bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Galactomannan and PCR in the Central Nervous System to Detect Invasive Mold Disease - A Retrospective Analysis in Immunocompromised Children
Authors: Lehrnbecher Thomas , Rath Peter Michael , Attarbaschi Andishe , Cario Gunnar , Döring Michaela , Moser Olga , Mücke Urs , Poyer Fiona , Rieken Sarah , Temme Christian , Voigt Sebastian , Groll Andreas H. , Lauten Melchior
Published: September 2019

Invasive mold disease (IMD) of the central nervous system (CNS) is a severe infectious complication in immunocompromised patients, but early microbiological diagnosis is difficult. As data on the value of biomarkers in the CNS are scarce, in particular in children, we retrospectively analyzed the performance of galactomannan (GM) and PCR assays in CNS samples of 15 children with proven and probable CNS IMD and of 32 immunocompromised children without fungal infection. Galactomannan in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) was assessed in nine of the 15 pediatric patients and was positive in five of them. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed in eight of the 15 patients and detected nucleic acids from molds in six patients. Galactomannan and PCR in CNS samples were the only positive microbiologic parameter in the CNS in three and two patients, respectively. In four patients, PCR specified the pathogen detected in microscopy. Galactomannan and PCR results remained negative in the CSF of all immunocompromised children without evidence for CNS IMD. Our data suggest that GM and PCR in CNS specimens are valuable additional tools in diagnosing CNS IMD and should be included in the work up of all pediatric patients with suspected mold disease of the CNS.
Relative abundance of oceanic juvenile loggerhead sea turtles in relation to nest production at source rookeries: implications for recruitment dynamics
Authors: Vandeperre Frederic , Parra Hugo , Pham Christopher K. , Machete Miguel , Santos Marco , Bjorndal Karen A. , Bolten Alan B.
Published: September 2019

After hatching, juveniles of most sea turtle species undertake long migrations across ocean basins and remain in oceanic habitats for several years. Assessing population abundance and demographic parameters during this oceanic stage is challenging. Two long-recognized deficiencies in population assessment are (i) reliance on trends in numbers of nests or reproductive females at nesting beaches and (ii) ignorance of factors regulating recruitment to the early oceanic stage. To address these critical gaps, we examined 15 years of standardized loggerhead sighting data collected opportunistically by fisheries observers in the Azores archipelago. From 2001 to 2015, 429 loggerheads were sighted during 67,922 km of survey effort. We used a model-based approach to evaluate the influence of environmental factors and present the first estimates of relative abundance of oceanic-stage juvenile sea turtles. During this period, relative abundance of loggerheads in the Azores tracked annual nest abundance at source rookeries in Florida when adjusted for a 3-year lag. This concurrence of abundance patterns indicates that recruitment to the oceanic stage is more dependent on nest abundance at source rookeries than on stochastic processes derived from short term climatic variability, as previously believed.
Non-invasive Potential Circulating mRNA Markers for Colorectal Adenoma Using Targeted Sequencing
Authors: Xue Vivian W. , Cheung Moon T. , Chan Pak T. , Luk Lewis L. Y. , Lee Vivian H. , Au Thomas C. , Yu Allen C. , Cho William C. S. , Tsang Hin Fung Andy , Chan Amanda K. , Wong S. C. Cesar
Published: September 2019

We have developed an optimized protocol for plasma targeted mRNA sequencing in our previous study. Here, we performed plasma targeted mRNA sequencing for 40 colorectal adenoma patients and 39 colonoscopy-proven normal controls in order to find potential circulating mRNA markers for colorectal adenoma. Results showed thatGSK3AandRHOAwere differential expressed genes identified by a cut-off of fold change >2 and adjustedPvalue < 0.05. More detailed analysis showed that the expression of bothGSK3A(0.01-fold with adjustedP < 1 × 10−6) andRHOA(0.35-fold with adjustedP < 0.01) in adenoma patients was significantly lower than those in normal healthy subjects. Based on the enrichment analysis of biological process for potential markers, we found that the regulation of programmed cell death (GO: 0043067; GO: 0043069), regulation of cell death (GO: 0010941; GO: 0060548) and cell differentiation (GO: 0021861) were the main processes involved in adenoma formation. In summary, this study is a cutting-edge research on the detection of plasma mRNA in colorectal adenoma patients and normal healthy subjects.
Characterization of a novel LQT3 variant with a selective efficacy of mexiletine treatment
Authors: Kim Hyun-Ji , Kim Bok-Geon , Park Jong Eun , Ki Chang-Seok , Huh June , Youm Jae Boum , Kang Jong-Sun , Cho Hana
Published: September 2019

Pathogenic variants in the human SCN5A gene encoding the a-subunit of the principle Na+ channel (Nav1.5) are associated with long QT syndrome (LQTS) 3. LQT3 patients display variable responses to Na+ channel blockers demanding for the development of variant-specific therapeutic strategies. Here we performed a combined electrophysiological analysis with in silico simulation of variant channel to elucidate mechanisms of therapeutic responsiveness. We identified a novel SCN5A variant (A1656D) in a LQTS patient with a distinct response to mexiletine resulting in suppression of non-sustained ventricular tachycardia and manifestation of premature atrial contraction. Patch clamp analysis revealed that A1656D variant exerted gain-of-function effects including hyperpolarizing shift of the voltage-dependence of activation, depolarizing shift in the voltage-dependence of inactivation, and slowing of fast inactivation. Among ranolazine, flecainide, and mexiletine, only mexiletine restored inactivation kinetics of A1656D currents. In silico simulation to assess the effect of A1656D variant on ventricular cardiac cell excitation predicted a prolonged action potential which is consistent with the prolonged QT and non-sustained ventricular tachycardia of the patient. It also predicted that only mexiletine suppressed the prolonged action potential of human ventricular myocytes expressing A1656D. These data elucidate the underlying mechanism of the distinct response to mexiletine in this patient.
Genome wide transcriptome analysis reveals vital role of heat responsive genes in regulatory mechanisms of lentil (Lens culinaris Medikus)
Authors: Singh Dharmendra , Singh Chandan Kumar , Taunk Jyoti , Jadon Vasudha , Pal Madan , Gaikwad Kishor
Published: September 2019

The present study reports the role of morphological, physiological and reproductive attributes viz. membrane stability index (MSI), osmolytes accumulations, antioxidants activities and pollen germination for heat stress tolerance in contrasting genotypes. Heat stress increased proline and glycine betaine (GPX) contents, induced superoxide dismutase (SOD), ascorbate peroxidase (APX) and glutathione peroxidase (GPX) activities and resulted in higher MSI in PDL-2 (tolerant) compared to JL-3 (sensitive).In vitropollen germination of tolerant genotype was higher than sensitive one under heat stress.In vivostressed pollens of tolerant genotype germinated well on stressed stigma of sensitive genotype, while stressed pollens of sensitive genotype did not germinate on stressed stigma of tolerant genotype.De novotranscriptome analysis of both the genotypes showed that number of contigs ranged from 90,267 to 104,424 for all the samples with N50ranging from 1,755 to 1,844 bp under heat stress and control conditions. Based on assembled unigenes, 194,178 high-quality Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs), 141,050 microsatellites and 7,388 Insertion-deletions (Indels) were detected. Expression of 10 genes was evaluated using quantitative Real Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-qPCR). Comparison of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) under different combinations of heat stress has led to the identification of candidate DEGs and pathways. Changes in expression of physiological and pollen phenotyping related genes were also reaffirmed through transcriptome data. Cell wall and secondary metabolite pathways are found to be majorly affected under heat stress. The findings need further analysis to determine genetic mechanism involved in heat tolerance of lentil.
NeTFactor, a framework for identifying transcriptional regulators of gene expression-based biomarkers
Authors: Ahsen Mehmet Eren , Chun Yoojin , Grishin Alexander , Grishina Galina , Stolovitzky Gustavo , Pandey Gaurav , Bunyavanich Supinda
Published: September 2019

Biological and regulatory mechanisms underlying many multi-gene expression-based disease biomarkers are often not readily evident. We describe an innovative framework,NeTFactor, that combines network analyses with gene expression data to identify transcription factors (TFs) that significantly and maximally regulate such a biomarker. NeTFactor uses a computationally-inferred context-specific gene regulatory network and applies topological, statistical, and optimization methods to identify regulator TFs. Application of NeTFactor to a multi-gene expression-based asthma biomarker identified ETS translocation variant 4 (ETV4) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARG) as the biomarker’s most significant TF regulators. siRNA-based knock down of these TFs in an airway epithelial cell line model demonstrated significant reduction of cytokine expression relevant to asthma, validating NeTFactor’s top-scoring findings. While PPARG has been associated with airway inflammation, ETV4 has not yet been implicated in asthma, thus indicating the possibility of novel, disease-relevant discovery by NeTFactor. We also show that NeTFactor’s results are robust when the gene regulatory network and biomarker are derived from independent data. Additionally, our application of NeTFactor to a different disease biomarker identified TF regulators of interest. These results illustrate that the application of NeTFactor to multi-gene expression-based biomarkers could yield valuable insights into regulatory mechanisms and biological processes underlying disease.
Association between regular walking and periodontitis according to socioeconomic status: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Han Su-Jin , Bae Kwang-Hak , Lee Hyo-Jin , Kim Seon-Jip , Cho Hyun-Jae
Published: September 2019

Physical activity reduces the risk and mortality risk of inflammatory diseases. This study aimed to examine the relationship between regular walking and periodontitis in a Korean representative sample of adults according to socioeconomic status. Data acquired by the Sixth Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey in 2014 and 2015 were used. The survey was completed by 11,921 (5,175 males; 6,746 females) participants (≥19 years). Individuals without values on periodontitis were excluded, and 9,728 participants remained. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was done using socio-demographic characteristics (age, gender, income, education), oral health-related variables (flossing, interdental brushing, community periodontal index), oral and general health status and behaviour (smoking, diabetes mellitus), and regular walking. In all models, subjects who walked regularly had significantly lower risks of periodontitis. After adjusting for age, gender, income, education, smoking, diabetes mellitus, flossing, and interdental brushing, the odds ratio for periodontitis in subjects who walked regularly was 0.793 (95% Confidence interval: 0.700–0.898). Non-regular walking groups showed similar social gradients. Risk of low socioeconomic status was not significant in the regular walking group after adjusting for age, gender, income, and education. This study found that regular walking is associated to lower prevalence of periodontitis and can attenuate the relationship between periodontitis and low socioeconomic status.
The roles of glucagon-like peptide-2 and the intestinal epithelial insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor in regulating microvillus length
Authors: Markovic Melanie A. , Brubaker Patricia L.
Published: September 2019

Microvilli are tiny projections on the apical end of enterocytes, aiding in the digestion and absorption of nutrients. One of their key features is uniform length, but how this is regulated is poorly understood. Glucagon-like peptide-2 (GLP-2) has been shown to increase microvillus length but, the requirement of its downstream mediator, the intestinal epithelial insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IE-IGF-1R), and the microvillus proteins acted upon by GLP-2, remain unknown. Using IE-IGF-1R knockout (KO) mice, treated with either long-acting human (h) (GLY2)GLP-2 or vehicle for 11d, it was found that the h(GLY2)GLP-2-induced increase in microvillus length required the IE-IGF-1R. Furthermore, IE-IGF-1R KO alone resulted in a significant decrease in microvillus length. Examination of the brush border membrane proteome as well as of whole jejunal mucosa demonstrated that villin was increased with h(GLY2)GLP-2 treatment in an IE-IGF-1R-dependent manner. Under both basal conditions and with h(GLY2)GLP-2 treatment of the IE-IGF-1R KO mice, changes in villin, IRTKS-1, harmonin, β-actin, and myosin-1a did not explain the decrease in microvillus length, in either the brush border or jejunal mucosa of KO animals. Collectively, these studies define a new role for the IE-IGF-1R within the microvillus, in both the signaling cascade induced by GLP-2, as well as endogenously.
Towards the realistic computer model of precipitation polymerization microgels
Authors: Rudyak Vladimir Yu. , Kozhunova Elena Yu. , Chertovich Alexander V.
Published: September 2019

In this paper we propose a new method of coarse-grained computer simulations of the microgel formation in course of free radical precipitation polymerization. For the first time, we simulate the precipitation polymerization process from a dilute solution of initial components to a final microgel particle with coarse grained molecular dynamics, and compare it to the experimental data. We expect that our simulation studies of PNIPA-like microgels will be able to elucidate the subject of nucleation and growth kinetics and to describe in detail the network topology and structure. Performed computer simulations help to determine the characteristic phases of the growth process and show the necessity of prolongated synthesis for the formation of stable microgel particles. We demonstrate the important role of dangling ends in microgels, which occupy as much as 50% of its molecular mass and have previously unattended influence on the swelling behavior. The verification of the model is made by the comparison of collapse curves and structure factors between simulated and experimental systems, and high quality matching is achieved. This work could help to open new horizons in studies that require the knowledge of detailed and realistic structures of the microgel networks.
Effects of Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitors on Renal Outcomes in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Bae Jae Hyun , Park Eun-Gee , Kim Sunhee , Kim Sin Gon , Hahn Seokyung , Kim Nam Hoon
Published: September 2019

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors on individual renal outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes. We searched MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials from inception to September 2017 to identify randomized controlled trials comparing SGLT2 inhibitors with placebo or antidiabetic drugs and reporting any renal outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes. Additionally, we identified 4 articles which were published after the predefined period to include relevant data. A meta-analysis was performed to calculate weighted mean differences (WMDs) and relative risks (RRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for each renal outcome. We included 48 studies involving 58,165 patients in the analysis. SGLT2 inhibitors significantly lowered urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) (WMD, −14.64 mg/g; 95% CI, −25.15 to −4.12;P = 0.006) compared with controls. The UACR-lowering effects of SGLT2 inhibitors were greater with a higher baseline UACR. Overall changes in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) were comparable between two groups (WMD, 0.19 mL/min/1.73 m2; 95% CI, −0.44 to 0.82;P = 0.552). However, SGLT2 inhibitors significantly slowed eGFR decline in patients with a higher baseline eGFR and a longer duration of treatment. Compared with controls, SGLT2 inhibitors significantly reduced the risk of microalbuminuria (RR, 0.69; 95% CI, 0.49 to 0.97;P = 0.032), macroalbuminuria (RR, 0.49; 95% CI, 0.33 to 0.73;P < 0.001), and worsening nephropathy (RR, 0.73; 95% CI, 0.58 to 0.93;P = 0.012). In addition, the risk of end-stage renal disease was significantly lower in SGLT2 inhibitors than in controls (RR, 0.70; 95% CI, 0.57 to 0.87;P = 0.001). In conclusion, SGLT2 inhibitors had beneficial renal effects by lowering the risk of albuminuria development or progression and reducing the risk of end-stage renal disease compared with placebo or other antidiabetic drugs.
Luciferase gene of a Caribbean fireworm (Syllidae) from Puerto Rico
Authors: Mitani Yasuo , Yasuno Rie , Futahashi Ryo , Oakley Todd H. , Ohmiya Yoshihiro
Published: September 2019

The fireworms Odontosyllis spp. are globally distributed and well-known for their characteristic and fascinating mating behavior, with secreted mucus emitting bluish-green light. However, knowledge about the molecules involved in the light emission are still scarce. The fireworms are believed to emit light with a luciferin-luciferase reaction, but biochemical evidence of the luciferase is established for only one species living in Japan and no information is available for its luciferin structure. In this study, we identified a luciferase gene from a related Puerto Rican fireworm. We identified eight luciferase-like genes in this Puerto Rican fireworm, finding amino acid identities between Japanese and Puerto Rican luciferase-like genes to be less than 60%. We confirmed cross reactivity of extracts of the Japanese fireworm luciferin with a recombinant Puerto Rican luciferase (PR1). The emission spectrum of recombinant PR1 was similar to the crude extract of the native luciferase, suggesting that PR1 is a functional luciferase of this Puerto Rican fireworm. Our results indicate that the molecular mechanism of luminescence is widely conserved among fireworms.
Low on-treatment diastolic blood pressure and cardiovascular outcome: A post-hoc analysis using NHLBI SPRINT Research Materials
Authors: Sobieraj Piotr , Lewandowski Jacek , Siński Maciej , Gaciong Zbigniew
Published: September 2019

Recent studies including the SPRINT trial have shown beneficial effects of intensive systolic blood pressure reduction over the standard approach. The awareness of the J-curve for diastolic blood pressure (DBP) causes some uncertainty regarding the net clinical effects of blood pressure reduction. The current analysis was performed to investigate effects of low on-treatment DBP on cardiovascular risk in the SPRINT population. The primary composite outcome was the occurrence of myocardial infarction, acute coronary syndrome not resulting in myocardial infarction, stroke, acute decompensated heart failure or death from cardiovascular causes. The prevalence of primary outcomes was significantly higher in subjects within low DBP in both standard (44–67 mmHg [10.8%] vs 67–73 mmHg [6.7%] vs 73–78 mmHg [5.1%] vs 78–83 mmHg [4.4%] vs 83–113 mmHg [4.3%], p < 0.001) and intensive treatment (38–61 mmHg [6.7%] vs 61–66 mmHg [4.1%] vs 66–70 mmHg [4.5%] vs 70–74 mmHg [2.7%] vs 74–113 mmHg [3.4%], p < 0.001) arms. After adjusting for covariates, low DBP showed no significant effects on cardiovascular risk. Therefore, while reaching blood pressure targets, low DBP should not be a matter of concern.
Serum developmental endothelial locus-1 is associated with severity of sepsis in animals and humans
Authors: Kim Won-Young , Lee Seung-Hwan , Kim Dong-Young , Ryu Hyun Jin , Chon Gyu Rak , Park Yun Young , Fu Yan , Huh Jin Won , Lim Chae-Man , Koh Younsuck , Choi Eun Young , Hong Sang-Bum
Published: September 2019

Disruption of the endothelial glycocalyx has a prominent role in the pathophysiology of sepsis. Developmental endothelial locus-1 (Del-1) is an endothelial-derived anti-inflammatory factor. We hypothesized that degradation of the endothelial glycocalyx during sepsis may increase serum Del-1. A mouse model of sepsis was created using cecal ligation and puncture. In septic mice, the endothelial glycocalyx was nearly completely degraded, with less formation of Del-1 in the endothelium and extracellular matrix than in control mice. Serum Del-1 levels were significantly increased in the septic mice with increasing severity of sepsis. Serum Del-1 levels were also measured in 84 patients with sepsis and septic shock and in 20 control subjects. The median serum Del-1 level in patients with sepsis was significantly higher than that in healthy controls. The high Del-1 group had higher illness severity scores and contained more patients with organ dysfunction than the low Del-1 group. The 90-day mortality rate was significantly higher in the high Del-1 group than in the low Del-1 group. Multivariate analysis indicated a tendency for a high serum Del-1 level to be associated with a higher mortality risk. Increased serum Del-1 may be a novel diagnostic biomarker of sepsis and an indicator of disease severity.
Weighing the prognostic role of hyponatremia in hospitalized patients with metastatic solid tumors: the HYPNOSIS study
Authors: Fucà Giovanni , Mariani Luigi , Lo Vullo Salvatore , Galli Giulia , Berardi Rossana , Di Nicola Massimo , Vernieri Claudio , Morelli Daniele , Dotti Katia , Fiordoliva Ilaria , Rinaldi Silvia , Gavazzi Cecilia , Pietrantonio Filippo , Platania Marco , de Braud Filippo
Published: September 2019

Previous works linked low sodium concentration with mortality risk in cancer. We aimed at weighing the prognostic impact of hyponatremia in all consecutive patients with metastatic solid tumors admitted in a two-years period at our medical oncology department. Patients were included in two cohorts based on serum sodium concentration on admission. A total of 1025 patients were included, of whom 279 (27.2%) were found to be hyponatremic. The highest prevalence of hyponatremia was observed in biliary tract (51%), prostate (45%) and small-cell lung cancer (38.9%). With a median follow-up of 26.9 months, median OS was 2 months and 13.2 months for the hyponatremia versus control cohort, respectively (HR, 2.65; P < 0.001). In the multivariable model, hyponatremia was independently associated with poorer OS (HR, 1.66; P < 0.001). According to the multivariable model, a nomogram system was developed and validated in an external set of patients. We weighed over time the influence of hyponatremia on survival of patients with metastatic solid tumors and pointed out the possibility to exploit serum sodium assessment to design integrated prognostic tools. Our study also highlights the need for a deeper characterization of the biological role of extracellular sodium levels in tumor development and progression.
Atomoxetine produces oxidative stress and alters mitochondrial function in human neuron-like cells
Authors: Corona Juan Carlos , Carreón-Trujillo Sonia , González-Pérez Raquel , Gómez-Bautista Denise , Vázquez-González Daniela , Salazar-García Marcela
Published: September 2019

Atomoxetine (ATX) is a non-stimulant drug used in the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. It has been shown that ATX has additional effects beyond the inhibition of norepinephrine reuptake, affecting several signal transduction pathways and alters gene expression. Here, we study alterations in oxidative stress and mitochondrial function in human differentiated SH-SY5Y cells exposed over a range of concentrations of ATX. We found that the highest concentrations of ATX in neuron-like cells, caused cell death and an increase in cytosolic and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species, and alterations in mitochondrial mass, membrane potential and autophagy. Interestingly, the dose of 10 μM ATX increased mitochondrial mass and decreased autophagy, despite the induction of cytosolic and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species. Thus, ATX has a dual effect depending on the dose used, indicating that ATX produces additional active therapeutic effects on oxidative stress and on mitochondrial function beyond the inhibition of norepinephrine reuptake.
Full blood count as potential predictor of outcomes in patients undergoing cardiac resynchronization therapy
Authors: Papageorgiou Nikolaos , Falconer Debbie , Ioannou Adam , Wongwarawipat Tanakal , Barra Sergio , Tousoulis Dimitris , Lim Wei Yao , Khan Fakhar Z. , Ahsan Syed , Muthumala Amal , Hunter Ross J. , Finlay Malcolm , Creta Antonio , Rowland Edward , Lowe Martin , Segal Oliver R. , Schilling Richard J. , Lambiase Pier D. , Chow Anthony W. , Providência Rui
Published: September 2019

Almost a third of patients fulfilling current guidelines criteria have suboptimal responses following cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). Circulating biomarkers may help identify these patients. We aimed to assess the predictive role of full blood count (FBC) parameters in prognosis of heart failure (HF) patients undergoing CRT device implantation. We enrolled 612 consecutive CRT patients and FBC was measured within 24 hours prior to implantation. The follow-up period was a median of 1652 days (IQR: 837–2612). The study endpoints were i) composite of all-cause mortality or transplant, and ii) reverse left ventricular (LV) remodeling. On multivariate analysis [hazard ratio (HR), 95% confidence interval (CI)] only red cell count (RCC) (p = 0.004), red cell distribution width (RDW) (p < 0.001), percentage of lymphocytes (p = 0.03) and platelet count (p < 0.001) predicted all-cause mortality. Interestingly, RDW (p = 0.004) and platelet count (p = 0.008) were independent predictors of reverse LV remodeling. This is the first powered single-centre study to demonstrate that RDW and platelet count are independent predictors of long-term all-cause mortality and/or heart transplant in CRT patients. Further studies, on the role of these parameters in enhancing patient selection for CRT implantation should be conducted to confirm our findings.
Electron Microscopic Analysis of Radiocaesium-bearing Microparticles in Lichens Collected Within 3 km of the Fukushima Dai-ichi Nuclear Power Plant
Authors: Dohi Terumi , Tagomori Hisaya , Ohmura Yoshihito , Fujiwara Kenso , Kanaizuka Seiichi , Iijima Kazuki
Published: September 2019

In order to investigate statistically the physicochemical properties of the radiocaesium-bearing microparticles (CsMPs) emitted from the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant, an efficient method for collecting and separating the microparticles is required. In this study we established a separation method for CsMPs from lichens using electron microscopic analysis. Lichens were first digested within hydrogen peroxide and then an automatic particle analyser system based on FE-EPMA was used for detecting CsMPs within lots of mineral-like and metalic particles quickly. The elemental composition and radiocaesium activities of the separated CsMPs were measured, and the results suggest that the digestion treatment did not influence the CsMPs characteristics. An inhomogeneous elemental distribution was found in some CsMPs by two-dimensional elemental analysis using FE-EMPA. Our methods for separation of CsMPs and analysing their elemental composition are expected to be useful for grasping the chemical composition trends of CsMPs statistically as first step before more detailed analyses such as TEM analysis.
Application of Uranium Radio-chronometry to Interpret Uranium Samples of Known Provenance
Authors: Higginson Matthew , Thompson Paul , Dawkins Brogen , Taylor Fiona , Kaye Phillip
Published: September 2019

Radio-chronometry is an important signature in understanding the processing history of an unknown nuclear material. Knowledge of the formation of processing signatures is crucial to underpin nuclear forensic analysis. A precise concordant age from multiple chronometers gives confidence in the model age and can aid in determining processing history. Discordant chronometers can also help to refine specific processing histories where incomplete processing is known to occur. In this work we apply our rapid radiochemical methodology to materials of known provenance to further validate our capability. In these analyses we aim to study the effect of known processing history on model ages to build confidence in our understanding of the signature. We observe concordant chronometer pairs and agreement with processing history in samples where the model age assumptions are valid, such as purification by solvent extraction and specific processing techniques. This gives confidence in the utility of the analysis for forensic applications. Where discordance was observed in cast uranium metal samples, the signature was valuable for interpreting the processing history in terms of thorium and protactinium.
Time-resolved Laser-induced Luminescence/Chemiluminescence Laser Spectroscopy and Detection of Actinides/Lanthanides
Authors: Izosimov I. N.
Published: September 2019

This work is devoted to applications of the time-resolved laser-induced luminescence (TRLIF) spectroscopy and time-resolved laser-induced chemiluminescence (TRLIC) spectroscopy for detection of lanthanides and actinides. Results of the experiments on europium, samarium, uranium, and plutonium detection in different solutions are analysed.
Tests of Nuclear Jet Engines as a New Source of Radioactivity in the Environment
Authors: Mietelski Jerzy W.
Published: September 2019

Russia announced that they successfully conducted test of nuclear jet engines in autumn of 2017. Construction details of the tested nuclear jet engine remain unknown, but the general concepts of such constructions are well known. The heat is generated by radioactive decay instead of combustion of liquid chemical fuel. There are two possible sources of radioactive heat: the very active radioisotope source (as in a Radioactive Thermoelectric Generator, RTG) or a nuclear reactor. Simple calculations reveal that the required activity for propulsion of cruise-class missiles is on the order of magnitude of an EBq (1018 Bq). It is likely, that the mysterious air contamination with 106Ru/106Rh, observed in beginning of October 2017 all around Europe was a result of such tests. Tests of nuclear jet engines in open air is a new challenge for radioactivity monitoring systems in many countries. The use of RTG–like radioisotopes is a new situation for which many countries and international organisations are not prepared at all. Another important question is activity released during possible crash, which might happen during a test flight.
Radium Monitoring at Coal Fired Power Plants
Authors: Westmoreland James B.
Published: September 2019

GEL Laboratories, LLC (GEL) supplies analytical testing services to a variety of industries. Recently GEL has observed an increase in the monitoring of naturally occurring radionuclides in the environment from non-nuclear customers including coal, steel, natural gas and the petroleum industries. Regulatory oversight for the coal industry in the United States has escalated the monitoring of radium and other elements around active and inactive coal ash storage basins. This paper shares specific results encountered in the monitoring process and considerations for radium method selection.
Evaluation of Different Gamma-ray Imaging Techniques for Visualisation of Induced Activity in Accelerator Magnets
Authors: Yoshida Go , Toyoda Akihiro , Matsumura Hiroshi , Masumoto Kazuyoshi , Miura Taichi , Nakamura Hajime , Bessho Kotaro
Published: September 2019

Activated accelerator magnets were measured with three different types of commercially available gamma-ray imaging devices (pinhole, Compton scattering, and masked type) and the results were compared to simplify a distinction between activated/non-activated areas in the magnet during the decommissioning of an accelerator facility. In general, an activated magnet includes 60Co and emits gamma rays over 1 MeV; however, current devices are not designed to detect such high-energy photons. Our results showed that two devices could identify the location of highly activated areas, although they could not detect the total absorption peaks of the 1173 and 1333 keV photons from 60Co.
Enhanced structural disorder at a nanocrystalline ice surface
Authors: Otsuki Yuji , Watanabe Kazuya , Sugimoto Toshiki , Matsumoto Yoshiyasu
Published: September 2019

Enhanced structural disorder at the surface of nanocrystalline ice is studied by heterodyne-detected sum-frequency generation spectroscopy.
Binding affinity data of DNA aptamers for therapeutic anthracyclines from microscale thermophoresis and surface plasmon resonance spectroscopy
Authors: Sass Stephan , Stöcklein Walter F. M. , Klevesath Anja , Hurpin Jeanne , Menger Marcus , Hille Carsten
Published: September 2019

A combined methodological approach supports a two-state reaction model including a 1 : 1 binding of anthracyclines and aptamers and a subsequent conformational change of the binding complex.
Discriminating normal and inflammatory models by viscosity changes with a mitochondria-targetable fluorescent probe
Authors: Wang Weishan , Liu Yong , Niu Jie , Lin Weiying
Published: September 2019

Herein, the development of EIMV is described as the first paradigm of the probes that can discriminate normal and inflammatory models by viscosity changes.
A selective colorimetric strategy for probing dopamine and levodopa through the mussel-inspired enhancement of Fe3O4 catalysis
Authors: Yin Mengyuan , Li Shuai , Wan Yuqi , Feng Luping , Zhao Xiaoting , Zhang Sheng , Liu Shuhui , Cao Peng , Wang Hua
Published: September 2019

Mussel-inspired enhancement of Fe3O4 catalysis was discovered toward the colorimetric analysis of dopamine and/or levodopa with bis-catechol structures.
Operando Raman probing of electrocatalytic biomass oxidation on gold nanoparticle surfaces
Authors: Heidary Nina , Kornienko Nikolay
Published: September 2019

Electrocatalytic conversion of biomass-derived intermediates is a green route to value-added chemicals.
Desolvation process in the flexible metal–organic framework [Cu(Me-4py-trz-ia)], adsorption of dihydrogen and related structure responses
Authors: Erhart Oliver , Georgiev Peter A. , Krautscheid Harald
Published: September 2019

Structural changes and the unusual H2 adsorption behaviour of a Cu2+-based MOF were studied by X-ray diffraction in combination with DFT modelling and by inelastic neutron scattering.
Energetic furazan–triazoles with high thermal stability and low sensitivity: facile synthesis, crystal structures and energetic properties
Authors: Liu Yang , Xu Yuangang , Sun Qi , Lu Ming
Published: September 2019

Mononitroamino-diamino and dinitramino-monoamino furazan–triazoles were designed and synthesized by a flexible method and showed excellent stability and high performance, respectively.
Bio-mimetic self-assembled computationally designed catalysts of Mo and W for hydrogenation of CO2/dehydrogenation of HCOOH inspired by the active site of formate dehydrogenase
Authors: Shiekh Bilal Ahmad , Kaur Damanjit , Kumar Sourav
Published: September 2019

Bio-inspired Mo and W based catalysts have been designed for catalytic conversion of CO2 to HCOOH or vice versa by stepwise assessment of the chemical environment around the metal center using state-of-the-art density functional theory.
Extensive tests and evaluation of the CHARMM36IDPSFF force field for intrinsically disordered proteins and folded proteins
Authors: Liu Hao , Song Dong , Zhang Yangpeng , Yang Sheng , Luo Ray , Chen Hai-Feng
Published: September 2019

C36IDPSFF force field performs well in both disordered proteins and folded proteins, and achieves similar accuracy to a99SB-disp in relatively short-time simulations.
Assessment of van der Waals inclusive density functional theory methods for adsorption and selective dehydrogenation of formic acid on Pt(111) surface
Authors: Yuan Dingwang , Liao Heting , Hu Wangyu
Published: September 2019

In this work, we studied the adsorption and catalytic dehydrogenation of formic acid (HCOOH) on Pt(111) surface using different van der Waals inclusive density functional theory (DFT) methods.
Evidencing the relationship between isomer spectra and melting: the 20- and 55-atom silver and gold cluster cases
Authors: Rapacioli Mathias , Spiegelman Fernand , Tarrat Nathalie
Published: September 2019

The present work highlights the links between melting properties and structural excitation spectra of small gold and silver clusters.
Iron(ii) tetrafluoroborate complexes of new tetradentate C-scorpionates as catalysts for the oxidative cleavage oftrans-stilbene with H2O2
Authors: Wang Denan , Gardinier James R. , Lindeman Sergey V.
Published: September 2019

Iron(ii) complexes of two new tetradentate C-scorpionate ligands are characterized. Both catalyze stilbene cleavage using either H2O2or a O2/photocatalyst oxidant.
Homogeneous vs. heterogeneous catalysis for hydrogen evolution by a nickel(ii) bis(diphosphine) complex
Authors: Bergamini Giovanni , Natali Mirco
Published: September 2019

A nickel(ii) bis(diphosphine) complex bearing carboxylic acid groups has been tested as a catalyst for hydrogen evolution under different conditions.
Chicoric acid improves neuron survival against inflammation by promoting mitochondrial function and energy metabolism
Authors: Liu Qian , Fang Jie , Chen PanPan , Die Yun , Wang Jing , Liu Zhigang , Liu Xuebo
Published: September 2019

Chicoric acid promoted SH-SY5Y cells autophagy and inhibited cells apoptosis stimulated by microglia conditioned culture mediumviainhibiting the release of microglia inflammatory factors and promoting mitochondrial function and energy metabolism.
Acer okamotoanumand isoquercitrin improve cognitive functionviaattenuation of oxidative stress in high fat diet- and amyloid beta-induced mice
Authors: Kim Ji Hyun , Lee Sanghyun , Cho Eun Ju
Published: September 2019

High fat diet (HFD) and accumulation of amyloid beta (Aβ) are known as a risk factor of Alzheimer's disease.Acer okamotoanumand isoquercitrin improved cognition function against both HFD and Aβ accumulation by inhibiting oxidative stress.
A copper-free click reaction for the synthesis of redox-responsive water-soluble core cross-linked nanoparticles for drug delivery in cancer therapy
Authors: Biswas Gargi , Jena Bikash Chandra , Sahoo Satyagopal , Samanta Pousali , Mandal Mahitosh , Dhara Dibakar
Published: September 2019

Copper-free click reaction for synthesis of redox-responsive water-soluble polymer based core cross-linked nanoparticles for cancer therapy.
Transition-metal-free selective pyrimidines and pyridines formation from aromatic ketones, aldehydes and ammonium salts
Authors: Chen Jinjin , Meng Huanxin , Zhang Feng , Xiao Fuhong , Deng Guo-Jun
Published: September 2019

Pyrimidines and pyridines could be selectively formed from aromatic ketones, aldehydes and ammonium salts under transition-metal-free conditions.
Achmatowicz rearrangement enables hydrogenolysis-free gas-phase synthesis of pentane-1,2,5-triol from furfuryl alcohol
Authors: Simeonov Svilen P. , Lazarova Hristina I. , Marinova Maya K. , Popova Margarita D.
Published: September 2019

Hydrogenolysis-free gas-phase hydrogenation of an Achmatowicz intermediate provided pentane-1,2,5-triol in 94% overall yield from furfuryl alcohol.
Emulating endothelial dysfunction by implementing an early atherosclerotic microenvironment within a microfluidic chip
Authors: Shin Yujin , Lim Seongjin , Kim Jinwon , Jeon Jessie S. , Yoo Hongki , Gweon Bomi
Published: September 2019

The pathophysiological phenotype and function of endothelial cells (ECs) in atherosclerotic lesions are replicated within a micro-channel by mimicking the microenvironment of the lesions.
Microfluidic cap-to-dispense (μCD): a universal microfluidic–robotic interface for automated pipette-free high-precision liquid handling
Authors: Wang Jingjing , Deng Ka , Zhou Chuqing , Fang Zecong , Meyer Conary , Deshpande Kaustubh Umesh-Anjali , Li Zhihao , Mi Xianqiang , Luo Qian , Hammock Bruce D. , Tan Cheemeng , Chen Yan , Pan Tingrui
Published: September 2019

A novel microfluidic–robotic interface that is able to achieve automatic on-demand volume distribution ranging from nanoliter to microliter is introduced.
Recent advances in integration of 2D materials with soft matter for multifunctional robotic materials
Authors: Jing Lin , Li Kerui , Yang Haitao , Chen Po-Yen
Published: September 2019

This Minireview highlights the pioneering advances in integration of 2D materials with soft matter for multifunctional robotic materials.
The photophysical properties and electronic structures of bis[1]benzothieno[6,7-d:6′,7′-d′]benzo[1,2-b:4,5-b′]dithiophene (BBTBDT) derivatives as hole-transporting materials for organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs)
Authors: Bourass Mohamed , Komiha Najia , Kabbaj Oum Keltoum , Wazzan Nuha , Chemek Mourad , Bouachrine Mohammed
Published: September 2019

The compounds with the D–π–A structure are found to be good candidates for blue-emitting materials.
Molecular engineering of supercapacitor electrodes with monodispersed N-doped carbon nanoporous spheres
Authors: Huang Xinhua , Wang Nuoya , Li Fei , Zhu Xingxing , Liao Kin , Chan Vincent , Zhang Lidong
Published: September 2019

Water phase synthesis of polytriazine nanospheres as the high-nitrogen content carbon spheres precursor for a high-performance EDLC electrode.
Assessment of reactivities with explicit and implicit solvent models: QM/MM and gas-phase evaluation of three different Ag-catalysed furan ring formation routes
Authors: Fehér Péter Pál , Stirling András
Published: September 2019

A representative reaction illustrates cases where strong solvent–solute interactions can be sufficiently well captured by continuum solvation model rendering QM/MM unnecessary.
Minor components of aminoglycosides: recent advances in their biosynthesis and therapeutic potential
Authors: Ban Yeon Hee , Song Myoung Chong , Park Je Won , Yoon Yeo Joon
Published: September 2019

This Highlight covers the recent advances in the biosynthetic pathways of aminoglycosides including their minor components, together with the therapeutic potential for minor aminoglycoside components and semi-synthetic aminoglycosides.
Strategy toward the fabrication of ultrahigh-resolution micro-LED displays by bonding-interface-engineered vertical stacking and surface passivation
Authors: Geum Dae-Myeong , Kim Seong Kwang , Kang Chang-Mo , Moon Seung-Hyun , Kyhm Jihoon , Han JaeHoon , Lee Dong-Seon , Kim SangHyeon
Published: September 2019

In this study, we proposed a strategy to fabricate vertically stacked subpixel (VSS) micro-light-emitting diodes (μ-LEDs) for future ultrahigh-resolution microdisplays.
A type of robust superlattice type-I Weyl semimetal with four Weyl nodes
Authors: Meng Lijun , Wu Jiafang , Zhong Jianxin , Römer Rudolf A.
Published: September 2019

We investigate the topological properties of the Janus superlattices WTeS and WTeSe by first-principles methods and Wannier-based tight-binding Hamiltonians.
A black phosphorus/Ti3C2 MXene nanocomposite for sodium-ion batteries: a combined experimental and theoretical study
Authors: Li Huan , Liu Anmin , Ren Xuefeng , Yang Yanan , Gao Liguo , Fan Meiqiang , Ma Tingli
Published: September 2019

A black phosphorus (BP)/Ti3C2 MXene composite was prepared by compositing small BP nanoparticles with exfoliated Ti3C2 layers.
A highly crystalline anthracene-based MOF-74 series featuring electrical conductivity and luminescence
Authors: Scheurle Patricia I. , Mähringer Andre , Jakowetz Andreas C. , Hosseini Pouya , Richter Alexander F. , Wittstock Gunther , Medina Dana D. , Bein Thomas
Published: September 2019

A novel highly crystalline MOF-74 series consisting of an anthracene-based building block and five different divalent metal ions is presented. The MOFs combine photoluminescence with high surface areas and electrical conductivity.
Spin polarization and tunable valley degeneracy in a MoS2 monolayer via proximity coupling to a Cr2O3 substrate
Authors: Zhang Kai , Wang Lu , Wu Xiaojun
Published: September 2019

A first-principles study demonstrates that spin polarization and tunable valley degeneracy can be induced in the MoS2 monolayer on a Cr2O3 substrate via the magnetic proximity effect.
Hyperconjomer stereocontrol of cationic polyene cyclisations
Authors: Rodger Robert T. , Graham Marlowe S. , McErlean Christopher S. P.
Published: September 2019

The stereochemical outcome of cationic polyene cyclisations of geranylbenzene derivatives is affected by the different reactivity of hyperconjomer intermediates. The synthesis of (±)-taiwaniaquinone G by a cationic polyene cyclisation is described.
The nickel-catalyzed C3-acylation of 2H-indazoles with aldehydes
Authors: Liu Yan-Ling , Pan You-Lu , Li Gang-Jian , Xu Hai-Feng , Chen Jian-Zhong
Published: September 2019

A direct acylation at C3 position of 2H-indazoles has been achieved to produce 3-acyl-2H-indazoles using aldehydes.
Design of zwitterionic polyester based nano-carriers for platinum(iv) prodrug delivery
Authors: Li Jiaxu , Zheng Liuchun , Xiao Haihua , Li Chuncheng , Wu Shaohua , Xiao Yaonan , Liu Jiajian , Zhang Bo
Published: September 2019

Zwitterionic l-cysteine have been applied to modify polyester and load a platinum(iv) drug to prolong the circulation time of the drugs in blood and improve the stability of drug loading.
Investigating the self-assembly and shape transformation of poly(ethylene glycol)-b-poly(d,l-lactide) (PEG-PDLLA) polymersomes by tailoring solvent-polymer interactions
Authors: Pijpers Imke A. B. , Meng Fenghua , van Hest Jan C. M. , Abdelmohsen Loai K. E. A.
Published: September 2019

Different ratios between THF and dioxane were used to study the effect of organic solvent composition on the self-assembly and subsequent shape-change of poly(ethylene glycol)-b-poly(d,l-lactide) (PEG-PDLLA) polymersomes.
Sulfur-containing polymers from terpolymerization of active methylene compounds, carbon disulfide, and dihalohydrocarbons: synthesis and properties
Authors: Zhao Chen , Meng Xianghe , Lu Rou , Xie Haiming , Liu Jun
Published: September 2019

Sulfur-containing polymers with a high refractive index were synthesized via terpolymerization of active methylene compounds, CS2, and dihalohydrocarbons in excellent yields with high molecular weights.
Recent advances in intramolecular C–O/C–N/C–S bond formationviaC–H functionalization
Authors: Borpatra Paran J. , Deka Bhaskar , Deb Mohit L. , Baruah Pranjal K.
Published: September 2019

This review presents the construction of C–X bonds (X = O/N/S) by using intramolecular C–H functionalization for the synthesis of heterocyclic compounds.
Regio- and stereo-selective decarbonylative alkylative arylation of terminal alkynes with aliphatic aldehydes and arenes via dual C–H bond functionalization
Authors: Peng Yong , Zhang Feng , Qin Ting-Ting , Xu Cong-Ling , Yang Luo
Published: September 2019

Readily available linear/branched aliphatic aldehydes including sugar derivatives were oxidatively decarbonylated into 1˙, 2˙ and 3˙ alkyl radicals for the alkylative arylation of terminal alkynes via dual C–H bond functionalization.
Fast response–recovery time toward acetone by a sensor prepared with Pd doped WO3 nanosheets
Authors: He Ke , Jin Zhao , Chu Xiangfeng , Bi Wenjie , Wang Wu , Wang Chao , Liu Shantang
Published: September 2019

Pd-WO3 nanosheets were synthesized through a one-step hydrothermal method using Na2PdCl4 solution as the palladium source and sodium tungstate as the tungsten source, and were used to detect acetone.
Novel bovine carbonic anhydrase encapsulated in a metal–organic framework: a new platform for biomimetic sequestration of CO2
Authors: Asadi Vahideh , Kardanpour Reihaneh , Tangestaninejad Shahram , Moghadam Majid , Mirkhani Valiollah , Mohammadpoor-Baltork Iraj
Published: September 2019

A novel heterogeneous bio-catalyst was developed for CO2capture by encapsulating bovine carbonic anhydrase into ZIF-8.