bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dopamine manipulations modulate paranoid social inferences in healthy people
Authors: Barnby J. M. , Bell V. , Deeley Q. , Mehta M. A.
Published: July 2020

Altered dopamine transmission is thought to influence the formation of persecutory delusions. However, despite extensive evidence from clinical studies there is little experimental evidence on how modulating the dopamine system changes social attributions related to paranoia, and the salience of beliefs more generally. Twenty seven healthy male participants received 150mg L-DOPA, 3 mg haloperidol, or placebo in a double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled study, over three within-subject sessions. Participants completed a multi-round Dictator Game modified to measure social attributions, and a measure of belief salience spanning themes of politics, religion, science, morality, and the paranormal. We preregistered predictions that altering dopamine function would affect (i) attributions of harmful intent and (ii) salience of paranormal beliefs. As predicted, haloperidol reduced attributions of harmful intent across all conditions compared to placebo. L-DOPA reduced attributions of harmful intent in fair conditions compared to placebo. Unexpectedly, haloperidol increased attributions of self-interest about opponents’ decisions. There was no change in belief salience within any theme. These results could not be explained by scepticism or subjective mood. Our findings demonstrate the selective involvement of dopamine in social inferences related to paranoia in healthy individuals.
Vitamin D supplementation: a potential therapeutic agent for metastatic colorectal cancer
Authors: Yuan Chen , Ng Kimmie
Published: July 2020

Preclinical and epidemiological evidence suggests that vitamin D may have anti-cancer activities in patients with colorectal cancer. A recently completed, randomised Phase 2 trial of vitamin D3 supplementation in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer has shown promising results, and a Phase 3 trial is currently underway.
Polygenic risk score opportunities for early detection and prevention strategies in endometrial cancer
Authors: O’Mara Tracy A. , Crosbie Emma J.
Published: July 2020

Recent large-scale genetic studies, particularly genome-wide association studies (GWAS), have emphasised the importance of common genetic variation in endometrial cancer susceptibility. Although each of these variants only confer modest effects on endometrial cancer risk, together they are likely to explain a substantial amount of the familial relative risk of the disease. Therefore, methods to combine genetic risk variants, such as polygenic risk scores (PRS) have gained traction as an attractive method for individualised risk prediction and management. Here, we discuss the benefits of a PRS for endometrial cancer and considerations required for clinical implementation.
Evaluation of p16INK4a expression as a single marker to select patients with HPV-driven oropharyngeal cancers for treatment de-escalation
Authors: Wagner Steffen , Prigge Elena-Sophie , Wuerdemann Nora , Reder Henrike , Bushnak Ayman , Sharma Shachi Jenny , Obermueller Theresa , von Knebel Doeberitz Magnus , Dreyer Thomas , Gattenlöhner Stefan , Wolf Gregor , Pons-Kühnemann Jörn , Wittekindt Claus , Klussmann Jens Peter
Published: July 2020

Background

A remarkably better prognosis is associated with oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinomas (OPSCC) driven by human papillomaviruses (HPV) compared with HPV-negative OPSCC. Consequently, de-escalation of standard treatment has been suggested. Due to modest specificity rates, debates are ongoing, whether p16INK4a, a surrogate marker for HPV-driven OPSCC, is sufficient to correctly identify those tumours and avoid substantial HPV misattribution and thus undertreatment of patients by de-escalation. Robust data estimating the proportion of potentially undertreated patients are missing.

Methods

We assessed a large-scale cohort of consecutively included OPSCC diagnosed between 2000 and 2017 for HPV–DNA, HPV genotypes, p16INK4a expression and multiple tumour- and patient-related risk factors, and investigated their impact on patients’ survival in comprehensive uni- and multivariate analyses.

Results

Aetiological relevance of HPV (p16INK4a- and high-risk HPV–DNA-positivity) was detected in 27.1% (n = 192) of OPSCC, with HPV16 being the most abundant HPV type (94.6%). In 5.5% patients (n = 39), p16INK4a overexpression but no HPV–DNA was detected. Principal component and survival analyses revealed that 60.6% of these p16INK4a-positive OPSCC lacking HPV–DNA did not resemble HPV16-driven but HPV-negative OPSCC regarding risk-factor profile and overall survival. Notably, this group represented 10.6% of all p16INK4a-overexpressing OPSCC.

Conclusions

p16INK4a as a single marker appears insufficient to indicate OPSCC patients suitable for treatment de-escalation.
Mac-2-binding protein glycan isomer enhances the aggressiveness of hepatocellular carcinoma by activating mTOR signaling
Authors: Dolgormaa Gantumur , Harimoto Norifumi , Ishii Norihiro , Yamanaka Takahiro , Hagiwara Kei , Tsukagoshi Mariko , Igarashi Takamichi , Watanabe Akira , Kubo Norio , Araki Kenichiro , Handa Tadashi , Yokobori Takehiko , Oyama Tetsunari , Kuwano Hiroyuki , Shirabe Ken
Published: July 2020

Background

Wisteria floribunda agglutinin (WFA)+ Mac-2-binding protein (M2BPGi) is a novel serum marker for liver fibrosis. Although an elevated serum level of M2BPGi can predict development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the effect of M2BPGi on HCC remains unclear. There are no reports about the association of M2BPGi with HCC aggressiveness. We aimed to clarify the significance of M2BPGi in HCC.

Methods

The protein expression of M2BPGi and galectin-3, a ligand of M2BP, and the mRNA expression of M2BP were evaluated in surgically resected human HCC samples. M2BPGi-regulating signals in HCC cells were investigated using transcriptome analysis. The effects of M2BPGi on HCC properties and galectin-3/mTOR signaling were evaluated.

Results

M2BPGi and galectin-3 proteins co-localised in HCC cells, while M2BP mRNA was detected in cirrhotic liver stromal cells. mTOR signaling was upregulated in M2BPGi-treated HCC cells. Moreover, M2BPGi treatment induced tumour-promoting effects on HCC in vitro by activated mTOR signaling. In addition, M2BPGi bound to galectin-3 to induce membranous galectin-3 expression in HCC cells. In vivo, M2BPGi enhanced the growth of xenografted HCC.

Conclusions

M2BPGi is produced in stromal cells of the cirrhotic liver. Furthermore, M2BPGi enhances the progression of HCC through the galectin-3/mTOR pathway.
Systematic analysis reveals a functional role for STAMBPL1 in the epithelial–mesenchymal transition process across multiple carcinomas
Authors: Ambroise Gorbatchev , Yu Ting-ting , Zhang Boxi , Kacal Merve , Hao Yuqing , Queiroz Andre L. , Ouchida Amanda T. , Lindskog Cecilia , Norberg Erik , Vakifahmetoglu-Norberg Helin
Published: July 2020

Background

Deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs) are linked to cancer progression and dissemination, yet less is known about their regulation and impact on epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT).

Methods

An integrative translational approach combining systematic computational analyses of The Cancer Genome Atlas cancer cohorts with CRISPR genetics, biochemistry and immunohistochemistry methodologies to identify and assess the role of human DUBs in EMT.

Results

We identify a previously undiscovered biological function of STAM-binding protein like 1 (STAMBPL1) deubiquitinase in the EMT process in lung and breast carcinomas. We show that STAMBPL1 expression can be regulated by mutant p53 and that its catalytic activity is required to affect the transcription factor SNAI1. Accordingly, genetic depletion and CRISPR-mediated gene knockout of STAMBPL1 leads to marked recovery of epithelial markers, SNAI1 destabilisation and impaired migratory capacity of cancer cells. Reversely, STAMBPL1 expression reprogrammes cells towards a mesenchymal phenotype. A significant STAMBPL1-SNAI1 co-signature was observed across multiple tumour types. Importantly, STAMBPL1 is highly expressed in metastatic tissues compared to matched primary tumour of the same lung cancer patient and its expression predicts poor prognosis.

Conclusions

Our study provides a novel concept of oncogenic regulation of a DUB and presents a new role and predictive value of STAMBPL1 in the EMT process across multiple carcinomas.
Delayed emergence of a global temperature response after emission mitigation
Authors: Samset B. H. , Fuglestvedt J. S. , Lund M. T.
Published: July 2020

A major step towards achieving the goals of the Paris agreement would be a measurable change in the evolution of global warming in response to mitigation of anthropogenic emissions. The inertia and internal variability of the climate system, however, will delay the emergence of a discernible response even to strong, sustained mitigation. Here, we investigate when we could expect a significant change in the evolution of global mean surface temperature after strong mitigation of individual climate forcers. Anthropogenic CO2 has the highest potential for a rapidly measurable influence, combined with long term benefits, but the required mitigation is very strong. Black Carbon (BC) mitigation could be rapidly discernible, but has a low net gain in the longer term. Methane mitigation combines rapid effects on surface temperature with long term effects. For other gases or aerosols, even fully removing anthropogenic emissions is unlikely to have a discernible impact before mid-century.
Two-dimensional halide perovskite as β-ray scintillator for nuclear radiation monitoring
Authors: Yu Dejian , Wang Peng , Cao Fei , Gu Yu , Liu Jiaxin , Han Zeyao , Huang Bo , Zou Yousheng , Xu Xiaobao , Zeng Haibo
Published: July 2020

Ensuring nuclear safety has become of great significance as nuclear power is playing an increasingly important role in supplying worldwide electricity. β-ray monitoring is a crucial method, but commercial organic scintillators for β-ray detection suffer from high temperature failure and irradiation damage. Here, we report a type of β-ray scintillator with good thermotolerance and irradiation hardness based on a two-dimensional halide perovskite. Comprehensive composition engineering and doping are carried out with the rationale elaborated. Consequently, effective β-ray scintillation is obtained, the scintillator shows satisfactory thermal quenching and high decomposition temperature, no functionality decay or hysteresis is observed after an accumulated radiation dose of 10 kGy (dose rate 0.67 kGy h−1). Besides, the two-dimensional halide perovskite β-ray scintillator also overcomes the notorious intrinsic water instability, and benefits from low-cost aqueous synthesis along with superior waterproofness, thus paving the way towards practical application.
Limited and localized magmatism in the Central Atlantic Magmatic Province
Authors: Marzen R. E. , Shillington D. J. , Lizarralde D. , Knapp J. H. , Heffner D. M. , Davis J. K. , Harder S. H.
Published: July 2020

The Central Atlantic Magmatic Province (CAMP) is the most aerially extensive magmatic event in Earth’s history, but many questions remain about its origin, volume, and distribution. Despite many observations of CAMP magmatism near Earth’s surface, few constraints exist on CAMP intrusions at depth. Here we present detailed constraints on crustal and upper mantle structure from wide-angle seismic data across the Triassic South Georgia Rift that formed shortly before CAMP. Lower crustal magmatism is concentrated where synrift sedimentary fill is thickest and the crust is thinnest, suggesting that lithospheric thinning influenced the locus and volume of magmatism. The limited distribution of lower crustal intrusions implies modest total CAMP volumes of 85,000 to 169,000 km3beneath the South Georgia Rift, consistent with moderately elevated mantle potential temperatures (<1500 °C). These results suggest that CAMP magmatism in the South Georgia Rift is caused by syn-rift decompression melting of a warm, enriched mantle.
Jawsamycin exhibits in vivo antifungal properties by inhibiting Spt14/Gpi3-mediated biosynthesis of glycosylphosphatidylinositol
Authors: Fu Yue , Estoppey David , Roggo Silvio , Pistorius Dominik , Fuchs Florian , Studer Christian , Ibrahim Ashraf S. , Aust Thomas , Grandjean Frederic , Mihalic Manuel , Memmert Klaus , Prindle Vivian , Richard Etienne , Riedl Ralph , Schuierer Sven , Weber Eric , Hunziker Jürg , Petersen Frank , Tao Jianshi , Hoepfner Dominic
Published: July 2020

Biosynthesis of glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) is required for anchoring proteins to the plasma membrane, and is essential for the integrity of the fungal cell wall. Here, we use a reporter gene-based screen in Saccharomyces cerevisiae for the discovery of antifungal inhibitors of GPI-anchoring of proteins, and identify the oligocyclopropyl-containing natural product jawsamycin (FR-900848) as a potent hit. The compound targets the catalytic subunit Spt14 (also referred to as Gpi3) of the fungal UDP-glycosyltransferase, the first step in GPI biosynthesis, with good selectivity over the human functional homolog PIG-A. Jawsamycin displays antifungal activity in vitro against several pathogenic fungi including Mucorales, and in vivo in a mouse model of invasive pulmonary mucormycosis due to Rhyzopus delemar infection. Our results provide a starting point for the development of Spt14 inhibitors for treatment of invasive fungal infections.
The proofreading activity of Pfprex from Plasmodium falciparum can prevent mutagenesis of the apicoplast genome by oxidized nucleotides
Authors: Sharma Minakshi , Narayanan Naveen , Nair Deepak T.
Published: July 2020

The DNA polymerase module of the Pfprex enzyme (PfpPol) is responsible for duplication of the genome of the apicoplast organelle in the malaria parasite. We show that PfpPol can misincorporate oxidized nucleotides such as 8oxodGTP opposite dA. This event gives rise to transversion mutations that are known to lead to adverse physiological outcomes. The apicoplast genome is particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of 8oxodGTP due to very high AT content (~ 87%). We show that the proofreading activity of PfpPol has the unique ability to remove the oxidized nucleotide from the primer terminus. Due to this property, the proofreading domain of PfpPol is able to prevent mutagenesis of the AT-rich apicoplast genome and neutralize the deleterious genotoxic effects of ROS generated in the apicoplast due to normal metabolic processes. The proofreading activity of the Pfprex enzyme may, therefore, represent an attractive target for therapeutic intervention. Also, a survey of DNA repair pathways shows that the observed property of Pfprex constitutes a novel form of dynamic error correction wherein the repair of promutagenic damaged nucleotides is concomitant with DNA replication.
Temporal dynamics of amygdala response to emotion- and action-relevance
Authors: Guex Raphael , Méndez-Bértolo Constantino , Moratti Stephan , Strange Bryan A. , Spinelli Laurent , Murray Ryan J. , Sander David , Seeck Margitta , Vuilleumier Patrik , Domínguez-Borràs Judith
Published: July 2020

It has been proposed that the human amygdala may not only encode the emotional value of sensory events, but more generally mediate the appraisal of their relevance for the individual’s goals, including relevance for action or task-based needs. However, emotional and non-emotional/action-relevance might drive amygdala activity through distinct neural signals, and the relative timing of both kinds of responses remains undetermined. Here, we recorded intracranial event-related potentials from nine amygdalae of patients undergoing epilepsy surgery, while they performed variants of a Go/NoGo task with faces and abstract shapes, where emotion- and action-relevance were orthogonally manipulated. Our results revealed early amygdala responses to emotion facial expressions starting ~ 130 ms after stimulus-onset. Importantly, the amygdala responded to action-relevance not only with face stimuli but also with abstract shapes (squares), and these relevance effects consistently occurred in later time-windows (starting ~ 220 ms) for both faces and squares. A similar dissociation was observed in gamma activity. Furthermore, whereas emotional responses habituated over time, the action-relevance effect increased during the course of the experiment, suggesting progressive learning based on the task needs. Our results support the hypothesis that the human amygdala mediates a broader relevance appraisal function, with the processing of emotion-relevance preceding temporally that of action-relevance.
Effect of nano-hydroxyapatite and ozone on approximal initial caries: a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Grocholewicz Katarzyna , Matkowska-Cichocka Grażyna , Makowiecki Piotr , Droździk Agnieszka , Ey-Chmielewska Halina , Dziewulska Anna , Tomasik Małgorzata , Trybek Grzegorz , Janiszewska-Olszowska Joanna
Published: July 2020

The aim of the study was to assess the efficacy of three methods of enamel remineralization on initial approximal caries: (1) a nano-hydroxyapatite gel, (2) gaseous ozone therapy, (3) combination of a nano-hydroxyapatite gel and ozone. Patients (n = 92, age 20–30 years) with initial approximal enamel lesions on premolar and molar teeth (n = 546) were randomly allocated to three groups subjected to a 6-months treatment: Group I: domestic nano-hydroxyapatite remineralizing gel, group II: in-office ozone therapy, group III: both domestic remineralizing gel and ozone therapy. Caries lesions were assessed on bitewing radiographs at baseline, after 1 year and after 2 years. At one-year follow-up, the smallest rate of lesions with remineralisation (36.5%) was found in group I, and the highest (69.3%)—in group III. In group III a significant remineralisation was noticed in after 1 year and then a demineralisation after 2 years. Thus nano-hydroxyapatite gel and ozone therapy exert some capacities to remineralize approximal enamel and dentine subsurface lesions of premolar and molar teeth. Moreover, the combination of both methods produces the best effect compared to nano-hydroxyapatite or ozone therapy applied alone. However, the treatment should be continued for a long time in order to achieve nonrestorative recovery of caries.
Social enrichment by separated pair housing of male C57BL/6JRj mice
Authors: Hohlbaum Katharina , Frahm Silke , Rex André , Palme Rupert , Thöne-Reineke Christa , Ullmann Kristina
Published: July 2020

Laboratory male mice are often housed individually due to aggressive behavior or experimental requirements, though social isolation can cause welfare issues. As a strategy to refine housing of male mice, we introduce the separated pair housing system. A perforated transparent wall divides the cage into two compartments and allows olfactory, acoustic, and visual communication between the two mice but prevents fighting and injuries. Long-term effects of separated pair housing on well-being and distress of adult male C57BL/6JRj mice were investigated and compared with both single- and group-housed mice. Behavioral analysis after eight weeks in three different housing systems revealed no differences in burrowing performance, social interaction, anxiety, and stress hormone concentrations. However, pair-housed mice built more complex nests compared to single-housed mice and the nest position suggested that pair-housed mice preferred the close proximity to their cage mates. Moreover, pair-housed mice showed less locomotor activity compared to group- and single-housed mice. Body weight was higher in group-housed mice. All in all, no unambiguous long-term beneficial effects of pair housing on the well-being were found. However, the findings emphasized that effects of the housing systems on behavioral, physical, and biochemical parameters must be considered in the design of animal experimental studies.
Fabrication of an efficient vanadium redox flow battery electrode using a free-standing carbon-loaded electrospun nanofibrous composite
Authors: Maleki Mahboubeh , El-Nagar Gumaa A. , Bernsmeier Denis , Schneider Jonathan , Roth Christina
Published: July 2020

Vanadium redox flow batteries (VRFBs) are considered as promising electrochemical energy storage systems due to their efficiency, flexibility and scalability to meet our needs in renewable energy applications. Unfortunately, the low electrochemical performance of the available carbon-based electrodes hinders their commercial viability. Herein, novel free-standing electrospun nanofibrous carbon-loaded composites with textile-like characteristics have been constructed and employed as efficient electrodes for VRFBs. In this work, polyacrylonitrile-based electrospun nanofibers loaded with different types of carbon black (CB) were electrospun providing a robust free-standing network. Incorporation of CBs (14% and 50% weight ratio) resulted in fibers with rough surface and increased mean diameter. It provided higher BET surface area of 83.8 m2 g−1 for as-spun and 356.7 m2 g−1 for carbonized fibers compared to the commercial carbon felt (0.6 m2 g−1). These loaded CB-fibers also had better thermal stability and showed higher electrochemical activity for VRFBs than a commercial felt electrode.
Comparison of methods and characterization of small RNAs from plasma extracellular vesicles of HIV/HCV coinfected patients
Authors: Martínez-González Elena , Brochado-Kith Óscar , Gómez-Sanz Alicia , Martín-Carbonero Luz , Jimenez-Sousa Ma Ángeles , Martínez-Román Paula , Resino Salvador , Briz Verónica , Fernández-Rodríguez Amanda
Published: July 2020

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) hijack the host exosomal machinery as an additional mechanism of infection and evasion of the immune system, modifying the small RNA (smRNA) cargo during infection. We characterized the surface epitopes of extracellular vesicles (EVs) from plasma HIV/HCV-coinfected patients and their smRNA cargo profile, by comparing different isolation procedures. Six EVs isolation procedures were compared: ultracentrifugation, and five different polyethylene glycol-based methods (commercial, combined with a column purification step and two custom); and two RNA commercial kits (phenol and non-phenol based) were used. High-throughput sequencing of smRNAs was performed. Exosomal surface epitopes were analyzed by the MACSPlex Exosome Kit. Four miRNAs displayed differences among protocols (hsa-miR-205-5p and hsa-let-7a/b/f-5p). The selection of RNA isolation kit impacted on the detection of miRNAs and other smRNAs, where the phenol-based RNA isolation kit performed acceptably. EVs surface was enriched with HLA-DR/DP/DQ, CD81, and CD8. There were three liver-specific miRNAs overexpressed (let-7a-5p, miR-21-5p and hsa-miR-122-5p), thus, EVs cargo might reflect liver disease evolution. Other smRNAs such as piwi-interacting RNAs were also detected for the first time. Custom polyethylene glycol precipitation-based methods combined with an RNA phenol-based kit yielded the higher number of smRNAs for EVs isolated from plasma HIV/HCV patients.
CMOS compatible novel integration solution for broad range tunable photodetection using phase-change material based heterostructures
Authors: Srivastava Vibhu , Mishra Prateek , Sunny
Published: July 2020

Heterostructures (HS) have always been in attraction due to their inherited properties and different important applications. Integration of a phase-change material (PCM) with HS can tremendously extend the operating and application range using the “phase-tuning” of PCM for any optoelectronic devices. In the present study, we report a detailed study of electrical and optoelectronic characteristics of a p-p and p-n HS combining Ge2Sb2Te5 (GST) and Si. Reasonable 2 order of resistance switching is achieved by thermal annealing. The changes in optical properties are analysed using Ellipsometry, UV–Vis–NIR and Raman spectroscopy to speculate the optoelectronic behaviour of GST/Si samples. The optical and electrical characterization were analysed with aluminium (Al), platinum (Pt) and Ti/Au contacts. Appreciable rectifications varying from 500 to 1,000 at lower voltages are achieved with different contacts for both phases of GST. The change in rectification amount and current polarity are obtained with different kinds of contacts and at different incident wavelengths indicating different mechanisms of charge separation and collection. Responsivity of more than 9 A/W with < 1,000 photo-current to dark-current ratio is demonstrated in wavelength range of 0.8–2 μm under moderate range of biasing under ~ μW source power illumination. The characteristics obtained were justified with the prediction of band alignment with the help of work-function difference measurement by Kelvin-probe force microscopy and carrier density measurement by Hall experiment. Our results provide understanding to the opto-electrical behaviour of a heterojunction made of stacking PCM (GST) on Si highlighting their future use in photonic/optoelectronic-integrated circuits.
Validation of the revised Oxford classification for IgA nephropathy considering treatment with corticosteroids/immunosuppressors
Authors: Moriyama Takahito , Karasawa Kazunori , Miyabe Yoei , Akiyama Kenichi , Ogura Shota , Takabe Tomo , Sugiura Naoko , Seki Momoko , Iwabuchi Yuko , Uchida Keiko , Nitta Kosaku
Published: July 2020

The Oxford classification for IgA nephropathy (IgAN) was updated in 2017. We have validated the revised Oxford classification considering treatment with corticosteroids/immunosuppressors. In this retrospective analysis, 871 IgAN patients were enrolled. Patients were divided into two groups, those treated with or without corticosteroids/immunosuppressors. The 20-year renal prognosis up to end-stage renal disease was assessed using the Oxford classification. In all patients, the renal survival rate was 87.5% at 10 years and 72.6% at 20 years. The T score alone was significantly related to renal prognosis in the Kaplan–Meier analysis and multivariate Cox regression analysis. In the non-treatment group (n = 445), E, S, T, and C scores were significantly related to renal survival rates, however, in the treatment group (n = 426), T score alone was significantly related to renal prognosis on Kaplan–Meier analysis, indicating that corticosteroids/immunosuppressors improved renal prognosis in E1, S1, and C1. In patients with E1, S1, or C1, the treatment group showed significantly better renal prognosis than the non-treatment group in univariate and multivariate analysis. The Oxford classification and T score were used to determine renal prognosis in IgAN patients. Corticosteroids/immunosuppressors improved renal prognosis, especially E1, S1, and C1 scores.
Enhancement of the sensitivity of single band ratiometric luminescent nanothermometers based on Tb3+ ions through activation of the cross relaxation process
Authors: Drabik Joanna , Kowalski Robert , Marciniak Lukasz
Published: July 2020

The description of luminescent processes and their thermally induced changes, that may be also influenced by the optically active ions concentration, and thus by the various inter-ionic processes, is the key to the improved development of luminescence thermometry. A phosphor doped with only trivalent terbium ions was described, which, by using two excitation lines fitted to the 7F6 → 5D3 and 7F5 → 5D3 transitions, shows a luminescent signals with the opposite characteristics of intensity changes as a function of temperature. By modifying the concentration of Tb3+ ions, the probability of {5D3, 7F6} ↔ {5D4, 7F0} cross-relaxation was being altered, which turned out to have a beneficial effect on the properties of the described nanothermometers. The ratio of intensities for both excitations was found to be temperature dependent, which resulted in high relative sensitivities of temperature readout reaching 3.2%/°C for 190 °C and not reaching values below 2%/°C in the broad range of the temperature. Extensive decay time measurements for 5D3 and 5D4 emissive levels were presented and the variability of both rise- and decay times as a function of terbium concentration and temperature was investigated. Thanks to this, conclusions were drawn regarding thermally dependent optical processes occurring in a given and similar systems.
Blocking C-Raf alleviated high-dose small-volume radiation-induced epithelial mesenchymal transition in mice lung
Authors: Hong Zhen-Yu , Li Sanke , Liu Xiaomei , Leng Xiao-Min , Miao Zhanhui , Kang Xiaohong , Niu Hongrui , Gao Ming-Qing , Lu Ping
Published: July 2020

The goal of this study was to develop a potential druggable target for lung injury after SABR through the small animal model. Utilising the model, a radiation dose of 70 Gy or 90 Gy was focally (small volume) delivered to the left lung of mice. The highly expressed phosphorylation form of C-Raf was discovered through a protein array experiment, with the protein being extracted from the area of radiated mouse lung tissue, and was confirmed by IHC and western blot. C-Raf activation, along with morphological change and EMT (Epithelial to Mesenchymal Transition) marker expression, was observed after radiation to the mouse type II alveolar cell line MLE-12. C-Raf inhibitor GW5074 was able to reverse the EMT in cells effectively, and was found to be dependent on Twist1 expression. In the animal experiment, pretreatment of GW5074 alleviated EMT and lung injury after 70 Gy radiation was focally delivered to the lung of mice. Conclusively, these results demonstrate that C-Raf inhibitor GW5074 inhibits high-dose small-volume radiation-induced EMT via the C-Raf/Twist1 signalling pathway in mice. Therefore, pharmacological C-Raf inhibitors may be used effectively as inhibitors of SABR-induced lung fibrosis.
A systemic approach to assess the potential and risks of wildlife culling for infectious disease control
Authors: Miguel Eve , Grosbois Vladimir , Caron Alexandre , Pople Diane , Roche Benjamin , Donnelly Christl A.
Published: July 2020

The maintenance of infectious diseases requires a sufficient number of susceptible hosts. Host culling is a potential control strategy for animal diseases. However, the reduction in biodiversity and increasing public concerns regarding the involved ethical issues have progressively challenged the use of wildlife culling. Here, we assess the potential of wildlife culling as an epidemiologically sound management tool, by examining the host ecology, pathogen characteristics, eco-sociological contexts, and field work constraints. We also discuss alternative solutions and make recommendations for the appropriate implementation of culling for disease control.
A new process for the stabilization of vertically aligned GdB6 nanorods and their field emission properties
Authors: Yadav Krishna K. , Sreekanth M. , Ankush  , Ghosh S. , Jha Menaka
Published: July 2020

Excellent field emission properties of borothermally synthesised vertically aligned GdB6 nanorods.
Modelling aromatisation of (BN)nH2n azabora-annulenes
Authors: Anstöter Cate S. , Gibson Christopher M. , Fowler Patrick W.
Published: July 2020

Although borazine, the ‘inorganic benzene’, is non-aromatic, ab initio calculation, guided by symmetry and electron-counting arguments, indicates that charging up the higher homologue borazocine to the dianionic state gives an aromatic monocycle.
Ultrathin two-dimensional metal–organic framework nanosheets—an emerging class of catalytic nanomaterials
Authors: Tan Chunxia , Liu Guohua , Li Haiyang , Cui Yong , Liu Yan
Published: July 2020

The metal–organic framework nanosheets (MONs) exhibits a balanced mix of crystallinity, flexibility, tunability, and high activity, which hold promising in addressing the shortcomings of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) in heterogeneous catalysis.
Photoinduced charge transfer in transition metal dichalcogenide heterojunctions – towards next generation energy technologies
Authors: Sulas-Kern Dana B. , Miller Elisa M. , Blackburn Jeffrey L.
Published: July 2020

We review recent strides in understanding and manipulating photoinduced charge transfer in heterojunctions between 2D transition metal dichalcogenides and other semiconductors, with implications for a broad array of energy applications.
Validation of secondary fluorescence excitation in quantitative X-ray fluorescence analysis of thin alloy films
Authors: Wählisch André , Streeck Cornelia , Hönicke Philipp , Beckhoff Burkhard
Published: July 2020

Reference-free X-ray fluorescence analysis of multilayered, alloyed thin films in the μm regime with significant secondary fluorescence contributions.
Recent advances in carbon-based supercapacitors
Authors: Miao Ling , Song Ziyang , Zhu Dazhang , Li Liangchun , Gan Lihua , Liu Mingxian
Published: July 2020

Recent advances in both the core components of carbon-based supercapacitors have been summarized with regard to large-capacitance electrodes and high-potential electrolytes for fabricating high-energy, large-power, and long-running devices.
Improved cycling properties of a Li-rich and Mn-based Li1.38Ni0.25Mn0.75O2.38 porous microspherical cathode material via micromorphological control
Authors: Gao Min , Yun Fengling , Zhao Jinling , Li Wenjin , Lian Fang , Zhuang Weidong , Lu Shigang
Published: July 2020

The as-prepared LMNO-850 with 100–200 nm spherical-like shape primary particles exhibits superior cycling performance even at high discharge rate. The capacity fading in the first 50 cycles may be caused by interfacial side-reactions between electrode and electrolyte.
The other side of the corona: nanoparticles inhibit the protease taspase1 in a size-dependent manner
Authors: van den Boom Johannes , Hensel Astrid , Trusch Franziska , Matena Anja , Siemer Svenja , Guel Désirée , Docter Dominic , Höing Alexander , Bayer Peter , Stauber Roland H. , Knauer Shirley K.
Published: July 2020

Adsorption of biomolecules to nanoparticles leads to corona formation, affecting not only the nanomaterial's identity, but also protein function: Taspase1 protease activity is inhibited by silica particles in a size-dependent, noncompetitive manner.
Nonlinear photoresponse of NaYF4:Yb,Er@NaYF4 nanocrystals under green CW excitation: a comprehensive study
Authors: Ghazyani Nahid , Majles Ara Mohammad Hossein , Raoufi Mohammad
Published: July 2020

NaYF4:Yb,Er@NaYF4 is an efficient and well-known upconverting nanomaterials at 980 nm, also it has strong optical nonlinearity at 532 nm related to energy states of the Yb/Er system which is determined by a unique approach.
Glauconite clay-functionalized chitosan nanocomposites for efficient adsorptive removal of fluoride ions from polluted aqueous solutions
Authors: Sobeih Marwa M. , El-Shahat M. F. , Osman A. , Zaid M. A. , Nassar Mostafa Y.
Published: July 2020

We herein have developed a mild approach for the fabrication of glauconite clay (G)-modified chitosan (CS) nanocomposites by the combination of a simple blending and crosslinking method.
Efficient modification of PAMAM G1 dendrimer surface with β-cyclodextrin units by CuAAC: impact on the water solubility and cytotoxicity
Authors: Sorroza-Martínez Kendra , González-Méndez Israel , Martínez-Serrano Ricardo D. , Solano José D. , Ruiu Andrea , Illescas Javier , Zhu Xiao Xia , Rivera Ernesto
Published: July 2020

The toxicity of the poly(amidoamine) dendrimers (PAMAM) caused by the peripheral amino groups has been a limitation for their use as drug carriers in clinical applications.
Significant effects of two pesticides on the bacteriostatic activity and antioxidant ability of green tea polyphenols
Authors: Zhang Jin , Tao Meng-ting , Huang Zi-yan , Hong Gui-yun , Zhu Shu-guang
Published: July 2020

Green tea polyphenols (GTPs) are widely used in food preservation because of their strong bacteriostatic activity and antioxidant ability, and whether pesticides as common pollutants in food will affect the function of GTPs is worthy of attention.
ZnO thin film-nanowire array homo-structures with tunable photoluminescence and optical band gap
Authors: Rajesh Yalambaku , Padhi Santanu Kumar , Krishna M. Ghanashyam
Published: July 2020

ZnO homo-structures with tunable photoluminescence and band gap.
Computational prediction of the spin-polarized semiconductor equiatomic quaternary Heusler compound MnVZrP as a spin-filter
Authors: Hoat D. M. , Hoang Duc-Quang , Naseri Mosayeb , Rivas-Silva J. F. , Kartamyshev A. I. , Cocoletzi Gregorio H.
Published: July 2020

Mechanism of d–d interactions and d-electron distributions in the equiatomic quaternary Heusler compound MnVZrP.
Single-atom-sized Ni–N4 sites anchored in three-dimensional hierarchical carbon nanostructures for the oxygen reduction reaction
Authors: Cai Zhewei , Du Pan , Liang Wenhui , Zhang Hui , Wu Ping , Cai Chenxin , Yan Zijie
Published: July 2020

Single-atom-sized Ni–N4 sites embedded in three-dimensional and hierarchically structured carbon exhibit a high catalytic activity for the ORR.
EeV astrophysical neutrinos from flat spectrum radio quasars
Authors: Righi C. , Palladino A. , Tavecchio F. , Vissani F.
Published: July 2020

Context. Flat-spectrum radio quasars (FSRQs) are the most powerful blazars in the γ-ray band. Although they are supposed to be good candidates in producing high-energy neutrinos, no secure detection of FSRQs has been obtained to date, except for a possible case of PKS B1424-418.

Aims. In this work, our aim was to compute the expected flux of high-energy neutrinos from FSRQs using standard assumptions for the properties of the radiation fields filling the regions surrounding the central supermassive black hole.

Methods. Starting from the FSRQ spectral sequence, we computed the neutrino spectrum assuming interaction of relativistic protons with internal and external radiation fields. We studied the neutrino spectra resulting from different values of free parameters

Results. The result we obtained is that high-energy neutrinos are naturally expected from FSRQs in the sub-EeV–EeV energy range and not at PeV energies. This justifies the non-observation of neutrinos from FSRQs with the present technology, since only neutrinos below 10 PeV have been observed. We found that for a non-negligible range of the parameters, the cumulative flux from FSRQs is comparable to or even exceeds the expected cosmogenic neutrino flux. This result is intriguing and highlights the importance of disentangling these point-source emissions from the diffuse cosmogenic background.
Aerosol Parameters During Winter and Summer Seasons and Meteorological Implications
Authors: Kumar Pradeep , Choudhary Arti , Singh Abhay Kumar , Prasad Rajendra , Shukla Anuradha
Published: July 2020

The MICROTOPS II aerosol optical depth (AOD) and Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) Aqua AOD and angstrom exponent (AE) were collected during December 2016 to May 2017. Higher AOD values were recorded during winter (December - February) and summer (March - May) Months. These values were observed by MICROTOPS II (0.35 - 1.279) and MODIS (0.222 - 1.904) during winter season. During summer AOD values were recorded by MICROTOPS II (0.272 – 1.744) and MODIS (0.227 – 1.33). Whereas MODIS AE (0.218 – 1.799) values were found high during winter season indicates about the dominance of fine particulates. During summer months MODIS AE (.001 – 1.648) values are indicating about the mixing of the aerosol particles. The relative humidity values during December and January months were found to be high, while its values were found decreasing during late February due to transition phase. Relative humidity values were recorded low during summer (36 – 86%) months in compare to the winter (50 - 100%) months.
New All-Solid-State KTA-Based DIAL for Tropospheric Methane Monitoring
Authors: Gasmi Cherifi Taieb
Published: July 2020

We present an Optical Parametric Oscillator (OPO)-based differential absorption lidar (DIAL) that operates in the mid-infrared (3.0-4.5 um). Tunability of the OPO is achieved by the use of Potassium Titanyle Arsenate (KTiOAsO4), or KTA crystal. The Dial measurements of methane are in good agreement with reported values and also exhibits diurnal fluctuations in concentration levels during atmospheric monitoring.
Stationary analysis of infinite queueing system with two-stage network server
Authors: Sudhesh R. , Vaithiyanathan A.
Published: July 2020

As the world’s major economies and technologies have matured, they are dominated by service-focused approach leading to study and analysis of service models for improved understanding and efficiency. Research in this direction has been done on various parameters of the finite queues using different approaches. The study discussed in this paper deals with the stationary behavior of two-stage queuing system with infinite capacity where any arriving customer is serviced in two stages in a mutually exclusion fashion. The steady state system size probabilities for the infinite capacity queueing system with two stages of service are obtained in recursive form. Further, numerical interpretations are presented to depict the system behavior for values of the parameters.
Langzeitbegleitung bei Traumata
Authors: Houben Martina , Welsch Katja , Nebel Gudrun , Ahl Anja
Published: July 2020

Vier Experten stellen die Langzeitbegleitung bei Traumata mithilfe von Urtinkturen, der Homöopathie, der Aromatherapie und von Bachblüten vor.
Was wissen Sie über…Trauma?
Authors: Schmid Eva C.
Published: July 2020

In dieser Ausgabe beschäftigen sich alle Wissensquiz-Fragen mit dem Thema Trauma.
Von der Ohnmacht zur Spaltung
Authors: Wallbruch Gisela
Published: July 2020

Traumatisierungen können durch einmalige oder serielle Ereignisse im Kindes-, Jugend-, Erwachsenen-, aber auch im vorgeburtlichen Alter entstehen und gehen häufig von nahestehenden Menschen aus. Häufig kommt es zur Abspaltung von Gefühlen und Persönlichkeitsanteilen und insbesondere Dissoziationen, die mit einem Verlust der Ganzheit des situativen Raum-, Zeit- und Selbsterlebens einhergehen. Multimodale, aussichtsreiche Therapien schließen nach Bessel van der Kolk unter anderem tiefenpsychologisch fundierte, körperorientierte Traumatherapien und weniger die Psychoanalyseein.
Die Liebe weist den Weg
Authors: Grodhues Juliane
Published: July 2020

Als Nachtoderfahrung bezeichnet man den spontanen, mit verschiedenen Sinnen wahrgenommenen, inneren, subjektiven Kontakt mit verstorbenen Angehörigen und Freunden. Die IADC-Trauertherapie kombiniert die Lösung traumatisch bedingter Blockaden der natürlichen Trauer mit heilsam und tröstend wirkenden Nachtodkontakten. Die Nachtoderfahrungen werden vom IADC-Therapeuten nicht willkürlich induziert, sondern sind natürliches Resultat eines Behandlungsprozesses mit dem Fokus auf die Trauer.
Aus der Schockstarre zurück in die Balance
Authors: Grüber Isa
Published: July 2020

Während freilebende Tiere in lebensbedrohlichen Situationen die aktivierte Überlebensenergie nach überstandener Gefahr wieder abschütteln, kommt es bei Menschen häufig im Trauma zur Schockstarre und zum inneren Kollabieren. Chronischer posttraumatischer Stress bleibt dabei im Nervensystem gebunden, mit der Folge erhöhter Grundanspannung und Alarmbereitschaft. Somatic Experiencing® identifiziert als körperorientiertes Verfahren Trauma, Trigger und Ressourcen, vollendet durch körperliches Erspüren der Kraftquellen die ursprünglich unterbrochene Schutzreaktion und löst somit die neuronale Verhaftung im Trauma.
Belastungen in der Betreuung von Parkinson-Patientinnen und - Patienten
Authors: Ransmayr Gerhard
Published: July 2020

Patientinnen und Patienten (Pat.) mit Parkinson-Krankheit bedürfen mit zunehmender Krankheitsdauer und Schweregrad persönlicher Betreuung, die meist von weiblichen Angehörigen gewährleistet wird. Die Belastungen für pflegende Angehörige resultieren einerseits aus den motorischen Beeinträchtigungen der Pat., andererseits von neurokognitiven und neuropsychiatrischen Symptomen sowie Verhaltensstörungen, Störungen des autonomen Nervensystems, der Miktion, des Schlafes und der Selbstständigkeit. Gesundheitliche Probleme der Betreuungsperson, u. a. Depression und Angst, emotionale Probleme mit dem Pflegling, Beeinträchtigung des Schlafs, sowie Einschränkungen in persönlichen Anliegen, Beruf, Familie, Freizeitgestaltung, sozialen Aktivitäten, finanzielle Einbußen und mangelhafte soziale Unterstützung stellen weitere Belastungsfaktoren dar. Personen mit dem Risiko einer erheblichen Betreuungsbelastung sind frühzeitig zu identifizieren, um ihnen Informationen über die Krankheit und Unterstützungsmöglichkeiten sowie entsprechende personelle, psychologische und finanzielle Unterstützung zukommen zu lassen.
Surgical versus Nonsurgical Management of Postmastectomy Lymphedema: A Prospective Quality of Life Investigation
Authors: Darrach Halley , Yesantharao Pooja S. , Persing Sarah , Kokosis George , Carl Hannah M. , Bridgham Kelly , Seu Michelle , Stifler Samantha , Sacks Justin M.
Published: July 2020

Background Postmastectomy secondary lymphedema can cause substantial morbidity. However, few studies have investigated longitudinal quality of life (QoL) outcomes in patients with postmastectomy lymphedema, especially with regard to surgical versus nonoperative management. This study prospectively investigated QoL in surgically versus nonsurgically managed patients with postmastectomy upper extremity lymphedema.

Methods This was a longitudinal cohort study of breast cancer-related lymphedema patients at a single institution, between February 2017 and January 2020. Lymphedema Quality of Life Instrument (LyQLI) and RAND-36 QoL instrument were used. Mann–Whitney U and Fisher's exact tests were used for descriptive statistics. Wilcoxon's signed-rank testing and linear modeling were used to analyze longitudinal changes in QoL.

Results Thirty-two lymphedema patients were recruited to the study (20 surgical and 12 nonsurgical). Surgical and nonsurgical cohorts did not significantly differ in clinical/demographic characteristics or baseline QoL scores, but at the 12-month time point surgical patients had significantly greater LyQLI overall health scores than nonsurgical patients (79.3 vs. 58.3, p = 0.02), as well as higher composite RAND-36 physical (68.5 vs. 38.3, p = 0.04), and mental (77.0 vs. 52.7, p = 0.02) scores. Furthermore, LyQLI overall health scores significantly improved over time in surgical patients (60.0 at baseline vs. 79.3 at 12 months, p = 0.04). Besides surgical treatment, race, and age were also found to significantly impact QoL on multivariable analysis.

Conclusion Our results suggest that when compared with nonoperative management, surgery improved QoL for chronic, secondary upper extremity lymphedema patients within 12-month postoperatively. Our results also suggested that insurance status may have influenced decisions to undergo lymphedema surgery. Further study is needed to investigate the various sociodemographic factors that were also found to impact QoL outcomes in these lymphedema patients.