bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phylogenetic structure of Salmonella Enteritidis provides context for a foodborne outbreak in Peru
Authors: Quino Willi , Caro-Castro Junior , Mestanza Orson , Hurtado Carmen V. , Zamudio Maria L. , Gavilan Ronnie G.
Published: December 2020

Salmonella Enteritidis, an important foodborne zoonosis, has a dramatically increased number of cases around the world. To explore the phylogenetic structure of Peruvian Salmonella Enteritidis strains and their relationship with an outbreak occurred in 2018, we analyzed a comprehensive strains of S. Enteritidis received by the National Institute of Health during the period 2000–2018. A total of 180 strains were characterized by microbiological procedures, serotyping and whole genome sequencing. Based on genome sequences annotated, virulence factors and accessory genes were identified. Phylogenetic and population structure analysis were also analyzed based on SNPs. The phylogenetic analysis grouped the genomes into two well-supported clades that were consistent with population structure analysis. The clinical and food strains corresponding to the outbreak were included in the same cluster, which presented the sdhA gene, related to the increase of the virulence of this pathogen. The phylogenetic relationship of Peruvian S. Enteritidis suggests the presence of four S. enteritidis population with high epidemiological importance.
Fingerprint of climate change in precipitation aggressiveness across the central Mediterranean (Italian) area
Authors: Diodato Nazzareno , Ljungqvist Fredrik Charpentier , Bellocchi Gianni
Published: December 2020

Rainfall erosivity and its derivative, erosivity density (ED, i.e., the erosivity per unit of rain), is a main driver of considerable environmental damages and economic losses worldwide. This study is the first to investigate the interannual variability, and return periods, of both rainfall erosivity and ED over the Mediterranean for the period 1680–2019. By capturing the relationship between seasonal rainfall, its variability, and recorded hydrological extremes in documentary data consistent with a sample (1981–2015) of detailed Revised Universal Soil Loss Erosion-based data, we show a noticeable decreasing trend of rainfall erosivity since about 1838. However, the 30-year return period of ED values indicates a positive long-term trend, in tandem with the resurgence of very wet days (> 95th percentile) and the erosive activity of rains during the past two decades. A possible fingerprint of recent warming is the occurrence of prolonged wet spells in apparently more erratic and unexpected ways.
An update to the Monro–Kellie doctrine to reflect tissue compliance after severe ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke
Authors: Kalisvaart Anna C. J. , Wilkinson Cassandra M. , Gu Sherry , Kung Tiffany F. C. , Yager Jerome , Winship Ian R. , van Landeghem Frank K. H. , Colbourne Frederick
Published: December 2020

High intracranial pressure (ICP) can impede cerebral blood flow resulting in secondary injury or death following severe stroke. Compensatory mechanisms include reduced cerebral blood and cerebrospinal fluid volumes, but these often fail to prevent raised ICP. Serendipitous observations in intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) suggest that neurons far removed from a hematoma may shrink as an ICP compliance mechanism. Here, we sought to critically test this observation. We tracked the timing of distal tissue shrinkage (e.g. CA1) after collagenase-induced striatal ICH in rat; cell volume and density alterations (42% volume reduction, 34% density increase; p < 0.0001) were highest day one post-stroke, and rebounded over a week across brain regions. Similar effects were seen in the filament model of middle cerebral artery occlusion (22% volume reduction, 22% density increase; p ≤ 0.007), but not with the Vannucci-Rice model of hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (2.5% volume increase, 14% density increase; p ≥ 0.05). Concerningly, this ‘tissue compliance’ appears to cause sub-lethal damage, as revealed by electron microscopy after ICH. Our data challenge the long-held assumption that ‘healthy’ brain tissue outside the injured area maintains its volume. Given the magnitude of these effects, we posit that ‘tissue compliance’ is an important mechanism invoked after severe strokes.
Spatial variations and long-term trends of potential evaporation in Canada
Authors: Li Zhaoqin , Wang Shusen , Li Junhua
Published: December 2020

Assessing the status and trend of potential evaporation (PE) is essential for investigating the climate change impact on the terrestrial water cycle. Despite recent advances, evaluating climate change impacts on PE using pan evaporation (Epan) data in cold regions is hindered by the unavailability of Epanmeasurements in cold seasons due to the freezing of water and sparse spatial distribution of sites. This study generated long-term PE datasets in Canada for 1979–2016 by integrating the dynamic evolutions of water–ice–snow processes into estimation in the Ecological Assimilation of Land and Climate Observations (EALCO) model. The datasets were compared with Epanbefore the spatial variations and trends were analyzed. Results show that EALCO PE and Epanmeasurements demonstrate similar seasonal variations and trends in warm seasons in most areas. Annual PE in Canada varied from 100 mm in the Northern Arctic to approximately 1000 mm in southern Canadian Prairies, southern Ontario, and East Coast, with about 600 mm for the entire landmass. Annual PE shows an increasing trend at a rate of 1.5–4 mm/year in the Northern Arctic, East, and West Canada. The increase is primarily associated with the elevated air temperature and downward longwave and shortwave radiation, with some regions contributed by augmented wind speed. The increase of annual PE is mainly attributed to the augmentation of PE in warm seasons.
Maternal diet alters human milk oligosaccharide composition with implications for the milk metagenome
Authors: Seferovic Maxim D. , Mohammad Mahmoud , Pace Ryan M. , Engevik Melinda , Versalovic James , Bode Lars , Haymond Morey , Aagaard Kjersti M.
Published: December 2020

Human milk is the optimal nutrition source for infants, and oligosaccharides represent the third most abundant component in milk after lactose and fat. Human milk oligosaccharides (HMO) are favorable macromolecules which are, interestingly, indigestible by the infant but serve as substrates for bacteria. Hypothesizing that the maternal diet itself might influence HMO composition, we sought to directly determine the effect maternal diet on HMO and the milk bacteria. Employing a human cross-over study design, we demonstrate that distinct maternal dietary carbohydrate and energy sources preferentially alter milk concentrations of HMO, including fucosylated species. We find significant associations between the concentration of HMO-bound fucose and the abundance of fucosidase (a bacterial gene that digests fucose moieties) harbored by milk bacteria. These studies reveal a successive mechanism by which the maternal diet during lactation alters milk HMO composition, which in turn shapes the functional milk microbiome prior to infant ingestion.
Dynamic profiles of SARS-Cov-2 infection from five Chinese family clusters in the early stage of the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Kong Xiang-Gen , Geng Jin , Zhang Tao , Wang Bin , Wu An-Zhao , Xiao Di , Zhang Zhao-Hua , Liu Cai-Feng , Wang Li , Jiang Xue-Mei , Fan Yu-Chen
Published: December 2020

Although several cases of family clusters with SARS-Cov-2 infection have been reported, there are still limited data preventing conclusions from being drawn regarding the characteristics and laboratory findings in the COVID-19 population within family clusters. In the present study, we retrospectively collected five family clusters with COVID-19 and summarized the dynamic profiles of the clinical characteristics, laboratory findings, immune markers, treatment and prognosis of this population. Furthermore, we also compared clinical and laboratory data between the SARS-Cov-2 infection with family cluster (n = 21) and those without family cluster (n = 16). We demonstrated that the duration of SARS-Cov-2 replication might be varied based on the different family clusters due to their different genetic backgrounds. The onset improved lung radiology might start at the end of the SARS-Cov-2 positive period. Furthermore, the obtained results demonstrated that similar basic characteristics and clinical findings seem to exist between the cases with SARS-Cov-2 and without family clusters. The serum level of ferritin might have a different biological function and be a new biomarker for the family cluster. Further studies with larger numbers of patients are required.
DEAD-box RNA helicase protein DDX21 as a prognosis marker for early stage colorectal cancer with microsatellite instability
Authors: Tanaka Atsushi , Wang Julia Y. , Shia Jinru , Zhou Yihua , Ogawa Makiko , Hendrickson Ronald C. , Klimstra David S. , Roehrl Michael H.
Published: December 2020

DEAD-box RNA helicase DDX21 (also named nucleolar RNA helicase 2) is a nuclear autoantigen with undefined roles in cancer. To explore possible roles of autoimmune recognition in cancer immunity, we examined DDX21 protein expression in colorectal cancer tissue and its association with patient clinical outcomes. Unbiased deep proteomic profiling of two independent colorectal cancer cohorts using mass spectrometry showed that DDX21 protein was significantly upregulated in cancer relative to benign mucosa. We then examined DDX21 protein expression in a validation group of 710 patients, 619 of whom with early stage and 91 with late stage colorectal cancers. DDX21 was detected mostly in the tumor cell nuclei, with high expression in some mitotic cells. High levels of DDX21 protein were found in 28% of stage I, 21% of stage II, 30% of stage III, and 32% of stage IV colorectal cancer cases. DDX21 expression levels correlated with non-mucinous histology in early stage cancers but not with other clinicopathological features such as patient gender, age, tumor location, tumor grade, or mismatch repair status in any cancer stage. Kaplan–Meier analyses revealed that high DDX21 protein levels was associated with longer survival in patients with early stage colorectal cancer, especially longer disease-free survival in patients with microsatellite instability (MSI) cancers, but no such correlations were found for the microsatellite stable subtype or late stage colorectal cancer. Univariate and multivariate analyses also identified high DDX21 protein expression as an independent favorable prognostic marker for early stage MSI colorectal cancer.
Development and technical application of SSR-based individual identification system for Chamaecyparis taiwanensis against illegal logging convictions
Authors: Huang Chiun-Jr , Chu Fang-Hua , Huang Yi-Shiang , Hung Yu- Mei , Tseng Yu-Hsin , Pu Chang-En , Chao Chi-Hsiang , Chou Yu-Shyang , Liu Shau-Chian , You Ya Ting , Hsu Shuo-Yu , Hsieh Hsiang-Chih , Hsu Cheng Te , Chen Meng-Yi , Lin Ting-An , Shyu Hsin-Yi , Tu Yu-Ching , Chen Chi-Tsong
Published: December 2020

Chamaecyparis taiwanensis is an endemic plant suffering illegal logging in Taiwan for its high economic value. Lack of direct evidence to correlate stump and timber remains a hurdle for law enforcement. In this report, 23 polymorphic Genomic Simple Sequence Repeat (gSSR) and 12 Expressed Sequence Tag (EST)-SSR markers were developed and their transferability was assessed. The individual identification system built from selected non-linkage 30 SSR markers has a combined probability of identity as 5.596 × 10–12 equivalents to identifying an individual in a population of up to 18 million C. taiwanensis with 99.99% confidence level. We also applied the system in an actual criminal case by selecting 19 of these markers to correlate illegally felled timbers and victim trees. Our data demonstrate that molecular signals from three timbers hit with three victim trees with confidence level more than 99.99%. This is the first example of successfully applying SSR in C. taiwanensis as a court evidence for law enforcement. The identification system adapted advanced molecular technology and exhibits its great potential for natural resource management on C. taiwanensis.
Metronomic photodynamic therapy using an implantable LED device and orally administered 5-aminolevulinic acid
Authors: Kirino Izumi , Fujita Katsuhiko , Sakanoue Kei , Sugita Rin , Yamagishi Kento , Takeoka Shinji , Fujie Toshinori , Uemoto Shinji , Morimoto Yuji
Published: December 2020

Metronomic photodynamic therapy (mPDT) is a form of PDT that induces cancer cell death by intermittent continuous irradiation with a relatively weak power of light for a long duration (several days). We previously developed a wirelessly powered, fully implantable LED device and reported a significant anti-tumor effect of mPDT. Considering application in clinical practice, the method used for repeated administrations of photosensitizers required for mPDT should not have a high patient burden such as the burden of transvenous administration. Therefore, in this study, we selected 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA), which can be administered orally, as a photosensitizer, and we studied the antitumor effects of mPDT. In mice with intradermal tumors that were orally administered ALA (200 mg/kg daily for 5 days), the tumor in each mouse was simultaneously irradiated (8 h/day for 5 days) using a wirelessly powered implantable green LED device (532 nm, 0.05 mW). Tumor growth in the mPDT-treated mice was suppressed by about half compared to that in untreated mice. The results showed that mPDT using the wirelessly powered implantable LED device exerted an antitumor effect even with the use of orally administered ALA, and this treatment scheme can reduce the burden of photosensitizer administration for a patient.
Antiparasitic potential of Nephrolepis biserrata methanol extract against the parasitic leech Zeylanicobdella arugamensis (Hirudinea) and LC-QTOF analysis
Authors: Shah Muhammad Dawood , Venmathi Maran Balu Alagar , Haron Fatin Khairah , Ransangan Julian , Ching Fui Fui , Shaleh Sitti Raehanah Muhamad , Shapawi Rossita , Yong Yoong Soon , Ohtsuka Susumu
Published: December 2020

Marine leech Zeylanicobdella arugamensis (Piscicolidae), an economically important parasite is infesting predominantly cultured groupers, hybrid groupers and other fish in Southeast Asian countries. In this study, we tested the anti-parasitic potential of a medicinal plant Nephrolepis biserrata found in Sabah, East Malaysia against Z. arugamensis. Various concentrations of methanol extracts of the plant were tested experimentally against Z. arugamensis and disinfestation of the leech from its primary host hybrid groupers. The composition of methanol extract of N. biserrata was determined through LC-QTOF analysis. The significant anti-parasitic activity of 100% mortality of leeches was observed with the exposure of N. biserrata extracts. The average time to kill the leeches at concentrations of 25, 50 and 100 mg/ml was 25.11 ± 3.26, 11.91 ± 0.99, and 4.88 ± 0.50 min., respectively. Further, at various low concentrations of N. biserrata 2.5, 5 and 10 mg/ml, hybrid groupers were disinfested in an average time of 108.33 ± 12.65, 65.83 ± 9.70 and 29.16 ± 5.85 min., respectively. The tandem mass spectrometry data from LC-QTOF indicated some hits on useful bioactive compounds such as terpenoids (ivalin, isovelleral, brassinolide, and eschscholtzxanthin), flavonoids (alnustin, kaempferol 7,4′-dimethyl ether, and pachypodol), phenolics (piscidic acid, chlorogenic acid, and ankorine), and aromatic (3-hydroxycoumarin). Thus N. biserrata can act as a potential biocontrol agent.
Validation and assessment of preanalytical factors of a fluorometric in vitro assay for glucocerebrosidase activity in human cerebrospinal fluid
Authors: Oftedal Linn , Maple-Grødem Jodi , Førland Marthe Gurine Gunnarsdatter , Alves Guido , Lange Johannes
Published: December 2020

Lysosomal dysfunction is an emerging feature in the pathology of Parkinson’s disease and Dementia with Lewy bodies. Mutations in the GBA gene, encoding the enzyme Glucocerebrosidase (GCase), have been identified as a genetic risk factor for these synucleinopathies. As a result, there has been a growing interest in the involvement of GCase in these diseases. This GCase activity assay is based on the catalytic hydrolysis of 4-methylumbelliferyl β-d-glucopyranoside that releases the highly fluorescent 4-methylumbelliferyl (4-MU). The final assay protocol was tested for the following parameters: Lower limit of quantification (LLOQ), precision, parallelism, linearity, spike recovery, number of freeze–thaw events, and sample handling stability. The GCase activity assay is within acceptable criteria for parallelism, precision and spike recovery. The LLOQ of this assay corresponds to an enzymatic activity of generating 0.26 pmol 4-MU/min/ml. The enzymatic activity was stable when samples were processed and frozen at − 80 °C within 4 h after the lumbar puncture procedure. Repetitive freeze–thaw events significantly decreased enzyme activity. We present the validation of an optimized in vitro GCase activity assay, based on commercially available components, to quantify its enzymatic activity in human cerebrospinal fluid and the assessment of preanalytical factors.
An advanced genetic toolkit for exploring the biology of the rock-inhabiting black fungus Knufia petricola
Authors: Voigt Oliver , Knabe Nicole , Nitsche Sarah , Erdmann Eileen A. , Schumacher Julia , Gorbushina Anna A.
Published: December 2020

Microcolonial black fungi are a group of ascomycetes that exhibit high stress tolerance, yeast-like growth and constitutive melanin formation. They dominate a range of hostile natural and man-made environments, from desert rocks and salterns to dishwashers, roofs and solar panels. Due to their slow growth and a lack of genetic tools, the underlying mechanisms of black fungi’s phenotypic traits have remained largely unexplored. We chose to address this gap by genetically engineering the rock-inhabiting fungus Knufia petricola (Eurotiomycetes, Chaetothyriales), a species that exhibits all characteristics of black fungi. A cell biological approach was taken by generating K. petricola strains expressing green or red fluorescent protein variants. By applying: (1) traditional gene replacement; (2) gene editing and replacement via plasmid-based or ribonucleoprotein (RNP)-based CRISPR/Cas9, and (3) silencing by RNA interference (RNAi), we constructed mutants in the pathways leading to melanin, carotenoids, uracil and adenine. Stable single and double mutants were generated with homologous recombination (HR) rates up to 100%. Efficient, partially cloning-free strategies to mutate multiple genes with or without resistance cassettes were developed. This state-of-the-art genetic toolkit, together with the annotated genome sequence of strain A95, firmly established K. petricola as a model for exploring microcolonial black fungi.
Improving climate suitability for Bemisia tabaci in East Africa is correlated with increased prevalence of whiteflies and cassava diseases
Authors: Kriticos Darren J. , Darnell Ross E. , Yonow Tania , Ota Noboru , Sutherst Robert W. , Parry Hazel R. , Mugerwa Habibu , Maruthi M. N. , Seal Susan E. , Colvin John , Macfadyen Sarina , Kalyebi Andrew , Hulthen Andrew , De Barro Paul J.
Published: December 2020

Projected climate changes are thought to promote emerging infectious diseases, though to date, evidence linking climate changes and such diseases in plants has not been available. Cassava is perhaps the most important crop in Africa for smallholder farmers. Since the late 1990’s there have been reports from East and Central Africa of pandemics of begomoviruses in cassava linked to high abundances of whitefly species within the Bemisia tabaci complex. We used CLIMEX, a process-oriented climatic niche model, to explore if this pandemic was linked to recent historical climatic changes. The climatic niche model was corroborated with independent observed field abundance of B. tabaci in Uganda over a 13-year time-series, and with the probability of occurrence of B. tabaci over 2 years across the African study area. Throughout a 39-year climate time-series spanning the period during which the pandemics emerged, the modelled climatic conditions for B. tabaci improved significantly in the areas where the pandemics had been reported and were constant or decreased elsewhere. This is the first reported case where observed historical climate changes have been attributed to the increase in abundance of an insect pest, contributing to a crop disease pandemic.
Structural and compositional characteristics of Fukushima release particulate material from Units 1 and 3 elucidates release mechanisms, accident chronology and future decommissioning strategy
Authors: Martin Peter G. , Jones Christopher P. , Bartlett Stuart , Ignatyev Konstantin , Megson-Smith Dave , Satou Yukihiko , Cipiccia Silvia , Batey Darren J. , Rau Christoph , Sueki Keisuke , Ishii Tatsuya , Igarashi Junya , Ninomiya Kazuhiko , Shinohara Atsushi , Rust Alison , Scott Thomas B.
Published: December 2020

The structural form and elemental distribution of material originating from different Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant reactors (Units 1 and 3) is hereby examined to elucidate their contrasting release dynamics and the current in-reactor conditions to influence future decommissioning challenges. Complimentary computed X-ray absorption tomography and X-ray fluorescence data show that the two suites of Si-based material sourced from the different reactor Units have contrasting internal structure and compositional distribution. The known event and condition chronology correlate with the observed internal and external structures of the particulates examined, which suggest that Unit 1 ejecta material sustained a greater degree of melting than that likely derived from reactor Unit 3. In particular, we attribute the near-spherical shape of Unit 1 ejecta and their internal voids to there being sufficient time for surface tension to round these objects before the hot (and so relatively low viscosity) silicate melt cooled to form glass. In contrast, a more complex internal form associated with the sub-mm particulates invoked to originate from Unit 3 suggest a lower peak temperature, over a longer duration. Using volcanic analogues, we consider the structural form of this material and how it relates to its environmental particulate stability and the bulk removal of residual materials from the damaged reactors. We conclude that the brittle and angular Unit 3 particulate are more susceptible to further fragmentation and particulate generation hazard than the round, higher-strength, more homogenous Unit 1 material.
The Association of Insulin-dextrose Treatment with Hypoglycemia in Patients with Hyperkalemia
Authors: Crnobrnja Ljiljana , Metlapalli Manogna , Jiang Cathy , Govinna Mauli , Lim Andy K. H.
Published: December 2020

Treatment of hyperkalemia with intravenous insulin-dextrose is associated with a risk of hypoglycemia. We aimed to determine the factors associated with hypoglycemia (glucose < 3.9 mmol/L, or < 70 mg/dL) and the critical time window with the highest incidence. In a retrospective cohort study in a tertiary hospital network, we included 421 adult patients with a serum potassium ≥ 6.0 mmol/L who received insulin-dextrose treatment. The mean age was 70 years with 62% male predominance. The prevalence of diabetes was 60%, and 70% had chronic kidney disease (eGFR < 60 ml/min/1.73 m2). The incidence of hypoglycemia was 21%. In a multivariable logistic regression model, the factors independently associated with hypoglycemia were: body mass index (per 5 kg/m2, OR 0.85, 95% CI: 0.69–0.99, P = 0.04), eGFR < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 (OR 2.47, 95% CI: 1.32–4.63, P = 0.005), diabetes (OR 0.57, 95% CI 0.33–0.98, P = 0.043), pre-treatment blood glucose (OR 0.84, 95% CI: 0.77–0.91, P < 0.001), and treatment in the emergency department compared to other locations (OR 2.53, 95% CI: 1.49–4.31, P = 0.001). Hypoglycemia occurred most frequently between 60 and 150 min, with a peak at 90 min. Understanding the factors associated with hypoglycemia and the critical window of risk is essential for the development of preventive strategies.
Somatic alterations and mutational burden are potential predictive factors for metachronous development of early gastric cancer
Authors: Sakuta Kazuhiro , Sasaki Yu , Abe Yasuhiko , Sato Hidenori , Shoji Masakuni , Yaoita Takao , Yagi Makoto , Mizumoto Naoko , Onozato Yusuke , Kon Takashi , Koseki Ayumi , Sato Sonoko , Murakami Ryoko , Miyano Yuki , Ueno Yoshiyuki
Published: December 2020

The risk of developing metachronous gastric cancer (MGC) following curative endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) of early gastric cancer (EGC) remains even after eradicating Helicobacter pylori (HP) successfully. We screened initial EGC and adjacent non-cancerous mucosa ESD-resected specimens for somatic variants of 409 cancer-related genes, assessing their mutational burden (MB) to predict molecular markers for metachronous post-ESD development. We compared variants between ten patients diagnosed with MGC more than 3 years after ESD and ten age-matched patients who did not have MGC developments after successful HP eradication. We found no significant background differences between the two groups. In adjacent non-cancerous mucosa, the MB tended to be higher in the patients with metachronous developments than in the others. Somatic genomic alterations of RECQL4, JAK3, ARID1A, and MAGI1 genes were significantly associated with MGC development. The criteria including both the MB and their variants, which had potential significant values for predicting MGC. In conclusion, combined of assessing specific somatic variants and MB may be useful for predicting MGC development. This study included a limited number of subjects; however, our novel findings may encourage further exploration of the significance of the molecular features of EGC that predict MGC development, thereby promoting focused follow-up strategies and helping elucidate the mechanisms.
Gene cloning, heterologous expression, and partial characterization of a novel cold-adapted subfamily I.3 lipase from Pseudomonas fluorescence KE38
Authors: Karakaş Fulya , Arslanoğlu Alper
Published: December 2020

A novel cold-active true lipase from Pseudomonas sp. KE38 was cloned, sequencing and expressed in E. coli by degenerate PCR and genome walking technique. The open reading frame of the cloned gene encoded a polypeptide chain of 617 amino acids with a confirmed molecular weight of 64 kD. Phylogenetic analysis of the deduced amino acid sequence of the lipase indicated that it had high similarity with lipases of subfamily Ι.3 of bacterial lipases. Recombinant lipase was purified in denatured form as inclusion bodies, which were then renatured by urea followed by dialysis. Lipase activity was determined titrimetrically using olive oil as substrate. The enzyme showed optimal activity at 25 °C, pH 8.5 and was highly stable in the presence of various metal ions and organic solvents. Low optimal temperature and high activity in the presence of methanol and ethanol make this lipase a potential candidate for transesterification reactions and biodiesel production.
Epilepsy protein Efhc1/myoclonin1 is expressed in cells with motile cilia but not in neurons or mitotic apparatuses in brain
Authors: Suzuki Toshimitsu , Inoue Ikuyo , Yamakawa Kazuhiro
Published: December 2020

EFHC1 gene encodes the myoclonin1 protein, also known as Rib72-1. Pathogenic variants in EFHC1 have been reported in patients with juvenile myoclonic epilepsy (JME). Although several studies of immunohistological investigations reproducibly showed that the myoclonin1 is expressed in cells with flagella and motile cilia such as sperm, trachea and ependymal cells lining the brain ventricles, whether myoclonin1 is also expressed in neurons still remains controversial. Here we investigated myoclonin1 expression using widely-used polyclonal (mRib72-pAb) and self-made monoclonal (6A3-mAb) anti-myoclonin1 antibodies together with Efhc1 homozygous knock-out (Efhc1−/−) mice. All of the western blot, immunocytochemical, and immunohistochemical analyses showed that mRib72-pAb crossreacts with several mouse proteins besides myoclonin1, while 6A3-mAb specifically recognized myoclonin1 and detected it only in cells with motile cilia but not in neurons. In dividing cells, mRib72-pAb signals were observed at the midbody (intercellular bridge) and mitotic spindle, but 6A3-mAb did not show any signals at these apparatuses. We further found that the complete elimination of myoclonin1 in Efhc1−/− mouse did not critically affect cell division and migration of neurons in cerebral cortex. These results indicate that myoclonin1 is not expressed in neurons, not a regulator of cell division or neuronal migration during cortical development, but expressed in choroid plexus and ependymal cells and suggest that EFHC1 mutation-dependent JME is a motile ciliopathy.
Brain structural network alterations related to serum cortisol levels in drug-naïve, first-episode major depressive disorder patients: a source-based morphometric study
Authors: Nguyen LeHoa , Kakeda Shingo , Watanabe Keita , Katsuki Asuka , Sugimoto Koichiro , Igata Natsuki , Shinkai Takahiro , Abe Osamu , Korogi Yukunori , Ikenouchi Atsuko , Yoshimura Reiji
Published: December 2020

Higher cortisol levels due to a hyperactive hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis have been reported in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD). Increased cortisol levels change both the brain morphology and function in MDD patients. The multivariate source-based morphometry (SBM) technique has been applied to investigate neuroanatomical changes in some neuropsychiatric diseases, but not MDD. We aimed to examine the alterations in gray matter (GM) networks and their relationship with serum cortisol levels in first-episode, drug-naïve MDD patients using SBM. Forty-two patients with MDD and 39 controls were recruited via interviews. Morning serum cortisol levels were measured, and high-resolution T1-weighted imaging followed by SBM analysis was performed in all participants. The patients had significantly higher serum cortisol levels than the controls. We found two GM sources, which were significantly different between patients with MDD and controls (prefrontal network, p < .01; insula-temporal network, p < .01). Serum cortisol levels showed a statistically significant negative correlation with the loading coefficients of the prefrontal network (r = − 0.354, p = 0.02). In conclusion, increased serum cortisol levels were associated with reductions in the prefrontal network in the early stage of MDD, and SBM may be a useful approach for analyzing structural MRI data.
Targeted graphene oxide for drug delivery as a therapeutic nanoplatform against Parkinson's disease
Authors: Xiong Sha , Luo Jingshan , Wang Qun , Li Zhongjun , Li Juntong , Liu Qiao , Gao Liqian , Fang Shuhuan , Li Yunyong , Pan Huafeng , Wang Hong , Zhang Yongbin , Wang Qi , Chen Xiaojia , Chen Tongkai
Published: December 2020

A brain-targeted drug delivery nanoplatform based on graphene oxide could overcome the blood–brain barrier for the treatment of Parkinson's disease.
Anti-drug antibody detection with label-free electrolyte-gated organic field-effect transistors
Authors: Sensi Matteo , Berto Marcello , Gentile Sara , Pinti Marcello , Conti Andrea , Pellacani Giovanni , Salvarani Carlo , Cossarizza Andrea , Bortolotti Carlo Augusto , Biscarini Fabio
Published: December 2020

The first label-free EGOFET immunosensor able to quantitatively detect anti-drug antibodies against Nivolumab, with a LOD of 100 fM.
Electron transfer within β-diketiminato nickel bromide and cobaltocene redox couples activating CO2
Authors: Zimmermann Philipp , Kilpatrick Alexander F. R. , Ar Deniz , Demeshko Serhiy , Cula Beatrice , Limberg Christian
Published: December 2020

Even though β-diketiminato nickel(ii) bromide and cobaltocene have nearly identical redox potentials the corresponding electron transfer complex can be crystallised from the equilibrium and activates CO2 to form a mononuclear nickel(ii) carbonate.
Catalytic conversion of nitrogen molecule into ammonia using molybdenum complexes under ambient reaction conditions
Authors: Ashida Yuya , Nishibayashi Yoshiaki
Published: December 2020

This feature article overviews the development of the conversion of nitrogen molecule into ammonia using molybdenum complexes with a special focus on the reaction mechanism.
Effects of ion migration and improvement strategies for the operational stability of perovskite solar cells
Authors: Zhao Yao , Zhou WenKe , Han Zhengyuan , Yu Dapeng , Zhao Qing
Published: December 2020

The fundamental factor (ion migration) affecting the stability of perovskite solar cells and improvement strategies have been reviewed.
Modeling microsolvation clusters with electronic-structure calculations guided by analytical potentials and predictive machine learning techniques
Authors: Jesus W. S. , Prudente F. V. , Marques J. M. C. , Pereira F. B.
Published: December 2020

A random-forest machine learning classifier promotes an efficiency enhancement in the DFT re-optimization of microsolvation clusters by selecting promising minimum structures that were searched by an evolutionary algorithm on an analytical PES.
Biocatalytic routes to anti-viral agents and their synthetic intermediates
Authors: Slagman Sjoerd , Fessner Wolf-Dieter
Published: December 2020

An assessment of biocatalytic strategies for the synthesis of anti-viral agents, offering guidelines for the development of sustainable production methods for a future COVID-19 remedy.
Activation of the Si–B interelement bond related to catalysis
Authors: Feng Jian-Jun , Mao Wenbin , Zhang Liangliang , Oestreich Martin
Published: December 2020

Covering the past seven years, this review comprehensively summarises the latest progress in the preparation and application of Si–B reagents, including the discussion of relevant reaction mechanisms.
A weakly luminescent Tb-MOF-based “turn-on” sensor for the highly selective and sensitive sensing of an anthrax biomarker
Authors: Zhao Xiao-Yang , Yang Hui , Zhao Wen-Yuan , Wang Jia , Yang Qi-Shan
Published: December 2020

A weakly luminescent Tb-MOF-based “turn-on” sensor for the highly selective and sensitive sensing of an anthrax biomarker was demonstrated.
Site occupancy preference of Bi3+and Bi3+–Eu3+codoped yttrium galliate phosphors for white LEDs
Authors: Zhang Liang , Dong Langping , Xu Yonghui , Yin Shuwen , You Hongpeng
Published: December 2020

Novel Y3GaO6:Bi3+/Eu3+phosphors have been prepared, in which the emission colour of Y3GaO6:Bi3+can be adjusted from bluish violet to orange red by changing the Bi3+ion content.
Engineering MoxC nanoparticles confined in N,P-codoped porous carbon hollow spheres for enhanced hydrogen evolution reaction
Authors: Li Ji-Sen , Zhou Yu-Wei , Huang Meng-Jie
Published: December 2020

N,P-codoped porous carbon hollow nanosphere confining ultrafine molybdenum carbide nanoparticles are designed and prepared through a facile method.
Brominated flame retardants (BFRs) in PM2.5 associated with various source sectors in southern China
Authors: Li Qi-Qi , Wang Tao , Zeng Yuan , Fan Yun , Chen She-Jun , Mai Bi-Xian
Published: December 2020

Higher concentrations of current-use BFRs were generally related to e-waste recycling and industrial sectors where BFRs are typically used, while highest concentrations of legacy PBDEs were found in old downtown areas.
The synergistic photocatalytic effects of surface-modified g-C3N4 in simple and complex pollution systems based on a macro-thermodynamic model
Authors: Li Kexin , Zhao Dongxiao , Li Yawen , Luo Shenglian , Zhou Zhentao
Published: December 2020

The novelty of this paper is the construction of a macro-thermodynamic model based on the synergistic photocatalytic effects of surface-modified g-C3N4.
Effect of the formulation and structure of monoglyceride-based gels on the viability of probioticLactobacillus rhamnosusuponin vitrodigestion
Authors: Melchior Sofia , Marino Marilena , D'Este Francesca , Innocente Nadia , Nicoli Maria Cristina , Calligaris Sonia
Published: December 2020

This research was conducted to evaluate the potential use of saturated monoglyceride (MG)-based gels in the protection of probiotics uponin vitrodigestion.
Citrus peel flavonoid nobiletin alleviates lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation by activating IL-6/STAT3/FOXO3a-mediated autophagy
Authors: Rong Xue , Xu Jie , Jiang Yang , Li Feng , Chen Yilun , Dou Q. Ping , Li Dapeng
Published: December 2020

Nobiletin, a polymethoxyflavone widely present in the peel of citrus fruits, has significant anti-inflammatory activity.
A systems-based analysis to explore the multiple mechanisms of Shan Zha for treating human diseases
Authors: Zhang Jingxiao , Chen Ziyi , Zhang Lilei , Zhao Xiaoxiao , Liu Zhigang , Zhou Wei
Published: December 2020

An integrated method was employed to comprehensively elucidate the complicated mechanisms of Shan Zha for the treatment of various disorders at the system level.
Construction and evaluation of an iron delivery system by ultra-small nanoparticles from roast sturgeon (Acipenser schrenckiid)
Authors: Song Yukun , Liu Kangjing , Su Wentao , Hou Shuai , Che Tongtong , Tan Mingqian
Published: December 2020

A new type of ultra-small food-borne nanoparticles with multiple functional groups from roast sturgeon were prepared, which had potential as efficient nanocarriers for Fe(ii) delivery.
Study of conditions for streamlined assembly of a model bacteriochlorophyll from two dihydrodipyrrin halves
Authors: Nguyen Khiem Chau , Wang Pengzhi , Lindsey Jonathan S.
Published: December 2020

Knoevenagel condensation followed by double-ring closure (Nazarov cyclization, electrophilic aromatic substitution, elimination of methanol) and optional zinc insertion smoothly afford models of the native bacteriochlorophylls.
Exploration of Kobayashi's aryne precursor: a potent reactive platform for the synthesis of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons
Authors: Sarmah Manashi , Sharma Abhilash , Gogoi Pranjal
Published: December 2020

This review provides a collective and informative discussion on the potential applications of Kobayashi's aryne precursor as a versatile building block for the synthesis of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.
Advanced spectroscopy, microscopy, diffraction and thermal analysis of polyamide adhesives and prediction of their functional properties with solid-state NMR spectroscopy
Authors: Bhullar Kash A. , Meinel Aaron , Maeder Kennedy , Wuhrer Richard , Gaborieau Marianne , Castignolles Patrice
Published: December 2020

Advanced spectroscopy, microscopy, diffraction and thermal analysis reveal heterogeneity and dynamics in polyamide industrial adhesives; solid-state NMR spectroscopy enable the prediction of their functional properties.
Fabrication of stimuli-responsive nanogels for protein encapsulation and traceless release without introducing organic solvents, surfactants, or small-molecule cross-linkers
Authors: Zhang Yue , Zhang Daowen , Wang Jin-Tao , Zhang Xiaojie , Yang Yongfang
Published: December 2020

Stimuli-responsive nanogels were fabricated by reaction of proteins and polymers without using small-organic-molecules. Once the nanogels dissociated, the proteins were released with functional groups, secondary structures, and activities maintained.
Non-swellable F127-DA hydrogel with concave microwells for formation of uniform-sized vascular spheroids
Authors: Li Yingjun , Wang Ying , Shen Chong , Meng Qin
Published: December 2020

Hydrogels with concave microwells are one of the simplest means to obtain uniform-sized cellular spheroids.
A photo-reversible crosslinking resin for additive manufacturing: reversibility and performance
Authors: Xue Hanyu , Li Xinzhong , Xia Jianrong , Lin Qi
Published: December 2020

Improving the adhesion between layers and achieving the recycling of resins are challenges in additive manufacturing (AM) technology.
The thermal stability of FAPbBr3nanocrystals from temperature-dependent photoluminescence and first-principles calculations
Authors: Wang Xiaozhe , Wang Qi , Chai Zhijun , Wu Wenzhi
Published: December 2020

The thermal properties of FAPbBr3perovskite nanocrystals (PNCs) is investigated by use of temperature-dependent steady-state/time-resolved photoluminescence and first-principle calculations.
Polyaniline and sodium alginate nanocomposite: a pH-responsive adsorbent for the removal of organic dyes from water
Authors: Majhi Deola , Patra Braja N.
Published: December 2020

Polyaniline and sodium alginate nanocomposite was synthesized and it was used for selective removal of both cationic and anionic dyes from water at different pH.
Novel ammonium dichloroacetates with enhanced herbicidal activity for weed control
Authors: Li Huanhuan , Ma Yajie , Hu Hongyan , Song Xianpeng , Ma Yan , Yan Hong
Published: December 2020

By using herbicidal ionic liquids (HILs) strategy, fifteen ammonium dichloroacetates were designed and synthesized. Compared to DCA, three salts with long chains had enhanced herbicidal activity against broadleaf weeds under greenhouse conditions.
Mononuclear gold(iii) complexes with diazanaphthalenes: the influence of the position of nitrogen atoms in the aromatic rings on the complex crystalline properties
Authors: Glišić Biljana Đ. , Warżajtis Beata , Hoffmann Marcin , Rychlewska Urszula , Djuran Miloš I.
Published: December 2020

The [AuCl3(benzodiazine)] complexes form centrosymmetric crystals, while the [AuCl3(naphthyridine)] complexes assemble into non-centrosymmetric aggregates, making them potential alternatives for advanced nonlinear optical materials due to their polarity.
Enantioselective one-pot synthesis of 4H-chromene derivatives catalyzed by a chiral Ni(ii) complex
Authors: Yu Xuan , Lan Wenjie , Li Jiaqi , Bai Hui , Qin Zhaohai , Fu Bin
Published: December 2020

A Ni(ii)–bis(oxazoline) complex and p-TSOH are used to form enantioenriched 4H-chromenes from ortho-quinone methides (o-QMs) and dicarbonyls, providing the desired products in up to 95% ee.
A click-based modular approach to introduction of peroxides onto molecules and nanostructures
Authors: Horn Alissa , Dussault Patrick H.
Published: December 2020

Copper-promoted azide/alkyne cycloadditions (CuAAC) are explored as a tool for modular introduction of peroxides onto molecules and nanomaterials.
Electrosynthesis of polycyclic quinazolinones and rutaecarpine from isatoic anhydrides and cyclic amines
Authors: Chen Xingyu , Zhang Xing , Lu Sixian , Sun Peng
Published: December 2020

Polycyclic quinazolinones and rutaecarpine were synthesized from isatoic anhydrides and cyclic amines through an electrochemical method without an external oxidant and transition-metal-catalyst.
Correction: Assessment of the toxicity and inflammatory effects of different-sized zinc oxide nanoparticles in 2D and 3D cell cultures
Authors: Wu Zhipan , Guan Rongfa , Tao Miao , Lyu Fei , Cao Guozhou , Liu Mingqi , Gao Jianguo
Published: December 2020

Correction for ‘Assessment of the toxicity and inflammatory effects of different-sized zinc oxide nanoparticles in 2D and 3D cell cultures’ by Zhipan Wu, Rongfa Guan, Miao Tao et al., RSC Adv., 2017, 7, 12437–12445, DOI: 10.1039/C6RA27334C.
Iridium-promoted deoxyglycoside synthesis: stereoselectivity and mechanistic insight
Authors: Pal Kumar Bhaskar , Guo Aoxin , Das Mrinmoy , Lee Jiande , Báti Gábor , Yip Benjamin Rui Peng , Loh Teck-Peng , Liu Xue-Wei
Published: December 2020

Ir(i)-catalyzed α-selective O-glycosylation of glycals provided an access to both 2-deoxyglycosides and 2,3-unsaturated glycosides with a broad substrate scope. The underlying rationale of α-selectivity has been illustrated by the DFT study.
Diffusion of active particles in convective flows
Authors: Ghosh Pulak K. , Debnath Debajyoti , Li Yunyun , Marchesoni Fabio
Published: December 2020

We numerically investigated the diffusion of an active Janus particle in periodic arrays of planar counter-rotating convection rolls at high Péclet numbers.
Aescin – a natural soap for the formation of lipid nanodiscs with tunable size
Authors: Geisler Ramsia , Pedersen Martin Cramer , Preisig Natalie , Hannappel Yvonne , Prévost Sylvain , Dattani Rajeev , Arleth Lise , Hellweg Thomas
Published: December 2020

The article discusses the temperature-dependent reorganization of beta-aescin stabilized lipid nanodiscs from smaller, to larger discs, ribbons and finally to stacks of sheets.
Determination of thermodynamic state variables of liquids from their microscopic structures using an artificial neural network
Authors: Que-Salinas Ulices , Ramírez-González Pedro E. , Torres-Carbajal Alexis
Published: December 2020

In this work we implement a machine learning method based on an artificial neural network to predict the thermodynamic state of a liquid using only its microscopic structure provided by the radial distribution function.
A robust heterometallic ultramicroporous MOF with ultrahigh selectivity for propyne/propylene separation
Authors: Peng Yun-Lei , Wang Ting , Jin Chaonan , Li Pengfei , Suepaul Shanelle , Beemer Gary , Chen Yao , Krishna Rajamani , Cheng Peng , Pham Tony , Space Brian , Zaworotko Michael J. , Zhang Zhenjie
Published: December 2020

Highly efficient removal of trace propyne (C3H4) (propyne <1000 ppm) from propylene (C3H6) is an essential and challenging industrial process due to the high molecular similarity of C3H4 and C3H6.
High-performance all-organic aqueous batteries based on a poly(imide) anode and poly(catechol) cathode
Authors: Patil Nagaraj , Mavrandonakis Andreas , Jérôme Christine , Detrembleur Christophe , Casado Nerea , Mecerreyes David , Palma Jesus , Marcilla Rebeca
Published: December 2020

All-organic aqueous batteries based on universal poly(imide) anodes and poly(catechol) cathodes with tunable cell voltage are reported by exploiting different charge carriers (Li+, Zn2+, Al3+, and Li+/H+). A full-cell achieves the highest energy/power density of 80.6 W h kg−1/348 kW kg−1 in Li+/H+.
Structure and chemistry of the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) on a high capacity conversion-based anode: NiO
Authors: Ng Benjamin , Faegh Ehsan , Lateef Saheed , Karakalos Stavros G. , Mustain William E.
Published: December 2020

Electroanalytical techniques are specialized tools with high-sensitivity that when combined with electron transfer theory can shed light on the mechanisms of highly complex, heterogeneous, multi-step reactions – including SEI formation on LiB anodes.
Electrostatically self-assembled two-dimensional magnetized MXene/hollow Fe3O4 nanoparticle hybrids with high electromagnetic absorption performance and improved impendence matching
Authors: Deng Baiwen , Liu Zhicheng , Pan Fei , Xiang Zhen , Zhang Xiang , Lu Wei
Published: December 2020

Two-dimensional magnetized MXene-based hybrids, obtained by electrostatic self-assembly of Ti3C2Tx with hollow Fe3O4 nanoparticles, achieved high electromagnetic absorption performance.
Preparation of responsive “dual-lock” nanoparticles and their application in collaborative therapy based on CuS coordination
Authors: Jia Chao , Zhang Man , He Xi-Wen , Li Wen-You , Zhang Yu-Kui
Published: December 2020

Application of “dual-lock” drug loaded nanoparticles in tumor targeting, responsive drug release and photothermal chemical synergistic therapy.
Natively stretchable micro-supercapacitors based on a PEDOT:PSS hydrogel
Authors: Li Jinhui , Yan Wenrong , Zhang Guoping , Sun Rong , Ho Derek
Published: December 2020

Highly stretchable (>200%) microsupercapacitors (with 93% retention of the capacitance) are prepared by a facile laser-patterning and injection method with a highly conductive PEDOT:PSS hydrogel.
Dynamic adjustment of emission from both singlets and triplets: the role of excited state conformation relaxation and charge transfer in phenothiazine derivates
Authors: Qiu Weidong , Cai Xinyi , Li Mengke , Wang Liangying , He Yanmei , Xie Wentao , Chen Zijian , Liu Ming , Su Shi-Jian
Published: December 2020

Dynamic adjustment of emission behaviours by controlling the extent of twisted intramolecular charge transfer character in excited state.