bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Generation of the squamous epithelial roof of the 4th ventricle
Authors: Campo-Paysaa Florent , Clarke Jonathan DW , Wingate Richard JT
Published: February 2019

We use the transparency of zebrafish embryos to reveal the de novo generation of a simple squamous epithelium and identify the cellular architecture in the epithelial transition zone that ties this squamous epithelium to the columnar neuroepithelium within the embryo's brain. The simple squamous epithelium of the rhombencephalic roof plate is pioneered by distinct mesenchymal cells at the dorsal midline of the neural tube. Subsequently, a progenitor zone is established at the interface between columnar epithelium of the rhombic lip and the expanding squamous epithelium of the roof plate. Surprisingly, this interface consists of a single progenitor cell type that we have named the veil cell. Veil cells express gdf6a and constitute a lineage restricted stem zone that generates the squamous roof plate by direct transformation and asymmetrically fated divisions. Experimental restriction of roof plate expansion leads to extrusion of veil cell daughters and squamous cells, suggesting veil cell fate is regulated by the space available for roof plate growth.
Mechanics and dynamics of translocating MreB filaments on curved membranes
Authors: Wong Felix , Garner Ethan C , Amir Ariel
Published: February 2019

MreB is an actin homolog that is essential for coordinating the cell wall synthesis required for the rod shape of many bacteria. Previously we have shown that filaments of MreB bind to the curved membranes of bacteria and translocate in directions determined by principal membrane curvatures to create and reinforce the rod shape (Hussain et al., 2018). Here, in order to understand how MreB filament dynamics affects their cellular distribution, we model how MreB filaments bind and translocate on membranes with different geometries. We find that it is both energetically favorable and robust for filaments to bind and orient along directions of largest membrane curvature. Furthermore, significant localization to different membrane regions results from processive MreB motion in various geometries. These results demonstrate that the in vivo localization of MreB observed in many different experiments, including those examining negative Gaussian curvature, can arise from translocation dynamics alone.
Nuclear genetic regulation of the human mitochondrial transcriptome
Authors: Ali Aminah T , Boehme Lena , Carbajosa Guillermo , Seitan Vlad C , Small Kerrin S , Hodgkinson Alan
Published: February 2019

Mitochondria play important roles in cellular processes and disease, yet little is known about how the transcriptional regime of the mitochondrial genome varies across individuals and tissues. By analyzing >11,000 RNA-sequencing libraries across 36 tissue/cell types, we find considerable variation in mitochondrial-encoded gene expression along the mitochondrial transcriptome, across tissues and between individuals, highlighting the importance of cell-type specific and post-transcriptional processes in shaping mitochondrial-encoded RNA levels. Using whole-genome genetic data we identify 64 nuclear loci associated with expression levels of 14 genes encoded in the mitochondrial genome, including missense variants within genes involved in mitochondrial function (TBRG4, MTPAP and LONP1), implicating genetic mechanisms that act in trans across the two genomes. We replicate ~21% of associations with independent tissue-matched datasets and find genetic variants linked to these nuclear loci that are associated with cardio-metabolic phenotypes and Vitiligo, supporting a potential role for variable mitochondrial-encoded gene expression in complex disease.
Diverse microbial communities hosted by the model carnivorous pitcher plant Sarracenia purpurea: analysis of both bacterial and eukaryotic composition across distinct host plant populations
Authors: Grothjan Jacob J. , Young Erica B.
Published: February 2019

Background

The pitcher plant Sarracenia purpurea supplements nutrient acquisition through carnivory, capturing insect prey which are digested by a food web community of eukaryotes and bacteria. While the food web invertebrates are well studied, and some recent studies have characterized bacteria, detailed genetic analysis of eukaryotic diversity is lacking. This study aimed to compare eukaryotic and bacterial composition and diversity of pitcher communities within and between populations of host plants in nearby but distinct wetland habitats, and to characterize microbial functions across populations and in comparison with another freshwater community.

Methods

Pitcher fluid was sampled from the two wetlands, Cedarburg and Sapa Bogs, community DNA was extracted, and 16S and 18S rRNA amplicons were sequenced and data processed for community-level comparisons.

Results and Conclusions

Bacterial diversity in the small pitcher volume rivaled that of larger aquatic communities. Between pitcher plant populations, several bacterial families (Kiloniellaceae, Acetobacteraceae, Xanthobacteraceae, Sanguibacteraceae, Oligoflexaceae, Nitrosomonadaceae, Chromatiaceae, Saprospiraceae) were significantly higher in one population. However, although predicted pitcher bacterial functions were distinct from other freshwater communities, especially for some amino acid metabolism, functions were similar across all the pitchers in the two populations. This suggests some functional redundancy among bacterial taxa, and that functions converge to achieve similar food web processes. The sequencing identified a previously under-appreciated high diversity of ciliates, Acari mites, fungi and flagellates in pitcher communities; the most abundant sequences from eukaryotic taxa were Oligohymenophorea ciliates, millipedes and Ichthyosporea flagellates. Two thirds of taxa were identified as food web inhabitants and less than one third as prey organisms. Although eukaryotic composition was not significantly different between populations, there were different species of core taxonomic groups present in different pitchers—these differences may be driven by wetland habitats providing different populations to colonize new pitchers. Eukaryotic composition was more variable than bacterial composition, and there was a poor relationship between bacterial and eukaryotic composition within individual pitchers, suggesting that colonization by eukaryotes may be more stochastic than for bacteria, and bacterial recruitment to pitchers may involve factors other than prey capture and colonization by eukaryotic food web inhabitants.
Stress responses upon starvation and exposure to bacteria in the antFormica exsecta
Authors: Stucki Dimitri , Freitak Dalial , Bos Nick , Sundström Liselotte
Published: February 2019

Organisms are simultaneously exposed to multiple stresses, which requires regulation of the resistance to each stress. Starvation is one of the most severe stresses organisms encounter, yet nutritional state is also one of the most crucial conditions on which other stress resistances depend. Concomitantly, organisms often deploy lower immune defenses when deprived of resources. This indicates that the investment into starvation resistance and immune defenses is likely to be subject to trade-offs. Here, we investigated the impact of starvation and oral exposure to bacteria on survival and gene expression in the antFormica exsecta. Of the three bacteria used in this study, onlySerratia marcescensincreased the mortality of the ants, whereas exposure toEscherichia coliandPseudomonas entomophilaalleviated the effects of starvation. Both exposure to bacteria and starvation induced changes in gene expression, but in different directions depending on the species of bacteria used, as well as on the nutritional state of the ants.
Tricin levels and expression of flavonoid biosynthetic genes in developing grains of purple and brown pericarp rice
Authors: Poulev Alexander , Heckman Joseph R. , Raskin Ilya , Belanger Faith C.
Published: February 2019

The methylated flavone tricin has been associated with numerous health benefits, including reductions in intestinal and colon cancers in animal models. Tricin is found in a wide range of plant species and in many different tissues. However, whole cereal grains, such as rice, barley, oats, and wheat, are the only food sources of tricin, which is located in the bran portion of the grain. Variation in tricin levels was found in bran from rice genotypes with light brown, brown, red, and purple pericarp color, with the purple pericarp genotypes having the highest levels of tricin. Here, we analyzed tricin and tricin derivative levels in developing pericarp and embryo samples of a purple pericarp genotype, IAC600, that had high tricin and tricin derivative levels in the bran, and a light brown pericarp genotype, Cocodrie, that had no detectable tricin or tricin derivatives in the bran. Tricin and tricin derivatives were detected in both the pericarp and embryo of IAC600 but only in the embryo of Cocodrie. The purple pericarp rice had higher total levels of free tricin plus tricin derivatives than the light brown pericarp rice. When expressed on a per grain basis, most of the tricin component of IAC600 was in the pericarp. In contrast, Cocodrie had no detectable tricin in the pericarp samples but did have detectable chrysoeriol, a precursor of tricin, in the pericarp samples. We also used RNA-Seq analysis of developing pericarp and embryo samples of the two cultivars to compare the expression of genes involved in the flavonoid biosynthetic pathway. The results presented here suggest that understanding the basis of tricin accumulation in rice pericarp may lead to an approach to increasing tricin levels in whole grain rice. From analysis of gene expression levels in the pericarp samples it appears that regulation of the flavone specific genes is independent of regulation of the anthocyanin biosynthetic genes. It therefore may be feasible to develop brown pericarp rice cultivars that accumulate tricin in the pericarp.
Understanding Poverty-Environment Relationship from Sustainable Development Perspectives
Authors: Rai Jeetesh
Published: February 2019

Many observers conceptualize the environment-poverty link as “downward spiral,” with population growth and social exclusion leading to environmental deterioration. However, recent micro and small scale existential study challenges this model, showing striking heterogeneity in natural resource management by the poor, including display of their success in adapting to environmental change and the efficacy of policies in affecting outcomes. Using both conceptual and empirical material, this article aims to assess the poverty-environment relationship.  I will specifically examine criticisms of the “poverty causes environmental degradation” approach, arguing that recent scholarly work on the complex web of factors involved in the poverty-environment nexus provides a more useful toolkit for assessing the poverty-environment link in local places.  I will conclude by analyzing how policies can more effectively address the interrelationship between poverty and environmental degradation, highlighting promising areas of impact.
Structural considerations of folded protein import through the chloroplast TOC/TIC translocons
Authors: Ganesan Iniyan , Theg Steven M.
Published: February 2019

Protein import into chloroplasts is carried out by the protein translocons at the outer and inner envelope membranes (TOC and TIC). Detailed structures for these translocons are lacking, with only a low‐resolution TOC complex structure available. Recently, we showed that the TOC/TIC translocons can import folded proteins, a rather unique feat for a coupled double membrane system. We also determined the maximum functional TOC/TIC pore size to be 30–35 Å. Here, we discuss how such large pores could form and compare the structural dynamics of the pore‐forming Toc75 subunit to its bacterial/mitochondrial Omp85 family homologs. We put forward structural models that can be empirically tested and also briefly review the pore dynamics of other protein translocons with known structures.
The long noncoding RNA HORAS5 mediates castration‐resistant prostate cancer survival by activating the androgen receptor transcriptional program
Authors: Parolia Abhijit , Venalainen Erik , Xue Hui , Mather Rebecca , Lin Dong , Wu Rebecca , Pucci Perla , Rogalski Jason , Evans Joseph R. , Feng Felix , Collins Colin C. , Wang Yuzhuo , Crea Francesco
Published: February 2019

Prostate cancer (PCa) is driven by the androgen receptor (AR)‐signaling axis. Hormonal therapy often mitigates PCa progression, but a notable number of cases progress to castration‐resistant PCa (CRPC). CRPC retains AR activity and is incurable. Long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) represent an uncharted region of the transcriptome. Several lncRNA have been recently described to mediate oncogenic functions, suggesting that these molecules can be potential therapeutic targets. Here, we identified CRPC‐associated lncRNA by analyzing patient‐derived xenografts (PDXs) and clinical data. Subsequently, we characterized one of the CRPC‐promoting lncRNA, HORAS5, in vitro and in vivo. We demonstrated that HORAS5 is a stable, cytoplasmic lncRNA that promotes CRPC proliferation and survival by maintaining AR activity under androgen‐depleted conditions. Most strikingly, knockdown of HORAS5 causes a significant reduction in the expression of AR itself and oncogenic AR targets such as KIAA0101. Elevated expression of HORAS5 is also associated with worse clinical outcomes in patients. Our results from HORAS5 inhibition in in vivo models further confirm that HORAS5 is a viable therapeutic target for CRPC. Thus, we posit that HORAS5 is a novel, targetable mediator of CRPC through its essential role in the maintenance of oncogenic AR activity. Overall, this study adds to our mechanistic understanding of how lncRNA function in cancer progression.
Psychometric Reliability: Definition, Estimation, and Application
Authors: Mead Alan D.
Published: February 2019

Psychometric reliability,
ρ

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′

, is the degree to which test scores are precise and free from measurement error. Classical test theory defines reliability as the ratio of true score variance to observed score variance:
ρ

XX
′

. This article provides a comprehensive definition of reliability and then describes the methods by which reliability is commonly estimated, including their limitations. The article then discusses several closely related topics: reliability of ratings; the standard error of measurement; reliability in subpopulations; the Spearman–Brown prophesy formula; true‐score correlations; effect of reliability upon validity; reliability of speeded tests; problems of correlated errors; and the relationship between classical reliability and item response theory information.
Multiple Imputation‐Based Sensitivity Analysis
Authors: Carpenter James R.
Published: February 2019

In this article, we introduce the concepts of sensitivity analyses for missing data, and outline how these may be conveniently performed using multiple imputation (MI). Motivated by data from a trial and a cohort study, we describe how multiple imputation may be used for sensitivity analysis with both pattern mixture and selection models. We then discuss eliciting expert opinion for sensitivity analysis, reference based sensitivity analysis and extensions to longitudinal data. Our aim is to equip readers with the concepts, examples and references needed to apply these methods to their own data.
Design and Analysis of Social Contact Surveys Relevant for the Spread of Infectious Diseases
Authors: Hens Niel , Wallinga Jacco
Published: February 2019

To understand how infections spread through a population, it is crucial to have a correct description of the transmission network. However, it is often impossible to observe transmission of infection directly. To compensate for this lack of direct observations on the structure of the transmission network, we can use information on the social contact network obtained from sociological surveys asking people how frequently they experience at risk events for transmission. We focus on those studies that collect data on at‐risk contacts for infection using proxy measures such as having a conversation or touching. There are relatively few approaches to statistical analysis of such social contact data sets. Here we provide an overview of methods used to estimate contact rates by age from social contact data. For two methods we show how this is done using the statistical software R.
The International Biometric Society
Authors: Billard Lynne
Published: February 2019

This article traces the formation of the International Biometric Society in 1947. The Society was established to serve and foster collaborations between mathematical and statistical scientists working in biological domains including agriculture, forestry, animal sciences, medicine, and the like. A brief summary of its unique regional structure, its journals, and its scientific conferences is described. This includes for the historical record the record of the international leadership (Presidents) and editors of the journalsBiometricsandJournal of Agricultural, Biological, and Environmental Statistics (JABES).
Ranking Methods in Soccer
Authors: van Eetvelde Hans , Ley Christophe
Published: February 2019

This article provides an overview of the most common ranking methods in soccer. We discuss point‐winning systems, least squares methods, maximum likelihood‐based methods, and Elo ratings.
Continual Reassessment Method
Authors: Horton Bethany J. , Wages Nolan A.
Published: February 2019

The continual reassessment method (CRM) is a model‐based design used in phase I dose‐finding clinical trials. This design aims to locate the maximum tolerated dose (MTD), defined by the highest dose with an acceptable level of toxicity, and to sequentially allocate patients at and around this dose throughout the conduct of the trial in light of the current data. Operating characteristics for dose‐finding methods have been studied extensively and have shown that CRM has excellent performance in achieving the research objectives of phase I trials. Accessible software in the form R packages and web applications are available for use in trial simulations and implementation. The CRM is versatile in its ability to be customized for a variety of trial specifications and has been extended to account for treatment combinations, patient heterogeneity, and multiple endpoint (toxicity and efficacy) studies.
Men and Women's Occupational Activities and the Risk of Developing Osteoarthritis of the Knee, Hip, or Hands: A Systematic Review and Recommendations for Future Research
Authors: Gignac Monique A. M. , Irvin Emma , Cullen Kim , Van Eerd Dwayne , Beaton Dorcas E. , Mahood Quenby , McLeod Chris , Backman Catherine L.
Published: February 2019

Objective

To systematically review the evidence for an increased risk of osteoarthritis in the hip, knee, hand, wrist, finger, ankle, foot, shoulder, neck, and spine related to diverse occupational activities of men and women and to examine dose‐response information related to the frequency, intensity, and duration of work exposures and the risk of osteoarthritis (OA).

Methods

Established guidelines for systematic reviews in occupational health and safety studies were followed. MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, and Cochrane Library were searched from inception to December 2017. Studies were reviewed for relevance, quality was appraised, and data were extracted and synthesized.

Results

Sixty‐nine studies from 23 countries yielded strong and moderate evidence for lifting, cumulative physical loads, full‐body vibration, and kneeling/squatting/bending as increasing the risks of developing OA in men and women. Strong and moderate evidence existed for no increased risk of OA related to sitting, standing, and walking (hip and knee OA), lifting and carrying (knee OA), climbing ladders (knee OA), driving (knee OA), and highly repetitive tasks (hand OA). Variability in dose‐response data resulted in an inability to synthesize these data.

Conclusion

Evidence points to the potential for OA occupational recommendations and practice considerations to be developed for women and men. However, research attention is needed to overcome deficits in the measurement and recall of specific work activities so that recommendations and practice considerations can provide the specificity needed to be adopted in workplaces.
NASADAD calls for nominations for annual SSA award
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: February 2019

The National Association of State Alcohol and Drug Abuse Directors (NASADAD) is requesting nominations for the annual Ramstad/Kennedy Award, presented to a single state agency (SSA) — the state director who is responsible for the Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment block grant (and STR and SOR grants, now).
Advanced Functional Structure‐Based Sensing and Imaging Strategies for Cancer Detection: Possibilities, Opportunities, Challenges, and Prospects
Authors: Kumar Vanish , Kukkar Deepak , Hashemi Beshare , Kim Ki‐Hyun , Deep Akash
Published: February 2019

Cancer is the second most common cause of death in the world. The principal limitations thus far encountered in the clinical practice of probing cancer are diverse and include low sensitivity, time consumption, bulkiness, and cost. In this respect, nanomaterial (NM)‐based sensing techniques are recognized as a superior alternative to efficiently resolve such limitations. A better understanding of NM‐based sensing platforms is thus important so that these novel avenues can easily be explored for clinical applications. These platforms have the merits of high sensitivity, high specificity, rapid response, and easy‐to‐read signals. This review offers a comprehensive survey of NM‐based advanced cancer‐sensing techniques and will help the scientific community establish optimum sensing strategies based on an accurate assessment of the interactions between cancer biomarkers and NM‐based platforms.
Dual‐Stimuli‐Responsive Gut Microbiota‐Targeting Berberine‐CS/PT‐NPs Improved Metabolic Status in Obese Hamsters
Authors: Guo Hui‐Hui , Ma Chen , Zheng Wen‐Sheng , Luo Yang , Li Cong , Li Xiao‐Lin , Ma Xiao‐Lei , Feng Chen‐Lin , Zhang Ting‐Ting , Han Yan‐Xing , Luo Zhi‐Gang , Zhan Yun , Li Rui , Wang Lu‐Lu , Jiang Jian‐Dong
Published: February 2019

Gut dysbiosis has been found to be involved in the pathogenesis of energy metabolic disorders and might be a new strategy for these ailments. Berberine (BBR), a botanical medicine, shows therapeutic efficacy in patients with metabolic diseases. Numerous reports have shown BBR's modulating effect on gut microbiota, opening a new avenue to understand BBR's mechanism. In this study, a colon‐specific delivery system, BBR‐CS/PT‐NP, is investigated by the assembly of pH/gut microflora dual stimuli‐responsive nanoparticles for enhancing the interaction between BBR and gut microbiota. After oral administration, the delivering system remains stable in the stomach and small intestine, followed by a burst release of BBR after reaching the colon segment rich in intestinal bacteria. The enzymes produced by bacteria degrade the nanoparticle, causing direct exposure of BBR to gut microbiota. In the high fat diet‐induced obese hamsters, BBR‐CS/PT‐NP intervention inhibits weight‐gain and fat deposition, decreases plasma lipids and glucose levels, improves inflammation condition and insulin resistance, alleviates hepatic steatosis, at a level significantly higher than the pure BBR does. The mechanisms might be attributable to the enhanced interaction between BBR and the gut flora. The results provide a novel proof‐of‐concept for drug delivery targeting gut microbiota to ameliorate metabolic disorders.
Recent Advances in 2D Inorganic Nanomaterials for SERS Sensing
Authors: Karthick Kannan Padmanathan , Shankar Prabakaran , Blackman Chris , Chung Chan‐Hwa
Published: February 2019

Surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy is a powerful and sensitive analytical tool that has found application in chemical and biomolecule analysis and environmental monitoring. Since its discovery in the early 1970s, a variety of materials ranging from noble metals to nanostructured materials have been employed as surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrates. In recent years, 2D inorganic materials have found wide use in the development of SERS‐based chemical sensors owing to their unique thickness dependent physico‐chemical properties with enhanced chemical‐based charge‐transfer processes. Here, recent advances in the application of various 2D inorganic nanomaterials, including graphene, boron nitride, semiconducting metal oxides, and transition metal chalcogenides, in chemical detection via SERS are presented. The background of the SERS concept, including its basic theory and sensing mechanism, along with the salient features of different nanomaterials used as substrates in SERS, extending from monometallic nanoparticles to nanometal oxides, is comprehensively discussed. The importance of 2D inorganic nanomaterials in SERS enhancement, along with their application toward chemical detection, is explained in detail with suitable examples and illustrations. In conclusion, some guidelines are presented for the development of this promising field in the future.
Exploring Approaches for the Synthesis of Few‐Layered Graphdiyne
Authors: Zhou Jingyuan , Li Jiaqiang , Liu Zhongfan , Zhang Jin
Published: February 2019

Graphdiyne (GDY) is an emerging carbon allotrope in the graphyne (GY) family, demonstrating extensive potential applications in the fields of electronic devices, catalysis, electrochemical energy storage, and nonlinear optics. Synthesis of few‐layered GDY is especially important for both electronic applications and structural characterization. This work critically summarizes the state‐of‐art of GDY and focuses on exploring approaches for few‐layered GDY synthesis. The obstacles and challenges of GDY synthesis are also analyzed in detail. Recently developed synthetic methods are discussed such as i) the copper substrate‐based method, ii) the chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method, iii) the interfacial construction method, and iv) the graphene‐templated method. Throughout the discussion, the superiorities and limitations of different methods are analyzed comprehensively. These synthetic methods have provided considerable inspiration approaching synthesis of few‐layered or single‐layered GDY film. The work concludes with a perspective on promising research directions and remaining barriers for layer‐controlled and morphology‐controlled synthesis of GDY with higher crystalline quality.
Intrinsic Instability of Inorganic–Organic Hybrid Halide Perovskite Materials
Authors: Park Byung‐wook , Seok Sang Il
Published: February 2019

Hybrid lead halide perovskite materials are used in solar cells and show efficiencies greater than 23%. Furthermore, they are applied in light‐emitting diodes, X‐ray detectors, thin‐film transistors, thermoelectrics, and memory devices. Lead trihalide hybrid materials contain methylammonium (MA) or formamidinium (FA) (or a mixture), or long alkylammonium halides, as alternative organic cations. However, the intrinsic stability of hybrid lead halide perovskites is not very high, and they are chemically unstable when exposed to moisture, light, or heat because of their organic contents and low formation energies. Therefore, although improvements in the chemical stability are crucial, changing the material composition is challenging because it is directly related to the desired application requirements. Fortunately, hybrid lead halide perovskites have a very high tolerance toward changes in physical properties arising from doping or addition of different cations and anions, in many cases showing improved properties. Here, the intrinsic instability of hybrid lead halide perovskites is reviewed in relation to the crystal phase and chemical stability. It is suggested that FA should be used for lead halide perovskites for chemical stability instead of MA. Furthermore, additives that stabilize the crystal phase with α‐FAPbI3 should eschew MA.
Stimuli‐Responsive Optical Nanomaterials
Authors: Li Zhiwei , Yin Yadong
Published: February 2019

Responsive optical nanomaterials that can sense and translate various external stimuli into optical signals, in the forms of observable changes in appearance and variations in spectral line shapes, are among the most active research topics in nanooptics. They are intensively exploited within the regimes of the four classic optical phenomena—diffraction in photonic crystals, absorption of plasmonic nanostructures, as well as color‐switching systems, refraction of assembled birefringent nanostructures, and emission of photoluminescent nanomaterials and molecules. Herein, a comprehensive review of these research activities regarding the fundamental principles and practical strategies is provided. Starting with an overview of their substantial developments during the latest three decades, each subtopic discussion is led with fundamental theories that delineate the correlation between nanostructures and optical properties and the delicate research strategies are elaborated with specific attention focused on working principles and optical performances. The unique advantages and inherent limitations of each responsive optical nanoscale platform are summarized, accompanied by empirical criteria that should be met and perspectives on research opportunities where the developments of next‐generation responsive optical nanomaterials might be directed.
Biomimetic Metal–Organic Framework Nanoparticles for Cooperative Combination of Antiangiogenesis and Photodynamic Therapy for Enhanced Efficacy
Authors: Min Huan , Wang Jing , Qi Yingqiu , Zhang Yinlong , Han Xuexiang , Xu Ying , Xu Junchao , Li Yao , Chen Long , Cheng Keman , Liu Guangna , Yang Na , Li Yiye , Nie Guangjun
Published: February 2019

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a promising anticancer treatment and is clinically approved for different types of tumors. However, current PDT suffers several obstacles, including its neutralization by excess glutathione (GSH) in the tumor tissue and its strongly proangiogenic tumor response. In this work, a biomimic, multifunctional nanoparticle‐based PDT agent, combining a tumor‐targeted photosensitizer with GSH scavenging and antiangiogenesis therapy, is developed. A porphyrinic Zr–metal–organic framework nanoparticle is used simultaneously as the photosensitizer and the delivery vehicle of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2) inhibitor apatinib. The core nanoparticles are wrapped in MnO2 to consume the intratumoral GSH and then decorated with a tumor cell membrane camouflage. After intravenous administration, the nanoparticles selectively accumulate in tumor through homotypic targeting mediated by the biomimic decoration, and the combination of enhanced PDT and antiangiogenic drug significantly improves their tumor inhibition efficiency. This study provides an integrated solution for mechanism‐based enhancement of PDT and demonstrates the encouraging potential for multifunctional nanosystem applicable for tumor therapy.
3D Printing of Hydrogel Architectures with Complex and Controllable Shape Deformation
Authors: Ji Zhongying , Yan Changyou , Yu Bo , Zhang Xiaoqin , Cai Meirong , Jia Xin , Wang Xiaolong , Zhou Feng
Published: February 2019

Facile preparation of architectures with precise control of shape deformations are crucial challenges due to the complicated process technique and harsh demands of the active materials. To address, the emerging 3D printing is employed to one‐step build programmable hydrogel architectures composed of only one type of material to perform various complex 3D shape deformations. The basic principle is that the secondary microstructures are introduced in the side of hydrogel strips and result in the bending or twisting deformations due to the asymmetrical swelling. With the merits of freeform design and fabrication, various hydrogel architectures including strips, sheets, and 3D objects are built with stereolithography‐based 3D printing, which realize the complex and controllable shape deformations via the programed microstructures on feature surfaces, such as bending, twisting, and even mimicking plant cirrus or petals. Most importantly, various responsive hydrogels are compatible to the approach, which can thus achieve stimuli‐reversible shape deformations. As proof‐of‐concept, a thermal‐responsive hydrogel gripper is readily realized to perform transportation by thermal‐induced grasping and releasing items. The facile 3D printing approach yet versatile in various hydrogels makes it broad opportunities for soft robotics, tissue engineering, actuators, and other devices where programmable shape deformations are required.
Graphene‐Based Materials toward Microwave and Terahertz Absorbing Stealth Technologies
Authors: Chen Honghui , Ma Wenle , Huang Zhiyu , Zhang Yi , Huang Yi , Chen Yongsheng
Published: February 2019

Electromagnetic wave absorbing materials play an increasingly important role in consumer electronics and military defense. The remarkable merits of atomically thin graphene structures and their exotic optoelectronic properties provide new opportunities to design high‐performance electromagnetic wave absorbers. This progress report summarizes the recent advances in graphene‐based microwave and terahertz stealth materials. In the first section, the theory of electromagnetic wave absorption and the evaluation methods for absorption performance are briefly introduced. Then, representative graphene‐based microwave and terahertz absorber systems are presented with an emphasis on the selection of the absorbent component and structural design. In the last section, the perspectives and future research directions of this promising field are discussed.
Translating transcription: proteomics in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps reveals significant discordance with messenger RNA expression
Authors: Workman Alan D. , Nocera Angela L. , Mueller Sarina K. , Otu Hasan H. , Libermann Towia A. , Bleier Benjamin S.
Published: February 2019

Background

Much of the literature examining chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) immunopathology has been predicated on messenger RNA (mRNA) analysis with the assumption that transcriptional changes would reflect end‐effector protein expression. The purpose of this study was to test this hypothesis using matched transcriptomic and proteomic data sets.

Methods

Matched tissue proteomic and transcriptomic arrays were quantified in CRSwNP polyp tissue and control inferior turbinate tissue (n = 10/group). Mucus samples were additionally collected in 6 subjects from each group. Proteins were grouped into functional categories by bioinformatics and differential expression analyses. Log‐log regression and Pearson correlations were performed to determine the level of agreement between data sets.

Results

Of the 1310 proteins examined, 393 were significantly differentially expressed in CRSwNP. On regression analysis, differences in protein expression were poorly predicted by differences in mRNA expression (R2 = 0.020, p < 0.05). Several genes canonically thought to be overexpressed in CRSwNP, including IL‐5, IL‐13, TSLP, CCL13, and CCL26, showed substantial increases in mRNA transcription, but had minimally or unchanged protein expression. Others, including IgE, periostin, CCL18, and CST1/2, were increased at both the transcriptomic and proteomic levels. Among differentially regulated proteins, tissue and mucus protein levels showed weak correlation (r = 0.26, p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Proteomic analysis in CRSwNP has revealed novel disease‐associated proteins and pathways, yet correlates poorly with transcriptomic data. The increasing availability of proteomic arrays opens the door to new potential explanatory mechanisms in CRSwNP and suggests that mRNA based studies should be validated with protein analysis.
Dynamics of the Bulk Hydrated Electron from Many‐Body Wave‐Function Theory
Authors: Wilhelm Jan , VandeVondele Joost , Rybkin Vladimir V.
Published: February 2019

The structure of the hydrated electron is a matter of debate as it evades direct experimental observation owing to the short life time and low concentrations of the species. Herein, the first molecular dynamics simulation of the bulk hydrated electron based on correlated wave‐function theory provides conclusive evidence in favor of a persistent tetrahedral cavity made up by four water molecules, and against the existence of stable non‐cavity structures. Such a cavity is formed within less than a picosecond after the addition of an excess electron to neat liquid water, with less regular cavities appearing as intermediates. The cavities are bound together by weak H−H bonds, the number of which correlates well with the number of coordinated water molecules, each type of cavity leaving a distinct spectroscopic signature. Simulations predict regions of negative spin density and a gyration radius that are both in agreement with experimental data.
Fuel efficiency‐oriented platooning control of connected nonlinear vehicles: A distributed economic MPC approach
Authors: He Defeng , Qiu Tianxiang , Luo Renshi
Published: February 2019

This paper considers the fuel efficiency‐oriented platooning control problem of connected vehicles. We present a novel distributed economic model predictive control (EMPC) approach to solve the problem of the vehicle platoon subject to nonlinear dynamics and safety constraints. In order to improve fuel economy of the whole vehicle platoon, the fuel consumption criterion is used to design the distributed EMPC strategy for the platoon. Meanwhile, the car‐tracking performance is exploited to guarantee stability and string stability of the platoon. Then the fuel efficiency control problem of the platoon is formulated as a distributed dual‐layer economic optimal control problem, which is solved in a fashion of receding horizon. It is proved that the proposed strategy guarantees asymptotic stability and predecessor‐follower string stability as well as fuel economy of the whole platoon by minimizing the fuel consumption cost. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed strategy is highlighted by comparing its performance with that of the traditional distributed MPC strategy in numerical simulations.
An analysis of four stellar rings
Authors: Paunzen Ernst , Florian Jan , Gütl‐Wallner Anna , Herdin Andreas , Kralofsky Erwin , Leschinski Kieran , Mach Michael , Maitzen Hans Michael , Prišegen Michal , Rockenbauer Markus , Rode‐Paunzen Monika , Wallner Stefan
Published: February 2019

About 50 years ago, one thousand ring‐like structures (called stellar‐rings) were discovered by Isserstedt (1968). They were believed to be groups of young stars formed by shell‐like triggered star formation, which would make them excellent tracers of spiral arms, for example. Neglected for 40 years, we used highly accurate kinematic, astrometric, and photometric data to investigate the four most prominent stellar rings. The aim is to investigate if those structures are indeed physically related groups of stars. We used proper motions and parallaxes from the Gaia DR2 to calculate distances and to search for common properties. Color‐magnitude diagrams using BVJHKs measurements were investigated and isochrones fitted. None of the four stellar rings consists of a physically related group of young stars. The location of stars in the line‐of‐sight mimics a ring‐like structure on the sky. The color‐magnitude diagrams are typical for an integrated field population and not for a young star cluster, for example. The currently available data are sufficient to analyze ring‐like structures with a high statistical significance. This allows a new search for such structures in the Milky Way.
Techno‐economic analysis of a novel hydrothermal liquefaction implementation with electrofuels for high carbon efficiency
Authors: Hansen Nick H. , Pedersen Thomas H. , Rosendahl Lasse A.
Published: February 2019

This study describes a techno‐economic analysis (TEA) to evaluate the feasibility of developing an electrofuel (eFUEL) system based on hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL). The system is developed to make use of the carbon in the aqueous and gas phases of an HTL process as inputs for the production of renewable transportation fuels, supplementing those from the ‘traditional’ HTL pathway. An Aspen Plus® model of the eFUEL system is developed containing a partial oxidation gasifier (POX), a reverse water gas shift (RWGS) reactor, and a Fischer–Tropsch (FT) process. The combined HTL, upgrading, and eFUEL (Electro‐HTL) system is designed with a capacity of 1000 tonne of organic matter per day as input. The electro‐HTL system increases carbon efficiency to 84.81% and the plant's fuel mass yield by 69.2% (from a yield of 27.8 to 47.0%) compared to a stand‐alone HTL and upgrading system. The TEA of the electro‐HTL system shows a minimum fuel‐selling price (MFSP) of 26.06 USD GJ−1, with a carbon efficiency of 84.91%. A sensitivity analysis is performed identifying hydrogen as the key cost influence on the MFSP. The study shows that the incorporation of the eFUEL system decreases the MFSP by 8.9% compared to the standalone HTL and upgrading system. The price generated by the electro‐HTL system is 1.5–2.2 times higher than the price of fossil gasoline. In conclusion, the study shows that the production of renewable drop‐in fuels using the electro‐HTL system is not only cost competitive with other alternative fuel processes, but also with fossil fuels. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Clinical results of pulsed signal therapy on patellofemoral syndrome with patellar chondropathy
Authors: Gomes Gobbi Riccardo , Pastore e Silva Adriana Lúcia , Kawamura Demange Marco , Pécora José Ricardo , Espregueira‐Mendes João , Camanho Gilberto Luis
Published: February 2019

This study was designed to evaluate the effect of pulsed signal therapy (PST) on patellofemoral pain syndrome associated with patellar chondropathy. A prospective randomized double‐blind placebo controlled trial included 25 patients (41 knees) between 20 and 50 years with pain due to isolated patellofemoral syndrome with chondropathy. PST group received nine 60‐min daily sessions of PST treatment. Control group received the same protocol of blinded placebo treatment. The main outcome was change from baseline Kujala score at 3 months. After 3 months, patients in the control group received effective treatment (placebo post‐treatment). All patients were then followed, for up to 12 months. Seventeen knees (5 males and 12 females, mean age 36.7 ± 7.9) received placebo and 24 knees (8 males and 16 females, mean age 35.5 ± 8.9) received PST. By the third month, PST group exhibited a mean change from baseline of 9.63 ± 7.5 Kujala points, compared to 0.53 ± 1.8 in the placebo group (P < 0.001). A significant progressive improvement was seen in the PST group between the 3rd and 6th and between the 6th and 12th month (P < 0.016). Patients initially allocated in the control group also improved at 3 months (P < 0.001) and 6 months (P = 0.005) post‐effective treatment. In conclusion, PST in patellofemoral pain syndrome with chondropathy was effective compared to placebo at 3 months, showing an important improvement of Kujala score. The improvement was progressive and maintained up to 12 months. PST is safe and should be considered as a non‐invasive option for management of this condition. Bioelectromagnetics. 40:83–90, 2019. © 2019 Bioelectromagnetics Society
Natural History Collections as Inspiration for Technology
Authors: Green David W. , Watson Jolanta A. , Jung Han‐Sung , Watson Gregory S.
Published: February 2019

Living organisms are the ultimate survivalists, having evolved phenotypes with unprecedented adaptability, ingenuity, resourcefulness, and versatility compared to human technology. To harness these properties, functional descriptions and design principles from all sources of biodiversity information must be collated − including the hundreds of thousands of possible survival features manifest in natural history museum collections, which represent 12% of total global biodiversity. This requires a consortium of expert biologists from a range of disciplines to convert the observations, data, and hypotheses into the language of engineering. We hope to unite multidisciplinary biologists and natural history museum scientists to maximize the coverage of observations, descriptions, and hypotheses relating to adaptation and function across biodiversity, to make it technologically useful. This is to be achieved by developments in meta‐ taxonomic classification, phylogenetics, systematics, biological materials research, structure and morphological characterizations, and ecological data gathering from the collections − the aim being to identify and catalogue features essential for good biomimetic design.
A comparison of human mesenchymal stem cell osteogenesis in poly(ethylene glycol) hydrogels as a function of MMP‐sensitive crosslinker and crosslink density in chemically defined medium
Authors: Aziz Aaron H. , Bryant Stephanie J.
Published: February 2019

This study investigated osteogenesis of human mesenchymal stem cells encapsulated in matrix‐metalloproteinase (MMP)‐sensitive poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) hydrogels in chemically defined medium (10 ng/ml bone morphogenic factor‐2). Thiol‐norbornene photoclick hydrogels were formed with CRGDS and crosslinkers of PEG dithiol (nondegradable), CVPLS‐LYSGC (P1) or CRGRIGF‐LRTDC (P2; dash indicates cleavage site) at two crosslink densities. Exogenous MMP‐2 degraded P1 and P2 hydrogels similarly. MMP‐14 degraded P1 hydrogels more rapidly than P2 hydrogels. Cell spreading was greatest in P1 low crosslinked hydrogels and to a lesser degree in P2 low crosslinked hydrogels, but not evident in nondegradable and high crosslinked MMP‐sensitive hydrogels. Early osteogenesis (Alkaline phosphatase [ALP] activity) was accelerated in hydrogels that facilitated cell spreading. Contrarily, late osteogenesis (mineralization) was independent of cell spreading. Mineralized matrix was present in P1 hydrogels, but only present in P2 high crosslinked hydrogels and not yet present in nondegradable hydrogels. Overall, the low crosslinked P1 hydrogels exhibited an accelerated early and late osteogenesis with the highest ALP activity (Day 7), greatest calcium content (Day 14), and greatest collagen content (Day 28), concomitant with increased compressive modulus over time. Collectively, this study demonstrates that in chemically defined medium, hydrogel degradability is critical to accelerating early osteogenesis, but other factors are important in late osteogenesis.
Beyond win–win: A syncretic theory on corporate stakeholder engagement in sustainable development
Authors: Martinez Fabien , Peattie Ken , Vazquez‐Brust Diego
Published: February 2019

This article explores the concept of syncretism to articulate the construct of a novel theoretical approach that may help to accelerate progress in developing substantively more sustainable business activities. One reason why the integration of environmental and social responsibility in business has been so difficult to achieve in practice is that it is not just a battle of competing business logics but a battle of faiths. The concept of syncretism, with its roots in religious synthesis, may be far more relevant and useful than conventional approaches to combining the two, which rarely seem to rise above a “win–win” appeal to logic. The connectionist logic of syncretism may show us a way beyond paradigmatic conformity in business sustainability research so that scholars with diverse theoretical backgrounds might have a common ground for discussion, find constructive connections, and engage in potentially more insightful and creative interactions to develop our understanding of corporate sustainability.