bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of dietary patterns and cross-sectional and longitudinal associations with hypertension, high BMI and type 2 diabetes in Peru
Authors: Alae-Carew Carmelia , Scheelbeek Pauline , Carrillo-Larco Rodrigo M , Bernabé-Ortiz Antonio , Checkley William , Miranda J Jaime
Published: August 2019

Objective:

To determine if specific dietary patterns are associated with risk of hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and high BMI in four sites in Peru.

Design:

We analysed dietary patterns from a cohort of Peruvian adults in four geographical settings using latent class analysis. Associations with prevalence and incidence of hypertension, T2DM and high BMI were assessed using Poisson regression and generalised linear models, adjusted for potential confounders.

Setting:

Four sites in Peru varying in degree of urbanisation.

Participants:

Adults aged ≥35 years (n3280).

Results:

We identified four distinct dietary patterns corresponding to different stages of the Peruvian nutrition transition, reflected by the foods frequently consumed in each pattern. Participants consuming the ‘stage 3’ diet, characterised by high proportional consumption of processed foods, animal products and low consumption of vegetables, mostly consumed in the semi-urban setting, showed the highest prevalence of all health outcomes (hypertension 32·1 %; T2DM 10·7 %; high BMI 75·1 %). Those with a more traditional ‘stage 1’ diet characterised by potato and vegetables, mostly consumed in the rural setting, had lower prevalence of hypertension (prevalence ratio; 95 CI: 0·57; 0·43, 0·75), T2DM (0·36; 0·16, 0·86) and high BMI (0·55; 0·48, 0·63) compared with the ‘stage 3’ diet. Incidence of hypertension was highest among individuals consuming the ‘stage 3’ diet (63·75 per 1000 person-years; 95 % CI 52·40, 77·55).

Conclusions:

The study found more traditional diets were associated with a lower prevalence of three common chronic diseases, while prevalence of these diseases was higher with a diet high in processed foods and low in vegetables.
Intellectual Property from a Global Environmental Law Perspective: Lessons from Patent Disclosure Requirements for Genetic Resources and Traditional Knowledge
Authors: Chiarolla Claudio
Published: August 2019

This commentary considers the intellectual property (IP) system from a global environmental law perspective by exploring the extent to which patent-related treaties, such as the World Trade Organization Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights and the World Intellectual Property Organization Patent Cooperation Treaty, can facilitate implementation of global environmental standards in the field of biodiversity law. It provides practical guidance to countries that wish to introduce patent disclosure-related mechanisms into their legal systems with a view to mainstreaming instances of global justice, fairness and equity, and raises awareness of the limitations arising from their extant IP obligations. Global environmental law standards have exercised an undeniable influence on the political discourse in international IP policy making in the field of patent disclosure. Still, many patent disclosure requirements that pre-date the Nagoya Protocol apply only to genetic resources the provenance of which is the same country that established the requirement. However, if a country designates its patent or IP office as a compliance checkpoint under the Nagoya Protocol, then the disclosure requirement should encompass at least the genetic resources originating from all countries that are contracting parties to this instrument. This could allow the fulfilment of a core monitoring obligation of the latter, while enabling wider synergies and transparency within the IP system.
Large crabgrass (Digitaria sanguinalis) and Palmer amaranth (Amaranthus palmeri) intraspecific and interspecific interference in soybean
Authors: Basinger Nicholas T. , Jennings Katherine M. , Monks David W. , Jordan David L. , Everman Wesley J. , Hestir Erin L. , Bertucci Matthew B. , Brownie Cavell
Published: August 2019

Field studies were conducted in 2016 and 2017 at Clinton, NC, to quantify the effects of season-long interference of large crabgrass [Digitaria sanguinalis (L.) Scop.] and Palmer amaranth (Amaranthus palmeri S. Watson) on ‘AG6536’ soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.]. Weed density treatments consisted of 0, 1, 2, 4, and 8 plants m−2 for A. palmeri and 0, 1, 2, 4, and 16 plants m−2 for D. sanguinalis with (interspecific interference) and without (intraspecific interference) soybean to determine the impacts on weed biomass, soybean biomass, and seed yield. Biomass per square meter increased with increasing weed density for both weed species with and without soybean present. Biomass per square meter of D. sanguinalis was 617% and 37% greater when grown without soybean than with soybean, for 1 and 16 plants m−2 respectively. Biomass per square meter of A. palmeri was 272% and 115% greater when grown without soybean than with soybean for 1 and 8 plants m−2, respectively. Biomass per plant for D. sanguinalis and A. palmeri grown without soybean was greatest at the 1 plant m−2 density. Biomass per plant of D. sanguinalis plants across measured densities was 33% to 83% greater when grown without soybean compared with biomass per plant when soybean was present for 1 and 16 plants m−2, respectively. Similarly, biomass per plant for A. palmeri was 56% to 74% greater when grown without soybean for 1 and 8 plants m−2, respectively. Biomass per plant of either weed species was not affected by weed density when grown with soybean due to interspecific competition with soybean. Yield loss for soybean grown with A. palmeri ranged from 14% to 37% for densities of 1 to 8 plants m−2, respectively, with a maximum yield loss estimate of 49%. Similarly, predicted loss for soybean grown with D. sanguinalis was 0 % to 37% for densities of 1 to 16 m−2 with a maximum yield loss estimate of 50%. Soybean biomass was not affected by weed species or density. Results from these studies indicate that A. palmeri is more competitive than D. sanguinalis at lower densities, but that similar yield loss can occur when densities greater than 4 plants m−2 of either weed are present.
Pharmakologische Akutbehandlung Methamphetamin-bezogener Störungen: systematische übersicht gemäß einer S3-Leitlinie mit ausgewählten Beispielen
Authors: Wodarz Norbert , Christ Michael , Fleischmann Heribert , Looser Winfried , Schoett Katharina , Vilsmeier Frank , Scheidler Anne , Schaefer Corinna , Bothe Lydia , Mühlig Stephan , Gouzoulis-Mayfrank Euphrosyne
Published: August 2019

Zusammenfassung. Zielsetzung: Die medikamentöse Behandlung akuter Methamphetamin-induzierter Störungen wie Intoxikationssyndrome, akute Entzugssyndrome oder Psychosen bekommt durch die Zunahme des „Crystal“ Konsums eine besondere Relevanz. Es wird über die Erarbeitung einer S 3-Leitlinie und ausgewählte Beispiele für die Behandlung der genannten Störungsbilder berichtet. Methode: Auf Basis einer systematische Literatur- und Leitlinienrecherche zu therapeutischen Interventionen bei Methamphetamin-bezogenen Störungen in den Datenbanken Cochrane-Database, Medline, PSYINDEX, OVID, „PsycINFO“, G-I-N-Library sowie der AWMF-Datenbank wurden für den Zeitraum 2000 bis Juni 2015 insgesamt 103 Publikationen und 9 systematische übersichtsarbeiten einbezogen. In einer Arbeitsgruppe von 21 Personen aus verschiedenen Fachgesellschaften wurden im nominalen Gruppenprozess (Zustimmung > 75 %) Empfehlungen in drei Konsensuskonferenzen und einer öffentlichen Anhörung bis Juni 2015 konsentiert. Ergebnisse: Mittel der Wahl bei Methamphetamin-induzierten Intoxikationssyndromen, insbesondere mit akuter Erregung, sind Benzodiazepine. Die Behandlung der Entzugssyndrome erfolgt symptomorientiert. Bei der Behandlung von Psychosen sollte zunächst gemäß aktueller Behandlungsleitlinien bei schizophrenen Psychosen vorgegangen werden. Schlussfolgerungen: Es liegt nur wenig spezifische und positive Evidenz zur medikamentösen Akutbehandlung Methamphetamin-induzierter Störungen vor. Die Empfehlungen basieren daher im Wesentlichen auf klinischem Expertenkonsens. Insgesamt besteht weiterer Forschungsbedarf.
Impulsivity and relapse during treatment of methamphetamine use disorder
Authors: Schultz Jana , Neumann Robert , Steins-Loeber Sabine
Published: August 2019

Abstract. Aims: The increasing prevalence of patients seeking treatment for methamphetamine use disorder (MUD) in some regions of Germany and the high relapse rates following common treatment interventions make more effective interventions highly needed. The aim of the present study was to enhance our understanding of the impact of impulsivity on relapse during treatment and thus to outline possible individual characteristics that make more tailored interventions necessary. Methodology: Forty-two patients with a diagnosis of MUD admitted to inpatient treatment and 21 matched healthy control participants (HC) completed the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale (BIS-11) as a self-reported measure of trait impulsivity and a go/no-go task with methamphetamine-associated and neutral stimuli to assess deficits of response inhibition. Relapse rates of patients during treatment were assessed. Results: Higher impairment of response inhibition, but not trait impulsivity, significantly predicted relapse during treatment. These findings were observed although patients with MUD compared to HC did not differ with regard to deficits of response inhibition. Conclusions: These findings suggest that patients with MUD who show enhanced deficits of response inhibition are more vulnerable to relapse during treatment and need more tailored treatment interventions.
Auswertung von Blutanalysen auf Drogen aus Verkehrskontrollen in Sachsen
Authors: Mühlig Stephan , Günzel Andreas , Schwarzbach Christoph , Trauer Heiner , Dreßler Jan
Published: August 2019

Zusammenfassung. Hintergrund: Schätzungen der Konsumprävalenz und -muster illegaler Drogen gelangen oftmals zu inkonsistenten Ergebnissen. Ein ergänzender Zugang zur Identifizierung von Konsumentencharakteristika und Konsummustern besteht in der Auswertung rechtsmedizinischer Analysen von Blutproben aus polizeilichen Straßenverkehrskontrollen. Diese bislang ungenutzte Datenquelle wurde am Beispiel einer Stichprobe in Süd- und Westsachsen ausgewertet. Methoden: Im Rahmen einer Totalerfassung wurden die drogenpositiv getesteten Fälle (N=1.487) des Institutes für Rechtmedizin Leipzig für das Jahr 2014 analysiert. Ergebnisse: Es dominieren (Meth-)Amphetamin mit 81 % und Cannabis mit 39 %; andere illegale Drogen wurden kaum festgestellt. Die höchste Substanz-Konzentrationen von Methamphetamin (Crystal Meth = CM) lag bei 4.240,0 ng/ml, der Median bei 211,2 ng/ml. Bei reinen CM-Konsumierenden lag der Frauenanteil mit 18,5 % über dem der reinen Cannabis-User (7,0 %), der Altersdurchschnitt bei Cannabisfällen (27 J.) unter dem bei CM-Konsum (31 J.). Verhaltensauffälligkeiten oder kognitive Beeinträchtigungen wurden nur bei einer Minderheit (1–17 %) festgestellt. Diskussion: Die Daten aus Blutanalysen nach Straßenverkehrskontrollen basieren auf objektiven und präzisen Messungen und können die konventionellen epidemiologischen Ansätze um neuartige Aspekte der Konsummuster von unselegierten Konsumenten ergänzen.
Dissolved Iron Supply from Asian Glaciers: Local Controls and a Regional Perspective
Authors: Li Xiangying , Ding Yongjian , Hood Eran , Raiswell Robert , Han Tianding , He Xiaobo , Kang Shichang , Wu Qingbai , Yu Zhongbo , Mika Sillanpää , Liu Sha , Li Qijiang
Published: August 2019

Ice sheets have been shown to deliver large amounts of labile iron (Fe) to aquatic ecosystems; however, the role of glaciers distinct from ice sheets in supplying labile Fe to downstream ecosystems is less well understood despite their rapid volume loss globally. Direct and continuous measurements of Fe from glaciers throughout an entire melt season are very limited to date. Here we present extensive seasonal data on 0.45‐μm‐filtered Fe (dFe) from three glaciers in Asia. Concentrations of dFe are negatively correlated with glacier discharge, and dFe yields are closely related to specific discharge. Based on our study and previously published dFe data, we estimate the release of dFe from Asian glaciers to be 23.8±14.1 Gg/a. We further compile a global data set of dFe from more than 12 glaciers, which, when combined with data on glacier discharge, suggest that the release of dFe from glaciers globally is on the order of 185±172 Gg/a. This finding suggests that glaciers may provide a substantial, but largely unrecognized source of potentially labile Fe, and may become increasingly important for the Fe biogeochemical cycle in a warming climate.
Scientists Rescue Historical Data Taken on Floating Ice Island
Authors: Duncombe Jenessa
Published: August 2019

A never-before-published data set from the Cold War could help scientists unravel the mysterious western Arctic Ocean.
In Situ Electron Density From Active Sounding: The Influence of the Spacecraft Wake
Authors: Akbari H. , Andersson L. , Andrews D. J. , Malaspina D. , Benna M. , Ergun R.
Published: August 2019

Results obtained in the Martian ionosphere by the Langmuir Probe and Waves instrument aboard the Mars Atmosphere and Volatile EvolutioN Mission spacecraft are presented. The results include ionospheric electron densities determined from the frequency of Langmuir waves. Since the amplitude of thermal Langmuir waves is often below the instrument's detection level, Langmuir Probe and Waves excites these waves by injecting into the plasma a 3.3‐V white noise signal. Electric field spectral measurements obtained shortly after the excitation show a resonance line at frequencies slightly below the local plasma frequency. The observed resonance line is interpreted to originate from plasma waves excited in the wake behind the spacecraft. These results reveal an important phenomenon in electron density estimation from stimulated Langmuir waves. The observed phenomenon, not previously reported by earlier missions, may be a common process in active sounding that can affect in situ electron density measurements.
Correction to: Activation of mTORC1 in subchondral bone preosteoblasts promotes osteoarthritis by stimulating bone sclerosis and secretion of CXCL12
Authors: Lin Chuangxin , Liu Liangliang , Zeng Chun , Cui Zhong-Kai , Chen Yuhui , Lai Pinling , Wang Hong , Shao Yan , Zhang Haiyan , Zhang Rongkai , Zhao Chang , Fang Hang , Cai Daozhang , Bai Xiaochun
Published: August 2019

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Moving beyond the glial scar for spinal cord repair
Authors: Bradbury Elizabeth J. , Burnside Emily R.
Published: August 2019

Traumatic spinal cord injury results in severe and irreversible loss of function. The injury triggers a complex cascade of inflammatory and pathological processes, culminating in formation of a scar. While traditionally referred to as a glial scar, the spinal injury scar in fact comprises multiple cellular and extracellular components. This multidimensional nature should be considered when aiming to understand the role of scarring in limiting tissue repair and recovery. In this Review we discuss recent advances in understanding the composition and phenotypic characteristics of the spinal injury scar, the oversimplification of defining the scar in binary terms as good or bad, and the development of therapeutic approaches to target scar components to enable improved functional outcome after spinal cord injury.
Author Correction: Association of imputed prostate cancer transcriptome with disease risk reveals novel mechanisms
Authors: Emami Nima C. , Kachuri Linda , Meyers Travis J. , Das Rajdeep , Hoffman Joshua D. , Hoffmann Thomas J. , Hu Donglei , Shan Jun , Feng Felix Y. , Ziv Elad , Van Den Eeden Stephen K. , Witte John S.
Published: August 2019

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Metabolic perceptrons for neural computing in biological systems
Authors: Pandi Amir , Koch Mathilde , Voyvodic Peter L. , Soudier Paul , Bonnet Jerome , Kushwaha Manish , Faulon Jean-Loup
Published: August 2019

Synthetic biological circuits are promising tools for developing sophisticated systems for medical, industrial, and environmental applications. So far, circuit implementations commonly rely on gene expression regulation for information processing using digital logic. Here, we present a different approach for biological computation through metabolic circuits designed by computer-aided tools, implemented in both whole-cell and cell-free systems. We first combine metabolic transducers to build an analog adder, a device that sums up the concentrations of multiple input metabolites. Next, we build a weighted adder where the contributions of the different metabolites to the sum can be adjusted. Using a computational model fitted on experimental data, we finally implement two four-input perceptrons for desired binary classification of metabolite combinations by applying model-predicted weights to the metabolic perceptron. The perceptron-mediated neural computing introduced here lays the groundwork for more advanced metabolic circuits for rapid and scalable multiplex sensing.
Author Correction: Isolated detection of elastic waves driven by the momentum of light
Authors: Požar Tomaž , Laloš Jernej , Babnik Aleš , Petkovšek Rok , Bethune-Waddell Max , Chau Kenneth J. , Lukasievicz Gustavo V. B. , Astrath Nelson G. C.
Published: August 2019

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Pulsed-wave Ultrasound Hyperthermia Enhanced Nanodrug Delivery Combined with Chloroquine Exerts Effective Antitumor Response and Postpones Recurrence
Authors: Chiang Chi-Feng , Hsu Yu-Hone , Liu Chih-Chun , Liang Po-Chin , Miaw Shi-Chuen , Lin Win-Li
Published: August 2019

Autophagy is found to serve as a surviving mechanism for cancer cells. Inhibiting autophagy has been considered as an adjuvant anti-cancer strategy. In this study, we investigated the anti-tumor effect of combining pulsed-wave ultrasound hyperthermia (pUH) enhanced PEGylated liposomal doxorubicin (PLD) delivery with an autophagy inhibitor chloroquine (CQ). BALB/c mice bearing subcutaneous 4T1 tumor received intravenous injection of PLD (10 mg/kg) plus 15-minute on-tumor pUH on Day 5 after tumor implantation and were then fed with CQ (50 mg/kg daily) thereafter. Prolonged suppression of tumor growth was attained with PLD + pUH + CQ treatment, whereas in PLD + pUH group tumors quickly recurred after an initial inhibition. Treatment with CQ monotherapy had no benefit compared to the control group. Immunohistochemical staining and Western blotting showed that autophagy of cancer cells was blocked for the mice receiving CQ. It indicates that PLD + pUH + CQ is a promising strategy to treat cancer for a long-term inhibition.
Chemiosmotic energy for primitive cellular life: Proton gradients are generated across lipid membranes by redox reactions coupled to meteoritic quinones
Authors: Milshteyn Daniel , Cooper George , Deamer David
Published: August 2019

Transmembrane proton gradients coupled to, and maintained by, electron transport are ubiquitous sources of chemiosmotic energy in all life today, but how this system first emerged is uncertain. Here we report a model liposome system in which internal ferricyanide serves as an oxidant and external ascorbate or dithionite provide a source of electrons to electron carriers embedded in liposome membranes. Quinones linked the donor to the acceptor in a coupled redox reaction that released protons into the vesicle internal volume as electrons were transported across the membranes, thereby producing substantial pH gradients. Using this system, we found that one or more quinones in extracts from carbonaceous meteorites could serve as coupling agents and that substantial pH gradients developed in the acidic interior of liposomes. If amphiphilic compounds present on the prebiotic Earth assembled into membranous compartments that separate reduced solutes in the external medium from an encapsulated acceptor, quinones can mediate electron and proton transport across the membranes, thereby providing a source of chemiosmotic energy for primitive metabolic reactions.
Global potential for the growth of fresh groundwater resources with large beach nourishments
Authors: Huizer S. , Luijendijk A. P. , Bierkens M. F. P. , Oude Essink G. H. P.
Published: August 2019

Whether a coastal area is suitable for beach nourishments and can induce a growth in fresh groundwater resources depends on the appropriateness of the intended site for beach nourishments, and the attainable growth in fresh groundwater resources. In this study we presume that all eroding sandy beaches are suitable for large beach nourishments, and focus on the impact of these nourishments on fresh groundwater in various coastal settings. The growth in fresh groundwater resources – as a consequence of the construction of a beach nourishment – was quantified with 2-D variable-density groundwater models, for a global range in geological parameters and hydrological processes. Our simulation results suggest that large beach nourishments will likely lead to a (temporary) increase of fresh groundwater resources in most settings. However, for a substantial growth in fresh groundwater, the coastal site should receive sufficient groundwater recharge, consist of sediment with a low to medium hydraulic conductivity, and be subject to a limited number of land-surface inundations. Our global analysis shows that 17% of shorelines may consist of erosive sandy beaches, and of these sites 50% have a high potential suitability. This shows a considerable potential worldwide to combine coastal protection with an increase in fresh groundwater resources.
Latent-period stool proteomic assay of multiple sclerosis model indicates protective capacity of host-expressed protease inhibitors
Authors: Gonzalez Carlos G. , Tankou Stephanie K. , Cox Laura M. , Casavant Ellen P. , Weiner Howard L. , Elias Joshua E.
Published: August 2019

Diseases are often diagnosed once overt symptoms arise, ignoring the prior latent period when effective prevention may be possible. Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), a model for multiple sclerosis, exhibits such disease latency, but the molecular processes underlying this asymptomatic period remain poorly characterized. Gut microbes also influence EAE severity, yet their impact on the latent period remains unknown. Here, we show the latent period between immunization and EAE’s overt symptom onset is characterized by distinct host responses as measured by stool proteomics. In particular, we found a transient increase in protease inhibitors that inversely correlated with disease severity. Vancomycin administration attenuated both EAE symptoms and protease inhibitor induction potentially by decreasing immune system reactivity, supporting a subset of the microbiota’s role in modulating the host’s latent period response. These results strengthen previous evidence of proteases and their inhibitors in EAE and highlight the utility stool-omics for revealing complex, dynamic biology.
Structural transition in the collective behavior of cognitive agents
Authors: Hornischer Hannes , Herminghaus Stephan , Mazza Marco G.
Published: August 2019

Living organisms process information to interact and adapt to their surroundings with the goal of finding food, mating, or averting hazards. The structure of their environment has profound repercussions through both selecting their internal architecture and also inducing adaptive responses to environmental cues and stimuli. Adaptive collective behavior underpinned by specialized optimization strategies is ubiquitous in the natural world. We develop a minimal model of agents that explore their environment by means of sampling trajectories. The spatial information stored in the sampling trajectories is our minimal definition of a cognitive map. We find that, as cognitive agents build and update their internal, cognitive representation of the causal structure of their environment, complex patterns emerge in the system, where the onset of pattern formation relates to the spatial overlap of cognitive maps. Exchange of information among the agents leads to an order-disorder transition. As a result of the spontaneous breaking of translational symmetry, a Goldstone mode emerges, which points at a collective mechanism of information transfer among cognitive organisms. These findings may be generally applicable to the design of decentralized, artificial-intelligence swarm systems.
Molecular evidence for origin, diversification and ancient gene duplication of plant subtilases (SBTs)
Authors: Xu Yan , Wang Sibo , Li Linzhou , Sahu Sunil Kumar , Petersen Morten , Liu Xin , Melkonian Michael , Zhang Gengyun , Liu Huan
Published: August 2019

Plant subtilases (SBTs) are a widely distributed family of serine proteases which participates in plant developmental processes and immune responses. Although SBTs are divided into seven subgroups in plants, their origin and evolution, particularly in green algae remain elusive. Here, we present a comprehensive large-scale evolutionary analysis of all subtilases. The plant subtilases SBT1-5 were found to be monophyletic, nested within a larger radiation of bacteria suggesting that they originated from bacteria by a single horizontal gene transfer (HGT) event. A group of bacterial subtilases comprising representatives from four phyla was identified as a sister group to SBT1-5. The phylogenetic analyses, based on evaluation of novel streptophyte algal genomes, suggested that the recipient of the HGT of bacterial subtilases was the common ancestor of Coleochaetophyceae, Zygnematophyceae and embryophytes. Following the HGT, the subtilase gene duplicated in the common ancestor and the two genes diversified into SBT2 and SBT1, 3–5 respectively. Comparative structural analysis of homology-modeled SBT2 proteins also showed their conservation from bacteria to embryophytes. Our study provides the first molecular evidence about the evolution of plant subtilases via HGT followed by a first gene duplication in the common ancestor of Coleochaetophyceae, Zygnematophyceae, and embryophytes, and subsequent expansion in embryophytes.
The inhibitory effect of quaternary ammonium salt on bacteria in root canal
Authors: Kumar Tiwari Sanjay , Guo Xiao , Huang Yannan , Zhou Xuedong , Xu Hockin H. K. , Ren Biao , Peng Xian , Weir Michael D. , Li Mingyun , Cheng Lei
Published: August 2019

Persisting apical periodontitis is a primary reason for multiple intervention in root canal. Persisting bacteria in root canal is related with the persisting infection. Despite the advancement in treatment strategies the persisting infection is a major challenge for endodontist. Here we tested two newly developed quaternary ammonium methacrylates (QAMs) against endodontic bacteria and their biofilms. Their antibacterial and antibiofilm efficiency were compared with chlorhexidine (CHX) and sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl). We measured the MIC, MBC and MBIC of DMADDM and DMAHDM respectively. We also detected the ratio of live/dead bacteria and bacterial composition in the biofilms treated by DMADDM and DMAHDM. We found that DMADDM and DMAHDM could inhibit the growth of bacteria and biofilms formation. The result showed that novel QAMs were remarkably efficient than CHX against biofilms. In addition, we found that Streptococcus gordonii (S. gordonii) and Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis) were frequent isolates after treatment with antimicrobial compounds.
Effects of culture method on response to EGFR therapy in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma cells
Authors: Ayuso Jose M. , Vitek Ross , Swick Adam D. , Skala Melissa C. , Wisinski Kari B. , Kimple Randall J. , Lambert Paul F. , Beebe David J.
Published: August 2019

The EGFR pathway plays a critical role in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Targeted therapies against the EGFR are utilized as a treatment for HNSCCC. However, patient response is heterogeneous and molecular biomarkers are lacking to predict patient response. Therefore, functional assays where drug response is directly evaluated in tumor cells are an interesting alternative. Previous studies have shown that experimental conditions modify the drug response observed in functional assays. Thus, in this work the influence of the culture environment on response to Cetuximab (EGFR monoclonal antibody) and AZD8055 (mTOR inhibitor) was evaluated. HNSCC UM-SCC-1 and UM-SCC-47 cells were cultured in 2D monoculture and compared with: 2D co-culture with cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF); 3D culture in collagen hydrogels; and 3D culture in tumor spheroids. The results showed UM-SCC-1 drug response significantly changed in the different culture environments; leading to an increase in drug resistance in the CAF co-culture and the 3D spheroids. Conversely, UM-SCC-47 exhibited a more constant drug response across culture conditions. In conclusion, this work highlights the importance of culture conditions that modulate response to EGFR pathway inhibition.
Independent Multi-states of Photo-responsive Polymer/Quantum Dot Nanocomposite Induced via Different Wavelengths of Light
Authors: Lee Jiyeon , Lee Wonsik , Kim Dongjun , Kim Myungjun , Kim Jiwon
Published: August 2019

Stimuli-responsive systems are attractive since their properties can be controlled by external stimuli and/or surrounding environment. Recently, more than one stimulus is utilized in order to enhance the performance of systems, or to bypass undesired effects. However, most of previous research on multi-stimuli has been focused on enhancing or inducing changes in one type of response. Herein, we developed a nanocomposite material with independent multi-states composed of photo-responsive polymer and quantum dots (QDs), in which its properties can independently be controlled by different wavelengths of light. More specifically, azobenzene-incorporated poly(dimethylsiloxane) (AzoPDMS) triggers photobending (PB) by 365 nm light and uniformly dispersed methylammonium lead bromide perovskite (MAPbBr3) QDs show photoluminescence (PL) by light below 500 nm. The PB and PL could be simultaneously and independently controlled by the wavelength of applied light creating multi-states. Our approach is novel in that it creates multiple independent states which can further be used to transfer information such as logic gates (00(2), 01(2), 10(2), 11(2)) and possibly widen its application to flexible and transparent opto-electric devices.
Conceptualisation, Development, Fabrication and In Vivo Validation of a Novel Disintegration Tester for Orally Disintegrating Tablets
Authors: Koner Jasdip S. , Rajabi-Siahboomi Ali R. , Missaghi Shahrzad , Kirby Daniel , Perrie Yvonne , Ahmed Jiteen , Mohammed Afzal R.
Published: August 2019

Disintegration time is the key critical quality attribute for a tablet classed as an Orally Disintegrating Tablet (ODT). The currently accepted in vitro testing regimen for ODTs is the standard United States Pharmacopeia (USP) test for disintegration of immediate release tablets, which requires a large volume along with repeated submergence of the dosage form within the disintegration medium. The aim of this study was to develop an in vivo relevant ODT disintegration test that mimicked the environment of the oral cavity, including lower volume of disintegration medium, with relevant temperature and humidity that represent the conditions of the mouth. The results showed that the newly developed Aston test was able to differentiate between different ODTs with small disintegration time windows, as well as between immediate release tablets and ODTs. The Aston test provided higher correlations between ODT properties and disintegration time compared to the USP test method and most significantly, resulted in a linear in vitro/in vivo correlation (IVIVC) (R2 value of 0.98) compared with a “hockey stick” profile of the USP test. This study therefore concluded that the newly developed Aston test is an accurate, repeatable, relevant and robust test method for assessing ODT disintegration time which will provide the pharmaceutical industry and regulatory authorities across the world with a pragmatic ODT testing regime.
Golgin45-Syntaxin5 Interaction Contributes to Structural Integrity of the Golgi Stack
Authors: Tiwari Neeraj , Graham Morven , Liu Xinran , Yue Xihua , Zhu Lianhui , Meshram Dipak , Choi Sunkyu , Qian Yi , Rothman James E. , Lee Intaek
Published: August 2019

The unique stacked morphology of the Golgi apparatus had been a topic of intense investigation among the cell biologists over the years. We had previously shown that the two Golgin tethers (GM130 and Golgin45) could, to a large degree, functionally substitute for GRASP-type Golgi stacking proteins to sustain normal Golgi morphology and function in GRASP65/55-double depleted HeLa cells. However, compared to well-studied GM130, the exact role of Golgin45 in Golgi structure remains poorly understood. In this study, we aimed to further characterize the functional role of Golgin45 in Golgi structure and identified Golgin45 as a novel Syntaxin5-binding protein. Based primarily on a sequence homology between Golgin45 and GM130, we found that a leucine zipper-like motif in the central coiled-coil region of Golgin45 appears to serve as a Syntaxin5 binding domain. Mutagenesis study of this conserved domain in Golgin45 showed that a point mutation (D171A) can abrogate the interaction between Golgin45 and Syntaxin5 in pull-down assays using recombinant proteins, whereas this mutant Golgin45 binding to Rab2-GTP was unaffected in vitro. Strikingly, exogenous expression of this Syntaxin5 binding deficient mutant (D171A) of Golgin45 in HeLa cells resulted in frequent intercisternal fusion among neighboring Golgi cisterna, as readily observed by EM and EM tomography. Further, double depletion of the two Syntaxin5-binding Golgin tethers also led to significant intercisternal fusion, while double depletion of GRASP65/55 didn’t lead to this phenotype. These results suggest that certain tether-SNARE interaction within Golgi stack may play a role in inhibiting intercisternal fusion among neighboring cisternae, thereby contributing to structural integrity of the Golgi stack.
3D Printed Polyvinyl Alcohol Tablets with Multiple Release Profiles
Authors: Xu Xiaowen , Zhao Jingzhou , Wang Maonan , Wang Liang , Yang Junliang
Published: August 2019

The aim of this study was to explore the feasibility of using different 3D printed internal geometries as tablet formulations to obtain controlled release profiles. In order to obtain controllable release profiles, three types of tablet models (Cylinder, Horn and Reversed Horn) with controlled structures were designed. The cylinder model shows a constant release profile and can keep the drug concentration within a certain range. The horn model exhibits an increasing release profile, which is suitable for the patients who have the drug resistance in the course of medication. The reversed horn model has a decreasing release profile that would be applied to hypertension cure. Furthermore, three types of tablets were fabricated successfully by a fused deposition modeling three-dimensional (3D) printer and injected with paracetamol (APAP) -containing gels. The results of in vitro drug release demonstrate that tablets with three kinds of structures can produce constant, gradually increasing, and gradually decreasing release profiles, respectively. The release attributes can be controlled by using different 3D printed geometries as tablet formulations. More importantly, there are no residues after dissolution. The method of preparing customized tablets with distinguished release profiles presented in this study has the promising potential in the fabrication of patient-tailored medicines.
Helicity dependent diffraction by angular momentum transfer
Authors: Deepa S. , B.S. Bhargava Ram , Senthilkumaran P.
Published: August 2019

In this article we show that diffraction segregates the polarization singularities according to their handedness. Polarization singularities are superpositions of left and right handed circular polarization vortex states. In the superposition, the component states possess different orbital angular momenta depending on the type of the singularity. A fork grating that can generate different orbital angular momentum (OAM) states in different diffraction orders is shown to segregate right and left handed polarization singularities. A V-point polarization singularity that corresponds to one combination of OAM states incident on the fork grating is found to diffract in such a way that the same OAM combination does not occur in all the nonzero diffraction orders. As a result, each of the diffraction orders will have different polarization singularities. This OAM transfer by the fork grating segregates the right and left handed polarization singularities thereby, making the diffraction helicity dependent.
Hierarchical Template Matching for 3D Myocardial Tracking and Cardiac Strain Estimation
Authors: Bhalodiya Jayendra M. , Palit Arnab , Ferrante Enzo , Tiwari Manoj K. , Bhudia Sunil K. , Arvanitis Theodoros N. , Williams Mark A.
Published: August 2019

Myocardial tracking and strain estimation can non-invasively assess cardiac functioning using subject-specific MRI. As the left-ventricle does not have a uniform shape and functioning from base to apex, the development of 3D MRI has provided opportunities for simultaneous 3D tracking, and 3D strain estimation. We have extended a Local Weighted Mean (LWM) transformation function for 3D, and incorporated in a Hierarchical Template Matching model to solve 3D myocardial tracking and strain estimation problem. The LWM does not need to solve a large system of equations, provides smooth displacement of myocardial points, and adapt local geometric differences in images. Hence, 3D myocardial tracking can be performed with 1.49 mm median error, and without large error outliers. The maximum error of tracking is up to 24% reduced compared to benchmark methods. Moreover, the estimated strain can be insightful to improve 3D imaging protocols, and the computer code of LWM could also be useful for geo-spatial and manufacturing image analysis researchers.
Osteobiography of a seventh-century potter at the Oupan kiln, China by osteological and multi-isotope approach
Authors: Yi Bing , Zhang Jinglei , Cai Botao , Zhang Zhongyun , Hu Yaowu
Published: August 2019

In recent years, the reconstruction of individual life history by the multi-isotope analysis of different skeletal elements has become an active topic in bioarchaeological field. However, most studies focus on the persons with high social status and none cares for craftsmen with low social status. In this study, we undertook a comprehensive analysis on a human skeleton buried in the Oupan kiln, Anhui, China to recover his osteobiography. The archaeological context and dating result (534–644 cal. AD) indicate that he might be a potter at the kiln during the Sui and early Tang Dynasty, characteristic of low social hierarchy. The osteological investigation suggests that he had abnormal vertebrae related to long-term physical labor. In general, the isotopic data demonstrate that he mainly consumed C3(wheat, beans)/C4(millets)-based terrestrial foods. The isotopic (C, N) profiles of dentin sections and isotopic data (C, O) of bone apatite and teeth enamel indicate that he had experienced dramatic dietary changes and/or several migrations throughout the childhood and adulthood. His turbulent life trajectory was highly relevant to his identity and low social status. Our study provides a pilot insight into the life history of craftsmen who was generally overlooked in archaeological, historic and anthropological research.
Evaluation of Microencapsulation Techniques for MICP Bacterial Spores Applied in Self-Healing Concrete
Authors: Pungrasmi Wiboonluk , Intarasoontron Jirapa , Jongvivatsakul Pitcha , Likitlersuang Suched
Published: August 2019

Concrete cracks must be repaired promptly in order to prevent structural damage and to prolong the structural life of the building (or other such construction). Biological self-healing concrete is a recent alternative technology involving the biochemical reaction of microbial induced calcium carbonate precipitation (MICP). This study determined the most appropriate technique to encapsulate spores of Bacillus sphaericus LMG 22257 with sodium alginate so as to protect the bacterial spores during the concrete mixing and hardening period. Three techniques (extrusion, spray drying and freeze drying) to encapsulate the bacterial spores with sodium alginate were evaluated. The freeze-drying process provided the highest bacterial spore survival rate (100%), while the extruded and spray-dried processes had a lower spore survival rate of 93.8% and 79.9%, respectively. To investigate the viability of microencapsulated spores after being mixed with mortar, the decomposed urea analysis was conducted. The results revealed that the freeze-dried spores also showed the highest level of urea decomposition (metabolic activity assay used as a surrogate marker of spore germination and vegetative cell viability). Thus, the self-healing performance of concrete mixed with freeze-dried spores was evaluated. The results showed that the crack healing ratio observed from the mortar specimens with freeze-dried microencapsulated spores were significantly higher than those without bacteria. This study revealed that freeze drying has a high potential as a microencapsulation technique for application to self-healing concrete technology.
Broad spiral bandwidth of orbital angular momentum interface between photon and memory
Authors: Ding Dong-Sheng , Dong Ming-Xin , Zhang Wei , Shi Shuai , Yu Yi-Chen , Ye Ying-Hao , Guo Guang-Can , Shi Bao-Sen
Published: August 2019

The complex interactions between orbital angular momentum (OAM) of light and atoms are particularly intriguing in the areas of quantum optics and quantum information. Building a versatile high-dimensional quantum network needs broad spiral-bandwidth for preparing higher-quanta OAM mode and resolving the bandwidth mismatch in spatial space. Here, we demonstrate a broad spiral-bandwidth quantum-interface between photon and memory. Through twisted fields of the writing and reading, the correlated OAM distribution between photon and memory is significantly broadened. This broad spiral-bandwidth quantum-interface could be spanned in multiplexing regime and could work in high-quanta scenario with capability of $$\vert l\vert =$$
∣
l
∣
=
 30, and we demonstrate the entanglement within 2-D subspace with a fidelity of 80.5 ± 4.8% for high $$l$$
l
. Such state-of-the-art technology to freely control the spatial distribution of OAM memory is very helpful to construct high-dimensional quantum networks and provides a benchmark in the field of actively developing methods to engineer OAM single photon from matters.
Introduction: Cucurbituril-containing Functional Materials in the Context of Smart Materials
Authors: Tuncel Dönüs
Published: August 2019

First, in this chapter, smart materials are briefly introduced, followed by a short discussion on the dynamic, reversible stimuli-responsive supramolecular materials. Then the role of the host–guest complexation in the construction of these materials is evaluated in order to position the CB-containing functional materials in the context of smart materials. The chapter also provides a brief outline of the book with a brief rationale on the arrangement of the chapters.
Rotaxanes and Polyrotaxanes
Authors: Basílio N. , Pischel U.
Published: August 2019

In this chapter, the preparation of cucurbituril-based pseudorotaxanes, rotaxanes and polyrotaxanes is illustrated with selected examples. This includes the notions of self-sorting, which enables the setup of homo- and hetero(pseudo)rotaxanes. The implications of thermodynamic and kinetic control are briefly showcased as well. In the main part, these assemblies are discussed in the context of stimuli-responsive systems, whose supramolecular chemistry and functionality can be controlled by using chemical inputs (pH, ions), redox signals or light. In the final part, some applications, such as drug delivery or molecular information processing, are highlighted.
Cucurbituril Containing Supramolecular Nanomaterials
Authors: Khan Rehan , Tuncel Dönüs
Published: August 2019

Cucurbituril-based supramolecular nanomaterials are getting increasing attention due to their tailorable properties and functions. By making use of the host–guest chemistry of cucurbiturils, a variety of nanostructured materials, including nanoparticles, micelles, vesicles and capsules, have been prepared with many potential applications in such areas as theranostics, photonics, sensing and catalysis. The nanostructured materials prepared in this way are reversible but stable; that is an important feature in stimuli-responsive cargo delivery. Cucurbituril-based nanostructured materials could also be prepared by conjugating the mono- or multifunctionalized cucurbituril (CB) derivatives to suitable substituted platforms. With this method, it is also possible to prepare nanoparticles and capsules. Accordingly, this chapter will discuss the recent advances in cucurbituril-based supramolecular nanomaterials, and special emphasis will be given to supramolecular nanomaterials formed through the host–guest chemistry of cucurbiturils and functionalized CB-based nanoparticles, but capsule formation will not be discussed in this chapter as Kim et al. reviews this topic in Chapter 10.
Waste-to-wealth: biowaste valorization into valuable bio(nano)materials
Authors: Xu Chunping , Nasrollahzadeh Mahmoud , Selva Maurizio , Issaabadi Zahra , Luque Rafael
Published: August 2019

The waste-to-wealth concept aims to promote a future sustainable lifestyle where waste valorization is seen not only for its intrinsic benefits to the environment but also to develop new technologies, livelihoods and jobs.
Precision control of the large-scale green synthesis of biodegradable gold nanodandelions as potential radiotheranostics
Authors: Chuang Yao-Chen , Hsia Yu , Chu Chia-Hui , Lin Li-Jie , Sivasubramanian Maharajan , Lo Leu-Wei
Published: August 2019

Herein, we report a new type of biodegradable, high surface-area gold nanodandelions (GNDs) as potential radiotheranostics.
Daptomycin and AgNP co-loaded rGO nanocomposites for specific treatment of Gram-positive bacterial infection in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Tong Chunyi , Li Li , Xiao Feng , Fan Jialong , Zhong Xianghua , Liu Xuanming , Liu Bin , Wu Zhaohui , Zhou Jianqun
Published: August 2019

rGO was used for simultaneously anchoring AgNPs and Daptomycin to prepare rGO@Ag@Dap for anti-bacterium. The new nanomaterial showed strong Gram-positive bacteria killing ability in vitro and enhanced wound healing infected with S. aureus in vivo.
Cadmium benzylphosphonates – the close relationship between structure and properties
Authors: Akhmetova Irina , Beyer Sebastian , Schutjajew Konstantin , Tichter Tim , Wilke Manuel , Prinz Carsten , Martins Inês C. B. , Al-Sabbagh Dominik , Roth Christina , Emmerling Franziska
Published: August 2019

Structure-properties relationship of new Cd-benzylphosphonates differing in their fluorine content.
Noble gas insertion compounds of hydrogenated and lithiated hyperhalogens
Authors: Chang Xiao-Ting , Li Ying , Liu Jia-Yuan , Ma Hai-Di , Wu Di
Published: August 2019

Based on density functional theory (DFT) calculations, hydrogenated hyperhalogen HM(BO2)2, lithiated hyperhalogen LiM(BO2)2 (M = Cu, Ag, Au), and their compounds with xenon were studied.
Optical spectra of molecular aggregates and crystals: testing approximation schemes
Authors: Anzola M. , Di Maiolo F. , Painelli A.
Published: August 2019

The issue of the non-conservation of the oscillator strength in molecular aggregates is solved and several approximation schemes are validated.
Second harmonic generation in Janus MoSSe a monolayer and stacked bulk with vertical asymmetry
Authors: Wei Yadong , Xu Xiaodong , Wang Songsong , Li Weiqi , Jiang Yongyuan
Published: August 2019

Janus TMD materials have out-of-plane second harmonic generation behavior with their broken symmetry. It can be tuned and enhanced by patterns of stacking.