bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Author Correction: Liriodendron genome sheds light on angiosperm phylogeny and species–pair differentiation
Authors: Chen Jinhui , Hao Zhaodong , Guang Xuanmin , Zhao Chenxi , Wang Pengkai , Xue Liangjiao , Zhu Qihui , Yang Linfeng , Sheng Yu , Zhou Yanwei , Xu Haibin , Xie Hongqing , Long Xiaofei , Zhang Jin , Wang Zhangrong , Shi Mingming , Lu Ye , Liu Siqin , Guan Lanhua , Zhu Qianhua , Yang Liming , Ge Song , Cheng Tielong , Laux Thomas , Gao Qiang , Peng Ye , Liu Na , Yang Sihai , Shi Jisen
Published: January 2019

In the Supplementary Information file originally published with this Letter, the authors mistakenly omitted Supplementary Table 14; this has now been amended.
Quantum key distribution with setting-choice-independently correlated light sources
Authors: Mizutani Akihiro , Kato Go , Azuma Koji , Curty Marcos , Ikuta Rikizo , Yamamoto Takashi , Imoto Nobuyuki , Lo Hoi-Kwong , Tamaki Kiyoshi
Published: January 2019

Despite the enormous theoretical and experimental progress made so far in quantum key distribution (QKD), the security of most existing practical QKD systems is not rigorously established yet. A critical obstacle is that almost all existing security proofs make ideal assumptions on the QKD devices. Problematically, such assumptions are hard to satisfy in the experiments, and therefore it is not obvious how to apply such security proofs to practical QKD systems. Fortunately, any imperfections and security-loopholes in the measurement devices can be perfectly closed by measurement-device-independent QKD (MDI-QKD), and thus we only need to consider how to secure the source devices. Among imperfections in the source devices, correlations between the sending pulses and modulation fluctuations are one of the principal problems, which unfortunately most of the existing security proofs do not consider. In this paper, we take into account these imperfections and enhance the implementation security of QKD. Specifically, we consider a setting-choice-independent correlation (SCIC) framework in which the sending pulses can present arbitrary correlations but they are independent of the previous setting choices such as the bit, the basis and the intensity settings. Within the framework of SCIC, we consider the dominant fluctuations of the sending states, such as the relative phases and the intensities, and provide a self-contained information-theoretic security proof for the loss-tolerant QKD protocol in the finite-key regime. We demonstrate the feasibility of secure quantum communication, and thus our work constitutes a crucial step towards guaranteeing the security of practical QKD systems.
Deciphering the evolution of Deception Island’s magmatic system
Authors: Geyer A. , Álvarez-Valero A. M. , Gisbert G. , Aulinas M. , Hernández-Barreña D. , Lobo A. , Marti J.
Published: January 2019

Deception Island (South Shetland Islands) is one of the most active volcanoes in Antarctica, with more than 20 explosive eruptive events registered over the past two centuries. Recent eruptions (1967, 1969, and 1970) and the volcanic unrest episodes that happened in 1992, 1999, and 2014–2015 demonstrate that the occurrence of future volcanic activity is a valid and pressing concern for scientists, technical and logistic personnel, and tourists, that are visiting or working on or near the island. We present a unifying evolutionary model of the magmatic system beneath Deception Island by integrating new petrologic and geochemical results with an exhaustive database of previous studies in the region. Our results reveal the existence of a complex plumbing system composed of several shallow magma chambers (≤10 km depth) fed by magmas raised directly from the mantle, or from a magma accumulation zone located at the crust-mantle boundary (15–20 km depth). Understanding the current state of the island’s magmatic system, and its potential evolution in the future, is fundamental to increase the effectiveness of interpreting monitoring data during volcanic unrest periods and hence, for future eruption forecasting.
Effects of Relative Magnetic Field, Chemical Reaction, Heat Generation and Newtonian Heating on Convection Flow of Casson Fluid over a Moving Vertical Plate Embedded in a Porous Medium
Authors: Khan Dolat , Khan Arshad , Khan Ilyas , Ali Farhad , Karim Faizan ul , Tlili I.
Published: January 2019

The aim of this article is to study the combined effects of heat generation and chemical reaction on magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) natural convection flow over a moving plate embedded in a porous medium. Natural convection is caused due to buoyancy forced which has been induced because of temperature and concentration gradients. The general condition of velocity has been considered on the plate surface with Newtonian heating and constant wall concentration. The effect of thermal radiation is also considered in the energy equation. The main objective here is to study the relative behavior of the magnetic field. That is the magnetic field shows two types of relative behavior. More exactly, when the magnetic field is fixed relative to the fluid (MFFRF) and the magnetic field is fixed relative to the plate (MFFRP). The general exact solution of the problem is determined by the Laplace transform method. Particular solutions for two special cases namely the plate with variable vibration and the plate with sine and cosine oscillations are also determined. Moreover, the solutions when ζ → ∞ for both cases i.e. MFFRF and MFFRP are also obtained as special cases. The velocity profile is presented in the form of mechanical, thermal and concentration components. Velocity obtained for oscillating plate condition is written in terms of steady-state and transient parts. Exact solutions obtained in this paper are interpreted graphically using computational software Mathcad-15 to examine the effects of various pertinent parameters such as Casson fluid parameter, the permeability of porous medium, chemical reaction parameter, heat generation parameter, buoyancy force parameter, magnetic parameter, and radiation parameter. Results for Sherwood number, skin-friction, and Nusselt number are numerically computed and discussed.
Blood-Brain Barrier Opening in Primary Brain Tumors with Non-invasive MR-Guided Focused Ultrasound: A Clinical Safety and Feasibility Study
Authors: Mainprize Todd , Lipsman Nir , Huang Yuexi , Meng Ying , Bethune Allison , Ironside Sarah , Heyn Chinthaka , Alkins Ryan , Trudeau Maureen , Sahgal Arjun , Perry James , Hynynen Kullervo
Published: January 2019

The blood-brain barrier (BBB) has long limited therapeutic access to brain tumor and peritumoral tissue. In animals, MR-guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS) with intravenously injected microbubbles can temporarily and repeatedly disrupt the BBB in a targeted fashion, without open surgery. Our objective is to demonstrate safety and feasibility of MRgFUS BBB opening with systemically administered chemotherapy in patients with glioma in a phase I, single-arm, open-label study. Five patients with previously confirmed or suspected high-grade glioma based on imaging underwent the MRgFUS in conjunction with administration of chemotherapy (n = 1 liposomal doxorubicin, n = 4 temozolomide) one day prior to their scheduled surgical resection. Samples of “sonicated” and “unsonicated” tissue were measured for the chemotherapy by liquid-chromatography-mass spectrometry. Complete follow-up was three months. The procedure was well-tolerated, with no adverse clinical or radiologic events related to the procedure. The BBB within the target volume showed radiographic evidence of opening with an immediate 15–50% increased contrast enhancement on T1-weighted MRI, and resolution approximately 20 hours after. Biochemical analysis of sonicated versus unsonicated tissue suggest chemotherapy delivery is feasible. In this study, we demonstrated transient BBB opening in tumor and peritumor tissue using non-invasive low-intensity MRgFUS with systemically administered chemotherapy was safe and feasible. The characterization of therapeutic delivery and clinical response to this treatment paradigm requires further investigation.
Understanding the oxidation mechanism of methanesulfinic acid by ozone in the atmosphere
Authors: Lv Guochun , Zhang Chenxi , Sun Xiaomin
Published: January 2019

Methanesulfinic acid (MSIA) is an important intermediate in the oxidation of dimethyl sulfide (DMS) in the marine boundary layer. The oxidation of MSIA by ozone in the gas phase to form methanesulfonic acid (MSA) was investigated using theoretical calculations in this paper. Three pathways can be found for the reaction of MSIA with ozone. The highest energy barrier is 13.02 kcal mol−1 in the most favorable pathway. By comparing the reaction rate of MSIA + O3 with that of MSIA + OH, it can be concluded that the oxidation of MSIA by O3 to form MSA is of minor significance relative to its oxidation by OH radical in the gas phase. This study can provide some information for the theoretical and experimental studies in the significantly heterogeneous and aqueous-phase oxidation of MSIA by O3.
Ferroelastic domain identification in BiFeO3 crystals using Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Himcinschi Cameliu , Rix Jan , Röder Christian , Rudolph Martin , Yang Ming-Min , Rafaja David , Kortus Jens , Alexe Marin
Published: January 2019

Multiferroic BiFeO3 crystals were investigated by means of micro-Raman spectroscopy using the laser wavelengths of 442 nm (resonant conditions) and 633 nm (non-resonant conditions). The azimuthal angle dependence of the intensity of the Raman modes allowed their symmetry assignment. The experimental data are consistent with a simulation based on Raman tensor formalism. Mixed symmetries were taken into account, considering the orientation of the crystal optic axis along a pseudo-cubic <111> direction. The strong anisotropic intensity variation of some of the polar Raman modes was used for line scans and mappings in order to identify ferroelastic domain patterns. The line scans performed with different excitation wavelengths and hence different information depths indicate a tilt of the domain walls with respect to the sample surface. The domain distribution found by Raman spectroscopy is in very good agreement with the finding of electron back scattering diffraction.
Optimizing mechanical properties of Fe26.7Co26.7Ni26.7Si8.9B11 high entropy alloy by inducing hypoeutectic to quasi-duplex microstructural transition
Authors: Zhang Ze-Qun , Song Kai-Kai , Guo Shu , Xue Qi-Sen , Xing Hui , Cao Chong-De , Dai Fu-Ping , Völker Bernhard , Hohenwarter Anton , Maity Tapabrata , Chawake Niraj , Kim Jeong-Tae , Wang Li , Kaban Ivan , Eckert Jürgen
Published: January 2019

High-entropy alloys (HEAs) have inspired considerable interest due to their attractive physical and mechanical properties. In this work, the microstructural evolution induced by different heat treatments on rapidly solidified hypoeutectic precursors of a Fe26.7Co26.7Ni26.7Si8.9B11 HEA is investigated and correlated with the corresponding mechanical properties. The microstructures of the rapidly solidified precursors are composed of primary fcc solid solution dendrites embedded in a eutectic matrix. When the samples are annealed at different temperatures after furnace cooling or quenching, respectively, the eutectic structure gradually decomposes into fcc, tetragonal (Fe,Co)2B, and hexagonal Ni31Si12 crystals with increasing annealing temperature, leading to a gradual increase of the content of the fcc crystals and both their aggregation and coarsening. Then the dominant structural framework gradually transforms from eutectic structures to fcc dendrites and ultimately the (Fe,Co)2B crystals become isolated as dominant reinforcement particles distributed in the interdendritic regions. This gradual microstructural transition from hypoeutectic to quasi-duplex structures leads to the change of the dominant deformation mechanism from crack-controlled to dislocation-dominated deformation, which allows to control both ductility and strength in a wide range. Hence, this study provides some guideline for how to tune the microstructure and mechanical properties of HEAs.
Quaternized Amphiphilic Block Copolymers/Graphene Oxide and a Poly(vinyl alcohol) Coating Layer on Graphene Oxide/Poly(vinylidene fluoride) Electrospun Nanofibers for Superhydrophilic and Antibacterial Properties
Authors: Park Jeong-Ann , Cho Kie Yong , Han Chee Hun , Nam Aram , Kim Jae-Hyun , Lee Sang-Hyup , Choi Jae-Woo
Published: January 2019

Poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) is common polymer for electrospinning, however, its high hydrophobicity is a major drawback, which cause fouling. To introduce hydrophilicity and antibacterial activity, quaternary ammonium-functionalized amphiphilic diblock copolymers were synthesized and blended with a PVDF/graphene oxide (GO) solution, then, electrospun and coated with a hydrophilic polymer, poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA). The amphiphilic block copolymer, consisting of a hydrophobic poly(methyl methacrylate) block and a hydrophilic poly[N,N-2-(dimethylamino)-ethyl methacrylate) block (PMMA-b-PDMAEMA), was synthesized. Polymeric quaternary ammonium with three different alkyl chain lengths (C2, C4, and C8) were successfully introduced to obtain as q-PMMA-b-PDMAEMA. The q-PMMA-b-PDMAEMA in the nanofiber matrix was confirmed by C=O bands (1734 cm−1) in the Fourier transform infrared spectra. Nano-sized spherical protuberances were distributed on the surface as revealed by field emission scanning and transmission electron microscopies. The PVDF/GO/q-PMMA-b-PDMAEMA@PVA nanofibers has superhydrophilic properties (water contact angle = 0–20°) and the pure water flux was generally improved by increasing the alkyl chain length. When introducing the longest alkyl chain (C8,OBC), the total fouling ratio was the lowest (49.99%) and the bacteria removal capacities after 60 min were the highest for both Escherichia coli (4.2 × 105 CFU/mg) and Staphylococcus aureus (6.1 × 105 CFU/mg) via growth inhibition and cytoplasmic membrane damage.
The use of solid phase microextraction for metabolomic analysis of non-small cell lung carcinoma cell line (A549) after administration of combretastatin A4
Authors: Jaroch Karol , Boyaci Ezel , Pawliszyn Janusz , Bojko Barbara
Published: January 2019

Use of solid phase microextraction (SPME) for cell culture metabolomic analysis allows for the attainment of more sophisticated data from in vitro cell cultures. Moreover, considering that SPME allows the implementation of multiple extractions from the same sample due to its non/low-depletive nature, time course studies using the same set of samples are thus facilitated via this method. Such an approach results in a reduction in the number of samples needed for analysis thus eliminates inter-batch variability related to biological variation occurring during cell culturing. The current work aims to demonstrate the capability of SPME for measurements of combretastatin A4 (CA4) effectiveness on non-small cell cancer cell line. A cultivation protocol was established in the 96-well plate, and a fiber format of SPME was selected for metabolite extraction. The extracellular metabolic pattern of cells was changed after administration of the tested drug. This suggests pharmacological activity of the administered compound towards the studied cell line model. Results support that the use of direct immersion SPME for analysis of cell cultures does not affect cells growth or contaminate sample. Consequently, SPME allows the attainment of accurate information regarding drug uptake, metabolism, and metabolomic changes in the studied cells induced by exposure to the drug simultaneously in a single experiment.
Mechanisms and immunogenicity of nsPEF-induced cell death in B16F10 melanoma tumors
Authors: Rossi Alessandra , Pakhomova Olga N. , Pakhomov Andrei G. , Weygandt Samantha , Bulysheva Anna A. , Murray Len E. , Mollica Peter A. , Muratori Claudia
Published: January 2019

Accumulating data indicates that some cancer treatments can restore anticancer immunosurveillance through the induction of tumor immunogenic cell death (ICD). Nanosecond pulsed electric fields (nsPEF) have been shown to efficiently ablate melanoma tumors. In this study we investigated the mechanisms and immunogenicity of nsPEF-induced cell death in B16F10 melanoma tumors. Our data show that in vitro nsPEF (20–200, 200-ns pulses, 7 kV/cm, 2 Hz) caused a rapid dose-dependent cell death which was not accompanied by caspase activation or PARP cleavage. The lack of nsPEF-induced apoptosis was confirmed in vivo in B16F10 tumors. NsPEF also failed to trigger ICD-linked responses such as necroptosis and autophagy. Our results point at necrosis as the primary mechanism of cell death induced by nsPEF in B16F10 cells. We finally compared the antitumor immunity in animals treated with nsPEF (750, 200-ns, 25 kV/cm, 2 Hz) with animals were tumors were surgically removed. Compared to the naïve group where all animals developed tumors, nsPEF and surgery protected 33% (6/18) and 28.6% (4/14) of the animals, respectively. Our data suggest that, under our experimental conditions, the local ablation by nsPEF restored but did not boost the natural antitumor immunity which stays dormant in the tumor-bearing host.
Toxicity and possible mechanisms of action of honokiol from Magnolia denudata seeds against four mosquito species
Authors: Wang Zhangqian , Perumalsamy Haribalan , Wang Xue , Ahn Young-Joon
Published: January 2019

This study was performed to determine the toxicity and possible mechanism of the larvicidal action of honokiol, extracted from Magnolia denudata seeds, and its 10 related compounds against third-instar larvae of insecticide-susceptible Culex pipiens pallens, Aedes aegypti, and Aedes albopictus and Anopheles sinensis resistant to deltamethrin and temephos. Honokiol (LC50, 6.13–7.37 mg/L) was highly effective against larvae of all of the four mosquito species, although the toxicity of the compound was lower than that of the synthetic larvicide temephos. Structure–activity relationship analyses indicated that electron donor and/or bulky groups at the ortho or para positions of the phenol were required for toxicity. Honokiol moderately inhibited acetylcholinesterase and caused a considerable increase in cyclic AMP levels, indicating that it might act on both acetylcholinesterase and octopaminergic receptors. Microscopy analysis clearly indicated that honokiol was mainly targeted to the midgut epithelium and anal gills, resulting in variably dramatic degenerative responses of the midgut through sequential epithelial disorganization. Honokiol did not affect the AeCS1 mRNA expression level in Ae. aegypti larvae, but did enhance expression of the genes encoding vacuolar-type H+-ATPase and aquaporin 4, indicating that it may disturb the Na+, Cl− and K+ co-transport systems. These results demonstrate that honokiol merits further study as a potential larvicide, with a specific target site, and as a lead molecule for the control of mosquito populations.
Dual-wavelength multifunctional metadevices based on modularization design by using indium-tin-oxide
Authors: Luan Jing , Huang Lirong , Ling Yonghong , Liu Wenbing , Ba Chunfa , Li Shuang , Min Li
Published: January 2019

Combining two or several functionalities into a single metadevice is of significant importance and attracts growing interest in recent years. We here introduce the concept of modularization design in dual-wavelength multifunctional metadevice, which is composed of a lower metasurface and an upper metasurface with an indium-tin-oxide (ITO) layer. Benefiting from the fact that ITO holds high infrared (IR) reflection while transparence at visible wavelengths, the metadevice can work in reflection and transmission modes at two very distinct wavelengths, one is 2365 nm in the IR band and the other 650 nm in the visible range. More interestingly and importantly, the two metasurface layers with different functionalities are easy to flexibly integrate into a series of dual-wavelength multifunctional metadevices, with negligible interaction between them and no need of re-designing or re-optimizing their structure parameters. Based on modularization design and functional integration, four kinds of dual-wavelength multifunctional metadevices are demonstrated, which can perform reflective deflection/focusing at 2365 nm and transmissive deflection/focusing at 650 nm. We believe our work may open a straight-forward and flexible way in designing multi-wavelength multifunctional metadevices and photonic integrated devices.
Smooth Muscle Transcriptome Browser: offering genome-wide references and expression profiles of transcripts expressed in intestinal SMC, ICC, and PDGFRα+ cells
Authors: Breland Adrienne , Ha Se Eun , Jorgensen Brian G. , Jin Byungchang , Gardner Treg A. , Sanders Kenton M. , Ro Seungil
Published: January 2019

Transcriptome data on the quantitative numbers of transcriptional variants expressed in primary cells offer essential clues into specific cellular functions and biological processes. We have previously collected transcriptomes from primary smooth muscle cells (SMC), interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC), and PDGFRα+ cells (fibroblast-like cells) isolated from murine jejunal and colonic smooth muscle and/or mucosal tissues as well as transcriptomes from the associated tissues (jejunal smooth muscle, colonic smooth muscle, and colonic mucosa). In this study, we have built the Smooth Muscle Transcriptome Browser (SMTB), https://med.unr.edu/physio/transcriptome, a web-based, graphical user interface that offers genetic references and expression profiles of all transcripts expressed at both the cellular (SMC, ICC, and PDGFRα+ cells) and tissue level (smooth muscle and mucosal tissue). This browser brings new insights into the cellular and biological functions of the cell types in gastrointestinal smooth muscle biology.
Study of 3D-printed chitosan scaffold features after different post-printing gelation processes
Authors: Bergonzi Carlo , Di Natale Antonina , Zimetti Francesca , Marchi Cinzia , Bianchera Annalisa , Bernini Franco , Silvestri Marco , Bettini Ruggero , Elviri Lisa
Published: January 2019

3D biomaterial manufacturing strategies show an extraordinary driving force for the development of innovative therapies in the tissue engineering field. Here, the behaviour of 3D printed chitosan (CH)-based scaffolds was explored as a function of the post-printing gelation process. To this purpose, gel forming properties of different media were tested on their capability to retain 3D structure, water content, mechanical resistance and surface/internal porosity. Three different gelation media (i.e. KOH 1.5 M, Na2CO3 1.5 M, ammonia vapours) were selected and the 3D CH scaffolds were tested in terms of biocompatibility toward fibroblast as skin associated human cell line.
Effects of Repeated Sublethal External Exposure to Deep Water Horizon Oil on the Avian Metabolome
Authors: Dorr Brian S. , Hanson-Dorr Katie C. , Assadi-Porter Fariba M. , Selen Ebru Selin , Healy Katherine A. , Horak Katherine E.
Published: January 2019

We assessed adverse effects of external sublethal exposure of Deepwater Horizon, Mississippi Canyon 252 oil on plasma and liver metabolome profiles of the double-crested cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus), a large (1.5 to 3.0 kg) diving waterbird common in the Gulf of Mexico. Metabolomics analysis of avian plasma showed significant negative effects on avian metabolic profiles, in some cases after only two external exposures (26 g cumulative) to oil. We observed significant (p < 0.05) changes in intermediate metabolites of energy metabolism and fatty acid and amino acid metabolic pathways in cormorants after repeated exposure to oil. Exposure to oil increased several metabolites (glycine, betaine, serine and methionine) that are essential to the one-carbon metabolism pathway. Lipid metabolism was affected, causing an increase in production of ketone bodies, suggesting lipids were used as an alternative energy source for energy production in oil exposed birds. In addition, metabolites associated with hepatic bile acid metabolism were affected by oil exposure which was correlated with changes observed in bile acids in exposed birds. These changes at the most basic level of phenotypic expression caused by sublethal exposure to oil can have effects that would be detrimental to reproduction, migration, and survival in avian species.
Influence of the synthesis method on the catalytic activity of mayenite for the oxidation of gas-phase trichloroethylene
Authors: Intiso Adriano , Martinez-Triguero Joaquin , Cucciniello Raffaele , Rossi Federico , Palomares Antonio Eduardo
Published: January 2019

Catalytic oxidation of trichloroethylene (TCE) in heterogeneous phase (gas-solid) is an effective strategy for the conversion of this pollutant in less harmful compounds, namely CO2, CO and HCl. In this work, we have studied the use of mayenite, a cost-effective material, as an active catalyst for the TCE conversion. In particular, we have assessed the influence of the mayenite synthesis method (hydrothermal, sol-gel and ceramic) on the reaction performance. The materials have been characterized by different techniques, such as XRD, N2-sorption (BET), TPR, Raman spectroscopy, FESEM-EDX and TEM. The analysis of the light-off curves and product distribution, has shown that the use of the hydrothermal method for the mayenite synthesis results in the most active and selective catalyst. This has been related with a higher surface area and with a higher concentration of oxygen anions in the mayenite prepared by this method. It has been found that the presence of water in the stream do not influence the catalytic performance of the material. A mechanism for the reaction and for the partial deactivation of the catalyst has been proposed.
Avocado (Persea americana) fruit extract (2R,4R)-1,2,4-trihydroxyheptadec-16-yne inhibits dengue virus replication via upregulation of NF-κB–dependent induction of antiviral interferon responses
Authors: Wu Yu-Hsuan , Tseng Chin-Kai , Wu Ho-Cheng , Wei Chih-Ku , Lin Chun-Kuang , Chen Ih-Sheng , Chang Hsun-Shuo , Lee Jin-Ching
Published: January 2019

Dengue virus (DENV) caused millions of infections around the world annually. Co-infection with different serotypes of DENV is associated with dengue hemorrhagic shock syndrome, leading to an estimate of 50% death rate. No approved therapies are currently available for the treatment of DENV infection. Hence, novel anti-DENV agents are urgently needed for medical therapy. Here we demonstrated that a natural product (2 R,4 R)-1,2,4-trihydroxyheptadec-16-yne (THHY), extracted from avocado (Persea americana) fruit, can inhibit DENV-2 replication in a concentration-dependent manner and efficiently suppresses replication of all DENV serotypes (1–4). We further reveal that the NF-κB-mediated interferon antiviral response contributes to the inhibitory effect of THHY on DENV replication. Using a DENV-infected ICR suckling mouse model, we found that THHY treatment caused an increased survival rate among mice infected with DENV. Collectively, these findings support THHY as a potential agent to control DENV infection.
Detection of a microbial source tracking marker by isothermal helicase-dependent amplification and a nucleic acid lateral-flow strip test
Authors: Kolm Claudia , Martzy Roland , Führer Manuela , Mach Robert L. , Krska Rudolf , Baumgartner Sabine , Farnleitner Andreas H. , Reischer Georg H.
Published: January 2019

Over the last decades, various PCR-based methods have been proposed that can identify sources of faecal pollution in environmental waters. These microbial source tracking (MST) methods are powerful tools to manage water quality and support public health risk assessment. However, their application is limited by the lack of specialized equipment and trained personnel in laboratories performing microbiological water quality assessment. Here, we describe a novel molecular method that combines helicase-dependent amplification (HDA) with a strip test for detecting ruminant faecal pollution sources. Unlike quantitative PCR (qPCR), the developed HDA-strip assay only requires a heating block to amplify the ruminant-associated Bacteroidetes 16S rRNA marker (BacR). Following HDA, the reaction mixture can be directly applied onto the test strip, which detects and displays the amplification products by marker-specific hybridization probes via an on-strip colorimetric reaction. The entire assay takes two hours and demands no extensive practical training. Furthermore, the BacR HDA-strip assay achieved comparable results in head-to-head performance tests with the qPCR reference, in which we investigated source-sensitivity and source-specificity, the analytical limit of detection, and the sample limit of detection. Although this approach only yields qualitative results, it can pave a way for future simple-to-use MST screening tools.
Lung resistance-related protein (LRP) predicts favorable therapeutic outcome in Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Kulsoom Bibi , Shamsi Tahir Sultan , Afsar Nasir Ali
Published: January 2019

There is conflicting evidence that MDR1, MRP2 and LRP expression is responsible for chemotherapy resistance. We conducted this study to explore their role in AML therapy outcomes. Bone marrow and peripheral blood samples of 90 AML patients, receiving chemotherapy, were analyzed by real time PCR. Gene expression was calculated by the 2−ΔΔCt method. The patients who had a persistent remission were labelled ‘Good Responder’ (GRes) whereas, those with relapse or drug resistance were labelled ‘Poor Responders’ (PRes). Higher LRP expression in bone marrow, but not in peripheral blood, was positively associated with persistent remission (p = 0.001), GRes (p = 0.002), 1-year overall as well as disease-free survival (p = 0.02 and p = 0.007, respectively). Marrow and blood MDR1 and MRP2 expression did not differ significantly between the above groups. Logistic regression analysis showed that only a diagnosis of acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL; M3) or high marrow LRP expression significantly predicted a favorable therapeutic outcome. This is the first report showing that high bone marrow LRP expression predicts significant favorable therapeutic outcome. Peripheral blood LRP expression as well as marrow and blood MDR1 and MRP2 expression have no predictive value in AML patients treated with standard dose cytarabine and daunorubicin 3+7 regimen.
Awakening effects of blue-enriched morning light exposure on university students’ physiological and subjective responses
Authors: Choi Kyungah , Shin Cheong , Kim Taesu , Chung Hyun Jung , Suk Hyeon-Jeong
Published: January 2019

We investigated physiological and subjective responses to morning light exposure of commercially available LED lighting with different correlated colour temperatures to predict how LED-based smart lighting employed in future learning environments will impact students. The classical markers of the circadian system (melatonin and cortisol), as well as the subjective perception of sleepiness, mood, and visual comfort, were compared. Fifteen university students underwent an hour of morning light exposure to both warm (3,500 K) and blue-enriched (6,500 K) white lights at recommended illuminance levels for classrooms and lecture halls (500 lux). The decline of melatonin levels was significantly greater after the exposure to blue-enriched white light. Exposure to blue-enriched white light significantly improved subjective perception of alertness, mood, and visual comfort. With regard to cortisol, we did not find a significant difference in the cortisol decrement between the two light conditions. Our findings suggest that the sensitivity of physiological and subjective responses to white LED light is blue-shifted. These findings, extending the already known effects of short-wavelength light on human physiology, reveal interesting practical implications. Blue-enriched LED light seems to be a simple yet effective potential countermeasure for morning drowsiness and dozing off in class, particularly in schools with insufficient daylight.
An In-Vitro Study for Early Detection and to Distinguish Breast and Lung Malignancies Using the Pcb Technology Based Nanodosimeter
Authors: Venkatraman P. , Sureka C. S.
Published: January 2019

Since the early detection of cancer increases the chance of successful treatment, the present study focused to confirm the suitability of an indigenously fabricated multilayer PCB technology based 3D positive ion detector to detect breast and lung malignancy at an early stage. The 3D positive ion detector is a type of gas filled radiation detector works under the principle of ion induced ionization using an exempted micro curie activity source. Earlier studies report that malignant cells can be detected by analyzing the Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) exhaled by those cells that serve as eminent biomarkers for malignant detection. Based on this, the present study analyzed the signals produced in the detector by VOCs exhaled from 140 biopsy tissue samples that include tissue of normal and all stages of breast and lung malignancy. To strengthen the present data, the normal and advanced breast and lung malignant tissues were also analyzed using the Gas Chromatography- Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). From this study, it is confirmed that the present 3D positive ion detector can be used to detect both breast and lung malignancy and also to distinguish them based on the variation in four basic physical parameters of the output pulse such as frequency, amplitude, rise time and fall time and four derived parameters of the pulse such as FWHM, area of the pulse, ionization cluster size, and ion drift time.
MicroRNA 141 is associated to outcome and aggressive tumor characteristics in prostate cancer
Authors: Richardsen Elin , Andersen Sigve , Melbø-Jørgensen Christian , Rakaee Mehrdad , Ness Nora , Al-Saad Samer , Nordby Yngve , Pedersen Mona I. , Dønnem Tom , Bremnes Roy M. , Busund Lill-Tove
Published: January 2019

A large number of miRNAs influence key cellular processes involved in prostate tumorigenesis. Previous studies have demonstrated high expression of miRNAs in human prostate cancer (PC) tissues and cell lines. In previous microarray data, we found miR-141 to be upregulated and miR-145 to be downregulated in PC. In this large PC cohort (n = 535), we explored the prognostic role of miR-141 and miR-145 in PC. Tumor epithelial (TE) and tumor stromal (TS) areas were evaluated separately and combined (TE + TS).In situhybridization was used to evaluate the expression of the miRNAs. We found that miR-141 (TE) correlated significantly to Gleason score ≥8 (p = 0.040) and large tumor size (≥20 mm, p = 0.025) and miR-141 (TE + TS) to Gleason grade (p = 0.001). MiR-145 correlated to pT-stage (p = 0.038), tumor size (p = 0.025), Gleason grade (p = 0.051) and PSA (p = 0.032). In univariate analysis miR-141 (TE + TS) was significantly associated with biochemical failure-free survival (BFFS, p = 0.007) and clinical failure-free survival (CFFS, p = 0.021). For miR-145, there were no differences between patients with high versus low expression. In multivariate analysis overexpression of miR-141 in tumor epithelium and tumor stroma was significantly associated with BFFS (HR = 1.07 CI95% 1.00–1.14, p = 0.007). To conclude, high expression of miR-141 appears associated with increased risk of biochemical PC recurrence.
Gender- and Age-Specific Associations Between Body Fat Composition and C-Reactive Protein with Lung Function: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Tsao Yu-Chung , Lee Yi-Yen , Chen Jau-Yuan , Yeh Wei-Chung , Chuang Chung-Hsun , Yu Wei , Li Wen-Cheng
Published: January 2019

Lung function deterioration is frequently observed in overweight and obese patients. In the current study, we explored the contribution of body fat (BF) composition, particularly visceral and nonvisceral adiposity, to lung function deterioration. In addition, we examined gender- and age-specific differences in the association between the joint effects of BF% and C-reactive protein (CRP) concentrations with lung function. This cross-sectional study involved 17,802 subjects undergoing health check-up. Clinical characteristics, body composition using bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), and lung function were evaluated and compared between genders. Subjects were stratified by gender-specific BF% cut-offs for evaluating the association of body composition and the risk of restrictive lung disease (RLD). Gender differences in the joint effects of BF% and CRP on lung function were observed. Visceral obesity increased the risk of RLD in women aged ≥45 years, but nonvisceral obesity reduced the risk of RLD in women aged <45 years. Our findings suggest that visceral fat per se can be used as an effective parameter to assess the association between lung function and obesity.
Tunable properties of (HoxY1-x)2SiO5 as damage self-monitoring environmental/thermal barrier coating candidates
Authors: Tian Zhilin , Zheng Liya , Hu Wanpeng , Sun Luchao , Zhang Jie , Wang Jingyang
Published: January 2019

RE2SiO5 with low thermal conductivity, compatible thermal expansion coefficients and excellent high-temperature reliability in harsh environments are excellent candidates as advanced environmental/thermal barrier coating materials for high-efficiency gas turbine engines. A series of rare earth silicates (HoxY1-x)2SiO5 are designed and their properties are comprehensively investigated in this paper. Through doping Ho into Y2SiO5, the thermal conductivity of Y2SiO5 is significantly decreased and the thermal expansion coefficient is also optimized closer to Si-based ceramics. High-temperature elastic stiffness and bending strength are increased with the enhancing of Ho content. Most important, doping Ho element provides (HoxY1-x)2SiO5 with tunable luminescence characteristic. (HoxY1-x)2SiO5 exhibit green, to yellow-green, then to orange-red luminescence color with increased Ho concentration. The results show that they can be used as damage self-monitoring environmental/thermal barrier coating materials for Si-based ceramics.
Interplay between exogenous and endogenous factors in seasonal vegetation oscillations
Authors: Tzuk Omer , Ujjwal Sangeeta R. , Fernandez-Oto Cristian , Seifan Merav , Meron Ehud
Published: January 2019

A fundamental question in ecology is whether vegetation oscillations are merely a result of periodic environmental variability, or rather driven by endogenous factors. We address this question using a mathematical model of dryland vegetation subjected to annual rainfall periodicity. We show that while spontaneous oscillations do not exist in realistic parameter ranges, resonant response to periodic precipitation is still possible due to the existence of damped oscillatory modes. Using multiple time-scale analysis, in a restricted parameter range, we find that these endogenous modes can be pumped by the exogenous precipitation forcing to form sustained oscillations. The oscillations amplitude shows a resonance peak that depends on model parameters representing species traits and mean annual precipitation. Extending the study to bistability ranges of uniform vegetation and bare soil, we investigate numerically the implications of resonant oscillations for ecosystem function. We consider trait parameters that represent species with damped oscillatory modes and species that lack such modes, and compare their behaviors. We find that the former are less resilient to droughts, suffer from larger declines in their biomass production as the precipitation amplitude is increased, and, in the presence of spatial disturbances, are likely to go through abrupt collapse to bare soil, rather than gradual, domino-like collapse.
Reduced aqueous humour ascorbic-acid concentration in women with smaller anterior chamber depth
Authors: Ito Sakae , Sairenchi Toshimi , Machida Takehisa , Takino Yuka , Kondo Yoshitaka , Mukai Koichiro , Kobashi Gen , Ishigami Akihito , Senoo Tadashi
Published: January 2019

Short anterior chamber depth (ACD) is considered a risk factor of endothelial-cell loss after phacoemulsification. However, whether it is an independent risk factor or not remains controversial. We investigated the relationship between ascorbic acid (AA) concentrations in the aqueous humour (AqH) and ACD. We analysed 165 AqH samples of 97 patients (42 men and 55 women) who underwent small incision cataract surgery. AqH and plasma AA concentrations were measured using a high-performance liquid chromatography - electrochemical detection method. Patient characteristics were compared between and within the sexes. As a result, age and ACD were significantly correlated with AqH AA concentrations (r = −0.206, P = 0.045; r = 0.339, P < 0.001) only in women. Moreover, plasma AA concentrations were significantly correlated with AqH AA concentrations (r = 0.420, P < 0.001; r = 0.316, P = 0.002) both in men and women. After adjusting for confounding factors (age and plasma AA concentrations), ACD was significantly and positively correlated with AqH AA concentrations (partial.r = 0.275, P = 0.009) only in women. In conclusion, AqH AA concentrations were reduced in women with smaller ACD. This may suggest that women with short ACD could be more susceptible to oxidative damage.
Pro-resolving lipid mediator ameliorates obesity induced osteoarthritis by regulating synovial macrophage polarisation
Authors: Sun Antonia Rujia , Wu Xiaoxin , Liu Bohao , Chen Yang , Armitage Charles W. , Kollipara Avinash , Crawford Ross , Beagley Kenneth W. , Mao Xinzhan , Xiao Yin , Prasadam Indira
Published: January 2019

Non-resolved persistent macrophage-mediated synovial inflammation is considered as one of the main drivers of both the establishment and progression of obesity-associated osteoarthritis (OA). Herein, we used clodronate-loaded liposomes (CL) to locally deplete macrophages in the synovial joints to examine the role of macrophages in the progression of obesity-induced OA. Furthermore, resolvin D1 (RvD1), a unique family of pro-resolving lipid mediator derived from the omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid, have shown marked potency in changing the pro-inflammatory behaviour of the macrophages. We sought to determine whether RvD1 administration ameliorates obesity-induced OA by resolving macrophage-mediated synovitis. Therapeutic properties of RvD1 and macrophage depletion (CL) were tested for its ability to slow post-traumatic OA (PTOA) in obese mice models. PTOA was induced in C57Bl/6 mice fed with high-fat diet (HFD) by surgically destabilising the meniscus. Firstly, CL treatment showed beneficial effects in reducing synovitis and cartilage destruction in obese mice with PTOA. In vitro treatment with RvD1 decreased the levels of pro-inflammatory markers in CD14+ human macrophages. Furthermore, intra-articular treatment with RvD1 diminishes the progression of OA in the knee joint from mice as follows: (a) decreases macrophages infiltration in synovium, (b) reduces the number of pro-inflammatory macrophages in synovium and (c) improves the severity of synovitis and cartilage degradation. Thus, our results provide new evidence for the potential targeting of macrophages in the treatment of obesity-induced OA.
3D printing of twisting and rotational bistable structures with tuning elements
Authors: Jeong Hoon Yeub , An Soo-Chan , Seo In Cheol , Lee Eunseo , Ha Sangho , Kim Namhun , Jun Young Chul
Published: January 2019

Three-dimensional (3D) printing is ideal for the fabrication of various customized 3D components with fine details and material-design complexities. However, most components fabricated so far have been static structures with fixed shapes and functions. Here we introduce bistability to 3D printing to realize highly-controlled, reconfigurable structures. Particularly, we demonstrate 3D printing of twisting and rotational bistable structures. To this end, we have introduced special joints to construct twisting and rotational structures without post-assembly. Bistability produces a well-defined energy diagram, which is important for precise motion control and reconfigurable structures. Therefore, these bistable structures can be useful for simplified motion control in actuators or for mechanical switches. Moreover, we demonstrate tunable bistable components exploiting shape memory polymers. We can readjust the bistability-energy diagram (barrier height, slope, displacement, symmetry) after printing and achieve tunable bistability. This tunability can significantly increase the use of bistable structures in various 3D-printed components.
Phenyliminophenothiazine based self-organization of polyaniline nanowires and application as redox probe in electrochemical sensors
Authors: Khadieva Alena I. , Gorbachuk Vladimir V. , Evtugyn Gennady A. , Belyakova Svetlana V. , Latypov Ruslan R. , Drobyshev Sergey V. , Stoikov Ivan I.
Published: January 2019

Synthesis and application of nanostructured materials applicable in the assembly of electrochemical sensors is one of the important trends in material sciences and analytical chemistry. In this work, we have proposed and implemented simple non-template method for assembling nanofibers from the polyaniline ultrasonicated with phenyliminophenothiazine in aqueous media. Two-step procedure including association with emeraldine dispersion and reorganization under ultrasonication led to formation of nanofibrillar structures with average diameter of 20 nm. UV-spectroscopy confirms that association of phenyliminophenothiazine and polyaniline in acidic medium resulted in an intense absorption band at 900–910 nm due to donor-acceptor interaction between the reactants. The material combined emeraldine charge transmission with redox activity of phenyliminophenothiazine was found promising for electrochemical sensing. It was confirmed by comparison of characteristics of appropriate solid-contact sensors based on emeraldine and phenyliminophenothiazine toward Fe(III) ions, ascorbic acid and hydroquinone. In all the cases, the use of phenyliminophenothiazine results in a wider concentration range and more reproducible signal against characteristics of similar sensor based on polyaniline. The applicability of the sensor was confirmed by determination of iron content in commercial medication.
Generation of H7N9-specific human polyclonal antibodies from a transchromosomic goat (caprine) system
Authors: Wu Hua , Fan Zhiqiang , Brandsrud Michelle , Meng Qinggang , Bobbitt Molly , Regouski Misha , Stott Rusty , Sweat Alexis , Crabtree Jackelyn , Hogan Robert J. , Tripp Ralph A. , Wang Zhongde , Polejaeva Irina A. , Sullivan Eddie J.
Published: January 2019

To address the unmet needs for human polyclonal antibodies both as therapeutics and diagnostic reagents, building upon our previously established transchromosomic (Tc) cattle platform, we report herein the development of a Tc goat system expressing human polyclonal antibodies in their sera. In the Tc goat system, a human artificial chromosome (HAC) comprising the entire human immunoglobulin (Ig) gene repertoire in the germline configuration was introduced into the genetic makeup of the domestic goat. We achieved this by transferring the HAC into goat fetal fibroblast cells followed by somatic cell nuclear transfer for Tc goat production. Gene and protein expression analyses in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) and the sera, respectively, of Tc caprine demonstrated the successful expression of human Ig genes and antibodies. Furthermore, immunization of Tc caprine with inactivated influenza A (H7N9) viruses followed by H7N9 Hemagglutinin 1 (HA1) boosting elicited human antibodies with high neutralizing activities against H7N9 viruses in vitro. As a small ungulate, Tc caprine offers the advantages of low cost and quick establishment of herds, therefore complementing the Tc cattle platform in responses to a range of medical needs and diagnostic applications where small volumes of human antibody products are needed.