bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Consensus definition and essential reporting parameters of selective fetal growth restriction in twin pregnancy: a Delphi procedure
Authors: Khalil A. , Beune I. , Hecher K. , Wynia K. , Ganzevoort W. , Reed K. , Lewi L. , Oepkes D. , Gratacos E. , Thilaganathan B. , Gordijn S. J.
Published: January 2018

Objectives

Twin pregnancy complicated by selective fetal growth restriction (sFGR) is associated with increased perinatal mortality and morbidity. Inconsistencies in the diagnostic criteria for sFGR employed in existing studies hinder the ability to compare or combine their findings. It is therefore challenging to establish robust evidence‐based management or monitoring pathways for these pregnancies. The main aim of this study was to determine, by expert consensus using a Delphi procedure, the key diagnostic features of and the essential reporting parameters in sFGR.

Methods

A Delphi process was conducted among an international panel of experts in sFGR in twin pregnancy. Panel members were provided with a list of literature‐based parameters for diagnosing sFGR and were asked to rate their importance on a five‐point Likert scale. Parameters were described as solitary (sufficient to diagnose sFGR, even if all other parameters are normal) or contributory (those that require other abnormal parameter(s) to be present for the diagnosis of sFGR). Consensus was sought to determine the cut‐off values for accepted parameters, as well as parameters used in the monitoring, management and assessment of outcome of twin pregnancy complicated by sFGR. The questions were presented in two separate categories according to chorionicity.

Results

A total of 72 experts were approached, of whom 60 agreed to participate and entered the first round; 48 (80%) completed all four rounds. For the definition of sFGR irrespective of chorionicity, one solitary parameter (estimated fetal weight (EFW) of one twin < 3rd centile) was agreed. For monochorionic twin pregnancy, at least two out of four contributory parameters (EFW of one twin < 10th centile, abdominal circumference of one twin < 10th centile, EFW discordance of ≥ 25%, and umbilical artery pulsatility index of the smaller twin > 95th centile) were agreed. For sFGR in dichorionic twin pregnancy, at least two out of three contributory parameters (EFW of one twin < 10th centile, EFW discordance of ≥ 25%, and umbilical artery pulsatility index of the smaller twin > 95th centile) were agreed.

Conclusions

Consensus‐based diagnostic features of sFGR in both monochorionic and dichorionic twin pregnancies, as well as cut‐off values for the parameters involved, were agreed upon by a panel of experts. Future studies are needed to validate these diagnostic features before they can be used in clinical trials of interventions. Copyright © 2018 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Advancing biotechnology with CRISPR/Cas9: recent applications and patent landscape
Authors: Ferreira Raphael , David Florian , Nielsen Jens
Published: January 2018

Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) is poised to become one of the key scientific discoveries of the twenty-first century. Originating from prokaryotic and archaeal immune systems to counter phage invasions, CRISPR-based applications have been tailored for manipulating a broad range of living organisms. From the different elucidated types of CRISPR mechanisms, the type II system adapted from Streptococcus pyogenes has been the most exploited as a tool for genome engineering and gene regulation. In this review, we describe the different applications of CRISPR/Cas9 technology in the industrial biotechnology field. Next, we detail the current status of the patent landscape, highlighting its exploitation through different companies, and conclude with future perspectives of this technology.
Microstructure and mechanical properties of high-strength steel welding consumables with a minimum yield strength of 1100 MPa
Authors: Haslberger Phillip , Holly Sylvia , Ernst Wolfgang , Schnitzer Ronald
Published: January 2018

Welded high-strength steel components have great potential for use in lightweight constructions or highly loaded structures. Welding of steels with a yield strength of more than 1100 MPa is particularly challenging because of the toughness requirements for the weld metal. Currently, a new generation of welding consumables with a minimum yield strength of 1100 MPa has been developed. Based on electron backscatter diffraction and atom probe tomography, a concept for toughening and strengthening of all-weld metal samples was deployed. Starting from a martensitic all-weld metal sample with an approximate yield strength of 1000 MPa, a reduction in manganese and silicon content resulted in a refined microstructure with a lower prior austenite grain size and effective grain size. Furthermore, a higher average grain boundary misorientation was measured, which influences the toughness positively. An addition of vanadium caused the formation of vanadium-rich clusters, which increased the strength of the all-weld metal significantly. With a combination of these two mechanisms, it was possible to produce an all-weld metal sample with the required yield strength of more than 1100 MPa and an acceptable toughness.
Optimizing the cleanliness in multi-segment disk amplifiers based on vector flow schemes
Authors: Ren Zhiyuan , Zhu Jianqiang , Liu Zhigang , Yang Xiaowei
Published: January 2018

The objective of maintaining the cleanliness of the multi-segment disk amplifier in Shenguang-II (SG-II) is to reduce laser-induced damage for optics. The flow field of clean gas, which is used for the transportation of contaminant particles, is a key factor affecting the cleanliness level in the multi-segment disk amplifier. We developed a gas–solid coupling and three-dimensional flow numerical simulation model. The three-dimensional and two-phase flow model is verified by the flow-field smog experiment and the particle concentration measurement experiment with the 130-disk amplifier in SG-II. By optimizing the boundary conditions with the same flow rate, the multi-inlet vector flow scheme can not only effectively reduce the purging time, but also prevent the reverse diffusion of contaminant particles in the multi-segment disk amplifier and the deposition of contaminant particles on the surface of the Nd:glass.
Mixing lamellae in a shear flow
Authors: Souzy Mathieu , Zaier Imen , Lhuissier Henri , Le Borgne Tanguy , Metzger Bloen
Published: January 2018

Mixing dynamics in flows are governed by the coupled action of diffusion and stretching by velocity gradients. This leads to the development of elongated lamellar structures in scalar fields where concentration fluctuations exist at scales set by the Batchelor scale. Because the latter is generally too small to be resolved experimentally, observation of these mechanisms remains an outstanding challenge. Here we present high-resolution experiments allowing for the precise quantification of the evolution of concentration distributions at the scale of a single lamella experiencing diffusion, stretching and aggregation with other lamellae. Quantitative agreement is found with analytical predictions for the lamella’s concentration profile, Batchelor time, Batchelor length scale, and concentration distribution for a large range of Péclet numbers and without adjustable parameter. This benchmark configuration is used to set the experimental spatial resolution required to quantify the concentration probability density functions (PDFs) of scalar mixtures in fluids. The diffusive coalescence of two nearby lamellae, the mechanism by which scalar mixtures ultimately reach uniformity, is shown to induce a complex transient evolution of the concentration PDFs.
Dynamic capabilities as (workable) management systems theory
Authors: Teece David J
Published: January 2018

In management studies, systems theory is an underexplored construct consistent with the dynamic capabilities framework. The systems approach received attention from management scholars in the middle of the last century, but, since then, has been largely abandoned. Meanwhile, academic disciplines have continued to narrow their focus. The capabilities and systems frameworks both adopt a holistic view that calls for all elements of an organization to be in alignment, and both recognize the importance of some form of learning for the purpose of adaptation. Dynamic capabilities go further by recognizing that organizations not only adapt to the business environment, they often try to shape it, too. While systems theory emphasizes internal stability over time and homogeneity across similar systems, dynamic capabilities include an explicit role for management/leadership that allows systemic change to start from within, which is the source of heterogeneity across firms. Dynamic capabilities are part of a system that includes resources and strategy. Together they determine the degree of competitive advantage an individual enterprise can gain over its rivals.
Revolutionary Syndicalism and Reformism in Rio de Janeiro’s Labour Movement (1906–1920)
Authors: Batalha Claudio
Published: January 2018

Divided between revolutionary syndicalism and reformist unions, Rio de Janeiro’s labour movement represented one of the most complex local cases during the Brazilian First Republic. This article intends to show how relations between these two currents were far from clear cut, and that, despite the confrontational discourse they adopted and the disputes over labour unions they were involved in, they eventually shared common practices and, to some degree, a common culture.
Gorham–Stout disease of the temporal bone involving the temporomandibular joint
Authors: Mulvihill D , Kumar R S , Muzaffar J , Irving R
Published: January 2018

Background:

Gorham–Stout disease of the skull is a very rare entity. It presents with gradual bone resorption, and proliferation of lymphoid and vascular channels within the bony matrix. This is often a diagnosis of exclusion confirmed with serial imaging and based on radiological evidence.

Case report:

A case of Gorham–Stout disease of the temporal bone involving the temporomandibular joint, and presenting with sensorineural hearing loss and recurrent temporomandibular joint dislocation, is reported. The findings are presented and the literature on this condition is reviewed.

Conclusion:

ENT and maxillofacial surgeons should be aware of this extremely rare cause of temporomandibular joint dislocation and ear symptoms. Imaging comprising computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging is crucial to achieving a diagnosis, which may only become evident after repeated imaging follow up. Symptomatic treatment is advised, with the option of anti-osteoclastic medication and radiotherapy indicated for advanced cases. Surgery is only recommended for complications including involvement of neurovascular structures.
On redundancy resolution and energy consumption of kinematically redundant planar parallel manipulators
Authors: Ruiz Andrés Gómez , Santos João Cavalcanti , Croes Jan , Desmet Wim , da Silva Maíra Martins
Published: January 2018

Novel kinematic architectures can be alternatives for designing energy efficient robotic systems. In this work, the impact of kinematic redundancies in the energy consumption of a planar PKM, the 3PRRR manipulator, is experimentally verified. Because of the presence of the kinematic redundancies, the inverse kinematic problem presents infinity solutions. In this way, a redundancy resolution scheme based on the Model Predictive Control technique is proposed and exploited. It can be concluded that the energy consumption of the non-redundant parallel manipulator 3RRR for executing predefined tasks can be considerably reduced by the inclusion of kinematic redundancies.
On the Brout–Englert–Higgs–Guralnik–Hagen–Kibble Mechanism in Quantum Gravity
Authors: ‘t Hooft Gerard
Published: January 2018

Local gauge invariance can materialise in different ways in theories for quantised elementary particles. It is less well-known, however, that a quite similar situation also occurs in the Einstein–Hilbert formalism for the gravitational forces. This may have important consequences for quantum theory. At first sight one may even think that it renders gravity renormalisable, just as happens in local gauge theories, but in gravity the truth is more puzzling.
Stakeholder perceptions of a school food policy ten years on
Authors: Pettigrew Simone , Talati Zenobia , Sauzier Megan , Ferguson Amanda
Published: January 2018

Objective

To assess (i) the extent to which stakeholders have accepted and implemented a Healthy Food and Drink Policy for schools a decade after its introduction and (ii) any resulting implications for canteen profitability.

Design

Online survey distributed via electronic newsletter to school principals.

Setting

Western Australian public schools.

Subjects

Principals, teachers, canteen managers, and parents and citizens committee presidents (n307).

Results

Large majorities of respondents reported that the policy has made the foods and drinks provided in schools healthier (85 %) and that the policy constitutes a good opportunity to teach children about healthy eating (90 %). Only small proportions of respondents felt it had been difficult to implement the policy in their schools (13 %) or that the policy fails to accommodate parents’ rights to choose the foods consumed by their children (16 %). Most of the policy outcomes assessed in both the initial post-implementation evaluation (2008) and the 10-year follow-up evaluation (2016) demonstrated significant improvement over time.

Conclusions

The study results indicate that comprehensive school food policies can favourably influence the foods and drinks provided on school premises and can be highly acceptable to key stakeholders, without adversely affecting profitability. The results are encouraging for policy makers in other jurisdictions considering the implementation of similar policies.
Determinants of in-court settlements: empirical evidence from a German trial court
Authors: BERLEMANN MICHAEL , CHRISTMANN ROBIN
Published: January 2018

Because verdicts are typically the more costly resolution of legal disputes, most governments are interested in high settlement rates. In this paper, we use a unique dataset of 860 case records from a German trial court to explore which institutional factors have a significant impact on the decision to settle in civil law litigation. We find that procedural aspects and individual characteristics of the involved judge have a significant impact on in-court settlement probability. We also find that judge-specific aspects such as the judge's gender may have an impact on settlement probabilities in certain subfields of law. Based on our empirical results, we derive some conclusions for legal policies that aim at increasing settlement rates.
Assessing the Many Influences of High-Latitude Dust
Authors: Gassó Santiago , Thorsteinsson Throstur , McKenna-Neuman Cheryl
Published: January 2018

First International Conference on High Latitude Cold Climate Dust (HLCCD); Reykjavík, Iceland, 22–25 May 2017
Reckoning with Climate’s Most Challenging Questions
Authors: Witman Sarah
Published: January 2018

Climate researchers outline a vision for the future of climate observations.
Cardiogenic programming of human pluripotent stem cells by dose-controlled activation of EOMES
Authors: Pfeiffer Martin J. , Quaranta Roberto , Piccini Ilaria , Fell Jakob , Rao Jyoti , Röpke Albrecht , Seebohm Guiscard , Greber Boris
Published: January 2018

Master cell fate determinants are thought to induce specific cell lineages in gastrulation by orchestrating entire gene programs. The T-box transcription factor EOMES (eomesodermin) is crucially required for the development of the heart—yet it is equally important for endoderm specification suggesting that it may act in a context-dependent manner. Here, we define an unrecognized interplay between EOMES and the WNT signaling pathway in controlling cardiac induction by using loss and gain-of-function approaches in human embryonic stem cells. Dose-dependent EOMES induction alone can fully replace a cocktail of signaling molecules otherwise essential for the specification of cardiogenic mesoderm. Highly efficient cardiomyocyte programming by EOMES mechanistically involves autocrine activation of canonical WNT signaling via the WNT3 ligand, which necessitates a shutdown of this axis at a subsequent stage. Our findings provide insights into human germ layer induction and bear biotechnological potential for the robust production of cardiomyocytes from engineered stem cells.
Structure of tick-borne encephalitis virus and its neutralization by a monoclonal antibody
Authors: Füzik Tibor , Formanová Petra , Růžek Daniel , Yoshii Kentaro , Niedrig Matthias , Plevka Pavel
Published: January 2018

Tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) causes 13,000 cases of human meningitis and encephalitis annually. However, the structure of the TBEV virion and its interactions with antibodies are unknown. Here, we present cryo-EM structures of the native TBEV virion and its complex with Fab fragments of neutralizing antibody 19/1786. Flavivirus genome delivery depends on membrane fusion that is triggered at low pH. The virion structure indicates that the repulsive interactions of histidine side chains, which become protonated at low pH, may contribute to the disruption of heterotetramers of the TBEV envelope and membrane proteins and induce detachment of the envelope protein ectodomains from the virus membrane. The Fab fragments bind to 120 out of the 180 envelope glycoproteins of the TBEV virion. Unlike most of the previously studied flavivirus-neutralizing antibodies, the Fab fragments do not lock the E-proteins in the native-like arrangement, but interfere with the process of virus-induced membrane fusion.
Visualization of human karyopherin beta-1/importin beta-1 interactions with protein partners in mitotic cells by co-immunoprecipitation and proximity ligation assays
Authors: Di Francesco Laura , Verrico Annalisa , Asteriti Italia Anna , Rovella Paola , Cirigliano Pietro , Guarguaglini Giulia , Schininà Maria Eugenia , Lavia Patrizia
Published: January 2018

Karyopherin beta-1/Importin beta-1 is a conserved nuclear transport receptor, acting in protein nuclear import in interphase and as a global regulator of mitosis. These pleiotropic functions reflect its ability to interact with, and regulate, different pathways during the cell cycle, operating as a major effector of the GTPase RAN. Importin beta-1 is overexpressed in cancers characterized by high genetic instability, an observation that highlights the importance of identifying its partners in mitosis. Here we present the first comprehensive profile of importin beta-1 interactors from human mitotic cells. By combining co-immunoprecipitation and proteome-wide mass spectrometry analysis of synchronized cell extracts, we identified expected (e.g., RAN and SUMO pathway factors) and novel mitotic interactors of importin beta-1, many with RNA-binding ability, that had not been previously associated with importin beta-1. These data complement interactomic studies of interphase transport pathways. We further developed automated proximity ligation assay (PLA) protocols to validate selected interactors. We succeeded in obtaining spatial and temporal resolution of genuine importin beta-1 interactions, which were visualized and localized in situ in intact mitotic cells. Further developments of PLA protocols will be helpful to dissect importin beta-1-orchestrated pathways during mitosis.
Modulation of Neurally Mediated Vasodepression and Bradycardia by Electroacupuncture through Opioids in Nucleus Tractus Solitarius
Authors: Tjen-A-Looi Stephanie C. , Fu Liang-Wu , Guo Zhi-Ling , Longhurst John C.
Published: January 2018

Stimulation of vagal afferent endings with intravenous phenylbiguanide (PBG) causes both bradycardia and vasodepression, simulating neurally mediated syncope. Activation of µ-opioid receptors in the nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS) increases blood pressure. Electroacupuncture (EA) stimulation of somatosensory nerves underneath acupoints P5–6, ST36–37, LI6–7 or G37–39 selectively but differentially modulates sympathoexcitatory responses. We therefore hypothesized that EA-stimulation at P5–6 or ST36–37, but not LI6–7 or G37–39 acupoints, inhibits the bradycardia and vasodepression through a µ-opioid receptor mechanism in the NTS. We observed that stimulation at acupoints P5–6 and ST36–37 overlying the deep somatosensory nerves and LI6–7 and G37–39 overlying cutaneous nerves differentially evoked NTS neural activity in anesthetized and ventilated animals. Thirty-min of EA-stimulation at P5–6 or ST36–37 reduced the depressor and bradycardia responses to PBG while EA at LI6–7 or G37–39 did not. Congruent with the hemodynamic responses, EA at P5–6 and ST36–37, but not at LI6–7 and G37–39, reduced vagally evoked activity of cardiovascular NTS cells. Finally, opioid receptor blockade in the NTS with naloxone or a specific μ-receptor antagonist reversed P5–6 EA-inhibition of the depressor, bradycardia and vagally evoked NTS activity. These data suggest that point specific EA stimulation inhibits PBG-induced vasodepression and bradycardia responses through a μ-opioid mechanism in the NTS.
Deciphering microvascular changes after myocardial infarction through 3D fully automated image analysis
Authors: Gkontra Polyxeni , Norton Kerri-Ann , Żak Magdalena M. , Clemente Cristina , Agüero Jaume , Ibáñez Borja , Santos Andrés , Popel Aleksander S. , Arroyo Alicia G.
Published: January 2018

The microvasculature continuously adapts in response to pathophysiological conditions to meet tissue demands. Quantitative assessment of the dynamic changes in the coronary microvasculature is therefore crucial in enhancing our knowledge regarding the impact of cardiovascular diseases in tissue perfusion and in developing efficient angiotherapies. Using confocal microscopy and thick tissue sections, we developed a 3D fully automated pipeline that allows to precisely reconstruct the microvasculature and to extract parameters that quantify all its major features, its relation to smooth muscle actin positive cells and capillary diffusion regions. The novel pipeline was applied in the analysis of the coronary microvasculature from healthy tissue and tissue at various stages after myocardial infarction (MI) in the pig model, whose coronary vasculature closely resembles that of human tissue. We unravelled alterations in the microvasculature, particularly structural changes and angioadaptation in the aftermath of MI. In addition, we evaluated the extracted knowledge’s potential for the prediction of pathophysiological conditions in tissue, using different classification schemes. The high accuracy achieved in this respect, demonstrates the ability of our approach not only to quantify and identify pathology-related changes of microvascular beds, but also to predict complex and dynamic microvascular patterns.
Error-Gated Hebbian Rule: A Local Learning Rule for Principal and Independent Component Analysis
Authors: Isomura Takuya , Toyoizumi Taro
Published: January 2018

We developed a biologically plausible unsupervised learning algorithm, error-gated Hebbian rule (EGHR)-β, that performs principal component analysis (PCA) and independent component analysis (ICA) in a single-layer feedforward neural network. If parameter β = 1, it can extract the subspace that major principal components span similarly to Oja’s subspace rule for PCA. If β = 0, it can separate independent sources similarly to Bell-Sejnowski’s ICA rule but without requiring the same number of input and output neurons. Unlike these engineering rules, the EGHR-β can be easily implemented in a biological or neuromorphic circuit because it only uses local information available at each synapse. We analytically and numerically demonstrate the reliability of the EGHR-β in extracting and separating major sources given high-dimensional input. By adjusting β, the EGHR-β can extract sources that are missed by the conventional engineering approach that first applies PCA and then ICA. Namely, the proposed rule can successfully extract hidden natural images even in the presence of dominant or non-Gaussian noise components. The results highlight the reliability and utility of the EGHR-β for large-scale parallel computation of PCA and ICA and its future implementation in a neuromorphic hardware.
Sub-parts-per-trillion level sensitivity in trace gas detection by cantilever-enhanced photo-acoustic spectroscopy
Authors: Tomberg Teemu , Vainio Markku , Hieta Tuomas , Halonen Lauri
Published: January 2018

An exceptional property of photo-acoustic spectroscopy is the zero-background in wavelength modulation configuration while the signal varies linearly as a function of absorbed laser power. Here, we make use of this property by combining a highly sensitive cantilever-enhanced photo-acoustic detector, a particularly stable high-power narrow-linewidth mid-infrared continuous-wave optical parametric oscillator, and a strong absorption cross-section of hydrogen fluoride to demonstrate the ability of cantilever-enhanced photo-acoustic spectroscopy to reach sub-parts-per-trillion level sensitivity in trace gas detection. The high stability of the experimental setup allows long averaging times. A noise equivalent concentration of 650 parts-per-quadrillion is reached in 32 minutes.
Frequency of EBV associated classical Hodgkin lymphoma decreases over a 54-year period in a Brazilian population
Authors: Campos Antonio Hugo Jose Froes Marques , Moreira Adriana , Ribeiro Karina Braga , Paes Roberto Pinto , Zerbini Maria Claudia , Aldred Vera , de Souza Carmino Antonio , Neto Cristovam Scapulatempo , Soares Fernando Augusto , Vassallo Jose
Published: January 2018

The epidemiology of classical Hodgkin lymphoma varies significantly in populations with different socioeconomic conditions. Among other changes, improvement in such conditions leads to a reduction in the association with EBV infection and predominance of the nodular sclerosis subtype. This study provides an overview of the epidemiology of 817 cases of classical Hodgkin lymphoma diagnosed in five reference hospitals of the State of Sao Paulo, Brazil, over 54 years (1954–2008). The cases were distributed in 3 periods (1954–1979; 1980–1999; and 2000–2008). EBV-positive cases decreased from 87% to 46%. In children and adolescents (<15 years) and in young adults (15–45 years), EBV-positive cases decreased respectively from 96% to 64%, and from 85% to 32%. The percentage of male patients declined from 80% to 58%. In older patients (>45 years), the decrease in EBV infection was not significant. Nodular Sclerosis was the most common subtype in all periods. These results support the hypothesis that, in the Brazilian State of Sao Paulo, classical Hodgkin lymphoma has changed and now shows characteristics consistent with Pattern III observed in populations that experienced a similar socioeconomic transition.
Molecular epidemiology and comparative genomics of Campylobacter concisus strains from saliva, faeces and gut mucosal biopsies in inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Kirk Karina Frahm , Méric Guillaume , Nielsen Hans Linde , Pascoe Ben , Sheppard Samuel K. , Thorlacius-Ussing Ole , Nielsen Henrik
Published: January 2018

Campylobacter concisus is an emerging pathogen associated with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), yet little is known about the genetic diversity of C. concisus in relation to host niches and disease. We isolated 104 C. concisus isolates from saliva, mucosal biopsies and faecal samples from 41 individuals (26 IBD, 3 Gastroenteritis (GE), 12 Healthy controls (HC)). Whole genomes were sequenced and the dataset pan-genome examined, and genomic information was used for typing using multi-locus-sequence typing (MLST). C. concisus isolates clustered into two main groups/genomospecies (GS) with 71 distinct sequence types (STs) represented. Sampling site (p < 0.001), rather than disease phenotype (p = 1.00) was associated with particular GS. We identified 97 candidate genes associated with increase or decrease in prevalence during the anatomical descent from the oral cavity to mucosal biopsies to faeces. Genes related to cell wall/membrane biogenesis were more common in oral isolates, whereas genes involved in cell transport, metabolism and secretory pathways were more prevalent in enteric isolates. Furthermore, there was no correlation between individual genetic diversity and clinical phenotype. This study confirms the genetic heterogeneity of C. concisus and provides evidence that genomic variation is related to the source of isolation, but not clinical phenotype.
Hydroxylamine released by nitrifying microorganisms is a precursor for HONO emission from drying soils
Authors: Ermel M. , Behrendt T. , Oswald R. , Derstroff B. , Wu D. , Hohlmann S. , Stönner C. , Pommerening-Röser A. , Könneke M. , Williams J. , Meixner F. X. , Andreae M. O. , Trebs I. , Sörgel M.
Published: January 2018

Nitrous acid (HONO) is an important precursor of the hydroxyl radical (OH), the atmosphere´s primary oxidant. An unknown strong daytime source of HONO is required to explain measurements in ambient air. Emissions from soils are one of the potential sources. Ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AOB) have been identified as possible producers of these HONO soil emissions. However, the mechanisms for production and release of HONO in soils are not fully understood. In this study, we used a dynamic soil-chamber system to provide direct evidence that gaseous emissions from nitrifying pure cultures contain hydroxylamine (NH2OH), which is subsequently converted to HONO in a heterogeneous reaction with water vapor on glass bead surfaces. In addition to different AOB species, we found release of HONO also in ammonia-oxidizing archaea (AOA), suggesting that these globally abundant microbes may also contribute to the formation of atmospheric HONO and consequently OH. Since biogenic NH2OH is formed by diverse organisms, such as AOB, AOA, methane-oxidizing bacteria, heterotrophic nitrifiers, and fungi, we argue that HONO emission from soil is not restricted to the nitrifying bacteria, but is also promoted by nitrifying members of the domainsArchaeaandEukarya.
Zika virus infection elicits auto-antibodies to C1q
Authors: Koma Takaaki , Veljkovic Veljko , Anderson Danielle E. , Wang Lin-Fa , Rossi Shannan L. , Shan Chao , Shi Pei-Yong , Beasley David W. , Bukreyeva Natalya , Smith Jeanon N. , Hallam Steven , Huang Cheng , von Messling Veronika , Paessler Slobodan
Published: January 2018

Zika virus (ZIKV) causes mostly asymptomatic infection or mild febrile illness. However, with an increasing number of patients, various clinical features such as microcephaly, Guillain-Barré syndrome and thrombocytopenia have also been reported. To determine which host factors are related to pathogenesis, the E protein of ZIKV was analyzed with the Informational Spectrum Method, which identifies common information encoded by primary structures of the virus and the respective host protein. The data showed that the ZIKV E protein and the complement component C1q cross-spectra are characterized by a single dominant peak at the frequency F = 0.338, suggesting similar biological properties. Indeed, C1q-specific antibodies were detected in sera obtained from mice and monkeys infected with ZIKV. As C1q has been known to be involved not only in immunity, but also in synaptic organization and different autoimmune diseases, a ZIKV-induced anti-C1q antibody response may contribute to the neurological complications. These findings might also be exploited for the design of safe and efficacious vaccines in the future.
Bioengineered polyester beads co-displaying protein and carbohydrate-based antigens induce protective immunity against bacterial infection
Authors: González-Miró Majela , Rodríguez-Noda Laura M. , Fariñas-Medina Mildrey , Cedré-Marrero Barbara , Madariaga-Zarza Sandra , Zayas-Vignier Caridad , Hernández-Cedeño Mabel , Kleffmann Torsten , García-Rivera Dagmar , Vérez-Bencomo Vicente , Rehm Bernd H. A.
Published: January 2018

The efficacy of protein and carbohydrate antigens as vaccines can be improved via particulate delivery strategies. Here, protein and carbohydrate antigens used in formulations of vaccines againstNeisseria menigitidiswere displayed onin vivoassembled polyester beads using a combined bioengineering and conjugation approach. An endotoxin-free mutant ofEscherichia coliwas engineered to produce translational fusions of antigens (Neisseriaadhesin A (NadA) and factor H binding protein (fHbp) derived from serogroup B) to the polyhydroxybutyrate synthase (PhaC), in order to intracellularly assemble polyester beads displaying the respective antigens. Purified beads displaying NadA showed enhanced immunogenicity compared to soluble NadA. Both soluble and particulate NadA elicited functional antibodies with bactericidal activity associated with protective immunity. To expand the antigen repertoire and to design a more broadly protective vaccine, NadA-PhaC beads were additionally conjugated to the capsular polysaccharide from serogroup C. Co-delivery of surface displayed NadA and the capsular polysaccharide induced a strong and specific Th1/Th17 mediated immune response associated with functional bactericidal antibodies. Our findings provide the foundation for the design of multivalent antigen-coated polyester beads as suitable carriers for protein and polysaccharide antigens in order to induce protective immunity.
Limits of Kirchhoff’s Laws in Plasmonics
Authors: Razinskas Gary , Biagioni Paolo , Hecht Bert
Published: January 2018

The validity of Kirchhoff’s laws in plasmonic nanocircuitry is investigated by studying a junction of plasmonic two-wire transmission lines. We find that Kirchhoff’s laws are valid for sufficiently small values of a phenomenological parameter κ relating the geometrical parameters of the transmission line with the effective wavelength of the guided mode. Beyond such regime, for large values of the phenomenological parameter, increasing deviations occur and the equivalent impedance description (Kirchhoff’s laws) can only provide rough, but nevertheless useful, guidelines for the design of more complex plasmonic circuitry. As an example we investigate a system composed of a two-wire transmission line and a nanoantenna as the load. By addition of a parallel stub designed according to Kirchhoff’s laws we achieve maximum signal transfer to the nanoantenna.
Dielectric Breakdown and Post-Breakdown Dissolution of Si/SiO2 Cathodes in Acidic Aqueous Electrochemical Environment
Authors: Yun Jeongse , Cho Yun-Bin , Jang Woohyuk , Lee Jae Gyeong , Shin Samuel Jaeho , Han Seok Hee , Lee Youngmi , Chung Taek Dong
Published: January 2018

Understanding the conducting mechanisms of dielectric materials under various conditions is of increasing importance. Here, we report the dielectric breakdown (DB) and post-breakdown mechanism of Si/SiO2, a widely used semiconductor and dielectric, in an acidic aqueous electrochemical environment. Cathodic breakdown was found to generate conduction spots on the Si/SiO2 surface. Using scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM), the size and number of conduction spots are confirmed to increase from nanometer to micrometer scale during the application of negative voltage. The morphologies of these conduction spots reveal locally recessed inverted-pyramidal structures with exposed Si{111} sidewalls. The pits generation preceded by DB is considered to occur via cathodic dissolution of Si and exfoliation of SiO2 that are induced by local pH increases due to the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) at the conduction spots. The HER at the conduction spots is more sluggish due to strongly hydrogen-terminated Si{111} surfaces.
Red fluorescent cAMP indicator with increased affinity and expanded dynamic range
Authors: Ohta Yusaku , Furuta Toshiaki , Nagai Takeharu , Horikawa Kazuki
Published: January 2018

cAMP is one of the most important second messengers in biological processes. Cellular dynamics of cAMP have been investigated using a series of fluorescent indicators; however, their sensitivity was sub-optimal for detecting cAMP dynamics at a low concentration range, due to a low ligand affinity and/or poor dynamic range. Seeking an indicator with improved detection sensitivity, we performed insertion screening of circularly permuted mApple, a red fluorescent protein, into the cAMP-binding motif of PKA regulatory subunit Iα and developed an improved cAMP indicator named R-FlincA (Red Fluorescent indicator for cAMP). Its increased affinity (Kd = 0.3 μM) and expanded dynamic range (860% at pH 7.2) allowed the detection of subtle changes in the cellular cAMP dynamics at sub-μM concentrations, which could not be easily observed with existing indicators. Increased detection sensitivity also strengthened the advantages of using R-FlincA as a red fluorescent indicator, as it permits a series of applications, including multi-channel/function imaging of multiple second messengers and combinatorial imaging with photo-manipulation. These results strongly suggest that R-FlincA is a promising tool that accelerates cAMP research by revealing unobserved cAMP dynamics at a low concentration range.
Evaluation of cell penetrating peptide coated Mn:ZnS nanoparticles for paclitaxel delivery to cancer cells
Authors: Rejinold N. Sanoj , Han Yunho , Yoo Jisang , Seok Hae Yong , Park Ji Ho , Kim Yeu-Chun
Published: January 2018

This work aimed at formulating paclitaxel (PTX) loaded cell penetrating peptide (CPP) coated Mn doped ZnS nanoparticles (Mn:ZnS NPs) for improved anti-cancer efficacy in vitro and in vivo. The developed PTX loaded Mn:ZnS NPs with different CPPs (PEN, pVEC and R9) showed enhanced anti-cancer effect compared to bare PTX, which has been validated by MTT assay followed by apoptosis assay and DNA fragmentation analysis. The in vivo bio-distribution and anti-cancer efficacy was studied on breast cancer xenograft model showing maximum tumor localization and enhanced therapeutic efficacy with R9 coated Mn:ZnS NPs (R9:Mn:ZnS NPs) and was confirmed by H/E staining. Thus, R9:Mn:ZnS NPs could be an ideal theranostic nano-carrier for PTX with enhanced  the rapeutic efficacy toward cancer cells, where penetration and sustainability of therapeutics are essential.
Evaluation of dried blood spot samples for screening of hepatitis C and human immunodeficiency virus in a real-world setting
Authors: Vázquez-Morón Sonia , Ryan Pablo , Ardizone-Jiménez Beatriz , Martín Dolores , Troya Jesus , Cuevas Guillermo , Valencia Jorge , Jimenez-Sousa María A. , Avellón Ana , Resino Salvador
Published: January 2018

Both hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection are underdiagnosed, particularly in low-income countries and in difficult-to-access populations. Our aim was to develop and evaluate a methodology for the detection of HCV and HIV infection based on capillary dry blood spot (DBS) samples taken under real-world conditions. We carried out a cross-sectional study of 139 individuals (31 healthy controls, 68 HCV-monoinfected patients, and 40 HCV/HIV-coinfected patients). ELISA was used for anti-HCV and anti-HIV antibody detection; and SYBR Green RT-PCR was used for HCV-RNA detection. The HIV serological analysis revealed 100% sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV). The HCV serological analysis revealed a sensitivity of 92.6%, specificity of 100%, PPV of 100%, and NPV of 79.5%. Finally, the HCV-RNA detection test revealed a detection limit of 5 copies/µl with an efficiency of 100% and sensitivity of 99.1%, specificity of 100%, PPV of 100%, and NPV of 96.9%. In conclusion, our methodology was able to detect both HCV infection and HIV infection from the same DBS sample with good diagnostic performance. Screening for HCV and HIV using DBS might be a key strategy in the implementation of national programs for the control of both infections.
Specific circularly polarized luminescence of Eu(iii), Sm(iii), and Er(iii) induced by N-acetylneuraminic acid
Authors: Wu Tao , Bouř Petr
Published: January 2018

Sialic acid chelated with the Eu, Sm and Er ions provides distinct circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) patterns that can be used for its detection. The CPL spectra were measured using the Raman optical activity (ROA) technique.
A “turn-off” red-emitting fluorophore for nanomolar detection of heparin
Authors: Jana Palash , Radhakrishna Mithun , Khatua Saumyakanti , Kanvah Sriram
Published: January 2018

A simple fluorophore bearing a diethylaminocoumarin donor and a pyridinium acceptor was synthesized and utilized for the ultra-sensitive detection of heparin.
Butadiene as a ligand in open sandwich compounds
Authors: Fan Qunchao , Fu Jia , Li Huidong , Feng Hao , Sun Weiguo , Xie Yaoming , King R. Bruce , Schaefer Henry F.
Published: January 2018

Density functional theory shows the lowest energy bis(butadiene)metal structures (C4H6)2M (M = Ti to Ni) to have a staggered orientation of the two butadiene ligands corresponding to a tetrahedral coordination of the central metal atom.
The gelation influence on diffusion and conductivity enhancement effect in renewable ionic gels based on a LMWG
Authors: Bielejewski M. , Rachocki A. , Kaszyńska J. , Tritt-Goc J.
Published: January 2018

An enhanced ionic conductivity effect (EICE) in renewable organic ionic gels used to monitor the gel state condition and quality.
Silicon nanohybrid-based SERS chips armed with an internal standard for broad-range, sensitive and reproducible simultaneous quantification of lead(ii) and mercury(ii) in real systems
Authors: Shi Yu , Chen Na , Su Yuanyuan , Wang Houyu , He Yao
Published: January 2018

We present a SERS chip made of a silver nanoparticle-decorated silicon wafer modified with internal standard molecules that is capable of simultaneously detecting Pb2+ and Hg2+ in quantitative and practical manners.
3D printed scaffolds with gradient porosity based on a cellulose nanocrystal hydrogel
Authors: Sultan Sahar , Mathew Aji P.
Published: January 2018

3D printed hydrogel scaffolds with gradient porosity and aligned cellulose nanocrystals.
High-efficiency SrTiO3/TiO2 hetero-photoanode for visible-light water splitting by charge transport design and optical absorption management
Authors: Cheng Xiang , Zhang Yajun , Hu Hongyan , Shang Mingdong , Bi Yingpu
Published: January 2018

We demonstrated a two-pronged approach to obtain excellent visible-light performance of TiO2-based photoelectrodes for water oxidation, which exhibited remarkably improved PEC performance for water splitting under visible light irradiation.
Enhanced charge transfer and separation of hierarchical hydrogenated TiO2 nanothorns/carbon nanofibers composites decorated by NiS quantum dots for remarkable photocatalytic H2 production activity
Authors: Zhang Xin , Chen Yajie , Xiao Yuting , Zhou Wei , Tian Guohui , Fu Honggang
Published: January 2018

NiS decorated hydrogenated TiO2 nanothorns/carbon nanofibers exhibited enhanced photocatalytic H2 evolution performance.
A novel high temperature vinylpyridine-based phthalonitrile polymer with a low melting point and good mechanical properties
Authors: Wang Haifeng , Wang Jian , Guo Huimin , Chen Xinggang , Yu Xiaoyan , Ma Yuanhui , Ji Puguang , Naito Kimiyoshi , Zhang Zhenjiang , Zhang Qingxin
Published: January 2018

This article is the first report on a phthalonitrile monomer containing vinyls in the main chain.
Pitch-tunable pillar arrays for high-throughput culture and immunohistological analysis of tumor spheroids
Authors: Lee Dong Woo , Kang Jihoon , Hwang Hyun Ju , Oh Min-Suk , Shin Byung Cheol , Lee Moo-Yeal , Kuh Hyo-Jeong
Published: January 2018

A pitch-tunable 5 × 5 mini-pillar array chip was developed for culturing and sectioning tumor spheroids (TSs) in a high throughput manner. TSs were cultured on the chip aligned to 96-well. TS array sections were prepared following pitch rearrangement.
Study of oxidation of calcium sulfite in flue gas desulfurization by pore-type surface dielectric barrier discharge
Authors: Guo He , Jiang Nan , Li Jie , Zhao Xianjun , Zhang Yi , Chen Chao , Zhao Hong , Han Changmin , Wu Yan
Published: January 2018

Novelty: a new pore-type surface dielectric barrier discharge (PSDBD) reactor was first applied in the oxidation of calcium sulfite in flue gas desulfurization.
Mechanical switching in ferroelectrics by shear stress and its implications on charged domain wall generation and vortex memory devices
Authors: Chen W. J. , Yuan Shuai , Ma L. L. , Ji Ye , Wang Biao , Zheng Yue
Published: January 2018

Combining thermodynamic calculation and phase-field simulation, we revealed that mechanical switching of polarization can be achieved in ferroelectric by shear stressviaa simple mechanism where the presence of flexoelectricity is not necessary.
Cultivation of a Cu/HMPC catalyst from a hyperaccumulating mustard plant for highly efficient and selective coupling reactions under mild conditions
Authors: Gopiraman Mayakrishnan , Wei Kai , Zhang Ke-Qin , Chung Ill-Min , Kim Ick Soo
Published: January 2018

Cu/HMPC eco-catalyst with unique interconnected 1D/2D/3D morphology was derived from metal-hyperaccumulating mustard plant for highly efficient and selective coupling reactions.
Understanding viscosity reduction of a long-tail sulfobetaine viscoelastic surfactant by organic compounds
Authors: Fogang Lionel T. , Sultan Abdullah S. , Kamal Muhammad S.
Published: January 2018

The change from high viscosity to low viscosity after addition of organic compounds depends on the type of organic compound.
Visible light photocatalytic mineralization of 17α-ethinyl estradiol (EE2) and hydrogen evolution over silver and strontium modified TiO2 nanoparticles: mechanisms and phytotoxicity assessment
Authors: Wei Xueyu , Li Jie , Liu Zhigang , Yang Xiaofan , Naraginti Saraschandra , Xu Xiaoping , Wang Xiaoju
Published: January 2018

This study focusses on the novel synthesis of silver and strontium modified TiO2 nanocomposite through a sol–gel method, which was then utilized for visible light degradation of EE2 and hydrogen production for the first time.
Current research on anti-breast cancer synthetic compounds
Authors: Liu Jia , Ming Bian , Gong Guo-Hua , Wang Di , Bao Gui-Lan , Yu Li-Jun
Published: January 2018

Breast cancer (BC) is the most common cancer for females and its incidence tends to increase year by year.
Total phenylethanoid glycosides and magnoloside IafromMagnolia officinalisvar.bilobafruits inhibit ultraviolet B-induced phototoxicity and inflammation through MAPK/NF-κB signaling pathways
Authors: Ge Lanlan , Chen Ling , Mo Qigui , Zhou Gao , Meng Xiaoshan , Wang Youwei
Published: January 2018

Magnolia officinalisvar.bilobais used as a traditional medicine in China and as a food additive in the United Kingdom and the European Union.
Electrically tunable terahertz dual-band metamaterial absorber based on a liquid crystal
Authors: Yin Zhiping , Lu Yujiao , Xia Tianyu , Lai Weien , Yang Jun , Lu Hongbo , Deng Guangsheng
Published: January 2018

A liquid crystal based dual-band tunable metamaterial absorber with frequency tunability of 2.45% and 3.65% is realized in the terahertz region.
Cholesterol enhances influenza binding avidity by controlling nanoscale receptor clustering
Authors: Goronzy I. N. , Rawle R. J. , Boxer S. G. , Kasson P. M.
Published: January 2018

Single-virus binding measurements and simulations show how cholesterol-mediated clustering of receptors controls influenza membrane-binding avidity.
Microhydration of PAH+ cations: evolution of hydration network in naphthalene+-(H2O)n clusters (n ≤ 5)
Authors: Chatterjee Kuntal , Dopfer Otto
Published: January 2018

The evolution of the microhydration network around a prototypical PAH+ cation is determined by infrared spectroscopy of size-selected clusters and density functional theory calculations.
Solving the puzzle of Li4Ti5O12 surface reactivity in aprotic electrolytes in Li-ion batteries by nanoscale XPEEM spectromicroscopy
Authors: Leanza Daniela , Vaz Carlos A. F. , Czekaj Izabela , Novák Petr , El Kazzi Mario
Published: January 2018

Preferential reduction of solvents solely on LTO particles, caused by their adsorption at the outer surface planes during lithiation.