bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
NPC1 regulates ER contacts with endocytic organelles to mediate cholesterol egress
Authors: Höglinger D. , Burgoyne T. , Sanchez-Heras E. , Hartwig P. , Colaco A. , Newton J. , Futter C. E. , Spiegel S. , Platt F. M. , Eden E. R
Published: September 2019

Transport of dietary cholesterol from endocytic organelles to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is essential for cholesterol homoeostasis, but the mechanism and regulation of this transport remains poorly defined. Membrane contact sites (MCS), microdomains of close membrane apposition, are gaining attention as important platforms for non-vesicular, inter-organellar communication. Here we investigate the impact of ER-endocytic organelle MCS on cholesterol transport. We report a role for Niemann-Pick type C protein 1 (NPC1) in tethering ER-endocytic organelle MCS where it interacts with the ER-localised sterol transport protein Gramd1b to regulate cholesterol egress. We show that artificially tethering MCS rescues the cholesterol accumulation that characterises NPC1-deficient cells, consistent with direct lysosome to ER cholesterol transport across MCS. Finally, we identify an expanded population of lysosome-mitochondria MCS in cells depleted of NPC1 or Gramd1b that is dependent on the late endosomal sterol-binding protein STARD3, likely underlying the mitochondrial cholesterol accumulation in NPC1-deficient cells.
Development of a longevous two-species biophotovoltaics with constrained electron flow
Authors: Zhu Huawei , Meng Hengkai , Zhang Wei , Gao Haichun , Zhou Jie , Zhang Yanping , Li Yin
Published: September 2019

Microbial biophotovoltaics (BPV) offers a biological solution for renewable energy production by using photosynthetic microorganisms as light absorbers. Although abiotic engineering approaches, e.g., electrode modification and device optimization, can enhance the electrochemical communication between living cells and electrodes, the power densities of BPV are still low due to the weak exoelectrogenic activity of photosynthetic microorganisms. Here, we develop a BPV based on ad-lactate mediated microbial consortium consisting of photosynthetic cyanobacteria and exoelectrogenicShewanella. By directing solar energy from photons tod-lactate, then to electricity, this BPV generates a power density of over 150 mW·m−2in a temporal separation setup. Furthermore, a spatial-temporal separation setup with medium replenishment enables stable operation for over 40 days with an average power density of 135 mW·m−2. These results demonstrate the electron flow constrained microbial consortium can facilitate electron export from photosynthetic cells and achieve an efficient and durable power output.
Maternal pluripotency factors initiate extensive chromatin remodelling to predefine first response to inductive signals
Authors: Gentsch George E. , Spruce Thomas , Owens Nick D. L. , Smith James C.
Published: September 2019

Embryonic development yields many different cell types in response to just a few families of inductive signals. The property of signal-receiving cells that determines how they respond to inductive signals is known as competence, and it differs in different cell types. Here, we explore the ways in which maternal factors modify chromatin to specify initial competence in the frog Xenopus tropicalis. We identify early-engaged regulatory DNA sequences, and infer from them critical activators of the zygotic genome. Of these, we show that the pioneering activity of the maternal pluripotency factors Pou5f3 and Sox3 determines competence for germ layer formation by extensively remodelling compacted chromatin before the onset of inductive signalling. This remodelling includes the opening and marking of thousands of regulatory elements, extensive chromatin looping, and the co-recruitment of signal-mediating transcription factors. Our work identifies significant developmental principles that inform our understanding of how pluripotent stem cells interpret inductive signals.
Plasticity in striatal dopamine release is governed by release-independent depression and the dopamine transporter
Authors: Condon Mark D. , Platt Nicola J. , Zhang Yan-Feng , Roberts Bradley M. , Clements Michael A. , Vietti-Michelina Stefania , Tseu Min-Yee , Brimblecombe Katherine R. , Threlfell Sarah , Mann Edward O. , Cragg Stephanie J.
Published: September 2019

Mesostriatal dopaminergic neurons possess extensively branched axonal arbours. Whether action potentials are converted to dopamine output in the striatum will be influenced dynamically and critically by axonal properties and mechanisms that are poorly understood. Here, we address the roles for mechanisms governing release probability and axonal activity in determining short‐term plasticity of dopamine release, using fast‐scan cyclic voltammetry in the ex vivo mouse striatum. We show that brief short‐term facilitation and longer short term depression are only weakly dependent on the level of initial release, i.e. are release insensitive. Rather, short-term plasticity is strongly determined by mechanisms which govern axonal activation, including K+‐gated excitability and the dopamine transporter, particularly in the dorsal striatum. We identify the dopamine transporter as a master regulator of dopamine short‐term plasticity, governing the balance between release‐dependent and independent mechanisms that also show region‐specific gating.
Characterisation and localisation of the endocannabinoid system components in the adult human testis
Authors: Nielsen John E. , Rolland Antoine D. , Rajpert-De Meyts Ewa , Janfelt Christian , Jørgensen Anne , Winge Sofia B. , Kristensen David M. , Juul Anders , Chalmel Frédéric , Jégou Bernard , Skakkebaek Niels E.
Published: September 2019

Heavy use of cannabis (marijuana) has been associated with decreased semen quality, which may reflect disruption of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the male reproductive tract by exogenous cannabinoids. Components of ECS have been previously described in human spermatozoa and in the rodent testis but there is little information on the ECS expression within the human testis. In this study we characterised the main components of the ECS by immunohistochemistry (IHC) on archived testis tissue samples from 15 patients, and by in silico analysis of existing transcriptome datasets from testicular cell populations. The presence of 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) in the human testis was confirmed by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization imaging analysis. Endocannabinoid-synthesising enzymes; diacylglycerol lipase (DAGL) and N-acyl-phosphatidylethanolamine-specific phospholipase D (NAPE-PLD), were detected in germ cells and somatic cells, respectively. The cannabinoid receptors, CNR1 and CNR2 were detected at a low level in post-meiotic germ cells and Leydig- and peritubular cells. Different transcripts encoding distinct receptor isoforms (CB1, CB1A, CB1B and CB2A) were also differentially distributed, mainly in germ cells. The cannabinoid-metabolising enzymes were abundantly present; the α/β-hydrolase domain-containing protein 2 (ABHD2) in all germ cell types, except early spermatocytes, the monoacylglycerol lipase (MGLL) in Sertoli cells, and the fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) in late spermatocytes and post-meiotic germ cells. Our findings are consistent with a direct involvement of the ECS in regulation of human testicular physiology, including spermatogenesis and Leydig cell function. The study provides new evidence supporting observations that recreational cannabis can have possible deleterious effects on human testicular function.
Microarray-based screening system identifies temperature-controlled activity of Connexin 26 that is distorted by mutations
Authors: Wang Hongling , Stahl Frank , Scheper Thomas , Steffens Melanie , Warnecke Athanasia , Zeilinger Carsten
Published: September 2019

Here, we show that human Connexin 26 (hCx26 or Cx26WT) hemichannel opening rapidly enables the transport of small molecules when triggered by temperature and by compensation of the Ca2+ blockade with EDTA. Point mutations within Cx26 were analysed by a novel optical microarray-based Lucifer Yellow uptake assay or by two electrode voltage clamp (TEVC) on frog oocytes to monitor simultaneous activities of channel proteins. Point mutations L90P, F161S, R184P or K188N influenced the temperature-dependent activity drastically. Since several mutations blocked trafficking, the temperature-dependent activity of the recombinant synthesized and purified wild-type Cx26WT and Cx26K188N hemichannel was tested by liposome flux assay (LFA) and on a microarray-based Lucifer Yellow uptake assay under warm conditions (>30 °C). The data from TEVC measurements and dye flux experiments showed that the mutations gave no or only a weak activity at increased temperature (>30 °C). We conclude that the position K188 in the Cx26WT forms a temperature-sensitive salt bridge with E47 whereas the exchange to K188N destabilizes the network loop- gating filter, which was recently identified as a part of the flexible Ca2+ binding site. We assume that the temperature sensitivity of Cx26 is required to protect cells from uncontrolled release or uptake activities through Cx26 hemichannels.
Mid- to long-wave infrared computational spectroscopy using a subwavelength coaxial aperture array
Authors: Craig Benjamin J. , Meng Jiajun , Shrestha Vivek Raj , Cadusch Jasper J. , Crozier Kenneth B.
Published: September 2019

Miniaturized spectrometers are advantageous for many applications and can be achieved by what we term the filter-array detector-array (FADA) approach. In this method, each element of an optical filter array filters the light that is transmitted to the matching element of a photodetector array. By providing the outputs of the photodetector array and the filter transmission functions to a reconstruction algorithm, the spectrum of the light illuminating the FADA device can be estimated. Here, we experimentally demonstrate an array of 101 band-pass transmission filters that span the mid- to long-wave infrared (6.2 to 14.2 μm). Each filter comprises a sub-wavelength array of coaxial apertures in a gold film. As a proof-of-principle demonstration of the FADA approach, we use a Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) microscope to record the optical power transmitted through each filter. We provide this information, along with the transmission spectra of the filters, to a recursive least squares (RLS) algorithm that estimates the incident spectrum. We reconstruct the spectrum of the infrared light source of our FTIR and the transmission spectra of three polymer-type materials: polyethylene, cellophane and polyvinyl chloride. Reconstructed spectra are in very good agreement with those obtained via direct measurement by our FTIR system.
The ERC1 scaffold protein implicated in cell motility drives the assembly of a liquid phase
Authors: Sala Kristyna , Corbetta Agnese , Minici Claudia , Tonoli Diletta , Murray David H. , Cammarota Eugenia , Ribolla Lucrezia , Ramella Martina , Fesce Riccardo , Mazza Davide , Degano Massimo , de Curtis Ivan
Published: September 2019

Several cellular processes depend on networks of proteins assembled at specific sites near the plasma membrane. Scaffold proteins assemble these networks by recruiting relevant molecules. The scaffold protein ERC1/ELKS and its partners promote cell migration and invasion, and assemble into dynamic networks at the protruding edge of cells. Here by electron microscopy and single molecule analysis we identify ERC1 as an extended flexible dimer. We found that ERC1 scaffolds form cytoplasmic condensates with a behavior that is consistent with liquid phases that are modulated by a predicted disordered region of ERC1. These condensates specifically host partners of a network relevant to cell motility, including liprin-α1, which was unnecessary for the formation of condensates, but influenced their dynamic behavior. Phase separation at specific sites of the cell periphery may represent an elegant mechanism to control the assembly and turnover of dynamic scaffolds needed for the spatial localization and processing of molecules.
Tuning the Néel temperature in an antiferromagnet: the case of NixCo1−xO microstructures
Authors: Mandziak Anna , D. Soria Guiomar , Prieto José Emilio , Prieto Pilar , Granados-Miralles Cecilia , Quesada Adrian , Foerster Michael , Aballe Lucia , de la Figuera Juan
Published: September 2019

We show that it is possible to tune the Néel temperature of nickel(II)-cobalt(II) oxide films by changing the Ni to Co ratio. We grow single crystalline micrometric triangular islands with tens of nanometers thickness on a Ru(0001) substrate using high temperature oxygen-assisted molecular beam epitaxy. Composition is controlled by adjusting the deposition rates of Co and Ni. The morphology, shape, crystal structure and composition are determined by low-energy electron microscopy and diffraction, and synchrotron-based x-ray absorption spectromicroscopy. The antiferromagnetic order is observed by x-ray magnetic linear dichroism. Antiferromagnetic domains up to micrometer width are observed.
Percutaneous contrast-enhanced ultrasound for localization and diagnosis of sentinel lymph node in early breast cancer
Authors: Liu Jian , Liu Xiaoling , He Jiao , Gou Bo , Luo Yujie , Deng Sihui , Wen Hong , Zhou Lin
Published: September 2019

This study assessed the efficacy of percutaneous contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) in localization sentinel lymph node (SLNs) for biopsy and diagnosis of metastatic SLNs in patients with early breast cancer. From January to November 2017, seventy-five patients with early breast cancer confirmed by pathology were enrolled in this study. CEUS was performed after subdermal injection of ultrasound contrast agent (SonoVue, 2.0 ml in total dose) around the areola on the ipsilateral side of the breast. The contrast-enhanced lymphatic vessels and associated SLNs were observed and traced in real time. The lymphatic vessels and SLN were mapped and labeled on the skin surface. Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) was performed after injection of 2.0 ml methylene blue at same injection site of SonoVue. The accuracy of percutaneous CEUS localization of SLNs was determined compared to blue dye injection technique. The pathological results under blue dye guided biopsy were used as the reference standard to calculate the sensitivity and specificity of CEUS for the diagnosis of SLNs. A total of 163 SLNs obtained through SLNB following methylene blue tracing in 75 patients. There were 116 SLNs identified by percutaneous CEUS. The difference of detection rates between blue dye and CEUS was statistically significant (Z = −2.651, P = 0.008). The identification rate of SLNs by CEUS was 71.17% (116/163). The accuracy of percutaneous CEUS localization of axillary SLNs was 94.67% (71/75) compared to blue dye-guided biopsy. Among the 116 SLNs detected by percutaneous CEUS, pathologic results showed 51 positive SLNs and 65 negative SLNs whiles CEUS findings indicated 83 positive SLNs and 33 negative SLNs. Only 50 of 83 SLNs had metastasis on pathology, while 33 were detected as false positive. The sensitivity and specificity of CEUS for the diagnosis of metastatic SLN was 98.04%(50/51) and 49.23%(32/65), respectively. Percutaneous CEUS can be used as an effective method to localize the SLNs for guiding SLNB. This method has excellent sensitivity for identifying the SLNs but lower specificity for detecting metastatic SLNs in patients with early stage breast cancer.
Cytarabine-based induction immunochemotherapy in the front-line treatment of older patients with mantle cell lymphoma
Authors: Ratnasingam Sumita , Casan Joshua , Shortt Jake , Hawkes Eliza , Gilbertson Michael , McQuilten Zoe , Grigoriadis George , Htun Kay Thwe , Htet Swe Myo , Campbell Philip , Chai Khai Li , Quach Hang , Patil Sushrut , Opat Stephen
Published: September 2019

The role of cytarabine-based induction and autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) in front-line treatment of younger patients with mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is well established, however the utility of intensive approaches in older patients remains unclear. This retrospective study compared first line treatment outcomes in patients aged 60 years or more, treated at six tertiary centres between 2000–2015. 70 patients included had a median age of 69 (60–91) and most (94%) demonstrated advanced stage disease. Treatment regimens included: R-CHOP-like (n = 39), alternating R-CHOP/R-DHAC (n = 10), R-HyperCVAD/R-MA (n = 7), R-CHOP/Cytarabine (Nordic Protocol) (n = 10) and other (n = 4). 16 patients underwent an ASCT. The median follow-up for surviving patients was 37 months. Compared to R-CHOP-like therapies, cytarabine-based regimens were associated with an improved overall response rate (ORR) of 70% vs 33% (p < 0.001) and overall survival (OS) (HR 0.541, [0.292–1.001], p = 0.05). No difference in efficacy between different cytarabine-based regimens was detected, but R-HyperCVAD/R-MA was associated with increased hospitalisation and transfusion requirements. Patients undergoing ASCT demonstrated an improved median OS (HR 0.108 [0.015–0.796], p = 0.029) but were significantly younger. These results reaffirm the use of cytarabine in MCL for selected patients aged over 60. Such regimens should be strongly considered for this population in frontline therapy.
Single-gap superconductivity in Mo8Ga41
Authors: Marcin Miroslav , Kačmarčík Jozef , Pribulová Zuzana , Kopčík Michal , Szabó Pavol , Šofranko Ondrej , Samuely Tomáš , Vaňo Viliam , Marcenat Christophe , Verchenko Valeriy Yu. , Shevelkov Andrei V. , Samuely Peter
Published: September 2019

In this paper, the potential existence of two-gap superconductivity in Mo8Ga41 is addressed in detail by means of thermodynamic and spectroscopic measurements. A combination of highly sensitive bulk and surface probes, specifically ac-calorimetry and scanning tunneling spectroscopy (STS), are utilized on the same piece of crystal and reveal the presence of only one intrinsic gap in the system featuring strong electron-phonon coupling. Minute traces of additional superconducting phases detected by STS and also in the heat capacity measured in high magnetic fields on a high-quality and seemingly single-phase crystal might mimic the multigap superconductivity of Mo8Ga41 suggested recently in several studies.
Performance of composite mineral adsorbents for removing Cu, Cd, and Pb ions from polluted water
Authors: Lim Woo-Ri , Kim Sung Wook , Lee Chang-Han , Choi Eun-Kyeong , Oh Myoung Hak , Seo Seung Nam , Park Heung-Jai , Hamm Se-Yeong
Published: September 2019

This study evaluated the efficiency of the removal of heavy metals from contaminated water via adsorption isotherm and kinetic experiments on two composite mineral adsorbents, CMA1 and CMA2. The developed CMA1 (zeolite with clinoptilolite of over 20 weight percent and feldspar of ~10 percent, with Portland cement) and CMA2 (zeolite with feldspar of over 15 weight percent and ~9 percent clinoptilolite, with Portland cement) were applied to remove Cu, Cd, and Pb ions. Based on the adsorption isotherm and kinetic experiments, the adsorbents CMA1 and CMA2 exhibited high removal efficiency for Cu, Cd, and Pb ions in solution compared to other adsorbents. In the adsorption kinetic experiment, CMA2 demonstrated better adsorption than CMA1 with the same initial concentration and reaction time, and Cu, Cd, and Pb ions almost reached equilibrium within 180 min for both CMA1 and CMA2. The results of the adsorption kinetic experiments with pseudo-first-order (PFO) and pseudo-second-order (PSO) models indicated that the PSO model was more suitable than the PFO model. Comparing the Langmuir and Freundlich adsorption isotherm models, the former showed a very slightly higher correlation coefficient (r2) than the latter, indicating that the two models can both be applied to heavy metal solutions on a spherical monolayer surface with a weak heterogeneity of the surface. Additionally, the adsorbents CMA1 and CMA2 demonstrated different removal abilities depending on which heavy metals were used.
Goal-directed vs. habitual instrumental behavior during reward processing in anorexia nervosa: an fMRI study
Authors: Steding Julius , Boehm Ilka , King Joseph A. , Geisler Daniel , Ritschel Franziska , Seidel Maria , Doose Arne , Jaite Charlotte , Roessner Veit , Smolka Michael N. , Ehrlich Stefan
Published: September 2019

Previous studies have proposed that altered reward processing and elevated cognitive control underlie the etiology of anorexia nervosa (AN). A newly debated notion suggests altered habit learning and an overreliance on habits may contribute to the persistence of AN. In weight-recovered AN patients, we previously found neuroimaging-based evidence for unaltered reward processing, but elevated cognitive control. In order to differentiate between state versus trait factors, we here contrast the aforementioned hypotheses in a sample of acutely underweight AN (acAN) patients. 37 acAN patients and 37 closely matched healthy controls (HC) underwent a functional MRI while performing an established instrumental motivation task. We found no group differences with respect to neural responses during the anticipation or receipt of reward. However, the behavioral response data showed a bimodal distribution, indicative for a goal-directed (gAN) and a habit-driven (hAN) patient subgroup. Additional analyses revealed decreased mOFC activation during reward anticipation in hAN, which would be in line with a habit-driven response. These findings provide a new perspective on the debate regarding the notion of increased goal-directed versus habitual behavior in AN. If replicable, the observed dissociation between gAN and hAN might help to tailor therapeutic approaches to individual patient characteristics.
Cold exposure induces dynamic, heterogeneous alterations in human brown adipose tissue lipid content
Authors: Coolbaugh Crystal L. , Damon Bruce M. , Bush Emily C. , Welch E. Brian , Towse Theodore F.
Published: September 2019

Brown adipose tissue undergoes a dynamic, heterogeneous response to cold exposure that can include the simultaneous synthesis, uptake, and oxidation of fatty acids. The purpose of this work was to quantify these changes in brown adipose tissue lipid content (fat-signal fraction (FSF)) using fat-water magnetic resonance imaging during individualized cooling to 3 °C above a participant’s shiver threshold. Eight healthy men completed familiarization, perception-based cooling, and MRI-cooling visits. FSF maps of the supraclavicular region were acquired in thermoneutrality and during cooling (59.5 ± 6.5 min). Brown adipose tissue regions of interest were defined, and voxels were grouped into FSF decades (0–10%, 10–20%…90–100%) according to their initial value. Brown adipose tissue contained a heterogeneous morphology of lipid content. Voxels with initial FSF values of 60–100% (P < 0.05) exhibited a significant decrease in FSF while a simultaneous increase in FSF occurred in voxels with initial FSF values of 0–30% (P < 0.05). These data suggest that in healthy young men, cold exposure elicits a dynamic and heterogeneous response in brown adipose tissue, with areas initially rich with lipid undergoing net lipid loss and areas of low initial lipid undergoing a net lipid accumulation.
Genetic structure and population connectivity of the blue and red shrimp Aristeus antennatus
Authors: Heras Sandra , Planella Laia , García-Marín José-Luis , Vera Manuel , Roldán María Inés
Published: September 2019

The blue and red shrimp Aristeus antennatus is a demersal marine species harvested by bottom trawling in the Mediterranean Sea, the adjacent Atlantic Ocean (AO) waters, and the Mozambique Channel in the Indian Ocean (IO). As it is considered to be a priority species for sustainable fishing, identification of its genetic stocks and the connectivity between them is essential. Using 12 microsatellite loci we detected at least four genetic stocks distributed in the Western Mediterranean (WM), Eastern Mediterranean (EM), AO, and IO and signals for a possible fifth stock in the Alborán Sea. We detected no additional population structuring within the WM. Thus, although the Almería-Orán Front exerts some isolating effect, high genetic homogeneity and gene flow are present within the WM Basin. The IO stock is genetically closer to the AO stock than to the others; thus, the species dispersion route is more likely via the Atlantic Ocean than via the Red Sea. Large effective population sizes suggest population sustainability, but moderate genetic diversity values indicate to proceed with caution. Our genetic results serve as a basis for species conservation to ensure long-term sustainability of this marine resource.
Marked variation in heritability estimates of left ventricular mass depending on modality of measurement
Authors: Nethononda Richard M. , McGurk Kathryn A. , Whitworth Polly , Francis Jane , Mamasoula Chysovalanto , Cordell Heather J. , Neubauer Stefan , Keavney Bernard D. , Mayosi Bongani M. , Farrall Martin , Watkins Hugh
Published: September 2019

Left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy is a strong risk factor for heart failure and cardiovascular death. ECG measures of LV mass are estimated as heritable in twin and family-based analyses and heritability estimates of LV mass measured by echocardiography are lower. We hypothesised that CMR-derived measurements, being more precise than echocardiographic measurements, would advance our understanding of heritable LV traits. We phenotyped 116 British families (427 individuals) by CMR and ECG, and undertook heritability analyses using variance-components (QTDT) and GWAS SNP-based (GCTA-GREML) methods. ECG-based traits such as LV mass and Sokolow-Lyon duration showed substantial estimates of heritability (60%), whereas CMR-derived LV mass was only modestly heritable (20%). However, the ECG LV mass was positively correlated with the lateral diameter of the chest (rho = 0.67), and adjustment for this attenuated the heritability estimate (42%). Finally, CMR-derived right ventricular mass showed considerable heritability (44%). Heritability estimates of LV phenotypes show substantial variation depending on the modality of measurement, being greater when measured by ECG than CMR. This may reflect the differences between electrophysiological as opposed to anatomical hypertrophy. However, ECG LV hypertrophy traits are likely to be influenced by genetic association with anthropometric measures, inflating their overall measured heritability.
Clinical and Microbiological Characteristics of Group B Streptococcus from Pregnant Women and Diseased Infants in Intrapartum Antibiotic Prophylaxis Era in Taiwan
Authors: Lee Chien-Chung , Hsu Jen-Fu , Prasad Janapatla Rajendra , Chen Chyi-Liang , Zhou Ying-Li , Lien Reyin , Chiu Cheng-Hsun
Published: September 2019

Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is one of the most important pathogens for neonates. This study included 69 invasive GBS diseases in neonates, including 7 early-onset disease (EOD), 55 late-onset disease, and 7 very-late-onset disease from 2013 to 2017. A significant reduction of EOD after the deployment of intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis (IAP) in 2012 was observed. A previously-recognized hypervirulent clone GBS III ST17, accounting for 68% of the overall infections and 71% of the meningitis, was identified among the 69 cases. A novel GBS Ia ST890 emerged, becoming the fourth most common clone. Overall 96% of the invasive GBS infections were caused by serotypes Ia, Ib, and III. We collected 300 GBS isolates from vagina of the healthy pregnant women in 2014 and 2017. The serotype distribution of the maternal colonization isolates was VI (35%), III (21%), V (15%), Ib (13%) and Ia (11%) in 2014, and VI (32%), III (22%), V (16%), Ia (16%), and Ib (8%) in 2017. The most common sequence types were ST1 (32%), ST12 (22%), and ST23 (15%). Serotype diversity of maternal colonization strains did not change between 2014 and 2017. The study provides useful information in surveillance of GBS disease in the era of IAP.
Thickness-dependent magnetic order in CrI3 single crystals
Authors: Liu Yu , Wu Lijun , Tong Xiao , Li Jun , Tao Jing , Zhu Yimei , Petrovic C.
Published: September 2019

Two-dimensional (2D) materials with intrinsic ferromagnetism provide unique opportunity to engineer new functionalities in nano-spintronics. One such material is CrI3, showing long-range magnetic order in monolayer with the Curie temperature (Tc) of 45 K. Here we study detailed evolution of magnetic transition and magnetic critical properties in response to systematic reduction in crystal thickness down to 50 nm. Bulk Tc of 61 K is gradually suppressed to 57 K, however, the satellite transition at T * = 45 K is observed layer-independent at fixed magnetic field of 1 kOe. The origin of T * is proposed to be a crossover from pinning to depinning of magnetic domain walls. The reduction of thickness facilitates a field-driven metamagnetic transition around 20 kOe with out-of-plane field, in contrast to the continuous changes with in-plane field. The critical analysis around Tc elucidates the mean-field type interactions in microscale-thick CrI3.
A highly thermostable crude endoglucanase produced by a newly isolated Thermobifida fusca strain UPMC 901
Authors: Zainudin Mohd Huzairi Mohd , Mustapha Nurul Asyifah , Hassan Mohd Ali , Bahrin Ezyana Kamal , Tokura Mitsunori , Yasueda Hisashi , Shirai Yoshihito
Published: September 2019

A thermophilic Thermobifida fusca strain UPMC 901, harboring highly thermostable cellulolytic activity, was successfully isolated from oil palm empty fruit bunch compost. Its endoglucanase had the highest activity at 24 hours of incubation in carboxymethyl-cellulose (CMC) and filter paper. A maximum endoglucanase activity of 0.9 U/mL was achieved at pH 5 and 60 °C using CMC as a carbon source. The endoglucanase properties were further characterized using crude enzyme preparations from the culture supernatant. Thermal stability indicated that the endoglucanase activity was highly stable at 70 °C for 24 hours. Furthermore, the activity was found to be completely maintained without any loss at 50 °C and 60 °C for 144 hours, making it the most stable than other endoglucanases reported in the literature. The high stability of the endoglucanase at an elevated temperature for a prolonged period of time makes it a suitable candidate for the biorefinery application.
A bioactivatable self-quenched nanogel for targeted photodynamic therapy
Authors: He Huacheng , Nieminen Anna-Liisa , Xu Peisheng
Published: September 2019

An EGFR-targeted intracellular activatable nanogel effectively inhibits head and neck cancer progression through photodynamic therapy while not inducing systemic toxicity.
Eight coordination compounds assembled from unexplored semi-rigid ether-based unsymmetrical tetracarboxylate and various dipyridyl ligands: structural variation, magnetic and photoluminescence properties
Authors: Yue Qi , Wang Yuan-Yuan , Hu Xiao-Lu , Guo Wei-Xiao , Gao En-Qing
Published: September 2019

Eight new coordination compounds built by an unexplored semi-rigid ether-based unsymmetrical tetracarboxylate and varied dipyridyl ligands have been synthesized. Their variety of structures, photoluminescence and magnetic properties are discussed.
Conversion and degradation pathways of sulfoximines
Authors: Wiezorek Stefan , Lamers Philip , Bolm Carsten
Published: September 2019

The overview describes laboratory transformations leading to sulfoximine degradations to enable more focussed analyses of potential products and pathways.
Construction of homochiral alkaline–lanthanide heteronuclear helicates with Na+-selective bonding in the self-assembly process
Authors: Li Ge , Wang Li , Han Qingxin , Liu Weisheng
Published: September 2019

A supramolecular approach to distinguish Na+ from other biologically important metal ions.
Metabolomic profiles associated with exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) in aquatic environments
Authors: Taylor Matthew D. , Bräunig Jennifer , Mueller Jochen F. , Crompton Marcus , Dunstan R. Hugh , Nilsson Sandra
Published: September 2019

Substantial differences in PFAA profiles were associated with significant differences in fatty acid and amino acid profiles.
Sclareol prevents ovariectomy-induced bone loss in vivo and inhibits osteoclastogenesis in vitro via suppressing NF-κB and MAPK/ERK signaling pathways
Authors: Jin Haiming , Shao Zhenxuan , Wang Qingqing , Miao Jiansen , Bai Xueqin , Liu Qian , Qiu Heng , Wang Chao , Zhang Zengjie , Jennifer Tickner , Wang Xiangyang , Xu Jiake
Published: September 2019

Postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMO) is a progressive disease occurring in elderly postmenopausal women that is characterized by low bone mass and impaired bone quality.
Optimization of extraction methods for characterization of phenolic compounds in apricot fruit (Prunus armeniaca)
Authors: Iglesias-Carres Lisard , Mas-Capdevila Anna , Bravo Francisca Isabel , Bladé Cinta , Arola-Arnal Anna , Muguerza Begoña
Published: September 2019

Fruits are rich in phenolic compounds with health-promoting activities.
A comprehensive review of bioactive peptides obtained from animal byproducts and their applications
Authors: Bechaux Julia , Gatellier Philippe , Le Page Jean-François , Drillet Yoan , Sante-Lhoutellier Véronique
Published: September 2019

Livestock generates high quantities of residues, which has become a major socioeconomic issue for the meat industry.
Characterization of the bioactivities of an ethanol extract and some of its constituents from the New Zealand native mushroom Hericium novae-zealandiae
Authors: Chen Zhixia (Grace) , Bishop Karen Suzanne , Tanambell Hartono , Buchanan Peter , Smith Chris , Quek Siew Young
Published: September 2019

In this study, we investigated the potential bioactivities of an ethanol extract of Hericium novae-zealandiae and four of its constituents, namely hericenone C, hericene B, ergosterol and ergosterol peroxide.
Compound-specific adaptation of hepatoma cell lines to toxic iron
Authors: Guttmann Sarah , Dewald Elisabeth Therese , Wohlfarth Cathrin , Müller Jennifer-Christin , Karst Uwe , Schmidt Hartmut H. , Zibert Andree
Published: September 2019

Toxic iron exposure induces broad modulation of hepatic gene expression and establishment of resistant cells.
Biological activity of manganese(i) tricarbonyl complexes on multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria: From functional studies to in vivo activity in Galleria mellonella
Authors: Güntzel Paul , Nagel Christoph , Weigelt Jeanette , Betts Jono W. , Pattrick Calum A. , Southam Hannah M. , La Ragione Roberto M. , Poole Robert K. , Schatzschneider Ulrich
Published: September 2019

Antibacterial activity of four Mn(CO)3 complexes on multidrug-resistant clinical isolates of A. baumannii and P. aeruginosa correlated with lipophilicity and increase in ATP release. Absence of host toxicity in G. mellonella was combined with effective bacterial clearance.
Customizing H3Sb3P2O14 nanosheet sensors by reversible vapor-phase amine intercalation
Authors: Däntl Marie , Ganter Pirmin , Szendrei-Temesi Katalin , Jiménez-Solano Alberto , Lotsch Bettina V.
Published: September 2019

Reversible post-synthetic modification of H3Sb3P2O14 nanosheet-based thin films by applying a facile two-step amine intercalation over the vapor phase.
Photonic band gap effect and dye-encapsulated cucurbituril-triggered enhanced fluorescence using monolithic colloidal photonic crystals
Authors: Vipin V. V. , Chandran Parvathy R. , M. Ramachandran Animesh , Mohamed A. P. , Pillai Saju
Published: September 2019

Enhanced fluorescence was achieved by tuning the photonic band gaps in colloidal photonic crystals and host–guest chemistry.
Deeper insight into protease-sensitive “covalent-assembly” fluorescent probes for practical biosensing applications
Authors: Renault Kévin , Debieu Sylvain , Richard Jean-Alexandre , Romieu Anthony
Published: September 2019

The properties and versatility of protease-responsive “covalent-assembly” fluorescent probes are optimised in an effective and rational manner, through structural diversification of their Michael acceptor moiety.
Real-time monitoring of a photoactivated hydrogen persulfide donor for biological entities
Authors: Chaudhuri Amrita , Venkatesh Yarra , Jena Bikash Chandra , Behara Krishna Kalyani , Mandal Mahitosh , Singh N. D. Pradeep
Published: September 2019

A visible light responsive H2S2 donor based on the ESIPT mechanism with real-time monitoring ability using a non-invasive fluorescence technique.
CVD controlled growth of large-scale WS2 monolayers
Authors: Xu Zhuhua , Lv Yanfei , Li Jingzhou , Huang Feng , Nie Pengbo , Zhang Siwei , Zhao Shichao , Zhao Shixi , Wei Guodan
Published: September 2019

Monolayer tungsten disulfide (WS2) with a direct band gap of ca. 2.0 eV and stable properties has been a hotspot in two-dimensional (2D) nanoelectronics and optoelectronics.
Dissolution of metal oxides in task-specific ionic liquid
Authors: Richter Janine , Ruck Michael
Published: September 2019

Investigation on the dissolution of 30 metal oxides in the water-free ionic liquid [Hbet][NTf2] and the catalytic effect of chloride for the application in green ore processing.
Electronic coherence lifetimes of the Fenna–Matthews–Olson complex and light harvesting complex II
Authors: Irgen-Gioro Shawn , Gururangan Karthik , Saer Rafael G. , Blankenship Robert E. , Harel Elad
Published: September 2019

The study of coherence between excitonic states in naturally occurring photosynthetic systems offers tantalizing prospects for uncovering mechanisms of efficient energy transport.
Subphthalocyanine–tetracyanobuta-1,3-diene–aniline conjugates: stereoisomerism and photophysical properties
Authors: Winterfeld Kim A. , Lavarda Giulia , Guilleme Julia , Guldi Dirk M. , Torres Tomás , Bottari Giovanni
Published: September 2019

We report the stereoisomerism and physicochemical properties of two novel electron donor–acceptor conjugates based on subphthalocyanines decorated at their peripheral, or peripheral/axial positions with multiple tetracyanobutadiene–aniline moieties.
Dual-targeting nanotherapeutics antagonize hyperinsulinemia-promoted tumor growth via activating cell autophagy
Authors: Huang Jiarun , Liu Yuedan , Liu Ting , Chang Yanzhou , Chen Tianfeng , Li Xiaoling
Published: September 2019

Herein, a dual-targeting selenium nanotherapeutics has been designed and proposed as a tumor therapy drug to antagonize high insulin. This study provides a new strategy for Se-based nanotherapeutics in tumor therapy under hyperinsulinemia conditions.
Rapid, convenient and low-energy preparation of spherical rare earth doped YAG phosphors by a laser sintering method
Authors: Yuan Rui , Huang Meng , Zheng Fei , Li Qian-Li , Xu Zhan , Hu Jian-Feng , Zou Jun , Yang Woochul , Zhang Zhi-Jun , Zhao Jing-Tai
Published: September 2019

Rare earth doped YAG phosphors are prepared rapidly and conveniently by using a laser sintering method with low energy consumption.
A spatio-kinematic model for jets in post-AGB stars,
Authors: Bollen D. , Kamath D. , Van Winckel H. , De Marco O.
Published: September 2019

Aims. We aim to determine the geometry, density gradient, and velocity structure of jets in post-asymptotic giant branch (post-AGB) binaries.

Methods. Our high cadence time series of high-resolution optical spectra of jet-creating post-AGB binary systems provide us with a unique tomography of the jet. We determine the spatio-kinematic structure of the jets based on these data by fitting the synthetic spectral line profiles created by our model to the observed, orbital phase-resolved, Hα-line profiles of these systems. The fitting routine is provided with an initial spectrum and is allowed to test three configurations, derived from three specific jet launching models: a stellar jet launched by the star, an X-wind, and a disk wind configuration. We apply a Markov-chain Monte Carlo routine in order to fit our model to the observations. Our fitting code is tested on the post-AGB binary IRAS 19135+3937.

Results. We find that a model using the stellar jet configuration gives a marginally better fit to our observations. The jet has a wide half-opening angle of about 76° and reaches velocities up to 870 km s−1.

Conclusions. Our methodology is successful in determining some parameters for jets in post-AGB binaries. The model for IRAS 19135+3937 includes a transparent, low density inner region (for a half-opening angle < 40°). The source feeding the accretion disk around the companion is most likely the circumbinary disk. We will apply this jet fitting routine to other jet-creating post-AGB stars in order to provide a more complete description of these objects.
A stellar census in globular clusters with MUSE: Binaries in NGC 3201
Authors: Giesers Benjamin , Kamann Sebastian , Dreizler Stefan , Husser Tim-Oliver , Askar Abbas , Göttgens Fabian , Brinchmann Jarle , Latour Marilyn , Weilbacher Peter M. , Wendt Martin , Roth Martin M.
Published: September 2019

We utilise multi-epoch MUSE spectroscopy to study binary stars in the core of the Galactic globular cluster NGC 3201. Our sample consists of 3553 stars with 54 883 spectra in total comprising 3200 main-sequence stars up to 4 magnitudes below the turn-off. Each star in our sample has between 3 and 63 (with a median of 14) reliable radial velocity measurements within five years of observations. We introduce a statistical method to determine the probability of a star showing radial velocity variations based on the whole inhomogeneous radial velocity sample. Using HST photometry and an advanced dynamical MOCCA simulation of this specific cluster we overcome observational biases that previous spectroscopic studies had to deal with. This allows us to infer a binary frequency in the MUSE field of view and enables us to deduce the underlying true binary frequency of (6.75 ± 0.72)% in NGC 3201. The comparison of the MUSE observations with the MOCCA simulation suggests a large portion of primordial binaries. We can also confirm a radial increase in the binary fraction towards the cluster centre due to mass segregation. We discovered that in the core of NGC 3201 at least (57.5 ± 7.9)% of blue straggler stars are in a binary system. For the first time in a study of globular clusters, we were able to fit Keplerian orbits to a significant sample of 95 binaries. We present the binary system properties of eleven blue straggler stars and the connection to SX Phoenicis-type stars. We show evidence that two blue straggler formation scenarios, the mass transfer in binary (or triple) star systems and the coalescence due to binary-binary interactions, are present in our data. We also describe the binary and spectroscopic properties of four sub-subgiant (or red straggler) stars. Furthermore, we discovered two new black hole candidates with minimum masses (M sin i) of (7.68 ± 0.50) M⊙, (4.4 ± 2.8) M⊙, and refine the minimum mass estimate on the already published black hole to (4.53 ± 0.21) M⊙. These black holes are consistent with an extensive black hole subsystem hosted by NGC 3201.
Black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae powder as a larval diet ingredient for mass-rearing Aedes mosquitoes
Authors: Mamai Wadaka , Bimbilé Somda Nanwintoum Sévérin , Maiga Hamidou , Konczal Anna , Wallner Thomas , Bakhoum Mame Thierno , Yamada Hanano , Bouyer Jérémy
Published: September 2019

The mass production of mosquitoes is becoming more wide-spread due to the increased application of the sterile insect technique (SIT) and other genetic control programmes. Due to the variable availability and high cost of the bovine liver powder (BLP) constituent of many current larval diets, there is an urgent demand for new ingredients in order to support sustainable and efficient mosquito production while reducing rearing cost, without affecting the quality of the insects produced. Two black soldier fly (BSF) powder-based diet formulations (50% tuna meal, 35% BSF powder, 15% brewer’s yeast and 50% tuna meal + 50% BSF powder) were tested for their suitability to support the development of Aedes aegypti and Ae. albopictus mosquitoes in mass-rearing conditions. Overall, the results indicate that the use of the BSF powder did not negatively impact the development and quality of the produced insects in terms of time to pupation, adult production and male flight ability. Furthermore, depending on the species and diet formulations, there were improvements in some parameters such as female body size, egg production, egg hatch rate and male longevity. BSF powder is a valuable ingredient that can effectively replace costly BLP for the mass production of high quality Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus mosquitoes. Both diet formulations can be used for Ae. aegypti showing high plasticity to nutrition sources. However, for Ae. albopictus we recommend the combination including brewer’s yeast.
Ermächtigte Krankenhausärzte
Authors: Häser Isabel
Published: September 2019

Das Landessozialgericht Nordrhein-Westfalen (LSG NRW) bestätigt eine Entscheidung des Berufungsausschusses, der die Überweisungsbefugnis eines ermächtigten Arztes einschränkte (Urteil vom 14.11.2018, Az.: L 11 KA 50/17). Das Heranziehen seines bisherigen Überweisungsverhaltens für die Entscheidung ist nicht zu beanstanden.
Sonografie in der Rheumatologie
Authors: Löffler Christian , Hellmich Bernhard
Published: September 2019

Die Sonografie spielt in der rheumatologischen Diagnostik neben Anamnese, körperlicher Untersuchung und Labor eine zentrale Rolle. In der Klinik ermöglicht die rasche Verfügbarkeit der Sonografie eine zeitnahe Diagnostik bei unterschiedlichen Fragestellungen in der Rheumatologie und liefert durch die Möglichkeit dynamischer Untersuchungen zusätzliche Informationen, welche gegebenenfalls andere bildgebende Verfahren ergänzen.

Die Arthrosonografie grenzt nicht nur entzündliche von nicht entzündlichen Gelenkpathologien ab, sie ist auch in der Lage, Aussagen über das quantitative Maß der Entzündungsaktivität, den Remissionsstatus einer Erkrankung, das Vorliegen erosiver Knochenveränderungen und in vielen Fällen auch über die ätiologische Einordnung der Entität zu machen. Neben der Beurteilung von Synovia und Bursen erlaubt der muskuloskelettale Ultraschall auch eine Beurteilung von Sehnen und Enthesen.

Bei der Diagnostik von Großgefäßvaskulitiden wie der Riesenzellarteriitis ermöglicht der vaskuläre Ultraschall eine direkte Visualisierung der Gefäßwandentzündung und trägt damit entscheidend zur raschen Diagnosestellung und Ausbreitungsdiagnostik bei.

Bei der Abklärung von Sicca-Symptomen können über den Nachweis B-Bild-morphologischer Veränderungen des Speicheldrüsenparenchyms Patienten mit primärem Sjögren-Syndrom rasch identifiziert werden.

Der rheumatologische Ultraschall ist aus der Diagnostik bei entzündlichen Systemerkrankungen nicht mehr wegzudenken. Die zunehmende Standardisierung von Durchführung, Befunden und Grenzwerten, die durch die Outcome Measures in Rheumatology (OMERACT) Task Force der European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) vorangetrieben wird, wird in Zukunft zu noch mehr diagnostischer Validität und Vergleichbarkeit beitragen.