bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrative analysis of common genes and driver mutations implicated in hormone stimulation for four cancers in women
Authors: Bhyan Salma Begum , Wee YongKiat , Liu Yining , Cummins Scott , Zhao Min
Published: June 2019

Cancer is one of the leading cause of death of women worldwide, and breast, ovarian, endometrial and cervical cancers contribute significantly to this every year. Developing early genetic-based diagnostic tools may be an effective approach to increase the chances of survival and provide more treatment opportunities. However, the current cancer genetic studies are mainly conducted independently and, hence lack of common driver genes involved in cancers in women. To explore the potential common molecular mechanism, we integrated four comprehensive literature-based databases to explore the shared implicated genetic effects. Using a total of 460 endometrial, 2,068 ovarian, 2,308 breast and 537 cervical cancer-implicated genes, we identified 52 genes which are common in all four types of cancers in women. Furthermore, we defined their potential functional role in endogenous hormonal regulation pathways within the context of four cancers in women. For example, these genes are strongly associated with hormonal stimulation, which may facilitate rapid diagnosis and treatment management decision making. Additional mutational analyses on combined the cancer genome atlas datasets consisting of 5,919 gynaecological and breast tumor samples were conducted to identify the frequently mutated genes across cancer types. For those common implicated genes for hormonal stimulants, we found that three quarter of 5,919 samples had genomic alteration with the highest frequency inMYC(22%), followed byNDRG1(19%),ERBB2(14%),PTEN(13%),PTGS2(13%) andCDH1(11%). We also identified 38 hormone related genes, eight of which are associated with the ovulation cycle. Further systems biology approach of the shared genes identified 20 novel genes, of which 12 were involved in the hormone regulation in these four cancers in women. Identification of common driver genes for hormone stimulation provided an unique angle of involving the potential of the hormone stimulants-related genes for cancer diagnosis and prognosis.
The relationship between vigilance capacity and physical exercise: a mixed-effects multistudy analysis
Authors: Sanabria Daniel , Luque-Casado Antonio , Perales José C. , Ballester Rafael , Ciria Luis F. , Huertas Florentino , Perakakis Pandelis
Published: June 2019

A substantial body of work has depicted a positive association between physical exercise and cognition, although the key factors driving that link are still a matter of scientific debate. Here, we aimed to contribute further to that topic by pooling the data from seven studies (N = 361) conducted by our research group to examine whether cardiovascular fitness (VO2), sport type participation (externally-paced (e.g., football or basketball) and self-paced (e.g., triathlon or track and field athletes) vs. sedentary), or both, are crucial factors to explain the association between the regular practice of exercise and vigilance capacity. We controlled for relevant variables such as age and the method of VO2 estimation. The Psychomotor Vigilance Task was used to measure vigilance performance by means of reaction time (RT). The results showed that externally-paced sport practice (e.g., football) resulted in significantly shorter RT compared to self-paced sport (e.g., triathlon) and sedentary condition, depicting larger effects in children and adolescents than in adults. Further analyses revealed no significant effect of cardiovascular fitness and self-paced sport practice, in comparison to the sedentary condition, on RT. Our data point to the relevance of considering the type of sport practice over and above the level of cardiovascular fitness as crucial factor to explain the positive association between the regular practice of exercise and vigilance capacity.
Carboxypeptidase Y activity and maintenance is modulated by a large helical structure
Authors: Makino Mai , Sahara Takehiko , Morita Naoki , Ueno Hiroshi
Published: June 2019

Yeast carboxypeptidase Y (CPY) is a serine protease with broad substrate specificity. Structurally, CPY belongs to the α/β hydrolase fold family and contains characteristic large helices, termed the V‐shape helix, above the active site cavity. Four intramolecular disulfide bonds are located in and around the V‐shape helix. In this study, mutant CPYs were constructed in which one of these disulfide bonds was disrupted. Mutants lacking the C193–C207 bond located at the beginning of the V‐shape helix aggregated easily, while mutants lacking the C262–C268 bond located at the end of the V‐shape helix displayed decreased hydrolytic activity. The results indicate that the V‐shape helix is involved in CPY catalysis and in maintenance of its conformation.
Incertae Sedis
I
.
F
odinicola
Authors: Schumann Peter , Kämpfer Peter , Glaeser Stefanie P.
Published: June 2019

Fodinicola
(Fo.di.ni'co.la. L. fem. n.
fodina
a pit, mine; L. suff.
‐cola
from L. masc. or fem. n.
incola
dweller; N.L. masc. n.
Fodinicola
a mine dweller).

Actinobacteria / Actinobacteria / Frankiales / Cryptosporangiaceae / Incertae Sedis I. Fodinicola

The genus
Fodinicola
is currently represented by the only species
Fodinicola feengrottensis
. Cells are filamentous with a branched substrate mycelium and sparse‐to‐abundant white aerial mycelium. The aerial hyphae break up into irregular rod‐like elements. Gram‐positive. Spores are not formed. Nonmotile. Aerobic metabolism. Good growth on complex organic media at 20–30°C. Oxidase‐negative, catalase‐positive. The cell‐wall peptidoglycan contains meso‐A2pm, alanine, glycine, and glutamic acid. The muramic acid in the peptidoglycan is
N
‐acetylated. The cell‐wall sugars are xylose and minor amounts of an unknown compound. The predominant menaquinones are MK‐9(H4), MK‐9(H6), and MK‐9(H8). The polar lipids comprise diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylserine, phosphatidylinositol, and several unknown phospholipids and glycolipids together with unidentified ninhydrin‐positive compounds. Mycolic acids are absent. The cellular fatty acid profile is characterized by the predominance of C16:0 iso, 10‐methyl C17:0, C17:1 cis9, 10‐methyl C18:0 iso, and C17:0. On the basis of the 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities, the genus is closely related to the genus
Cryptosporangium
and placed in the family
Cryptosporangiaceae
.

DNA G + C content (mol%)
: 65 (HPLC).

Type species
:
Fodinicola feengrottensis
Carlsohn, Groth, Saluz Schumann and Stackebrandt 2008, 1534
VP
.
A
lgibacter
Authors: Nedashkovskaya Olga I. , Kim Song‐Gun
Published: June 2019

Al.gi.bac'ter
. L. fem. n.
alga
seaweed; N.L. masc. n.
bacter
rod; N.L. masc. n.
Algibacter
rod isolated from seaweed.

Bacteroidetes / Flavobacteriia / Flavobacteriales / Flavobacteriaceae / Algibacter

The genus
Algibacter,
a member of the family
Flavobacteriaceae
, was proposed by Nedashkovskaya et al. in 2004 to accommodate Gram‐negative, facultatively anaerobic, gliding, and oxidase‐positive bacteria. The close phylogenetic relatives of the genus
Algibacter
are members of the family
Flavobacteriaceae
such as
Arenitalea, Changchengzhania, Flaviramulus, Gaetbulibacter, Litoribaculum, Mariniflexile, Postechiella, Sabulilitoribacter
, and
Tamlana
with sequence similarity ranges 94.9–97.1, 93.7–96.0, 93.3–96.4, 93.1–96.9, 92.3–96.1, 92–95.5, 93.9–95.6, 94.2–96.6, and 92.1–96.8%, respectively. On marine agar, colonies of the majority
Algibacter
species are regular, round, low convex, shiny, and yellow or orange pigmented. Growth occurs with 0–8% NaCl, at pH 5.0–11.0, and at 0–55°C. The optimal growth is observed at 15–28°C, at pH 7.0–8.0, and with 0.5–3% NaCl.
Algibacter
strains cannot hydrolyze chitin and urea. The predominant cellular fatty acids of the known members of the genus
Algibacter
are iso‐C
15:0
(4.7–34.4%), iso‐C
15:1
G (5.0–22.8%), iso‐C
15:0
3‐OH (4.5–16.7%), and iso‐C
17:0
3‐OH (3.1–16.9%). The major respiratory quinone is MK‐6. The main polar lipid is phosphatidylethanolamine. At the time of writing, the genus
Algibacter
comprised 14 validly described species that were isolated from the different marine environments including seawater, sediments, seaweeds, and echinoderms. The type species of the genus is
Algibacter lectus
. The
Algibacter
species share 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities ranging from 94.2 to 99.4% to one another. The DNA–DNA relatedness between the type strains of the
Algibacter
species is 15–34%.

DNA G + C content (mol%)
: 30–41 (
T
m,
HPLC and genome sequence).

Type species
:
Algibacter lectus
Nedashkovskaya, Kim, Han, Rhee, Lysenko, Rohde, Zhukova, Frolova, Mikhailov and Bae 2004, 1260
VP
.
Haloarcula
Authors: Ventosa Antonio , de la Haba Rafael R. , Sánchez‐Porro Cristina
Published: June 2019

Ha.lo.ar'cu.la. Gr. n.hals, halossalt; L. fem. n.arculasmall box; N.L. fem. n.Haloarculasalt (‐requiring) small box.

Euryarchaeota / Halobacteria / Halobacteriales / Haloarculaceae / Haloarcula

The genusHaloarculais classified within the familyHaloarculaceaeand the orderHalobacteriales, in the classHalobacteria. The cells are rods to pleomorphic (triangles, squares, and irregular disks) and stain Gram‐negative. Colonies are red to red‐orange or red‐pink pigmented. They are neutrophilic (optimal growth at pH 7.0–7.5) and extremely halophilic Archaea, growing in media containing 1.7–5.2 M NaCl. Polar lipids include phosphatidylglycerol (PG), phosphatidylglycerol phosphate methyl ester (PGP‐Me), phosphatidylglycerol sulfate (PGS), and characteristically the glycolipid glucosyl–mannosyl–glucosyl diether (TGD‐2). The DNA G + C range is 60.1–65 mol%. Currently, the genus includes nine species:Haloarcula vallismortis(type species of the genus),Haloarcula amylolytica,Haloarcula argentinensis,Haloarcula hispanica,Haloarcula japonica,Haloarcula marismortui,Haloarcula quadrata,Haloarcula salaria, andHaloarcula tradensis. The strains of these species were isolated from salt lakes, salterns, saline soils, and salt samples.

DNA G+C content (mol%): 60.1–65 (the DNA may contain a major and a minor component).

Type species:Haloarcula vallismortis(Gonzalez, Gutierrez and Ramirez 1978) Torreblanca, Rodriguez‐Valera, Juez, Ventosa, Kamekura and Kates 1986b, 573VP(Effective publication: Torreblanca, Rodriguez‐Valera, Juez, Ventosa, Kamekura and Kates 1986a, 98; basonym:Halobacterium vallismortisGonzalez, Gutierrez and Ramirez 1978, 710).
Methanospirillum
Authors: Zhou Liguang , Dong Xiuzhu
Published: June 2019

N.L. neut. n.methanummethane; Gr. n.speiraspiral; N.L. neut. n.Methanospirillummethane (‐producing) spiral.

Euryarchaeota / Methanomicrobiales / Methanomicrobiales / Methanospirillaceae / Methanospirillum

The genusMethanospirillumcomprises hydrogenotrophic methanogens that use H2/CO2as the primary substrate to produce methane. Some species also use formate or secondary alcohols + CO2. Cells are curved rods surrounded by an S‐layer protein and a sheath that can make the filaments extend to hundred micrometers. Optimal growth is achieved for most species at mesophilic temperatures and in neutrophilic environments, but a few species tolerate cold even growing at 4°C. Currently, the genusMethanospirillumhas four species and is the only genus of the familyMethanospirillaceaeaffiliated with the orderMethanomicrobiales. The four species are isolated from anaerobic waste treatment systems and wetland soils.

DNA G + C content (mol%): 40–49.5.

Type species:Methanospirillum hungateiFerry, Smith and Wolfe 1974, 469AL.
B
ryobacter
Authors: Dedysh Svetlana N.
Published: June 2019

Bry.o.bac'ter. Gr. neut. n.
bryon
moss; N.L. masc. n.
bacter
a short rod; N.L. masc. n.
Bryobacter
rod‐shaped moss‐associated bacterium.

Acidobacteria / Acidobacteriia / Bryobacterales / Bryobacteraceae / Bryobacter

The genus
Bryobacter
accommodates acidotolerant, strictly aerobic, slow‐growing chemoorganotrophic bacteria, which inhabit acidic wetlands and soils. The only currently described species of this genus,
Bryobacter aggregatus
, was isolated from boreal
Sphagnum
peat bogs. Cells of these acidobacteria are Gram‐negative, non‐spore‐forming, nonmotile, short rods, or coccoids that reproduce by binary fission. Cells occur singly or in aggregates. On solid media, form very small, nonpigmented colonies. These mesophilic bacteria utilize sugars, some heteropolysaccharides, as well as galacturonic and glucuronic acids, which are released during decomposition of
Sphagnum
moss. Major fatty acids are iso‐C
15
:0
, C
16
:0
, and C
16
:1
ω7
c
; the cells also contain significant amounts of 13,16‐dimethyl octacosanedioic acid. The predominant quinones are MK‐9 and MK‐10. Members of the class
Acidobacteriia
, order
Bryobacterales
, family
Bryobacteraceae
.

DNA G + C content (mol%)
: 58.0.

Type species
:
Bryobacter aggregatus
Kulichevskaya, Suzina, Liesack and Dedysh 2010, 304
VP
.
S
alisaeta
Authors: Oren Aharon
Published: June 2019

Sa.li.sae'ta
. L. neut. n.
sal
,
salis
, salt; L. fem. n.
saeta
, a bristle; N.L. fem. n.
Salisaeta
, a salt bristle.

Bacteroidota / Rhodothermia / Rhodothermales / Salinibacteraceae / Salisaeta

The genus
Salisaeta
(family
Salinibacteraceae
, order
Rhodothermales
, class
Rhodothermia
) contains a single species of Gram stain‐negative, nonmotile, and very long (up to 30 µm) rod‐shaped cells. Colonies are red due to the presence of carotenoids. The single species,
Salisaeta longa
, is a mesophilic halophile: it requires at least 0.85 M NaCl, and optimal growth is achieved at 1.7 M NaCl + 0.25 M MgCl
2
at neutral pH. It is an aerobic chemoorganotroph that grows on amino acids; growth is stimulated by some sugars. The polar lipids include unusual sulfonolipids (halocapnines).
Salisaeta longa
was isolated from an experimental mesocosm filled with a mixture of water from the Dead Sea and the Red Sea. Related strains were found in solar salterns and hypersaline intertidal flats.

DNA G + C content (mol%)
: 62.9–63.5.

Type species
:
Salisaeta longa
Vaisman and Oren 2009, 2573
VP
.
Boosting the Efficiency of SnO2‐Triple Cation Perovskite System Beyond 20% Using Nonhalogenated Antisolvent
Authors: Lee Hock Beng , Jeon Mi‐Kyung , Kumar Neetesh , Tyagi Barkha , Kang Jae‐Wook
Published: June 2019

Solution‐processed triple‐cation perovskite solar cells (PSCs) rely on complex compositional engineering or delicate interfacial passivation to balance the trade‐off between cell efficiency and long‐term stability. Herein, the facile fabrication of highly efficient, stable, and hysteresis‐free tin oxide (SnO2)‐based PSCs is demonstrated with a champion cell efficiency of 20.06% using a green, halogen‐free antisolvent. The antisolvent, composed of ethyl acetate (EA) solvent and hexane (Hex) in different proportions, works exquisitely in regulating perovskite crystal growth and passivating grain boundaries, leading to the formation of a crack‐free perovskite film with enlarged grain size. The high quality perovskite film inhibits carrier recombination and substantially improves the cell efficiency, without requiring an additional enhancer/passivation layer. Furthermore, these PSCs also demonstrate remarkable long‐term stability, whereby unencapsulated cells exhibit a power conversion efficiency (PCE) retention of ≈71% after >1500 hours of storage under ambient condition. For encapsulated cells, an astounding PCE retention of >98% is recorded after >3000 hours of storage in air. Overall, this work realizes the fabrication of SnO2‐based PSCs with a performance greater or comparable to the state‐of‐the‐art PSCs produced with halogenated antisolvents. Evidently, EA–Hex antisolvent can be an extraordinary halogen‐free alternative in maximizing the performance of PSCs.
Bioresorbable Electrode Array for Electrophysiological and Pressure Signal Recording in the Brain
Authors: Xu Kedi , Li Shijian , Dong Shurong , Zhang Shaomin , Pan Gang , Wang Guangming , Shi Lin , Guo Wei , Yu Chaonan , Luo Jikui
Published: June 2019

Medical implantation of an electrocorticography (ECoG) recording system for brain monitoring is an effective clinical tool for seizure focus location and brain disease diagnosis. Planar and flexible ECoG electrodes can minimize the risks of infection and serious inflammatory response, and their good shape adaptability allows the device to fit complex cortex shape and structure to record brain signals with high spatial and temporal resolution. However, these ECoG electrodes require an additional surgery to remove the implant, which imposes potential medical risks. Here, a novel flexible and bioresorbable ECoG device integrated with an intracortical pressure sensor for monitoring swelling of the cortex during operation is reported. The ECoG device is fabricated with poly(l‐lactide) and polycaprolactone composite and transient metal molybdenum. In vivo tests on rats show that the ECoG system can record the dynamic changes in brain signals for the different epilepsy stages with high resolution, while the malleable pressure sensor shows a linear relationship between the pressure and resistance in in vitro tests. In vitro degradation experiments show that the ECoG system can work stably for about five days before loss of efficacy, and the whole ECoG system degrades completely in a phosphate buffer solution in about 100 days.
Nature Helps: Toward Bioinspired Bactericidal Nanopatterns
Authors: Ganjian Mahya , Modaresifar Khashayar , Ligeon Manon R. O. , Kunkels Lorenzo B. , Tümer Nazli , Angeloni Livia , Hagen Cornelis W. , Otten Linda G. , Hagedoorn Peter‐Leon , Apachitei Iulian , Fratila‐Apachitei Lidy E. , Zadpoor Amir A.
Published: June 2019

Development of synthetic bactericidal surfaces is a drug‐free route to the prevention of implant‐associated infections. Surface nanotopographies with specific dimensions have been shown to kill various types of bacterial strains through a mechanical mechanism, while regulating stem cell differentiation and tissue regeneration. The effective ranges of dimensions required to simultaneously achieve both aims are in the <200 nm range. Here, a nanoscale additive manufacturing (=3D printing) technique called electron beam induced deposition (EBID) is used to fabricate nanopillars with reproducible and precisely controlled dimensions and arrangements that are within those effective ranges (i.e. a height of 190 nm, a diameter of 80 nm, and an interspacing of 170 nm). When compared to the flat surface, the nanopatterned surfaces show a significant bactericidal activity against both Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus (with respective killing efficiencies of 97 ± 1% and 36 ± 5%). Direct penetration of nanopatterns into the bacterial cell wall leads to the disruption of the cell wall and cell death. The more rigid cell wall of S. aureus is consistent with the decreased killing efficiency. These findings support the development of nanopatterns with precisely controlled dimensions that are capable of killing both Gram‐negative and Gram‐positive bacteria.
Stripping and recycling of metal ions in aqueous nitric acid solutions: Experimental and molecular dynamics insights
Authors: Biswas Rima , Banerjee Tamal , Ghosh Pallab , Ali Sheikh Musharaf
Published: June 2019

Stripping of metal ions (i.e., Cs+ and Na+) in presence of ionophore such as dibenzo‐18‐crown‐6, (DB18C6) from the ionic liquid phase to the aqueous nitric acid phase by molecular dynamics simulation is reported. The experimentally determined stripping percentages of Na+ (i.e., 43.4, 38.5, 34.4, and 31.9%) were found to be higher than the same for Cs+ (i.e., 32.6, 32.0, 31.3, and 30.2%). The nonbonded and the hydrogen bond energies between Na+ and water (i.e., −356.41 and −363.77 kcal/mol) were higher when compared with Cs+ (i.e., −212.43 and −221.04 kcal/mol). The spatial distribution functions further confirmed that the surfaces of Na+ were very closely distributed around the active sides of water whereas for Cs+, it was distributed very far from the water molecules. In the penultimate section, the effect of methanol to the aqueous phase was studied so as to enhance the extraction efficiency of the complex.
Comprehensive mutagenesis on yeast cytosine deaminase yields improvements in 5‐fluorocytosine toxicity in HT1080 cells
Authors: Warren Tiana D. , Patel Krishna , Rivera Jordan L. , Eshleman James R. , Ostermeier Marc
Published: June 2019

Improved prodrug‐activating enzymes have the potential to increase the therapeutic efficacy of gene‐directed enzyme prodrug therapy (GDEPT). Yeast cytosine deaminase (yCD) is commonly used to convert the prodrug 5‐fluorocytosine (5‐FC) to the chemotherapeutic 5‐fluorouracil for GDEPT. Mutagenesis studies on yCD aimed at improving its application in GDEPT have been limited to subsets of residues or have sought to improve a single property of the enzyme. We performed comprehensive site‐saturation mutagenesis (CSM) on yCD designed to create all 2,983 possible unique protein mutants with a single amino acid substitution. We identified active variants through Escherichia coli genetic complementation and screened these mutants, and combinations thereof, for increased ability to sensitize E. coli and HT1080 fibrosarcoma cells to 5‐FC. Several mutants identified in this study showed increased sensitization ability for both E. coli and HT1080 cells indicating that CSM is an effective directed evolution tool for identifying unexpectedly beneficial mutations.
Target engagement in an alzheimer trial: Crenezumab lowers amyloid β oligomers in cerebrospinal fluid
Authors: Yang Ting , Dang Yifan , Ostaszewski Beth , Mengel David , Steffen Verena , Rabe Christina , Bittner Tobias , Walsh Dominic M. , Selkoe Dennis J.
Published: June 2019

Objective

Oligomeric forms of amyloid β protein (oAβ) are believed to be principally responsible for neurotoxicity in Alzheimer disease (AD), but it is not known whether anti‐Aβ antibodies are capable of lowering oAβ levels in humans.

Methods

We developed an ultrasensitive immunoassay and used it to measure oAβ in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from 104 AD subjects participating in the ABBY and BLAZE phase 2 trials of the anti‐Aβ antibody crenezumab. Patients received subcutaneous (SC) crenezumab (300mg) or placebo every 2 weeks, or intravenous (IV) crenezumab (15mg/kg) or placebo every 4 weeks for 68 weeks. Ninety‐eight of the 104 patients had measurable baseline oAβ levels, and these were compared to levels at week 69 in placebo (n = 28), SC (n = 35), and IV (n = 35) treated patients.

Results

Among those receiving crenezumab, 89% of SC and 86% of IV patients had lower levels of oAβ at week 69 versus baseline. The difference in the proportion of patients with decreasing levels was significant for both treatment arms: p = 0.0035 for SC and p = 0.01 for IV crenezumab versus placebo. The median percentage change was −48% in the SC arm and −43% in the IV arm. No systematic change was observed in the placebo group, with a median change of −13% and equivalent portions with negative and positive change.

Interpretation

Crenezumab lowered CSF oAβ levels in the large majority of treated patients tested. These results support engagement of the principal pathobiological target in AD and identify CSF oAβ as a novel pharmacodynamic biomarker for use in trials of anti‐Aβ agents. ANN NEUROL 2019;86:215–224
Enzymatic Production of Diacylglycerols from High‐Acid Soybean Oil
Authors: Zhong Nanjing , Kou Maomao , Zhao Fenghuan , Yang Kunpeng , Lin Shaoyan
Published: June 2019

In this study, high‐acid soybean oil, with acid values (Av) ranging from 10 to 50, was enzymatically deacidified for diacylglycerol (DAG) production. The effects of glycerol amounts were studied intensively. The glycerol amount could be calculated theoretically based on the Av of the raw oil (1 mol glycerol with 2 mol oleic acid to form 1 mol DAG, and 1 mol glycerol with 2 mol soybean oil to form 3 mol DAG). A total of 60–62% of DAG could be obtained and the free fatty acid (FFA) content was reduced to 0.36–0.66%. Increased glycerol did not lead to DAG content improvement. However, the glycerol amount based on just the deacidification theoretical calculation (1 mol glycerol with 2 mol oleic acid to form 1 mol DAG) was not feasible to reduce the FFA content. Moreover, Novozym 435 was rather stable in the present reaction procedure, no loss of activity was observed after 10 consecutive uses.
Structures and Dynamics of Secondary and Tertiary Alkylphosphine Oxides Adsorbed on Silica
Authors: Kharel Sugam , Cluff Kyle J. , Bhuvanesh Nattamai , Gladysz John A. , Blümel Janet
Published: June 2019

The three secondary phosphine oxides [CH2=CH(CH2)4]2HPO (1), [CH2=CH(CH2)5]2HPO (2), and [CH2=CH(CH2)6]2HPO (3), and two diphosphine dioxides, {[CH2=CH(CH2)6]2PO(CH2)7}2(4) and {[CH2=CH(CH2)6]2PO(CH2)4}2(5), incorporating long methylene chains, are described. The single crystal X‐ray structures of1,2, and5have been determined. The phosphine oxides3,4, and5have been adsorbed on silica in submonolayer quantities to give3 a–5 a. The1H,13C, and31P solid‐state NMR spectra of polycrystalline3–5have been analyzed and compared with those of3 a–5 a. The changes of the solid‐state NMR characteristics upon adsorption and the surface mobilities of the phosphine oxides are discussed.
Accurate and cost‐effective prediction of HBsAg titer in industrial scale fermentation process of recombinant Pichia pastoris by using neural network based soft sensor
Authors: Hosseini Seyed Nezamedin , Javidanbardan Amin , Khatami Maryam
Published: June 2019

In the current work, the attempt was made to apply best‐fitted artificial neural network (ANN) architecture and the respective training process for predicting final titer of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), produced intracellularly by recombinant Pichia pastoris Mut+ in the commercial scale. For this purpose, in large‐scale fed‐batch fermentation, using methanol for HBsAg induction and cell growth, three parameters of average specific growth rate, biomass yield, and dry biomass concentration—in the definite integral form with respect to fermentation time—were selected as input vectors; the final concentration of HBsAg was selected for the ANN output. Used dataset consists of 38 runs from previous batches; feed‐forward ANN 3:5:1 with training algorithm of backpropagation based on a Bayesian regularization was trained and tested with a high degree of accuracy. Implementing the verified ANN for predicting the HBsAg titer of the five new fermentation runs, excluded from the dataset, in the full‐scale production, the coefficient of regression and root‐mean‐square error were found to be 0.969299 and 2.716774, respectively. These results suggest that this verified soft sensor could be an excellent alternative for the current relatively expensive and time‐intensive analytical techniques such as enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay in the biopharmaceutical industry.
A Case Study on the Keap1 Interaction with Peptide Sequence Epitopes Selected by the Peptidomic mRNA Display
Authors: Hirose Hisaaki , Hideshima Tomoki , Katoh Takayuki , Suga Hiroaki
Published: June 2019

Many protein–protein and peptide–protein interactions (PPIs) play key roles in the regulation of biological functions, and therefore, the modulation of PPIs has become an attractive target of new drug development. Although a number of PPIs have already been identified, over 100 000 unknown PPIs are predicted to exist. To uncover such unknown PPIs, it is important to devise a conceptually distinct method from that of currently available methods. Herein, an mRNA display by using a total RNA library derived from various human tissues, which serves as a unique method to physically isolate peptide epitopes that potentially bind to a target protein of interest, is reported. In this study, selection was performed against Kelch‐like ECH‐associated protein (Keap1) as a model target protein, leading to a peptide epitope originating from astrotactin‐1 (ASTN1). It turned out that this ASTN1 peptide was able to interact with Keap1 more strongly than that with a known peptide derived from Nrf2; a well‐known, naturally occurring Keap1 binder. This case study demonstrates the applicability of peptidomic mRNA display for the rapid exploration of consensus binding peptide motifs and the potential for the discovery of unknown PPIs with other proteins of interest.
Multivalent Ligands with Tailor‐Made Anion Binding Motif as Stabilizers of Protein–Protein Interactions
Authors: Bartsch Lina , Bartel Maria , Gigante Alba , Iglesias‐Fernández Javier , Ruiz‐Blanco Yasser B. , Beuck Christine , Briels Jeroen , Toetsch Niklas , Bayer Peter , Sanchez‐Garcia Elsa , Ottmann Christian , Schmuck Carsten
Published: June 2019

Modulation of protein–protein interactions (PPIs) is essential for understanding and tuning biologically relevant processes. Although inhibitors for PPIs are widely used, the field still lacks the targeted design of stabilizers. Here, we report unnatural stabilizers based on the combination of multivalency effects and the artificial building block guanidiniocarbonylpyrrol (GCP), an arginine mimetic. Unlike other GCP‐based ligands that modulate PPIs in different protein targets, only a tetrameric design shows potent activity as stabilizer of the 14‐3‐3ζ/C‐Raf and 14‐3‐3ζ/Tau complexes in the low‐micromolar range. This evidences the role of multivalency for achieving higher specificity in the modulation of PPIs.
Usefulness of the trans‐stent fractional flow reserve gradient for predicting clinical outcomes
Authors: Yang Hyoung‐Mo , Lim Hong‐Seok , Yoon Myeong‐Ho , Seo Kyoung‐Woo , Choi Byoung‐Joo , Choi So‐Yeon , Hwang Gyo‐Seung , Tahk Seung‐Jea
Published: June 2019

Objectives

We evaluated the usefulness of a fractional flow reserve (FFR) gradient across the stent (ΔFFRstent) for long‐term clinical outcomes after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with a drug‐eluting stent (DES).

Background

The clinical meaning of a trans‐stent pressure gradient after DES implantation has not been estimated adequately.

Methods

FFR pull‐back and intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) were performed after successful PCI in 135 left anterior descending artery lesions. ΔFFRstent was defined as the FFR gradient across the stent. The ΔFFRstent/length was defined as the ΔFFRstent value divided by the total stent length multiplied by 10. Major adverse cardiac events (MACEs) were the composite of all‐cause death, target vessel‐related myocardial infarction, and target lesion revascularization.

Results

Despite successful PCI, ΔFFRstent > 0 was observed in 98.5% of cases. ΔFFRstent ≥ 0.04 and ΔFFRstent/length ≥ 0.009 predicted suboptimal stenting defined as final minimal stent area < 5.5 mm2. During 2,183 ± 898 days, the MACE‐free survival rate was significantly lower in patients with ΔFFRstent ≥ 0.04 and ΔFFRstent/length ≥ 0.009 compared to those with lower values (69.6 vs. 93.4%, log‐rank p = .031; 72.1 vs. 97.7%, log‐rank p = .003, respectively). ΔFFRstent/length ≥ 0.009 (hazard ratio 10.1, p = .032) was an independent predictor of MACE.

Conclusion

A trans‐stent FFR gradient was frequently observed. ΔFFRstent and ΔFFRstent/length are related to long‐term outcomes in DES‐treated patients.
Rhinocerebral mucormycosis with dissemination to pontine area in a diabetic patient: Treatment and management
Authors: Galletti Bruno , Gazia Francesco , Galletti Cosimo , Perani Fulvio , Ciodaro Francesco , Freni Francesco , Galletti Francesco
Published: June 2019

Rhinocerebral mucormycosis is a rapidly life‐threatening disease caused by a fungal infection. Every diabetic patient with sinusitis symptoms, headache, and visual changes needs radiological approach and nasal endoscopy to rule out mucormycosis. The mortality rate is 50%‐85%, despite an early diagnosis and a correct treatment.
Efficient Synthesis of Bimetallic Pt3Zn Alloy Nanocrystals with Different Shapes and their Enhanced Electrocatalytic Activity
Authors: Zhang Xinran , Ossufo Iahaia Gomes Ali , Ye Huanyu , Huang Yunxia , Ge Shuaipeng , Xiang Zhongcheng , Cui Yimin , Wang Rongming
Published: June 2019

Highly uniform dispersed bimetallic Pt3Zn alloy nanocrystals (NCs) with unique geometries are obtained via a facile one‐pot synthesis process by regulating different reductants. To investigate the morphology and composition of the prepared catalysts, the transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy are utilized. Electrochemical measurements reveal that the Pt3Zn NCs significantly exhibited larger electrochemically active surface areas and excellent catalytic activity towards electro‐oxidation of methanol and ethanol in comparison to the commercial Pt/C. The optimized Pt3Zn (AA) NCs exhibit excellent mass activities in both methanol oxidation reaction (1251.4 mA mgPt−1) and ethanol oxidation reaction (975.7 mA mgPt−1) in acidic media, which are respectively 4.28 times and 3.02 times higher than those of commercial Pt/C. Moreover, the Pt3Zn NCs show a higher stability and better resistance to the COads poisoning. The activity enhancements are attributed to electronic effects and a bifunctional mechanism.
Synthesis of Alkynylthiopyridinium Salts and Their Use as Thioketene Equivalents
Authors: Averesch Kai F. G. , Pesch Henner , Golz Christopher , Alcarazo Manuel
Published: June 2019

A synthetic method has been developed for the preparation of dihalo(pyridinium)sulfuranes and their transformation into alkynylthiopyridinium salts, starting from inexpensive thiopyridones. The reactivity of these salts towards different nucleophiles is evaluated. Most thiols and amines are converted into dithioesters and thioamides, respectively; whereas sterically demanding thiols delivered alkynylthioethers. These results, together with preliminary mechanistic studies reveal that alkynylthiopyridinium salts can be considered synthetic equivalents of unstable thioketenes.
Rainfall Interception by Urban Trees and Their Impact on Potential Surface Runoff
Authors: Zabret Katarina , Šraj Mojca
Published: June 2019

Urbanization changes the natural environment, alters land use, and affects the hydrological cycle. Due to decreased infiltration, runoff appears faster with higher flow peaks. A nature‐based solution is to plant trees because they intercept precipitation and help to reduce water reaching the ground, forming surface runoff. Rainfall partitioning for birch (Betula pendula Roth.) and pine (Pinus nigra Arnold) trees is measured in the city of Ljubljana, Slovenia, during 2014 and 2015. The measured values for two consecutive years are used to estimate potential surface runoff reduction due to planting of the trees at a parking lot. The results demonstrate that birch and pine trees intercepted 23 and 45% of gross rainfall, respectively. Both tree species intercept more rainfall in the leafed period. Additionally, rainfall interception during wet (2014) and dry (2015) years has been compared. In 2014 rainfall interception is highly influenced by rainfall intensity, while it has a negligible impact on rainfall interception in 2015, when air temperature is more influential. The scenario of covering 10% of the parking lot area with the trees results in runoff reduction of up to 7.3% per year. In general, runoff reduction is higher in a wet rather than a dry year. The new findings about the performance of different tree species in different climate conditions can offer valuable information for the decision makers and landscape designers about the benefits of trees in urban areas.
High‐Performance Organic Dyes with Electron‐Deficient Quinoxalinoid Heterocycles for Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells under One Sun and Indoor Light
Authors: Jiang Man Ling , Wen Jun‐Jie , Chen Zi‐Ming , Tsai Wen‐Hsuan , Lin Tzu‐Chau , Chow Tahsin J. , Chang Yuan Jay
Published: June 2019

A series of Y‐shaped sensitizers incorporating quinoxaline or quinoxalinoid moieties were prepared and applied in dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). By the introduction of quinoxalinoid functionalities, the absorption extinction coefficients could be enhanced. The molecular structures were modified by introducing an extra acceptor group (A) between a donor (D) and a π‐bridge (D–A–π–A) and also by incorporating electron‐donating substituents at various positions of the quinoxalinoid moiety. Some of the dyes and mixtures thereof were found to exhibit good light‐harvesting efficiencies under both sunlight and indoor light, with efficiencies up to 7.92 % under one sun (AM 1.5G). When operated under indoor light, the efficiency could be boosted to 27.76, 28.74, and 30.45 % under 600, 1000, 2500 lux illumination, respectively. The best performance could be ascribed partly to an improved dye coverage on the TiO2 surface.
Morphology‐Controlled Synthesis of H‐type MFI Zeolites with Unique Stacked Structures through a One‐Pot Solvent‐Free Strategy
Authors: Wu Dan , Yu Xing , Chen Xinqing , Yu Gan , Zhang Kun , Qiu Minghuang , Xue Wenjie , Yang Chengguang , Liu Ziyu , Sun Yuhan
Published: June 2019

H‐type aluminosilicate zeolites are extensively used as solid‐acid catalysts and support materials in industrial catalysis. However, the conventional synthesis methods involving hydrothermal syntheses and ion‐exchange processes suffer from severe water pollution and toxic gas emissions. Herein, H‐type MFI zeolite catalysts with a unique stacked structure were directly synthesized in the presence of NH4F and with the help of zeolite confinement through a solvent‐free route without further ion‐exchange procedures. A range of ex situ and in situ characterization procedures were used to provide evidence of the simultaneous use of pre‐made ZSM‐5 and NH4F as a confined Al source and mineralizer, respectively. The confined zeolite framework of ZSM‐5 prevented the formation of AlFx species between NH4F and Al atoms, ensuring that the prepared samples had desirable acidic properties. Moreover, the resulting morphology could be controlled by using different silica substrates. The obtained H‐type MFI zeolites showed excellent catalytic performance in methanol‐to‐gasoline reactions owing to their unique structure and directly exposed acidic sites. The developed one‐pot strategy provides an alternative method for the facile synthesis of H‐type zeolites with defined morphology.
X‐ray Nano‐computed Tomography of Electrochemical Conversion in Lithium‐ion Battery
Authors: Di Lecce Daniele , Levchenko Stanislav , Iacoviello Francesco , Brett Dan J. L. , Shearing Paul R. , Hassoun Jusef
Published: June 2019

Herein, a nanometric CuO anode for lithium‐ion batteries was investigated by combining electrochemical measurements and ex situ X‐ray computed tomography (CT) at the nanoscale. The electrode reacted by conversion at about 1.2 and 2.4 V versus Li+/Li during discharge and charge, respectively, to deliver a capacity ranging from 500 mAh g−1 to over 600 mAh g−1. Three‐dimensional nano‐CT imaging revealed substantial reorganization of the CuO particles and precipitation of a Li+‐conducting film suitable for a possible application in the battery. A lithium‐ion cell, exploiting the high capacity of the conversion process, was assembled by using a high‐performance LiNi0.33Co0.33Mn0.33O2 cathode reacting at 3.9 V versus Li+/Li. The cell was proposed as an energy‐storage system with an average working voltage of about 2.5 V, specific capacity of 170 mAh gcathode−1, and efficiency exceeding 99 % with a very stable cycling.
Multiple tuberous and tendinous xanthomas diagnosed on fine‐needle aspiration cytology—report of a rare case
Authors: Tummidi Santosh , Kothari Kanchan , Rojekar Amey , Tiwari Ashish
Published: June 2019

Xanthomas are papulonodular skin lesions present in lipoprotein metabolism disorders, which result in cholesterol deposits in subcutaneous tissue, tendons, ligaments, periosteum, etc. A 11‐year‐old male presented with multiple soft tissue swellings, prominently over joints. Fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) from multiple sites had similar appearance with foamy histocytes and giant cells. Oil Red O and polarized microscopy were also positive for fat. We describe an unusual case of tendinous and tuberous xanthoma diagnosed by cytology. Acquaintance with fine‐needle aspiration cytology findings in xanthomas can help to avoid the need of surgical biopsy, as xanthomas can regress on medical therapy alone.
Modelling of rare flood meadow species distribution by a combined habitat surface water–groundwater model
Authors: Gattringer Johannes P. , Maier Nadine , Breuer Lutz , Otte Annette , Donath Tobias W. , Kraft Philipp , Harvolk‐Schöning Sarah
Published: June 2019

Floodplains are highly complex and dynamic systems in terms of their hydrology. Thus, they comprise a wide habitat heterogeneity and therefore harbour highly specialized species. For future projections of habitat and species diversity, process‐based models simulating ecohydrological conditions and resulting habitat and species distributions are needed. We present a new modelling framework that includes a physically based, surface water–groundwater model coupled with a habitat model. Using the model framework, we simulate the occurrence of 23 flood meadow plant species in a Rhine River floodplain. To benchmark the data, results are compared with a conventional approach with simple spatial hydrological information. Our results show that models with predictors obtained from the surface water–groundwater model are significantly more accurate for rare and endangered species, as well as for typical flood meadow species. A total of 15 hydrological predictors were defined, which look relevant and promising for a good prediction, but at the same time reflect very different hydrological conditions. The standard deviation of the groundwater level, wet soil conditions, and inundation belong to the most relevant predictors for an accurate prediction. Therefore, we recommend including more specific hydrological information in habitat models of species in complex floodplain ecosystems. Such spatial explicit habitat models can also open up further possibilities, such as the projection of global change impact studies or nature conservation planning.
Synthetic and Structural Investigations on the System Na1–xEux[Li3–2xSi1‐xAl3xO4–4xN4x]
Authors: Dutzler Daniel , Seibald Markus , Baumann Dominik , Ruegenberg Freia , Huppertz Hubert
Published: June 2019

Invited for the cover of this issue are the contributors to the published work originating from an international cooperation between the Huppertz group (University of Innsbruck, Austria) and OSRAM Opto Semiconductors (Germany). The cover image shows the transformation from the known compound Na[Li3SiO4] to novel luminescent materials along the solid‐solution series Na1–xEux[Li3–2xSi1‐xAl3xO4–4xN4x] by the successive addition of Eu2+, Al3+, and N3–.
Synthesis of Thiomorpholin‐3‐ones by a Gold‐Catalysed Oxidative Cyclisation‐Rearrangement Cascade from Ynamides
Authors: Baker Thomas , Davies Paul W.
Published: June 2019

A gold‐catalyzed oxidative N‐cyclisation strategy allows for the preparation of α‐aryl thiomorpholin‐3‐ones from readily assembled ynamides bearing tethered thioethers. A cascade of oxidation, cyclisation and then [2,3]‐ or [1,2]‐sigmatropic rearrangement of the resulting sulfonium ylide proceeds under mild reaction conditions. Cyclisation and intermolecular oxidation are in competition at two different stages of the reaction. The required switch in selectivity between these processes can be managed by combining pyridine N‐oxide oxidant with an IPrAuCl‐derived catalyst.
Evaluation of Ionic Liquids Based on Amino Acid Anions for Use in Liquid‐junction Free Reference Electrodes
Authors: Galiullin Timur M. , Pokhvishcheva Nadezhda V. , Kalinichev Andrey V. , Peshkova Maria A.
Published: June 2019

In this paper we report on the novel polymeric membranes for the liquid junction‐free reference electrodes. The membranes contain the ionic liquids (ILs) based on the amino acid anions, namely valine‐, leucine‐, lysine‐ and histidine‐anions, and 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium cation. Addition of the ILs, and especially of the valine‐based one, to the polymeric plasticized membranes allows significant stabilization of the electrode potential and makes it insensitive to the solution composition. A simple criterion based on the calculated lipophilicities of the cation and anion of the IL is proposed for a priori estimation of its applicability for potential stabilization. The addition of the IL as a microcomponent is found to be advantageous over plasticizing the membrane with the IL due to better potential stability, higher dissociation degree and mobility of the species. The resistance of the novel reference membranes can be tuned by addition of the lipophilic membrane electrolytes, e. g. ETH500. The applicability of the developed reference electrodes is verified in the potentiometric calibration of the indicator K+‐ and Ca2+‐selective electrodes. Implementation of the amino acid‐based ionic liquids with low environmental toxicity can make a significant contribution to the development of nature‐friendly potentiometry.
Amperometric Biosensor Based on Enzymatic Reactor for Choline Determination in Flow Systems
Authors: Tvorynska Sofiia , Barek Jiří , Josypčuk Bohdan
Published: June 2019

A simple, selective and stable biosensor with the enzymatic reactor based on choline oxidase (ChOx) was developed and applied for the determination of choline (Ch) in flow injection analysis with amperometric detection. The enzyme ChOx was covalently immobilized with glutaraldehyde to mesoporous silica powder (SBA‐15) previously covered by NH2‐groups. This powder was found as an optimal filling of the reactor. The detection of Ch is based on amperometric monitoring of consumed oxygen during the enzymatic reaction, which is directly proportional to Ch concentration. Two arrangements of an electrolytic cell in FIA, namely wall‐jet cell with working silver solid amalgam electrode covered by mercury film and flow‐through cell with tubular detector of polished silver solid amalgam were compared. The experimental parameters affecting the sensitivity and stability of the biosensor (i. e. pH of the carrier solution, volume of reactor, amount of the immobilized enzyme, the detection potential, flow rate, etc.) were optimized. Under the optimized conditions, the limit of detection was found to be 9.0×10−6 mol L−1. The Michaelis‐Menten constant for covalently immobilized ChOx on SBA‐15 was calculated. The proposed amperometric biosensor with the developed ChOx‐based reactor exhibits good repeatability, reproducibility, long‐term stability, and reusability. Its efficiency has been confirmed by the successful application for the determination of Ch in two commercial pharmaceuticals.
Electrochemical Aptasensor with Layer‐by‐layer Deposited Polyaniline for Aflatoxin M1 Voltammetric Determination
Authors: Kulikova T. N. , Porfireva A. V. , Evtugyn G. A. , Hianik T.
Published: June 2019

Mycotoxins are highly toxic metabolites of some fungi that frequently contaminate water, food and feed and hence cause several human and animal diseases. In this work, a new approach to the fast and reliable determination of aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) in water and milk has been proposed with reagent free protocol of signal measurement. For this purpose, DNA aptamer selective to AFM1 was entrapped between two thin layers of polyaniline (PANI) electrodeposited on glassy carbon electrode. The incubation of the aptasensor in the AFM1 solution results in remarkable decrease of the PANI intrinsic activity monitored by direct current voltammetry or electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Appropriate calibration curves were linear in the range from 3 to 90 ng/L with limit of detection (LOD) 1–5 ng/L depending on the measurement mode. Mechanism of signal generation involves shielding electrostatic interactions between the PANI and aptamer in the surface layer and variation of its redox activity attributed to the emeraldine form of PANI. Selectivity of the response was proved by similar experiments with aflatoxin B1 and ochratoxin A and by comparison of the results with those obtained with non‐specific aptamer in the sensing layer. Simple protocol for milk pretreatment has been proposed for reliable detection of AFM1 on the level of its threshold limited values (20 ng/L).