bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimating the success of re-identifications in incomplete datasets using generative models
Authors: Rocher Luc , Hendrickx Julien M. , de Montjoye Yves-Alexandre
Published: July 2019

While rich medical, behavioral, and socio-demographic data are key to modern data-driven research, their collection and use raise legitimate privacy concerns. Anonymizing datasets through de-identification and sampling before sharing them has been the main tool used to address those concerns. We here propose a generative copula-based method that can accurately estimate the likelihood of a specific person to be correctly re-identified, even in a heavily incomplete dataset. On 210 populations, our method obtains AUC scores for predicting individual uniqueness ranging from 0.84 to 0.97, with low false-discovery rate. Using our model, we find that 99.98% of Americans would be correctly re-identified in any dataset using 15 demographic attributes. Our results suggest that even heavily sampled anonymized datasets are unlikely to satisfy the modern standards for anonymization set forth by GDPR and seriously challenge the technical and legal adequacy of the de-identification release-and-forget model.
Evolution of metazoan oxygen-sensing involved a conserved divergence of VHL affinity for HIF1α and HIF2α
Authors: Tarade Daniel , Lee Jeffrey E. , Ohh Michael
Published: July 2019

Duplication of ancestral hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)α coincided with the evolution of vertebrate species. Paralogs HIF1α and HIF2α are the most well-known factors for modulating the cellular transcriptional profile following hypoxia. However, how the processes of natural selection acted upon the coding region of these two genes to optimize the cellular response to hypoxia during evolution remains unclear. A key negative regulator of HIFα is von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) tumour suppressor protein. Here we show that evolutionarily-relevant substitutions can modulate a secondary contact between HIF1α Met561 and VHL Phe91. Notably, HIF1α binds more tightly than HIF2α to VHL due to a conserved Met to Thr substitution observed in the vertebrate lineage. Similarly, substitution of VHL Phe91 with Tyr, as seen in invertebrate species, decreases VHL affinity for both HIF1α and HIF2α. We propose that vertebrate evolution involved a more complex hypoxia response with fine-tuned divergence of VHL affinity for HIF1α and HIF2α.
Augmentation of myocardial If dysregulates calcium homeostasis and causes adverse cardiac remodeling
Authors: Yampolsky Pessah , Koenen Michael , Mosqueira Matias , Geschwill Pascal , Nauck Sebastian , Witzenberger Monika , Seyler Claudia , Fink Thomas , Kruska Mathieu , Bruehl Claus , Schwoerer Alexander P. , Ehmke Heimo , Fink Rainer H. A. , Draguhn Andreas , Thomas Dierk , Katus Hugo A. , Schweizer Patrick A.
Published: July 2019

HCN channels underlie the depolarizing funny current (If) that contributes importantly to cardiac pacemaking. If is upregulated in failing and infarcted hearts, but its implication in disease mechanisms remained unresolved. We generated transgenic mice (HCN4tg/wt) to assess functional consequences of HCN4 overexpression-mediated If increase in cardiomyocytes to levels observed in human heart failure. HCN4tg/wt animals exhibit a dilated cardiomyopathy phenotype with increased cellular arrhythmogenicity but unchanged heart rate and conduction parameters. If augmentation induces a diastolic Na+ influx shifting the Na+/Ca2+ exchanger equilibrium towards ‘reverse mode’ leading to increased [Ca2+]i. Changed Ca2+ homeostasis results in significantly higher systolic [Ca2+]i transients and stimulates apoptosis. Pharmacological inhibition of If prevents the rise of [Ca2+]i and protects from ventricular remodeling. Here we report that augmented myocardial If alters intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis leading to structural cardiac changes and increased arrhythmogenicity. Inhibition of myocardial Ifper se may constitute a therapeutic mechanism to prevent cardiomyopathy.
Author Correction: Oleoylethanolamide treatment reduces neurobehavioral deficits and brain pathology in a mouse model of Gulf War Illness
Authors: Joshi Utsav , Evans James E. , Joseph Ross , Emmerich Tanja , Saltiel Nicole , Lungmus Carlyn , Oberlin Sarah , Langlois Heather , Ojo Joseph , Mouzon Benoit , Paris Daniel , Mullan Michael , Jin Chao , Klimas Nancy , Sullivan Kimberly , Crawford Fiona , Abdullah Laila
Published: July 2019

A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML and PDF versions of this paper. The error has not been fixed in the paper.
Liver-specific androgen receptor knockout attenuates early liver tumor development in zebrafish
Authors: Li Hankun , Li Yan , Lu Jeng-Wei , Huo Xiaojing , Gong Zhiyuan
Published: July 2019

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most severe cancer types and many genetic and environmental factors contribute to the development of HCC. Androgen receptor (AR) signaling is increasingly recognized as one of the important factors associated with HCC. Previously, we have developed an inducible HCC model in kras transgenic zebrafish. In the present study, to investigate the role of AR in liver tumor development, we specifically knocked out ar gene in the liver of zebrafish via the CRISPR/Cas9 system and the knockout zebrafish was named L-ARKO for liver-specific ar knockout. We observed that liver-specific knockout of ar attenuated liver tumor development in kras transgenic zebrafish at the early stage (one week of tumor induction). However, at the late stage (two weeks of tumor induction), essentially all kras transgenic fish continue to develop HCC irrespective of the absence or presence of ar gene, indicating an overwhelming role of the driver oncogene kras over ar knockout. Consistently, cell proliferation was reduced at the early stage, but not the late stage, of liver tumor induction in the kras/L-ARKO fish, indicating that the attenuant effect of ar knockout was at least in part via cell proliferation. Furthermore, androgen treatment showed acceleration of HCC progression in kras fish but not in kras/L-ARKO fish, further indicating the abolishment of ar signalling. Therefore, we have established a tissue-specific ar knockout zebrafish and it should be a valuable tool to investigate AR signalling in the liver in future.
Long-lasting effects of historical land use on the current distribution of mammals revealed by ecological and archaeological patterns
Authors: Fukasawa Keita , Akasaka Takumi
Published: July 2019

Past land-use activity has massively altered the environment and vegetation over centuries, resulting in range contractions and expansions of species. When habitat recovery and species recolonization require a long time, the fingerprint of past land use can remain on the current distribution of species. To evaluate millennial-scale effects of land use in Japan, we explained the current ranges of 29 mammalian genera based on three types of archaeological land-use patterns (settlement, ironwork and kiln) considering potential confounding factors. The results indicate that archaeological human activity associated with ironwork and pottery production had severe negative effects on many genera of small and medium-sized mammals. Despite positive effects on some genera, the magnitudes were less than those of the negative effects. The relative importance of archaeological factors on small mammals was greater than those for medium- to-large mammals. The persistent imprint of past land-use patterns was non-negligible, explaining current mammalian diversity. Spatial ecological and archaeological information can provide meaningful insights into long-term socio-ecological processes, which are crucial for the development of sustainable societies in the Anthropocene.
Loss of Ku’s DNA end binding activity affects telomere length via destabilizing telomere-bound Est1 rather than altering TLC1 homeostasis
Authors: Lemon Laramie D. , Morris Danna K. , Bertuch Alison A.
Published: July 2019

Saccharomyces cerevisiae telomerase, which maintains telomere length, is comprised of an RNA component, TLC1, the reverse transcriptase, Est2, and regulatory subunits, including Est1. The Yku70/Yku80 (Ku) heterodimer, a DNA end binding (DEB) protein, also contributes to telomere length maintenance. Ku binds TLC1 and telomere ends in a mutually exclusive fashion, and is required to maintain levels and nuclear localization of TLC1. Ku also interacts with Sir4, which localizes to telomeres. Here we sought to determine the role of Ku’s DEB activity in telomere length maintenance by utilizing yku70-R456E mutant strains, in which Ku has reduced DEB and telomere association but proficiency in TLC1 and Sir4 binding, and TLC1 nuclear retention. Telomere lengths in a yku70-R456E strain were nearly as short as those in yku∆ strains and shorter than in strains lacking either Sir4, Ku:Sir4 interaction, or Ku:TLC1 interaction. TLC1 levels were decreased in the yku70-R456E mutant, yet overexpression of TLC1 failed to restore telomere length. Reduced DEB activity did not impact Est1’s ability to associate with telomerase but did result in decreased association of Est1 with the telomere. These findings suggest Ku’s DEB activity maintains telomere length homeostasis by preserving Est1’s interaction at the telomere rather than altering TLC1 levels.
Mucin-1 is required for Coxsackie Virus B3-induced inflammation in pancreatitis
Authors: Liu Xiang , Clemens Dahn L. , Grunkemeyer James A. , Price Jeffrey D. , O’Connell Kelly , Chapman Nora M. , Storz Peter , Wen Haitao , Cox Jesse L. , Reid Whitney L. , Hollingsworth Michael A. , Thayer Sarah
Published: July 2019

The Muc-1 oncoprotein is a tumor-associated mucin often overexpressed in pancreatic cancer. We report that knockout of Muc-1 reduced the degree of pancreatic inflammation that resulted from infection with Coxsackievirus B3 (CVB3) in a mouse model. CVB3-infected Muc-1-deficient (Muc-1KO) mice had significantly reduced infiltration of macrophages into the murine pancreas. We found that Muc-1 signaling through NF-κB increased expression of ICAM-1, a pro-inflammatory mediator that recruits macrophages. Further investigation revealed that bone marrow derived macrophages (BMDM) from the Muc-1KOmice exhibited defective migration properties, in part due to low expression of the C-C motif chemokine receptor (CCR2) and the integrin Very Late Antigen 4 (VLA-4). The results presented here provide novel insight into the role of Muc-1 in regulating the inflammatory response and the cellular microenvironment in pancreatitis.
The Potential of Wearable Limb Ballistocardiogram in Blood Pressure Monitoring via Pulse Transit Time
Authors: Yousefian Peyman , Shin Sungtae , Mousavi Azin , Kim Chang-Sei , Mukkamala Ramakrishna , Jang Dae-Geun , Ko Byung-Hoon , Lee Jongwook , Kwon Ui Kun , Kim Youn Ho , Hahn Jin-Oh
Published: July 2019

The goal of this study was to investigate the potential of wearable limb ballistocardiography (BCG) to enable cuff-less blood pressure (BP) monitoring, by investigating the association between wearable limb BCG-based pulse transit time (PTT) and BP. A wearable BCG-based PTT was calculated using the BCG and photoplethysmogram (PPG) signals acquired by a wristband as proximal and distal timing reference (called the wrist PTT). Its efficacy as surrogate of BP was examined in comparison with PTT calculated using the whole-body BCG acquired by a customized weighing scale (scale PTT) as well as pulse arrival time (PAT) using the experimental data collected from 22 young healthy participants under multiple BP-perturbing interventions. The wrist PTT exhibited close association with both diastolic (group average r = 0.79; mean absolute error (MAE) = 5.1 mmHg) and systolic (group average r = 0.81; MAE = 7.6 mmHg) BP. The efficacy of the wrist PTT was superior to scale PTT and PAT for both diastolic and systolic BP. The association was consistent and robust against diverse BP-perturbing interventions. The wrist PTT showed superior association with BP when calculated with green PPG rather than infrared PPG. In sum, wearable limb BCG has the potential to realize convenient cuff-less BP monitoring via PTT.
Image quality evaluation in a modern PET system: impact of new reconstructions methods and a radiomics approach
Authors: Reynés-Llompart Gabriel , Sabaté-Llobera Aida , Llinares-Tello Elena , Martí-Climent Josep M. , Gámez-Cenzano Cristina
Published: July 2019

The present work investigates the influence of different biological and physical parameters on image quality (IQ) perception of the abdominal area in a modern PET scanner, using new reconstruction algorithms and testing the utility of a radiomics approach. Scans of 112 patients were retrospectively included. Images were reconstructed using both OSEM + PSF and BSRM methods, and IQ of the abdominal region was subjectively evaluated. First, 22 IQ related parameters were obtained (including count rate and biological or mixed parameters) and compared to the subjective IQ scores by means of correlations and logistic regression. Second, an additional set of radiomics features was extracted, and a model was constructed by means of an elastic-net regression. For the OSEM + PSF and especially for the BSRM reconstructions, IQ parameters presented only at best moderated correlations with the subjective IQ. None of the studied parameters presented a good predictive power for IQ, while a simple radiomics model increased the performance of the IQ prediction. These results suggest the necessity of changing the standard parameters to evaluate IQ, particularly when a BSRM algorithm is involved. Furthermore, it seems that a simple radiomics model can outperform the use of any single parameter to assess IQ.
Wood properties of Carapa guianensis from floodplain and upland forests in Eastern Amazonia, Brazil
Authors: Firmino Anderson Vasconcelos , Vidaurre Graziela Baptista , Oliveira José Tarcísio da Silva , Guedes Marcelino , Almeida Maria Naruna Felix de , Silva João Gabriel Missia da , Latorraca João Vicente de Figueiredo , Zanuncio José Cola
Published: July 2019

The variable environmental conditions of the Amazon forest can affect the wood properties of the tree species distributed across its diverse phytophysiognomies.Carapa guianensis(Andiroba) occurs in upland and floodplain forests, and the wood and oil of its seeds have multiple uses. The aim of this study was to evaluate the wood properties ofC. guianensistrees in upland and estuarine floodplain forests of the Amazon River. Eight trees were selected, with four being from the upland and four from the floodplain forests. The fiber length, fiber wall thickness, vessel diameter and frequency, microfibril angle, specific gravity and wood shrinkage were evaluated. The juvenile and mature wood zones were determined according to these variables. The fiber length, fiber wall thickness and specific gravity increased, and microfibril angle decreased, in the pith to bark direction. Only the fiber length variable was efficient for delimiting juvenile, transition and mature wood. The fiber length, wall thickness and specific gravity of wood were higher in upland forest trees. However, the environment did not alter the beginning of the formation and proportion ofC. guianensismature wood. This information is important for the log fit in cutting diagrams, aiming toward improving the production, classification and processing of pieces with specific quality indexes in order to direct them to appropriate wood uses.
A prospective study of knee pain, low back pain, and risk of dementia: the JAGES project
Authors: Yamada Keiko , Kubota Yasuhiko , Tabuchi Takahiro , Shirai Kokoro , Iso Hiroyasu , Kondo Naoki , Kondo Katsunori
Published: July 2019

The aim of this prospective study was to investigate the associations of knee and low back pain with dementia development. Participants were 14,627 older people with no history of stroke, cancer, injuries, depression, Parkinson’s disease, or dementia who did not require support for daily living completed self-administered questionnaires with 3-years follow-up. A Cox regression model was used to calculate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for dementia development. Stratified analyses by age and regular walking were conducted. Dementia risk was higher in participants aged 65–79 years with knee pain and without low back pain than in those without knee and low back pain [HR: 1.73 (95% CI: 1.11–2.68)]. Dementia risk was lower in participants ≥80 years with low back pain but no knee pain than in those without low back or knee pain [HR: 0.50 (95% CI: 0.31–0.80)]. Participants with knee pain who did not walk regularly had the highest dementia risk [HR: 1.71 (95% CI: 1.26–2.33)]. Knee pain may increase dementia risk among individuals aged 65–79 years, and may further increase risk in non-regular walkers. Low back pain may be a marker of maintained cognitive function despite age for individuals ≥80 years.
Modified tailoring the electronic phase and emergence of midstates in impurity-imbrued armchair graphene nanoribbons
Authors: Hien Nguyen D. , Mirabbaszadeh Kavoos , Davoudiniya Masoumeh , Hoi Bui D. , Phuong Le T. T. , Yarmohammadi Mohsen
Published: July 2019

We theoretically address the electronic structure of mono- and simple bi-layer armchair graphene nanoribbons (AGNRs) when they are infected by extrinsic charged dilute impurity. This is done with the aid of the modified tight-binding method considering the edge effects and the Green’s function approach. Also, the interplay of host and guest electrons are studied within the full self-consistent Born approximation. Given that the main basic electronic features can be captured from the electronic density of states (DOS), we focus on the perturbed DOS of lattices corresponding to the different widths. The modified model says that there is no metallic phase due to the edge states. We found that the impurity effects lead to the emergence of midgap states in DOS of both systems so that a semiconductor-to-semimetal phase transition occurs at strong enough impurity concentrations and/or impurity scattering potentials. The intensity of semiconductor-to-semimetal phase transition in monolayer (bilayer) ultra-narrow (realistic) ribbons is sharper than bilayers (monolayers). In both lattices, electron-hole symmetry breaks down as a result of induced-impurity states. The findings of this research would provide a base for future experimental studies and improve the applications of AGNRs in logic semiconductor devices in industry.
HCV-specific CD4+ T cells of patients with acute and chronic HCV infection display high expression of TIGIT and other co-inhibitory molecules
Authors: Ackermann Christin , Smits Maike , Woost Robin , Eberhard Johanna M. , Peine Sven , Kummer Silke , Marget Matthias , Kuntzen Thomas , Kwok William W. , Lohse Ansgar W. , Jacobs Thomas , Boettler Tobias , Schulze zur Wiesch Julian
Published: July 2019

The combined regulation of a network of inhibitory and activating T cell receptors may be a critical step in the development of chronic HCV infection. Ex vivo HCV MHC class I + II tetramer staining and bead-enrichment was performed with baseline and longitudinal PBMC samples of a cohort of patients with acute, chronic and spontaneously resolved HCV infection to assess the expression pattern of the co-inhibitory molecule TIGIT together with PD-1, BTLA, Tim-3, as well as OX40 and CD226 (DNAM-1) of HCV-specific CD4+ T cells, and in a subset of patients of HCV-specific CD8+ T cells. As the main result, we found a higher expression level of TIGIT+ PD-1+ on HCV-specific CD4+ T cells during acute and chronic HCV infection compared to patients with spontaneously resolved HCV infection (p < 0,0001). Conversely, expression of the complementary co-stimulatory receptor of TIGIT, CD226 (DNAM-1) was significantly decreased on HCV-specific CD4+ T cells during chronic infection. The predominant phenotype of HCV-specific CD4+ T cells during acute and chronic infection was TIGIT+, PD-1+, BTLA+, Tim-3−. This comprehensive phenotypic study confirms TIGIT together with PD-1 as a discriminatory marker of dysfunctional HCV-specific CD4+ T cells.
A novel antibacterial resin-based root canal sealer modified by Dimethylaminododecyl Methacrylate
Authors: Liu Dan , Peng Xian , Wang Suping , Han Qi , Li Bolei , Zhou Xinxuan , Ren Biao , Xu Hockin H. K. , Weir Michael D. , Li Mingyun , Zhou Xuedong , Cheng Lei
Published: July 2019

Persistent apical periodontitis, mainly caused by microorganisms infections, represents a critical challenge for endodontists. Dimethylaminododecyl methacrylate (DMADDM) is a well-studied and potent antibacterial agent used in various studies described in the literature. The aim of this study is to develop a novel antibacterial root canal sealer by incorporating DMADDM into EndoREZ and investigate the properties of the resulting material. Different mass fractions (0, 1.25%, 2.5%, and 5%) of DMADDM were incorporated into EndoREZ and the cytotoxicity, apical sealing ability and solubility of the resulting material were evaluated. Furthermore, a direct contact test, determination of colony-forming units, a crystal violet assay, scanning electronic microscopy and live/dead bacteria staining were performed to evaluate the antibacterial effect of the sealer to multispecies bacteria (Enterococcus faecalis, Streptococcus gordonii, Actinomyces naeslundii, and Lactobacillus acidophilus), in planktonic cells or biofilms. Fluorescence in situ hybridization and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction were carried out to assess the composition of the multispecies biofilms. No difference on the cytotoxicity, apical sealing ability and solubility between sealers containing DMADDM (1.25%, 2.5%) and EndoREZ (0%) could be determined. However, when the mass fraction of DMADDM increased to 5%, significantly different properties were found compared to the 0% (p < 0.05) group. Moreover, incorporating DMADDM into the sealer could greatly improve the antibacterial properties of EndoREZ. In addition, the composition ratio of E. faecalis could be decreased in multispecies microecology in sealers containing DMADDM. Therefore, a EndoREZ sealer material containing DMADDM could be considered useful in clinical applications for preventing and treating persistent apical periodontitis.
Genipin and EDC crosslinking of extracellular matrix hydrogel derived from human umbilical cord for neural tissue repair
Authors: Výborný Karel , Vallová Jana , Kočí Zuzana , Kekulová Kristýna , Jiráková Klára , Jendelová Pavla , Hodan Jiří , Kubinová Šárka
Published: July 2019

Extracellular matrix (ECM) hydrogels, produced by tissue decellularization are natural injectable materials suitable for neural tissue repair. However, the rapid biodegradation of these materials may disrupt neural tissue reconstruction in vivo. The aim of this study was to improve the stability of the previously described ECM hydrogel derived from human umbilical cord using genipin and N-(3-Dimethylaminopropyl)-N′-ethylcarbodiimide hydrochloride (EDC), crosslinking at concentration of 0.5–10 mM. The hydrogels, crosslinked by genipin (ECM/G) or EDC (ECM/D), were evaluated in vitro in terms of their mechanical properties, degradation stability and biocompatibility. ECM/G, unlike ECM/D, crosslinked hydrogels revealed improved rheological properties when compared to uncrosslinked ECM. Both ECM/G and ECM/D slowed down the gelation time and increased the resistance against in vitro enzymatic degradation, while genipin crosslinking was more effective than EDC. Crosslinkers concentration of 1 mM enhanced the in vitro bio-stability of both ECM/G and ECM/D without affecting mesenchymal stem cell proliferation, axonal sprouting or neural stem cell growth and differentiation. Moreover, when injected into cortical photochemical lesion, genipin allowed in situ gelation and improved the retention of ECM for up to 2 weeks without any adverse tissue response or enhanced inflammatory reaction. In summary, we demonstrated that genipin, rather than EDC, improved the bio-stability of injectable ECM hydrogel in biocompatible concentration, and that ECM/G has potential as a scaffold for neural tissue application.
Quantitative Mass Spectrometry Imaging Reveals Mutation Status-independent Lack of Imatinib in Liver Metastases of Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors
Authors: Abu Sammour Denis , Marsching Christian , Geisel Alexander , Erich Katrin , Schulz Sandra , Ramallo Guevara Carina , Rabe Jan-Hinrich , Marx Alexander , Findeisen Peter , Hohenberger Peter , Hopf Carsten
Published: July 2019

Mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) is an enabling technology for label-free drug disposition studies at high spatial resolution in life science- and pharmaceutical research. We present the first extensive clinical matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) quantitative mass spectrometry imaging (qMSI) study of drug uptake and distribution in clinical specimen, analyzing 56 specimens of tumor and corresponding non-tumor tissues from 27 imatinib-treated patients with the biopsy-proven rare disease gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST). For validation, we compared MALDI-TOF-qMSI with conventional UPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS-based quantification from tissue extracts and with ultra-high resolution MALDI-FTICR-qMSI. We introduced a novel generalized nonlinear calibration model of drug quantities based on computational evaluation of drug-containing areas that enabled better data fitting and assessment of the inherent method nonlinearities. Imatinib tissue spatial maps revealed striking inefficiency in drug penetration into GIST liver metastases even though the corresponding healthy liver tissues in the vicinity showed abundant imatinib levels beyond the limit of quantification (LOQ), thus providing evidence for secondary drug resistance independent of mutation status. Taken together, these findings underscore the important application of MALDI-qMSI in studying the spatial distribution of molecularly targeted therapeutics in oncology, namely to serve as orthogonal post-surgical approach to evaluate the contribution of anticancer drug disposition to resistance against treatment.
Odors from phylogenetically-distant plants to Brassicaceae repel an herbivorous Brassica specialist
Authors: Stratton Chase A. , Hodgdon Elisabeth , Rodriguez-Saona Cesar , Shelton Anthony M. , Chen Yolanda H.
Published: July 2019

Specialist insect herbivores are constrained by highly specific odor recognition systems to accept suitable host plants. Given that odor recognition leads specialist insects to accept a limited range of plants, we hypothesized that phylogenetically distant plants produce odors that are physicochemically different from host odors and would be less attractive or even repellent to a specialist herbivore. We tested this hypothesis by examining behavioral and ovipositional responses of swede midge (Contarinia nasturtii, Diptera: Cecidomyiidae), a specialist of brassicas, to broccoli sprayed with non-host essential oils. Specifically, we asked: (1) How do essential oils from different plant species influence host-seeking and oviposition behaviors of swede midge? (2) Do odors from non-host plants that are not phylogenetically related or physicochemically similar to host plants affect host-seeking or ovipositional behavior of swede midge? In oviposition assays, we found that non-host odors varied in their ability to modify female midge behavior and that phylogenetic relatedness was negatively correlated with larval density. In y-tube assays, we found that female midges most frequently avoided non-host odors that were more similar to brassica odors. Females were less likely to oviposit on or choose any treated host plants, but particularly avoided garlic, spearmint, thyme, eucalyptus lemon, and cinnamon bark treatments. Overall, we found that plant phylogenetic relatedness and odor similarity are related to repellency. Therefore, altering the diversity of plant odors by explicitly accounting for plant phylogenetic distance and odor similarity, relative to host plants, may be an important, underexploited tactic for sustainably managing challenging pests.
Simulated microgravity increases polyploid giant cancer cells and nuclear localization of YAP
Authors: Arun Raj Pranap , Sivanesan Divya , Patra Bamadeb , Varadaraj Sudha , Verma Rama Shanker
Published: July 2019

Physical cues are vital in determining cellular fate in cancer. In vitro 3D culture do not replicate forces present in vivo. These forces including tumor interstitial fluid pressure and matrix stiffness behave as switches in differentiation and metastasis, which are intricate features of cancer stem cells (CSCs). Gravity determines the effect of these physical factors on cell fate and functions as evident from microgravity experiments on space and ground simulations. Here, we described the role of simulation of microgravity (SMG) using rotary cell culture system (RCCS) in increasing stemness in human colorectal cancer cell HCT116. We observed distinct features of cancer stem cells including CD133/CD44 dual positive cells and migration in SMG which was not altered by autophagy induction or inhibition. 3D and SMG increased autophagy, but the flux was staggered under SMG. Increased unique giant cancer cells housing complete nuclear localization of YAP were observed in SMG. This study highlights the role of microgravity in regulating stemness in CSC and importance of physical factors in determining the same.
Anticancer properties of 5Z-(4-fluorobenzylidene)-2-(4-hydroxyphenylamino)-thiazol-4-one
Authors: Szychowski Konrad A. , Kaminskyy Danylo V. , Leja Marcin L. , Kryshchyshyn Anna P. , Lesyk Roman B. , Tobiasz Jakub , Wnuk Maciej , Pomianek Tadeusz , Gmiński Jan
Published: July 2019

4-thiazolidinones, which are privileged structures in medicinal chemistry, comprise the well-known class of heterocycles and are a source of new drug-like compounds. Undoubtedly, the 5-bulky-substituted-2,4-thiazolidinediones - a class of antihyperglycemic glitazones, which are peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) agonists, are the most described group among them. As there are various chemically distinct 4-thiazolidinones, different subtypes have been selected for studies; however, their main pharmacological profiles are similar. The aim of this study was to evaluate the anticancer activity of 5Z-(4-fluorobenzylidene)-2-(4-hydroxyphenylamino)-thiazol-4-one (Les-236) in four human cancer cell lines, A549, SCC-15, SH-SY5Y, and CACO-2, and investigate its impact on the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the apoptotic process as well as cytotoxicity and metabolism in these cell lines. The cell lines were exposed to increasing concentrations (1 nM to 100 µM) of the studied compound for 6, 24, and 48 h, and later, ROS production, cell viability, caspase-3 activity, and cell metabolism were examined. The obtained results showed that the studied compound decreased the production of ROS, increased the release of lactate dehydrogenase, and decreased cell metabolism/proliferation in all the five cell lines at micromolar concentrations. Interestingly, over a wide range of concentrations (from 1 nM to 100 µM), Les-236 was able to increase the activity of caspase-3 in BJ (after 6 h of exposure), A549, CACO-2, and SCC-15 (after 48 h of exposure) cell lines which could be an effect of the activation of PPARγ-dependent pathways.
Microstructure Control and Performance Evolution of Aluminum Alloy 7075 by Nano-Treating
Authors: Zuo Min , Sokoluk Maximilian , Cao Chezheng , Yuan Jie , Zheng Shiqi , Li Xiaochun
Published: July 2019

Nano-treating is a novel concept wherein a low percentage of nanoparticles is used for microstructural control and property tuning in metals and alloys. The nano-treating of AA7075 was investigated to control its microstructure and improve its structural stability for high performance. After treatment with TiC nanoparticles, the grains were significantly refined from coarse dendrites of hundreds of micrometers to fine equiaxial ones smaller than 20 μm. After T6 heat treatment, the grains, with an average size of 18.5 μm, remained almost unchanged, demonstrating an excellent thermal stability. It was found that besides of growth restriction factor by pinning behavior on grain boundries, TiC nanoparticles served as both an effective nucleation agent for primary grains and an effective secondary phase modifier in AA7075. Furthermore, the mechanical properties of nano-treated AA7075 were improved over those of the pure alloy. Thus, nano-treating provides a new method to enhance the performance of aluminum alloys for numerous applications.
A colorimetric and near -infrared ratiometric fluorescent probe for the determination of endogenous tyrosinase activity based on cyanine aggregation
Authors: Zhang Peng , Li Shasha , Fu Caixia , Zhang Qian , Xiao Yuzhe , Ding Caifeng
Published: July 2019

A ratiometric fluorescent probe for TYR activity with high sensitivity was developed based on the H-aggregation of a cyanine dye.
Manipulating the dynamics of mechanochemical ternary cocrystal formation
Authors: Kulla Hannes , Michalchuk Adam A. L. , Emmerling Franziska
Published: July 2019

In situ real-time X-ray powder diffraction and Raman spectroscopy reveal formation pathways of ternary co-crystals by mechanochemistry.
Performance improvement of a p-Cu2O nanocrystal photocathode with an ultra-thin silver protective layer
Authors: Li Yang , Luo Kai
Published: July 2019

A continuous and compact Ag film with 10 nm thickness deposited by high power impulse magnetron sputtering (HiPIMS), promotes the activity and stability of Cu2O single crystal photocathodes.
A counterintuitive stereochemical outcome from a chelation-controlled vinylmetal aldehyde addition leads to the configurational reassignment of phormidolide A
Authors: Lam Nelson Y. S. , Muir Garrett , Challa Venugopal Rao , Britton Robert , Paterson Ian
Published: July 2019

Detailed NMR spectroscopic comparisons of a series of synthetic C10–C23 fragments with a known derivative of phormidolide A resulted in the configurational reassignment of seven of its 11 stereocentres.
Stereoselective synthesis of 2,5-disubstituted pyrrolidines via gold-catalysed anti-Markovnikov hydroamination-initiated tandem reactions
Authors: Tan Tong-De , Chen Yang-Bo , Yang Ming-Yang , Wang Jia-Le , Su Hao-Ze , Hong Feng-Lin , Zhou Jin-Mei , Ye Long-Wu
Published: July 2019

A series of gold-catalyzed intramolecular hydroamination-initiated azidation, allylation and heteroarylation reactions enable the rapid construction of enantioenriched 2,5-disubstituted pyrrolidines.
Guest-dependent negative thermal expansion in a lanthanide-based metal–organic framework
Authors: Gładysiak Andrzej , Moosavi Seyed Mohamad , Sarkisov Lev , Smit Berend , Stylianou Kyriakos C.
Published: July 2019

A lanthanide-based metal–organic framework (MOF) namedSION-2, displays strong and tuneable uniaxial negative thermal expansion (NTE).
Dynamics of [Pyr13][Tf2N] ionic liquid confined to carbon black
Authors: Merz Steffen , Jakes Peter , Taranenko Svitlana , Eichel Rüdiger-A. , Granwehr Josef
Published: July 2019

Spectrally resolved PGSTE andT1NMR revealed the dynamics of [Pyr13][Tf2N] confined to carbon black. Pore space loading has the potential to qualitatively change the RTIL dynamics in environments relevant for electrochemical applications.
A combined experimental and theoretical study on the structures, interactions and volumetric properties of guanidinium-based ionic liquid mixtures
Authors: Lu Xiaoxing , Xie Hujun , Lei Qunfang , Fang Wenjun
Published: July 2019

Mixing of ILs leads to changes of interactions and different structures.
Effect of light atoms on thermal transport across solid–solid interfaces
Authors: Li Ruiyang , Gordiz Kiarash , Henry Asegun , Hopkins Patrick E. , Lee Eungkyu , Luo Tengfei
Published: July 2019

A study using molecular dynamics simulation shows that thermal transport across solid interfaces can be enhanced by introducing light atoms near the interface.
A theoretical elucidation of the mechanism of tuneable fluorescence in a full-colour emissive ESIPT dye
Authors: Vérité Pauline M. , Hédé Simon , Jacquemin Denis
Published: July 2019

We reinvestigate with ab initio tools the origin of the diverse colours in a complex multi-ESIPT dye, and we propose a new assignment for the blue fluorescence.
High performance optical temperature sensingviaselectively partitioning Cr4+in the residual SiO2-rich phase of glass-ceramics
Authors: Zhang Zhanwen , Li Xinfang , Wang Changjian , Qiao Xvsheng
Published: July 2019

Tetravalent Cr4+is stabilized in the residual silicate glass phase to get high temperature sensitivity and high temperature resolution.
Correction: Morphology-maintaining synthesis of NbN and its catalytic performance in epoxidation
Authors: Zhao Tianhao , Shen Shanshan , Liu Xiaohui , Guo Yong , Pao Chih-Wen , Chen Jeng-Lung , Wang Yanqin
Published: July 2019

Correction for ‘Morphology-maintaining synthesis of NbN and its catalytic performance in epoxidation’ by Tianhao Zhao et al., Catal. Sci. Technol., 2019, DOI: 10.1039/c9cy00890j.
Knock-on synthesis of tritopic calix[4]pyrrole host for enhanced anion interactions
Authors: Chahal Mandeep K. , Labuta Jan , Březina Václav , Karr Paul A. , Matsushita Yoshitaka , Webre Whitney A. , Payne Daniel T. , Ariga Katsuhiko , D'Souza Francis , Hill Jonathan P.
Published: July 2019

Anion interactions have been optimized in a tritopic host prepared by using ‘knock-on’ synthesis of calix[4]pyrrole and their anion binding properties evaluated using different spectroscopic methods.
Effects of administration of glucosamine and chicken cartilage hydrolysate on rheumatoid arthritis in SKG mice
Authors: Kashiuchi Shoko , Miyazawa Rikako , Nagata Honoka , Shirai Mayu , Shimizu Muneshige , Sone Hideyuki , Kamiyama Shin
Published: July 2019

We administered daily, 10 mg glucosamine or 100 mg chicken cartilage hydrolysate to SKG/Jcl mice, a model for spontaneous RA, for 5 weeks and evaluated their effects on RA development.
How the sustainable solvent water unleashes the photoredox catalytic potential of ruthenium polypyridyl complexes for pinacol couplings
Authors: Naumann Robert , Goez Martin
Published: July 2019

No water crisis... but rather the opposite: this sustainable solvent increases the bandwith of ruthenium-based photoredox catalysis by allowing pinacol couplings, which are infeasible in acetonitrile or DMF.
Direct quantitative analysis of a cesium pencil in a simulated hot-cell using a remote-LIBS system equipped with a miniature collimator
Authors: Singh Manjeet , Mishra Raman K. , Jaison P. G. , Kaushik Chetan P. , Sarkar Arnab
Published: July 2019

An on-site remote method for direct analysis of fissionogenic 137Cs in Cs-pencil, which is replacing the traditional 137CsCl powder used in blood irradiator, was developed based on miniature collimator equipped remote-LIBS at 1–1.5 m remote distances.
A new ratiometric, colorimetric and ‘‘turn-on’’ fluorescent chemosensor for the detection of cyanide ions based on a phenol–bisthiazolopyridine hybrid
Authors: Assadollahnejad Nazafarin , Kargar Maryam , Darabi Hossein Reza , Abouali Negar , Jamshidi Shadi , Sharifi Ali , Aghapoor Kioumars , Sayahi Hani
Published: July 2019

This optical probe recognizes CN− over various anions and cations via the deprotonation mechanism as evidenced by 1H NMR titration.
Probing the chirality of oxidovanadium(v) centers in complexes with tridentate sugar Schiff-base ligands: solid-state and solution behavior
Authors: Mohammadnezhad Gholamhossein , Akintola Oluseun , Buchholz Axel , Görls Helmar , Plass Winfried
Published: July 2019

Configurations of oxidovanadium centers in diastereomeric complexes with chiral sugar ligands are assigned and in the solid state triggered by the coordination number at the vanadium center through the steric requirements of the chelate ligand.
High efficiency solar cells tailored using biomass-converted graded carbon quantum dots
Authors: Liu Liming , Yu Xueping , Yi Zichuan , Chi Feng , Wang Honghang , Yuan Yongfang , Li Dongliang , Xu Kai , Zhang Xiaowen
Published: July 2019

The photovoltaic performances of solar cells have been significantly improved by incorporating biomass-converted carbon quantum dots with graded energy levels into sensitized devices.
Visible light-mediated intermolecular [2 + 2] photocycloaddition of 1-aryl-2-nitroethenes and olefins
Authors: Mohr Lisa-Marie , Bauer Andreas , Jandl Christian , Bach Thorsten
Published: July 2019

1-Aryl-4-nitrocyclobutanes were selectively prepared by intermolecular [2 + 2] photocycloaddition reactions from 1-aryl-2-nitroethenes upon irradiation with visible light (λ = 419 nm or λ = 424 nm).
Polysaccharides meet dendrimers to fine-tune the stability and release properties of polyion complex micelles
Authors: Lopez-Blanco Roi , Fernandez-Villamarin Marcos , Jatunov Sorel , Novoa-Carballal Ramon , Fernandez-Megia Eduardo
Published: July 2019

Dendritic-polysaccharide PIC micelles represent promising delivery systems where dendritic rigidity and polysaccharide stiffness synchronize to determine the stability of the micelles, their kinetics of intracellular drug release, and cytotoxicity.
Retracted Article: miR-199a-3p knockdown inhibits dedifferentiated liposarcoma (DDLPS) cell viability and enhances apoptosis through targeting casein kinase-1 alpha (CK1α)
Authors: Cao Ye , Zheng Jiajia , Lv Chentao
Published: July 2019

Dedifferentiated liposarcoma (DDLPS) is an aggressive tumor with high mortality.
Extraction of cobalt(ii) by methyltrioctylammonium chloride in nickel(ii)-containing chloride solution from spent lithium ion batteries
Authors: Cheng Jiehong , Lu Tao , Wu Xiao , Zhang Haojing , Zhang Chunyong , Peng Ching-An , Huang Shouqiang
Published: July 2019

Interception of dearomatized tertiary boronic ester in a diastereoselective [4 + 2] cycloaddition or 1,3-borotopic shift in the presence or absence of “naked” Li+, understanding reactivities by activation/strain model, were evaluated by DFT calculations.
Flexible and highly sensitive pressure sensors based on microcrack arrays inspired by scorpions
Authors: Zhang Junqiu , Sun Tao , Liu Linpeng , Niu Shichao , Wang Kejun , Song Honglie , Han Qigang , Han Zhiwu , Ren Luquan , Lin Qiao
Published: July 2019

The pressure sensor based on microcrack arrays inspired by the scorpion.
Time-controlled synthesis of the 3D coordination polymer U(1,2,3-Hbtc)2 followed by the formation of molecular poly-oxo cluster {U14} containing hemimellitate uranium(iv)
Authors: Dufaye Maxime , Martin Nicolas P. , Duval Sylvain , Volkringer Christophe , Ikeda-Ohno Atsushi , Loiseau Thierry
Published: July 2019

The synthesis of a 3D coordination polymer [U(HL)2] (L = hemimellitate) and a new poly-oxo cluster {U14} afterwards is presented.
Correction: Effect of nanoclay orientation on oxygen barrier properties of LbL nanocomposite coated films
Authors: Ben Dhieb Fatma , Dil Ebrahim Jalali , Tabatabaei Seyed H. , Mighri Frej , Ajji Abdellah
Published: July 2019

Correction for ‘Effect of nanoclay orientation on oxygen barrier properties of LbL nanocomposite coated films’ by Fatma Ben Dhieb et al., RSC Adv., 2019, 9, 1632–1641.
Conformationally directed assembly of peptides on 2D surfaces mediated by thermal stimuli
Authors: Jorgenson Tyler D. , Milligan Madelyn , Sarikaya Mehmet , Overney René M.
Published: July 2019

We demonstrate the directed assembly of graphite binding peptides mediated by thermal perturbations to the solvated peptide conformation.
Solar steam generation based on the photothermal effect: from designs to applications, and beyond
Authors: Lin Yawen , Xu Hao , Shan Xiaoli , Di Yunsong , Zhao Aiqing , Hu Yujing , Gan Zhixing
Published: July 2019

Rational design of solar absorption, heat conversion and water supply for efficient solar steam generation.
Effects of an Intensive Exercise-Based Swallowing Program for Persons With Parkinson's Disease and Complex Medical History: A Single-Case Experiment
Authors: Jenks Jocelyn , Pitts Laura L.
Published: July 2019

Purpose

Dysphagia treatments to address the deterioration of oropharyngeal and respiratory functions in Parkinson's disease (PD) are few and rarely researched in persons with complex medical histories. This research note explored the effects of an intensive exercise-based swallowing program (ISP) that incorporated lingual and respiratory exercises for persons with PD and complex medical history.

Method

A single-case experiment was conducted across a 4-week ISP of lingual training and expiratory muscle strengthening for 2 participants (67-year-old man and 61-year-old woman). Probes included tongue strength and maximum expiratory pressure. Generalization measures included the Mann Assessment of Swallowing Ability (
Mann, 2002
), Timed Water Test (
Hughes & Wiles, 1996
), Repetitive Saliva Swallow Test (
Oguchi et al., 2000
), Functional Oral Intake Scale (
Crary, Carnaby Mann, & Groher, 2005
), and Swallowing Quality of Life questionnaire (
McHorney et al., 2002
).

Results

Gains occurred in tongue strength and maximum expiratory pressure (
p
≤ .002) with large effect sizes (
d
≥ 1.3) as well as Mann Assessment of Swallowing Ability and Timed Water Test performance. Repetitive Saliva Swallow Test performance and Functional Oral Intake Scale improved for 1 participant, whereas the other maintained function. Swallowing Quality of Life questionnaire remained largely unchanged; however, participants indicated they became more aware of their swallowing difficulties at posttreatment.

Conclusions

Persons with PD and complex medical history demonstrated increased lingual and expiratory muscle strength following a brief intensive program, which further generalized to select clinical swallowing measures. Findings suggest an overall positive and potentially additive or synergistic effect of an ISP. Future research may refine optimal candidacy and regimens for ISPs, which may help to maximize clinically meaningful returns, especially considering the increased demands of an intensive program.
Dynamic traffic aware active queue management using deep reinforcement learning
Authors: Jin Weiqi , Gu Rentao , Ji Yuefeng , Dong Tao , Yin Jie , Liu Zhihui
Published: July 2019

Traditional design of active queue management (AQM) assumes a fixed model at an operating point and lacks planning. AQMs like controlled delay provide some planning but are insensitive to dynamic traffic. In this Letter, the authors propose dynamic traffic aware AQM with deep reinforcement learning to expand the model on a grid of operating points and to add more planning. By learning the network parameter on the grid and the transitions between operating points with collected data, the fluid model of transmission control protocol dynamics is obtained. Planning on operating points is enhanced by value iterations. Evaluations show that the algorithm decreases queuing delay for dynamic traffic with more planning.
Signals with zero autocorrelation zone for the synthesised aperture radar
Authors: Ipanov R.N.
Published: July 2019

For the synthesised aperture radar, the radar signal with a zero autocorrelation zone (ZACZ) is synthesised, which represents a sequence from two phase‐code shift keying (PCSK) pulses coded by adjacent pairs of the D‐code with additional linear frequency shift‐keying (LFSK) of the train pulse discrete value. A comparative analysis is performed of correlation characteristics of the synthesised signal with the signal without discrete modulation and the truncated M‐sequence. Total correlation characteristics of the ensemble from four signals are also analysed. It is shown that in ZACZ, the level of all side lobes of the autocorrelation function (ACF) of the synthesised signal is less than the level of the ACF side lobes of the M‐sequence. The total ACF of the ensemble of four signals both with modulation and without the discrete modulation has zero side lobes along with the whole time axis τ, and at mismatch in frequency in ZACZ, it has the side lobe level <−40 dB.