bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bamboo leaf flavone changed the community of cecum microbiota and improved the immune function in broilers
Authors: Shu Gang , Kong Fanli , Xu Dan , Yin Lizi , He Changliang , Lin Juchun , Fu Hualin , Wang Kaiyu , Tian Yaofu , Zhao Xiaoling
Published: July 2020

It has been shown that bamboo leaf flavone (BLF) displays biological and pharmacological activities in mammals. However, the effects of BLF on broiler gut microbiota and related immune function have not been investigated. The aim of this study was to test our hypothesis that BLF can improve the health status of broilers by modulating the gut microbiota. A total of 300 one-day-old Arbor Acres (AA) broilers were used to characterize their gut microbiota and immune status after feeding diet supplemented with BLF. The V4 hypervariable region of the 16S rRNA gene from cecal bacteria was sequenced via the Illumina MiSeq platform. The Immune status and related parameters were assessed, including the immune organ index (the spleen, thymus, and bursa), serum concentrations of IL-2 and INF-γ, and spleen IL-2 and INF-γ gene expressions. The results showed the BLF diet had an Immune enhancement effect on broilers. In addition, BFL caused the changes of the gut microbial community structure, resulting in greater proportions of bacterial taxa belonging to Lactobacillus, Clostridiales, Ruminococcus, and Lachnospiraceae. These bacteria have been used as probiotics for producing short chain fatty acids in hosts. These results indicate that BLF supplement improves immune function in chicken via modulation of the gut microbiota.
Photocatalytic degradation of industrial acrylonitrile wastewater by F–S–Bi–TiO2 catalyst of ultrafine nanoparticles dispersed with SiO2 under natural sunlight
Authors: Ouyang Feng , Li Hanliang , Gong Zhengya , Pang Dandan , Qiu Lu , Wang Yun , Dai Fangwei , Cao Gang , Bharti Bandna
Published: July 2020

Highly active photocatalyst, having certain anti-ionic interfering function, of F, S and Bi doped TiO2/SiO2 was used for the first time to degrade the organic pollutants in acrylonitrile industrial wastewater under natural sunlight. The photocatalyst were prepared and characterized by UV–Vis, XRD, TEM, EDS, Nitrogen physical adsorption and XPS technique. UV–Vis analysis revealed addition of F, S and Bi into the lattice of TiO2 led to the expansion of TiO2 response in the visible region and hence the efficient separation of charge carrier. The photocatalytic potential of as prepared catalyst to degrade acrylonitrile wastewater under simulated and natural sunlight irradiation was investigated. The extent of degradation of acrylonitrile wastewater was evaluated by chemical oxygen demand (CODCr). CODCr in wastewater decreased from 88.36 to 7.20 mgL−1 via 14 h irradiation of simulated sunlight and achieved regulation discharge by 6 h under natural sunlight, illuminating our photocatalyst effectiveness for refractory industrial wastewater treatment. From TEM results, we found that SiO2 could disperse the photocatalyst with different component distributions between the surface and the bulk phase that should also be responsible for the light absorption and excellent photocatalytic performance. The XPS analysis confirmed the presence of surface hydroxyl group, oxygen vacancies.
Transcriptome analysis of desmoplastic small round cell tumors identifies actionable therapeutic targets: a report from the Children’s Oncology Group
Authors: Hingorani Pooja , Dinu Valentin , Zhang Xiyuan , Lei Haiyan , Shern Jack F. , Park Jin , Steel Jason , Rauf Femina , Parham David , Gastier-Foster Julie , Hall David , Hawkins Douglas S. , Skapek Stephen X. , Labaer Joshua , McEachron Troy A.
Published: July 2020

To further understand the molecular pathogenesis of desmoplastic small round cell tumor (DSRCT), a fatal malignancy occurring primarily in adolescent/young adult males, we used next-generation RNA sequencing to investigate the gene expression profiles intrinsic to this disease. RNA from DSRCT specimens obtained from the Children’s Oncology Group was sequenced using the Illumina HiSeq 2000 system and subjected to bioinformatic analyses. Validation and functional studies included WT1 ChIP-seq, EWS-WT1 knockdown using JN-DSRCT-1 cells and immunohistochemistry. A panel of immune signature genes was also evaluated to identify possible immune therapeutic targets. Twelve of 14 tumor samples demonstrated presence of the diagnostic EWSR1-WT1 translocation and these 12 samples were used for the remainder of the analysis. RNA sequencing confirmed the lack of full-length WT1 in all fusion positive samples as well as the JN-DSRCT-1 cell line. ChIP-seq for WT1 showed significant overlap with genes found to be highly expressed, including IGF2 and FGFR4, which were both highly expressed and targets of the EWS-WT1 fusion protein. In addition, we identified CD200 and CD276 as potentially targetable immune checkpoints whose expression is independent of the EWS-WT1 fusion gene in cultured DSCRT cells. In conclusion, we identified IGF2, FGFR4, CD200, and CD276 as potential therapeutic targets with clinical relevance for patients with DSRCT.
Milk fat globule size development in the mammary epithelial cell: a potential role for ether phosphatidylethanolamine
Authors: Walter Leonie , Narayana Vinod K. , Fry Richard , Logan Amy , Tull Dedreia , Leury Brian
Published: July 2020

Milk fat globule (MFG) size is a milk production trait characteristic to the individual animal and has important effects on the functional and nutritional properties of milk. Although the regulation of MFG size in the mammary epithelial cell is not fully understood, lipid droplet (LD) fusion prior to secretion is believed to play a role. We selected cows that consistently produced milk with predominantly small or large MFGs to compare their lipidomic profiles, with focus on the polar lipid fraction. The polar lipid composition of the monolayer surrounding the LD is believed to either promote or prevent LD fusion. Using a targeted LC–MS/MS approach we studied the relative abundance of 301 detected species and found significant differences between the studied groups. Here we show that the lipidomic profile of milk from small MFG cows is characterised by higher phosphatidylcholine to phosphatidylethanolamine ratios. In contrast, the milk from large MFG cows contained more ether-phosphatidylethanolamine species. This is the first time that a potential role for ether-phosphatidylethanolamine in MFG size development has been suggested.
Using an ontology of the human cardiovascular system to improve the classification of histological images
Authors: Mazo Claudia , Alegre Enrique , Trujillo Maria
Published: July 2020

The advantages of automatically recognition of fundamental tissues using computer vision techniques are well known, but one of its main limitations is that sometimes it is not possible to classify correctly an image because the visual information is insufficient or the descriptors extracted are not discriminative enough. An Ontology could solve in part this problem, because it gathers and makes possible to use the specific knowledge that allows detecting clear mistakes in the classification, occasionally simply by pointing out impossible configurations in that domain. One of the main contributions of this work is that we used a Histological Ontology to correct, and therefore improve the classification of histological images. First, we described small regions of images, denoted as blocks, using Local Binary Pattern (LBP) based descriptors and we determined which tissue of the cardiovascular system was present using a cascade Support Vector Machine (SVM). Later, we built Resource Description Framework (RDF) triples for the occurrences of each discriminant class. Based on that, we used a Histological Ontology to correct, among others, “not possible” situations, improving in this way the global accuracy in the blocks first and in tissues classification later. For the experimental validation, we used a set of 6000 blocks of $$100\times100$$100×100 pixels, obtaining F-Scores between 0.769 and 0.886. Thus, there is an improvement between 0.003 and $$0.769\%$$0.769% when compared to the approach without the histological ontology. The methodology improves the automatic classification of histological images using a histological ontology. Another advantage of our proposal is that using the Ontology, we were capable of recognising the epithelial tissue, previously not detected by any of the computer vision methods used, including a CNN proposal called HistoResNet evaluated in the experiments. Finally, we also have created and made publicly available a dataset consisting of 6000 blocks of labelled histological tissues.
Salinity and temperature increase impact groundwater crustaceans
Authors: Castaño-Sánchez Andrea , Hose Grant C. , Reboleira Ana Sofia P. S.
Published: July 2020

Anthropogenic impacts in groundwater ecosystems remain poorly known. Climate change is omnipresent, while groundwater salinization poses serious long-term environmental problems in arid and semi-arid regions, and is exacerbated by global warming. Both are present threats to the conservation of groundwater ecosystems, which harbour highly specialized species, with peculiar traits and limited geographic distributions. We tested the temperature and salinity tolerance of groundwater-adapted invertebrates to understand the effect of global warming and salinization in groundwater ecosystems. We used species representative of groundwater-adapted crustaceans: two copepods (harpacticoid and cyclopoid) and one syncarid, endemic to Australia. Our results show that 50% of the populations died at salt concentrations between 2.84 to 7.35 g NaCl/L after 96 h, and at 6.9 °C above the ambient aquifer temperature for copepods and more than 10 °C for syncarids. Both copepods were more sensitive to temperature and NaCl than the syncarid. We calculated a salinity risk quotient of 9.7 and predicted the risk of loss of 10% of syncarid and 20% of copepod population abundances under a worst-case scenario of global warming predictions for 2070. These results highlight that both salinity and temperature increases pose a risk to the ecological integrity of groundwater ecosystems.
Specific localisation of ions in bacterial membranes unravels physical mechanism of effective bacteria killing by sanitiser
Authors: Thoma Judith , Abuillan Wasim , Furikado Ippei , Habe Taichi , Yamamoto Akihisa , Gierlich Simone , Kaufmann Stefan , Brandenburg Klaus , Gutsmann Thomas , Konovalov Oleg , Inoue Shigeto , Tanaka Motomu
Published: July 2020

Antimicrobial resistance is a major threat to public health. Although many commercial sanitisers contain a combination of cationic surfactants and aromatic alcohols, the physical mechanisms where these two substances bind to or how they disturb bacterial membranes are still largely unknown. In this study, we designed a well-defined model of Gram-negative bacteria surfaces based on the monolayer of lipopolysaccharides with uniform saccharide head groups. Since commonly used X-ray reflectivity is sensitive to changes in the thickness, roughness and electron density but is not sensitive to elements, we employed grazing incidence X-ray fluorescence. In the absence of Ca2+, cationic surfactants can penetrate into the membrane core with no extra support by disturbing the layer of K+ coupled to negatively charged saccharide head group at z = 17 Å from the air/chain interface. On the other hand, Ca2+ confined at z = 19 Å crosslink charged saccharides and prevent the incorporation of cationic surfactants. We found that the addition of nonlethal aromatic alcohols facilitate the incorporation of cationic surfactants by the significant roughening of the chain/saccharide interface. Combination of precise localisation of ions and molecular-level structural analysis quantitatively demonstrated the synegtestic interplay of ingredients to achieve a high antibacterial activity.
$$\text {DRTOP}$$: deep learning-based radiomics for the time-to-event outcome prediction in lung cancer
Authors: Afshar Parnian , Mohammadi Arash , Tyrrell Pascal N. , Cheung Patrick , Sigiuk Ahmed , Plataniotis Konstantinos N. , Nguyen Elsie T. , Oikonomou Anastasia
Published: July 2020

Hand-crafted radiomics has been used for developing models in order to predict time-to-event clinical outcomes in patients with lung cancer. Hand-crafted features, however, are pre-defined and extracted without taking the desired target into account. Furthermore, accurate segmentation of the tumor is required for development of a reliable predictive model, which may be objective and a time-consuming task. To address these drawbacks, we propose a deep learning-based radiomics model for the time-to-event outcome prediction, referred to as DRTOP that takes raw images as inputs, and calculates the image-based risk of death or recurrence, for each patient. Our experiments on an in-house dataset of 132 lung cancer patients show that the obtained image-based risks are significant predictors of the time-to-event outcomes. Computed Tomography (CT)-based features are predictors of the overall survival (OS), with the hazard ratio (HR) of 1.35, distant control (DC), with HR of 1.06, and local control (LC), with HR of 2.66. The Positron Emission Tomography (PET)-based features are predictors of OS and recurrence free survival (RFS), with hazard ratios of 1.67 and 1.18, respectively. The concordance indices of $$68\%$$68%, $$63\%$$63%, and $$64\%$$64% for predicting the OS, DC, and RFS show that the deep learning-based radiomics model is as accurate or better in predicting predefined clinical outcomes compared to hand-crafted radiomics, with concordance indices of $$51\%$$51%, $$64\%$$64%, and $$47\%$$47%, for predicting the OS, DC, and RFS, respectively. Deep learning-based radiomics has the potential to offer complimentary predictive information in the personalized management of lung cancer patients.
Der p 1-based immunotoxin as potential tool for the treatment of dust mite respiratory allergy
Authors: Lázaro-Gorines Rodrigo , López-Rodríguez Juan Carlos , Benedé Sara , González Miguel , Mayorga Cristobalina , Vogel Lothar , Martínez-del-Pozo Álvaro , Lacadena Javier , Villalba Mayte
Published: July 2020

Immunotoxins appear as promising therapeutic molecules, alternative to allergen-specific-immunotherapy. In this work, we achieved the development of a protein chimera able to promote specific cell death on effector cells involved in the allergic reaction. Der p 1 allergen was chosen as cell-targeting domain and the powerful ribotoxin α-sarcin as the toxic moiety. The resultant construction, named proDerp1αS, was produced and purified from the yeastPichia pastoris. Der p 1-protease activity and α-sarcin ribonucleolytic action were effectively conserved in proDerp1αS. Immunotoxin impact was assayed by using effector cells sensitized with house dust mite-allergic sera. Cell degranulation and death, triggered by proDerp1αS, was exclusively observed on Der p 1 sera sensitized-humRBL-2H3 cells, but not when treated with non-allergic sera. Most notably, equivalent IgE-binding and degranulation were observed with both proDerp1αS construct and native Der p 1 when using purified basophils from sensitized patients. However, proDerp1αS did not cause any cytotoxic effect on these cells, apparently due to its lack of internalization after their surface IgE-binding, showing the complex in vivo panorama governing allergic reactions. In conclusion, herein we present proDerp1αS as a proof of concept for a potential and alternative new designs of therapeutic tools for allergies. Development of new, and more specific, second-generation of immunotoxins following proDerp1αS, is further discussed.
A robust and miniaturized screening platform to study natural products affecting metabolism and survival in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Zwirchmayr Julia , Kirchweger Benjamin , Lehner Theresa , Tahir Ammar , Pretsch Dagmar , Rollinger Judith M.
Published: July 2020

In this study a robust, whole organism screening based onCaenorhabditis elegansis presented for the discovery of natural products (NP) with beneficial effects against obesity and age-related diseases. Several parameters of the elaborated workflow were optimized to be adapted for probing multicomponent mixtures combining knowledge from traditional medicine and NP chemistry by generating optimized small-scale extracts considering scarcity of the natural source, solubility issues, and potential assay interferences. The established miniaturized assay protocol allows for in vivo probing of small amounts of even complex samples (~ 1 mg) to test their ability to increase the nematodes’ survival time and the suppression of fat accumulation assessed by Nile red staining as hall marks of “healthy aging”. The workflow was applied on 24 herbal and fungal materials traditionally used against symptoms of the metabolic syndrome and revealed promising results for the extracts ofGardenia jasminoidesfruits and the sclerotia fromInonotus obliquus. Tested at 100 µg/mL they were able to significantly reduce the Nile red fluorescence and extend the 50% survival rate (DT50) compared to the control groups. This phenotype-directed in vivo approach opens up new horizons for the selection of natural starting materials and the investigation of their active principles as fast drug discovery tool with predictive value for human diseases.
Epigenetic alterations in cytochrome P450 oxidoreductase (Por) in sperm of rats exposed to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
Authors: Acharya Kelly S. , Schrott Rose , Grenier Carole , Huang Zhiqing , Holloway Zade , Hawkey Andrew , Levin Edward D. , Murphy Susan K.
Published: July 2020

As marijuana legalization is increasing, research regarding possible long-term risks for users and their offspring is needed. Little data exists on effects of paternal tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) exposure prior to reproduction. This study determined if chronic THC exposure alters sperm DNA methylation (DNAm) and if such effects are intergenerationally transmitted. Adult male rats underwent oral gavage with THC or vehicle control. Differentially methylated (DM) loci in motile sperm were identified using reduced representation bisulfite sequencing (RRBS). Another cohort was injected with vehicle or THC, and sperm DNAm was analyzed. Finally, THC-exposed and control adult male rats were mated with THC-naïve females. DNAm levels of target genes in brain tissues of the offspring were determined by pyrosequencing. RRBS identified 2,940 DM CpGs mapping to 627 genes. Significant hypermethylation was confirmed (p < 0.05) following oral THC administration for cytochrome P450 oxidoreductase (Por), involved in toxin processing and disorders of sexual development. Por hypermethylation was not observed after THC injection or in the subsequent generation. These results support that THC alters DNAm in sperm and that route of exposure can have differential effects. Although we did not observe evidence of intergenerational transmission of the DNAm change, larger studies are required to definitively exclude this possibility.
Effects of nitrogen deposition and phosphorus addition on arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi of Chinese fir (Cunninghamia lanceolata)
Authors: Lin Chuyu , Wang Yaoxiong , Liu Meihua , Li Quan , Xiao Wenfa , Song Xinzhang
Published: July 2020

Nitrogen (N) deposition is a key factor that affects terrestrial biogeochemical cycles with a growing trend, especially in the southeast region of China, where shortage of available phosphorus (P) is particularly acute and P has become a major factor limiting plant growth and productivity. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) establish a mutualistic symbiosis with plants, and play an important role in enhancing plant stress resistance. However, the response of AMF to the combined effects of N deposition and P additions is poorly understood. Thus, in this study, a field experiment was conducted in 10-year Chinese fir forests to estimate the effects of simulated nitrogen (N) deposition (low-N, 30 kg ha−1 year−1 and high-N, 60 kg ha−1 year−1) and phosphorus (P) addition treatments (low-P, 20 mg kg−1 and high-P, 40 mg kg−1) on AMF since April 2017, which was reflected in AMF root colonization rates and spore density of rhizosphere soil. Our results showed that N deposition significantly decreased AMF root colonization rates and spore density. In N-free plots, P addition significantly decreased AMF root colonization rates, but did not significantly alter spore density. In low-N plots, colonization rates significantly decreased under low P addition, but significantly increased under high P addition, and spore density exhibited a significant decline under high P additions. In high-N plots, colonization rates and spore density significantly increased under P additions. Interactive effects of simulated N deposition and P addition on both colonization rates and spore density were significant. Moderate N deposition or P addition can weaken the symbiotic relationship between plants and AMF, significantly reducing AMF colonization rates and inhibiting spore production. However, a moderate addition of P greatly enhances spore yield. In the case of interactive effects, the AMF colonization rates and spore density are affected by the relative content of N and P in the soil.
Label-free multiphoton microscopy as a tool to investigate alterations of cerebral aneurysms
Authors: Sehm Tina , Uckermann Ortrud , Galli Roberta , Meinhardt Matthias , Rickelt Elke , Krex Dietmar , Schackert Gabriele , Kirsch Matthias
Published: July 2020

Cerebral aneurysms are abnormal focal dilatations of arterial vessel walls with pathological vessel structure alterations. Sudden rupture can lead to a subarachnoid hemorrhage, which is associated with a high mortality. Therefore, the origin of cerebral aneurysms as well as the progression to the point of rupture needs to be further investigated. Label-free multimodal multiphoton microscopy (MPM) was performed on resected human aneurysm domes and integrated three modalities: coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering, endogenous two-photon fluorescence and second harmonic generation. We showed that MPM is a completely label-free and real-time powerful tool to detect pathognomonic histopathological changes in aneurysms, e.g. thickening and thinning of vessel walls, intimal hyperplasia, intra-wall haemorrhage, calcification as well as atherosclerotic changes. In particular, the loss or fragmentation of elastin as well as fibromatous wall remodelling appeared very distinct. Remarkably, cholesterol and lipid deposits were clearly visible in the multiphoton images. MPM provides morphological and biochemical information that are crucial for understanding the mechanisms of aneurysm formation and progression.
A FRET-based high-throughput screening platform for the discovery of chemical probes targeting the scaffolding functions of human tankyrases
Authors: Sowa Sven T. , Vela-Rodríguez Carlos , Galera-Prat Albert , Cázares-Olivera Mariana , Prunskaite-Hyyryläinen Renata , Ignatev Alexander , Lehtiö Lari
Published: July 2020

Tankyrases catalyse poly-ADP-ribosylation of their binding partners and the modification serves as a signal for the subsequent proteasomal degradation of these proteins. Tankyrases thereby regulate the turnover of many proteins involved in multiple and diverse cellular processes, such as mitotic spindle formation, telomere homeostasis and Wnt/β-catenin signalling. In recent years, tankyrases have become attractive targets for the development of inhibitors as potential therapeutics against cancer and fibrosis. Further, it has become clear that tankyrases are not only enzymes, but also act as scaffolding proteins forming large cellular signalling complexes. While many potent and selective tankyrase inhibitors of the poly-ADP-ribosylation function exist, the inhibition of tankyrase scaffolding functions remains scarcely explored. In this work we present a robust, simple and cost-effective high-throughput screening platform based on FRET for the discovery of small molecule probes targeting the protein–protein interactions of tankyrases. Validatory screening with the platform led to the identification of two compounds with modest binding affinity to the tankyrase 2 ARC4 domain, demonstrating the applicability of this approach. The platform will facilitate identification of small molecules binding to tankyrase ARC or SAM domains and help to advance a structure-guided development of improved chemical probes targeting tankyrase oligomerization and substrate protein interactions.
First-line cetuximab improves the efficacy of subsequent bevacizumab for RAS wild-type left-sided metastatic colorectal cancer: an observational retrospective study
Authors: Liu Shousheng , Jiang Chang , Yang Lin , Huang Jinsheng , Peng Roujun , Wang Xiaopai , He Wenzhuo , Bai Long , Zhou Yixin , Zhang Bei , Xia Liangping
Published: July 2020

The optimal targeted therapy sequence in patients of RAS wild-type left-sided metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) remains controversial, and few studies focus on the impact of first-line targeted agents on second-line ones. We enrolled 101 left-sided mCRC patients with RAS wild-type status, of which 50 cases received bevacizumab plus chemotherapy in both first-line and second-line therapies (Group A) and 51 cases received first-line cetuximab plus chemotherapy followed by second-line bevacizumab-containing regimens (Group B). The progression free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) from start of first-line (PFS 1nd and OS 1nd) and second-line (PFS 2nd and OS 2nd) therapy were compared between the two groups. PFS 1nd was comparable (10.0 vs 10.4 months; p = 0.402), while PFS 2nd (4.6 vs 7.9 months; p = 0.002), OS 1nd (26.8 vs 40.0 months; p = 0.011), and OS 2nd (15.2 vs 22.3 months; p = 0.006) were all poorer in group A compared with group B. Our study in combination with previous clinical data suggest that first-line application of cetuximab may provide a favorable condition for promoting the effect of subsequent bevacizumab, thus representing the optimal targeted therapy sequence in patients of RAS wild-type left-sided mCRC.
Sodium-glucose co-transporter (SGLT) inhibitor restores lost axonal varicosities of the myenteric plexus in a mouse model of high-fat diet-induced obesity
Authors: Shimo Satoshi , Saitoh Sei , Nguyen Huy Bang , Thai Truc Quynh , Ikutomo Masako , Muramatsu Ken , Ohno Nobuhiko
Published: July 2020

Diabetes impairs enteric nervous system functions; however, ultrastructural changes underlying the pathophysiology of the myenteric plexus and the effects of sodium-glucose co-transporter (SGLT) inhibitors are poorly understood. This study aimed to investigate three-dimensional ultrastructural changes in axonal varicosities in the myenteric plexus and the effect thereon of the SGLT inhibitor phlorizin in mice fed a high-fat diet (HFD). Three-dimensional ultrastructural analysis using serial block-face imaging revealed that non-treated HFD-fed mice had fewer axonal varicosities and synaptic vesicles in the myenteric plexus than did normal diet-fed control mice. Furthermore, mitochondrial volume was increased and lysosome number decreased in the axons of non-treated HFD-fed mice when compared to those of control mice. Phlorizin treatment restored the axonal varicosities and organelles in HFD-fed mice. Although HFD did not affect the immunolocalisation of PGP9.5, it reduced synaptophysin immunostaining in the myenteric plexus, which was restored by phlorizin treatment. These results suggest that impairment of the axonal varicosities and their synaptic vesicles underlies the damage to the enteric neurons caused by HFD feeding. SGLT inhibitor treatment could restore axonal varicosities and organelles, which may lead to improved gastrointestinal functions in HFD-induced obesity as well as diabetes.
Structural health monitoring of metal-to-glass–ceramics penetration during thermal cycling aging using femto-laser inscribed FBG sensors
Authors: Fan Zhichun , Diao Xingzhong , Hu Kangjia , Zhang Yong , Huang Zhiyong , Kang Yanbo , Yan He
Published: July 2020

Maintaining the mechanical strength and hermetic reliability of metal-to-glass–ceramics electrical penetration assembly (MTGC-EPA) is a key concern for ensuring the pressure boundaries of nuclear power plants. The transient temperature change caused by power adjusting or accidents in High Temperature Reactor Pebble-bed Modules may affect the structural health of sealing glass–ceramics, even leading to radiation leakage. To evaluate whether the function could survive temperature variations during the service life, thermal cycling aging experiments were imposed to MTGC-EPA. A grating length-mismatched sensing method to monitor the residual strain, an important factor of glass–ceramics structural health, was demonstrated in real-time by femto-laser inscribed fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensor during the curing process and thermal cycling aging. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) and leakage rate tests were carried out to obtain the comparisons of microstructure and hermeticity before and after the thermal cycling. The residual strain showed a slight growth trend with thermal cycles repetition and it persisted a high value (~ 4,000 με) reflected by both Bragg wavelength shift and spectrum shape. The grating length mismatched single FBG embedded in glass–ceramics was feasible to demodulate the temperature and strain simultaneously, and the embedded FBG method achieved the structural health monitoring of MTGC-EPA during thermal cycling aging with good accuracy and reliability. Combining with the results of SEM and leakage rate detecting, the structural health of MTGC-EPA was demonstrated to be capable to endure the severe thermal conditions in nuclear reactors.
Investigation of fluoride evaporation from CaF2–CaO–Al2O3–MgO–TiO2–(Li2O) slag for electroslag remelting
Authors: Ju Jiantao , Ji Guangheng , Tang Chenmei , Yang Kangshuai , Zhu Zhihong
Published: July 2020

The isothermal kinetics of fluoride evaporation from CaF2–CaO–Al2O3–MgO–TiO2–(Li2O) slag with varying Li2O content were investigated in the temperature range 1743–1803 K by thermogravimetric analysis. Thermodynamic calculations and viscosity measurements were applied for studying the evaporation mechanism of fluoride. The results showed that the evaporation ratio increases with increasing Li2O content and temperature. The volatile constituents from the molten slags, mainly LiF and CaF2, were detected and their concentrations calculated. The fluoride evaporation is primarily affected by the vapour pressure of LiF and CaF2, viscosity of the slags, and melt-component activities under given experimental conditions. On the other hand, mass transfer of the gas is not the rate-controlling step that affects fluoride evaporation from the slags. The activation energy for fluoride evaporation gradually decreased from 193 ± 11 to 113 ± 3 kJ mol−1 as the Li2O content in the slags increases from 0 to 5.48 wt%. These results hold great theoretical significance for developing low-fluoride slags for electroslag remelting.
Identification of candidate miRNAs in early-onset and late-onset prostate cancer by network analysis
Authors: Parra-Medina Rafael , López-Kleine Liliana , Ramírez-Clavijo Sandra , Payán-Gómez César
Published: July 2020

The incidence of patients under 55 years old diagnosed with Prostate Cancer (EO-PCa) has increased during recent years. The molecular biology of PCa cancer in this group of patients remains unclear. Here, we applied weighted gene coexpression network analysis of the expression of miRNAs from 24 EO-PCa patients (38–45 years) and 25 late-onset PCa patients (LO-PCa, 71–74 years) to identify key miRNAs in EO-PCa patients. In total, 69 differentially expressed miRNAs were identified. Specifically, 26 and 14 miRNAs were exclusively deregulated in young and elderly patients, respectively, and 29 miRNAs were shared. We identified 20 hub miRNAs for the network built for EO-PCa. Six of these hub miRNAs exhibited prognostic significance in relapse‐free or overall survival. Additionally, two of the hub miRNAs were coexpressed with mRNAs of genes previously identified as deregulated in EO-PCa and in the most aggressive forms of PCa in African-American patients compared with Caucasian patients. These genes are involved in activation of immune response pathways, increased rates of metastasis and poor prognosis in PCa patients. In conclusion, our analysis identified miRNAs that are potentially important in the molecular pathology of EO-PCa. These genes may serve as biomarkers in EO-PCa and as possible therapeutic targets.
Ecofriendly biodegradation of Reactive Black 5 by newly isolated Sterigmatomyces halophilus SSA1575, valued for textile azo dye wastewater processing and detoxification
Authors: Al-Tohamy Rania , Sun Jianzhong , Fareed Mervat F. , Kenawy El-Refaie , Ali Sameh S.
Published: July 2020

A total of seven yeast strains from 18 xylanolytic and/or xylose-fermenting yeast species isolated from the wood-feeding termite Reticulitermes chinenesis could efficiently decolorize various azo dyes under high-salt conditions. Of these strains, a novel and unique azo-degrading and halotolerant yeast, Sterigmatomyces halophilus SSA1575, has been investigated in this study. This strain could significantly decolorize four combinations of a mixture of dyes. It showed a high capability for decolorizing Reactive Black 5 (RB5) even at 1,500 mg L−1. The strain SSA1575 still showed a high capability for decolorizing a 50 mg L−1 RB5 with a salt mixing at a NaCl concentration of up to 80 g L−1. It also exhibited significant ability to decolorize repeated additions of dye aliquots, with a reduction in time of up to 18 h. Most of the tested carbon and nitrogen sources could significantly enhance a RB5 decolorization. However, this process was inhibited by the addition of sucrose and sodium nitrate. NADH-dichlorophenol indophenol (NADH-DCIP) reductase and lignin peroxidase were determined as the key reductase and oxidase of S. halophilus SSA1575. Finally, strain SSA1575, can effectively detoxify RB5 into non-toxic products. Overall, S. halophilus SSA1575, might be a promising halotolerant yeast valued for the treatment of various textile effluents with high salinity.
Expression patterns of seven key genes, including β-catenin, Notch1, GATA6, CDX2, miR-34a, miR-181a and miR-93 in gastric cancer
Authors: Jafari Narjes , Abediankenari Saeid , Hosseini-Khah Zahra , Valizadeh Seyed Mohammad , Torabizadeh Zhila , Zaboli Ehsan , Ghasemi Maryam , Fakheri Hafez , Hosseini Vahid , Shekarriz Ramin , Rafiei Alireza , Asgarian-Omran Hossein , Abedian Fatemeh
Published: July 2020

Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most prevalent cancers and a major cause of cancer related mortality worldwide. Incidence of GC is affected by various factors, including genetic and environmental factors. Despite extensive research has been done for molecular characterization of GC, it remains largely unknown. Therefore, further studies specially conducted among various ethnicities in different geographic locations, are required to know the precise molecular mechanisms leading to tumorigenesis and progression of GC. The expression patterns of seven candidate genes, including β-catenin, Notch1, GATA6, CDX2, miR-34a, miR-181a, and miR-93 were determined in 24 paired GC tissues and corresponding non-cancerous tissues by quantitative Real-Time PCR. The association between the expression of these genes and clinicopathologic factors were also investigated. Our results demonstrated that overall mRNA levels of GATA6 were significantly decreased in the tumor samples in comparison with the non-cancerous tissues (median fold change (FC) = 0.3143; P = 0.0003). Overall miR-93 levels were significantly increased in the tumor samples relative to the non-cancerous gastric tissues (FC = 2.441; P = 0.0002). β-catenin mRNA expression showed a strong positive correlation with miR-34a (r = 0.5784; P = 0.0031), and miR-181a (r = 0.5652; P = 0.004) expression. miR-34a and miR-181a expression showed a significant positive correlation (r = 0.4862; P = 0.016). Moreover, lower expression of Notch1 was related to distant metastasis in GC patients with a borderline statistical significance (p = 0.0549). These data may advance our understanding of the molecular biology that drives GC as well as provide potential targets for defining novel therapeutic strategies for GC treatment.
Dynamics of uterine microbiota in postpartum dairy cows with clinical or subclinical endometritis
Authors: Pascottini O. Bogado , Van Schyndel S. J. , Spricigo J. F. W . , Rousseau J. , Weese J. S. , LeBlanc S. J.
Published: July 2020

Our objectives were to describe and compare the uterine bacterial composition of postpartum Holstein cows diagnosed as healthy (n = 8), subclinical endometritis (SCE; n = 8), or clinical endometritis (CE; n = 5) in the fifth week postpartum. We did metagenomic analyses of 16S rRNA gene sequences from endometrial cytobrush samples at 10, 21, and 35 days in milk (DIM), and endometrial bacterial culture at 35 DIM. Uterine bacterial composition in healthy, SCE, and CE was stable at 10, 21, and 35 DIM. Alpha and beta diversities showed a different uterine microbiome from CE compared to healthy or SCE, but no differences were found between healthy and SCE cows. At the phylum level, the relative abundance of Bacteroidetes and Fusobacteria, and at genera level, of Trueperella was greater in CE than healthy or SCE cows. Trueperella pyogenes was the predominant bacteria cultured in cows with CE, and a wide variety of bacterial growth was found in healthy and SCE cows. Bacteria that grew in culture were represented within the most abundant bacterial genera based on metagenomic sequencing. The uterine microbiota was similar between SCE and healthy, but the microbiome in cows with CE had a loss of bacterial diversity.
Detection of synovitis in early knee osteoarthritis by MRI and serum biomarkers in Japanese general population
Authors: Ishibashi Kyota , Sasaki Eiji , Ota Seiya , Chiba Daisuke , Yamamoto Yuji , Tsuda Eiichi , Yoshikuni Sugimura , Ihara Kazushige , Ishibashi Yasuyuki
Published: July 2020

To investigate synovitis’ influence on early knee osteoarthritis (EKOA) by serum biomarkers and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings in Japanese women. We enrolled 255 women aged 30–70 without radiographic abnormalities (Kellgren–Lawrence grade ≥ 2). Knee injury, OA outcome scores (KOOS), clinical examinations, and standing radiograph were used for classification criteria of EKOA. Participants were classified into normal knee group and EKOA group. All participants underwent MRIs of their right knee. The amount of effusion-synovitis volume was quantified. We compared serum matrix metalloproteinases-3 levels (MMP-3), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, interleukin-6, and adiponectin between the groups. The relationship between synovitis and EOKA was investigated using multiple linear regression. Fifty-four participants (21%) were classified as EKOA. Serum MMP-3 concentration and effusion-synovitis volume were higher in patients with EKOA (p = 0.025 and p = 0.001, respectively). Effusion-synovitis volume negatively correlated with all KOOS subscales and positively correlated with serum MMP-3 concentration. Serum MMP-3 concentration was associated with effusion-synovitis volume β = 0.60, p < 0.001). There was mildly active but definitive synovitis in EKOA. This was an observational study so that no conclusions can be drawn regarding cause-effect for synovitis and symptoms. Future studies should conduct follow-up of participants with synovitis to assess the progression of knee OA.
Genetic interaction between central pair apparatus genes CFAP221, CFAP54, and SPEF2 in mouse models of primary ciliary dyskinesia
Authors: McKenzie Casey W. , Lee Lance
Published: July 2020

Primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) is a genetically heterogeneous syndrome that results from defects in motile cilia. The ciliary axoneme has a 9 + 2 microtubule structure consisting of nine peripheral doublets surrounding a central pair apparatus (CPA), which plays a critical role in regulating proper ciliary function. We have previously shown that mouse models with mutations in CPA genes CFAP221, CFAP54, and SPEF2 have a PCD phenotype with defects in ciliary motility. In this study, we investigated potential genetic interaction between these CPA genes by generating each combination of double heterozygous and double homozygous mutants. No detectable cilia-related phenotypes were observed in double heterozygotes, but all three double homozygous mutant lines exhibit early mortality and typically develop severe PCD-associated phenotypes of hydrocephalus, mucociliary clearance defects in the upper airway, and abnormal spermatogenesis. Double homozygous cilia are generally intact and display a normal morphology and distribution. Spermiogenesis is aborted in double homozygotes, with an absence of mature flagella on elongating spermatids and epididymal sperm. These findings identify genetic interactions between CPA genes and genetic mechanisms regulating the CPA and motile cilia function.
Fetal cardiac MRI: a single center experience over 14-years on the potential utility as an adjunct to fetal technically inadequate echocardiography
Authors: Dong Su-Zhen , Zhu Ming , Ji Hui , Ren Jing-Ya , Liu Ke
Published: July 2020

Unlike ultrasound (US) imaging, foetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is not significantly limited by maternal obesity, oligohydramnios, uterine myoma, twins, and foetal lie, which impair US visualization of the foetus. The present study aimed to introduce our foetal cardiac MRI scanning technology and over 14-years of experience on the potential utility of foetal cardiac MRI examination as an adjunct to foetal technically inadequate echocardiography (Echo). This retrospective review included 1,573 pregnant women [1,619 foetuses (46 twins)] referred for a foetal cardiac MRI because of technically limited Echo. Foetal cardiac MRI was performed using two 1.5 T units. Among the 1,619 foetuses referred for cardiac MRI, 1,379 (85.2%) cases were followed up using postnatal imaging and/or surgery, 240 (14.8%), including three twins, had no follow-up confirmation because of pregnancy termination without autopsy or loss to follow-up. The results of the present study indicated that foetal cardiac MRI examinations can be a useful adjunct to foetal echocardiography when the technical limitations of echocardiography make it inadequate for diagnosis.
Photodynamic exposure of Rose-Bengal inhibits Tau aggregation and modulates cytoskeletal network in neuronal cells
Authors: Dubey Tushar , Gorantla Nalini Vijay , Chandrashekara Kagepura Thammaiah , Chinnathambi Subashchandrabose
Published: July 2020

The intracellular Tau aggregates are known to be associated with Alzheimer’s disease. The inhibition of Tau aggregation is an important strategy for screening of therapeutic molecules in Alzheimer's disease. Several classes of dyes possess a unique property of photo-excitation, which is applied as a therapeutic measure against numerous neurological dysfunctions. Rose Bengal is a Xanthene dye, which has been widely used as a photosensitizer in photodynamic therapy. The aim of this work was to study the protective role of Rose Bengal against Tau aggregation and cytoskeleton modulations. The aggregation inhibition and disaggregation potency of Rose Bengal and photo-excited Rose Bengal were observed by in-vitro fluorescence, circular dichroism, and electron microscopy. Rose Bengal and photo-excited Rose Bengal induce minimal cytotoxicity in neuronal cells. In our studies, we observed that Rose Bengal and photo-excited Rose Bengal modulate the cytoskeleton network of actin and tubulin. The immunofluorescence studies showed the increased filopodia structures after photo-excited Rose Bengal treatment. Furthermore, Rose Bengal treatment increases the connections between the cells. Rose Bengal and photo-excited Rose Bengal treatment-induced actin-rich podosome-like structures associated with cell membranes. The in-vivo studies on UAS E-14 Tau mutant Drosophila suggested that exposure to Rose Bengal and photo-excited Rose Bengal efficiency rescues the behavioural and memory deficit in flies. Thus, the overall results suggest that Rose Bengal could have a therapeutic potency against Tau aggregation.
Intrinsic transcriptomic sex differences in human endothelial cells at birth and in adults are associated with coronary artery disease targets
Authors: Hartman Robin J. G. , Kapteijn Daniek M. C. , Haitjema Saskia , Bekker Mireille N. , Mokry Michal , Pasterkamp Gerard , Civelek Mete , den Ruijter Hester M.
Published: July 2020

Sex differences in endothelial cell (EC) biology may reflect intrinsic differences driven by chromosomes or sex steroid exposure and gender differences accumulated over life. We analysed EC gene expression data from boy–girl twins at birth and in non-twin adults to detect sex differences at different stages of life, and show that 14–25% of the EC transcriptome is sex-biased. By combining data from both stages of life, we identified sex differences that are present at birth and maintained throughout life, and those that are acquired over life. Promisingly, we found that genes that present with an acquired sex difference in ECs are more likely to be targets of sex steroids. Annotating both gene sets with data from multiple genome-wide association studies (GWAS) revealed that genes with an intrinsic sex difference in ECs are enriched for coronary artery disease GWAS hits. This study underscores the need for treating sex as a biological variable.
The use of yttrium in medical imaging and therapy: historical background and future perspectives
Authors: Tickner Ben J. , Stasiuk Graeme J. , Duckett Simon B. , Angelovski Goran
Published: July 2020

Yttrium presents a wide palette of isotopes with interesting coordination and radiochemical properties. We review its most prominent isotopes and their diverse medical uses in therapy and imaging.
Comparing glucose and urea enzymatic electrochemical and optical biosensors based on polyaniline thin films
Authors: Nogueira Pedroza Dias Mello Hugo José , Bueno Paulo Roberto , Mulato Marcelo
Published: July 2020

We compare the label-free electrochemical response of enzymatic biosensors with the response of their optical counterpart by using the electrochemical and optical properties of polyaniline and compared sensitivity, linearity and limit of detection.
Reduction of carbon dioxide at a plasmonically active copper–silver cathode
Authors: Corson Elizabeth R. , Subramani Ananya , Cooper Jason K. , Kostecki Robert , Urban Jeffrey J. , McCloskey Bryan D.
Published: July 2020

Ethylene, CO, methane, formate, and allyl alcohol were selectively enhanced upon illumination of a copper–silver cathode during plasmon-enhanced electrochemical conversion.
Bimetallic nanoparticles against multi-drug resistant bacteria
Authors: Zhao Xiaohui , Jia Yuexiao , Dong Ruihua , Deng Jinqi , Tang Hao , Hu Fuping , Liu Shaoqin , Jiang Xingyu
Published: July 2020

Bimetallic nanoparticles can fight multi-drug resistant (MDR) bacteria and treat wound infections caused by MDR bacteria.
Catalytic mutual multicomponent reaction: facile access to α-trifluoromethylthiolated ketones
Authors: Jin Ming Yu , Gu Xiaodong , Deng Min , Wang Chuancheng , Wang Jun (Joelle)
Published: July 2020

Two birds with one stone: A catalytic mutual multicomponent reaction of trifluoromethylthiolating reagent is devised for accessing two products in an atom- and step-economic fashion.
Rotational quenching of an interstellar gas thermometer: CH3CN⋯He collisions
Authors: Ben Khalifa M. , Quintas-Sánchez E. , Dawes R. , Hammami K. , Wiesenfeld L.
Published: July 2020

Methyl cyanide serves as an interstellar gas thermometer. Image of its interaction potential with Helium.
Fabrication of hydrophilic composites by bridging the secondary structures between rice proteins and pea proteins toward enhanced nutritional properties
Authors: Wang Ren , Li Lulu , Feng Wei , Wang Tao
Published: July 2020

Novel protein composites with shared internal structures were fabricated by co-dissolving rice proteins (RPs) and pea proteins (PPs) at pH 12 prior to a one-step neutralization.