bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increased Dynamics of α-Synuclein Fibrils by β-Synuclein Leads to Reduced Seeding and Cytotoxicity
Authors: Yang Xue , Williams Jonathan K. , Yan Run , Mouradian M. Maral , Baum Jean
Published: November 2019

Alpha-synuclein (αS) fibrils are toxic to cells and contribute to the pathogenesis and progression of Parkinson’s disease and other synucleinopathies. β-Synuclein (βS), which co-localizes with αS, has been shown to provide a neuroprotective effect, but the molecular mechanism by which this occurs remains elusive. Here we show that αS fibrils formed in the presence of βS are less cytotoxic, exhibit reduced cell seeding capacity and are more resistant to fibril shedding compared to αS fibrils alone. Using solid-state NMR, we found that the overall structure of the core of αS fibrils when co-incubated with βS is minimally perturbed, however, the dynamics of Lys and Thr residues, located primarily in the imperfect KTKEGV repeats of the αS N-terminus, are increased. Our results suggest that amyloid fibril dynamics may play a key role in modulating toxicity and seeding. Thus, enhancing the dynamics of amyloid fibrils may be a strategy for future therapeutic targeting of neurodegenerative diseases.
Effect of imbalance in folate and vitamin B12 in maternal/parental diet on global methylation and regulatory miRNAs
Authors: Mahajan Aatish , Sapehia Divika , Thakur Shilpa , Mohanraj Palani Selvam , Bagga Rashmi , Kaur Jyotdeep
Published: November 2019

DNA methylation, a central component of the epigenetic network is altered in response to nutritional influences. In one-carbon cycle, folate acts as a one-carbon carrier and vitamin B12 acts as co-factor for the enzyme methionine synthase. Both folate and vitamin B12 are the important regulators of DNA methylation which play an important role in development in early life. Previous studies carried out in this regard have shown the individual effects of these vitamins but recently the focus has been to study the combined effects of both the vitamins during pregnancy. Therefore, this study was planned to elucidate the effect of the altered dietary ratio of folate and B12 on the expression of transporters, related miRNAs and DNA methylation in C57BL/6 mice. Female mice were fed diets with 9 combinations of folate and B12 for 4 weeks. They were mated and off-springs born (F1) were continued on the same diet for 6 weeks post-weaning. Maternal and fetal (F2) tissues were collected at day 20 of gestation. Deficient state of folate led to an increase in the expression of folate transporters in both F1 and F2 generations, however, B12 deficiency (BDFN) also led to an increase in the expression in both the generations. B12 transporters/proteins were found to be increased with B12 deficiency in F1 and F2 generations except for TC-II in the kidney which was found to be decreased in the F1 generation. miR-483 was found to be increased with all conditions of folate and B12 in both F1 and F2 generations, however, deficient conditions of B12 led to an increase in the expression of miR-221 in both F1 and F2 generations. The level of miR-133 was found to be increased in BDFN group in F1 generation however; in F2 generation the change in expression was tissue and sex-specific. Global DNA methylation was decreased with deficiency of both folate and B12 in maternal tissues (F1) but increased with folate deficiency in placenta (F1) and under all conditions in fetal tissues (F2). DNA methyltransferases were overall found to be increased with deficiency of folate and B12 in both F1 and F2 generations. Results suggest that the dietary ratio of folate and B12 resulted in altered expression of transporters, miRNAs, and genomic DNA methylation in association with DNMTs.
Choroidal and retinal displacements after vitrectomy with internal limiting membrane peeling in eyes with idiopathic macular hole
Authors: Goto Kensuke , Iwase Takeshi , Akahori Tomohiko , Yamamoto Kentaro , Ra Eimei , Terasaki Hiroko
Published: November 2019

It has been reported that the macular region of the retina is displaced after vitrectomy with internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling in eyes with macular hole (MH), but the displacements of the deeper layers of the eye, e.g. RPE and choroid are unclear following the surgery. We used optical coherence tomography (OCT) and OCT angiography (OCTA) to obtain 3 mm × 3 mm en face images before, and 2, 4, and 8 weeks following the vitrectomy with internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling from 22 eyes of 22 patients with a MH. The OCT and OCTA images showed displacements of the fovea and choroidal intermediate vessels postoperatively. The degree of displacement of the choroid was significantly less than that of the retina (P < 0.001). The displacements of the choroidal bifurcations were significantly correlated to their preoperative distance from the optic disc (r = −0.467, P < 0.001) and they were significantly correlated with the retinal displacements (r = 0.535, P < 0.001). The retina was displaced inferiorly and centripetally, but these localized displacements were not observed in the choroid. In conclusion, clinicians need to be aware of these displacements when evaluating the subfoveal choroid following the surgery because the displacement is different between the retina and the choroid.
Online asynchronous decoding of error-related potentials during the continuous control of a robot
Authors: Lopes-Dias Catarina , Sburlea Andreea I. , Müller-Putz Gernot R.
Published: November 2019

Error-related potentials (ErrPs) are the neural signature of error processing. Therefore, the detection of ErrPs is an intuitive approach to improve the performance of brain-computer interfaces (BCIs). The incorporation of ErrPs in discrete BCIs is well established but the study of asynchronous detection of ErrPs is still in its early stages. Here we show the feasibility of asynchronously decoding ErrPs in an online scenario. For that, we measured EEG in 15 participants while they controlled a robotic arm towards a target using their right hand. In 30% of the trials, the control of the robotic arm was halted at an unexpected moment (error onset) in order to trigger error-related potentials. When an ErrP was detected after the error onset, participants regained the control of the robot and could finish the trial. Regarding the asynchronous classification in the online scenario, we obtained an average true positive rate (TPR) of 70% and an average true negative rate (TNR) of 86.8%. These results indicate that the online asynchronous decoding of ErrPs was, on average, reliable, showing the feasibility of the asynchronous decoding of ErrPs in an online scenario.
The effect of analgesics on stimulus evoked pain-like behaviour in animal models for chemotherapy induced peripheral neuropathy- a meta-analysis
Authors: Hooijmans Carlijn R. , Draper Derk , Ergün Mehmet , Scheffer Gert Jan
Published: November 2019

Chemotherapy induced painful peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a common dose-limiting side effect of several chemotherapeutic agents. Despite large amounts of human and animal studies, there is no sufficiently effective pharmacological treatment for CIPN. Although reducing pain is often a focus of CIPN treatment, remarkably few analgesics have been tested for this indication in clinical trials. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analyses regarding the effects of analgesics on stimulus evoked pain-like behaviour during CIPN in animal models. This will form a scientific basis for the development of prospective human clinical trials. A comprehensive search identified forty-six studies. Risk of bias (RoB) analyses revealed that the design and conduct of the included experiments were poorly reported, and therefore RoB was unclear in most studies. Meta-analyses showed that administration of analgesics significantly increases pain threshold for mechanical (SMD: 1.68 [1.41; 1.82]) and cold (SMD: 1. 41 [0.99; 1.83]) evoked pain. Subgroup analyses revealed that dexmedetomidine, celecoxib, fentanyl, morphine, oxycodone and tramadol increased the pain threshold for mechanically evoked pain, and lidocaine and morphine for cold evoked pain. Altogether, this meta-analysis shows that there is ground to investigate the use of morphine in clinical trials. Lidocaine, dexmedetomidine, celecoxib, fentanyl, oxycodone and tramadol might be good alternatives, but more animal-based research is necessary.
Profiling microRNAs through development of the parasitic nematode Haemonchus identifies nematode-specific miRNAs that suppress larval development
Authors: Marks Neil D. , Winter Alan D. , Gu Henry Y. , Maitland Kirsty , Gillan Victoria , Ambroz Martin , Martinelli Axel , Laing Roz , MacLellan Rachel , Towne Jessica , Roberts Brett , Hanks Eve , Devaney Eileen , Britton Collette
Published: November 2019

Parasitic nematodes transition between dramatically different free-living and parasitic stages, with correctly timed development and migration crucial to successful completion of their lifecycle. However little is known of the mechanisms controlling these transitions. microRNAs (miRNAs) negatively regulate gene expression post-transcriptionally and regulate development of diverse organisms. Here we used microarrays to determine the expression profile of miRNAs through development and in gut tissue of the pathogenic nematode Haemonchus contortus. Two miRNAs, mir-228 and mir-235, were enriched in infective L3 larvae, an arrested stage analogous to Caenorhabditis elegans dauer larvae. We hypothesized that these miRNAs may suppress development and maintain arrest. Consistent with this, inhibitors of these miRNAs promoted H. contortus development from L3 to L4 stage, while genetic deletion of C. elegans homologous miRNAs reduced dauer arrest. Epistasis studies with C. elegans daf-2 mutants showed that mir-228 and mir-235 synergise with FOXO transcription factor DAF-16 in the insulin signaling pathway. Target prediction suggests that these miRNAs suppress metabolic and transcription factor activity required for development. Our results provide novel insight into the expression and functions of specific miRNAs in regulating nematode development and identify miRNAs and their target genes as potential therapeutic targets to limit parasite survival within the host.
A framework for identification of on- and off-target transcriptional responses to drug treatment
Authors: Huang Yi , Furuno Masaaki , Arakawa Takahiro , Takizawa Satoshi , de Hoon Michiel , Suzuki Harukazu , Arner Erik
Published: November 2019

Owing to safety concerns or insufficient efficacy, few drug candidates are approved for marketing. Drugs already on the market may be withdrawn due to adverse effects (AEs) discovered after market introduction. Comprehensively investigating the on-/off-target effects of drugs can help expose AEs during the drug development process. We have developed an integrative framework for systematic identification of on-/off-target pathways and elucidation of the underlying regulatory mechanisms, by combining promoter expression profiling after drug treatment with gene perturbation of the primary drug target. Expression profiles from statin-treated cells and HMG-CoA reductase knockdowns were analyzed using the framework, allowing for identification of not only reported adverse effects but also novel candidates of off-target effects from statin treatment, including key regulatory elements of on- and off-targets. Our findings may provide new insights for finding new usages or potential side effects of drug treatment.
Effects on milk quantity and composition associated with extruded linseed supplementation to dairy cow diets
Authors: Ariza Juan Manuel , Meignan Thomas , Madouasse Aurélien , Beaudeau François , Bareille Nathalie
Published: November 2019

Enhanced milk composition can improve human health. The composition of milk determines its nutritional and market value. Therefore, in almost all pricing schemes the economic benefits obtained from raw milk sales are influenced by the milk yield and composition. The objective of this retrospective study was to quantify the average effects of supplementing extruded linseed, rich in α-linolenic acid, to dairy cows on milk yield and milk fat and protein content under field conditions. The study included test day records performed on cows from 1294 dairy herds during the period from 2008 to 2015 that were supplied at least 4 times with extruded linseed deliveries. Exposure statuses were defined according to the time sequence and the amount of extruded linseed distributed in the herd. The unexposed population was composed of cows being in a herd period when extruded linseed was not offered. In a linear dose-response relationship, every 100 g increase in exposure to EL was associated with an increased milk yield from 0.11 to 0.14 kg/day, decreased milk fat from 0.06 to 0.13 g/kg and decreased milk protein from 0 to 0.02 g/kg, according to the cow parity. This study provides information on the associations between estimated intakes of EL and milk production and composition using a large database obtained from commercial dairy herds.
DNA methylation changes in infants between 6 and 52 weeks
Authors: Wikenius Ellen , Moe Vibeke , Smith Lars , Heiervang Einar R. , Berglund Anders
Published: November 2019

Infants undergo extensive developments during their first year of life. Although the biological mechanisms involved are not yet fully understood, changes in the DNA methylation in mammals are believed to play a key role. This study was designed to investigate changes in infant DNA methylation that occurs between 6 and 52 weeks. A total of 214 infant saliva samples from 6 or 52 weeks were assessed using principal component analyses and t-distributed stochastic neighbor-embedding algorithms. Between the two time points, there were clear differences in DNA methylation. To further investigate these findings, paired two-sided student’s t-tests were performed. Differently methylated regions were defined as at least two consecutive probes that showed significant differences, with a q-value < 0.01 and a mean difference > 0.2. After correcting for false discovery rates, changes in the DNA methylation levels were found in 42 genes. Of these, 36 genes showed increased and six decreased DNA methylation. The overall DNA methylation changes indicated decreased gene expression. This was surprising because infants undergo such profound developments during their first year of life. The results were evaluated by taking into consideration the extensive development that occurs during pregnancy. During the first year of life, infants have an overall three-fold increase in weight, while the fetus develops from a single cell into a viable infant in 9 months, with an 875-million-fold increase in weight. It is possible that the findings represent a biological slowing mechanism in response to extensive fetal development. In conclusion, our study provides evidence of DNA methylation changes during the first year of life, representing a possible biological slowing mechanism. We encourage future studies of DNA methylation changes in infants to replicate the findings by using a repeated measures model and less stringent criteria to see if the same genes can be found, as well as investigating whether other genes are involved in development during this period.
Genomes, expression profiles, and diversity of mitochondria of the White-footed Deermouse Peromyscus leucopus, reservoir of Lyme disease and other zoonoses
Authors: Barbour Alan G. , Shao Hanjuan , Cook Vanessa J. , Baldwin-Brown James , Tsao Jean I. , Long Anthony D.
Published: November 2019

The cricetine rodents Peromyscus leucopus and P. maniculatus are key reservoirs for several zoonotic diseases in North America. We determined the complete circular mitochondrial genome sequences of representatives of 3 different stock colonies of P. leucopus, one stock colony of P. maniculatus and two wild populations of P. leucopus. The genomes were syntenic with that of the murids Mus musculus and Rattus norvegicus. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed that these two Peromyscus species are sister taxa in a clade with P. polionotus and also uncovered a distinction between P. leucopus populations in the eastern and the central United States. In one P. leucopus lineage four extended regions of mitochondrial pseudogenes were identified in the nuclear genome. RNA-seq analysis revealed transcription of the entire genome and differences from controls in the expression profiles of mitochondrial genes in the blood, but not in liver or brain, of animals infected with the zoonotic pathogen Borrelia hermsii. PCR and sequencing of the D-loop of the mitochondrion identified 32 different haplotypes among 118 wild P. leucopus at a Connecticut field site. These findings help to further establish P. leucopus as a model organism for studies of emerging infectious diseases, ecology, and in other disciplines.
Author Correction: Modeling of systematic errors in stereo-digital image correlation due to camera self-heating
Authors: Yu Liping , Lubineau Gilles
Published: November 2019

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Publisher Correction: Spring constant and sensitivity calibration of FluidFM micropipette cantilevers for force spectroscopy measurements
Authors: Nagy Ágoston G. , Kámán Judit , Horváth Róbert , Bonyár Attila
Published: November 2019

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Author Correction: Urinary metabolic variation analysis during pregnancy and application in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus and spontaneous abortion biomarker discovery
Authors: Liu Xiaoyan , Wang Xiangqing , Sun Haidan , Guo Zhengguang , Liu Xiang , Yuan Tao , Fu Yong , Tang Xiaoyue , Li Jing , Sun Wei , Zhao Weigang
Published: November 2019

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Author Correction: Arsenic accumulation in lentil (Lens culinaris) genotypes and risk associated with the consumption of grains
Authors: Alam Mohammad Zahangeer , Hoque Md. Anamul , Ahammed Golam Jalal , McGee Rebecca , Carpenter-Boggs Lynne
Published: November 2019

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Molecular signature of an ancient organizer regulated by Wnt/β-catenin signalling during primary body axis patterning in Hydra
Authors: Reddy Puli Chandramouli , Gungi Akhila , Ubhe Suyog , Pradhan Saurabh J. , Kolte Amol , Galande Sanjeev
Published: November 2019

Wnt/β-catenin signalling has been shown to play a critical role during head organizer formation inHydra. Here, we characterized the Wnt signalling regulatory network involved in formation of the head organizer. We found that Wnt signalling regulates genes that are important in tissue morphogenesis. We identified that majority of transcription factors (TFs) regulated by Wnt/β-catenin signalling belong to the homeodomain and forkhead families. Silencing ofMargin, one of the Wnt regulated homeodomain TFs, results in loss of the ectopic tentacle phenotype typically seen upon activation of Wnt signalling. Furthermore, we show that theMarginpromoter is directly bound and regulated by β-catenin. Ectopic expression ofMarginin zebrafish embryos results in body axis abnormalities suggesting thatMarginplays a role in axis patterning. Our findings suggest that homeobox TFs came under the regulatory umbrella of Wnt/β-catenin signalling presumably resulting in the evolution of primary body axis in animal phyla.
Origin of conformational dynamics in a globular protein
Authors: Damry Adam M. , Mayer Marc M. , Broom Aron , Goto Natalie K. , Chica Roberto A.
Published: November 2019

Protein structures are dynamic, undergoing motions that can play a vital role in function. However, the link between primary sequence and conformational dynamics remains poorly understood. Here, we studied how conformational dynamics can arise in a globular protein by evaluating the impact of individual core-residue substitutions in DANCER-3, a streptococcal protein G domain β1 variant that we previously designed to undergo a specific mode of conformational exchange that has never been observed in the wild-type protein. Using a combination of solution NMR experiments and molecular dynamics simulations, we demonstrate that only two mutations are necessary to create this conformational exchange, and that these mutations work synergistically, with one destabilizing the native structure and the other allowing two new conformational states to be accessed on the energy landscape. Overall, our results show how dynamics can appear in a stable globular fold, a critical step in the molecular evolution of dynamics-linked functions.
Tailoring of an unusual oxidation state in a lanthanum tantalum(IV) oxynitride via precursor microstructure design
Authors: Bubeck Cora , Widenmeyer Marc , Richter Gunther , Coduri Mauro , Goering Eberhard , Yoon Songhak , Weidenkaff Anke
Published: November 2019

Perovskite-type oxynitrides hold great potential for optical applications due to their excellent visible light absorption properties. However, only a limited number of such oxynitrides with modulated physical properties are available to date and therefore alternative fabrication strategies are needed to be developed. Here, we introduce such an alternative strategy involving a precursor microstructure controlled ammonolysis. This leads to the perovskite family member LaTa(IV)O2N containing unusual Ta4+ cations. The adjusted precursor microstructures as well as the ammonia concentration are the key parameters to precisely control the oxidation state and O:N ratio in LaTa(O,N)3. LaTa(IV)O2N has a bright red colour, an optical bandgap of 1.9 eV and a low (optically active) defect concentration. These unique characteristics make this material suitable for visible light-driven applications and the identified key parameters will set the terms for the targeted development of further promising perovskite family members.
Platform of chiral Majorana edge modes and its quantum transport phenomena
Authors: He James Jun , Liang Tian , Tanaka Yukio , Nagaosa Naoto
Published: November 2019

Majorana fermions, as electronic quasi-particle modes in solid states, have been under the focus of research due to their exotic physical properties. While the evidence of Majorana fermions as zero-dimensional bound states has been well established, the existence of one-dimensional Majorana modes is still under debate. The main reason is that the current theoretical proposals of platforms supporting such states are very challenging experimentally. Here, we propose a method to create two-dimensional topological superconductors with a heterostructure of ferromagnet, topological insulator thin film and superconductor. We show that such a system supports one-dimensional chiral Majorana edge modes in a wide range of parameters which is readily achievable in experiments. We further propose a new transport measurement to detect these modes.
Rapid detection of carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae using pH response based on vancomycin-modified Fe3O4@Au nanoparticle enrichment and the carbapenemase hydrolysis reaction
Authors: Wang Jianmin , Yang Wei , Peng Qiling , Han Daobin , Kong Liangsheng , Fan Lu , Zhao Min , Ding Shijia
Published: November 2019

Rapid and simple detection of carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) is important to manage infection and prevent the spread of these bacteria.
HPLC detection of organic gunshot residues collected with silicone wristbands
Authors: Zuy Yelyzaveta , Sweck Samantha O. , Dockery Christopher R. , Potts Gretchen E.
Published: November 2019

An HPLC method was developed for detection of organic gunshot residues extracted from silicone wristbands used as passive sampling devices.
Confined growth of 2D MoS2 nanosheets in N-doped pearl necklace-like structured carbon nanofibers with boosted lithium and sodium storage performance
Authors: Wu Huayu , Zhang Xiue , Wu Qianhui , Han Yue , Wu Xiaoyu , Ji Penglei , Zhou Min , Diao Guowang , Chen Ming
Published: November 2019

N-Doped amber necklace-like structured MoS2@carbon nanofibers (ANL MoS2@CNFs) were fabricated via the confined growth, constructing a hierarchical structure with 2D nanosheets, yolk–shell structures, 1D nanofibers, and 3D cross-linked networks.
Highly selective redistribution of primary arylsilanes to secondary arylsilanes catalyzed by Ln(CH2C6H4NMe2-o)3@SBA-15
Authors: Guo Chenjun , Li Min , Chen Jue , Luo Yunjie
Published: November 2019

The organometallic–inorganic hybrid materials Ln(CH2C6H4NMe2-o)3@SBA-15 (Ln = La, Y) were prepared, which demonstrated extremely high selectivity (>99%) in catalyzing the redistribution of primary arylsilanes to secondary arylsilanes.
Generation of a zinc and rhodium containing metallomacrocycle by rearrangement of a six-coordinate precursor complex
Authors: Groß C. , Sun Y. , Jost T. , Grimm T. , Klein M. P. , Niedner-Schatteburg G. , Becker S. , Thiel W. R.
Published: November 2019

Two pentadentate N3,P2 ligands coordinate zinc(ii) by their N3 pocket.
Splitting and reorientation of π-conjugation by an unprecedented photo-rearrangement reaction
Authors: Inaba Yuya , Yoneda Tomoki , Kitagawa Yuichi , Miyata Kiyoshi , Hasegawa Yasuchika , Inokuma Yasuhide
Published: November 2019

π-Conjugation of a dodecahexaene was regioselectively cleaved by an unprecedented photo-rearrangement into an orthogonally oriented bis(hexatriene) in which two chromophores are arranged in a close proximity to exhibit excitonic interactions.
Hierarchical self-assembly of a PS-b-P4VP/PS-b-PNIPAM mixture into multicompartment micelles and their response to two-dimensional confinement
Authors: Yue Xuan , Geng Zhen , Yan Nan , Jiang Wei
Published: November 2019

Finely tuned synergistic effects among different blocks could realize intriguing hierarchical self-assembly of block copolymers and such hierarchical self-assembly could be manipulated by cylindrical confinement to tune the structures of assemblies.
Electrochemical intramolecular C–H/N–H functionalization for the synthesis of isoxazolidine-fused isoquinolin-1(2H)-ones
Authors: Zhang Lin-Bao , Geng Rui-Sen , Wang Zi-Chen , Ren Guang-Yi , Wen Li-Rong , Li Ming
Published: November 2019

A general and practical protocol for the construction of isoxazolidine-fused isoquinolin-1(2H)-ones has been described by electrochemical-oxidation-induced intramolecular annulation via amidyl radicals.
Metal- and solvent-free direct C–H thiolation of aromatic compounds with sulfonyl chlorides
Authors: Zhao Feng , Tan Qi , Wang Dahan , Deng Guo-Jun
Published: November 2019

A simple method for the direct thiolation of aromatic compounds using sulfonyl chlorides was developed under metal- and solvent-free conditions.
Soft temperature-responsive microgels of complex shape in stop-flow lithography
Authors: Wolff Hanna J. M. , Linkhorst John , Göttlich Tim , Savinsky Johann , Krüger Andreas J. D. , de Laporte Laura , Wessling Matthias
Published: November 2019

Using a NIPAm monomer with a crosslinker in stop-flow lithography enables the fabrication of soft, temperature-responsive microgels of complex shape.
Influence of patch size and chemistry on the catalytic activity of patchy hybrid nonwovens
Authors: Hils Christian , Dulle Martin , Sitaru Gabriel , Gekle Stephan , Schöbel Judith , Frank Andreas , Drechsler Markus , Greiner Andreas , Schmalz Holger
Published: November 2019

In this work, we provide a systematic kinetic study on the influence of the patchy structure of electrospun hybrid nonwovens on their catalytic activity in the gold nanoparticle (Au NP)-catalysed alcoholysis of dimethylphenylsilane inn-butanol.
The effect of nanostructures on high pressure intrusion–extrusion of water and electrolyte solutions in hierarchical nanoboxes of silicalite-1
Authors: Huve Joffrey , Daou T. Jean , Nouali Habiba , Patarin Joël , Ryzhikov Andrey
Published: November 2019

A drastic effect of the presence of cavities on high pressure intrusion–extrusion of LiCl aqueous solution in silicalite-1 nanoboxes is observed.
Elevated effective dimension in tree-like nanomagnetic Cayley structures
Authors: Saccone Michael , Hofhuis Kevin , Bracher David , Kleibert Armin , van Dijken Sebastiaan , Farhan Alan
Published: November 2019

Tree like interaction structures increase effective dimension in this significant step towards the first ever artificial spin glass system.
Atomic-scale tuning of oxygen-doped Bi2Te2.7Se0.3 to simultaneously enhance the Seebeck coefficient and electrical conductivity
Authors: Li Shuankui , Chu Mihai , Zhu Weiming , Wang Rui , Wang Qi , Liu Fusheng , Gu Meng , Xiao Yinguo , Pan Feng
Published: November 2019

The simultaneous enhancement of the Seebeck coefficient and electrical conductivity is achieved in Bi2Te2.7Se0.3 using an ALD-based strategy.
Construction of hierarchical V4C3-MXene/MoS2/C nanohybrids for high rate lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Bai Jin , Zhao Bangchuan , Lin Shuai , Li Kunzhen , Zhou Jiafeng , Dai Jianming , Zhu Xuebin , Sun Yuping
Published: November 2019

A novel V4C3-MXene/MoS2/C nanohybrid was synthesized, and it showed an outstanding electrochemical performance when evaluated as an anode for LIBs.
Synthesis of substituted 2-alkylquinolines by visible-light photoredox catalysis
Authors: Mei Yousheng , Liu Jie , Wang Lei , Li Pinhua
Published: November 2019

A simple and efficient protocol for the synthesis of substituted 2-alkylquinoline scaffolds was developed by employing visible-light photoredox catalysis.
Synthesis and characterization of light-degradable bromocoumarin functionalized polycarbonates
Authors: Müller Ann-Kathrin , Jung Dimitri , Sun Jingjiang , Kuckling Dirk
Published: November 2019

The preparation, characterization and degradation properties of novel light-degradable bromocoumarin functionalized polycarbonates were investigated in the present work.
Carboxylate, nitrate, sulfonate, and phosphate catalysts for living radical polymerization via oxygen–iodine halogen bonding catalysis
Authors: Mao Weijia , Wang Chen-Gang , Lu Yunpeng , Faustinelie Winnie , Goto Atsushi
Published: November 2019

Oxyanions, i.e., carboxylate, nitrate, phosphate, and sulfonate, were used for halogen-bonding-catalyzed living radial polymerization, giving low-dispersity polymethacrylates, polystyrene, and polyacrylonitrile homopolymers and block copolymers.
Recent progress on metal–organic framework-derived materials for sodium-ion battery anodes
Authors: Chen Taiqiang , Liu Xinjuan , Niu Lengyuan , Gong Yinyan , Li Can , Xu Shiqing , Pan Likun
Published: November 2019

Recent progress on MOF-derived materials, including carbon and metal oxides/sulfides/selenides/phosphides, as anode materials for sodium-ion batteries is summarized.
A novel quartz-crystal microbalance humidity sensor based on solution-processible indium oxide quantum dots
Authors: Kan Hao , Li Min , Li Hui , Li Chong , Zhou Jian , Fu Chen , Luo Jingting , Fu Yongqing
Published: November 2019

A high-performance QCM humidity sensor was prepared based on In2O3 QDs with a high specific surface area.
UPLC-QTOF-MS-guided isolation of anti-COPD ginsenosides from wild ginseng
Authors: Zhu Hailin , Liu Junli , Lin Hongqiang , Zhang Ying , Yang Na , Zhou Baisong , Wang Zhongyao , Chen-Yu Hsu Alan , Liu Jinping , Li Pingya
Published: November 2019

Four previously undescribed ginsenosides, along with five known analogues were isolated from wild ginseng by a UPLC-QTOF-MS-guided fractionation procedure.
Investigation of the leaching mechanism of NMC 811 (LiNi0.8Mn0.1Co0.1O2) by hydrochloric acid for recycling lithium ion battery cathodes
Authors: Xuan Wen , Otsuki Akira , Chagnes Alexandre
Published: November 2019

This paper investigates the reactions involved when LiNi0.8Mn0.1Co0.1O2 (NMC 811), which is one of the most promising positive electrodes for the next generation of lithium-ion batteries, is leached by hydrochloric acid.
Immunochromatographic assay for T-2 toxin based on luminescent quantum dot beads
Authors: Qie Zhiwei , Shi Jinmiao , Yan Wenliang , Gao Zichen , Meng Wu , Xiao Rui , Wang Shengqi
Published: November 2019

A quantum dot bead based immunochromatographic assay was established for T-2 toxin with a limit of detection of 0.08 ng mL−1.
Designing a bioactive scaffold from coassembled collagen–laminin short peptide hydrogels for controlling cell behaviour
Authors: Jain Rashmi , Roy Sangita
Published: November 2019

Exploring the potential of bifunctional collagen–laminin mimetic peptide based co-assembling gels for cell culture applications.
Determination of microcystins in water samples by deep eutectic solvent-based vortex-assisted liquid–liquid microextraction coupled with ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry
Authors: Chen Yung-Chih , Ao Yi-Ting , Ding Wang-Hsien
Published: November 2019

An eco-friendly and efficient DES-based VALLME coupled UHPLC-ESI(+)-qTOF-MS method was developed to determine MC-YR and MC-LR in surface water samples.
Effect of different-sizes of hydroxyapatite on the water resistance of magnesium oxychloride cement for bone repair
Authors: Guan Xiali , Zhou Gang , Cui Yangyang , Fei Jingjng , Fan Yubo
Published: November 2019

Magnesium oxychloride cement (MOC) has recently attracted significant attention due to its excellent mechanical properties and biological behavior.
Selective detection of trinitrophenol by a Cd(ii)-based coordination compound
Authors: Dutta Basudeb , Purkait Rakesh , Bhunia Suprava , Khan Samim , Sinha Chittaranjan , Mir Mohammad Hedayetullah
Published: November 2019

A Cd(ii)-based coordination compound, [CdI2(4-nvp)2] (1), has been synthesized using CdI2and monodentate N-donor ligand 4-(1-naphthylvinyl)pyridine (4-nvp).
Metal-free synthesis of 1,N6-ethenoadenines from N6-propargyl-adenines via NIS mediated radical cascade reaction
Authors: Yang Ruchun , Deng Si , Dong Xiang-you , Song Xianrong , Cai Hu , Bai Jiang , Xiao Qiang
Published: November 2019

An efficient approach for the construction of 1,N6-ethenoadenines is developed through the metal-free mediated radical cascade cyclization of conveniently prepared N6-propargyl-adenines.
Chain propagation determines the chemo- and regioselectivity of alkyl radical additions to C–O vs. C–C double bonds
Authors: Paulisch Tiffany O. , Strieth-Kalthoff Felix , Henkel Christian , Pitzer Lena , Guldi Dirk M. , Glorius Frank
Published: November 2019

Reversible radical addition followed by an irreversible electron transfer leads to regio- and chemoselectivity control of radical additions to π-systems.
Layered metallic vanadium diboride as an active cocatalyst for efficient dye-sensitized photocatalytic hydrogen evolution
Authors: Li Wenbo , Min Shixiong , Wang Fang , Zhang Zhengguo
Published: November 2019

Layered metallic VB2 has been identified as an efficient cocatalyst for H2 evolution in an ErB–TEOA system under visible light.
Reconstructing the mechanical response of polybutadiene rubber based on micro-structural evolution in strain-temperature space: entropic elasticity and strain-induced crystallization as the bridges
Authors: Chen Pinzhang , Lin Yuanfei , Zhao Jingyun , Meng Lingpu , Wang Daoliang , Chen Wei , Li Liangbin
Published: November 2019

Micro-structural evolution of polybutadiene rubber in strain-temperature space, and the reconstruction of the macro-mechanical response.
Enhancing the selectivity of Nafion membrane by incorporating a novel functional skeleton molecule to improve the performance of direct methanol fuel cells
Authors: Li Jialin , Bu Fanzhe , Ru Chunyu , Jiang Hao , Duan Yuting , Sun Yinan , Pu Xingtong , Shang Lichao , Li Xifang , Zhao Chengji
Published: November 2019

Conventional fillers have limitations on the modification of proton exchange membranes because of differences in the sizes and physicochemical properties of matrix molecules.
Ellipsoidal magnetite nanoparticles: a new member of the magnetic-vortex nanoparticles family for efficient magnetic hyperthermia
Authors: Gao Hongxu , Zhang Tingbin , Zhang Yifan , Chen Yimin , Liu Bo , Wu Jianpeng , Liu Xiaoli , Li Yudong , Peng Mingli , Zhang Ying , Xie Gang , Zhao Fengqi , Fan Hai Ming
Published: November 2019

A new type of magnetic vortex-domain nanoparticles, EMPs, was prepared, which showed great magnetic heating capability and enabled efficient inhibition of tumor growth.
Transforming commercial regenerated cellulose yarns into multifunctional wearable electronic textiles
Authors: Lv Jingchun , Dai Yamin , Xu Hong , Zhong Yi , Zhang Linping , Chen Zhize , Sui Xiaofeng , Feng Xueling , Wang Bijia , Mao Zhiping
Published: November 2019

Various types of wearable electronic devices based on polypyrrole and cellulose yarns are fabricated and show flame-retardant properties.
Towards white-light emission of fluorescent polymeric nanoparticles with a single luminogen possessing AIE and TICT properties
Authors: Hu Yaxin , Liang Xiaoqin , Wu Dongliang , Yu Bang , Wang Yijia , Mi Yifang , Cao Zhihai , Zhao Zujin
Published: November 2019

White-light-emitting AIE-PNPs were facilely and efficiently prepared through miniemulsion copolymerization by using an AIE luminogen with twisted intramolecular charge transfer properties as a single emitting component.
Amino-functionalization on graphene oxide sheets using an atomic layer amidation technique
Authors: Gu Siyong , Hsieh Chien-Te , Mallick Bikash Chandra , Ashraf Gandomi Yasser , Chang Jeng-Kuei , Li Jianlin , Liaw Peter K.
Published: November 2019

Nitrogen functionalization on graphene sheets has solely been demonstrated with a stepwise amidation implementation within the literature.
Beyond reversal: ubiquitin and ubiquitin-like proteases and the orchestration of the DNA double strand break repair response
Authors: Garvin Alexander J.
Published: November 2019

The cellular response to genotoxic DNA double strand breaks (DSBs) uses a multitude of post-translational modifications to localise, modulate and ultimately clear DNA repair factors in a timely and accurate manner. Ubiquitination is well established as vital to the DSB response, with a carefully co-ordinated pathway of histone ubiquitination events being a central component of DSB signalling. Other ubiquitin-like modifiers (Ubl) including SUMO and NEDD8 have since been identified as playing important roles in DSB repair. In the last five years ∼20 additional Ub/Ubl proteases have been implicated in the DSB response. The number of proteases identified highlights the complexity of the Ub/Ubl signal present at DSBs. Ub/Ubl proteases regulate turnover, activity and protein–protein interactions of DSB repair factors both catalytically and non-catalytically. This not only ensures efficient repair of breaks but has a role in channelling repair into the correct DSB repair sub-pathways. Ultimately Ub/Ubl proteases have essential roles in maintaining genomic stability. Given that deficiencies in many Ub/Ubl proteases promotes sensitivity to DNA damaging chemotherapies, they could be attractive targets for cancer treatment.
GPIO‐based robust control of magnetic levitation system subject external disturbance
Authors: Lan Qixun , Cai Yujie , Liu Yamei , Xu Huafeng , Yang Yuqian , Li Ya‐nan
Published: November 2019

This article considers the robust control problem of non‐linear magnetic levitation system with parameter uncertainties and external disturbance. To obtain a simple and practical controller that does not depend on the exact model information, a generalised‐proportional‐integral observer is constructed to estimate the velocity and disturbance. Then, based on mild assumptions and the estimated values, an output feedback tracking controller is proposed such that the reference position tracking task could be realised. The obtained control approach is confirmed strictly by theoretical analysis. Finally, simulation results are provided to show the effectiveness of the proposed control method.
Pose detection of parallel robot based on improved Hough‐K‐means and SURF algorithms
Authors: Zhang Qian , Gao Guoqin , Liu Mengru
Published: November 2019

It is difficult to detect end pose of auto electrocoating conveying parallel robot based on binocular vision because of less features, noise and blurred edges in image. So a pose detection method is presented. Firstly, according to distance and similarity between image points, the bilateral filtering is adopted to reduce noise. Secondly, for extracting straight lines on blurred edges and feature points in lines accurately, a Hough‐K‐means algorithm using K‐means clustering analysis in parameter space after Hough transform is proposed. Thirdly, the discrete Gaussian–Hermite moment is used as feature descriptor to solve the low accuracy problem of principal directions of feature points described by speeded‐up robust features (SURF) descriptor. The extracted feature points are selected according to the similarity metric between constructed feature vectors. Finally, the vision model is developed to calculate the three‐dimensional pose parameters of parallel robot based on obtained point pairs. The experiment results show that, compared with the SURF algorithm, the average matching time decreases by 21.58%, the average deviations of detected poses in x, z and β decrease by 1.149 mm, 0.646 mm and 1.164° respectively by using the proposed method. The speed and accuracy of pose detection of parallel robot can be improved.
Method of automatic steering system design and parameter optimisation for small tractors
Authors: Tian Guangzhao , Gu Baoxing , Chen Kai , Liu Yufeng , Wei Jiansheng
Published: November 2019

In order to improve the operational efficiency and quality of small tractors, the original manual steering system needs to be renovated to include automatic steering functionality, which is the basis of autonomous navigation. Here, a modification method based on the steering circuit of a Dongfanghong SG250 tractor and a method to calculate the virtual steering angle is proposed. A small tractor steering model is established from the step response data of the system, and a PD controller for this model is also designed. The PD controller can also adapt to varying tractor speeds for optimal functionality in changing operational conditions, and a parameter optimisation approach for the speed‐adaptive PD controller is proposed. Test results show that at a speed of 0.5 m s−1, the steady‐state error in the step response is 0.32°, the percentage error is 2.3%, the overshoot is 1.86°, and the percentage overshoot is 13.7%. For a ramp response, the average signal latency is 0.82 s and the steady‐state error is 0.25°. The ability of the PD to adapt to changing speeds is also tested at different speeds. The results show that the steering system performs well.
Adaptive flight control for unmanned autonomous helicopter with external disturbance and actuator fault
Authors: Yan Kun , Chen Mou , Wu Qingxian , Wang Yuhui
Published: November 2019

A backstepping‐based robust adaptive fault tolerant control (FTC) scheme is proposed for the altitude and attitude dynamic model of the medium‐scale unmanned autonomous helicopter (UAH) subjected to external disturbance and actuator fault. The external disturbance and actuator fault are integrated into the medium‐scale UAH altitude and attitude dynamic model. Since the actuator fault is uncertain in occurring time instant, the adaptive control approach is adopted to compensate for its negative effect. Meanwhile, the upper bound of external disturbance is estimated and the estimation is employed to design the controller. Based on the backstepping control technique, a robust adaptive FTC law is developed, which guarantees the desired system stability as well as the satisfactory tracking property. Simulation studies verify the effectiveness of the designed controller.
Adaptive sliding mode based active disturbance rejection control method for a direct‐driven wind power conversion system
Authors: Wang Siyue , Li Shengquan , Gu Renjing , Ma Liya , Li Mengjie
Published: November 2019

Considering the internal and external disturbances of the direct‐driven wind energy conversion systems, i.e. multi‐variable coupling, non‐linear characteristic and modelling error, and the environmental disturbances, an adaptive sliding mode observer with active disturbance rejection control (ADRC) method for a direct‐driven permanent magnet synchronous generator (PMSG) based wind power conversion system is proposed to track the maximum power point precisely. First, adaptive sliding mode observer based on phase‐locked loop can effectively observe the rotor position information of PMSG, and weak the inherent chattering of traditional sliding mode. Second, ADRC can enhance the anti‐disturbance ability when the system is under linear state feedback. Finally, the simulation results show that this method can estimate the rotor position exactly, and the system has the strong robustness and the optimum power tracking performance.
Back‐stepping sliding mode control method for quadrotor UAV with actuator failure
Authors: Zhu Zhiqiang , Cao Songyin
Published: November 2019

In this article, a fault tolerant controller (FTC) based on back‐stepping sliding mode is proposed for a quadrotor unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) with single‐rotor failure. According to the working mechanism of the quadrotor, the control system of UAV is divided into position subsystem and attitude subsystem. Then, the yaw control is abandoned because of the increased underactuation. The controller is designed by the back‐stepping sliding mode control (BSMC). BSMC is robust to system uncertainties and external disturbances. Sliding mode reaching law is designed. Therefore, it can reduce system chattering. Based on the Lyapunov function method, the proposed FTC approach makes the faulty UAV stable and realises position control accuracy. Finally, simulation results show that the quadrotor UAV can reach the desired position and maintain the hover state, which verifies the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Continuous finite‐time TSM control for electronic throttle system
Authors: Timothy Agbaje Oluwatoyin , Li Shihua , Sun Hao , Zhang Lu
Published: November 2019

This article examines the position tracking difficulties of the electronic throttle (ET) system and presents a continuous finite‐time terminal sliding mode (TSM) control method. The development of this control method involves two procedures: (i) designing a global finite‐time observer to estimate the derivative and higher order derivatives of the ET system output, and the total disturbances; and (ii) construction of a continuous finite‐time TSM controller based on observer estimations, to ensure the realisation of fast finite‐time convergence of system output with a comparatively smooth control action. Comprehensive stability proof, simulation study, and experimental implementation are provided to affirm the applicability of the proposed method.