bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rapid Growth and Fusion of Protocells in Surface‐Adhered Membrane Networks
Authors: Köksal Elif S. , Liese Susanne , Xue Lin , Ryskulov Ruslan , Viitala Lauri , Carlson Andreas , Gözen Irep
Published: August 2020

Elevated temperatures might have promoted the nucleation, growth, and replication of protocells on the early Earth. Recent reports have shown evidence that moderately high temperatures not only permit protocell assembly at the origin of life, but can have actively supported it. Here, the fast nucleation and growth of vesicular compartments from autonomously formed lipid networks on solid surfaces, induced by a moderate increase in temperature, are shown. Branches of the networks, initially consisting of self‐assembled interconnected nanotubes, rapidly swell into microcompartments which can spontaneously encapsulate RNA fragments. The increase in temperature further causes fusion of adjacent network‐connected compartments, resulting in the redistribution of the RNA. The experimental observations and the mathematical model indicate that the presence of nanotubular interconnections between protocells facilitates the fusion process.
Unfolding the Influence of Metal Doping on Properties of CsPbI3 Perovskite
Authors: Kajal Sandeep , Kim Junu , Shin Yun Seop , Singh Aditya Narayan , Myung Chang Woo , Kim Jin Young , Kim Kwang S.
Published: August 2020

Low‐temperature α‐phase stabilization using HI or zwitterions in cesium lead iodide (CsPbI3) endures the metastable phase properties but is thermally unstable. Doping with a small amount of heterovalent metals (i.e., Bi3+, Sb3+) in CsPbI3 has been assumed to stabilize the α‐phase, while here this assumption is challenged. It is demonstrated that heterovalent metal ion doping stabilizes β‐CsPbI3 at low temperatures without replacing the Pb2+ cations, while divalent cations (i.e., Ba2+, Sr2+, and Sn2+) doping stabilizes the α‐CsPbI3 by replacing the Pb2+ cations. This finding is demonstrated by both theoretical and experimental results. It is also found that the divalent cations stabilize α‐CsPbI3 films, making thermally stable at high temperatures, whereas heterovalent metal‐doping stabilizes β‐CsPbI3 films, making metastable. The doping influence on crystal grains and the chemical composition of thin films is discussed. In particular, the charge dissociation kinetics for the Sr doped thin film are much enhanced than α‐CsPbI3 and Ba doped thin films, also the initial results of the fabricated perovskite red‐light‐emmiting diode suggests that the Sr‐doped thin films would be more suitable for the device fabrication. These findings will guide a way for further development in thermally and air‐stable optoelectronic devices.
A Flexible Concentric Circle Structured Zinc‐Ion Micro‐Battery with Electrodeposited Electrodes
Authors: Li Rui , Li La , Jia Rui , Jiang Kai , Shen Guozhen , Chen Di
Published: August 2020

High‐performance all‐solid‐state rechargeable batteries with highly wearable, deformable, and waterproof features have attracted considerable attention for their promising applications in next‐generation wearable electronics. Herein, a flexible all‐solid‐state in‐plane Zn‐polyaniline (PANI) micro‐battery with concentric circle structure is reported by directly electrodepositing both positive and negative electrode materials on tyrene‐isoprene styrene rubber (SIS) substrate. As‐fabricated battery delivers a high specific area capacity of 250 µAh cm−2, a high energy density (0.25 mW h cm−2) and a high power density (0.99 mW cm−2) as well as excellent cyclin stability (68% capacity retention after 1200 cycles). More importantly, the concentric circle structured micro‐battery exhibits superior mechanical flexibility, reasonable stretchability, outstanding waterproof ability, and temperature resistance up to 80 °C and excellent integratability with wireless charging coils.
Epigenetics in Esophageal Cancer: From Mechanisms to Therapeutics
Authors: Liao Long , Yao Zi‐Ting , Fang Wang‐Kai , He Qing‐Yu , Xu Wen Wen , Li Bin
Published: August 2020

Esophageal cancer is a leading cause of cancer‐related deaths worldwide. In the past few years, the roles of epigenetics in cancer have been fully accepted. Recently, there has been an increased focus on epigenetic alterations underlying esophageal cancer carcinogenesis, with several epigenetic drug and RNA interference therapies being tested. However, the conclusion that epigenetic alterations are linked directly to an increased or decreased risk of esophageal cancer is less certain. Therefore, there is an urgent need to test novel epigenetic biomarkers for diagnostic and prognostic significance and to explore their potential as therapeutic targets. In this review, the discussion is concentrated on epigenetic alterations involving super‐enhancers, DNA methylation, histone modifications, and multiple noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs), including microRNAs (miRNAs), long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs), and their impact on tumor growth, invasion, metastasis, and drug resistance. Then specific instances of using epigenetic drugs, such as DNA methyltransferase and histone deacetylase inhibitors, to treat esophageal cancer are described. Recent developments in miRNA‐based therapeutic strategies, including antagomirs, lock nucleic acids, miRNA sponges, and microRNA replacement therapies, against esophageal cancer are also highlighted.
Cyclic behavior of concrete‐encased high‐strength concrete‐filled steel tube composite walls: An experiment
Authors: Zhou Jing , Fang Xiaodan , Jiang Yi
Published: August 2020

Concrete‐encased high‐strength concrete‐filled steel tube (CFST) walls are a new type of composite shear wall embedded into high‐strength CFST columns as a boundary element and/or in the centre of a wall. To examine the cyclic behavior of the concrete‐encased CFST composite wall, ten wall specimens were designed, and tested under lateral cyclic loading. The performance parameters of each specimen, including the failure pattern, hysteresis characteristics, load‐bearing capacity, ductility, stiffness, and energy dissipation capacity were studied. The experimental results demonstrated that the concrete‐encased CFST walls have a high initial stiffness and load‐bearing capacity. The degradation of the load‐bearing capacity and stiffness is slow, the ductility of the composite wall is excellent, and the hysteresis curve of the wall is complete under cyclic loading, which indicates a good cyclic behavior. The specimens maintain a good ductility and energy dissipation capacity, even at a high axial compression ratio. The CFST columns embedded in the centre of a wall enhance the load‐bearing capacity and change the distribution and propagation direction of cracks.
Initial steps of corrosion and oxide characteristics
Authors: Andrade Carmen
Published: August 2020

Simulation of cracking of concrete cover due to reinforcement corrosion has attracted numerous investigations in recent years, although has been more scarce its experimental determination. Numerous works are based in accelerating testing because of the duration of natural processes. This acceleration of the corrosion introduce differences with respect to slower corrosion rates, which should be taken into account as well as that the maximum value observed in real conditions is around 100–200 μA/cm2. On the other hand, the cracks appear due to the expansive character of the oxides formed. In the paper, some features of the accelerated testing of corrosion will be commented and the observations made in the first steps of the oxide formation in solution and in concrete, will be summarized. The oxides are of mixed colors evolving in function of the time to contact open air and they have not mechanical consistency, being apparently hydrophilic by retaining large amounts of water. These oxides evolve or “age” with the drying. It seems then, that a generalization of the oxide characteristics is not feasible. Regarding the crack generation and evolution due to the oxide formation, it is explained how to measure its width through strain‐gages and the detected steps in its evolution.
Base isolation of buildings for subway‐induced environmental vibration: Field experiments and a semi‐analytical prediction model
Authors: Sheng Tao , Shi Wei‐xing , Shan Jia‐zeng , Hong Fang‐yue , Bian Xue‐cheng , Liu Gan‐bin , Chen Yue
Published: August 2020

This paper presents a new three‐directional isolator and a new prediction model for base isolation method of buildings to improve the comfort of occupants under subway‐induced environmental vibration. The mechanical properties of the isolator were tested in a laboratory. The results indicated that the stiffness values can satisfy the isolation requirements for environmental vibrations by increasing the thickness of rubber layers, and the sliding bottom is beneficial for protecting the new isolator from instability failures under earthquakes. The suppression effectiveness of the new isolator for three‐directional subway‐induced environmental vibrations was then investigated via field experiments with a full‐scale building. Further, the tri‐axial comfort of occupants inside the building is enhanced significantly. Finally, using the measured data from the field experiments as an input, the new prediction model was proven to be effective for evaluating the vertical vibration levels of the base‐isolated building. As the new prediction model only includes a few of the most influential floor slabs, the modeling workload and computational cost of the prediction analysis are eased. Therefore, the new isolator and the prediction model are beneficial for improving the service performances of the base isolation method, especially for the buildings near subway transportation and in seismic areas.
Create a tool to help students make better‐informed academic decisions
Authors: Pavlik Amelia
Published: August 2020

When resources like Rate My Professor are available, students are going to use them. But how do you deal with the fact that these unofficial sources often provide them with inaccurate and false information about course options?
Consider higher education opportunities after COVID‐19
Authors: Dennis Marguerite J.
Published: August 2020

Higher education, both domestically and internationally, has been disrupted. Forecasts for the long‐shadow implications of COVID‐19 range from a six‐month to a five‐year disruption. Forecasts predict anywhere from a 15 to 25% decline in enrollment, depending on the part of the world. This virus has put the spotlight on antiquated financial models, rigid admission and registration procedures, and dismal student progression and graduation rates.
Review recent research on enrollment, costs, outcomes
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: August 2020

It's too early to know the overall impacts of COVID‐19 on postsecondary enrollment, completions, and other relevant metrics. But some recent studies can help you benchmark your institution's numbers going into the pandemic.
Hook‐shaped enterolith and secondary cachexia in a free‐living grey nurse shark (Carcharias taurus, Rafinesque 1810)
Authors: Otway Nicholas M. , West Greg J. , Gore Damian B. , Williamson Jane E.
Published: August 2020

The carcass of a critically endangered, juvenile female grey nurse shark (Carcharias taurus, Rafinesque 1810) was recovered from a south‐eastern Australian beach and subjected to necropsy. The 1.98‐m‐long shark exhibited advanced cachexia with its total weight (19.0 kg) and liver weight (0.37 kg) reduced by 60% and 89%, respectively, compared with a healthy individual of the same length. Marked tissue decomposition was evident preventing histopathology and identification of a definitive cause of death. At necropsy, the abdominal organs were abnormally displaced and showed marked reductions in size compared with a healthy individual of the same size. Importantly, a hook‐shaped enterolith (HSE), with a rough surface and cream in colour, was found within the spiral valve of the intestine and is to the authors’ knowledge, the first description of such in any marine animal. X‐ray diffractometry showed that the HSE comprised the minerals monohydrocalcite (Ca[CO₃].H₂O; ~70 wt%) and struvite (Mg [NH4] [PO4]. [H2O]6; ~30 wt%). A CT scan showed concentric lamellate concretions around a 7/o offset J‐hook that formed the nidus of the HSE. Nylon fishing line attached to the hook exited the HSE and was evident in the abdominal cavity through a perforation in the intestinal wall where the posterior intestinal artery merges. The most parsimonious reconstruction of events leading to enterolithiasis and secondary cachexia in this shark was the consumption of a hooked fish and subsequent hook migration causing perforations of the cardiac stomach wall followed by the thin, muscular wall of the apposed, sub‐adjacent intestine.
Mesoscale modeling of a “Dunkelflaute” event
Authors: Li Bowen , Basu Sukanta , Watson Simon J. , Russchenberg Herman W. J.
Published: August 2020

In the near future, wind and solar generation are projected to play an increasingly important role in Europe's energy sector. With such fast‐growing renewable energy development, the presence of simultaneous calm wind and overcast conditions could cause significant shortfalls in production with potentially serious consequences for system operators. Such events are sometimes dubbed “Dunkelflaute” events and have occurred several times in recent history. The capabilities of contemporary mesoscale models to reliably simulate and/or forecast a Dunkelflaute event are not known in the literature. In this paper, a Dunkelflaute event near the coast of Belgium is simulated utilizing the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model. Comprehensive validation using measured power production data and diverse sets of meteorological data (e.g., floating lidars, radiosondes, and weather stations) indicates the potential of WRF to reproduce and forecast the boundary layer evolution during the event. Extensive sensitivity experiments with respect to grid‐size, wind farm parameterization, and forcing datasets provide further insights on the reliability of the WRF model in capturing the Dunkelflaute event.
The Quebec Model of Recording Spiritual Care: Concepts and Guidelines
Authors: Bélanger Bruno , Beauregard Line , Bélanger Mario , Bergeron Chantal
Published: August 2020

Over the past decade or so, the quality of the evaluation note written by a spiritual care provider has been a major issue in debates about accountability and the quality of interdisciplinary collaboration. This article advocates the adoption of our two models of notes: ‘the note following a meeting with a user’, generally used in acute care, and ‘the note following a meeting with a relative’, generally used in long-term care, in cases where a patient can no longer express himself or herself. These two charting models were developed on the basis of the RESS (‘Markers for Spiritual Care Assessment’) assessment tool recently developed at the Centre Spiritualitésanté de la Capitale-Nationale (CSsanté), and their usefulness and applicability were assessed in a research study. The note models presented in this article are inspired by the vision of spirituality that underlies our work accompanying patients and informed the development of the RESS. We found that the clinical benefits of streamlining an evaluation and note-writing model are a major step forward in a profession that has been rapidly evolving in Quebec in recent years.
Verifying a Solver for Linear Mixed Integer Arithmetic in Isabelle/HOL
Authors: Bottesch Ralph , Haslbeck Max W. , Reynaud Alban , Thiemann René
Published: August 2020

We implement a decision procedure for linear mixed integer arithmetic and formally verify its soundness in Isabelle/HOL. We further integrate this procedure into one application, namely into , a formally verified certifier to check untrusted termination proofs. This checking involves assertions of unsatisfiability of linear integer inequalities; previously, only a sufficient criterion for such checks was supported. To verify the soundness of the decision procedure, we first formalize the proof that every satisfiable set of linear integer inequalities also has a small solution, and give explicit upper bounds. To this end we mechanize several important theorems on linear programming, including statements on integrality and bounds. The procedure itself is then implemented as a branch-and-bound algorithm, and is available in several languages via Isabelle’s code generator. It internally relies upon an adapted version of an existing verified incremental simplex algorithm.
Detektion von Lungenveränderungen bei Patienten mit Mukoviszidose
Authors: Nyilas Sylvia , Bauman Grzegorz , Sommer Gregor
Published: August 2020

Klinisches/methodisches Problem

Die differenzierte Beurteilung von Gasaustauschprozessen, Lungenzirkulation sowie die Erkennung struktureller Veränderungen sind wesentlich für die Therapie von Patienten mit Mukoviszidose (zystische Fibrose, CF). Klinische Lungenfunktionstests sind oft nicht hinreichend spezifisch sowie häufig nicht durchführbar.

Radiologische Standardverfahren

Standardverfahren in der Lungendiagnostik sind die konventionell radiologische Thoraxbildgebung und die Computertomographie (CT) zur morphologischen Darstellung. In aktuellen Studien wird zur strukturellen Darstellung der Lunge zusätzlich die Magnetresonanztomographie (MRT) verwendet. Die funktionelle Bildgebung ist vorerst nur auf spezialisierte Zentren beschränkt.

Methodische Innovationen

Zur Darstellung der Lungenventilation stehen die MRT mit hyperpolarisierten Gasen und die Fourier-Dekompositions/Matrix-Pencil-MRT (FD/MP-MRT) zur Verfügung. Zur Perfusionsbestimmung können u. a. die dynamische kontrastmittelverstärkte MRT (DCE-MRT) oder kontrastmittelfreie Methoden wie die FD-MRT angewendet werden.

Leistungsfähigkeit

Die funktionelle MRT erlaubt einen genaueren Einblick in die Pathophysiologie der Lungenfunktion auf regionaler Ebene. Vorteile gegenüber den röntgenbasierten Verfahren sind die fehlende Strahlenbelastung, die Vielzahl der über verschiedene Kontraste zugänglichen Parameter der Lungenfunktion sowie die gute Wiederholbarkeit.

Bewertung

Funktionelle Messungen sind insbesondere zur frühzeitigen Erkennung von Lungenfunktionseinschränkungen unabdingbar. Ausreichende Erfahrungen in der klinischen Anwendung bei CF existieren nur für bestimmte MRT-Verfahren.

Empfehlung für die Praxis

Ein klinischer Einsatz der genannten Verfahren sollte mit Ausnahme der DCE-MRT nur innerhalb von Studien erfolgen.
Type 2 diabetes remission: 2 year within-trial and lifetime-horizon cost-effectiveness of the Diabetes Remission Clinical Trial (DiRECT)/Counterweight-Plus weight management programme
Authors: Xin Yiqiao , Davies Andrew , Briggs Andrew , McCombie Louise , Messow C. Martina , Grieve Eleanor , Leslie Wilma S. , Taylor Roy , Lean Michael E. J.
Published: August 2020

Aims/hypothesis

Approximately 10% of total healthcare budgets worldwide are spent on treating diabetes and its complications, and budgets are increasing globally because of ageing populations and more expensive second-line medications. The aims of the study were to estimate the within-trial and lifetime cost-effectiveness of the weight management programme, which achieved 46% remissions of type 2 diabetes at year 1 and 36% at year 2 in the Diabetes Remission Clinical Trial (DiRECT).

Methods

Within-trial analysis assessed costs of the Counterweight-Plus intervention in DiRECT (including training, programme materials, practitioner appointments and low-energy diet), along with glucose-lowering and antihypertensive medications, and all routine healthcare contacts. Lifetime cost per quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) was estimated according to projected durations of remissions, assuming continued relapse rates as seen in year 2 of DiRECT and consequent life expectancy, quality of life and healthcare costs.

Results

Mean total 2 year healthcare costs for the intervention and control groups were £3036 and £2420, respectively: an incremental cost of £616 (95% CI –£45, £1269). Intervention costs (£1411; 95% CI £1308, £1511) were partially offset by lower other healthcare costs (£796; 95% CI £150, £1465), including reduced oral glucose-lowering medications by £231 (95% CI £148, £314). Net remission at 2 years was 32.3% (95% CI 23.5%, 40.3%), and cost per remission achieved was £1907 (lower 95% CI: intervention dominates; upper 95% CI: £4212). Over a lifetime horizon, the intervention was modelled to achieve a mean 0.06 (95% CI 0.04, 0.09) QALY gain for the DiRECT population and mean total lifetime cost savings per participant of £1337 (95% CI £674, £2081), with the intervention becoming cost-saving within 6 years.

Conclusions/interpretation

Incorporating the lifetime healthcare cost savings due to periods of remission from diabetes and its complications, the DiRECT intervention is predicted to be both more effective (QALY gain) and cost-saving in adults with type 2 diabetes compared with standard care. This conclusion appears robust to various less favourable model scenarios, providing strong evidence that resources could be shifted cost-effectively to support achieving remissions with the DiRECT intervention.

Trial registration

ISRCTN03267836
Secondary Endoleak Management Following TEVAR and EVAR
Authors: Ameli-Renani Seyed , Pavlidis Vyzantios , Morgan Robert A.
Published: August 2020

Endovascular abdominal and thoracic aortic aneurysm repair and are widely used to treat increasingly complex aneurysms. Secondary endoleaks, defined as those detected more than 30 days after the procedure and after previous negative imaging, remain a challenge for aortic specialists, conferring a need for long-term surveillance and reintervention. Endoleaks are classified on the basis of their anatomic site and aetiology. Type 1 and type 2 endoleaks (EL1 and EL2) are the most common endoleaks necessitating intervention. The management of these requires an understanding of their mechanics, and the risk of sac enlargement and rupture due to increased sac pressure. Endovascular techniques are the main treatment approach to manage secondary endoleaks. However, surgery should be considered where endovascular treatments fail to arrest aneurysm growth. This chapter reviews the aetiology, significance, management strategy and techniques for different endoleak types.
miR-331-3p is involved in glucocorticoid resistance reversion by rapamycin through suppression of the MAPK signaling pathway
Authors: Lucafò Marianna , Sicari Daria , Chicco Andrea , Curci Debora , Bellazzo Arianna , Di Silvestre Alessia , Pegolo Chiara , Autry Robert , Cecchin Erika , De Iudicibus Sara , Collavin Licio , Evans William , Decorti Giuliana , Stocco Gabriele
Published: August 2020

Glucocorticoids (GCs) are commonly used as therapeutic agents for immune-mediated diseases and leukemia. However, considerable inter-individual differences in efficacy have been reported. Several reports indicate that the inhibitor of mTOR rapamycin can reverse GC resistance, but the molecular mechanism involved in this synergistic effect has not been fully defined. In this context, we explored the differential miRNA expression in a GC-resistant CCRF-CEM cell line after treatment with rapamycin alone or in co-treatment with methylprednisolone (MP). The expression analysis identified 70, 99 and 96 miRNAs that were differentially expressed after treatment with MP, rapamycin and their combination compared to non-treated controls, respectively. Two pathways were exclusively altered as a result of the co-treatment: the MAPK and ErbB pathways. We validated the only miRNA upregulated specifically by the co-treatment associated with the MAPK signaling, miR-331-3p. Looking for miR-331-3p targets, MAP2K7, an essential component of the JNK/MAPK pathway, was identified. Interestingly, MAP2K7 expression was downregulated during the co-treatment, causing a decrease in terms of JNK activity. miR-331-3p in mimic-transfected cells led to a significant decrease in MAP2K7 levels and promoted the reversion of GC resistance in vitro. Interestingly, miR-331-3p expression was also associated with GC-resistance in patient leukemia cells taken at diagnosis. The combination of rapamycin with MP restores GC effectiveness through the regulation of different miRNAs, suggesting the important role of these pharmacoepigenetic factors in GC response.
The effect of anti-TNF treatment on body composition and insulin resistance in patients with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: van den Oever I. A. M. , Baniaamam M. , Simsek S. , Raterman H. G. , van Denderen J. C. , van Eijk I. C. , Peters M. J. L. , van der Horst-Bruinsma I. E. , Smulders Y. M. , Nurmohamed M. T.
Published: August 2020

Given the link between systemic inflammation, body composition and insulin resistance (IR), anti-inflammatory therapy may improve IR and body composition in inflammatory joint diseases. This study assesses the IR and beta cell function in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients with active disease compared to osteoarthritis (OA) patients and investigates the effect of anti-TNF treatment on IR, beta cell function and body composition in RA. 28 Consecutive RA patients starting anti-TNF treatment (adalimumab), and 28 age, and sex-matched patients with OA were followed for 6 months. Exclusion criteria were use of statins, corticosteroids, and cardiovascular or endocrine co-morbidity. Pancreatic beta cell function and IR, using the homeostasis model assessment (HOMA2), and body composition, using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) were measured at baseline and 6 months. At baseline, IR [1.5 (1.1–1.8) vs. 0.7 (0.6–0.9), 100/%S] and beta cell function (133% vs. 102%) were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in RA patients with active disease as compared to OA patients. After 6 months of anti-TNF treatment, IR [1.5 (1.1–1.8) to 1.4 (1.1–1.7), p = 0.17] slightly improved and beta cell function [133% (115–151) to 118% (109–130), p <0.05] significantly improved. Improvement in IR and beta cell function was most pronounced in RA patients with highest decrease in CRP and ESR. Our observations indicate that IR and increased beta cell function are more common in RA patients with active disease. Anti-TNF reduced IR and beta cell function especially in RA patients with highest decrease in systemic inflammation and this effect was not explained by changes in body composition.
Mining Favorable Alleles for Rice Coleoptile Elongation Length Sensitivity to Exogenous Gibberellin Under Submergence Condition
Authors: Abdulmajid Dina , Ali Nour , Eltahawy Moaz S. , Liu Erbao , Dang Xiaojing , Hong Delin
Published: August 2020

High sensitivity of rice coleoptile elongation length to exogenous gibberellin is a beneficial trait to utilize superior rice cultivars that could not be used originally under water direct-seeded conditions. In the present study, we mined favorable alleles for the trait by combining the phenotypic data of 358 rice accessions with their genotype data of 262 simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers via genome wide association mapping method. Totally, 17 SSR marker loci significantly associated with gibberellin sensitivity index (GSI) of coleoptile elongation length under 10 cm depth of water, were detected by general linear model and mixed linear model across two years, with percent phenotypic variation explained larger than 10%. Twenty nine favorable alleles for GSI on the 17 loci were discovered with phenotypic effect value (PEV) larger than 0.1 cm/cm and RM6869-110 bp showed the largest PEV (0.27 cm/cm). Based on PEV of marker-alleles having positive effects on GSI, seven parental combinations were predicted to improve GSI. In addition, 7 loci for GSI were co-located with loci associated with coleoptile elongation length per se, and one locus (RM1182 on chromosome 5) was co-located with that associated with coleoptile elongation length after gibberellin-soaked seed, under germination condition of 10 cm depth of water. These favorable allele(s) could be used to improve two target traits simultaneously.
The flow around a surface mounted cube: a characterization by time-resolved PIV, 3D Shake-The-Box and LBM simulation
Authors: Schröder A. , Willert C. , Schanz D. , Geisler R. , Jahn T. , Gallas Q. , Leclaire B.
Published: August 2020

The flow around a surface mounted cube with incoming turbulent or laminar boundary layer has been topic of many experimental and numerical investigations in the past decades. Despite its simple geometry the flow generates a set of complex vortical structures in front and around the cube, includes flow separation at the three front plane edges with corresponding subsequent shear layer dynamics enveloping recirculation zones. Downstream of the cube a large unsteady flow separation region is present which is associated with typical quasi-periodic bluff-body wake dynamics. Therefore the flow configuration is well suited to enhance the understanding of similar unsteady and separated flow phenomena in many aerodynamic and engineering applications. In the present experimental investigation we aim at resolving a large spectrum of spatial and temporal scales in the flow around a cube with incoming laminar and turbulent boundary layers by using the most recent developments of dense 3D Lagrangian particle tracking (LPT) and high resolution TR-PIV for Reynolds numbers based on cube size in the range $$\text {Re}_H = U_\infty \,H\,\nu ^{-1} = 2000 - 8000$$

Re
H

=

U
∞

H

ν

-
1

=
2000
-
8000

. The results documented in the present paper consist of snapshots and the analysis of long time-series of highly resolved 3D and 2D velocity fields suited to enhance the understanding of coherent structure dynamics and of corresponding statistical Lagrangian and Eulerian flow properties. Premultiplied velocity spectra and 3D pressure distributions are calculated and discussed as well. Finally, the measurement data is compared to results obtained with a simulation based on the lattice Boltzmann method (LBM).

Graphic abstract
The Triangle Groups (2, 4, 5) and (2, 5, 5) are not Systolic
Authors: Karrer Annette , Schwer Petra , Struyve Koen
Published: August 2020

In this paper we provide new examples of hyperbolic but nonsystolic groups by showing that the triangle groups (2, 4, 5) and (2, 5, 5) are not systolic. Along the way we prove some results about subsets of systolic complexes stable under involutions.
Poly(N,N-bis(2-methoxyethyl)acrylamide), a thermoresponsive non-ionic polymer combining the amide and the ethyleneglycolether motifs
Authors: Hechenbichler Michelle , Laschewsky André , Gradzielski Michael
Published: August 2020

Poly(N,N-bis(2-methoxyethyl)acrylamide) (PbMOEAm) featuring two classical chemical motifs from non-ionic water-soluble polymers, namely, the amide and ethyleneglycolether moieties, was synthesized by reversible addition fragmentation transfer (RAFT) polymerization. This tertiary polyacrylamide is thermoresponsive exhibiting a lower critical solution temperature (LCST)–type phase transition. A series of homo- and block copolymers with varying molar masses but low dispersities and different end groups were prepared. Their thermoresponsive behavior in aqueous solution was analyzed via turbidimetry and dynamic light scattering (DLS). The cloud points (CP) increased with increasing molar masses, converging to 46 °C for 1 wt% solutions. This rise is attributed to the polymers’ hydrophobic end groups incorporated via the RAFT agents. When a surfactant-like strongly hydrophobic end group was attached using a functional RAFT agent, CP was lowered to 42 °C, i.e., closer to human body temperature. Also, the effect of added salts, in particular, the role of the Hofmeister series, on the phase transition of PbMOEAm was investigated, exemplified for the kosmotropic fluoride, intermediate chloride, and chaotropic thiocyanate anions. A pronounced shift of the cloud point of about 10 °C to lower or higher temperatures was observed for 0.2 M fluoride and thiocyanate, respectively. When PbMOEAm was attached to a long hydrophilic block of poly(N,N-dimethylacrylamide) (PDMAm), the cloud points of these block copolymers were strongly shifted towards higher temperatures. While no phase transition was observed for PDMAm-b-pbMOEAm with short thermoresponsive blocks, block copolymers with about equally sized PbMOEAm and PDMAm blocks underwent the coil-to-globule transition around 60 °C.
Antibody against TDP-43 phosphorylated at serine 375 suggests conformational differences of TDP-43 aggregates among FTLD–TDP subtypes
Authors: Neumann Manuela , Frick Petra , Paron Francesca , Kosten Jonas , Buratti Emanuele , Mackenzie Ian R.
Published: August 2020

Aggregation of hyperphosphorylated TDP-43 is the hallmark pathological feature of the most common molecular form of frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD–TDP) and in the vast majority of cases with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS–TDP). However, most of the specific phosphorylation sites remain to be determined, and their relevance regarding pathogenicity and clinical and pathological phenotypic diversity in FTLD–TDP and ALS–TDP remains to be identified. Here, we generated a novel antibody raised against TDP-43 phosphorylated at serine 375 (pTDP-43S375) located in the low-complexity domain, and used it to investigate the presence of S375 phosphorylation in a series (n = 44) of FTLD–TDP and ALS–TDP cases. Immunoblot analysis demonstrated phosphorylation of S375 to be a consistent feature of pathological TDP-43 species, including full-length and C-terminal fragments, in all FTLD–TDP subtypes examined (A–C) and in ALS–TDP. Of particular interest, however, detailed immunohistochemical analysis showed striking differences in the immunoreactivity profile of inclusions with the pTDP-43S375 antiserum among pathological subtypes. TDP-43 pathology of ALS–TDP, FTLD–TDP type B (including cases with the C9orf72 mutation), and FTLD–TDP type C all showed strong pTDP-43S375 immunoreactivity that was similar in amount and morphology to that seen with an antibody against TDP-43 phosphorylated at S409/410 used as the gold standard. In stark contrast, TDP-43 pathology in sporadic and genetic forms of FTLD–TDP type A (including cases with GRN and C9orf72 mutations) was found to be almost completely negative by pTDP-43S375 immunohistochemistry. These data suggest a subtype-specific, conformation-dependent binding of pTDP-43S375 antiserum to TDP-43 aggregates, consistent with the idea of distinct structural TDP-43 conformers (i.e., TDP-43 strains) as the molecular basis for the phenotypic diversity in TDP-43 proteinopathies.
A new criterion for assessing Ilizarov treatment outcomes in nonunion of the tibia
Authors: Szelerski Łukasz , Pajchert Kozłowska Andżelika , Żarek Sławomir , Górski Radosław , Mochocki Karol , Dejnek Maciej , Urbański Wiktor , Reichert Paweł , Morasiewicz Piotr
Published: August 2020

Introduction

The purpose of this study was to assess a population of patients with nonunion of the tibia treated with the Ilizarov method in terms of achieved union rates and maintained union rates, determination of re-fracture factors, with a subsequent comparison of our findings with those reported in the available literature.

Materials and methods

This study was a retrospective assessment of 102 patients with nonunion of the tibia treated with the Ilizarov method in the period 2008–2015. The assessed parameters were bone union achieved during treatment, duration of stabilization with an Ilizarov external fixator, and maintained bone union at the last follow-up visit.

Results

The mean age at the start of treatment was 46.7 years (11–84 years). The mean follow-up period was 7 years (2–12 years). Bone union was achieved in all patients. The mean duration of Ilizarov stabilization in the study group was 7.9 months (2.8–20.7 months). The rate of union maintained at the last follow-up visit was 95.1%.

Conclusions

All patients in our study achieved bone union, which constitutes a better outcome than those reported on average in the literature (73.7–100%). The mean length of time which the Ilizarov external fixator was in place in our patients was 8.3 months, which is consistent with the data from literature. Infection, atrophic nonunion, nonunion in 1/3 distal of tibia, and close surgery technique are risk factors of re-fracture. None of the analyzed studies assessed the proportion of patients with maintained bone union. In our study, maintained bone union was observed in 95.1% of patients at the follow-up visit at least 2 years after treatment, which indicates excellent long-term treatment outcomes in nonunion of the tibia treated with the Ilizarov method.
Depressive symptoms and insecure attachment predict disability and quality of life in psoriasis independently from disease severity
Authors: Esposito Maria , Giunta Alessandro , Nanni Roberta Croce , Criscuolo Silvia , Manfreda Valeria , Del Duca Ester , Bianchi Luca , Troisi Alfonso
Published: August 2020

Psoriasis is a multisystemic inflammatory disease with a significant burden in terms of disability and reduced quality of life. The interrelations between disease severity, psychological well-being, and disability and/or health-related quality of life (HRQOL) of psoriatic patients are not fully understood. The aim of the study was to assess the relative role of disease severity, depressive symptoms, and insecure attachment in predicting disability and HRQOL in 105 patients with psoriasis. Objective measures of disease severity included the Body Surface Area (BSA), the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI), and the Pain Visual Analog Scale (pain-VAS). The Sheehan Disability Scale (SDS). The Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI). Multivariate hierarchical regression analysis showed that a preoccupied style of attachment and the presence of depressive symptoms were predictors of disability and HRQOL over and above the contribution of demographic and clinical variables. The inclusion of attachment and depression into multivariate regression models improved substantially the prediction of disability and HRQOL. Conversely, the predictive utility of objective indicators of disease severity was scarce and only the pain-VAS emerged as a significant predictor of disability whereas there were no significant correlations between HRQOL and any of the objective indicators of disease severity. Measures capturing patients’ perspectives of the functional impact of disease should be routinely included in the clinical assessment of psoriasis.
Physiological and anthropometric determinants of critical power, W′ and the reconstitution of W′ in trained and untrained male cyclists
Authors: Chorley Alan , Bott Richard P. , Marwood Simon , Lamb Kevin L.
Published: August 2020

Purpose

This study examined the relationship of physiological and anthropometric characteristics with parameters of the critical power (CP) model, and in particular the reconstitution of W′ following successive bouts of maximal exercise, amongst trained and untrained cyclists.

Methods

Twenty male adults (trained nine; untrained 11; age 39 ± 15 year; mass 74.7 ± 8.7 kg; V̇O2max 58.0 ± 8.7 mL kg−1 min−1) completed three incremental ramps (20 W min−1) to exhaustion interspersed with 2-min recoveries. Pearson’s correlation coefficients were used to assess relationships for W′ reconstitution after the first recovery (W′rec1), the delta in W′ reconstituted between recoveries (∆W′rec), CP and W′.

Results

CP was strongly related to V̇O2max for both trained (r = 0.82) and untrained participants (r = 0.71), whereas W′ was related to V̇O2max when both groups were considered together (r = 0.54). W′rec1 was strongly related to V̇O2max for the trained (r = 0.81) but not untrained (r = 0.18); similarly, ∆W′rec was strongly related to V̇O2max (r = − 0.85) and CP (r = − 0.71) in the trained group only.

Conclusions

Notable physiological relationships between parameters of aerobic fitness and the measurements of W′ reconstitution were observed, which differed among groups. The amount of W′ reconstitution and the maintenance of W′ reconstitution that occurred with repeated bouts of maximal exercise were found to be related to key measures of aerobic fitness such as CP and V̇O2max. This data demonstrates that trained cyclists wishing to improve their rate of W′ reconstitution following repeated efforts should focus training on improving key aspects of aerobic fitness such as V̇O2max and CP.
Increased fascicle length but not patellar tendon stiffness after accentuated eccentric-load strength training in already-trained men
Authors: Walker Simon , Trezise Joanne , Haff Guy Gregory , Newton Robert U. , Häkkinen Keijo , Blazevich Anthony J.
Published: August 2020

Purpose

This study examined whether additional external load during the eccentric phase of lower limb strength training exercises led to greater adaptations in knee extensor strength, muscle architecture, and patellar tendon properties than traditional concentric–eccentric training in already-trained men.

Methods

Twenty-eight men accustomed to strength training were randomized to undertake 10 weeks of supervised traditional (TRAD) or accentuated eccentric loading (AEL) or continue their habitual unsupervised (CON) strength training. TRAD and AEL trained 2∙week−1with a six-repetition maximum (RM) session and a ten-RM session. TRAD used the same external load in both concentric and eccentric phases, while AEL used 40% greater load during the eccentric than concentric phase. Tests were performed at pre- and post-training, including: maximum unilateral isokinetic (30°·s−1) concentric, eccentric and isometric torques by isokinetic dynamometry, unilateral isometric ramp contractions with muscle–tendon ultrasound imaging to measure tendon stiffness and hysteresis, and resting vastus lateralis and medialis fascicle angle and length measured by extended-field-of-view ultrasound.

Results

After training, both TRAD and AEL significantly increased maximum concentric and isometric torque (p < 0.05), but only AEL increased eccentric torque (AEL: + 10 ± 9%, TRAD: + 4 ± 9%) and vastus lateralis (AEL: + 14 ± 14%, TRAD: + 1 ± 10%) and medialis (AEL: + 19 ± 8%, TRAD: + 5 ± 11%) fascicle length.

Conclusion

Both TRAD and AEL increased maximum knee extensor strength but only AEL increased VL and VM fascicle length. Neither training program promoted changes in fascicle angle or changes in patellar tendon properties in our already-trained men.
High-throughput phenotyping platform for analyzing drought tolerance in rice
Authors: Kim Song Lim , Kim Nyunhee , Lee Hongseok , Lee Eungyeong , Cheon Kyeong-Seong , Kim Minsu , Baek JeongHo , Choi Inchan , Ji Hyeonso , Yoon In Sun , Jung Ki-Hong , Kwon Taek-Ryoun , Kim Kyung-Hwan
Published: August 2020

Main conclusion

A new imaging platform was constructed to analyze drought-tolerant traits of rice. Rice was used to quantify drought phenotypes through image-based parameters and analyzing tools.

Climate change has increased the frequency and severity of drought, which limits crop production worldwide. Developing new cultivars with increased drought tolerance and short breeding cycles is critical. However, achieving this goal requires phenotyping a large number of breeding populations in a short time and in an accurate manner. Novel cutting-edge technologies such as those based on remote sensors are being applied to solve this problem. In this study, new technologies were applied to obtain and analyze imaging data and establish efficient screening platforms for drought tolerance in rice using the drought-tolerant mutantosphyb. Red–Green–Blue images were used to predict plant area, color, and compactness. Near-infrared imaging was used to determine the water content of rice, infrared was used to assess plant temperature, and fluorescence was used to examine photosynthesis efficiency. DroughtSpotter technology was used to determine water use efficiency, plant water loss rate, and transpiration rate. The results indicate that these methods can detect the difference between tolerant and susceptible plants, suggesting their value as high-throughput phenotyping methods for short breeding cycles as well as for functional genetic studies of tolerance to drought stress.
Clinical responses to PD-1 inhibition and their molecular characterization in six patients with mismatch repair-deficient metastatic cancer of the digestive system
Authors: Hirsch Daniela , Gaiser Timo , Merx Kirsten , Weingaertner Simone , Forster Michael , Hendricks Alexander , Woenckhaus Matthias , Schubert Thomas , Hofheinz Ralf-Dieter , Gencer Deniz
Published: August 2020

Purpose

Immune checkpoint inhibitors have shown efficacy in patients with microsatellite instability-high/mismatch repair-deficient (MSI-H/dMMR) gastrointestinal (GI) cancers. However, depth and duration of clinical response is not uniform. We assessed tumor mutation burden (TMB) as a response marker in patients with GI cancers treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors.

Methods

Detailed clinical and response data were collected from six patients with metastatic MSI-H/dMMR GI cancers treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors. Efficacy was assessed by Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) version 1.1. Tumors and matched normal tissue were profiled by targeted next generation sequencing (127 gene panel, size 0.8 Mb). Impact of included mutation types, germline filtering methodology and different variant allele frequency thresholds on TMB estimation was assessed.

Results

Objective radiographic responses were observed in all six patients, and complete response was achieved in two of the six patients. Responses were durable (minimum 25 months). TMB estimates were clearly above the two recently reported cut-offs for metastatic colorectal cancer of 12 or 37 mutations per megabase for five of six patients, respectively, while one patient had borderline TMB elevation. TMB did not show an association with extent and duration of response but was influenced by included mutation types, germline filtering method and variant allele frequency threshold.

Conclusion

Our case series confirms the clinical benefit of immune checkpoint blockade in patients with metastatic MSI-H/dMMR GI cancers and illustrates the vulnerability of TMB as predictive marker in a subset of patients.
Different effects of tryptophan 2,3-dioxygenase inhibition on SK-Mel-28 and HCT-8 cancer cell lines
Authors: Paccosi Sara , Cecchi Marta , Silvano Angela , Fabbri Sergio , Parenti Astrid
Published: August 2020

Purpose

Indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase-1 (IDO1) and more recently, tryptophan 2,3-dioxygenase (TDO), are tryptophan-catabolizing enzymes with immunoregulatory properties in cancer. IDO1 is more expressed than TDO in many tumours including melanomas; however, IDO inhibitors did not give expected results in clinical trials, highlighting the need to consider TDO. We aimed to characterize both TDO expression and function in a melanoma cell line, named SK-Mel-28, with the purpose to compare it with a colon cancer cell line, HCT-8, and with a human endothelial cell line (HUVEC).

Methods

TDO expression was assessed as real time-PCR and western blot, for mRNA and protein expression, respectively. While cell proliferation was assessed as cell duplication, cell apoptosis and cell cycle were analysed by means of flow cytometry.

Results

SK-Mel-28 cells showed higher TDO levels compared to HCT-8 and to HUVEC cells. A selective TDO inhibitor, 680C91, significantly impaired cell proliferation in a concentration-dependent manner, by inducing cell arrest during the G2 phase for SK-Mel-28 and HUVEC cells, while an early apoptosis was increasing in HCT-8 cells. No toxic effects were observed. These data demonstrated that TDO is highly expressed in SK-Mel-28 cells and may be involved in the regulation of their proliferation.

Conclusion

TDO may directly modulate cancer cell function rather than immune suppression and can be considered as a target for melanoma progression together with IDO1.