Biocides
Authors: El‐Shamy Omnia A. A. , Habib Amr O. , Mohamed Dalia E. , Badawi Abdelfattah M.
Published: September 2019

Decyl and dodecylamino tetrachloroferrates were synthesized and characterized using Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), elemental analysis, X‐ray diffraction (XRD), nuclear magnetic resonance (1H‐NMR), and atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). The surface properties of the cationic surfactants including critical micelle concentration, effectiveness, minimum surface area, and maximum surface excess were determined using surface tension measurements. The effectiveness of surface tension reduction (πcmc) was found to increase as the hydrophobic chain length increases with values of 30 and 34 mN m−1 for C10 and C12, respectively. Moreover, the effect of temperature on micellization was determined over the range of 35–55 °C. Thermodynamic parameters (ΔG°, ΔS°, and ΔH°) were calculated and the results indicate a spontaneous process for both micellization and adsorption. The nanoparticles (NC10 and NC12) of the prepared surfactants were obtained using the ball mill technique. The particle size and morphology of the nanoparticles were determined using transmission electron microscope measurements. The antibacterial study of the nanoparticle surfactants revealed their strong efficiency against fungi and different pathogenic bacteria compared with the original surfactants.
Interobserver Reliability of the Antenatal Consensus Classification System for Urinary Tract Dilatation
Authors: Nelson Caleb P. , Heller Howard T. , Benson Carol B. , Asch Elizabeth H. , Durfee Sara M. , Logvinenko Tanya , Bromley Bryann
Published: September 2019

Objectives

The consensus classification system for urinary tract dilatation (UTD) was designed to be more objective and reproducible than previously used systems. We sought to evaluate interobserver reliability of UTD components and overall scores in a prenatal population undergoing third‐trimester ultrasound examinations.

Methods

We retrospectively identified patients who underwent antenatal ultrasound examinations for UTD between 28 and 40 weeks’ gestation. All images from individual studies of 300 fetuses were reviewed independently by 5 experienced sonologists (1 maternal‐fetal medicine specialist and 4 radiologists). Urinary tract dilatation scores (normal, A1, or A2/3) and Society for Fetal Urology (SFU) scores were assigned. Interobserver agreement between raters was evaluated with the Fleiss κ statistic.

Results

Overall interobserver agreement for the antenatal UTD risk score showed substantial agreement among all 5 readers (κ = 0.657 [95% confidence interval, 0.632, 0.683]; P < .001). All 5 readers applied the same UTD risk score in 53.7% of cases. Some variability in the antenatal UTD score and individual elements was observed. At least 2 UTD risk scores were assigned to a specific individual patient in 46.3% of cases (139 of 300), and all 3 UTD risk scores were assigned to a specific individual patient in 1.7% of cases (5 of 300). In 18.0% of cases (54 of 300), at least 2 readers assigned a UTD score different from that assigned by the other readers. Agreement was lowest for parenchymal appearance (κ = 0.225). Agreement for the SFU system was fair (κ = 0.368; P < .001).

Conclusions

Interobserver agreement for the antenatal UTD grading system was substantial. Compared to the SFU system, the antenatal UTD system showed better agreement among readers.
Selective Adhesion and Directional Migration of Endothelial Cells Guided by Cys‐Ala‐Gly Peptide Density Gradient on Antifouling Polymer Brushes
Authors: Du Wang , Gao Changyou
Published: September 2019

Selective adhesion and directional migration of endothelial cells (ECs) on biomaterials is critical to realize the rapid endothelialization. In this study, a Cys‐Ala‐Gly (CAG) peptide density gradient is generated on homogeneous cell‐resisting poly(2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate‐co‐glycidyl methacrylate) brushes by immersing the brushes in a complementary gradient solution of CAG and competitive mercapto‐terminated methoxyl poly(ethylene glycol). The adhesion and spreading of smooth muscle cells (SMCs) is impaired effectively on the gradient surface. About six folds of adherent ECs over SMCs are achieved at the position (10 mm) of highest CAG density on the gradient surface in a co‐culture condition. Due to the gradient cues, ECs migrate fastest with the best directionality of 86.7% at the middle of the gradient, leading to the maximum net displacement as well.
The effect of surface treatment on the corrosion behavior of a pure Ta sheet in an equimolar NaCl–KCl melt at 850°C in air. Part 1: Laser surface melting
Authors: Hu Ke , Hu Shubing , Zeng Siqi , Peng Bo , Zhang Yu , Xiao Ming , Liu Kaige , Wang Xuerong , Liu Wei , Wang Kanghui , Yu Wenkang , Lu Xiaoxin , Yan Wenjie
Published: September 2019

The corrosion behavior of pure Ta and laser surface melting–treated Ta sheets was investigated in an equimolar NaCl–KCl melt at 850°C in air. The results show that the predominant factors involved in the consumption of materials were reactions that form sodium‐containing oxides and Ta2O5. High corrosion stress led to slip of the untreated Ta surface grains, further resulting in preferential corrosion along slip bands. The slip of surface grains substantially deteriorated the bonding between the corrosion scale and matrix, thus leading to rapid degradation of the corrosion scale. The melt layer consisted of a thin Ta2O5 film, and the inner dendrite layer demonstrated self‐healing characteristics during corrosion and presented a better hot corrosion resistance than the untreated Ta owing to the excellent bonding at the scale and melt layer interface.
Semi‐analytical solutions of two‐dimensional plane strain consolidation in unsaturated soils subjected to the lateral semipermeable drainage boundary
Authors: Wang Lei , Xu Yongfu , Xia Xiaohe , He Yuelei
Published: September 2019

The study presents semi‐analytical solutions of two‐dimensional plane strain consolidation problem in unsaturated soils incorporating the lateral semipermeable drainage boundary by adopting Fourier sine series and Laplace transform. The two‐dimensional plane strain consolidation equations in the form of two‐order partial differential equations with three variables are firstly converted to two‐order partial differential equations with two variables, which are similar to those of one‐dimensional consolidation problem. The four‐order ordinary differential equations about excess pore‐air and excess pore‐water pressures are got by applying Laplace transform and the substitution method. Then, the solutions of excess pore pressures and settlement are achieved in the Laplace transform domain. Afterwards, on the basis of Crump's method, the inverse Laplace transform is conducted to obtain the analytical solutions in time domain. The comparison is conducted to verify the exactness of the obtained solutions, and the two‐dimensional plane strain consolidation property with the lateral semipermeable drainage boundary is illustrated and discussed. Parametric studies are demonstrated for the excess pore pressures and normalized settlement with the change of the boundary parameters, air‐water and lateral‐vertical permeability coefficients, and the distance and depth. It can be found that the lateral semipermeable drainage boundary impedes the consolidation rate obviously, and when different investigated parameters are adopted, the consolidation property is similar to each other under the later permeable and semipermeable drainage boundary conditions.
Improved off‐resonance phase behavior using a phase‐inverted adiabatic half‐passage pulse for 13C MRS in humans at 7 T
Authors: Serés Roig Eulalia , Xin Lijing , Gallichan Daniel , Mlynarik Vladimir , Gruetter Rolf
Published: September 2019

In vivo 13C MRS at high field benefits from an improved SNR and spectral resolution especially when using surface coils in combination with adiabatic pulses, such as the adiabatic half‐passage (AHP) pulse for 13C excitation. However, the excitation profile of the AHP pulse is asymmetric relative to the carrier frequency, which could lead to asymmetric excitation of the spectral lines relative to the center of the spectrum. In this study, a pulse‐acquire sequence was designed for adiabatic 13C excitation with a symmetric bandwidth, utilizing a combination of two AHP pulses with inverted phases in alternate scans.

Magnetization and phase behavior as a function of frequency offset and RF amplitude of the B1 field, as well as the steady‐state transverse magnetization response to off‐resonance, were simulated. Excitation properties of the combined pulse sequence were studied by 23Na imaging and 13C spectroscopy in vitro on a phantom and in vivo on the human calf at 7 T.

Simulations demonstrated symmetric transverse magnetization and phase with respect to positive and negative frequency offsets when using two AHP pulses with inverted phases in alternate scans, thereby minimizing baseline distortion and achieving symmetric T1 weighting, as confirmed by in vitro measurements. The intensities of the lipid peaks at 15, 30, 62, 73, and 130 ppm were in agreement with those theoretically predicted using two AHP pulses with inverted phases in alternate scans.

We conclude that using two phase‐inverted AHP pulses improves the symmetry of the 13C excitation profile and phase response to off‐resonance effects at 7 T in comparison with using a single AHP pulse.
Statins for primary prevention of cardiovascular disease and the risk of acute kidney injury
Authors: Coste Joël , Karras Alexandre , Rudnichi Annie , Dray‐Spira Rosemary , Pouchot Jacques , Giral Philippe , Zureik Mahmoud
Published: September 2019

Purpose

To investigate the risk of acute kidney injury (AKI) in subjects initiating statin therapy for primary prevention of cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Methods

A nationwide cohort study using French hospital discharge and claims databases was performed, studying subjects from the general population aged 40 to 75 years in 2009, with no history of CVD and no lipid‐lowering drugs during the preceding 3‐year period, followed for up to 7 years. Exposure to statins (type, dose, and time since first use) and to other drugs for CVD risk was assessed. The primary outcome was hospital admission for AKI.

Results

The cohort included 8 236 279 subjects, 818 432 of whom initiated a statin for primary prevention. During 598 487 785 person‐months exposed to statins, 700 events were observed, corresponding to an incidence of AKI of 4.59 per 10 000 person‐years (7.01 in men, 3.01 in women). AKI mainly occurred in the context of organ failure, sepsis, and genitourinary disease. A 19% increased rate of AKI (hazard ratio = 1.19, 95%CI: 1.08‐1.31) was observed in men exposed to statins, whereas no increase in the overall risk of AKI was observed in women. However, exposure to high‐potency statins was associated with a 72% to 116% increased risk in both genders and a dose‐effect relationship observed for rosuvastatin and atorvastatin. No temporal pattern of occurrence nor interaction with drugs for CVD risk was observed.

Conclusions

Although the overall risk of AKI appears moderately increased, more attention should be paid to renal function in subjects taking statins for primary prevention both in clinical practice and from a research viewpoint.
Spray‐Assisted Microwave Welding of Thermoplastics Using Carbon Nanostructures with Enabled Health Monitoring
Authors: Kravchenko Oleksandr G. , Solouki Bonab Vahab , Manas‐Zloczower Ica
Published: September 2019

The present study considers the use of spray‐assisted hybrid microwave welding using suspensions with low concentration of carbon nanostructures (CNS) (0.01 wt%). The proposed method of joining allows to create micron level coverage of the CNS on the thermoplastic substrates using a spray deposition technique. Upon electromagnetic microwave exposure, the CNS coverage provided structural joining of the parts due to dielectric heating. Small clamping force was applied to introduce uniform contact between the welded substrates. The choice of CNS was based on the superior dielectric loss and storage properties when compared to conventional carbon nanotubes. Furthermore, the proposed method of bonding allowed the creation of an electrically conductive percolated network at the welded interface, which was used for structural health monitoring by detecting the changes in the electrical resistance during single lap joint mechanical testing. The proposed method was shown to provide structural levels of welds for thermoplastic with different molecular structure, namely polycarbonate, polyurethane and high‐density polyethylene. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 59:2247–2254, 2019. © 2019 Society of Plastics Engineers
Health‐related quality of life by human immunodeficiency virus status in a cross‐sectional survey of gay and bisexual prostate cancer survivors
Authors: Polter Elizabeth J. , Wheldon Christopher W. , Rosser B.R. Simon , Kohli Nidhi , Capistrant Benjamin D. , Kapoor Aditya , Konety Badrinath , Mitteldorf Darryl , Ross Michael , Talley Kristine M.C. , Terveen Loren , West William , Wright Morgan M.
Published: September 2019

Objective

Prostate cancer is the most common invasive cancer in gay and bisexual men (GBM). Despite the unique sexual and urinary concerns of this group, studies of prostate cancer rehabilitation have primarily focused on heterosexual men. GBM also have high prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which may be associated with lower health‐related quality of life (HRQOL). We examined the association between HIV status and HRQOL in a cohort of GBM with prostate cancer.

Methods

Data from the Restore study, a cross‐sectional online survey of GBM treated for prostate cancer, were used to examine this association. The Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite (EPIC) assessed function, bother, and summary measures in four domains: urinary, sexual, bowel, and hormone. Overall physical and mental HRQOL was assessed using the Short‐Form Health Survey (SF‐12). Multivariate analysis of variance and linear regression were used to evaluate the association between HIV status and HRQOL scores after adjustment for demographic and sexual characteristics.

Results

Of 192 participants, 24 (12.4%) reported an HIV diagnosis. After adjustment for covariates, HIV‐positive status was associated with lower scores on the EPIC urinary (mean difference [MD]: −13.0, 95% CI, −21.4 to −4.6), sexual (MD: −12.5, 95% CI, −21.9 to −3.2), and bowel (MD: −5.9, 95% CI, −11.7 to −0.2) domains. No significant associations were observed between HIV status and other outcomes.

Conclusions

HIV status may be associated with poorer urinary, sexual, and bowel HRQOL in GBM prostate cancer survivors.
Metal Nanoclusters–Based Ratiometric Fluorescent Probes from Design to Sensing Applications
Authors: Zhao Yu , Wang Xinyu , Mi Jiqiang , Jiang Yingnan , Wang Chuanxi
Published: September 2019

Ratiometric fluorescent probes have many advantages including improved sensitivity, high reliability and accuracy, visualization sensing, etc. Herein, the development of metal nanoclusters (NCs)‐based ratiometric fluorescent probes in the recent years is summarized. NCs, an emerging new class of fluorescent nanomaterials, have demonstrated excellent optical properties, good biocompatibility, great aqueous solubility, low cost, and simple synthesis, and NCs‐based ratiometric fluorescent probes have attracted much attention. In this progress report, the preparation and properties of NCs and the design of ratiometric fluorescent probes are summarized. Sensing of a broad range of analytes including cations, gas, small molecules, macromolecules, temperature, and pH is discussed. In addition, the challenges and future directions for NCs‐based ratiometric fluorescent probes are also presented.
Structural perspectives on HIV‐1 Vif and APOBEC3 restriction factor interactions
Authors: Azimi Farshad C. , Lee Jeffrey E.
Published: September 2019

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a retroviral pathogen that targets human immune cells such as CD4+ T cells, macrophages, and dendritic cells. The human
apolipoprotein
B mRNA‐
editing
catalytic polypeptide
3 (APOBEC3 or A3) cytidine deaminases are a key class of intrinsic restriction factors that inhibit replication of HIV. When HIV‐1 enters the cell, the immune system responds by inducing the activation of the A3 family proteins, which convert cytosines to uracils in single‐stranded DNA replication intermediates, neutralizing the virus. HIV counteracts this intrinsic immune response by encoding a protein termed viral infectivity factor (Vif). Vif targets A3 to an E3 ubiquitin ligase complex for poly‐ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation. Vif is unique in that it can recognize and counteract multiple A3 restriction factor substrates. Structural biology studies have provided significant insights into the overall architectures and functions of Vif and A3 proteins; however, a structure of the Vif‐A3 complex has remained elusive. In this review, we summarize and reanalyze experimental data from recent structural, biochemical, and functional studies to provide key perspectives on the residues involved in Vif‐A3 protein–protein interactions.
Phenolic acid phenethylesters and their corresponding ketones: Inhibition of 5‐lipoxygenase and stability in human blood and HepaRG cells
Authors: Mbarik Maroua , Poirier Samuel J. , Doiron Jérémie , Selka Ayyoub , Barnett David A. , Cormier Marc , Touaibia Mohamed , Surette Marc E.
Published: September 2019

5‐lipoxygenase (5‐LO) catalyzes the biosynthesis of leukotrienes, potent lipid mediators involved in inflammatory diseases, and both 5‐LO and the leukotrienes are validated therapeutic targets. Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) is an effective inhibitor of 5‐LO and leukotriene biosynthesis but is susceptible to hydrolysis by esterases. In this study a number of CAPE analogues were synthesized with modifications to the caffeoyl moiety and the replacement of the ester linkage with a ketone. Several new molecules showed better inhibition of leukotriene biosynthesis than CAPE in isolated human neutrophils and in whole blood with IC50 values in the nanomolar (290‐520 nmol/L) and low micromolar (1.0‐2.3 µmol/L) ranges, respectively. Sinapic acid and 2,5‐dihydroxy derivatives were more stable than CAPE in whole blood, and ketone analogues were degraded more slowly in HepaRG hepatocyte cultures than esters. All compounds underwent modification consistent with glucuronidation in HepaRG cultures as determined using LC‐MS/MS analysis, though the modified sinapoyl ketone (10) retained 50% of its inhibitory activity after up to one hour of incubation. This study has identified at least one CAPE analogue, compound 10, that shows favorable properties that warrant further in vivo investigation as an antiinflammatory compound.
Enzymes in the juvenile hormone biosynthetic pathway can be potential targets for pest control
Authors: Yin Yue , Qiu Yan‐Wei , Huang Juan , Tobe Stephen S , Chen Shan‐Shan , Kai Zhen‐Peng
Published: September 2019

BACKGROUND

Discovery of novel insecticides and targets has received global attention in recent years. Ten genes coding for enzymes involved in the juvenile hormone biosynthetic pathway of Manduca sexta were studied as potential insecticide targets.

RESULTS

We determined the expression of genes encoding some critical enzymes in the JH biosynthetic pathway. Farnesol dehydrogenase (FOLD), Juvenile hormone acid O‐methyltransferase (JHAMT) and Juvenile hormone epoxidase (CYP15C1) were selected as the candidate targets based on gene expression results. RNAi silencing and enzyme inhibitor tests were performed to validate whether these candidate genes could be the potential insecticide targets. The down‐regulation of FOLD, JHAMT and CYP15C1 resulted in a 68%, 82% and 79% reduction in the rates of JH biosynthesis in vitro, respectively. In addition, RNA interference and inhibitor studies of these enzymes following oral administration demonstrated the potential application in pest management, with respect to high mortality and effects on growth.

CONCLUSION

Based on our study, FOLD, JHAMT and CYP15C1 could be potential targets for pest control as a consequence of their important roles in insect development. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Chemical synthesis of N‐glycosylated insulin‐like androgenic gland factor from the freshwater prawn Macrobrachium rosenbergii
Authors: Katayama Hidekazu , Nagasawa Hiromichi
Published: September 2019

Crustacean insulin‐like androgenic gland factor (IAG) of Macrobrachium rosenbergii, a heterodimeric peptide having both four disulfide bonds and an N‐linked glycan, was synthesized by the combination of solid‐phase peptide synthesis and the regioselective disulfide formation reactions. The disulfide isomer of IAG could also be synthesized by the same manner. The conformational analysis of these peptides by circular dichroism (CD) spectral measurement indicated that the disulfide bond arrangement affected the peptide conformation in IAG. On the other hand, the N‐linked glycan attached at A chain showed no effect on CD spectra of IAG. This is the first report for the chemical synthesis of insulin‐like heterodimeric glycopeptide having three interchain disulfides, and the synthetic strategy shown here might be useful for the synthesis of other glycosylated four‐disulfide insulin‐like peptides.
Selectively Permeable Double Emulsions
Authors: Ong Irvine Lian Hao , Amstad Esther
Published: September 2019

Natural organisms are made of different types of microcompartments, many of which are enclosed by cell membranes. For these organisms to display a proper function, the microcompartments must be selectively permeable. For example, cell membranes are typically permeable toward small, uncharged molecules such as water, selected nutrients, and cell signaling molecules, but impermeable toward many larger biomolecules. Here, it is reported for the first time dynamic compartments, namely surfactant‐stabilized double emulsions, that display selective and tunable permeability. Selective permeability is imparted to double emulsions by stabilizing them with catechol‐functionalized surfactants that transport molecules across the oil shell of double emulsions only if they electrostatically or hydrophobically attract encapsulants. These double emulsions are employed as semipermeable picoliter‐sized vessels to controllably perform complexation reactions inside picoliter‐sized aqueous cores. This thus far unmet level of control over the transport of reagents across oil phases opens up new possibilities to use double emulsion drops as dynamic and selectively permeable microcompartments to initiate and maintain chemical and biochemical reactions in picoliter‐sized cell‐mimetic compartments.
Zur Festigkeit und Duktilität von Schweißverbindungen an höherfesten Stählen
Authors: Stroetmann Richard , Kästner Thoralf , Hälsig André , Mayr Peter
Published: September 2019

Im AiF‐FOSTA‐Forschungsprojekt P1020 [1] wurde ein neues Bemessungsmodell für Schweißverbindungen entwickelt. In diesem Zusammenhang wurde ein Kleinteilversuch an Flachzugproben konzipiert, mit dessen Hilfe verschiedene Einflüsse auf die Festigkeit und das Verformungsvermögen der Nähte untersucht wurden. Hierzu gehören solche aus dem Grund‐ und Schweißzusatzwerkstoff, der Abkühlgeschwindigkeit und der Anzahl der Schweißlagen. Im folgenden Beitrag werden das Bemessungsmodell und dessen Eingangsparameter beschrieben. Nach einer Charakterisierung der untersuchten Stähle und Schweißzusatzwerkstoffe wird der Kleinteilversuch zur Bestimmung der mechanischen Eigenschaften der Schweißnähte erläutert. Im Anschluss folgen Parameterstudien, im Rahmen derer wesentliche Einflussgrößen auf die Eigenschaften von Schweißnähten untersucht werden. Auf Basis statistischer Auswertungen werden Schweißnahtfestigkeiten in Abhängigkeit vom Zusatzwerkstoff und der Abkühlzeit t8/5 angegeben.
Dynamic Vesicles Formed By Dissipative Self‐Assembly
Authors: Wanzke Caren , Jussupow Alexander , Kohler Fabian , Dietz Hendrik , Kaila Ville R. I. , Boekhoven Job
Published: September 2019

Synthetic lipid membranes have served as important models for cellular membranes. However, these static membranes do not recapitulate the dynamic nature of the biological membranes which are frequently remodeled to support cellular function. An ideal membrane model would thus also display dynamic exchange of lipids. In this work, we achieve such a system by coupling the self‐assembly of peptides into membranes with a chemical reaction cycle. The reaction cycle activates and deactivates the peptides for self‐assembly at the expense of a chemical fuel. The resulting membranes are dynamically remodeled, and, over their 40 min lifetime, they emerge, grow, and are torn apart before they eventually decay.
Hilbert series and plethystics: paving the path towards 2HDM- and MLRSM-EFT
Authors: Anisha  , Das Bakshi Supratim , Chakrabortty Joydeep , Prakash Suraj
Published: September 2019

Abstract

Effective Field Theory (EFT) technique is one of the most elegant ways to capture the impact of high scale theory, if any, at some low energy by incorporating higher mass dimensional (≥5) effective operators (

$$ \mathcal{O} $$

O

i
). The low energy EFT is described in terms of only light degrees of freedom (DOF) which can appear on-shell. An essential task while developing the EFT framework is to compute these

$$ \mathcal{O} $$

O

i
’s. Hilbert Series (HS) is a novel and mathematically robust method to construct the complete set of gauge invariant independent, effective operators. The HS requires the knowledge of the transformation properties of the light DOF and the covariant derivatives under the internal gauge symmetries and conformal groups. The Hilbert Series method, by its virtue, automatically takes care of the redundancies in the operator set due to the Equations of Motion (EOMs) of fields and Integration by Parts (IBPs) with impeccable accuracy.

In this paper, we have adopted this methodology to construct the complete set of independent operators up to dimension-6 in the “Warsaw”-like basis for two different Beyond Standard Model scenarios — Two Higgs Doublet Model (2HDM) and Minimal Left-Right Symmetric Model (MLRSM). For both these cases, we have calculated the corrections to the scalar, gauge boson and fermion mass spectra due to the dimension-6 operators. The additional contributions to all the Feynman vertices are computed and their impact on different observables, namely Weak mixing angle, Fermi constant, ρ and oblique (S, T, U) parameters. We have further discussed how the magnetic moments of charged leptons and production and decay of the massive BSM particles, e.g., charged scalar and different rare processes are affected in the presence of effective operators. We have also constructed the effective scalar four-point interactions and commented on the possible reinvestigation of the theoretical constraints, e.g., unitarity and vacuum stability within these frameworks.
Towards quasi-transverse momentum dependent PDFs computable on the lattice
Authors: Ebert Markus A. , Stewart Iain W. , Zhao Yong
Published: September 2019

Abstract

Transverse momentum dependent parton distributions (TMDPDFs) which appear in factorized cross sections involve infinite Wilson lines with edges on or close to the light-cone. Since these TMDPDFs are not directly calculable with a Euclidean path integral in lattice QCD, we study the construction of quasi-TMDPDFs with finite-length spacelike Wilson lines that are amenable to such calculations. We define an infrared consistency test to determine which quasi-TMDPDF definitions are related to the TMDPDF, by carrying out a one-loop study of infrared logarithms of transverse position b

T
 ∼ ΛQCD
−1, which must agree between them. This agreement is a necessary condition for the two quantities to be related by perturbative matching. TMDPDFs necessarily involve combining a hadron matrix element, which nominally depends on a single light-cone direction, with soft matrix elements that necessarily depend on two light-cone directions. We show at one loop that the simplest definitions of the quasi hadron matrix element, the quasi soft matrix element, and the resulting quasi-TMDPDF all fail the infrared consistency test. Ratios of impact parameter quasi-TMDPDFs still provide nontrivial information about the TMD-PDFs, and are more robust since the soft matrix elements cancel. We show at one loop that such quasi ratios can be matched to ratios of the corresponding TMDPDFs. We also introduce a modified “bent” quasi soft matrix element which yields a quasi-TMDPDF that passes the consistency test with the TMDPDF at one loop, and discuss potential issues at higher orders.
Double copy for massive quantum particles with spin
Authors: Johansson Henrik , Ochirov Alexander
Published: September 2019

Abstract

The duality between color and kinematics was originally observed for purely adjoint massless gauge theories, and later found to hold even after introducing massive fermionic and scalar matter in arbitrary gauge-group representations. Such a generalization was critical for obtaining both loop amplitudes in pure Einstein gravity and realistic gravitational matter from the double copy. In this paper we elaborate on the double copy that yields amplitudes in gravitational theories coupled to flavored massive matter with spin, which is relevant to the problems of black-hole scattering and gravitational waves. Our construction benefits from making the little group explicit for the massive particles, as shown on lower-point examples. For concreteness, we focus on the double copy of QCD with massive quarks, for which we work out the gravitational Lagrangian up to quartic scalar and vector-scalar couplings. We find new gauge-invariant double-copy formulae for tree-level amplitudes with two distinct-flavor pairs of matter and any number of gravitons. These are similar to, but inherently different from, the well-known Kawai-Lewellen-Tye formulae, since the latter only hold for the double copy of purely adjoint gauge theories.
Assembly and characterisation of a unique onion diversity set identifies resistance to Fusarium basal rot and improved seedling vigour
Authors: Taylor Andrew , Teakle Graham R. , Walley Peter G. , Finch-Savage William E. , Jackson Alison C. , Jones Julie E. , Hand Paul , Thomas Brian , Havey Michael J. , Pink David A. C. , Clarkson John P.
Published: September 2019

Key message

A unique, global onion diversity set was assembled, genotyped and phenotyped for beneficial traits. Accessions with strong basal rot resistance and increased seedling vigour were identified along with associated markers.

Conserving biodiversity is critical for safeguarding future crop production. Onion (Allium cepaL.) is a globally important crop with a very large (16 Gb per 1C) genome which has not been sequenced. While onions are self-fertile, they suffer from severe inbreeding depression and as such are highly heterozygous as a result of out-crossing. Bulb formation is driven by daylength, and accessions are adapted to the local photoperiod. Onion seed is often directly sown in the field, and hence seedling establishment is a critical trait for production. Furthermore, onion yield losses regularly occur worldwide due to Fusarium basal rot caused byFusarium oxysporumf. sp.cepae. A globally relevant onion diversity set, consisting of 10 half-sib families for each of 95 accessions, was assembled and genotyping carried out using 892 SNP markers. A moderate level of heterozygosity (30–35%) was observed, reflecting the outbreeding nature of the crop. Using inferred phylogenies, population structure and principal component analyses, most accessions grouped according to local daylength. A high level of intra-accession diversity was observed, but this was less than inter-accession diversity. Accessions with strong basal rot resistance and increased seedling vigour were identified along with associated markers, confirming the utility of the diversity set for discovering beneficial traits. The onion diversity set and associated trait data therefore provide a valuable resource for future germplasm selection and onion breeding.
Desecuritisation as a soft power strategy: the Belt and Road Initiative, European fragmentation and China’s normative influence in Central-Eastern Europe
Authors: Jakimów Małgorzata
Published: September 2019

While much discussion centres on economic properties and political challenges of implementing the China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), few studies investigate the subtle connections between the narratives of the BRI and the political transformations in the regions en route of the project. Through a critique of the Copenhagen School’s theory of securitisation, this paper brings together the analysis of Chinese, Central-Eastern European (CEE) and the core EU governments’ ideas and perceptions of the BRI and assesses what they mean for the future of the European Union’s political and normative cohesion. This paper argues that the China-deployed desecuritised narratives of the BRI constitute an important soft power strategy of China in its engagement in Europe. The article illustrates how these desecuritised narratives are utilised and co-produced actively by countries of CEE with a political aim of negotiating their domestic interests with the EU’s institutions, making the process of desecuritisation neither apolitical nor benign. As China-promoted desecuritisation is used instrumentally by the regional actors to present China as an economic, political and normative alternative to the EU, the article contributes to the understanding of China’s desecuritisation as a soft power strategy, which is both forged through ‘negative’ language (Callahan, Politics 35(3–4):216–229, 2015) and is ‘contingent’ upon recipient audiences (Kavalski, Coop Confl 48(2):247–267, 2013). As a result, new regional dynamics emerge in the EU, which are driven by the populist turn and growing demand for Chinese investments in the European periphery, which China skilfully utilises through narratives of desecuritisation in order to boost its soft power strategy in the region.
Membrane Deformation of Endothelial Surface Layer Interspersed with Syndecan-4: A Molecular Dynamics Study
Authors: Jiang Xi Zhuo , Guo Liwei , Luo Kai H. , Ventikos Yiannis
Published: September 2019

The lipid membrane of endothelial cells plays a pivotal role in maintaining normal circulatory system functions. To investigate the response of the endothelial cell membrane to changes in vascular conditions, an atomistic model of the lipid membrane interspersed with Syndecan-4 core protein was established based on experimental observations and a series of molecular dynamics simulations were undertaken. The results show that flow results in continuous deformation of the lipid membrane, and the degree of membrane deformation is not in monotonic relationship with the environmental changes (either the changes in blood velocity or the alteration of the core protein configuration). An explanation for such non-monotonic relationship is provided, which agrees with previous experimental results. The elevation of the lipid membrane surface around the core protein of the endothelial glycocalyx was also observed, which can be mainly attributed to the Coulombic interactions between the biomolecules therein. The present study demonstrates that the blood flow can deform the lipid membrane directly via the interactions between water molecules and lipid membrane atoms thereby affecting mechanosensing; it also presents an additional force transmission pathway from the flow to the lipid membrane via the glycocalyx core protein, which complements previous mechanotransduction hypothesis.
Wood protective coatings based on fluorocarbosilane
Authors: Szubert Karol , Dutkiewicz Agnieszka , Dutkiewicz Michał , Maciejewski Hieronim
Published: September 2019

The effectiveness of protective coatings based on 3-(2,2,3,3,4,4,5,5-octafluoropentyloxy)propyltriethoxysilane in the protection of wood surface from the effects of water was tested. No earlier attempts at using the mentioned fluorocarbosilane for the protection of wood have been reported in the literature. The coatings were deposited by the sol–gel method. As a result of the generation of chemical bonds between the wood surface and silane, a coating was produced that permanently increased the wood hydrophobicity. Fluorinated chains attached to the silicon atoms make an effective barrier preventing the access of water and limiting the effects of water on the wood surface.