bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ultraschall in der studentischen Ausbildung
Authors: Dietrich Christoph F.
Published: November 2018

Zusammenfassung. Das schon während des Studiums eingeführte Fach «Ultraschall in der Medizin» erlaubt durch seinen praktischen Charakter, die Motivation von Studenten zu erhöhen und kann medizinisches Grundlagenwissen (Anatomie, Physiologie) und Bildgebung mit klinischen Anwendungen einzigartig verbinden. Dies erfolgt einerseits als Point-of-Care-Methode (POCUS) am Ort der Entscheidungsfindung und andererseits als «radiologische» Methode mit Interventionsmöglichkeiten. POCUS ist der Einsatz von Ultraschall durch Ärztinnen und Ärzte zur richtigen Erkennung von Problemen und Durchführung von Lösungen am Ort des Geschehens. Sowohl die European Federation of Societies for Ultrasound in Medicine and Biology (EFSUMB) als auch die World Federation for Ultrasound in Medicine and Biology (WFUMB) haben Positionspapiere publiziert zur zielgerichteten Anwendung der Ultraschalltechnik (Point of Care), über deren Stand hier berichtet wird.
Atmospheric Aerosol in the Changing Arctic
Authors: Willis Megan , Leaitch Richard , Abbatt Jonathan
Published: November 2018

Warming and sea ice loss in the Arctic are affecting the complex interactions between the atmosphere, ocean, land, and ice-covered areas, including the formation and transport of aerosol.
Greenhouse Gas Inventories Underestimate Methane Emissions
Authors: Sidder Aaron
Published: November 2018

A new study in the Baltimore-Washington metropolitan area reveals prior estimates may significantly underrepresent methane emissions, particularly from landfills and natural gas systems.
Separating Geophysical Signals Using GRACE and High‐Resolution Data: A Case Study in Antarctica
Authors: Engels Olga , Gunter Brian , Riva Riccardo , Klees Roland
Published: November 2018

To fully exploit data from the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE), we separate geophysical signals observed by GRACE in Antarctica by deriving high‐spatial resolution maps for present‐day glacial isostatic adjustment (GIA) and ice‐mass changes with the least possible noise level. For this, we simultaneously (i) improve the postprocessing of gravity data and (ii) consistently combine them with high‐resolution data from Ice Cloud and land Elevation Satellite altimeter (ICESat) and Regional Atmospheric Climate Model 2.3 (RACMO). We use GPS observations to discriminate between various candidate spatial patterns of vertical motions caused by GIA. The ICESat‐RACMO combination determines the spatial resolution of estimated ice‐mass changes. The results suggest the capability of the developed approach to retrieve the complex spatial pattern of present‐day GIA, such as a pronounced subsidence in the proximity of the Kamb Ice Stream and pronounced uplift in the Amundsen Sea Sector.
Crustal Deformation and Seismicity Modulated by Groundwater Recharge of Karst Aquifers
Authors: D'Agostino N. , Silverii F. , Amoroso O. , Convertito V. , Fiorillo F. , Ventafridda G. , Zollo A.
Published: November 2018

Triggered seismicity in karst regions has been explained assuming the existence of a hydraulically connected fracture system and downward diffusion of surface pore pressures. Karst systems are, in fact, able to swiftly channel large amount of rainfall through networks of conduits increasing the hydraulic head loading upon the fluid‐saturated, poroelastic crust. Here we use Global Positioning System and hydrological and seismicity data to show that poroelastic strain in the shallow crust (0–3.5 km) controls seasonal and multiannual modulation of seismicity along the Irpinia Fault Zone (Southern Italy) without requiring a hydraulically connected fracture system from the surface to hypocentral depths. We suggest that groundwater recharge of karst aquifers along the Irpinia Fault Zone produces stress perturbations large enough to modulate strain accumulation and seismicity and temporarily modify the probability of nucleation of seismic events such as the 1980 Irpinia, MS 6.9, earthquake.
Seismic Anisotropy Beneath the Pamir and the Hindu Kush: Evidence for Contributions From Crust, Mantle Lithosphere, and Asthenosphere
Authors: Kufner Sofia‐Katerina , Eken Tuna , Tilmann Frederik , Schurr Bernd , Yuan Xiaohui , Mechie James , Sippl Christian , Schneider Felix
Published: November 2018

We use local and teleseismic earthquakes to analyze shear wave splitting within the Pamir‐Hindu Kush region, north of the western syntaxis of the India‐Asia collision zone. These two data sets allowed us to map the distribution of azimuthal anisotropy, to put constraints on the depth range where it is accumulated, and to deduce characteristics of ongoing deformation. From 1,073 SKS (core‐mantle refracted phases) measurements at 107 stations, we derived time delays of 0.7–2.25 s and dominantly ENE‐WSW oriented fast polarization directions. Fast polarization directions only deviate adjacent to the subducting slabs and major strike‐slip faults, aligning parallel to these structures. From 461 direct S measurements along a transect perpendicular to the Pamir seismic zone, we obtain fast directions parallel to those from SKS measurements but smaller delay times (average 0.4 s), which vary depending on depth. Time delays exhibit 0.1–0.3 s crustal contribution and increase to 0.8 s in a narrow domain coinciding with the inferred subcrustal contact of the two colliding plates. We find measurements from the same event‐station paths at different filter frequencies to be frequency‐independent, allowing a comparison with SKS results along the studied profile. The smaller average time delays of local events imply that the crust and uppermost mantle only make a minor contribution to the SKS splitting. Thus, the coherent fast direction pattern suggests a strain field dominated by the indentation of India and the escape of sublithospheric material north of the indenter. Crustal anisotropy is likely also controlled by this regional deformation pattern with locally highest strain rates closest to the continental subduction front.
The Mesozoic Along‐Strike Tectonometamorphic Segmentation of Longmen Shan (Eastern Tibetan Plateau)
Authors: Airaghi L. , de Sigoyer J. , Guillot S. , Robert A. , Warren C. J. , Deldicque D.
Published: November 2018

The Longmen Shan belt (eastern border of the Tibetan plateau) constitutes a tectonically active region as demonstrated by the occurrence of the unexpected 2008 Mw 7.9 Wenchuan and 2013 Mw 6.6 Lushan earthquakes in the central and southern parts of the belt, respectively. These events revealed the necessity of a better understanding of the long‐term geological evolution of the belt and its effect on the present dynamics and crustal structure. New structural and thermobarometric data offer a comprehensive data set of the paleotemperatures across the belt and P‐T estimates for low‐grade metamorphic domains. In the central Longmen Shan, two metamorphic jumps of 150–200 °C, 5–6 kbar and ~50 °C, 3–5 kbar acquired during the Early Mesozoic are observed across the Wenchuan and Beichuan faults, respectively, attesting to their thrusting movement and unrevealing a major decollement between the allochtonous Songpan‐Garze metasedimentary cover (at T > 500 °C) and the autochtonous units and the basement (T < 400 °C). In the southern Longmen Shan, the only greenschist facies metamorphism is observed both in the basement (360 ± 30 °C, 6 ± 2 kbar) and in the metasedimentary cover (350 ± 30 °C, 3 ± 1 kbar). Peak conditions were reached at ca. 80–60 Ma in the basement and ca. 55–33 Ma in the cover, ca. 50 Ma after the greenschist facies metamorphic overprint observed in the central Longmen Shan (ca. 150–120 Ma). This along‐strike metamorphic segmentation coincides well with the present fault segmentation and reveals that the central and southern Longmen Shan experienced different tectonometamorphic histories since the Mesozoic.
Diagnosis and Management of Primary Biliary Cholangitis
Authors: Younossi Zobair M. , Bernstein David , Shiffman Mitchell L. , Kwo Paul , Kim W. Ray , Kowdley Kris V. , Jacobson Ira M.
Published: November 2018

Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is a chronic, cholestatic, autoimmune disease with a variable progressive course. PBC can cause debilitating symptoms including fatigue and pruritus and, if left untreated, is associated with a high risk of cirrhosis and related complications, liver failure, and death. Recent changes to the PBC landscape include a name change, updated guidelines for diagnosis and treatment as well as new treatment options that have recently become available. Practicing clinicians face many unanswered questions when managing PBC. To assist these healthcare providers in managing patients with PBC, the American College of Gastroenterology (ACG) Institute for Clinical Research & Education, in collaboration with the Chronic Liver Disease Foundation (CLDF), organized a panel of experts to evaluate and summarize the most current and relevant peer-reviewed literature regarding PBC. This, combined with the extensive experience and clinical expertise of this expert panel, led to the formation of this clinical guidance on the diagnosis and management of PBC.
Durability and Decay of Treatment Benefit of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Irritable Bowel Syndrome: 12-Month Follow-Up
Authors: Lackner Jeffrey M. , Jaccard James , Radziwon Christopher D. , Firth Rebecca S. , Gudleski Gregory D. , Hamilton Frank , Katz Leonard A. , Keefer Laurie , Krasner Susan S. , Ma Chang-Xing , Sitrin Michael D. , Brenner Darren M.
Published: November 2018

BACKGROUND:

There is a need for safe and effective IBS treatments that provide immediate and sustained improvement of IBS symptoms, particularly among more severe patients. The aim was to assess long-term clinical response of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with reference to IBS education.

METHODS:

A total of 436 Rome III-diagnosed IBS patients (80% F, M age = 41 years) were randomized to: 4 session home-based CBT (minimal contact (MC-CBT)), 10 session clinic-based CBT (standard (S-CBT)), or 4 session IBS education (EDU). Follow-up occurred at 2 weeks and 3, 6, 9, and 12 months following treatment completion. Treatment response was based a priori on the Clinical Global Improvement Scale (global IBS symptom improvement) and IBS Symptom Severity Scale (IBS-SSS).

RESULTS:

Post-treatment CGI gains were generally maintained by MC-CBT patients at quarterly intervals through 12-month follow-up with negligible decay. For MC-CBT and S-CBT, 39 and 33% of respondents maintained treatment response at every follow-up assessment. The corresponding percent for EDU was 19%, which was significantly lower (p < 0.05) than for the CBT groups. On the IBS-SSS, therapeutic gains also showed a pattern of maintenance with trends towards increased efficacy over time in all conditions, with the mean unit reductions between baseline and follows-up being approximately −76 at immediate and approximately −94 at 12 months (−50 = clinically significant).

CONCLUSIONS:

For treatment-refractory IBS patients, home- and clinic-based CBT resulted in substantial and enduring relief of multiple IBS symptoms that generally extended to 12-month post treatment.
Uneven distribution of cobamide biosynthesis and dependence in bacteria predicted by comparative genomics
Authors: Shelton Amanda N , Seth Erica C , Mok Kenny C , Han Andrew W , Jackson Samantha N , Haft David R , Taga Michiko E
Published: November 2018

The vitamin B12 family of cofactors known as cobamides are essential for a variety of microbial metabolisms. We used comparative genomics of 11,000 bacterial species to analyze the extent and distribution of cobamide production and use across bacteria. We find that 86% of bacteria in this data set have at least one of 15 cobamide-dependent enzyme families, but only 37% are predicted to synthesize cobamides de novo. The distribution of cobamide biosynthesis and use vary at the phylum level. While 57% of Actinobacteria are predicted to biosynthesize cobamides, only 0.6% of Bacteroidetes have the complete pathway, yet 96% of species in this phylum have cobamide-dependent enzymes. The form of cobamide produced by the bacteria could be predicted for 58% of cobamide-producing species, based on the presence of signature lower ligand biosynthesis and attachment genes. Our predictions also revealed that 17% of bacteria have partial biosynthetic pathways, yet have the potential to salvage cobamide precursors. Bacteria with a partial cobamide biosynthesis pathway include those in a newly defined, experimentally verified category of bacteria lacking the first step in the biosynthesis pathway. These predictions highlight the importance of cobamide and cobamide precursor salvaging as examples of nutritional dependencies in bacteria.
Design of an inherently-stable water oxidation catalyst
Authors: Chakraborty Biswarup , Gan-Or Gal , Raula Manoj , Gadot Eyal , Weinstock Ira A.
Published: November 2018

While molecular water-oxidation catalysts are remarkably rapid, oxidative and hydrolytic processes in water can convert their active transition metals to colloidal metal oxides or hydroxides that, while quite reactive, are insoluble or susceptible to precipitation. In response, we propose using oxidatively-inert ligands to harness the metal oxides themselves. This approach is demonstrated by covalently attaching entirely inorganic oxo-donor ligands (polyoxometalates) to 3-nm hematite cores, giving soluble anionic structures, highly resistant to aggregation, yet thermodynamically stable to oxidation and hydrolysis. Using orthoperiodate (at pH 8), and no added photosensitizers, the hematite-core complex catalyzes visible-light driven water oxidation for seven days (7600 turnovers) with no decrease in activity, far exceeding the documented lifetimes of molecular catalysts under turnover conditions in water. As such, a fundamental limitation of molecular complexes is entirely bypassed by using coordination chemistry to harness a transition-metal oxide as the reactive center of an inherently stable, homogeneous water-oxidation catalyst.
CMV and EBV targets recognized by tumor-infiltrating B lymphocytes in pancreatic cancer and brain tumors
Authors: Meng Qingda , Valentini Davide , Rao Martin , Dodoo Ernest , Maeurer Markus
Published: November 2018

Targeted antiviral immune responses to the widespread human pathogens cytomegalovirus (CMV) and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) play a pivotal role in determining immune fitness. We show here for the first time that tumor-infiltrating B cell (TIB)- derived immunoglobulin G (IgG) from patients with pancreatic cancer or glioblastoma have unique anti-CMV/EBV immune recognition patterns compared to serum IgG. There is also great heterogeneity between patients, as well as between serum and TIB-IgG, while some viral targets elicited strongly both T-cell and IgG reactivity in tumor infiltrating T- and B-cells. These observations suggest that the anti-CMV/EBV humoral immune response in situ is highly unique and can be instrumental in developing next-generation immuno-biomarkers in addition to supplementing cellular therapy strategies for personalized cancer therapy targeting CMV or EBV in the tumor microenvironment.
Stable pH Suppresses Defense Signaling and is the Key to Enhance Agrobacterium-Mediated Transient Expression in Arabidopsis Seedlings
Authors: Wang Yi-Chieh , Yu Manda , Shih Po-Yuan , Wu Hung-Yi , Lai Erh-Min
Published: November 2018

Agrobacterium-mediated transient expression is a powerful analysis platform for diverse plant gene functional studies, but the mechanisms regulating the expression or transformation levels are poorly studied. Previously, we developed a highly efficient and robust Agrobacterium-mediated transient expression system, named AGROBEST, for Arabidopsis seedlings. In this study, we found that AGROBEST could promote the growth of agrobacteria as well as inhibit the host immunity response. When the factor of agrobacterial growth is minimized, maintaining pH at 5.5 with MES buffer was the key to achieving optimal transient expression efficiency. The expression of plant immunity marker genes, FRK1 and NHL10, was suppressed in the pH-buffered medium as compared with non-buffered conditions in Col-0 and an efr-1 mutant lacking the immunity receptor EFR recognizing EF-Tu, a potent pathogen- or microbe-associated molecular pattern (PAMP or MAMP) of A. tumefaciens. Notably, such immune suppression could also occur in Arabidopsis seedlings without Agrobacterium infection. Furthermore, the PAMP-triggered influx of calcium ions was compromised in the pH-buffered medium. We propose that the enhanced transient expression efficiency by stable pH was due to inhibiting calcium ion uptake and subsequently led to suppressing immunity against Agrobacterium.
The shift in ocular dominance from short-term monocular deprivation exhibits no dependence on duration of deprivation
Authors: Min Seung Hyun , Baldwin Alex S. , Reynaud Alexandre , Hess Robert F.
Published: November 2018

Deprivation of visual information from one eye for a 120-minute period in normal adults results in a temporary strengthening of the patched eye’s contribution to binocular vision. This plasticity for ocular dominance in adults has been demonstrated by binocular rivalry as well as binocular fusion tasks. Here, we investigate how its dynamics depend on the duration of the monocular deprivation. Using a binocular combination task, we measure the magnitude and recovery of ocular dominance change after durations of monocular deprivation ranging from 15 to 300 minutes. Surprisingly, our results show that the dynamics are of an all-or-none form. There was virtually no significant dependence on the duration of the initial deprivation.
Piezoresistive temperature sensors fabricated by a surface micromachining CMOS MEMS process
Authors: Cai Chunhua , Tan Junyan , Hua Di , Qin Ming , Zhu Nianfang
Published: November 2018

This paper presents a micromachined monocrystalline silicon piezoresistive temperature sensor fabricated by a surface micromachining CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical System) process. The design of the temperature sensor is based on the structure of the multi-layer cantilever beam and the bimetallic effect. The temperature change of the cantilever beam is translated into the change of the piezoresistance’s value. The test results show that the sensitivities of the sensors are 27.9 mV/°C with 100 Ω/▯ piezoresistance between −40 °C to 60 °C and 7.4 mV/°C with 400 Ω/▯ piezoresistance between −90 °C to 60 °C. The temperature sensor proposed in this paper can be used in radiosondes for its low operating temperature (as low as −90 °C), small size (below 1 mm2) and low heat capacity.
Novel Insect Florivory Strategy Initiates Autogamy in Unopened Allogamous Flowers
Authors: Hillier N. K. , Evans E. , Evans R. C.
Published: November 2018

Insects may influence plant development via pollination, galling, and a range of herbivorous interactions, including florivory. Here, we report a novel form of insect-plant interaction in the form of florivory-initiated autogamy. Mompha capella larvae, feeding on petal bases of Crocanthemum canadense before flowers open, while providing no benefit to the plant, cause autogamy and subsequent seed and fruit development. This interaction provides a clear benefit to the florivore because it enters the developing fruit and consumes most seeds; however, surviving seeds are viable. This novel interaction is discussed with respect to the dimorphic cleistogamous reproduction employed by this plant species. Moreover, this represents a previously undocumented insect-plant interaction in the form of a florivory-initiated pollination.
Establishment of an efficient in vitro propagation system for Iris sanguinea
Authors: Wang Ling , Du Yu , Rahman Md. Mahbubur , Tang Biao , Fan Li-Juan , Kilaru Aruna
Published: November 2018

Iris sanguinea is a perennial flowering plant that is typically cultivated through seeds or bulbs. However, due to limitations in conventional propagation, an alternate regeneration system using seeds was developed. The protocol included optimization of sterilization, stratification and scarification methods as iris seeds exhibit physiological dormancy. In addition to chlorine-based disinfection, alkaline or heat treatment was used to break seed dormancy and reduce contamination. When seeds were soaked in water at 80 °C overnight, and sterilized with 75% EtOH for 30 s and 4% NaOCl solution for 20 minutes, contamination was reduced to 10% and a 73.3% germination was achieved. The germinated seedlings with 2-3 leaves and radicle were used as explants to induce adventitious buds. The optimal MS medium with 0.5 mg L−1 6-benzylaminopurine, 0.2 mg L−1 NAA, and 1.0 mg L−1 kinetin resulted in 93.3% shoot induction and a proliferation coefficient of 5.30. Medium with 0.5 mg L−1 NAA achieved 96.4% rooting of the adventitious shoots. The survival rate was more than 90% after 30 days growth in the cultivated matrix. In conclusion, a successful regeneration system for propagation of I. sanguinea was developed using seeds, which could be utilized for large-scale propagation of irises of ecological and horticultural importance.
Downregulation of intratumoral expression of miR-205, miR-200c and miR-125b in primary human cutaneous melanomas predicts shorter survival
Authors: Sánchez-Sendra Beatriz , Martinez-Ciarpaglini Carolina , González-Muñoz José F. , Murgui Amelia , Terrádez Liria , Monteagudo Carlos
Published: November 2018

While only 15–25 percent of melanoma patients develop distant metastasis and die, this disease is still responsible for the majority of skin cancer-related deaths. The availability of adjuvant therapies makes the selection of high-risk patients essential. We evaluated the intratumoral expression of ten miRNAs in primary melanomas in relation to its ability to predict melanoma survival. To this end, we correlated miRNA expression in 132 cryopreserved primary and metastatic tumors with clinicopathological factors and clinical outcome. We found sequential downregulation of intratumoral expression of miR-125b, miR-182, miR-200c and miR-205 over the full spectrum of melanoma progression. Moreover, downregulation of these miRNAs occurred in primary melanomas that further disseminated to distant sites. Furthermore, miR-125b, miR-200c and miR-205 correlated as independent factors with shorter survival. Our in vitro findings demonstrate that loss of miR-205 potentiates the invasive ability of melanoma cells. We conclude that the downregulation of miR-205 in primary melanomas is an intrinsic property that might contribute to distant metastasis. In particular, the interaction of melanoma cells with the extracellular matrix is one of the key mechanisms by which miR-205 influences melanoma metastasis. In conclusion, miR-125b, miR-200c and miR-205 are useful prognostic biomarkers at the time of diagnosis to select high-risk patients.
Helical organization of microtubules occurs in a minority of tunneling membrane nanotubes in normal and cancer urothelial cells
Authors: Resnik Nataša , Prezelj Tim , De Luca Giulia Maria Rita , Manders Erik , Polishchuk Roman , Veranič Peter , Kreft Mateja Erdani
Published: November 2018

Tunneling membrane nanotubes (TnTs) are membrane protrusions connecting nearby or distant cells in vitro and in vivo. Functions of TnTs in cellular processes are various and rely on TnT structure, which also depends on cytoskeletal composition. In the present study, we focused on the organization of microtubules (MTs) and intermediate filaments (IFs) in TnTs of urothelial cells. We analysed TnTs of normal porcine urothelial cells, which morphologically and physiologically closely resemble normal human urothelial cells, and of cancer cells derived from invasive human urothelial neoplasm. Wide-field fluorescence, confocal and super-resolution microscopy techniques, together with image analyses and 3D reconstructions enlightened specific MT-IF organization in TnTs, and for the first time revealed that MTs and IFs co-occur in the majority of normal and cancer urothelial cell TnTs. Our findings show that in the initiation segment of TnTs, MTs are cross-linked with each other into filamentous network, however in the middle and the attaching segment of TnT, MTs can helically enwrap IFs, the phenomenon that has not been shown before within the TnTs. In this study, we assess MT-IF co-occurrence in TnTs and present evidence that such helical organization of MTs enwrapping IFs is only occurring in a minority of the TnTs. We also discuss the possible cell-biological and physiological reasons for helical organization of MTs in TnTs.
Genome-wide identification and analysis of non-specific Lipid Transfer Proteins in hexaploid wheat
Authors: Kouidri Allan , Whitford Ryan , Suchecki Radoslaw , Kalashyan Elena , Baumann Ute
Published: November 2018

Non-specific Lipid Transfer Proteins (nsLTPs) are involved in numerous biological processes. To date, only a fraction of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) nsLTPs (TaLTPs) have been identified, and even fewer have been functionally analysed. In this study, the identification, classification, phylogenetic reconstruction, chromosome distribution, functional annotation and expression profiles of TaLTPs were analysed. 461 putative TaLTPs were identified from the wheat genome and classified into five types (1, 2, C, D and G). Phylogenetic analysis of the TaLTPs along with nsLTPs from Arabidopsis thaliana and rice, showed that all five types were shared across species, however, some type 2 TaLTPs formed wheat-specific clades. Gene duplication analysis indicated that tandem duplications contributed to the expansion of this gene family in wheat. Analysis of RNA sequencing data showed that TaLTPs were expressed in most tissues and stages of wheat development. Further, we refined the expression profile of anther-enriched expressed genes, and identified potential cis-elements regulating their expression specificity. This analysis provides a valuable resource towards elucidating the function of TaLTP family members during wheat development, aids our understanding of the evolution and expansion of the TaLTP gene family and, additionally, provides new information for developing wheat male-sterile lines with application to hybrid breeding.
All-optical generation and ultrafast tuning of non-linear spin Hall current
Authors: Wätzel Jonas , Berakdar Jamal
Published: November 2018

Spin Hall effect, one of the cornerstones in spintronics refers to the emergence of an imbalance in the spin density transverse to a charge flow in a sample under voltage bias. This study points to a novel way for an ultrafast generation and tuning of a unidirectional nonlinear spin Hall current by means of subpicosecond laser pulses of optical vortices. When interacting with matter, the optical orbital angular momentum (OAM) carried by the vortex and quantified by its topological charge is transferred to the charge carriers. The residual spin-orbital coupling in the sample together with confinement effects allow exploiting the absorbed optical OAM for spatio-temporally controlling the spin channels. Both the non-linear spin Hall current and the dynamical spin Hall angle increase for a higher optical topological charge. The reason is the transfer of a higher amount of OAM and the enhancement of the effective spin-orbit interaction strength. No bias voltage is needed. We demonstrate that the spin Hall current can be all-optically generated in an open circuit geometry for ring-structured samples. These results follow from a full-fledged propagation of the spin-dependent quantum dynamics on a time-space grid coupled to the phononic environment. The findings point to a versatile and controllable tool for the ultrafast generation of spin accumulations with a variety of applications such as a source for ultrafast spin transfer torque and charge and spin current pulse emitter.
Evaluation of Dynamic Tumor-tracking Intensity-modulated Radiotherapy for Locally Advanced Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Nakamura Akira , Hiraoka Masahiro , Itasaka Satoshi , Nakamura Mitsuhiro , Akimoto Mami , Ishihara Yoshitomo , Mukumoto Nobutaka , Goto Yoko , Kishi Takahiro , Yoshimura Michio , Matsuo Yukinori , Yano Shinsuke , Mizowaki Takashi
Published: November 2018

Intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) is now regarded as an important treatment option for patients with locally advanced pancreatic cancer (LAPC). To reduce the underlying tumor motions and dosimetric errors during IMRT as well as the burden of respiratory management for patients, we started to apply a new treatment platform of the dynamic tumor dynamic tumor-tracking intensity-modulated radiotherapy (DTT-IMRT) using the gimbaled linac, which can swing IMRT toward the real-time tumor position under patients’ voluntary breathing. Between June 2013 and March 2015, ten patients were treated, and the tumor-tracking accuracy and the practical benefits were evaluated. The mean PTV size in DTT-IMRT was 18% smaller than a conventional ITV-based PTV. The root-mean-squared errors between the predicted and the detected tumor positions were 1.3, 1.2, and 1.5 mm in left-right, anterior-posterior, and cranio-caudal directions, respectively. The mean in-room time was 24.5 min. This high-accuracy of tumor-tracking with reasonable treatment time are promising and beneficial to patients with LAPC.
Diffracted X-ray Blinking Tracks Single Protein Motions
Authors: Sekiguchi Hiroshi , Kuramochi Masahiro , Ikezaki Keigo , Okamura Yu , Yoshimura Kazuki , Matsubara Ken , Chang Jae-Won , Ohta Noboru , Kubo Tai , Mio Kazuhiro , Suzuki Yoshio , Chavas Leonard M. G. , Sasaki Yuji C.
Published: November 2018

Single molecule dynamics studies have begun to use quantum probes. Single particle analysis using cryo-transmission electron microscopy has dramatically improved the resolution when studying protein structures and is shifting towards molecular motion observations. X-ray free-electron lasers are also being explored as routes for determining single molecule structures of biological entities. Here, we propose a new X-ray single molecule technology that allows observation of molecular internal motion over long time scales, ranging from milliseconds up to 103 seconds. Our method uses both low-dose monochromatic X-rays and nanocrystal labelling technology. During monochromatic X-ray diffraction experiments, the intensity of X-ray diffraction from moving single nanocrystals appears to blink because of Brownian motion in aqueous solutions. X-ray diffraction spots from moving nanocrystals were observed to cycle in and out of the Bragg condition. Consequently, the internal motions of a protein molecule labelled with nanocrystals could be extracted from the time trajectory using this diffracted X-ray blinking (DXB) approach. Finally, we succeeded in distinguishing the degree of fluctuation motions of an individual acetylcholine-binding protein (AChBP) interacting with acetylcholine (ACh) using a laboratory X-ray source.
Interannual and decadal variability of the North Equatorial Undercurrents in an eddy-resolving ocean model
Authors: Li Yiwen , Liu Hailong , Lin Pengfei
Published: November 2018

In the present study, the mean states of the North Equatorial Undercurrents (NEUCs) simulated in an eddy-resolving ocean model are evaluated, and the variability of the three NEUC jets is analyzed. This analysis provides a reference for future observations regarding how long the in-situ observations should be conducted to obtain a complete picture of NEUCs. We show that the primary features of the three eastward NEUC jets are fairly well reproduced by the high-resolution model of LICOM, such as the locations, tilting directions and widths of the three jets. However, the simulated NEUCs have slightly weaker magnitude and are located at shallower depths. In addition, two dominant time scales on interannual (2–7 years) and decadal (12–19 years) time scales for all three NEUC jets are found in a 39-year high-resolution LICOM simulation, although the latter is not statistically significant. The variation of these jets is related to the remarkable interannual and decadal variability in the Pacific Ocean. Our decomposition analysis indicates that both the small- and large-scale currents contribute to the total variation. Furthermore, the low-pass temporal filter of zonal velocity shows that the quasi-steady cross-basin NEUC jets can only emerge on time scales longer than the interannual periodicity.
Wash-free, label-free immunoassay for rapid electrochemical detection of PfHRP2 in whole blood samples
Authors: Dutta Gorachand , Lillehoj Peter B.
Published: November 2018

Currently, the diagnosis of many diseases relies on laboratory-based immunoassays (ELISA, Western Blot), which are laborious, time-consuming and expensive. To address these limitations, we report a wash-free and label-free electrochemical immunoassay for rapid measurements of protein biomarkers in blood samples. This immunosensor employs a unique detection scheme based on electrochemical-chemical (EC) redox cycling for signal amplification combined with an affinity-based protein quantification strategy. All of the reagents required for this assay are dried and stored on a stacked membrane assembly, consisting of a Vivid Plasma Separation membrane and two cellulose membranes situated above the sensor, enabling excellent stability at room temperature for up to 2 months. Proof of concept was carried out by performing measurements of Plasmodium falciparum histidine-rich protein 2 (PfHRP2) in whole blood samples, which could be detected from 100 ng/mL to 100 µg/mL with excellent specificity and reproducibility. Each measurement requires only two liquid dispensing steps and can completed in 5 min, making this diagnostic platform promising for point-of-care testing in resource-limited settings.
Regulation and overexpression studies of YidC in Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Thakur Preeti , Choudhary Eira , Pareek Madhu , Agarwal Nisheeth
Published: November 2018

The preprotein translocase, YidC is an envelope protein which controls respiratory metabolism inMycobacterium tuberculosis. Previously, we have established that depletion ofyidCis deleterious for both extra- and intracellular proliferation ofM.tuberculosis; however, it remains unclear how YidC expression is regulated under different growth conditions and whether its altered expression impact mycobacterial physiology. Herein, we show thatyidCis expressed as an operon with upstream genes. Interestingly, expression analysis under various stress conditions reveals a distinct paradox in the profile of theyidCmRNA transcripts and the YidC protein. While YidC protein level is moderately elevated upon bacterial exposure to cell surface stresses, the corresponding mRNA transcript levels are significantly repressed under these conditions. In contrast, overexpression ofM.tuberculosis yidCunder a strong anhydrotetracycline-inducible promoter results in significant induction of YidC protein. Additionally, we also observe that overexpression ofM.tuberculosis yidC, and not of its counterpart from fast-growingM.smegmatis, results in alteredin vitrogrowth of bacteria, compromised integrity of bacterial cell envelope and differential expression of a small set of genes including those which are regulated under detergent stress. Overall findings of our study suggest that YidC proteins of slow- and fast-growing mycobacteria are functionally distinct despite exhibiting a great deal of identity.
Morphological evolution of upconversion nanoparticles and their biomedical signal generation
Authors: Rafique Rafia , Baek Seung Hoon , Park Chan Yeong , Chang Sung-Jin , Gul Anam Rana , Ha Siyoung , Nguyen Thang Phan , Oh Hyeongyeol , Ham Seungwook , Arshad Muhammad , Lee Hohjai , Park Tae Jung
Published: November 2018

Advancements in the fabrication of upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) for synthetic control can enable a broad range of applications in biomedical systems. Herein, we experimentally verified the role of the hydrothermal reaction (HR) time in the synthesis of NaYF4:20%Yb3+/3%Er3+ UCNPs on their morphological evolution and phase transformation at different temperatures. Characterizations of the as-prepared UCNPs were conducted using X-ray diffraction (XRD), electron microscopy and spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric and upconversion (UC) luminescence analysis. We demonstrated that determining the optimal HR time, also referred to here as the threshold time, can produce particles with good homogeneity, hexagonal phase, and UC luminescence efficiency. Subsequently, the polymer coated UCNPs maintained their original particle size distribution and luminescence properties, and showed improved dispersibility in a variety of solvents, cellular nontoxicity, in vitro bioimaging, and biocompatibility as compared to the bare UCNP. Besides this, polyacrylic acid conjugated UCNPs (UCNP@PAA) also revealed the strong anticancer effect by conjugating with doxorubicin (DOX) as compared to the free DOX. Based on these findings, we suggest that these particles will be useful in drug-delivery systems and as in vivo bioimaging agents synchronously.
Whole-Transcriptome Profiling of Canine and Human in Vitro Models Exposed to a G-Quadruplex Binding Small Molecule
Authors: Zorzan Eleonora , Elgendy Ramy , Giantin Mery , Dacasto Mauro , Sissi Claudia
Published: November 2018

G-quadruplexes (G4) are secondary nucleic acid structures that have been associated with genomic instability and cancer progression. When present in the promoter of some oncogenes, G4 structures can affect gene regulation and, hence, represent a possible therapeutic target. In this study, RNA-Seq was used to explore the effect of a G4-binding anthraquinone derivative, named AQ1, on the whole-transcriptome profiles of two common cell models for the study of KIT pathways; the human mast cell leukemia (HMC1.2) and the canine mast cell tumor (C2). The highest non-cytotoxic dose of AQ1 (2 µM) resulted in 5441 and 1201 differentially expressed genes in the HMC1.2 and C2 cells, respectively. In both cell lines, major pathways such as cell cycle progression, KIT- and MYC-related pathways were negatively enriched in the AQ1-treated group, while other pathways such as p53, apoptosis and hypoxia-related were positively enriched. These findings suggest that AQ1 treatment induces a similar functional response in the human and canine cell models, and provide news insights into using dogs as a reliable translational model for studying G4-binding compounds.
Author Correction: Discovery of small molecule inhibitors of MyD88-dependent signaling pathways using a computational screen
Authors: Olson Mark A. , Lee Michael S. , Kissner Teri L. , Alam Shahabuddin , Waugh David S. , Saikh Kamal U.
Published: November 2018

A correction has been published and is appended to both the HTML and PDF versions of this paper. The error has not been fixed in the paper.
The paracrine effects of human induced pluripotent stem cells promote bone-like structures via the upregulation of BMP expression in a mouse ectopic model
Authors: Oudina Karim , Paquet Joseph , Moya Adrien , Massourides Emmanuelle , Bensidhoum Morad , Larochette Nathanaël , Deschepper Mickael , Pinset Christian , Petite Hervé
Published: November 2018

Use of human induced pluripotent stem cells (h-iPSCs) for bone tissue engineering is most appealing, because h-iPSCs are an inexhaustible source of osteocompetent cells. The present study investigated the contribution of undifferentiated h-iPSCs and elucidated aspects of the underlying mechanism(s) of the involvement of these cells to new bone formation. Implantation of undifferentiated h-iPSCs seeded on coral particles in ectopic sites of mice resulted in expression of osteocalcin and DMP-1, and in mineral content similar to that of the murine bone. The number of the implanted h-iPSCs decreased with time and disappeared by 30 days post-implantation. In contrast, expression of the murine osteogenic genes at day 15 and 30 post-implantation provided, for the first time, evidence that the implanted h-iPSCs affected the observed outcomes via paracrine mechanisms. Supporting evidence was provided because supernatant conditioned media from h-iPSCs (h-iPSC CM), promoted the osteogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells (h-MSCs) in vitro. Specifically, h-iPSC CM induced upregulation of the BMP-2, BMP-4 and BMP-6 genes, and promoted mineralization of the extracellular matrix. Given the current interest in the use of h-iPSCs for regenerative medicine applications, our study contributes new insights into aspects of the mechanism underlying the bone promoting capability of h-iPSCs.
A rapid gas chromatography tandem mass spectrometry method for the determination of 50 PAHs for application in a marine environment
Authors: Park Grace , Brunswick Pamela , Kwok Honoria , Haberl Maxine , Yan Jeffrey , MacInnis Ceara , Kim Marcus , Helbing Caren , van Aggelen Graham , Shang Dayue
Published: November 2018

A micro-extraction gas chromatography pseudo-MRM mass spectrometry method was developed for the rapid determination of 50 selected PAHs and APAHs in seawater.
Au(i)-Catalyzed hydroarylation of alkenes with N,N-dialkylanilines: a dual gold catalysis concept
Authors: Abdellah Ibrahim , Poater Albert , Lohier Jean-François , Gaumont Annie-Claude
Published: November 2018

In the present work, we report the efficiency of the commercially available [(PPh3)AuCl] complex in combination with a set of potassium salts to catalyze the hydroarylation of a broad variety of alkenes using N,N-dialkylanilines, leading to full conversion and complete selectivity toward the Markovnikov products.
Synthesis of bimetallic complexes bridged by 2,6-bis(benzimidazol-2-yl) pyridine derivatives and their catalytic properties in transfer hydrogenation
Authors: Günnaz Salih , Gökçe Aytaç Gürhan , Türkmen Hayati
Published: November 2018

A series of binuclear rhodium(i) and iridium(i) complexes with 2,6-bis(benzimidazol-2-yl) pyridine (bzimpy) derivatives were synthesized and characterized by spectroscopic methods. Their catalytic properties were investigated in TH.
Siderophore profiling of co-habitating soil bacteria by ultra-high resolution mass spectrometry
Authors: Boiteau Rene M. , Fansler Sarah J. , Farris Yuliya , Shaw Jared B. , Koppenaal David W. , Pasa-Tolic Ljiljana , Jansson Janet K.
Published: November 2018

Calcareous soil microbes complete for scarce iron by synthesizing diverse suites of siderophores detectable by ultra-high resolution mass spectrometry.
Synthesis and anticancer studies of Michael adducts and Heck arylation products of sesquiterpene lactones, zaluzanin D and zaluzanin C from Vernonia arborea
Authors: Valkute Tushar R. , Aratikatla Eswar K. , Gupta Neha A. , Ganga S. , Santra Manas K. , Bhattacharya Asish K.
Published: November 2018

Sesquiterpene lactones containing α-methylene-γ-lactones, zaluzanin D 1 and zaluzanin C 2 were isolated from the leaves of Vernonia arborea.
Chemical state changes of Nafion in model polymer electrolyte fuel cell under oxygen/hydrogen gas atmosphere observed by S-K XANES spectroscopy
Authors: Isegawa Kazuhisa , Kim Daehyun , Kondoh Hiroshi
Published: November 2018

Behavior of sulfur species derived from Nafion in PEFC under oxygen atmosphere was revealed by S-K XANES spectroscopy.
Adsorption of mercury(ii) from water by a novel sPAN fiber containing sulfhydryl, carboxyl and amino groups
Authors: Duan Wenjie , Wang Jing , Chang Li , Zhao Liang , Tian Zhenbang , Huang Zuohua , Huang Weiqing
Published: November 2018

A novel fiber containing sulfhydryl, carboxyl and amino groups (sPAN) with high adsorption capacity for mercury was facilely prepared by chemically grafting cysteine onto a commercial polyacrylonitrile (PAN) fiber in a one-step reaction.
Biosorption of Cr(vi) from aqueous solution using dormant spores ofAspergillus niger
Authors: Ren Binqiao , Zhang Qiang , Zhang Xiaochen , Zhao Luyang , Li Hanyang
Published: November 2018

Spores ofAspergillus niger(denoted asA. niger) were used as a novel biosorbent to remove hexavalent chromium from aqueous solution.
Selective through-holing of anodic porous alumina membranes with large area
Authors: Yanagishita Takashi , Okubo Yuki , Kondo Toshiaki , Masuda Hideki
Published: November 2018

Anodic porous alumina membranes with selective through-holing.
Nucleation and growth for magnesia inclusion in Fe–O–Mg melt
Authors: Xiao Yuanyou , Lei Hong , Yang Bin , Wang Guocheng , Wang Qi , Jin Wei
Published: November 2018

The crystallization process of magnesia involves two steps.
Laser-driven structural transformations in dextran-graft-PNIPAM copolymer/Au nanoparticles hybrid nanosystem: the role of plasmon heating and attractive optical forces
Authors: Yeshchenko Oleg A. , Naumenko Antonina P. , Kutsevol Nataliya V. , Harahuts Iulia I.
Published: November 2018

Structural transformations in D-g-PNIPAM/AuNPs hybrid nanosystem arise from the synergetic action of plasmonic heating and attractive optical plasmonic forces.
Expansion of the photoresponse window of a BiVO4photocatalyst by doping with chromium(vi)
Authors: Okuno Kazuya , Kato Hideki , Vequizo Junie Jhon M. , Yamakata Akira , Kobayashi Hisayoshi , Kobayashi Makoto , Kakihana Masato
Published: November 2018

Photocatalytic O2evolution is induced by electrons/holes generated by excitation of a new absorption band formed by doping with Cr6+.
Extraction and isolation of polyhydroxy triterpenoids from Rosa laevigata Michx. fruit with anti-acetylcholinesterase and neuroprotection properties
Authors: Gao Pinyi , Han Ting , Jin Mei , Li Danqi , Jiang Fuyu , Zhang Lixin , Liu Xuegui
Published: November 2018

Rosa laevigata fruit, at present, is becoming increasingly popular as a functional foodstuff with several nutritional and medicinal properties.
Preparation of 3-hydroxyquinolines from direct oxidation of dihydroquinolinium salts
Authors: Ramanathan Mani , Wan Jing , Liu Shiuh-Tzung
Published: November 2018

3-Hydroxyquinoline derivatives can be prepared by a cascade cyclization of aryldiazonium salts with nitriles and alkenes followed by oxygenation.
Surface modified Li4Ti5O12 by paper templated approach for enhanced interfacial Li+ charge transfer in Li-ion batteries
Authors: Kawade Ujjwala V. , Jayswal Manish S. , Ambalkar Anuradha A. , Kadam Sunil R. , Panmand Rajendra P. , Ambekar Jalinder D. , Kulkarni Milind V. , Kale Bharat B.
Published: November 2018

The versatile paper template synthesis of LTO has been demonstrated with an interconnected nanoparticles network. The system exhibits accelerated interfacial charge transfer which in turn confers enhanced stable electrochemical performance in LIBs.
Correction: Preparation and photocatalytic application of a S, Nd double doped nano-TiO2 photocatalyst
Authors: Wang Shuo , Ao Xinling , Bai Liming
Published: November 2018

Correction for ‘Preparation and photocatalytic application of a S, Nd double doped nano-TiO2 photocatalyst’ by Shuo Wang et al., RSC Adv., 2018, 8, 36745–36753.
Towards efficient calcium extraction from steel slag and carbon dioxide utilisation via pressure-swing mineral carbonation
Authors: Ragipani Raghavendra , Bhattacharya Sankar , Suresh Akkihebbal K.
Published: November 2018

Achievement of high calcium carbonate supersaturation without surface passivation is the way for efficient PCC production and CO2 utilisation using steel slag.
Hydrogel/enzyme dots as adaptable tool for non-compartmentalized multi-enzymatic reactions in microfluidic devices
Authors: Simon David , Obst Franziska , Haefner Sebastian , Heroldt Toni , Peiter Martin , Simon Frank , Richter Andreas , Voit Brigitte , Appelhans Dietmar
Published: November 2018

Validating the robustness and activity of hydrogel/enzyme dots as adaptable tool for non-compartmentalized multi-enzymatic reactions in microfluidic devices under continuous flow.
Liquid–liquid phase equilibrium and the effect of a water-soluble polymer on the interaction between droplets in water-in-oil microemulsions
Authors: Wang Xue , Liu Doudou , Wang Mingjie , Chen Zhiyun , Yin Tianxiang , Shen Weiguo
Published: November 2018

Effects of additive PEG on the interaction enthalpy and entropy between droplets compete and result in decreases of Tc and stability of microemulsions.