bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transcriptional responses of Candida glabrata biofilm cells to fluconazole are modulated by the carbon source
Authors: Alves Rosana , Kastora Stavroula L. , Gomes-Gonçalves Alexandra , Azevedo Nuno , Rodrigues Célia F. , Silva Sónia , Demuyser Liesbeth , Van Dijck Patrick , Casal Margarida , Brown Alistair J. P. , Henriques Mariana , Paiva Sandra
Published: January 2020

Candida glabrata is an important human fungal pathogen known to trigger serious infections in immune-compromised individuals. Its ability to form biofilms, which exhibit high tolerance to antifungal treatments, has been considered as an important virulence factor. However, the mechanisms involving antifungal resistance in biofilms and the impact of host niche environments on these processes are still poorly defined. In this study, we performed a whole-transcriptome analysis of C. glabrata biofilm cells exposed to different environmental conditions and constraints in order to identify the molecular pathways involved in fluconazole resistance and understand how acidic pH niches, associated with the presence of acetic acid, are able to modulate these responses. We show that fluconazole treatment induces gene expression reprogramming in a carbon source and pH-dependent manner. This is particularly relevant for a set of genes involved in DNA replication, ergosterol, and ubiquinone biosynthesis. We also provide additional evidence that the loss of mitochondrial function is associated with fluconazole resistance, independently of the growth condition. Lastly, we propose that C. glabrata Mge1, a cochaperone involved in iron metabolism and protein import into the mitochondria, is a key regulator of fluconazole susceptibility during carbon and pH adaptation by reducing the metabolic flux towards toxic sterol formation. These new findings suggest that different host microenvironments influence directly the physiology of C. glabrata, with implications on how this pathogen responds to antifungal treatment. Our analyses identify several pathways that can be targeted and will potentially prove to be useful for developing new antifungals to treat biofilm-based infections.
Parenteral vaccination protects against transcervical infection with Chlamydia trachomatis and generate tissue-resident T cells post-challenge
Authors: Nguyen Nina Dieu Nhien Tran , Olsen Anja W. , Lorenzen Emma , Andersen Peter , Hvid Malene , Follmann Frank , Dietrich Jes
Published: January 2020

The optimal protective immunity against Chlamydia trachomatis (C.t.) is still not fully resolved. One of the unresolved issues concerns the importance of resident immunity, since a recent study showed that optimal protection against a transcervical (TC) infection required genital tissue-resident memory T cells. An important question in the Chlamydia field is therefore if a parenteral vaccine strategy, inducing only circulating immunity primed at a nonmucosal site, should be pursued by Chlamydia vaccine developers. To address this question we studied the protective efficacy of a parenteral Chlamydia vaccine, formulated in the Th1/Th17 T cell-inducing adjuvant CAF01. We found that a parenteral vaccination induced significant protection against a TC infection and against development of chronic pathology. Protection correlated with rapid recruitment of Th1/Th17 T cells to the genital tract (GT), which efficiently prevented infection-driven generation of low quality Th1 or Th17 T cells, and instead maintained a pool of high quality multifunctional Th1/Th17 T cells in the GT throughout the infection. After clearance of the infection, a pool of these cells settled in the GT as tissue-resident Th1 and Th17 cells expressing CD69 but not CD103, CD49d, or CCR7, where they responded rapidly to a reinfection. These results show that a nonmucosal parenteral strategy inducing Th1 and Th17 T cells mediates protection against both infection with C.t. as well as development of chronic pathology, and lead to post-challenge protective tissue-resident memory immunity in the genital tract.
Wound healing properties and antimicrobial activity of platelet-derived biomaterials
Authors: Shariati Aref , Moradabadi Alireza , Azimi Taher , Ghaznavi-Rad Ehsanollah
Published: January 2020

We analyzed the potential antibacterial effects of two different PdB against methicillin-resistant S. aureus and P. aeruginosa. The third-degree burn wound healing effects of PdB was also studied. Blood samples were obtained from 10 healthy volunteers and biological assays of the PdB were performed and the antimicrobial activity against MRSA and P. aeruginosa was determined using disk diffusion (DD), broth microdilution (BMD), and time-kill assay methods. 48 Wistar albino rats were burned and infected with MRSA. Two groups were injected PdB, the control groups were treated with plasma and received no treatment respectively. In the next step, the rats were euthanized and skin biopsies were collected and histopathologic changes were examined. The results of DD and BMD showed that both PdB performed very well on MRSA, whereas P. aeruginosa was only inhibited by F-PdB and was less susceptible than MRSA to PdBs. The time-kill assay also showed that F-PdB has an antibacterial effect at 4 hours for two strains. Histopathological studies showed that the treated groups had less inflammatory cells and necrotic tissues. Our data suggest that PdB may possess a clinical utility as a novel topical antimicrobial and wound healing agent for infected burn wounds.
Evidence of an ancient connectivity and biogeodispersal of a bitterling species, Rhodeus notatus, across the Korean Peninsula
Authors: Won Hari , Jeon Hyung-Bae , Suk Ho Young
Published: January 2020

The modern-day distribution of freshwater fishes throughout multiple rivers is likely the result of past migration during times when currently separate drainages were once connected. Here, we used mitochondrial and microsatellite analyses for 248 individuals ofRhodeus notatuscollected from seven different rivers to obtain better understand historical gene flow of freshwater fish on the Korean Peninsula. Based on our phylogenetic analyses, this Korean species originated through the paleo-Yellow River from China and first colonized near the west coast. These genetic data also provided evidence of estuary coalescences among the rivers flowing to the west and southwest coast on well-developed continental shelf. In addition, the pattern of population structure revealed the biogeodispersal route from the west coast to the south coast. It could be inferred that massive migration was not involved in the formation of southern populations, since the signature of historical genetic drift was clearly observed. Our study is the first genetic attempt to confirm hypotheses describing the migration of freshwater species towards the end of East Asia, which have previously been developed using only geological reasoning.
Prognostic value of red cell distribution width (RDW) in colorectal cancer. Results from a single-center cohort on 591 patients
Authors: Pedrazzani Corrado , Tripepi Marzia , Turri Giulia , Fernandes Eduardo , Scotton Giovanni , Conci Simone , Campagnaro Tommaso , Ruzzenente Andrea , Guglielmi Alfredo
Published: January 2020

Increasing evidence advocates the prognostic role of RDW in various tumours. We analysed 591 patients to assess whether RDW is a prognostic factor for overall (OS) and cancer-related survival (CRS) for patients with colorectal cancer (CRC). The data were retrieved from a retrospective database. The optimal cut-off value for RDW was set at 14.1%; accordingly, two groups were considered: those with a value equal or lower than 14.1% (L-RDW), and those with a value higher than 14.1% (H-RDW). The mean value of RDW rose from pT1 to pT4 tumours. H-RDW correlated with age above the mean, colonic location of the lesion, pT and TNM stage. Finally, H-RDW was significantly associated with the intent of surgery: almost 50% of patients who underwent a non-curative resection presented H-RDW, compared to 19.3% in R0 resections. OS was significantly lower in patients with H-RDW. CRS was similar in the two groups. Stratifying patients according to TNM stage worse OS was associated with H-RDW only in early stages, whereas there was no difference for stages II-IV. Multivariate analysis confirmed that H-RDW was not an independent prognostic factor. Although H-RDW correlated with some negative clinical-pathological factors, it did not seem to independently influence OS and CRS.
Distribution and habitat preferences of the stag beetle Lucanus cervus (L.) in forested areas of Poland
Authors: Kuźmiński Robert , Chrzanowski Artur , Mazur Andrzej , Rutkowski Paweł , Gwiazdowicz Dariusz J.
Published: January 2020

The incorporation of Lucanus cervus (L.) in Annex 2 of the EU Habitats Directive imposed on EU member countries the obligation to prepare protection plans and undertake adequate measures aimed at the preservation of this species. A necessary precondition for their implementation was connected with the identification of current localities of L. cervus. This paper presents the distribution of L. cervus localities in Poland, identified on the basis of a survey conducted in the areas administered by the State Forests. Habitat preferences for the selection of biotopes by stag beetles were evaluated in terms of forest-site types. This will facilitate effective protection of L. cervus by indicating potential biotopes for this species, particularly in areas with high abundance. The survey showed the presence of L. cervus in 176 localities distributed in 47 forest districts. Most of them were found in three main areas comprising forests in the areas of Zielona Góra, Wrocław and the Świętokrzyskie Mts. They constitute large-scale refuges. In 98% of cases the development of L. cervus was associated with oaks Quercus robur and Quercus petraea. Other host plants included Fagus sylvatica and Acer pseudoplatanus. The age of trees colonised by stag beetles ranged from 70 to 248 years, 134 years on average. Lucanus cervus was most frequently found in deciduous mesic forest sites (41% of localities) and deciduous mixed mesic forest sites (24% of localities). Over 90% of recorded localities are situated in forested areas, understood to include stands, residual trees and stumps, as well as localities at forest edges and along roads in the vicinity of forests.
Nonlocal accumulation, chemical potential, and Hall effect of skyrmions in Pt/Co/Ir heterostructure
Authors: Sugimoto Satoshi , Koshibae Wataru , Kasai Shinya , Ogawa Naoki , Takahashi Yukiko , Nagaosa Naoto , Tokura Yoshinori
Published: January 2020

Magnetic skyrmion is a swirling topological spin texture behaving as an individual particle. It shows a gyro-motion similarly to that of a charged particle under a magnetic field, being led to the transverse shift to the electric current, i.e., skyrmion Hall effect. With the open boundaries of a sample, this results in an accumulation of skyrmions on one side and their depletion on the other side. Here we demonstrate experimentally that this effect propagates non-locally over tens of micrometers even where the electric current is absent, when the narrow wires bridge bar-shaped Pt/Co/Ir heterostructure thin film systems. This nonlocality can be understood in terms of the “chemical potential” gradient for the skyrmion bubble induced by the skyrmion Hall effect in the nonequilibrium steady state under the electric current. The present result shows that the skyrmion Hall effect acts as the skyrmion pump and the thermodynamic concepts can be applied to the aggregate of skyrmion bubbles.
Publisher Correction: Extracellular small non-coding RNA contaminants in fetal bovine serum and serum-free media
Authors: Mannerström Bettina , Paananen Riku O. , Abu-Shahba Ahmed G. , Moilanen Jukka , Seppänen-Kaijansinkko Riitta , Kaur Sippy
Published: January 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Classification and Morphological Analysis of Vector Mosquitoes using Deep Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Park Junyoung , Kim Dong In , Choi Byoungjo , Kang Woochul , Kwon Hyung Wook
Published: January 2020

Image-based automatic classification of vector mosquitoes has been investigated for decades for its practical applications such as early detection of potential mosquitoes-borne diseases. However, the classification accuracy of previous approaches has never been close to human experts’ and often images of mosquitoes with certain postures and body parts, such as flatbed wings, are required to achieve good classification performance. Deep convolutional neural networks (DCNNs) are state-of-the-art approach to extracting visual features and classifying objects, and, hence, there exists great interest in applying DCNNs for the classification of vector mosquitoes from easy-to-acquire images. In this study, we investigated the capability of state-of-the-art deep learning models in classifying mosquito species having high inter-species similarity and intra-species variations. Since no off-the-shelf dataset was available capturing the variability of typical field-captured mosquitoes, we constructed a dataset with about 3,600 images of 8 mosquito species with various postures and deformation conditions. To further address data scarcity problems, we investigated the feasibility of transferring general features learned from generic dataset to the mosquito classification. Our result demonstrated that more than 97% classification accuracy can be achieved by fine-tuning general features if proper data augmentation techniques are applied together. Further, we analyzed how this high classification accuracy can be achieved by visualizing discriminative regions used by deep learning models. Our results showed that deep learning models exploit morphological features similar to those used by human experts.
Application of Kalman Filter Model in the Landslide Deformation Forecast
Authors: Lu Fumin , Zeng Huaien
Published: January 2020

Nonlinear exponential trend model is linearized into the linear model, then linearized model parameters are regarded as the state vector containing the dynamic noise to erect Kalman filter model based on exponential trend model to predict the deformation of the rock landslide. Deformation observation values of the landslide are regarded as a time series to erect AR(1) model, then model parameters of AR(1) model are regarded as the state vector containing the dynamic noise to erect Kalman filter model based on AR(1) model to predict the deformation of the rock landslide. The deformation of the landslide is regarded as the function of the time, then Taylor series is used to determine the functional relationship between the deformation of the landslide and the time, and Taylor series is spread to erect Kalman filter model based on Taylor series to predict the deformation of the earthy landslide. The deformation of landslides relates to many factors, the rainfall and the temperature influence the deformation of landslides specially, thus Kalman filter model based on multiple factors is erect to predict the deformation of the earthy landslide on the basis of Taylor series. Numerical examples show that the fitting errors and the forecast errors of the four Kalman filter models are little.
Occurrence and genetic characteristics of Cryptosporidium spp. and Enterocytozoon bieneusi in pet red squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris) in China
Authors: Deng Lei , Chai Yijun , Luo Run , Yang Leli , Yao Jingxin , Zhong Zhijun , Wang Wuyou , Xiang Leiqiong , Fu Hualin , Liu Haifeng , Zhou Ziyao , Yue Chanjuan , Chen Weigang , Peng Guangneng
Published: January 2020

Cryptosporidium spp. and Enterocytozoon bieneusi are two well-known protist pathogens which can result in diarrhea in humans and animals. To examine the occurrence and genetic characteristics of Cryptosporidium spp. and E. bieneusi in pet red squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris), 314 fecal specimens were collected from red squirrels from four pet shops and owners in Sichuan province, China. Cryptosporidium spp. and E. bieneusi were examined by nested PCR targeting the partial small subunit rRNA (SSU rRNA) gene and the ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS) gene respectively. The infection rates were 8.6% (27/314) for Cryptosporidium spp. and 19.4% (61/314) for E. bieneusi. Five Cryptosporidium species/genotypes were identified by DNA sequence analysis: Cryptosporidium rat genotype II (n = 8), Cryptosporidium ferret genotype (n = 8), Cryptosporidium chipmunk genotype III (n = 5), Cryptosporidium rat genotype I (n = 4), and Cryptosporidium parvum (n = 2). Additionally, a total of five E. bieneusi genotypes were revealed, including three known genotypes (D, SCC-2, and SCC-3) and two novel genotypes (RS01 and RS02). Phylogenetic analysis revealed that genotype D fell into group 1, whereas the remaining genotypes clustered into group 10. To our knowledge, this is the first study to report Cryptosporidium spp. and E. bieneusi in pet red squirrels in China. Moreover, C. parvum and genotype D of E. bieneusi, previously identified in humans, were also found in red squirrels, suggesting that red squirrels may give rise to cryptosporidiosis and microsporidiosis in humans through zoonotic transmissions. These results provide preliminary reference data for monitoring Cryptosporidium spp. and E. bieneusi infections in pet red squirrels and humans.
The Rhinella arenarum transcriptome: de novo assembly, annotation and gene prediction
Authors: Ceschin Danilo Guillermo , Pires Natalia Susana , Mardirosian Mariana Noelia , Lascano Cecilia Inés , Venturino Andrés
Published: January 2020

The common toad Rhinella arenarum is widely distributed in Argentina, where it is utilised as an autochthonous model in ecotoxicological research and environmental toxicology. However, the lack of a reference genome makes molecular assays and gene expression studies difficult to carry out on this non-model species. To address this issue, we performed a genome-wide transcriptome analysis on R. arenarum larvae through massive RNA sequencing, followed by de novo assembly, annotation, and gene prediction. We obtained 57,407 well-annotated transcripts representing 99.4% of transcriptome completeness (available at http://rhinella.uncoma.edu.ar). We also defined a set of 52,800 high-confidence lncRNA transcripts and demonstrated the reliability of the transcriptome data to perform phylogenetic analysis. Our comprehensive transcriptome analysis of R. arenarum represents a valuable resource to perform functional genomic studies and to identify potential molecular biomarkers in ecotoxicological research.
ISOGO: Functional annotation of protein-coding splice variants
Authors: Ferrer-Bonsoms Juan A , Cassol Ignacio , Fernández-Acín Pablo , Castilla Carlos , Carazo Fernando , Rubio Angel
Published: January 2020

The advent of RNA-seq technologies has switched the paradigm of genetic analysis from a genome to a transcriptome-based perspective. Alternative splicing generates functional diversity in genes, but the precise functions of many individual isoforms are yet to be elucidated. Gene Ontology was developed to annotate gene products according to their biological processes, molecular functions and cellular components. Despite a single gene may have several gene products, most annotations are not isoform-specific and do not distinguish the functions of the different proteins originated from a single gene. Several approaches have tried to automatically annotate ontologies at the isoform level, but this has shown to be a daunting task. We have developed ISOGO (ISOform + GO function imputation), a novel algorithm to predict the function of coding isoforms based on their protein domains and their correlation of expression along 11,373 cancer patients. Combining these two sources of information outperforms previous approaches: it provides an area under precision-recall curve (AUPRC) five times larger than previous attempts and the median AUROC of assigned functions to genes is 0.82. We tested ISOGO predictions on some genes with isoform-specific functions (BRCA1, MADD,VAMP7 and ITSN1) and they were coherent with the literature. Besides, we examined whether the main isoform of each gene -as predicted by APPRIS- was the most likely to have the annotated gene functions and it occurs in 99.4% of the genes. We also evaluated the predictions for isoform-specific functions provided by the CAFA3 challenge and results were also convincing. To make these results available to the scientific community, we have deployed a web application to consult ISOGO predictions (https://biotecnun.unav.es/app/isogo). Initial data, website link, isoform-specific GO function predictions and R code is available at https://gitlab.com/icassol/isogo.
Interpersonal Functioning in Borderline Personality Disorder Traits: A Social Media Perspective
Authors: Ooi Jinnie , Michael John , Lemola Sakari , Butterfill Stephen , Siew Cynthia S. Q. , Walasek Lukasz
Published: January 2020

This is the first study to demonstrate interpersonal difficulties associated with borderline personality disorder (BPD) features in the domain of social media. Using crowdsourcing, we presented participants with a battery of questions about their recent social media use, and then assessed their BPD features using the short form of the Five-Factor Borderline Inventory. The results revealed that individuals with higher BPD trait scores reported posting more often on social media, as well as a higher incidence of experiencing regret after posting on social media, and of deleting or editing their posts. They also report a higher degree of importance of social media in their social behavior and daily routines. These results highlight the pervasiveness of interpersonal difficulties associated with BPD features even in the non-clinical population, and demonstrate that these difficulties are also observable in social media behavior. Our findings may provide a starting point for research using data from social media to illuminate the cognitive and emotional processes underpinning the interpersonal difficulties associated with BPD features, and to inform and assess therapeutic interventions.
Spatially- and vector-resolved momentum flux lost to a wall in a magnetic nozzle rf plasma thruster
Authors: Takahashi Kazunori , Sugawara Takeharu , Ando Akira
Published: January 2020

Most of the artificial low-pressure plasmas contact with physical walls in laboratories; the plasma loss at the wall significantly affects the plasma device performance, e.g., an electric propulsion device. Near the surface of the wall, ions are spontaneously accelerated by a sheath and deliver their momentum and energy to the wall, while most of the electrons are reflected there. The momentum flux of the ions is a vector field, i.e., having both the radial and axial components even if the azimuthal components are neglected in a cylindrical system. Here the spatially- and vector-resolved measurement of the momentum flux near the cylindrical source wall of a magnetic nozzle radiofrequency (rf) plasma thruster configuration is successfully demonstrated by using a momentum vector measurement instrument. The results experimentally identify the spatial profile of a non-negligible axial momentum flux to the wall, while the radially accelerated ions seem to be responsible for the energy loss to the wall. The spatial profiles of the radial and axial momentum fluxes and the energy lost to the wall are significantly affected by the magnetic field strength. The results contribute to understand how and where the momentum and energy in the artificial plasma devices are lost, in addition to the presently tested thruster.
Ultrasensitive determination of organotin compounds in plastic food packaging and edible oils by sheathless capillary electrophoresis-electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry
Authors: He Huiyu , Tian Miaomiao , Hu Lihuan , Yang Li
Published: January 2020

The determination of trace-amount organotins in plastic food packaging materials is of great significance in food safety.
Correction: Review: a comprehensive summary of a decade development of the recombinase polymerase amplification
Authors: Li Jia , Macdonald Joanne , von Stetten Felix
Published: January 2020

Correction for ‘Review: a comprehensive summary of a decade development of the recombinase polymerase amplification’ by Jia Li et al., Analyst, 2019, 144, 31–67.
Effects of cationic concentration on controlling the interlayer spacings for highly effective ion rejection via graphene oxide membranes
Authors: Wang Shuai , Liang Shanshan , Chen Liang , Mu Liuhua , Xu Gang , Fang Haiping
Published: January 2020

The interlayer spacings of graphene oxide membranes can be finely controlled using different concentrations of cations.
Visible-light photoredox-catalyzed dual C–C bond cleavage: synthesis of 2-cyanoalkylsulfonylated 3,4-dihydronaphthalenes through the insertion of sulfur dioxide
Authors: Liu Yu , Wang Qiao-Lin , Chen Zan , Li Hua , Xiong Bi-Quan , Zhang Pan-Liang , Tang Ke-Wen
Published: January 2020

A novel visible-light photoredox-catalyzed dual C–C bond cleavage of methylenecyclopropanes and cycloketone oximes for accessing 2-cyanoalkylsulfonated 3,4-dihydronaphthalenes is established.
Laser-induced alignment dynamics of gas phase CS2 dimers
Authors: Chatterley Adam S. , Baatrup Mia O. , Schouder Constant A. , Stapelfeldt Henrik
Published: January 2020

Rotational dynamics of gas phase carbon disulfide (CS2) dimers were induced by a moderately intense, circularly polarized alignment laser pulse and measured as a function of time by Coulomb explosion imaging with an intense fs probe pulse.
Dichlorine peroxide (ClOOCl), chloryl chloride (ClCl(O)O) and chlorine chlorite (ClOClO): very accurateab initiostructures and actinic degradation
Authors: Ferchichi Olfa , Derbel Najoua , Cours Thibaud , Alijah Alexander
Published: January 2020

The structural parameters of the three most stable isomers with formula Cl2O2, dichlorine peroxide, chloryl chloride and chlorine chlorite, were determined by high-levelab initiotheory. The photodissociation pathways were investigated.
Influence of initiating groups on phosphino-phenolate nickel catalyzed ethylene (co)polymerization
Authors: Zhang Yue , Zhang Yixin , Chi Yue , Jian Zhongbao
Published: January 2020

The influence of initiating groups on late transition metal catalyzed ethylene (co)polymerization was comprehensively studied for the first time.
The solvent and zinc source dual-induced synthesis of a two dimensional zeolitic imidazolate framework with a farfalle-shape and its crystal transformation to zeolitic imidazolate framework-8
Authors: Jin Chun-Xin , Wang Yu , Gao Qiu-Shan , Yao Dan-Yang , Wang Si-Hong , Li Donghao , Shang Hai-Bo
Published: January 2020

A new 2D ZIF with a farfalle-shape was easily built with zinc acetate and 2-methylimidazole in an aqueous system at room temperature.
Determinants of serum concentrations of perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) in school children and the contribution of low-level PFAA-contaminated drinking water
Authors: Glynn Anders , Kotova Natalia , Dahlgren Elin , Lindh Christian , Jakobsson Kristina , Gyllenhammar Irina , Lignell Sanna , Nälsén Cecilia
Published: January 2020

In order to improve human health risk assessment of perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs), demography/life-style/physiological factors and drinking water PFAA concentrations were investigated as possible determinants of child serum PFAA concentrations.
l-Theanine regulates glucose, lipid, and protein metabolism via insulin and AMP-activated protein kinase signaling pathways
Authors: Lin Ling , Zeng Li , Liu An , Peng Yingqi , Yuan Dongyin , Zhang Sheng , Li Yinhua , Chen Jinhua , Xiao Wenjun , Gong Zhihua
Published: January 2020

LTA can regulate the metabolism of glucose, lipids and proteins by activating insulin and AMPK signaling pathways.
Oxidant/complexing properties of the methimazole (MeImHS)/iodine system towards palladium and gold metals. Crystal structure of the complex cation [PdII(MeImHS)4]2+ balanced by a tetraiodide/iodide mixture
Authors: Isaia Francesco , Aragoni Maria Carla , Arca Massimiliano , Caltagirone Claudia , Castellano Carlo , Demartin Francesco , Garau Alessandra , Lippolis Vito , Pivetta Tiziana
Published: January 2020

The oxidative dissolution of palladium is easily and safely achievable both in dichloromethane and water by the methimazole/I2 mixture.
Johnson–Corey–Chaykovsky fluorocyclopropanation of double activated alkenes: scope and limitations
Authors: Kazia Armands , Melngaile Renate , Mishnev Anatoly , Veliks Janis
Published: January 2020

A fluorocyclopropanation of double activated alkenes with a diarylfluoromethylsulfonium reagent is an efficient approach to obtain a range of monofluorocyclopropane derivatives.
Synthesis of aromatic terminal allenes and aliphatic terminal alkynes from hydrazones using calcium carbide as an acetylene source
Authors: Gao Lei , Li Zheng
Published: January 2020

A simple method for the selective synthesis of aromatic terminal allenes and aliphatic terminal alkynes from the reactions of calcium carbide with ketone and aldehyde p-tosylhydrazones using copper as a mediator is described.
A quantitativeex vivostudy of the interactions between reconstituted high-density lipoproteins and human leukocytes
Authors: Pedersbæk Dennis , Jønsson Katrine , Madsen Ditte V. , Weller Sven , Bohn Anja B. , Andresen Thomas L. , Simonsen Jens B.
Published: January 2020

We used novel quantitative methods to study the interactions between reconstituted high-density lipoproteins (rHDL) and human leukocytes – showing that rHDL cargo are preferentially taken up by monocytes.
Measuring nanoparticle-induced resonance energy transfer effect by electrogenerated chemiluminescent reactions
Authors: Perez-Tejeda Pilar , Martínez-Delgado Alberto , Grueso Elia , Giráldez-Pérez Rosa M.
Published: January 2020

Electrogenerated chemiluminescence efficiencies, redox potentials, photoluminescent (quenching and coupling) effects, and AFM images for the [Ru(bpy)3]2+/Au@tiopronin system were determined in aqueous solutions of the gold nanoparticles at pH 7.0.
Synthesis of cucurbitacin IIa derivatives with apoptosis-inducing capabilities in human cancer cells
Authors: Yu Kun , Yang Xinmei , Li Ying , Cui Xue , Liu Bo , Yao Qingqiang
Published: January 2020

Twenty-one cucurbitacin IIa derivatives were synthesized and screened for cytotoxic activity.
A novel nanoparticle loaded with methyl caffeate and caffeic acid phenethyl ester against Ralstonia solanacearum—a plant pathogenic bacteria
Authors: Wang Jin-Zheng , Yan Cheng-Hai , Zhang Xiao-Rui , Tu Qing-Bo , Xu Yan , Sheng Sheng , Wu Fu-An , Wang Jun
Published: January 2020

Developing a novel agent and understanding an interaction model between multipolymer nanoparticles and bacteria could be worthwhile to induce the protection of crops with the prevalence of frequent hazards because of the use of chemical pesticides.
Enhanced dispersibility of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) in the organic phaseviasurface modification for TFN nanofiltration membrane preparation
Authors: Liu Hengrao , Zhang Min , Zhao Hao , Jiang Yanjun , Liu Guanhua , Gao Jing
Published: January 2020

The nanosized UiO-66-NH2metal–organic framework (MOF) material was synthesized and modified by palmitoyl chloride to enhance the dispersibility and restrain the aggregation of MOF particles in the organic phase.
Catalytic and photocatalytic oxidation of diphenyl sulphide to diphenyl sulfoxide over titanium dioxide doped with vanadium, zinc, and tin
Authors: Radko Marcelina , Kowalczyk Andrzej , Mikrut Paweł , Witkowski Stefan , Mozgawa Włodzimierz , Macyk Wojciech , Chmielarz Lucjan
Published: January 2020

Phase transitions of rutile and anatase were directed by V, Zn and Sn admixtures. Rutile containing catalysts were more active in Ph2S oxidation than pure anatase samples. Efficiency of Ph2S oxidation was significantly improved under UV radiation.
Improved synthesis and application of conjugation-amenable polyols from d-mannose
Authors: Mattsson Ida , Sitdikov Ruzal , Gunell Andreas C. M. , Lahtinen Manu , Saloranta-Simell Tiina , Leino Reko
Published: January 2020

An improved method for the propargylation of d-mannose and application of the rod-like polyol and its allylated analogue in click reactions is described.
Biomimetic catechol-based adhesive polymers for dispersion of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) nanoparticles in an aqueous medium
Authors: Grewal Manjit Singh , Yabu Hiroshi
Published: January 2020

Biomimetic synthetic functional materials are valuable for a large number of practical applications with improved or tunable performance.
3D hierarchical rose-like Ni2P@rGO assembled from interconnected nanoflakes as anode for lithium ion batteries
Authors: Cai Gan , Wu Zhenguo , Luo Tao , Zhong Yanjun , Guo Xiaodong , Zhang Zhiye , Wang Xinlong , Zhong Benhe
Published: January 2020

In recent years, anode materials of transition metal phosphates (TMPs) for lithium ion batteries have drawn a vast amount of attention, due to their high theoretical capacity and comparatively low intercalation potentials vs. Li/Li+.
A one pot protocol to convert nitro-arenes into N-aryl amides
Authors: Massolo Elisabetta , Pirola Margherita , Puglisi Alessandra , Rossi Sergio , Benaglia Maurizio
Published: January 2020

A two-step one pot, simple protocol, based on readily available and inexpensive reagents allowed to convert nitro-arenes directly to N-aryl amides. The reaction with γ-butyrolactone afforded the butanamide featuring a chlorine atom at the γ-position.
Enabling technologies in polymer synthesis: accessing a new design space for advanced polymer materials
Authors: Knox Stephen T. , Warren Nicholas J.
Published: January 2020

This review discusses how developments in laboratory technologies can push the boundaries of what is achievable using existing polymer synthesis techniques.
Photoexcited Pd(ii) auxiliaries enable light-induced control in C(sp3)–H bond functionalisation
Authors: Czyz Milena L. , Weragoda Geethika K. , Horngren Tyra H. , Connell Timothy U. , Gomez Daniel , O'Hair Richard A. J. , Polyzos Anastasios
Published: January 2020

Visible light irradiation of 8-aminoquinoline Pd(ii) complexes initiates photoinduced electron transfer with alkyl halides, affording C–H halogenation over C–C bond adducts. A method for inert C(sp3)–H bond halogenation (Br, Cl and I) is reported.
Surface tension in liquids containing antagonistic ions
Authors: Kroll Roni , Tsori Yoav
Published: January 2020

Antagonistic ions have opposite preferential solvation in two liquids. Their uneven distribution across the liquid–liquid interface creates an asymmetric electric double layer. In this work we calculate the resulting contribution to the surface tension.
Homoallylic amines as efficient chiral inducing frameworks in the conjugate addition of amides to α,β-unsaturated esters. An entry to enantio-enriched diversely substituted amines
Authors: Rogier Johann , Anani Lilia , Coelho Aurélien , Massicot Fabien , Machado-Rodrigues Carine , Behr Jean-Bernard , Vasse Jean-Luc
Published: January 2020

The diastereoselective conjugate addition of chiral secondary lithium homoallylamides to α,β-unsaturated esters, providing tertiary amines bearing two chains integrating a stereogenic center adjacent to the nitrogen atom, is reported.
The strategic use of para-quinone methides to access synthetically challenging and chemoselective α,α′-diarylmethyl N-glycosides from unprotected carbohydrate amines
Authors: Sangwan Rekha , Dubey Atul , Tiwari Ashwani , Mandal Pintu Kumar
Published: January 2020

A practical route to access synthetically challenging and chemoselective α,α′-diarylmethyl N-glycosides via Sc(OTf)3-catalyzed 1,6-conjugate addition of unprotected amino sugars with p-QMs.
Efficient synthesis of 1-iodoalkynes via Al2O3 mediated reaction of terminal alkynes and N-iodosuccinimide
Authors: Yao Ming , Zhang Jingjing , Yang Sen , Xiong Hangxing , Li Li , Liu E. , Shi Hong
Published: January 2020

An efficient Al2O3-mediated direct iodination of terminal alkynes was developed to afford 1-iodoalkynes.
MicroRNAs as sentinels and protagonists of carotid artery thromboembolism
Authors: Raju Sneha , Fish Jason E. , Howe Kathryn L.
Published: January 2020

Stroke is the leading cause of serious disability in the world and a large number of ischemic strokes are due to thromboembolism from unstable carotid artery atherosclerotic plaque. As it is difficult to predict plaque rupture and surgical treatment of asymptomatic disease carries a risk of stroke, carotid disease continues to present major challenges with regard to clinical decision-making and revascularization. There is therefore an imminent need to better understand the molecular mechanisms governing plaque instability and rupture, as this would allow for the development of biomarkers to identify at-risk asymptomatic carotid plaque prior to disease progression and stroke. Further, it would aid in creation of therapeutics to stabilize carotid plaque. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been implicated as key protagonists in various stages of atherosclerotic plaque initiation, development and rupture. Notably, they appear to play a crucial role in carotid artery thromboembolism. As the molecular pathways governing the role of miRNAs are being uncovered, we are learning that their involvement is complex, tissue- and stage-specific, and highly selective. Notably, miRNAs can be packaged and secreted in extracellular vesicles (EVs), where they participate in cell–cell communication. The measurement of EV-encapsulated miRNAs in the circulation may inform disease mechanisms occurring in the plaque itself, and therefore may serve as sentinels of unstable plaque as well as therapeutic targets.
Wide‐angle 2D beam‐steering with Si‐based 16 × (1 × 16) optical phased arrays
Authors: Yoon H. , Lee D.‐S. , Kim S.‐H. , Kang G. , Shim J. , Rhee H. , Kwon N. , Kim J.‐Y. , Park H.‐H.
Published: January 2020

The authors demonstrate integrated 1D optical phased arrays (OPAs) for wide‐angle 2D beam‐steering. The 2D OPA consists of 16 1D transversal steering OPAs whose radiators have different grating periods, to assign different longitudinal angles. The transversal steering of each OPA is performed by the phase control of the p‐i‐n electro‐optic phase shifter array. The 1D transversal steering OPAs operate serially, changing the longitudinal radiation angle. The grating radiators were designed with an array pitch of 2 μm, and a varying period in the range of 610–710 nm. The entire 16 × (1 × 16) OPAs were integrated into a small area of 26.5 mm2. The obtained transversal/longitudinal beam‐steering range was 46°/44°, respectively, with a wavelength of 1560 nm, which enables wide 2D beam‐steering.
Orthogonally dual‐polarised MIMO antenna array with pattern diversity for use in 5G smartphones
Authors: Ojaroudi Parchin Naser , Al‐Yasir Yasir I.A. , Jahanbakhsh Basherlou Haleh , Abd‐Alhameed Raed A. , Noras James M.
Published: January 2020

A new multiple‐input/multiple‐output (MIMO) antenna design is introduced for future smartphones. The proposed design contains four pairs of double‐fed circular‐ring resonators located at different edges of the smartphone printed circuit board (PCB) with an FR‐4 substrate and a dimension of 75 × 150 mm2. The antenna elements are fed by 50‐Ohm microstrip‐lines and provide polarisation and radiation pattern diversity function due to the orthogonal placement of their feed lines. By inserting a rectangular slot under each microstrip feed‐line, the mutual coupling characteristic of the antenna ports is reduced. A good frequency bandwidth (S11 ≤ − 10 dB) of 3.3–3.9 GHz has been obtained for the smartphone antenna array. Nevertheless, for S11 ≤ − 6 dB, this value is 3.1–4.3 GHz. More than 3 dB realised gain and 80% total efficiency are achieved for the single‐element radiator. The design provides not only sufficient radiation coverage supporting different sides of the mainboard but also the polarisation diversity. In addition, sufficient properties are obtained in the vicinity of human‐hand/human‐head. The proposed MIMO antenna design is also capable to generate dual‐ or multi‐band function. Moreover, a new and compact phased array millimeter‐wave (mm‐wave) antenna design with end‐fire radiation beams is introduced which can be easily integrated into smartphones.
Recent development of high‐speed atomic force microscopy in molecular biology
Authors: Xu Ke , Huang Xin , Pan Yusheng
Published: January 2020

In the aspect of biomacromolecule imaging, high‐speed atomic force microscopy (HS‐AFM) has many wonderful characteristics, such as rapid imaging and real‐time visualisation of the structure and dynamic behaviour of biological macromolecules, which is unparalleled by other technologies. In this review, state‐of‐the‐art achievements on HS‐AFM in molecular biology are summarised. Firstly, biomacromolecule characteristics determination and nanostructure recombination using HS‐AFM are introduced, which confirm that HS‐AFM is such a mature technology that realises high‐speed imaging. Then, some improvements including the cantilever of HS‐AFM, mechanical scanner, position sensor, and closed‐loop control algorithm are reviewed to obtain higher resolution images. Finally, future development directions that could enhance the performance of HS‐AFM are discussed.
Model improvement of the miniature switched capacitor for high‐speed applications
Authors: Razeghi‐Harikandeei Alieh , Ganji Bahram Azizollah , Koohsorkhi Javad , Jafari‐Talookolaei Ramazan‐Ali , Abdipour Abdolali
Published: January 2020

In this work, it is shown that the spring constant model for rectangular fixed–fixed beam used in the literature for high‐speed applications is not correct and the model is improved for all fixed–fixed beams with a desired symmetrical shape. The new model is used to calculate the resonance frequency of the fabricated high‐speed‐specific 3D bridge named boat‐like shape beam existing in the literature. The comparison shows that the model result is in good agreement with the simulation and measurement results. Also, the concept of the miniature microelectromechanical systems switched capacitors will be explained and it is shown that the rectangular beam with a simple fabrication process can be designed to achieve high speed about 150 ns like a boat‐like shape beam which needs to two specific lithography processes that are so involved.
Multiprofessionelle Behandlungsansätze in der Alterstraumatologie
Authors: Pfundtner Norbert , Blömker Frank
Published: January 2020

Wie erreichen wir den älteren Patienten in einem Umfeld sich verändernder Rahmenbedingungen? Wie finden wir die richtige Therapie für die Patienten, die nur eingeschränkt mitarbeiten können? Diese Fragen können bei alleiniger Betrachtung der körperlichen Defizite nur unbefriedigend beantwortet werden. Multimorbidität und altersphysiologische Veränderungen lassen eine besondere Vorgehensweise in Diagnostik und Therapie notwendig werden. Für die Traumatologie führen sie zu erheblichen Konsequenzen: Erlaubt die Osteosynthese eine Übungsstabilität? Ist Vollbelastung möglich? Werden Hilfsmittel adäquat angepasst? Kann ich mit dem Patienten einzelne Therapieschritte verabreden? Muss ich in anderer Form Präventionsstrategien (z. B. Sturzprophylaxe/Balancetraining) in die Behandlung einbauen?
Postoperative Behandlung einer mediokarpalen Teilarthrodese
Authors: Vander Ingmar
Published: January 2020

Nach einer Handgelenksverletzung kann eine Teilversteifung nötig werden, wenn Beschwerden durch arthrotische Prozesse zunehmen und bewegungserhaltende Operationsmethoden nicht mehr möglich sind. Handtherapeut Ingmar Vander stellt die postoperative Behandlung eines Klienten mit mediokarpaler Teilarthrodese bis zum Abschluss der 14. Woche vor und beschreibt, wie es seinem Klienten gelungen ist, durch interdisziplinäre Zusammenarbeit von Therapeuten und Ärzten wieder am Leben teilzunehmen.
Logistische Materialvorhaltung der Polytraumaversorgung im Schockraum aus unfallchirurgischer Sicht unter Berücksichtigung des Status der Klinik: Überregionales Traumazentrum AKH Celle (Schwerpunktversorger)
Authors: Yahya Abd Elgani Haj , Culemann Ulf
Published: January 2020

Die Versorgung eines Polytrauma im Schockraum ist ein komplexes Zusammenspiel aus Vorhaltung (Personal, Material, Aus- und Fortbildung) und Teamarbeit bei Eintreten der Behandlungssituation, die nur bei ausreichender Ressourcenbereitstellung und einer exakt geplanten logistischen Materialvorhaltung im Schockraum und Notfall-OP erfolgreich funktionieren kann. Entscheidend ist, dass das Team einerseits den Ablauf der Versorgung gut trainiert hat und andererseits auch einen aktuellen Kenntnisstand der räumlichen Anordnung, der Funktionsabläufe und der vorhandenen Materialien hat. Hier gilt insbesondere, dass bereits vor Eintritt des Ernstfalls strukturiert wird, „was wer wo“ findet. Hierfür spielt ein vorkonfektioniertes Schrankmodulsystem mit FIFO-Prinzip (first in – first out) eine wesentliche Rolle. Nach Beendigung der Behandlung des schwerverletzten Patienten ist es ebenso wichtig, dass die genutzten, wiederverwendbaren Instrumente (z. B. Beckenzwinge) gereinigt, desinfiziert und sterilisiert werden. Verbrauchte Materialien müssen konsequenterweise umgehend ersetzt und aufgefüllt werden. Die notwendige Lagerhaltung und Nachbestellung von Verbrauchsmaterialien bzw. Medikamenten wird durch das Schrankmodulsystem organisiert. Bei Einhaltung der FIFO-Regel werden die Materialien zeitnah verbraucht und das Einhalten der Mindesthaltbarkeitsfristen ebenfalls sichergestellt. Somit ist eine vollständige Materialvorhaltung und -nutzung gewährleistet. Die genannten Maßnahmen werden sowohl direkt durch das Pflegepersonal der Zentralen Notaufnahme als auch durch OP- und Anästhesiepflege, den Mitarbeitern der Radiologie als auch den Mitarbeitern der Zentralsterilisation (ZSVA) umgesetzt. Den Mitarbeitern des Qualitätsmanagements und hygienebeauftragten Ärzten und Pflegekräften obliegt dabei die regelmäßige Kontrolle und Auditierung der teils zertifizierten Prozesse. Die Administration der Klinik mit den Abteilungen Einkauf, Logistik und EDV spielen hierfür eine ebenso wichtige Rolle, um einerseits eine ausreichende und pünktliche Ressourcenbereitstellung und andererseits auch eine wirtschaftliche Arbeit der Klinik zu gewährleisten, denn z. B. durch eine Min-Max-Lagerhaltung werden auch Kosten entsprechend kontrollierbar. Zu guter Letzt sind auch die zuverlässig zuliefernden Firmen für die genannten Bereiche für die 24-h-Bereitschaft einer unfallchirurgischen Klinik essenziell und somit auch für die Schwerverletztenversorgung wichtig.
Antiviral Activity of a Arisaema Tortuosum Leaf Extract and Some of its Constituents against Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2
Authors: Rittà Massimo , Marengo Arianna , Civra Andrea , Lembo David , Cagliero Cecilia , Kant Kamal , Lal Uma Ranjan , Rubiolo Patrizia , Ghosh Manik , Donalisio Manuela
Published: January 2020

Infections caused by HSV-2 are a public health concern worldwide, and there is still a great demand for the discovery of novel anti-herpes virus agents effective against strains resistant to current antiviral agents. In this context, medicinal plants represent an alternative source of active compounds for developing efficient antiviral therapies. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antiviral activity of Arisaema tortuosum, a plant used in the traditional medicine of India. A chloroform soluble fraction of the leaves exhibited anti-HSV-2 activity with a selectivity index of 758. The extract was also active against acyclovir-resistant HSV-2 and HSV-1. The mechanism of action of the extract was investigated evidencing inhibition of both early and late events of the HSV-2 replicative cycle. A HPLC-PDA-MS/MS analysis showed the presence of flavonoids including apigenin and luteolin in the chloroform extract (CE). Apigenin and luteolin showed a high inhibitory activity with EC50 values of 0.05 and 0.41 µg/mL, respectively. Both compounds exhibited antiviral activity when added up to 6 h post infection and were able to reduce the viral progeny production. In addition, apigenin interfered with cell-to-cell virus spread.