bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Global Gene Expression Analysis in an in vitro Fibroblast Model of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis Reveals Potential Role for CXCL14/CXCR4
Authors: Rodriguez Luis R. , Emblom-Callahan Margaret , Chhina Mantej , Bui Sarah , Aljeburry Bilal , Tran Luc H. , Novak Rebecca , Lemma Merte , Nathan Steven D. , Grant Geraldine M.
Published: February 2018

Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive disorder that is marked by an over accumulation of activated fibroblast populations. Despite the improved understanding of many mechanisms within this disease, global gene expression analysis has few focused studies on the fibroblast, the central effector cell of progressive fibrosis. We present a unique analysis of IPF pulmonary fibroblasts as they transition through cell culture and identify in vitro altered cellular processes. Fibroblasts were isolated from diseased (n = 8) and non-diseased (n = 4) lungs. Global gene expression analysis was carried out at the initial point of isolation and after 3 weeks of culture. We identify several genes that are altered by removal of the fibroblast from the IPF environment. Comparison of this subset of genes to four previously published whole lung analyses refined our list to a small subset of key fibroblast specific genes important in IPF. Application of STRING database analysis and confirmation via in-vitro and histological assay highlights the CXCL14/CXCR4 chemokine axis with a possible role in the progression and/or activation of fibroblasts within the IPF lung. Our findings, present a possible therapeutic target for IPF and a model for the study and discovery of novel protein and processes in this terrible disease.
First detection of a Sesamia nonagrioides resistance allele to Bt maize in Europe
Authors: Camargo Ana M. , Andow David A. , Castañera Pedro , Farinós Gema P.
Published: February 2018

The Ebro Valley (Spain) is the only hotspot area in Europe where resistance evolution of target pests to Cry1Ab protein is most likely, owing to the high and regular adoption of Bt maize (>60%). The high-dose/refuge (HDR) strategy was implemented to delay resistance evolution, and to be effective it requires the frequency of resistance alleles to be very low (<0.001). An F2 screen was performed in 2016 to estimate the frequency of resistance alleles in Sesamia nonagrioides from this area and to evaluate if the HDR strategy is still working effectively. Out of the 137 isofemale lines screened on Cry1Ab maize leaf tissue, molted larvae and extensive feeding were observed for two consecutive generations in one line, indicating this line carried a resistance allele. The frequency of resistance alleles in 2016 was 0.0036 (CI 95% 0.0004–0.0100), higher but not statistically different from the value obtained in 2004–2005. Resistance does not seem to be evolving faster than predicted by a S. nonagrioides resistance evolution model, but the frequency of resistance is now triple the value recommended for an effective implementation of the HDR strategy. Owing to this, complementary measures should be considered to further delay resistance evolution in the Ebro Valley.
Modulation of miRNA expression in aged rat hippocampus by buttermilk and krill oil
Authors: Crespo M. Carmen , Tomé-Carneiro Joao , Gómez-Coronado Diego , Burgos-Ramos Emma , García-Serrano Alba , Martín-Hernández Roberto , Baliyan Shishir , Fontecha Javier , Venero César , Dávalos Alberto , Visioli Francesco
Published: February 2018

The increasing incidence of age-induced cognitive decline justifies the search for complementary ways of prevention or delay. We studied the effects of concentrates of phospholipids, sphingolipids, and/or 3-n fatty acids on the expression of genes or miRNAs related to synaptic activity and/or neurodegeneration, in the hippocampus of aged Wistar rats following a 3-month supplementation. The combination of two phospholipidic concentrates of krill oil (KOC) and buttermilk (BMFC) origin modulated the hippocampal expression of 119 miRNAs (11 were common to both BMFC and BMFC + KOC groups). miR-191a-5p and miR-29a-3p changed significantly only in the BMFC group, whereas miR-195-3p and miR-148a-5p did so only in the combined-supplemented group. Thirty-eight, 58, and 72 differentially expressed genes (DEG) were found in the groups supplemented with KOC, BMFC and BMFC + KOC, respectively. Interaction analysis unveiled networks of selected miRNAs with their potential target genes. DEG found in the KOC and BMFC groups were mainly involved in neuroactive processes, whereas they were associated with lysosomes and mRNA surveillance pathways in the BMFC + KOC group. We also report a significant reduction in hippocampal ceramide levels with BMFC + KOC. Our results encourage additional in-depth investigations regarding the potential beneficial effects of these compounds.
Lactobacillus rossiae strain isolated from sourdough produces putrescine from arginine
Authors: del Rio Beatriz , Alvarez-Sieiro Patricia , Redruello Begoña , Martin María Cruz , Fernandez María , Ladero Victor , Alvarez Miguel A.
Published: February 2018

This work reports a Lactobacillus rossiae strain (L. rossiae D87) isolated from sourdough that synthesizes putrescine - a biogenic amine that raises food safety and spoilage concerns - from arginine via the ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) pathway. The odc and potE genes were identified and sequenced. These genes respectively encode ornithine decarboxylase (Odc), which participates in the decarboxylation of ornithine to putrescine, and the ornithine/putrescine exchanger (PotE), which exchanges ornithine for putrescine. Transcriptional analysis showed that odc and potE form an operon that is regulated transcriptionally by ornithine in a dose-dependent manner. To explore the possible role of the ODC pathway as an acid stress resistance mechanism for this bacterium, the effect of acidic pHs on its transcriptional regulation and on putrescine biosynthesis was analysed. Acidic pHs induced the transcription of the odc-potE genes and the production of putrescine over that seen at neutral pH. Further, putrescine production via the ODC system improved the survival of L. rossiae D87 by counteracting the acidification of the cytoplasm when the cells were subjected to acidic conditions. These results suggest the ODC pathway of L. rossiae D87 provides a biochemical defence mechanism against acidic environments.
Disturbance-Disturbance uncertainty relation: The statistical distinguishability of quantum states determines disturbance
Authors: Benítez Rodríguez E. , Arévalo Aguilar L. M.
Published: February 2018

The Heisenberg uncertainty principle, which underlies many quantum key features, is under close scrutiny regarding its applicability to new scenarios. Using both the Bell-Kochen-Specker theorem establishing that observables do not have predetermined values before measurements and the measurement postulate of quantum mechanics, we propose that in order to describe the disturbance produced by the measurement process, it is convenient to define disturbance by the changes produced on quantum states. Hence, we propose to quantify disturbance in terms of the square root of the Jensen-Shannon entropy distance between the probability distributions before and after the measurement process. Additionally, disturbance and statistical distinguishability of states are fundamental concepts of quantum mechanics that have thus far been unrelated; however, we show that they are intermingled thereupon we enquire into whether the statistical distinguishability of states, caused by statistical fluctuations in the measurement outcomes, is responsible for the disturbance’s magnitude.
Analysis of the oligomeric states of nucleophosmin using size exclusion chromatography
Authors: Sakashita Gyosuke , Kiyoi Hitoshi , Naoe Tomoki , Urano Takeshi
Published: February 2018

Nucleophosmin (NPM1) is a multifunctional phosphoprotein which plays important roles in diverse biological processes. NPM1 can form homo- or hetero-oligomers through its N-terminal region, and bind DNA and RNA through its C-terminal region. However, the monomer-oligomer distribution of NPM1, and the extent of NPM1 binding and unbinding to RNA in living cells, are not fully understood. In this work, we analysed molecular complexes of NPM1 using size exclusion chromatography. We found that a substantial fraction of NPM1 behaves as an oligomer in HeLa cells. Furthermore, we identified three distinct oligomeric states of NPM1 using molecular characterization techniques such as subcellular localization and RNA binding. Finally, we found that heterozygous expression of a leukemia-associated NPM1 mutant significantly decreases the RNA binding level. Our data demonstrate that size exclusion chromatography provides a powerful tool for analysing NPM1 oligomers.
Negative soil moisture-precipitation feedback in dry and wet regions
Authors: Yang Lingbin , Sun Guoqing , Zhi Lu , Zhao Jianjun
Published: February 2018

Soil moisture-precipitation (SM-P) feedback significantly influences the terrestrial water and energy cycles. However, the sign of the feedback and the associated physical mechanism have been debated, leaving a research gap regarding global water and climate changes. Based on Koster’s framework, we estimate SM-P feedback using satellite remote sensing and ground observation data sets. Methodologically, the sign of the feedback is identified by the correlation between monthly soil moisture and next-month precipitation. The physical mechanism is investigated through coupling precipitation and soil moisture (P-SM), soil moisture ad evapotranspiration (SM-E) and evapotranspiration and precipitation (E-P) correlations. Our results demonstrate that although positive SM-P feedback is predominant over land, non-negligible negative feedback occurs in dry and wet regions. Specifically, 43.75% and 40.16% of the negative feedback occurs in the arid and humid climate zones. Physically, negative SM-P feedback depends on the SM-E correlation. In dry regions, evapotranspiration change is soil moisture limited. In wet regions, evapotranspiration change is energy limited. We conclude that the complex SM-E correlation results in negative SM-P feedback in dry and wet regions, and the cause varies based on the environmental and climatic conditions.
In vivo imaging of T cell lymphoma infiltration process at the colon
Authors: Ueda Yoshibumi , Ishiwata Toshiyuki , Shinji Seiichi , Arai Tomio , Matsuda Yoko , Aida Junko , Sugimoto Naotoshi , Okazaki Toshiro , Kikuta Junichi , Ishii Masaru , Sato Moritoshi
Published: February 2018

The infiltration and proliferation of cancer cells in the secondary organs are of great interest, since they contribute to cancer metastasis. However, cancer cell dynamics in the secondary organs have not been elucidated at single-cell resolution. In the present study, we established anin vivomodel using two-photon microscopy to observe how infiltrating cancer cells form assemblages from single T-cell lymphomas, EL4 cells, in the secondary organs. Using this model, after inoculation of EL4 cells in mice, we discovered that single EL4 cells infiltrated into the colon. In the early stage, sporadic elongated EL4 cells became lodged in small blood vessels. Real-time imaging revealed that, whereas more than 70% of EL4 cells did not move during a 1-hour observation, other EL4 cells irregularly moved even in small vessels and dynamically changed shape upon interacting with other cells. In the late stages, EL4 cells formed small nodules composed of several EL4 cells in blood vessels as well as crypts, suggesting the existence of diverse mechanisms of nodule formation. The presentin vivoimaging system is instrumental to dissect cancer cell dynamics during metastasis in other organs at the single-cell level.
Generation and characterization of a hypothyroidism rat model with truncated thyroid stimulating hormone receptor
Authors: Yang Jianqiang , Yi Ning , Zhang Junhui , He Wen , He Di , Wu Wanwan , Xu Shuyang , Li Feng , Fan Guoping , Zhu Xianmin , Xue Zhigang , Zhou Wensheng
Published: February 2018

Thyroid stimulating hormone receptor (TSHR), a G-protein-coupled receptor, is important for thyroid development and growth. In several cases, frameshift and/or nonsense mutations in TSHR were found in the patients with congenital hypothyroidism (CH), however they have not been functionally studied in an animal model. In the present work, we generated a unique Tshr
Df/Df
rat model that recapitulates the phenotypes in TSHR Y444X patient by CRISPR/Cas genome editing technology. In this rat model, TSHR is truncated at the second transmembrane domain, leading to CH phenotypes as what was observed in the patients, including dwarf, thyroid aplasia, infertility, TSH resistant as well as low serum thyroid hormone levels. The phenotypes can be reversed, at least partially, by levothyroxine (L-T4) treatment after weaning. The thyroid development is severely impaired in the Tshr
Df/Df
rats due to the suppression of the thyroid specific genes, i.e., thyroperoxidase (Tpo), thyroglobulin (Tg) and sodium iodide symporter (Nis), at both mRNA and protein levels. In conclusion, the Tshr
Df/Df
rat serves as a brand new genetic model to study CH in human, and will greatly help to shed light into the development of terminal organs that are sensitive to thyroid hormones.
The potential role of land cover on secular changes of the hydroclimate of Peninsular Florida
Authors: Misra Vasubandhu , Mishra Akhilesh , Bhardwaj Amit , Viswanathan Krishnan , Schmutz Dan
Published: February 2018

The seasonal cycle of Peninsular Florida rainfall is a robust feature that has monsoon like seasonality. We objectively define the onset, demise, and length of the wet seasons over the time period of 1948–2006 in Peninsular Florida based on daily rainfall from the Climate Prediction Center of the National Centers for Environmental Prediction. This definition defines onset (demise) of the wet season of Peninsular Florida as the first day the daily accumulated precipitation anomaly reaches a minimum (maximum) for the year at a given grid point. A discernible linear trend of later onset, earlier demise, and a resulting shorter length of the wet season in urban areas relative to the rural areas is observed. The wet season accumulation of rainfall, however, does not reveal a proportional change in the linear trend implying a perceptible contrast of comparatively higher (lower) linear trend of the daily rain rate of the wet season over urban (rural) areas of Peninsular Florida.
An electrochemiluminescent sensor based on functionalized conjugated polymer dots for the ultrasensitive detection of Cu2+
Authors: Luo Jin-Hua , Cheng Dan , Li Pei-Xuan , Yao Yuan , Chen Shi-Hong , Yuan Ruo , Xu Wen-Ju
Published: February 2018

An ultrasensitive electrochemiluminescence (ECL) detection for Cu2+ was explored using the carboxyl functionalized poly(9,9-dioctylfluorenyl-2,7-diyl) (PS-COOH-co-PFO) dots as the signal label without adding any coreactant.
Formation of a nanobubble and its effect on the structural ordering of water in a CH4–N2–CO2–H2O mixture
Authors: Kaur Surinder Pal , Sujith K. S. , Ramachandran C. N.
Published: February 2018

The replacement of methane (CH4) from its hydrate by a mixture of nitrogen (N2) and carbon dioxide (CO2) involves the dissociation of methane hydrate leading to the formation of a CH4–N2–CO2–H2O mixture that can significantly influence the subsequent steps of the replacement process.
A unifying view of the broad-spectrum antiviral activity of RSAD2 (viperin) based on its radical-SAM chemistry
Authors: Honarmand Ebrahimi Kourosh
Published: February 2018

A unifying model for the broad-spectrum antiviral activity of a metalloenzyme of the inborn immune system named RSAD2 (viperin) is proposed based on the radical-SAM catalytic activity of the enzyme.
Metal- and catalyst-free, one-pot, three-component synthesis of propargylamines in magnetized water: experimental aspects and molecular dynamics simulation
Authors: Bakherad Mohammad , Moosavi Fatemeh , Doosti Rahele , Keivanloo Ali , Gholizadeh Mostafa
Published: February 2018

Multi-component reactions of aldehydes, amines, and alkynes in magnetized water as a green-promoting medium.
Experimental and theoretical study of the inclusion complexes of epinephrine with β-cyclodextrin, 18-crown-6 and cucurbit[7]uril
Authors: Al-Burtomani Suad K. S. , Suliman FakhrEldin O.
Published: February 2018

Experimental and molecular dynamics techniques suggested that stable complexes of epinephrine with 18C6, βCD and CB7 might enhance aggregation.
Following the electrons: peculiarities in the catalytic cycles of radical SAM enzymes
Authors: Ruszczycky Mark W. , Zhong Aoshu , Liu Hung-wen
Published: February 2018

Electrons do not always go where you expect them to in the catalytic cycles of radical SAM enzymes. Herein, a number of examples are considered along with potential avenues for future investigation.
A novel preparation method for ZnO/γ-Al2O3 nanofibers with enhanced absorbability and improved photocatalytic water-treatment performance by Ag nanoparticles
Authors: Cheng Zhiqiang , Zhao Shengzhe , Han Lihao
Published: February 2018

A novel method for synthesizing ZnO/γ-Al2O3 nanofibers by electrospinning and subsequent calcination is reported.
Unexpected visible light driven photocatalytic activity without cocatalysts and sacrificial reagents from a (GaN)1–x(ZnO)x solid solution synthesized at high pressure over the entire composition range
Authors: Dharmagunawardhane H. A. Naveen , James Alwin , Wu Qiyuan , Woerner William R. , Palomino Robert M. , Sinclair Alexandra , Orlov Alexander , Parise John B.
Published: February 2018

(GaN)1–x(ZnO)x synthesized at high pressure produces H2 in the presence of visible light without any cocatalysts or sacrificial reagents.
The surface chemical composition effect of a polyacrylic acid/polyvinyl alcohol nanofiber/quartz crystal microbalance sensor on ammonia sensing behavior
Authors: Hu Ying , Yu Hui , Yan Zhiyong , Ke Qinfei
Published: February 2018

Polyacrylic acid (PAA)/polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)-based quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) ammonia sensors were fabricated by depositing composite PAA/PVA nanofibrous substrates onto QCM gold electrodes.
Stability of polymeric separators in lithium metal batteries in a low voltage environment
Authors: Li Xing , Tao Jinhui , Hu Dehong , Engelhard Mark H. , Zhao Wengao , Zhang Ji-Guang , Xu Wu
Published: February 2018

Separators can largely affect the coulombic efficiency and cycling stability of lithium metal anode, especially when using the LiPF6 electrolyte.
An aptamer@AuNP-modified POSS–polyethylenimine hybrid affinity monolith with a high aptamer coverage density for sensitive and selective recognition of ochratoxin A
Authors: Yu Xia , Song Hongliang , Huang Jing , Chen Yongxuan , Dai Ming , Lin Xucong , Xie Zenghong
Published: February 2018

A new POSS-based aptamer affinity hybrid monolith, Apt@AuNPs@POSS–PEI, with a well-controlled 3D skeletal structure and a high aptamer coverage density of up to 1413 pmol μL−1 has been facilely fabricated.
Circularly polarized photoluminescence and Hanle effect measurements of spin relaxation in organic–inorganic hybrid perovskite films
Authors: Wang Ruizhi , Hu Shu , Yang Xiao , Yan Xiaoliang , Li Heng , Sheng ChuanXiang
Published: February 2018

Partial circularly polarized photoluminescence with polarization degree of 2% from CH3NH3PbBr3 film at 77 K is observed, excited using a circularly polarized 532 nm laser. Moreover, the Hanle effect is measured to study spin relaxation in CH3NH3PbBr3 film, yielding a spin lifetime of ∼240 ps at 77 K.
Ternary nanocomposites of Au/CuS/TiO2 for an ultrasensitive photoelectrochemical non-enzymatic glucose sensor
Authors: Wang Yanfeng , Bai Lei , Wang Yonglan , Qin Dongdong , Shan Duoliang , Lu Xiaoquan
Published: February 2018

Ternary nanocomposites of Au/CuS/TiO2 hybrid arrays were prepared for the fabrication of an ultrasensitive photoelectrochemical non-enzymatic glucose sensor.
The effect of geometric isomerism on the anticancer activity of the monofunctional platinum complextrans-[Pt(NH3)2(phenanthridine)Cl]NO3
Authors: Zhou Wen , Almeqdadi Mohammad , Xifaras Michael E. , Riddell Imogen A. , Yilmaz Ömer H. , Lippard Stephen J.
Published: February 2018

Thetrans-DDP based phenanthridine Pt(ii) complex displays significant antitumor properties, with a different spectrum of activity than that of classic bifunctional cross-linking agents like cisplatin.
Assembly–disassembly switching of self-sorted nanotubules forming dynamic 2-D porous heterostructure
Authors: Liu Xin , Li Huichang , Kim Yongju , Lee Myongsoo
Published: February 2018

Self-sorted tubules and sheets are reversibly merged into 2-D porous heterostructure in response to a pH change.
A photo-responsive macroscopic switch constructed using a chiral azo-calix[4]arene functionalized silicon surface
Authors: Pang Huan , Xu Pingping , Li Chonglu , Zhan Yibei , Zhang Zengyuan , Zhang Wanshu , Yang Guangfu , Sun Yao , Li Haibing
Published: February 2018

A photo-responsive macroscopic switch was fabricated using a chiral azo-calix[4]arene derivative (FC4AD) functionalized silicon surface and exhibited selective and reversible recognition of (1R,2S)-1-amino-2-indanol through the variation of wettability.
A new metal–organic framework constructed from cationic nodes and cationic linkers for highly efficient anion exchange
Authors: Zhou Mi , Ju Zhanfeng , Yuan Daqiang
Published: February 2018

A novel cationic MOF combining cationic nodes with cationic linkers has been constructed. With its unique structural features, this MOF is highly efficient in anion exchangeability.
Local chemistry of the surfactant's head groups determines protein stability in reverse micelles
Authors: Senske Michael , Xu Yao , Bäumer Alexander , Schäfer Sarah , Wirtz Hanna , Savolainen Janne , Weingärtner Hermann , Havenith Martina
Published: February 2018

Protein stability in reverse micelles is determined by local chemical interactions between the surfactant molecules and the protein groups.
Complexes of gold and imidazole formed in helium nanodroplets
Authors: Gatchell Michael , Goulart Marcelo , Kranabetter Lorenz , Kuhn Martin , Martini Paul , Rasul Bilal , Scheier Paul
Published: February 2018

We have studied complexes of gold atoms and imidazole (C3N2H4) produced in helium nanodroplets.
Charge behavior in a plasmonic photocatalyst composed of Au and TiO2
Authors: Kawamura G. , Arai T. , Muto H. , Matsuda A.
Published: February 2018

Redox reaction sites on a Au nanoparticle-deposited TiO2 (Au/TiO2) plasmonic photocatalyst are visualized using a chemical microanalytical technique for investigating charge behaviors in Au/TiO2.
One-dimensional zirconium-doped titanate nanostructures for rapid and capacitive removal of multiple heavy metal ions from water
Authors: Zou Chen , Zhao Xiaojuan , Xu Yan
Published: February 2018

A novel, one-dimensional zirconium-doped titanate with a porous core and a textured surface of ultrafine nanofibers, exhibiting superior efficiency for rapid and simultaneous removal of multiple heavy metal ions.
Two new 3-D cadmium bromoplumbates: the only example of heterometallic bromoplumbate based on crown [Cd(Pb4O4)Br2] clusters
Authors: Xiao Hong , Zhou Jian , Liu Xing
Published: February 2018

This work provides the only example of 3-D heterometallic bromoplumbate based on the combination of heterometallic crown [Cd(Pb4O4)Br2] clusters and dimeric [Pb2Br4] units.
1,1′-Binaphthyl-substituted diphosphene: synthesis, structures, and chiral optical properties
Authors: Tsurusaki Akihiro , Ura Rikako , Kamikawa Ken
Published: February 2018

The first chiral diphosphene with the 1,1′-binaphthyl group was synthesized and fully characterized.
Unified meso-pores and dense Cu2+ sites in porous coordination polymers for highly efficient gas storage and separation
Authors: Lyu Hongliang , Zhang Qiang , Wang Yang , Duan Jingui
Published: February 2018

Unified meso-pores and dense OMSs in PCPs allow high C2-hydrocarbon storage, as well as rapid and efficient C2H2/4 enrichment from CO2 mixtures at 298 K.
Determination of yttrium in titanium alloys using laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy assisted with laser-induced fluorescence
Authors: Shen M. , Li C. M. , Na D. , Hao Z. Q. , Li X. Y. , Guo L. B. , Lu Y. F. , Zeng X. Y.
Published: February 2018

The enhanced spectral line of Y II 417.75 nm with an excitation laser working at 378.87 nm and its calibration curve.
Highly dispersed Ni–Mn bimetallic nanoparticles embedded in 3D nitrogen-doped graphene as an efficient catalyst for the thermal decomposition of ammonium perchlorate
Authors: Hosseini Seyed Ghorban , Gholami Setareh , Mahyari Mojtaba
Published: February 2018

The development of efficient thermal decomposition of ammonium perchlorate (AP) to improve the combustion behavior of propellants is a vital research topic.
Synthesis and photophysical properties of BODIPY-decorated graphene quantum dot–phthalocyanine conjugates
Authors: Nwahara Nnamdi , Nkhahle Reitumetse , Ngoy Bokolombe P. , Mack John , Nyokong Tebello
Published: February 2018

A BODIPY dye is linked to graphene quantum dots followed by immobilization of a Zn phthalocyanineviaπ–π stacking, resulting in improved triplet and singlet oxygen quantum yields.
Blue thermally activated delayed fluorescence emitters with a δ-pyridoindole donor moiety
Authors: Youn Kyu Man , Ahn Dae Hyun , Kim Gyeong Heon , Karthik Durai , Lee Ju Young , Kwon Jang Hyuk
Published: February 2018

Blue TADF emitters with δ-carboline as the donor.
Biocatalysis with the milk protein β-lactoglobulin: promoting retroaldol cleavage of α,β-unsaturated aldehydes
Authors: Gowda Vishruth , Foley Brendan , Du Jasmine , Esteb Megan , Watanabe Coran M. H.
Published: February 2018

The milk protein BLG catalyzes retro-aldol cleavage of α,β-unsaturated aldehydes. Use of a cyclodimerization inhibitor enhances the reaction rate.
Correction: High-efficiency ultrapure green organic light-emitting diodes
Authors: Fukagawa Hirohiko , Oono Taku , Iwasaki Yukiko , Hatakeyama Takuji , Shimizu Takahisa
Published: February 2018

Correction for ‘High-efficiency ultrapure green organic light-emitting diodes’ by Hirohiko Fukagawa et al., Mater. Chem. Front., 2018, DOI: 10.1039/c7qm00588a.
Synthesis and characterisation of Ba(Zn1−xCox)2Si2O7 (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.50) for blue-violet inorganic pigments
Authors: Tsukimori Takashi , Shobu Yusuke , Oka Ryohei , Masui Toshiyuki
Published: February 2018

Ba(Zn1−xCox)2Si2O7 (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.50) solid solutions were synthesized as blue-violet inorganic pigments and the colour gradually changed from pale blue-violet to deep blue-violet with increasing the Co2+ concentration.
One-step growth of nitrogen-decorated iron–nickel sulfide nanosheets for the oxygen evolution reaction
Authors: Jin Yanshuo , Yue Xin , Du Hongyu , Wang Kai , Huang Shangli , Shen Pei Kang
Published: February 2018

The large overpotential loss of the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is a major obstacle restricting the wide commercial application of water-splitting devices.
In vivo studies on the mechanism of methylene cyclopropyl acetic acid and methylene cyclopropyl glycine-induced hypoglycemia
Authors: Qiu Yang , Perry Rachel J. , Camporez João-Paulo G. , Zhang Xian-Man , Kahn Mario , Cline Gary W. , Shulman Gerald I. , Vatner Daniel F.
Published: February 2018

Exposure to the toxins methylene cyclopropyl acetic acid (MCPA) and methylene cyclopropyl glycine (MCPG) of unripe ackee and litchi fruit can lead to hypoglycemia and death; however, the molecular mechanisms by which MCPA and MCPG cause hypoglycemia have not been established in vivo. To determine the in vivo mechanisms of action of these toxins, we infused them into conscious rodents and assessed rates of hepatic gluconeogenesis and ketogenesis, hepatic acyl-CoA and hepatic acetyl-CoA content, and hepatocellular energy charge. MCPG suppressed rates of hepatic β-oxidation as reflected by reductions in hepatic ketogenesis, reducing both short- and medium-chain hepatic acyl-CoA concentrations. Hepatic acetyl-CoA content decreased, and hepatic glucose production was inhibited. MCPA also suppressed β-oxidation of short-chain acyl-CoAs, rapidly inhibiting hepatic ketogenesis and hepatic glucose production, depleting hepatic acetyl-CoA content and ATP content, while increasing other short-chain acyl-CoAs. Utilizing a recently developed positional isotopomer NMR tracer analysis method, we demonstrated that MCPA-induced reductions in hepatic acetyl-CoA content were associated with a marked reduction of hepatic pyruvate carboxylase (PC) flux. Taken together, these data reveal the in vivo mechanisms of action of MCPA and MCPG: the hypoglycemia associated with ingestion of these toxins can be ascribed mostly to MCPA- or MCPG-induced reductions in hepatic PC flux due to inhibition of β-oxidation of short-chain acyl-CoAs by MCPA or inhibition of both short- and medium-chain acyl-CoAs by MCPG with resultant reductions in hepatic acetyl-CoA content, with an additional contribution to hypoglycemia through reduced hepatic ATP stores by MCPA.
Interpreting Mini-Mental State Examination Performance in Highly Proficient Bilingual Spanish–English and Asian Indian–English Speakers: Demographic Adjustments, Item Analyses, and Supplemental Measures
Authors: Milman Lisa H. , Faroqi-Shah Yasmeen , Corcoran Chris D. , Damele Deanna M.
Published: February 2018

Purpose

Performance on the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), among the most widely used global screens of adult cognitive status, is affected by demographic variables including age, education, and ethnicity. This study extends prior research by examining the specific effects of bilingualism on MMSE performance.

Method

Sixty independent community-dwelling monolingual and bilingual adults were recruited from eastern and western regions of the United States in this cross-sectional group study. Independent sample
t
tests were used to compare 2 bilingual groups (Spanish–English and Asian Indian–English) with matched monolingual speakers on the MMSE, demographically adjusted MMSE scores, MMSE item scores, and a nonverbal cognitive measure. Regression analyses were also performed to determine whether language proficiency predicted MMSE performance in both groups of bilingual speakers.

Results

Group differences were evident on the MMSE, on demographically adjusted MMSE scores, and on a small subset of individual MMSE items. Scores on a standardized screen of language proficiency predicted a significant proportion of the variance in the MMSE scores of both bilingual groups.

Conclusions

Bilingual speakers demonstrated distinct performance profiles on the MMSE. Results suggest that supplementing the MMSE with a language screen, administering a nonverbal measure, and/or evaluating item-based patterns of performance may assist with test interpretation for this population.
Role of approximation wavelet coefficients in blind image deconvolution
Authors: Gao Qiong , Qu Weidong , Zhang Yanxiu , Ma Na , Lei Ping
Published: February 2018

The role of approximation coefficients (ACs) in blind image deconvolution (BID) is examined by restoring each sub‐band image individually in the wavelet domain, and excellent performance is achieved by an average strategy for the estimation of AC. The most important observation is that accurate deconvolution of AC is not necessary and some form of hybrid can reach a balance between sharpness and contrast. This finding leads to reappraising the common treatment of wavelet coefficients in deconvolution, which takes the coefficients in every sub‐band as a unity. It is argued that the AC of the blurred image can be regarded as a good approximation of the ‘true’ image with lower resolution. Wavelet transform of one level is preferred in the implementation and the difference between the method and common multiscale approach is stressed. With specific treatment of AC, the proposed method can be combined with many other BID algorithms to improve deconvolution performance.
Testing the accuracy of reflection-based supermassive black hole spin measurements in AGN
Authors: Kammoun E. S. , Nardini E. , Risaliti G.
Published: February 2018

Context. X-ray reflection is a very powerful method to assess the spin of supermassive black holes (SMBHs) in active galactic nuclei (AGN), yet this technique is not universally accepted. Indeed, complex reprocessing (absorption, scattering) of the intrinsic spectra along the line of sight can mimic the relativistic effects on which the spin measure is based.

Aims. In this work, we test the reliability of SMBH spin measurements that can currently be achieved through the simulations of high-quality XMM-Newton and NuSTAR spectra.

Methods. Each member of our group simulated ten spectra with multiple components that are typically seen in AGN, such as warm and (partial-covering) neutral absorbers, relativistic and distant reflection, and thermal emission. The resulting spectra were blindly analysed by the other two members.

Results. Out of the 60 fits, 42 turn out to be physically accurate when compared to the input model. The SMBH spin is retrieved with success in 31 cases, some of which (9) are even found among formally inaccurate fits (although with looser constraints). We show that, at the high signal-to-noise ratio assumed in our simulations, neither the complexity of the multi-layer, partial-covering absorber nor the input value of the spin are the major drivers of our results. The height of the X-ray source (in a lamp-post geometry) instead plays a crucial role in recovering the spin. In particular, a success rate of 16 out of 16 is found among the accurate fits for a dimensionless spin parameter larger than 0.8 and a lamp-post height lower than five gravitational radii.
Synthesis of Monobactams via the Diastereoselective Kinugasa Reaction
Authors: Kabala Kamil , Grzeszczyk Barbara , Furman Bartłomiej , Chmielewski Marek , Solecka Jolanta , Guśpiel Adam
Published: February 2018

The Kinugasa reaction between phthalimidoacetylene and cyclic nitrones derived from l-phenylglycine or l-serine and glyoxylic acid­, catalyzed by copper(I) chloride in the presence of triethylamine, is reported. The acetylene molecule approaches the nitrone exclusively anti to the bulky substituent next to the nitrogen atom to provide the cis-substituted β-lactam ring preferentially. The six-membered oxazinone ring can be easily opened, the phthaloyl residue can be transformed into a Boc protecting group, and substituents at the C-4 carbon atom and the nitrogen atom of the β-lactam ring can be easily removed or transformed into groups suitable for further synthesis of a variety of monobactam structures. Selected synthesized compounds were evaluated for their biological activity, showing interesting properties.
Sensitivity of a Simple Noninvasive Screening Algorithm for Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension after Acute Pulmonary Embolism
Authors: Ende-Verhaar Yvonne , Ruigrok Dieuwertje , Bogaard Harm Jan , Huisman Menno , Meijboom Lilian , Vonk Noordegraaf Anton , Klok Frederikus
Published: February 2018

Background Recently, we constructed a noninvasive screening algorithm aiming at earlier chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) detection after acute pulmonary embolism (PE), consisting of a prediction score and combined electrocardiography (ECG)/N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) assessment. The aim of this study was to confirm the algorithm's sensitivity for CTEPH detection and to evaluate the reproducibility of its individual items.

Methods Two independent researchers calculated the prediction score in 54 consecutive patients with a history of acute PE and proven CTEPH based on clinical characteristics at PE diagnosis, and evaluated the ECG and NT-proBNP level assessed at the moment of CTEPH diagnosis. Interobserver agreement for the assessment of the prediction score, right-to-left ventricle (RV/LV) ratio measurement on computed tomography pulmonary angiography, as well as ECG reading was evaluated by calculating Cohen's kappa statistics.

Results Median time between PE diagnosis and presentation with CTEPH was 9 months (interquartile range: 5–15). The sensitivity of the algorithm was found to be 91% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 79–97%), indicating that 27 of 30 cases of CTEPH would have been detected when applying the screening algorithm to 1,000 random PE survivors with a 3% CTEPH incidence (projected negative predictive value: 99.7%; 95% CI: 99.1–99.9%). The interobserver agreement for calculating the prediction score, RV/LV ratio measurement, and ECG reading was excellent with a kappa of 0.96, 0.95, and 0.89, respectively.

Conclusion The algorithm had a high sensitivity of 91% and was highly reproducible. Prospective validation of the algorithm in consecutive PE patients is required before it can be used in clinical practice.
Neuerungen in Diagnostik, Therapie und Nachsorge
Authors: Schmale Dr.
Published: February 2018

Unter dem Motto “Urologie. Für alle. Für jeden. Für uns.” tagten Deutschlands Urologen in Dresden. An der weltweit drittgrößten urologischen Fachtagung nahmen rund 6500 internationale Teilnehmer teil. Kongresspräsident Prof. Tilman Kälble, Fulda, verwies auf die Neuerungen in Diagnostik und Therapie aller urologischen Tumoren als einen Schwerpunkt des Kongresses. Der Stellenwert der Nachsorge bei urologischen Therapien wurde in einer eigens für dieses Thema reservierten Sitzung deutlich.
Die Versorgungslandschaft in der Psychoonkologie
Authors: Hornemann B. , Bruns G. , Petermann-Meyer A. , Singer S.
Published: February 2018

Gegenstand und Ziel: Ziel dieser Arbeit ist die Darstellung der aktuellen Versorgungsstrukturen für Krebs-Patienten mit psychosozialen Belastungen.

Methoden: Literaturrecherche für die Versorgungssektoren (stationär, ambulant, sektorenübergreifend) und Einholung von Expertenwissen

Ergebnisse: Psychoonkologische Versorgung steht in allen Versorgungsbereichen für die Patienten, ihre Angehörigen und Hinterbliebenen zur Verfügung, jedoch nicht immer flächendeckend. Vor allem im ambulanten Bereich und im ländlichen Raum gibt es noch erhebliche Versorgungslücken. Die Arbeit der Krebsberatungsstellen ist durch mangelnde Regelfinanzierung nicht sichergestellt. Im stationären Bereich können Leistungen zwar dokumentiert werden, sind jedoch auch nicht erlösrelevant, sodass die Versorgung nur über das freiwillige Zertifizierungssystem gesichert ist. Eine wichtige Hürde zur Inanspruchnahme besteht darin, dass Patienten nicht über die vorhandenen Angebote informiert sind. Sie wünschen sich häufig, dass ihr Arzt ihnen empfiehlt, dass sie Unterstützung in Anspruch nehmen sollten und ihnen sagt, wohin sie sich wenden können.

Schlussfolgerungen: Die Versorgungssituation könnte noch weiter verbessert warden durch die Sicherstellung der Finanzierung und durch bessere Informierung der Patienten. Ärzte können ihren Patienten helfen, indem sie konkrete Empfehlungen zur Inanspruchnahme von psychoonkologischen Angeboten aussprechen.
Edoxaban ist Heparin nicht unterlegen
Authors: Susanne Krome
Published: February 2018

Für Patienten mit Tumorerkrankungen und venösem thromboembolischen Ereignis (VTE) empfehlen die Leitlinien für die Rezidivprophylaxe niedermolekulares Heparin. Über die langfristige Effektivität und Sicherheit direkter oraler Antikoagulanzien (DOAC) lagen bisher keine Untersuchungen vor. Die internationale HOKUSAI-Studie verglich deshalb Edoxaban und subkutanes Dalteparin bei Patienten mit Karzinom und thromboembolischer Komplikation.
Sidedness, Mutationsstatus und Prognose im Stadium III
Authors: Krome Susanne
Published: February 2018

Die unterschiedliche Embryogenese mit verschiedener Häufigkeit therapierelevanter Mutationen sind Gründe für die seitenabhängigen Verläufe metastasierter Kolonkarzinome im Stadium IV. Die PETACC-8-Studie analysierte die prognostische Relevanz der primären Tumorlokalisation bei Patienten im Stadium III unter Berücksichtigung des Mutationsprofils.
Langzeitbewährung neuer Chairside gefräster CAD/CAM-Hybridkeramiken – eine In-vitro-Studie im Kausimulator
Authors: Zierden Karina , Acar Johann , Rehmann Peter , Wöstmann Bernd
Published: February 2018

Ziel dieser In-vitro-Studie war es, das Abrasions- und Bruchverhalten von Chairside gefrästen Hybridkeramiken nach der künstlichen Alterung im Kausimulator zu untersuchen und mögliche Vor- und Nachteile gegenüber konventionellen Keramiken aufzuzeigen. Es kann gesagt werden, dass Materialien, die eine hohe Eigenabrasion (Lava Ultimate) aufwiesen, eine entsprechend geringere Abrasion am Antagonisten zeigten. Dies spielt bei Patienten die unter Parafunktion leiden, wie z. B. Bruxismus, eine wichtige Rolle bei der Auswahl des entsprechenden Restaurationsmaterials.
Naturheilkundliche Allergietherapie mit Spenglersan® Kolloiden – Relikt oder moderne Therapieoption?
Authors: Gruber Nicola
Published: February 2018

Allergische Erkrankungen nehmen in den Industrieländern stark zu. Als ursächlich gelten neben genetischer Disposition vor allem Umwelteinflüsse. Eine Schlüsselrolle spielen Erreger, diese können sowohl auslösendes als auch protektives Agens sein. Das Keimspektrum, mit dem sich das Immunsystem des Menschen heute auseinandersetzt, hat sich radikal verändert. Statt mit Seuchen wie Diphtherie oder Tuberkulose und einer Vielzahl ubiquitärer Keime kämpft es heute mit Schimmelpilz, Hausstaubmilben und jeder Menge Fremdstoffen. Die Veränderung der immunologischen Auseinandersetzung hat sichtbare und messbare Auswirkungen. Eine ganzheitliche Immuntherapie sollte deshalb die Bedeutung von Erregern für den Organismus berücksichtigen. Denn diese sind maßgeblich für die Entwicklung und den Erhalt eines gesunden Immunsystems verantwortlich.
Praktikabilität und Leistungsfähigkeit von E-Health-Anwendungen bei der Erhebung von Patient Reported Outcomes: Forschungsstand und -bedarf
Authors: Graf Joachim , Moreno Beatrice , Wallwiener Markus , Menzel Karina , Brucker Sara , Simoes Elisabeth
Published: February 2018

Ziel der Studie E-Health-basierte Technologien spielen auch bei der Erhebung von Patient Reported Outcomes (ePRO) eine zunehmende Rolle. Unklar bleibt jedoch, wie praktikabel und leistungsfähig E-Health-Anwendungen bei der Erhebung von PRO sind. Untersucht werden sollte daher, inwiefern die Voraussetzungen für den Einsatz von technikbasierten PRO-Instrumenten bereits erforscht sind, um einen breiten Einsatz in der „E-Health Welt“ zu erlauben. Konkret soll festgehalten werden, welcher Forschungstand zur Praktikabilität und Leistungsfähigkeit sowie zur technischen Umsetzung besteht. Weiterhin soll untersucht werden, wie sich die grundlegenden rechtliche Vorgaben zur Durchführung von PRO-Befragungen gestalten, und inwiefern die Herausforderungen von ePRO hier bereits Einklang gefunden haben.

Methodik Literaturstudie: Selektive Literaturrecherche in Pubmed sowie in den Datenbanken von DIMDI, G-BA, FDA und EMA.

Ergebnisse Der Forschungsstand zu Hürden, Akzeptanz und Nutzenbereitschaft in Abhängigkeit von soziodemografischen Faktoren, Gesundheitsstatus und Technikskills ist gering, ebenso zur technischen Umsetzung. Die Vorgaben für ePRO seitens der Normengeber beschränken sich nur auf die Zusammensetzung des Erhebungsinstruments und methodische Gütekriterien. Die Voraussetzungen für einen breiten Einsatz von ePRO zwecks Ausrichtens therapeutischer Maßnahmen sind bisher nicht gegeben.

Schlussfolgerung Die Vorgaben des Normengebers müssen spezifiziert und auf die Bedürfnisse von ePRO angepasst werden. Da die Gestaltung der Tool-Oberfläche und der Grad der Usability Einfluss auf das Antwortverhalten der Patienten nehmen können, sollten im Rahmen der Implementierung insbesondere die Reliabilität und die Validität von ePRO-Erhebungen in Relation zu das Antwortverhalten determinierenden Patienten-, Krankheits-, Fragebogen- und ePRO-spezifischen Variablen fokussiert und rechtlich fixiert werden, um die Aussagekraft von PRO-Erhebungen nicht zu gefährden.
Histone Deacetylase Inhibitor (Trapoxin A) Enhances Stemness Properties in Adipose Tissue Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Mousazadeh Leila , Alizadeh Effat , Zarghami Nosratollah , Hashemzadeh Shahryar , Aval Sedigheh , Hasanifard Leili , Herizchi Roya
Published: February 2018

Back ground Adipose tissue derived mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs) have unique potential for regenerative cell therapies. However, during ex-vivo cultivation, they undergo considerable quality loss regarding their phenotypic properties, stemness genes expression and differentiation potential. Recent studies reported that the loss of stemness properties of MSCs is a result of chromatin histone deacetylations through in-vitro cultivation. The present work aimed to study the effect of Trapoxin A (TPX) as a histone deacetylase inhibitor (HDACi) on overall stemness properties of ASCs.

Methods First, the effects of TPX treatments on ASCs viability and proliferation were evaluated using MTT assay. Second, the desired doses of TPX supporting ASCs proliferation were determined and the lack of their negative effects was confirmed by DAPI staining. In addition, the influence of TPX on cell cycle of ASCs and the mRNA levels of stemness genes were measured by flowcytometry and qPCR, respectively. Finally, the effect of TPX treatment on osteogenic potential of ASCs was studied.

Results The results indicated that short time TPX treatment (nM concentrations) caused stimulation of proliferation and considerable percentage of ASCs entered to S-phase of cell cycle (p<0.05). Moreover, the findings demonstrated significant up-regulation of stemness markers genes (Oct-4, Sox-2, Nanog, TERT, Klf-4, Rex-1) (p<0.05) and enhanced osteogenic differentiation potential of ASC after TPX treatment.

Conclusion The addition of low dose of TPX to the expansion medium could possibly enhance the stemness properties and prevent the quality decline of ex-vivo cultured ASCs.
Study on anisotropy of n-type Mg3Sb2-based thermoelectric materials
Authors: Song Shaowei , Mao Jun , Shuai Jing , Zhu Hangtian , Ren Zhensong , Saparamadu Udara , Tang Zhongjia , Wang Bo , Ren Zhifeng
Published: February 2018

The recent discovery of a high thermoelectric figure of merit (ZT) in an n-type Mg3Sb2-based Zintl phase triggered an intense research effort to pursue even higher ZT. Based on our previous report on Mg3.1Nb0.1Sb1.5Bi0.49Te0.01, we report here that partial texturing in the (001) plane is achieved by double hot pressing, which is further confirmed by the rocking curves of the (002) plane. The textured samples of Mg3.1Nb0.1Sb1.5Bi0.49Te0.01 show a much better average performance in the (00l) plane. Hall mobility is significantly improved to ∼105 cm2 V−1 s−1 at room temperature in the (00l) plane due to texturing, resulting in higher electrical conductivity, a higher power factor of ∼18 μW cm−1 K−2 at room temperature, and also higher average ZT. This work shows that texturing is good for higher thermoelectric performance, suggesting that single crystals of n-type Mg3Sb2-based Zintl compounds are worth pursuing.
Vibration influence on the onset of the longwave Marangoni instability in two-layer system
Authors: Fayzrakhmanova Irina S. , Nepomnyashchy Alexander A.
Published: February 2018

We study the longwave Marangoni convection in two-layer films under the influence of a low frequency vibration. A linear stability analysis is performed by means of the Floquet theory. A competition of subharmonic, synchronous, and quasiperiodic modes is considered. It has been found that the monotonic instability, which exists at constant gravity, is transformed into a synchronous instability, which is critical in a wide range of vibration amplitude. At parameters where oscillatory instability exists, the longwave quasiperiodic mode remains critical until a subharmonic mode becomes critical with the growth of the vibration amplitude.