bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tissue-specific promoter-based reporter system for monitoring cell differentiation from iPSCs to cardiomyocytes
Authors: Fiedorowicz Katarzyna , Rozwadowska Natalia , Zimna Agnieszka , Malcher Agnieszka , Tutak Katarzyna , Szczerbal Izabela , Nowicka-Bauer Karolina , Nowaczyk Magdalena , Kolanowski Tomasz J. , Łabędź Wojciech , Kubaszewski Łukasz , Kurpisz Maciej
Published: February 2020

The possibility of using stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes opens a new platform for modeling cardiac cell differentiation and disease or the development of new drugs. Progress in this field can be accelerated by high-throughput screening (HTS) technology combined with promoter reporter system. The goal of the study was to create and evaluate a responsive promoter reporter system that allows monitoring of iPSC differentiation towards cardiomyocytes. The lentiviral promoter reporter system was based ontroponin 2(TNNT2) andalpha cardiac actin(ACTC) with firefly luciferase and mCherry, respectively. The system was evaluated in twoin vitromodels. First, system followed the differentiation ofTNNT2-luc-T2A-Puro-mCMV-GFP and hACTC-mcherry-WPRE-EF1-Neofrom transduced iPSC line towards cardiomyocytes and revealed the significant decrease in both inserts copy number during the prolongedin vitrocell culture (confirmed by I-FISH, ddPCR, qPCR). Second, differentiated and contracting control cardiomyocytes (obtained from control non-reporter transduced iPSCs) were subsequently transduced withTNNT2-luc-T2A-Puro-CMV-GFP and hACTC-mcherry-WPRE-EF1-Neolentiviruses to observe the functionality of obtained cardiomyocytes. Our results indicated that the reporter modified cell lines can be used for HTS applications, but it is essential to monitor the stability of the reporter sequence during extended cellin vitroculture.
Effects of Rikkunshito treatment on renal fibrosis/inflammation and body weight reduction in a unilateral ureteral obstruction model in mice
Authors: Wakui Hiromichi , Yamaji Takahiro , Azushima Kengo , Uneda Kazushi , Haruhara Kotaro , Nakamura Akiko , Ohki Kohji , Kinguchi Sho , Kobayashi Ryu , Urate Shingo , Suzuki Toru , Kamimura Daisuke , Minegishi Shintaro , Ishigami Tomoaki , Kanaoka Tomohiko , Matsuo Kohei , Miyazaki Tomoyuki , Fujikawa Tetsuya , Yamashita Akio , Tamura Kouichi
Published: February 2020

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) progresses to end-stage renal failure via renal tubulointerstitial fibrosis. Malnutrition, inflammation, and arteriosclerosis interact to exacerbate the poor prognosis of CKD, and their effective management is thus essential. The traditional Japanese medicine Rikkunshito (RKT) exerts appetite-stimulating effects via ghrelin, which attenuates inflammation and fibrosis. We evaluated the therapeutic effect of RKT in unilateral ureter obstruction (UUO)-induced renal fibrosis/inflammation and body weight loss in mice. UUO and sham-operated mice were fed a standard diet or diet containing 3.0% RKT. Renal fibrosis was investigated by histopathology and macrophage infiltration was determined by immunohistochemistry. Expression levels of genes associated with fibrosis, inflammation, ghrelin, and mitochondrial function were determined by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and western blot analyses. RKT treatment partially prevented UUO-induced weight loss but failed to attenuate renal fibrosis and inflammation. Renal expression of sirtuin 1, a ghrelin-downstream signalling molecule, and gene expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ coactivator 1α and Bcl-2/adenovirus E1B interacting protein 3 were unaffected by RKT. These results indicate that RKT inhibits weight loss but does not improve renal fibrosis or inflammation in a rapidly progressive renal fibrosis mouse model. RKT may have a protective effect on weight loss associated with CKD.
Two dimensional (2D) reduced graphene oxide (RGO)/hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) based nanocomposites as anodes for high temperature rechargeable lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Mussa Yasmin , Ahmed Faheem , Arsalan Muhammad , Alsharaeh Edreese
Published: February 2020

With lithium-ion (li-ion) batteries as energy storage devices, operational safety from thermal runaway remains a major obstacle especially for applications in harsh environments such as in the oil industry. In this approach, a facile method via microwave irradiation technique (MWI) was followed to prepare Co3O4/reduced graphene oxide (RGO)/hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) nanocomposites as anodes for high temperature li-ion batteries. Results showed that the addition ofh-BN not only enhanced the thermal stability of Co3O4/RGO nanocomposites but also enhanced the specific surface area. Co3O4/RGO/h-BN nanocomposites displayed the highest specific surface area of 191 m2/g evidencing the synergistic effects between RGO andh-BN. Moreover, Co3O4/RGO/h-BN also displayed the highest specific capacity with stable reversibility on the high performance after 100 cycles and lower internal resistance. Interestingly, this novel nanocomposite exhibits outstanding high temperature performances with excellent cycling stability (100% capacity retention) and a decreased internal resistance at 150 °C.
Numerical simulation of the flow and erosion behavior of exhaust gas and particles in polysilicon reduction furnace
Authors: Qili Wang , Binbin Jia , Mingquan Yu , Min He , Xiaochuan Li , Komarneni Sridhar
Published: February 2020

In order to study the flow and erosion behavior of gas-solid exhaust in the polysilicon reduction furnace, the flow characteristics of exhaust gas and silicon particles were analyzed. The flow model and erosion model of exhaust gas and silicon particles were established based on the gas-solid flow theory and the erosion theory. The erosion and wear behavior of the gas-solid mixture in the flow passage pipeline were studied by numerical simulation. The results show that the wear and erosion from Nos. 1 to 8 regions at the bottom of the ring were caused by silicon particles colliding with high angle. The wear and erosion of 2 regions from Nos. 9 to 10 at the outside of the up azimuth on both sides of loop pipe outlets, 4 regions from Nos. 11 to 14 on the upper and lower wall of single furnace main channel were severely affected wear regions, which is caused by silicon particles with low angle and high velocity. Through comparative analysis, the erosion of upper wall of single furnace main channel is most serious. Increased gas velocity, particle concentration and particle size will exacerbate the erosion and wear rate of the pipeline in polysilicon reduction furnace, but the distribution and development of severe wear zone would not be affected significantly.
Role of the imprinted allele of the Cdkn1c gene in mouse neocortical development
Authors: Imaizumi Yui , Furutachi Shohei , Watanabe Tomoyuki , Miya Hiroaki , Kawaguchi Daichi , Gotoh Yukiko
Published: February 2020

Imprinted genes are expressed from only one allele in a parent of origin–specific manner. The cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p57kip2 is encoded by an imprinted gene Cdkn1c, with the paternal allele being silenced. The possible expression and function of the paternal allele of Cdkn1c have remained little studied, however. We now show that the paternal allele of the Cdkn1c gene is expressed at a low level in the developing mouse neocortex. Surprisingly, the central nervous system-specific conditional deletion of the paternal allele (pat cKO) at the Cdkn1c locus resulted in a marked reduction in brain size. Furthermore, pat cKO gradually reduced the number of neural stem-progenitor cells (NPCs) during neocortical development, and thus reduced the number of upper-layer neurons, which were derived from late-stage NPCs. Our results thus show that the paternal allele of the Cdkn1c locus plays a key role in maintenance of NPCs during neocortical development.
ASK1 promotes uterine inflammation leading to pathological preterm birth
Authors: Yoshikawa Midori , Iriyama Takayuki , Suzuki Kensuke , Sayama Seisuke , Tsuruga Tetsushi , Kumasawa Keiichi , Nagamatsu Takeshi , Homma Kengo , Naguro Isao , Osuga Yutaka , Ichijo Hidenori , Fujii Tomoyuki
Published: February 2020

It is widely accepted that enhanced uterine inflammation associated with microbial infection is a main causative factor for preterm birth. However, little is known about the molecular basis by which inflammation is associated with preterm birth. Here, we demonstrate that apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1 (ASK1), a member of the mitogen-activated protein 3-kinase family, facilitates inflammation-induced preterm birth and that inhibition of ASK1 activity is sufficient to suppress preterm birth. ASK1-deficient pregnant mice exhibited reduced incidence of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced preterm birth. ASK1 was required for the induction of LPS-induced inflammatory responses related to preterm birth, including pro-inflammatory cytokine production in the uterus and peritoneal cavities. In addition, selective suppression of uterine ASK1 activity through a chemical genetic approach reduced the incidence of LPS-induced preterm birth. Moreover, translational studies with human choriodecidua demonstrated that ASK1 was required for LPS-induced activation of JNK and p38 and pro-inflammatory cytokine production. Our findings suggest that ASK1 activation is responsible for the induction of inflammation that leads to preterm birth and that the blockade of ASK1 signaling might be a promising therapeutic target for preventing preterm birth.
Permanent control of HIV-1 pathogenesis in exceptional elite controllers: a model of spontaneous cure
Authors: Casado Concepcion , Galvez Cristina , Pernas Maria , Tarancon-Diez Laura , Rodriguez Carmen , Sanchez-Merino Víctor , Vera Mar , Olivares Isabel , De Pablo-Bernal Rebeca , Merino-Mansilla Alberto , Del Romero Jorge , Lorenzo-Redondo Ramon , Ruiz-Mateos Ezequiel , Salgado María , Martinez-Picado Javier , Lopez-Galindez Cecilio
Published: February 2020

Elite controllers (EC) represent a small subset of HIV-1-infected people that spontaneously control viral replication. However, natural virological suppression and absence of immune dysfunction are not always long-term sustained. We define exceptional EC (EEC) as HIV-1 subjects who maintain the EC characteristics without disease progression for more than 25 years. We analyzed three EEC, diagnosed between 1988 and 1992, who never showed signs of clinical disease progression in absence of any antiretroviral treatment. A comprehensive clinical, virological, and immunological study was performed. The individuals simultaneously exhibited ≥3 described host protective alleles, low levels of total HIV-1 DNA (<20 copies/106 CD4+ T-cells) without evidence of replication-competent viruses (<0.025 IUPM), consistent with high levels of defective genomes, strong cellular HIV-1-specific immune response, and a high poly-functionality index (>0.50). Inflammation levels of EEC were similar to HIV-1 negative donors. Remarkably, they showed an exceptional lack of viral evolution and 8-fold lower genetic diversity (<0.01 s/n) in env gene than other EC. We postulate that these EEC represent cases of spontaneous functional HIV-1 cure. A non-functional and non-genetically evolving viral reservoir along with an HIV-1-specific immune response seems to be key for the spontaneous functional cure.
Autologous platelet-rich fibrin stimulates canine periodontal regeneration
Authors: Kornsuthisopon Chatvadee , Pirarat Nopadon , Osathanon Thanaphum , Kalpravidh Chanin
Published: February 2020

Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) provides a scaffold for cell migration and growth factors for promoting wound healing and tissue regeneration. Here, we report using PRF in periodontal healing after open flap debridement (OFD) in canine periodontitis. A split-mouth design was performed in twenty dogs. Forty periodontitis surgical sites were randomly categorized into 2 groups; OFD alone and OFD with PRF treatment. Clinical parameters of periodontal pocket depth, gingival index, and the cemento-enamel junction-alveolar bone levels/root length ratio were improved in the OFD + PRF group. The OFD + PRF group also demonstrated a dramatically decreased inflammatory score compared with the OFD group. Collagen accumulation was improved in the OFD + PRF group at later time points compared with baseline. PRF application also significantly reduced inflammatory cytokine expression (TNFA and IL1B), and promoted the expression of collagen production-related genes (COL1A1, COL3A1, and TIMP1) and growth factors (PDGFB, TGFB1, and VEGFA). These findings suggest that PRF combined with OFD provides a new strategy to enhance the overall improvement of canine periodontitis treatment outcomes, especially in terms of inflammation and soft tissue healing. Therefore, PRF use in treating periodontitis could play an important role as a regenerative material to improve canine periodontitis treatment.
Pharmaceuticals in treated wastewater induce a stress response in tomato plants
Authors: Gorovits Rena , Sobol Iris , Akama Kazuhito , Chefetz Benny , Czosnek Henryk
Published: February 2020

Pharmaceuticals remain in treated wastewater used to irrigate agricultural crops. Their effect on terrestrial plants is practically unknown. Here we tested whether these compounds can be considered as plant stress inducers. Several features characterize the general stress response in plants: production of reactive oxygen species acting as stress-response signals, MAPKs signaling cascade inducing expression of defense genes, heat shock proteins preventing protein denaturation and degradation, and amino acids playing signaling roles and involved in osmoregulation. Tomato seedlings bathing in a cocktail of pharmaceuticals (Carbamazepine, Valporic acid, Phenytoin, Diazepam, Lamotrigine) or in Carbamazepine alone, at different concentrations and during different time-periods, were used to study the patterns of stress-related markers. The accumulation of the stress-related biomarkers in leaf and root tissues pointed to a cumulative stress response, mobilizing the cell protection machinery to avoid metabolic modifications and to restore homeostasis. The described approach is suitable for the investigation of stress response of different crop plants to various contaminants present in treated wastewater.
A new pH sensor localized in the Golgi apparatus of Saccharomyces cerevisiae reveals unexpected roles of Vph1p and Stv1p isoforms
Authors: Deschamps Antoine , Colinet Anne-Sophie , Zimmermannova Olga , Sychrova Hana , Morsomme Pierre
Published: February 2020

The gradual acidification of the secretory pathway is conserved and extremely important for eukaryotic cells, but until now there was no pH sensor available to monitor the pH of the early Golgi apparatus in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Therefore, we developed a pHluorin-based sensor for in vivo measurements in the lumen of the Golgi. By using this new tool we show that the cis- and medial-Golgi pH is equal to 6.6–6.7 in wild type cells during exponential phase. As expected, V-ATPase inactivation results in a near neutral Golgi pH. We also uncover that surprisingly Vph1p isoform of the V-ATPase is prevalent to Stv1p for Golgi acidification. Additionally, we observe that during changes of the cytosolic pH, the Golgi pH is kept relatively stable, mainly thanks to the V-ATPase. Eventually, this new probe will allow to better understand the mechanisms involved in the acidification and the pH control within the secretory pathway.
Imaging Special Nuclear Material using a Handheld Dual Particle Imager
Authors: Steinberger William M. , Ruch Marc L. , Giha Nathan , Fulvio Angela Di , Marleau Peter , Clarke Shaun D. , Pozzi Sara A.
Published: February 2020

A compact radiation imaging system capable of detecting, localizing, and characterizing special nuclear material (e.g. highly-enriched uranium, plutonium…) would be useful for national security missions involving inspection, emergency response, or war-fighters. Previously-designed radiation imaging systems have been large and bulky with significant portions of volume occupied by photomultiplier tubes (PMTs). The prototype imaging system presented here uses silicon photomultipliers (SiPMs) in place of PMTs because SiPMs are much more compact and operate at low power and voltage. The SiPMs are coupled to the ends of eight stilbene organic scintillators, which have an overall volume of 5.74 × 5.74 × 7.11 cm3. The prototype dual-particle imager’s capabilities were evaluated by performing measurements with a 252Cf source, a sphere of 4.5 kg of alpha-phase weapons-grade plutonium known as the BeRP ball, a 6 kg sphere of neptunium, and a canister of 3.4 kg of plutonium oxide (7% 240Pu and 93% 239Pu). These measurements demonstrate neutron spectroscopic capabilities, a neutron image resolution for a Watt spectrum of 9.65 ± 0.94° in the azimuthal direction and 22.59 ± 5.81° in the altitude direction, imaging of gamma rays using organic scintillators, and imaging of multiple sources in the same field of view.
Molecular mechanisms of Wischnewski spot development on gastric mucosa in fatal hypothermia: an experimental study in rats
Authors: Yang Chihpin , Sugimoto Kana , Murata Yukie , Hirata Yuichiro , Kamakura Yu , Koyama Yoshihisa , Miyashita Yohei , Nakama Kentaro , Higashisaka Kazuma , Harada Kazuo , Katada Ryuichi , Matsumoto Hiroshi
Published: February 2020

Numerous dark-brown-coloured small spots called “Wischnewski spots” are often observed in the gastric mucosa in the patients dying of hypothermia, but the molecular mechanisms through which they develop remain unclear. We hypothesised that hypothermia may activate the secretion of gastric acid and pepsin, leading to the development of the spots. To investigate this, we performed experiments using organotypic rat gastric tissue slices cultured at 37 °C (control) or 32 °C (cold). Cold loading for 6 h lowered the extracellular pH in the culture medium. The mRNA expression of gastrin, which regulates gastric acid secretion, increased after cold loading for 3 h. Cold loading increased the expression of gastric H+,K+-ATPase pump protein in the apical canalicular membrane and resulted in dynamic morphological changes in parietal cells. Cold loading resulted in an increased abundance of pepsin C protein and an elevated mRNA expression of its precursor progastricsin. Collectively, our findings clarified that cold stress induces acidification by activating gastric H+,K+-ATPase pumps and promoting pepsin C release through inducing progastricsin expression on the gastric mucosa, leading to tiny haemorrhages or erosions of the gastric mucosa that manifest as Wischnewski spots in fatal hypothermia.
Intermittent hypoxia exacerbates tumor progression in a mouse model of lung cancer
Authors: Kang Hye Seon , Kwon Hee Young , Kim In Kyoung , Ban Woo Ho , Kim Sei Won , Kang Hyeon Hui , Yeo Chang Dong , Lee Sang Haak
Published: February 2020

The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)-related chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH) influences lung cancer progression and to elucidate the associated mechanisms in a mouse model of lung cancer. C57/BL6 mice in a CIH group were exposed to intermittent hypoxia for two weeks after tumor induction and compared with control mice (room air). Hypoxia inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and metastasis-related matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) were measured. The expression levels of several hypoxia-related pathway proteins including HIF-1α, Wnt/ß-catenin, the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and mammalian target of rapamycin-ERK were measured by western blot. The number (P < 0.01) and volume (P < 0.05) of tumors were increased in the CIH group. The activity of MMP-2 was enhanced after CIH treatment. The level of VEGF was increased significantly in the CIH group (p < 0.05). ß-catenin and Nrf2 were translocated to the nucleus and the levels of downstream effectors of Wnt/ß-catenin signaling increased after IH exposure. CIH enhanced proliferative and migratory properties of tumors in a mouse model of lung cancer. ß-catenin and Nrf2 appeared to be crucial mediators of tumor growth.
Publisher Correction: Therapeutic potential of N-acetylcysteine in acrylamide acute neurotoxicity in adult zebrafish
Authors: Faria Melissa , Prats Eva , Gómez-Canela Cristian , Hsu Chuan-Yu , Arick Mark A. , Bedrossiantz Juliette , Orozco Manuel , Garcia-Reyero Natàlia , Ziv Tamar , Ben-Lulu Shani , Admon Arie , Gómez-Oliván Leobardo Manuel , Raldúa Demetrio
Published: February 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Lizards and rabbits may increase Chagas infection risk in the Mediterranean-type ecosystem of South America
Authors: San Juan Esteban , Araya-Donoso Raúl , Sandoval-Rodríguez Alejandra , Yáñez-Meza Andrea , Quiroga Nicol , Botto-Mahan Carezza
Published: February 2020

Studies of host-parasite relationships largely benefit from adopting a multifactorial approach, including the complexity of multi-host systems and habitat features in their analyses. Some host species concentrate most infection and contribute disproportionately to parasite and vector population maintenance, and habitat feature variation creates important heterogeneity in host composition, influencing infection risk and the fate of disease dynamics. Here, we examine how the availability of specific groups of hosts and habitat features relate to vector abundance and infection risk in 18 vector populations along the Mediterranean-type ecosystem of South America, where the kissing bug Mepraia spinolai is the main wild vector of the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, the etiological agent of Chagas disease. For each population, data on vectors, vertebrate host availability, vegetation, precipitation, and temperature were collected and analyzed. Vector abundance was positively related to temperature, total vegetation, and European rabbit availability. Infection risk was positively related to temperature, bromeliad cover, and reptile availability; and negatively to the total domestic mammal availability. The invasive rabbit is suggested as a key species involved in the vector population maintenance. Interestingly, lizard species –a group completely neglected as a potential reservoir–, temperature, and bromeliads were relevant factors accounting for infection risk variation across populations.
Author Correction: Validation of the GRade, Age, Nodes and Tumor (GRANT) score within the Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) database: A new tool to predict survival in surgically treated renal cell carcinoma patients
Authors: Buti Sebastiano , Karakiewicz Pierre I. , Bersanelli Melissa , Capitanio Umberto , Tian Zhe , Cortellini Alessio , Taguchi Satoru , Briganti Alberto , Montorsi Francesco , Leonardi Francesco , Bandini Marco
Published: February 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Rapid electrostatic DNA enrichment for sensitive detection of Trichomonas vaginalis in clinical urinary samples
Authors: Rosenbohm Justin M. , Robson James M. , Singh Rishabh , Lee Rose , Zhang Jane Y. , Klapperich Catherine M. , Pollock Nira R. , Cabodi Mario
Published: February 2020

Rapid electrostatic enrichment of DNA from urine samples for improved isothermal nucleic acid amplification-based detection of Trichomonas vaginalis.
Sustainable quantum dot chemistry: effects of precursor, solvent, and surface chemistry on the synthesis of Zn3P2 nanocrystals
Authors: Swain Robert A. , McVey Benjamin F. P. , Virieux Héloïse , Ferrari Fabio , Tison Yann , Martinez Hervé , Chaudret Bruno , Nayral Céline , Delpech Fabien
Published: February 2020

The synthesis of Zn3P2 nanocrystals of unprecedented quality was performed using novel zinc precursors.
Spin transition in a ferrous chloride complex supported by a pentapyridine ligand
Authors: Boniolo Manuel , Shylin Sergii I. , Chernev Petko , Cheah Mun Hon , Heizmann Philipp A. , Huang Ping , Salhi Nessima , Hossain Kamal , Thapper Anders , Lundberg Marcus , Messinger Johannes
Published: February 2020

Apparent high-spin complex with FeN5Cl coordination sphere exhibits a complete transition to the low-spin state on cooling.
Study on the therapeutic material basis and effect of Acanthopanax senticosus (Rupr. et Maxim.) Harms leaves in the treatment of ischemic stroke by PK-PD analysis based on online microdialysis–LC-MS/MS method
Authors: Wang Yu , Liu Shu , Wang Rongjin , Shi Liqiang , Liu Zhiqiang , Liu Zhongying
Published: February 2020

The therapeutic material basis and effect of ASL in the treatment of ischemic stroke were studied by PK-PD analysis.
Ultrathin boron nanosheets as an emerging two-dimensional photoluminescence material for bioimaging
Authors: Ma Dingtao , Zhao Jinlai , Xie Jianlei , Zhang Feng , Wang Rui , Wu Leiming , Liang Weiyuan , Li Delong , Ge Yanqi , Li Jianqing , Zhang Yupeng , Zhang Han
Published: February 2020

We report blue-emitting ultrathin B nanosheets with good biocompatibility and photostability characteristics, which can be applied for bioimaging.
Photothermal actuated origamis based on graphene oxide–cellulose programmable bilayers
Authors: Gao Dace , Lin Meng-Fang , Xiong Jiaqing , Li Shaohui , Lou Shi Nee , Liu Yizhi , Ciou Jing-Hao , Zhou Xinran , Lee Pooi See
Published: February 2020

The combination of graphene oxide and cellulose produces shape programmable active origamis, which are able to transform among their multi-stable morphs, including 3D soft robotic architectures, mechanical metamaterials and biomimetic analogies.
High-yield electrochemical hydrogen peroxide production from an enhanced two-electron oxygen reduction pathway by mesoporous nitrogen-doped carbon and manganese hybrid electrocatalysts
Authors: Byeon Ayeong , Cho Jinwon , Kim Jong Min , Chae Keun Hwa , Park Hee-Young , Hong Seok Won , Ham Hyung Chul , Lee Seung Woo , Yoon Ki Ro , Kim Jin Young
Published: February 2020

A selective and efficient electrocatalyst composed of MnO and Mn–Nxco-doped carbon nanostructures is developed for electrochemical hydrogen peroxide generation.
Ultrathin layer solid transformation-enabled-surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy for trace harmful small gaseous molecule detection
Authors: Bao Haoming , Zhang Hongwen , Fu Hao , Zhou Le , Zhang Peng , Li Yue , Cai Weiping
Published: February 2020

A new strategy – ultrathin layer solid transformation-enabled-SERS – is presented for rapid and ultrasensitive detection of harmful small gaseous molecules.
Optimized synthesis of thermally stable axially modified pyrazine-acene nanoribbon with gelation properties
Authors: Lee Sae Hui , Valverde Paredes Marco S. , Rappenecker Taylor J. , Robins Kathleen A. , Lee Dong-Chan
Published: February 2020

A comprehensive synthesis study to axially modify N-heteroacene nanoribbon and its outstanding thermal and one-dimensional assembly properties.
Co-assembly of HPV capsid proteins and aggregation-induced emission fluorogens for improved cell imaging
Authors: Jing Jiangbo , Xue Ya-Rong , Liu Yu-Xue , Xu Bin , Li Hong-Wei , Liu Leijing , Wu Yuqing , Tian Wenjing
Published: February 2020

A co-assembly of HPV capsid protein L1 and an AIE molecule DSAI has been constructedviathe bridge of dsDNA, ensuring their improved ability for cell imaging.
I2/TBHP mediated diastereoselective synthesis of spiroaziridines
Authors: Ashitha Kizhakkan Thiruthi , Vinaya Puthiya Purayil , Krishna Ajay , Vincent Deepthy Cheeran , Jalaja Renjitha , Varughese Sunil , Balappa Somappa Sasidhar
Published: February 2020

A simple metal free protocol for the diastereoselective synthesis of spiroaziridines using easily accessible substrates is disclosed.
Rhodium-catalyzed asymmetric transfer hydrogenation of 4-quinolone derivatives
Authors: He Bin , Phansavath Phannarath , Ratovelomanana-Vidal Virginie
Published: February 2020

4-Quinolone derivatives were conveniently reduced to 1,2,3,4-tetrahydroquinoline-4-ols with excellent enantioselectivities through asymmetric transfer hydrogenation using a tethered rhodium complex and formic acid/triethylamine as the hydride source.
Probing a variation of the inverse-trans-influence in americium and lanthanide tribromide tris(tricyclohexylphosphine oxide) complexes
Authors: Windorff Cory J. , Celis-Barros Cristian , Sperling Joseph M. , McKinnon Noah C. , Albrecht-Schmitt Thomas E.
Published: February 2020

Structural, spectroscopic and theoretical analyses ofmer-MBr3(OPcy3)3(M = Am, Nd, Pr, Ce, La) reveal significant amounts of metal based p-orbital contribution.
Supramolecular and biomacromolecular enhancement of metal-free magnetic resonance imaging contrast agents
Authors: Lee Hamilton , Shahrivarkevishahi Arezoo , Lumata Jenica L. , Luzuriaga Michael A. , Hagge Laurel M. , Benjamin Candace E. , Brohlin Olivia R. , Parish Christopher R. , Firouzi Hamid R. , Nielsen Steven O. , Lumata Lloyd L. , Gassensmith Jeremiah J.
Published: February 2020

Supramolecular/macromolecular organic radical contrast agents (smORCAs) overcome many of the limitations of nitroxide radicals for use in magnetic resonance imaging in vivo like poor stability and weak contrast.
Aqueous-solution-processed proton-conducting carbon nitride/polyvinylpyrrolidone composite electrolytes for low-power synaptic transistors with learning and memory functions
Authors: Li Jun , Yang Yao-Hua , Chen Qi , Zhu Wen-Qing , Zhang Jian-Hua
Published: February 2020

Low cost aqueous-solution-processed C3N4/PVP is firstly chosen as the proton-conducting electrolyte layer for high performance Indium-zinc-oxide (IZO)-based synapse transistors.
The highly improved gas-sensing performance of α-Fe2O3-decorated NiO nanowires and the interfacial effect of p–n heterojunctions
Authors: Wang L. , Hong B. , Chen H. D. , Xu J. C. , Han Y. B. , Jin H. X. , Jin D. F. , Peng X. L. , Ge H. L. , Wang X. Q.
Published: February 2020

Mesoporous n-type α-Fe2O3-decorated p-type NiO NWs were synthesized by two-step nanocasting method, and the influence of the heterogeneous α-Fe2O3 decoration on the components, microstructure and gas-sensing performance of NiO NWs was discussed.
A label-free electrochemical aptasensor for sensitive edifenphos detection in rice
Authors: Arvand Majid , Gholami Javad
Published: February 2020

Herein, for the first time, we developed a facile and sensitive method for the determination of edifenphos (EDI).
Hydrodehalogenation of organohalides by Et3SiH catalysed by group 4 metal complexes and B(C6F5)3
Authors: Dunlop David , Pinkas Jiří , Horáček Michal , Žilková Naděžda , Lamač Martin
Published: February 2020

The use of the Et3SiH/B(C6F5)3 system for the activation of group 4 metal catalysts allows the efficient and selective catalytic hydrodefluorination of trifluorotoluenes.
Facile synthesis of red dual-emissive carbon dots for ratiometric fluorescence sensing and cellular imaging
Authors: Hu Yang , Yang Zhengbiao , Lu Xuan , Guo Jiazhuang , Cheng Rui , Zhu Liangliang , Wang Cai-Feng , Chen Su
Published: February 2020

Carbon dots synthesized by the hydrothermal treatment of dicyandiamide and o-phenylenediamine in dilute H2SO4 exhibit efficient excitation-independent red dual-emission useful for ratiometric fluorescence sensing and cellular imaging.
An all-sky proper-motion map of the Sagittarius stream usingGaiaDR2
Authors: Antoja T. , Ramos P. , Mateu C. , Helmi A. , Anders F. , Jordi C. , Carballo-Bello J. A.
Published: February 2020

Aims.We aim to measure the proper motion along the Sagittarius stream, which is the missing piece in determining its full 6D phase space coordinates.

Methods.We conduct a blind search of over-densities in proper motion from theGaiasecond data release in a broad region around the Sagittarius stream by applying wavelet transform techniques.

Results.We find that for most of the sky patches, the highest intensity peaks delineate the path of the Sagittarius stream. The 1500 peaks identified depict a continuous sequence spanning almost 2πin the sky, only obscured when the stream crosses the Galactic disk. Altogether, around 100 000 stars potentially belong to the stream as indicated by a coarse inspection of the color-magnitude diagrams. From these stars, we determine the proper motion along the Sagittarius stream, making it the proper-motion sequence with the largest span and continuity ever measured for a stream. A first comparison with existingN-body models of the stream reveals some discrepancies, especially near the pericenter of the trailing arm and an underestimation of the total proper motion for the leading arm.

Conclusions.Our study provides a starting point for determining the variation of the population of stars along the stream, the distance to the stream from the red clump stars, and the solar motion. It also permits much more accurate measurement of the Milky Way potential.
A high-precision abundance analysis of the nuclear benchmark star HD 20
Authors: Hanke Michael , Hansen Camilla Juul , Ludwig Hans-Günter , Cristallo Sergio , McWilliam Andrew , Grebel Eva K. , Piersanti Luciano
Published: February 2020

Metal-poor stars with detailed information available about their chemical inventory pose powerful empirical benchmarks for nuclear astrophysics. Here we present our spectroscopic chemical abundance investigation of the metal-poor ([Fe/H] = −1.60 ± 0.03 dex), r-process-enriched ([Eu/Fe] = 0.73 ± 0.10 dex) halo star HD 20, using novel and archival high-resolution data at outstanding signal-to-noise ratios (up to ∼1000 Å−1). By combining one of the first asteroseismic gravity measurements in the metal-poor regime from a TESS light curve with the spectroscopic analysis of iron lines under non-local thermodynamic equilibrium conditions, we derived a set of highly accurate and precise stellar parameters. These allowed us to delineate a reliable chemical pattern that is comprised of solid detections of 48 elements, including 28 neutron-capture elements. Hence, we establish HD 20 among the few benchmark stars that have nearly complete patterns and low systematic dependencies on the stellar parameters. Our light-element (Z ≤ 30) abundances are representative of other, similarly metal-poor stars in the Galactic halo that exhibit contributions from core-collapse supernovae of type II. In the realm of the neutron-capture elements, our comparison to the scaled solar r-pattern shows that the lighter neutron-capture elements (Z ≲ 60) are poorly matched. In particular, we find imprints of the weak r-process acting at low metallicities. Nonetheless, by comparing our detailed abundances to the observed metal-poor star BD +17 3248, we find a persistent residual pattern involving mainly the elements Sr, Y, Zr, Ba, and La. These are indicative of enrichment contributions from the s-process and we show that mixing with material from predicted yields of massive, rotating AGB stars at low metallicity improves the fit considerably. Based on a solar ratio of heavy- to light-s elements – which is at odds with model predictions for the i-process – and a missing clear residual pattern with respect to other stars with claimed contributions from this process, we refute (strong) contributions from such astrophysical sites providing intermediate neutron densities. Finally, nuclear cosmochronology is used to tie our detection of the radioactive element Th to an age estimate for HD 20 of 11.0 ± 3.8 Gyr.
Anomalous temperature regimen in the near-surface soil layer of Tlamacas hill and its relation to activity of Popocatépetl Volcano, Mexico
Authors: Kotsarenko Anatolyi , Yutsis Vsevolod , Grimalsky Vladimir , Koshevaya Svetlana , Kotsarenko Yuryi
Published: February 2020

This article describes anomalous changes in the diurnal behavior of the temperature measured in the near-surface soil at the Tlamacas monitoring site, Popocatépetl. Results of the statistical analysis show two essential changes for the temperature characteristics observed during the 2007–2009 (quiet volcano) and 2013–2014 (active volcano) monitoring periods. Under normal conditions, the absolute minimum daily temperature is observed at about 7:40 Local Time (LT) during sunrise for the atmosphere and, with a time delay, at about 8:30 LT, for soil measurements. The absolute temperature maximum is observed about 15:30 LT for the atmosphere and 16:30 LT for in-soil measurements. The dispersion of the residual temperature (24-h running trend of the temperature substituted) is 5.6 times lower for the 2013–2014 period in comparison with the 2007–2009 period. In other words, in 2013–2014, the temperature variability became 5.6 times lower that it was in 2007–2009.
Improving the efficiency of GaAs solar cells using a double semi-transparent carbon nanotubes thin layer
Authors: Jafari Seyed Nooreddin , Ghadimi Abbas , Rouhi Saeed
Published: February 2020

To investigate the efficiency of a single-junction solar cell that was performed using a numerical analysis method, the effect of creating several different surface-enhancer layer structures on the efficiency of the solar cell was performed. In this study, several carbon nanotube structures adapted to the solar cell structure of the gallium arsenide (GaAs) substrate were used. These elements have two important features of transparency and conductivity. Here, the effect of various parameters such as structure type, dimensions, number of layers, usable impurities and their arrangement on the solar cell efficiency was investigated. In this research, the layer added on the surface of a solar cell can be modeled on a heterogeneous carbon nanotube network. Finally, an optimized single-junction solar cell was obtained by examining the performance of the solar cell using the final carbon nanotube layers. This work resulted, the solar cell with a combination of a double-layer carbon nanotube enhancer by about 30% of efficiency, due to the ability to absorb more photons in one layer of the nanotubes, and better electrical transferability in the other layer of the nanotubes. In this solar cell, two different layers of carbon nanotube with a surface ratio of 10% and 90% of the total surface enhancer layer were used, with a cellular efficiency of about 1% improvement in performance compared with the previous one.
DC radial glow discharge in axial magnetic field at low pressures
Authors: Gao Shen , Feng Jianyuan , Li Wenqi , Cai Jihe
Published: February 2020

The influence of magnetic field on DC radial glow plasma was studied by self-designed coaxial glow discharge device, and the influence of magnetic field on the spatial distribution of plasma density is studied. The experimental results show that the spatial density distribution of plasma from cathode to anode increases gradually in the high-intensity magnetic field, and decreases gradually in the absence of magnetic field. Theoretical analysis of the above results show that the high-intensity magnetic field increases the moving path of the electrons, enhances the collision efficiency between the electrons and the neutral atoms, and makes the discharge plasma density remarkably enhanced.
Thermo-viscoplastic numerical modeling of metal forging process by Pseudo Inverse Approach
Authors: Thomas Anoop Ebey , Abbès Boussad , Li Yu Ming , Abbès Fazilay , Duval Jean-Louis
Published: February 2020

Constant demands of light-weighting have forced many industries to resort to manufacturing practices that promise a component with a higher strength-to-weight ratio. Hot forging is one such method used to produce parts using difficult-to-form materials as well as to achieve complex geometries. Although numerical methods provide an efficient means to predict the material yield and the stress/strain states of the product at different stages of forming and classical methods are accurate enough to provide a suitable representation of the process, they tend to be computationally expensive. This limits their use in process optimization studies. The Pseudo Inverse Approach (PIA) developed in the context of 2D axisymmetric cold forming, provides a quick and fairly accurate estimate of the stress and strain fields in the final product for a given initial shape. In this work, the PIA is extended to include the thermal and viscoplastic effects associated with the hot forging process. The results are compared with commercially available software based on the classical approaches to show the efficiency and the limitations of PIA.
Opioide
Authors: Reimer Jens
Published: February 2020

Liebe Leserinnen, liebe Leser,

in den USA hat die Opioidkrise zum ersten Mal seit den 1990er Jahren zu einem Rückgang der Lebenserwartung beigetragen. Hintergrund dieser Krise ist die weitverbreitete niedrigschwellige Verschreibung opioidhaltiger Schmerzmittel. Zur Überwindung der Krise werden drastische Maßnahmen diskutiert, wie bspw. die Todesstrafe für den illegalen Handel mit Fentanyl.
Erkrankungen des Tränenapparats, Teil 1: Anatomie, Physiologie und Diagnostik
Authors: Heichel Jens , Struck Hans-Gert , Viestenz Arne , Glien Alexander , Plontke Stefan
Published: February 2020

The lacrimal apparatus is a part of the ocular adnexa preserving ocular surface homoeostasis and therefore enabling sufficiant visual functioning. Tear producting tissues, eyelids and efferent tear ducts operate as one functional unit. Pathologic changes consist of inflammatory diseases, congenital disorders, degenerations and neoplasia. Common to all these conditions is a potential impairment of the ocular integrity as well as a substantial degree of suffering for the affected patients. This review reflects basics of the anatomy, physiology, and diagnostics of the lacrimal apparatus.
Risk factors for bleeding from gastrointestinal angiodysplasia: a case-control study in patients with bleeding and non-bleeding angiodysplasia
Authors: Neu Bruno , Moessmer Georg , Bajbouj Monther , Becker Valentin , Barthel Petra , Seidl Holger , Schepp Wolfgang , Anzinger Michael , Dollhopf Markus , Meining Alexander , Schmid Roland M. , Budde Ulrich , Noe Sebastian
Published: February 2020

Objectives Angiodysplasia (AD) is a common source of gastrointestinal bleeding. Yet, little is known about factors forwarding bleeding in these vascular malformations. The presented study aims to determine risk factors for bleeding that occurs only in patients with symptomatic, but not with asymptomatic, AD.

Methods Case-control study in patients with AD and either a positive or a negative history of gastrointestinal bleeding in Munich, Germany. Groups were compared by clinical, laboratory, and endoscopic features.

Results 80 patients with (58, f 31, med. age 72) or without bleeding AD (22, f 12, med. age 61) were included. Bleeding from AD was significantly associated with the total number of AD (OR 1.4 (95 % CI 1.1–1.7) p = 0.01) and closure time in PFA/collagen-epinephrine test (OR 1.0 (95 % CI 1.0–1.0) p < 0.01). The total number of AD correlated significantly with age (r = 0.36; p = 0.01). AD were mainly detected in the upper small intestine (> 30 %). Although patients with aortic stenosis suffered not significantly more frequently from bleeding from AD, they demonstrated a loss of high molecular multimers of VWF.

Conclusions The amount of AD is clearly correlated to the age of the patient. A higher number of ADs and inhibition of primary hemostasis increase the risk of bleeding.
Körperliche Aktivität und deren Effekte auf das Burn-out-Syndrom
Authors: Dreher Matthias , Dößereck Nils , Lachtermann Ella
Published: February 2020

Das vorliegende Review legt dar, dass regelmäßige körperliche Aktivität einen positiven Einfluss auf die Burn-out-Symptomatik hat. Mittels einer systematischen Literaturrecherche wurden die möglichen Effekte untersucht und die Evidenz mithilfe des Standard-Index of Convergence (SIC) bewertet. Der SIC lag in den Längsschnittstudien bei SIC (3) = –1, während er in den Interventionsstudien bei SIC (6) = –0,50 lag. Daher ist jeweils von einer moderat starken Evidenz auszugehen, dass körperliche Aktivität einen positiven gesundheitlichen Effekt auf das Burn-out-Syndrom hat. Aufgrund der Heterogenität der Erhebungstools und der Studienlage ist es notwendig, weitere qualitativ hochwertige Studien zur Burn-out-Thematik durchzuführen, um repräsentative Aussagen zu gewährleisten. Unabhängig von den positiven präventiven und therapeutischen Effekten ist die regelmäßige körperliche Aktivität ein grundlegender, jedoch kein alleiniger Ansatzpunkt, um der Erschöpfungssymptomatik vorzubeugen und entgegenzuwirken. Eine ausgewogene Life-Balance (privates Umfeld, berufliches Umfeld und Hygiene der Grundbedürfnisse) ist daher unerlässlich.
Current status of immunotherapy in gastrointestinal malignancies
Authors: Lorenzen Sylvie , Lordick Florian , Loosen Sven Heiko , Tacke Frank , Trautwein Christian , Roderburg Christoph , Ettrich Thomas J. , Perkhofer Lukas , Reinacher-Schick Anke , Stein Alexander
Published: February 2020

Gastrointestinal (GI) malignant neoplasms have a high global incidence and a huge impact on cancer-associated mortality. In the past years, excitement was growing among oncologists and patients alike for the use of immunotherapy, specifically immune checkpoint inhibitors. The approval of several PD-1/PD-L1 and CTLA-4 inhibitors radically changed the treatment landscape in many cancer types and established immune-oncology as a new treatment strategy against cancer. Despite major breakthrough reports, shortcomings of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) have been observed, including primary and acquired treatment resistance, especially in patients receiving ICIs as a single treatment. Several immunotherapies for the treatment of GI tumors have recently emerged; however, checkpoint inhibition has not yet shown similar success in GI malignancies compared to other solid tumors. Various phase I–III trials focusing on immunotherapies for GI tumors have found only moderate to unsatisfactory objective response rates (ORR), ranging between 10 % and 25 %. In particular, negative studies have been reported in gastric and pancreatic cancer. Nevertheless, small subsets of cancers, such as DNA mismatch repair deficient (dMMR)/microsatellite instable (MSI) cancers, among others, seem to benefit from treatment with immune checkpoint inhibition. Routine testing for the rare molecular features that can predict response should be implemented in clinical routine for all GI tumors, and large scale clinical trials to identify predictive biomarkers are needed. This article will address the current use and evidence for immunotherapy in GI malignancies and future trends in this area for clinical practice.
Contraception and Unintended Pregnancy in the Military Healthcare System
Authors: Heitmann Ryan J.
Published: February 2020

The number of women serving in the Armed Forces is growing and readiness has been decreed as the number 1 priority for the total Army. Provision of contraception and unintended pregnancy rates higher than the general population are two key factors in readiness of female soldiers. An in-depth review of women's healthcare in the military identified these two areas of women's health as greatly understudied. Long-acting reversible contraception provides effective and cost-efficient method for contraception and a proven way to decrease unintended pregnancy. Increased research and focus into these two areas of women's health is crucial to providing the best care for our female service members.