bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role and robustness of the Gini coefficient as an unbiased tool for the selection of Gini genes for normalising expression profiling data
Authors: Wright Muelas Marina , Mughal Farah , O’Hagan Steve , Day Philip J. , Kell Douglas B.
Published: November 2019

We recently introduced the Gini coefficient (GC) for assessing the expression variation of a particular gene in a dataset, as a means of selecting improved reference genes over the cohort (‘housekeeping genes’) typically used for normalisation in expression profiling studies. Those genes (transcripts) that we determined to be useable as reference genes differed greatly from previous suggestions based on hypothesis-driven approaches. A limitation of this initial study is that a single (albeit large) dataset was employed for both tissues and cell lines. We here extend this analysis to encompass seven other large datasets. Although their absolute values differ a little, the Gini values and median expression levels of the various genes are well correlated with each other between the various cell line datasets, implying that our original choice of the more ubiquitously expressed low-Gini-coefficient genes was indeed sound. In tissues, the Gini values and median expression levels of genes showed a greater variation, with the GC of genes changing with the number and types of tissues in the data sets. In all data sets, regardless of whether this was derived from tissues or cell lines, we also show that the GC is a robust measure of gene expression stability. Using the GC as a measure of expression stability we illustrate its utility to find tissue- and cell line-optimised housekeeping genes without any prior bias, that again include only a small number of previously reported housekeeping genes. We also independently confirmed this experimentally using RT-qPCR with 40 candidate GC genes in a panel of 10 cell lines. These were termed the Gini Genes. In many cases, the variation in the expression levels of classical reference genes is really quite huge (e.g. 44 fold for GAPDH in one data set), suggesting that the cure (of using them as normalising genes) may in some cases be worse than the disease (of not doing so). We recommend the present data-driven approach for the selection of reference genes by using the easy-to-calculate and robust GC.
Unravelling how low dominance in faces biases non-spatial attention
Authors: Roberts Ashton , Palermo Romina , Visser Troy A. W.
Published: November 2019

According to the Dual Model of Social Hierarchy, one pathway for attaining social status is through dominance (coercion and intimidation). High dominance stimuli are known to more readily attract eye gaze and social attention. However, when there is a competition for non-spatial attentional resources, low dominance stimuli show an advantage. This low dominance bias was hypothesised to occur due to either counter-stereotypicality or attention competition. Here, these two hypotheses were examined across two experiments using modified versions of the attentional blink paradigm, used to measure non-spatial attention, and manipulations of facial dominance in both males and females. The results support the attention competition theory, suggesting that low dominance stimuli have a consistently strong ability to compete for attentional resources. Unexpectedly, high dominance stimuli fluctuate between having a strong and weak ability to compete for the same resources. The results challenge the current understanding of how humans interact with status.
The Screening and Evaluation of Fucus serratus and Fucus vesiculosus Extracts against Current Strains of MRSA Isolated from a Clinical Hospital Setting
Authors: Higgins Hoare Annabel , Tan Shiau Pin , McLoughlin Peter , Mulhare Patrick , Hughes Helen
Published: November 2019

Antimicrobial resistant strains of infection are afflicting clinical settings, driving the search for novel antimicrobial compounds. Naturally sourced bioactives, for instance those from seaweeds, have the potential to ameliorate this issue. As such, solvent extracts from the edible Irish seaweeds Fucus serratus and Fucus vesiculosus were screened for antimicrobial activity against 28 clinically isolated strains of MRSA, including one GISA (glycopeptide intermediate S. aureus) and two mecC gene containing strains. The water extract of F. vesiculosus was the most promising extract went on to be tested for biofilm prevention and disruption activity. The disk diffusion method was used to investigate the inhibition of the bacterial pathogens tested while MIC, MBC and biofilm disruption and prevention analyses were performed spectroscopically and by plate counts, respectively. Solvent extracts were found to have a wide array of antimicrobial activity against the strains tested, with the water extract from Fucus vesiculosus being the most promising. This extract was also found to both prevent and disrupt MRSA biofilms indicating the potential extract as new antimicrobials, and raising the possibility of their possible use in therapeutics.
Glutamine/glutamate metabolism rewiring in reprogrammed human hepatocyte-like cells
Authors: Ballester Maria , Sentandreu Enrique , Luongo Giovanna , Santamaria Ramon , Bolonio Miguel , Alcoriza-Balaguer Maria Isabel , Palomino-Schätzlein Martina , Pineda-Lucena Antonio , Castell Jose , Lahoz Agustin , Bort Roque
Published: November 2019

Human dermal fibroblasts can be reprogrammed into hepatocyte-like (HEP-L) cells by the expression of a set of transcription factors. Yet, the metabolic rewiring suffered by reprogrammed fibroblasts remains largely unknown. Here we report, using stable isotope-resolved metabolic analysis in combination with metabolomic-lipidomic approaches that HEP-L cells mirrors glutamine/glutamate metabolism in primary cultured human hepatocytes that is very different from parental human fibroblasts. HEP-L cells diverge glutamine from multiple metabolic pathways into deamidation and glutamate secretion, just like periportal hepatocytes do. Exceptionally, glutamine contribution to lipogenic acetyl-CoA through reductive carboxylation is increased in HEP-L cells, recapitulating that of primary cultured human hepatocytes. These changes can be explained by transcriptomic rearrangements of genes involved in glutamine/glutamate metabolism. Although metabolic changes in HEP-L cells are in line with reprogramming towards the hepatocyte lineage, our conclusions are limited by the fact that HEP-L cells generated do not display a complete mature phenotype. Nevertheless, our findings are the first to characterize metabolic adaptation in HEP-L cells that could ultimately be targeted to improve fibroblasts direct reprogramming to HEP-L cells.
Enhancing the differentiation of specific genotypes in Mycobacterium tuberculosis population
Authors: Hadifar Shima , Kamakoli Mansour Kargarpour , Fateh Abolfazl , Siadat Seyed Davar , Vaziri Farzam
Published: November 2019

Today, significant attention is directed towards the global lineages and sublineages of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb). NEW-1 (SIT 127) and CAS1-Delhi (SIT 26) strains are recognized as growing and circulating Mtb genotypes, especially in Asian countries. It is crucial to develop or enhance Mtb genotyping methods for a more accurate and simple differentiation of these families. We used 24-loci mycobacterial interspersed repetitive unit-variable number tandem repeat (MIRU-VNTR) typing for genotyping 217 Mtb isolates. To select the optimal MIRU-VNTR loci, we calculated the Hunter-Gaston discriminatory index (HGDI), allelic diversity, and accumulation of percentage differences (APDs) between the strains among different groups of genotypes (NEW-1 and non-NEW-1; CAS1-Delhi and non-CAS). Finally, the minimum spanning tree was constructed for clustering analysis. In the NEW-1 population, loci with APD > 60% were found to have a high discriminatory power. VNTR loci with APD > 50% showed high discrimination power for the CAS population. Our findings suggest that APDs, which are valuable for the selection of VNTR loci sets, may improve the discriminatory power of MIRU-VNTR typing for identification of Mtb genotypes in specific regions.
A direct association between amber and dinosaur remains provides paleoecological insights
Authors: McKellar Ryan C. , Jones Emma , Engel Michael S. , Tappert Ralf , Wolfe Alexander P. , Muehlenbachs Karlis , Cockx Pierre , Koppelhus Eva B. , Currie Philip J.
Published: November 2019

Hadrosaurian dinosaurs were abundant in the Late Cretaceous of North America, but their habitats remain poorly understood. Cretaceous amber is also relatively abundant, yet it is seldom found in direct stratigraphic association with dinosaur remains. Here we describe an unusually large amber specimen attached to a Prosaurolophus jaw, which reveals details of the contemporaneous paleoforest and entomofauna. Fourier-transform Infrared spectroscopy and stable isotope composition (H and C) suggest the amber formed from resins exuded by cupressaceous conifers occupying a coastal plain. An aphid within the amber belongs to Cretamyzidae, a Cretaceous family suggested to bark-feed on conifers. Distinct tooth row impressions on the amber match the hadrosaur’s alveolar bone ridges, providing some insight into the taphonomic processes that brought these remains together.
Role of Kuroshio Current in fish resource variability off southwest Japan
Authors: Morioka Yushi , Varlamov Sergey , Miyazawa Yasumasa
Published: November 2019

Western boundary currents in the subtropics play a pivotal role in transporting warm water from the tropics that contribute to development of highly diverse marine ecosystem in the coastal regions. As one of the western boundary currents in the North Pacific, the Kuroshio Current (hereafter the Kuroshio) exerts great influences on biological resource variability off southwest Japan, but few studies have examined physical processes that attribute the coastal fish resource variability to the basin-scale Kuroshio variability. Using the high-quality fish catch data and high-resolution ocean reanalysis results, this study identifies statistical links of interannual fish resource variability off Sukumo Bay, Shikoku island of Japan, to subsurface ocean temperature variability in the Kuroshio. The subsurface ocean temperature variability off the south of Sukumo Bay exhibits vertically coherent structure with sea-surface height variability, which originates from the westward-propagating oceanic Rossby waves generated through surface wind anomalies in the Northwest Pacific. Although potential sources of the atmospheric variability remain unclarified, the remotely-induced oceanic Rossby waves contribute to fish resource variability off Sukumo Bay. These findings have potential applications to other coastal regions along the western boundary currents in the subtropics where the westward-propagating oceanic Rossby waves may contribute to coastal ocean temperature variability.
Stability under humidity, UV-light and bending of AZO films deposited by ALD on Kapton
Authors: Marques A. C. , Faria J. , Perdigão P. , Faustino B. M. M. , Ritasalo Riina , Costabello Katiuscia , da Silva R. C. , Ferreira I.
Published: November 2019

Aluminium doped zinc oxide (AZO) films were grown by Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD) on yellow Kapton and transparent Kapton (type CS) substrates for large area flexible transparent thermoelectric applications, which performance relies on the thermoelectric properties of the transparent AZO films. Therefore, their adhesion to Kapton, environmental and bending stability were accessed. Plasma treatment on Kapton substrates improved films adhesion, reduced cracks formation, and enhanced electrical resistance stability over time, of importance for long term thermoelectric applications in external environment. While exposure to UV light intensity caused the films electrical resistance to vary, and therefore their maximum power density outputs (0.3–0.4 mW/cm3) for a constant temperature difference (∼10 °C), humidity exposure and consecutive bending up to a curvature radius above the critical one (∼18 mm) not. Testing whether the films can benefit from encapsulation revealed that this can provide extra bending stability and prevent contacts deterioration in the long term.
Centromere 17 copy number gain reflects chromosomal instability in breast cancer
Authors: Lee Kyoungyul , Kim Hyun Jeong , Jang Min Hye , Lee Sejoon , Ahn Soomin , Park So Yeon
Published: November 2019

Chromosomal instability (CIN) is known to be associated with prognosis and treatment response in breast cancer. This study was conducted to determine whether copy number gain of centromere 17 (CEP17) reflects CIN, and to evaluate the prognostic and predictive value of CIN in breast cancer. CIN status was determined by summing copy number gains of four centromeric probes (CEP1, CEP8, CEP11, and CEP16) based on fluorescence in situ hybridization and CIN scores were calculated using next generation sequencing data. High CIN was associated with adverse clinicopatholgical parameters of breast cancer. Among them, positive HER2 status, high Ki-67 index and CEP17 copy number gain were found to be independent predictors of high CIN. High CIN was associated with poor clinical outcome of the patients in the whole group, as well as in luminal/HER2-negative and HER2-positive subtypes. CEP17 copy number was significantly higher in the high-CIN-score group than in the low-CIN-score group. A positive linear correlation between the mean CEP17 copy number and the CIN score was found. In conclusion, CEP17 copy number was confirmed as a useful predictor for CIN in breast cancer, and high CIN was revealed as an indicator of poor prognosis in breast cancer.
Non-SMC condensin I complex subunit H mediates mature chromosome condensation and DNA damage in pancreatic cancer cells
Authors: Kim Jae Hyeong , Youn Yuna , Kim Kyung-Tae , Jang Gyubeom , Hwang Jin-Hyeok
Published: November 2019

Non-SMC condensin I complex subunit H (NCAPH) is a vital gene associated with chromosome stability and is required for proper chromosome condensation and segregation. However, the mechanisms through which NCAPH affects pancreatic cancer (PC) and its molecular function remain unclear. In this study, we examined the role of NCAPH in PC cells. Our results showed that NCAPH was overexpressed in clinical PC specimens (GEPIA) and cell lines. In addition, in NCAPH-knockdown cells, colony formation and proliferation were inhibited, and the cell cycle was arrested at the S and G2/M phases owing to failure of mature chromosome condensation (MCC) in poorly condensed chromosomes. Increased cell death in NCAPH-knockdown cells was found to help initiate apoptosis through the activation of caspase-3 and PARP cleavage. Furthermore, NCAPH-knockdown cells showed an increase in chromosomal aberrations and DNA damage via activation of the DNA damage response (Chk1/Chk2) signaling pathways. These data demonstrated that NCAPH played an important role in cell cycle progression and DNA damage by maintaining chromosomal stability through progression of MCC from poorly condensed chromosomes. Ultimately, NCAPH knockdown induced apoptotic cell death, which was partially mediated by caspase-dependent pathways. These findings highlight the potential role of NCAPH as a therapeutic target for PC.
Aerosol delivery during invasive mechanical ventilation: development of a preclinical ex vivo respiratory model for aerosol regional deposition
Authors: Montigaud Yoann , Georges Quentin , Pourchez Jérémie , Leclerc Lara , Goy Clémence , Clotagatide Anthony , Prevot Nathalie , Perinel-Ragey Sophie
Published: November 2019

In intensive care units, nebulization is a usual route for drug administration to patients under mechanical ventilation (MV). The effectiveness of inhalation devices as well as depositions sites of aerosols for ventilated patients remain poorly documented. In vivo human inhalation studies are scarce due to ethical restrictions because imaging techniques require radioaerosols to assess regional aerosol deposition. Thus, we developed an ex vivo respiratory model under invasive MV for preclinical aerosol deposition studies. The model was composed of ex vivo porcine respiratory tracts. MV was achieved thanks to a tracheal intubation and a medical ventilator under controlled conditions. Respiratory features were studied using analogical sensors. Then regional homogeneity of gas-ventilation was assessed with 81mKrypton scintigraphies. Finally, a proof of concept study for aerosol deposition was performed. Obtained respiratory features as well as gamma-imaging techniques, which demonstrated a homogenous regional ventilation and about 18% ± 4% of the nebulized dose deposited the respiratory tract, were in good agreement with human data available in the literature. This original ex vivo respiratory model provides a feasible, reproducible and cost-effective preclinical tool to achieve aerosol deposition studies under MV.
Mammalian spermatozoa and cumulus cells bind to a 3D model generated by recombinant zona pellucida protein-coated beads
Authors: Hamze Julieta Gabriela , Canha-Gouveia Analuce , Algarra Blanca , Gómez-Torres María José , Olivares María Concepción , Romar Raquel , Jiménez-Movilla María
Published: November 2019

The egg is a spherical cell encapsulated by the zona pellucida (ZP) which forms a filamentous matrix composed of several glycoproteins that mediate gamete recognition at fertilization. Studies on molecular mechanisms of sperm-egg binding are limited in many mammalian species by the scarcity of eggs, by ethical concerns in harvesting eggs, and by the high cost of producing genetically modified animals. To address these limitations, we have reproduced a three-dimensional (3D) model mimicking the oocyte’s shape, by means of magnetic sepharose beads coated with recombinant ZP glycoproteins (BZP) and cumulus cells. Three preparations composed of either ZP2 (C and N-termini; BZP2), ZP3 (BZP3) or ZP4 (BZP4) were obtained and characterized by protein SDS-PAGE, immunoblot and imaging with confocal and electron microscopy. The functionality of the model was validated by adhesion of cumulus cells, the ability of the glycoprotein-beads to support spermatozoa binding and induce acrosome exocytosis. Thus, our findings document that ZP-beads provide a novel 3D tool to investigate the role of specific proteins on egg-sperm interactions becoming a relevant tool as a diagnostic predictor of mammalian sperm function once transferred to the industry.
Carrier Depletion near the Grain Boundary of a SiC Bicrystal
Authors: Kim Young-Wook , Tochigi Eita , Tatami Junichi , Kim Yong-Hyeon , Jang Seung Hoon , Javvaji Srivani , Jung Jeil , Kim Kwang Joo , Ikuhara Yuichi
Published: November 2019

Silicon carbide (SiC) bicrystals were prepared by diffusion bonding, and their grain boundary was observed using scanning transmission electron microscopy. The n-type electrical conductivity of a SiC single crystal was confirmed by scanning nonlinear dielectric microscopy (SNDM). Dopant profiling of the sample by SNDM showed that the interface acted as an electrical insulator with a ~2-μm-thick carrier depletion layer. The carrier depletion layer contained a higher number of oxygen impurities than the bulk crystals due to the incorporation of oxygen from the native oxide film during diffusion bonding. Density functional theory calculations of the density of states as a function of the bandgap also supported these findings. The existence of a carrier depletion layer was also confirmed in a p-type polycrystalline SiC ceramic. These results suggest that the electrical conductivity of SiC ceramics was mostly affected by carrier depletion near the grain boundary rather than the grain boundary itself.
Efficacy and safety of boric acid as a preventive treatment against Saprolegnia infection in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)
Authors: Ali Shimaa E. , Gamil Amr A. A. , Skaar Ida , Evensen Øystein , Charo-Karisa Harrison
Published: November 2019

Saprolegniosis is a worldwide fungal-like infection affecting freshwater fishes and their eggs. Reports show high mortalities and subsequent economic losses annually fromSaprolegniainfections. Most therapeutants againstSaprolegnia spp. infections are inefficient and some have negative impact on the environment. In this study, we have investigated the ability of boric acid (BA) to preventSaprolegniainfection in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). BA inhibited radial growth ofSaprolegniahyphaein vitro. Completein vitrogrowth inhibition was found at a concentration of ≥0.6 g/L. Inhibitory effects were also observedin vivowhen Nile tilapia were experimentally challenged withSaprolegniaspores and followed over 10 days post challenge and under continuous exposure to different BA concentrations. No signs of saprolegniosis were observed in fish treated with BA at concentrations of 0.4 g/L and above. Comet assay revealed that BA has low toxicity in tilapia continuously exposed to concentrations of 0.2–0.6 g/L for 96 h. Additionally, no significant histomorphological changes were observed in BA-treated fish compared to non-treated controls. Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) and Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) enzyme levels indicated reduction in systemic tissue damage associated withSaprolegniainfection. This study demonstrates the potential of BA as a prophylactic measure againstSaprolegniainfection in tilapia, and we recommend additional studies on environmental impact.
Effect of tumor necrosis factor inhibition on spinal inflammation and spinal ankylosis in SKG mice
Authors: Lim Doo-Ho , Lee Eun-Ju , Kwon Oh Chan , Hong Seokchan , Lee Chang-Keun , Yoo Bin , Youn Jeehee , Kim Tae-Hwan , Kim Yong-Gil
Published: November 2019

To prevent spinal progression in ankylosing spondylitis, initiating TNF-inhibitor treatment as early as possible is suggested. However, the outcomes are inconsistent in previous clinical studies. Here, we investigated the effect of TNF inhibition alone on spinal progression when used during arthritis development in a murine model. We injected 8-week-old SKG mice with curdlan (curdlan group). We injected adalimumab at 3 and 9 weeks after the first curdlan injection (ADA group). The clinical scores of peripheral arthritis decreased in the ADA group at 3 weeks after first adalimumab injection. Using positron emission tomography–magnetic resonance imaging and histologic examination, spinal inflammation was observed in the curdlan group, and was significantly deceased in the ADA group. However, spinal osteoblast activities by imaging using OsteoSense 680 EX and bone metabolism-related cytokines such as receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappa B ligand, osteoprotegerin, Dickkopf-1, and sclerostin levels except IL-17A level were not different between the two groups. We conclude that treating TNF inhibitor alone reduced peripheral arthritis score and spinal inflammation in curdlan-injected SKG mice but did not decrease the spinal osteoblast activity, suggesting little effect on spinal ankylosis.
Simple and economical biosensors for distinguishing Agrobacterium-mediated plant galls from nematode-mediated root knots
Authors: Choi Okhee , Bae Juyoung , Kang Byeongsam , Lee Yeyeong , Kim Seunghoe , Fuqua Clay , Kim Jinwoo
Published: November 2019

Agrobacterium-mediated plant galls are often misdiagnosed as nematode-mediated knots, even by experts, because the gall symptoms in both conditions are very similar. In the present study, we developed biosensor strains based on agrobacterial opine metabolism that easily and simply diagnosesAgrobacterium-induced root galls. Our biosensor consists ofAgrobacteriummannitol (ABM) agar medium, X-gal, and a biosensor. The working principle of the biosensor is that exogenous nopaline produced by plant root galls binds to NocR, resulting in NocR/nopaline complexes that bind to the promoter of the nopaline oxidase gene (nox) operon and activate the transcription ofnoxB-lacZY, resulting in readily visualized blue pigmentation on ABM agar medium supplemented with X-gal (ABMX-gal). Similarly, exogenous octopine binds to OccR, resulting in OoxR/octopine complexes that bind to the promoter of the octopine oxidase gene (oox) operon and activate the transcription ofooxB-lacZY, resulting in blue pigmentation in the presence of X-gal. Our biosensor is successfully senses opines produced byAgrobacterium-infected plant galls, and can be applied to easily distinguishAgrobacteriumcrown gall disease from nematode disease.
Bacterial DNA induces the formation of heat-resistant disease-associated proteins in human plasma
Authors: Tetz Victor , Tetz George
Published: November 2019

Our study demonstrated for the first time that bacterial extracellular DNA (eDNA) can change the thermal behavior of specific human plasma proteins, leading to an elevation of the heat-resistant protein fraction, as well as to de novo acquisition of heat-resistance. In fact, the majority of these proteins were not known to be heat-resistant nor do they possess any prion-like domain. Proteins found to become heat-resistant following DNA exposure were named “Tetz-proteins”. Interestingly, plasma proteins that become heat-resistant following treatment with bacterial eDNA are known to be associated with cancer. In pancreatic cancer, the proportion of proteins exhibiting eDNA-induced changes in thermal behavior was found to be particularly elevated. Therefore, we analyzed the heat-resistant proteome in the plasma of healthy subjects and in patients with pancreatic cancer and found that exposure to bacterial eDNA made the proteome of healthy subjects more similar to that of cancer patients. These findings open a discussion on the possible novel role of eDNA in disease development following its interaction with specific proteins, including those involved in multifactorial diseases such as cancer.
Publisher Correction: Rapid human-driven undermining of atoll island capacity to adjust to ocean climate-related pressures
Authors: Duvat Virginie K. E. , Magnan Alexandre K.
Published: November 2019

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
A competitive and highly selective 7-, 6- and 5-annulation with 1,3-migration through C–H and N–H – alkyne coupling
Authors: Ajarul Sk , Kayet Anirban , Pati Tanmay K. , Maiti Dilip K.
Published: November 2019

A highly competitive and selective C–C and N–C cross-coupled 7-, 6- and 5-annulation of 2-ethynylanilides furnished 1H-benzo[b]azepin-2(5H)-ones, 2-quinolinones, and 3-acylindoles, respectively using smart catalyst ZnCl2 or I2 through 1,3-migration.
Selective modification of a native protein in a patient tissue homogenate using palladium nanoparticles
Authors: Peramo Arnaud , Dumas Anaëlle , Remita Hynd , Benoît Mireille , Yen-Nicolay Stephanie , Corre Raphaël , Louzada Ruy A. , Dupuy Corinne , Pecnard Shannon , Lambert Benoit , Young Jacques , Desmaële Didier , Couvreur Patrick
Published: November 2019

A chemoselective native protein modification in near-organ medium was achieved using new benign palladium nanoparticles.
A cancer cell membrane-camouflaged nanoreactor for enhanced radiotherapy against cancer metastasis
Authors: Pan Wei , Cui Bingjie , Gao Peng , Ge Yegang , Li Na , Tang Bo
Published: November 2019

A cancer cell membrane-camouflaged nanoreactor was developed for enhanced radiotherapy against cancer metastasis.
Bi(OAc)3/chiral phosphoric acid catalyzed enantioselective allylation of isatins
Authors: Wang Jie , Zhang Qingxia , Li Yao , Liu Xiangshuai , Li Xin , Cheng Jin-Pei
Published: November 2019

Herein, we disclosed an efficient protocol for the construction of chiral 3-allyl-3-hydroxyoxindoles via the enantioselective allylation reaction of isatins and allylboronates catalyzed by a simple binary acid Bi(OAc)3/CPA system under mild conditions.
Convenient synthesis of phosphinecarboxamide and phosphinecarbothioamide by hydrophosphination of isocyanates and isothiocyanates
Authors: Itazaki Masumi , Matsutani Takanari , Nochida Tomoya , Moriuchi Toshiyuki , Nakazawa Hiroshi
Published: November 2019

Convenient synthesis of phosphinecarboxamidein by hydrophosphination of isocyanates (and isothiocyanates) was achieved without catalyst and solvent. This system shows shorter reaction time, high yield, and good functional group tolerance.
Supramolecular enantiomeric and structural differentiation of amino acid derivatives with achiral pillar[5]arene homologs
Authors: Ji Jiecheng , Li Yizhou , Xiao Chao , Cheng Guo , Luo Kui , Gong Qiyong , Zhou Dayang , Chruma Jason J. , Wu Wanhua , Yang Cheng
Published: November 2019

Unprecedented simultaneous enantiomeric and structural differentiation of α-amino esters was achieved with homologs of pillar[5]arene derivatives.
Mild and selective hydrogenation of nitriles into primary amines over a supported Ni catalyst
Authors: Wang Jianjian , Tang Qingjie , Jin Shiwei , Wang Yanxin , Yuan Ziliang , Chi Quan , Zhang Zehui
Published: November 2019

The mesoporous Al2O3 supported Ni catalyst demonstrated a high activity and selectivity for the hydrogenation of nitriles into primary amines under the mild conditions (60–80 °C and 2.5 bar H2) with ammonia as the additive.
Germanium-based high-performance dual-ion batteries
Authors: Zhou Jing , Zhou Yan , Zhang Xu , Cheng Liwei , Qian Mengmeng , Wei Wei , Wang Hua
Published: November 2019

We report a novel germanium-based dual-ion battery that shows better electrochemical performance than most of the previously reported DIBs.
Progress on particulate matter filtration technology: basic concepts, advanced materials, and performances
Authors: Liu Hui , Cao Chunyan , Huang Jianying , Chen Zhong , Chen Guoqiang , Lai Yuekun
Published: November 2019

The PM (particulate matter)-induced haze problem has caused serious environmental and health concerns.
Cyclodextrin embedded covalently crosslinked networks: synthesis and applications of hydrogels with nano-containers
Authors: Arslan Mehmet , Sanyal Rana , Sanyal Amitav
Published: November 2019

Recent advancements in the synthesis of hydrogels containing cyclodextrin (CD) units within the gel network have been reviewed.
Preparation of a SnO2–Sb electrode on a novel TiO2 network structure with long service lifetime for degradation of dye wastewater
Authors: Xu Li , Wang Ye , Zhang Wen
Published: November 2019

A novel TiO2 network structure modified SnO2–Sb electrode has been prepared by electrodeposition with long service lifetime and low energy consumption.
Current recovery from sewage wastewater using electrochemically oxidized graphite felt
Authors: Yoshida Naoko , Miyata Yasushi , Iida Kazuki
Published: November 2019

The oxidation of a carbon anode has been reported to enhance electricity recovery in a microbial fuel cell (MFC).
Mechanistic investigation of photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes by a novel zinc coordination polymer
Authors: Huo Jianqiang , Yu Donghui , Li Haiqiang , Luo Bingcai , Arulsamy Navamoney
Published: November 2019

Mechanistic presentation of the photocatalytic degradation of organic dye molecules by absorbing UV-vis light energy that spans the florescent compound TIPA's HOMO to LUMO band gap.
Enhanced sodium ion conductivity in Na3VS4 by P-doping
Authors: He Yu , Lu Fengqi , Kuang Xiaojun
Published: November 2019

A new sodium ion conductor Na3VS4 was prepared and its conductivity improved by substitution of V with P.
A new design strategy for redox-active molecular assemblies with crystalline porous structures for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Nakashima Kensuke , Shimizu Takeshi , Kamakura Yoshinobu , Hinokimoto Akira , Kitagawa Yasutaka , Yoshikawa Hirofumi , Tanaka Daisuke
Published: November 2019

A new design strategy for the high-performance organic cathode-active materials of lithium-ion batteries is presented, which involves the assembly of redox-active organic molecules with a crystalline porous structure.
Two-component assembly of recognition-encoded oligomers that form stable H-bonded duplexes
Authors: Gabrielli Luca , Núñez-Villanueva Diego , Hunter Christopher A.
Published: November 2019

Imine chemistry was used to assemble oligomers displaying phenol and phosphine oxide side chains that selectively base-pair to give duplexes, which are stable in chloroform solution.
Ionic equilibria and swelling of soft permeable particles in electrolyte solutions
Authors: Silkina Elena F. , Molotilin Taras Y. , Maduar Salim R. , Vinogradova Olga I.
Published: November 2019

We report an analytical theory and coarse-grained simulations of electro-osmotic equilibria of uniformly charged soft permeable particles immersed in electrolyte solutions.
Advances in our understanding of the structure and functionality of edible fats and fat mimetics
Authors: Marangoni Alejandro G. , van Duynhoven John P. M. , Acevedo Nuria C. , Nicholson Reed A. , Patel Ashok R.
Published: November 2019

Structural length scales within a fat crystal network, from TAG molecules packing into lamellae, crystalline nanoplatelets and fractal aggregates of nanoplatelets.
Discrete fluidization of dense monodisperse emulsions in neutral wetting microchannels
Authors: Fei Linlin , Scagliarini Andrea , Luo Kai H. , Succi Sauro
Published: November 2019

The fluidization of the emulsion proceeds in discrete steps, characterized by yielding events, leading to step-by-step jumps of the effective viscosity.
Two isoprenylated flavonoids from Dorstenia psilurus activate AMPK, stimulate glucose uptake, inhibit glucose production and lower glycemia
Authors: Choumessi Aphrodite T. , Johanns Manuel , Beaufay Claire , Herent Marie-France , Stroobant Vincent , Vertommen Didier , Corbet Cyril , Jacobs Roxane , Herinckx Gaëtan , Steinberg Gregory R. , Feron Olivier , Quetin-Leclercq Joëlle , Rider Mark H.
Published: November 2019

Root extracts of a Cameroon medicinal plant, Dorstenia psilurus, were purified by screening for AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activation in incubated mouse embryo fibroblasts (MEFs). Two isoprenylated flavones that activated AMPK were isolated. Compound 1 was identified as artelasticin by high-resolution electrospray ionization mass spectrometry and 2D-NMR while its structural isomer, compound 2, was isolated for the first time and differed only by the position of one double bond on one isoprenyl substituent. Treatment of MEFs with purified compound 1 or compound 2 led to rapid and robust AMPK activation at low micromolar concentrations and increased the intracellular AMP:ATP ratio. In oxygen consumption experiments on isolated rat liver mitochondria, compound 1 and compound 2 inhibited complex II of the electron transport chain and in freeze–thawed mitochondria succinate dehydrogenase was inhibited. In incubated rat skeletal muscles, both compounds activated AMPK and stimulated glucose uptake. Moreover, these effects were lost in muscles pre-incubated with AMPK inhibitor SBI-0206965, suggesting AMPK dependency. Incubation of mouse hepatocytes with compound 1 or compound 2 led to AMPK activation, but glucose production was decreased in hepatocytes from both wild-type and AMPKβ1−/− mice, suggesting that this effect was not AMPK-dependent. However, when administered intraperitoneally to high-fat diet-induced insulin-resistant mice, compound 1 and compound 2 had blood glucose-lowering effects. In addition, compound 1 and compound 2 reduced the viability of several human cancer cells in culture. The flavonoids we have identified could be a starting point for the development of new drugs to treat type 2 diabetes.
Scale specified single shot multibox detector
Authors: Li Xiaoqiang , Liu Chuanwei , Dai Songmin , Lian Huichen , Ding Guangtai
Published: November 2019

Detecting objects at vastly different scales is a fundamental challenge in computer vision. To solve this, some approaches (e.g. TridentNet) investigate the effect of receptive fields, whereas other approaches (e.g. SNIP, SNIPER) are based on the image pyramid strategy. In this study, a novel single‐shot based detector, called scale specified single‐shot multibox detector (4SD) is proposed. It aims to predict objects of a specific scale range separately by using feature maps of different sizes. First, a parallel multi‐branch architecture with feature maps of different sizes is generated by scale specific inference module. Then, the authors propose a scale specific training scheme to specialise each branch by sampling object instances of proper scales for training. Results are shown on both PASCAL VOC and COCO detection. The proposed method can achieve a mean average precision of 83.1% on PASCAL VOC 2007, and 36.9% on MS‐COCO at a speed of 28 frames per second, which is superior to most single‐stage detectors.
Multi‐mode adaptive local reactive power control method based on PV inverters in low voltage distribution networks
Authors: Cai Yongxiang , Tang Wei , Li Li , Zhang Bo , Zhang Lu , Wang Yue
Published: November 2019

Low voltage distribution networks with the high penetration of photovoltaic (PV) units are facing four types of challenges, including over‐voltage issues, under‐voltage issues, voltage fluctuation issues and high power losses. In order to mitigate the above issues, this study proposes a multi‐mode adaptive local reactive power control method based on Q(P) characteristics. A new concept, node virtual injection active power (NVIP), is developed to take the PV active power, load active power and load reactive power as a whole and as the basis to regulate the PV reactive power. Then, an NVIP‐based multi‐mode local Q(P) framework is proposed to consider the four types of challenges based on four operation modes, respectively, that can be adaptively switched according to the NVIP value and the NVIP variation. In addition, a systematic parameter design for the Q(P) framework is proposed based on an optimisation model to further enhance the effectiveness of the proposed multi‐mode control. The simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method in mitigating voltage violations and voltage fluctuations, and improving the power losses and power factor.
Optimal dispatch and bidding strategy of a virtual power plant based on a Stackelberg game
Authors: Wu Hongbin , Liu Xin , Ye Bin , Xu Bin
Published: November 2019

The virtual power plant is a new type of energy management platform, which can aggregate a variety of distributed energy resources as a single generation unit to participate in the electricity market. When intermittent renewables make up a large share of the VPP, it will lead to high penalty costs in electricity market transactions. Therefore, it is necessary to optimize the internal power output and trading strategy of the virtual power plants to improve the overall operational economy. This paper deeply analyses the trading mechanism of the electricity market and models the risk cost of virtual power plants in the electricity market. Then a Stackelberg game model is established and the objective function is established to maximize the profit of the virtual power plant and minimize the cost of purchasing electricity by users. Finally, the results of a realistic case study are provided to show that the proposed approach can reduce the bidding bias of a virtual power plant in the electricity market, increase operating profit and reduce the cost of electricity purchasing. In addition, the impact of the load type and bidding method on the economy on a virtual power plant is analysed.
Probabilistic framework for transient stability contingency ranking of power grids with active distribution networks: application in post disturbance security assessment
Authors: Tajdinian Mohsen , Allahbakhshi Mehdi , Mohammadpourfard Mostafa , Mohammadi Behnam , Weng Yang , Dong Zhaoyang
Published: November 2019

The conventional distribution network is becoming an active grid due to widespread integration of distributed energy resources (DERs). This integration raises great concerns about security of the power system considering the growing interactions between the transmission and active distribution systems. One way to ensure stability of the integrated power system is prediction of critical contingencies which can jeopardize the power system security. Therefore, this paper aims to investigate transient stability contingency ranking in power grids considering the uncertainties raised by DERs of active distribution networks. To this end, probabilistic transient stability prediction framework is provided, in which the probability density function of transient stability condition is calculated based on the normalized stability indicators. The normalized stability indicators are based on the rotor angle and rotor speed. The normalized stability indicators are only utilized in the case of using fault data for prediction. Based on the proposed scheme, the instability of generators is anticipated through the proposed probabilistic transient stability prediction framework. Also, the effects of the probable topology changes on the line overload and also the voltage profile are investigated. Finally, the performance of the proposed method is validated and compared with the time domain simulation under various operating conditions.
Data‐driven efficient reliability evaluation of power systems with wind penetration: an integrated GANs and CE method
Authors: Zhuang Xinran , Ye Chengjin , Ding Yi , Cheng Lin , Song Yonghua , Ye Shuiquan , Tian Shiming , Chen Rong
Published: November 2019

The conventional Monte Carlo simulation may not be efficient enough for reliability evaluation of composite power systems. The cross‐entropy (CE) algorithm is a promising state‐of‐the‐art fast sampling method, while it has not been well developed in this field due to the implicit probability distributions of penetrated renewable energies. Specifically, the CE sampling requires the distributions of interest to be explicit and parametric, while some preconceived probabilistic distribution functions (PDFs) such as the Weibull distribution of wind speed make the results to deviate from the reality sometimes. In this study, a data‐driven efficient approach for reliability evaluation of power systems with wind penetration is proposed utilising generative adversarial networks (GANs) and CE sampling. The distributions of wind speeds in multiple wind farms are estimated by GANs considering their spatial correlation without any prior knowledge. With the trained generative network mapping from the explicit Gaussian noise to the raw wind speed data, the CE sampling is successfully enabled to efficiently sample the system states with implicit PDFs, which are associated with wind speeds and component failures. A real wind speed dataset and the RTS testing system are utilised to verify the proposed integrated method, including the accuracy of distribution estimation and reliability evaluation result, as well as the speed‐up efficiency of sampling.
Bargaining‐based cooperative game among multi‐aggregators with overlapping consumers in incentive‐based demand response
Authors: Zheng Shunlin , Sun Yi , Li Bin , Qi Bing , Shi Kun , Li Yuanfei , Du Yi
Published: November 2019

To solve irreconcilable pricing strategies of multi‐aggregators when overlapping consumers join in the incentive‐based demand response programs, this study proposes a bargaining‐based cooperative game among multi‐aggregators with overlapping consumers. In the game, bargaining set is designed as an unbiased agreement which benefits all players in the game. Nash equilibrium (NE) of the proposed bargaining‐based cooperative game is proved to exist uniquely, and the authors propose a hierarchical comparison algorithm to find the NE. In addition, the authors also propose a diverse compensation price (DCP) trading model between electric utility company (EUC) and demand response aggregators to save the cost of EUC and to improve the flexibility of trading. Simulation results not only verify the validity of the bargaining‐based cooperative game and the hierarchical comparison algorithm but also testify the merits of DCP trading model in saving the compensation cost of EUC.
Proportional multi‐resonant‐based controller design method enhanced with a lead compensator for stand‐alone mode three‐level three‐phase four‐leg advanced T‐NPC inverter system
Authors: Avci Emre , Ucar Mehmet
Published: November 2019

This study presents an inverter current sampled double‐loop proportional multi‐resonant (PMR)‐based control technique for three‐level (3L) three‐phase four‐leg (3P4L) advanced T‐type neutral point clamped (AT‐NPC) stand‐alone mode inverter. Apart from the conventional linear controller the PMR controller has the ability to track a sinusoidal reference and does not require any axis transformation. Therefore, the main advantage of the proposed control technique for a 3P4L inverter is to independently control the output phase voltages when feeding a single phase and/or three phase loads. This is achieved by the inverter current sampled double‐loop controller with a lead compensator in order to increase the control system phase margin unlike the capacitor current sampled controller. Thus, the harmonic compensation capability of the controller is increased which strengthens the controller against highly non‐linear load types. The design procedures of the controller for the system are analytically explained. Then, the steady‐state and dynamic performance of the controller is tested in a 3L 3P4L AT‐NPC inverter system through many simulations and experimental studies. The results verify the fast‐dynamic performance and the achievement of the low total harmonic distortion with a maximum of 2.89% for the 3L 3P4L AT‐NPC inverter system even under serious non‐linear load type.
Structure of a massive common envelope in the common-envelope wind model for Type Ia supernovae
Authors: Song Ren , Meng Xiangcun , Podsiadlowski Philipp , Cui Yingzhen
Published: November 2019

Context. Although Type Ia supernovae (SNe Ia) are important in many astrophysical fields, the nature of their progenitors is still unclear. A new version of the single-degenerate model has been developed recently, the common-envelope wind (CEW) model, in which the binary is enshrouded in a common envelope (CE) during the main accretion phase. This model is still in development and has a number of open issues, for example what is the exact appearance of such a system during the CE phase?

Aims. In this paper we investigate this question for a system with a massive CE.

Methods. We use a thermally pulsing asymptotic giant branch (TPAGB) star with a CO core of 0.976 M⊙ and an envelope of 0.6 M⊙ to represent the binary system. The effects of the companion’s gravity and the rotation of the CE are mimicked by modifying the gravitational constant. The energy input from the friction between the binary and the CE is taken into account by an extra heating source.

Results. For a thick envelope, the modified TPAGB star looks similar to a canonical TPAGB star but with a smaller radius, a higher effective temperature, and a higher surface luminosity. This is primarily caused by the effect of the companion’s gravity, which is the dominant factor in changing the envelope structure. The mixing length at the position of the companion can be larger than the local radius, implying a breakdown of mixing-length theory and suggesting the need for more turbulence in this region. The modified TPAGB star is more stable than the canonical TPAGB star and the CE density around the companion is significantly higher than that assumed in the original CEW model.

Conclusions. Future work will require the modelling of systems with lower envelope masses and the inclusion of hydrodynamical effects during the CE phase.