bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mice depleted for Exchange Proteins Directly Activated by cAMP (Epac) exhibit irregular liver regeneration in response to partial hepatectomy
Authors: Sivertsen Åsrud Kathrine , Pedersen Line , Aesoy Reidun , Muwonge Haruna , Aasebø Elise , Nitschke Pettersen Ina Katrine , Herfindal Lars , Dobie Ross , Jenkins Stephen , Berge Rolf Kristian , Henderson Neil Cowan , Selheim Frode , Døskeland Stein Ove , Bakke Marit
Published: September 2019

The exchange proteins directly activated by cAMP 1 and 2 (Epac1 and Epac2) are expressed in a cell specific manner in the liver, but their biological functions in this tissue are poorly understood. The current study was undertaken to begin to determine the potential roles of Epac1 and Epac2 in liver physiology and disease. Male C57BL/6J mice in which expression of Epac1 and/or Epac2 are deleted, were subjected to partial hepatectomy and the regenerating liver was analyzed with regard to lipid accumulation, cell replication and protein expression. In response to partial hepatectomy, deletion of Epac1 and/or Epac2 led to increased hepatocyte proliferation 36 h post surgery, and the transient steatosis observed in wild type mice was virtually absent in mice lacking both Epac1 and Epac2. The expression of the protein cytochrome P4504a14, which is implicated in hepatic steatosis and fibrosis, was substantially reduced upon deletion of Epac1/2, while a number of factors involved in lipid metabolism were significantly decreased. Moreover, the number of Küpffer cells was affected, and Epac2 expression was increased in the liver of wild type mice in response to partial hepatectomy, further supporting a role for these proteins in liver function. This study establishes hepatic phenotypic abnormalities in mice deleted for Epac1/2 for the first time, and introduces Epac1/2 as regulators of hepatocyte proliferation and lipid accumulation in the regenerative process.
Drivers of AR indifferent anti-androgen resistance in prostate cancer cells
Authors: Handle Florian , Prekovic Stefan , Helsen Christine , Van den Broeck Thomas , Smeets Elien , Moris Lisa , Eerlings Roy , Kharraz Sarah El , Urbanucci Alfonso , Mills Ian G. , Joniau Steven , Attard Gerhardt , Claessens Frank
Published: September 2019

Inhibition of the androgen receptor (AR) by second-generation anti-androgens is a standard treatment for metastatic castration resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC), but it inevitably leads to the development of resistance. Since the introduction of highly efficient AR signalling inhibitors, approximately 20% of mCRPC patients develop disease with AR independent resistance mechanisms. In this study, we generated two anti-androgen and castration resistant prostate cancer cell models that do not rely on AR activity for growth despite robust AR expression (AR indifferent). They are thus resistant against all modern AR signalling inhibitors. Both cell lines display cross-resistance against the chemotherapeutic drug docetaxel due to MCL1 upregulation but remain sensitive to the PARP inhibitor olaparib and the pan-BCL inhibitor obatoclax. RNA-seq analysis of the anti-androgen resistant cell lines identified hyper-activation of the E2F cell-cycle master regulator as driver of AR indifferent growth, which was caused by deregulation of cyclin D/E, E2F1, RB1, and increased Myc activity. Importantly, mCRPC tissue samples with low AR activity displayed the same alterations and increased E2F activity. In conclusion, we describe two cellular models that faithfully mimic the acquisition of a treatment induced AR independent phenotype that is cross-resistant against chemotherapy and driven by E2F hyper-activation.
Ambient temperature and mortality due to acute myocardial infarction in Brazil: an ecological study of time-series analyses
Authors: Ferreira Letícia de Castro Martins , Nogueira Mário Círio , Pereira Ricardo Vela de Britto , de Farias William Cossich Marcial , Rodrigues Moreno Magalhaes de Souza , Teixeira Maria Teresa Bustamante , Carvalho Marilia Sá
Published: September 2019

Ambient temperature may lead to decompensation of cardiovascular diseases and deaths by acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Little is known about this relationship in South American countries located in regions of a hot climate. This study aims to investigate the effects of ambient temperature on mortality due to AMI in six Brazilian micro-regions, which present different climates. We analyzed daily records of deaths by AMI between 1996 and 2013. We estimated the accumulate relative and attributable risks with lags of up to 14 days, using distributed non-linear lag model. Micro-regions that were closest to the equator did not show an association between temperature and mortality. The lowest risk temperatures varied between 22 °C and 28 °C, in the Southern region of Brazil and the Midwest region, respectively. Low temperatures associated with the highest mortality risk were observed in the same areas, varying between 5 °C and 15 °C. The number of deaths attributed to cold temperatures varied from 176/year in Brasilia to 661/year in São Paulo and those deaths attributed to hot temperatures in Rio de Janeiro amounted to 115/year. We showed the relative risk and the attributable risk of warmer and colder days in tropical regions. The estimate of the number of deaths due to climate, varying according to each area, is a way of bringing information to those responsible for health policies based on easily-understood measurements.
Contribution of cellulosic fibre filter on atmosphere moisture content in laser powder bed fusion additive manufacturing
Authors: Das A. , Muñiz-Lerma J. A. , Espiritu E. R. L. , Nommeots-Nomm A. , Waters K. , Brochu M.
Published: September 2019

Cellulosic materials are commonly used to manufacture the particulate filters used in laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) additive manufacturing (AM) equipment. An experimental approach has been used to calculate the moisture quantity and kinetics of sorption in a cellulosic filter at varying relative humidity (RH) levels. A prediction of the amount of moisture which can be theoretically held within a filter during storage before its use has been obtained. Subsequently, the quantity and the rate of moisture desorption which can be transferred into the build chamber during LPBF is presented. This work highlights the importance of filter storage and conditioning prior to use in additive manufacturing processing.
High-Throughput Automated Microscopy of Circulating Tumor Cells
Authors: Aguilar-Avelar Carlos , Soto-García Brenda , Aráiz-Hernández Diana , Yee-de León Juan F. , Esparza Miguel , Chacón Franco , Delgado-Balderas Jesús Rolando , Alvarez Mario M. , Trujillo-de Santiago Grissel , Gómez-Guerra Lauro S. , Velarde-Calvillo Liza P. , Abarca-Blanco Alejandro , Wong-Campos J. D.
Published: September 2019

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) have the potential of becoming the gold standard marker for cancer diagnosis, prognosis and monitoring. However, current methods for its isolation and characterization suffer from equipment variability and human operator error that hinder its widespread use. Here we report the design and construction of a fully automated high-throughput fluorescence microscope that enables the imaging and classification of cancer cells that were labeled by immunostaining procedures. An excellent agreement between our machine vision-based approach and a state-of-the-art microscopy equipment was achieved. Our integral approach provides a path for operator-free and robust analysis of cancer cells as a standard clinical practice.
Expression Profiling of Blood microRNAs 885, 361, and 17 in the Patients with the Parkinson’s disease: Integrating Interaction Data to Uncover the Possible Triggering Age-Related Mechanisms
Authors: Behbahanipour Molood , Peymani Maryam , Salari Mehri , Hashemi Motahare-Sadat , Nasr-Esfahani Mohammad Hossein , Ghaedi Kamran
Published: September 2019

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been reported to contribute to the pathophysiology of the Parkinson’s disease (PD), an age related-neurodegenerative disorder. The aim of present study was to compare the expression profiles of a new set of candidate miRNAs related to aging and cellular senescence in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) obtained from the PD patients with healthy controls and then in the early and advanced stages of the PD patients with their controls to clarify whether their expression was correlated with the disease severity. We have also proposed a consensus-based strategy to interpret the miRNAs expression data to gain a better insight into the molecular regulatory alterations during the incidence of PD. We evaluated the miRNA expression levels in the PBMCs obtained from 36 patients with PD and 16 healthy controls by the reverse transcription-quantitative real-time PCR and their performance to discriminate the PD patients from the healthy subjects assessed using the receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. Also, we applied our consensus and integration approach to construct a deregulated miRNA-based network in PD with the respective targets and transcription factors, and the enriched gene ontology and pathways using the enrichment analysis approach were obtained. There was a significant overexpression of miR-885 and miR-17 and the downregulation of miR-361 in the PD patients compared to the controls. The blood expression of miR-885 and miR-17 tended to increase along with the disease severity. On the other hand, the lower levels of miR-361 in the early stages of the PD patients, as compared to controls, and its higher levels in the advanced stages of PD patients, as compared to the early stages of the PD patients, were observed. Combination of all three miRNAs showed an appropriate value of AUC (0.985) to discriminate the PD patients from the healthy subjects. Also, the deregulated miRNAs were linked to the known PD pathways and the candidate related target genes were presented. We revealed 3 candidate biomarkers related to aging and cellular senescence for the first time in the patients with PD. Our in-silico analysis identified candidate target genes and TFs, including those related to neurodegeneration and PD. Overall, our findings provided novel insights into the probable age-regulatory mechanisms underlying PD and a rationale to further clarify the role of the identified miRNAs in the PD pathogenesis.
Polariton hyperspectral imaging of two-dimensional semiconductor crystals
Authors: Gebhardt Christian , Förg Michael , Yamaguchi Hisato , Bilgin Ismail , Mohite Aditya D. , Gies Christopher , Florian Matthias , Hartmann Malte , Hänsch Theodor W. , Högele Alexander , Hunger David
Published: September 2019

Atomically thin crystals of transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) host excitons with strong binding energies and sizable light-matter interactions. Coupled to optical cavities, monolayer TMDs routinely reach the regime of strong light-matter coupling, where excitons and photons admix coherently to form polaritons up to room temperature. Here, we explore the two-dimensional nature of TMD polaritons with scanning-cavity hyperspectral imaging. We record a spatial map of polariton properties of extended WS2 monolayers coupled to a tunable micro cavity in the strong coupling regime, and correlate it with maps of exciton extinction and fluorescence taken from the same flake with the cavity. We find a high level of homogeneity, and show that polariton splitting variations are correlated with intrinsic exciton properties such as oscillator strength and linewidth. Moreover, we observe a deviation from thermal equilibrium in the resonant polariton population, which we ascribe to non-Markovian polariton-phonon coupling. Our measurements reveal a promisingly consistent polariton landscape, and highlight the importance of phonons for future polaritonic devices.
The human long non-coding RNA gene RMRP has pleiotropic effects and regulates cell-cycle progression at G2
Authors: Vakkilainen Svetlana , Skoog Tiina , Einarsdottir Elisabet , Middleton Anna , Pekkinen Minna , Öhman Tiina , Katayama Shintaro , Krjutškov Kaarel , Kovanen Panu E. , Varjosalo Markku , Lindqvist Arne , Kere Juha , Mäkitie Outi
Published: September 2019

RMRPwas the first non-coding nuclear RNA gene implicated in a disease. Its mutations cause cartilage-hair hypoplasia (CHH), an autosomal recessive skeletal dysplasia with growth failure, immunodeficiency, and a high risk for malignancies. This study aimed to gain further insight into the role of RNA Component of Mitochondrial RNA Processing Endoribonuclease (RMRP) in cellular physiology and disease pathogenesis. We combined transcriptome analysis with single-cell analysis using fibroblasts from CHH patients and healthy controls. To directly assess cell cycle progression, we followed CHH fibroblasts by pulse-labeling and time-lapse microscopy. Transcriptome analysis identified 35 significantly upregulated and 130 downregulated genes in CHH fibroblasts. The downregulated genes were significantly connected to the cell cycle. Multiple other pathways, involving regulation of apoptosis, bone and cartilage formation, and lymphocyte function, were also affected, as well as PI3K-Akt signaling. Cell-cycle studies indicated that the CHH cells were delayed specifically in the passage from G2 phase to mitosis. Our findings expand the mechanistic understanding of CHH, indicate possible pathways for therapeutic intervention and add to the limited understanding of the functions ofRMRP.
Digital soil mapping including additional point sampling in Posses ecosystem services pilot watershed, southeastern Brazil
Authors: Silva Bárbara Pereira Christofaro , Silva Marx Leandro Naves , Avalos Fabio Arnaldo Pomar , de Menezes Michele Duarte , Curi Nilton
Published: September 2019

This study aimed to evaluate the performance of three spatial association models used in digital soil mapping and the effects of additional point sampling in a steep-slope watershed (1,200 ha). A soil survey was carried out and 74 soil profiles were analyzed. The tested models were: Multinomial logistic regression (MLR), C5 decision tree (C5-DT) and Random forest (RF). In order to reduce the effects of an imbalanced dataset on the accuracy of the tested models, additional sampling retrieved by photointerpretation was necessary. Accuracy assessment was based on aggregated data from a proportional 5-fold cross-validation procedure. Extrapolation assessment was based on the multivariate environmental similarity surface (MESS). The RF model including additional sampling (RF*) showed the best performance among the tested models (overall accuracy = 49%, kappa index = 0.33). The RF* allowed to link soil mapping units (SMU) and, in the case of less-common soil classes in the watershed, to set specific conditions of occurrence on the space of terrain-attributes. MESS analysis showed reliable outputs for 82.5% of the watershed. SMU distribution across the watershed was: Typic Rhodudult (56%), Typic Hapludult* (13%), Typic Dystrudept (10%), Typic Endoaquent + Fluventic Dystrudept (10%), Typic Hapludult (9.5%) and Rhodic Hapludox + Typic Hapludox (2%).
Data Driven Investigation of Bispectral Index Algorithm
Authors: Lee Hyung-Chul , Ryu Ho-Geol , Park Yoonsang , Yoon Soo Bin , Yang Seong Mi , Oh Hye-Won , Jung Chul-Woo
Published: September 2019

Bispectral index (BIS), a useful marker of anaesthetic depth, is calculated by a statistical multivariate model using nonlinear functions of electroencephalography-based subparameters. However, only a portion of the proprietary algorithm has been identified. We investigated the BIS algorithm using clinical big data and machine learning techniques. Retrospective data from 5,427 patients who underwent BIS monitoring during general anaesthesia were used, of which 80% and 20% were used as training datasets and test datasets, respectively. A histogram of data points was plotted to define five BIS ranges representing the depth of anaesthesia. Decision tree analysis was performed to determine the electroencephalography subparameters and their thresholds for classifying five BIS ranges. Random sample consensus regression analyses were performed using the subparameters to derive multiple linear regression models of BIS calculation in five BIS ranges. The performance of the decision tree and regression models was externally validated with positive predictive value and median absolute error, respectively. A four-level depth decision tree was built with four subparameters such as burst suppression ratio, power of electromyogram, 95% spectral edge frequency, and relative beta ratio. Positive predictive values were 100%, 80%, 80%, 85% and 89% in the order of increasing BIS in the five BIS ranges. The average of median absolute errors of regression models was 4.1 as BIS value. A data driven BIS calculation algorithm using multiple electroencephalography subparameters with different weights depending on BIS ranges has been proposed. The results may help the anaesthesiologists interpret the erroneous BIS values observed during clinical practice.
Diagnostic and Prognostic Value of Soluble Urokinase-type Plasminogen Activator Receptor (suPAR) in Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis and Impact of Detection Method
Authors: Winnicki Wolfgang , Sunder-Plassmann Gere , Sengölge Gürkan , Handisurya Ammon , Herkner Harald , Kornauth Christoph , Bielesz Bernhard , Wagner Ludwig , Kikić Željko , Pajenda Sahra , Reiter Thomas , Schairer Benjamin , Schmidt Alice
Published: September 2019

The plasma soluble urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR) is a biomarker for focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), but its value is under discussion because of ambiguous results arising from different ELISA methods in previous studies. The aim of this study was to compare diagnostic performance of two leading suPAR ELISA kits and examine four objectives in 146 subjects: (1) plasma suPAR levels according to glomerular disease (primary, secondary and recurrent FSGS after kidney transplantation, other glomerulonephritis) and in healthy controls; (2) suPAR levels based on glomerular filtration rate; (3) sensitivity and specificity of suPAR for FSGS diagnosis and determination of optimal cut-offs; (4) suPAR as prognostic tool. Patients with FSGS showed significant higher suPAR values than patients with other glomerulonephritis and healthy individuals. This applied to subjects with and without chronic kidney disease. Although both suPARnostic™ assay and Quantikine Human uPAR ELISA Kit exerted high sensitivity and specificity for FSGS diagnosis, their cut-off values of 4.644 ng/mL and 2.789 ng/mL were significantly different. Higher suPAR was furthermore predictive for progression to end-stage renal disease. In summary, suPAR values must be interpreted in the context of population and test methods used. Knowing test specific cut-offs makes suPAR a valuable biomarker for FSGS.
Halogen bonding in the structures of pentaiodobenzoic acid and its salts
Authors: Adonin Sergey A. , Bondarenko Mikhail A. , Novikov Alexander S. , Abramov Pavel A. , Sokolov Maxim N. , Fedin Vladimir P.
Published: September 2019

Structural characterization of pentaiodobenzoic acid (PIBA) and its salts was performed for the first time.
Controlling the size of a Zn-MOF through ligand exchange and pore-tailored ZnO assemblies for size-selective gas sensing
Authors: Zhang Rui , Song Wanqing , Wang Mingjing , Ji Huiming
Published: September 2019

The nucleation and final size of Zn-MOF were modulated by ligand exchange, and the annealed ZnO assemblies exhibited size-selective sensing.
Structural and electronic transport properties of a SiC chain encapsulated inside a SiC nanotube: first-principles study
Authors: Mu Yi , Cheng Cai , Hu Cui-E , Zhou Xiao-Lin
Published: September 2019

Silicon carbide (SiC) chains and silicon carbide nanotubes (SiCNTs) have potential applications in more controllable nanoelectronic devices. Here a new hybrid nanostructure with encapsulation of a SiC chain inside a SiCNT is designed and studied.
Visible-light-mediated photoredox decarbonylative Minisci-type alkylation with aldehydes under ambient air conditions
Authors: Wang Zhongzhen , Ji Xiaochen , Zhao Jinwu , Huang Huawen
Published: September 2019

Photocatalytic aerobic decarbonylative C–C coupling/alkylations of N-heteroarenes with aldehydes have been disclosed for the first time.
Transfer of transition-metal dichalcogenide circuits onto arbitrary substrates for flexible device applications
Authors: Lee Hyebin , Lee Kookjin , Kim Yanghee , Ji Hyunjin , Choi Junhee , Kim Minsik , Ahn Jae-Pyoung , Kim Gyu-Tae
Published: September 2019

Transition-metal dichalcogenide (TMD) materials with two-dimensional layered structures and stable surfaces are well suited for transparent and flexible device applications.
Isothermal titration calorimetry as a complementary method for investigating nanoparticle–protein interactions
Authors: Prozeller Domenik , Morsbach Svenja , Landfester Katharina
Published: September 2019

Isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) is a complementary technique that can be used for investigations of protein adsorption on nanomaterials, as it quantifies the thermodynamic parameters of intermolecular interactionsin situ.
Synthesis and chiroptical properties of stereogenic cyclic dimers based on 2,2′-biselenophene and [2.2]paracyclophane
Authors: Hasegawa Masashi , Kobayakawa Kosuke , Nojima Yuki , Mazaki Yasuhiro
Published: September 2019

2,2′-Biselenophenes embedded into a stereogenic cyclic structure exhibited remarkable chiroptical properties.
Development of an acetone sensor using nanostructured Co3O4 thin films for exhaled breath analysis
Authors: Srinivasan Parthasarathy , Kulandaisamy Arockia Jayalatha , Mani Ganesh Kumar , Babu K. Jayanth , Tsuchiya Kazuyoshi , Rayappan John Bosco Balaguru
Published: September 2019

We report the fabrication of a breath sensor using nanostructured Co3O4 thin films for the detection of acetone in exhaled breath, which is one of the prominent bio-markers of Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA).
Improved hydrogen production in the single-chamber microbial electrolysis cell with inhibition of methanogenesis under alkaline conditions
Authors: Cui Wanjun , Liu Guangli , Zeng Cuiping , Lu Yaobin , Luo Haiping , Zhang Renduo
Published: September 2019

Effective methanogenesis inhibition was achieved in a single-chamber MEC at pH 11.2 with the H2 percentage of 85–90% for 50 days.
High effectiveness of pure polydopamine in extraction of uranium and plutonium from groundwater and seawater
Authors: Bliznyuk Valery N. , Kołacińska Kamila , Pud Alexander A. , Ogurtsov Nikolay A. , Noskov Yuriy V. , Powell Brian A. , DeVol Timothy A.
Published: September 2019

We demonstrate that complexation of pure polydopamine with uranium and plutonium species allows efficient retention of these actinides from groundwater and seawater.
Novel one pot synthesis and spectroscopic characterization of a folate-Mn3O4 nanohybrid for potential photodynamic therapeutic application
Authors: Mondal Susmita , Adhikari Aniruddha , Das Monojit , Darbar Soumendra , Alharbi Ahmed , Ahmed Saleh A. , Bhattacharya Siddhartha Sankar , Pal Debasish , Pal Samir Kumar
Published: September 2019

Folate capped Mn3O4 nanoparticles can be used in PDT for specifically destroying folate receptor-overexpressing cancer cells through photo induced free radical damage.
Selectivity of tungsten mediated dinitrogen splitting vs. proton reduction
Authors: Schluschaß Bastian , Abbenseth Josh , Demeshko Serhiy , Finger Markus , Franke Alicja , Herwig Christian , Würtele Christian , Ivanovic-Burmazovic Ivana , Limberg Christian , Telser Joshua , Schneider Sven
Published: September 2019

An N2-bridged ditungsten complex is presented that undergoes N2-splitting or hydrogen evolution upon protonation depending on the acid and reaction conditions. Spectroscopic, kinetic and computational results emphasize the impact of hydrogen bonding on the reaction selectivity.
Photoresponsive aqueous foams with controllable stability from nonionic azobenzene surfactants in multiple-component systems
Authors: Chen Shaoyu , Fei Liang , Ge Fangqing , Wang Chaoxia
Published: September 2019

Photoresponsive foams can be generated from single-component solutions of a nonionic azobenzene surfactant, as well as from multiple-component industrial systems.
Enhanced in vitro efficacy for inhibiting hypertrophic scar by bleomycin-loaded dissolving hyaluronic acid microneedles
Authors: Xie Ying , Wang Hua , Mao Jinzhu , Li Yuce , Hussain Mubashir , Zhu Jinjin , Li Yan , Zhang Lianbin , Tao Juan , Zhu Jintao
Published: September 2019

Hypertrophic scarring is a widespread skin disorder that affects a patient's confidence and quality of life.
Dense gas formation and destruction in a simulated Perseus-like galaxy cluster with spin-driven black hole feedback
Authors: Beckmann R. S. , Dubois Y. , Guillard P. , Salome P. , Olivares V. , Polles F. , Cadiou C. , Combes F. , Hamer S. , Lehnert M. D. , Pineau des Forets G.
Published: September 2019

Context.Extended filamentary Hαemission nebulae are a striking feature of nearby galaxy clusters but the formation mechanism of the filaments, and the processes which shape their morphology remain unclear.

Aims.We conduct an investigation into the formation, evolution and destruction of dense gas in the centre of a simulated, Perseus-like, cluster under the influence of a spin-driven jet. The jet is powered by the supermassive black hole (SMBH) located in the cluster’s brightest cluster galaxy. We particularly study the role played by condensation of dense gas from the diffuse intracluster medium, and the impact of direct uplifting of existing dense gas by the jets, in determining the spatial distribution and kinematics of the dense gas.

Methods.We present a hydrodynamical simulation of an idealised Perseus-like cluster using the adaptive mesh refinement codeRAMSES. Our simulation includes a SMBH that self-consistently tracks its spin evolution via its local accretion, and in turn drives a large-scale jet whose direction is based on the black hole’s spin evolution. The simulation also includes a live dark matter (DM) halo, a SMBH free to move in the DM potential, star formation and stellar feedback.

Results.We show that the formation and destruction of dense gas is closely linked to the SMBH’s feedback cycle, and that its morphology is highly variable throughout the simulation. While extended filamentary structures readily condense from the hot intra-cluster medium, they are easily shattered into an overly clumpy distribution of gas during their interaction with the jet driven outflows. Condensation occurs predominantly onto infalling gas located 5−15 kpc from the centre during quiescent phases of the central AGN, when the local ratio of the cooling time to free fall time falls below 20, i.e. whentcool/tff <  20.

Conclusions.We find evidence for both condensation and uplifting of dense gas, but caution that purely hydrodynamical simulations struggle to effectively regulate the cluster cooling cycle and produce overly clumpy distributions of dense gas morphologies, compared to observation.
The influence of airflow on the effectiveness of rotary heat exchangers operating under high-speed rotor conditions
Authors: Kanaś Paulina , Jedlikowski Andrzej , Anisimov Sergey , Vager Borys
Published: September 2019

The paper presents an analysis of heat and mass transfer processes occurring inside the rotary heat exchanger operating under high-speed rotor conditions for different values of the airflow rate. For this purpose the original mathematical α-model was used. Conducted computer simulations allowed to determine the influence of Number of Transfer Units (NTU) of airflow on the temperature effectiveness as well as on the distribution of different active heat and mass transfer zones: “dry”, “wet” and “frost”. It was found that the increase of the values of NTU strictly affects the increase of the effectiveness of heat recovery. Another issue emerging from this study is the fact that in the certain range of low values of NTU there is no “dry” area created. It was established that at low values of NTU (NTU≈1) “frost” area extremum and sharp drop in the “frost” area accumulation are observed.
Numerical laminar forced convection modelling in a ceramic and concrete solar collector with non-circular duct
Authors: Teleszewski Tomasz Janusz
Published: September 2019

The paper presents simulations of laminar forced convection in non-circular piping of flat solar collectors made of ceramics or concrete, which are characterized by a low thermal conduction coefficient. The cross-sections of piping in the shape of a regular polygonal, elliptic, superellipse (Lamé curve) and Cassini oval were used for the calculations. In order to perform the simulation, a simplified two-dimensional model of laminar forced convection in a straight axis duct was used and the issue of H2 (constant axial wall heat flux with uniform peripheral wall heat flux) for materials with low thermal conductivity was applied. The calculations were made using the boundary element method (BEM) in a calculation program written by Fortran by the author. In the work, the number of Poiseuille, Nusselt and dimensionless parameters for the evaluation of heat exchangers such as the area goodness factor and the volume goodness factor were determined in the function of characteristic geometrical parameters of the assumed cross-sectional shapes of the flat solar collector piping.
Operational characteristics of an innovative device dedicated for the hydrodynamic disintegration of sewage sludge
Authors: Zubrowska-Sudol Monika , Garlicka Agnieszka , Walczak Justyna , Sytek-Szmeichel Katarzyna , Mikołajczak Aleksandra , Stępień Michał , Krawczyk Piotr , Umiejewska Katarzyna , Wołowicz Marcin
Published: September 2019

This paper presents the results of the first stage of the project, aimed at the assessment of the applicability of the new apparatus for disintegration of excess waste activated sludge. It was documented that the analysed device allows for disintegration of sewage sludge with an efficiency comparable to that obtained in other devices dedicated for mechanical disintegration of sewage sludge described in the literature. The disintegration process at energy density in a range of 35–210 kJ/l resulted in the release from activated sludge flocs of 219–515 mg SCOD/l for 35 kJ/l to 2138–4884 mg SCOD/l for 210 kJ/l.
Security design of selected soft targets
Authors: Zimek Ondřej
Published: September 2019

This article is focused on security design of selected Soft Targets. For this purpose, the kindergartens were chosen as Soft Targets. One of the reasons for this selection was the fact that some kindergartens were attacked recently. Considering that every kindergarten is unique, the design of security is solved by recommendations form. The recommendations were focused on the combination of three main security categories. Especially the Intruder Alarm System was described in detail.
Transfer Hydration of Dinitriles to Dicarboxamides
Authors: Naraoka Asuka , Naka Hiroshi
Published: September 2019

We present a robust method for double transfer hydration of dinitriles to afford diamides. The transfer hydration of 1,n-dinitriles (n = 1–6) proceeds smoothly in the presence of a palladium(II) catalyst with acetamide as a water donor, affording the corresponding diamides in moderate to high yields, without involving significant side reactions such as monohydration or cyclization. The equilibrium was shifted in the forward direction by removing coproduced acetonitrile under reduced pressure.
Diene Synthesis by the Reductive Transposition of 1,2-Allenols
Authors: Rinaolo Vincent J. , Robinson Emily E. , Diagne Abdallah B. , Schaus Scott E. , Thomson Regan J.
Published: September 2019

Monoalkyl diazene species are versatile intermediates that have enabled many useful synthetic transformations in complex chemical environments. Herein we report the reductive transposition of 1,2-allenols for the direct synthesis of dienes through an alkene walk process.
Acute Renal Infection in Adult, Part 1: An Overview of What the Radiologist Needs to Know
Authors: Hazarika Suman , Venkataramanan Rochita , Das Tonmoy , Deuri Sukanya , Lohchab Shalini , Rongpipi Tamsir , Agarwala Asish , Venkataramanan Akash
Published: September 2019

Acute renal infection or acute pyelonephritis (AP) denotes the process of inflammation of the renal parenchyma and its collecting system and the urothelium following infection. Uncomplicated AP commonly affects otherwise healthy, young women without structural or functional urinary tract abnormalities and without relevant comorbidities. More severe and complicated AP occurs in patients with a structurally or functionally abnormal genitourinary tract, or in persons with a predisposing medical condition like immune compromised state and diabetes. Complicated AP is characterized by a broader spectrum of clinical presentations, a wider variety of infecting organisms, and a greater risk of progression to a complication, such as intrarenal or perinephric abscess or emphysematous pyelonephritis and has the capacity to damage the organ and at times maybe life threatening. Role of imaging in renal infection is secondary, and in most situations, imaging is done to confirm the clinical diagnosis, map progression of disease in immune-compromised group of patients, or to evaluate for potential complications and therapeutic interventions. This article attempts to discuss the pathophysiology of AP from the standpoint of medical imaging and also brings out illustrative examples of various manifestations of AP and its complications. It provides imaging insight into various stages of inflammation, development of complication, and a roadmap for understanding AP through cross-sectional imaging.
Effectiveness and Safety of Isoxsuprine Hydrochloride as Tocolytic Agent in Arresting Active/Threatened Preterm Labor and Its Role in Maintenance Tocolysis: A Prospective, Open-Label Study
Authors: Jaju Purushottam B.
Published: September 2019

Objective The aim of the study is to obtain insights on the short and long-term safety and effectiveness of isoxsuprine hydrochloride as a tocolytic agent in the management of PTL.

Study Design In this prospective, single-center, noncomparative study, patients (with preterm labor at gestational age of 24–37 weeks) were administered intravenous (IV) infusion of 40-mg isoxsuprine hydrochloride until uterine quiescence, followed by intramuscular (IM) injection of isoxsuprine hydrochloride 10 mg/4-hourly for first 24 hours and maintained with retard 40-mg sustained release capsule (two times a day) till the time of delivery or 37 completed weeks of pregnancy.

Results All patients (n = 50) achieved successful tocolysis in 24 hours and 48 hours postadministration of isoxsuprine hydrochloride (IV/IM/oral). Mean (±SD) gestation age at the time of delivery was 39.8 ± 2.1 weeks, with latency period of 58.5 ± 18.7 days. Pregnancy outcomes were normal in all the patients and no congenital anomaly/fetal infection was reported. Mean (±SD) fetal birth weight was 2.7 ± 0.3 kg; mean (±SD) Apgar score at 1 and 5 minutes were 7.5 ± 0.6 and 9.2 ± 0.4, respectively. Maternal tachycardia and vomiting (8.0% each) were the commonly reported adverse drug reactions, which were resolved with dose adjustment.

Conclusion Isoxsuprine was found to be an effective and well-tolerated tocolytic agent in arresting PTL, in turn resulting in the overall improvement in maternal and perinatal outcomes.
Comparison of the quasi-steady-state heat transport in phase-change and classical Rayleigh-Bénard convection for a wide range of Stefan number and Rayleigh number
Authors: Satbhai Ojas , Roy Subhransu , Ghosh Sudipto , Chakraborty Suman , Lakkaraju Rajaram
Published: September 2019

We report the first comparative study of the phase-change Rayleigh–Bénard (RB) convection system and the classical RB convection system to systematically characterize the effect of the oscillating solid-liquid interface on the RB convection. Here, the role of Stefan number Ste (defined as the ratio between the sensible heat to the latent heat) and the Rayleigh number based on the averaged liquid height Raf is systematically explored with direct numerical simulations for low Prandtl number fluid (Pr = 0.0216) in a phase-change RB convection system during the stationary state. The control parameters Raf (3.96 × 104 ≤ Raf ≤ 9.26 × 107) and Ste (1.1 × 10−2 ≤ Ste ≤ 1.1 × 102) are varied over a wide range to understand its influence on the heat transport and flow features. Here, we report the comparison of large-scale motions and temperature fields, frequency power spectra for vertical velocity, and a scaling law for the time-averaged Nusselt number at the hot plate Nuh¯ vs Raf for both the RB systems. The intensity of solid-liquid interface oscillations and the standard deviation of Nuh increase with the increase in Ste and Raf. There are two distinct RB flow configurations at low Raf independent of Ste. At low and moderate Raf, the ratio of the Nusselt number for phase-change RB convection to the Nusselt number for classical RB convection Nuh¯/NuhRB¯ is always greater than one. However, at higher Raf, the RB convection is turbulent, and Nuh¯/NuhRB¯ can be less than or greater than one depending on the value of Ste. The results may turn out to be of immense consequence for understanding and altering the transport characteristics in the phase-change RB convection systems.
Theoretical correlation and effect of annealing on the photoresponse of vertically strain-coupled In0.5Ga0.5As/GaAs quantum dot heterostructures
Authors: Panda Debiprasad , Saha Jhuma , Das Debabrata , Singh Sandeep M. , Rawool Harshal , Chakrabarti Subhananda
Published: September 2019

Here, we propose a different approach for growing strain-coupled In0.5Ga0.5As quantum dot infrared photodetectors (QDIPs) with varying dot layer periodicity. Strain calculation is done throughout the quantum dot (QD) heterostructures, which has a significant effect on the carrier probability density functions. The localization of the electron probability density function in each heterostructure has a strong correlation with the photoresponse. The confined electron wavefunction in the top QD layer of the optimized device heterostructure (trilayer QDIP having dot layer periodicity of three) would be useful for hyperspectral imaging applications owing to its narrow (8.67 meV) photoresponse. Rapid thermal annealing treatment was carried out on the trilayer QDIP to investigate the enhancement in its optoelectronic properties. The dark current density reduced by two orders, and the operating temperature increased by 30 °C for the 650 °C-annealed counterpart. Also, the responsivity enhanced by two times (2.05 A/W at −1 V) for the annealed QDIP.
Depth-sensing using AFM contact-resonance imaging and spectroscopy at the nanoscale
Authors: Ma C. , Wang W. , Chen Y. , Arnold W. , Chu J.
Published: September 2019

Subsurface metrology techniques are of significant importance at the nanoscale, for instance, for imaging buried defects in semiconductor devices and in intracellular structures. Recently, ultrasonic-based atomic force microscopy has attracted intense attention also for subsurface imaging. Despite many applications for measuring the real and imaginary part of the local surface modulus, the physical mechanism for subsurface imaging is not fully understood. This prevents accurate data interpretation and quantitative reconstruction of subsurface features and hinders the development of an optimized experimental and engineering setup. In this paper, we present quantitative depth-sensing of subsurface cavity structures using contact-resonance atomic force microscopy (CR-AFM) imaging and spectroscopy. Our results indicate that for imaging subsurface cavity structures using CR-AFM, the induced contact stiffness variations are the key contrast mechanism. The developed algorithm based on this mechanism allows one to precisely simulate the experimental image contrasts and give an accurate prediction of the detection depth. The results allow a better understanding of the imaging mechanism of ultrasonic-based AFM and pave the way for quantitative subsurface reconstruction.
Space-charge-induced Seebeck effect in solid dielectrics
Authors: Chan Ho-Kei , He Dahai
Published: September 2019

We show theoretically that, in the presence of space charge, the Seebeck coefficient of a homogeneous plane-parallel capacitor could go beyond corresponding limits of the linear-response regime. In this study, we consider the coexistence of p-type and n-type carriers and interrelate the carrier concentrations via the mass-action law. If only Ohmic conductivity is considered or if the distribution of space charge is taken to be uniform, the Seebeck coefficient, which is the same as that given by Onsager’s reciprocal relations, takes on a magnitude between 0 and kB/q, where kB is the Boltzmann constant and q is the electronic charge. But in the nonlinear-response regime which corresponds to any space-charge-limited scenario with a nonuniform distribution of space charge, Onsager’s reciprocal relations break down and the magnitude of the Seebeck coefficient takes on a value between kB/q and 2kB/q, exceeding the limit of the linear-response regime.
RNA ligation precedes the retrotransposition of U6/LINE-1 chimeric RNA
Authors: Moldovan John B. , Wang Yifan , Shuman Stewart , Mills Ryan E. , Moran John V.
Published: September 2019

Significance

Long interspersed element-1s (L1s) encode 2 proteins (ORF1p and ORF2p) that preferentially mobilize (i.e., retrotranspose) their encoding messenger RNA (mRNA) transcript. ORF1p and/or ORF2p can also mobilize other cellular RNAs, including short interspersed elements (SINEs), U6 small nuclear RNA (snRNA), and mRNAs. Here, we demonstrate the RNA ligase RtcB can join U6 snRNA to L1 or other cellular RNAs to create chimeric RNAs; retrotransposition of the resultant chimeric RNAs leads to chimeric pseudogene formation; and chimeric U6/L1 RNAs are part of the transcriptome in multiple human cells. These data suggest RNA ligation contributes to the plasticity of the transcriptome and that the retrotransposition of chimeric RNAs can generate genetic variation in the human genome.
Propinquity drives the emergence of network structure and density
Authors: Gallos Lazaros K. , Havlin Shlomo , Stanley H. Eugene , Fefferman Nina H.
Published: September 2019

Significance

While many studies have focused on how new nodes make connections as they enter a network, we instead consider how choices of additional neighbors, after initial introduction, can shape patterns in emergent network structure. We find the footprints of this type of emergence in real-world networks and discuss how one could estimate the processes driving topology by examination of static snapshots of networks through the lens of link density. Our approach yields insight into network formation in applications ranging from social behavior to drug discovery.
Dronc-independent basal executioner caspase activity sustains
Drosophila
imaginal tissue growth
Authors: Shinoda Natsuki , Hanawa Nozomi , Chihara Takahiro , Koto Akiko , Miura Masayuki
Published: September 2019

Caspase is best known as an enzyme involved in programmed cell death, which is conserved among multicellular organisms. In addition to its role in cell death, caspase is emerging as an indispensable enzyme in a wide range of cellular functions, which have recently been termed caspase-dependent nonlethal cellular processes (CDPs). In this study, we examined the involvement of cell death signaling in tissue-size determination using
Drosophila
wing as a model. We found that the
Drosophila
executioner caspases Dcp-1 and Decay, but not Drice, promoted wing growth independently of apoptosis. Most of the reports on CDPs argue the importance of the spatiotemporal regulation of the initiator caspase, Dronc; however, this sublethal caspase function was independent of Dronc, suggesting a more diverse array of CDP regulatory mechanisms. Tagging of TurboID, an improved promiscuous biotin ligase that biotinylates neighboring proteins, to the C terminus of caspases revealed the differences among the neighbors of executioner caspases. Furthermore, we found that the cleavage of Acinus, a substrate of the executioner caspase, was important in promoting wing growth. These results demonstrate the importance of executioner caspase-mediated basal proteolytic cleavage of substrates in sustaining tissue growth. Given the existence of caspase-like DEVDase activity in a unicellular alga, our results likely highlight the original function of caspase—not cell death, but basal proteolytic cleavages for cell vigor.
Experimental evolution of immunological specificity
Authors: Ferro Kevin , Peuß Robert , Yang Wentao , Rosenstiel Philip , Schulenburg Hinrich , Kurtz Joachim
Published: September 2019

Memory and specificity are hallmarks of the adaptive immune system. Contrary to prior belief, innate immune systems can also provide forms of immune memory, such as immune priming in invertebrates and trained immunity in vertebrates. Immune priming can even be specific but differs remarkably in cellular and molecular functionality from the well-studied adaptive immune system of vertebrates. To date, it is unknown whether and how the level of specificity in immune priming can adapt during evolution in response to natural selection. We tested the evolution of priming specificity in an invertebrate model, the beetleTribolium castaneum. Using controlled evolution experiments, we selected beetles for either specific or unspecific immune priming toward the bacteriaPseudomonas fluorescens, Lactococcus lactis, and 4 strains of the entomopathogenBacillus thuringiensis. After 14 generations of host selection, specificity of priming was not universally higher in the lines selected for specificity, but rather depended on the bacterium used for priming and challenge. The insect pathogenB. thuringiensisinduced the strongest priming effect. Differences between the evolved populations were mirrored in the transcriptomic response, revealing involvement of immune, metabolic, and transcription-modifying genes. Finally, we demonstrate that the induction strength of a set of differentially expressed immune genes predicts the survival probability of the evolved lines upon infection. We conclude that high specificity of immune priming can evolve rapidly for certain bacteria, most likely due to changes in the regulation of immune genes.
Cell division rates decrease with age, providing a potential explanation for the age-dependent deceleration in cancer incidence
Authors: Tomasetti Cristian , Poling Justin , Roberts Nicholas J. , London Nyall R. , Pittman Meredith E. , Haffner Michael C. , Rizzo Anthony , Baras Alex , Karim Baktiar , Kim Antonio , Heaphy Christopher M. , Meeker Alan K. , Hruban Ralph H. , Iacobuzio-Donahue Christine A. , Vogelstein Bert
Published: September 2019

A new evaluation of previously published data suggested to us that the accumulation of mutations might slow, rather than increase, as individuals age. To explain this unexpected finding, we hypothesized that normal stem cell division rates might decrease as we age. To test this hypothesis, we evaluated cell division rates in the epithelium of human colonic, duodenal, esophageal, and posterior ethmoid sinonasal tissues. In all 4 tissues, there was a significant decrease in cell division rates with age. In contrast, cell division rates did not decrease in the colon of aged mice, and only small decreases were observed in their small intestine or esophagus. These results have important implications for understanding the relationship between normal stem cells, aging, and cancer. Moreover, they provide a plausible explanation for the enigmatic age-dependent deceleration in cancer incidence in very old humans but not in mice.