bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Targeted calcium influx boosts cytotoxic T lymphocyte function in the tumour microenvironment
Authors: Kim Kyun-Do , Bae Seyeon , Capece Tara , Nedelkovska Hristina , de Rubio Rafael G. , Smrcka Alan V. , Jun Chang-Duk , Jung Woojin , Park Byeonghak , Kim Tae-il , Kim Minsoo
Published: May 2017

Adoptive cell transfer utilizing tumour-targeting cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) is one of the most effective immunotherapies against haematological malignancies, but significant clinical success has not yet been achieved in solid tumours due in part to the strong immunosuppressive tumour microenvironment. Here, we show that suppression of CTL killing by CD4+CD25+Foxp3+regulatory T cell (Treg) is in part mediated by TGFβ-induced inhibition of inositol trisphosphate (IP3) production, leading to a decrease in T cell receptor (TCR)-dependent intracellular Ca2+response. Highly selective optical control of Ca2+signalling in adoptively transferred CTLs enhances T cell activation and IFN-γ productionin vitro, leading to a significant reduction in tumour growth in mice. Altogether, our findings indicate that the targeted optogenetic stimulation of intracellular Ca2+signal allows for the remote control of cytotoxic effector functions of adoptively transferred T cells with outstanding spatial resolution by boosting T cell immune responses at the tumour sites.
In vitro evolution of an influenza broadly neutralizing antibody is modulated by hemagglutinin receptor specificity
Authors: Wu Nicholas C. , Grande Geramie , Turner Hannah L. , Ward Andrew B. , Xie Jia , Lerner Richard A. , Wilson Ian A.
Published: May 2017

The relatively recent discovery and characterization of human broadly neutralizing antibodies (bnAbs) against influenza virus provide valuable insights into antiviral and vaccine development. However, the factors that influence the evolution of high-affinity bnAbs remain elusive. We therefore explore the functional sequence space of bnAb C05, which targets the receptor-binding site (RBS) of influenza haemagglutinin (HA) via a long CDR H3. We combine saturation mutagenesis with yeast display to enrich for C05 variants of CDR H3 that bind to H1 and H3 HAs. The C05 variants evolve up to 20-fold higher affinity but increase specificity to each HA subtype used in the selection. Structural analysis reveals that the fine specificity is strongly influenced by a highly conserved substitution that regulates receptor binding in different subtypes. Overall, this study suggests that subtle natural variations in the HA RBS between subtypes and species may differentially influence the evolution of high-affinity bnAbs.
Absorptive pinhole collimators for ballistic Dirac fermions in graphene
Authors: Barnard Arthur W. , Hughes Alex , Sharpe Aaron L. , Watanabe Kenji , Taniguchi Takashi , Goldhaber-Gordon David
Published: May 2017

Ballistic electrons in solids can have mean free paths far larger than the smallest features patterned by lithography. This has allowed development and study of solid-state electron-optical devices such as beam splitters and quantum point contacts, which have informed our understanding of electron flow and interactions. Recently, high-mobility graphene has emerged as an ideal two-dimensional semimetal that hosts unique chiral electron-optical effects due to its honeycomb crystalline lattice. However, this chiral transport prevents the simple use of electrostatic gates to define electron-optical devices in graphene. Here we present a method of creating highly collimated electron beams in graphene based on collinear pairs of slits, with absorptive sidewalls between the slits. By this method, we achieve beams with angular width 18° or narrower, and transmission matching classical ballistic predictions.
Sirt1 carboxyl-domain is an ATP-repressible domain that is transferrable to other proteins
Authors: Kang Hyeog , Oka Shinichi , Lee Duck-Yeon , Park Junhong , Aponte Angel M. , Jung Young-Sang , Bitterman Jacob , Zhai Peiyong , He Yi , Kooshapur Hamed , Ghirlando Rodolfo , Tjandra Nico , Lee Sean B. , Kim Myung K. , Sadoshima Junichi , Chung Jay H.
Published: May 2017

Sirt1 is an NAD+-dependent protein deacetylase that regulates many physiological functions, including stress resistance, adipogenesis, cell senescence and energy production. Sirt1 can be activated by energy deprivation, but the mechanism is poorly understood. Here, we report that Sirt1 is negatively regulated by ATP, which binds to the C-terminal domain (CTD) of Sirt1. ATP suppresses Sirt1 activity by impairing the CTD’s ability to bind to the deacetylase domain as well as its ability to function as the substrate recruitment site. ATP, but not NAD+, causes a conformational shift to a less compact structure. Mutations that prevent ATP binding increase Sirt1’s ability to promote stress resistance and inhibit adipogenesis under high-ATP conditions. Interestingly, the CTD can be attached to other proteins, thereby converting them into energy-regulated proteins. These discoveries provide insight into how extreme energy deprivation can impact Sirt1 activity and underscore the complex nature of Sirt1 structure and regulation.
The stabilizing effect of an oligomeric proanthocyanidin on red blood cell membrane structure of poorly controlled Type II diabetes
Authors: Visser J , van Staden P J , Soma P , Buys A V , Pretorius E
Published: May 2017

Type II diabetes (T2D) is a pandemic characterized by pathological circulating inflammatory markers, high-glucose levels and oxidative stress. The hematological system is especially vulnerable to these aberrant circulating molecules, and erythrocytes (RBCs) show aberrant rheology properties, owing to the direct contact with these molecules. Pathological levels of circulating inflammatory markers in T2D therefore have a direct effect on the molecular and cellular structure of RBCs. Previous research has suggested that antioxidants may reduce oxidative stress that results from the pathological inflammatory markers. Particularly, polyphenol antioxidants like oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs) may act as a hydroxyl mopping agent, and may have a positive effect on the deformability and membrane protein structure of RBCs from T2D. In this paper, we look at the effect of one such agent,Pinus massonianabark extract (standardized to 95% oligomeric proanthicyanidins), on the RBC membrane structures and RBC shape changes of T2D, after laboratory exposure at physiological levels. Our methods of choice were atomic force microscopy and scanning electron microscopy to study RBC elasticity and ultrastructure. Results showed that in our hands, this OPC could change both the eryptotic nature of the RBCs, as viewed with scanning electron microscopy, as well as the elasticity. We found a significant difference in variation between the elasticity measurement values between the RBCs before and after OPC exposure (P-value <0.0001). In conclusion, the data from both these techniques therefore suggest that OPC usage might contribute to the improvement of RBC functioning.
Molecular signaling in multiple myeloma: association of RAS/RAF mutations and MEK/ERK pathway activation
Authors: Xu J , Pfarr N , Endris V , Mai E K , Md Hanafiah N H , Lehners N , Penzel R , Weichert W , Ho A D , Schirmacher P , Goldschmidt H , Andrulis M , Raab M S
Published: May 2017

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a plasma cell malignancy that is still considered to be incurable in most cases. A dominant mutation cluster has been identified in RAS/RAF genes, emphasizing the potential significance of RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK signaling as a therapeutic target. As yet, however, the clinical relevance of this finding is unclear as clinical responses to MEK inhibition in RAS-mutant MM have been mixed. We therefore assessed RAS/RAF mutation status and MEK/ERK pathway activation by both targeted sequencing and phospho-ERK immunohistochemistry in 180 tissue biopsies from 103 patients with newly diagnosed MM (NDMM) and 77 patients with relapsed/refractory MM (rrMM). We found a significant enrichment of RAS/BRAF mutations in rrMM compared to NDMM (P=0.011), which was mainly due to an increase of NRAS mutations (P=0.010). As expected, BRAF mutations were significantly associated with activated downstream signaling. However, only KRAS and not NRAS mutations were associated with pathway activation compared to RAS/BRAFwt (P=0.030). More specifically, only KRASG12D and BRAFV600E were consistently associated with ERK activation (P<0.001 and P=0.006, respectively). Taken together, these results suggest the need for a more specific stratification strategy consisting of both confirmation of protein-level pathway activation as well as detailed RAS/RAF mutation status to allow for a more precise and more effective application of targeted therapies, for example, with BRAF/MEK inhibitors in MM.
The contribution of an asthma diagnostic consultation service in obtaining an accurate asthma diagnosis for primary care patients: results of a real-life study
Authors: Gillis R. M. E. , van Litsenburg W. , van Balkom R. H. , Muris J. W. , Smeenk F. W.
Published: May 2017

Previous studies showed that general practitioners have problems in diagnosing asthma accurately, resulting in both under and overdiagnosis. To support general practitioners in their diagnostic process, an asthma diagnostic consultation service was set up. We evaluated the performance of this asthma diagnostic consultation service by analysing the (dis)concordance between the general practitioners working hypotheses and the asthma diagnostic consultation service diagnoses and possible consequences this had on the patients’ pharmacotherapy. In total 659 patients were included in this study. At this service the patients’ medical history was taken and a physical examination and a histamine challenge test were carried out. We compared the general practitioners working hypotheses with the asthma diagnostic consultation service diagnoses and the change in medication that was incurred. In 52% (n = 340) an asthma diagnosis was excluded. The diagnosis was confirmed in 42% (n = 275). Furthermore, chronic rhinitis was diagnosed in 40% (n = 261) of the patients whereas this was noted in 25% (n = 163) by their general practitioner. The adjusted diagnosis resulted in a change of medication for more than half of all patients. In 10% (n = 63) medication was started because of a new asthma diagnosis. The ‘one-stop-shop’ principle was met with 53% of patients and 91% (n = 599) were referred back to their general practitioner, mostly within 6 months. Only 6% (n = 41) remained under control of the asthma diagnostic consultation service because of severe unstable asthma. In conclusion, the asthma diagnostic consultation service helped general practitioners significantly in setting accurate diagnoses for their patients with an asthma hypothesis. This may contribute to diminish the problem of over and underdiagnosis and may result in more appropriate treatment regimens.
Delineation of B-cell Epitopes of Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi Hemolysin E: Potential antibody therapeutic target
Authors: Chin Chai Fung , Lai Jing Yi , Choong Yee Siew , Anthony Amy Amilda , Ismail Asma , Lim Theam Soon
Published: May 2017

Hemolysin E (HlyE) is an immunogenic novel pore-forming toxin involved in the pathogenesis of typhoid fever. Thus, mapping of B-cell epitopes of Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi (S. Typhi) is critical to identify key immunogenic regions of HlyE. A random 20-mer peptide library was used for biopanning with enriched anti-HlyE polyclonal antibodies from typhoid patient sera. Bioinformatic tools were used to refine, analyze and map the enriched peptide sequences against the protein to identify the epitopes. The analysis identified both linear and conformational epitopes on the HlyE protein. The predicted linear GAAAGIVAG and conformational epitope PYSQESVLSADSQNQK were further validated against the pooled sera. The identified epitopes were then used to isolate epitope specific monoclonal antibodies by antibody phage display. Monoclonal scFv antibodies were enriched for both linear and conformational epitopes. Molecular docking was performed to elucidate the antigen-antibody interaction of the monoclonal antibodies against the epitopes on the HlyE monomer and oligomer structure. An in-depth view of the mechanistic and positional characteristics of the antibodies and epitope for HlyE was successfully accomplished by a combination of phage display and bioinformatic analysis. The predicted function and structure of the antibodies highlights the possibility of utilizing the antibodies as neutralizing agents for typhoid fever.
Chemical Structure of the Lipid A component of Pseudomonas sp. strain PAMC 28618 from Thawing Permafrost in Relation to Pathogenicity
Authors: Park Han-Gyu , Sathiyanarayanan Ganesan , Hwang Cheol-Hwan , Ann Da-Hee , Kim Jung-Ho , Bang Geul , Jang Kyoung-Soon , Ryu Hee Wook , Lee Yoo Kyung , Yang Yung-Hun , Kim Yun-Gon
Published: May 2017

Climate change causes permafrost thawing, and we are confronted with the unpredictable risk of newly discovered permafrost microbes that have disease-causing capabilities. Here, we first characterized the detailed chemical structure of the lipid A moiety from a Pseudomonas species that was isolated from thawing arctic permafrost using MALDI-based mass spectrometric approaches (i.e., MALDI-TOF MS and MALDI-QIT-TOF MSn). The MALDI multi-stage mass spectrometry (MS) analysis of lipid A extracted from the Pseudomonas sp. strain PAMC 28618 demonstrated that the hexaacyl lipid A ([M−H]− at m/z 1616.5) contains a glucosamine (GlcN) disaccharide backbone, two phosphates, four main acyl chains and two branched acyl chains. Moreover, the lipid A molecule–based structural activity relationship with other terrestrial Gram-negative bacteria indicated that strain PAMC 28618 has an identical lipid A structure with the mesophilic Pseudomonas cichorii which can cause rot disease in endive (Cichorium endivia) and that their bacterial toxicities were equivalent. Therefore, the overall lipid A validation process provides a general strategy for characterizing bacteria that have been isolated from arctic permafrost and analyzing their respective pathogenicities.
Characterization of TRPA channels in the starfish Patiria pectinifera: involvement of thermally activated TRPA1 in thermotaxis in marine planktonic larvae
Authors: Saito Shigeru , Hamanaka Gen , Kawai Narudo , Furukawa Ryohei , Gojobori Jun , Tominaga Makoto , Kaneko Hiroyuki , Satta Yoko
Published: May 2017

The vast majority of marine invertebrates spend their larval period as pelagic plankton and are exposed to various environmental cues. Here we investigated the thermotaxis behaviors of the bipinnaria larvae of the starfish, Patiria pectinifera, in association with TRPA ion channels that serve as thermal receptors in various animal species. Using a newly developed thermotaxis assay system, we observed that P. pectinifera larvae displayed positive thermotaxis toward high temperatures, including toward temperatures high enough to cause death. In parallel, we identified two TRPA genes, termed PpTRPA1 and PpTRPA basal, from this species. We examined the phylogenetic position, spatial expression, and channel properties of each PpTRPA. Our results revealed the following: (1) The two genes diverged early in animal evolution; (2) PpTRPA1 and PpTRPA basal are expressed in the ciliary band and posterior digestive tract of the larval body, respectively; and (3) PpTRPA1 is activated by heat stimulation as well as by known TRPA1 agonists. Moreover, knockdown and rescue experiments demonstrated that PpTRPA1 is involved in positive thermotaxis in P. pectinifera larvae. This is the first report to reveal that TRPA1 channels regulate the behavioral response of a marine invertebrate to temperature changes during its planktonic larval period.
Health benefit of vegetable/fruit juice-based diet: Role of microbiome
Authors: Henning Susanne M. , Yang Jieping , Shao Paul , Lee Ru-Po , Huang Jianjun , Ly Austin , Hsu Mark , Lu Qing-Yi , Thames Gail , Heber David , Li Zhaoping
Published: May 2017

The gut microbiota is an important contributor to human health. Vegetable/fruit juices provide polyphenols, oligosaccharides, fiber and nitrate (beet juice), which may induce a prebiotic-like effect. Juice-based diets are becoming popular. However, there is a lack of scientific evidence of their health benefits. It was our hypothesis that changes in the intestinal microbiota induced by a juice-based diet play an important role in their health benefits. Twenty healthy adults consumed only vegetable/fruit juices for 3 days followed by 14 days of customary diet. On day 4 we observed a significant decrease in weight and body mass index (p = 2.0E−05), which was maintained until day 17 (p = 3.0E−04). On day 4 the proportion of the phylum Firmicutes and Proteobacteria in stool was significantly decreased and Bacteroidetes and Cyanobacteria was increased compared to baseline and was partially reversed on day 17. On day 4 plasma and urine nitric oxide was increased by 244 ± 89% and 450 ± 360%, respectively, and urinary lipid peroxidation marker malondialdehyde was decreased by 32 ± 21% compared to baseline. General well-being score was increased at the end of the study. In summary a 3-day juice-based diet altered the intestinal microbiota associated with weight loss, increase in the vasodilator NO, and decrease in lipid oxidation.
EndophilinAs regulate endosomal sorting of BDNF-TrkB to mediate survival signaling in hippocampal neurons
Authors: Burk Katja , Murdoch John D. , Freytag Siona , Koenig Melanie , Bharat Vinita , Markworth Ronja , Burkhardt Susanne , Fischer Andre , Dean Camin
Published: May 2017

The sorting of activated receptors into distinct endosomal compartments is essential to activate specific signaling cascades and cellular events including growth and survival. However, the proteins involved in this sorting are not well understood. We discovered a novel role of EndophilinAs in sorting of activated BDNF-TrkB receptors into late endosomal compartments. Mice lacking all three EndophilinAs accumulate Rab7-positive late endosomes. Moreover, EndophilinAs are differentially localized to, co-traffic with, and tubulate, distinct endosomal compartments: In response to BDNF, EndophilinA2 is recruited to both early and late endosomes, EndophilinA3 is recruited to Lamp1-positive late endosomes, and co-trafficks with Rab5 and Rab7 in both the presence and absence of BDNF, while EndophilinA1 colocalizes at lower levels with endosomes. The absence of all three EndophilinAs caused TrkB to accumulate in EEA1 and Rab7-positive endosomes, and impaired BDNF-TrkB-dependent survival signaling cascades. In addition, EndophilinA triple knockout neurons exhibited increased cell death which could not be rescued by exogenous BDNF, in a neurotrophin-dependent survival assay. Thus, EndophilinAs differentially regulate activated receptor sorting via distinct endosomal compartments to promote BDNF-dependent cell survival.
Thioflavin T fluoresces as excimer in highly concentrated aqueous solutions and as monomer being incorporated in amyloid fibrils
Authors: Sulatskaya Anna I. , Lavysh Andrey V. , Maskevich Alexander A. , Kuznetsova Irina M. , Turoverov Konstantin K.
Published: May 2017

Fluorescence of thioflavin T (ThT) is a proven tool for amyloid fibrils study. The correct model of ThT binding to fibrils is crucial to clarify amyloid fibrils structure and mechanism of their formation. Although there are convincing evidences that ThT has molecular rotor nature, implying it’s binding to fibrils in monomer form, speculations concerning ThT binding to fibrils in aggregated forms appear in literature so far. The elaborated approach for fluorescence intensity correction on the inner filter effects applied to ThT aqueous solutions with a wide range of concentration allowed characterizing ThT excimers fluorescence and showing its difference from that of ThT bound to fibrils. Obtained results experimentally prove the monomer model of ThT binding to amyloid fibrils and demonstrate wide capacity of the used approach in the spectroscopy of other fluorescent dyes for examination of concentration self-quenching and deformation of fluorescence spectra, dye molecules interaction, dimers and excimers formation.
Increasing generations in captivity is associated with increased vulnerability of Tasmanian devils to vehicle strike following release to the wild
Authors: Grueber Catherine E. , Reid-Wainscoat Elizabeth E. , Fox Samantha , Belov Katherine , Shier Debra M. , Hogg Carolyn J. , Pemberton David
Published: May 2017

Captive breeding of threatened species, for release to the wild, is critical for conservation. This strategy, however, risks producing captive-raised animals with traits poorly suited to the wild. We describe the first study to characterise accumulated consequences of long-term captive breeding on behaviour, by following the release of Tasmanian devils to the wild. We test the impact of prolonged captive breeding on the probability that captive-raised animals are fatally struck by vehicles. Multiple generations of captive breeding increased the probability that individuals were fatally struck, a pattern that could not be explained by other confounding factors (e.g. age or release site). Our results imply that long-term captive breeding programs may produce animals that are naïve to the risks of the post-release environment. Our analyses have already induced changes in management policy of this endangered species, and serve as model of productive synergy between ecological monitoring and conservation strategy.
Openspritzer: an open hardware pressure ejection system for reliably delivering picolitre volumes
Authors: Forman C. J. , Tomes H. , Mbobo B. , Burman R. J. , Jacobs M. , Baden T , Raimondo J. V.
Published: May 2017

The ability to reliably and precisely deliver picolitre volumes is an important component of biological research. Here we describe a high-performance, low-cost, open hardware pressure ejection system (Openspritzer), which can be constructed from off the shelf components. The device is capable of delivering minute doses of reagents to a wide range of biological and chemical systems. In this work, we characterise the performance of the device and compare it to a popular commercial system using two-photon fluorescence microscopy. We found that Openspritzer provides the same level of control over delivered reagent dose as the commercial system. Next, we demonstrate the utility of Openspritzer in a series of standard neurobiological applications. First, we used Openspritzer to deliver precise amounts of reagents to hippocampal neurons to elicit time- and dose-precise responses on neuronal voltage. Second, we used Openspritzer to deliver infectious viral and bacterial agents to living tissue. This included viral transfection of hippocampal interneurons with channelrhodopsin for the optogenetic manipulation of hippocampal circuitry with light. We anticipate that due to its high performance and low cost Openspritzer will be of interest to a broad range of researchers working in the life and physical sciences.
Brain Structural Networks Associated with Intelligence and Visuomotor Ability
Authors: Yoon Youngwoo Bryan , Shin Won-Gyo , Lee Tae Young , Hur Ji-Won , Cho Kang Ik K. , Sohn William Seunghyun , Kim Seung-Goo , Lee Kwang-Hyuk , Kwon Jun Soo
Published: May 2017

Increasing evidence indicates that multiple structures in the brain are associated with intelligence and cognitive function at the network level. The association between the grey matter (GM) structural network and intelligence and cognition is not well understood. We applied a multivariate approach to identify the pattern of GM and link the structural network to intelligence and cognitive functions. Structural magnetic resonance imaging was acquired from 92 healthy individuals. Source-based morphometry analysis was applied to the imaging data to extract GM structural covariance. We assessed the intelligence, verbal fluency, processing speed, and executive functioning of the participants and further investigated the correlations of the GM structural networks with intelligence and cognitive functions. Six GM structural networks were identified. The cerebello-parietal component and the frontal component were significantly associated with intelligence. The parietal and frontal regions were each distinctively associated with intelligence by maintaining structural networks with the cerebellum and the temporal region, respectively. The cerebellar component was associated with visuomotor ability. Our results support the parieto-frontal integration theory of intelligence by demonstrating how each core region for intelligence works in concert with other regions. In addition, we revealed how the cerebellum is associated with intelligence and cognitive functions.
Prediction of cognitive and motor outcome of preterm infants based on automatic quantitative descriptors from neonatal MR brain images
Authors: Moeskops Pim , Išgum Ivana , Keunen Kristin , Claessens Nathalie H. P. , van Haastert Ingrid C. , Groenendaal Floris , de Vries Linda S. , Viergever Max A. , Benders Manon J. N. L.
Published: May 2017

This study investigates the predictive ability of automatic quantitative brain MRI descriptors for the identification of infants with low cognitive and/or motor outcome at 2–3 years chronological age. MR brain images of 173 patients were acquired at 30 weeks postmenstrual age (PMA) (n = 86) and 40 weeks PMA (n = 153) between 2008 and 2013. Eight tissue volumes and measures of cortical morphology were automatically computed. A support vector machine classifier was employed to identify infants who exhibit low cognitive and/or motor outcome (<85) at 2–3 years chronological age as assessed by the Bayley scales. Based on the images acquired at 30 weeks PMA, the automatic identification resulted in an area under the receiver operation characteristic curve (AUC) of 0.78 for low cognitive outcome, and an AUC of 0.80 for low motor outcome. Identification based on the change of the descriptors between 30 and 40 weeks PMA (n = 66) resulted in an AUC of 0.80 for low cognitive outcome and an AUC of 0.85 for low motor outcome. This study provides evidence of the feasibility of identification of preterm infants at risk of cognitive and motor impairments based on descriptors automatically computed from images acquired at 30 and 40 weeks PMA.
Resonant microwave fields and negative magnetic response, induced by displacement currents in dielectric rings: theory and the first experiments
Authors: Shvartsburg A. B. , Pecherkin V. Ya. , Vasilyak L. M. , Vetchinin S. P. , Fortov V. E.
Published: May 2017

The theoretical basis and experimental verification of resonant phenomena in the electromagnetic fields generated by displacement current in the near zone of dielectric ring is presented. According to the traditional viewpoint, the dielectric has an influence on the electric field inside resonator. To the contrary, we demonstrate that the dielectric ring exhibits magnetic properties at resonance. The sliding incidence of plane microwave on this weakly absorbing ring is shown to provide the sharp and deep resonance in the components of generated field; this low loss circuit is operating as a resonant dielectric magnetic dipole. Splitting and broadening of resonance in the pair of these dipoles dependent upon their mutual arrangement is recorded. The phase shift equal to π between the magnetic components of incident and generated wave indicating the formation of negative magnetic response is demonstrated. Perspectives of using of this simple sub wavelength resonant magnetic dipoles in the all-dielectric circuitry are discussed.
Risk factor analysis and idiographic features of mandibular coronoid fractures: A retrospective case–control study
Authors: Zhou Hai-Hua , Lv Kun , Yang Rong-Tao , Li Zhi , Li Zu-Bing
Published: May 2017

This study aimed to identify and distinguish various factors that may influence the occurrence of mandibular coronoid fractures. From January 2000 to December 2009, a total of 1131 patients with maxillofacial fractures were enrolled in this statistical study to evaluate the association between mandibular coronoid fractures and other risk factors. Among these patients, 869 had mandibular fractures, and 25 sustained a total of 25 coronoid fractures. More than half (13 of 25 patients, 52%) of the coronoid fractures in these patients were caused by motor vehicle accidents. Among these coronoid fractures, seven were associated with other mandibular fractures, and 23 (92.0%) were related to midfacial fractures. The most common site of midfacial fracture was the zygomatic arch (20 patients, 80%). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that the most important influencing factor was the zygomatic arch fracture (odds ratio, 9.033; 95% confidence interval, 1.658, 49.218; p = 0.011). The majority of coronoid fracture fragments (19 of 25, 76%) were removed during operation. The most commonly used incision is hemicoronal or bicoronal approach (16 of 19, 84.2%).
Gender Differences in the Association between Moderate Alcohol Consumption and Hearing Threshold Shifts
Authors: Lin Yuan-Yung , Chen Hsin-Chien , Lai Wen-Sen , Wu Li-Wei , Wang Chih-Hung , Lee Jih-Chin , Kao Tung-Wei , Chen Wei-Liang
Published: May 2017

Hearing loss is a global public health problem with a high prevalence, significantly impairing communication and leading to a decrease in the quality of life. The association between moderate alcohol consumption (MAC) and hearing impairment has been addressed in several studies with inconsistent results. The intent of our study is to clarify the correlation between MAC and the hearing threshold and further investigate the interplay between MAC and the hearing threshold categorized by gender. The study included 4,075 participants aged 20–69 years from the 1999–2004 data of National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). The associations among MAC, gender differences, and high-frequency and low-frequency hearing thresholds were analyzed. We found that current female drinkers with MAC tended to have lower hearing thresholds. There is a significant protective effect of MAC on hearing threshold shifts in the US adult population, especially in females. Our research was the first study to further indicate that there is a gender difference in the association between MAC and hearing impairment. In accordance with our results, if people drink, they should consume moderate rather than higher amounts, especially in women, which may result in a reduced risk of hearing loss.
The developmental emergence of differential brainstem serotonergic control of the sensory spinal cord
Authors: Schwaller F. , Kanellopoulos A. H. , Fitzgerald M.
Published: May 2017

Descending connections from brainstem nuclei are known to exert powerful control of spinal nociception and pain behaviours in adult mammals. Here we present evidence that descending serotonergic fibres not only inhibit nociceptive activity, but also facilitate non-noxious tactile activity in the healthy adult rat spinal dorsal horn via activation of spinal 5-HT3 receptors (5-HT3Rs). We further show that this differential serotonergic control in the adult emerges from a non-modality selective system in young rats. Serotonergic fibres exert background 5-HT3R mediated facilitation of both tactile and nociceptive spinal activity in the first three postnatal weeks. Thus, differential descending serotonergic control of spinal touch and pain processing emerges in late postnatal life to allow flexible and context-dependent brain control of somatosensation.
Insights into Carbohydrate Recognition by 3D Structure Determination of Protein–Carbohydrate Complexes Using NMR
Authors: Schubert Mario
Published: May 2017

This chapter provides an overview of protein–carbohydrate complex structures determined with NMR spectroscopy and deposited in the Protein Data Bank (PDB). These 14 structures include protein–carbohydrate interactions ranging from nanomolar to millimolar affinities. Two complexes are discussed in detail, one representing a tightly bound complex and one a weak but specific interaction. This review illustrates that NMR spectroscopy is a competitive method for three-dimensional structure determination of protein–carbohydrate complexes, especially in the case of weak interactions. The number of biological functions in which protein–carbohydrate interactions are involved is steadily growing. Essential functions of the immune system such as the distinction between self and non-self, or the resolution of inflammation, involve critical protein–carbohydrate recognition events. It is therefore expected that by providing atomic details, NMR spectroscopy can make a significant contribution in the near future to unexplored pathways of the immune system and of many other biological processes.
Analysis of Glycosaminoglycans by 15N-NMR Spectroscopy
Authors: Pomin Vitor H.
Published: May 2017

Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) are sulfated polysaccharides of complex structure endowed with multiple biomedical functions. Liquid-state 1D and 2D nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy has been the analytical technique mostly employed in structural characterization of GAGs. Analyses have been performed primarily on 1H and 13C nuclei of anomeric and ring atoms. Nowadays, however, another isotope type, 15N from the composing amino sugars (hexosamine units), was proven to be also quite useful for analyses. The recent developments for enhancing NMR sensitivity such as the advent and spread of high magnetic fields, cryoprobe technology, isotopic labeling techniques, and novel 2D pulse sequences have been the principal factors to allow the progress of the 15N-based NMR structural analyses of GAGs. Despite the low abundance and sensitivity of 15N together with the few resultant 15N-related cross-peaks seen in the 2D spectra of GAGs, a big set of structural information can still be retrieved from the 15N–NMR analyses. This chapter aims therefore at describing this new set of structural information.
The synergistic effect of type I collagen and hyaluronic acid on the biological properties of Col/HA-multilayer-modified titanium coatings: an in vitro and in vivo study
Authors: Ao Haiyong , Lin Chucheng , Nie Binen , Yang Shengbing , Xie Youtao , Wan Yizao , Zheng Xuebin
Published: May 2017

The synergistic effect on osseointegration is existed between Type I collagen (ColI) and hyaluronic acid (HA), and the early osseogenetic activity of ColI/HA multilayer modified titanium coatings (TC) is higher than that ColI modified TC and HA modified TC.
The evolution of comprehensive strategies for furanoid glycal synthesis and their applications
Authors: Pal Pinki , Shaw Arun K.
Published: May 2017

Cyclic enol ether frameworks, especially stereochemically pure furanoid and pyranoid glycals are well known highly functionalized chiral building blocks.
Diabetic wound regeneration using heparin-mimetic peptide amphiphile gel in db/db mice
Authors: Senturk Berna , Demircan Burak M. , Ozkan Alper D. , Tohumeken Sehmus , Delibasi Tuncay , Guler Mustafa O. , Tekinay Ayse B.
Published: May 2017

There is an urgent need for more efficient treatment of chronic wounds in diabetic patients especially with a high risk of leg amputation.
Visualization of vesicular transport from the endoplasmic reticulum to lysosome using an amidine derived two-photon probe
Authors: Lee Hyo Won , Cho Myoung Ki , Kim Hye-Ri , Lim Chang Su , Kang Chulhun , Kim Hwan Myung
Published: May 2017

An amidine-based small molecule two-photon fluorescent probe for monitoring vesicle transport from the ER to lysosome in live cells was reported.
Palladium-catalyzed benzofuran and indole synthesis by multiple C–H functionalizations
Authors: Agasti Soumitra , Dey Aniruddha , Maiti Debabrata
Published: May 2017

Heterocyclic compounds are commonly found in the core structures of several pharmaceuticals, natural products, and agrochemicals, thus spurring intensive research for conducting their synthesis in a mild and simpler way.
Interface passivation and electron transport improvement of polymer solar cells through embedding a polyfluorene layer
Authors: Li Shujun , Li Zhiqi , Liu Chunyu , Zhang Xinyuan , Zhang Zhihui , Guo Wenbin , Shen Liang , Ruan Shengping , Zhang Liu
Published: May 2017

The TiO2 cathode interface layer modified by a polyfluorene interlayer results in a considerable effect on polymer solar cells.
Facile and benign conversion of sucrose to fructose using zeolites with balanced Brønsted and Lewis acidity
Authors: Saravanamurugan Shunmugavel , Tosi Irene , Rasmussen Kristoffer H. , Jensen Rasmus E. , Taarning Esben , Meier Sebastian , Riisager Anders
Published: May 2017

A simple and robust two-step process with zeolites as catalysts converts sucrose in high yield into the versatile monosaccharide fructose.
Impact of microstructure on the electron–hole interaction in lead halide perovskites
Authors: Mahboubi Soufiani Arman , Yang Zhuo , Young Trevor , Miyata Atsuhiko , Surrente Alessandro , Pascoe Alexander , Galkowski Krzysztof , Abdi-Jalebi Mojtaba , Brenes Roberto , Urban Joanna , Zhang Nan , Bulović Vladimir , Portugall Oliver , Cheng Yi-Bing , Nicholas Robin J. , Ho-Baillie Anita , Green Martin A. , Plochocka Paulina , Stranks Samuel D.
Published: May 2017

The authors directly show that grain size and quality have a negligible impact on the excitonic characteristics of perovskite semiconductors.
The Au(111)/IL interfacial nanostructure in the presence of precursors and its influence on the electrodeposition process
Authors: Borisenko Natalia , Lahiri Abhishek , Pulletikurthi Giridhar , Cui Tong , Carstens Timo , Zahlbach Janine , Atkin Rob , Endres Frank
Published: May 2017

Ionic liquids have attracted significant interest as electrolytes for the electrodeposition of metals and semiconductors, but the details of the deposition processes are not yet well understood.
γ-Oryzanol nanoemulsions produced by a low-energy emulsification method: an evaluation of process parameters and physicochemical stability
Authors: Zhong Jinfeng , Liu Xiong , Wang Yonghua , Qin Xiaoli , Li Zeling
Published: May 2017

γ-Oryzanol is a natural antioxidant and nutraceutical compound, which makes it a good candidate for nutraceuticals, food supplements and pharmaceutical preparations.
Role of crystallization water molecules on hydrogen-bonded structures and dielectric phase transitions in amino trimethylene phosphonic acid-based crystals
Authors: Sun Yu-Ling , Zheng Bei-Bei , Zhang Wen
Published: May 2017

Amino trimethylene phosphonic acid-based organic salts show crystallization water molecule-triggered dielectric transitions and relaxations.
Thermal, structural and degradation properties of an aromatic–aliphatic polyester built through ring-opening polymerisation
Authors: Lizundia Erlantz , Makwana Vishalkumar A. , Larrañaga Aitor , Vilas José Luis , Shaver Michael P.
Published: May 2017

The novel biodegradable aromatic–aliphatic polyester, poly(2-(2-hydroxyethoxy)benzoate), was explored through thermal analysis, X-ray diffraction, dynamic mechanical analysis and comparative bio and catalysed degradation.
Direct synthesis of hydrazones by visible light mediated aerobic oxidative cleavage of the CC bond
Authors: Ding Ya , Li Hao , Meng Yunge , Zhang Te , Li Jiawen , Chen Qiu-Yun , Zhu Chunyin
Published: May 2017

A metal-free protocol through visible light mediated oxidative cleavage of CC bonds to directly construct CN bonds has been developed for the conversion of alkenes to hydrazones under mild conditions.
Gold coated iron phosphide core–shell structures
Authors: Kelly Anna T. , Filgueira Carly S. , Schipper Desmond E. , Halas Naomi J. , Whitmire Kenton H.
Published: May 2017

Core–shell Fe2P@Au particles were made from Fe2P particles by reaction with (1) γ-aminobutyric acid, (2) Au seeds and (3) HAuCl4 (aq.) and H2CO or CO with shells up to 65 ± 21 nm. Increasing shell thickness gave a red shift in the plasmonic resonance.
Intrinsic kinetics study of rosin hydrogenation on a nickel catalyst supported on spent equilibrium catalyst
Authors: Huang Yingying , Wang Linlin , Chen Xiaopeng , Wei Xiaojie , Liang Jiezhen , Li Wei
Published: May 2017

Kinetic modeling of rosin hydrogenation over a supported Ni catalyst was conducted.
The normal stress of an electrorheological fluid in compression mode
Authors: Wang Zhiyuan , Xuan Shouhu , Jiang Wanquan , Gong Xinglong
Published: May 2017

This work studied the normal stress of an ER fluid in compression mode through both experiment and simulation.
Self-formed nanogap junctions for electronic detection and characterization of molecules and quantum dots
Authors: Ziv Amir , Tzaguy Avra , Hazut Ori , Yochelis Shira , Yerushalmi Roie , Paltiel Yossi
Published: May 2017

Fabrication of self-forming nanojunction devices is demonstrated using positioning of nanofloret-like building blocks that bridge the gap between two large micron scale electrodes.
Probing the surface reactivity of nanocrystals by the catalytic degradation of organic dyes: the effect of size, surface chemistry and composition
Authors: Piella Jordi , Merkoçi Florind , Genç Aziz , Arbiol Jordi , Bastús Neus G. , Puntes Victor
Published: May 2017

We herein present a comprehensive study on how the catalytic performance and reusability of Au nanocrystals (NCs) are affected by systematic variations of crystal size, surface coating and composition.
A hexanuclear cobalt metal–organic framework for efficient CO2 reduction under visible light
Authors: Zhao Jiao , Wang Qi , Sun Chunyi , Zheng Tiantian , Yan Likai , Li Mengting , Shao Kuizhan , Wang Xinlong , Su Zhongmin
Published: May 2017

A hexanuclear cobalt metal–organic framework with excellent properties for CO2 reduction under visible-light irradiation is reported and the mechanism is revealed through density functional theory calculation.
Tailored Au@TiO2 nanostructures for the plasmonic effect in planar perovskite solar cells
Authors: Fan Rundong , Wang Ligang , Chen Yihua , Zheng Guanhaojie , Li Liang , Li Ziliang , Zhou Huanping
Published: May 2017

Tailored Au@TiO2 nanostructures successfully enhance the efficiency of planar perovskite solar cells.
Intracellular release of PluronicL64 unimers into MCF-7/ADR cells to overcome multidrug resistance by surface-modified PAMAM
Authors: Zhang Mengjun , Jing Shasha , Zhang Jie , Zhang Jiulong , Zang Xinlong , Qiao Mingxi , Zhao Xiuli , Hu Haiyang , Chen Dawei
Published: May 2017

Multidrug resistance (MDR) has been a major obstacle to tumor chemotherapy.
The optical and electronic properties of graphene quantum dots with oxygen-containing groups: a density functional theory study
Authors: Feng Jianguang , Dong Hongzhou , Yu Liyan , Dong Lifeng
Published: May 2017

The effects of five types of oxygen-containing functional groups (–COOH, –COC–, –OH, –CHO, and –OCH3) on graphene quantum dots (GQDs) are investigated using time-dependent density functional theory (TD-DFT).
Lithography-free electrical transport measurements on 2D materials by direct microprobing
Authors: Gant Patricia , Niu Yue , Svatek Simon A. , Agraït Nicolás , Munuera Carmen , García-Hernández Mar , Frisenda Riccardo , de Lara David Perez , Castellanos-Gomez Andres
Published: May 2017

We present a method to test the electrical properties of 2D materials by directly contacting them with carbon fiber microprobes.
Bright and efficient light-emitting diodes based on MA/Cs double cation perovskite nanocrystals
Authors: Xu Bing , Wang Weigao , Zhang Xiaoli , Cao Wanyu , Wu Dan , Liu Sheng , Dai Haitao , Chen Shuming , Wang Kai , Sun Xiaowei
Published: May 2017

A high quantum yield, tunable band gap, and high color purity of perovskite nanocrystals make this class of materials attractive for electronic and optoelectronic applications in devices including solar cells, photodetectors, and light emitting diodes.
One-Pot Synthesis of Indole Derivatives from the Reaction of Nitroalkynes and Alkynes via a Mercury-Carbene Intermediate
Authors: Zhu Shifa , Zheng Min , Chen Kai
Published: May 2017

The cyclization of nitroalkyne catalyzed by Hg(OTf)2 to produce the corresponding benzo[c]isoxazole in excellent yields with high selectivity is reported. On the basis of this strategy, a one-pot method to synthesize indole derivatives has been developed. In this transformation, two Hg-carbene intermediates are proposed to be involved.
Fractura segmentaria abierta IIIa de húmero en paciente lactante. Reporte de un caso
Authors: El Troudi Milad , Garcia Marggiori , Brito Manuel
Published: May 2017

Las fracturas diafisiarias de húmero constituyen solo el 3% de todas las fracturas en niños. Las fracturas abiertas de este segmento son poco frecuentes con muy pocos reportes en la literatura. Son el resultado de traumatismos de alta energía ocasionados por accidentes automovilísticos o precipitaciones de gran altura. Las fracturas abiertas en niños menores de 3 años, representa un verdadero reto y requieren un enfoque único y multidisciplinario. Las fracturas abiertas en los niños presentan desafíos especiales, donde deben considerarse las características especiales del hueso del niño que lo diferencian del hueso del adulto. La aplicación de los principios adecuados en el manejo de las fracturas abiertas, así como el establecimiento de protocolos específicos de tratamiento, son necesarios para garantizar una evolución adecuada de esas lesiones. Presentamos el caso de paciente lactante menor masculino, quien fue eyectado del asiento delantero de un vehículo rustico al volcarse éste por una pendiente, posterior a lo cual presenta fractura segmentaria abierta IIIa del húmero derecho. El paciente es llevado a quirófano de emergencia donde se realiza limpieza quirúrgica y la estabilización de la fractura con un mini fijador externo utilizado para el tratamiento de fracturas de muñeca en adultos. Presentamos su tratamiento, complicaciones y evolución a corto plazo.
Efectividad de ejercicios submaximales versus protocolo convencional en el rango de movimiento glenohumeral tras reparación artroscópica del supraespinoso
Authors: Oyarzún David , Poblete Leónidas , Nieto Francisco , Huerta Cristian , Lange Claudio , Cifuentes Abelardo
Published: May 2017

Objetivo Determinar si la aplicación precoz de un programa de ejercicios submaximal, disminuye el dolor y aumenta el rango de movimiento glenohumeral en comparación a un protocolo convencional, en sujetos sometidos a artroscopia del supraespinoso.

Material y método El presente estudio corresponde a un diseño casi experimental, longitudinal y prospectivo. La muestra contó con 30 sujetos, con un promedio de edad de 52,8 años. Los sujetos se dividieron aleatoriamente por sorteo simple. Un grupo recibió un protocolo de ejercicios submaximales de forma precoz, y el otro, péndulo de Codman. Las variables analizadas fueron: dolor y rango de movimiento glenohumeral.

Resultados Ambos grupos mostraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas al término de las intervenciones para todas las variables (p < 0,05). Al comparar la efectividad entre ambos tratamientos, la rehabilitación submaximal precoz mostró una disminución del dolor y un aumento en la rotación externa glenohumeral estadísticamente significativa en comparación con el tratamiento con péndulo de Codman (p = 0,004 p = 0,001 respectivamente).

Discusión Estudios hechos han establecido un margen seguro para la activación del manguito rotador, menor al 20% de la contracción voluntaria máxima para tendones reparados mediante cirugía. Nuestros resultados arrojan que este protocolo de ejercicios que cumple con esos niveles de activación aplicados de forma precoz, muestran beneficios sobre el rango y el dolor.

Conclusiones La aplicación de un programa de ejercicio submaximal de forma precoz, podría disminuir el dolor y aumentar los rangos de flexión, abducción y rotación externa glenohumeral, disminuyendo las complicaciones de la inmovilización.