bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
LATS1 but not LATS2 represses autophagy by a kinase-independent scaffold function
Authors: Tang Fengyuan , Gao Ruize , Jeevan-Raj Beena , Wyss Christof B. , Kalathur Ravi K. R. , Piscuoglio Salvatore , Ng Charlotte K. Y. , Hindupur Sravanth K. , Nuciforo Sandro , Dazert Eva , Bock Thomas , Song Shuang , Buechel David , Morini Marco F. , Hergovich Alexander , Matthias Patrick , Lim Dae-Sik , Terracciano Luigi M. , Heim Markus H. , Hall Michael N. , Christofori Gerhard
Published: December 2019

Autophagy perturbation represents an emerging therapeutic strategy in cancer. Although LATS1 and LATS2 kinases, core components of the mammalian Hippo pathway, have been shown to exert tumor suppressive activities, here we report a pro-survival role of LATS1 but not LATS2 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells. Specifically, LATS1 restricts lethal autophagy in HCC cells induced by sorafenib, the standard of care for advanced HCC patients. Notably, autophagy regulation by LATS1 is independent of its kinase activity. Instead, LATS1 stabilizes the autophagy core-machinery component Beclin-1 by promoting K27-linked ubiquitination at lysine residues K32 and K263 on Beclin-1. Consequently, ubiquitination of Beclin-1 negatively regulates autophagy by promoting inactive dimer formation of Beclin-1. Our study highlights a functional diversity between LATS1 and LATS2, and uncovers a scaffolding role of LATS1 in mediating a cross-talk between the Hippo signaling pathway and autophagy.
Structural basis of nucleosome assembly by the Abo1 AAA+ ATPase histone chaperone
Authors: Cho Carol , Jang Juwon , Kang Yujin , Watanabe Hiroki , Uchihashi Takayuki , Kim Seung Joong , Kato Koichi , Lee Ja Yil , Song Ji-Joon
Published: December 2019

The fundamental unit of chromatin, the nucleosome, is an intricate structure that requires histone chaperones for assembly. ATAD2 AAA+ ATPases are a family of histone chaperones that regulate nucleosome density and chromatin dynamics. Here, we demonstrate that the fission yeast ATAD2 homolog, Abo1, deposits histone H3–H4 onto DNA in an ATP-hydrolysis-dependent manner by in vitro reconstitution and single-tethered DNA curtain assays. We present cryo-EM structures of an ATAD2 family ATPase to atomic resolution in three different nucleotide states, revealing unique structural features required for histone loading on DNA, and directly visualize the transitions of Abo1 from an asymmetric spiral (ATP-state) to a symmetric ring (ADP- and apo-states) using high-speed atomic force microscopy (HS-AFM). Furthermore, we find that the acidic pore of ATP-Abo1 binds a peptide substrate which is suggestive of a histone tail. Based on these results, we propose a model whereby Abo1 facilitates H3–H4 loading by utilizing ATP.
Sensitivity of the global carbonate weathering carbon-sink flux to climate and land-use changes
Authors: Zeng Sibo , Liu Zaihua , Kaufmann Georg
Published: December 2019

The response of carbonate weathering carbon-sink flux (CCSF) to its environmental drivers is still not well understood on the global scale. This hinders understanding of the terrestrial carbon cycle. Here, we show that there is likely to be a widespread and consistent increase in the global CCSF (ranging from + 9.8% (RCP4.5) to + 17.1% (RCP8.5)) over the period 1950–2100. In the coming years the increasing temperature might be expected to have a negative impact on carbonate weathering. However, the increasing rainfall and anticipated land-use changes will counteract this, leading to a greater CCSF. This finding has been obtained by using long-term historical (1950–2005) and modeled future (2006–2100) data for two scenarios (RCP4.5 and RCP8.5) for climate and land-use change in our CCSF equilibrium model. This study stresses the potential role that carbonate weathering may play in the evolution of the global carbon cycle over this century.
Magneto-ionic control of spin polarization in multiferroic tunnel junctions
Authors: Wei Yingfen , Matzen Sylvia , Quinteros Cynthia P. , Maroutian Thomas , Agnus Guillaume , Lecoeur Philippe , Noheda Beatriz
Published: December 2019

Multiferroic tunnel junctions (MFTJs) with Hf0.5Zr0.5O2 barriers are reported to show both tunneling magnetoresistance effect (TMR) and tunneling electroresistance effect (TER), displaying four resistance states by magnetic and electric field switching. Here we show that, under electric field cycling of large enough magnitude, the TER can reach values as large as 106%. Moreover, concomitant with this TER enhancement, the devices develop electrical control of spin polarization, with sign reversal of the TMR effect. Currently, this intermediate state exists for a limited number of cycles and understanding the origin of these phenomena is key to improve its stability. The experiments presented here point to the magneto-ionic effect as the origin of the large TER and strong magneto-electric coupling, showing that ferroelectric polarization switching of the tunnel barrier is not the main contribution.
Profiling the effect of nafcillin on HA-MRSA D712 using bacteriological and physiological media
Authors: Rajput Akanksha , Poudel Saugat , Tsunemoto Hannah , Meehan Michael , Szubin Richard , Olson Connor A. , Lamsa Anne , Seif Yara , Dillon Nicholas , Vrbanac Alison , Sugie Joseph , Dahesh Samira , Monk Jonathan M. , Dorrestein Pieter C. , Knight Rob , Nizet Victor , Palsson Bernhard O. , Feist Adam M. , Pogliano Joe
Published: December 2019

Staphylococcus aureus strains have been continuously evolving resistance to numerous classes of antibiotics including methicillin, vancomycin, daptomycin and linezolid, compounding the enormous healthcare and economic burden of the pathogen. Cation-adjusted Mueller-Hinton broth (CA-MHB) is the standard bacteriological media for measuring antibiotic susceptibility in the clinical lab, but the use of media that more closely mimic the physiological state of the patient, e.g. mammalian tissue culture media, can in certain circumstances reveal antibiotic activities that may be more predictive of effectiveness in vivo. In the current study, we use both types of media to explore antibiotic resistance phenomena in hospital-acquired USA100 lineage methicillin-resistant, vancomycin-intermediate Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA/VISA) strain D712 via multidimensional high throughput analysis of growth rates, bacterial cytological profiling, RNA sequencing, and exo-metabolomics (HPLC and LC-MS). Here, we share data generated from these assays to shed light on the antibiotic resistance behavior of MRSA/VISA D712 in both bacteriological and physiological media.
Author Correction: Cartography of odor chemicals in the dengue vector mosquito (Aedes aegypti L., Diptera/Culicidae)
Authors: Wang Fengen , Delannay Christelle , Goindin Daniella , Deng Ligang , Guan Shuai , Lu Xiao , Fouque Florence , Vega-Rúa Anubis , Picimbon Jean-François
Published: December 2019

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Synergistic Effects of Hyperandrogenemia and Obesogenic Western-style Diet on Transcription and DNA Methylation in Visceral Adipose Tissue of Nonhuman Primates
Authors: Carbone Lucia , Davis Brett A. , Fei Suzanne S. , White Ashley , Nevonen Kimberly A. , Takahashi Diana , Vinson Amanda , True Cadence , Roberts Charles T. , Varlamov Oleg
Published: December 2019

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a major reproductive disorder that is responsible for 80% of anovulatory infertility and that is associated with hyperandrogenemia, increased risk of obesity, and white adipose tissue (WAT) dysfunction. We have previously demonstrated that the combination of chronic testosterone (T) treatment and an obesogenic Western-style diet (WSD) exerts synergistic functional effects on WAT, leading to increased lipid accumulation in visceral adipocytes by an unknown mechanism. In this study, we examined the whole-genome transcriptional response in visceral WAT to T and WSD, alone and in combination. We observed a synergistic effect of T and WSD on gene expression, resulting in upregulation of lipid storage genes concomitant with adipocyte hypertrophy. Because DNA methylation is known to be associated with body fat distribution and the etiology of PCOS, we conducted whole-genome DNA methylation analysis of visceral WAT. While only a fraction of differentially expressed genes also exhibited differential DNA methylation, in silico analysis showed that differentially methylated regions were enriched in transcription factor binding motifs, suggesting a potential gene regulatory role for these regions. In summary, this study demonstrates that hyperandrogenemia alone does not induce global transcriptional and epigenetic response in young female macaques unless combined with an obesogenic diet.
Multi-Platform Omics Analysis for Identification of Molecular Characteristics and Therapeutic Targets of Uveal Melanoma
Authors: Kim Yong Joon , Park Seo Jin , Maeng Kyung Joo , Lee Sung Chul , Lee Christopher Seungkyu
Published: December 2019

Currently, there is no effective treatment for metastatic uveal melanoma (UVM). Here, we aimed to identify the mechanism involving intrinsic chemoresistance of metastatic UVM and the relevant therapeutic targets for UVM. We analyzed cohorts of 80 and 67 patients with primary UVM and skin cutaneous melanoma (SKCM), respectively, using The Cancer Genome Atlas dataset. Mutational burdens identified by whole exome sequencing were significantly lower in UVM than in SKCM patients. COSMIC mutational signature analysis identified that most of the mutations in UVM patients (>90%) were associated with spontaneous deamination of 5-methylcytosine or defective mismatch repair. Transcriptome analysis revealed that the MYC signature was more enriched in UVM patients, as compared to SKCM patients. Fifty-nine (73.8%) of 80 UVM patients showed gains in MYC copy number, and a high MYC copy number was associated with aggressive clinicopathological features of tumors and poor survival. Kinome-wide siRNA library screening identified several therapeutic targets, reported as synthetic lethal targets for MYC-addicted cancers. Notably, UVM cell lines showed high susceptibility to a WEE1 inhibitor (MK-1775; adavosertib) at a clinically tolerable dose. Overall, our study identified high MYC activity in UVM, and suggested G2/M checkpoint inhibitors as effective therapeutic targets for UVM.
Uncovering ferroelectric polarization in tetragonal (Bi1/2K1/2)TiO3–(Bi1/2Na1/2)TiO3 single crystals
Authors: Kitanaka Yuuki , Noguchi Yuji , Miyayama Masaru
Published: December 2019

We report the robust ferroelectric properties of (1 − x)(Bi1/2Na1/2)TiO3–x(Bi1/2K1/2)TiO3 (x = 33%) single crystals grown by a top-seeded solution growth process under a high oxygen-pressure (0.9 MPa) atmosphere. The sample exhibit a large remanent polarization of 48 μC/cm2 and a sizeable piezoelectric strain constant of 460 pm/V. Neutron powder diffraction structural analysis combined with first-principles calculations reveals that the large ferroelectric polarization comparable to PbTiO3 stems from the hybridization between Bi-6p and O-2p orbitals at a moderately negative chemical pressure.
IL-36γ is a pivotal inflammatory player in periodontitis-associated bone loss
Authors: Cloitre Alexandra , Halgand Boris , Sourice Sophie , Caillon Jocelyne , Huck Olivier , Bugueno Isaac Maximiliano , Batool Fareeha , Guicheux Jérôme , Geoffroy Valérie , Lesclous Philippe
Published: December 2019

Periodontitis is a prevalent chronic inflammatory disease due to the host response (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α and IL-17A) to oral bacteria such as Porphyromonas gingivalis. The newer members of the IL-1 family, IL-36s (IL-36α/IL-36β/IL-36γ/IL-36Ra/IL-38) are known to be involved in host defense against P. gingivalis in oral epithelial cells (OECs) and are considered as key inflammatory mediators in chronic diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential role of IL-36s in periodontitis. We showed here that IL-36γ mRNA gingival expression is higher in periodontitis patients, whereas IL-36β and IL-36Ra mRNA expression are lower compared to healthy controls. Interestingly, the elevated IL-36γ expression in patients is positively correlated with the RANKL/OPG ratio, an index of bone resorption. In vitro, IL-36γ expression was induced through TLR2 activation in primary OECs infected with P. gingivalis but not in gingival fibroblasts, the most widespread cell type in gingival connective tissue. In OECs, recombinant IL-36γ enhanced the expression of inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α and IL-36γ), of TLR2 and importantly, the RANKL/OPG ratio. These findings suggest that IL-36γ could be a pivotal inflammatory player in periodontitis by perpetuating gingival inflammation and its associated alveolar bone resorption and could be a relevant therapeutic target.
Spatial Distribution of Intracranial Vessel Wall Enhancement in Hypertension and Primary Angiitis of the CNS
Authors: Song Jae W. , Shou Haochang , Obusez Emmanuel C. , Raymond Scott B. , Rafla Samuel D. , Kharal G. Abbas , Schaefer Pamela W. , Romero Javier M.
Published: December 2019

We hypothesized a difference in the spatial distribution of intracranial vessel wall enhancement between CNS vasculitis and risk factors for intracranial atherosclerotic disease (ICAD). Fifty-five vessel wall MR imaging (VWI) exams were included in this retrospective observational study. Intracranial arteries were evaluated for vessel wall enhancement by branching pattern (e.g., primary, secondary, and tertiary segments). Demographic and laboratory data as well as ICAD risk factors, including a diagnosis of hypertension, were collected. A diagnosis of primary angiitis of the CNS (PACNS) was confirmed by biopsy or clinical assessment by a stroke neurologist. Univariate and multivariate Poisson regression models were fit for the outcomes. In multivariate analyses, hypertension showed significant associations with primary (β = 1.31, 95% CI 0.78–1.88, p < 0.0001) and secondary (β = 1.15, 95% CI 0.29–2.18, p = 0.05) segments, contrasting with PACNS which showed a distal spatial distribution with significant associations with secondary (β = 0.77, 95% CI 0.14–1.39, p = 0.05) and tertiary (β = 1.34, 95% CI 0.68–2.01, p < 0.0001) segments. Our results suggest the spatial distribution of vessel wall enhancement is an important consideration when interpreting VWI exams, particularly in patients with a comorbid diagnosis of hypertension. Given the global prevalence of hypertension, these results are impactful and may improve image interpretation of VWI in stroke patients.
Provitamin D3 modulation through prebiotics supplementation: simulation based assessment
Authors: Gokhale Sucheta , Bhaduri Anirban
Published: December 2019

Vitamin D is important in multiple health conditions. Vitamin D deficiency is prevalent globally even with exposure to adequate sunlight. Reduction in provitamin D3 (7-dehydrocholesterol, 7-DHC) is an important cause of vitamin D3 deficiency. Vitamin supplementation, food fortification, and use of probiotics are some approaches to reduce vitamin D3 deficiency. This study investigates plausibility of 7-DHC biosynthesis through dietary prebiotics supplementation. Furthermore, it reports mechanistic details and constraints for the biosynthesis using flux balance analysis (FBA) simulations. The FBA simulations using co-metabolism models comprising human host and a resident bacterium (Faecalibacterium prausnitzii or Bacteroides thetaiotamicron) indicated increased flux of 7-DHC with short-chain fructooligosaccharide (scFOS) or inulin supplementation. We observed around 2-fold increase in flux compared to the baseline. Biosynthesis of 7-DHC was primarily modulated through acetate, pyruvate and lactate secreted by the bacterium. We observed diverse mechanisms and dose dependent responses. We extended this assessment to 119 resident bacteria and investigated the metabolites profiles with prebiotics supplementation. In summary, the current study suggests the potential use of applying prebiotics in enhancing 7-DHC biosynthesis. Furthermore, performance of the different gut bacteria with prebiotic supplementation for secreted metabolites profile is reported. These results may be useful to design future clinical studies.
Information can be stored in the human skin memristor which has non-volatile memory
Authors: Pabst Oliver , Martinsen Ørjan G. , Chua Leon
Published: December 2019

Much is already understood about the anatomical and physiological mechanisms behind the linear, electrical properties of biological tissues. Studying the non-linear electrical properties, however, opens up for the influence from other processes that are driven by the electric field or movement of charges. An electrical measurement that is affected by the applied electrical stimulus is non-linear and reveals the non-linear electrical properties of the underlying (biological) tissue; if it is done with an alternating current (AC) stimulus, the corresponding voltage current plot may exhibit a pinched hysteresis loop which is the fingerprint of a memristor. It has been shown that human skin and other biological tissues are memristors. Here we performed non-linear electrical measurements on human skin with applied direct current (DC) voltage pulses. By doing so, we found that human skin exhibits non-volatile memory and that analogue information can actually be stored inside the skin at least for three minutes. As demonstrated before, human skin actually contains two different memristor types, one that originates from the sweat ducts and one that is based on thermal changes of the surrounding tissue, the stratum corneum; and information storage is possible in both. Finally, assuming that different physiological conditions of the skin can explain the variations in current responses that we observed among the subjects, it follows that non-linear recordings with DC pulses may find use in sensor applications.
A comparison between observed and DFT calculations on structure of 5-(4-chlorophenyl)-2-amino-1,3,4-thiadiazole
Authors: Kerru Nagaraju , Gummidi Lalitha , Bhaskaruni Sandeep V. H. S. , Maddila Surya Narayana , Singh Parvesh , Jonnalagadda Sreekantha B.
Published: December 2019

The crystal and molecular structure of 5-(4-chlorophenyl)-2-amino-1,3,4-thiadiazole 3 was reported, which was characterized by various spectroscopic techniques (FT-IR, NMR and HRMS) and single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The crystal structure 3 (C8H6ClN3S) crystallized in the orthorhombic space group Pna21 and the unit cell consisted of 8 asymmetric molecules. The unit cell parameters were a = 11.2027(2) Å, b = 7.6705(2) Å, c = 21.2166(6) Å, α = β = γ = 90°, V = 1823.15(8) Å3, Z = 8. In addition, the structural geometry (bond lengths, bond angles, and torsion angles), the electronic properties of mono and dimeric forms of compound 3 were calculated by using the density functional theory (DFT) method at B3LYP level 6-31+ G(d,p), 6-31++ G(d,p) and 6-311+ G(d,p) basis sets in ground state. A good correlation was found (R2 = 0.998) between the observed and theoretical vibrational frequencies. Frontier molecular orbitals (HOMO and LUMO) and Molecular Electrostatic Potential map of the compound was produced by using the optimized structures. The NBO analysis was suggested that the molecular system contains N-H…N hydrogen bonding, strong conjugative interactions and the molecule become more polarized owing to the movement of π-electron cloud from donor to acceptor. The calculated structural and geometrical results were in good rational agreement with the experimental X-ray crystal structure data of 1,3,4-thiadiazol-2-amine, 3. The compound 3 exhibited n→π* UV absorption peak of UV cutoff edge, and great magnitude of the first-order hyperpolarizability was observed. The obtained results suggest that compound 3 could have potential application as NLO material. Therefore, this study provides valuable insight experimentally and theoretically, for designing new chemical entities to meet the demands of specific applications.
PRIMEval: Optimization and screening of multiplex oligonucleotide assays
Authors: Conzemius Rick , Hendling Michaela , Pabinger Stephan , Barišić Ivan
Published: December 2019

The development of multiplex polymerase chain reaction and microarray assays is challenging due to primer dimer formation, unspecific hybridization events, the generation of unspecific by-products, primer depletion, and thus lower amplification efficiencies. We have developed a software workflow with three underlying algorithms that differ in their use case and specificity, allowing the complete in silico evaluation of such assays on user-derived data sets. We experimentally evaluated the method for the prediction of oligonucleotide hybridization events including resulting products and probes, self-dimers, cross-dimers and hairpins at different experimental conditions. The developed method allows explaining the observed artefacts through in silico WGS data and thermodynamic predictions. PRIMEval is available publicly at https://primeval.ait.ac.at.
Age-dependency in binocular rivalry is reflected by exclusive percepts, not mixed percepts
Authors: Arani Elahe , van Ee Raymond , van Wezel Richard
Published: December 2019

Some aspects of decision-making are known to decline with normal aging. One of the known perceptual decision-making processes which is vastly studied is binocular rivalry. It is well-established that the older the person, the slower the perceptual dynamics. However, the underlying neurobiological cause is unknown. So, to understand how age affects visual decision-making, we investigated age-related changes in perception during binocular rivalry. In binocular rivalry, the image presented to one eye competes for perceptual dominance with the image presented to the other eye. Perception during binocular rivalry consists of alternations between exclusive percepts. However, frequently, mixed percepts with combinations of the two monocular images occur. The mixed percepts reflect a transition from the percept of one eye to the other but frequently the transitions do not complete the full cycle and the previous exclusive percept becomes dominant again. The transitional idiosyncrasy of mixed percepts has not been studied systematically in different age groups. Previously, we have found evidence for adaptation and noise, and not inhibition, as underlying neural factors that are related to age-dependent perceptual decisions. Based on those conclusions, we predict that mixed percepts/inhibitory interactions should not change with aging. Therefore, in an old and a young age group, we studied binocular rivalry dynamics considering both exclusive and mixed percepts by using two paradigms: percept-choice and percept-switch. We found a decrease in perceptual alternation Probability for older adults, although the rate of mixed percepts did not differ significantly compared to younger adults. Interestingly, the mixed percepts play a very similar transitional idiosyncrasy in our different age groups. Further analyses suggest that differences in synaptic depression, gain modulation at the input level, and/or slower execution of motor commands are not the determining factors to explain these findings. We then argue that changes in perceptual decisions at an older age are the result of changes in neural adaptation and noise.
Selective capturing of phenolic derivative by a binary metal oxide microcubes for its detection
Authors: Rahman Mohammed Muzibur
Published: December 2019

Development of highly efficient and potential material for toxic p-nitrophenol is an important design for sensitive detection of hazardous species from ecology and environment. Here it is developed, an efficient as well as selective of p-nitrophenol using binary material by electrochemical performances, including good linearity, lower detection limit, good stability, higher reproducibility and extreme sensitivity. The prepared electrode was fabricated by immobilization of SnO2/CdO microcubes (MCs) with conducting coating binders by using well-known glassy carbon electrode (GCE). The proposed MCs with SnO2/CdO were well-functionalized and prepared by facile hydrothermal technique. The general instrumentation namely, FTIR, UV/vis, FESEM, XPS, TEM, EDS, and powder XRD were employed for the morphological evaluation of the prepared doped MCs, structural, optical and elemental analyses. The large dynamic range (LDR) from 1.0 to 0.01 mM with 0.13 pM detection limit (S/N = 3), limit of quantification (LOQ; 0.43 pM), and an excellent sensitivity of 7.12 µAµM−1cm−2 were exhibited by the fabricated binary material based on SnO2/CdO MCs for selective p-nitrophenol capturing. In shortly, the SnO2/CdO MCs can be employed as an efficient electron mediator with binary materials fabricated GCE for capturing the p-nitrophenol at ultra-trace amounts. Then the binary synthesized material of SnO2/CdO MCs is used as potential and sensitive sensor layer by stable electrochemical approach for sensitive capturing of toxic p-nitrophenol from environmental samples.
Nanoscopic origin of cracks in carbon fibre-reinforced plastic composites
Authors: Kimura Masao , Watanabe Toshiki , Takeichi Yasuo , Niwa Yasuihiro
Published: December 2019

Voids and cracks can fatally degrade structural materials such as metals and ceramics but are tolerated in carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) composites if monitored to prevent their growth to a critical size. Thus, the use of CFRPs as aeronautical structural materials requires an understanding of microscopic crack formation. However, this crack-formation mechanism remains unclear because experimental difficulties have hindered studies of relevant phenomena that occur before crack formation. Herein, we report high-resolution (~50 nm) and non-destructive three-dimensional observations of crack initiation and propagation under applied stress. This evaluation reveals that voids and cracks do not simply result from local stresses but instead occur largely through two competing nanoscale mechanisms, namely, fibre/plastic interface debonding and in-plastic crack initiation. Therefore, nanoscopic insights into these heterogeneities are essential for controlling crack initiation and determining reasonable safety margins for CFRP composite use.
Comparison of intra subject repeatability of quantitative fluoroscopy and static radiography in the measurement of lumbar intervertebral flexion translation
Authors: Breen Alexander , Claerbout Emilie , Hemming Rebecca , Ayer Ravi , Breen Alan
Published: December 2019

Low back pain patients are sometimes offered fusion surgery if intervertebral translation, measured from static, end of range radiographs exceeds 3 mm. However, it is essential to know the measurement error of such methods, if selection for back surgery is going to be informed by them. Fifty-five healthy male (34) and female (21) pain free participants aged 21–80 years received quantitative fluoroscopic (QF) imaging both actively during standing and passively in the lateral decubitus position. The following five imaging protocols were extracted from 2 motion examinations, which were repeated 6 weeks apart: 1. Static during upright free bending. 2. Maximum during controlled upright bending, 3. At the end of controlled upright bending, 4. Maximum during controlled recumbent bending, 5. At the end of controlled recumbent bending. Intervertebral flexion translations from L2-S1 were determined for each protocol and their measurement errors (intra subject repeatability) calculated. Estimations using static, free bending radiographic images gave measurement errors of up to 4 mm, which was approximately twice that of the QF protocols. Significantly higher ranges at L4-5 and L5-S1 were obtained from the static protocol compared with the QF protocols. Weight bearing ranges at these levels were also significantly higher in males regardless of the protocol. Clinical decisions based on sagittal translations of less than 4 mm would therefore require QF imaging.
An ultrasensitive and selective fluorescent nanosensor based on porphyrinic metal–organic framework nanoparticles for Cu2+ detection
Authors: Cheng Changming , Zhang Ruolin , Wang Jiuhai , Zhang Yu , Wen Chunyi , Tan Youhua , Yang Mo
Published: December 2019

A fluorescent nanosensor based on ultrasmall MOF-525 NPs was proposed for the monitoring of Cu2+ in aqueous solution and living cells.
Bis(2,1,3-benzotelluradiazolidyl)2,1,3-benzotelluradiazole: a pair of radical anions coupled by Te⋯N chalcogen bonding
Authors: Puskarevsky Nikolay A. , Smolentsev Anton I. , Dmitriev Alexey A. , Vargas-Baca Ignacio , Gritsan Nina P. , Beckmann Jens , Zibarev Andrey V.
Published: December 2019

The title species is a trimeric dianion with a singlet ground state, as shown for its [K(18-crown-6)(THF)]+salt.
Tuning the allosteric sequestration of anticancer drugs for developing cooperative nano-antidotes
Authors: Wang Weikun , Finnegan Tyler J. , Lei Zhiquan , Zhu Xingrong , Moore Curtis E. , Shi Kejia , Badjić Jovica D.
Published: December 2019

Dual-cavity baskets, carrying six γ-aminobutyric acids sequester anticancer anthracyclines in a cooperative manner to be of interest for creating nano-antidotes.
Correction: A new phosphotungstate-supported rhenium carbonyl derivative: synthesis, characterization and catalytic selective oxidation of thiophenes
Authors: Lu Jingkun , Feng Junwei , Ma Xinyi , Wang Ping , Xu Baijie , He Peipei , Jia Jiage , Ma Pengtao , Niu Jingyang , Wang Jingping
Published: December 2019

Correction for ‘A new phosphotungstate-supported rhenium carbonyl derivative: synthesis, characterization and catalytic selective oxidation of thiophenes’ by Jingkun Lu et al., CrystEngComm, 2019, 21, 7322–7328.
A two-dimensional ErCu2 intermetallic compound on Cu(111) with moiré-pattern-modulated electronic structures
Authors: Xu Chaoqiang , Bao Kejie , Que Yande , Zhuang Yuan , Shao Xiji , Wang Kedong , Zhu Junyi , Xiao Xudong
Published: December 2019

The moiré pattern is found to critically tune the electronic structure of the ErCu2 monolayer within the moiré pattern.
In-plane aligned assemblies of 1D-nanoobjects: recent approaches and applications
Authors: Hu Hebing , Wang Shancheng , Feng Xueling , Pauly Matthias , Decher Gero , Long Yi
Published: December 2019

One-dimensional (1D) nanoobjects have strongly anisotropic physical properties which are averaged out and cannot be exploited in disordered systems. We reviewed the in plane alignment approaches and potential applications with perspectives shared.
Polymer-guided assembly of inorganic nanoparticles
Authors: Yi Chenglin , Yang Yiqun , Liu Ben , He Jie , Nie Zhihong
Published: December 2019

The self-assembly of inorganic nanoparticles is of great importance in realizing their enormous potentials for broad applications due to the advanced collective properties of nanoparticle ensembles.
Selective catalytic reduction of NO by cerium-based metal–organic frameworks
Authors: Smolders Simon , Jacobsen Jannick , Stock Norbert , De Vos Dirk
Published: December 2019

NO has been catalytically converted by Ce-UiO-66 and bimetallic Ce/Zr-CAU-24.
A highly reversible neutral zinc/manganese battery for stationary energy storage
Authors: Xie Congxin , Li Tianyu , Deng Congzhi , Song Yang , Zhang Huamin , Li Xianfeng
Published: December 2019

A highly reversible neutral zinc/manganese battery with two-electron transfer properties.
Ash pretreatment of pine and biosolids produces biochars with enhanced capacity for organic micropollutant removal from surface water, wastewater, and stormwater
Authors: Bentley Matthew J , Summers R Scott
Published: December 2019

An ash pretreatment process was developed and evaluated for improving sorption of 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid and sulfamethoxazole for pine and biosolids based biochars, making them competitive with commercial activated carbon.
A self-emulsifying formulation of Sonchus oleraceus Linn for an improved anti-diabetic effect in vivo
Authors: Chen Lei , Lin Xiujun , Fan Xiaoyun , Lv Qiyan , Fang Huan , Chenchen Yaqiong , Teng Hui
Published: December 2019

The aim of the present study was to develop a self-emulsifying drug delivery system (SEDDS) containing the extract of S oleraceus Linn (SOL) with improved intestinal stability in order to increase oral bio-potency.
Four-metal-element quantitative analysis and pollution source discrimination in atmospheric sedimentation by laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) coupled with machine learning
Authors: Zhang Xin , Li Nan , Yan Chunhua , Zeng Jiahui , Zhang Tianlong , Li Hua
Published: December 2019

The laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) technique coupled with machine learning was proposed to perform four metal elements quantitative analysis and pollution source discrimination in atmospheric sedimentation.
The phase composition, morphology and compressibility of graphene–zirconia composite nanostructured powder
Authors: Trusova E. A. , Titov D. D. , Kirichenko A. N. , Shelekhov E. V. , Trutnev N. S. , Afzal A. M. , Perezhogin I. A.
Published: December 2019

Nanostructured composite particles of nano- and submicron sizes were synthesized by a combination of sol–gel and sonochemical techniques.
Photo/thermo-responsive and size-switchable nanoparticles for chemo-photothermal therapy against orthotopic breast cancer
Authors: Bi Ying , Wang Miao , Peng Lirong , Ruan Lifo , Zhou Mengxue , Hu Yi , Chen Jun , Gao Jimin
Published: December 2019

NIR-responsive and size-switchable nanomedicines for chemo–photothermal therapy.
A UV damage-sensing nociceptive device for bionic applications
Authors: Zhou Li , Zhang Shi-Rui , Yang Jia-Qin , Mao Jing-Yu , Ren Yi , Shan Haiquan , Xu Zongxiang , Zhou Ye , Han Su-Ting
Published: December 2019

Azobenzene-functionalized gold nanoparticles are embedded in poly (methyl methacrylate) to construct a nociceptive system.
CoOx-decorated CeO2 heterostructures: effects of morphology on their catalytic properties in diesel soot combustion
Authors: Mori Kohsuke , Jida Hirotaka , Kuwahara Yasutaka , Yamashita Hiromi
Published: December 2019

CoCeO2-nanorods exhibit high soot combustion activity and recyclability due to their high oxygen release rate and prominent redox properties.
Rational design of oxygen deficient TiO2−x nanoparticles conjugated with chlorin e6 (Ce6) for photoacoustic imaging-guided photothermal/photodynamic dual therapy of cancer
Authors: Jiao Xiaodan , Zhang Wei , Zhang Lei , Cao Yang , Xu Zhigang , Kang Yuejun , Xue Peng
Published: December 2019

Surface activation of TiO2−x NPs by APTES and subsequent Ce6 conjugation enabled highly efficient PA imaging-guided PTT/PDT.
Fabrication of pyramidal (111) MAPbBr3 film with low surface defect density using homogeneous quantum-dot seeds
Authors: Jeong Hyeon Jun , Bang Seungho , Park Dae Young , Jeon Hobeom , Namkoong Gon , Jeong Mun Seok
Published: December 2019

Unique pyramidal MAPbBr3 film is formed by MAPbBr3 seeds. The pyramidal MAPbBr3 film effectively reduces surface defects, eliminating hysteresis from the photodetector.
Zinc(ii)-mediated diastereoselective Passerini reactions of biocatalytically desymmetrised renewable inputs
Authors: Moni Lisa , Banfi Luca , Cartagenova Daniele , Cavalli Andrea , Lambruschini Chiara , Martino Elisa , Orru Romano V. A. , Ruijter Eelco , Saya Jordy M. , Sgrignani Jacopo , Riva Renata
Published: December 2019

A chiral aldehyde, obtained in both enantiomeric forms from renewable 2,5-Bis(hydroxymethyl)tetrahydrofuran by a chemoenzymatic procedure, was submitted to a modified diastereoselective Passerini reaction employing zinc dicarboxylates.
Wilsonglucinols A–C, homoadamantane-type polycyclic polyprenylated acylphloroglucinols with unusual fused epoxy ring skeletons from Hypericum wilsonii
Authors: Xie Shuangshuang , Qi Changxing , Duan Yulin , Hao Xincai , Guo Yi , Deng Mengyi , Qiao Yuben , Shi Zhengyi , Tao Li , Cao Yunfang , Gu Lianghu , Zhou Yuan , Zhang Yonghui
Published: December 2019

Wilsonglucinols A–C (1–3), three new polycyclic polyprenylated acylphloroglucinols (PPAPs) possessing novel homoadamantane architectures based on unusual epoxy-ring-fused systems were isolated from Hypericum wilsonii.
Structural, magnetic and magneto-optical studies of Mn/Al bilayer thin films on GaAs substrates
Authors: Khanduri H. , Dimri Mukesh C. , Kumar Prashant , Chaudhary Shanu , Anand Kritika , Pant R. P.
Published: December 2019

Ferromagnetism and magnetic anisotropy in Mn–Al thin films can be of great interest due to their applications in spintronic components and as rare-earth free magnets.
Broadband microwave absorber constructed by reduced graphene oxide/La0.7Sr0.3MnO3 composites
Authors: Yan Kelan , Yin Feng , Pang Chao , Zuo Xiuhui , Zhang Qitu , Shen Liming , Fan Runhua , Bao Ningzhong
Published: December 2019

High-performance microwave absorbing materials require optimized impedance matching and high attenuation ability. To meet these requirements, rGO/LSMO composites were prepared thereby incorporating electric loss with magnetic loss materials.
Tailor-made thermoplastic elastomers: customisable materials via modulation of molecular weight distributions
Authors: Rosenbloom Stephanie I. , Gentekos Dillon T. , Silberstein Meredith N. , Fors Brett P.
Published: December 2019

Taking advantage of molecular weight distributions shape, we report a simple and efficient approach for predictably tuning material properties for thermoplastic elastomers.
Utilization of pomegranate waste-peel as a novel substrate for biodiesel production by Bacillus cereus (MF908505)
Authors: Kanakdande Amruta P. , Khobragade Chandrahasya N. , Mane Rajaram S.
Published: December 2019

The continuous rising demands and fluctuations in the prices of fossil fuels warrant searching for an alternative renewable energy source to manage the energy needs.
Recent advances in nanostructured carbon for sodium-ion batteries
Authors: Zhang Huimin , Huang Yongxin , Ming Hai , Cao Gaoping , Zhang Wenfeng , Ming Jun , Chen Renjie
Published: December 2019

The review elaborates on diversified nanostructured carbon materials and their modifications from two different perspectives of dimensions and graphitization degree.
Co single-atoms on ultrathin N-doped porous carbon via a biomass complexation strategy for high performance metal–air batteries
Authors: Wang Yanqiu , Yu Baoying , Liu Kang , Yang Xuetao , Liu Min , Chan Ting-Shan , Qiu Xiaoqing , Li Jie , Li Wenzhang
Published: December 2019

A scalable Co single-atom catalyst was fabricated by a biomass complexation strategy, and exhibits high cycle efficiency in a Zn–air battery.
Light-responsive polymersomes with a charge-switch for targeted drug delivery
Authors: Zhou Yaowu , Chen Rongrong , Yang Huiting , Bao Chunyan , Fan Jinyan , Wang Chenxi , Lin Qiuning , Zhu Linyong
Published: December 2019

A cationic and lipid-like amphiphilic polymer was designed to form polymersomes for photo-responsive and targeted drug release.
A review of electronic skin: soft electronics and sensors for human health
Authors: Zhang Songyue , Li Shunbo , Xia Zengzilu , Cai Kaiyong
Published: December 2019

Electronic skin (e-skin) is able to monitor physiological signals, providing great potential in healthcare. This review briefly introduces the advanced information of e-skins for wearable sensors, such as their materials and integrate strategies.
The Relationship Between Tests of Hearing and Vestibular Function and the Duration of Symptoms in Patients With Unilateral Ménière's Disease
Authors: Benson Dennell E. , McPherson James H. , Shepard Neil T. , McCaslin Devin L.
Published: December 2019

Purpose

Ménière's disease (MD) is a constellation of otologic symptoms that includes aural fullness, tinnitus, hearing loss, and episodic vertigo. Even though the criteria for diagnosing the disorder was set forth in 1972, the causes are still not well understood. The purpose of this study was to describe the relationships between tests of hearing and vestibular function and length of time patients diagnosed with unilateral MD have experienced symptoms.

Method

The charts of 254 patients with definite unilateral MD from the Mayo Clinic database were retrospectively reviewed. In order to be included, patients must have reported active MD diagnosis within the previous 5 years. Main outcome measures were results for audiometry, cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potentials, ocular vestibular evoked myogenic potentials, caloric test findings, video head impulse test, and sinusoidal harmonic acceleration.

Results

Results indicate there is a significant effect of the duration of MD symptoms reported by the patient and findings on some tests of hearing and vestibular function. Specifically, pure-tone average, caloric paresis, and rotational chair phase were all positively correlated with duration of symptoms. Rotational chair gain was found to have an inverse relationship with time. We did not find that video head impulse test gain or certain vestibular evoked myogenic potential measures were significantly correlated with the reported duration of patient symptoms.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that, although the duration of symptoms reported by the patient does correlate with a number of vestibular and hearing tests, the relationships are relatively weak. The number of attacks and severity of symptoms should be investigated to determine if they are better predictors of laboratory testing results in the patient with MD.
Technology of Ground Vibration Testing and its application in light aircraft prototyping
Authors: Olejnik Aleksander , Kachel Stanisław , Rogólski Robert , Szcześniak Michał
Published: December 2019

The article describes the vibration measurement technology used for light aircraft and some results obtained during the prototyping process. The aim of researches was to determine the resonant frequencies and natural modes of an aircraft or its selected structural components. Ground Vibration Testing is an essential dynamic structural test necessary to carry out before the aircraft certification. This test should be performed on the aircraft example which is predicted to test in flight. The measuring system used in the Institute of Aviation Technology of the Military University of Technology consists of a multi-channel LMS SCADAS analyzer, a set of piezoelectric accelerometers, two vibration exciters equipped with impedance heads and a computer with the Test.Lab Software. The aim of the article is to present the methodology of performing GVT tests. Using the equipment applied to an aircraft or its airframe component, key vibration characteristics corresponding to resonant points can be determined. Not only completed aircraft can be tested, but also its isolated fragments (wings, stabilizers, tail units) or just empty airframe. Testing separately supported components allows to examine their aeroelastic properties at early stage of prototyping. As examples of the use of vibration measurements in various stages of the prototyping process, three examples are presented herein. The isolated strut-braced wing from of the light reconnaissance aircraftOSA, the airframe of a light jetFLARIS LAR, and the light droneATD JET-2intended to be an aerial target for some anti-aircraft artillery sets. Some exemplary results obtained from testing these objects were presented. At the end, some observations and conclusions were noted in the context of usefulness of conducted researches.
A Strain-rate Dependant Micromechanical Finite Element Model for High-velocity Impacts on Laminated Composite Plates
Authors: Siorikis Dimitris K. , Nastos Christos V. , Saravanos Dimitris A. , Gonzalez Esteban Martino
Published: December 2019

A novel multi-scale numerical model for the simulation of high-velocity impacts on laminated composite plates is developed, which encompasses a micromechanics module for the accurate assessment of damage initiation and growth in the individual composite micromechanical constituents and for the efficient inclusion of strain rate effects into the analysis. A series of woven carbon/epoxy plate specimens impacted by steel ball impactors of high velocities and energies reaching and exceeding the ballistic limit (m=110 g, v=60-100 m/s, E=200-500 J) are also investigated. Ultimately, key impact simulation results, such as the ballistic limit and induced impact damage, are correlated with representative experimental results, demonstrating the validity of the proposed impact model.
Albi II – a new generation development
Authors: Theiner Robert , Brabec Jiří
Published: December 2019

The UL-39 Albi university's all-composite ultralight aircraft project, powered by a piston engine and ducted fan, continues at the Department of Aerospace Engineering at Faculty of Mechanical Engineering CTU in Prague and its partners ZALL JIHLAVAN airplanes, s.r.o. and LA composite, s.r.o. by developing its new generation. The article is a follow-up to a contribution from 2017, where the entire genesis of the first prototype was described. The introduction summarizes the experience of the prototype operation and analyzes the deficiencies that required a major redesign of the propulsion unit. Aspects leading to the choice of another propulsion unit arrangement and changes in the ducted fan, airframe and systems are described. The fuselage of the airplane has undergone a dominant change. The paper describes not only structural changes leading to the reduction of the width of the fuselage and its wetted area, but also the changes in manufacturing process of composite parts leading to weight reduction. Following the changes in the fuselage design modifications of the wing (mainly high lift devices) and modification of the horizontal tail plane are described. At the end there is a plan of further development described, which should ultimately lead to the commercialization of the project.
Comparison of aerodynamic characteristics provided by wing with bell shaped lift distribution and generalized wings
Authors: Hospodář Pavel , Drábek Armand
Published: December 2019

In this article different wings are computed by low and high-fidelity methods to compare their aerodynamic characteristics. Thanks to the unusual properties of the wing with the bell-shaped lift distribution, several general geometrical variants of the wings were calculated and their results are presented in this work. Three general wings are assumed and their geometry is defined as rectangular, trapezoidal and elliptical. Airspeed, total lift force, shape of airfoil and root chord are defined, and bending moment is assumed as a surrogate model for wing weight. The goal of optimization is minimization of aerodynamic drag.
Aerodynamic moment characteristics of tandem-scheme aircraft
Authors: Kryvokhatko Illia
Published: December 2019

Aerodynamic interference between forward and back wings of tandem-scheme aircraft significantly affects its pitch and roll moments. The interference increases roll stability in a narrow range of sideslip angles; there is a kink on the dependence of roll moment coefficient versus sideslip angle (that is not observed for conventional-scheme aircraft). Directional stability is decreased by a dihedral angle of forward wings and winglets on them but is increased by the same factors for back wings. If back wings’ bending is significant, then aerodynamic interference may affect directional stability as well. The vortex system of tandem-wings at a sideslip angle was modeled incorrectly by the used CFD method (solving RANS), and further research is needed. The analytical and experimental methods show a good agreement concerning moment characteristics.