bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Treatment of femoropopliteal lesions with the AngioSculpt scoring balloon – results from the Heidelberg PANTHER registry
Authors: Lugenbiel Ira , Grebner Michaela , Zhou Qianxing , Strothmeyer Anna , Vogel Britta , Cebola Rita , Müller Oliver , Brado Bernadett , Mittnacht Marc , Kohler Benedikt , Katus Hugo , Blessing Erwin
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Background: Treatment of calcified femoropopliteal lesions remains challenging, even in the era of drug-eluting balloon angioplasty. Lesion recoil and dissections after standard balloon angioplasty in calcific lesions often require subsequent stent implantation. Additionally, poor patency rates in calcified lesions despite the use of drug-eluting balloons may be due to the limited penetration depth of the antiproliferative drug in the presence of vascular calcium deposits. Therefore, preparation of calcified lesions with the AngioSculpt™ scoring balloon might be a valuable option either as a stand-alone treatment, followed by drug-eluting balloon angioplasty or prior to subsequent stent deployment. Patients and methods: In this retrospective, single centre registry, 124 calcified femoropopliteal lesions were treated in 101 subsequent patients. All patients were treated with scoring balloon angioplasty, either alone, in combination with drug-eluting balloons, or prior to stent deployment. The primary outcome was safety and technical success during the index procedure as well as patency at six and 12 months, as evaluated by duplex sonography. Results: Successful scoring was safely performed in all 124 lesions with the AngioSculpt™ balloon. Overall primary patency after 12 months was 81.2 %. Patency rates did not differ significantly between the three treatment strategies. Degree of calcification did not predict patency. Improved clinical outcomes (Rutherford-Becker class and ankle-brachial index) were also observed in the study cohort. Conclusions: Preparation with the AngioSculpt™ scoring balloon offers a safe and valuable treatment option for calcified femoropopliteal lesions.
Blum Receives 2017 Basu United States Early Career Award for Research Excellence in Sun–Earth Systems Science
Authors:   AGU
Published: November 2017

Lauren Blum will receive the 2017 Basu United States Early Career Award for Research Excellence in Sun–Earth Systems Science at the 2017 American Geophysical Union Fall Meeting, to be held 11–15 December in New Orleans, La. This award is given annually to “one early career scientist (no more than 3 years post-degree) from the United States in recognition of significant work that shows the focus and promise of making outstanding contributions to research in Sun–Earth systems science that further the understanding of both plasma physical processes and their applications for the benefit of society.”
NOG1 increases grain production in rice
Authors: Huo Xing , Wu Shuang , Zhu Zuofeng , Liu Fengxia , Fu Yongcai , Cai Hongwei , Sun Xianyou , Gu Ping , Xie Daoxin , Tan Lubin , Sun Chuanqing
Published: November 2017

During rice domestication and improvement, increasing grain yield to meet human needs was the primary objective. Rice grain yield is a quantitative trait determined by multiple genes, but the molecular basis for increased grain yield is still unclear. Here, we show that NUMBER OF GRAINS 1 (NOG1), which encodes an enoyl-CoA hydratase/isomerase, increases the grain yield of rice by enhancing grain number per panicle without a negative effect on the number of panicles per plant or grain weight. NOG1 can significantly increase the grain yield of commercial high-yield varieties: introduction of NOG1 increases the grain yield by 25.8% in the NOG1-deficient rice cultivar Zhonghua 17, and overexpression of NOG1 can further increase the grain yield by 19.5% in the NOG1-containing variety Teqing. Interestingly, NOG1 plays a prominent role in increasing grain number, but does not change heading date or seed-setting rate. Our findings suggest that NOG1 could be used to increase rice production.
Network inference from glycoproteomics data reveals new reactions in the IgG glycosylation pathway
Authors: Benedetti Elisa , Pučić-Baković Maja , Keser Toma , Wahl Annika , Hassinen Antti , Yang Jeong-Yeh , Liu Lin , Trbojević-Akmačić Irena , Razdorov Genadij , Štambuk Jerko , Klarić Lucija , Ugrina Ivo , Selman Maurice H. J. , Wuhrer Manfred , Rudan Igor , Polasek Ozren , Hayward Caroline , Grallert Harald , Strauch Konstantin , Peters Annette , Meitinger Thomas , Gieger Christian , Vilaj Marija , Boons Geert-Jan , Moremen Kelley W. , Ovchinnikova Tatiana , Bovin Nicolai , Kellokumpu Sakari , Theis Fabian J. , Lauc Gordan , Krumsiek Jan
Published: November 2017

Immunoglobulin G (IgG) is a major effector molecule of the human immune response, and aberrations in IgG glycosylation are linked to various diseases. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying protein glycosylation are still poorly understood. We present a data-driven approach to infer reactions in the IgG glycosylation pathway using large-scale mass-spectrometry measurements. Gaussian graphical models are used to construct association networks from four cohorts. We find that glycan pairs with high partial correlations represent enzymatic reactions in the known glycosylation pathway, and then predict new biochemical reactions using a rule-based approach. Validation is performed using data from a GWAS and results from three in vitro experiments. We show that one predicted reaction is enzymatically feasible and that one rejected reaction does not occur in vitro. Moreover, in contrast to previous knowledge, enzymes involved in our predictions colocalize in the Golgi of two cell lines, further confirming the in silico predictions.
Characterization of macrophages from schizophrenia patients
Authors: Ormel Paul R. , van Mierlo Hans C. , Litjens Manja , Strien Miriam E. van , Hol Elly M. , Kahn René S. , de Witte Lot D.
Published: November 2017

Genetic, epidemiological and post mortem studies have described an association between schizophrenia (SCZ) and the immune system. Microglia, the tissue-resident macrophages of the brain, not only play an essential role in inflammatory processes, but also in neurodevelopment and synapse refinement. It has therefore been hypothesized that aberrant functioning of these myeloid immune cells is involved in SCZ pathogenesis. Until now cellular research into the role of myeloid cells in SCZ has been limited to monocytes and functional assays are lacking. In this study we used monocyte-derived macrophages (mo-MΦs) as a model for macrophages and microglia in the CNS and examined two main functions: Inflammatory responses and expression and regulation of synapse refinement molecules. The expression of 24 genes involved in these key functions was assessed. Mo-MΦs were generated from 15 SCZ patients and 15 healthy controls. The cells were exposed to pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory stimuli (LPS, R848, IL-4 and dexamethasone), and the response was measured by qPCR and ELISA analyses. One of the genes of interest, P2RX7 that is associated with psychiatric diseases, was significantly reduced in expression after LPS stimulation in SCZ patients. None of the other assessed characteristics were different in this functional screen between mo-MΦs from SCZ patients compared to controls. Although these data suggest that overall the function of macrophages in SCZ is not impaired, further studies with larger groups that enable the possibility to study clinical subgroups and perform additional screenings to asses the full phenotype of the mo-MΦs are needed to strengthen this conclusion.
Evaluating the impact of domestication and captivity on the horse gut microbiome
Authors: Metcalf Jessica L. , Song Se Jin , Morton James T. , Weiss Sophie , Seguin-Orlando Andaine , Joly Frédéric , Feh Claudia , Taberlet Pierre , Coissac Eric , Amir Amnon , Willerslev Eske , Knight Rob , McKenzie Valerie , Orlando Ludovic
Published: November 2017

The mammal gut microbiome, which includes host microbes and their respective genes, is now recognized as an essential second genome that provides critical functions to the host. In humans, studies have revealed that lifestyle strongly influences the composition and diversity of the gastrointestinal microbiome. We hypothesized that these trends in humans may be paralleled in mammals subjected to anthropogenic forces such as domestication and captivity, in which diets and natural life histories are often greatly modified. We investigated fecal microbiomes of Przewalski’s horse (PH; Equus ferus przewalskii), the only horses alive today not successfully domesticated by humans, and herded, domestic horse (E. f. caballus) living in adjacent natural grasslands. We discovered PH fecal microbiomes hosted a distinct and more diverse community of bacteria compared to domestic horses, which is likely partly explained by different plant diets as revealed by trnL maker data. Within the PH population, four individuals were born in captivity in European zoos and hosted a strikingly low diversity of fecal microbiota compared to individuals born in natural reserves in France and Mongolia. These results suggest that anthropogenic forces can dramatically reshape equid gastrointestinal microbiomes, which has broader implications for the conservation management of endangered mammals.
Spiral Modes and the Observation of Quantized Conductance in the Surface Bands of Bismuth Nanowires
Authors: Huber Tito E. , Johnson Scott , Konopko Leonid , Nikolaeva Albina , Kobylianskaya Anna , Graf Michael J.
Published: November 2017

When electrons are confined in two-dimensional materials, quantum-mechanical transport phenomena and high mobility can be observed. Few demonstrations of these behaviours in surface spin-orbit bands exist. Here, we report the observation of quantized conductance in the surface bands of 50-nm Bi nanowires. With increasing magnetic fields oriented along the wire axis, the wires exhibit a stepwise increase in conductance and oscillatory thermopower, possibly due to an increased number of high-mobility spiral surface modes based on spin-split bands. Surface high mobility is unexpected since bismuth is not a topological insulator and the surface is not suspended but in contact with the bulk. The oscillations enable us to probe the surface structure. We observe that mobility increases dramatically with magnetic fields because, owing to Lorentz forces, spiral modes orbit decreases in diameter pulling the charge carriers away from the surface. Our mobility estimates at high magnetic fields are comparable, within order of magnitude, to the mobility values reported for suspended graphene. Our findings represent a key step in understanding surface spin-orbit band electronic transport.
Plant-to-plant communication triggered by systemin primes anti-herbivore resistance in tomato
Authors: Coppola Mariangela , Cascone Pasquale , Madonna Valentina , Di Lelio Ilaria , Esposito Francesco , Avitabile Concetta , Romanelli Alessandra , Guerrieri Emilio , Vitiello Alessia , Pennacchio Francesco , Rao Rosa , Corrado Giandomenico
Published: November 2017

Plants actively respond to herbivory by inducing various defense mechanisms in both damaged (locally) and non-damaged tissues (systemically). In addition, it is currently widely accepted that plant-to-plant communication allows specific neighbors to be warned of likely incoming stress (defense priming). Systemin is a plant peptide hormone promoting the systemic response to herbivory in tomato. This 18-aa peptide is also able to induce the release of bioactive Volatile Organic Compounds, thus also promoting the interaction between the tomato and the third trophic level (e.g. predators and parasitoids of insect pests). In this work, using a combination of gene expression (RNA-Seq and qRT-PCR), behavioral and chemical approaches, we demonstrate that systemin triggers metabolic changes of the plant that are capable of inducing a primed state in neighboring unchallenged plants. At the molecular level, the primed state is mainly associated with an elevated transcription of pattern -recognition receptors, signaling enzymes and transcription factors. Compared to naïve plants, systemin-primed plants were significantly more resistant to herbivorous pests, more attractive to parasitoids and showed an increased response to wounding. Small peptides are nowadays considered fundamental signaling molecules in many plant processes and this work extends the range of downstream effects of this class of molecules to intraspecific plant-to-plant communication.
The Antibacterial and Anti-inflammatory Activity of Chicken Cathelicidin-2 combined with Exogenous Surfactant for the Treatment of Cystic Fibrosis-Associated Pathogens
Authors: Banaschewski Brandon J. H. , Baer Brandon , Arsenault Christina , Jazey Teah , Veldhuizen Edwin J. A. , Delport Johan , Gooyers Tracey , Lewis James F. , Haagsman Henk P. , Veldhuizen Ruud A. W. , Yamashita Cory
Published: November 2017

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is characterized by recurrent airway infections with antibiotic-resistant bacteria and chronic inflammation. Chicken cathelicin-2 (CATH-2) has been shown to exhibit antimicrobial activity against antibiotic-resistant bacteria and to reduce inflammation. In addition, exogenous pulmonary surfactant has been suggested to enhance pulmonary drug delivery. It was hypothesized that CATH-2 when combined with an exogenous surfactant delivery vehicle, bovine lipid extract surfactant (BLES), would exhibit antimicrobial activity against CF-derived bacteria and downregulate inflammation. Twelve strains of CF-pathogens were exposed to BLES+CATH-2 in vitro and killing curves were obtained to determine bactericidal activity. Secondly, heat-killed bacteria were administered in vivo to elicit a pro-inflammatory response with either a co-administration or delayed administration of BLES+CATH-2 to assess the antimicrobial-independent, anti-inflammatory properties of BLES+CATH-2. CATH-2 alone exhibited potent antimicrobial activity against all clinical strains of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, while BLES+CATH-2 demonstrated a reduction, but significant antimicrobial activity against bacterial isolates. Furthermore, BLES+CATH-2 reduced inflammation in vivo when either co-administered with killed bacteria or after delayed administration. The use of a host-defense peptide combined with an exogenous surfactant compound, BLES+CATH-2, is shown to exhibit antimicrobial activity against antibiotic-resistant CF bacterial isolates and reduce inflammation.
Timescale Separation of Positive and Negative Signaling Creates History-Dependent Responses to IgE Receptor Stimulation
Authors: Harmon Brooke , Chylek Lily A. , Liu Yanli , Mitra Eshan D. , Mahajan Avanika , Saada Edwin A. , Schudel Benjamin R. , Holowka David A. , Baird Barbara A. , Wilson Bridget S. , Hlavacek William S. , Singh Anup K.
Published: November 2017

The high-affinity receptor for IgE expressed on the surface of mast cells and basophils interacts with antigens, via bound IgE antibody, and triggers secretion of inflammatory mediators that contribute to allergic reactions. To understand how past inputs (memory) influence future inflammatory responses in mast cells, a microfluidic device was used to precisely control exposure of cells to alternating stimulatory and non-stimulatory inputs. We determined that the response to subsequent stimulation depends on the interval of signaling quiescence. For shorter intervals of signaling quiescence, the second response is blunted relative to the first response, whereas longer intervals of quiescence induce an enhanced second response. Through an iterative process of computational modeling and experimental tests, we found that these memory-like phenomena arise from a confluence of rapid, short-lived positive signals driven by the protein tyrosine kinase Syk; slow, long-lived negative signals driven by the lipid phosphatase Ship1; and slower degradation of Ship1 co-factors. This work advances our understanding of mast cell signaling and represents a generalizable approach for investigating the dynamics of signaling systems.
FAM19A5, a brain-specific chemokine, inhibits RANKL-induced osteoclast formation through formyl peptide receptor 2
Authors: Park Min Young , Kim Hyung Sik , Lee Mingyu , Park Byunghyun , Lee Ha Young , Cho Eun Bee , Seong Jae Young , Bae Yoe-Sik
Published: November 2017

Osteoclasts can be differentiated from bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDM). They play a key role in bone resorption. Identifying novel molecules that can regulate osteoclastogenesis has been an important issue. In this study, we found that FAM19A5, a neurokine or brain-specific chemokine, strongly stimulated mouse BMDM, resulting in chemotactic migration and inhibition of RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis. Expression levels of osteoclast-related genes such asRANK,TRAF6,OSCAR,TRAP,Blimp1,c-fos, andNFATc1were markedly decreased by FAM19A5. However, negative regulators of osteoclastogenesis such asMafBandIRF-8were upregulated by FAM19A5. FAM19A5 also downregulated expression levels of RANKL-induced fusogenic genes such asOC-STAMP,DC-STAMP, andAtp6v0d2. FAM19A5-induced inhibitory effect on osteoclastogenesis was significantly reversed by a formyl peptide receptor (FPR) 2 antagonist WRW4 or by FPR2-deficiency, suggesting a crucial role of FPR2 in the regulation of osteoclastogenesis. Collectively, our results suggest that FAM19A5 and its target receptor FPR2 can act as novel endogenous ligand/receptor to negatively regulate osteoclastogenesis. They might be regarded as potential targets to control osteoclast formation and bone disorders.
Network-based analysis of diagnosis progression patterns using claims data
Authors: Jeong Eugene , Ko Kyungmin , Oh Seungbin , Han Hyun Wook
Published: November 2017

In recent years, several network models have been introduced to elucidate the relationships between diseases. However, important risk factors that contribute to many human diseases, such as age, gender and prior diagnoses, have not been considered in most networks. Here, we construct a diagnosis progression network of human diseases using large-scale claims data and analyze the associations between diagnoses. Our network is a scale-free network, which means that a small number of diagnoses share a large number of links, while most diagnoses show limited associations. Moreover, we provide strong evidence that gender, age and disease class are major factors in determining the structure of the disease network. Practically, our network represents a methodology not only for identifying new connectivity that is not found in genome-based disease networks but also for estimating directionality, strength, and progression time to transition between diseases considering gender, age and incidence. Thus, our network provides a guide for investigators for future research and contributes to achieving precision medicine.
Generating Localized Plasmonic Fields on an Integrated Photonic Platform using Tapered Couplers for Biosensing Applications
Authors: Singh Gurpreet , Bi Renzhe , Dinish U. S. , Olivo Malini
Published: November 2017

A theoretical design and analysis of a tapered-coupler structure on a silicon nitride integrated-photonic platform for coupling optical energy from a dielectric waveguide to a plasmonic tip is presented. The proposed design can be considered as a hybrid photonic-plasmonic structure that generally supports hybrid symmetric and asymmetric modes. Along the taper, one of the hybrid modes approaches the cut-off, while the other approaches the short-range surface plasmon mode that generates localized fields. Potential use of the proposed novel tapered-coupler plasmonic structure for highly sensitive biosensing applications using surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) and metal enhanced fluorescence (MEF) techniques is discussed. For SERS, a theoretical electromagnetic enhancement factor as high as 1.23 × 106 is deduced for taper tip widths as small as 20 nm. The proposed tapered-coupler sets up interesting possibilities towards moving to an all-integrated on-chip SERS and MEF based bio-sensor platform - away from traditional free-space based illumination strategies.
Local Reasons to Give Globally: Identity Extension and Global Cooperation
Authors: Buchan Nancy R. , Jeong Sophia Soyoung , Ward A. K.
Published: November 2017

Recent political events across the world suggest a retrenchment from globalization and a possible increase in parochialism. This inward-looking threat from parochialism occurs just as the global community faces growing challenges that require trans-national cooperation. In this research, we question if strong identification with an in-group necessarily leads to parochialism and ultimately is detrimental to global cooperation. Building on research on global social identification, we explore whether strong local identification can expand in inclusiveness to global identification, and among whom this is likely to happen. The results of our global public goods study – conducted in South Korea and the United States – show that high levels of social identification with a local group can extend to the global collective, particularly for individuals who are also high in concern-for-others. Furthermore, this identification translates into behavior that benefits the global, anonymous group at a cost to oneself. These results shed light on how to avoid the trap of parochialism and instead engender cooperative behavior with the broader global community.
The Exact Curve Equation for Majorana Stars
Authors: Yao Fei , Li Dechao , Liu Haodi , Fu Libin , Wang Xiaoguang
Published: November 2017

Majorana stars are visual representation for a quantum pure state. For some states, the corresponding majorana stars are located on one curve on the Block sphere. However, it is lack of exact curve equations for them. To find the exact equations, we consider a superposition of two bosonic coherent states with an arbitrary relative phase. We analytically give the curve equation and find that the curve always goes through the North pole on the Block sphere. Furthermore, for the superpositions of SU(1,1) coherent states, we find the same curve equation.
Photosensitized INA-Labelled protein 1 (PhIL1) is novel component of the inner membrane complex and is required for Plasmodium parasite development
Authors: Saini Ekta , Zeeshan Mohammad , Brady Declan , Pandey Rajan , Kaiser Gesine , Koreny Ludek , Kumar Pradeep , Thakur Vandana , Tatiya Shreyansh , Katris Nicholas J. , Limenitakis Rebecca Stanway , Kaur Inderjeet , Green Judith L. , Bottrill Andrew R. , Guttery David S. , Waller Ross F. , Heussler Volker , Holder Anthony A. , Mohmmed Asif , Malhotra Pawan , Tewari Rita
Published: November 2017

Plasmodium parasites, the causative agents of malaria, possess a distinctive membranous structure of flattened alveolar vesicles supported by a proteinaceous network, and referred to as the inner membrane complex (IMC). The IMC has a role in actomyosin-mediated motility and host cell invasion. Here, we examine the location, protein interactome and function of PhIL1, an IMC-associated protein on the motile and invasive stages of both human and rodent parasites. We show that PhIL1 is located in the IMC in all three invasive (merozoite, ookinete-, and sporozoite) stages of development, as well as in the male gametocyte and locates both at the apical and basal ends of ookinete and sporozoite stages. Proteins interacting with PhIL1 were identified, showing that PhIL1 was bound to only some proteins present in the glideosome motor complex (GAP50, GAPM1–3) of both P. falciparum and P. berghei. Analysis of PhIL1 function using gene targeting approaches indicated that the protein is required for both asexual and sexual stages of development. In conclusion, we show that PhIL1 is required for development of all zoite stages of Plasmodium and it is part of a novel protein complex with an overall composition overlapping with but different to that of the glideosome.
Overexpression of a disintegrin and metalloproteinase 21 is associated with motility, metastasis, and poor prognosis in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Honda Hiroki , Takamura Masaaki , Yamagiwa Satoshi , Genda Takuya , Horigome Ryoko , Kimura Naruhiro , Setsu Toru , Tominaga Kentaro , Kamimura Hiroteru , Matsuda Yasunobu , Wakai Toshifumi , Aoyagi Yutaka , Terai Shuji
Published: November 2017

Cell motility plays an important role in intrahepatic metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and predicts poor prognosis in patients. The present study investigated the role of a disintegrin and metalloproteinases (ADAMs) in HCC, since these proteins are known to be associated with cell motility. We confirmed the expression of 12 ADAMs with putative metalloproteinase activity in HCC cells, and established a KYN-2 HCC cell line stably expressing short interfering RNA against ADAM21 to investigate the effect of ADAM21 deficiency on HCC cell motility and metastasis in vitro and in vivo. We also examined ADAM21 expression in a cohort of 119 HCC patients by immunohistochemistry. ADAM21 was overexpressed in KYN-2 cells, and its knockdown reduced invasion, migration, proliferation, and metastasis relative to controls. In clinical specimens, ADAM21 positivity was associated with vascular invasion, large tumor size, high histological grade, and lower overall and recurrence-free survival as compared to cases that were negative for ADAM21 expression. A multivariate analysis revealed that ADAM21 positivity was an independent risk factor for overall (P = 0.003) and recurrence-free (P = 0.001) survival. These results suggest that ADAM21 plays a role in HCC metastasis and can serve as a prognostic marker for disease progression.
Magnetic Bragg dip and Bragg edge in neutron transmission spectra of typical spin superstructures
Authors: Mamiya Hiroaki , Oba Yojiro , Terada Noriki , Watanabe Norimichi , Hiroi Kosuke , Shinohara Takenao , Oikawa Kenichi
Published: November 2017

Neutron diffractometry has been a critical tool for clarifying spin structures. In contrast, little attention has been paid to neutron transmission spectroscopy, even though they are different types of the same phenomenon. Soon, it will be possible to measure the wavelength dependence of transmissions easily using accelerator-driven neutron facilities. Therefore, we have started studying the potential of spectroscopy in magnetism, and in this paper, we report the first observation of a magnetic Bragg dip and Bragg edge in the neutron transmission spectra of a typical spin superstructure; clear antiferromagnetic Bragg dips and Bragg edges are found for a single crystal and powder of nickel oxide, respectively. The obtained results show that transmission spectroscopy is a promising tool for measurements under multi-extreme conditions and for the precise analyses of spin structures, not only in MW-class pulsed spallation source facilities but also in compact neutron source facilities.
Thermoelectric effects in graphene at high bias current and under microwave irradiation
Authors: Skoblin Grigory , Sun Jie , Yurgens August
Published: November 2017

We use a split top gate to induce doping of opposite signs in different parts of a graphene field-effect transistor, thereby effectively forming a graphene thermocouple. The thermocouple is sensitive to the electronic temperature in graphene, which can be several hundred kelvin higher than the ambient one at sufficiently high bias current. Combined with the high thermoelectric power of graphene, this allows for i) simple measurements of the electronic temperature and ii) building thermoelectric radiation detectors. A simple prototype graphene thermoelectric detector shows a temperature-independent optical responsivity of around 400 V/W at 94 GHz at temperatures of 4–50 K.
Diagnostic performance of susceptibility-weighted magnetic resonance imaging for the detection of calcifications: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Adams Lisa C. , Bressem Keno , Böker Sarah Maria , Bender Yi-Na Yvonne , Nörenberg Dominik , Hamm Bernd , Makowski Marcus R.
Published: November 2017

Since its introduction, susceptibility-weighted-magnetic resonance imaging (SW-MRI) has shown the potential to overcome the insensitivity of MRI to calcification. Previous studies reporting the diagnostic performance of SW-MRI and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for the detection of calcifications are inconsistent and based on single-institution designs. To our knowledge, this is the first meta-analysis on SW-MRI, determining the potential of SW-MRI to detect calcifications. Two independent investigators searched MEDLINE, EMBASE and Web of Science for eligible diagnostic accuracy studies, which were published until March 24, 2017 and investigated the accuracy of SW-MRI to detect calcifications, using computed tomography (CT) as a reference. The QUADAS-2 tool was used to assess study quality and methods for analysis were based on PRISMA. A bivariate diagnostic random-effects model was applied to obtain pooled sensitivities and specificities. Out of the 4629 studies retrieved by systematic literature search, 12 clinical studies with 962 patients and a total of 1,032 calcifications were included. Pooled sensitivity was 86.5% (95%-confidence interval (CI): 73.6–93.7%) for SW-MRI and 36.7% (95%–CI:29.2–44.8%) for standard MRI. Pooled specificities of SW-MRI (90.8%; 95%–CI:81.0–95.8%) and standard MRI (94.2; 95%–CI:88.9–96.7%) were comparable. Results of the present meta-analysis suggest, that SW-MRI is a reliable method for detecting calcifications in soft tissues.
The rises and falls of opsin genes in 59 ray-finned fish genomes and their implications for environmental adaptation
Authors: Lin Jinn-Jy , Wang Feng-Yu , Li Wen-Hsiung , Wang Tzi-Yuan
Published: November 2017

We studied the evolution of opsin genes in 59 ray-finned fish genomes. We identified the opsin genes and adjacent genes (syntenies) in each genome. Then we inferred the changes in gene copy number (N), syntenies, and tuning sites along each phylogenetic branch during evolution. The Exorh (rod opsin) gene has been retained in 56 genomes. Rh1, the intronless rod opsin gene, first emerged in ancestral Actinopterygii, and N increased to 2 by the teleost-specific whole genome duplication, but then decreased to 1 in the ancestor of Neoteleostei fishes. For cone opsin genes, the rhodopsin-like (Rh2) and long-wave-sensitive (LWS) genes showed great variation in N among species, ranging from 0 to 5 and from 0 to 4, respectively. The two short-wave-sensitive genes, SWS1 and SWS2, were lost in 23 and 6 species, respectively. The syntenies involving LWS, SWS2 and Rh2 underwent complex changes, while the evolution of the other opsin gene syntenies was much simpler. Evolutionary adaptation in tuning sites under different living environments was discussed. Our study provides a detailed view of opsin gene gains and losses, synteny changes and tuning site changes during ray-finned fish evolution.
TALEN-mediated shift of mitochondrial DNA heteroplasmy in MELAS-iPSCs with m.13513G>A mutation
Authors: Yahata Naoki , Matsumoto Yuji , Omi Minoru , Yamamoto Naoki , Hata Ryuji
Published: November 2017

Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are suitable for studying mitochondrial diseases caused by mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) mutations. Here, we generated iPSCs from a patient with mitochondrial myopathy, encephalopathy, lactic acidosis, and stroke-like episodes (MELAS) with the m.13513G>A mutation. The patient’s dermal fibroblasts were reprogrammed, and we established two iPSC clones with and without mutant mtDNA. Furthermore, we tried to decrease mutant mtDNA level in iPSCs using transcription activator-like effector nucleases (TALENs). We originally engineered platinum TALENs, which were transported into mitochondria, recognized the mtDNA sequence including the m.13513 position, and preferentially cleaved G13513A mutant mtDNA (G13513A-mpTALEN). The m.13513G>A heteroplasmy level in MELAS-iPSCs was decreased in the short term by transduction of G13513A-mpTALEN. Our data demonstrate that this mtDNA-targeted nuclease would be a powerful tool for changing the heteroplasmy level in heteroplasmic iPSCs, which could contribute to elucidation of the pathological mechanisms of mitochondrial diseases caused by mtDNA mutations.
Reliably Measuring the Performance of Emerging Photovoltaic Solar Cells
Authors: Reese Matthew O. , Marshall Ashley R. , Rumbles Garry
Published: November 2017

Determining the power conversion efficiency of photovoltaic solar cells, especially those from new, emerging areas of technology, is important if advances in performance are to be made. However, although precise measurements are important, it is the accuracy of these types of measurements that can cause issues. Accurate measurements not only promote the development of new technology platforms, but they also enable comparisons with established technologies and allow assessments of advancements within the same field. This chapter provides insights into how measurements can be made with reasonable accuracy using both the components of the measuring system and a good protocol to acquire good data. The chapter discusses how to measure a calibrated lamp spectrum, determine a spectral mismatch factor, identify the correct reference cell and filter, define the illuminated active area, measure J–V curves to avoid any hysteresis effects, take note of sample degradation issues and avoid the temptation to artificially enhance efficiency data.
CIGS and CIS Nanomaterials for Solar Cells
Authors: Garje Shivram S. , Suroshe Jagruti S. , Revaprasadu Neerish
Published: November 2017

Photovoltaic technology has the potential to become a major source of power generation. The fabrication of solar cells has improved stepwise from one generation to the next. First generation solar cells, i.e. silicon-based solar cells, were grown by the Czochralski process using a single crystal of silicon. Thin film development started in the second generation of solar cells. Nanocrystal-based solar cells were later introduced as the third generation of solar cells. This chapter discusses the progressive development of research into solar cells from one generation to the next. The focus is on nanocrystal-based copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS) and copper indium selenide (CIS) solar cells because of their flexibility, light weight, low cost, long life and excellent outdoor stability. Methods for the synthesis of CIGS- and CIS-based solar cells are discussed in detail.
Forged and fashioned for faithfulness—ruthenium olefin metathesis catalysts bearing ammonium tags
Authors: Jana Anupam , Grela Karol
Published: November 2017

Ammonium tagged olefin metathesis catalysts were developed to offer high activity, stability and low metal contamination levels in crude products.
From helix to helical pores: solid-state crystalline conversions triggered by gas–solid reactions
Authors: Liu Jie , Du Jia-Jia , Wu Yuan , Zhao Yi-Fang , Zhou Xiao-Ping , Li Dan
Published: November 2017

Solid-state crystalline conversions of one-dimensional (1D) helical coordination polymers CuBIm–Cl and CuBIm–Br to a gyrodial metal–organic framework (MOF) STU-3 which is composed of Cu ions and Bim ligands are observed through a gas–solid reaction, where the gas is methylamine.
An integrative omics perspective for the analysis of chemical signals in ecological interactions
Authors: Brunetti A. E. , Carnevale Neto F. , Vera M. C. , Taboada C. , Pavarini D. P. , Bauermeister A. , Lopes N. P.
Published: November 2017

All living organisms emit, detect, and respond to chemical stimuli, thus creating an almost limitless number of interactions by means of chemical signals.
Recent progress in two-dimensional inorganic quantum dots
Authors: Xu Yuanhong , Wang Xiaoxia , Zhang Wen Ling , Lv Fan , Guo Shaojun
Published: November 2017

This review critically summarizes recent progress in the categories, synthetic routes, properties, functionalization and applications of 2D materials-based quantum dots (QDs).
Photo-degradation of high efficiency fullerene-free polymer solar cells
Authors: Upama Mushfika Baishakhi , Wright Matthew , Mahmud Md Arafat , Elumalai Naveen Kumar , Mahboubi Soufiani Arman , Wang Dian , Xu Cheng , Uddin Ashraf
Published: November 2017

Sub-bandgap defect characterization of PBDB-T:ITIC after photo-degradation by photo-thermal deflection spectroscopy (PDS).
NiCo2S4nanosheet-decorated 3D, porous Ni film@Ni wire electrode materials for all solid-state asymmetric supercapacitor applications
Authors: Saravanakumar Balasubramaniam , Jayaseelan Santhana Sivabalan , Seo Min-Kang , Kim Hak-Yong , Kim Byoung-Suhk
Published: November 2017

The NiCo2S4ultra-nanosheet-decorated 3D porous electrode displayed an excellent electrochemical performance due to its porous nature, shorter diffusion path length, good adhesive properties and lower interface contact resistance.
Triphenylamine flanked furan-diketopyrrolopyrrole for multi-imaging guided photothermal/photodynamic cancer therapy
Authors: Liang Pingping , Wang Ya , Wang Peng , Zou Jianhua , Xu Hong , Zhang Yewei , Si Weili , Dong Xiaochen
Published: November 2017

A near-infrared donor–acceptor–donor agent of triphenylamine flanked furan-diketopyrrolopyrrole nanoparticles is designed and synthesized for fluorescence, photoacoustic and photothermal imaging guided synergistic photodynamic and photothermal therapy (PDT/PTT).
High molecular weight cyclic polysiloxanes from organocatalytic zwitterionic polymerization of constrained spirocyclosiloxanes
Authors: Wu Chunyan , Yu Jianyi , Li Qiaosheng , Liu Yuzhou
Published: November 2017

A new cyclic polysiloxane molecule with high molecular weight was prepared through zwitterionic polymerization of constrained spirocyclosiloxanes.
pH and glutathione dual-triggered supramolecular assemblies as synergistic and controlled drug release carriers
Authors: Kang Yang , Ju Xin , Wang Lu , Ding Li-Sheng , Liu Gui-Ting , Zhang Sheng , Li Bang-Jing
Published: November 2017

Illustration of the formation of β-CD-g-OX-HA/ADA-CPT supramolecular inclusion micelles and their selective release of CPT in tumor cells.
Photoinduced Fe-mediated atom transfer radical polymerization in aqueous media
Authors: Bian Chao , Zhou Yin-Ning , Guo Jun-Kang , Luo Zheng-Hong
Published: November 2017

Photoinduced atom transfer radical polymerization with an Fe catalyst was successfully performed in aqueous media for the first time.
Tunable electronic and magnetic properties of arsenene nanoribbons
Authors: Ao Lei , Pham Anh , Xiang Xia , Klose Frank , Li Sean , Zu Xiaotao
Published: November 2017

Possible schematic structures of the arsenene nanoribbon.
Toxicity analysis of poly(sodium-4-styrenesulfonate) coated graphene on HMEC-1 cells under dynamic conditions mimicking blood flow
Authors: Chen You-Long , Chiang Ju-Yun , Chou Hung-Tao , Fu Chien-Yu , Chen Ying-Chieh , Lee Chi-Young , Tai Nyan-Hwa , Chang Hwan-You
Published: November 2017

Functionalized graphene shows lower toxicity towards cells cultured in a dynamic culture as compared with in a static culture compared with other carbon nanomaterials, including MWCNTs and carbon black, due to the lateral-size effect and dispersion behavior.
Magnetic N-containing carbon spheres derived from sustainable chitin for the selective oxidation of C–H bonds
Authors: Zhang Yunrui , Niu Haihong , Zhang Xiangjie , Pan Junxiu , Dong Yang , Wang Haijun , Gao Yongjun
Published: November 2017

Magnetic N-containing carbon spheres were synthesized using sustainable N-acetyl-d-glucosamine (NAG) and iron nitrate as raw materials. This carbon material exhibited excellent catalytic performance in the C–H bond oxidation.
Hierarchical carbon nanotube hybrid films for high-performance all-solid-state supercapacitors
Authors: Zhou Susheng , Zeng Sha , Zhang Silan , Qiao Jian , Di Jiangtao , Chen Minghai , Liu Ning , Li Qingwen
Published: November 2017

A hierarchical hybrid film of carbon nanotubes varying largely in diameter were prepared for high-performance supercapacitors.
Enantioselective synthesis of gem-diarylalkanes by transition metal-catalyzed asymmetric arylations (TMCAAr)
Authors: Jia Tao , Cao Peng , Liao Jian
Published: November 2017

To date, enantiomerically enriched molecules containing gem(1,1)-diaryl containing tertiary or quaternary stereogenic centers have been readily accessed by transition metal-catalyzed enantioselective or stereoconvergent aryl transfer reactions.
High cetane renewable diesel fuels prepared from bio-based methyl ketones and diols
Authors: Harrison Kale W. , Harvey Benjamin G.
Published: November 2017

Alkyl dioxolane fuels with high cetane numbers and low melting points are derived from bio-based methyl ketones and vicinal diols.
Tracking the confinement effect of highly dispersive carbon in a tungsten oxide/carbon nanocomposite: conversion anode materials in lithium ion batteries
Authors: Jo Changshin , Lim Won-Gwang , Dao Anh Ha , Kim Seongbeen , Kim Seoa , Yoon Songhun , Lee Jinwoo
Published: November 2017

A variety of transition metal binary compounds, whose reaction mechanism involves intercalation-initiated conversion, have been extensively studied as anode materials in lithium ion batteries (LIBs).
A reactive oxygen species (ROS)-responsive low molecular weight gel co-loaded with doxorubicin and Zn(ii) phthalocyanine tetrasulfonic acid for combined chemo-photodynamic therapy
Authors: Xu Long , Zhao Mingying , Yang Yidi , Liang Yan , Sun Changzhen , Gao Wenxia , Li Sai , He Bin , Pu Yuji
Published: November 2017

A ROS-responsive low molecular weight hydrogel was fabricated and loaded with an anticancer drug and a photosensitizer for efficient chemo-photodynamic therapy.
Uptake of intraperitoneally administrated triple helical β-glucan for antitumor activity in murine tumor models
Authors: Zheng Xing , Zhou Fuling , Xu Xiaojuan , Zhang Lina
Published: November 2017

Triple helical β-glucan (THG) was captured by macrophages and degraded into small fragments to activate neutrophils, leading to apoptosis of tumor cells.
NMR in structure-based drug design
Authors: Carneiro Marta G. , AB Eiso , Theisgen Stephan , Siegal Gregg
Published: November 2017

NMR spectroscopy is a powerful technique that can provide valuable structural information for drug discovery endeavors. Here, we discuss the strengths (and limitations) of NMR applications to structure-based drug discovery, highlighting the different levels of resolution and throughput obtainable. Additionally, the emerging field of paramagnetic NMR in drug discovery and recent developments in approaches to speed up and automate protein-observed NMR data collection and analysis are discussed.
The SGC beyond structural genomics: redefining the role of 3D structures by coupling genomic stratification with fragment-based discovery
Authors: Bradley Anthony R. , Echalier Aude , Fairhead Michael , Strain-Damerell Claire , Brennan Paul , Bullock Alex N. , Burgess-Brown Nicola A. , Carpenter Elisabeth P. , Gileadi Opher , Marsden Brian D. , Lee Wen Hwa , Yue Wyatt , Bountra Chas , von Delft Frank
Published: November 2017

The ongoing explosion in genomics data has long since outpaced the capacity of conventional biochemical methodology to verify the large number of hypotheses that emerge from the analysis of such data. In contrast, it is still a gold-standard for early phenotypic validation towards small-molecule drug discovery to use probe molecules (or tool compounds), notwithstanding the difficulty and cost of generating them. Rational structure-based approaches to ligand discovery have long promised the efficiencies needed to close this divergence; in practice, however, this promise remains largely unfulfilled, for a host of well-rehearsed reasons and despite the huge technical advances spearheaded by the structural genomics initiatives of the noughties. Therefore the current, fourth funding phase of the Structural Genomics Consortium (SGC), building on its extensive experience in structural biology of novel targets and design of protein inhibitors, seeks to redefine what it means to do structural biology for drug discovery. We developed the concept of a Target Enabling Package (TEP) that provides, through reagents, assays and data, the missing link between genetic disease linkage and the development of usefully potent compounds. There are multiple prongs to the ambition: rigorously assessing targets’ genetic disease linkages through crowdsourcing to a network of collaborating experts; establishing a systematic approach to generate the protocols and data that comprise each target’s TEP; developing new, X-ray-based fragment technologies for generating high quality chemical matter quickly and cheaply; and exploiting a stringently open access model to build multidisciplinary partnerships throughout academia and industry. By learning how to scale these approaches, the SGC aims to make structures finally serve genomics, as originally intended, and demonstrate how 3D structures systematically allow new modes of druggability to be discovered for whole classes of targets.
High rates of fuel consumption are not required by insulating motifs to suppress retroactivity in biochemical circuits
Authors: Deshpande Abhishek , Ouldridge Thomas E.
Published: November 2017

Retroactivity arises when the coupling of a molecular network to a downstream network results in signal propagation back from to . The phenomenon represents a breakdown in modularity of biochemical circuits and hampers the rational design of complex functional networks. Considering simple models of signal‐transduction architectures, the authors demonstrate the strong dependence of retroactivity on the properties of the upstream system, and explore the cost and efficacy of fuel‐consuming insulating motifs that can mitigate retroactive effects. They find that simple insulating motifs can suppress retroactivity at a low fuel cost by coupling only weakly to the upstream system . However, this design approach reduces the signalling network's robustness to perturbations from leak reactions, and potentially compromises its ability to respond to rapidly varying signals.