bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coastal Marsh Degradation Into Ponds Induces Irreversible Elevation Loss Relative to Sea Level in a Microtidal System
Authors: Schepers Lennert , Brennand Patrick , Kirwan Matthew L. , Guntenspergen Glenn R. , Temmerman Stijn
Published: September 2020

Coastal marshes and their valuable ecosystem services are feared to be lost by sea level rise, yet the mechanisms of marsh degradation into ponds and potential recovery are poorly understood. We quantified and analyzed elevations of marsh surfaces and pond bottoms along a marsh loss gradient (Blackwater River, Maryland, USA). Our analyses show that ponds deepen with increasing tidal channel width connecting the ponds to the river, indicating a new feedback mechanism where channels lead to enhanced tidal export of pond bottom material. Pond elevations also decrease with increasing pond size, consistent with previous work identifying a positive feedback between wind wave erosion and pond size. These two positive feedbacks, combined with bimodal elevation distributions and sharp topographic boundaries between interior ponds and the marsh platform, indicate alternative elevation states and imply that marsh loss by pond formation is nearly irreversible once pond deepening exceeds a critical level.
Urban Vegetation Slows Down the Spread of Coronavirus Disease (COVID‐19) in the United States
Authors: You Yongfa , Pan Shufen
Published: September 2020

Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID‐19) is spreading around the world, and the United States has become the epicenter of the global pandemic. However, little is known about the causes behind the large spatial variability of the COVID‐19 incidence. Here we use path analysis model to quantify the influence of four potential factors (urban vegetation, population density, air temperature, and baseline infection) in shaping the highly heterogeneous transmission patterns of COVID‐19 across the United States. Our results show that urban vegetation can slow down the spread of COVID‐19, and each 1% increase in the percentage of urban vegetation will lead to a 2.6% decrease in cumulative COVID‐19 cases. Additionally, the mediating role of urban vegetation suggests that urban vegetation could reduce increases in cumulative COVID‐19 cases induced by population density and baseline infection. Our findings highlight the importance of urban vegetation in strengthening urban resilience to public health emergencies.
Full‐Depth Global Estimates of Ocean Mesoscale Eddy Mixing From Observations and Theory
Authors: Groeskamp Sjoerd , LaCasce Joseph H. , McDougall Trevor J. , Rogé Marine
Published: September 2020

Mixing by mesoscale eddies profoundly impacts climate and ecosystems by redistributing and storing dissolved tracers such as heat and carbon. Eddy mixing is parameterized in most numerical models of the ocean and climate. To reduce known sensitivity to such parameterizations, observational estimates of mixing are needed. However, logistical and technological limitations obstruct our ability to measure global time‐varying mixing rates. Here, we extend mixing length theory with mean‐flow suppression theory, and first surface modes, to estimate mixing from readily available observational‐based climatological data, of salinity, temperature, pressure, and eddy kinetic energy at the sea surface. The resulting full‐depth global maps of eddy mixing can reproduce the few available direct estimates and confirm the importance of mean‐flow suppression of mixing. The results also emphasize the significant effect of eddy surface intensification and its relation to the vertical density stratification. These new insights in mixing dynamics will improve future mesoscale eddy mixing parameterizations.
Low‐Frequency Radio Observations of the “Quiet” Corona During the Descending Phase of Sunspot Cycle 24
Authors: Ramesh R. , Kumari A. , Kathiravan C. , Ketaki D. , Rajesh M. , Vrunda M.
Published: September 2020

We carried out a statistical study of the “quiet” solar corona during the descending phase of the Sunspot Cycle 24 (i.e., January 2015 to May 2019) using data obtained with the Gauribidanur RAdioheliograPH (GRAPH) at 53 and 80 MHz simultaneously. Our results show that the equatorial (east‐west) diameters of the solar corona at the above two frequencies shrunk steadily. The decrease was found to be due to a gradual reduction in the coronal electron density (Ne). Independent estimates of Ne in the equatorial region of the “background” corona using white‐light coronagraph observations indicate a decline consistent with our findings.
Modeling Uncertainties of Bathymetry Predicted With Satellite Altimetry Data and Application to Tsunami Hazard Assessments
Authors: Sepúlveda Ignacio , Tozer Brook , Haase Jennifer S. , Liu Philip L.‐F. , Grigoriu Mircea
Published: September 2020

Models of bathymetry derived from satellite radar altimetry are essential for modeling many marine processes. They are affected by uncertainties which require quantification. We propose an uncertainty model that assumes errors are caused by the lack of high‐wavenumber content within the altimetry data. The model is then applied to a tsunami hazard assessment. We build a bathymetry uncertainty model for northern Chile. Statistical properties of the altimetry‐predicted bathymetry error are obtained using multibeam data. We find that a Von Karman correlation function and a Laplacian marginal distribution can be used to define an uncertainty model based on a random field. We also propose a method for generating synthetic bathymetry samples conditional to shipboard measurements. The method is further extended to account for interpolation uncertainties, when bathymetry data resolution is finer than ∼10 km. We illustrate the usefulness of the method by quantifying the bathymetry‐induced uncertainty of a tsunami hazard estimate. We demonstrate that tsunami leading wave predictions at middle/near field tide gauges and buoys are insensitive to bathymetry uncertainties in Chile. This result implies that tsunami early warning approaches can take full advantage of altimetry‐predicted bathymetry in numerical simulations. Finally, we evaluate the feasibility of modeling uncertainties in regions without multibeam data by assessing the bathymetry error statistics of 15 globally distributed regions. We find that a general Von Karman correlation and a Laplacian marginal distribution can serve as a first‐order approximation. The standard deviation of the uncertainty random field model varies regionally and is estimated from a proposed scaling law.
Discovery and preclinical efficacy of HSG4112, a synthetic structural analog of glabridin, for the treatment of obesity
Authors: Choi Leo Sungwong , Jo In Geun , Kang Ku Suk , Im Jeong Ho , Kim Jiyoung , Kim Jinyoung , Chung Jin Wook , Yoo Sang-Ku
Published: September 2020

Background

HSG4112 is a clinical-stage drug candidate for the treatment of obesity. Here, we report its discovery and preclinical efficacy.

Methods

In high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obese male C57BL/6J mice, we tested the weight loss effect of synthetic compounds derived from a structure–activity relationship (SAR) study of glabridin, a natural compound known to reduce body weight and influence energy homeostasis. After selecting HSG4112 as our optimized compound from this discovery method, we characterized its pharmacological effects on parameters related to obesity through in vivo metabolic and biochemical measurements, histology and gene expression analysis, and indirect calorimetry.

Results

Through the SAR study, we identified four novel components of glabridin pertinent for its anti-obesity activity, and found that HSG4112, an optimized structural analog of glabridin, markedly supersedes glabridin in weight reduction efficacy and chemical stability. Six-week administration of HSG4112 to HFD-induced obese mice led to dose-dependent normalization of obesity-related parameters, including body weight, muscle and adipose tissue weight, adipocyte size, and serum leptin/insulin/glucose levels. The weight reduction induced by HSG4112 was partially mediated by decreased food intake and mainly mediated by increased energy expenditure, with no change in physical activity. Accordingly, the pattern of transcriptional changes was aligned with increased energy expenditure in the liver and muscles. Following significant body weight reduction, robust amelioration of histopathology and blood markers of fatty liver were also observed.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates the key chemical components of glabridin pertinent to its weight loss effects and suggests HSG4112 as a promising novel drug candidate for the pharmacological treatment of obesity.
Dual inhibition of HDAC and tyrosine kinase signaling pathways with CUDC-907 attenuates TGFβ1 induced lung and tumor fibrosis
Authors: Zhang Wentian , Zhang Yajie , Tu Tian , Schmull Sabastian , Han Yu , Wang Wenbo , Li Hecheng
Published: September 2020

TGFβ1 signaling is a critical driver of collagen accumulation in pulmonary fibrotic diseases and a well-characterized regulator of cancer associated fibroblasts (CAF) activation in lung cancer. Myofibroblasts induced by TGFβ1 and other factors are key players in the pathogenesis of lung fibrosis and tumor. Tremendous attention has been gained to targeting myofibroblasts in order to inhibit the progression of fibrosis and myofibroblast-induced tumor progression and metastasis. Here we determined the therapeutic efficacy of simultaneously targeting PI3K and HDAC pathways in lung myofibroblasts and CAF with a single agent and to evaluate biomarkers of treatment response. CUDC-907 is a first-in-class compound, functioning as a dual inhibitor of HDACs and PI3K/AKT pathway. We investigated its effects in counteracting the activity of TGFβ1-induced myofibroblasts/CAF in regard to cell proliferation, migration, invasion, apoptosis in vitro antifibrosis efficiency in vivo. We found that CUDC-907 inhibited myofibroblasts/CAF cell proliferation, migration and apoptosis in a dose-dependent manner and caused cell cycle arrest at G1-S phase. CUDC-907 not only inhibited myofibroblasts markers expression, but also significantly inhibited the phosphorylation level of AKT, mTOR, Smad2/3, and promoted acetylation of histones. Furthermore, the observed inhibitory effect was also confirmed in bleomycin-induced mice lung fibrosis and nude mouse transplanted tumor model. Overall, these data suggest that dual inhibition of HDAC and the tyrosine kinase signaling pathways with CUDC-907 is a promising treatment strategy for TGFβ1-induced lung and tumor fibrosis.
Matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9) limits reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation and DNA damage in colitis-associated cancer
Authors: Walter Lewins , Canup Brandon , Pujada Adani , Bui Tien Anh , Arbasi Behafarin , Laroui Hamed , Merlin Didier , Garg Pallavi
Published: September 2020

Colitis-associated cancer (CAC) is a subtype of colon cancer that is driven by chronic inflammation and is prevalent in chronic ulcerative colitis patients. The development of CAC is associated with the inflammation-dysplasia-carcinoma pathway which is significantly different than adenoma-carcinoma pathway of sporadic colon cancer (CRC). Matrix Metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9) is a zinc-dependent endopeptidase against extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins expressed in the gastrointestinal tract during inflammation. We have previously shown that MMP9 plays a tumor suppressor role in CAC via “MMP9-Notch1-ARF-p53 axis” pathway. The aim of this study is to determine the role of MMP9 in maintaining genomic stability in CAC. Homozygous transgenic mice with constitutive-expression of MMP9 in the colonic epithelium (TgM9) with their wild-type littermates (WT) and stably transfected HCT116 cells with/without MMP9 were used for in vivo and in vitro experiments, respectively. As ‘proof of concept’ model, nanoparticles (NPs) loaded with MMP9 siRNA were used to examine the effect of MMP9 silencing in the colonic epithelium. In CAC, colonic epithelium of TgM9 mice exhibited lower amounts of reactive oxygen species (ROS), less DNA damage, and increased expression of mismatch repair genes compared to WTs. Our study showed that MMP9 expression correlates with the reduced ROS levels, decreased DNA damage, and upregulated mismatch repair pathway. This suggests that MMP9 expression is a natural biological way to suppress CAC by limiting ROS accumulation and DNA damage in the colon. Therefore, MMP9 inhibition could be deleterious for CAC patient.
The antitumour drug ABTL0812 impairs neuroblastoma growth through endoplasmic reticulum stress-mediated autophagy and apoptosis
Authors: París-Coderch Laia , Soriano Aroa , Jiménez Carlos , Erazo Tatiana , Muñoz-Guardiola Pau , Masanas Marc , Antonelli Roberta , Boloix Ariadna , Alfón José , Pérez-Montoyo Héctor , Yeste-Velasco Marc , Domènech Carles , Roma Josep , Sánchez de Toledo Josep , Moreno Lucas , Lizcano José M. , Gallego Soledad , Segura Miguel F.
Published: September 2020

Neuroblastoma is the leading cause of cancer death in children aged 1 to 4 years. Particularly, five-year overall survival for high-risk neuroblastoma is below 50% with no curative options when refractory or relapsed. Most of current therapies target cell division and proliferation, thereby inducing DNA damage and programmed cell death. However, aggressive tumours often present alterations of these processes and are resistant to therapy. Therefore, exploring alternative pathways to induce tumour cell death will provide new therapeutic opportunities for these patients. In this study we aimed at testing the therapeutic potential of ABTL0812, a novel anticancer drug that induces cytotoxic autophagy to eliminate cancer cells, which is currently in phase II clinical trials of adult tumours. Here, we show that ABTL0812 impaired the viability of clinical representative neuroblastoma cell lines regardless of genetic alterations associated to bad prognosis and resistance to therapy. Oral administration of ABTL0812 to mice bearing neuroblastoma xenografts impaired tumour growth. Furthermore, our findings revealed that, in neuroblastoma, ABTL0812 induced cancer cell death via induction of endoplasmic reticulum stress, activation of the unfolded protein response, autophagy and apoptosis. Remarkably, ABTL0812 potentiated the antitumour activity of chemotherapies and differentiating agents such as irinotecan and 13-cis-retinoic acid. In conclusion, ABTL0812 distinctive mechanism of action makes it standout to be used alone or in combination in high-risk neuroblastoma patients.
Spectrally reconfigurable quantum emitters enabled by optimized fast modulation
Authors: Lukin Daniil M. , White Alexander D. , Trivedi Rahul , Guidry Melissa A. , Morioka Naoya , Babin Charles , Soykal Öney O. , Ul-Hassan Jawad , Son Nguyen Tien , Ohshima Takeshi , Vasireddy Praful K. , Nasr Mamdouh H. , Sun Shuo , MacLean Jean-Philippe W. , Dory Constantin , Nanni Emilio A. , Wrachtrup Jörg , Kaiser Florian , Vučković Jelena
Published: September 2020

The ability to shape photon emission facilitates strong photon-mediated interactions between disparate physical systems, thereby enabling applications in quantum information processing, simulation and communication. Spectral control in solid state platforms such as color centers, rare earth ions, and quantum dots is particularly attractive for realizing such applications on-chip. Here we propose the use of frequency-modulated optical transitions for spectral engineering of single photon emission. Using a scattering-matrix formalism, we find that a two-level system, when modulated faster than its optical lifetime, can be treated as a single-photon source with a widely reconfigurable photon spectrum that is amenable to standard numerical optimization techniques. To enable the experimental demonstration of this spectral control scheme, we investigate the Stark tuning properties of the silicon vacancy in silicon carbide, a color center with promise for optical quantum information processing technologies. We find that the silicon vacancy possesses excellent spectral stability and tuning characteristics, allowing us to probe its fast modulation regime, observe the theoretically-predicted two-photon correlations, and demonstrate spectral engineering. Our results suggest that frequency modulation is a powerful technique for the generation of new light states with unprecedented control over the spectral and temporal properties of single photons.
Micro-CT analysis of dentinal microcracks on root canals filled with a bioceramic sealer and retreated with reciprocating instruments
Authors: Almeida Andressa , Romeiro Kaline , Cassimiro Marcely , Gominho Luciana , Dantas Eugênia , Silva Silmara , Albuquerque Diana
Published: September 2020

This study aimed to analyze the potential occurrence of dentinal defects after the removal of a root canal filling with two different sealers using Reciproc (RC) or Reciproc Blue (RB). The mesial roots of 60 mandibular molars with a Vertucci type IV configuration were selected. The samples were initially instrumented with Reciproc (R25) and then divided into the following four experimental groups according to the endodontic sealer and retreatment instrument (n = 15): BC Sealer/Reciproc (BCRC); BC Sealer/Reciproc Blue (BCRB); AH Plus/Reciproc (AHRC); and AH Plus/Reciproc Blue (AHRB). Then, the samples were scanned under micro-CT after obturation and removal of the filling material. Two analyses were conducted. First, an evaluation was performed on all the axial images, and another analysis evaluated each millimeter of the 10 mm from the apex. Dentinal defects were observed in all the samples. All of the identified defects in the images after filling material removal were present in the corresponding images after obturation. The use of AH Plus and EndoSequence BC Sealer, and filling material removal using RC and RB instruments did not induce dentinal defects.
A composite biomarker using multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging and blood analytes accurately identifies patients with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis and significant fibrosis
Authors: Dennis Andrea , Mouchti Sofia , Kelly Matt , Fallowfield Jonathan A. , Hirschfield Gideon , Pavlides Michael , Banerjee Rajarshi
Published: September 2020

Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is major health burden lacking effective pharmacological therapies. Clinical trials enrol patients with histologically-defined NAFLD (non-alcoholic fatty liver disease) activity score (NAS) ≥ 4 and Kleiner-Brunt fibrosis stage (F) ≥ 2; however, screen failure rates are often high following biopsy. This study evaluated a non-invasive MRI biomarker, iron-corrected T1 mapping (cT1), as a diagnostic pre-screening biomarker for NASH. In a retrospective analysis of 86 biopsy confirmed NAFLD patients we explored the potential of blood and imaging biomarkers, both in isolation and in combination, to discriminate those who have NAS ≥ 4 and F ≥ 2 from those without. Stepwise logistic regression was performed to select the optimal combination of biomarkers, diagnostic accuracy was determined using area under the receiver operator curve and model validated confirmed with and fivefold cross-validation. Results showed that levels of cT1, AST, GGT and fasting glucose were all good predictors of NAS ≥ 4 and F ≥ 2, and the model identified the combination of cT1-AST-fasting glucose (cTAG) as far superior to any individual biomarker (AUC 0.90 [0.84–0.97]). This highlights the potential utility of the composite cTAG score for screening patients prior to biopsy to identify those suitable for NASH clinical trial enrolment.
Fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing in early-to-advanced stage Huntington’s disease
Authors: Schindler Antonio , Pizzorni Nicole , Sassone Jenny , Nanetti Lorenzo , Castaldo Anna , Poletti Barbara , Solca Federica , Pirola Francesca , Lazzari Laura , Stramba-Badiale Marco , Rossi Agnese , Silani Vincenzo , Mariotti Caterina , Ciammola Andrea
Published: September 2020

Huntington's disease (HD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor disturbances, cognitive decline, and behaviour changes. A well-recognized feature of advanced HD is dysphagia, which leads to malnutrition and aspiration pneumonia, the latter being the primary cause of death in HD. Previous studies have underscored the importance of dysphagia in HD patients with moderate-to-advanced stage disease, but it is unclear whether dysphagia affects patients already at an early stage of disease and whether genetic or clinical factors can predict its severity. We performed fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES) in 61 patients with various stages of HD. Dysphagia was found in 35% of early-stage, 94% of moderate-stage, and 100% of advanced-stage HD. Silent aspiration was found in 7.7% of early-stage, 11.8% of moderate-stage, and 27.8% of advanced-stage HD. A strong correlation was observed between disease progression and dysphagia severity: worse dysphagia was associated with worsening of motor symptoms. Dysphagia severity as assessed by FEES correlated with Huntington’s Disease Dysphagia Scale scores (a self-report questionnaire specific for evaluating swallowing in HD). The present findings add to our understanding of dysphagia onset and progression in HD. A better understanding of dysphagia onset and progression in HD may inform guidelines for standard clinical care in dysphagia, its recognition, and management.
Mathematical evaluation of responses to surgical stimuli under general anesthesia
Authors: Ooba Shohei , Ueki Ryusuke , Kariya Nobutaka , Tatara Tsuneo , Hirose Munetaka
Published: September 2020

Surgical invasion activates nociception, while anesthesia suppresses it. Under general anesthesia, stimulation, which is the balance between nociception and anti-nociception, induces responses, including activation of the autonomic nervous system. To evaluate the associations between stimulation (S) and the resultant responses (R), we examined R values, which were calculated using mathematical models of Stevens’ power law, Gompertz function and logistic function. The previously developed Nociceptive Response (NR) formula was applied as a modified logistic model. S values were calculated using a linear function in the NR formula. In a retrospective study, we developed an exponential model of Stevens’ power law and a sigmoidal model of Gompertz function using differential equations, by adjusting R values to correspond to NR values, in consecutive patients undergoing surgery under general anesthesia (n = 4,395). In a subsequent prospective study, we validated the superiority of R values of Gompertz function and the NR formula in an exponential model in adult patients undergoing tympanoplasty (n = 141) and laparoscopic cholecystectomy (n = 86). In conclusion, both modified logistic function and Gompertz function are likely appropriate mathematical models for representing responses to stimulation resulting from the balance between nociception/anti-nociception during surgical procedures under general anesthesia.
The phosphoproteomic responses of duck (Cairna moschata) to classical/novel duck reovirus infections in the spleen tissue
Authors: Yun Tao , Hua Jionggang , Ye Weicheng , Ni Zheng , Chen Liu , Zhang Cun
Published: September 2020

Duck reovirus (DRV) is a fatal member of the genus Orthoreovirus in the family Reoviridae. The disease caused by DRV leads to huge economic losses to the duck industry. Post-translational modification is an efficient strategy to enhance the immune responses to virus infection. However, the roles of protein phosphorylation in the responses of ducklings to Classic/Novel DRV (C/NDRV) infections are largely unknown. Using a high-resolution LC–MS/MS integrated to highly sensitive immune-affinity antibody method, phosphoproteomes of Cairna moschata spleen tissues under the C/NDRV infections were analyzed, producing a total of 8,504 phosphorylation sites on 2,853 proteins. After normalization with proteomic data, 392 sites on 288 proteins and 484 sites on 342 proteins were significantly changed under the C/NDRV infections, respectively. To characterize the differentially phosphorylated proteins (DPPs), a systematic bioinformatics analyses including Gene Ontology annotation, domain annotation, subcellular localization, and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway annotation were performed. Two important serine protease system-related proteins, coagulation factor X and fibrinogen α-chain, were identified as phosphorylated proteins, suggesting an involvement of blood coagulation under the C/NDRV infections. Furthermore, 16 proteins involving the intracellular signaling pathways of pattern-recognition receptors were identified as phosphorylated proteins. Changes in the phosphorylation levels of MyD88, NF-κB, RIP1, MDA5 and IRF7 suggested a crucial role of protein phosphorylation in host immune responses of C. moschata. Our study provides new insights into the responses of ducklings to the C/NDRV infections at PTM level.
Size dependency of gold nanoparticles interacting with model membranes
Authors: Contini Claudia , Hindley James W. , Macdonald Thomas J. , Barritt Joseph D. , Ces Oscar , Quirke Nick
Published: September 2020

The rapid development of nanotechnology has led to an increase in the number and variety of engineered nanomaterials in the environment. Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) are an example of a commonly studied nanomaterial whose highly tailorable properties have generated significant interest through a wide range of research fields. In the present work, we characterise the AuNP-lipid membrane interaction by coupling qualitative data with quantitative measurements of the enthalpy change of interaction. We investigate the interactions between citrate-stabilised AuNPs ranging from 5 to 60 nm in diameter and large unilamellar vesicles acting as a model membrane system. Our results reveal the existence of two critical AuNP diameters which determine their fate when in contact with a lipid membrane. The results provide new insights into the size dependent interaction between AuNPs and lipid bilayers which is of direct relevance to nanotoxicology and to the design of NP vectors.
Gold-sputtered microelectrodes with built-in gold reference and counter electrodes for electrochemical DNA detection
Authors: Thiruvottriyur Shanmugam Saranya , Trashin Stanislav , De Wael Karolien
Published: September 2020

Gold-sputtered microelectrodes with built-in gold reference and counter electrodes represent a promising platform for the development of disposable DNA sensors.
Structured micro/nano materials synthesized via electrospray: a review
Authors: He Tengyu , Jokerst Jesse V.
Published: September 2020

Electrospray enables the preparation of versatile spherical, non-spherical, and assembled micro/nano materials.
Illuminating glycoscience: synthetic strategies for FRET-enabled carbohydrate active enzyme probes
Authors: Singh Meenakshi , Watkinson Michael , Scanlan Eoin M. , Miller Gavin J.
Published: September 2020

Carbohydrates are synthesised, refined and degraded by carbohydrate active enzymes. FRET is emerging as a powerful tool to monitor and quantify their activity as well as to test inhibitors as new drug candidates and monitor disease.
Dibenzocycloheptatriene as end-group of Thiele and tetrabenzo-Chichibabin hydrocarbons
Authors: Jiménez Vicente G. , Mayorga-Burrezo Paula , Blanco Victor , Lloveras Vega , Gómez-García Carlos J. , Šolomek Tomáš , Cuerva Juan M. , Veciana Jaume , Campaña Araceli G.
Published: September 2020

A new class of Thiele and tetrabenzo-Chichibabin hydrocarbons including tropone units as end groups is presented.
A large molecular cluster with high proton release capacity
Authors: Zhang Dongdi , Li Hui , Li Chen , Wang Zehao , Li Tao , Li Nan , Cheng Mengyuan , Wang Jingping , Niu Jingyang , Liu Tianbo
Published: September 2020

A single polyoxometalate cluster with controllable and reversible proton release/absorption capability (∼40 per molecule) in its aqueous solution is presented.
Bioorthogonal chemistry-based RNA labeling technologies: evolution and current state
Authors: George Jerrin Thomas , Srivatsan Seergazhi G.
Published: September 2020

Recent developments and applications of bioorthogonal chemistry to label RNA by transcription and posttranscription chemo-enzymatic approaches are described in this feature article.
Oxide of lanthanoids can catalyse non-oxidative propane dehydrogenation: mechanistic concept and application potential of Eu2O3- or Gd2O3-based catalysts
Authors: Perechodjuk Anna , Kondratenko Vita A. , Lund Henrik , Rockstroh Nils , Kondratenko Evgenii V.
Published: September 2020

This paper demonstrates the potential of Eu2O3 and Gd2O3 as catalysts for non-oxidative propane dehydrogenation to propene.
Secondary phosphine oxide-triggered selective oxygenation of a benzyl ligand on palladium
Authors: Oka Sayaka , Shigehiro Yuma , Kataoka Yasutaka , Ura Yasuyuki
Published: September 2020

The oxygenation of a benzyl ligand on palladium was dramatically accelerated by using secondary phosphine oxides, selectively affording BnOOH or BnOH.
Reversible switching from a three- to a nine-fold degenerate dynamic slider-on-deck through catenation
Authors: Rajasekaran Vishnu Verman , Paul Indrajit , Schmittel Michael
Published: September 2020

Two dynamic slider-on-deck assemblies, i.e. a two-component threefold degenerate (k298 = 34.9 kHz) and a catenated three-component ninefold degenerate (k298 = 27.9 kHz) system with allosteric effects on the sliding rates, were quantitatively interconverted.
Properties and growth of large single crystals of one-dimensional organic lead iodine perovskite
Authors: Wang Yiming , Liu Yanliang , Wu Yizhang , Jiang Junjie , Liu Chunlin , Liu Wenlong , Gao Kaige , Cai Hongling , Wu X. S.
Published: September 2020

Here, we demonstrate for the first time the growth of 2 mm × 4 mm × 8 mm sized single crystal one dimensional organic lead iodine perovskite – DMAPbI3 ((CH3)2NH2PbI3).
Modelling of an aza-Michael reaction from crystalline naphthalene derivatives containing peri–peri interactions: very long N–C bonds?
Authors: Bristow Jonathan C. , Naftalin Isaac , Cliff Stacey V. A. , Yang Songjie , Carravetta Marina , Heinmaa Ivo , Stern Raivo , Wallis John D.
Published: September 2020

A correlation between N–C bond formation and CC bond breaking is constructed from the structures of a family of peri-naphthalenes with a second set of peri substituents.
MOF-derived yolk–shell Ni/C architectures assembled with Ni@C core–shell nanoparticles for lightweight microwave absorbents
Authors: Wang Xiaolei , Geng Qiyao , Shi Guimei , Zhang Yajing , Li Da
Published: September 2020

The yolk–shell Ni/C microspheres assembled by Ni@C core–shell nanoparticles with excellent microwave absorption performance can be simply fabricated by decomposition of a Ni-based metal–organic framework (Ni-MOF).
Design of Au@Ag/BiOCl–OV photocatalyst and its application in selective alcohol oxidation driven by plasmonic carriers using O2 as the oxidant
Authors: An Huiqin , Deng Congying , Sun Yang , Lv Zhaotao , Cao Lifang , Xiao Shunyuan , Zhao Lizhi , Yin Zhen
Published: September 2020

Au@Ag/BiOCl–OV exhibits outstanding photocatalytic selective oxidation ability because of the SPR coupling effect and strong O2 adsorption of oxygen vacancies.
Rational structural design of ZnOHF nanotube-assembled microsphere adsorbents for high-efficient Pb2+ removal
Authors: Guo Yingying , Liu Nan , Sun Tongming , Cui Huihui , Wang Jin , Wang Miao , Wang Minmin , Tang Yanfeng
Published: September 2020

Hierarchical nanotube-assembled ZnOHF microspheres were prepared via an amino acid assisted hydrothermal method, which can remove Pb2+ efficiently in an aqueous environment.
A probabilistic spin annihilation method for quantum chemical calculations on quantum computers
Authors: Sugisaki Kenji , Toyota Kazuo , Sato Kazunobu , Shiomi Daisuke , Takui Takeji
Published: September 2020

A probabilistic spin annihilation method based on the quantum phase estimation algorithm is presented for quantum chemical calculations on quantum computers.
Linking interfacial work of deformation from deconvoluted macro-rheological spectrum to early stage healing in selected polyurethanes
Authors: Montano Vincenzo , Senardi Michele , van der Zwaag Sybrand , Garcia Santiago J.
Published: September 2020

The interfacial work of deformation obtained by decovolution of the relaxation spectra acquiredviamacrorheology is linked and is able to predict interfacial healing in polyurethanes.
DFT studies of two-electron oxidation, photochemistry, and radical transfer between metal centres in the formation of platinum(iv) and palladium(iv) selenolates from diphenyldiselenide and metal(ii) reactants
Authors: Canty Allan J. , Ariafard Alireza , Puddephatt Richard J.
Published: September 2020

Excitation by light to the M–M antibonding orbital of [MIIIMe2(2,2′-bipyridine)(SePh)]2 releases 2[MIIIMe2(bipy)(SePh)]˙; the doublets react to give MIVMe2(bipy)(SePh)2 and MIIMe2(bipy).
Application of liquid-infused membranes to mitigate biofouling
Authors: Bazyar Hanieh , Xu Linya , de Vries Hendrik Jan , Porada Slawomir , Lammertink Rob G. H.
Published: September 2020

The novel liquid-infused membranes have been shown to mitigate membrane biofouling. Here, the long-term stability of these membrane have been tested and analyzed using bacterial growth curve models.
Totally atom-economical synthesis of lactic acid from formaldehyde: combined bio-carboligation and chemo-rearrangement without the isolation of intermediates
Authors: Li Tianzhen , Tang Zijing , Wei Hongli , Tan Zijian , Liu Pi , Li Jinlong , Zheng Yingying , Lin Jianping , Liu Weidong , Jiang Huifeng , Liu Haifeng , Zhu Leilei , Ma Yanhe
Published: September 2020

A green chemoenzymatic reaction converts C1 compound formaldehyde into lactic acid using a newly identified formolase variant and NaOH as catalysts.
Plasma imaging for physical variations in laser-induced aerosol plasma with particle size increase
Authors: Afgan Muhammad Sher , Sheta Sahar , Song Yuzhou , Gu Weilun , Wang Zhe
Published: September 2020

Increased analytical signal variation with particle size is a result of physical variations in laser-induced plasma of aerosols.
Rapid purification of lung cancer cells in pleural effusion through spiral microfluidic channels for diagnosis improvement
Authors: Tsou Ping-Hsien , Chiang Pei-Huan , Lin Zi-Ting , Yang Hui-Chen , Song Hsiang-Lin , Li Bor-Ran
Published: September 2020

Lung cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide.
Compact polyelectrolyte hydrogels of gelatin and chondroitin sulfate as ion's mobile media in sustainable all-solid state electrochemical devices
Authors: González Jimena S. , Burlaka Arsen , Paz José , Salavagione Horacio J. , Carretero-González Javier , Hernández Rebeca
Published: September 2020

Design of an electrochemical cell based on a sustainable biopolymer hydrogel and graphene electrodes for potential applications in bioelectronics.
On the propagation of the OH radical produced by Cu-amyloid beta peptide model complexes. Insight from molecular modelling
Authors: Arrigoni Federica , Rizza Fabio , Tisi Renata , De Gioia Luca , Zampella Giuseppe , Bertini Luca
Published: September 2020

Oxidative stress and metal dyshomeostasis are considered as crucial factors in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Indeed, transition metal ions such as Cu(ii) can generate Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) via O2 Fenton-like reduction, catalyzed by Cu(ii) coordinated to the Amyloid beta (Aβ) peptide. Despite intensive effort, the mechanisms of ROS-induced molecular damage remain poorly understood. In the present paper, we investigate on the basis of molecular modelling computations the mechanism of OH radical propagation toward the Aβ peptide, starting from the end-product of OH radical generation by Cu(ii)·Aβ. We evaluate (i) the OH oxidative capacity, as well as the energetics of the possible Aβ oxidation target residues, by quantum chemistry Density Functional Theory (DFT) on coordination models of Cu(ii)/OH/Aβ and (ii) the motion of the OH˙ approaching the Aβ target residues by classical Molecular Dynamics (MD) on the full peptide Cu(ii)/OH/Aβ(1–16). The results show that the oxidative capacity of OH coordinated Cu(ii)Aβ is significantly lower than that of the free OH radical and that propagation toward Aβ Asp and His residues is favoured over Tyr residues. These results are discussed on the basis of the recent literature on in vitro Aβ metal-catalyzed oxidation and on the possible implications for the AD oxidative stress mechanism.
Overview of transition metal-based composite materials for supercapacitor electrodes
Authors: Cui Mingjin , Meng Xiangkang
Published: September 2020

Illustration of transition metal-based electrode materials (oxides, sulfides, and phosphides) for supercapacitors. Recent researches, current challenges, and next generation materials design will be discussed.
Growth mechanistic insights into perovskite nanocrystals: dimensional growth
Authors: Mandal Prasenjit , Roy Angira , Mannar Subhashri , Viswanatha Ranjani
Published: September 2020

Growth of lead halide perovskite nanocrystals via oriented attachment.
Recent advances in C–CN and C–H bond activation of green nitrile (MeCN) for organo-complexation, cyanation and cyanomethylation
Authors: Ahmad Muhammad Siddique , Pulidindi Indra Neel , Li Chuanlong
Published: September 2020

The use of green and inexpensive organic nitrile (MeCN) as a cyano and cyano-methyl source for organo-complexation, cyanation, and cyanomethylation is reviewed.
Substitution effects on the antiradical activity of hydralazine: a DFT analysis
Authors: Boulebd Houssem , Tam Nguyen Minh , Mechler Adam , Vo Quan V.
Published: September 2020

The antioxidant activity of hydralazine derivatives in the gas-phase and in physiological environments were examined by thermodynamic and kinetic calculations.
Cyclodextrin-mediated colloidal synthesis of highly luminescent and stable CsPbBr3 perovskite nanocrystals
Authors: Guo Fang , Wang Yu-Yue , Zhang Jie , Wei Xiao-Lan , Mo Zhi-Hong
Published: September 2020

Strong interactions between cyclodextrins and perovskites endow CsPbBr3 nanocrystals with high photoluminescence quantum yields and stability to moisture, heat and light.
Cu(i)/sucrose-catalyzed hydroxylation of arenes in water: the dual role of sucrose
Authors: Watanabe Kohei , Takagi Mio , Watanabe Ayako , Murata Shigeo , Takita Ryo
Published: September 2020

Copper(i)/sucrose-catalyzed hydroxylation of aryl halides in neat water has been developed. The dual role of sucrose, the reaction pathway, and the high selectivity were investigated using a combination of experimental and theoretical techniques.
Investigation of synthesis time and type of seed along with reduction of template consumption in the preparation of SAPO-34 catalyst and its performance in the MTO reaction
Authors: Akhgar Sahar , Towfighi Jafar , Hamidzadeh Marzieh
Published: September 2020

SAPO-34 catalysts were synthesized through the seeding approach under different seed conditions.
Polymer electrolytes for rechargeable lithium metal batteries
Authors: Li Hongping , Xu Zhixin , Yang Jun , Wang Jiulin , Hirano Shin-ichi
Published: September 2020

Dry polymer electrolytes, gel polymer electrolytes, special functional polymer electrolytes, and their future challenges for rechargeable lithium metal batteries are reviewed.
Lithiated carbon cloth as a dendrite-free anode for high-performance lithium batteries
Authors: Cheng Hao , Zhang Shiyun , Mei Jian , Qiu Lvchao , Zhang Peng , Xu Xiongwen , Tu Jian , Xie Jian , Zhao Xinbing
Published: September 2020

Lithiated carbon cloth eliminates dendrites and inhibits volume changes for Li metal batteries and Li–O2 batteries.
Fluctuation spectroscopy of giant unilamellar vesicles using confocal and phase contrast microscopy
Authors: Faizi Hammad A. , Reeves Cody J. , Georgiev Vasil N. , Vlahovska Petia M. , Dimova Rumiana
Published: September 2020

Bending rigidity measured with fluctuation spectroscopy is insensitive to the imaging technique: do’s and do not’s when using confocal and phase contrast imaging.
A mesoporous Au film with surface sulfur modification for efficient ammonia electrosynthesis
Authors: Zhang Mei , Wang Ziqiang , Yu Hongjie , Wang Shengqi , Xu You , Li Xiaonian , Wang Liang , Wang Hongjing
Published: September 2020

We report a two-step strategy for synthesizing a sulfur-decorated mesoporous film on Ni foam towards an efficient electrosynthesis of ammonia.
Hurdles to uptake of mesenchymal stem cells and their progenitors in therapeutic products
Authors: Childs Peter G. , Reid Stuart , Salmeron-Sanchez Manuel , Dalby Matthew J.
Published: September 2020

Twenty-five years have passed since the first clinical trial utilising mesenchymal stomal/stem cells (MSCs) in 1995. In this time academic research has grown our understanding of MSC biochemistry and our ability to manipulate these cells in vitro using chemical, biomaterial, and mechanical methods. Research has been emboldened by the promise that MSCs can treat illness and repair damaged tissues through their capacity for immunomodulation and differentiation. Since 1995, 31 therapeutic products containing MSCs and/or progenitors have reached the market with the level of in vitro manipulation varying significantly. In this review, we summarise existing therapeutic products containing MSCs or mesenchymal progenitor cells and examine the challenges faced when developing new therapeutic products. Successful progression to clinical trial, and ultimately market, requires a thorough understanding of these hurdles at the earliest stages of in vitro pre-clinical development. It is beneficial to understand the health economic benefit for a new product and the reimbursement potential within various healthcare systems. Pre-clinical studies should be selected to demonstrate efficacy and safety for the specific clinical indication in humans, to avoid duplication of effort and minimise animal usage. Early consideration should also be given to manufacturing: how cell manipulation methods will integrate into highly controlled workflows and how they will be scaled up to produce clinically relevant quantities of cells. Finally, we summarise the main regulatory pathways for these clinical products, which can help shape early therapeutic design and testing.
Sodium orthovanadate inhibits growth of acute leukemia HL60 cells and HL60/A cells in vitro
Authors: Zhang Lulu , Wei Nan , Guan Guoying , Song Tao , Xu Yingying , Wang Shuye , Zhou Jin
Published: September 2020

Vanadium is an ultratrace element. The transition metal vanadium, widely exists in the environment and exhibits various biological and physiological effects in the human body, yet with no presently known specific physiological function in mammals. Sodium orthovanadate (SOV) is a kind of vanadium compound. SOV has shown promising antineoplastic activity in several human cancers. But the effects of SOV on acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) are still unknown. In the present study, for the first time, we found that SOV could inhibit proliferation, induce G2/M cell cycle arrest and apoptosis, and could inhibit autophagy of acute leukemia cell lines in vitro. Thus, our findings suggest that SOV could effectively suppress the growth of acute leukemia HL60 cells and HL60/A cells through the regulations of proliferation, cell cycle, apoptosis and autophagy, and thus may act as a potential therapeutic agent in APL treatment.
A review of methods for the reconstruction and analysis of integrated genome-scale models of metabolism and regulation
Authors: Cruz Fernando , Faria José P. , Rocha Miguel , Rocha Isabel , Dias Oscar
Published: September 2020

The current survey aims to describe the main methodologies for extending the reconstruction and analysis of genome-scale metabolic models and phenotype simulation with Flux Balance Analysis mathematical frameworks, via the integration of Transcriptional Regulatory Networks and/or gene expression data. Although the surveyed methods are aimed at improving phenotype simulations obtained from these models, the perspective of reconstructing integrated genome-scale models of metabolism and gene expression for diverse prokaryotes is still an open challenge.
Review on material parameters to enhance bone cell function in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Madsen Eric , Mededovic Merjem , Kohn David H.
Published: September 2020

Bone plays critical roles in support, protection, movement, and metabolism. Although bone has an innate capacity for regeneration, this capacity is limited, and many bone injuries and diseases require intervention. Biomaterials are a critical component of many treatments to restore bone function and include non-resorbable implants to augment bone and resorbable materials to guide regeneration. Biomaterials can vary considerably in their biocompatibility and bioactivity, which are functions of specific material parameters. The success of biomaterials in bone augmentation and regeneration is based on their effects on the function of bone cells. Such functions include adhesion, migration, inflammation, proliferation, communication, differentiation, resorption, and vascularization. This review will focus on how different material parameters can enhance bone cell function both in vitro and in vivo.
Service‐driven approach to life‐cycle dynamic evolutionary update of modular product structure
Authors: Zhou Lei , Chen Pinglu , Xu Jing , Qiu Wenting , Liu Muhua
Published: September 2020

In recent years, product service system (PSS) has been paid more and more attention. Providing personalised products for customers is one of the most important services. The modularity based customisation is an effective means for it. For better customisation, the update of modular product structure (MPS) is necessary, which is the key to maintain the competitiveness of products. Therefore, the update approach of MPS for the life‐cycle dynamic evolution is studied, and the problems that need to be solved emphatically are discussed. In view of the different objects concerned in the whole life cycle, a phased evolution system of MPS is constructed. Based on this, the driving factors, levels and ways of update are analysed accordingly. Then four analysis indicators are proposed to determine whether to update, and the technical supports of evolutionary update are illustrated. Finally, through the analysis of the process of dynamic evolution and update of micro‐cultivator MPS, it shows that the dynamic update of MPS in the whole life cycle can maintain the ability of PSS to respond to market demand quickly, and lay a foundation for providing high‐quality personalised service.
Fully distributed hierarchical control strategy for multi‐inverter‐based AC microgrids
Authors: Pullaguram Deepak , Rana Rubi , Mishra Sukumar , Senroy Nilanjan
Published: September 2020

A fully distributed hierarchical control strategy for multiple inverters‐based AC microgrid is proposed. The developed controller provides real‐time economic dispatch along with the network frequency and average voltage restoration. The controllers cooperate with neighbours using sparse communication network and perform local computations to achieve the assigned objectives. The economic dispatch control unit is embedded with the frequency restoration at the secondary level controller to change the active power supply from the inverter. The voltage controller along with reactive power controller ensures the proportional reactive power sharing as well as network average voltage regulation. The average voltage regulation aids the individual inverter to provide required reactive power demand, with a small, comprise at the terminal output voltages from the nominal values. The convergence of the proposed controller is proved using the Lyapunov stability criteria. The maximum allowable communication delay that obligate stable microgrid operation is derived. The simulation results verify the efficacy of the proposed controller. Experimental validation is also presented, and the controller ability to ride through communication failure and load perturbation condition is demonstrated.