bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nucleosome positioning stability is a modulator of germline mutation rate variation across the human genome
Authors: Li Cai , Luscombe Nicholas M.
Published: March 2020

Nucleosome organization has been suggested to affect local mutation rates in the genome. However, the lack of de novo mutation and high-resolution nucleosome data has limited the investigation of this hypothesis. Additionally, analyses using indirect mutation rate measurements have yielded contradictory and potentially confounding results. Here, we combine data on >300,000 human de novo mutations with high-resolution nucleosome maps and find substantially elevated mutation rates around translationally stable (‘strong’) nucleosomes. We show that the mutational mechanisms affected by strong nucleosomes are low-fidelity replication, insufficient mismatch repair and increased double-strand breaks. Strong nucleosomes preferentially locate within young SINE/LINE transposons, suggesting that when subject to increased mutation rates, transposons are then more rapidly inactivated. Depletion of strong nucleosomes in older transposons suggests frequent positioning changes during evolution. The findings have important implications for human genetics and genome evolution.
Locally-adapted reproductive photoperiodism determines population vulnerability to climate change in burying beetles
Authors: Tsai Hsiang-Yu , Rubenstein Dustin R. , Fan Yu-Meng , Yuan Tzu-Neng , Chen Bo-Fei , Tang Yezhong , Chen I-Ching , Shen Sheng-Feng
Published: March 2020

Understanding how phenotypic traits vary among populations inhabiting different environments is critical for predicting a species’ vulnerability to climate change. Yet, little is known about the key functional traits that determine the distribution of populations and the main mechanisms—phenotypic plasticity vs. local adaptation—underlying intraspecific functional trait variation. Using the Asian burying beetleNicrophorus nepalensis, we demonstrate that mountain ranges differing in elevation and latitude offer unique thermal environments in which two functional traits—thermal tolerance and reproductive photoperiodism—interact to shape breeding phenology. We show that populations on different mountain ranges maintain similar thermal tolerances, but differ in reproductive photoperiodism. Through common garden and reciprocal transplant experiments, we confirm that reproductive photoperiodism is locally adapted and not phenotypically plastic. Accordingly, year-round breeding populations on mountains of intermediate elevation are likely to be most susceptible to future warming because maladaptation occurs when beetles try to breed at warmer temperatures.
Small molecule regulated sgRNAs enable control of genome editing in E. coli by Cas9
Authors: Iwasaki Roman S. , Ozdilek Bagdeser A. , Garst Andrew D. , Choudhury Alaksh , Batey Robert T.
Published: March 2020

CRISPR-Cas9 has led to great advances in gene editing for a broad spectrum of applications. To further the utility of Cas9 there have been efforts to achieve temporal control over its nuclease activity. While different approaches have focused on regulation of CRISPR interference or editing in mammalian cells, none of the reported methods enable control of the nuclease activity in bacteria. Here, we develop RNA linkers to combine theophylline- and 3-methylxanthine (3MX)-binding aptamers with the sgRNA, enabling small molecule-dependent editing in Escherichia coli. These activatable guide RNAs enable temporal and post-transcriptional control of in vivo gene editing. Further, they reduce the death of host cells caused by cuts in the genome, a major limitation of CRISPR-mediated bacterial recombineering.
Exploration of sensory and spinal neurons expressing gastrin-releasing peptide in itch and pain related behaviors
Authors: Barry Devin M. , Liu Xue-Ting , Liu Benlong , Liu Xian-Yu , Gao Fang , Zeng Xiansi , Liu Juan , Yang Qianyi , Wilhelm Steven , Yin Jun , Tao Ailin , Chen Zhou-Feng
Published: March 2020

Gastrin-releasing peptide (GRP) functions as a neurotransmitter for non-histaminergic itch, but its site of action (sensory neurons vs spinal cord) remains controversial. To determine the role of GRP in sensory neurons, we generated a floxed Grp mouse line. We found that conditional knockout of Grp in sensory neurons results in attenuated non-histaminergic itch, without impairing histamine-induced itch. Using a Grp-Cre knock-in mouse line, we show that the upper epidermis of the skin is exclusively innervated by GRP fibers, whose activation via optogeneics and chemogenetics in the skin evokes itch- but not pain-related scratching or wiping behaviors. In contrast, intersectional genetic ablation of spinal Grp neurons does not affect itch nor pain transmission, demonstrating that spinal Grp neurons are dispensable for itch transmission. These data indicate that GRP is a neuropeptide in sensory neurons for non-histaminergic itch, and GRP sensory neurons are dedicated to itch transmission.
Anthoceros genomes illuminate the origin of land plants and the unique biology of hornworts
Authors: Li Fay-Wei , Nishiyama Tomoaki , Waller Manuel , Frangedakis Eftychios , Keller Jean , Li Zheng , Fernandez-Pozo Noe , Barker Michael S. , Bennett Tom , Blázquez Miguel A. , Cheng Shifeng , Cuming Andrew C. , de Vries Jan , de Vries Sophie , Delaux Pierre-Marc , Diop Issa S. , Harrison C. Jill , Hauser Duncan , Hernández-García Jorge , Kirbis Alexander , Meeks John C. , Monte Isabel , Mutte Sumanth K. , Neubauer Anna , Quandt Dietmar , Robison Tanner , Shimamura Masaki , Rensing Stefan A. , Villarreal Juan Carlos , Weijers Dolf , Wicke Susann , Wong Gane K.-S. , Sakakibara Keiko , Szövényi Péter
Published: March 2020

Hornworts comprise a bryophyte lineage that diverged from other extant land plants >400 million years ago and bears unique biological features, including a distinct sporophyte architecture, cyanobacterial symbiosis and a pyrenoid-based carbon-concentrating mechanism (CCM). Here, we provide three high-quality genomes ofAnthoceroshornworts. Phylogenomic analyses place hornworts as a sister clade to liverworts plus mosses with high support. TheAnthocerosgenomes lack repeat-dense centromeres as well as whole-genome duplication, and contain a limited transcription factor repertoire. Several genes involved in angiosperm meristem and stomatal function are conserved inAnthocerosand upregulated during sporophyte development, suggesting possible homologies at the genetic level. We identified candidate genes involved in cyanobacterial symbiosis and found thatLCIB, aChlamydomonasCCM gene, is present in hornworts but absent in other plant lineages, implying a possible conserved role in CCM function. We anticipate that these hornwort genomes will serve as essential references for future hornwort research and comparative studies across land plants.
Rabi oscillations in a superconducting nanowire circuit
Authors: Schön Yannick , Voss Jan Nicolas , Wildermuth Micha , Schneider Andre , Skacel Sebastian T. , Weides Martin P. , Cole Jared H. , Rotzinger Hannes , Ustinov Alexey V.
Published: March 2020

We investigate the circuit quantum electrodynamics of anharmonic superconducting nanowire oscillators. The sample circuit consists of a capacitively shunted nanowire with a width of about 20 nm and a varying length up to 350 nm, capacitively coupled to an on-chip resonator. By applying microwave pulses we observe Rabi oscillations, measure coherence times and the anharmonicity of the circuit. Despite the very compact design, simple top-down fabrication and high degree of disorder in the oxidized (granular) aluminum material used, we observe lifetimes in the microsecond range.
Object responses are highly malleable, rather than invariant, with changes in object appearance
Authors: Holler Desiree E. , Fabbri Sara , Snow Jacqueline C.
Published: March 2020

Theoretical frameworks of human vision argue that object responses remain stable, or ‘invariant’, despite changes in viewing conditions that can alter object appearance but not identity. Here, in a major departure from previous approaches that have relied on two-dimensional (2-D) images to study object processing, we demonstrate that changes in an object’s appearance, but not its identity, can lead to striking shifts in behavioral responses to objects. We used inverse multidimensional scaling (MDS) to measure the extent to which arrangements of objects in a sorting task were similar or different when the stimuli were displayed as scaled 2-D images, three-dimensional (3-D) augmented reality (AR) projections, or real-world solids. We were especially interested in whether sorting behavior in each display format was based on conceptual (e.g., typical location) versus physical object characteristics. We found that 2-D images of objects were arranged according to conceptual (typical location), but not physical, properties. AR projections, conversely, were arranged primarily according to physical properties such as real-world size, elongation and weight, but not conceptual properties. Real-world solid objects, unlike both 2-D and 3-D images, were arranged using multidimensional criteria that incorporated both conceptual and physical object characteristics. Our results suggest that object responses can be strikingly malleable, rather than invariant, with changes in the visual characteristics of the stimulus. The findings raise important questions about limits of invariance in object processing, and underscore the importance of studying responses to richer stimuli that more closely resemble those we encounter in real-world environments.
Damage-free Metal Electrode Transfer to Monolayer Organic Single Crystalline Thin Films
Authors: Makita Tatsuyuki , Yamamura Akifumi , Tsurumi Junto , Kumagai Shohei , Kurosawa Tadanori , Okamoto Toshihiro , Sasaki Mari , Watanabe Shun , Takeya Jun
Published: March 2020

Solution-processed organic thin film transistors (OTFTs) are an essential building block for next-generation printed electronic devices. Organic semiconductors (OSCs) that can spontaneously form a molecular assembly play a vital role in the fabrication of OTFTs. OTFT fabrication processes consist of sequential deposition of functional layers, which inherently brings significant difficulties in realizing ideal properties because underlayers are likely to be damaged by application of subsequent layers. These difficulties are particularly prominent when forming metal contact electrodes directly on an OSC surface, due to thermal damage during vacuum evaporation and the effect of solvents during subsequent photolithography. In this work, we demonstrate a simple and facile technique to transfer contact electrodes to ultrathin OSC films and form an ideal metal/OSC interface. Photolithographically defined metal electrodes are transferred and laminated using a polymeric bilayer thin film. One layer is a thick sacrificial polymer film that makes the overall film easier to handle and is water-soluble for dissolution later. The other is a thin buffer film that helps the template adhere to a substrate electrostatically. The present technique does not induce any fatal damage in the substrate OSC layers, which leads to successful fabrication of OTFTs composed of monolayer OSC films with a mobility of higher than 10 cm2 V−1 s−1, a subthreshold swing of less than 100 mV decade−1, and a low contact resistance of 175 Ω⋅cm. The reproducibility of efficient contact fabrication was confirmed by the operation of a 10 × 10 array of monolayer OTFTs. The technique developed here constitutes a key step forward not only for practical OTFT fabrication but also potentially for all existing vertically stacked organic devices, such as light-emitting diodes and solar cells.
Analysing The Cross-Section of The Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Neck and Its Effects on Stent Deployment
Authors: Kyriakou Faidon , Dempster William , Nash David
Published: March 2020

Stent graft devices for the treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) are being increasingly used worldwide. Yet, during modelling and optimization of these devices, as well as in clinical practice, vascular sections are idealized, possibly compromising the effectiveness of the intervention. In this study, we challenge the commonly used approximation of the circular cross-section of the aorta and identify the implications of this approximation to the mechanical assessment of stent grafts. Using computed tomography angiography (CTA) data from 258 AAA patients, the lumen of the aneurysmal neck was analysed. The cross-section of the aortic neck was found to be an independent variable, uncorrelated to other geometrical aspects of the region, and its shape was non-circular reaching elliptical ratios as low as 0.77. These results were used to design a finite element analysis (FEA) study for the assessment of a ring stent bundle deployed under a variety of aortic cross-sections. Results showed that the most common clinical approximations of the vascular cross-section can be a source of significant error when calculating the maximum stent strains (underestimated by up to 69%) and radial forces (overestimated by up to 13%). Nevertheless, a less frequently used average approximation was shown to yield satisfactory results (5% and 2% of divergence respectively).
Self-Propelling Targeted Magneto-Nanobots for Deep Tumor Penetration and pH-Responsive Intracellular Drug Delivery
Authors: Andhari Saloni S. , Wavhale Ravindra D. , Dhobale Kshama D. , Tawade Bhausaheb V. , Chate Govind P. , Patil Yuvraj N. , Khandare Jayant J. , Banerjee Shashwat S.
Published: March 2020

Self-propelling magnetic nanorobots capable of intrinsic-navigation in biological fluids with enhanced pharmacokinetics and deeper tissue penetration implicates promising strategy in targeted cancer therapy. Here, multi-component magnetic nanobot designed by chemically conjugating magnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles (NPs), anti-epithelial cell adhesion molecule antibody (anti-EpCAM mAb) to multi-walled carbon nanotubes (CNT) loaded with an anticancer drug, doxorubicin hydrochloride (DOX) is reported. Autonomous propulsion of the nanobots and their external magnetic guidance is enabled by enriching Fe3O4 NPs with dual catalytic-magnetic functionality. The nanobots propel at high velocities even in complex biological fluids. In addition, the nanobots preferably release DOX in the intracellular lysosomal compartment of human colorectal carcinoma (HCT116) cells by the opening of Fe3O4 NP gate. Further, nanobot reduce ex vivo HCT116 tumor spheroids more efficiently than free DOX. The multicomponent nanobot’s design represents a more pronounced method in targeting tumors with self-assisted anticancer drug delivery for ‘far-reaching’ sites in treating cancers.
Development and characterization of mammary intraductal (MIND) spontaneous metastasis models for triple-negative breast cancer in syngeneic mice
Authors: Luo Xu-Liang , Lin Lan , Hu Hui , Hu Fang-Ling , Lin Yan , Luo Man-Ling , Wang Lin , He Yuan-Qiao
Published: March 2020

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) has a more aggressive phenotype and higher metastasis and recurrence rates than other breast cancer subtypes. TNBC currently lacks a transplantation model that is suitable for clinical simulations of the tumor microenvironment. Intraductal injection of tumor cells into the mammary duct could mimic the occurrence and development of breast cancer. Herein, we injected 4T1 cells into the mammary ducts of BALB/C mice to build a preclinical model of TNBC and optimized the related construction method to observe the occurrence and spontaneous metastasis of tumors. We compared the effects of different cell numbers on tumorigenesis rates, times to tumorigenesis, and metastases to determine the optimal number of cells for modelling. We demonstrated that 4T1-MIND model mice injected with 20,000 cells revealed a suitable tumor formation rate and time, thus indicating a potential treatment time window after distant metastasis. We also injected 20,000 cells directly into the breast fat pad or breast duct for parallel comparison. The results still showed that the 4T1-MIND model provides sufficient treatment time for lung metastases in mice and that it is a more reliable model for early tumor development. The 4T1-MIND model requires continuous improvement and optimization. A suitable and optimized model for translational research and studies on the microenvironment in TNBC should be developed.
Author Correction: Genotyping by sequencing provides new insights into the diversity of Napier grass (Cenchrus purpureus) and reveals variation in genome-wide LD patterns between collections
Authors: Muktar Meki S. , Teshome Abel , Hanson Jean , Negawo Alemayehu T. , Habte Ermias , Domelevo Entfellner Jean-Baka , Lee Ki-Won , Jones Chris S.
Published: March 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Upregulation of large myelin protein zero leads to Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease-like neuropathy in mice
Authors: Otani Yoshinori , Ohno Nobuhiko , Cui Jingjing , Yamaguchi Yoshihide , Baba Hiroko
Published: March 2020

Charcot–Marie–Tooth (CMT) disease is a hereditary neuropathy mainly caused by gene mutation of peripheral myelin proteins including myelin protein zero (P0, MPZ). Large myelin protein zero (L-MPZ) is an isoform of P0 that contains an extended polypeptide synthesized by translational readthrough at the C-terminus in tetrapods, including humans. The physiological role of L-MPZ and consequences of an altered L-MPZ/P0 ratio in peripheral myelin are not known. To clarify this, we used genome editing to generate a mouse line (L-MPZ mice) that produced L-MPZ instead of P0. Motor tests and electrophysiological, immunohistological, and electron microscopy analyses show that homozygous L-MPZ mice exhibit CMT-like phenotypes including thin and/or loose myelin, increased small-caliber axons, and disorganized axo–glial interactions. Heterozygous mice show a milder phenotype. These results highlight the importance of an appropriate L-MPZ/P0 ratio and show that aberrant readthrough of a myelin protein causes neuropathy.
A learning based framework for diverse biomolecule relationship prediction in molecular association network
Authors: Guo Zhen-Hao , You Zhu-Hong , Huang De-Shuang , Yi Hai-Cheng , Chen Zhan-Heng , Wang Yan-Bin
Published: March 2020

Abundant life activities are maintained by various biomolecule relationships in human cells. However, many previous computational models only focus on isolated objects, without considering that cell is a complete entity with ample functions. Inspired by holism, we constructed a Molecular Associations Network (MAN) including 9 kinds of relationships among 5 types of biomolecules, and a prediction model called MAN-GF. More specifically, biomolecules can be represented as vectors by the algorithm called biomarker2vec which combines 2 kinds of information involved the attribute learned by k-mer, etc and the behavior learned by Graph Factorization (GF). Then, Random Forest classifier is applied for training, validation and test. MAN-GF obtained a substantial performance with AUC of 0.9647 and AUPR of 0.9521 under 5-fold Cross-validation. The results imply that MAN-GF with an overall perspective can act as ancillary for practice. Besides, it holds great hope to provide a new insight to elucidate the regulatory mechanisms.
Splitting and recombination of bright-solitary-matter waves
Authors: Wales Oliver J. , Rakonjac Ana , Billam Thomas P. , Helm John L. , Gardiner Simon A. , Cornish Simon L.
Published: March 2020

Atomic Bose–Einstein condensates confined in quasi-1D waveguides can support bright-solitary-matter waves when interatomic interactions are sufficiently attractive to cancel dispersion. Such solitary-matter waves are excellent candidates for highly sensitive interferometers, as their non-dispersive nature allows them to acquire phase shifts for longer times than conventional matter-wave interferometers. In this work, we demonstrate experimentally the splitting and recombination of a bright-solitary-matter wave on a narrow repulsive barrier, realizing the fundamental components of an interferometer. We show that for a sufficiently narrow barrier, interference-mediated recombination can dominate over velocity-filtering effects. Our theoretical analysis shows that interference-mediated recombination is extremely sensitive to the barrier position, predicting strong oscillations in the interferometer output as the barrier position is adjusted over just a few micrometres. These results highlight the potential of soliton interferometry, while putting tight constraints on the barrier stability needed in future experimental implementations.
Silicon dioxide nanoparticles alleviate the threats of broomrape infection in tomato by inducing cell wall fortification and modulating ROS homeostasis
Authors: Madany Mahmoud M. Y. , Saleh Ahmed M. , Habeeb Talaat H. , Hozzein Wael N. , AbdElgawad Hamada
Published: March 2020

An infographic diagram that summarizes the influence of SiNP-seed priming upon tomato plants underOrobancheinfection conditions. GRW: growth, PHO: photosynthesis, NEAO: non-enzymatic antioxidants, ASE: antioxidant-scavenging enzymes.
The prophylactic effects of different Lactobacilli on collagen-induced arthritis in rats
Authors: Fan Zhexin , Yang Bo , Ross R. Paul , Stanton Catherine , Zhao Jianxin , Zhang Hao , Chen Wei
Published: March 2020

The current study evaluated the prophylactic effects of differentLactobacillusspecies on arthritis induced by collagen.
Low-dose ethanol intake prevents high-fat diet-induced adverse cardiovascular events in mice
Authors: Nie Junhui , Ngokana Linel Darrel , Kou Jiayuan , Zhao Yuchen , Tu Jiajie , Ji Heng , Tan Peizhu , Zhao Tingting , Cao Yuwei , Wu Zhaojing , Wang Qi , Ren Shuangfeng , Xuan Xiuchen , Huang Hui , Li Yanze , Liang Huan , Gao Xu , Zhou Lingyun
Published: March 2020

This study aimed to clarify whether low-dose ethanol intake could prevent high-fat diet-induced adverse effects on cardiomyocytes in mice.
Polymers from sugars and unsaturated fatty acids: ADMET polymerisation of monomers derived from d-xylose, d-mannose and castor oil
Authors: Piccini Marco , Leak David J. , Chuck Christopher J. , Buchard Antoine
Published: March 2020

High molecular weight renewable polyesters are synthesised from an unsaturated fatty acid and structurally unmodified, hemicellulosic sugars, with post-polymerisation modification inducing semicrystallinity and allowing casting of transparent films.
The surface chemistry of a nanocellulose drug carrier unravelled by MAS-DNP
Authors: Kumar Akshay , Durand Hippolyte , Zeno Elisa , Balsollier Cyril , Watbled Bastien , Sillard Cecile , Fort Sébastien , Baussanne Isabelle , Belgacem Naceur , Lee Daniel , Hediger Sabine , Demeunynck Martine , Bras Julien , De Paëpe Gaël
Published: March 2020

DNP-enhanced solid-state NMR unravels the surface chemistry of functionalized nanocellulose.
Two-step pyrolytic engineering of carbon-doped Co3O4 with rich defects for efficient low-temperature CO oxidation
Authors: Chen Xi , Li Juanjuan , Cai Songcai , Chen Jing , Jia Hongpeng
Published: March 2020

Carbon-doped cobalt oxide with rich defects was rationally fabricated, exhibiting good catalytic performance and strong durability for CO oxidation.
Hierarchically porous UiO-66 with tunable mesopores and oxygen vacancies for enhanced arsenic removal
Authors: Xu Rongming , Ji Qinghua , Zhao Pin , Jian Meipeng , Xiang Chao , Hu Chengzhi , Zhang Gong , Tang Chaochun , Liu Ruiping , Zhang Xiwang , Qu Jiuhui
Published: March 2020

An ultrahigh arsenic uptake capacity was achieved using a hierarchically porous UiO-66 with tunable mesopores and active sites.
Recent progress in high-performance photo-detectors enabled by the pulsed laser deposition technology
Authors: Wang Bing , Bin Zhang Zhi , Zhong Shi Peng , Zheng Zhao Qiang , Xu Ping , Zhang Han
Published: March 2020

This review introduces recent advances in the materials, fabrication and application of pulsed-laser deposition for high performance photo-detectors from an overall perspective. Challenges and future development trends are also discussed.
Recent developments of nanoenzyme-based colorimetric sensors for heavy metal detection and the interaction mechanism
Authors: Yan Zhengquan , Yuan Hua , Zhao Qi , Xing Lin , Zheng Xiaoyu , Wang Weiguo , Zhao Yulei , Yu Yang , Hu Lei , Yao Wenli
Published: March 2020

This work highlights the application and interaction mechanism of metal nanoparticles, metal oxides, metal sulfides, graphene-based nanomaterials and G-quadruplex, etc. in nanoenzyme-based colorimetric sensors.
In situ multiplex detection of serum exosomal microRNAs using an all-in-one biosensor for breast cancer diagnosis
Authors: Wang Huizhen , He Dinggeng , Wan Kejing , Sheng Xiaowu , Cheng Hong , Huang Jin , Zhou Xiao , He Xiaoxiao , Wang Kemin
Published: March 2020

Herein, a simple all-in-one biosensor based on a DNA three-way junction has been constructed for in situ simultaneous detection of multiple miRNAs by competitive strand displacement.
Evidence of reaction intermediates in microwave-assisted synthesis of SHG active α-La(IO3)3nanocrystals
Authors: Regny Sylvain , Suffren Yan , Leynaud Olivier , Gautier-Luneau Isabelle , Dantelle Géraldine
Published: March 2020

Highlighting the lanthanum iodates compounds and phase transformations through microwave-assisted hydrothermal syntheses.
Impact of electronic polarizability on protein-functional group interactions
Authors: Goel Himanshu , Yu Wenbo , Ustach Vincent D. , Aytenfisu Asaminew H. , Sun Delin , MacKerell Alexander D.
Published: March 2020

Interactions of proteins with functional groups are key to their biological functions, making it essential that they be accurately modeled.
Exploring the synergistic effect of NixSn2xS4xthiospinel with MWCNTs for enhanced performance in dye-sensitized solar cells, the hydrogen evolution reaction, and supercapacitors
Authors: Saravanakumar T. , Selvaraju T. , Bhojanaa K. B. , Ramesh M. , Pandikumar A. , Akilan R. , Shankar R. , Sardhar Basha S. J.
Published: March 2020

Trifunctional thiospinel-like M–NixSn2xS4xnanocomposite was synthesized with ease.
Efficient extraction of slowly-released Cr(vi) from nano-sized ion channels in Cr(vi)–ettringite from reduced chromite ore processing residue
Authors: Liu Weizhen , Song Yao , Li Jing , Ling Lan , Tian Chen , Liu Xueming , Lin Zhang
Published: March 2020

Complete extraction of Cr(vi) from rCOPR which involved ion exchange in ion channels of Cr(vi)–ettringite, formation and growth of nano-CaCO3.
Conversion of birch bark to biofuels
Authors: Kumaniaev Ivan , Navare Kranti , Crespo Mendes Natalia , Placet Vincent , Van Acker Karel , Samec Joseph S. M.
Published: March 2020

Birch bark was converted to a hydrocarbon biofuel through solubilization and hydrotreatment. The procedure implements a recyclable, salt- and metal-free solvent system and has been evaluated by Life-Cycle Assessment.
Investigation of the multi-elemental self-absorption mechanism and experimental optimization in laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy
Authors: Cai Song , Tang Yun , Wang Fan , Xiong Yonggang , Sun Xiao , Ming Xingzu
Published: March 2020

The self-absorption effect reduces the accuracy of element measurements in laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) experiments.
Nanophotonics based label free detection mechanism for real-time monitoring of interleukin-6
Authors: Khan Munezza A. , Mujahid Mohammad , Loo Say Chye Joachim , Chamundeswari Vidya N.
Published: March 2020

Magneto-photonic crystals/MPCs are promising candidates for devising high-fidelity embedded biosensor systems which offer facile & real time detection of diagnostic proteins.
Organocatalytic carbon dioxide fixation to epoxides by perfluorinated 1,3,5-triols catalysts
Authors: Sperandio Céline , Rodriguez Jean , Quintard Adrien
Published: March 2020

A new type of perfluorinated triol catalysts of enhanced acidity was developed for the selective opening of epoxide to carbonates. This useful transformation using TBAI as co-catalyst is performed under only 1 atmosphere of CO2 at 30 to 80 °C.
First-principles prediction of chemically functionalized InN monolayers: electronic and optical properties
Authors: Vu Tuan V. , Pham Khang D. , Pham Tri Nhut , Vo Dat D. , Dang Phuc Toan , Nguyen Chuong V. , Phuc Huynh V. , Binh Nguyen T. T. , Hoat D. M. , Hieu Nguyen N.
Published: March 2020

In this work, we consider the electronic and optical properties of chemically functionalized InN monolayers with F and Cl atoms (i.e., F–InN–F, F–InN–Cl, Cl–InN–F, Cl–InN–Cl monolayers) using first-principles calculations.
Improving the crystal growth of a Cs0.24FA0.76PbI3−xBrx perovskite in a vapor–solid reaction process using strontium iodide
Authors: Deng Xi , Hua Jingchen , Huang Fuzhi , Peng Yong , Li Wangnan , Ku Zhiliang , Cheng Yi-bing
Published: March 2020

Preparing organic–inorganic hybrid perovskite films by deploying vacuum-based methods, which are widely used for industrial thin-film deposition, is expected to promote the commercialization of perovskite solar cells.
Nanoconfined gelation of polyacrylonitrile, poly(vinyl alcohol), and isotactic polypropylene probed by calorimetry
Authors: Espinosa-Dzib Alejandra , Vyazovkin Sergey
Published: March 2020

Confined to silica nanopores gelation releases markedly less heat and occurs at a significantly higher temperature than that in respective bulk systems.
Boosting electrochemical water oxidation: the merits of heterostructured electrocatalysts
Authors: Zhao Guoqiang , Rui Kun , Dou Shi Xue , Sun Wenping
Published: March 2020

Heterostructure interface engineering brings about substantial possibilities for designing efficient electrocatalysts toward the oxygen evolution reaction.
Conductive cobalt doped niobium nitride porous spheres as an efficient polysulfide convertor for advanced lithium-sulfur batteries
Authors: Ge Weini , Wang Lu , Li Chuanchuan , Wang Chunsheng , Wang Debao , Qian Yitai , Xu Liqiang
Published: March 2020

Porous Co-NbN spheres with excellent conductivity are used as sulfur hosts for lithium-sulfur batteries, which deliver excellent long-term cycle stability and performance with a high sulfur loading and lean electrolyte.
N2 positively charged defects in diamond. A quantum mechanical investigation of the structural, electronic, EPR and vibrational properties
Authors: Di Palma Giulio , Gentile Francesco Silvio , Lacivita Valentina , Mackrodt William C. , Causà Mauro , Dovesi Roberto
Published: March 2020

Structural, EPR and vibrational characterization of the N2, N+2 and N++2 defects in diamond from ab initio quantum-mechanical calculations with the CRYSTAL code.
Allosteric modulation of the GTPase activity of a bacterial LRRK2 homolog by conformation-specific Nanobodies
Authors: Leemans Margaux , Galicia Christian , Deyaert Egon , Daems Elise , Krause Linda , Paesmans Jone , Pardon Els , Steyaert Jan , Kortholt Arjan , Sobott Frank , Klostermeier Dagmar , Versées Wim
Published: March 2020

Mutations in the Parkinson's disease (PD)-associated protein leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) commonly lead to a reduction of GTPase activity and increase in kinase activity. Therefore, strategies for drug development have mainly been focusing on the design of LRRK2 kinase inhibitors. We recently showed that the central RocCOR domains (Roc: Ras of complex proteins; COR: C-terminal of Roc) of a bacterial LRRK2 homolog cycle between a dimeric and monomeric form concomitant with GTP binding and hydrolysis. PD-associated mutations can slow down GTP hydrolysis by stabilizing the protein in its dimeric form. Here, we report the identification of two Nanobodies (NbRoco1 and NbRoco2) that bind the bacterial Roco protein (CtRoco) in a conformation-specific way, with a preference for the GTP-bound state. NbRoco1 considerably increases the GTP turnover rate of CtRoco and reverts the decrease in GTPase activity caused by a PD-analogous mutation. We show that NbRoco1 exerts its effect by allosterically interfering with the CtRoco dimer–monomer cycle through the destabilization of the dimeric form. Hence, we provide the first proof of principle that allosteric modulation of the RocCOR dimer–monomer cycle can alter its GTPase activity, which might present a potential novel strategy to overcome the effect of LRRK2 PD mutations.
DsbA-L deficiency exacerbates mitochondrial dysfunction of tubular cells in diabetic kidney disease
Authors: Gao Peng , Yang Ming , Chen Xianghui , Xiong Shan , Liu Jiahao , Sun Lin
Published: March 2020

Excessive mitochondrial fission has been identified as the central pathogenesis of diabetic kidney disease (DKD), but the precise mechanisms remain unclear. Disulfide-bond A oxidoreductase-like protein (DsbA-L) is highly expressed in mitochondria in tubular cells of the kidney, but its pathophysiological role in DKD is unknown. Our bioinformatics analysis showed that tubular DsbA-L mRNA levels were positively associated with eGFR but negatively associated with Scr and 24h-proteinuria in CKD patients. Furthermore, the genes that were coexpressed with DsbA-L were mainly enriched in mitochondria and were involved in oxidative phosphorylation. In vivo, knockout of DsbA-L exacerbated diabetic mice tubular cell mitochondrial fragmentation, oxidative stress and renal damage. In vitro, we found that DsbA-L was localized in the mitochondria of HK-2 cells. High glucose (HG, 30 mM) treatment decreased DsbA-L expression followed by increased mitochondrial ROS (mtROS) generation and mitochondrial fragmentation. In addition, DsbA-L knockdown exacerbated these abnormalities, but this effect was reversed by overexpression of DsbA-L. Mechanistically, under HG conditions, knockdown DsbA-L expression accentuated JNK phosphorylation in HK-2 cells. Furthermore, administration of a JNK inhibitor (SP600125) or the mtROS scavenger MitoQ significantly attenuated JNK activation and subsequent mitochondrial fragmentation in DsbA-L-knockdown HK-2 cells. Additionally, the down-regulation of DsbA-L also amplified the gene and protein expression of mitochondrial fission factor (MFF) via the JNK pathway, enhancing its ability to recruit DRP1 to mitochondria. Taken together, these results link DsbA-L to alterations in mitochondrial dynamics during tubular injury in the pathogenesis of DKD and unveil a novel mechanism by which DsbA-L modifies mtROS/JNK/MFF-related mitochondrial fission.
Symbol cyclic reconstruction scheme for UFMC‐based systems
Authors: Chen Lei , Yu Jianguo , Tian Xiaoyan
Published: March 2020

This Letter proposes a symbol cyclic reconstruction scheme for universal‐filtered multi‐carrier (UFMC) systems. In this scheme, the overlap‐add technique is employed to reduce the computational complexity of the system transmitter. At the receiver, ISI cancellation is performed to remove the interference between neighbouring overlapped symbols. Then, a cyclic reconstruction algorithm is proposed to eliminate the interference caused by the linear shift. This scheme effectively improves the transmission efficiency in multipath channel environments while ensuring the bit error rate performance. Simulation results show that the TE of the proposed scheme is much higher than that of standard UFMC and cyclic prefix ‐OFDM systems.
Novel colour image encoding system combined with ANN for discharges pattern recognition on polluted insulator model
Authors: Ferrah Imene , Chaou Ahmed Khaled , Maadjoudj Djamal , Teguar Madjid
Published: March 2020

This study introduces a novel methodology for electrical discharges recognition elaborating an algorithm based on the RGB colour image model and artificial neural network (ANN) classifier. The developed RGB‐ANN algorithm aims to detect and monitor the propagation of electrical discharges until flashover, through analysis of six colours appearing in the discharges images, extracted from the flashover videos recorded on a plan glass insulator model under uniform pollution. First, more than 300 colours images are collected and divided into sets to form a large database. Using an RGB encoding system, each pixel is represented by (R, G, B) coordinates and each image is encoded by 3D matrix. For the discharge image, the coordinates of each pixel are compared to all database ones. The colour of the database having the same coordinates of the discharge image pixel is attributed to this latter. Based on the ratio of the pixels number of a given colour to the total pixels number of the discharge image, six indicators are quantified and grouped to form a feature vector. This latter is used as input of the ANN, in order to classify the evolution of discharges into five classes. As the main result, >98% of images have been well classified.
Design, implementation and experimental characterisation of a high sensitivity GMI gradiometer with an interference compensation system
Authors: Riveros Pedro A.D. , Silva Eduardo C. , Pacheco Salvador , Cabrera Lizeth S.B. , Barbosa Carlos R.H.
Published: March 2020

The giant magneto‐impedance (GMI) effect has been, since its discovery, one of the most promising technologies in the development of magnetic sensors. Features such as high sensitivity, stability and low cost are the main reasons for the development of this type of magnetometers. This study reports the design, implementation and experimental characterisation of a high sensitivity GMI gradiometer, aimed at measuring low‐intensity magnetic fields. A first‐order gradiometer was designed, based on the impedance phase characteristics of two Co70Fe5Si15B10 amorphous ribbon‐shaped sensors connected to an electronic circuit that converts the magnetic field into an output voltage. The developed prototype can operate not only as gradiometer but also as two separate magnetometers, which allows it to incorporate a compensation system against deviations in the biasing field of the GMI sensors. The experimental results for the gradiometer showed a sensitivity of 99 mV/μT, a measuring range of ±30 μT, a magnetic noise of 5 nT Hz−1/2 at 5 Hz and a resolution of 40 nT within a 500 Hz bandwidth. The compensation system has shown a settling time of 1.6 s for perturbations in the range ±10 μT with a steady‐state error <0.02%. All experiments were performed in an unshielded environment.
Continuation of the X-ray monitoring of Sgr A*: the increase in bright flaring rate confirmed
Authors: Mossoux E. , Finociety B. , Beckers J.-M. , Vincent F. H.
Published: March 2020

Context.The supermassive black hole Sagittarius A* (Sgr A*) is located at the dynamical center of the Milky Way. In a recent study of the X-ray flaring activity from Sgr A* usingChandra,XMM-Newton, andSwiftobservations from 1999 to 2015, it has been argued that the bright flaring rate has increased from 2014 August 31 while the faint flaring rate decreased from around 2013 August.

Aims.We tested the persistence of these changes in the flaring rates with new X-ray observations of Sgr A* performed from 2016 to 2018 (total exposure of 1.4 Ms).

Methods.We reprocessed theChandra,XMM-Newton,andSwiftobservations from 2016 to 2018. We detected 9 flares in theChandradata and 5 flares in theSwiftdata that we added to the set of 107 previously detected flares. We computed the intrinsic distribution of flare fluxes and durations corrected for the sensitivity bias using a new method that allowed us to take the error on the flare fluxes and durations into account. From this intrinsic distribution, we determined the average flare detection efficiency for eachChandra,XMM-Newton,andSwiftobservation. After correcting each observational exposure for this efficiency, we applied the Bayesian blocks algorithm on the concatenated flare arrival times. As in the above-mentioned study, we also searched for a flux and fluence threshold that might lead to a change in flaring rate. We improved the previous method by computing the average flare detection efficiencies for each flux and fluence range.

Results.The Bayesian block algorithm did not detect any significant change in flaring rate of the 121 flares. However, we detected an increase by a factor of about three in the flaring rate of the most luminous and most energetic flares that have occurred since 2014 August 30.

Conclusions.The X-ray activity of Sgr A* has increased for more than four years. Additional studies about the overall near-infrared and radio behavior of Sgr A* are required to draw strong results on the multiwavelength activity of the black hole.
Berufspolitik
Authors: Wiegard-Szramek Ina , Eikelmann Matthias , Reichardt Michael
Published: March 2020

Was treibt Pflegekräfte an, sich für Patienten, Kollegen und das Umfeld in der Nephrologie zu engagieren? Auf der Fahrt in den Urlaub habe ich mich am Bahnhof mit Reiselektüre ausgestattet, und schon der erste Artikel hat mich unvermittelt in meinen Arbeitsalltag als Dialyseschwester und als aktives Mitglied des fnb e. V. zurückversetzt – sinngemäß stand dort: Künstliche Intelligenz ist ein Marketingtrick aus den 1950er-Jahren. Sie soll uns das Leben erleichtern. Trotzdem warnt die Autorin, Informatik-Professorin Dr. Katharina Zweig davor, Computern zu viel Macht zu geben: Denn der Mensch ist komplex, die Maschine ist es nicht. Wo ist jetzt der Zusammenhang mit dem Arbeitsalltag oder der Vorstandsarbeit des fnb e. V. zu sehen?
MicroRNAs and Adrenocortical Tumors: Where do we Stand on Primary
Aldosteronism?
Authors: Tömböl Zsófia , Turai Péter István , Decmann Ábel , Igaz Peter
Published: March 2020

MicroRNAs, the endogenous mediators of RNA interference, interact with the
renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, regulate aldosterone secretion and
aldosterone effects. Some novel data show that the expression of some microRNAs
is altered in primary aldosteronism, and some of these appear to have pathogenic
relevance, as well. Differences in the circulating microRNA expression profiles
between the two major forms of primary aldosteronism, unilateral
aldosterone-producing adenoma and bilateral adrenal hyperplasia have also been
shown. Here, we present a brief synopsis of these findings focusing on the
potential relevance of microRNA in primary aldosteronism.
A Comparative Three-Dimensional Finite Element Study of Two Space Regainers in the Mixed Dentition Stage
Authors: Hakim Mohamed Ahmed Abdel , Khatab Nagwa Mohamed Ali , Mohamed Kareem Maher Gaber , Elheeny Ahmad Abdel Hamid
Published: March 2020

Objectives This study aims to compare the stress distribution and displacement that resulted from the use of a Gerber space regainer and sagittal distalizer using three-dimensional finite element analysis.

Materials and Methods Three-dimensional simulated models of the appliances were developed using a software. The forces applied by the two appliances were 3N (tipping) and 15N (bodily), respectively. Displacement and von Mises stress on the compact and cancellous bone, periodontal ligament (PDL), crowns of the mandibular first, second permanent molars, and deciduous canines were calculated. Stress distribution and displacement values were measured via linear static analysis.

Results Gerber space regainer showed greater displacement than that produced by the sagittal distalizer at the first permanent molar. However, such displacement was less at the other tested points when compared with that delivered by sagittal distalizer. The stresses created by Gerber appliance were higher in the crown and PDL of the deciduous canine than the crown of the first permanent molar crown.

Conclusions Gerber appliance generates more distal force and less stress concentration on the crown of the mandibular first permanent molar than that created by the sagittal distalizer. On the other hand, stress concentrations produced by Gerber space regainer are found to be more on the crown and PDL of the deciduous canine. Therefore, it can be concluded that the use of Gerber appliance needs more anchorage.
Effect of A-PRF Application on Palatal Wound Healing after Free Gingival Graft Harvesting: A Prospective Randomized Study
Authors: Sousa Filipa , Machado Vanessa , Botelho João , Proença Luís , Mendes José João , Alves Ricardo
Published: March 2020

Objective The aim of this study was to investigate the healing effect of advanced platelet-rich fibrin (A-PRF) clot membranes in palatal wounds, resulting from free gingival graft (FGG) harvesting, on the reepithelization rate and on the pain experience after surgery.

Materials and Methods Twenty-five patients requiring FGG have participated in this prospective cohort study. After FGG harvesting, the test group (n = 14) received A-PRF clot membranes at the palatal wound and the control group (n = 11) received a gelatin sponge. Epithelialization rate of the palatal wound, wound healing area, correspondent percentage of reduction, and postsurgical pain experience were assessed at 2, 7, 14, 30, and 90 days.

Results A-PRF group had higher palatal wound reduction than the control group, at 7, 14, and 30 days of follow-up. The highest difference between the groups was attained at 30 days (91.5% for A-PRF vs. 59.0% control group). At 14 days, a significant difference in the proportion of patients showing total epithelization was found: 64.3% for A-PRF versus 9.1% for the control group. At 90 days, both groups showed total recovery. The control group experienced higher pain level and discomfort until the 14th day, being notably higher on the second day.

Conclusion The results suggest that A-PRF membranes haste the healing process, and promote greater reduction along the recovery period and less painful postoperative period.
Concanavalin A Enhanced Proliferation and Osteogenic Differentiation of Dental Pulp Stem Cells
Authors: Suardita Ketut , Arundina Ira , Tedjosasongko Udijanto , Yuliati Anita , Peeters Harry Huiz , Wijaksana I Komang Evan , Surboyo Meircurius Dwi Condro
Published: March 2020

Objective Dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) can be used as a component in the formation of regenerative dentine during direct pulp capping therapy. Concanavalin A (ConA) is a type of lectin with a molecular weight of 26 kDa derived from the Canavalia ensiformis plant. Lectins possess strong proliferation and differentiation abilities in various animal cells including lymphocytes, osteoblasts, and chondrocytes. The aim of study was to determine the effect of ConA on the proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of DPSCs in vitro.

Materials and Methods In this in vitro study, DPSCs were isolated from third molars before ConA induction was performed at concentrations of 5 and 10 μg/mL. The proliferation assay was determined by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Osteogenic differentiation was determined by means of mineralization.

Statistical Analysis Data were analyzed using analysis of variance and a Student’s t-test. The p-value was set at 0.05.

Results The addition of 5 and 10 µg/mL of ConA to DPSCs can significantly increase the proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of DPSCs (p ≤0.05).

Conclusion ConA can increase the proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of DPSCs.