bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Highly parallel lab evolution reveals that epistasis can curb the evolution of antibiotic resistance
Authors: Lukačišinová Marta , Fernando Booshini , Bollenbach Tobias
Published: June 2020

Genetic perturbations that affect bacterial resistance to antibiotics have been characterized genome-wide, but how do such perturbations interact with subsequent evolutionary adaptation to the drug? Here, we show that strong epistasis between resistance mutations and systematically identified genes can be exploited to control spontaneous resistance evolution. We evolved hundreds of Escherichia coli K-12 mutant populations in parallel, using a robotic platform that tightly controls population size and selection pressure. We find a global diminishing-returns epistasis pattern: strains that are initially more sensitive generally undergo larger resistance gains. However, some gene deletion strains deviate from this general trend and curtail the evolvability of resistance, including deletions of genes for membrane transport, LPS biosynthesis, and chaperones. Deletions of efflux pump genes force evolution on inferior mutational paths, not explored in the wild type, and some of these essentially block resistance evolution. This effect is due to strong negative epistasis with resistance mutations. The identified genes and cellular functions provide potential targets for development of adjuvants that may block spontaneous resistance evolution when combined with antibiotics.
Nonsense-mediated mRNA decay factor UPF1 promotes aggresome formation
Authors: Park Yeonkyoung , Park Joori , Hwang Hyun Jung , Kim Byungju , Jeong Kwon , Chang Jeeyoon , Lee Jong-Bong , Kim Yoon Ki
Published: June 2020

Nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD) typifies an mRNA surveillance pathway. Because NMD necessitates a translation event to recognize a premature termination codon on mRNAs, truncated misfolded polypeptides (NMD-polypeptides) could potentially be generated from NMD substrates as byproducts. Here, we show that when the ubiquitin–proteasome system is overwhelmed, various misfolded polypeptides including NMD-polypeptides accumulate in the aggresome: a perinuclear nonmembranous compartment eventually cleared by autophagy. Hyperphosphorylation of the key NMD factor UPF1 is required for selective targeting of the misfolded polypeptide aggregates toward the aggresome via the CTIF–eEF1A1–DCTN1 complex: the aggresome-targeting cellular machinery. Visualization at a single-particle level reveals that UPF1 increases the frequency and fidelity of movement of CTIF aggregates toward the aggresome. Furthermore, the apoptosis induced by proteotoxic stresses is suppressed by UPF1 hyperphosphorylation. Altogether, our data provide evidence that UPF1 functions in the regulation of a protein surveillance as well as an mRNA quality control.
Chemodivergent transformations of amides using gem-diborylalkanes as pro-nucleophiles
Authors: Sun Wei , Wang Lu , Hu Yue , Wu Xudong , Xia Chungu , Liu Chao
Published: June 2020

Amides are versatile synthetic building blocks and their selective transformations into highly valuable functionalities are much desirable in the chemical world. However, the diverse structure and generally high stability of amides make their selective transformations challenging. Here we disclose a chemodivergent transformation of primary, secondary and tertiary amides by using 1,1-diborylalkanes as pro-nucleophiles. In general, selective B-O elimination occurs for primary, secondary amides and tertiary lactams to generate enamine intermediate, while tertiary amides undergo B-N elimination to generate enolate intermediate. Various in situ electrophilic trapping of those intermediates allows the chemoselective synthesis of α-functionalized ketones, β-aminoketones, enamides, β-ketoamides, γ-aminoketones, and cyclic amines from primary, secondary, tertiary amides and lactams. The key for these transformations is the enolization effect after the addition of α-boryl carbanion to amides.
Linking electronic structure calculations to generalized stacking fault energies in multicomponent alloys
Authors: Natarajan Anirudh Raju , Van der Ven Anton
Published: June 2020

The generalized stacking fault energy is a key ingredient to mesoscale models of dislocations. Here we develop an approach to quantify the dependence of generalized stacking fault energies on the degree of chemical disorder in multicomponent alloys. We introduce the notion of a “configurationally-resolved planar fault” (CRPF) energy and extend the cluster expansion method from alloy theory to express the CRPF as a function of chemical occupation variables of sites surrounding the fault. We apply the approach to explore the composition and temperature dependence of the unstable stacking fault energy (USF) in binary Mo–Nb alloys. First-principles calculations are used to parameterize a formation energy and CRPF cluster expansion. Monte Carlo simulations show that the distribution of USF energies is significantly affected by chemical composition and temperature. The formalism is broadly applicable to arbitrary crystal structures and alloy chemistries and will enable the development of rigorous models for deformation mechanisms in high-entropy alloys.
Detecting non-Markovianity via quantified coherence: theory and experiments
Authors: Wu Kang-Da , Hou Zhibo , Xiang Guo-Yong , Li Chuan-Feng , Guo Guang-Can , Dong Daoyi , Nori Franco
Published: June 2020

The dynamics of open quantum systems and manipulation of quantum resources are both of fundamental interest in quantum physics. Here, we investigate the relation between quantum Markovianity and coherence, providing an effective way for detecting non-Markovianity based on the quantum-incoherent relative entropy of coherence ($${\mathcal{Q}}{\mathcal{I}}$$QIREC). We theoretically show the relation between completely positive (CP) divisibility and the monotonic behavior of the$${\mathcal{Q}}{\mathcal{I}}$$QIREC. Also we implement an all-optical experiment to demonstrate that the behavior of the$${\mathcal{Q}}{\mathcal{I}}$$QIREC is coincident with the entanglement shared between the system and the ancilla for both Markovian and non-Markovian evolution; while other coherence-based non-Markovian information carriers violate monotonicity, even in Markovian processes. Moreover, both theoretically and experimentally, we show that non-Markovianity enhances the ability of creating coherence on an ancilla. This is the first experimental study of the relation between dynamical behavior of the$${\mathcal{Q}}{\mathcal{I}}$$QIREC and the phenomenon of information backflow. Our methods for detecting non-Markovianity are applicable to general quantum evolutions.
The social brain of language: grounding second language learning in social interaction
Authors: Li Ping , Jeong Hyeonjeong
Published: June 2020

For centuries, adults may have relied on pedagogies that promote rote memory for the learning of foreign languages through word associations and grammar rules. This contrasts sharply with child language learning which unfolds in socially interactive contexts. In this paper, we advocate an approach to study the social brain of language by grounding second language learning in social interaction. Evidence has accumulated from research in child language, education, and cognitive science pointing to the efficacy and significance of social learning. Work from several recent L2 studies also suggests positive brain changes along with enhanced behavioral outcomes as a result of social learning. Here we provide a blueprint for the brain network underlying social L2 learning, enabling the integration of neurocognitive bases with social cognition of second language while combining theories of language and memory with practical implications for the learning and teaching of a new language in adulthood.
HIV-1-Associated Left Ventricular Cardiac Dysfunction in Humanized Mice
Authors: Dash Prasanta K. , Alomar Fadhel A. , Hackfort Bryan T. , Su Hang , Conaway Amy , Poluektova Larisa Y , Gendelman Howard E. , Gorantla Santhi , Bidasee Keshore R.
Published: June 2020

The molecular cause(s) for early onset heart failure in people living with HIV-1 infection (PLWH) remains poorly defined. Herein, longitudinal echocardiography was used to assess whether NOD.Cg-Prkdcscid Il2rgtm1Wjl/SzJ mice reconstituted with human hematopoietic stem cells (Hu-NSG mice) and infected with HIV-1ADA can recapitulate the salient features of this progressive human disease. Four weeks post infection, Hu-NSG mice of both sexes developed left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction (DD), with 25% exhibiting grade III/IV restrictive DD with mitral regurgitation. Increases in global longitudinal and circumferential strains and declines in LV ejection fraction and fractional shortening were observed eight weeks post infection. After twelve weeks of infection, 33% of Hu-NSG mice exhibited LV dyskinesia and dyssynchrony. Histopathological analyses of hearts seventeen weeks post infection revealed coronary microvascular leakage, fibrosis and immune cell infiltration into the myocardium. These data show for the first time that HIV-1ADA-infected Hu-NSG mice can recapitulate key left ventricular cardiac deficits and pathophysiological changes reported in humans with progressive HIV-1 infection. The results also suggest that HIV-1 infected Hu-NSG mice may be a useful model to screen for pharmacological agents to blunt LV dysfunction and associated pathophysiologic causes reported in PLWH.
Y-chromosome genetic diversity of Bos indicus cattle in close proximity to the centre of domestication
Authors: Ganguly Indrajit , Jeevan C. , Singh Sanjeev , Dixit S. P. , Sodhi Monika , Ranjan Ashish , Kumar Suchit , Sharma Anurodh
Published: June 2020

Y-chromosome genetic diversity in and around its domestication origin and a better understanding of indicine-specific microsatellite alleles are imperative concerns but less -targeted. We analysed Y-chromosome markers in 301 bulls representing 19 native Indian cattle (Bos indicus) and identified new alleles and haplotypes. Compared to other indicine studies, the high Y-haplotype diversity found in Indian cattle supports the hypothesis of greater genetic variability across the centre of origin decreasing along migratory routes with increasing distance. Hence, a considerable paternal genetic diversity of Indian cattle appears to have been lost in transboundary commercial indicine breeds. The Khillar and Gir are the most diversified populations where the first tends to be the well-differentiated traditional breed carrying strikingly distinct Y-lineages with typical BM861-158 bp allele, characteristics of taurine cattle, while retaining standard indicine lineages for all other markers. Geographical distribution found to be an unreliable predictor of parental variation, and Y-lineages seemed closely related to Indian breed function/utility. The comprehensive Y-chromosome information will be useful to examine the demographic expansion/spread of Bos indicus lineages from close proximity to the domestication centre across different countries worldwide and such diversity should be preserved through effective management and conservation programs.
Author Correction: A pre-Inca pot from underwater ruins discovered in an Andean lake provides a sedimentary record of marked hydrological change
Authors: Michelutti Neal , Sowell Preston , Tapia Pedro M. , Grooms Christopher , Polo Martin , Gambetta Alexandra , Ausejo Carlos , Smol John P.
Published: June 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Genetic basis and identification of candidate genes for salt tolerance in rice by GWAS
Authors: Yuan Jie , Wang Xueqiang , Zhao Yan , Khan Najeeb Ullah , Zhao Zhiqiang , Zhang Yanhong , Wen Xiaorong , Tang Fusen , Wang Fengbin , Li Zichao
Published: June 2020

Soil salinity is a major factor affecting rice growth and productivity worldwide especially at seedling stage. Many genes for salt tolerance have been identified and applied to rice breeding, but the actual mechanism of salt tolerance remains unclear. In this study, seedlings of 664 cultivated rice varieties from the 3000 Rice Genome Project (3K-RG) were cultivated by hydroponic culture with 0.9% salt solution for trait identification. A genome-wide association study (GWAS) of salt tolerance was performed using different models of analysis. Twenty-one QTLs were identified and two candidate genes namedOsSTL1(Oryza sativasalt tolerance level 1) andOsSTL2(Oryza sativasalt tolerance level 2) were confirmed using sequence analysis. Haplotype and sequence analysis revealed that geneOsSTL1was a homolog of salt tolerance geneSRP1(Stress associated RNA-binding protein 1) in Arabidopsis. The hap1 ofOsSTL1was identified as the superior haplotype and a non-synonymous SNP was most likely to be the functional site. We also determined that the level of salt tolerance was improved by combining haplotypes of different genes. Our study provides a foundation for molecular breeding and functional analysis of salt tolerance in rice seedlings.
Phloem sap in Cretaceous ambers as abundant double emulsions preserving organic and inorganic residues
Authors: Lozano Rafael Pablo , Pérez-de la Fuente Ricardo , Barrón Eduardo , Rodrigo Ana , Viejo José Luis , Peñalver Enrique
Published: June 2020

Fossilized remains preserved in amber provide abundant data on the paleobiota surrounding the resin-producing plants, but relatively scarcer information about the resinous sources themselves. Here, dark pseudoinclusions in kidney-shaped amber pieces from the Early Cretaceous (Albian) amber from Spain are studied. This type of fossilized remain, abundant in Cretaceous ambers, was first interpreted as fossilized vacuole-bearing microorganisms, but later regarded as artifactual and probably secreted by the resinous trees, although their origin remained unclear. Using complementary microscopy (light, electron, confocal), spectroscopy (infrared, micro-Raman), mass spectrometry and elemental analysis techniques, we demonstrate that the pseudoinclusions correspond to droplets of phloem sap containing amber spheroids and preserving both organic and inorganic residues consistent with degraded components from the original sap. The amber pieces containing pseudoinclusions are fossilized, resin-in-sap-in-resin double emulsions, showing banding patterns with differential content of resin-in-sap emulsion droplets. Our findings represent the first time fossilized phloem sap, 105 million years old, has been recognized and characterized, and open new lines of paleontological research with taxonomic, taphonomic, physiological and ecological implications.
Clinical impact of pre-hypertension on the risk of cancer in male and female subjects
Authors: Lee Su Hwan , Lee Hye Ah , Lee Sean S. , Kim Seong-Eun , Shim Ki-Nam , Jung Hye-Kyung , Jung Sung-Ae , Chang Jung Hyun , Kwon Kihwan , Pyun Wook Bum , Joung Boyoung , Moon Chang Mo , Park Junbeom
Published: June 2020

There are few studies assessing pre-hypertension and an impaired fasting glucose (IFG) and their combined effects on the cancer risk. We investigated the impact of pre-hypertension on cancer risk and IFG, and their combined effects on the cancer risk. This study included 371,762 subjects (≥40 years) who had never been diagnosed with hypertension, diabetes mellitus (DM), and cancer before. During a mean follow-up of 10.06 ± 1.86 years, 35,605 (9.58%) of the subjects developed cancer. In men only, cancer risk was significantly increased with an increase in the blood pressure (BP) (P for trend < 0.001), and were increased in the hypertension range, but not the pre-hypertension range. When analyzing the combination effect of BP and fasting glucose, cancer risks were serially increased with an increase in the fasting glucose in a dose-dependent manner, but not with an increase in BP. These results were more consistently significant in the never-smoker and non-alcohol drinking groups. However, in women, there was no significant difference. In conclusions, increased BP status or the fasting serum glucose level status were associated with cancer risk in men. Furthermore, the combination of both pre-hypertension and IFG also was associated with a cancer risk in men.
Minimum Number of Settlers for Survival on Another Planet
Authors: Salotti Jean-Marc
Published: June 2020

What is the feasibility of survival on another planet and being self-sustaining? This question is of particular importance for the future of the space conquest and perhaps also for the future of humanity in general [1,2]. The use of in situ resources and different social organizations have been proposed [3–6,12–19] but there is still a poor understanding of the problem’s variables. I show here that a mathematical model can be used to determine the minimum number of settlers and the way of life for survival on another planet, using Mars as the example [6,15]. It is based on the comparison between the time requirements to implement all kinds of human activities for long term survival and the available time of the settlers. An important parameter of the model is called the sharing factor, which allows some reduction of time requirements per individual if, for example, the activity concerns the construction of an object that can be shared by several individuals. For survival on Mars, some assumptions are made for the organization of the settlers and engineering issues [13–15]. The minimum number of settlers has been calculated and the result is 110 individuals. Other assumptions can be made. The proposed method allows assessments and comparisons, opening the debate for the best strategy for survival. If this relatively low number is confirmed, survival on another planet might be easier than expected, provided that the organization of the settlers is appropriate.
The Role of Bone Morphogenetic Protein Signaling in Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Thayer Timothy E. , Lino Cardenas Christian L. , Martyn Trejeeve , Nicholson Christopher J. , Traeger Lisa , Wunderer Florian , Slocum Charles , Sigurslid Haakon , Shakartzi Hannah R. , O’Rourke Caitlin , Shelton Georgia , Buswell Mary D. , Barnes Hanna , Neitzel Leif R. , Ledsky Clara D. , Li Jason Pingcheng , Burke Megan F. , Farber-Eger Eric , Perrien Daniel S. , Kumar Ravindra , Corey Kathleen E. , Wells Quinn S. , Bloch Kenneth D. , Hong Charles C. , Bloch Donald B. , Malhotra Rajeev
Published: June 2020

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) affects over 30% of adults in the United States. Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling is known to contribute to hepatic fibrosis, but the role of BMP signaling in the development of NAFLD is unclear. In this study, treatment with either of two BMP inhibitors reduced hepatic triglyceride content in diabetic (db/db) mice. BMP inhibitor-induced decrease in hepatic triglyceride levels was associated with decreased mRNA encoding Dgat2, an enzyme integral to triglyceride synthesis. Treatment of hepatoma cells with BMP2 induced DGAT2 expression and activity via intracellular SMAD signaling. In humans we identified a rare missense single nucleotide polymorphism in the BMP type 1 receptor ALK6 (rs34970181;R371Q) associated with a 2.1-fold increase in the prevalence of NAFLD. In vitro analyses revealed R371Q:ALK6 is a previously unknown constitutively active receptor. These data show that BMP signaling is an important determinant of NAFLD in a murine model and is associated with NAFLD in humans.
Nutraceutical properties of Leucaena leucocephala, Manihot esculenta, Cajanus cajan and a foliage blend in goat kids infected with Haemonchus contortus
Authors: Minatchy Nathalie , Marie-Magdeleine Carine , Garin Miguel , Nimirf Ferdy , Romil-Granville Dimitri , Philibert Lucien , Calif Valeriuse , Bambou Jean-Christophe , Archimède Harry
Published: June 2020

Protein and condensed tannin-rich foliage (TRF) are potentially useful as nutraceuticals. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the diet and anthelmintic properties of three TRF types both individually and in combination. We hypothesized that synergistic or antagonistic effects on feed and anthelmintic values related to associations between TRF types may occur. Nutritional and anthelmintic characteristics of Leucaena leucocephala, Manihot esculenta, Cajanus cajan and a mixture of the compounds were evaluated using alfalfa pellets as a control. TRF ingredients were combined with Dichantium hay (48 and 52% of dry matter intake respectively) in mixed diets were consumed by Creole goat kids. Measurements were carried out in animals without parasites and in animals artificially infected with Haemonchus contortus. Individual feed intake and the digestibility of each diet was measured along with kid growth. There were no significant differences between the growth rates of pre-infected animals and animals fed mixed diets that included alfalfa. A strong anthelmintic activity is observed with Leucaena leucocephala contrary to other TRFs. This work confirms variable dietary and anthelmintic properties of TRF. The combination of TRF did not have synergistic or antagonistic effects on feed value or the anthelmintic potential of TRF.
On an EUV Atmospheric Simulation Chamber to Study the Photochemical Processes of Titan’s Atmosphere
Authors: Bourgalais Jérémy , Carrasco Nathalie , Vettier Ludovic , Gautier Thomas , Blanchet Valérie , Petit Stéphane , Descamps Dominique , Fedorov Nikita , Delos Romain , Gaudin Jérôme
Published: June 2020

The in situ exploration of Titan’s atmosphere requires the development of laboratory experiments to understand the molecular growth pathways initiated by photochemistry in the upper layers of the atmosphere. Key species and dominant reaction pathways are used to feed chemical network models that reproduce the chemical and physical processes of this complex environment. Energetic UV photons initiate highly efficient chemistry by forming reactive species in the ionospheres of the satellite. We present here a laboratory experiment based on a new closed and removable photoreactor coupled here to an Extreme Ultraviolet (EUV) irradiation beam produced by the high-order harmonic generation of a femtosecond laser. This type of EUV stable source allow long-term irradiation experiments in which a plethora of individual reactions can take place. In order to demonstrate the validity of our approach, we irradiated for 7 hours at 89.2 nm, a gas mixture based on N2/CH4 (5%). Using only one wavelength, products of the reaction reveal an efficient photochemistry with the formation of large hydrocarbons but especially organic compounds rich in nitrogen similar to Titan. Among these nitrogen compounds, new species had never before been identified in the mass spectra obtained in situ in Titan’s atmosphere. Their production in this experiment, on the opposite, corroborates previous experimental measurements in the literature on the chemical composition of aerosol analogues produced in the laboratory. Diazo-compounds such as dimethyldiazene (C2H6N2), have been observed and are consistent with the large nitrogen incorporation observed by the aerosols collector pyrolysis instrument of the Huygens probe. This work represents an important step forward in the use of a closed cell chamber irradiated by the innovative EUV source for the generation of photochemical analogues of Titan aerosols. This approach allows to better constrain and understand the growth pathways of nitrogen incorporation into organic aerosols in Titan’s atmosphere.
Substrate promiscuity of polyketide synthase enables production of tsetse fly attractants 3-ethylphenol and 3-propylphenol by engineering precursor supply in yeast
Authors: Hitschler Julia , Grininger Martin , Boles Eckhard
Published: June 2020

Tsetse flies are the transmitting vector of trypanosomes causing human sleeping sickness and animal trypanosomiasis in sub-saharan Africa. 3-alkylphenols are used as attractants in tsetse fly traps to reduce the spread of the disease. Here we present an inexpensive production method for 3-ethylphenol (3-EP) and 3-propylphenol (3-PP) by microbial fermentation of sugars. Heterologous expression in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae of phosphopantetheinyltransferase-activated 6-methylsalicylic acid (6-MSA) synthase (MSAS) and 6-MSA decarboxylase converted acetyl-CoA as a priming unit via 6-MSA into 3-methylphenol (3-MP). We exploited the substrate promiscuity of MSAS to utilize propionyl-CoA and butyryl-CoA as alternative priming units and the substrate promiscuity of 6-MSA decarboxylase to produce 3-EP and 3-PP in yeast fermentations. Increasing the formation of propionyl-CoA by expression of a bacterial propionyl-CoA synthetase, feeding of propionate and blocking propionyl-CoA degradation led to the production of up to 12.5 mg/L 3-EP. Introduction of a heterologous ‘reverse ß-oxidation’ pathway provided enough butyryl-CoA for the production of 3-PP, reaching titers of up to 2.6 mg/L. As the concentrations of 3-alkylphenols are close to the range of the concentrations deployed in tsetse fly traps, the yeast broths might become promising and inexpensive sources for attractants, producible on site by rural communities in Africa.
Forest aboveground biomass estimation using Landsat 8 and Sentinel-1A data with machine learning algorithms
Authors: Li Yingchang , Li Mingyang , Li Chao , Liu Zhenzhen
Published: June 2020

Forest aboveground biomass (AGB) plays an important role in the study of the carbon cycle and climate change in the global terrestrial ecosystem. AGB estimation based on remote sensing is an effective method for regional scale. In this study, Landsat 8 Operational Land Imager and Sentinel-1A data and China’s National Forest Continuous Inventory data in combination with three algorithms, either the linear regression (LR), random forest (RF), or the extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost), were used to estimate biomass of the subtropical forests in Hunan Province, China. XGBoost is a scalable tree boosting system that is widely used by data scientists and provides state-of-the-art results for many problems. It can process an entire dataset with billions of examples using a minimal amount of computational resources through the particular way of cache access patterns, data compression, and data fragmentation. The results include: (1) The combination of Landsat 8 and Sentinel-1A images as predictor variables in the XGBoost model provided the best AGB estimation. (2) In contrast to the LR method, the F-test results indicated that a significant improvement in AGB estimation was achieved with the RF and XGBoost algorithms. (3) The effect of parameter optimization was found to be more significant on XGBoost than on RF. (4) The XGBoost model is an effective method for AGB estimation and can reduce the problems of overestimation and underestimation. This research provides a new way of estimating AGB for the subtropical forest based on remote sensing through the synergy of different sensors datasets and modeling algorithms.
Effects of Selenium and Vitamin E on Enzymatic, Biochemical, and Immunological Biomarkers in Galleria mellonella L
Authors: Coskun Mustafa , Kayis Tamer , Gulsu Emre , ALP Emel
Published: June 2020

To understand the effects of micronutrients have particular biological functions that are involved mainly in the antioxidant system, which has essential implications for the development of diseases, this study investigated how vitamin E, selenium, and their combination affect lipid, protein, carbohydrate, and malondialdehyde (MDA) content; antioxidant enzyme (catalase [CAT], superoxide dismutase [SOD], glutathione-S-transferase [GST]) activity; and the total hemocyte count (THC) in larvae of Galleria mellonella L. fed different diets. Diet 1 (100 µg of selenium) significantly decreased carbohydrate and lipid content. Diets 2 (100 µg of vitamin E), 3 (100 µg of selenium and vitamin E each), and 5 (Tween 80) did not significantly affect protein and carbohydrate content. Diet 2 significantly increased the lipid content compared to diet 4 (control). Diet 1 increased CAT, SOD, and GST activity and MDA content (highest at 27.64 nmol/mg protein). Diet 2 significantly decreased SOD activity and MDA content compared to other diets. Diet 1 significantly decreased the THC compared to other diets. These results suggested that selenium changes oxidative stress parameters, energy reserves, and THC in G. mellonella. These changes could be a physiological adaptation against selenium-induced oxidative stress. Vitamin E could play a protective role in selenium toxicity.
Rat intestinal homogenate and pancreatic juice can induce the Z-isomerization of all-E-lycopene in vitro
Authors: Huang Jin , Hui Bodi
Published: June 2020

Lycopene is one of the carotenoids often consumed by humans in their diet. Although lycopene exists mainly in the form of the all E-isomer in foods, the considerable quantity of its Z-isomers is found in the human plasma and liver. This observation suggested that the lycopene all-E-isomer was converted into Z-isomers in the human body. In this study, the Z-isomerization of the all-E-isomer was induced in vitro by the pancreatic juice and small intestinal homogenate of male rats under the conditions of 37 °C, pH = 7.5, nitrogen and darkness, as well as shaking. After 2 hours, the proportion of the all E-isomer decreased to 25% and Z-isomer amounts increased relatively. The converted products were identified as 5, 9, and 11 Z-isomers by electronic absorption spectroscopy and mass spectrometry (MS). The observations from this experiment suggested that the Z-isomerization site of the lycopene all E-isomer was located in the small intestinal wall of the rat.
Mutation of LRP1 in cardiac neural crest cells causes congenital heart defects by perturbing outflow lengthening
Authors: Lin Jiuann-Huey I. , Feinstein Timothy N. , Jha Anupma , McCleary Jacob T. , Xu Juan , Arrigo Angelo B. , Rong Grace , Maclay Lindsey M. , Ridge Taylor , Xu XinXiu , Lo Cecilia W.
Published: June 2020

The recent recovery of mutations in vesicular trafficking genes causing congenital heart disease (CHD) revealed an unexpected role for the endocytic pathway. We now show that mice with a C4232R missense mutation in Low density lipoprotein receptor related protein 1 (LRP1) exhibit atrioventricular septal defects with double outlet right ventricle. Lrp1m/m mice exhibit shortened outflow tracts (OFT) and dysmorphic hypocellular cushions with reduced proliferation and increased apoptosis. Lrp1m/m embryonic fibroblasts show decreased cell motility and focal adhesion turnover associated with retention of mutant LRP1 in endoplasmic reticulum and reduced LRP1 expression. Conditional deletion of Lrp1 in cardiac neural crest cells (CNC) replicates the full CHD phenotype. Cushion explants showed defective cell migration, with gene expression analysis indicating perturbation of Wnt and other signaling pathways. Thus, LRP1 function in CNCs is required for normal OFT development with other cell lineages along the CNC migratory path playing a supporting role.
The enhancement of heat conduction across the metal/graphite interface treated with a focused ion beam
Authors: Tao Yi , Wu Chao , Qi Han , Liu Chenhan , Wu Xiongyu , Hao Mengyi , Wei Zhiyong , Yang Juekuan , Chen Yunfei
Published: June 2020

Due to the electronic redistribution, the interfacial thermal conductance is enhanced ∼5 times after FIB milling.
A new Ru(ii) polypyridyl complex as an efficient photosensitizer for enhancing the visible-light-driven photocatalytic activity of a TiO2/reduced graphene oxide nanocomposite for the degradation of atrazine: DFT and mechanism insights
Authors: Cheshme Khavar Amir Hossein , Moussavi Gholamreza , Yaghmaeian Kamyar , Mahjoub Ali Reza , Khedri Neda , Dusek Michal , Vaclavu Tereza , Hosseini Mahdieh
Published: June 2020

TiO2is one of the most widely used semiconductors for photocatalytic reactions.
Unraveling the hydrolysis of β-1,4-glycosidic bonds in cello-oligosaccharides over carbon catalysts
Authors: Chen Pengru , Shrotri Abhijit , Fukuoka Atsushi
Published: June 2020

Larger cello-oligosaccharides undergo faster hydrolysis over carbon catalysts. This is attributed to reduction in activation energy caused by conformational change in the structure of oligosaccharides as they adsorb within the micropores of carbon.
Rb3BaTeB7O15: a novel [B7O16] fundamental building block in a new telluroborate with [TeO3] polyhedra
Authors: Sun Jun , Mutailipu Miriding , Cheng Shichao , Yang Zhihua , Pan Shilie
Published: June 2020

A new telluroborate Rb3BaTeB7O15with a new [B7O16] fundamental building block has been synthesized, and it is the first telluroborate that is constructed only by using [TeO3] polyhedra.
Spin dynamics in single-molecule magnets and molecular qubits
Authors: Aravena Daniel , Ruiz Eliseo
Published: June 2020

This review focus on spin dynamics that controls decoherence times in molecular qubits and magnetic anisotropy in single-molecule magnets.
Realizing a ferroelectric state and high pyroelectric performance in antiferroelectric-oxide composites
Authors: Li Ling , Fang Di , Wang Rui-Xue , Shen Meng , Zhang Haibo , Tang Yue-Feng , Zhang Shan-Tao
Published: June 2020

We report a robust room temperature ferroelectric (FE) state in (1 −x)Pb0.99Nb0.02[(Zr0.57Sn0.43)0.933Ti0.067]0.98O3–xZnO ((1 −x)PNZST–xZnO) composites, where PNZST shows a predominant antiferroelectric (AFE) nature due to ZnO-induced internal strain.
Light-controlled self-assembly of a dithienylethene bolaamphiphile in water
Authors: Creemer Cassidy , Kilic Haydar , Lee Kwang Soo , Saracoglu Nurullah , Parquette Jon R.
Published: June 2020

In this work, we report the light-driven self-assembly of photochromic dithienylethene bolaamphiphiles in aqueous media. The open → closed transition that occurred upon irradiation was accompanied by the formation of 1D nanofibers.
Phenolic compounds fromNerium oleanderleaves: microwave assisted extraction, characterization, antiproliferative and cytotoxic activities
Authors: Ayouaz Siham , Oliveira-Alves Sheila Cristina , Lefsih Khalef , Serra Ana Teresa , Bento da Silva Andreia , Samah Madani , Karczewski Jakub , Madani Khodir , Bronze Maria Rosário
Published: June 2020

Antiproliferative and cytotoxic activities of phenolic content from Nerium oleander leaves.
Multinary copper-based chalcogenide nanocrystal systems from the perspective of device applications
Authors: Palchoudhury Soubantika , Ramasamy Karthik , Gupta Arunava
Published: June 2020

Multinary Cu-based chalcogenide nanocrystals are unique as they consist of earth-abundant materials and offer composition-controlled optoelectronic properties for various energy applications.
Mn3O4 nanoparticle-decorated hollow mesoporous carbon spheres as an efficient catalyst for oxygen reduction reaction in Zn–air batteries
Authors: He Yingjie , Aasen Drew , Yu Haoyang , Labbe Matthew , Ivey Douglas G. , Veinot Jonathan G. C.
Published: June 2020

Hybrids of hollow mesoporous carbon and Mn3O4 nanoparticles exhibit excellent catalytic activity on oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in Zn–air battery.
Bandgaps of noble and transition metal/ZIF-8 electro/catalysts: a computational study
Authors: Baghban Alireza , Habibzadeh Sajjad , Zokaee Ashtiani Farzin
Published: June 2020

Band gap estimation for metal/ZIF-8 framework electro/catalysts by hybrid DFT and machine learning technique.
Bio-cleaning improves the mechanical properties of lignin-based carbon fibers
Authors: Ghosh Tanushree , Chen Jiawei , Kumar Aloke , Tang Tian , Ayranci Cagri
Published: June 2020

Waste lignin (KLA) and bio-cleaned lignin (Bio-KLA) precursors, used to produce parameter-optimized-electrospun carbon fibers showed improved mechanical properties for Bio-KLA.
The synthesis, characterization, DNA/BSA/HSA interactions, molecular modeling, antibacterial properties, andin vitrocytotoxic activities of novel parent and niosome nano-encapsulated Ho(iii) complexes
Authors: Yinhua Deng , Foroughi Mohammad Mehdi , Aramesh-Boroujeni Zahra , Jahani Shohreh , Peydayesh Mohadesh , Borhani Fariba , Khatami Mehrdad , Rohani Meysam , Dusek Michal , Eigner Vaclav
Published: June 2020

A new complex of holmium, [Ho(bpy)(H2O)6]Cl3has been synthesized, their DNA/BSA/HSA binding, molecular docking, antibacterial activity and MTT assay of niosome nano-encapsulated are investigated.
Efficient Ce–Co composite oxide decorated Au nanoparticles for catalytic oxidation of CO in the simulated atmosphere of a CO2 laser
Authors: Fang Qiang , Li Hailian , Lin Qingquan , Liu Kuo , Su Yang , Huo Guodong , Zou Xuhua , Xu Xiufeng , Wei Haisheng , Qi Shixue
Published: June 2020

Novel Au/Ce-Co-Ox/Al2O3 showed a very excellent performance for CO oxidation in the simulated atmosphere of CO2-laser mainly due to SMSI and labile lattice oxygen.
CuO and CeO2 assisted Fe2O3/attapulgite catalyst for heterogeneous Fenton-like oxidation of methylene blue
Authors: Zhang Ting , Dong Lingyu , Du Jianhua , Qian Chunyuan , Wang Yi
Published: June 2020

A novel heterogeneous catalyst CuO–CeO2–Fe2O3/ATP was synthesized for MB degradation and the catalytic mechanism was put forward.
Evaluation of pressure and temperature effects on hydropyrolysis of pine sawdust: pyrolysate composition and kinetics studies
Authors: Venkatesan Kavimonica , Prashanth Francis , Kaushik Vinay , Choudhari Harshavardhan , Mehta Dhairya , Vinu Ravikrishnan
Published: June 2020

Kinetics and product distribution from high pressure hydropyrolysis of biomass using Py-GC/MS and Py-FTIR.
Vertically oriented nanoporous block copolymer membranes for oil/water separation and filtration
Authors: Luo Yan , Wang Xiaoteng , Zhang Ren , Singh Maninderjeet , Ammar Ali , Cousins Diana , Hassan Mohammad K. , Ponnamma Deepalekshmi , Adham Samer , Al-Maadeed Mariam Al Ali , Karim Alamgir
Published: June 2020

Vertically oriented block copolymer nanocylinders (left) and after etching to form nanoporous membrane (right), for separation of oil from water and filtration of aqueous solutions and dispersions to treat waste and contaminated water.
Photothermal effect-enhanced photoelectrochemical water splitting of a BiVO4photoanode modified with dual-functional polyaniline
Authors: Zhao Mingyang , Chen Tao , He Bing , Hu Xiaoqin , Huang Jing , Yi Ping , Wang Yang , Chen Yihuang , Li Zhen , Liu Xueqin
Published: June 2020

Assisted by NIR light, the obtained Co-Pi/PANI/BiVO4photoanode achieves a remarkable water oxidation photocurrent of 4.05 mA cm−2at 1.23 VRHE.
Compositional engineering of sulfides, phosphides, carbides, nitrides, oxides, and hydroxides for water splitting
Authors: Sun Yiqiang , Zhang Tao , Li Cuncheng , Xu Kun , Li Yue
Published: June 2020

Global environmental and energy crises have attracted wide attention and led to ongoing efforts to search for sustainable energy storage and conversion systems that can meet the energy needs of modern society.
Tubular transcriptional co-activator with PDZ-binding motif protects against ischemic acute kidney injury
Authors: Wu Chia-Lin , Chang Chia-Chu , Yang Tao-Hsiang , Tsai Alexander Charng-Dar , Wang Jui-Lin , Chang Chung-Ho , Tarng Der-Cherng
Published: June 2020

Transcriptional co-activator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ) is a key downstream effector of the Hippo tumor-suppressor pathway. The functions of TAZ in the kidney, especially in tubular epithelial cells, are not well-known. To elucidate the adaptive expression, protective effects on kidney injury, and signaling pathways of TAZ in response to acute kidney injury (AKI), we used in vitro (hypoxia-treated human renal proximal tubular epithelial cells [RPTECs]) and in vivo (mouse ischemia–reperfusion injury [IRI]) models of ischemic AKI. After ischemic AKI, TAZ was up-regulated in RPTECs and the renal cortex or tubules. Up-regulation of TAZ in RPTECs subjected to hypoxia was controlled by IκB kinase (IKK)/nuclear factor κ-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cell (NF-κB) signaling. TAZ overexpression attenuated hypoxic and oxidative injury, inhibited apoptosis and activation of p38 and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) proteins, and promoted wound healing in an RPTEC monolayer. However, TAZ knockdown aggravated hypoxic injury, apoptosis, and activation of p38 and JNK signaling, delayed wound closure of an RPTEC monolayer, and promoted G0/G1 phase cell-cycle arrest. Chloroquine and verteporfin treatment produced similar results to TAZ overexpression and knockdown in RPTECs, respectively. Compared with vehicle-treated mice, chloroquine treatment increased TAZ in the renal cortex and tubules, improved renal function, and attenuated tubular injury and tubular apoptosis after renal IRI, whereas TAZ siRNA and verteporfin decreased TAZ in the renal cortex and tubules, deteriorated renal failure and tubular injury, and aggravated tubular apoptosis. Our findings indicate the renoprotective role of tubular TAZ in ischemic AKI. Drugs augmenting (e.g., chloroquine) or suppressing (e.g., verteporfin) TAZ in the kidney might be beneficial or deleterious to patients with AKI.
The multiscale and multiphase organization of the transcriptome
Authors: Adekunle Danielle A. , Hubstenberger Arnaud
Published: June 2020

Gene expression must be co-ordinated to cellular activity. From transcription to decay, the expression of millions of RNA molecules is highly synchronized. RNAs are covered by proteins that regulate every aspect of their cellular life: expression, storage, translational status, localization, and decay. Many RNAs and their associated regulatory proteins can coassemble to condense into liquid droplets, viscoelastic hydrogels, freeze into disorganized glass-like aggregates, or harden into quasi-crystalline solids. Phase separations provide a framework for transcriptome organization where the single functional unit is no longer a transcript but instead an RNA regulon. Here, we will analyze the interaction networks that underlie RNA super-assemblies, assess the complex multiscale, multiphase architecture of the transcriptome, and explore how the biophysical state of an RNA molecule can define its fate. Phase separations are emerging as critical routes for the epitranscriptomic control of gene expression.
Performance analysis of a cooperative D2D communication network with NOMA
Authors: Dash Soumya P. , Joshi Sandeep
Published: June 2020

The cooperative device‐to‐device (D2D) network employing non‐orthogonal multiple access (NOMA) is expected to play an important role in the next‐generation wireless networks. In this work, the authors derive outage probability expressions of a cooperative NOMA D2D network which employs decode‐and‐forward relaying. A wireless link experiencing Nakagami‐m fading is considered which is further assisted in the communication network by a wired link which is a powerline communication link and experiences Rayleigh fading. The outage analysis, shown for both the strong user and the weak user, is derived assuming that at the receiver there is perfect successive interference cancellation. Employing power division NOMA, optimum value for the coefficient of power allocation is obtained corresponding to the minimum probability of outage of the strong user. Furthermore, a range of the NOMA power allocation coefficient is provided for the communication link at the weak user which is between the wireless and the powerline link. Symbol error probability expressions are also derived for the strong and the weak users for the scenario when: i) both the wireless and the wired links are available for communication and ii) only the wireless link is available for communication.
Density‐aware deployment with multi‐layer UAV‐V2X communication networks
Authors: Wang Baoji , Zhang Rongqing , Chen Chen , Cheng Xiang , Jin Ye
Published: June 2020

Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)‐assisted communications have been regarded as a promising technology, which can be used in dynamic heterogeneous networks, since the UAVs can be applied as mobile base stations (MBSs). It is more efficient to set the UAVs as MBSs in different layers according to their functions. Due to the ability in communicating with other vehicles or facilities, vehicle‐to‐everything (V2X) makes the information required by the vehicles be efficiently transmitted and processed, so as to increase the safety of driving. However, because of the rapid change of topology and the huge demand of data transmission, it is hard to guarantee the efficient coverage of all the vehicles only by the support of terrestrial wireless communication networks. Considering this, this study combines UAV and V2X communications together, and proposes a multi‐layer aerial‐road vehicular (MLARV) architecture. The UAVs in the higher layer are in charge of overall monitoring, while the UAVs in the lower layer are responsible for hot‐spot area coverage. To solve the throughput maximisation problem, the authors further propose a density‐aware deployment (DAD) scheme with an iterative three‐dimensional matching resource allocation algorithm. Simulation results show that the proposed DAD scheme with the MLARV architecture outperforms the traditional UAV‐assisted V2X communications with single layer architecture.
Impact of inductance variation on the operation of a synchronous reluctance motor connected to a weak grid
Authors: Ghosh Pradyumna Ranjan , Das Anandarup , Bhuvaneswari Gurumoorthy
Published: June 2020

Changes in inductance profiles of motors from originally designed values are observed due to manufacturing defects and different measurement techniques adopted. This introduces changes in the magnitude of voltage dip that could be tolerated by a synchronous reluctance motor operating at a particular speed and torque while being connected to a weak grid. Since the voltage dip margin is dependent on the inductance of the motor, it changes as per the variations in inductance. This paper proposes a novel methodology to analyse the variations in the voltage dip margin as per the discrepancies in inductances when the motor drive is expected to deliver a particular speed and torque. A control strategy is also proposed to mitigate the ill‐effects of the voltage dip by changing the operating point of the motor. Mathematical expressions are derived showing the voltage dip margin for different degrees of variations in the inductances. It is observed that with reduction in the inductance value, the voltage dip margin increases with increased current, where the current still remains within the maximum current limit of the motor, while the motor is forced to deliver the same speed and torque. The proposed mathematical derivations are validated through simulations and experiments.