bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tissue-regenerative potential of the secretome of γ-irradiated peripheral blood mononuclear cells is mediated via TNFRSF1B-induced necroptosis
Authors: Simader Elisabeth , Beer Lucian , Laggner Maria , Vorstandlechner Vera , Gugerell Alfred , Erb Michael , Kalinina Polina , Copic Dragan , Moser Doris , Spittler Andreas , Tschachler Erwin , Jan Ankersmit Hendrik , Mildner Michael
Published: September 2019

Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) have been shown to produce and release a plethora of pro-angiogenetic factors in response to γ-irradiation, partially accounting for their tissue-regenerative capacity. Here, we investigated whether a certain cell subtype of PBMCs is responsible for this effect, and whether the type of cell death affects the pro-angiogenic potential of bioactive molecules released by γ-irradiated PBMCs. PBMCs and PBMC subpopulations, including CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, B cells, monocytes, and natural killer cells, were isolated and subjected to high-dose γ-irradiation. Transcriptome analysis revealed subpopulation-specific responses to γ-irradiation with distinct activation of pro-angiogenic pathways, cytokine production, and death receptor signalling. Analysis of the proteins released showed that interactions of the subsets are important for the generation of a pro-angiogenic secretome. This result was confirmed at the functional level by the finding that the secretome of γ-irradiated PBMCs displayed higher pro-angiogenic activity in an aortic ring assay. Scanning electron microscopy and image stream analysis of γ-irradiated PBMCs revealed distinct morphological changes, indicative for apoptotic and necroptotic cell death. While inhibition of apoptosis had no effect on the pro-angiogenic activity of the secretome, inhibiting necroptosis in stressed PBMCs abolished blood vessel sprouting. Mechanistically, we identified tumor necrosis factor (TNF) receptor superfamily member 1B as the main driver of necroptosis in response to γ-irradiation in PBMCs, which was most likely mediated via membrane-bound TNF-α. In conclusion, our study demonstrates that the pro-angiogenic activity of the secretome of γ-irradiated PBMCs requires interplay of different PBMC subpopulations. Furthermore, we show that TNF-dependent necroptosis is an indispensable molecular process for conferring tissue-regenerative activity and for the pro-angiogenic potential of the PBMC secretome. These findings contribute to a better understanding of secretome-based therapies in regenerative medicine.
Essential role of glucokinase in the protection of pancreatic β cells to the glucose energetic status
Authors: Marqués Patricia , Kamitz Anne , Bartolomé Alberto , Burillo Jesús , Martínez Helena , Jiménez Beatriz , Fernández-Rhodes María , Guillén Carlos , Benito Manuel
Published: September 2019

Energy sensing is indispensable to balance anabolic and catabolic processes for the maintenance of cell viability. Pancreatic β cells are especially relevant because of their involvement in the coordination of insulin secretion when glucose concentration arises in the local milieu. In this work, we uncover the increased susceptibility of pancreatic β cells to cell death in response to different energy stressors. Upon glucose decline, from 25 to 5 mM, caused by stimulation with either 2-deoxyglucose or metformin, only pancreatic β cells showed an increase in cell death. Very interestingly, when we transfected either mouse insulinoma cell or human embryo kidney cells with a phospho-mutant form of B cell lymphoma 2 associated agonist of cell death at serine 155 (BAD S155D), an increase in the pro-survival factor B cell lymphoma 2 was detected in pancreatic β cells and not in human embryonic kidney cells in the presence of the energetic stressors. This data suggests that the protective capacity of this mutant form is only present in cells that present glucokinase. In contrast, upon hyperactivation of mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 signaling by knocking-down tuberous sclerosis complex protein, we observed increased susceptibility to cell death in response to energy stress in both pancreatic and non-pancreatic β cells. Therefore, mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 signaling presents a dual effect on cell viability. On the one hand, a chronic inhibition of mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 activity in response to the energy status is deleterious for pancreatic β cells, being attenuated by the overexpression of B cell lymphoma 2 associated agonist of cell death S155D. On the other hand, mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 hyperactivity provokes a susceptibility to energetic stress-induced cell death. Taken together, these results may open potential implications for the use of glucokinase activators or mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 modulators for the maintenance of pancreatic β cells for longer periods of time avoiding its loss in different pathologies such as type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Neurogenomic insights into paternal care and its relation to territorial aggression
Authors: Bukhari Syed Abbas , Saul Michael C. , James Noelle , Bensky Miles K. , Stein Laura R. , Trapp Rebecca , Bell Alison M.
Published: September 2019

Motherhood is characterized by dramatic changes in brain and behavior, but less is known about fatherhood. Here we report that male sticklebacks—a small fish in which fathers provide care—experience dramatic changes in neurogenomic state as they become fathers. Some genes are unique to different stages of paternal care, some genes are shared across stages, and some genes are added to the previously acquired neurogenomic state. Comparative genomic analysis suggests that some of these neurogenomic dynamics resemble changes associated with pregnancy and reproduction in mammalian mothers. Moreover, gene regulatory analysis identifies transcription factors that are regulated in opposite directions in response to a territorial challenge versus during paternal care. Altogether these results show that some of the molecular mechanisms of parental care might be deeply conserved and might not be sex-specific, and suggest that tradeoffs between opposing social behaviors are managed at the gene regulatory level.
Transport mechanisms during the high-temperature oxidation of ternary γ/γ′ Co-base model alloys
Authors: Weiser Martin , Chater Richard J. , Shollock Barbara A. , Virtanen Sannakaisa
Published: September 2019

Over a decade ago, γ′-strengthened Co-base alloys were introduced as potential replacement for conventional Ni-base Superalloys. Insufficient resistance against high-temperature oxidation restricts the number of possible applications. The present study contributes to the understanding of elementary mechanisms such as material transport during extensive oxide scale formation on γ/γ′ Co-base alloys to explain their inferior oxidation behaviour. A clear dependency of the scale growth kinetics on W content and oxidation temperature is demonstrated by thermogravimetry and subsequent analysis of cross-sections. By means of electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD), the evolution of microstructures in the outer oxide layers were examined depending on the oxidation temperature. Sequential exposure of samples in 16O2- and 18O2-containing atmospheres proved counter-current material transport. The combination of focused ion beam (FIB) and secondary ion mass spectroscopy (SIMS) visualised the formation of new oxide phases mainly on the outer and inner interface of the oxide scale. An elaborate review of available transport paths for oxygen is given during the discussion of results. All experimental findings were combined to a coherent explanation of the inferior oxidation resistance of this relatively new class of high-temperature materials at temperatures above 800 °C.
Monitoring Parkinson’s disease symptoms during daily life: a feasibility study
Authors: Heijmans Margot , Habets Jeroen G. V. , Herff Christian , Aarts Jos , Stevens An , Kuijf Mark L. , Kubben Pieter L.
Published: September 2019

Parkinson’s disease symptoms are most often charted using the MDS-UPDRS. Limitations of this approach include the subjective character of the assessments and a discrepant performance in the clinic compared to the home situation. Continuous monitoring using wearable devices is believed to eventually replace this golden standard, but measurements often lack a parallel ground truth or are only tested in lab settings. To overcome these limitations, this study explores the feasibility of a newly developed Parkinson’s disease monitoring system, which aims to measure Parkinson’s disease symptoms during daily life by combining wearable sensors with an experience sampling method application. Twenty patients with idiopathic Parkinson’s disease participated in this study. During a period of two consecutive weeks, participants had to wear three wearable sensors and had to complete questionnaires at seven semi-random moments per day on their mobile phone. Wearable sensors collected objective movement data, and the questionnaires containing questions about amongst others Parkinson’s disease symptoms served as parallel ground truth. Results showed that participants wore the wearable sensors during 94% of the instructed timeframe and even beyond. Furthermore, questionnaire completion rates were high (79,1%) and participants evaluated the monitoring system positively. A preliminary analysis showed that sensor data could reliably predict subjectively reported OFF moments. These results show that our Parkinson’s disease monitoring system is a feasible method to use in a diverse Parkinson’s disease population for at least a period of two weeks. For longer use, the monitoring system may be too intense and wearing comfort needs to be optimized.
The sequence and de novo assembly of Takifugu bimaculatus genome using PacBio and Hi-C technologies
Authors: Zhou Zhixiong , Liu Bo , Chen Baohua , Shi Yue , Pu Fei , Bai Huaqiang , Li Leibin , Xu Peng
Published: September 2019

Takifugu bimaculatus is a native teleost species of the southeast coast of China where it has been cultivated as an important edible fish in the last decade. Genetic breeding programs, which have been recently initiated for improving the aquaculture performance of T. bimaculatus, urgently require a high-quality reference genome to facilitate genome selection and related genetic studies. To address this need, we produced a chromosome-level reference genome of T. bimaculatus using the PacBio single molecule sequencing technique (SMRT) and High-through chromosome conformation capture (Hi-C) technologies. The genome was assembled into 2,193 contigs with a total length of 404.21 Mb and a contig N50 length of 1.31 Mb. After chromosome-level scaffolding, 22 chromosomes with a total length of 371.68 Mb were constructed. Moreover, a total of 21,117 protein-coding genes and 3,471 ncRNAs were annotated in the reference genome. The highly accurate, chromosome-level reference genome of T. bimaculatus provides an essential genome resource for not only the genome-scale selective breeding of T. bimaculatus but also the exploration of the evolutionary basis of the speciation and local adaptation of the Takifugu genus.
Targeted genomic CRISPR-Cas9 screen identifies MAP4K4 as essential for glioblastoma invasion
Authors: Prolo Laura M. , Li Amy , Owen Scott F. , Parker Jonathon J. , Foshay Kara , Nitta Ryan T. , Morgens David W. , Bolin Sara , Wilson Christy M. , Vega L Johana C. M. , Luo Emily J. , Nwagbo Gigi , Waziri Allen , Li Gordon , Reimer Richard J. , Bassik Michael C. , Grant Gerald A.
Published: September 2019

Among high-grade brain tumors, glioblastoma is particularly difficult to treat, in part due to its highly infiltrative nature which contributes to the malignant phenotype and high mortality in patients. In order to better understand the signaling pathways underlying glioblastoma invasion, we performed the first large-scale CRISPR-Cas9 loss of function screen specifically designed to identify genes that facilitate cell invasion. We tested 4,574 genes predicted to be involved in trafficking and motility. Using a transwell invasion assay, we discovered 33 genes essential for invasion. Of the 11 genes we selected for secondary testing using a wound healing assay, 6 demonstrated a significant decrease in migration. The strongest regulator of invasion was mitogen-activated protein kinase 4 (MAP4K4). Targeting of MAP4K4 with single guide RNAs or a MAP4K4 inhibitor reduced migration and invasion in vitro. This effect was consistent across three additional patient derived glioblastoma cell lines. Analysis of epithelial-mesenchymal transition markers in U138 cells with lack or inhibition of MAP4K4 demonstrated protein expression consistent with a non-invasive state. Importantly, MAP4K4 inhibition limited migration in a subset of human glioma organotypic slice cultures. Our results identify MAP4K4 as a novel potential therapeutic target to limit glioblastoma invasion.
Apatinib Mesylate in the treatment of advanced progressed lung adenocarcinoma patients with EGFR-TKI resistance —A Multicenter Randomized Trial
Authors: Fang Ping , Zhang Liqin , Zhang Xianru , Yu Jiawen , Sun Jun , Jiang Qi-an , Zha Mingbao , Nesterova Anastasia P. , Cao Hongbao
Published: September 2019

Few pieces of evidence have been published on the use of Apatinib Mesylate (AM) against EGFR-TKI resistance in lung adenocarcinoma (LA) patients. Here, we investigate the clinical efficacy and safety of AM in the treatment of advanced progressed epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR-TKI) resistant LA patients. We conducted a double-blind, randomized controlled trial in 68 patients admitted to 18 hospitals of Anhui province in China. The efficacy and safety of AM treatment were evaluated in terms of progression-free survival (PFS), objective response rate (ORR), and disease control rate (DCR), as well as related adverse events (AE). A literature knowledge database analysis and a pathway model reconstruction were performed to decipher the relevant mechanism may be involved. Our results showed that, compared to the control group, AM presented improved efficacy in PFS (P = 0.033), ORR (P < 0.001), and DCR (P < 0.001). No significant difference was observed between case and control group in terms of AE, and no drug-related death occurred. Pathway analysis supports that Apatinib can be repurposed for the treatment of LA. Our results suggested that AM could be a potential option for advanced progressed LA patients to combat EGFR-TKI resistance.
Eugenol Reduces LDL Cholesterol and Hepatic Steatosis in Hypercholesterolemic Rats by Modulating TRPV1 Receptor
Authors: Harb Amani A. , Bustanji Yasser K. , Almasri Ihab M. , Abdalla Shtaywy S.
Published: September 2019

Eugenol, a component of essential oils of medicinal and food plants, has a hypolipidemic effect in experimental animals although its mechanism of action is still unclear. This study aims to explore the mechanism of the hypolipidemic effect of eugenol in rats fed a high cholesterol and fat diet (HCFD). Eugenol significantly reduced total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoproteins (LDL), atherogenic index (AI) but not high-density lipoproteins (HDL) or triglycerides (TG). Eugenol also decreased steatosis and hepatic inflammation in liver sections, decreased hepatomegaly, and the hepatic marker enzymes alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and increased the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activity in hypercholesterolemic rats. Eugenol did not inhibit hepatic 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl-CoA (HMG-CoA) reductase but caused down-regulation of transient receptor potential vanilloid (TRPV1) channels in the liver. Docking simulation using fast, rigid exhaustive docking (FRED) software indicated a tail-up/head-down interaction of eugenol with TRPV1 channel. Data indicate that eugenol does not inhibit HMG-CoA reductase but rather induces its action by interaction with TRPV1 channels.
Environmental versus operational drivers of drifting FAD beaching in the Western and Central Pacific Ocean
Authors: Escalle Lauriane , Scutt Phillips Joe , Brownjohn Maurice , Brouwer Stephen , Sen Gupta Alex , Van Sebille Erik , Hampton John , Pilling Graham
Published: September 2019

In an effort to increase purse seine fishing efficiency for tropical tunas, over 30,000 drifting Fish Aggregating Devices (dFADs) are deployed every year by fishers in the Western and Central Pacific Ocean (WCPO). The use of dFADs also impacts ecosystems, in particular through marine pollution and dFAD beaching. This paper presents the first estimate of dFAD beaching events in the WCPO (>1300 in 2016–2017) and their distribution. Lagrangian simulations of virtual dFADs, released subject to contrasting deployment distributions, help us determine the relative importance of operational versus environmental drivers of dFADs drifting to beaching areas. The highest levels of beaching, occurring on Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands, are likely a result of the prevailing westward oceanic circulation and subsequent local processes driving dFADs towards land. Similarly, high beaching rates in Tuvalu appear to be due to the general circulation of the WCPO. In contrast, beaching in Kiribati Gilbert Islands appear to be more strongly related to dFAD deployment strategy. These findings indicate that reducing beaching events via changes in deployment locations may be difficult. As such, management approaches combining dFAD deployment limits, the use of biodegradable dFADs, recoveries at-sea close to sensitive areas and/or beached dFAD removal should be considered.
Stem cells from the dental apical papilla in extracellular matrix hydrogels mitigate inflammation of microglial cells
Authors: Tatic Natalija , Rose Felicity R. A. J. , des Rieux Anne , White Lisa J.
Published: September 2019

After spinal cord injury (SCI) chronic inflammation hampers regeneration. Influencing the local microenvironment after SCI may provide a strategy to modulate inflammation and the immune response. The objectives of this work were to determine whether bone or spinal cord derived ECM hydrogels can deliver human mesenchymal stem cells from the apical papilla (SCAP) to reduce local inflammation and provide a regenerative microenvironment. Bone hydrogels (8 and 10 mg/ml, B8 and B10) and spinal cord hydrogels (8 mg/ml, S8) supplemented with fibrin possessed a gelation rate and a storage modulus compatible with spinal cord implantation. S8 and B8 impact on the expression of anti and pro-inflammatory cytokines (Arg1, Nos2, Tnf) in LPS treated microglial cells were assessed using solubilised and solid hydrogel forms. S8 significantly reduced the Nos2/Arg1 ratio and solubilised B8 significantly reduced Tnf and increased Arg1 whereas solid S8 and B8 did not impact inflammation in microglial cells. SCAP incorporation within ECM hydrogels did not impact upon SCAP immunoregulatory properties, with significant downregulation of Nos2/Arg1 ratio observed for all SCAP embedded hydrogels. Tnf expression was reduced with SCAP embedded in B8, reflecting the gene expression observed with the innate hydrogel. Thus, ECM hydrogels are suitable vehicles to deliver SCAP due to their physical properties, preservation of SCAP viability and immunomodulatory capacity.
Precision Vascular Delivery of Agrochemicals with Micromilled Microneedles (µMMNs)
Authors: Kundu Avra , Nogueira Campos Maria Gabriela , Santra Swadeshmukul , Rajaraman Swaminathan
Published: September 2019

We demonstrate use of makerspace techniques involving subtractive microtechnologies to fabricate micromilled microneedles (µMMNs) of stainless steel (SS) for precise delivery of agrochemicals into vascular bundles of plant tissue. Precision delivery is of immense importance for systemic pathogen control in specific areas of plant tissue. Optimization of the micromilling allows for selective removal of SS at the microscale and the microfabrication of a 5 × 5 array of µMMNs having both base width and height of 500 µm to enable precise puncture into the stem of citrus saplings. Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy reveals up to 7.5× increase in the uptake of a therapeutic cargo while Scanning Electron Microscopy reveals that specific sites of the vascular bundle; either xylem or the phloem can be uniquely targeted with customized µMMNs. Such rapid and cost-effective customization with intricate designs along with scalability is enabled by makerspace microfabrication. Additionally, a 19 × 20 array of micromilled mesoneedles has been fabricated and affixed to a paint roller as an applicator system for real-world field testing outside the laboratory. Initial results indicate reliable behavior of the applicator system and the technique can be applied to the systemic delivery of agrochemicals while conserving the loss of the agrochemical with increased application efficiency.
An Effective Way for Simulating Oceanic Turbulence Channel on the Beam Carrying Orbital Angular Momentum
Authors: Pan Sunxiang , Wang Le , Wang Wennai , Zhao Shengmei
Published: September 2019

In this paper, we present an effective way for simulating oceanic turbulence channel on the beam carrying orbital angular momentum (OAM). The influence caused by oceanic turbulence channel on the phase and intensity of the propagation beam is equivalent to that the beam passing through several individual phase screens generated by power spectrum inversion method at regular intervals. A modified subharmonic compensation method is then further balance the phase screen for the losses of lower frequency components in the power spectrum inversion method. The feasibility is verified by the theoretical phase structure function and the propagation characteristics of an OAM beam in underwater environment. The results show that the phase structure function and the propagation characteristics of the OAM beam evaluated by the phase screen model all coincide with those theoretical results at high spatial frequency. Simultaneously, the low frequency components could be effectively compensated by the modified subharmonic method. With the increase of the subharmonic order and sample level, the performance evaluated by the phase screen model are closer to the theoretical ones. It has provided an effective way for simulating oceanic turbulence channel for the underwater optical communications.
A variant of the castor zinc finger 1 (CASZ1) gene is differentially associated with the clinical classification of chronic venous disease
Authors: Jones Gregory T. , Marsman Judith , Pardo Luba M. , Nijsten Tamar , De Maeseneer Marianne , Phillips Vicky , Lynch-Sutherland Chi , Horsfield Julia , Krysa Jolanda , van Rij Andre M.
Published: September 2019

Recent reports have suggested a reproducible association between the rs11121615 SNP, located within an intron of the castor zinc finger 1 (CASZ1) gene, and varicose veins. This study aimed to determine if this variant is also differentially associated with the various clinical classifications of chronic venous disease (CVD). The rs11121615 SNP was genotyped in two independent cohorts from New Zealand (n = 1876 controls /1606 CVD cases) and the Netherlands (n = 1626/2966). Participants were clinically assessed using well-established CVD criteria. The association between the rs11121615 C-allele and varicose veins was validated in both cohorts. This was strongest in those with higher clinical severity classes and was not significant in those with non-varicose vein CVD. Functional analysis of the rs11121615 variant demonstrated that the risk allele was associated with increased enhancer activity. This study demonstrates that the CASZ1 gene associated C-allele of rs11121615 has a significant, reproducible, association with CVD (CEAP C ≥ 2 meta-odds ratio 1.31, 95% CI 1.27–1.34, P = 1 × 10−98, PHet = 0.25), but not with non-varicose vein (CEAP C1, telangiectasia or reticular veins) forms of venous disease. The effect size of this association therefore appears to be susceptible to influence by phenotypic heterogeneity, particularly if a cohort includes a large number of cases with lower severity CVD.
Identification of an adhesive interface for the non-clustered δ1 protocadherin-1 involved in respiratory diseases
Authors: Modak Debadrita , Sotomayor Marcos
Published: September 2019

Cadherins form a large family of calcium-dependent adhesive proteins involved in morphogenesis, cell differentiation, and neuronal connectivity. Non-clustered δ1 protocadherins form a cadherin subgroup of proteins with seven extracellular cadherin (EC) repeats and cytoplasmic domains distinct from those of classical cadherins. Non-clustered δ1 protocadherins mediate homophilic adhesion and have been implicated in various diseases including asthma, autism, and cancer. Here we present X-ray crystal structures of human Protocadherin-1 (PCDH1), a δ1-protocadherin member essential for New World Hantavirus infection that is typically expressed in the brain, airway epithelium, skin keratinocytes, and lungs. The structures suggest a binding mode that involves antiparallel overlap of repeats EC1 to EC4. Mutagenesis combined with binding assays and biochemical experiments validated this mode of adhesion. Overall, these results reveal the molecular mechanism underlying adhesiveness of PCDH1 and δ1-protocadherins, also shedding light on PCDH1’s role in maintaining airway epithelial integrity, the loss of which causes respiratory diseases.
Differential cell-type dependent brain state modulations of sensory representations in the non-lemniscal mouse inferior colliculus
Authors: Chen Chenggang , Song Sen
Published: September 2019

Sensory responses of the neocortex are strongly influenced by brain state changes. However, it remains unclear whether and how the sensory responses of the midbrain are affected. Here we addressed this issue by using in vivo two-photon calcium imaging to monitor the spontaneous and sound-evoked activities in the mouse inferior colliculus (IC). We developed a method enabling us to image the first layer of non-lemniscal IC (IC shell L1) in awake behaving mice. Compared with the awake state, spectral tuning selectivity of excitatory neurons was decreased during isoflurane anesthesia. Calcium imaging in behaving animals revealed that activities of inhibitory neurons were highly correlated with locomotion. Compared with stationary periods, spectral tuning selectivity of excitatory neurons was increased during locomotion. Taken together, our studies reveal that neuronal activities in the IC shell L1 are brain state dependent, whereas the brain state modulates the excitatory and inhibitory neurons differentially.
Photoacoustics of core–shell nanospheres using comprehensive modeling and analytical solution approach
Authors: Shahbazi Khosro , Frey Wolfgang , Chen Yun-Sheng , Aglyamov Salavat , Emelianov Stanislav
Published: September 2019

Photoacoustic visualization of nanoparticles is capable of high contrast imaging at depth greater than that of traditional optical imaging techniques. Identifying the impact of various parameters on the photoacoustic signal is crucial in the design of effective medical imaging and diagnostics. Here, we develop a complete model of Fourier heat conduction incorporating the interfacial thermal resistance and photoacoustic equation for core-shell nanospheres in a fluid under nanosecond pulsed laser illumination. An analytical solution is obtained, elucidating the contribution of each region (core, shell, or the fluid) in the generation of the photoacoustic signal. The model reveals that the sharper the laser pulse temporal waveform is, the higher the sensitivity of the generated photoacoustic signal will be to the interfacial thermal resistance, and, thus, the higher the possibility of photoacoustic signal amplification will be using silica-coating. The comprehensive model and adopted analytical solution reveal the underlying physics of the photoacoustic signal generation  form core-shell nanosphere systems.
Anti-biofilm surfaces from mixed dopamine-modified polymer brushes: synergistic role of cationic and zwitterionic chains to resist staphyloccocus aureus
Authors: He Yuanyuan , Wan Xinyuan , Xiao Kecen , Lin Weiwei , Li Jiehua , Li Zhen , Luo Feng , Tan Hong , Li Jianshu , Fu Qiang
Published: September 2019

The dominant amount of antifouling D-PSBMA with a minor amount of bactericidal D-PQAs facilitate the synergistic anti-biofilm effect.
Preparation of a novel double-skinned forward osmosis membrane by reserve draw solute in support layer
Authors: Yang Yi , Sun Menghan , Wang Yibo , Fan Xinfei , Li Shanshan , Song Chengwen , Tao Ping , Sun Tianjun , Shao Mihua
Published: September 2019

In this work, the draw solute was reserved in the support layer to regulate the performance of the double-skinned forward osmosis membrane.
Biochanin A protects against PM2.5-induced acute pulmonary cell injury by interacting with the target protein MEK5
Authors: Xue Zhaohui , Wang Junyu , Yu Wancong , Li Dan , Zhang Yixia , Wan Fang , Kou Xiaohong
Published: September 2019

Biochanin A may exert protection against PM2.5-induced acute pulmonary cell injury by targeting MEK5 to inhibit activation of the MEK5/ERK5/NF-κB signaling pathway.
A long-lifespan, flexible zinc-ion secondary battery using a paper-like cathode from single-atomic layer MnO2 nanosheets
Authors: Wang Yanan , Wu Zeyi , Jiang Le , Tian Wenchao , Zhang Chenchen , Cai Cailing , Hu Linfeng
Published: September 2019

Aqueous zinc ion secondary batteries (ZIBs) have recently attracted considerable attention and global interest due to their low cost, aqueous-based nature and great safety.
Interaction of a bioactive molecule with surfaces of nanoscale transition metal oxides: experimental and theoretical studies
Authors: Bandyopadhyay Prasanta , Jana Rajkumar , Bhattacharyya Kalishankar , Lebedev Oleg I. , Dutta Uma , Sarkar Utpal , Datta Ayan , Seikh Md Motin
Published: September 2019

Schematic diagram of metal oxide–BTT interaction and the associated changes in experimental UV-Vis spectra. BTT adsorbed α-Fe2O3is represented by red spectra, while green spectra represent BTT adsorbed NiO. Black spectra represent pure BTT spectra.
Twisted non-diffracting beams through all dielectric meta-axicons
Authors: Mahmood Nasir , Jeong Heonyeong , Kim Inki , Mehmood Muhammad Qasim , Zubair Muhammad , Akbar Ali , Saleem Murtaza , Anwar Muhammad Sabieh , Tahir Farooq Ahmad , Rho Junsuk
Published: September 2019

Polarization insensitive metasurface axicons of hydrogenated amorphous silicon are proposed generating highly concentrated Bessel beams with desired orders. The metasurfaces are designed by index waveguiding and experimentally verified.
Ultrahigh electron mobility induced by strain engineering in direct semiconductor monolayer Bi2TeSe2
Authors: Lu Zixuan , Wu Yu , Xu Yuanfeng , Ma Congcong , Chen Ying , Xu Ke , Zhang Hao , Zhu Heyuan , Fang Zhilai
Published: September 2019

The monolayer Bi2TeSe2 possesses the highest electron mobility among Bi2Se3/Bi2Te3-based compounds, which can be optimized to 20 678 cm2 V−1 s−1 by strain-engineering.
Tiny Ni particles dispersed in platelet SBA-15 materials induce high efficiency for CO2 methanation
Authors: Liu Ming-Han , Chen Hsi-An , Chen Ching-Shiun , Wu Jia-Huang , Wu Hung-Chi , Yang Chia-Min
Published: September 2019

The use of Ni loading can be significantly reduced in the application of CO2 hydrogenation, which can enhance catalytic activity and CH4 selectivity.
Nacre-inspired moisture-responsive graphene actuators with robustness and self-healing properties
Authors: Mao Jiang-Wei , Chen Zhao-Di , Han Dong-Dong , Ma Jia-Nan , Zhang Yong-Lai , Sun Hong-Bo
Published: September 2019

Inspired by the robustness of nacre's structure, moisture-responsive actuators with high mechanical strength and self-healing properties were successfully developed based on graphene oxide and cellulose fiber hybrids.
Engineering the coupling interface of rhombic dodecahedral NiCoP/C@FeOOH nanocages toward enhanced water oxidation
Authors: Li Jian-Gang , Gu Yu , Sun Huachuan , Lv Lin , Li Zhishan , Ao Xiang , Xue Xinying , Hong Guo , Wang Chundong
Published: September 2019

Coupling with FeOOH enhances the electrocatalytic activity of NiCoP/C towards the oxygen evolution reaction.
A polymorphic fluorescent material with strong solid state emission and multi-stimuli-responsive properties
Authors: Zhu Ji-Yu , Li Chun-Xiang , Chen Peng-Zhong , Ma Zhiwei , Zou Bo , Niu Li-Ya , Cui Ganglong , Yang Qing-Zheng
Published: September 2019

We report a highly fluorescent difluoroboron β-diketonate derivative 1 which shows four emission colors (green, yellow, orange and red) with high quantum yields (41–74%) in four polymorphs and one amorphous state.
Facile construction of a MgCo2O4@NiMoO4/NF core–shell nanocomposite for high-performance asymmetric supercapacitors
Authors: Gao Haiwen , Wang Xiaohong , Wang Ganghu , Hao Chen , Huang Chengxiang , Jiang Chenglong
Published: September 2019

Construction of a double urchin-like hierarchical MgCo2O4@NiMoO4 core–shell nanomaterial and its application in high-performance all-solid-state asymmetric supercapacitors.
Considerably improved water and oil washability of highly conductive stretchable fibers by chemical functionalization with fluorinated silane
Authors: Lee Yoojin , Bae Seonghyun , Hwang Byungil , Schroeder Marc , Lee Yongwoo , Baik Seunghyun
Published: September 2019

The chemical functionalization with fluorinated silane provides considerably improved water and oil washability of highly conductive stretchable nanocomposite fibers.
Photophysics and electroluminescence of red quantum dots diluted in a thermally activated delayed fluorescence host
Authors: Xiang Yepeng , Xie Guohua , Huang Manli , Yang Chuluo
Published: September 2019

By simply mixing organic host material and quantum dots to form an emitting layer, highly efficient red QLEDs without a hole transport layer were achieved. The benchmark device based on the dendrimer host material reached a peak EQE of 11.9%.
Low surface energy interface-derived low-temperature recrystallization behavior of organic thin films for boosting carrier mobility
Authors: Wang Shuya , Wei Zhan , Yang Yahan , Zhao Xiaoli , Tang Qingxin , Tong Yanhong , Liu Yichun
Published: September 2019

A facile strategy to recrystallize an organic semiconductor thin film to attain the desirable smooth morphology for boosting carrier mobility.
Quasars as standard candles II
Authors: Salvestrini F. , Risaliti G. , Bisogni S. , Lusso E. , Vignali C.
Published: September 2019

A tight non-linear relation between the X-ray and the optical-ultraviolet (UV) emission has been observed in active galactic nuclei (AGN) over a wide range of redshift and several orders of magnitude in luminosity, suggesting the existence of an ubiquitous physical mechanism regulating the energy transfer between the accretion disc and the X-ray emitting corona. Recently, our group developed a method to use this relation in observational cosmology, turning quasars into standardizable candles. This work mainly seeks to investigate the potential evolution of this correction at high redshifts. We thus studied the LX − LUV relation for a sample of quasars in the redshift range 4 <  z <  7, adopting the selection criteria proposed in our previous work regarding their spectral properties. The resulting sample consists of 53 type 1 (unobscured) quasars, observed either with Chandra or XMM-Newton, for which we performed a full spectral analysis, determining the rest-frame 2 keV flux density, as well as more general X-ray properties such as the estimate of photon index, and the soft (0.5–2 keV) and hard (2–10 keV) unabsorbed luminosities. We find that the relation shows no evidence for evolution with redshift. The intrinsic dispersion of the LX–LUV for a sample free of systematics/contaminants is of the order of 0.22 dex, which is consistent with previous estimates from our group on quasars at lower redshift.
J-PLUS: photometric calibration of large-area multi-filter surveys with stellar and white dwarf loci
Authors: López-Sanjuan C. , Varela J. , Cristóbal-Hornillos D. , Vázquez Ramió H. , Carrasco J. M. , Tremblay P.-E. , Whitten D. D. , Placco V. M. , Marín-Franch A. , Cenarro A. J. , Ederoclite A. , Alfaro E. , Coelho P. R. T. , Civera T. , Hernández-Fuertes J. , Jiménez-Esteban F. M. , Jiménez-Teja Y. , Maíz Apellániz J. , Sobral D. , Vílchez J. M. , Alcaniz J. , Angulo R. E. , Dupke R. A. , Hernández-Monteagudo C. , Mendes de Oliveira C. L. , Moles M. , Sodré L.
Published: September 2019

Aims. We present the photometric calibration of the 12 optical passbands observed by the Javalambre Photometric Local Universe Survey (J-PLUS).

Methods. The proposed calibration method has four steps: (i) definition of a high-quality set of calibration stars using Gaia information and available 3D dust maps; (ii) anchoring of the J-PLUS gri passbands to the Pan-STARRS photometric solution, accounting for the variation in the calibration with the position of the sources on the CCD; (iii) homogenization of the photometry in the other nine J-PLUS filters using the dust de-reddened instrumental stellar locus in (𝒳 − r) versus (g − i) colours, where 𝒳 is the filter to calibrate. The zero point variation along the CCD in these filters was estimated with the distance to the stellar locus. Finally, (iv) the absolute colour calibration was obtained with the white dwarf locus. We performed a joint Bayesian modelling of 11 J-PLUS colour–colour diagrams using the theoretical white dwarf locus as reference. This provides the needed offsets to transform instrumental magnitudes to calibrated magnitudes outside the atmosphere.

Results. The uncertainty of the J-PLUS photometric calibration, estimated from duplicated objects observed in adjacent pointings and accounting for the absolute colour and flux calibration errors, are ∼19 mmag in u, J0378, and J0395; ∼11 mmag in J0410 and J0430; and ∼8 mmag in g, J0515, r, J0660, i, J0861, and z.

Conclusions. We present an optimized calibration method for the large-area multi-filter J-PLUS project, reaching 1–2% accuracy within an area of 1022 square degrees without the need for long observing calibration campaigns or constant atmospheric monitoring. The proposed method will be adapted for the photometric calibration of J-PAS, that will observe several thousand square degrees with 56 narrow optical filters.
Recent Progress on the Synthesis of CF2H-Containing Derivatives
Authors: Levi Noam , Amir Dafna , Gershonov Eytan , Zafrani Yossi
Published: September 2019

Recent years have witnessed a growing interest in the development of novel synthetic methods and new reagents for the synthesis of difluoromethylated compounds. Dozens of studies have been published on this topic each year over the past few years. These studies are focused on direct and indirect difluoromethylation of various organic functionalities via nucleophilic-, electrophilic-, radical-, carbene- or metal-mediated mechanisms. The present short review covers the very recent studies, published between mid-2017 and early 2019, on the synthesis of compounds containing a CF2H group. A brief summary of the physicochemical properties and medicinal applications of difluoromethylated compounds is also included.

1 Introduction

2 Nucleophilic Difluoromethylation

2.1 Metal-Mediated Nucleophilic Difluoromethylation

2.2 Non-Metal Difluoromethyl Nucleophiles

3 Radical Difluoromethylation

3.1 Metal-Induced Radical Difluoromethylation

3.2 Non-Metal-Induced Radical Difluoromethylation

3.3 Electrochemically Induced Radical Difluoromethylation

4 Carbene-Based Difluoromethylation

4.1 Metal-Induced Carbene Difluoromethylation

4.2 Non-Metal-Induced Difluoromethyl Carbenes

5 Cross-Coupling Difluoromethylation

5.1 Palladium-Catalyzed Difluoromethylation

5.2 Nickel-Catalyzed Difluoromethylation

5.3 Copper-Mediated Difluoromethylation

5.4 Iron-Catalyzed Difluoromethylation

5.5 Gold-Mediated Difluoromethylation

6 Electrophilic Difluoromethylation

7 Other Examples

7.1 A Difluoromethyl-Borane Complex

7.2 A Tellurium Difluoromethyl Derivative

8 Summary
The Effects of Capitate Height Alteration on Dorsal Intercalated Segment Instability
Authors: Nayar Suresh K. , Marjoua Youssra , Colon Anthony F. , Means Kenneth R. , Higgins James P.
Published: September 2019

Question/Purpose Carpal kinematics may be influenced by the manipulation of carpal dimensions. This may provide a surgical alternative to unpredictable soft tissue reconstruction for scapholunate dissociation. The purpose of this study was to determine if altering capitate height can correct dorsal intercalated segment instability (DISI).

Materials and Methods Five cadaveric wrists had baseline radiolunate (RL) angles and scapholunate (SL) intervals measured fluoroscopically, confirming no baseline DISI. We simulated open- and clenched-fist testing via a constant load of the wrist extensors and sequential loading of the digital flexors. We confirmed no baseline static/dynamic DISI. The SL ligament and secondary stabilizers (scapho-trapezio-trapezoid [STT] and dorsal intercarpal ligaments) were transected. Repeat loading and fluoroscopic measurements confirmed creation of static DISI. Capitate height was altered in three interventions: 2 mm shortening osteotomy of capitate waist, 7 mm shortening osteotomy of capitate waist, and 2 mm lengthening of original capitate height by insertion of a spacer at capitate waist. The osteotomized capitate was stabilized with a Kirschner wire; RL angles and SL intervals were measured via fluoroscopy during open- and clenched-fist testing. Primary and secondary outcomes were change in RL angle and SL interval, from the DISI stage to each capitate shortening and lengthening stage.

Results SL ligament and secondary stabilizers sectioning created a DISI pattern, with abnormal RL angles (>15°) and widened SL intervals. Neither capitate shortening nor overexpansion corrected RL angles or SL intervals in any DISI-induced wrists.

Conclusions Under the conditions studied, isolated capitate shortening or lengthening did not correct radiographic DISI posturing of the lunate following sectioning of the SL and STT interosseous ligaments. Further study of carpal kinematics with more substantial bone changes and loading of adjacent joints may be beneficial.

Clinical relevance Surgeons performing capitate shortening osteotomy in isolation should not expect to improve DISI.
Effects of In-Office and Home Bleaching Gels on the Surface Mercury Levels of Dental Amalgam
Authors: Oskoee Parnian Alizadeh , Kahnamoui Mahdi Abed , Oskoee Siavash Savadi , Zadfattah Firooz , Pournaghi-Azar Fatemeh
Published: September 2019

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of different in-office and home bleaching gels on the surface mercury levels of dental amalgam.

Methods: Sixty disk-shaped amalgam specimens (GS-80, SDI- Australia) were prepared and randomly divided into the following treatment groups: 1. Distilled water (control); 2. 15% home-bleach carbamide peroxide (Opalescence PF, Ultra dent, USA) applied for 6 h/day for 3 weeks; and 3. 35% in-office bleach carbamide peroxide (Opalescence Quick, Ultradent) applied for 30 min/week for 3 weeks. Levels of mercury were measured as weight percentages using an energy dispersive x-ray micro-analyzer detector connected to an electron microscope. Data was analyzed using one-way ANOVA and a post hoc Tukey tests (P<.05).

Results: There were no significant differences between the surface mercury levels measured following treatment with the tested home-bleach and in-office bleach products (P=0.71). However, both materials yielded significantly more mercury levels than that of the control group (P<.001).

Conclusions: The tested bleaching products significantly elevated the surface mercury levels of amalgam in vitro. (Eur J Dent 2010;4:23-27)
Re-Treatment Decisions for Failed Posterior Restorations among Dentists in Kuwait
Authors: Alomari Qasem , Al-Kanderi Bader , Qudeimat Muawia , Omar Ridwaan
Published: September 2019

Objective: To compare re-treatment choices for MOD amalgam or resin composite restorations with or without cusp fracture among dentists in Kuwait.

Methods: A random sample of 158 dentists completed a questionnaire designed to obtain sociodemographic, educational and work-related information and their choices for re-treatment of four scenarios of failed restorations on lower first molars: 1. MOD amalgam restoration; 2. MOD composite restoration; 3. MOD amalgam restoration with cuspal fracture; 4. MOD composite restoration with cuspal fracture. Re-treatment options were: re-treating with amalgam; re-treating with composite; placing an onlay; or, placing a crown. For the purpose of analysis, responses were dichotomized into re-treatment with a direct or indirect restoration.

Results: For cases 1 and 2, most participants chose to re-treat with amalgam restoration and for cases 3 and 4, most chose to place an indirect restoration. In general, an increased tendency towards the indirect option was associated with increased age, being a male and being a specialist. Tendencies to place an indirect restoration did not differ between cases 1 and 2 (P=1.0) or cases 3 and 4 (P=0.317), although the tendency to do so was significantly greater in case 3 than 1 (P=0.000) and case 4 than 2 (P=0.000).

Conclusions: The variation noted among dentists regarding their stated choices for re-treating failed posterior restorations appeared to be associated with gender, education and experience factors. A tendency towards indirect restorations was seen when the restoration is associated with a fractured cusp. (Eur J Dent 2010;4:41-49)
Effects of Delayed Finishing/Polishing on Surface Roughness, Hardness and Gloss of Tooth-Coloured Restorative Materials
Authors: Yazici A Ruya , Tuncer Duygu , Antonson Sibel , Onen Alev , Kilinc Evren
Published: September 2019

Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of delayed finishing/polishing on the surface roughness, hardness and gloss of tooth-coloured restorative materials.

Methods: Four different tooth-coloured restoratives: a flowable resin composite- Tetric Flow, a hybrid resin composite- Venus, a nanohybrid resin composite- Grandio, and a polyacid modified resin composite- Dyract Extra were used. 30 specimens were made for each material and randomly assigned into three groups. The first group was finished/polished immediately and the second group was finished/polished after 24 hours. The remaining 10 specimens served as control. The surface roughness of each sample was recorded using a laser profilometer. Gloss measurements were performed using a small-area glossmeter. Vickers microhardness measurements were performed from three locations on each specimen surface under 100g load and 10s dwell time. Data for surface roughness and hardness were analyzed by Kruskal Wallis test and data for gloss were subjected to one-way ANOVA and Tukey test (P<.05).

Results: The smoothest surfaces were obtained under Mylar strip for all materials. While there were no significant differences in surface roughness of immediate and delayed finished/polished Dyract Extra samples, immediately finished/polished Venus and Grandio samples showed significantly higher roughness than the delayed polished samples (P<.05). In Tetric Flow samples, immediately finishing/polishing provided smoother surface than delayed finishing/polishing (P<.05). The highest gloss values were recorded under Mylar strip for all materials. While delayed finishing/polishing resulted in a significantly higher gloss compared to immediate finishing/polishing in Venus samples (P<.05), no differences were observed between delayed or immediate finishing/polishing for the other materials (P>.05). The lowest hardness values were found under Mylar strip. Delayed finishing/polishing significantly increased the hardness of all materials.

Conclusions: The effect of delayed finishing/polishing on surface roughness, gloss and hardness appears to be material dependent. (Eur J Dent 2010;4:50-56)