bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mycosporine-like amino acid and aromatic amino acid transcriptome response to UV and far-red light in the cyanobacterium Chlorogloeopsis fritschii PCC 6912
Authors: Llewellyn Carole A. , Greig Carolyn , Silkina Alla , Kultschar Bethan , Hitchings Matthew D. , Farnham Garry
Published: November 2020

The “UV sunscreen” compounds, the mycosporine-like amino acids (MAAs) are widely reported in cyanobacteria and are known to be induced under ultra-violet (UV) light. However, the impact of far red (FR) light on MAA biosynthesis has not been studied. We report results from two experiments measuring transcriptional regulation of MAA and aromatic amino acid pathways in the filamentous cyanobacteriumChlorogloeopsis fritschiiPCC 6912. The first experiment, comparing UV with white light, shows the expected upregulation of the characteristic MAAmys gene cluster. The second experiment, comparing FR with white light, shows that three genes of the fourmysgene cluster encoding up to mycosporine-glycine are also upregulated under FR light. This is a new discovery. We observed corresponding increases in MAAs under FR light using HPLC analysis. The tryptophan pathway was upregulated under UV, with no change under FR. The tyrosine and phenylalanine pathways were unaltered under both conditions. However, nitrate ABC transporter genes were upregulated under UV and FR light indicating increased nitrogen requirement under both light conditions. The discovery that MAAs are upregulated under FR light supports MAAs playing a role in photon dissipation and thermoregulation with a possible role in contributing to Earth surface temperature regulation.
Strategies for the efficient use of diagnostic resource under constraints: a model-based study on overflow of patients and insufficient diagnostic kits
Authors: Tsuchida Naoshi , Nakamura Fumihiko , Matsuda Kazunori , Saikawa Takafumi , Okumura Takashi
Published: November 2020

This article addresses an optimisation problem of distributing rapid diagnostic kits among patients when the demands far surpass the supplies. This problem has not been given much attention in the field, and therefore, this article aims to provide a preliminary result in this problem domain. First, we describe the problem and define the goal of the optimisation by introducing an evaluation metric that measures the efficiency of the distribution strategies. Then, we propose two simple strategies, and a strategy that incorporates a prediction of patients’ visits utilising a standard epidemic model. The strategies were evaluated using the metric, with past statistics in Kitami City, Hokkaido, Japan, and the prediction-based strategy outperformed the other distribution strategies. We discuss the properties of the strategies and the limitations of the proposed approach. Although the problem must be generalised before the actual deployment of the suggested strategy, the preliminary result is promising in its ability to address the shortage of diagnostic capacity currently observed worldwide because of the ongoing coronavirus disease pandemic.
Antifungal activity of Xenorhabdus spp. and Photorhabdus spp. against the soybean pathogenic Sclerotinia sclerotiorum
Authors: Chacón-Orozco Julie G. , Bueno César , Shapiro-Ilan David I. , Hazir Selcuk , Leite Luís G. , Harakava Ricardo
Published: November 2020

The fungus, Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, causes white mold disease and infects a broad spectrum of host plants (> 500), including soybean with yield losses of up to 70%. Biological control is a potential alternative for management of this severe plant pathogen, and relative to chemical fungicides, provides broad benefits to the environment, farmers and consumers. The symbiotic bacteria of entomopathogenic nematodes, Xenorhabdus spp. and Photorhabdus spp., are characterized by the production of antimicrobial compounds, which could serve as potential sources for new bio-fungicides. The objectives of this study were to assess cell-free supernatants (CFS) of 16 strains of these bacteria cultures on S. sclerotiorum mycelium growth; assess the volatiles of X. szentirmaii cultures on the fungus mycelium and sclerotium inhibition; and evaluate the X. szentirmaii cultures as well as their CFS on the protection of soybean seeds against the white mold disease. Among the 16 strains, the CFS of X. szentirmaii showed the highest fungicidal effect on growth of S. sclerotiorum. The CFS of X. szentirmaii inhibited > 98% of fungus growth from mycelium and sclerotia, whereas the volatiles generated by the bacterium culture inhibited to 100% of fungus growth and 100% of sclerotia production. The bacterial culture diluted to 33% in water and coated on soybean seeds inhibited S. sclerotiorum and protected soybean plants, allowing 78.3% of seed germination and 56.6% of plant development. Our findings indicate potential for a safe and novel control method for S. sclerotiorum in soybean. Moreover, this is the first study to indicate that volatile organic compounds from Xenorhabdus spp. can be used in plant disease suppression.
Pregnant alpha-1-microglobulin (A1M) knockout mice exhibit features of kidney and placental damage, hemodynamic changes and intrauterine growth restriction
Authors: Aleksenko Larysa , Åkerström Bo , Hansson Eva , Erlandsson Lena , Hansson Stefan R.
Published: November 2020

Alpha-1-microglobulin (A1M) is an antioxidant previously shown to be elevated in maternal blood during pregnancies complicated by preeclampsia and suggested to be important in the endogenous defense against oxidative stress. A knockout mouse model of A1M (A1Mko) was used in the present study to assess the importance of A1M during pregnancy in relation to the kidney, heart and placenta function. Systolic blood pressure (SBP) and heart rate (HR) were determined before and throughout gestation. The morphology of the organs was assessed by both light and electron microscopy. Gene expression profiles relating to vascular tone and oxidative stress were analyzed using RT-qPCR with validation of selected gene expression relating to vascular tone and oxidative stress response. Pregnant age-matched wild type mice were used as controls. In the A1Mko mice there was a significantly higher SBP before pregnancy that during pregnancy was significantly reduced compared to the control. In addition, the HR was higher both before and during pregnancy compared to the controls. Renal morphological abnormalities were more frequent in the A1Mko mice, and the gene expression profiles in the kidney and the heart showed downregulation of transcripts associated with vasodilation. Simultaneously, an upregulation of vasoconstrictors, blood pressure regulators, and genes for osmotic stress response, ion transport and reactive oxygen species (ROS) metabolism occurred. Fetal weight was lower in the A1Mko mice at E17.5. The vessels in the labyrinth zone of the placentas and the endoplasmic reticulum in the spongiotrophoblasts were collapsed. The gene profiles in the placenta showed downregulation of antioxidants, ROS metabolism and oxidative stress response genes. In conclusion, intact A1M expression is necessary for the maintenance of normal kidney, heart as well as placental structure and function for a normal pregnancy adaptation.
Retroreflection and diffraction of a Bose–Einstein condensate by evanescent standing wave potential
Authors: Akram Javed , Qasim Khan , Wei Lei
Published: November 2020

The characteristic of the angular distributions of accelerated Bose–Einstein condensate (BEC) atoms incidence on the surface is designed using the mathematical modeling method. Here, we proposed the idea to study retroreflection and diffraction of a BEC from an evanescent standing wave potential (ESWP). The ESWP is formed by multiple reflections of the laser beam from the surface of the prism under the influence of gravity. After BEC’s reflection and diffraction, the so-called BEC’s density rainbow patterns develop due to the interference which depends on the surface structure which we model with the periodic decaying evanescent field. The interaction of accelerated bosonic atoms with a surface can help to demonstrate surface structures or to determine surface roughness, or to build future high spatial resolution and high sensitivity magnetic-field sensors in two-dimensional systems.
The absence of (TCAGGG)n repeats in some telomeres, combined with variable responses to NR2F2 depletion, suggest that this nuclear receptor plays an indirect role in the alternative lengthening of telomeres
Authors: Alhendi Ahmed S. N. , Royle Nicola J.
Published: November 2020

The alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT) facilitates telomere lengthening by a DNA strand invasion and copying mechanism. The nuclear receptors (NRs), NR2F2 and NR2C2, can bind to (TCAGGG)n variant repeats within telomeres and it has been proposed that this facilitates telomere interactions in ALT+ cells. Here we show that the frequency of cells with detectable NR2F2 and NR2C2 nuclear foci varies considerably between ALT+ cell lines and does not correlate with the level of protein expression. In addition, four of five ALT+ cell lines lack (TCAGGG)n repeats in some telomeres, indicating that direct NR binding does not play a role in ALT at these telomeres. NR2F2-depletion altered the abundance of C-circles and APBs but the direction of the response was inconsistent between three ALT+ cell lines. Moreover, transcriptome analysis following NR2F2-depletion in the ALT+ cell lines revealed different very responses. For example, NR2F2-depletion down-regulated many genes in U2OS cells, consistent with the cell cycle arrest and changes to ALT markers, but these features were not shared by the other two ALT+ cell lines. Among 86 ALT-associated genes, only MND1 showed consistent down-regulation across three NR2F2-depleted ALT+ cell lines. Altogether our data suggest that NR2F2 does not play a direct role in ALT and we speculate about an alternative role for this NR in a DNA damage response at telomeres.
UBC9 coordinates inflammation affecting development of bladder cancer
Authors: Huang Xiaoliang , Tao Yuting , Gao Jiamin , Zhou Xianguo , Tang Shaomei , Deng Caiwang , Lai Zhiyong , Lin Xinggu , Wang Qiuyan , Li Tianyu
Published: November 2020

Dysregulation of SUMO modification is linked to carcinogenesis. UBC9 is the sole conjugating enzyme in sumoylation and plays a pivotal role in maintaining homeostasis and restraining stress reactions. However, the clinical significance and function of UBC9 in bladder cancer remain unclear. In this study, immunohistochemistry was used to determine the expression of UBC9. UBC9 knock-down and SUMO inhibition were conducted followed by proliferation, migration, and cell cycle assays. RNA sequencing and bioinformatic analysis were used to identify potential mechanisms of UBC9. Cytokine membrane antibody array was used to detect the expression of cytokine. The mass cytometry TOF (CyTOF) was used to explore the association between bladder cancer stem cell-like population and UBC9 expression. Our results showed that UBC9 played a dual role in bladder cancer. UBC9 was up-regulated in bladder cancer, but was negatively correlated with TNM stage and grade. Knocking-down of UBC9 resulted in dramatic activation of inflammatory gene expression, which might cause inhibition of cell proliferation and inducing cell apoptosis. IL6 was the hub gene in UBC9 regulatory network. Markedly up-regulated IL6 after knocking-down of UBC9 activated the expression of CD44, which was a prominent marker of cancer stem cells. Thus, our results revealed an important and previously undescribed role for UBC9 in modulation of inflammatory signaling of bladder cancer. UBC9 in bladder cancer cells is required to maintain high sumoylation levels and alleviate stress-related inflammation threats to cell survival. Lacking UBC9 contributes to inflammation activation, epithelial–mesenchymal transition and stem cell-like population formation, leading to cancer progression.
A holistic approach in herbicide resistance research and management: from resistance detection to sustainable weed control
Authors: Liu Chun , Jackson Lucy V. , Hutchings Sarah-Jane , Tuesca Daniel , Moreno Raul , Mcindoe Eddie , Kaundun Shiv S.
Published: November 2020

Agricultural weeds can adapt rapidly to human activities as exemplified by the evolution of resistance to herbicides. Despite its multi-faceted nature, herbicide resistance has rarely been researched in a holistic manner. A novel approach combining timely resistance confirmation, investigation of resistance mechanisms, alternative control solutions and population modelling was adopted for the sustainable management of the Amaranthus palmeri weed in soybean production systems in Argentina. Here, we show that resistance to glyphosate in the studied population from Cordoba province was mainly due to a P106S target-site mutation in the 5-enolpyruvylshikimate 3-phosphate synthase (EPSPS) gene, with minor contributions from EPSPS gene duplication/overexpression. Alternative herbicides, such as fomesafen, effectively controlled the glyphosate-resistant plants. Model simulations revealed the tendency of a solo herbicidal input to primarily select for a single resistance mechanism and suggested that residual herbicides, alongside chemical diversity, were important for the sustainable use of these herbicides. We also discuss the value of an interdisciplinary approach for improved understanding of evolving weeds.
Mirtazapine exerts astrocyte-mediated dopaminergic neuroprotection
Authors: Kikuoka Ryo , Miyazaki Ikuko , Kubota Natsuki , Maeda Megumi , Kagawa Daiki , Moriyama Masaaki , Sato Asuka , Murakami Shinki , Kitamura Yoshihisa , Sendo Toshiaki , Asanuma Masato
Published: November 2020

Mirtazapine, a noradrenergic and specific serotonergic antidepressant (NaSSA), is known to activate serotonin (5-HT) 1A receptor. Our recent study demonstrated that stimulation of astrocytic 5-HT1A receptors promoted astrocyte proliferation and upregulated antioxidative property in astrocytes to protect dopaminergic neurons against oxidative stress. Here, we evaluated the neuroprotective effects of mirtazapine against dopaminergic neurodegeneration in models of Parkinson’s disease (PD). Mirtazapine administration attenuated the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra and increased the expression of the antioxidative molecule metallothionein (MT) in the striatal astrocytes of 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA)-injected parkinsonian mice via 5-HT1A receptors. Mirtazapine protected dopaminergic neurons against 6-OHDA-induced neurotoxicity in mesencephalic neuron and striatal astrocyte cocultures, but not in enriched neuronal cultures. Mirtazapine-treated neuron-conditioned medium (Mir-NCM) induced astrocyte proliferation and upregulated MT expression via 5-HT1A receptors on astrocytes. Furthermore, treatment with medium from Mir-NCM-treated astrocytes protected dopaminergic neurons against 6-OHDA neurotoxicity, and these effects were attenuated by treatment with a MT-1/2-specific antibody or 5-HT1A antagonist. Our study suggests that mirtazapine could be an effective disease-modifying drug for PD and highlights that astrocytic 5-HT1A receptors may be a novel target for the treatment of PD.
Influence of pycnocline on settling behaviour of non-spherical particle and wake evolution
Authors: Mrokowska Magdalena M.
Published: November 2020

Settling of non-spherical particles in a stratified fluid exhibits complex dynamics in a low-to-moderate inertia regime. Although this process is involved in a wide variety of phenomena in natural fluid systems, its fundamental mechanisms are still unexplored. Understanding of particle settling in microscale is particularly important to explain challenging problems associated with ecological and biogeochemical processes in the ocean due to the delayed settling of particulate matter at pycnoclines. Here, I explore interactions between disk-shaped particles and a stratified fluid with a density transition. By laboratory experiments, I demonstrate that the settling dynamics of the disk crossing a density transition are tightly coupled with the wake structure evolution, and I observe for the first time in a two-layer ambient configuration a bell-shaped structure that forms on a jet after the wake has detached from the particle. Furthermore, I identify hydrodynamic conditions for the variations of settling velocity and particle orientation instabilities. These findings shed light on particle settling mechanisms necessary to explain dynamics of marine particles such as plankton, faecal pellets, and microplastics and may improve the estimation methods of sedimentation processes in various areas of earth sciences and engineering.
Development and validation of a nomogram for predicting the probability of nontraumatic osteonecrosis of the femoral head in Chinese population
Authors: Xu Qiang , Chen Hangjun , Chen Sihai , Shan Jing , Xia Guoming , Cao Zhiyou , Liu Xuqiang , Dai Min
Published: November 2020

Although corticosteroids and alcohol are two major risk factors for nontraumatic osteonecrosis of the femoral head (NONFH), the effects of other factors have rarely been studied, thereby making early diagnosis and treatment of NONFH difficult. This study aimed to develop and validate a nomogram to NONFH, but patients with alcohol- and steroid-related NONFH are not at all taken into account in this study. A training cohort of 790 patients (n = 434, NONFH; n = 356, femoral neck fractures [non-NONFH]) diagnosed in our hospital from January 2011 to December 2016 was used for model development. A least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (lasso) regression model was used for date dimension reduction and optimal predictor selection. A predictive model was developed from univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. Performance characterisation of the resulting nomogram included calibration, discriminatory ability, and clinical usefulness. After internal validation, the nomogram was further evaluated in a separate cohort of 300 consecutive patients included between January 2017 and December 2018. The simple prediction nomogram included five predictors from univariate and multivariate analyses, including gender, total cholesterol levels, triglyceride levels, white blood cell count, and platelet count. Internal validation showed that the model had good discrimination [area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) = 0.80] and calibration. Good discrimination (AUC = 0.81) and calibration were preserved in the validation cohort. Decision curve analysis showed that the predictive nomogram was clinically useful. The simple diagnostic nomogram, which combines demographic data and laboratory blood test results, was able to quantify the probability of NONFH in cases of early screening and diagnosis.
Wireless localization with diffusion maps
Authors: Ghafourian Amin , Georgiou Orestis , Barter Edmund , Gross Thilo
Published: November 2020

In the Wireless Localization Matching Problem (WLMP) the challenge is to match pieces of equipment with a set of candidate locations based on wireless signal measurements taken by the pieces of equipment. This challenge is complicated by the noise that is inherent in wireless signal measurements. Here we propose the use of diffusion maps, a manifold learning technique, to obtain an embedding of positions and equipment coordinates in a space that enables coordinate comparison and reliable evaluation of assignment quality at very low computational cost. We show that the mapping is robust to noise and using diffusion maps allows for accurate matching in a realistic setting. This suggests that the diffusion-map-based approach could significantly increase the accuracy of wireless localization in applications.
Cryo-EM structures and functional characterization of homo- and heteropolymers of human ferritin variants
Authors: Irimia-Dominguez Jose , Sun Chen , Li Kunpeng , Muhoberac Barry B. , Hallinan Grace I. , Garringer Holly J. , Ghetti Bernardino , Jiang Wen , Vidal Ruben
Published: November 2020

The role of abnormal brain iron metabolism in neurodegenerative diseases is still insufficiently understood. Here, we investigate the molecular basis of the neurodegenerative disease hereditary ferritinopathy (HF), in which dysregulation of brain iron homeostasis is the primary cause of neurodegeneration. We mutagenized ferritin’s three-fold pores (3FPs), i.e. the main entry route for iron, to investigate ferritin’s iron management when iron must traverse the protein shell through the disrupted four-fold pores (4FPs) generated by mutations in the ferritin light chain (FtL) gene in HF. We assessed the structure and properties of ferritins using cryo-electron microscopy and a range of functional analyses in vitro. Loss of 3FP function did not alter ferritin structure but led to a decrease in protein solubility and iron storage. Abnormal 4FPs acted as alternate routes for iron entry and exit in the absence of functional 3FPs, further reducing ferritin iron-storage capacity. Importantly, even a small number of MtFtL subunits significantly compromises ferritin solubility and function, providing a rationale for the presence of ferritin aggregates in cell types expressing different levels of FtLs in patients with HF. These findings led us to discuss whether modifying pores could be used as a pharmacological target in HF.
Cancer education matters: a report on testicular cancer knowledge, awareness, and self-examination practice among young Polish men
Authors: Pietrzyk Łukasz , Denisow-Pietrzyk Marta , Czeczelewski Marcin , Ślizień-Kuczapski Konrad , Torres Kamil
Published: November 2020

The objective of the study was to assess the level of testicular cancer (TC) knowledge and awareness as well as the altitude and practice towards testicular self-examination (TSE) among Polish male high school and medical students. An original questionnaire survey was conducted in SE Poland with a representative sample of 1077 male students: 335 from high school and 742 medical students. The results indicate the knowledge about TC epidemiology and the awareness of risk factors responsible for the TC was low. The knowledge of the signs and symptoms of TC was significantly higher among the medical students, compared to the high school students. The level of education was associated with the awareness of methods for early detection and symptoms of TC. A satisfactory level of awareness of the TSE practice was exhibited only by the medical students. The main reason for not performing self-examination was the lack of knowledge and practical skills. The deficits of knowledge of TC in young men should motivate the education policy makers in Poland to implement education in the field of TC issues more widely in high schools. Moreover, cancer prevention modules and/or teaching methods should be improved in medical schools.
Rheometer enabled study of cartilage frequency-dependent properties
Authors: Perni Stefano , Prokopovich Polina
Published: November 2020

Despite the well-established dependence of cartilage mechanical properties on the frequency of the applied load, most research in the field is carried out in either load-free or constant load conditions because of the complexity of the equipment required for the determination of time-dependent properties. These simpler analyses provide a limited representation of cartilage properties thus greatly reducing the impact of the information gathered hindering the understanding of the mechanisms involved in this tissue replacement, development and pathology. More complex techniques could represent better investigative methods, but their uptake in cartilage research is limited by the highly specialised training required and cost of the equipment. There is, therefore, a clear need for alternative experimental approaches to cartilage testing to be deployed in research and clinical settings using more user-friendly and financial accessible devices. Frequency dependent material properties can be determined through rheometry that is an easy to use requiring a relatively inexpensive device; we present how a commercial rheometer can be adapted to determine the viscoelastic properties of articular cartilage. Frequency-sweep tests were run at various applied normal loads on immature, mature and trypsinased (as model of osteoarthritis) cartilage samples to determine the dynamic shear moduli (G*, G′ G″) of the tissues. Moduli increased with increasing frequency and applied load; mature cartilage had generally the highest moduli and GAG depleted samples the lowest. Hydraulic permeability (KH) was estimated from the rheological data and decreased with applied load; GAG depleted cartilage exhibited higher hydraulic permeability than either immature or mature tissues. The rheometer-based methodology developed was validated by the close comparison of the rheometer-obtained cartilage characteristics (G*, G′, G″, KH) with results obtained with more complex testing techniques available in literature. Rheometry is relatively simpler and does not require highly capital intensive machinery and staff training is more accessible; thus the use of a rheometer would represent a cost-effective approach for the determination of frequency-dependent properties of cartilage for more comprehensive and impactful results for both healthcare professional and R&D.
Antagonistic effects of activin A and TNF-α on the activation of L929 fibroblast cells via Smad3-independent signaling
Authors: Jiang Lingling , Liu Boyang , Qi Yan , Zhu Linru , Cui Xueling , Liu Zhonghui
Published: November 2020

Fibroblasts play an important role in inflammation and tissue fibrosis. Both activin A and TNF-α can activate immune cells, however, the roles and relationship of them in activating fibroblasts in inflammation remain unclear. Here, this study revealed that TNF-α promoted the release of NO and IL-6 by L929 fibroblast cells, but co-treatment with activin A attenuated these effects. In contrast, activin A induced cell migration and increased the production of tissue fibrosis-related TGF-β1 and fibronectin, while TNF-α inhibited these function changes of L929 cells induced by activin A. Moreover, this study revealed that activin A and TNF-α regulated the activities of L929 cells via ERK1/2/MAPK pathway, rather than Smad3-dependent signaling pathway. Taken together, these data indicate that activin A and TNF-α exert mutually antagonistic effects on regulating fibroblasts activities, and the balance between their action may determine the process and outcome of fibroblasts-mediated inflammation.
Loading Imatinib inside targeted nanoparticles to prevent Bronchiolitis Obliterans Syndrome
Authors: Pandolfi Laura , Fusco Roberta , Frangipane Vanessa , D’Amico Ramona , Giustra Marco , Bozzini Sara , Morosini Monica , D’Amato Maura , Cova Emanuela , Ferrario Giuseppina , Morbini Patrizia , Colombo Miriam , Prosperi Davide , Viglio Simona , Piloni Davide , Di Paola Rosanna , Cuzzocrea Salvatore , Meloni Federica
Published: November 2020

Bronchiolitis Obliterans Syndrome seriously reduces long-term survival of lung transplanted patients. Up to now there is no effective therapy once BOS is established. Nanomedicine introduces the possibility to administer drugs locally into lungs increasing drug accumulation in alveola reducing side effects. Imatinib was loaded in gold nanoparticles (GNP) functionalized with antibody against CD44 (GNP-HCIm). Lung fibroblasts (LFs) were derived from bronchoalveolar lavage of BOS patients. GNP-HCIm cytotoxicity was evaluated by MTT assay, apoptosis/necrosis and phosphorylated-cAbl (cAbl-p). Heterotopic tracheal transplantation (HTT) mouse model was used to evaluate the effect of local GNP-HCIm administration by Alzet pump. GNP-HCIm decreased LFs viability compared to Imatinib (44.4 ± 1.8% vs. 91.8 ± 3.2%, p < 0.001), inducing higher apoptosis (22.68 ± 4.3% vs. 6.43 ± 0.29; p < 0.001) and necrosis (18.65 ± 5.19%; p < 0.01). GNP-HCIm reduced cAbl-p (0.41 GNP-HCIm, 0.24 Imatinib vs. to control; p < 0.001). GNP-HCIm in HTT mouse model by Alzet pump significantly reduced tracheal lumen obliteration (p < 0.05), decreasing apoptosis (p < 0.05) and TGF-β-positive signal (p < 0.05) in surrounding tissue. GNP-HCIm treatment significantly reduced lymphocytic and neutrophil infiltration and mast cells degranulation (p < 0.05). Encapsulation of Imatinib into targeted nanoparticles could be considered a new option to inhibit the onset of allograft rejection acting on BOS specific features.
Author Correction: Forecasting risk gene discovery in autism with machine learning and genome-scale data
Authors: Brueggeman Leo , Koomar Tanner , Michaelson Jacob J.
Published: November 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
PKN1 promotes synapse maturation by inhibiting mGluR-dependent silencing through neuronal glutamate transporter activation
Authors: Yasuda Hiroki , Yamamoto Hikaru , Hanamura Kenji , Mehruba Mona , Kawamata Toshio , Morisaki Hiromi , Miyamoto Masaaki , Takada Shinji , Shirao Tomoaki , Ono Yoshitaka , Mukai Hideyuki
Published: November 2020

Abnormal metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluR) activity could cause brain disorders; however, its regulation has not yet been fully understood. Here, we report that protein kinase N1 (PKN1), a protein kinase expressed predominantly in neurons in the brain, normalizes group 1 mGluR function by upregulating a neuronal glutamate transporter, excitatory amino acid transporter 3 (EAAT3), and supports silent synapse activation. Knocking out PKN1a, the dominant PKN1 subtype in the brain, unmasked abnormal input-nonspecific mGluR-dependent long-term depression (mGluR-LTD) and AMPA receptor (AMPAR) silencing in the developing hippocampus. mGluR-LTD was mimicked by inhibiting glutamate transporters in wild-type mice. Knocking out PKN1a decreased hippocampal EAAT3 expression and PKN1 inhibition reduced glutamate uptake through EAAT3. Also, synaptic transmission was immature; there were more silent synapses and fewer spines with shorter postsynaptic densities in PKN1a knockout mice than in wild-type mice. Thus, PKN1 plays a critical role in regulation of synaptic maturation by upregulating EAAT3 expression.
Efficient alcohol fuel oxidation catalyzed by a novel Pt/Se catalyst
Authors: Zha Meng , Liu Zong , Wang Quan , Hu Guangzhi , Feng Ligang
Published: November 2020

Selenium spheres decorated with Pt nanoparticles were found to be efficient for alcohol fuel oxidation in fuel cells.
A theoretical investigation into the role of catalyst support and regioselectivity of molecular adsorption on a metal oxide surface: NO reduction on Cu/γ-alumina
Authors: Ota Wataru , Kojima Yasuro , Hosokawa Saburo , Teramura Kentaro , Tanaka Tsunehiro , Sato Tohru
Published: November 2020

The role of catalyst support and regioselectivity of molecular adsorption on a metal oxide surface is investigated for NO reduction on a Cu/γ-alumina heterogeneous catalyst.
Specific ion effects control the thermoelastic behavior of nanolayered materials: the case of crystalline alkali-silica reaction products
Authors: Honorio Tulio , Chemgne Tamouya Ornella M. , Shi Zhenguo
Published: November 2020

We perform molecular simulations to characterize the structure and the thermo-mechanical behavior of crystalline alkali-silica reaction (ASR) products, which are layered silicate analogous to shlykovite.
A CuMn2O4 spinel oxide as a superior catalyst for the aerobic oxidation of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural toward 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid in aqueous solvent
Authors: Wan Xiaoyue , Tang Nannan , Xie Qi , Zhao Shuangyan , Zhou Chunmei , Dai Yihu , Yang Yanhui
Published: November 2020

A CuMn2O4 spinel oxide was prepared via a freezing-assisted sol–gel method and used in the aerobic oxidation of 5-hydroxylmethylfurfural (HMF) toward 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA) in aqueous solvent.
Selectivity control of organic chemical synthesis over plasmonic metal-based photocatalysts
Authors: Yu Changqiang , Xie Xiuqiang , Zhang Nan
Published: November 2020

The factors, issues, and design of plasmonic metal-based photocatalysts for selective photosynthesis of organic chemicals have been discussed.
Selective synthesis of epichlorohydrin via liquid-phase allyl chloride epoxidation over a modified Ti-MWW zeolite in a continuous slurry bed reactor
Authors: Ding Luoyi , Yin Jinpeng , Tong Wen , Peng Rusi , Jiang Jingang , Xu Hao , Wu Peng
Published: November 2020

The epoxidation of allyl chloride (ALC) to epichlorohydrin (ECH) with H2O2 using a piperidine (PI)-modified Ti-MWW catalyst (Ti-MWW-PI) in a continuous slurry reactor was investigated to develop an efficient reaction system for the corresponding industrial process.
One-pot three-component reaction of p-quinone monoacetals, l-proline and naphthols to afford N-aryl-2-arylpyrrolidines
Authors: Wang Xin , Li Gang , Li Xiaojie , Zhu Dunru , Shen Ruwei
Published: November 2020

A one-pot three-component reaction of p-quinone monoacetals (or p-quinol ethers), l-proline and naphthols is developed for the synthesis of N-aryl-2-arylpyrrolidines under mild conditions with high chemo- and regioselectivity.
Electrochemical hydrogenation of α-ketoesters and benzoxazinones using carbon electrodes and a sustainable Brønsted acid
Authors: Nemez Dion B. , Sidhu Baldeep K. , Giesbrecht Patrick K. , Braun Jason D. , Herbert David E.
Published: November 2020

A convenient electrochemical methodology for the hydrogenation of benzoxazinones and aryl-substituted α-ketoester substrates is presented, using carbon electrodes and sustainable Brønsted acids.
Facile construction of a flexible and wearable electrode based on the hierarchical structure of RGO-coated cotton fabric with amorphous Co–Ni–B alloy
Authors: Wang Wei , Zhang Jishu , Li Tao , Wang Shuo
Published: November 2020

Schematic diagram of preparation process of amorphous Co–Ni–B/RGO/cotton fabric flexible electrode.
In silico identification of SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) protein–ACE2 complex inhibitors from eight Tecoma species and cultivars analyzed by LC-MS
Authors: El Hawary Seham S. , Khattab Amira R. , Marzouk Hanan S. , El Senousy Amira S. , Alex Mariam G. A. , Aly Omar M. , Teleb Mohamed , Abdelmohsen Usama Ramadan
Published: November 2020

In silico exploration of 12 Tecoma phytocompounds that could serve as potential inhibitors of SARS-CoV entry to host cells.
A quick one-step synthesis of luminescent gold nanospheres
Authors: Candreva Angela , Di Maio Giuseppe , La Deda Massimo
Published: November 2020

Luminescent gold nanospheres emissive in a wide range of the visible spectrum have been synthesized by a quick one-step procedure; the coexistence of the plasmonic and luminescence properties makes them useful in various application fields.
Extended ligand conjugation and dinuclearity as a route to efficient platinum-based near-infrared (NIR) triplet emitters and solution-processed NIR-OLEDs
Authors: Shafikov Marsel Z. , Pander Piotr , Zaytsev Andrey V. , Daniels Ruth , Martinscroft Ross , Dias Fernando B. , Williams J. A. Gareth , Kozhevnikov Valery N.
Published: November 2020

A complex in which two Pt(ii) ions are cyclometallated to bis-dithienylpyrimidine displays intense luminescence in the NIR region, both in solution and in an OLED.
Ecological condition of water bodies of the south-west of Belarus in spring 2020
Authors: Kirichenko Larysa , Volchak Aliaksandr , Golovach Anna
Published: November 2020

In this work, hydrochemical and hydromorphological characteristics of urban reservoirs of southwestern Belarus in the spring of 2020 were investigated. Hydromorphological characteristics of reservoirs were determined by field methods and GIS mapping methods. Hydrochemical assessment of water quality of reservoirs in the spring period was carried out according to 15 indicators. Multivariate statistical methods were used to analyze surface water quality. Based on the analysis of hydrochemical and hydromorphological indicators, an assessment of the ecological state of the reservoirs of the urboterritories of southwestern Belarus in the spring period of 2020 was given. During the study, patterns of distribution of morphometric characteristics of the reservoirs within the studied territory were established. The analysis of hydrochemical characteristics showed that the water quality of urban reservoirs depends on the types of anthropogenic effects.
Mathematical Expression of the Form of a Helio Concentrator
Authors: Severyanin Vitali , Yanchilin Pavel
Published: November 2020

It is necessary to increase the efficiency of existing solar power plants both through the study of energy processes and the creation of new schematic diagrams of solar systems by reducing the cost of their design, principle of operation and operation. Authors have developed the LUCH solar plant in solving these problems. The article presents the device of the installation, a mathematical description of the shape of the solar concentrator, calculations of the parameters of the cones and their layout diagram. When developing the concentrator, the condition was accepted — the adopted form of the paraboloid as the basis of the concentrator needs to be changed so as to simplify the design and manufacturing process. The design change was made by splitting the paraboloid of revolution into separate cones. The calculated geometrical parameters of the LUCH solar concentrator are compared with the obtained parameters for an ideal paraboloid concentrator.
Structural Mechanics Aspect of Strength of Composite Reinforcement
Authors: Barsukov Vladimir , Volik Alla , Sazon Svetlana
Published: November 2020

When operating in wet and corrosive conditions, composite reinforcement is in some cases an effective substitute for the suitable steel reinforcement. However, many questions related to its design, production and operation are insufficiently studied. The aim of the work is to create a methodology and carry out a comparative structural and mechanical analysis of strength indexes when working under load of coils and a bar of composite construction reinforcement. A method has been developed for analyzing the loading capacity of composite reinforcement according to the criteria of strength at rupture of a bar, as well as shear strength and bearing strength of its braid coils. Analytical and numerical modeling of conditions of equal strength of structural elements of composite construction reinforcement was carried out. Theoretically substantiated the assumption of a relatively low loading capacity of the braid coils in comparison with the loading capacity of the reinforcement bar. A predictive estimate of the conditions for ensuring the uniform strength of the bar for breaking and braid coils for shear and crushing by the method of lower estimation (for the minimum values of strength) has been carried out using the example of composite reinforcing bars produced by the industry of Republic of Belarus. In conclusion, results of work are formulated and it is noted that the results can be used by manufacturers and consumers of construction composite reinforcement, also in the educational process in the training of engineering personnel for the construction profile.
Nanoindentation of cement stone samples
Authors: Polonina Elena , Lahayne Olaf , Eberhardsteiner Josef , Leonovich Sergey
Published: November 2020

The preliminary results of the studied cement samples were obtained by the nanoindentation method. It was revealed that the elastic modulus M increases in samples that contain a complex additive containing nanosized particles. The effect is also observed with the introduction of an additive containing only one type of nanoparticles (nanosilica sol SiO2 or carbon nanomaterial MCNT). The selection of the parameters of the nanoindentation method, which ensured the obtaining of the final consistent results, was performed. These results are presented by histograms of the distribution of nanoindentation points in modulus of elasticity M and hardness H and distributions in M and H in the horizontal XY plane perpendicular to the motion of the nanoindentor. The results obtained indicate that there is a change in the nanostructure of the C – S – H gel, which is compared with an increase in strength, Young’s moduli and shear, upon the introduction of SiO2 nanoparticles and MCNT nanoparticles.
Response of Motor Vehicles, Front and Rear Axles of Which Are Fitted with Different Tires. Main Aspects
Authors: Makarov Vladimir , Molev Yuriy , Proshin Dimitriy , Cherevastov Maksim
Published: November 2020

This work shows the modelling of change of such a controllability indicator as the stabilization time, using the design model of a vehicle with tires of different stiffness on the front and rear axles. The influence of the change in the lateral slip resistance coefficient of the front and rear wheels of the vehicle on the safe speed at which the stabilization reaction of the vehicle to the steering wheel turn will be aperiodic monotonic rather than oscillating, is established. The dependences of the magnitude of the stabilization time on the degree of change in the lateral slip resistance coefficient of the front and rear wheels, are obtained. The limiting values of the change in the parameters of the wheels providing the specified parameters of controllability which ensure acceptable road traffic safety level, are established. It is established that the maximum impact on the deterioration of the response of vehicle is exerted by the wheels design. On the other hand, their geometric dimensions have little to no road traffic safety impact. Based on the research carried out, it is necessary to conclude that in order to ensure road traffic safety, it is necessary to stop using the tires with different designs on different axles of the vehicle. Herewith, the pressure in the tires of the vehicle must not be less than the values set by the manufacturer. The results obtained are of interest to employees of institutions monitoring traffic indicators and technical condition of vehicles as well as carrying out road accident reviews.
Justification of priority factors affecting the efficiency of the tractor fleet
Authors: Zubina V. A.
Published: November 2020

Analysis of numerous sources shows that the following group of factors can be distinguished, which can be said to be the main ones: Qualification of machine operator, Annual load of tractors, Number of tractors per 1000 ha of arable land, Age of machinery in the tractor fleet, Agrotechnical terms of harvesting and sowing within the agro-term, General technical level of technology in the tractor fleet, The costs of maintenance and repair of agricultural machinery in the tractor fleet, Tractor technical readiness factor. Based on the methodology for calculating the coefficient of concordance for each group of factors, as a measure of the consistency of a group of experts, priority factors are identified that affect the operation of the tractor fleet. Experts of farms and workers of agricultural departments of Russia took part in the examination, namely: Kaluga region, Kostroma region, Tula region, Yaroslavl region and other organizations. In total, 30 people independently participated in the examination: farm managers, chief engineers, agronomists, etc.
Formation of bulges on hollow cylindrical products made of non-ferrous difficult-to-deform alloys
Authors: Larin Sergey N. , Pasynkov Andrey A.
Published: November 2020

Formation of thickened elements on the edge parts of hollow cylindrical products, which serve as the elements of fuel lines of various power plants, can be applied to ensure a significant quality of their welding connection. The article deals with the formation of such thickening elements on tubes made of special non-ferrous alloys. Due to the mechanical features of these materials, these processes were investigated under narrow temperature and speed conditions causing short-term creep of the material. To analyze these operations, mathematical models have been created that describe power modes. Quantitative rules of the influence of the geometric parameters of the process on the pressure during the upsetting have been obtained. The materials obtained during the analysis can be used to create similar technologies.
Investigation of the microstructure and X-ray spectral microanalysis of powder material obtained from waste of the KNT16 brand tungsten-free hard alloy
Authors: Sabel’nikov B.N. , Ageeva A.E. , Podanov V.O , Korolev M.S
Published: November 2020

This article presents the results of X-ray spectral microanalysis and the study of the microstructure of an experimental electroerosive powder material obtained from waste of a tungsten-free hard alloy grade KNT16.
Effect provided by dispersed phase on the morphology and properties of composite zinc coatings
Authors: Fomina R.E. , Mingazova G.G. , Vodopyanova S.V. , Sayfullin R.S.
Published: November 2020

We studied the composition of electrochemical titanium and silicon zinc dioxide coatings, as well as the special aspects of their morphology and corrosion resistance. It is found that the particles of TiO2 are included into the zinc matrix. Share of dispersed phase in CEC grows with increasing the concentration of particles in the suspended electrolyte. It is shown that the SiO2 particles are not included into the coating, inhibiting the process of cathodic reduction of zinc. It is also found that crystals on all the coatings obtained have a hexagonal structure, while introducing the dispersed phase particles leads to the plating structure refinement. It is shown that including the TiO2 particles leads to forming the coatings of better corrosion resistance.
Precision processing of ceramics by the raster machine
Authors: Muratov Karim , Ablyaz Timur , Gashev Yevgeny
Published: November 2020

Ceramic materials processing techniques have been briefly presented in the article. The process of grinding, lapping as well as the stages of technical ceramics processing have been reported. Up to 80% of the material to be removed at the first stage, where a rough tool was utilized for machining at high speed. At stage second, the fine grain instrument was employed for the grinding process. Thus, the volume of the grinded material is reduced. At the third stage, lapping is performed by diamond abrasive flour grains and pastes of the necessary granularity. After the stage of lapping the polishing of the surface is done to achieved high accuracy and elegant finish. The investigation of abrasive lapping of the parts made of VSH-75 oxide ceramics material. It has been found that the efficiency of the diamond flour grains is 15-30 times greater than the efficiency of Al2O3 and SiC flour grains. With the increasing of granularity, the volume of the total material removal and surface finish enhances. In order to obtain the highly finished surface (Rz=0.8 µm), it is recommended to use ASM20 synthetic diamond flour grain. The influence of the part’s contact pressure (range 25-150 KPa)on the lap has also been investigated. The volume of the total removal is distinctly increased with the increase of contact pressure from 25 to 50 KPa, while the diamond discharge intensity and the processed surface finish reduces. Further, the contact pressure increases up to 150 KPa exhibited deep scratches and machining marks on the tool surface which seriously impairing the tool. The optimal contact pressure for the superior ceramics lapping on the cast- iron lap SCH-28 should be in between 50-100 KPa
Numerical simulation of conjugated heat exchange in the turbulent motion of fluid in an oil well
Authors: Al’es Michael , Makarov Sergey , Karpov Alexandr
Published: November 2020

The mathematical model of conjugate heat exchange is proposed for the turbulent movement of reservoir oil in a vertical well section. The motion of the medium is described using a two-dimensional axisymmetric stationary formulation and boundary layer equations. The movement of the turbulent flow of reservoir oil due to reservoir energy is presented. The liquid medium is a mixture of reservoir oil with dissolved gas and formation water. The results of the numerical modeling are presented in the form of dependences of the changing flow rate, temperature, and mass fraction of paraffin deposits that occur along the full vertical extent of the well. The results obtained describe the thermobaric state of the well under the condition of conjugate heat exchange between the fluid flow and the production pipe.