bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CL‐20 Based Ultraviolet Curing Explosive Composite with High Performance
Authors: Guo Hao , Xu Shuai , Gao Huihui , Geng Xiaoheng , An Chongwei , Xu Chuanhao , Li Qianbing , Wang Shuang , Ye Baoyun , Wang Jingyu
Published: June 2019

The integration of the Ultraviolet (UV) curable resin into energetic materials, has been a new direction in the field of explosive inks with high curing speed and high solid loading. In this ink formulation, polyurethane acrylate (PUA), 2,4,6‐trimethylbenzoyl‐diphenylphosphine oxide (TPO) and hexanitrohexaazaisowurtzitane (CL‐20) were selected as binder, photoinitiator and main explosive, respectively. The CL‐20 based UV‐curing explosive composite was prepared by UV‐curing and direct ink writing (DIW) technology. The rate of curing, micro‐scale structure, morphology, crystal type, impact sensitivity, and detonation ability of the sample were characterized and analyzed. The results show that the curing process of CL‐20 based UV‐curing explosive ink could be completed within 7 minutes after UV‐curing for 3 minutes, revealing rapid curing speed. In the preparation process of CL‐20 based explosive composite, the crystal type of CL‐20 do not change. Compared with raw CL‐20, the explosive composite has a lower impact sensitivity. Moreover, the critical detonation size is around 1×0.078 mm, and the detonation velocity is 7357 m s−1.
Treatment of model uncertainty from radiation by the Stochastically Perturbed Parametrization Tendencies (SPPT) scheme and associated revisions in the ECMWF ensembles
Authors: Lock Sarah‐Jane , Lang Simon T. K. , Leutbecher Martin , Hogan Robin J. , Vitart Frederic
Published: June 2019

The Stochastically Perturbed Parametrization Tendencies (SPPT) scheme is used in ensemble forecast systems to represent uncertainties due to the atmospheric physics parametrizations. The scheme works by introducing random perturbations to the tendencies from the physics schemes. The size of the perturbations is modulated by the size of the net tendencies from the full physics suite. Recent work has identified an inconsistency in this approach to attributing model uncertainty: greater uncertainty is attributed to the night‐time sky than to the daytime sky in clear‐sky conditions, which is not deemed physically realistic. This paper documents the details of a revised configuration of SPPT, which became active in the recent operational version of the ensemble forecast system (“CY45R1”) at the European Centre for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) — released in June 2018. In this work, a modification to SPPT is outlined such that the clear‐sky contribution from the radiation scheme is subtracted from the physics tendencies that are acted on by SPPT. Inspection of individual vertical profiles of physics tendencies provides a greater understanding of the interactions between processes, and helps demonstrate that the revision gives a more realistic description of the associated uncertainties. Forecast experiments with the revised version of SPPT demonstrate neutral to positive impacts on the skill of the ensemble forecasts in the medium‐range; and in the extended‐range, a significantly improved match between the spread and error of the principal components describing the Madden–Julian Oscillation. In addition, it is shown that including the revisions in the ensemble of data assimilations leads to increases in spread in the boundary layer.
Ableism, Accessibility, and Educational Development: A Disability Studies Perspective
Authors: Trybus Matthew J. , Breneman Daisy L. , Gravett Emily O.
Published: June 2019

This chapter analyzes educational development through the lens of disability studies, exposing commonplace barriers and providing recommendations to ensure those who identify as having a disability are included in programming.
Friendship in Educational Development: Reflections on Intersectional Identities and Inclusive Professional Practices
Authors: Ouellett Mathew L. , Stanley Christine A.
Published: June 2019

This chapter describes how an enduring friendship based on shared curiosity, vulnerability, trust, generosity, integrity, and commitment over time shaped personal and professional development across intersectional identities.
Selenium removal by activated alumina in batch and continuous‐flow reactors
Authors: Ji Yuxia , Li Lin , Wang Yi‐tin
Published: June 2019

Selenium removal by activated alumina (AA) in batch and continuous‐flow reactors was investigated in this study. The adsorption kinetics fitted pseudo‐first as well as pseudo‐second order models with equilibrium time for Se(VI) and Se(IV) adsorption of 8 and 12 hr, respectively. A significant higher adsorption capacity for Se(IV) than Se(VI) was observed in isothermal adsorption experiments. The adsorption isotherms of Se(VI) and Se(IV) agreed well with both Langmuir and Freundlich adsorption models. The results also showed that Se(VI) adsorption was adversely affected by NaHCO3 concentrations, while Se(IV) adsorption was not due to the selectivity of activated alumina for anions. In the continuous‐flow reactor packed with AA and inoculated with Shigella fergusonii strain TB42616 under a hydraulic detention time of 3 days, approximately 74% and 70% Se(VI) were removed after 40 days at influent concentrations of 10 and 50 mg/L, respectively. Effluent concentrations of Se(IV) from the bioreactor were insignificant due to the combination of bioactivities and adsorption. The AA‐packed bioreactor is promising in both Se(VI) and Se(IV) removal as better removal efficiency may be accomplished by increasing the liquid retention time.

Practitioner points

The adsorption capacity for Se(IV) of activated alumina was significantly higher than that for Se(VI).

Se(VI) adsorption was inhibited by NaHCO3, while Se(IV) adsorption was not.

Se(IV) formed by biological Se(VI) reduction was adsorbed by activated alumina in continuous‐flow reactors.

Both Se(VI) and Se(IV) were significantly removed by activated alumina‐packed continuous‐flow reactors.
Easy-plane QED3’s in the large Nf limit
Authors: Benvenuti Sergio , Khachatryan Hrachya
Published: June 2019

Abstract

We consider Quantum Electrodynamics in 2 + 1 dimensions with N

f
fermionic or bosonic flavors, allowing for interactions that respect the global symmetry U(N

f
/2)2. There are four bosonic and four fermionic fixed points, which we analyze using the large N

f
expansion. We systematically compute, at order O(1/N

f
), the scaling dimensions of quadratic and quartic mesonic operators.

We also consider Quantum Electrodynamics with minimal supersymmetry. In this case the large N

f
scaling dimensions, extrapolated at N

f
= 2, agree quite well with the scaling dimensions of a dual supersymmetric Gross-Neveu-Yukawa model. This provides a quantitative check of the conjectured duality.
Exotic Higgs decays in Type-II 2HDMs at the LHC and future 100 TeV hadron colliders
Authors: Kling Felix , Li Honglei , Pyarelal Adarsh , Song Huayang , Su Shufang
Published: June 2019

Abstract

The exotic decay modes of non-Standard Model (SM) Higgses in models with extended Higgs sectors have the potential to serve as powerful search channels to explore the space of Two-Higgs Doublet Models (2HDMs). Once kinematically allowed, heavy Higgses could decay into pairs of light non-SM Higgses, or a non-SM Higgs and a SM gauge boson, with branching fractions that quickly dominate those of the conventional decay modes to SM particles. In this study, we focus on the prospects of probing Type-II 2HDMs at the LHC and a future 100 TeV pp collider via exotic decay channels. We study the three prominent exotic decay channels: A → HZ, A → H
±
W
∓ and H
± → HW
±, and find that a 100-TeV pp collider can probe most of the region of the Type-II 2HDM parameter space that survives current theoretical and experimental constraints with sizable exotic decay branching fraction through these channels, making them complementary to the conventional decay channels for heavy non-SM Higgses.
Triple-real contribution to the quark beam function in QCD at next-to-next-to-next-to-leading order
Authors: Melnikov K. , Rietkerk R. , Tancredi L. , Wever C.
Published: June 2019

Abstract

We compute the three-loop master integrals required for the calculation of the triple-real contribution to the N3LO quark beam function due to the splitting of a quark into a virtual quark and three collinear gluons,q→q*+ggg. This provides an important ingredient for the calculation of the leading-color contribution to the quark beam function at N3LO.
Promoting remyelination in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Cunniffe Nick , Coles Alasdair
Published: June 2019

The greatest unmet need in multiple sclerosis (MS) are treatments that delay, prevent or reverse progression. One of the most tractable strategies to achieve this is to therapeutically enhance endogenous remyelination; doing so restores nerve conduction and prevents neurodegeneration. The biology of remyelination—centred on the activation, migration, proliferation and differentiation of oligodendrocyte progenitors—has been increasingly clearly defined and druggable targets have now been identified in preclinical work leading to early phase clinical trials. With some phase 2 studies reporting efficacy, the prospect of licensed remyelinating treatments in MS looks increasingly likely. However, there remain many unanswered questions and recent research has revealed a further dimension of complexity to this process that has refined our view of the barriers to remyelination in humans. In this review, we describe the process of remyelination, why this fails in MS, and the latest research that has given new insights into this process. We also discuss the translation of this research into clinical trials, highlighting the treatments that have been tested to date, and the different methods of detecting remyelination in people.
Cerebrospinal fluid collection: An informative animation video for patients and caregivers
Authors: Babapour Mofrad R. , Visser Leonie Nicoline Cornelia , Fruijtier Agnetha Diantha , Scheltens Philip , Smets Elisabeth (Ellen) Maria Antonia , van der Flier Wiesje Maria , Teunissen Charlotte Elisabeth
Published: June 2019

Daily clinical practice has shown that patients are often hesitant to undergo a lumbar puncture (LP) because of unfamiliarity with the awaiting procedure and/or unrealistic ideas concerning post‐LP complications. In light of increased number of LPs in diagnostic and research settings, our institute has developed an educational video for patients and caregivers in which we inform them about and prepare them for the LP procedure. This video was based on the latest literature and was developed with the help of communication experts, medical doctors, and two separate patient panels.
The Alzheimer's Prevention Initiative Generation Program: Study design of two randomized controlled trials for individuals at risk for clinical onset of Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Lopez Lopez Cristina , Tariot Pierre N. , Caputo Angelika , Langbaum Jessica B. , Liu Fonda , Riviere Marie‐Emmanuelle , Langlois Carolyn , Rouzade‐Dominguez Marie‐Laure , Zalesak Martin , Hendrix Suzanne , Thomas Ronald G. , Viglietta Vissia , Lenz Rob , Ryan J. Michael , Graf Ana , Reiman Eric M.
Published: June 2019

Introduction

Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology, including the accumulation of amyloid beta (Aβ) species and tau pathology, begins decades before the onset of cognitive impairment. This long preclinical period provides an opportunity for clinical trials designed to prevent or delay the onset of cognitive impairment due to AD. Under the umbrella of the Alzheimer's Prevention Initiative Generation Program, therapies targeting Aβ, including CNP520 (umibecestat), a β‐site‐amyloid precursor protein cleaving enzyme‐1 (BACE‐1) inhibitor, and CAD106, an active Aβ immunotherapy, are in clinical development in preclinical AD.

Methods

The Alzheimer's Prevention Initiative Generation Program comprises two pivotal (phase 2/3) studies that assess the efficacy and safety of umibecestat and CAD106 in cognitively unimpaired individuals with high risk for developing symptoms of AD based on their age (60–75 years), APOE4 genotype, and, for heterozygotes (APOE ε2/ε4 or ε3/ε4), elevated brain amyloid. Approximately, 3500 individuals will be enrolled in either Generation Study 1 (randomized to cohort 1 [CAD106 injection or placebo, 5:3] or cohort 2 [oral umibecestat 50 mg or placebo, 3:2]) or Generation Study 2 (randomized to oral umibecestat 50 mg and 15 mg, or placebo [2:1:2]). Participants receive treatment for at least 60 months and up to a maximum of 96 months. Primary outcomes include time to event, with event defined as diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment due to AD and/or dementia due to AD, and the Alzheimer's Prevention Initiative preclinical composite cognitive test battery. Secondary endpoints include the Clinical Dementia Rating Sum of Boxes, Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status total score, Everyday Cognition Scale, biomarkers, and brain imaging.

Discussion

The Generation Program is designed to assess the efficacy, safety, and biomarker effects of the two treatments in individuals at high risk for AD. It may also provide a plausible test of the amyloid hypothesis and further accelerate the evaluation of AD prevention therapies.
Temporal patterns of seed quality development, decline, and timing of maximum quality during seed development and maturation
Authors: Ellis Richard H.
Published: June 2019

The long-standing hypothesis that seed quality improves during seed filling, is greatest at the end of seed filling, and declines thereafter (because seed deterioration was assumed to begin then), provided a template for research in seed quality development. It was rejected by investigations where seed quality was shown to improve throughout both seed development and maturation until harvest maturity, before seed deterioration was first observed. Several other temporal patterns of seed quality development and decline have also been reported. These are portrayed and compared. The assessment suggests that the original hypothesis was too simple, because it combined several component hypotheses: (a) the seed improvement (only) phase ends before seed deterioration (only) commences; (b) there is only a brief single point in time during seed development and maturation when, in all circumstances, seed quality is maximal; (c) the seed quality improvement phase coincides perfectly with seed filling, with deterioration only post-seed filling. It is concluded that the search for the single point of maximum seed quality was a false quest because (a) seed improvement and deterioration may cycle (sequentially if not simultaneously) during seed development and maturation; (b) the relative sensitivity of the rates of improvement and deterioration to environment may differ; (c) the period of maximum quality may be brief or extended. Hence, when maximum quality is first attained, and for how long it is maintained, during seed development and maturation varies with genotype and environment. This is pertinent to quality seed production in current and future climates as it will be affected by climate change and a likelihood of more frequent coincidence of brief periods of extreme temperatures with highly sensitive phases of seed development and maturation. This is a possible tipping point for food security and for ecological diversity.
On the Magnitude and Variability of Height Gradients in the Equatorial F Region Vertical Plasma Drifts
Authors: Shidler S. A. , Rodrigues F. S.
Published: June 2019

Previous radar studies have shown that magnitude of the vertical component of equatorial ionospheric E×B plasma drifts can vary significantly with height, even within main F region altitudes. These studies, however, were limited to few observation days. In order to properly quantify the height variation of equatorial F region vertical drifts, we examined 559 days of measurements made by the incoherent scatter radar of the Jicamarca Radio Observatory between the years of 1986 and 2017. From the observed profiles of vertical plasma drifts, we determined the mean behavior and variability of the height gradients as a function of local time and two distinct solar flux conditions (mean F10.7 around 80 and 150 SFU). Only observations made under geomagnetically quiet conditions were considered. Our results quantify the enhanced negative height gradients of vertical drifts near sunset that have been reported in the past. More importantly, we also identify and explain an enhancement in positive gradients near sunrise. We discuss the variability of the height gradients in vertical ionospheric E×B drifts at main equatorial F region heights, and the impact of this variability for satellite observations and studies of ionospheric stability and equatorial spread F.
Absolute energy level positions in tin- and lead-based halide perovskites
Authors: Tao Shuxia , Schmidt Ines , Brocks Geert , Jiang Junke , Tranca Ionut , Meerholz Klaus , Olthof Selina
Published: June 2019

Metal halide perovskites are promising materials for future optoelectronic applications. One intriguing property, important for many applications, is the tunability of the band gap via compositional engineering. While experimental reports on changes in absorption or photoluminescence show rather good agreement for different compounds, the physical origins of these changes, namely the variations in valence and conduction band positions, are not well characterized. Here, we determine ionization energy and electron affinity values of all primary tin- and lead-based perovskites using photoelectron spectroscopy data, supported by first-principles calculations and a tight-binding analysis. We demonstrate energy level variations are primarily determined by the relative positions of the atomic energy levels of metal cations and halide anions and secondarily influenced by the cation-anion interaction strength. These results mark a significant step towards understanding the electronic structure of this material class and provides the basis for rational design rules regarding the energetics in perovskite optoelectronics.
Quantized surface transport in topological Dirac semimetal films
Authors: Nishihaya Shinichi , Uchida Masaki , Nakazawa Yusuke , Kurihara Ryosuke , Akiba Kazuto , Kriener Markus , Miyake Atsushi , Taguchi Yasujiro , Tokunaga Masashi , Kawasaki Masashi
Published: June 2019

Unconventional surface states protected by non-trivial bulk orders are sources of various exotic quantum transport in topological materials. One prominent example is the unique magnetic orbit, so-called Weyl orbit, in topological semimetals where two spatially separated surface Fermi-arcs are interconnected across the bulk. The recent observation of quantum Hall states in Dirac semimetal Cd3As2 bulks have drawn attention to the novel quantization phenomena possibly evolving from the Weyl orbit. Here we report surface quantum oscillation and its evolution into quantum Hall states in Cd3As2 thin film samples, where bulk dimensionality, Fermi energy, and band topology are systematically controlled. We reveal essential involvement of bulk states in the quantized surface transport and the resultant quantum Hall degeneracy depending on the bulk occupation. Our demonstration of surface transport controlled in film samples also paves a way for engineering Fermi-arc-mediated transport in topological semimetals.
Stabilizing spin systems via symmetrically tailored RKKY interactions
Authors: Hermenau Jan , Brinker Sascha , Marciani Marco , Steinbrecher Manuel , dos Santos Dias Manuel , Wiesendanger Roland , Lounis Samir , Wiebe Jens
Published: June 2019

Spins of single atoms adsorbed on substrates are promising building blocks for spintronics and quantum computation schemes. To process spin information and for increased magnetic stability, these spins have to be coupled to arrays. For a single atom, a high symmetry of the environment increases its spin stability. However, little is known about the role of the symmetry of the magnetic couplings in the arrays. Here, we study arrays of atomic spins coupled via Ruderman−Kittel−Kasuya−Yosida interaction, focusing on Dzyaloshinskii−Moriya and symmetric anisotropic exchange. We show that the high spin stability of a trimer can be remotely detected by a nearby atom, and how the Dzyaloshinskii−Moriya interaction leads to its destabilization. Adding more nearby atoms further destabilizes the trimer, due to a non-local effective transverse anisotropy originating in the symmetric anisotropic exchange. This transverse anisotropy can be quenched for highly symmetric structures, where the spin lifetime of the array increases drastically.
Variation of a major facilitator superfamily gene contributes to differential cadmium accumulation between rice subspecies
Authors: Yan Huili , Xu Wenxiu , Xie Jianyin , Gao Yiwei , Wu Lulu , Sun Liang , Feng Lu , Chen Xu , Zhang Tian , Dai Changhua , Li Ting , Lin Xiuni , Zhang Zhanying , Wang Xueqiang , Li Fengmei , Zhu Xiaoyang , Li Jinjie , Li Zichao , Chen Caiyan , Ma Mi , Zhang Hongliang , He Zhenyan
Published: June 2019

Cadmium (Cd) accumulation in rice grain poses a serious threat to human health. While several transport systems have been reported, the complexity of rice Cd transport and accumulation indicates the necessity of identifying additional genes, especially those that are responsible for Cd accumulation divergence between indica and japonica rice subspecies. Here, we show that a gene, OsCd1, belonging to the major facilitator superfamily is involved in root Cd uptake and contributes to grain accumulation in rice. Natural variation in OsCd1 with a missense mutation Val449Asp is responsible for the divergence of rice grain Cd accumulation between indica and japonica. Near-isogenic line tests confirm that the indica variety carrying the japonica allele OsCd1V449 can reduce the grain Cd accumulation. Thus, the japonica allele OsCd1V449 may be useful for reducing grain Cd accumulation of indica rice cultivars through breeding.
Electric field dynamics in the brain during multi-electrode transcranial electric stimulation
Authors: Alekseichuk Ivan , Falchier Arnaud Y. , Linn Gary , Xu Ting , Milham Michael P. , Schroeder Charles E. , Opitz Alexander
Published: June 2019

Neural oscillations play a crucial role in communication between remote brain areas. Transcranial electric stimulation with alternating currents (TACS) can manipulate these brain oscillations in a non-invasive manner. Recently, TACS using multiple electrodes with phase shifted stimulation currents were developed to alter long-range connectivity. Typically, an increase in coordination between two areas is assumed when they experience an in-phase stimulation and a disorganization through an anti-phase stimulation. However, the underlying biophysics of multi-electrode TACS has not been studied in detail. Here, we leverage direct invasive recordings from two non-human primates during multi-electrode TACS to characterize electric field magnitude and phase as a function of the phase of stimulation currents. Further, we report a novel “traveling wave” stimulation where the location of the electric field maximum changes over the stimulation cycle. Our results provide a mechanistic understanding of the biophysics of multi-electrode TACS and enable future developments of novel stimulation protocols.
High-resolution tip-enhanced Raman scattering probes sub-molecular density changes
Authors: Chen Xing , Liu Pengchong , Hu Zhongwei , Jensen Lasse
Published: June 2019

Tip-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (TERS) exhibits new selection rule and sub-nanometer spatial resolution, which is attributed to the plasmonic near-field confinement. Despite recent advances in simulations of TERS spectra under highly confined fields, a simply physical mechanism has remained elusive. In this work we show that single-molecule TERS images can be explained by local sub-molecular density changes induced by the confined near-field during the Raman process. The local sub-molecular density changes determine the spatial resolution in TERS and the gradient-based selection rule. Using this approach we find that the four-fold symmetry of meso-tetrakis(3,5-di-tert-butylphenyl)porphyrin (H2TBPP) TERS images observed in experiments arises from the combination of degenerate normal modes localized in the functional side groups rather than the porphyrin ring as previously considered. As an illustration of the potential of the method, we demonstrate how this new theory can be applied to microscopic structure characterization.
Statics and dynamics of multivalley charge density waves in Sb(111)
Authors: Tamtögl Anton , Kraus Patrick , Mayrhofer-Reinhartshuber Michael , Benedek Giorgio , Bernasconi Marco , Dragoni Daniele , Campi Davide , Ernst Wolfgang E.
Published: June 2019

Charge density waves (CDWs), periodic modulations of the charge density, are among the most abundant and non-trivial ordered phases in condensed matter. Here we demonstrate the occurrence of multi-valley charge density waves (MV-CDW) on the semimetal Sb(111), a phenomenon previously observed at semiconductor surface inversion layers. The topological nature of the pocket surface states in Sb(111) ensures perfect nesting conditions giving rise to sharp peaks in helium atom scattering (HAS) diffraction spectra. The peculiar temperature dependence permits to distinctly associate the diffraction peaks with surface electron and hole-pocket states due to the non-trivial surface electronic band structure known from recent experimental data and present ab-initio calculations. Inelastic HAS spectra, besides providing the surface phonon dispersion curves in agreement with density functional perturbation theory calculations, reveal two additional dispersion curves of elementary excitations in the gap well below Rayleigh waves. They are attributed to collective excitations of the quasi-commensurate MV-CDWs associated with the surface electron M-pocket states at the Fermi level. These findings suggest that HAS can be regarded as a choice spectroscopy for the investigation of surface electronic excitations in the THz domain, opening up a new window for the search of collective phases at surfaces.
Biodiversity data rescue in the framework of a long-term Kenya-Belgium cooperation in marine sciences
Authors: Knockaert Carolien , Tyberghein Lennert , Goffin Annelies , Vanhaecke Delphine , Ong’anda Harrison , Wakwabi Enock O. , Mees Jan
Published: June 2019

The Kenya-Belgium data collection includes about 111,800 biotic observations on benthos, algae, fish, zooplankton, phytoplankton, birds and mangroves which cover more than 400 unique locations that were sampled between 1873 and 1999. The scope of this data digitization project was to recover data in theses and reports resulting from marine and coastal research activities in the Eastern African region conducted between 1984 and 1999. Data were digitized and quality checked in the frame of the Belgian LifeWatch project. The dataset provides a better insight into the different types of research conducted between 1985 and 1996 in frame of the Kenya-Belgium cooperation in marine sciences (KBP) project and can facilitate further coastal biodiversity research in Kenya.
Framing effect, probability distortion, and gambling tendency without feedback are resistant to two nights of experimental sleep restriction
Authors: Sundelin Tina , Bayard Frida , Schwarz Johanna , Cybulski Lukasz , Petrovic Predrag , Axelsson John
Published: June 2019

Several studies suggest that sleep deprivation affects risky decision making. However, most of these are confounded by feedback given after each decision, indicating that decisions may be based on suboptimal feedback-learning rather than risk evaluation. Furthermore, few studies have investigated the effect of sleep loss on aspects of prospect theory, specifically the framing effect and probability distortion. In this within-subjects design, 25 people had (i) two nights of an 8 h sleep opportunity, and (ii) two nights of a 4 h sleep opportunity, in a counter-balanced order. Following the two nights, they performed a gambling task with no immediate feedback; for each round, they could either gamble for a full amount, or take a settlement framed as a gain or a loss for part of the amount. Sleep restriction did not significantly affect the tendency to gamble, the framing effect, or probability distortion, as compared to normal sleep. These results indicate that two nights of sleep restriction affects neither general gambling tendency, nor two of the main predictions of prospect theory. This resilience may be due to a less extreme sleep loss than in previous studies, but also indicates that learning components and risk biases should be separated when assessing the effect of sleep loss on risky behaviour.
Alpha-1 microglobulin as a potential therapeutic candidate for treatment of hypertension and oxidative stress in the STOX1 preeclampsia mouse model
Authors: Erlandsson Lena , Ducat Aurélien , Castille Johann , Zia Isac , Kalapotharakos Grigorios , Hedström Erik , Vilotte Jean-Luc , Vaiman Daniel , Hansson Stefan R.
Published: June 2019

Preeclampsia is a human placental disorder affecting 2–8% of pregnancies worldwide annually, with hypertension and proteinuria appearing after 20 weeks of gestation. The underlying cause is believed to be incomplete trophoblast invasion of the maternal spiral arteries during placentation in the first trimester, resulting in oxidative and nitrative stress as well as maternal inflammation and organ alterations. In the Storkhead box 1 (STOX1) preeclampsia mouse model, pregnant females develop severe and early onset manifestations as seen in human preeclampsia e.g. gestational hypertension, proteinuria, and organ alterations. Here we aimed to evaluate the therapeutic potential of human recombinant alpha-1 microglobulin (rA1M) to alleviate the manifestations observed. Human rA1M significantly reduced the hypertension during gestation and significantly reduced the level of hypoxia and nitrative stress in the placenta. In addition, rA1M treatment reduced cellular damage in both placenta and kidneys, thereby protecting the tissue and improving their function. This study confirms that rA1M has the potential as a therapeutic drug in preeclampsia, and likely also in other pathological conditions associated with oxidative stress, by preserving normal organ function.
Phenotypic plasticity of Escherichia coli upon exposure to physical stress induced by ZnO nanorods
Authors: Matuła Kinga , Richter Łukasz , Janczuk-Richter Marta , Nogala Wojciech , Grzeszkowiak Mikołaj , Peplińska Barbara , Jurga Stefan , Wyroba Elżbieta , Suski Szymon , Bilski Henryk , Silesian Adrian , Bluyssen Hans A. R. , Derebecka Natalia , Wesoły Joanna , Łoś Joanna M. , Łoś Marcin , Decewicz Przemyslaw , Dziewit Lukasz , Paczesny Jan , Hołyst Robert
Published: June 2019

Evolution of bacteria to selective chemical pressure (e.g. antibiotics) is well studied in contrast to the influence of physical stressors. Here we show that instantaneous physical stress in a homogeneous environment (without concentration gradient) induces fast adaptation of Escherichia coli. We exposed E. coli to a large number of collisions of around 105 per bacterium per second with sharp ZnO nanorods. The pressure exerted on the bacterial cell wall was up to 10 GPa and induced phenotype changes. The bacteria’s shape became more spherical, the density of their periplasm increased by around 15% and the average thickness of the cell wall by 30%. Such E. coli cells appeared almost as Gram-positive bacteria in the standard Gram staining. Additionally, we observed a combination of changes occurring at the genomic level (mutations identified in form of single nucleotide polymorphisms) and down-regulation of expression of 61 genes encoding proteins involved in β-oxidation of fatty acids, glycolysis, the citric acid cycle, as well as uptake of amino acids and enzyme cofactors. Thus, we show that bacteria undergo phenotypic changes upon instantaneous, acute physical stress without any obviously available time for gradual adaptation.
Detection of Fine Radiographic Progression in Finger Joint Space Narrowing Beyond Human Eyes: Phantom Experiment and Clinical Study with Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients
Authors: Kato Kazuki , Yasojima Nobutoshi , Tamura Kenichi , Ichikawa Shota , Sutherland Kenneth , Kato Masaru , Fukae Jun , Tanimura Kazuhide , Tanaka Yuki , Okino Taichi , Lu Yutong , Kamishima Tamotsu
Published: June 2019

The visual assessment of joint space narrowing (JSN) on radiographs of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients such as the Genant-modified Sharp score (GSS) is widely accepted but limited by its subjectivity and insufficient sensitivity. We developed a software application which can assess JSN quantitatively using a temporal subtraction technique for radiographs, in which the chronological change in JSN between two radiographs was defined as the joint space difference index (JSDI). The aim of this study is to prove the superiority of the software in terms of detecting fine radiographic progression in finger JSN over human observers. A micrometer measurement apparatus that can adjust arbitrary joint space width (JSW) in a phantom joint was developed to define true JSW. We compared the smallest detectable changes in JSW between the JSDI and visual assessment using phantom images. In a clinical study, 222 finger joints without interval score change on GSS in 15 RA patients were examined. We compared the JSDI between joints with and without synovial vascularity (SV) on power Doppler ultrasonography during the follow-up period. True JSW difference was correlated with JSDI for JSW differences ranging from 0.10 to 1.00 mm at increments of 0.10 mm (R2 = 0.986 and P < 0.001). Rheumatologists were difficult to detect JSW difference of 0.30 mm or less. The JSDI of finger joints with SV was significantly higher than those without SV (P = 0.030). The software can detect fine differences in JSW that are visually unrecognizable.
Preparation and characterization of novel nanocombination of bovine lactoperoxidase with Dye Decolorizing and anti-bacterial activity
Authors: EL-Fakharany Esmail M. , Abd-Elhamid Ahmed I. , El-Deeb Nehal M.
Published: June 2019

Interaction between nanoparticles (NPs) and protein is particularly important due to the formation of dynamic nanoparticle-protein complex. The current study indicated that silica NPs were able to induce conformational modification in the adsorbed lactoperoxidase (LPO) which in turns degrades the synthetic dyes. The maximum degradation efficiency was recorded for the LPO modified silica NPs in the presence of H2O2 comparing with either free LPO or silica NPs. Degradation efficiency of crystal violet and commassie blue R250 after 6 h was assessed to be 100(%). Also, degradation efficiency of Congo red reached 90.6% and 79.3% in the presence and absence of H2O2, respectively, however methyl red degradation efficiency recorded 85%. The viability assay experiment indicated that the IC50 value of the LPO modified silica NPs on human fibroblast cells reached 2.8 mg/ml after 48 h incubation. In addition to dye removal, the LPO modified silica NPs were able to inhibit the antibiotic resistant bacterial strains (Salmonell typhii, Staphylococcus areus, Pseudomonas aureginosa, E. coli, Proteus sp. and streptococcus sp.) at concentrations up to 2.5 mg/ml with inhibition activity about 95%. These findings emphasized that the ability of LPO for degradation of the synthetic dyes after adsorption on silica NPs besides it could be a promising agent with potent inhibitory effect targeting a wide range of multidrug resistant bacteria.
Caveolin1 interacts with the glucocorticoid receptor in the lung but is dispensable for its anti-inflammatory actions in lung inflammation and Trichuris Muris infection
Authors: Caratti G. , Poolman T. , Hurst R. J. , Ince L. , Knight A. , Krakowiak K. , Durrington H. J. , Gibbs J. , Else K. J. , Matthews L. C. , Ray D. W.
Published: June 2019

Glucocorticoids (Gcs) are widely prescribed anti-inflammatory compounds, which act through the glucocorticoid receptor (GR). Using an unbiased proteomics screen in lung tissue, we identified the membrane protein caveolin -1 (Cav1) as a direct interaction partner of the GR. In Cav1 knockout mice GR transactivates anti-inflammatory genes, including Dusp1, more than in controls. We therefore determined the role of Cav1 in modulating Gc action in two models of pulmonary inflammation. We first tested innate responses in lung. Loss of Cav1 impaired the inflammatory response to nebulized LPS, increasing cytokine/chemokine secretion from lung, but impairing neutrophil infiltration. Despite these changes to the inflammatory response, there was no Cav1 effect on anti-inflammatory capacity of Gcs. We also tested GR/Cav1 crosstalk in a model of allergic airway inflammation. Cav1 had a very mild effect on the inflammatory response, but no effect on the Gc response – with comparable immune cell infiltrate (macrophage, eosinophils, neutrophils), pathological score and PAS positive cells observed between both genotypes. Pursuing the Th2 adaptive immune response further we demonstrate that Cav1 knockout mice retained their ability to expel the intestinal nematode parasite T.muris, which requires adaptive Th2 immune response for elimination. Therefore, Cav1 regulates innate immune responses in the lung, but does not have an effect on Th2-mediated adaptive immunity in lung or gut. Although we demonstrate that Cav1 regulates GR transactivation of anti-inflammatory genes, this does not translate to an effect on suppression of inflammation in vivo.
Systemic Outcomes of (Pyr1)-Apelin-13 Infusion at Mid-Late Pregnancy in a Rat Model with Preeclamptic Features
Authors: Yamaleyeva Liliya M. , Brosnihan K. Bridget , Elsangeedy Ebrahim , McGee Carolynne , Shi Sara , Caudell David , Miller Cynthia , Varagic Jasmina , Bader Michael , Dechend Ralf , Shaltout Hossam A.
Published: June 2019

Preeclampsia is a syndrome with diverse clinical presentation that currently has no cure. The apelin receptor system is a pleiotropic pathway with a potential for therapeutic targeting in preeclampsia. We established the systemic outcomes of (Pyr1)-apelin-13 administration in rats with preeclamptic features (TGA-PE, female transgenic for human angiotensinogen mated to male transgenic for human renin). (Pyr1)-apelin-13 (2 mg/kg/day) or saline was infused in TGA-PE rats via osmotic minipumps starting at day 13 of gestation (GD). At GD20, TGA-PE rats had higher blood pressure, proteinuria, lower maternal and pup weights, lower pup number, renal injury, and a larger heart compared to a control group (pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats administered vehicle). (Pyr1)-apelin-13 did not affect maternal or fetal weights in TGA-PE. The administration of (Pyr1)-apelin-13 reduced blood pressure, and normalized heart rate variability and baroreflex sensitivity in TGA-PE rats compared to controls. (Pyr1)-apelin-13 increased ejection fraction in TGA-PE rats. (Pyr1)-apelin-13 normalized proteinuria in association with lower renal cortical collagen deposition, improved renal pathology and lower immunostaining of oxidative stress markers (4-HNE and NOX-4) in TGA-PE. This study demonstrates improved hemodynamic responses and renal injury without fetal toxicity following apelin administration suggesting a role for apelin in the regulation of maternal outcomes in preeclampsia.
Behaviour reactions of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) to multirotor Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs)
Authors: Fettermann Ticiana , Fiori Lorenzo , Bader Martin , Doshi Ashray , Breen Dan , Stockin Karen A. , Bollard Barbara
Published: June 2019

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) represent a novel and cost effective research tool to investigate cetacean behaviour, as conventional aircraft are expensive, limited in the altitude they can fly at and potentially disturb sensitive wildlife. In addition, the aerial observation from the UAVs allows assessment of cetacean behaviour from an advantageous perspective and can collect high spatial and temporal resolution data, providing the opportunity to gather accurate data about group size, age class and subsurface behaviour. However, concerns have been raised about the potential risks of disturbance to animals caused by the UAV’s visual and acoustic stimuli. Boat-based surveys were conducted to assess the short-term behavioural responses of resting bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) to a lightweight Vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) UAV flown at 10, 25, and 40 m altitude. Changes in group swim direction and frequencies of surface and aerial behavioural events were recorded from an anchored research vessel before (control) and during the aerial survey. The number of reorientation and tail slap events increased significantly between controls and flights when the UAV was flown at 10 m over the animals. In contrast, no significant differences were detected when the aircraft was flown at 25 and 40 m altitude. However, a precautionary approach is recommended for research applications requiring lower flight altitudes, with further research recommended to assess how different cetacean species and age class may respond to the UAV presence.
Comparison of uridine diphosphate-glycosyltransferase UGT76G1 genes from some varieties of Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni
Authors: Abdelsalam Nader R. , Botros William A. , Khaled Ahmed E. , Ghonema Mohamed A. , Hussein Shimaa G. , Ali Hayssam M. , Elshikh Mohamed S.
Published: June 2019

Stevia leaves contain various components, such as flavonoids, labdanes, chlorophylls, sterols, triterpenoids, mono-disaccharides, organic acids and inorganic salts. Stevia is known to accumulate diterpenoid steviol glycosides, which are approximately 300 times sweeter than regular sugar. Stevioside and rebaudioside A are the main diterpenic glycosides in stevia. Steviol glycosides are the secondary metabolites responsible for the sweetness of stevia. The main objectives of the present study were to determine the concentrations of diterpenic glycosides (stevioside and rebaudioside A) in three stevia varieties (Stevia rebaudiana) via the HPLC-UV technique and to amplify the UGT76G1 gene by PCR using gene-specific primers. The expression levels of the UGT76G1 gene were determined in the three stevia varieties. The PCR products were sequenced and analyzed, and the nucleotide sequences of the UGT76G1 gene were submitted to GenBank and assigned to the following three varieties: Egy1 (MH087463), China1 (MH087464) and Sponti (MH087465). Cluster analysis was used to separate the three varieties into two major clusters based on their phylogenetic relationship. In addition, chemical analysis was carried out to evaluate stevioside and rebaudioside A. The present study concluded that Egy1 and Sponti are closely related varieties as they fall in the same cluster, while China1 forms a separate cluster. Bioprospecting studies could be useful for selection of superior ecotypes of Stevia rebaudiana.
Population divergence and gene flow in two East Asian shorebirds on the verge of speciation
Authors: Sadanandan Keren R. , Küpper Clemens , Low Gabriel W. , Yao Cheng-Te , Li Yue , Xu Tao , Rheindt Frank E. , Wu Shaoyuan
Published: June 2019

Genetic isolation of populations over evolutionary time leads to the formation of independent species. We examined a pair of shorebirds – the Kentish PloverCharadrius alexandrinusand the enigmatic White-faced PloverC. dealbatus– which display strong plumage differentiation, yet show minimal genetic divergence based on previous mitochondrial and microsatellite work. Two scenarios may lead to this situation: (1) they represent clinal or poorly diverged populations with limited genomic differentiation despite substantial plumage variation, or (2) they are diverging taxa at the cusp of speciation, with ongoing limited gene flow obliterating signals of differentiation in traditional genetic markers. We compared the genotypes of 98 plovers (59 Kentish Plovers, 35 White-faced Plovers and 4 genomic hybrids) sampled in eastern Asia and Europe using ddRADSeq to harvest over 8000 genome-wide SNPs. In contrast to previous studies, our analyses revealed two well defined genomic clusters, with limited hybridization and a narrow contact zone. We also uncovered significant differences in bill length and further sex-specific differences in size, which may signal differences in mate choice between Kentish and White-faced Plovers. Our results support the hypothesis that this shorebird duo is on the verge of speciation.
Infiltrating CCR2+ monocytes and their progenies, fibrocytes, contribute to colon fibrosis by inhibiting collagen degradation through the production of TIMP-1
Authors: Kuroda Naoki , Masuya Masahiro , Tawara Isao , Tsuboi Junya , Yoneda Misao , Nishikawa Kenichiro , Kageyama Yuki , Hachiya Kensuke , Ohishi Kohshi , Miwa Hiroshi , Yamada Reiko , Hamada Yasuhiko , Tanaka Kyosuke , Kato Takuma , Takei Yoshiyuki , Katayama Naoyuki
Published: June 2019

Intestinal fibrosis is a serious complication in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Despite the remarkable success of recent anti-inflammatory therapies for IBD, incidence of intestinal fibrosis and need for bowel resection have not significantly changed. To clarify the contribution of haematopoietic-derived cells in intestinal fibrosis, we prepared bone marrow (BM) chimeric mice (chimeras), which were reconstituted with BM cells derived from enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP)-transgenic mice or CC chemokine receptor 2 (CCR2)-deficient mice. After 2 months of transplantation, BM chimeras were treated with azoxymethane/dextran sodium sulphate. During chronic inflammation, CCR2+BM-derived monocyte and fibrocyte infiltration into the colon and CC chemokine ligand 2 production increased, leading to colon fibrosis in EGFP BM chimeras. In CCR2-deficient BM chimeras, monocyte and fibrocyte numbers in the colonic lamina propria significantly decreased, and colon fibrosis was attenuated. In colon tissue, mRNA expression of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP)-1 but not of collagen I, transforming growth factor-β1 or matrix metalloproteinases was significantly different between the two chimeras. CCR2+monocytes and fibrocytes showed highTimp1mRNA expression. Our results suggest that infiltrating CCR2+monocytes and their progenies, fibrocytes, promote colon fibrosis by inhibiting collagen degradation through TIMP-1 production.
Long Term Outcomes of The Off-Pump and On-Pump Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting In A High-Volume Center
Authors: Matkovic Milos , Tutus Vladimir , Bilbija Ilija , Milin Lazovic Jelena , Savic Marko , Cubrilo Marko , Aleksic Nemanja , Atanasijevic Igor , Andrijasevic Vuk , Putnik Svetozar
Published: June 2019

Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) remains the most frequent surgery in the practice of an adult cardiac surgeon and the most frequently performed cardiac surgical procedure worldwide. Despite the ongoing debates regarding the superiority or inferiority of off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting, it still comprises 15–30% of all CABG cases varying in different national registries. We performed a propensity matched study of 302 consecutive CABG patients,143 off -pump cases performed by the four experienced off-pump surgeons and the on-pump CABG cases performed by those surgeons and four other experienced coronary surgeons. The five year follow up was performed and data collected comprised of mortality, rehospitalization due to cardiac origin, repeated revascularization, myocardial infarction and cerebrovascular accident. Overall, the off-pump group of patients had a higher risk profile than the patients in the on-pump group. After matching, fewer differences were found between the groups. Propensity score matching analysis showed no difference in long-term survival as well as MACCE and repeated revascularization. The higher risk profile of the patients subjected to OPCAB and the comparable survival to lower risk CPB patients in this series indicate that in experienced hands, OPCAB is a valuable option in this important subgroup of patients.