bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prognostic models based on imaging findings in glioblastoma: Human versus Machine
Authors: Molina-García David , Vera-Ramírez Luis , Pérez-Beteta Julián , Arana Estanislao , Pérez-García Víctor M.
Published: April 2019

Many studies have built machine-learning (ML)-based prognostic models for glioblastoma (GBM) based on radiological features. We wished to compare the predictive performance of these methods to human knowledge-based approaches. 404 GBM patients were included (311 discovery and 93 validation). 16 morphological and 28 textural descriptors were obtained from pretreatment volumetric postcontrast T1-weighted magnetic resonance images. Different prognostic ML methods were developed. An optimized linear prognostic model (OLPM) was also built using the four significant non-correlated parameters with individual prognosis value. OLPM achieved high prognostic value (validation c-index = 0.817) and outperformed ML models based on either the same parameter set or on the full set of 44 attributes considered. Neural networks with cross-validation-optimized attribute selection achieved comparable results (validation c-index = 0.825). ML models using only the four outstanding parameters obtained better results than their counterparts based on all the attributes, which presented overfitting. In conclusion, OLPM and ML methods studied here provided the most accurate survival predictors for glioblastoma to date, due to a combination of the strength of the methodology, the quality and volume of the data used and the careful attribute selection. The ML methods studied suffered overfitting and lost prognostic value when the number of parameters was increased.
Activation of immune responses against the basement membrane component collagen type IV does not affect the development of atherosclerosis in ApoE-deficient mice
Authors: Vallejo J. , Dunér P. , To F. , Engelbertsen D. , Gonçalves I. , Nilsson J. , Bengtsson E.
Published: April 2019

Oxidation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) in the arterial extracellular matrix results in malondialdehyde (MDA)-modifications of surrounding matrix proteins. We have recently demonstrated an association between high levels of autoantibodies against MDA-modified collagen type IV and risk for development of myocardial infarction. Collagen type IV is an important component of the endothelial basement membrane and influences smooth muscle cell function. We hypothesized that immune responses against collagen type IV could contribute to vascular injury affecting the development of atherosclerosis. To investigate this possibility, we induced an antibody-response against collagen type IV in apolipoprotein E (Apo E)-deficient mice. Female ApoE−/− mice on C57BL/6 background were immunized with α1α2 type IV collagen chain peptides linked to the immune-enhancer PADRE, PADRE alone or PBS at 12 weeks of age with three subsequent booster injections before the mice were killed at 23 weeks of age. Immunization of PADRE alone induced autoantibodies against PADRE, increased IL-4 secretion from splenocytes and reduced SMC content in the subvalvular plaques. Immunization with peptides of α1α2 type IV collagen chains induced a strong IgG1antibody response against collagen type IV peptides without affecting the distribution of T cell populations, plasma cytokine or lipid levels. There were no differences in atherosclerotic plaque development between collagen α1α2(IV)-PADRE immunized mice and control mice. Our findings demonstrate that the presence of antibodies against the basement membrane component collagen type IV does not affect atherosclerosis development in ApoE−/− mice. This suggests that the association between autoantibodies against collagen type IV and risk for myocardial infarction found in humans does not reflect a pathogenic role of these autoantibodies.
Single trial prestimulus oscillations predict perception of the sound-induced flash illusion
Authors: Kaiser Mathis , Senkowski Daniel , Busch Niko A. , Balz Johanna , Keil Julian
Published: April 2019

In the sound-induced flash illusion, auditory input affects the perception of visual stimuli with a large inter- and intraindividual variability. Crossmodal influence in this illusion has been shown to be associated with activity in visual and temporal areas. In this electroencephalography study, we investigated the relationship between oscillatory brain activity prior to stimulus presentation and subsequent perception of the illusion on the level of single trials. Using logistic regression, we modeled the perceptual outcome dependent on oscillatory power. We found that 25 Hz to 41 Hz activity over occipital electrodes from 0.17 s to 0.05 s prior to stimulus onset predicted the perception of the illusion. A t-test of power values, averaged over the significant cluster, between illusion and no-illusion trials showed higher power in illusion trials, corroborating the modeling result. We conclude that the observed power modulation predisposes the integration of audiovisual signals, providing further evidence for the governing role of prestimulus brain oscillations in multisensory perception.
Characterization of donor and recipient CD8+ tissue-resident memory T cells in transplant nephrectomies
Authors: de Leur Kitty , Dieterich Marjolein , Hesselink Dennis A. , Corneth Odilia B. J. , Dor Frank J. M. F. , de Graav Gretchen N. , Peeters Annemiek M. A. , Mulder Arend , Kimenai Hendrikus J. A. N. , Claas Frans H. J. , Clahsen-van Groningen Marian C. , van der Laan Luc J. W. , Hendriks Rudi W. , Baan Carla C.
Published: April 2019

Tissue-resident memory T (TRM) cells are characterized by their surface expression of CD69 and can be subdivided in CD103+ and CD103− TRM cells. The origin and functional characteristics of TRM cells in the renal allograft are largely unknown. To determine these features we studied TRM cells in transplant nephrectomies. TRM cells with a CD103+ and CD103− phenotype were present in all samples (n = 13) and were mainly CD8+ T cells. Of note, donor-derived TRM cells were only detectable in renal allografts that failed in the first month after transplantation. Grafts, which failed later, mainly contained recipient derived TRM cells. The gene expression profiles of the recipient derived CD8+ TRM cells were studied in more detail and showed a previously described signature of tissue residence within both CD103+ and CD103− TRM cells. All CD8+ TRM cells had strong effector abilities through the production of IFNγ and TNFα, and harboured high levels of intracellular granzyme B and low levels of perforin. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that donor and recipient TRM cells reside in the rejected renal allograft. Over time, the donor-derived TRM cells are replaced by recipient TRM cells which have features that enables these cells to aggressively respond to the allograft.
Sperm physiology varies according to ultradian and infradian rhythms
Authors: Moreno-Irusta Ayelén , Kembro Jackelyn M. , Domínguez Esteban M. , Matamoros-Volante Arturo , Gallea Maria N. , Molina Rosa , Guidobaldi Hector A. , Treviño Claudia L. , Figueras Maria J. , Babini Ana , Paina Nelso A. , Mercado Carlos A. N. , Giojalas Laura C.
Published: April 2019

The spermatozoon must be physiologically prepared to fertilize the egg, process called capacitation. Human sperm samples are heterogeneous in their ability to capacitate themselves, which leads to variability between samples from the same or different donors, and even along the seasons. Here we studied sperm variation in the capacitation state according to the ability of capacitated spermatozoa to acrosome react upon stimulation (% ARi) and to be recruited by chemotaxis (% Chex). Both indirect indicators of sperm capacitation increased along the incubation time with fluctuations. Those capacitated sperm recruited by chemotaxis showed an ultradian rhythm with a cycle every 2 h, which might be influenced by unknown intrinsic sperm factors. Two infradian rhythms of 12 months for the % ARi and of 6 months for % Chex were observed, which are associated with the joint action of temperature and photoperiod. Thus, to avoid false negative results, human sperm samples are recommended to be incubated for a long period (e.g. 18 h) preferably in spring time. This innovative point of view would lead to better comprehend human reproductive biology and to think experimental designs in the light of sperm cyclicity or to improve sperm aptitude for clinical purposes.
An intense, few-cycle source in the long-wave infrared
Authors: Wilson Derrek J. , Summers Adam M. , Zigo Stefan , Davis Brandin , Robatjazi Seyyed-Javad , Powell Jeffery A. , Rolles Daniel , Rudenko Artem , Trallero-Herrero Carlos A.
Published: April 2019

For the last several decades, the wavelength range accessible for strong-field, few-cycle studies has remained limited to the visible, near infrared and mid-wave infrared regimes. In particular, sources in the long-wave infrared have been lacking. We report the development of a 1 kHz, few-cycle laser source with up to a 9 μm central wavelength and gigawatt peak powers. When focused, this source can ionize gas targets, which we demonstrate here through the ionization of atomic xenon at wavelengths ranging from 5 μm to 9 μm. This opens up new opportunities for fundamental atomic and molecular physics, enabling experimental tests of strong-field ionization theories in the extreme long-wavelength, few-cycle limit and the direct excitation of vibrational transitions in organic molecules.
Assembly of Human Stem Cell-Derived Cortical Spheroids and Vascular Spheroids to Model 3-D Brain-like Tissues
Authors: Song Liqing , Yuan Xuegang , Jones Zachary , Griffin Kyle , Zhou Yi , Ma Teng , Li Yan
Published: April 2019

Human cerebral organoids derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) provide novel tools for recapitulating the cytoarchitecture of human brain and for studying biological mechanisms of neurological disorders. However, the heterotypic interactions of neurovascular units, composed of neurons, pericytes, astrocytes, and brain microvascular endothelial cells, in brain-like tissues are less investigated. The objective of this study is to investigate the impacts of neural spheroids and vascular spheroids interactions on the regional brain-like tissue patterning in cortical spheroids derived from human iPSCs. Hybrid neurovascular spheroids were constructed by fusion of human iPSC-derived cortical neural progenitor cell (iNPC) spheroids, endothelial cell (iEC) spheroids, and the supporting human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Single hybrid spheroids were constructed at different iNPC: iEC: MSC ratios of 4:2:0, 3:2:1 2:2:2, and 1:2:3 in low-attachment 96-well plates. The incorporation of MSCs upregulated the secretion levels of cytokines VEGF-A, PGE2, and TGF-β1 in hybrid spheroid system. In addition, tri-cultured spheroids had high levels of TBR1 (deep cortical layer VI) and Nkx2.1 (ventral cells), and matrix remodeling genes, MMP2 and MMP3, as well as Notch-1, indicating the crucial role of matrix remodeling and cell-cell communications on cortical spheroid and organoid patterning. Moreover, tri-culture system elevated blood-brain barrier gene expression (e.g., GLUT-1), CD31, and tight junction protein ZO1 expression. Treatment with AMD3100, a CXCR4 antagonist, showed the immobilization of MSCs during spheroid fusion, indicating a CXCR4-dependent manner of hMSC migration and homing. This forebrain-like model has potential applications in understanding heterotypic cell-cell interactions and novel drug screening in diseased human brain.
A comprehensive proteomics-based interaction screen that links DYRK1A to RNF169 and to the DNA damage response
Authors: Roewenstrunk Julia , Di Vona Chiara , Chen Jie , Borras Eva , Dong Chao , Arató Krisztina , Sabidó Eduard , Huen Michael S. Y. , de la Luna Susana
Published: April 2019

Dysregulation of the DYRK1A protein kinase has been associated with human disease. On the one hand, its overexpression in trisomy 21 has been linked to certain pathological traits of Down syndrome, while on the other, inactivating mutations in just one allele are responsible for a distinct yet rare clinical syndrome, DYRK1A haploinsufficiency. Moreover, altered expression of this kinase may also provoke other human pathologies, including cancer and diabetes. Although a few DYRK1A substrates have been described, its upstream regulators and downstream targets are still poorly understood, an information that could shed light on the functions of DYRK1A in the cell. Here, we carried out a proteomic screen using antibody-based affinity purification coupled to mass spectrometry to identify proteins that directly or indirectly bind to endogenous DYRK1A. We show that the use of a cell line not expressing DYRK1A, generated by CRISPR/Cas9 technology, was needed in order to discriminate between true positives and non-specific interactions. Most of the proteins identified in the screen are novel candidate DYRK1A interactors linked to a variety of activities in the cell. The in-depth characterization of DYRK1A’s functional interaction with one of them, the E3 ubiquitin ligase RNF169, revealed a role for this kinase in the DNA damage response. We found that RNF169 is a DYRK1A substrate and we identified several of its phosphorylation sites. In particular, one of these sites appears to modify the ability of RNF169 to displace 53BP1 from sites of DNA damage. Indeed, DYRK1A depletion increases cell sensitivity to ionizing irradiation. Therefore, our unbiased proteomic screen has revealed a novel activity of DYRK1A, expanding the complex role of this kinase in controlling cell homeostasis.
Evidence for altered neurodevelopment and neurodegeneration in Wolfram syndrome using longitudinal morphometry
Authors: Lugar Heather M. , Koller Jonathan M. , Rutlin Jerrel , Eisenstein Sarah A. , Neyman Olga , Narayanan Anagha , Chen Ling , Shimony Joshua S. , Hershey Tamara
Published: April 2019

Wolfram syndrome is a rare disease caused by mutations in the WFS1 gene leading to symptoms in early to mid-childhood. Brain structural abnormalities are present even in young children, but it is not known when these abnormalities arise. Such information is critical in determining optimal outcome measures for clinical trials and in understanding the aberrant neurobiological processes in Wolfram syndrome. Using voxel-wise and regional longitudinal analyses, we compared brain volumes in Wolfram patients (n = 29; ages 5–25 at baseline; mean follow-up = 3.6 years), to age and sex-equivalent controls (n = 52; ages 6–26 at baseline; mean follow-up = 2.0 years). Between groups, white and gray matter volumes were affected differentially during development. Controls had uniformly increasing volume in white matter, whereas the Wolfram group had stable (optic radiations) or decreasing (brainstem, ventral pons) white matter volumes. In gray matter, controls had stable (thalamus, cerebellar cortex) or decreasing volumes (cortex), whereas the Wolfram group had decreased volume in thalamus and cerebellar cortex. These patterns suggest that there may be early, stalled white matter development in Wolfram syndrome, with additional degenerative processes in both white and gray matter. Ideally, animal models could be used to identify the underlying mechanisms and develop specific interventions.
Effects of Physical Activity During Pregnancy on Neonatal Birth Weight
Authors: Pathirathna Malshani L. , Sekijima Kayoko , Sadakata Mieko , Fujiwara Naoshi , Muramatsu Yoshiyuki , Wimalasiri Kuruppu M. S.
Published: April 2019

We assessed the prevalence of adherence to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommendations regarding physical activity during pregnancy among Sri Lankan women and explored the relationship between physical activity during pregnancy and neonatal birth weight. In total, 141 pregnant women (gestational age, 18–24 weeks) were included from October to December 2015 and followed up until delivery. A validated questionnaire regarding physical activity during pregnancy was administered in the second and third trimesters. Activities were grouped by type (household/caregiving, occupational, transportation, sports/exercise, and inactivity) and intensity {sedentary [<1.5 metabolic equivalents (METs)], light intensity [1.5–2.9 METs], moderate intensity [3.0–6.0 METs], and vigorous intensity [>6.0 METs]}. Women were categorised as active or inactive based on the ACOG recommendations. In total, 79.1% and 45.2% of women met the guidelines in the second and third trimesters, respectively. The overall time spent and total energy expenditure was significantly higher in the second trimester (p < 0.001). We found no relationship between physical activity during pregnancy and neonatal birth weight. This study indicates that a considerable reduction of time and total energy expenditure occur as pregnancy progresses. Physical activity during pregnancy does not appear to significantly affect neonatal birth weight.
Impact of environmental factors on aquatic biodiversity in roadside stormwater ponds
Authors: Sun Zhenhua , Sokolova Ekaterina , Brittain John E. , Saltveit Svein Jakob , Rauch Sebastien , Meland Sondre
Published: April 2019

Constructed stormwater ponds mitigate runoff volumes and pollution, and provide other ecosystem services, such as supporting biodiversity, but these services attracted relatively less attention. The impacts of the pollution levels in the water column and sediments, the physical characteristics of ponds, and the presence of amphibians on the macroinvertebrate community composition and biodiversity were explored in twelve stormwater ponds in Norway. Also, the similarities between macroinvertebrate, zooplankton and plant communities were explored. Most of the taxa displayed in the ordination diagram were positively correlated with the pond size and the number of neighbouring ponds, and negatively correlated with the pollution levels in the water column and sediments. However, no statistically significant impacts on the number of taxa and Shannon index were observed. There were low similarities between the macroinvertebrate and zooplankton community compositions as well as between the plant and macroinvertebrate community compositions in the stormwater ponds. We observed a significant positive correlation between the number of plant and of zooplankton taxa, and a weak non-significant positive correlation between the number of plant and of macroinvertebrate taxa. Overall, the explanatory variables had a significant impact on the community composition, but not on the number of taxa nor Shannon index.
Increased influence of ENSO on Antarctic temperature since the Industrial Era
Authors: Rahaman Waliur , Chatterjee Sourav , Ejaz Tariq , Thamban Meloth
Published: April 2019

Under the influence of recent global warming, modulation of frequencies and amplitude of El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and its impacts on global climate have become great concerns to the global community. Antarctic climate is sensitive to these changes owing to tropical and Southern Hemispheric (SH) teleconnections. Antarctic surface air temperature (SAT) reconstructed approximately for the past five centuries (~1533 to 1993 CE) based on multiple oxygen isotope (δ18O) records of ice cores from East and West Antarctica show dominant oscillations in ENSO and Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO) frequency bands. Further, variance of the East Antarctica (EA) temperature record shows significant increasing trend at ENSO band and decreasing trend at PDO band since the industrial era (~1850 CE). This observation is consistent with the earlier report of increasing ENSO activity, reconstructed based on tropical-subtropical tree ring records. ENSO influence in the SH high-latitude is known to be characterized by Pacific South American (PSA) pattern reflected in the atmospheric pressure fields. Our investigation of greenhouse gas (GHG) forced model simulation results show an increasing trend in PSA activity since the industrial era. Thus, we suggest ENSO activity and its influence on Antarctic temperature are increasing in response to increasing radiative GHG forcing since the industrial era.
Relationship of High-Density Lipoprotein-Associated Arylesterase Activity to Systolic Heart Failure in Patients with and without Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Li Chang , Chen Jia Wei , Ding Feng Hua , Shen Ying , Liu Zhu Hui , Wang Fang , Zhang Rui Yan , Shen Wei Feng , Lu Lin , Wang Xiao Qun
Published: April 2019

High-density lipoprotein (HDL) confers protection against cardiovascular disease partly attributable to its robust anti-oxidant activities, which is largely impaired in diabetic conditions. In this study, we analyzed the anti-oxidant activity of HDL, as represented by the arylesterase activity of paraoxonase 1 (PON1) in HDL particles, in 216 consecutive HF patients with (n = 79) or without (n = 137) type 2 diabetes, and age- and gender-matched 112 diabetic and 189 non-diabetic non-HF controls. We found arylesterase activity was significantly decreased in patients with than without HF, and was further decreased when comorbid with diabetes. After adjusting for conventional risk factors and apolipoprotein A-I levels, arylesterase activity remained correlated positively with left ventricular ejection fraction in diabetic (r = 0.325, P = 0.020) but not non-diabetic patients (r = 0.089, P = 0.415), and negatively with NT-proBNP and NYHA functional class in both subgroups. In regression analyses, a higher risk of HF was observed in diabetic than non-diabetic patients when having low arylesterase activities. In conclusion, our data demonstrate that impaired serum arylesterase activity in patients with HF is further reduced when comorbid with diabetes. The relationship of impaired arylesterase activity to HF is especially enhanced in diabetic patients.
Robust and biocompatible catalysts for efficient hydrogen-driven microbial electrosynthesis
Authors: Kracke Frauke , Wong Andrew Barnabas , Maegaard Karen , Deutzmann Joerg S. , Hubert McKenzie A. , Hahn Christopher , Jaramillo Thomas F. , Spormann Alfred M.
Published: April 2019

CO2 reduction by combined electro- and bio-catalytic reactions is a promising technology platform for sustainable production of chemicals from CO2 and electricity. While heterogeneous electrocatalysts can reduce CO2 to a variety of organic compounds at relatively high reaction rates, these catalysts have limitations achieving high selectivity for any single product beyond CO. Conversely, microbial CO2 reduction pathways proceed at high selectivity; however, the rates at bio-cathodes using direct electron supply via electricity are commonly limiting. Here we demonstrate the use of non-precious metal cathodes that produce hydrogen in situ to support microbial CO2 reduction to C1 and C2 compounds. CoP, MoS2 and NiMo cathodes perform durable hydrogen evolution under biologically relevant conditions, and the integrated system achieves coulombic efficiencies close to 100% without accumulating hydrogen. Moreover, the one-reactor hybrid platform is successfully used for efficient acetate production from electricity and CO2 by microbes previously reported to be inactive in bioelectrochemical systems.
Permanently hydrophilic, piezoelectric PVDF nanofibrous scaffolds promoting unaided electromechanical stimulation on osteoblasts
Authors: Kitsara Maria , Blanquer Andreu , Murillo Gonzalo , Humblot Vincent , De Bragança Vieira Sara , Nogués Carme , Ibáñez Elena , Esteve Jaume , Barrios Leonardo
Published: April 2019

Electrospinning and plasma post-modification lead to PVDF scaffolds with favorable electromechanical properties and enhanced wettability.
Self-assembly of droplets in three-dimensional microchannels
Authors: Parthiban Pravien , Doyle Patrick S. , Hashimoto Michinao
Published: April 2019

3D microchannels were used to self-assemble droplets into ordered emulsions at low volume fractions of the dispersed phase.
Carbon quantum dots: synthesis, properties, and sensing applications as a potential clinical analytical method
Authors: Huang Saipeng , Li Wenshuai , Han Pu , Zhou Xin , Cheng Jiewei , Wen Huiyun , Xue Weiming
Published: April 2019

Carbon quantum dots (CDs) are a novel class of fluorescent carbon nanoparticles and nanomaterials with fascinating properties, which have attracted worldwide attention and have been applied in different fields during the last decade.
Modulation of ICT and PET processes in boranil derivatives: a ratiometric fluorescent probe for imaging of cysteine
Authors: Zhu Dongjian , Yan Xiaowei , Ren Aishan , Cai Wen , Duan Zhenhua , Luo Yanghe
Published: April 2019

1 is the first ratiometric fluorescent probe for imaging of intracellular Cys based on boranil derivatives modulated by ICT and PET processes with fast response, high sensitivity, excellent selectivity.
Copper nanocluster-labeled hybridization chain reaction for potentiometric immunoassay of matrix metalloproteinase-7 in acute kidney injury and renal cancer
Authors: Zhuang Wei , Li Yining , Chen Jiabi , Liu Weihui , Huang Hongyuan
Published: April 2019

A simple and portable potentiometric immunoassay was designed for the quantitative detection of matrix metalloproteinase-7 (MMP7) in acute kidney injury and renal cancer on a copper ion-selective electrode (Cu-ISE).
Novozym 435: the “perfect” lipase immobilized biocatalyst?
Authors: Ortiz Claudia , Ferreira María Luján , Barbosa Oveimar , dos Santos José C. S. , Rodrigues Rafael C. , Berenguer-Murcia Ángel , Briand Laura E. , Fernandez-Lafuente Roberto
Published: April 2019

Novozym 435 (N435) is a commercially available immobilized lipase produced by Novozymes with its advantages and drawbacks.
Novel mono- and bimetallic organotin(iv) compounds as potential linkers for coordination polymers
Authors: Someşan Adrian-Alexandru , Barbul Ioana , Vieriu Sabina-Mădălina , Varga Richard A. , Silvestru Cristian
Published: April 2019

Organotin(iv) compounds might be used as linkers for building coordination polymers as suggested by the isolation of [{2-(OCH)C6H4}Me2SnO(O)CC5H4N-4]ZnTPP.
Unique interfacial thermodynamics of few-layer 2D MoS2 for (photo)electrochemical catalysis
Authors: Carroll Gerard Michael , Zhang Hanyu , Dunklin Jeremy R. , Miller Elisa M. , Neale Nathan R. , van de Lagemaat Jao
Published: April 2019

In situ and operando spectroelectrochemistry are used to study the interfacial thermodynamics of few-layer MoS2 for (photo)electrocatalysis.
Rutile nano–bio-interactions mediate dissimilar intracellular destiny in human skin cells
Authors: Sanches P. L. , Souza W. , Gemini-Piperni S. , Rossi A. L. , Scapin S. , Midlej V. , Sade Y. , Leme A. F. Paes , Benchimol M. , Rocha L. A. , Carias R. B. V. , Borojevic R. , Granjeiro J. M. , Ribeiro A. R.
Published: April 2019

TiO2 NPs’ nano–bio-interactions mediate a distinct intracellular trafficking and destiny in human skin cells.
Hierarchical hetero-Ni3Se4@NiFe LDH micro/nanosheets as efficient bifunctional electrocatalysts with superior stability for overall water splitting
Authors: Zhang Tao , Hang Lifeng , Sun Yiqiang , Men Dandan , Li Xinyang , Wen Lulu , Lyu Xianjun , Li Yue
Published: April 2019

Hierarchical hetero-Ni3Se4@NiFe LDH micro/nanosheets were prepared by coupling NiFe LDH nanosheets with Ni3Se4 micro-sized sheets, and could be used as bifunctional electrocatalysts with excellent activity and durability for overall water splitting.
Artificial muscle with reversible and controllable deformation based on stiffness-variable carbon nanotube spring-like nanocomposite yarn
Authors: Xu Liangliang , Peng Qingyu , Zhu Yue , Zhao Xu , Yang Minglong , Wang Shasha , Xue Fuhua , Yuan Ye , Lin Zaishan , Xu Fan , Sun Xianxian , Li Jianjun , Yin Weilong , Li Yibin , He Xiaodong
Published: April 2019

An artificial muscle based on a stiffness-variable CNT spring-like nanocomposite yarn shows controllable and reversible deformation, and potential application.
Construction of sandwich-like porous structure of graphene-coated foam composites for ultrasensitive and flexible pressure sensors
Authors: Zhao Li , Qiang Fei , Dai Shou-Wei , Shen Shi-Chang , Huang Yun-Zhuo , Huang Neng-Jian , Zhang Guo-Dong , Guan Li-Zhi , Gao Jie-Feng , Song Yi-Hu , Tang Long-Cheng
Published: April 2019

A simple strategy is developed to fabricate ultrasensitive and flexible pressure sensors via constructing a sandwich-like graphene based porous structure.
A perylenediimide-based nanocarrier monitors curcumin release with an “off–on” fluorescence switch
Authors: Cheng Wenyu , Chen Hongtao , Ji Chendong , Yang Ru , Yin Meizhen
Published: April 2019

A perylenediimide-based nanocarrier (PPL-B) is constructed and used for monitoring curcumin release through an “off–on” fluorescence switch.
Synthesis of anortho-phthalaldehyde-functionalized copolymer for rapid, chemoselective and efficient conjugation with native proteins under physiological conditions
Authors: Huang Jianbing , Qin Herong , Chen Xu , Wang Biyun , Liang Hui , Lu Jiang
Published: April 2019

Anortho-phthalaldehyde-containing copolymer was designed and synthesized for rapid, chemoselective and efficient conjugation with proteins under physiological conditions.
The construction of a Fenton system to achieve in situ H2O2 generation and decomposition for enhanced photocatalytic performance
Authors: Xu Yuanguo , Liu Jie , Xie Meng , Wei Wei , Zhou Ting , Yan Jia , Xu Hui , Ji Haiyan , Li Huaming , Xie Jimin
Published: April 2019

A photo-Fenton system combining NixFeyO4–BiOBr with the in situ generation and decomposition of H2O2 was constructed for efficient organic compound degradation.
Efficient development of stable and highly functionalised peptides targeting the CK2α/CK2β protein–protein interaction
Authors: Iegre Jessica , Brear Paul , Baker David J. , Tan Yaw Sing , Atkinson Eleanor L. , Sore Hannah F. , O' Donovan Daniel H. , Verma Chandra S. , Hyvönen Marko , Spring David R.
Published: April 2019

This work describes the efficient development of functionalised, cell-permeable, and stable peptide inhibitors of the protein–protein interaction of CK2.
Triperyleno[3,3,3]propellane triimides: achieving a new generation of quasi-D3h symmetric nanostructures in organic electronics
Authors: Lv Lingling , Roberts Josiah , Xiao Chengyi , Jia Zhenmei , Jiang Wei , Zhang Guowei , Risko Chad , Zhang Lei
Published: April 2019

A novel propellane rylene imide is synthesized. It serves as a versatile building block for quasi-D3h symmetric nanostructures.
Atomic layer deposition of vanadium oxide to reduce parasitic absorption and improve stability in n–i–p perovskite solar cells for tandems
Authors: Raiford James A. , Belisle Rebecca A. , Bush Kevin A. , Prasanna Rohit , Palmstrom Axel F. , McGehee Michael D. , Bent Stacey F.
Published: April 2019

ALD vanadium oxide and a low-absorbing hole transport material (HTM) enable semi-transparent perovskite solar cells with high photocurrent and thermal stability.
Rationally assembled rGO/Sn/Na2Zr(PO4)2 nanocomposites as high performance anode materials for lithium and sodium ion batteries
Authors: Ma Mei , Shen Wenzhuo , Zhang Jiali , Guo Shouwu
Published: April 2019

A novel rGO/Sn/Na2Zr(PO4)2 nanocomposite exhibits attractive electrochemical performance as an anode for lithium/sodium ion batteries.
N,N-Dimethylformamide assisted hydrothermal introduction of MoS2 on ultrathin g-C3N4 layers with enhanced visible light photocatalytic hydrogen evolution activity
Authors: Wu Shiting , Shi Xiaowei , Zhu Mingshan
Published: April 2019

Exploring appropriate methods and agents for the fabrication of heterostructures opens up a new avenue for photocatalytic water splitting by utilizing solar power as an energy source.
Towards rechargeable zinc–air batteries with aqueous chloride electrolytes
Authors: Clark Simon , Mainar Aroa R. , Iruin Elena , Colmenares Luis C. , Blázquez J. Alberto , Tolchard Julian R. , Latz Arnulf , Horstmann Birger
Published: April 2019

This paper presents a novel modelling and experimental investigation of aqueous near-neutral chloride electrolytes for rechargeable zinc–air batteries.
Two-dimensional Ti2CTxMXene membranes with integrated and ordered nanochannels for efficient solvent dehydration
Authors: Liu Guozhen , Shen Jie , Ji Yufan , Liu Quan , Liu Gongping , Yang Jian , Jin Wanqin
Published: April 2019

Two-dimensional (2D) material membranes have shown great potential for molecular separation.
Mesenchymal stem cells and their mitochondrial transfer: a double-edged sword
Authors: Li Cheng , Cheung Marco K.H. , Han Shuo , Zhang Zhao , Chen Ling , Chen Junhui , Zeng Hui , Qiu Jianxiang
Published: April 2019

Mitochondrial dysfunction has been linked to many diseases including organ degeneration and cancer. Mesenchymal stem cells/stromal cells (MSCs) provide a valuable source for stem cell-based therapy and represent an emerging therapeutic approach for tissue regeneration. Increasing evidence suggests that MSCs can directly donate mitochondria to recover from cell injury and rescue mitochondrial damage-provoked tissue degeneration. Meanwhile, cancer cells and cancer stromal cells also cross-talk through mitochondrial exchange to regulate cancer metastasis. This review summarizes the research on MSCs and their mitochondrial transfer. It provides an overview of the biology, function, niches and signaling that play a role in tissue repair. It also highlights the pathologies of cancer growth and metastasis linked to mitochondrial exchange between cancer cells and surrounding stromal cells. It becomes evident that the function of MSC mitochondrial transfer is a double-edged sword. MSC mitochondrial transfer may be a pharmaceutical target for tissue repair and cancer therapy.
Sharing Knowledge and Information within BIM Life Cycle Processes
Authors: Nývlt Vladimír , Novotný Radimír
Published: April 2019

Building Information Modeling begins to be perceived as the concept of "covering all stages of the life cycle of a building". A major flaw in this view is the fact that BIM is not actually perceived by all stakeholders as identical, and there is no single vocabulary, either in the form of a structured lexicon or in purely semantic understanding of many names and concepts used. Based on research findings BIM’s focus on Building Information Management has proven to be a key part of BIM’s success. As a result, it seeks to design a knowledge management system throughout the whole life cycle of the building as well as in the management of knowledge through partial projects. An essential part of BIM framework has identified the need to visualize knowledge and information. Based on other literature searches, ways of identifying knowledge, by deriving knowledge from information from experts, using shared models, are proposed. This derivation is directly driven by ontological identification and knowledge models based on taxonomy have been proposed. It leads to proposal of intelligent environment for team collaboration on projects or programs that probably require a suitable mix of different technology tools.
Linking together independent building development plans
Authors: Sůra Miroslav
Published: April 2019

The article describes two independent projects having investors of two different types – one using public money for the benefit of community, the other was purely private money of a private economic operator. Both investors included the green and/or sustainability building objectives in their projects, and examined possible defects and deficits in thereof, also in relation to the surrounding conditions and processes. Of course, each investor discovered the concurrent development of the other investor’s plans, and determined overlapping areas of interest. In the article we describe the overlapping interest areas, variant solutions intended to lower projects costs, other pros and cons of the variants, their possible advantages and prospective degrading defects, and the harmonization of both investors’ requirements. Next to this, public opinion on the solution was determined and evaluated, with trends and biases where identifiable. Then the variant best suited to both investors was agreed upon, just with slight final modifications to better satisfy the public and both investors, and to avoid possible future induced defects.
Analysis of main causes of defects of multi-storey reinforced concrete frame buildings
Authors: Yamov Vladimir , Belyaeva Zoya
Published: April 2019

Multi-storey reinforced concrete frame buildings are widespread in Russia. Most of these buildings have braced frame system, where the main load-bearing elements are columns, beams and hollow floor slabs, and the spatial rigidity is provided by additional diaphragms, staircase and elevator section. Such buildings are easy to design and build and are quite multifunctional in purpose. The article on the basis of the authors’ experience in the survey examines the main defects in such buildings. The causes of typical defects can be divided into objective, technological and operational reasons. Usually, the cause of survey can be structural damage discovered by the building owner that is why often the survey is conducted during the emergency condition, which can be avoided, if inspections and monitoring of the structures technical state are regular. Also there is a necessity of improving the design methods of new buildings and strengthening of existing ones.
The Structural Design of Wooden Solid Log Wall
Authors: Kacálek Petr , Petříček Tomáš
Published: April 2019

Alternative solutions to joints of outer wooden solid log walls are based on the current situation on the construction market, which reflects general change in attitude towards the environment. Apart from the evaluation of materials and products in accordance with technological and economic aspects, attention is paid to the effect of individual elements on the environment. This trend is reflected in construction practice by a comeback to original materials and expanding designs of residential buildings on the basis of easily renewable material resources, e.g. wood, which is relatively easily available and renewable construction material. When designing and constructing wooden buildings, it is necessary to take into account specific properties of wood (particularly volume changes), which need to be considered for solutions of individual details. Bed joints of wooden solid log walls are still a problematic detail in terms of thermal technology. It is a contact of two horizontal construction elements – beams, where maximum weakening of the wall thickness occurs. This spot is a relatively frequent place of a recurring thermal bridge during the wall construction. Analysis and improvement of this critical place of wooden houses, which has been more and more frequently built in the Czech Republic, would lead to their better evaluation in terms of heat-technical properties. The aim of the project was to design and examine adjusted variants of shape solutions of joints in between individual solid wooden elements. The project particularly focused on monitoring of surface temperatures in the areas of critical details – bed joints.
Dependence between the thickness and the strength of joints of one-layer bitumen sheets
Authors: Petříček Tomáš , Kacálek Petr
Published: April 2019

This paper focuses on the examination of interdependence of thickness of bitumen sheets and strength characteristics of their mechanically fastened joints. Bitumen sheets with two different thicknesses, which are to be used as single-layer mechanically fastened waterproofing membranes, were chosen as samples for experimental measurements. The aforementioned dependence has still not been explicitly documented. The aim of this paper is to confirm or refute the hypothesis that a relationship exists between different thicknesses of bitumen sheets and strength of their joints. The formulation of the results was based on statistical evaluation of laboratory measurement data.
Technological, economic and legislative opportunities and barriers for panel apartment buildings energy efficient reconstruction in Russia
Authors: Maltceva Kseniia , Pridvizhkin Stanislav
Published: April 2019

In the middle of the twentieth century there was a need for a significant amount of housing in Russia as soon as possible caused by the necessity to restore buildings destroyed during the war years, as well as rapid urbanization. Panel apartment houses have become an excellent solution to this problem, due to the simplicity and short construction time. However, recently such buildings do not meet the requirements of comfort, safety and economy. Not only Russia, but also the countries of Eastern Europe, Germany and Japan faced this problem at the turn of the century. In this article, analogues of the panel houses renovation with increasing energy efficiency of their thermal envelope in different countries are considered. It is conducted a comprehensive analysis of the existing legislation of the Russian Federation in the field of reconstruction. Technical opportunities to improve the comfort and energy efficiency of panel buildings and their economic advisability were considered by the example of panel apartment building in Ekaterinburg.
Factors influencing the value of daylight factor
Authors: Nováková Petra , Vajkay František
Published: April 2019

Daylight has been used for centuries as the main source of light in the interior and has always been an implicit part of architecture since the buildings existed. Not only does it replace electrical lighting during the day, reducing electric power consumption, but it also affects heating and cooling, making it an important parameter in energy efficient design. Research has shown that daylight is a great asset to health and comfort, so it is crucial for building occupants. Daylighting of the interior spaces of buildings and their functionally defined parts is proposed according to visual activities. The minimum values for daylight factor are set for individual visual activities. This article deals with factors influencing the value of the daylight factor.
Life-cycle assessment of the contemporary standardized wall systems
Authors: Kraus Michal , Nováková Petra
Published: April 2019

Due to the current environmental situation, the reducing of greenhouse gas emission and the saving energy is the phenomenon. The building sector is still growing and more and more energy is needed. Thermal performance of building envelope has been of great importance in the context of existing global warming issues. Buildings are responsible for 40% of energy consumption and 36% of Carbon Dioxide (CO2) emissions in the member states of the European Union. According to the research project Heartland Green Sheets, the recommended criteria for assessments of sustainable buildings materials are low embodied energy, recyclable, use renewable resources, locally or regionally produced, energy efficient, low environmental impact, durable, minimize waste, positive social impact and affordable. The contribution focuses on life-cycle assessment (LCA) and sustainability assessment of commonly used wall systems. The multi-criteria analysis of the contemporary wall systems in term of sustainable development is presented in the paper. The contemporary commonly used wall systems are assessed in terms of labour, time and financial demands, energy and environmental performance.
Fulminante Lungenarterienembolie bei heparininduzierter Thrombozytopenie Typ II
Authors: Brück Simone , Skrabal Christian , Liebold Andreas , Mols Georg , Träger Karl
Published: April 2019

Bei einer 46-jährigen Patientin zeigt sich neben einem neu aufgetretenen Leberhämatom zusätzlich noch eine Lungenarterienembolie, so dass eine Antikoagulation mit Heparin begonnen wird. Daraufhin kommt es zu einer heparininduzierten Thrombozytopenie Typ II mit fulminanter Lungenarterienembolie, die eine Therapie mit einer venoarteriellen extrakorporalen Membranoxygenierung (va-ECMO) notwendig macht.
Thrombektomie beim Schlaganfall: anästhesiologische Aspekte
Authors: Wolf Alexander , Mölders Patrick , Yilmaz Umut
Published: April 2019

Der Schlaganfall ist ein fokal-neurologisches Defizit auf dem Boden einer akuten Durchblutungsstörung. Therapieoptionen sind rt-PA-Lyse und neuroradiologische Thrombektomie. Letztere ist in Lokalanästhesie, Analgosedierung oder auch in Vollnarkose möglich. Dabei sollten wichtige (patho)physiologische und pharmakologische Aspekte in die anästhesiologische Versorgung von Schlaganfallpatienten einfließen, um das neurologische Ergebnis zu optimieren.
Die Ohrmuschel
Authors: Magga Corts Köln
Published: April 2019

Die Ohrmuschel (Auricula auris) ist ein Anteil des Außenohrs und besteht aus einem elastischen Knorpel, der mit Haut überzogen ist. Sie hat die Funktion eines Hörtrichters.
Zoonosen
Authors: Schmid Eva C.
Published: April 2019

In dieser Ausgabe beschäftigen sich alle Prüfungsfragen mit Zoonosen.
Wenn Plagegeister krank machen
Authors: Schmid HP Eva C.
Published: April 2019

Arthropoden (Zecken und Stechmücken) können beim Blutsaugen sogenannte Flaviviren übertragen auf Säugetiere und Vögel übertragen. Diese Viren können zum Beispiel beim Menschen Dengue-Fieber, West-Nil-Fieber, FSME oder das Zika-Fieber auslösen.
Practical applications and learning curve for EUS-guided hepaticoenterostomy: results of a large single-center US retrospective analysis
Authors: James Theodore , Baron Todd
Published: April 2019

Background and study aims Endoscopic ultrasound-guided hepaticoenterostomy (EUS-HE) is an effective method of endoscopic biliary drainage in cases where endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography has failed or is deemed impossible. Indications for EUS-HE have expanded, resulting in increased interest by endoscopists to learn the procedure; however, few data exist on breadth of application or experience needed to develop proficiency. We describe utilization of EUS-HE for biliary decompression at a large tertiary referral center along with procedural learning curve.

Patients and methods Retrospective evaluation of 60 consecutive patients who underwent attempted EUS-HE by one endoscopist from February 2016 through June 2018. Procedures were divided into chronological and summative experience quartiles. We compared procedural success rate, procedural utilization, and procedure duration over time.

Results Sixty patients underwent attempted EUS-HE during the study period: 35 with surgically altered anatomy, 23 with malignant biliary obstruction, 35 outpatients, 35 females; median age, 66 years. The procedure was technically successful in 53 patients. Success rates by summative experience quartile were 80 %, 80 %, 93.3 % and 100 % respectively. Beginning at patient number 40, the remaining cases had a success rate of 100 %. Utilization increased from eight cases in the first chronological quartile to 28 in the fourth. There was no significant reduction in procedure duration over time.

Conclusion For an experienced endoscopist, EUS-HE could be performed effectively and safely after the experience of 40 cases. Limitations of this study include a single endoscopist and heterogeneous patient population with variable anatomy that may affect procedural success. Future studies should include data from multiple centers and endoscopists.