bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Discovery of Major Basement‐Cored Uplifts in the Northern Galiuro Mountains, Southeastern Arizona: Implications for Regional Laramide Deformation Style and Structural Evolution
Authors: Favorito Daniel A. , Seedorff Eric
Published: September 2018

The Laramide orogeny is poorly understood in southeastern Arizona, largely because of complex structural overprinting by mid‐Cenozoic extension that occurred over large areas. This study integrates new geological mapping with previous work, combined with structural reconstructions and forward modeling, to determine the primary structural style, timing, evolution, and kinematics of Laramide shortening in the northern Galiuro Mountains. Cenozoic normal faulting in the study area is minor and has only resulted in up to 13° of eastward tilting, as indicated by the gentle dips of synextensional strata. Detailed mapping has revealed newly identified reverse fault systems measuring at least 50 km in combined strike length. Each major fault strikes north‐northwest, dips moderately to the west, places older rocks on younger, and has related fault‐propagation folds. Once restored to their original orientation, reverse faults range in dip from 38° to 47°. These moderate dips of faults combined with related folds, the significant degree of basement involvement, and cover sequence lacking obvious penetrative deformation indicate that these faults are thick‐skinned, basement‐cored uplifts. Forward modeling and Cenozoic erosion surfaces suggest regionally extensive Laramide‐age tilting to the west‐southwest and gentle folding, possibly caused by a regional‐scale reverse fault underlying the study area. These results are consistent with the interpretation that Laramide shortening in southeastern Arizona was primarily characterized by thick‐skinned tectonics. Kinematic indicators, folded basement rocks, north‐northwest strikes of reverse faults, and lack of evidence for basin inversion suggest that preexisting basement faults and fabrics had little or no effect on the subsequent structural evolution.
Dependency and Redundancy: How Information Theory Untangles Three Variable Interactions in Environmental Data
Authors: Weijs S. V. , Foroozand H. , Kumar A.
Published: September 2018

In this paper, we comment on the recent two‐part paper by Goodwell and Kumar (2017a, https://doi.org/10.1002/2016WR020216, 2017b, https://doi.org/10.1002/2016WR020218) on quantifying three‐way interactions between variables using information theory. Their proposed method of partitioning interactions into unique, redundant, and synergistic information is valuable and has potential other applications in the field of water resources. We present an example to investigate the generality of their assumption that redundancy follows from dependency of the sources. In the broader context of information theoretical methods in the geosciences, we argue that implementation challenges stem mostly from issues that are intrinsic to learning patterns from limited data. These issues are only hidden by assumptions, but not absent, when using conventional correlation‐based methods. The flexibility of individually choosing assumptions in information theoretical methods gives them a myriad of potential applications in the study of complex systems.
A Statistical Approach to Mapping Flood Susceptibility in the Lower Connecticut River Valley Region
Authors: Giovannettone Jason , Copenhaver Tom , Burns Margot , Choquette Scott
Published: September 2018

Flood susceptibility in the Lower Connecticut River Valley Region attributable to nonclimatic flood risk factors is mapped using a quantitative method using logistic regression. Flood risk factors considered include elevation, slope, curvature (concave, convex, or flat), distance to water, land cover, vegetative density, surficial materials, soil drainage, and impervious surface. Values of factors at point locations were correlated to whether a location was located within or outside of the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency 100‐year Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA). The Lower Connecticut River Valley Region was divided into urban, rural, and coastal subregions to assess the differences in factor contributions to flood susceptibility between different region types; for each region flood risk factors were extracted from 4,000 points, of which an equal number were within or outside of the 100‐year SFHA. Logistic regression coefficients were obtained. It was found that elevation and distance to water have the greatest contribution to flood susceptibility in the urban and coastal subregions, whereas distance to water and surficial materials dominate in the rural subregion. The contribution of land use to flood susceptibility increased by over 200% between the rural and urban regions. Probabilities of flooding were computed using each regional logistic regression equation. Several areas classified as very high risk (80–100%) and high risk (60–80%) were located outside of the SFHA and included several types of infrastructure critical for human health, safety, and education. This study demonstrates the utility of logistic regression as an efficient methodology to map regional flood susceptibility.
Agmatine modulates spontaneous activity in neurons of the rat medial habenular complex—a relevant mechanism in the pathophysiology and treatment of depression?
Authors: Weiss Torsten , Bernard René , Bernstein Hans-Gert , Veh Rüdiger W. , Laube Gregor
Published: September 2018

The dorsal diencephalic conduction system connects limbic forebrain structures to monaminergic mesencephalic nuclei via a distinct relay station, the habenular complexes. Both habenular nuclei, the lateral as well as the medial nucleus, are considered to play a prominent role in mental disorders like major depression. Herein, we investigate the effect of the polyamine agmatine on the electrical activity of neurons within the medial habenula in rat. We present evidence that agmatine strongly decreases spontaneous action potential firing of medial habenular neurons by activating I1-type imidazoline receptors. Additionally, we compare the expression patterns of agmatinase, an enzyme capable of inactivating agmatine, in rat and human habenula. In the medial habenula of both species, agmatinase is similarly distributed and observed in neurons and, in particular, in distinct neuropil areas. The putative relevance of these findings in the context of depression is discussed. It is concluded that increased activity of the agmatinergic system in the medial habenula may strengthen midbrain dopaminergic activity. Consequently, the habenular–interpeduncular axis may be dysregulated in patients with major depression.
PYK2 negatively regulates the Hippo pathway in TNBC by stabilizing TAZ protein
Authors: Kedan Amir , Verma Nandini , Saroha Ashish , Shreberk-Shaked Michal , Müller Anna-Katharina , Nair Nishanth Ulhas , Lev Sima
Published: September 2018

The tumor suppressor Hippo pathway negatively regulates the transcriptional coactivators Yes-associated protein (YAP) and transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ) to inhibit cell growth and control organ size, whereas activation of YAP and TAZ is implicated in tumorigenesis and cancer metastasis. Here, we report that the nonreceptor tyrosine kinase PYK2 positively regulates TAZ and YAP transcriptional activity in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). We found that inhibition of PYK2 expression or its kinase activity substantially affects the steady-state level of TAZ and markedly facilitates its proteasomal degradation. This effect was specific to PYK2 inhibition and was not obtained by inhibition of FAK. Destabilization of TAZ was associated with profound effect of PYK2 inhibition on cell growth at low-density concomitant with reduced expression of TAZ-target genes and induction of cell apoptosis. We further show that PYK2 enhances the tyrosine phosphorylation of both TAZ and LATS1/2 and concomitantly TAZ stability, and that PYK2 protein level correlates with the level of TAZ protein in primary breast tumors. Together these observations suggest that PYK2 is an important regulator of the Hippo pathway, and its tyrosine kinase activity has a striking effect on TAZ stabilization and activation in TNBC.
High PGAM5 expression induces chemoresistance by enhancing Bcl-xL-mediated anti-apoptotic signaling and predicts poor prognosis in hepatocellular carcinoma patients
Authors: Cheng Jingjing , Qian Dong , Ding Xiaofeng , Song Tianqiang , Cai Muyan , Dan Xie  , Wang Yuwen , Zhao Jinlin , Liu Zhuang , Wu Zhiqiang , Pang Qingsong , Zhu Li , Wang Ping , Hao Xishan , Yuan Zhiyong
Published: September 2018

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the one of most common and deadly cancers, and is also highly resistant to conventional chemotherapy treatments. Mitochondrial phosphoglycerate mutase/protein phosphatase (PGAM5) regulates mitochondrial homeostasis and cell death, however, little is known about its roles in cancer. The aim of this study was to explore the clinical significance and potential biological functions of PGAM5 in hepatocellular carcinoma. For the first time, our results show that PGAM5 is significantly upregulated in HCC compared with corresponding adjacent noncancerous hepatic tissues and high PGAM5 expression is an independent predictor of reduced survival times in both univariate and multivariate analyses. Additionally, in vivo and in vitro studies showed that depleting PGAM5 expression inhibited tumor growth and increased the 5-fluorouracil sensitivity of HCC cells. Conversely, restoring PGAM5 expression in PGAM5-knockdown cells dramatically enhanced HCC cell resistance to 5-fluorouracil. Importantly, we demonstrated that the mechanism of 5-fluorouracil resistance conferred to HCC cells by PGAM5 was via inhibiting BAX- and cytochrome C-mediated apoptotic signaling by interacting and stabilizing Bcl-xL. Consistently, in the same cohorts of HCC patient tissues, Bcl-xL expression was positively correlated with PGAM5, and together predicted poor prognoses. In Conclusion, Our data highlight the molecular etiology and clinical significance of PGAM5 in HCC. Targeting the novel signaling pathway mediated by PGAM5/Bcl-xL may represent a new therapeutic strategy to improve the survival outcomes of HCC patients.
A novel human IL-2 mutein with minimal systemic toxicity exerts greater antitumor efficacy than wild-type IL-2
Authors: Chen Xi , Ai Xiaojie , Wu Chunlian , Wang Heyong , Zeng Gang , Yang Peixin , Liu Gentao
Published: September 2018

IL-2 is critical to the activation, growth, and survival of T cells and NK cells, and maintains the delicate balance between auto-immunity and anti-neoplasm surveillance. High IL-2 doses have clear antitumor capabilities, but also have severe side effects that limit its clinical use. Side effects include the vascular leak syndrome (VLS), which results in lung edema and liver damage. Therefore, a new version of IL-2 that does not induce organ toxicity would improve IL-2-based immunotherapy. We conducted a systematic screening by changing one amino acid at a time at the interaction area of IL-2 with its receptor IL-2R to select one particular mutant IL-2, FSD13, in which the proline at position 65 was substituted by lysine (P65L). FSD13 had a greater ability than wild-type IL-2 in stimulating CD4+ T, CD8+ T, and NK cell proliferation, enhancing the expression of CD69, CD183, CD44, and CD54 in these cells, and triggering cancer cell apoptosis. FSD13 had three-time lower than wild-type IL-2 in inducing CD4+ T to Tregs. Compared with wild-type IL-2, FSD13 greatly limited the growth, invasion into adjacent tissues, and metastasis of melanoma metastatic into the lung. In contrast to wild-type IL-2, high dose of FSD3 did not alter structures and induce any pathogenic changes in the liver and lung. Thus, we generated a novel the IL-2 mutant, FSD13, by targeting a different area than previously reported. FSD13 surpasses the wild-type IL-2’s ability in stimulating the antitumor immune cell functions, but exerts much less systemic toxicity.
Connecting nth order generalised quantum Rabi models: Emergence of nonlinear spin-boson coupling via spin rotations
Authors: Casanova Jorge , Puebla Ricardo , Moya-Cessa Hector , Plenio Martin B.
Published: September 2018

We establish an approximate equivalence between a generalised quantum Rabi model and its nth order counterparts, where spin-boson interactions are nonlinear as they comprise a simultaneous exchange of n bosonic excitations. Although there exists no unitary transformation between these models, we demonstrate their equivalence to a good approximation in a wide range of parameters. This shows that nonlinear spin-boson couplings, i.e., nth order quantum Rabi models, are accessible to quantum systems with only linear coupling between boson and spin modes by simply adding spin rotations and after an appropriate transformation. Furthermore, our result prompts novel approximate analytical solutions to the dynamics of the quantum Rabi model in the ultrastrong coupling regime improving previous approaches.
Sphaerocyclamide, a prenylated cyanobactin from the cyanobacterium Sphaerospermopsis sp. LEGE 00249
Authors: Martins Joana , Leikoski Niina , Wahlsten Matti , Azevedo Joana , Antunes Jorge , Jokela Jouni , Sivonen Kaarina , Vasconcelos Vitor , Fewer David P. , Leão Pedro N.
Published: September 2018

Cyanobactins are a family of linear and cyclic peptides produced through the post-translational modification of short precursor peptides. A mass spectrometry-based screening of potential cyanobactin producers led to the discovery of a new prenylated member of this family of compounds, sphaerocyclamide (1), from Sphaerospermopsis sp. LEGE 00249. The sphaerocyclamide biosynthetic gene cluster (sph) encoding the novel macrocyclic prenylated cyanobactin, was sequenced. Heterologous expression of the sph gene cluster in Escherichia coli confirmed the connection between genomic and mass spectrometric data. Unambiguous establishment of the orientation and site of prenylation required the full structural elucidation of 1 using Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR), which demonstrated that a forward prenylation occurred on the tyrosine residue. Compound 1 was tested in pharmacologically or ecologically relevant biological assays and revealed moderate antimicrobial activity towards the fouling bacterium Halomonas aquamarina CECT 5000.
Genome-wide identification and expression analyses of TCP transcription factor genes in Gossypium barbadense
Authors: Zheng Kai , Ni Zhiyong , Qu Yanying , Cai Yongsheng , Yang Zhaoen , Sun Guoqing , Chen Quanjia
Published: September 2018

Sea-island cotton (Gossypium barbadense) has drawn great attention in the textile industry for its comprehensive resistance and superior fiber properties. However, the mechanisms involved in fiber growth and development are unclear. As TCP transcription factors play important roles in plant growth and development, this study investigated the TCP family genes in G. barbadense (GbTCP). We identified 75 GbTCP genes, of which 68 had no introns. Phylogenetic analyses categorized the GbTCP transcription factors into 11 groups. Genomic analyses showed that 66 genes are located on 21 chromosomes. Phylogenetic analyses of G. arboreum, G. raimondii, G. hirsutum, G. barbadense, Theobroma cacao, Arabidopsis thaliana, Oryza sativa, Sorghum bicolor, and Zea mays, Picea abies, Sphagnum fallax and Physcomitrella patens, categorized 373 TCP genes into two classes (Classes I and II). By studying the structures of TCP genes in sea-island cotton, we identified genes from the same evolutionary branches that showed similar motif patterns. qRT-PCR results suggested that the GbTCPs had different expression patterns in fibers at various developmental stages of cotton, with several showing specific expression patterns during development. This report helps lay the foundation for future investigations of TCP functions and molecular mechanisms in sea-island cotton fiber development.
High-yield scalable graphene nanosheet production from compressed graphite using electrochemical exfoliation
Authors: Achee Thomas C. , Sun Wanmei , Hope Joshua T. , Quitzau Samuel G. , Sweeney Charles Brandon , Shah Smit A. , Habib Touseef , Green Micah J.
Published: September 2018

Electrochemical exfoliation is a promising bulk method for producing graphene from graphite; in this method, an applied voltage drives ionic species to intercalate into graphite where they form gaseous species that expand and exfoliate individual graphene sheets. However, a number of obstacles have prevented this approach from becoming a feasible production route; the disintegration of the graphite electrode as the method progresses is the chief difficulty. Here we show that if graphite powders are contained and compressed within a permeable and expandable containment system, the graphite powders can be continuously intercalated, expanded, and exfoliated to produce graphene. Our data indicate both high yield (65%) and extraordinarily large lateral size (>30 μm) in the as-produced graphene. We also show that this process is scalable and that graphene yield efficiency depends solely on reactor geometry, graphite compression, and electrolyte transport.
Deactivation of the prefrontal cortex during exposure to pleasantly-charged emotional challenge
Authors: Matsukawa Kanji , Asahara Ryota , Yoshikawa Miho , Endo Kana
Published: September 2018

Our laboratory reported that facial skin blood flow may serve as a sensitive tool to assess an emotional status and that both prefrontal oxygenation (as index of regional cerebral blood flow) and facial skin blood flow decrease during positively-charged emotional stimulation, without changing hand skin blood flow and arterial pressure. However, the focal location of the prefrontal responses in concentration of oxygenated haemoglobin (Oxy-Hb) that correlate with peripheral autonomic reaction remained unknown. This study was undertaken using 22-channel near-infrared spectroscopy to reveal spatial distribution of the responses in Oxy-Hb within the prefrontal cortex (PFC) during emotionally-charged audiovisual stimulation. Pleasantly-charged (comedy) stimulation caused a substantial decrease of Oxy-Hb in all regions of the PFC in 18 subjects, especially in the rostroventral frontopolar PFC, whereas negatively-charged (horror) or neutral stimulation (landscape) exhibited a weaker decrease or insignificant change in the prefrontal Oxy-Hb. In the rostral parts of the dorsolateral and ventral frontopolar PFC, the oxygenation response during comedy stimulation exhibited the most significant positive correlation with the decrease in facial skin blood flow. Thus the rostral regions of the PFC play a role in recognition and regulation of positive emotion and may be linked with neurally-mediated vasoconstriction of facial skin blood vessels.
A three-dimensional hybrid pacemaker electrode seamlessly integrates into engineered, functional human cardiac tissue in vitro
Authors: Weigel Tobias , Schmitz Tobias , Pfister Tobias , Gaetzner Sabine , Jannasch Maren , Al-Hijailan Reem , Schürlein Sebastian , Suliman Salwa , Mustafa Kamal , Hansmann Jan
Published: September 2018

Pacemaker systems are an essential tool for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases. However, the immune system’s natural response to a foreign body results in the encapsulation of a pacemaker electrode and an impaired energy efficiency by increasing the excitation threshold. The integration of the electrode into the tissue is affected by implant properties such as size, mechanical flexibility, shape, and dimensionality. Three-dimensional, tissue-like electrode scaffolds render an alternative to currently used planar metal electrodes. Based on a modified electrospinning process and a high temperature treatment, a conductive, porous fiber scaffold was fabricated. The electrical and immunological properties of this 3D electrode were compared to 2D TiN electrodes. An increased surface of the fiber electrode compared to the planar 2D electrode, showed an enhanced electrical performance. Moreover, the migration of cells into the 3D construct was observed and a lower inflammatory response was induced. After early and late in vivo host response evaluation subcutaneously, the 3D fiber scaffold showed no adverse foreign body response. By embedding the 3D fiber scaffold in human cardiomyocytes, a tissue-electrode hybrid was generated that facilitates a high regenerative capacity and a low risk of fibrosis. This hybrid was implanted onto a spontaneously beating, tissue-engineered human cardiac patch to investigate if a seamless electronic-tissue interface is generated. The fusion of this hybrid electrode with a cardiac patch resulted in a mechanical stable and electrical excitable unit. Thereby, the feasibility of a seamless tissue-electrode interface was proven.
mTORC1 plays an important role in osteoblastic regulation of B-lymphopoiesis
Authors: Martin Sally K. , Fitter Stephen , El Khawanky Nadia , Grose Randall H. , Walkley Carl R. , Purton Louise E. , Ruegg Markus A. , Hall Michael N. , Gronthos Stan , Zannettino Andrew C. W.
Published: September 2018

Skeletal osteoblasts are important regulators of B-lymphopoiesis, serving as a rich source of factors such as CXCL12 and IL-7 which are crucial for B-cell development. Recent studies from our laboratory and others have shown that deletion of Rptor, a unique component of the mTORC1 nutrient-sensing complex, early in the osteoblast lineage development results in defective bone development in mice. In this study, we now demonstrate that mTORC1 signalling in pre-osteoblasts is required for normal B-lymphocyte development in mice. Targeted deletion of Rptor in osterix-expressing pre-osteoblasts (Rptorob−/−) leads to a significant reduction in the number of B-cells in the bone marrow, peripheral blood and spleen at 4 and 12 weeks of age. Rptorob−/− mice also exhibit a significant reduction in pre-B and immature B-cells in the BM, indicative of a block in B-cell development from the pro-B to pre-B cell stage. Circulating levels of IL-7 and CXCL12 are also significantly reduced in Rptorob−/− mice. Importantly, whilst Rptor-deficient osteoblasts are unable to support HSC differentiation to B-cells in co-culture, this can be rescued by the addition of exogenous IL-7 and CXCL12. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that mTORC1 plays an important role in extrinsic osteoblastic regulation of B-cell development.
Identification and pharmaceutical evaluation of novel frog skin-derived serine proteinase inhibitor peptide–PE-BBI (Pelophylax esculentus Bowman-Birk inhibitor) for the potential treatment of cancer
Authors: Lyu Peng , Ge Lilin , Ma Rui , Wei Ran , McCrudden Cian M. , Chen Tianbao , Shaw Chris , Kwok Hang Fai
Published: September 2018

Amphibian venom-derived peptides have high potential in the field of anticancer drug discovery. We have isolated a novel Bowman-Birk proteinase inhibitor (BBI)-type peptide from the skin secretion of Pelophylax esculentus (PE) named PE-BBI, and evaluated its bio-functions and anti-cancer activity in vitro. PE-BBI is a heptadecapeptide with C-terminal amidation. The mRNA sequence and primary structure of PE-BBI were identified using RT-PCR and LC/MS, respectively. A trypsin inhibitory assay was used to characterize the serine proteinase inhibitory activity of synthetic PE-BBI. PE-BBI’s myotropic activity was analyzed using isolated rat bladder and rat-tail artery smooth muscle tissues, and the anti-cancer ability of PE-BBI using human colorectal cancer cells. PE-BBI’s mechanism of action was investigated using Discovery studio software. PE-BBI showed trypsin inhibitory activity (Ki = 310 ± 72 nM), strong myotropic activity, and cytotoxicity that were specific to cancer cells, and no side effect to normal epithelial cells. The docking stimulation showed that PE-BBI had high affinity to several members of human kallikrein related peptidase (KLK) family. This finding helps to enrich our understanding of BBI peptides’ mode of action. Moreover, the data presented here validates frog secretions as sources of potential novel proteinase inhibitors for cancer treatment.
Biodissolution and cellular response to MoO3nanoribbons and a new framework for early hazard screening for 2D materials
Authors: Gray Evan P. , Browning Cynthia L. , Wang Mengjing , Gion Kyle D. , Chao Eric Y. , Koski Kristie J. , Kane Agnes B. , Hurt Robert H.
Published: September 2018

A new 2D nanomaterial testing prioritization framework based on media specific chemical behavior.
Polymer networks based on photo-caged diene dimerization
Authors: Krappitz Tim , Feist Florian , Lamparth Iris , Moszner Norbert , John Hendrik , Blinco James P. , Dargaville Tim R. , Barner-Kowollik Christopher
Published: September 2018

The rapid self-dimerization of photochemically generated o-quinodimethanes is exploited for λ-orthogonal network formation.
Allosteric inhibition of α-thrombin enzymatic activity with ultrasmall gold nanoparticles
Authors: Lira André L. , Ferreira Rodrigo S. , Torquato Ricardo J. S. , Oliva Maria Luiza V. , Schuck Peter , Sousa Alioscka A.
Published: September 2018

The enzymatic activity of α-thrombin was allosterically regulated by interactions with ultrasmall gold nanoparticles.
Microfabricated passive resonator biochip for sensitive radiofrequency detection and characterization of glucose
Authors: Koirala Gyan Raj , Kim Eun-Seong , Dhakal Rajendra , Chuluunbaatar Zorigt , Jo Yong Hwa , Kim Sung-Soo , Kim Nam-Young
Published: September 2018

Passive sensors provide a new route for the characterization of concentration-dependent radiofrequency parameters with high reproducibility in real time.
A gold nanoparticle based colorimetric and fluorescent dual-channel probe for acetylcholinesterase detection and inhibitor screening
Authors: Lv Jie , He Binnan , Wang Na , Li Meng , Lin Yulong
Published: September 2018

A novel colorimetric and fluorescent dual-channel probe was developed for acetylcholinesterase detection and inhibitor screening with high sensitivity and selectivity.
Pyrene-based metal–organic framework NU-1000 photocatalysed atom-transfer radical addition for iodoperfluoroalkylation and (Z)-selective perfluoroalkylation of olefins by visible-light irradiation
Authors: Zhang Tiexin , Wang Pengfang , Gao Zirui , An Yang , He Cheng , Duan Chunying
Published: September 2018

Iodoperfluoroalkylation or (Z)-selective perfluoroalkylation of olefins is mediated through energy transfer processes by using pyrene-based MOF NU-1000 under visible-light irradiation.
Facile and template-free solvothermal synthesis of mesoporous/macroporous metal–organic framework nanosheets
Authors: Zhang Boce , Luo Yaguang , Kanyuck Kelsey , Saenz Natalie , Reed Kevin , Zavalij Peter , Mowery Joseph , Bauchan Gary
Published: September 2018

A facile and template-free solvothermal method was developed as a bottom-up approach to synthesize mesoporous/macroporous MOF nanosheets in a simple and scalable way.
Conversion/alloying lithium-ion anodes – enhancing the energy density by transition metal doping
Authors: Ma Yanjiao , Ma Yuan , Giuli Gabriele , Diemant Thomas , Behm R. Jürgen , Geiger Dorin , Kaiser Ute , Ulissi Ulderico , Passerini Stefano , Bresser Dominic
Published: September 2018

Carefully selecting the transition metal dopant in consideration of its redox potential allows for further increased energy and power densities.
Zooplankton diversity of drainage system reservoirs at an opencast mine
Authors: Goździejewska Anna Maria , Skrzypczak Andrzej Robert , Paturej Ewa , Koszałka Jacek
Published: September 2018

The aim of this study was to determine the structure of zooplankton in three artificial water reservoirs, the technological function of which is to pre-treat waters from a drainage system of a brown coal open mine by removing inorganic suspension. The background for the zooplankton qualitative and quantitative analyses was the hydrochemical conditions in the individual reservoirs. The greatest zooplankton abundance (N), number of taxa (n), Shannon’s diversity (H'), and species eveness (J') was noted in reservoir Chabielice (Nmean = 1311 ind. L−1, n = 26, H' = 2.09, J' = 0.64) which was dominated by eurytopic Rotifera species (Keratella cochlearis,Keratella tecta,Keratella valga,Polyarthra longiremis,Filinia longiseta). Their abundance was positively correlated with water pH and nutrient concentrations. Reservoir Kamień was characterized by the highest mean values of total suspension (9.6 mg L−1), chlorophyll a (Chl a) content (10.4 μg L−1), and water temperature (20.0 °C). These factors significantly correlated with crustacean biomass. The thermal-oxygenation conditions, low trophic level, and low productivity of the water (Chl a = 5.4 μg L−1) in reservoir Północny determined the overall low zooplankton abundance (Nmean = 153 ind. L−1). Artificial water bodies of opencast mine drainage systems are biologically unstable, but they do have some characteristics of natural ecosystems, and they do take over their functions. Zooplankton is an indicator of their ecological functionality. Knowledge gained about such reservoirs could contribute to decision-making about strategies for water reclamation and how to manage it.
Diagnostik und Therapie Mitochondrialer Erkrankungen
Authors: Radelfahr Florentine , Klopstock Thomas
Published: September 2018

Mitochondriale Erkrankungen sind eine Gruppe sehr unterschiedlicher Krankheitsbilder und Syndrome, die sowohl durch Mutationen der mitochondrialen DNA (mtDNA) als auch der nukleären DNA (nDNA) verursacht werden können. Sie gehören zu den häufigsten hereditären neurologischen Erkrankungen.

Das Spektrum der klinischen Manifestationen ist sehr breit. Es reicht von sehr milden Symptomen, die nur langsam progredient sind, bis hin zu Multiorganbeteiligungen, die die Lebenserwartung deutlich reduzieren können. Mitochondriopathien können grundsätzlich jedes Organ betreffen, wobei Gewebe mit hohem Energiebedarf in der Regel stärker betroffen sind. Die häufigsten mitochondrialen Erkrankungen sind die Lebersche Hereditäre Optikusneuropathie (LHON), die chronisch progressive externe Ophthalmoplegie (CPEO), das Kearns-Sayre-Syndrom (KSS), die mitochondriale Myopathie (MM) und die Mitochondriale Enzephalomyopathie mit Laktatazidose und Schlaganfall-ähnlichen Episoden (MELAS).

Die molekulargenetische Diagnostik hat in den letzten Jahren eine zentrale Rolle bei der Diagnosesicherung eingenommen. Sie erfolgt abhängig von der klinischen Verdachtsdiagnose aus EDTA-Blut, Urin, Fibroblasten oder Muskel.

Die Therapie der mitochondrialen Erkrankungen umfasst die Überbrückung von Atmungskettendefekten, Ansätze, die den mitochondrialen Metabolismus verbessern sollen, sowie die Supplementation von Mangelzuständen. Symptomatische Therapien, Hilfsmittelversorgung und Physiotherapie, sowie regelmäßige kardiologische Kontrolluntersuchungen sind die zweite wichtige Säule der Versorgung. Wenn nötig, erfolgt eine antikonvulsive Therapie, sowie die Behandlung und Prävention von schlaganfall-ähnlichen Episoden. Im Gegensatz dazu gibt es andere Medikamente, die sich direkt oder indirekt negativ auf die Funktionen der Mitochondrien auswirken können und daher nur sehr zurückhaltend verordnet werden sollten. Dieser Artikel bietet eine Einführung zu den mitochondrialen Erkrankungen, einen überblick über die wichtigsten Krankheitsbilder und ein Update bezüglich etablierter und neuer Therapieansätze.
Molekulare Therapien von Muskeldystrophien
Authors: Walter Maggie C. , Reilich Peter
Published: September 2018

Muskeldystrophien (MD) sind eine heterogene Gruppe genetisch determinierter, progredienter Erkrankungen der Muskulatur. Gemeinsames Merkmal aller MD ist eine fortschreitende Muskelschwäche und -atrophie, deren Schweregrad und Verteilungsmuster bei den verschiedenen Formen deutliche Unterschiede zeigt. Durch enorme Fortschritte in der Grundlagenforschung und ein verbessertes Verständnis der Pathophysiologie haben sich in letzter Zeit vielfältige molekulare Therapieansätze für Muskeldystrophien ergeben; zahlreiche molekulare Therapien befinden sich in der Entwicklung. Neue Entwicklungen im Bereich der personalisierten Gentherapie zielen strategisch auf bestimmte, genetisch determinierte Subtypen der Erkrankung, basierend auf dem jeweiligen Krankheitsmechanismus und dem resultierenden Phänotyp, und setzen damit ein Beispiel für andere hereditäre Erkrankungen. Der Erkenntnisgewinn in diesem Bereich nimmt stetig zu; dennoch ist es noch ein weiter Weg, bevor diese Therapieformen Phänotyp und Pathologie und der betroffenen Patienten tatsächlich werden korrigieren können.
Immunvermittelte / inflammatorische und hereditäre Neuropathien – Übersicht und diagnostischer Algorithmus
Authors: Schlotter-Weigel Beate , Senderek Jan
Published: September 2018

Diese Arbeit gibt eine praxisnahe Übersicht über immunvermittelte / inflammatorische und hereditäre Neuropathien mit Empfehlungen zur weiterführenden Diagnostik. Zur großen Gruppe der immunvermittelten / inflammatorischen Neuropathien zählen u. a. das Guillain-Barré-Syndrom und die chronisch-inflammatorische demyelinisierende Polyradikuloneuropathie mit ihren Subtypen, die vaskulitischen, paraneoplastischen, paraproteinämischen und die Kollagenose-assoziierten Neuropathien. Neben den klinischen Besonderheiten wie zeitlichem Verlauf und Verteilungstyp werden charakteristische Befunde der Elektroneurografie und Antikörper-Diagnostik berücksichtigt. Bei den hereditären Neuropathien sprechen neue Studien für eine Prävalenz von 10–28 pro 100 000 Einwohner in Europa. In den letzten 20 Jahren hat die molekulargenetische Diagnostik bei hereditären Neuropathien große Fortschritte gemacht. Mittlerweile sind über 80 Neuropathie-Gene bekannt. Neben der elektroneurografischen Einteilung in demyelinisierende, axonale und intermediäre Formen sind die Unterscheidung in sensomotorische, motorische, sensible oder autonom-sensible Neuropathien sowie die Berücksichtigung von klinischen Besonderheiten und ethnischer Zugehörigkeit hilfreich für die Bahnung der molekulargenetischen Diagnostik.
Elemente der Diversität – das Unterschiedliche, das Fremde, das Ferne, das Unvertraute und das Unverstehbare in der Balint-Arbeit
Authors: Arzberger Nina
Published: September 2018

Unter Verwendung von Vignetten aus Balint-Gruppen legt die Arbeit ihr Augenmerk auf das, was als fremd, bedrohlich oder unbegreiflich wahrgenommen wird, und wie Abwehr-mechanismen – z. B. Verleugnungen und Verschiebungen – eingesetzt werden, um mit Vorgängen, die vom Vertrauten abweichen, fertig zu werden. Wenn wir das Verschiedenartige oder das Fremde verstehen möchten, wenn wir nach einem Kontext suchen, der Sinn ergibt, müssen wir unsere eigenen „fremden“ Gefühle mit einbeziehen. Das bedeutet, das Unterschiedliche als etwas Wertvolles zu sehen, nicht als etwas, das wir loswerden müssen. Unsere Entscheidung hängt hier davon ab, wie offen wir uns an unsere eigenen innersten Phantome heranwagen1.
Kondomnutzung in unterschiedlichen heterosexuellen Settings
Authors: Schmidt Diana , Matthiesen Silja , Briken Peer
Published: September 2018

Einleitung: Zahlreiche internationale Surveys haben sich mit Kondomnutzungsraten in den jeweiligen Nationen befasst. Zudem liegen Forschungsergebnisse zu
Faktoren vor, die mit der Kondomnutzung assoziiert sind.

Forschungsziele: Die Kondomnutzungsraten deutscher Erwachsener werden in verschiedenen sexuellen Settings untersucht. Zudem werden diverse Faktoren auf
einen Zusammenhang mit dem Nutzungsverhalten überprüft. Explorative Analysen beschäftigten sich mit der Frage, aus welchen Gründen Kondome nicht genutzt
werden.

Methoden: Der Zusammenhang zwischen der Kondomnutzung und den einzelnen demografischen Faktoren sowie der vorangegangenen Kommunikation über Kondome wurde
mithilfe von binär-logistischen Regressionen untersucht.

Ergebnisse: Beim „ersten Mal“ und beim ersten Sex in der aktuellen Beziehung verwendeten etwas über 40 % der Befragten ein Kondom. Beim letzten Sex in
einer sexuellen Risikosituation nutzte etwa die Hälfte der Personen ein Kondom. Besonders selten wurden Kondome beim letzten Sex in der aktuellen Beziehung
genutzt. Alter und Bildung standen in fast allen Settings in einem signifikanten Zusammenhang mit der Kondomnutzung; der größte Einflussfaktor war jedoch die
Kommunikation über Kondome mit der Partnerin bzw. dem Partner.

Schlussfolgerung: In sexuellen Risikosituationen werden zu selten Kondome genutzt, um eine Verbreitung von sexuell übertragbaren Infektionen (STI) zu
verhindern. Interventionen sollten den positiven Effekt von Safer-Sex-Kommunikation berücksichtigen und auch ältere Menschen sowie Menschen mit niedrigem
Bildungsstand im Blick haben.
Updated S3 Guidelines – Diagnosis and Treatment of Colorectal Carcinoma: Relevance for Radiological Diagnosis and Intervention
Authors: Vogl Thomas , Pereira Philippe , Helmberger Thomas , Schreyer Andreas , Schmiegel Wolff , Fischer Sebastian , Herzog Christopher
Published: September 2018

The updated German S3 guidelines “Colorectal Carcinoma“ were created as part of the oncology program of the Association of the Scientific Medical Societies (AWMF), German Cancer Society and the German Cancer Aid under the auspices of the German Society for Digestive and Metabolic Disorders (DGVS) and they replace the previous guidelines from 2013. The main changes in the updated guidelines include the latest recommendations regarding endoscopy and adjuvant/neoadjuvant therapies as well as a complete restructuring of the section regarding therapeutic approach in metastases and in the palliative situation. The present manuscript discusses the importance of the current recommendations for radiological diagnosis and treatment and is intended to enhance the quality of patient information and patient care by widespread distribution.

Key Points: 

Citation Format
Serine Protease Mauritanicain from Euphorbia mauritanica and Phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate Modulate the IL-8 Release in Fibroblasts and HaCaT Keratinocytes
Authors: Guenther Florian , Maus Deborah , Hedtrich Sarah , Melzig Matthias
Published: September 2018

In recent years, skin reactions such as phytophotodermatitis, contact dermatitis, and other inflammatory responses after contact with chemicals from various plants, e.g., Heracleum mantegazzianum or Hippomane mancinella, are one of the hot topics in phytobiology. Occupational skin inflammation after contact with latices of plants from Euphorbiaceae are common among people who work with plants of this family. Activation of protein kinase C by G protein-coupled receptors such as protease-activated receptors is associated with skin inflammation. In this study, we focused on the inflammatory modulation potential of proteases combined with diterpenes on human skin. Because of its role as a proinflammatory cytokine, we concentrated on the release of IL-8 by fibroblasts and keratinocytes. Therefore, primary human dermal fibroblasts and the HaCaT keratinocytes cell line were used as a model. The results indicated that the combination of the protease mauritanicain from Euphorbia mauritanica and phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate induced a significantly increased IL-8 release in HaCaT keratinocytes compared to single treatments. The obtained results also suggest that mauritanicain has an anti-inflammatory effect on primary human dermal fibroblasts.
Effect of Ga substitution on low temperature transport and magnetic response of Ce75Al25 metallic glass
Authors: Singh Dharmendra , Singh Devinder , Tiwari R. S.
Published: September 2018

The low temperature transport and magnetic behavior of Ce75Al25-xGax (x=0, 2, 4 and 6 at. %) metallic glasses (MGs) have been investigated. The temperature dependence of the resistance shows that the temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR) changes with Ga content. The significant change in the magnetoresistance (MR) behaviour has been observed for these alloys. The alloys with x=2, 4 and 6 show a magnetic field tuned MR transition from positive to negative values at low temperature. The magnetization (M-H) curves of the MGs at 5 K exhibit no magnetic hysteresis and show paramagnetic characteristics. However, a curious type of hysteretic behaviour for Ce75Al25-xGax alloys in non-zero magnetic field has been observed. The hysteric field range has been found to shift to higher magnetic field with increase in the value of x. It has been suggested that the formation of nano-amorphous domains in the glassy matrix and the delocalization of 4f1 configuration of Ce atoms due to Ga substitution may result in the unusual transport behaviour of Ce-Al (Ga) MGs. These changes in the transport behaviour at low temperature have been discussed in terms of the competition between the Kondo effect and Ruderman–Kittel–Kasuya–Yoshida (RKKY) interaction. The genesis of hysteretic behaviour in M-H curve has been proposed to arise due to Anti-ferromagnetic screening interaction (AFSI) in two kinds of clusters.
Optimization methodology for control parameter of PI based on chaos prediction of electric powertrain
Authors: Hu Donghai , Yan Yanzhi , Li Zhongyan
Published: September 2018

The electric powertrain is a nonlinear dynamic system, when electric vehicles (EVs) drive under torque control mode, unexpected oscillation of direct-axis current id and quadrature-axis currents iq of PMSM may occur in case of an unreasonable control parameter of PI regulator is set. Thus it influences effective and stable output torque of electric powertrain. The objective of this paper is to optimize the control parameter of PI regulator to improve the precision and stability of output torque of electric powertrain under torque control mode. To achieve the goal, nonlinear dynamic model of electric powertrain under torque control mode was established. Then we predicted the instability domain of control parameter of PI to instruct the optimization. Finally experimental platform was set up to operate the optimization. The optimization results were given to improve the precision and stability of output torque of electric powertrain. The results show that the output torque of PMSM continues to oscillate under EV start-up working condition and limited local oscillation occurs under low speed cruise condition. The electric powertrain cannot perform precise and stable torque control. The control parameter of PI was optimized from kp = 0.1 to kp = 0.18. The electric powertrain perform more stable torque control with more effective output torque after optimization.
Optimising hydropower development and ecosystem services in the Kafue River, Zambia
Authors: Cowx Ian G. , Lungu Alphart , Kalonga Mainza
Published: September 2018

Fisheries are an important resource in Zambia, but are experiencing overexploitation and are under increasing pressure from external development activities that are compromising river ecosystem services and functioning. One such system is the Kafue Flats floodplain, which is under threat from hydropower development. This paper reviews the effect of potential hydropower development on the Kafue Flats floodplain and explores mechanisms to optimise the expansion of hydropower while maintaining the ecosystem functioning and services that the floodplain delivers. Since completion of the Kafue Gorge and Itezhi-tezhi dams, seasonal fluctuations in the height and extent of flooding have been suppressed. This situation is likely to get worse with the proposed incorporation of a hydropower scheme into Itezhi-tezhi dam, which will operate under a hydropeaking regime. This will have major ramifications for the fish communities and ecosystem functioning and is likely to result in the demise of the fishery, along with destruction of the wetlands and associated wildlife. To redress the problem, it is recommended that an environmental-flow study is conducted, as initiated by World Wildlife Fund, to protect provision of the existing ecosystem services and optimise hydropower development, thus ensuring sustainability of the aquatic resources of the Kafue Flats for future generations.
Nebulin stiffens the thin filament and augments cross-bridge interaction in skeletal muscle
Authors: Kiss Balázs , Lee Eun-Jeong , Ma Weikang , Li Frank W. , Tonino Paola , Mijailovich Srboljub M. , Irving Thomas C. , Granzier Henk L.
Published: September 2018

Significance

Nebulin is a giant actin-binding protein in skeletal muscle which localizes along most of the length of the thin filament. Genetic alterations or reduction in the expression level of nebulin are accompanied by dramatic loss in muscle force, resulting in muscle weakness and severe skeletal muscle myopathy. Using an inducible and tissue-specific nebulin-knockout mouse model in which nebulin is not expressed in skeletal muscle, we investigated the ultrastructure of thin filaments in passive and contracting muscle under physiological conditions using X-ray diffraction. Thin filaments were found to be threefold less stiff in nebulin-knockout muscle, and thin filament regulatory protein and cross-bridge behavior was impaired. Nebulin stiffens the thin filaments and is responsible for generating physiological levels of force.
Three pillars of sustainability in fisheries
Authors: Asche Frank , Garlock Taryn M. , Anderson James L. , Bush Simon R. , Smith Martin D. , Anderson Christopher M. , Chu Jingjie , Garrett Karen A. , Lem Audun , Lorenzen Kai , Oglend Atle , Tveteras Sigbjørn , Vannuccini Stefania
Published: September 2018

Significance

The United Nations proclaims that sustainable development comprises environmental, economic, and social sustainability. Fisheries contribute to livelihoods, food security, and human health worldwide; however, as the planet’s last major hunting and gathering industry, whether, and if so, how fishing can achieve all three pillars of sustainability is unclear. The relationships between environmental and economic sustainability, as well as between economic and social sustainability, continue to receive attention. We analyzed data from 121 fisheries worldwide to evaluate potential trade-offs. We found no evidence of trade-offs, and instead found that environmental, economic, and social objectives are complementary when fisheries are managed. Our results challenge the idea that the three pillars of sustainability are in conflict, suggesting that rights-based systems can be designed to support all three pillars.
Neural basis of location-specific pupil luminance modulation
Authors: Wang Chin-An , Munoz Douglas P.
Published: September 2018

Significance

The pupil regulates the amount of light entering the eyes to optimize visual sensitivity and sharpness. The visual system selects objects of interest for future fixation, and pupil size can be adjusted for object luminance before fixation. This study demonstrates that the intermediate layers of the superior colliculus (SC), a phylogenetically conserved structure for controlling eye movements and spatial attention, coordinates this predictive pupil response. By manipulating intermediate SC (SCi) excitability via microstimulation and lidocaine microinjection, we show that, although global luminance remained unchanged, pupil size was modulated by local luminance at the next fixated location. These results highlight a causal role of the SCi to prepare the pupil for local luminance conditions at the saccadic goal.
Parallel reaction pathways and noncovalent intermediates in thymidylate synthase revealed by experimental and computational tools
Authors: Kholodar Svetlana A. , Ghosh Ananda K. , Świderek Katarzyna , Moliner Vicent , Kohen Amnon
Published: September 2018

Significance

Thymidylate synthase (TSase) is one of the prime anticancer targets, as it generates the sole de novo source of thymidylate, a unique precursor for DNA. Fluoropyrimidines and antifolates inhibiting TSase pathways are not only components of the most widely used therapeutic regimens but also highly toxic agents leading to acquired resistance in tumor cells. To provide fresh mechanistic insight to TSase-targeted drug design, we used a combination of experiments, kinetic modeling, and quantum mechanics/molecular mechanics (QM/MM) calculations to discover formation of unexpected noncovalent intermediates prevailing in the catalysis and overstabilized covalent species corresponding to a parallel reaction pathway. These findings challenge the traditional chemical path of this enzyme and offer drug targets.