bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lamin A molecular compression and sliding as mechanisms behind nucleoskeleton elasticity
Authors: Makarov Alex A. , Zou Juan , Houston Douglas R. , Spanos Christos , Solovyova Alexandra S. , Cardenal-Peralta Cristina , Rappsilber Juri , Schirmer Eric C.
Published: July 2019

Lamin A is a nuclear intermediate filament protein critical for nuclear architecture and mechanics and mutated in a wide range of human diseases. Yet little is known about the molecular architecture of lamins and mechanisms of their assembly. Here we use SILAC cross-linking mass spectrometry to determine interactions within lamin dimers and between dimers in higher-order polymers. We find evidence for a compression mechanism where coiled coils in the lamin A rod can slide onto each other to contract rod length, likely driven by a wide range of electrostatic interactions with the flexible linkers between coiled coils. Similar interactions occur with unstructured regions flanking the rod domain during oligomeric assembly. Mutations linked to human disease block these interactions, suggesting that this spring-like contraction can explain in part the dynamic mechanical stretch and flexibility properties of the lamin polymer and other intermediate filament networks.
Eradication of unresectable liver metastasis through induction of tumour specific energy depletion
Authors: Huo Da , Zhu Jianfeng , Chen Guojun , Chen Qian , Zhang Chao , Luo Xingyu , Jiang Wei , Jiang Xiqun , Gu Zhen , Hu Yong
Published: July 2019

Treatment of liver metastasis experiences slow progress owing to the severe side effects. In this study, we demonstrate a strategy capable of eliminating metastatic cancer cells in a selective manner. Nucleus-targeting W18O49 nanoparticles (WONPs) are conjugated to mitochondria-selective mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) containing photosensitizer (Ce6) through a Cathepsin B-cleavable peptide. In hepatocytes, upon the laser irradiation, the generated singlet oxygen species are consumed by WONPs, in turn leading to the loss of their photothermally heating capacity, thereby sparing hepatocyte from thermal damage induced by the laser illumination. By contrast, in cancer cells, the cleaved peptide linker allows WONPs and MSNs to respectively target nucleus and mitochondria, where the therapeutic powers could be unleashed, both photodynamically and photothermally. This ensures the energy production of cancer cells can be abolished. We further assess the underlying molecular mechanism at both gene and protein levels to better understand the therapeutic outcome.
Genomic diversity and novel genome-wide association with fruit morphology in Capsicum, from 746k polymorphic sites
Authors: Colonna Vincenza , D’Agostino Nunzio , Garrison Erik , Albrechtsen Anders , Meisner Jonas , Facchiano Angelo , Cardi Teodoro , Tripodi Pasquale
Published: July 2019

Capsicum is one of the major vegetable crops grown worldwide. Current subdivision in clades and species is based on morphological traits and coarse sets of genetic markers. Broad variability of fruits has been driven by breeding programs and has been mainly studied by linkage analysis. We discovered 746k variable sites by sequencing 1.8% of the genome in a collection of 373 accessions belonging to 11 Capsicum species from 51 countries. We describe genomic variation at population-level, confirm major subdivision in clades and species, and show that the known major subdivision of C. annuum separates large and bulky fruits from small ones. In C. annuum, we identify four novel loci associated with phenotypes determining the fruit shape, including a non-synonymous mutation in the gene Longifolia 1-like (CA03g16080). Our collection covers all the economically important species of Capsicum widely used in breeding programs and represent the widest and largest study so far in terms of the number of species and number of genetic variants analyzed. We identified a large set of markers that can be used for population genetic studies and genetic association analyses. Our results provide a comprehensive and precise perspective on genomic variability in Capsicum at population-level and suggest that future fine genetic association studies will yield useful results for breeding.
The rpl23 gene and pseudogene are hotspots of illegitimate recombination in barley chloroplast mutator seedlings
Authors: Lencina F. , Landau A. M. , Petterson M. E. , Pacheco M. G. , Kobayashi K. , Prina A. R.
Published: July 2019

Previously, through a TILLING (Targeting Induced Local Lesions in Genomes) approach applied on barley chloroplast mutator (cpm) seedlings a high frequency of polymorphisms in the rpl23 gene was detected. All the polymorphisms corresponded to five differences already known to exist in nature between the rpl23 gene located in the inverted repeats (IRs) and the rpl23 pseudogene located in the large single copy region (LSC). In this investigation, polymorphisms in the rpl23 gene were verified and besides, a similar situation was found for the pseudogene in cpm seedlings. On the other hand, no polymorphisms were found in any of those loci in 40 wild type barley seedlings. Those facts and the independent occurrence of polymorphisms in the gene and pseudogene in individual seedlings suggest that the detected polymorphisms initially arose from gene conversion between gene and pseudogene. Moreover, an additional recombination process involving small recombinant segments seems to occur between the two gene copies as a consequence of their location in the IRs. These and previous results support the hypothesis that the CPM protein is a component of the plastome mismatch repair (MMR) system, whose failure of the anti-recombination activity results in increased illegitimate recombination between the rpl23 gene and pseudogene.
A Nanoparticle-Based Approach for the Detection of Extracellular Vesicles
Authors: Islam Md. Khirul , Syed Parvez , Lehtinen Laura , Leivo Janne , Gidwani Kamlesh , Wittfooth Saara , Pettersson Kim , Lamminmäki Urpo
Published: July 2019

The analysis of extracellular vesicles (EVs) typically requires tedious and time-consuming isolation process from bio-fluids. We developed a nanoparticle-based time resolved fluorescence immunoassay (NP-TRFIA) that uses biotinylated antibodies against the proteins of tetraspanin family and tumor-associated antigens for capturing EVs from urine samples and cell culture supernatants without the need for isolation. The captured-EVs were detected either with Eu3+-chelate or Eu3+-doped nanoparticle-based labels conjugated either to antibodies against the tetraspanins or lectins targeting the glycan moieties on EVs surface. The NP-TRFIA demonstrated specific capturing and detection of EVs by antibodies and lectins. Lectin-nanoparticle based assays showed 2–10 fold higher signal-to-background ratio compared with lectin-chelate assays. The nanoparticle assay concept allowed surface glycosylation profiling of the urine derived-EVs with lectins. It was also applied to establish an assay showing differential expression of tumor-associated proteins on more aggressive (higher ITGA3 on DU145- and PC3-EVs) compared to less aggressive (higher EpCAM on LNCaP-EVs) PCa- cell lines derived-EVs. This NP-TRFIA can be used as a simple tool for analysis and characterization of EVs in urine and cell culture supernatants. Such approach could be useful in identification of disease-specific markers on the surface of patient-derived urinary EVs.
Changes in DXA-derived lean mass and MRI-derived cross-sectional area of the thigh are modestly associated
Authors: Tavoian Dallin , Ampomah Kwasi , Amano Shinichi , Law Timothy D. , Clark Brian C.
Published: July 2019

Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) derived measures of lean mass demonstrate strong associations with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) derived measures of muscle volume (MV) in cross-sectional studies, however, few studies have compared changes in response to an intervention. The purpose of this study was to determine the accuracy of DXA at detecting changes in lean mass, using MRI-derived MV as a reference standard. 10 male and 16 female subjects (29.2 ± 9.5 years) underwent DXA and MRI scans before and after a 10-week resistance training intervention. DXA thigh lean mass was compared to MRI mid-thigh MV, and percent change in size was compared between MRI and DXA. There was a strong correlation between measures cross-sectionally (r = 0.89) in agreement with previous investigations. However, there was a modest correlation of percentage change over time between methods (r = 0.49). Bland-Altman plots revealed that the amount of random error increased as the magnitude of the change from baseline increased. DXA measures of change in lean mass were modestly associated with MRI measures of change in MV. While there are several advantages to using DXA for the measurement of lean mass, the inability to accurately detect changes over time calls into question its use in clinical trials.
The composition of the aphid fauna (Insecta, Hemiptera) of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
Authors: Wieczorek Karina , Fulcher Tim K. , Chłond Dominik
Published: July 2019

At least a dozen species of aphids (Insecta, Hemiptera) of non-native origin have expanded their range in Europe, however the importance of botanic gardens in this phenomenon has not been studied previously in detail. As a case study, investigations on the species composition and host range of Aphidomorpha in the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, London, United Kingdom, were conducted over a period of twelve days, in June 2017. The inventory study was carried out in the collection of living plants, both in the gardens and the glasshouses and nurseries. In total, 94 taxa of Aphidomorpha are identified (one phylloxerid, one adelgid and 92 species of aphids). 20 species are regarded as alien to the European aphid fauna and among them nine are believed to be the first published records for Kew. 20 species are regarded as serious pests, capable of virus transmission. The list of host plants includes 155 taxa from 89 genera and 49 families.Ericolophium holsti(Takahashi), species of Asiatic origin associated withRhododendronspp., was found for the first time in the field in the UK. Changes in the species composition of the aphid fauna in reference to the Eastop’s studies in 1960s were discussed.
Population density and water balance influence the global occurrence of hepatitis E epidemics
Authors: Carratalà Anna , Joost Stéphane
Published: July 2019

In developing countries, the waterborne transmission of hepatitis E virus (HEV), caused by HEV genotypes 1 (HEV-1) and 2 (HEV-2), leads to the onset of large recurrent outbreaks. HEV infections are of particular concern among pregnant women, due to very high mortality rates (up to 70%). Unfortunately, good understanding of the factors that trigger the occurrence of HEV epidemics is currently lacking; therefore, anticipating the onset of an outbreak is yet not possible. In order to map the geographical regions at higher risk of HEV epidemics and the conditions most favorable for the transmission of the virus, we compiled a dataset of HEV waterborne outbreaks and used it to obtain models of geographical suitability for HEV across the planet. The main three variables that best predict the geographical distribution of HEV outbreaks at global scale are population density, annual potential evapotranspiration and precipitation seasonality. At a regional scale, the temporal occurrence of HEV outbreaks in the Ganges watershed is negatively correlated with the discharge of the river (r = −0.77). Combined, our findings suggest that ultimately, population density and water balance are main parameters influencing the occurrence of HEV-1 and HEV-2 outbreaks. This study expands the current understanding of the combination of factors shaping the biogeography and seasonality of waterborne viral pathogens such as HEV-1 and HEV-2, and contributes to developing novel concepts for the prediction and control of human waterborne viruses in the near future.
Understanding how birds rebuild fat stores during migration: insights from an experimental study
Authors: Araújo Pedro M. , Viegas Ivan , Rocha Afonso D. , Villegas Auxiliadora , Jones John G. , Mendonça Liliana , Ramos Jaime A. , Masero José A. , Alves José A.
Published: July 2019

Mechanisms underlying fat accumulation for long-distance migration are not fully understood. This is especially relevant in the context of global change, as many migrants are dealing with changes in natural habitats and associated food sources and energy stores. The continental Black-tailed godwit Limosa limosa limosa is a long-distance migratory bird that has undergone a considerable dietary shift over the past few decades. Historically, godwits fed on an animal-based diet, but currently, during the non-breeding period godwits feed almost exclusively on rice seeds. The latter diet may allow building up of their fuel stores for migration by significantly increasing de novo lipogenesis (DNL) activity. Here, we performed an experiment to investigate lipid flux and the abundance of key enzymes involved in DNL in godwits, during fasting and refueling periods at the staging site, while feeding on rice seeds or fly larvae. Despite no significant differences found in enzymatic abundance (FASN, ME1, ACC and LPL) in stored fat, experimental godwits feeding on rice seeds presented high rates of DNL when compared to fly-larvae fed birds (~35 times more) and fasted godwits (no DNL activity). The increase of fractional DNL in godwits feeding on a carbohydrate-rich diet can potentially be enhanced by the fasting period that stimulates lipogenesis. Although requiring further testing, these recent findings provide new insights into the mechanisms of avian fat accumulation during a fasting and refueling cycle and associated responses to habitat and dietary changes in a migratory species.
Intermittent restraint stress induces circadian misalignment in the mouse bladder, leading to nocturia
Authors: Ihara Tatsuya , Nakamura Yuki , Mitsui Takahiko , Tsuchiya Sachiko , Kanda Mie , Kira Satoru , Nakagomi Hiroshi , Sawada Norifumi , Kamiyama Manabu , Shigetomi Eiji , Shinozaki Youichi , Yoshiyama Mitsuharu , Nakao Atsuhito , Koizumi Schuichi , Takeda Masayuki
Published: July 2019

Intermittent stress disrupts the circadian rhythm in clock genes such as Per2 only in peripheral organs without any effect on the central circadian clock in the suprachiasmatic nucleus. Here, the effect of restraint stress (RS) on circadian bladder function was investigated based on urination behavior and gene expression rhythms. Furthermore, PF670462 (PF), a Per2 phosphorylation enzyme inhibitor, was administered to investigate the effects on circadian bladder re-alignment after RS. Two-hour RS during the light (sleep) phase was applied to mice (RS mice) for 5 days. The following parameters were then examined: urination behaviors; clock gene expression rhythms and urinary sensory-related molecules such as piezo type mechanosensitive ion channel component 1 (Piezo1), transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 4 (TRPV4), and Connexin26 (Cx26) in the bladder mucosa; Per2 expression in the excised bladder of Per2luciferase knock-in mice (Per2::luc); in vivo Per2 expression rhythms in the bladder of Per2::luc mice. Control mice did not show altered urination behavior in the light phase, whereas RS mice exhibited a higher voiding frequency and lower bladder capacity. In the bladder mucosa, RS mice also showed abrogated or misaligned Piezo1, TRPV4, Connexin26, and clock gene expression. The rhythmic expression of Per2 was also altered in RS mice both in excised- and in vivo bladder, compared with control mice. After PF administration, voiding frequency was reduced and bladder capacity was increased during the light phase in RS mice; the in vivo Per2 expression rhythm was also fully restored. Therefore, RS can alter circadian gene expression in the bladder during the light phase and might cause nocturia via changes in circadian bladder function due the dysregulation of clock genes. Amending the circadian rhythm therapeutically could be applied for nocturia.
Needle-based storage-phosphor detector radiography is superior to a conventional powder-based storage phosphor detector and a high-resolution screen-film system in small patients (budgerigars and mice)
Authors: Tebrün Wiebke , Ludewig Eberhard , Köhler Claudia , Böhme Julia , Pees Michael
Published: July 2019

This method comparison study used radiographs of 20 mice and 20 budgerigars to investigate comparability between computed radiography (CR) and high-resolution screen-film systems and study the effects of reduced radiation doses on image quality of digital radiographs of small patients. Exposure settings used with the mammography screen-film system (SF) were taken as baseline settings. A powder-based storage-phosphor system (CRP) and a needle-based storage-phosphor system (CRN) were used with the same settings (D/100%) and half the detector dose (D/50%). Using a scoring system four reviewers assessed five criteria per species covering soft tissue and bone structures. Results were evaluated for differences between reviewers (interobserver variability), systems and settings (intersystem variability, using visual grading characteristic analysis). Correlations were significant (p ≤ 0.05) for interobserver variability in 86.7% of the cases. Correlation coefficients ranged from 0.206 to 0.772. For mice and budgerigars, the CRN system was rated as superior to the SF and CRP system for most criteria, being significant in two cases each. Comparing the SF and CRP system, the conventional method scored higher for all criteria, in one case significantly. For both species and both digital systems, dose reduction to 50% resulted in significantly worse scores for most criteria. In summary, the needle-based storage-phosphor technique proved to be superior compared to the conventional storage-phosphor and mammography screen-film system. Needle-based detector systems are suitable substitutes for high-resolution screen–film systems when performing diagnostic imaging of small patients. Dose reduction to 50% of the corresponding dose needed in high-resolution film-screen systems cannot be recommended.
On the dynamic instability of Arctic sea ice
Authors: Chavas Jean-Paul , Grainger Corbett
Published: July 2019

The last few decades have seen a significant decline in Arctic sea ice, generating concerns about both its causes and its longer-term implications. In this paper, we introduce an empirical technique to examine the dynamics of Arctic sea ice extent. Using quantile autoregression, we find that the negative effect of atmospheric CO2 is stronger in the upper tail of the ice distribution. We also document that Arctic sea ice dynamics have become more unstable over the last three decades, especially during the summer. The rising summer instability occurs across quantiles, indicating that it is due to the joint effects of rising atmospheric CO2 and nonlinear feedbacks (and not due to outside shocks). While we do not find evidence of “critical slowing”, we see the increasing instability as a cause for concern. We also use the model to predict the evolution of Arctic sea ice extent under alternative CO2 concentration scenarios.
A nanoscale, multi-parametric flow cytometry-based platform to study mitochondrial heterogeneity and mitochondrial DNA dynamics
Authors: MacDonald Julie A. , Bothun Alisha M. , Annis Sofia N. , Sheehan Hannah , Ray Somak , Gao Yuanwei , Ivanov Alexander R. , Khrapko Konstantin , Tilly Jonathan L. , Woods Dori C.
Published: July 2019

Mitochondria are well-characterized regarding their function in both energy production and regulation of cell death; however, the heterogeneity that exists within mitochondrial populations is poorly understood. Typically analyzed as pooled samples comprised of millions of individual mitochondria, there is little information regarding potentially different functionality across subpopulations of mitochondria. Herein we present a new methodology to analyze mitochondria as individual components of a complex and heterogeneous network, using a nanoscale and multi–parametric flow cytometry-based platform. We validate the platform using multiple downstream assays, including electron microscopy, ATP generation, quantitative mass-spectrometry proteomic profiling, and mtDNA analysis at the level of single organelles. These strategies allow robust analysis and isolation of mitochondrial subpopulations to more broadly elucidate the underlying complexities of mitochondria as these organelles function collectively within a cell.
Duocarmycins as Antibody–Drug Conjugate (ADC) Payloads
Authors: Beekman Andrew M. , Cominetti Marco M. D. , Searcey Mark
Published: July 2019

The duocarmycins are a family of natural products first described in 1978 with the discovery of CC-1065. These DNA alkylating spirocyclopropyl-cyclohexadienones demonstrate ultrapotent cytotoxic activity, provided by the sequence-selective alkylation of the N3 of adenine. The medicinal chemistry community immediately saw great potential in the picomolar potency of the duocarmycins in cell lines, but inherent toxicity in vivo has hindered their progression through to clinical use. Consequently, a variety of strategies have been developed to harness the power of the duocarmycins and to begin to realise the potential of their highly interesting mode of action, the most exciting of which is the development of antibody–drug conjugates (ADCs). This chapter will present the most recent understanding of the mechanism of action of the duocarmycins and the downstream effects of DNA alkylation. Innovative approaches to the synthesis of the duocarmycins, including stereoselective synthesis and new approaches for solid-phase synthesis, are discussed. This chapter also highlights the approaches of medicinal chemists to harness the duocarmycins for clinical use and an overview of prodrug strategies is presented, emphasising the most effective and creative methods to release the duocarmycins at the desired site of action. Finally, the use of duocarmycins as ADCs is reviewed, underlining the inventive chemical approaches to direct and deliver this ultrapotent payload.
CXI Dimers as Antibody–Drug Conjugate (ADC) Payloads
Authors: Procopiou George , O'Donnell Christopher J.
Published: July 2019

The CXI dimers [dimers containing, for example cyclopropapyrroloindole (CPI), cyclopropabenzindole (CBI) or cyclopropathienoindole (CTI) moieties] first emerged in the late 1980s, and were composed of two units of the active pharmacophore present in duocarmycin natural products. They are among the most potent cytotoxic agents ever synthesised and have been successfully utilised by various groups as payloads for antibody–drug conjugates (ADCs). Their ability to cross-link DNA, selectively alkylating adenines in the minor groove, differentiates them from other known payload classes and even other cross-linking agents. This chapter reviews the various forms of CXI dimers that have been reported, including several examples where they have been shown to outperform approved ADCs both in vitro and in vivo.
Deactivation mechanism of hydrotalcite-derived Ni–AlOx catalysts during low-temperature CO2 methanation via Ni-hydroxide formation and the role of Fe in limiting this effect
Authors: Mebrahtu Chalachew , Perathoner Siglinda , Giorgianni Gianfranco , Chen Shiming , Centi Gabriele , Krebs Florian , Palkovits Regina , Abate Salvatore
Published: July 2019

Ni–Fe/AlOx with nanosheet structure, enhance the reducibility and stability of the Ni-hydroxide during the catalytic reaction due to the formation of spinel phase which stabilize smaller Ni nanoparticle with a weaker interaction with the support.
Sustainable fixation of CO2 into epoxides to form cyclic carbonates using hollow marigold CuCo2O4 spinel microspheres as a robust catalyst
Authors: Prasad Divya , Patil Komal N. , Bhanushali Jayesh T. , Nagaraja Bhari Mallana , Jadhav Arvind H.
Published: July 2019

The present work demonstrates the chemical fixation of CO2 for the synthesis of organic carbonates using mesoporous hollow marigold CuCo2O4 spinel microspheres as a catalyst prepared using the solvothermal method.
Correlating magnetic anisotropy with [Mo(CN)7]4− geometry of MnII–MoIII magnetic frameworks
Authors: Magott Michał , Dunbar Kim R. , Pinkowicz Dawid
Published: July 2019

The magnetic coercivity of four new heptacyanomolybdate(iii)-based coordination polymers is correlated with the geometry of the [MoIII(CN)7]4− anion and the cyanide bridging pattern of the framework.
The stereo-microstructure of ZnO affects the lithium storage capacity of Li2ZnTi3O8 anode materials
Authors: Tang Haoqing , Liu Tao , Tang Zhiyuan
Published: July 2019

ZnO materials with multidimensional stereoscopic morphologies were synthesized via a one-step solvothermal process with water, ethanol and acetone as solvents.
Absorption of short-chain to long-chain perfluoroalkyl substances using swellable organically modified silica
Authors: Stebel Eva K. , Pike Kyndal A. , Nguyen Huan , Hartmann Heather A. , Klonowski Mattaeus J. , Lawrence Michaela G. , Collins Rachel M. , Hefner Claire E. , Edmiston Paul L.
Published: July 2019

Adsorbents comprising swellable organically modified silica were characterized to optimize the adsorption of a wide range of perfluoroalkyl substances from water.
Porous carbon nanosheets functionalized with Fe3O4 nanoparticles for capacitive removal of heavy metal ions from water
Authors: Zhao Cuijiao , Wang Xinlei , Zhang Shengbo , Sun Na , Zhou Hongjian , Wang Guozhong , Zhang Yunxia , Zhang Haimin , Zhao Huijun
Published: July 2019

Porous graphitic carbon nanosheets functionalized by ultrafine Fe3O4 NPs and amino-functionalized activated carbon were developed to construct a hybrids capacitive deionization for efficient removal of multiple heavy metal ions in water.
Aqueous two-polymer phase extraction of single-wall carbon nanotubes using surfactants
Authors: Fagan Jeffrey A.
Published: July 2019

Aqueous two-polymer phase extraction is described for its best-practice use to isolate single-wall carbon nanotube species.
Interrogation of fractional crystallization behavior of a newly exploited chiral resolution method for racemic 1-(pyridin-2-yl)ethylamineviaDFT-D3 calculations of cohesive energy
Authors: Cho Juhyun , Jeong Jong Hwa , Lee Myung Won , Kang Youn K.
Published: July 2019

A novel chiral separation method for 1-(pyridin-2-yl)ethylamine is developed and the underlying energetics is investigated by DFT-D3.
Chemical constituents from the stems of Machilus philippinensis Merr. and the neuroprotective activity of cinnamophilin
Authors: Tai Shih-Huang , Kuo Ping-Chung , Lam Sio Hong , Huang Shiow-Chyn , Kuo Yi-Zhuan , Hung Hsin-Yi , Liou Meei-Jen , Shieh Po-Chuen , Lee E.-Jian , Wu Tian-Shung
Published: July 2019

The Machilus genus (Lauraceae) had been extensively utilized in folk medicine due to its broad range of bioactivities.
Association of liquid-assisted grinding with aging accelerates the inherently slow slipping-on of a dibenzo-24-crown-8 over the N-hydroxysuccinimide ester of an ammonium-containing thread
Authors: Riss-Yaw Benjamin , Métro Thomas-Xavier , Lamaty Frédéric , Coutrot Frédéric
Published: July 2019

Very efficient slipping-on of the dibenzo-24-crown-8 over the NHS end of an ammonium-containing molecular axle was carried out through a solvent-less procedure.
Sequence isomerism-dependent self-assembly of glycopeptide mimetics with switchable antibiofilm properties
Authors: Chen Limin , Feng Jie , Yang Dan , Tian Falin , Ye Xiaomin , Qian Qiuping , Wei Shuai , Zhou Yunlong
Published: July 2019

We report sequence isomerism-dependent and reversible self-assembly behaviors of glycopeptide mimetics in response to different stimuli. Based on the glycopeptide mimetic assemblies, reversible ON/OFF switching of biofilm disruption was achieved.
Steric and electronic control of an ultrafast isomerization
Authors: Porter Tyler M. , Ostericher Andrew L. , Kubiak Clifford P.
Published: July 2019

Synthetic control and the influence of steric and electronic factors on the ultrafast (picosecond) isomerization of penta-coordinate ruthenium dithietene complexes (Ru((CF3)2C2S2)(CO)(L)2, where L = a monodentate phosphine ligand) is reported.
Bending rigidity of charged lipid bilayer membranes
Authors: Faizi Hammad A. , Frey Shelli L. , Steinkühler Jan , Dimova Rumiana , Vlahovska Petia M.
Published: July 2019

We experimentally study the increase of bending rigidity with charge content of bilayer membranes using GUVs made of a mixture of neutral and monovalent negatively charged lipids.
Stochastic profile of Epstein-Barr virus in nasopharyngeal carcinoma settings
Authors: Cordeiro Marcos Tadeu Andrade , García Jesús E. , González-López Verónica Andrea , Londoño Sergio Luis Mercado
Published: July 2019

We build a profile of the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) by means of genomic sequences obtained from patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). We consider a set of sequences coming from the NCBI free source and we assume that this set is a collection of independent samples of stochastic processes related by an equivalence relation. Given a collection {(Xjt)t∈ℤ}pj=1 of p independent discrete time Markov processes with finite alphabet A and state space S, we state that the elements (i, s) and (j, r) in {1, 2,…, p} × S are equivalent if and only if they share the same transition probability for all the elements in the alphabet. The equivalence allows to reduce the number of parameters to be estimated in the model avoiding to delete states of S to achieve that reduction. Through the equivalence relationship, we build the global profile for all the EBV in NPC sequences, this model allows us to represent the underlying and common stochastic law of the set of sequences. The equivalence classes define an optimal partition of {1, 2,…, p} × S, and it is in relation to this partition that we define the profile of the set of genomic sequences.
Ventilated façade systems. Design and workmanship faults affecting the functionality and safe use
Authors: Kopyłow Ołeksij
Published: July 2019

Ventilated facade systems are increasingly used in modern construction industry. It is connected with a wide range of available wall claddings which allow to create distinctive architectural buildings (ventilated facade system made of fiber cement sheets won the prestigious European Prize for Urban Public Space 2016). If constructed properly, the ventilated facade systems have a positive effect on thermal insulation properties of building walls. With an increasing interest in this type of facade solutions, one can also notice an increased number of problems with the quality of the design documentation and construction works which affect the safe use of the building, thermal insulation properties of partition walls, the comfort of use. The paper presents basic faults found in the design and workmanship of the ventilated facade systems.
Diagnostics of the structural failure of sports hall external wall layers
Authors: Kruszka Leopold , Muzolf Pawel
Published: July 2019

The paper presents the diagnostics of the technical condition of the external layers of the sports hall walls. Structural failures related to construction defects themselves constitute a relatively small percentage (4.1% in 2017, 5.05% in 2014-2017 [1]), although the main reason for them is the lack of maintaining technological rigors (76.9% in 2017, 68.4% in 2014-2017 [1]). The presented and described case study of the technical condition of the newly built sports hall does not refer to structural failure, but to the reduction of the risk of that failure as a result of non-compliance with construction technology, in particular, in relation to the external walls. Contrary to the design, the walls of the sports hall were made of aerated concrete. According to the declaration of a designer, the contractor neither consulted the changes with the designer nor gain the acceptance of the designer for using aerated concrete instead of the primary proposed and designed brick structure. In addition, aerated concrete curtain walls with a height of about 4.5 m were made without any wall connectors. This resulted in a risk of a structure failure involving the collapse of its curtain walls. The technological requirements for the repairing of the elements of supporting walls as well as the diagnostic process of the other damaged finishing cladding of external walls are also provided in this paper.
Method of thermal detection of leakages in construction of deep excavation: A real case study in Poland
Authors: Radzicki Krzysztof , Rybiański Łukasz , Popielski Paweł
Published: July 2019

The thermal method is nowadays the only one that allows precise location of leaks in a shorings of a planned deep excavation, still before this excavation is made. It also allows to determine the leak intensity. As a consequence, it enables precise and early repair work, especially sealing. It allows to prevent or significantly reduce the serious consequences and losses resulting from a leaky excavation shoring. The paper presents the first in Poland case of the thermal detection of leaks in the excavation shoring at a construction site. This method has proven very effective in solving this complicated problem. The leaks were many and occurred in the diaphragm wall as well as under its lower edge. The depth of their occurrence reached over forty meters. The substrate‘s geology was highly heterogeneous. The method produced accurate details about the locations and intensity of the leaks.
Causes of damage and methods of repairing floor made on polystyrene concrete
Authors: Drobiec Łukasz , Piotrkowski Paweł
Published: July 2019

The paper describes damages, tests and repair of the floor made on existing ceiling and expanded polystyrene concrete underlay. The floor was built on a reinforced concrete ceiling with an area of about 1050 m2. Significant damage in the form of cracks, detachments and unevenness was found in the floor. In order to determine the causes of damage, in situ tests and laboratory tests were carried out. It was found that the damage was caused by numerous performance errors. A test repair of the damage (4.7x6.0 m) was carried out, and then the repair method was applied on the entire floor surface.
The Effect of Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) Supplementation on IVF or ICSI: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Xu Lin , Hu Chunxia , Liu Qun , Li Yaxuan
Published: July 2019

Introduction A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to evaluate the efficacy of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) supplementation in patients with diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) and/or poor ovarian response (POR) who were undergoing in vitro fertilization or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (IVF/ICSI).

Patients and Methods We searched the PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library electronic databases for literature published until July 2018. The analysis included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of the effects of DHEA versus placebo on IVF or ICSI. Two independent reviewers extracted information from the reports and evaluated the quality of the studies. Overall, we identified nine prospective RCTs involving 833 patients.

Results Compared to the controls, patients treated with DHEA exhibited increases in the number of retrieved oocytes (mean difference, 0.91; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.23 – 1.59; p = 0.009), clinical pregnancy rate (relative risk [RR] = 1.27; 95% CI, 1.01 – 1.61; p = 0.04), and live birth rate (RR, 1.76; 95% CI, 1.17 – 2.63; p = 0.006). However, there was no intergroup difference in the miscarriage rate (RR, 0.37; 95% CI, 0.12 – 1.13; p = 0.08).

Conclusion DHEA supplementation improved the outcomes of IVF/ICSI in women with DOR or POR.
Expertenempfehlung zur Anwendung der hyperthermen intrathorakalen Chemotherapie (HITOC) in Deutschland
Authors: Ried Michael , Eichhorn Martin , Winter Hauke , Grützner Uwe , Lindner Michael , Hatz Rudolf A. , Haager Benedikt , Passlick Bernward , Galetin Thomas , Lopez-Pastorini Alberto , Stoelben Erich , Hofmann Hans-Stefan
Published: July 2019

Hintergrund Die hypertherme intrathorakale Chemotherapie (HITOC) wird bereits seit einigen Jahren in mehreren thoraxchirurgischen Kliniken angewendet. Diese Expertenempfehlung soll nun basierend auf der klinischen Erfahrung und der vorhandenen Literatur grundlegende Empfehlungen für eine standardisierte Durchführung der HITOC liefern.

Material und Methode Im Zeitraum von Oktober bis Dezember 2018 wurden Empfehlungen zur Anwendung der HITOC in Deutschland durch eine Gruppe von Experten aus 5 thoraxchirurgischen Kliniken erarbeitet. Die Auswahl der Experten mit den meisten Operationen mit HITOC erfolgte anhand einer deutschlandweiten HITOC-Umfrage aus dem Jahr 2017. Die Empfehlungen basieren auf den klinischen Erfahrungen sowie wissenschaftlichen Arbeiten bzw. Daten der einzelnen Kliniken und einer aktuellen Literaturrecherche zur HITOC.

Ergebnis Die Empfehlungen wurden durch alle 5 teilnehmenden Kliniken in einer Konsensusumfrage bewertet. Hieraus ergaben sich 6 Schwerpunkte mit insgesamt 17 Empfehlungen. Bei jeder Empfehlung wurde eine Konsensstärke in Prozent berechnet. Eine 100%ige Konsensstärke wurde bei der Nomenklatur (HITOC), der technischen Durchführung, dem Chemotherapeutikum, dem perioperativen Management, den Schutzmaßnahmen und den Indikationen erreicht. Als Basis-Chemotherapeutikum für die HITOC wird von allen Experten Cisplatin empfohlen, da hier die meisten klinischen Erfahrungen und Daten vorliegen. Die Dosierung von Cisplatin wird in mg/m2 Körperoberfläche (KOF) angegeben und sollte zwischen 150 und 175 mg/m2 KOF betragen. Die zusätzliche Angabe des Perfusionsvolumens (ca. 4 – 5 l) scheint für den intrathorakalen Konzentrationsgradienten eine Rolle zu spielen und sollte mit beachtet werden.

Schlussfolgerung Diese Expertenempfehlungen zeigen eine standardisierte und einheitliche Durchführung der HITOC. Hierdurch sollen postoperative Komplikationen durch die HITOC vermindert und eine bessere Vergleichbarkeit der Ergebnisse ermöglicht werden.
Movement Disorders in Children: An Observational Study in a Tertiary Care Center in North India
Authors: Pandey Chandra Shekhar , Kumar Rashmi , Malhotra Hardeep Singh , Kohli Neera , Kumar Chandrakanta , Verma Sanjeev Kumar
Published: July 2019

Movement disorders (MDs) are disorders of pathological movements that cannot be fully initiated, modulated, or interrupted voluntarily. Spectrum and etiology of MDs are likely to vary with geographical location, but there are few studies on pediatric MDs from India, and severity of the disease is not well documented. Response to treatment of MDs is often unpredictable. Objective of the study was to describe the relative prevalence, types, severity, etiology, and response to treatment of pediatric MDs as seen at a public teaching hospital in northern India. Over a period of 1 year, consecutive children with MDs seen in outpatient department (OPD) or wards were enrolled, after excluding cerebral palsy and musculoskeletal disorders. Detailed history, examination, treatment, and outcome were recorded. Severity was rated according to Battini's scale at initial contact and each follow-up. Neuroimaging and relevant investigations were done for etiology. Serial 2-minute video recordings were obtained. Out of 93 patients enrolled, the most common MDs were dystonia (24.7%), tremors (22.4%), ataxia (19.6%), and chorea (12.9%). Tics, hemiballismus, and myoclonus were also seen and 4% could not be classified. Mixed MDs were seen in 9.7%. Etiologies of MDs were infectious (acute encephalitis syndrome, tuberculous meningitis, subacute sclerosing panencephalitis, and rheumatic chorea) or nutritional (infantile tremor syndrome) in 46%. Genetic neurodegenerations accounted for a significant proportion (15.1%). Improvement occurred in majority (63.4%) of patients. Etiology of MDs was largely specific to this part of the world, related to infectious and nutrition causes. In the absence of complex genetic investigations, many cases were left with unknown etiology.
Classical trajectory Monte Carlo simulation of plasma fueling using magnetic plasma expulsion
Authors: Martinez A. , Ordonez C. A.
Published: July 2019

The possibility of fueling a magnetically confined plasma using particle sources located inside of the plasma is studied by computer simulation. Magnetic plasma expulsion [R. E. Phillips and C. A. Ordonez, Phys. Plasmas 25, 012508 (2018)] would serve to keep the magnetically confined plasma away from the particle sources without adversely affecting plasma confinement. The simulations show how charged particles can be injected into a plasma by using particle sources located directly between two current-carrying wires that create a magnetic expulsion field. Plasma fueling with the average energy of injected particles greater than the average energy of plasma particles may serve for heating the plasma. Also, plasma fueling with positive and negative particles injected at different rates may serve for changing the neutrality of the plasma. Conditions for plasma fueling are investigated using a classical trajectory Monte Carlo simulation. Two types of particle sources are considered, and the fraction of emitted particles that reach (and fuel) the magnetically confined plasma is evaluated for each.
Genetic differentiation of regional populations of the widespread Asiatic toad (Bufo gargarizans), as revealed by development of novel microsatellite markers
Authors: Pan T. , Yan P. , Yang M. , Wang H. , Ali I. , Ayub M. , Zhang J. H. , Wang J. J. , Li E. , Xue H. , Zhang B. W. , Wu X. B.
Published: July 2019

Dispersal is a key component of a species’ life history, by influencing population persistence, genetic structure, adaptation and maintenance of genetic diversity. The Asiatic toad (Bufo gargarizans) is a widespread species in east Asia. However, we still have no knowledge of what kind of geographical scale equates to genetic differentiation within B. gargarizans. In this study, the population genetics of B. gargarizans was studied at five localities, with the Yangtze River running through the sampling area, in order to detect the level of genetic differentiation and the natural barriers to the species’ dispersal on a small geographic scale, by means of the development and use of novel microsatellite loci. These markers revealed a relatively high level of genetic diversity. Distinct genetic structure among populations in B. gargarizans was observed, as described by genetic distance, AMOVA, PCA and Geneland results. A weak but significant positive correlation between genetic distance and geographical distance. The combination of these findings suggests that the Yangtze River and geographic distance may act as effective barriers for B. gargarizans. These results serve as benchmark data for understanding the impacts of dispersal barriers and continued landscape research on B. gargarizans.
Interpreting practices in a colonial context
Authors: Heijns Audrey
Published: July 2019

This article investigates the experience of Dutch interpreters of Chinese in the Dutch East Indies (present-day Indonesia) from the mid-nineteenth century until Indonesia’s independence nearly a century later. In the colonial context, the task of interpreters went beyond orally translating speech. They also served as cultural mediators, who prevented conflicts and resolved misunderstandings. Based on theories of interpreting in colonial contexts, the cases in this study will probe the interpreters’ training, their allegiances, and their search for neutrality. The findings reveal that, in the period from 1860 to 1912, the interpreters tried to mediate for the government by resolving problems and misunderstandings, despite their limited authority. However, in the period from 1913 to 1949, the interpreters had less room to maneuver, as a result of changes in training as well as in the work environment of the Dutch East Indies.
Pulse plating of Pd–Ag alloy films from deep eutectic solvents
Authors: Manolova Mila , Böck Reinhard , Scharf Ingolf , Mehner Thomas , Lampke Thomas
Published: July 2019

In water based solutions, electrodeposition of Pd and Pd alloys is complicated due to hydrogen embrittlement. This can be avoided by using non-aqueous solutions like deep eutectic solvents (DES). In this study, the electrodeposition of Pd–Ag films were investigated on Cu from choline chloride/urea based deep eutectic solvents containing sulfosalicylic acid dihydrate (SSS) as an organic additive. The effects of pulse current, an organic additive and different Ag concentrations on the surface morphology and layer thickness were evaluated. Cyclic voltammetry experiments showed that the reduction of Pd(II) occurred prior to that of Ag(I). Scanning electron microscope (SEM) micrographs of the deposits revealed that the surface of the Pd–Ag films were typically granular to nodular and became more compact when the surface active compound was present in the DES solution. X-ray diffraction (XRD) experiments proved the existence of metallic Pd–Ag alloys.
Quantitative glycoproteomics reveals new classes of STT3A- and STT3B-dependent N-glycosylation sites
Authors: Cherepanova Natalia A. , Venev Sergey V. , Leszyk John D. , Shaffer Scott A. , Gilmore Reid
Published: July 2019

Human cells express two oligosaccharyltransferase complexes (STT3A and STT3B) with partially overlapping functions. The STT3A complex interacts directly with the protein translocation channel to mediate cotranslational glycosylation, while the STT3B complex can catalyze posttranslocational glycosylation. We used a quantitative glycoproteomics procedure to compare glycosylation of roughly 1,000 acceptor sites in wild type and mutant cells. Analysis of site occupancy data disclosed several new classes of STT3A-dependent acceptor sites including those with suboptimal flanking sequences and sites located within cysteine-rich protein domains. Acceptor sites located in short loops of multi-spanning membrane proteins represent a new class of STT3B-dependent site. Remarkably, the lumenal ER chaperone GRP94 was hyperglycosylated in STT3A-deficient cells, bearing glycans on five silent sites in addition to the normal glycosylation site. GRP94 was also hyperglycosylated in wild-type cells treated with ER stress inducers including thapsigargin, dithiothreitol, and NGI-1.
Forces on hockey players: vectors, work, energy and angular momentum
Authors: Nässén Nina , Nässén Hans-Åke , Eriksson Urban , Pendrill Ann-Marie
Published: July 2019

Non-traditional examples can be very inspiring for students. This paper applies classical mechanics to different ways of skating in ice hockey. Skating blades glide easily along the ice in the direction of the blade. Horizontal forces on the skates are thus essentially perpendicular to the blade. Speed skaters glide long distances on each skate before pushing off for the next stride. A hockey player running for the puck may take a number quite short steps in a short explosive rush before shifting to longer strides, where the recurring need to change direction requires additional work by the skater. This paper investigates an alternative stride, with a longer gliding phase in a circular arc, where the centripetal force provided by the ice acting on the skates changes the direction of motion, without the need for additional energy. In addition, the conservation of angular momentum leads to increased speed as the centre of mass is shifted closer to the centre of the circular arc. Finally, we discuss an angular-momentum-based technique to reverse the direction of motion as fast as possible.