bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Winter Ecosystem Respiration and Sources of CO2 From the High Arctic Tundra of Svalbard: Response to a Deeper Snow Experiment
Authors: Lupascu M. , Czimczik C. I. , Welker M. C. , Ziolkowski L. A. , Cooper E. J. , Welker J. M.
Published: August 2018

Currently, there is a lack of understanding on how the magnitude and sources of carbon (C) emissions from High Arctic tundra are impacted by changing snow cover duration and depth during winter. Here we investigated this issue in a graminoid tundra snow fence experiment on shale‐derived gelisols in Svalbard from the end of the growing season and throughout the winter. To characterize emissions, we measured ecosystem respiration (Reco) along with its radiocarbon (14C) content. We assessed the composition of soil organic matter (SOM) by measuring its bulk‐C and nitrogen (N), 14C content, and n‐alkane composition. Our findings reveal that greater snow depth increased soil temperatures and winter Reco (25 mg C m−2 d−1 under deeper snow compared to 13 mg C m−2 d−1 in ambient conditions). At the end of the growing season, Reco was dominated by plant respiration and microbial decomposition of C fixed within the past 60 years (Δ14C = 62 ± 8‰). During winter, emissions were significantly older (Δ14C = −64 ± 14‰), and likely sourced from microorganisms decomposing aged SOM formed during the Holocene mixed with biotic or abiotic mineralization of the carbonaceous, fossil parent material. Our findings imply that snow cover duration and depth is a key control on soil temperatures and thus the magnitude of Reco in winter. We also show that in shallow Arctic soils, mineralization of carbonaceous parent materials can contribute significant proportions of fossil C to Reco. Therefore, permafrost‐C inventories informing C emission projections must carefully distinguish between more vulnerable SOM from recently fixed biomass and more recalcitrant ancient sedimentary C sources.
Observing charge separation in nanoantennas via ultrafast point-projection electron microscopy
Authors: Vogelsang Jan , Hergert Germann , Wang Dong , Groß Petra , Lienau Christoph
Published: August 2018

Observing the motion of electrons on their natural nanometer length and femtosecond time scales is a fundamental goal of and an open challenge for contemporary ultrafast science1–5. At present, optical techniques and electron microscopy mostly provide either ultrahigh temporal or spatial resolution, and microscopy techniques with combined space-time resolution require further development6–11. In this study, we create an ultrafast electron source via plasmon nanofocusing on a sharp gold taper and implement this source in an ultrafast point-projection electron microscope. This source is used in an optical pump—electron probe experiment to study ultrafast photoemissions from a nanometer-sized plasmonic antenna12–15. We probe the real space motion of the photoemitted electrons with a 20-nm spatial resolution and a 25-fs time resolution and reveal the deflection of probe electrons by residual holes in the metal. This is a step toward time-resolved microscopy of electronic motion in nanostructures.
Probing the limits of plasmonic enhancement using a two-dimensional atomic crystal probe
Authors: Chen Wen , Zhang Shunping , Kang Meng , Liu Weikang , Ou Zhenwei , Li Yang , Zhang Yexin , Guan Zhiqiang , Xu Hongxing
Published: August 2018

Achieving larger electromagnetic enhancement using a nanogap between neighboring metallic nanostructures has been long pursued for boosting light–matter interactions. However, the quantitative probing of this enhancement is hindered by the lack of a reliable experimental method for measuring the local fields within a subnanometer gap. Here, we use layered MoS2 as a two-dimensional atomic crystal probe in nanoparticle-on-mirror nanoantennas to measure the plasmonic enhancement in the gap by quantitative surface-enhanced Raman scattering. Our designs ensure that the probe filled in the gap has a well-defined lattice orientation and thickness, enabling independent extraction of the anisotropic field enhancements. We find that the field enhancement can be safely described by pure classical electromagnetic theory when the gap distance is no <1.24 nm. For a 0.62 nm gap, the probable emergence of quantum mechanical effects renders an average electric field enhancement of 114-fold, 38.4% lower than classical predictions.
Author Correction: Single-pot glycoprotein biosynthesis using a cell-free transcription-translation system enriched with glycosylation machinery
Authors: Jaroentomeechai Thapakorn , Stark Jessica C. , Natarajan Aravind , Glasscock Cameron J. , Yates Laura E. , Hsu Karen J. , Mrksich Milan , Jewett Michael C. , DeLisa Matthew P.
Published: August 2018

The original version of this Article contained an error in Figure 2, wherein the bottom right western blot panel in Figure 2a was blank. This has now been corrected in both the PDF and HTML versions of the Article.
The germline genetic component of drug sensitivity in cancer cell lines
Authors: Menden Michael P. , Casale Francesco Paolo , Stephan Johannes , Bignell Graham R. , Iorio Francesco , McDermott Ultan , Garnett Mathew J. , Saez-Rodriguez Julio , Stegle Oliver
Published: August 2018

Patients with seemingly the same tumour can respond very differently to treatment. There are strong, well-established effects of somatic mutations on drug efficacy, but there is at-most anecdotal evidence of a germline component to drug response. Here, we report a systematic survey of how inherited germline variants affect drug susceptibility in cancer cell lines. We develop a joint analysis approach that leverages both germline and somatic variants, before applying it to screening data from 993 cell lines and 265 drugs. Surprisingly, we find that the germline contribution to variation in drug susceptibility can be as large or larger than effects due to somatic mutations. Several of the associations identified have a direct relationship to the drug target. Finally, using 17-AAG response as an example, we show how germline effects in combination with transcriptomic data can be leveraged for improved patient stratification and to identify new markers for drug sensitivity.
Brain and psychological determinants of placebo pill response in chronic pain patients
Authors: Vachon-Presseau Etienne , Berger Sara E. , Abdullah Taha B. , Huang Lejian , Cecchi Guillermo A. , Griffith James W. , Schnitzer Thomas J. , Apkarian A. Vania
Published: August 2018

The placebo response is universally observed in clinical trials of pain treatments, yet the individual characteristics rendering a patient a ‘placebo responder’ remain unclear. Here, in chronic back pain patients, we demonstrate using MRI and fMRI that the response to placebo ‘analgesic’ pills depends on brain structure and function. Subcortical limbic volume asymmetry, sensorimotor cortical thickness, and functional coupling of prefrontal regions, anterior cingulate, and periaqueductal gray were predictive of response. These neural traits were present before exposure to the pill and most remained stable across treatment and washout periods. Further, psychological traits, including interoceptive awareness and openness, were also predictive of the magnitude of response. These results shed light on psychological, neuroanatomical, and neurophysiological principles determining placebo response in RCTs in chronic pain patients, and they suggest that the long-term beneficial effects of placebo, as observed in clinical settings, are partially predictable.
Tumour cell invasiveness and response to chemotherapeutics in adipocyte invested 3D engineered anisotropic collagen scaffolds
Authors: Hume Robert D. , Pensa Sara , Brown Elizabeth J. , Kreuzaler Peter A. , Hitchcock Jessica , Husmann Anke , Campbell Jonathan J. , Lloyd-Thomas Annabel O. , Cameron Ruth E. , Watson Christine J.
Published: August 2018

Breast cancers are highly heterogeneous and their metastatic potential and response to therapeutic drugs is difficult to predict. A tool that could accurately gauge tumour invasiveness and drug response would provide a valuable addition to the oncologist’s arsenal. We have developed a 3-dimensional (3D) culture model that recapitulates the stromal environment of breast cancers by generating anisotropic (directional) collagen scaffolds seeded with adipocytes and culturing tumour fragments therein. Analysis of tumour cell invasion in the presence of various therapeutic drugs, by immunofluorescence microscopy coupled with an optical clearing technique, demonstrated the utility of this approach in determining both the rate and capacity of tumour cells to migrate through the stroma while shedding light also on the mode of migration. Furthermore, the response of different murine mammary tumour types to chemotherapeutic drugs could be readily quantified.
Mechanochemical synthesis of Si/Cu3Si-based composite as negative electrode materials for lithium ion battery
Authors: Hou Shang-Chieh , Chen Tsan-Yao , Wu Yu-Hsien , Chen Hung-Yuan , Lin Xin-Dian , Chen Yu-Qi , Huang Jow-Lay , Chang Chia-Chin
Published: August 2018

Mechanochemical synthesis of Si/Cu3Si-based composite as negative electrode materials for lithium ion battery is investigated. Results indicate that CuO is decomposed and alloyed with Si forming amorphous Cu-Si solid solution due to high energy impacting during high energy mechanical milling (HEMM). Upon carbonization at 800 °C, heating energy induces Cu3Si to crystallize in nanocrystalline/amorphous Si-rich matrix enhancing composite rigidity and conductivity. In addition, residual carbon formed on outside surface of composite powder as a buff space further alleviates volume change upon lithiation/delithiation. Thus, coin cell made of C-coated Si/Cu3Si-based composite as negative electrode (active materials loading, 2.3 mg cm−2) conducted at 100 mA g−1 performs the initial charge capacity of 1812 mAh g−1 (4.08 mAh cm−2) columbic efficiency of 83.7% and retained charge capacity of 1470 mAh g−1 (3.31 mAh cm−2) at the end of the 100th cycle, opening a promised window as negative electrode materials for lithium ion batteries.
MicroRNA 375 modulates hyperglycemia-induced enteric glial cell apoptosis and Diabetes-induced gastrointestinal dysfunction by targeting Pdk1 and repressing PI3K/Akt pathway
Authors: Chen Yan , Liu Gongxiang , He Fuqian , Zhang Li , Yang Kun , Yu Huan , Zhou Jinqiu , Gan Huatian
Published: August 2018

Diabetic neuropathy can damage systemic nervous system, including alteration of enteric nervous system and subsequent gastrointestinal dysfunction. The effect of diabetes on enteric glia cell (EGC) is not clear. We investigated the effect of diabetes and hyperglycemia on EGC, and the role of microRNA375 in modulating EGC survival in vivo and in vitro. Streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice were intraperitoneally injected with microRNA375 inhibitor or its negative control. EGC was transfected with microRNA375 inhibitor or its mimic. Diabetes mice with gastrointestinal dysfunction showed increased apoptosis of EGC (no difference in cell numbers) and gene expression of micorRNA375 in the myenteric plexus. Hyperglycemia triggered apoptosis of EGC in vitro with decreased expression of Pdk1 and p-Akt, but increased expression of micorRNA375. MicorRNA375 mimic induced apoptosis of EGC in vitro with repressed Pdk1and p-Akt. MicorRNA375 inhibitor could both prevent hyperglycemia-induced apoptosis of EGC in vitro and diabetes-induced gastrointestinal dysfunction in vivo. Our results suggest that diabetes-induced gastrointestinal dysfunction is related to increased apoptosis of EGC in the myenteric plexus. Hyperglycemia can increase the expression of microRNA375 and damage EGC survival through PI3K/Akt pathway. MicroRNA375 specific inhibition can prevent hyperglycemia induced EGC damage and diabetes-induced gastrointestinal dysfunction.
Entangled Quantum Dynamics of Many-Body Systems using Bohmian Trajectories
Authors: Elsayed Tarek A. , Mølmer Klaus , Madsen Lars Bojer
Published: August 2018

Bohmian mechanics is an interpretation of quantum mechanics that describes the motion of quantum particles with an ensemble of deterministic trajectories. Several attempts have been made to utilize Bohmian trajectories as a computational tool to simulate quantum systems consisting of many particles, a very demanding computational task. In this paper, we present a novel ab-initio approach to solve the many-body problem for bosonic systems by evolving a system of one-particle wavefunctions representing pilot waves that guide the Bohmian trajectories of the quantum particles. In this approach, quantum entanglement effects arise due to the interactions between different configurations of Bohmian particles evolving simultaneously. The method is used to study the breathing dynamics and ground state properties in a system of interacting bosons.
Facile and inexpensive fabrication of zinc oxide based bio-surfaces for C-reactive protein detection
Authors: Cao Lu , Kiely Janice , Piano Martina , Luxton Richard
Published: August 2018

The paper reports a biosensor formed from antibody coated ZnO nano-crystals which has been prepared using a rapid and inexpensive fabrication method which utilises colloidal dispersion enhanced using sonication. This technique was used to prepare highly ordered and uniform nano-crystalline sensor surfaces on polyethylene terephthalate (PET) using 0.5%, 1% and 5% concentrations of zinc oxide nano-crystal suspensions. Impedance spectroscopy was employed to interrogate the sensor surfaces and confirmed high reproducibility of the fabrication process. Changes in impedance values, at a frequency of 138 Hz, were used to establish dose dependent responses for C-reactive protein (CRP) antigen. A limit of detection of less than 1 ng/ml was demonstrated for nano-surfaces fabricated from concentrations of 1% ZnO.
Anti-hyperglycemic and anti-hyperlipidemia effects of the alkaloid-rich extract from barks of Litsea glutinosa in ob/ob mice
Authors: Zhang Xiaopo , Jin Yan , Wu Younan , Zhang Caiyun , Jin Dejun , Zheng Qingxia , Li Youbin
Published: August 2018

The present study investigated the anti-hyperglycemic and anti-hyperlipidemia effects of the alkaloid-rich extract from Litsea glutinosa barks (CG) in ob/ob mice. CG was orally administrated (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg) to ob/ob mice for 4 weeks. Parameters of glucose metabolism, hepatotoxicity, hyperlipidemia and inflammation were measured. CG was chemically characterized using UPLC-QTOF-MS. CG dose-dependently decreased body and fat weights without reducing average food intake. CG (100–200 mg/kg) significantly reduced the serum levels of fasting glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbAlc) and glycosylated serum protein (GSP). CG increased insulin sensitivity as manifested by decreased fasting serum insulin, reduced homeostasis model assessment-estimated insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and improved oral glucose tolerance. CG also alleviated dyslipidemia, ameliorated liver steatosis, increased the activity of serum lipase and alleviated inflammation. The activities of liver pyruvate kinase and glucokinase as well as liver content of glycogen were increased after CG treatment. CG was rich in alkaloids and eight main alkaloids were identified, many of which had been demonstrated to possess adequate anti-diabetic activities. These results suggest that the alkaloid-rich extract of CG possesses potential anti-hyperglycemic and anti-hyperlipidemic effects and can be utilized as an effective agent for the treatment of type 2 diabetes.
α-Gal on the protein surface affects uptake and degradation in immature monocyte derived dendritic cells
Authors: Ristivojević M. Krstić , Grundström J. , Tran T. A. T. , Apostolovic D. , Radoi V. , Starkhammar M. , Vukojević V. , Ćirković Veličković T. , Hamsten C. , van Hage M.
Published: August 2018

Red meat allergy is characterized by an IgE response against the carbohydrate galactose-α-1,3-galactose (α-Gal), which is abundantly expressed on glycoproteins from non-primate mammals. The mechanisms of how α-Gal is processed and presented to the immune system to initiate an allergic reaction are still unknown. The aim of this study was to reveal whether the presence of α-Gal epitopes on the protein surface influence antigen uptake and processing in immature monocyte-derived dendritic cells (iMDDCs). Immature MDDCs were prepared from healthy blood donors and red meat allergic patients. We found an increased internalization of α-Gal carrying proteins over time in iMDDCs by flow cytometric analysis, which was independent of the donor allergic status. The uptake of α-Gal carrying proteins was significantly higher than the uptake of non-α-Gal carrying proteins. Confocal microscopy revealed α-Gal carrying proteins scattered around the cytoplasm in most iMDDCs while detection of proteins not carrying α-Gal was negligible. Fluorescent detection of protein on SDS-PAGE showed that degradation of α-Gal carrying proteins was slower than degradation of non-α-Gal carrying proteins. Thus, the presence of α-Gal on the protein surface affects both uptake and degradation of the protein, and the results add new knowledge of α-Gal as a clinically relevant food allergen.
3D Optical Vortex Trapping of Plasmonic Nanostructure
Authors: Liaw Jiunn-Woei , Chien Chiao-Wei , Liu Kun-Chi , Ku Yun-Cheng , Kuo Mao-Kuen
Published: August 2018

3D optical vortex trapping upon a polystyrene nanoparticle (NP) by a 1D gold dimer array is studied theoretically. The optical force field shows that the trapping mode can be contact or non-contact. For the former, the NP is attracted toward a corresponding dimer. For the latter, it is trapped toward a stagnation point of zero force with a 3D spiral trajectory, revealing optical vortex. Additionally the optical torque causes the NP to transversely spin, even though the system is irradiated by a linearly polarized light. The transverse spin-orbit interaction is manifested from the opposite helicities of the spin and spiral orbit. Along with the growth and decline of optical vortices the trapped NP performs a step-like motion, as the array continuously moves. Our results, in agreement with the previous experiment, identify the role of optical vortex in the near-field trapping of plasmonic nanostructure.
AMPK contributes to autophagosome maturation and lysosomal fusion
Authors: Jang Minsu , Park Rackhyun , Kim Hyunju , Namkoong Sim , Jo Daum , Huh Yang Hoon , Jang Ik-Soon , Lee Jin I. , Park Junsoo
Published: August 2018

AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) regulates autophagy initiation when intracellular ATP level decreases. However, the role of AMPK during autophagosome maturation is not fully understood. Here, we report that AMPK contributes to efficient autophagosome maturation and lysosomal fusion. Using CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing, we generated AMPK α1 knockout HEK293T cell lines, in which starvation-induced autophagy is impaired. Compound C, an AMPK-independent autophagy inducer, and trehalose, an mTOR-independent autophagy inducer were used to examine the role of AMPK in autophagosome maturation and lysosomal fusion. While the treatment of control cells with either compound C or trehalose induces activation of autophagosomes as well as autolysosomes, the treatment of AMPK α1 knockout cells with compound C or trehalose induces mainly activation of autophagosomes, but not autolysosomes. We demonstrate that this effect is due to interference with the fusion of autophagosomes with lysosomes in AMPK α1 knockout cells. The transient expression of AMPK α1 can rescue autophagosome maturation. These results indicate that AMPK α1 is required for efficient autophagosome maturation and lysosomal fusion.
Temperature and feeding induce tissue level changes in autotrophic and heterotrophic nutrient allocation in the coral symbiosis – A NanoSIMS study
Authors: Krueger Thomas , Bodin Julia , Horwitz Noa , Loussert-Fonta Céline , Sakr Adrian , Escrig Stéphane , Fine Maoz , Meibom Anders
Published: August 2018

Corals access inorganic seawater nutrients through their autotrophic endosymbiotic dinoflagellates, but also capture planktonic prey through heterotrophic feeding. Correlating NanoSIMS and TEM imaging, we visualized and quantified the subcellular fate of autotrophic and heterotrophic C and N in the coral Stylophora pistillata using stable isotopes. Six scenarios were compared after 6 h: autotrophic pulse (13C-bicarbonate, 15N-nitrate) in either unfed or regularly fed corals, and heterotrophic pulse (13C-, 15N-labelled brine shrimps) in regularly fed corals; each at ambient and elevated temperature. Host assimilation of photosynthates was similar under fed and unfed conditions, but symbionts assimilated 10% more C in fed corals. Photoautotrophic C was primarily channelled into host lipid bodies, whereas heterotrophic C and N were generally co-allocated to the tissue. Food-derived label was detected in some subcellular structures associated with the remobilisation of host lipid stores. While heterotrophic input generally exceeded autotrophic input, it was more negatively affected by elevated temperature. The reduced input from both modes of nutrition at elevated temperature was accompanied by a shift in the partitioning of C and N, benefiting epidermis and symbionts. This study provides a unique view into the nutrient partitioning in corals and highlights the tight connection of nutrient fluxes in symbiotic partners.
Lysogenization of Staphylococcus aureus RN450 by phages ϕ11 and ϕ80α leads to the activation of the SigB regulon
Authors: Fernández Lucía , González Silvia , Quiles-Puchalt Nuria , Gutiérrez Diana , Penadés José R. , García Pilar , Rodríguez Ana
Published: August 2018

Staphylococcus aureusis a major opportunistic pathogen that commonly forms biofilms on various biotic and abiotic surfaces. Also, most isolates are known to carry prophages in their genomes. With this in mind, it seems that acquiring a better knowledge of the impact of prophages on the physiology ofS.aureusbiofilm cells would be useful for developing strategies to eliminate this pathogen. Here, we performed RNA-seq analysis of biofilm cells formed byS.aureusRN450 and two derived strains carrying prophages ϕ11 and ϕ80α. The lysogenic strains displayed increased biofilm formation and production of the carotenoid pigment staphyloxanthin. These phenotypes could be partly explained by the differences in gene expression displayed by prophage-harboring strains, namely an activation of the alternative sigma factor (SigB) regulon and downregulation of genes controlled by the Agr quorum-sensing system, especially the decreased transcription of genes encoding dispersion factors like proteases. Nonetheless, spontaneous lysis of part of the population could also contribute to the increased attached biomass. Interestingly, it appears that the phage CI protein plays a role in orchestrating these phage-host interactions, although more research is needed to confirm this possibility. Likewise, future studies should examine the impact of these two prophages during the infection.
Prediction of electro-anatomical substrate and arrhythmia recurrences using APPLE, DR-FLASH and MB-LATER scores in patients with atrial fibrillation undergoing catheter ablation
Authors: Kornej Jelena , Schumacher Katja , Dinov Borislav , Kosich Falco , Sommer Philipp , Arya Arash , Husser Daniela , Bollmann Andreas , Lip Gregory Y. H. , Hindricks Gerhard
Published: August 2018

Arrhythmia recurrences after catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF) cause intensive treatment costs. Left atrial electro-anatomical remodeling measured as low voltage areas (LVA) during catheter ablation indicates advanced disease stage and is associated with poor ablation success. The aim of this study was to analyze the prediction of LVA and arrhythmia recurrences using APPLE, DR-FLASH and MB-LATER scores. APPLE, DR-FLASH scores were calculated at baseline and MB-LATER at 3 months post-ablation in AF patients undergoing first catheter ablation. LVA was determined using high-density maps and defined as <0.5 mV. Early (ERAF, <3 months) and late (LRAF, 3–12 months) were analyzed during follow-up. The study population included 241 patients (age 64 ± 11 years, 59% males, 59% persistent AF, 27% LVA, 27% LRAF). LVA were significantly associated with recurrences (OR 2.081, p = 0.026). While on univariable analysis, all scores were significantly associated with LVA, on multivariable analysis only APPLE (OR 1.789, p < 0.001) and DR-FLASH (OR 2.144, p < 0.001) remained significant predictors. However, MB-LATER (OR 1.445, p = 0.034) and ERAF (OR 5.078, p < 0.001) remained associated with LRAF on the multivariable analysis. These results were validated in a subgroup of 873 patients (age 61 ± 10, 63% males, 39% persistent AF, 34% LRAF, 27% LVA) from The Leipzig Heart Center AF Ablation Registry. All scores were significantly associated with recurrences. However, ERAF was the most powerful predictor for later rhythm outcomes. Summarizing, a clinical score useful for prediction for both LVA and rhythm outcomes in AF patients remains a clinical unmet need.
In Vitro Modulation of Redox and Metabolism Interplay at the Brain Vascular Endothelium: Genomic and Proteomic Profiles of Sulforaphane Activity
Authors: Sajja Ravi K. , Kaisar Mohammad A. , Vijay Vikrant , Desai Varsha G. , Prasad Shikha , Cucullo Luca
Published: August 2018

Sulforaphane (SFN) has been shown to protect the brain vascular system and effectively reduce ischemic injuries and cognitive deficits. Given the robust cerebrovascular protection afforded by SFN, the objective of this study was to profile these effects in vitro using primary mouse brain microvascular endothelial cells and focusing on cellular redox, metabolism and detoxification functions. We used a mouse MitoChip array developed and validated at the FDA National Center for Toxicological Research (NCTR) to profile a host of genes encoded by nuclear and mt-DNA following SFN treatment (0–5 µM). Corresponding protein expression levels were assessed (ad hoc) by qRT-PCR, immunoblots and immunocytochemistry (ICC). Gene ontology clustering revealed that SFN treatment (24 h) significantly up-regulated ~50 key genes (>1.5 fold, adjusted p < 0.0001) and repressed 20 genes (<0.7 fold, adjusted p < 0.0001) belonging to oxidative stress, phase 1 & 2 drug metabolism enzymes (glutathione system), iron transporters, glycolysis, oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), amino acid metabolism, lipid metabolism and mitochondrial biogenesis. Our results show that SFN stimulated the production of ATP by promoting the expression and activity of glucose transporter-1, and glycolysis. In addition, SFN upregulated anti-oxidative stress responses, redox signaling and phase 2 drug metabolism/detoxification functions, thus elucidating further the previously observed neurovascular protective effects of this compound.
Identification and characterization of aspartyl-tRNA synthetase inhibitors against Mycobacterium tuberculosis by an integrated whole-cell target-based approach
Authors: Soto Ramón , Perez-Herran Esther , Rodriguez Beatriz , Duma Bogdan M. , Cacho-Izquierdo Monica , Mendoza-Losana Alfonso , Lelievre Joel , Aguirre David Barros , Ballell Lluis , Cox Liam R. , Alderwick Luke J. , Besra Gurdyal S.
Published: August 2018

Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the causative agent of tuberculosis, has surpassed HIV as the leading cause of death due to an infectious disease worldwide, being responsible for more than 1.5 million deaths in low-income countries. In response to a pandemic threat by drug resistant strains, the tuberculosis research community is searching for new chemical entities with novel mechanisms of action to avoid drug resistance and shorten treatment regimens using combinatorial chemotherapy. Herein, we have identified several novel chemical scaffolds, GSK97C (spiro-oxazolidin-2-one), GSK93A (2-amino-1,3-thiazole, GSK85A and GSK92A (enamides), which target M. tuberculosis aspartyl-tRNA synthetase (Mt-AspRS), an essential component of the protein synthesis machinery of tuberculosis, using a whole-cell target-based screening strategy against a genetically modified Mycobacterium bovis BCG strain. We also provide further evidence of protein inhibition and inhibitor profiling through a classical aminoacylation reaction and a tRNA-independent assay, respectively. Altogether, our results have identified a number of hit new molecules with novel mechanism of action for further development through medicinal chemistry as hits and leads.
Consistent visuomotor adaptations and generalizations can be achieved through different rotations of robust motor modules
Authors: De Marchis Cristiano , Di Somma Jacopo , Zych Magdalena , Conforto Silvia , Severini Giacomo
Published: August 2018

Humans can adapt their motor commands in response to alterations in the movement environment. This is achieved by tuning different motor primitives, generating adaptations that can be generalized also to relevant untrained scenarios. A theory of motor primitives has shown that natural movements can be described as combinations of muscle synergies. Previous studies have shown that motor adaptations are achieved by tuning the recruitment of robust synergy modules. Here we tested if: 1) different synergistic tunings can be achieved in response to the same perturbations applied with different orders of exposure; 2) different synergistic tunings can explain different patterns of generalization of adaptation. We found that exposing healthy individuals to two visuomotor rotation perturbations covering different parts of the same workspace in a different order resulted in different tunings of the activation of the same set of synergies. Nevertheless, these tunings resulted in the same net biomechanical adaptation patterns. We also show that the characteristics of the different tunings correlate with the presence and extent of generalization of adaptation to untrained portions of the workspace. Our results confirm synergies as invariant motor primitives whose recruitment is dynamically tuned during motor adaptations.
MAPbI3 microneedle-arrays for perovskite photovoltaic application
Authors: Mahmood Khalid , Khalid Arshi , Mehran Muhammad Taqi
Published: August 2018

Highly crystalline perovskite micro-needles are grown by a hydrothermal method and used in perovskite solar cells to yield 17.98% efficiency with no hysteresis.
Converting a weaker ATP-binding site inhibitor into a potent hetero-bivalent ligand by tethering to a unique peptide sequence derived from the same kinase
Authors: Kedika Samanth Reddy , Udugamasooriya D. Gomika
Published: August 2018

Our hetero-bivalent ligand targets a distance binding pocket to ATP-binding site using a peptide sequence already exists within same kinase.
Flexible coordination of Pb atoms and variable zinc–borate frameworks to construct three Pb5Zn4B6O18 polymorphs
Authors: Pan Xiaobo , Wu Hongping , Wen Ming , Zhang Bingbing , Yang Zhihua , Pan Shilie
Published: August 2018

Three Pb5Zn4B6O18 polymorphs were synthesized and phase transformations were investigated using powder X-ray diffraction, thermal analysis and theoretical simulation.
Thermal annealing effects on La2Hf2O7:Eu3+ nanoparticles: a curious case study of structural evolution and site-specific photo- and radio-luminescence
Authors: Gupta Santosh K. , Zuniga Jose P. , Abdou Maya , Mao Yuanbing
Published: August 2018

High temperature annealed La2Hf2O7:Eu3+ nanoparticles favor tunneling of Eu3+ to symmetric sites showing orange emission, whereas low temperature annealed samples favor red emission.
Effect of thermal treatment on ZnO:Tb3+ nano-crystalline thin films and application for spectral conversion in inverted organic solar cells
Authors: Otieno Francis , Airo Mildred , Erasmus Rudolph M. , Billing David G. , Quandt Alexander , Wamwangi Daniel
Published: August 2018

Thermal annealing of Tb doped ZnO thin films was undertaken and as proof of concept, pristine films were used as a bi-functional in inverted solar cell devices.
Polymer nanocomposite-enabled high-performance triboelectric nanogenerator with self-healing capability
Authors: Niu Huidan , Du Xinyu , Zhao Shuyu , Yuan Zuqing , Zhang Xiuling , Cao Ran , Yin Yingying , Zhang Chi , Zhou Tao , Li Congju
Published: August 2018

The self-healing process and the primary characteristics showing the performance of the self-healed triboelectric nanogenerator.
The effect of polymerization temperature and reaction time on microwave absorption properties of Co-doped ZnNi ferrite/polyaniline composites
Authors: lei Yiming , Yao Zhengjun , Lin Haiyan , Zhou Jintang , Haidry Azhar Ali , liu Peijiang
Published: August 2018

This study presents the systematic potential effects of reaction parameters on the synthesis of Co-doped ZnNi ferrite/polyaniline composites preparedvianovel interfacial polymerization.
High-resolution lipidomics reveals dysregulation of lipid metabolism in respiratory syncytial virus pneumonia mice
Authors: Shan Jinjun , Qian Wenjuan , Shen Cunsi , Lin Lili , Xie Tong , Peng Linxiu , Xu Jia , Yang Rui , Ji Jianjian , Zhao Xia
Published: August 2018

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a leading viral pathogen responsible for lower respiratory tract infections, particularly in children under five years worldwide, often resulting in hospitalization.
Rational design of sequestered DNAzyme beacons to enable flexible control of catalytic activities
Authors: Tang Wei , Cheng Mengxi , Dai Danling , Xiong Zhonghua , Liu Feng
Published: August 2018

We present a sequestered DNAzyme beacon strategy based on precisely blocking the catalytic core for flexible regulation of DNAzyme kinetics.
A highly selective fluorescence “turn-on” sensor for Ca2+based on diarylethene with a triazozoyl hydrazine unit
Authors: Wang Zhen , Cui Shiqiang , Qiu Shouyu , Pu Shouzhi
Published: August 2018

A new photochromic diarylethene derivative with a triazozoyl hydrazine unit has been designed and synthesized.
Gold nanorods or nanospheres? Role of particle shape on tuning the shape memory effect of semicrystalline poly(ε-caprolactone) networks
Authors: Xu Haikun , Budhlall Bridgette Maria
Published: August 2018

Light-triggered shape memory actuation of polycaprolactone was achieved by using the surface plasmon induced photothermal effect of AuNPs. The light absorption wavelengths were tuned without compromising the chemistry and properties of the polymers.
Egg albumen templated graphene foams for high-performance supercapacitor electrodes and electrochemical sensors
Authors: Liu Ya , Zhao Xiaoli , Wang Cancan , Zhang Long , Li MengXiong , Pan Yunmei , Fu Yifeng , Liu Johan , Lu Hongbin
Published: August 2018

Biocompatible N, S, and Si co-doped graphene foams for high-performance supercapacitor electrodes and electrochemical sensors were prepared.
Sorafenib and indocyanine green co-loaded in photothermally sensitive liposomes for diagnosis and treatment of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: He Qianyuan , He Xiaoxiao , Deng Bin , Shi Chen , Lin Leping , Liu Pei , Yang Zhe , Yang Shengli , Xu Zushun
Published: August 2018

Schematic illustration of the synthesis of SILs and NIR fluorescence imaging guided SF, PDT and PTT theranostic nanoplatforms.
AIE-active bis-cyanostilbene-based organogels for quantitative fluorescence sensing of CO2 based on molecular recognition principles
Authors: Ma Yao , Cametti Massimo , Džolić Zoran , Jiang Shimei
Published: August 2018

Fluorescence sensing of CO2 is achieved by the use of gel aggregates and xerogel systems made with the aggregation induced emissive bis-cyanostilbene derivative 1 reaching a detection limit as low as 4.5 ppm.
The influence of molecular conformation on the photophysics of organic room temperature phosphorescent luminophores
Authors: Huang Rongjuan , Ward Jonathan S. , Kukhta Nadzeya A. , Avó João , Gibson Jamie , Penfold Thomas , Lima João C. , Batsanov Andrei S. , Berberan-Santos Mário N. , Bryce Martin R. , Dias Fernando B.
Published: August 2018

Tuning of photophysical properties by conformational control with dual RT phosphorescence in metal-free organic emitters.
White-light-emitting lanthanide and lanthanide-iridium doped supramolecular gels: modular luminescence and stimuli-responsive behaviour
Authors: Singha Mahapatra Tufan , Singh Harwinder , Maity Arunava , Dey Ananta , Pramanik Sumit Kumar , Suresh Eringathodi , Das Amitava
Published: August 2018

Lanthanide-based light-emitting supramolecular thermoreversible metallogels with tunable luminescence by controlling the stoichiometry of L-X/EuIII·L-X/TbIII·L-X or L-X/EuIII·L-X/[IrIII(F2ppy)2(biimid)]PF6.
Energy efficiency maximisation in wireless powered networks with cooperative non‐orthogonal multiple access
Authors: Zhang Yongqiang , He Jianbo , Guo Songtao , Wang Fei
Published: August 2018

In the 5G wireless networks, non‐orthogonal multiple access (NOMA) is a promising paradigm to improve its high spectrum efficiency. This study considers applying simultaneous wireless information and power transfer (SWIPT) technique to cooperative NOMA wireless networks, where energy‐constrained relay nodes harvest the ambient radio‐frequency signal and use the harvested energy to forward the packets from sources to destinations. To this end, the authors first formulate the energy‐efficient cooperative transmission problem for SWIPT in NOMA with imperfect channel state information. Then, by exploiting alternative optimisation and dual decomposition, they design an iterative algorithm for power allocation and power splitting (PS) to solve the non‐convex optimisation problem. The authors' simulation results reveal that the proposed algorithm can converge within a few iterations and yield optimal system energy efficiency.
SNR analysis and estimation for efficient phase noise mitigation in millimetre‐wave SC‐FDE systems
Authors: Yoon Jungmin , Jo Ohyun , Choi Ji‐Won , Lee Seongwook , Choi Jeongsik , Kim Seong‐Cheol
Published: August 2018

This study demonstrates a signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) analysis and estimation algorithm for efficient phase noise mitigation that can be practically applied to single‐carrier frequency‐domain‐equalisation (SC‐FDE) systems that operate in millimetre‐wave bands. First, the effect of phase noise in SC‐FDE systems is investigated on each of the packet reception processes, namely, channel estimation, SNR estimation, and data‐field reception. According to the analysis, an SNR estimation algorithm is proposed. The performance of minimum‐mean‐square‐error equalisation and conventional phase noise mitigation algorithm can be enhanced using the proposed SNR estimation. The effectiveness of the proposed analysis and SNR estimation algorithm is verified through the link‐level simulation. Compared with the conventional SNR estimation and the iterative phase noise mitigation algorithms, the proposed algorithm provides a lower packet‐error rate without any iterative decoding process.
Efficient algorithm for removal of loopbacks in p‐cycle‐based survivable WDM networks
Authors: Singh Hari Mohan , Yadav Rama Shankar
Published: August 2018

p‐cycles have been widely investigated for survivability of wave division multiplexing (WDM) optical networks. It combines fast recovery feature of ring and spare capacity efficiency of mesh. However, it provides a longer restoration path (RP) which increases the transmission time and causes other impairments. Researchers in this field have mentioned that the loopbacks are the main reason behind the longer length of RPs. Two predominant algorithms have been reported in the literature for the removal of loopbacks (RLB). Both algorithms determine the loopbacks by the route information dynamically aggregated at incident nodes of the failed span. Dynamically acquiring route information of affected working paths and candidate p‐cycles causes communication and node processing overhead. In this study, we have conducted an analytical study to ascertain the node which forms the longest loopback in RP. Further, an efficient algorithm has been proposed for RLB directly without gathering the route information and tedious loopback calculation at the end nodes of failed span. The simulation result shows that the proposed approach substantially reduces RPs length and promptly removes the loopbacks. Further, it has reduced communication and other overheads to a great extent.
Combined FATEMD‐based band selection method for hyperspectral images
Authors: Yu Wenbo , Zhang Miao , Shen Yi
Published: August 2018

Feature selection, which is called band selection for hyperspectral data, is widely used for hyperspectral images. A novel hyperspectral band selection method based on combined fast and adaptive tridimensional empirical mode decomposition (cFATEMD) is proposed in this study. The hyperspectral data is decomposed into a set of tridimensional intrinsic mode functions (TIMFs) and a residual (RES) by FATEMD, which can reduce high‐frequency noise and signal. A stop condition of the decomposition is proposed based on the k‐means clustering algorithm and the Dunn validity index, which can prevent excessive decomposition and make generated RES contain as much useful information as possible. In consideration of the useful information in decomposition results, these TIMFs and the RES are combined into a new data based on the spectral similarity between themselves and the original data. Four state‐of‐the‐art band selection methods, cooperating with the proposed cFATEMD, are used to select bands by the new combined data. Several experiments are conducted on three publicly available hyperspectral datasets and the results are compared with corresponding methods’ results using the original data. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method yields great classification appearance.
2D non‐polarising transmission filters based on GMR for optical communications
Authors: Ren Zhibin , Sun Yahui , Zhang Shuqing , Zhang Kaipeng , Lin Zihao , Wang Songli
Published: August 2018

Two‐dimensional (2D) non‐polarising transmission filters based on guided‐mode resonance (GMR) for the optical communication wavelength O‐band and C‐band have been designed and fabricated. This type of GMR filter (GMRF) is composed of a 2D metal grating layer, a waveguide layer, and a glass substrate. The rigorous coupled‐wave analysis is used to calculate the transmission spectra of the designed GMRFs. The grating structures of the GMRFs are patterned by electron beam lithography. The transmission spectra of the fabricated GMRF samples at different incident angles are measured by rotating a motorised stage and the experimental results agree closely with the theoretical designs. The measured results show that the transmission spectra of the two GMRF samples are insensitive to the incident angle. A deviation of 1° in the angle of incidence from normal illumination does not lead to the reduction of the peak transmittance. Although a narrow secondary resonance appears at oblique incidence for transverse‐magnetic polarisation, the resonance spectral shapes for transverse‐electric polarisation and TM polarisation are nearly identical at incident angles of 0–1.5°. Compared to previous reported non‐polarising GMRFs, the angular tolerances of the fabricated samples are remarkably enhanced.
Synthesis of Sn‐doped ZnO hierarchical particles and their gas‐sensing properties
Authors: Qin Xi , Wang Xu , Gu Dawei , Shen Linjiang
Published: August 2018

In this work, un‐doped and Sn‐doped hierarchical ZnO particles with high dispersity were successfully fabricated by a facile liquid reaction. The prepared samples are characterised by X‐ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. The as‐synthesised hierarchical ZnO particles with a diameter of ∼1.5 μm were obtained by considerably intersecting thin nanosheets of ∼20 nm thickness. The morphology of ZnO structures can be varied by adjusting reaction parameters, e.g. reaction temperature, calcination temperature, and dopant concentration. On the basis of experimental results, the gas‐sensing measurement displays that the sensor based on Sn‐doped ZnO microstructures have a low detection of 10 ppm ethanol at an operational temperature of 250°C, demonstrating its outstanding gas‐sensing performance. Therefore, the flower‐like Sn‐doped ZnO have prospective applications in a multifunction ethanol sensor. Moreover, the fabrication method reported in the work is facile, flexible and operable, it is possible to extend to synthesise other types of metal oxide‐based applications in various fields.
Prevalence of Sodalis glossinidius and different trypanosome species in Glossina palpalis palpalis caught in the Fontem sleeping sickness focus of the southern Cameroon
Authors: Kanté Tagueu Sartrien , Farikou Oumarou , Njiokou Flobert , Simo Gustave
Published: August 2018

Tsetse flies are the cyclical vector of human and animal African trypanosomiasis. To improve vector control in order to achieve the elimination of human African trypanosomiasis (HAT) and boost the control of animal diseases, investigations have been undertaken on the tripartite association between tsetse, trypanosome, and symbionts. It is in this light that Sodalis glossinidius and different trypanosomes were identified in Glossina palpalis palpalis caught in Fontem in southern Cameroon. For this study, DNA was extracted from whole flies, and S. glossinidius and different trypanosome species were identified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Statistical analyses were performed to compare the trypanosome and S. glossinidius infection rates and to look for an association between these microorganisms. Of the 274 G. p. palpalis caught, 3.3% (9/274) were teneral. About 35% (96/274) of these flies harbored S. glossinidius. Of the 265 non-teneral flies, 37.7% were infected by trypanosomes. The infection rates of Trypanosoma congolense “forest type” and Trypanosoma vivax were 26.04% and 18.11%, respectively. About 6.41% of tsetse harbored mixed infections of T. congolense and T. vivax. Of the 69 tsetse with T. congolense infections, 33.33% (23/69) harbored S. glossinidius while 71.86% (69/96) of flies harboring S. glossinidius were not infected by trypanosomes. No association was observed between S. glossinidius and trypanosome infections. Some wild tsetse harbor S. glossinidius and trypanosomes, while others have no infection or are infected by only one of these microorganisms. We conclude that the presence of S. glossinidius does not favor trypanosome infections in G. p. palpalis of the Fontem focus.
DEGEA-Curriculum für Refresherkurs Sedierung und Notfallmanagement in der Endoskopie für Endoskopiepflege- und -assistenzpersonal – Update 2018
Authors: Beilenhoff Ulrike , Engelke Monika , Kern-Waechter Elisabeth , Maeting Silvia , Pfeifer Ute , Riphaus Andrea , Wietfeld Kornelia
Published: August 2018

Das DEGEA-Refresher-Curriculum baut auf dem Curriculum zum 3-Tages-Grundkurs auf. Es bietet die Möglichkeit, Endoskopiefachpersonal periodisch in Sedierung und Notfallmanagement zu schulen und das eigene Handeln zu reflektieren.
An approach to optimization of double basin single slope solar still water depth for maximum distilled water output
Authors: Modi Kalpesh V. , Ankoliya Dipak B. , Shukla Dhruvin L.
Published: August 2018

In the present era, pure water scarcity is one of the biggest dilemmas. A solar still may be the best solution to solve the water problem in remote areas. But due to its lower efficiency, the device is not quite commercialized. A single basin single slope solar still is simple and economical, but it has a very low yield of distilled water. A double basin single slope solar still may enhance the productivity of the solar still by utilizing the latent heat of condensation which is lost in the atmosphere in the single basin single slope solar still. In the present paper, the performance of the double basin single slope solar still has been evaluated for the various water depths at the location of 20.61° N, 72.91° E. The yield of the solar still has been measured for the various depths of saline water in the lower basin such as 0.01 m, 0.02 m, 0.03 m, and 0.04 m. From the experimental results, the daily distillate of 2.024 l, 1.944 l, 1.892 l, and 1.792 l per m2 of the basin area and the overall efficiency of 24.56%, 24.00%, 23.33%, and 21.89% were obtained for the water depths of 0.01 m, 0.02 m, 0.03 m, and 0.04 m in the lower basin, respectively.