bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrochemical degradation and saponification of porcine adipose tissue
Authors: Pham Tiffany T. , Stokolosa Anna M. , Borden Pamela A. , Hansen Kyle D. , Hong Ellen M. , Krasieva Tatiana B. , Sivoraphonh Ryan H. , Moy Wesley J. , Heidari Andrew E. , Lee Lauren H. , Kim Eun-Hee , Sun Chung- Ho , Jia Wangcun , Mo Ji -Hun , Kim Sehwan , Hill Michael G. , Wong Brian J. F.
Published: November 2020

Body contouring achieved via subcutaneous adipose tissue reduction has notably advanced over the past century, from suction assisted lipectomy to techniques with reduced degrees of invasiveness including laser, radiofrequency, high frequency focused ultrasound, cryolipolysis, and drug-based injection approaches. These costly techniques have focused on damaging adipocyte cell membranes, hydrolyzing triglycerides (TGs), or inducing apoptosis. Here, we present a simple, low-cost technique, termed electrochemical lipolysis (ECLL). During ECLL, saline is injected into the subcutaneous adipose tissue, followed by insertion of needle electrodes and application of an electrical potential. Electrolysis of saline creates localized pH gradients that drive adipocyte death and saponification of TGs. Using pH mapping, various optical imaging techniques, and biochemical assays, we demonstrate the ability of ECLL to induce acid and base injury, cell death, and the saponification of triglycerides in ex vivo porcine adipose tissue. We define ECLL’s potential role as a minimally-invasive, ultra-low-cost technology for reducing and contouring adipose tissue, and present ECLL as a potential new application of an emerging electrochemical redox based treatment modality.
Value of clinical, ultrasonographic and MRI signs as diagnostic differentiators of non-benign lipomatous tumours
Authors: Khan Karishma , Azzopardi Elayne , Camilleri Liberato , Azzopardi Ernest A. , Bragg Thomas H.
Published: November 2020

Suspicion of malignant change within a lipoma is a common and increasing workload within the UK Sarcoma multidisciplinary team (MDT) network, and a source of considerable patient anxiety. Currently, there is no lipoma-specific data, with regard to which clinical or radiographic features predict non-benign histology, or calculate an odds-ratio specific to a lipomatous lesion being non-benign. We performed a 9-year, double-blind, unmatched cohort study, comparing post-operative histology outcomes (benign versus non-benign) versus 15 signs across three domains: Clinical (size of tumour, depth, growth noticed by patient, previous lipoma, patient felt pain), Ultrasonographic (size, depth, vascularity, heterogenous features, septae) and MRI (size, depth, vascularity, heterogenous features, septae, complete fat signal suppression). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, odds ratios and binary logistic regression analysis was performed double-blind. When each sign is considered independently, (ROC analysis, followed by binary logistic regression) only Ultrasound depth is a significant predictor (p = 0.044) of a histologically non-benign lipoma. Ultrasonographically determined vascularity and septation were not statistically significant predictors. None of the clinical signs were statistically significant (p > 0.05). Of the MRI signs none was statistically significant (p > 0.05). However, heterogeneous MRI features fared better than MRI depth. Ultrasound signs (Pseudo R-Square = 0.105) are more predictive of the post-operation histology outcome than Clinical signs (Pseudo R-Square = 0.082) or MRI tests (Pseudo R-Square = 0.052) Ultrasound and Clinical tests combined (Pseudo R-Square = 0.147) are more predictive of the post-operation histology outcome than MRI tests (Pseudo R-Square = 0.052). This work challenges the traditional perception of “red-flag” signs when applied to lipomatous tumours. We provide accurate data upon which an informed choice can be made, and provides a robust bases for expedited risk/benefit. The importance of an experienced and cohesive MDT network is emphasised.
Diet induces parallel changes to the gut microbiota and problem solving performance in a wild bird
Authors: Davidson Gabrielle L. , Wiley Niamh , Cooke Amy C. , Johnson Crystal N. , Fouhy Fiona , Reichert Michael S. , de la Hera Iván , Crane Jodie M. S. , Kulahci Ipek G. , Ross R. Paul , Stanton Catherine , Quinn John L.
Published: November 2020

The microbial community in the gut is influenced by environmental factors, especially diet, which can moderate host behaviour through the microbiome-gut-brain axis. However, the ecological relevance of microbiome-mediated behavioural plasticity in wild animals is unknown. We presented wild-caught great tits (Parus major) with a problem-solving task and showed that performance was weakly associated with variation in the gut microbiome. We then manipulated the gut microbiome by feeding birds one of two diets that differed in their relative levels of fat, protein and fibre content: an insect diet (low content), or a seed diet (high content). Microbial communities were less diverse among individuals given the insect compared to those on the seed diet. Individuals were less likely to problem-solve after being given the insect diet, and the same microbiota metrics that were altered as a consequence of diet were also those that correlated with variation in problem solving performance. Although the effect on problem-solving behaviour could have been caused by motivational or nutritional differences between our treatments, our results nevertheless raise the possibility that dietary induced changes in the gut microbiota could be an important mechanism underlying individual behavioural plasticity in wild populations.
Wild black bears harbor simple gut microbial communities with little difference between the jejunum and colon
Authors: Gillman Sierra J. , McKenney Erin A. , Lafferty Diana J. R.
Published: November 2020

The gut microbiome (GMB), comprising the commensal microbial communities located in the gastrointestinal tract, has co-evolved in mammals to perform countless micro-ecosystem services to facilitate physiological functions. Because of the complex inter-relationship between mammals and their gut microbes, the number of studies addressing the role of the GMB on mammalian health is almost exclusively limited to human studies and model organisms. Furthermore, much of our knowledge of wildlife–GMB relationships is based on studies of colonic GMB communities derived from the feces of captive specimens, leaving our understanding of the GMB in wildlife limited. To better understand wildlife–GMB relationships, we engaged hunters as citizen scientists to collect biological samples from legally harvested black bears (Ursus americanus) and used 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing to characterize wild black bear GMB communities in the colon and jejunum, two functionally distinct regions of the gastrointestinal tract. We determined that the jejunum and colon of black bears do not harbor significantly different GMB communities: both gastrointestinal sites were dominated by Firmicutes and Proteobacteria. However, a number of bacteria were differentially enriched in each site, with the colon harboring twice as many enriched taxa, primarily from closely related lineages.
Detection of degenerate Stokes index states
Authors: Arora Gauri , Deepa S. , Khan Saba N. , Senthilkumaran P.
Published: November 2020

Stokes phase is the phase difference between orthogonal component states in the decomposition of any polarization state. Phase singularities in the Stokes phase distribution are Stokes singularities of an inhomogeneous polarization distribution. Under circular decomposition, Stokes phase distribution$$(\phi _{12})$$(ϕ12)represents polarization azimuth$$(\gamma )$$(γ)distribution and the singularities present in it are polarization singularities. Therefore, the charge of the Stokes vortices depicted as Stokes index$$\sigma _{12}$$σ12is an important parameter associated with the polarization singularity. The Hybrid order Poincaré sphere (HyOPS)/Higher order Poincaré sphere (HOPS) beams, all having same Stokes index, contain a Stokes singularity at the center of the beam as these beams are constructed by vortex superposition. These beams, being superposition of orthogonal orbital angular momentum (OAM) states in orthogonal spin angular momentum (SAM) states can offer great multiplexing capabilities in communication. In this article, we identify these degenerate Stokes index states and discuss the ways and means of lifting this degeneracy. Otherwise, there are limitations on intensity based detection techniques, where demultiplexing or segregation of different HOPS/HyOPS beams is warranted. The method adduced here uses the diffraction of these beams through an equilateral triangular aperture in combination with polarization transformation as a probe to lift the Stokes index/Stokes phase degeneracy. Successively, the novelty of the detection scheme is discussed in the context of beams with alike polarization distributions where even the technique of Stokes polarimetry fails to predict the OAM and SAM content of the beam.
Prenatal diagnosis of chromosomal aberrations by chromosomal microarray analysis in foetuses with ventriculomegaly
Authors: Wang Jiamin , Zhang Zhu , Li Qinqin , Zhu Hongmei , Lai Yi , Luo Wei , Liu Shanling , Wang He , Hu Ting
Published: November 2020

Ventriculomegaly is considered to be linked to abnormal neurodevelopment outcome. The aim of this retrospective study was to investigate the current applications of chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA) in foetuses with ventriculomegaly. A total of 548 foetuses with ventriculomegaly detected by prenatal ultrasound underwent single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) array testing and were subjected to long-term follow-up. The overall prevalence of chromosomal aberrations was 7.30% (40/548), including 4.20% (23/548) with pathogenic/likely pathogenic copy number variants. The incidence of chromosomal aberrations was significantly higher in foetuses with bilateral ventriculomegaly than in those with unilateral ventriculomegaly (10.56% vs. 5.71%, P = 0.040), in foetuses with non-isolated ventriculomegaly than in those with isolated ventriculomegaly (12.99% vs. 2.38%, P < 0.0001), and in foetuses with severe ventriculomegaly than in those with mild-to-moderate ventriculomegaly (23.08% vs. 6.51%, P = 0.005). The outcome in foetuses with mild ventriculomegaly was significantly better than in those with moderate ventriculomegaly (95.60% vs. 84.00%, P = 0.003). Thus, CMA should be regarded as the first-tier test for prenatal diagnosis of foetal ventriculomegaly, especially in foetuses with bilateral or non-isolated ventriculomegaly. The outcome of foetuses with mild ventriculomegaly is favourable; however, there is an increased risk of neurodevelopmental disabilities in foetuses with moderate ventriculomegaly.
Changes in hemodynamics, renal blood flow and urine output during continuous renal replacement therapies
Authors: Fernández S. N. , Santiago M. J. , González R. , López J. , Solana M. J. , Urbano J. , López-Herce J.
Published: November 2020

Continuous renal replacement therapies (CRRT) affect hemodynamics and urine output. Some theories suggest a reduced renal blood flow as the cause of the decreased urine output, but the exact mechanisms remain unclear. A prospective experimental study was carried out in 32 piglets (2–3 months old) in order to compare the impact of CRRT on hemodynamics, renal perfusion, urine output and renal function in healthy animals and in those with non-oliguric acute kidney injury (AKI). CRRT was started according to our clinical protocol, with an initial blood flow of 20 ml/min, with 10 ml/min increases every minute until a goal flow of 5 ml/kg/min. Heart rate, blood pressure, central venous pressure, cardiac output, renal blood flow and urine output were registered at baseline and during the first 6 h of CRRT. Blood and urine samples were drawn at baseline and after 2 and 6 h of therapy. Blood pressure, cardiac index and urine output significantly decreased after starting CRRT in all piglets. Renal blood flow, however, steadily increased throughout the study. Cisplatin piglets had lower cardiac index, higher vascular resistance, lower renal blood flow and lower urine output than control piglets. Plasma levels of ADH and urine levels of aquaporin-2 were lower, whereas kidney injury biomarkers were higher in the cisplatin group of piglets. According to our findings, a reduced renal blood flow doesn’t seem to be the cause of the decrease in urine output after starting CRRT.
EEG-based trial-by-trial texture classification during active touch
Authors: Eldeeb Safaa , Weber Douglas , Ting Jordyn , Demir Andac , Erdogmus Deniz , Akcakaya Murat
Published: November 2020

Trial-by-trial texture classification analysis and identifying salient texture related EEG features during active touch that are minimally influenced by movement type and frequency conditions are the main contributions of this work. A total of twelve healthy subjects were recruited. Each subject was instructed to use the fingertip of their dominant hand’s index finger to rub or tap three textured surfaces (smooth flat, medium rough, and rough) with three levels of movement frequency (approximately 2, 1 and 0.5 Hz). EEG and force data were collected synchronously during each touch condition. A systematic feature selection process was performed to select temporal and spectral EEG features that contribute to texture classification but have low contribution towards movement type and frequency classification. A tenfold cross validation was used to train two 3-class (each for texture and movement frequency classification) and a 2-class (movement type) Support Vector Machine classifiers. Our results showed that the total power in the mu (8–15 Hz) and beta (16–30 Hz) frequency bands showed high accuracy in discriminating among textures with different levels of roughness (average accuracy > 84%) but lower contribution towards movement type (average accuracy < 65%) and frequency (average accuracy < 58%) classification.
Salidroside regulates inflammatory pathway of alveolar macrophages by influencing the secretion of miRNA-146a exosomes by lung epithelial cells
Authors: Zheng Lanzhi , Su Jianming , Zhang Zhuoyi , Jiang Lu , Wei Jinling , Xu Xiaoyang , Lv Shumin
Published: November 2020

The purpose of this study was to explore the investigative mechanism of salidroside (SAL) on LPS-induced acute lung injury (ALI)/acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The exosomes from RLE-6TN are extracted and identified by transmission electron microscopy, particle size analysis and protein marker detection, and co-cultured with NR8383 cells. The ALI/ARDS model of SD rats was established by LPS (10 mg/kg) intratracheal instillation. Following a four-hour intratracheal instillation of LPS, 50 μl of RLE-6TN exosomes were injected through the tail vein. After that, SAL and miR-146a antagomir were injected into the tail vein for 72 h, respectively. As the changes of HE stain, body weight and ALI score are observed. The expression of miR-146a, TLR4, NF-kB, IRAK1, TRAF6 and their related proteins were detected by RT-PCR and Western blot, respectively. TNF-α, IL-6, IL-8 and IL-1 β inflammatory factors were detected by ELISA. The expression of miR-146a, NF-kB, IRAK, TRAF6 and related inflammatory factors in LPS-induced NR8383 was significantly higher than that in the control group, while SAL has greatly reduced the expression of TLR4 mediated NF-kB inflammatory pathway and related inflammatory factors. SAL can significantly improve the LPS-induced lung morphological abnormalities, slowed down the rate of weight loss in rats, and reducing the ALI score. The expression trend of NF-kB, IRAK, TRAF6 and related inflammatory factors in rats’ lung tissues was consistent with that in NR8383 cells. SAL has a protective effect on ALI/ARDS caused by sepsis, which is likely to be developed to a potential treatment for the disease. To sum up, this study provides a new theoretical basis for the treatment of ALI/ARDS with SAL.
High-phosphorus diets reduce aortic lesions and cardiomyocyte size and modify lipid metabolism in Ldl receptor knockout mice
Authors: Grundmann Sarah M. , Schutkowski Alexandra , Berger Christian , Baur Anja C. , König Bettina , Stangl Gabriele I.
Published: November 2020

The consumption of phosphorus in Western populations largely exceeds the recommended intake, while vitamin D supply is often insufficient. Both situations are linked to an increased cardiovascular risk. A 17-week two-factorial study with Ldl receptor-/- mice was conducted to investigate the cardiovascular impact of dietary phosphorus [adequate (0.3%; P0.3) vs. high (1.5%; P1.5)] in combination with a low (50 IU/kg; D50) or adequate vitamin D diet (1000 IU/kg; D1000). The data demonstrate that mice fed the P1.5 vs. P0.3 diets developed smaller vascular lesions (p = 0.013) and cardiac hypotrophy (p = 0.011), which were accompanied by diminished IGF1 and insulin signalling activity in their hearts. Vitamin D showed no independent effect on atherogenesis and heart morphology. Feeding P1.5 vs. P0.3 diets resulted in markedly reduced serum triacylglycerols (p < 0.0001) and cholesterol (p < 0.0001), higher faecal lipid excretion (p < 0.0001) and a reduced mRNA abundance of hepatic sterol exporters and lipoprotein receptors. Minor hypocholesterolaemic and hypotriglyceridaemic effects were also found in mice fed the D1000 vs. D50 diets (p = 0.048, p = 0.026). To conclude, a high phosphorus intake strongly affected the formation of vascular lesions, cardiac morphology, and lipid metabolism, although these changes are not indicative of an increased cardiovascular risk.
Evaluation of an antibody-PNA conjugate as a clearing agent for antibody-based PNA-mediated radionuclide pretargeting
Authors: Myrhammar Anders , Vorobyeva Anzhelika , Westerlund Kristina , Yoneoka Shuichiro , Orlova Anna , Tsukahara Takehiko , Tolmachev Vladimir , Karlström Amelie Eriksson , Altai Mohamed
Published: November 2020

Radionuclide molecular imaging of cancer-specific targets is a promising method to identify patients for targeted antibody therapy. Radiolabeled full-length antibodies however suffer from slow clearance, resulting in high background radiation. To overcome this problem, a pretargeting system based on complementary peptide nucleic acid (PNA) probes has been investigated. The pretargeting relies on sequential injections of primary, PNA-tagged antibody and secondary, radiolabeled PNA probe, which are separated in time, to allow for clearance of non-bound primary agent. We now suggest to include a clearing agent (CA), designed for removal of primary tumor-targeting agent from the blood. The CA is based on the antibody cetuximab, which was conjugated to PNA and lactosaminated by reductive amination to improve hepatic clearance. The CA was evaluated in combination with PNA-labelled trastuzumab, T-ZHP1, for radionuclide HER2 pretargeting. Biodistribution studies in normal mice demonstrated that the CA cleared ca. 7 times more rapidly from blood than unmodified cetuximab. Injection of the CA 6 h post injection of the radiolabeled primary agent [131I]I-T-ZHP1 gave a moderate reduction of the radioactivity concentration in the blood after 1 h from 8.5 ± 1.8 to 6.0 ± 0.4%ID/g. These proof-of-principle results could guide future development of a more efficient CA.
Physiological and molecular correlates of the screwworm fly attraction to wound and animal odors
Authors: Hickner Paul V. , Mittapalli Omprakash , Subramoniam Anjana , Sagel Agustin , Watson Wes , Scott Maxwell J. , Arp Alex P. , de León Adalberto A. Pérez , Syed Zainulabeuddin
Published: November 2020

The screwworm fly,Cochliomyia hominivorax(Coquerel), was successfully eradicated from the United States by the sterile insect technique (SIT). However, recent detection of these flies in the Florida Keys, and increased risk of introductions to the other areas warrant novel tools for management of the flies. Surveillance, a key component of screwworm control programs, utilizes traps baited with rotting liver or a blend of synthetic chemicals such asswormlure-4. In this work, we evaluated the olfactory physiology of the screwworm fly and compared it with the non-obligate ectoparasitic secondary screwworm flies,C. macellaria,that invade necrotic wound and feed on dead tissue. These two species occur in geographically overlapping regions.C. macellaria, along with other blowflies such as the exoticC. megacephala, greatly outnumberC. hominivoraxin the existing monitoring traps. Olfactory responses toswormlure-4constituents between sex and mating status (mated vs unmated) in both species were recorded and compared. Overall, responses measured by the antennograms offered insights into the comparative olfactory physiology of the two fly species. We also present detailed analyses of the antennal transcriptome by RNA-Sequencing that reveal significant differences between male and female screwworm flies. The differential expression patterns were confirmed by quantitative PCR. Taken together, this integrated study provides insights into the physiological and molecular correlates of the screwworm’s attraction to wounds, and identifies molecular targets that will aid in the development of odorant-based fly management strategies.
Ultra-broadband local active noise control with remote acoustic sensing
Authors: Xiao Tong , Qiu Xiaojun , Halkon Benjamin
Published: November 2020

One enduring challenge for controlling high frequency sound in local active noise control (ANC) systems is to obtain the acoustic signal at the specific location to be controlled. In some applications such as in ANC headrest systems, it is not practical to install error microphones in a person’s ears to provide the user a quiet or optimally acoustically controlled environment. Many virtual error sensing approaches have been proposed to estimate the acoustic signal remotely with the current state-of-the-art method using an array of four microphones and a head tracking system to yield sound reduction up to 1 kHz for a single sound source. In the work reported in this paper, a novel approach of incorporating remote acoustic sensing using a laser Doppler vibrometer into an ANC headrest system is investigated. In this “virtual ANC headphone” system, a lightweight retro-reflective membrane pick-up is mounted in each synthetic ear of a head and torso simulator to determine the sound in the ear in real-time with minimal invasiveness. The membrane design and the effects of its location on the system performance are explored, the noise spectra in the ears without and with ANC for a variety of relevant primary sound fields are reported, and the performance of the system during head movements is demonstrated. The test results show that at least 10 dB sound attenuation can be realised in the ears over an extended frequency range (from 500 Hz to 6 kHz) under a complex sound field and for several common types of synthesised environmental noise, even in the presence of head motion.
Amoeba-inspired analog electronic computing system integrating resistance crossbar for solving the travelling salesman problem
Authors: Saito Kenta , Aono Masashi , Kasai Seiya
Published: November 2020

Combinatorial optimization to search for the best solution across a vast number of legal candidates requires the development of a domain-specific computing architecture that can exploit the computational power of physical processes, as conventional general-purpose computers are not powerful enough. Recently, Ising machines that execute quantum annealing or related mechanisms for rapid search have attracted attention. These machines, however, are hard to map application problems into their architecture, and often converge even at an illegal candidate. Here, we demonstrate an analogue electronic computing system for solving the travelling salesman problem, which mimics efficient foraging behaviour of an amoeboid organism by the spontaneous dynamics of an electric current in its core and enables a high problem-mapping flexibility and resilience using a resistance crossbar circuit. The system has high application potential, as it can determine a high-quality legal solution in a time that grows proportionally to the problem size without suffering from the weaknesses of Ising machines.
Strength and microstructure properties of solidified sewage sludge with two types of cement-based binders
Authors: Chen Yijun , He Xingxing , Zhang Shaohua , Tan Xun , Wan Yong
Published: November 2020

Solidification treatment with cementitious binder is an effective way to reduce environmental hazards of sewage sludge. Two cementitious binders, i.e., ordinary Portland cement (OPC) and sulfo-aluminate cement (SAC), were compared in this study to treat the sewage sludge. The strength of solidified sewage sludge (SSS) and changes in microscopic characteristics before and after treatment were analyzed through microscopic analysis methods. The effect of organic matter in sludge on the strength of SSS were also discussed. The results showed that the strength of SSS were lower than that of the solidified clay with no organic matter, and the filtrate extracted from the sludge can also weaken the cementation of the two cements significantly. The solidification effect of the OPC on the sludge was lower than that of the SAC evidently. The organic matter in the sewage sludge caused the surface of the soil particles to carry a large negative potential, which interfered with the hydration of the binder and reduced the amount of cementation skeleton formed by the binder hydration products. This resulted in a porous structure with low mechanical strength. The amount of early hydration product formed in the SAC-based solidified samples was higher than that of the OPC-based samples. This was favorable for filling the pores of the solidified samples and increasing their density. SAC had a better compatibility with soft soil containing high organic matter than OPC, and the which provides an effective alternative binder for dealing with sewage sludge.
Transcriptomic analysis of tobacco-flavored E-cigarette and menthol-flavored E-cigarette exposure in the human middle ear
Authors: Song Jae-Jun , Go Yoon Young , Lee Jong Kyou , Lee Bum Sang , Park Su-Kyoung , Jung Harry , Lee Jun Ho , Chang Jiwon
Published: November 2020

Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) are the most widely used electronic nicotine delivery systems and are designed to imitate smoking and aid in smoking cessation. Although the number of e-cigarette users is increasing rapidly, especially among young adults and adolescents, the potential health impacts and biologic effects of e-cigarettes still need to be elucidated. Our previous study demonstrated the cytotoxic effects of electronic liquids (e-liquids) in a human middle ear epithelial cell (HMEEC-1) line, which were affected by the manufacturer and flavoring agents regardless of the presence of nicotine. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the gene expression profile and identify potential molecular modulator genes and pathways in HMEEC-1 exposed to two different e-liquids (tobacco- and menthol-flavored). HMEEC-1 was exposed to e-liquids, and RNA sequencing, functional analysis, and pathway analysis were conducted to identify the resultant transcriptomic changes. A total of 843 genes were differentially expressed following exposure to the tobacco-flavored e-liquid, among which 262 genes were upregulated and 581 were downregulated. Upon exposure to the menthol-flavored e-liquid, a total of 589 genes were differentially expressed, among which 228 genes were upregulated and 361 were downregulated. Among the signaling pathways associated with the differentially expressed genes mediated by tobacco-flavored e-liquid exposure, several key molecular genes were identified, including IL6 (interleukin 6), PTGS2 (prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2), CXCL8 (C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 8), JUN (Jun proto-oncogene), FOS (Fos proto-oncogene), and TP53 (tumor protein 53). Under menthol-flavored e-liquid treatment, MMP9 (matrix metallopeptidase 9), PTGS2 (prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2), MYC (MYC proto-oncogene, bHLH transcription factor), HMOX1 (heme oxygenase 1), NOS3 (nitric oxide synthase 3), and CAV1 (caveolin 1) were predicted as key genes. In addition, we identified related cellular processes, including inflammatory responses, oxidative stress and carcinogenesis, under exposure to tobacco- and menthol-flavored e-liquids. We identified differentially expressed genes and related cellular processes and gene signaling pathways after e-cigarette exposure in human middle ear cells. These findings may provide useful evidence for understanding the effect of e-cigarette exposure.
Echocardiographic signs of subclinical cardiac function impairment in Duchenne dystrophy gene carriers
Authors: Kincl Vladimír , Panovský Roman , Pešl Martin , Máchal Jan , Juříková Lenka , Haberlová Jana , Masárová Lucia
Published: November 2020

To assess subclinical cardiac function impairment in Duchenne dystrophy (DMD) female carriers. Forty-four female subjects proved as DMD carriers underwent echocardiographic examination including tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) of mitral and tricuspid annulus. Seventeen age-matched healthy female subjects served as controls. A significant differences in peak systolic annular velocity (Sa) between carriers and controls were found for lateral and septal part of the mitral annulus and for tricuspid annulus (0.09 vs. 0.11 m/s, p < 0.001, 0.08 vs. 0.09 m/s, p < 0.01 and 0.13 vs. 0.14 m/s, p = 0.02 respectively). There was also difference in early diastolic velocity (Ea) of the septal part of the mitral annulus (0.11 vs. 0.13 m/s, p = 0.03). The subclinical deterioration of systolic function is presented even in asymptomatic DMD female carriers.
Author Correction: A comprehensive global perspective on phylogenomics and evolutionary dynamics of Small ruminant morbillivirus
Authors: Shabbir Muhammad Zubair , Rahman Aziz-ul , Munir Muhammad
Published: November 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Type I toxin-antitoxin systems contribute to the maintenance of mobile genetic elements in Clostridioides difficile
Authors: Peltier Johann , Hamiot Audrey , Garneau Julian R. , Boudry Pierre , Maikova Anna , Hajnsdorf Eliane , Fortier Louis-Charles , Dupuy Bruno , Soutourina Olga
Published: November 2020

Toxin-antitoxin (TA) systems are widespread on mobile genetic elements and in bacterial chromosomes. In type I TA, synthesis of the toxin protein is prevented by the transcription of an antitoxin RNA. The first type I TA were recently identified in the human enteropathogen Clostridioides difficile. Here we report the characterization of five additional type I TA within phiCD630-1 (CD0977.1-RCd11, CD0904.1-RCd13 and CD0956.3-RCd14) and phiCD630-2 (CD2889-RCd12 and CD2907.2-RCd15) prophages of C. difficile strain 630. Toxin genes encode 34 to 47 amino acid peptides and their ectopic expression in C. difficile induces growth arrest that is neutralized by antitoxin RNA co-expression. We show that type I TA located within the phiCD630-1 prophage contribute to its stability and heritability. We have made use of a type I TA toxin gene to generate an efficient mutagenesis tool for this bacterium that allowed investigation of the role of these widespread TA in prophage maintenance.
Borax induces osteogenesis by stimulating NaBC1 transporter via activation of BMP pathway
Authors: Rico Patricia , Rodrigo-Navarro Aleixandre , Sánchez Pérez Laura , Salmeron-Sanchez Manuel
Published: November 2020

The intrinsic properties of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) make them ideal candidates for tissue engineering applications. Efforts have been made to control MSC behavior by using material systems to engineer synthetic extracellular matrices and/or include soluble factors in the media. This work proposes a simple approach based on ion transporter stimulation to determine stem cell fate that avoids the use of growth factors. Addition of borax alone, transported by the NaBC1-transporter, enhanced MSC adhesion and contractility, promoted osteogenesis and inhibited adipogenesis. Stimulated-NaBC1 promoted osteogenesis via the BMP canonical pathway (comprising Smad1/YAP nucleus translocation and osteopontin expression) through a mechanism that involves simultaneous NaBC1/BMPR1A and NaBC1/α5β1/αvβ3 co-localization. We describe an original function for NaBC1 transporter, besides controlling borate homeostasis, capable of stimulating growth factor receptors and fibronectin-binding integrins. Our results open up new biomaterial engineering approaches for biomedical applications by a cost-effective strategy that avoids the use of soluble growth factors.
Ligand-induced conformational rearrangements regulate the switch between membrane-proximal and distal functions of Rho kinase 2
Authors: Hajdú István , Szilágyi András , Végh Barbara M. , Wacha András , Györffy Dániel , Gráczer Éva , Somogyi Márk , Gál Péter , Závodszky Péter
Published: November 2020

Rho-associated protein kinase 2 (ROCK2) is a membrane-anchored, long, flexible, multidomain, multifunctional protein. Its functions can be divided into two categories: membrane-proximal and membrane-distal. A recent study concluded that membrane-distal functions require the fully extended conformation, and this conclusion was supported by electron microscopy. The present solution small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) study revealed that ROCK2 population is a dynamic mixture of folded and partially extended conformers. Binding of RhoA to the coiled-coil domain shifts the equilibrium towards the partially extended state. Enzyme activity measurements suggest that the binding of natural protein substrates to the kinase domain breaks up the interaction between the N-terminal kinase and C-terminal regulatory domains, but smaller substrate analogues do not. The present study reveals the dynamic behaviour of this long, dimeric molecule in solution, and our structural model provides a mechanistic explanation for a set of membrane-proximal functions while allowing for the existence of an extended conformation in the case of membrane-distal functions.
Entropic thermodynamics of nonlinear photonic chain networks
Authors: Wu Fan O. , Jung Pawel S. , Parto Midya , Khajavikhan Mercedeh , Christodoulides Demetrios N.
Published: November 2020

The convoluted nonlinear behaviors of heavily multimode photonic structures have been recently the focus of considerable attention. The sheer complexity associated with such multimode systems, allows them to display a host of phenomena that are otherwise impossible in few-mode settings. At the same time, however, it introduces a set of fundamental challenges in terms of comprehending and harnessing their response. Here, we develop an optical thermodynamic approach capable of describing the thermalization dynamics in large scale nonlinear photonic tight-binding networks. For this specific system, an optical Sackur-Tetrode equation is obtained that explicitly provides the optical temperature and chemical potential of the photon gas. Processes like isentropic expansion/compression, Joule expansion, as well as aspects associated with beam cleaning/cooling and thermal conduction effects in such chain networks are discussed. Our results can be used to describe in an effortless manner the exceedingly complex dynamics of highly multimoded nonlinear bosonic systems.
Enhanced dielectric constant and energy density in a BaTiO3/polymer-matrix composite sponge
Authors: Jian Gang , Jiao Yong , Meng Qingzhen , Wei Zhaoyu , Zhang Jiaoxia , Yan Chao , Moon Kyoung-Sik , Wong Ching-Ping
Published: November 2020

Polymer-matrix dielectric composites are promising for use in electrostatic energy storage devices due to the ultra-fast charge–discharge speed and the long service life. Here we report a strategy for designing BaTiO3 sponge polymer composites for energy storage. BaTiO3 sponges with tunable porosities are prepared from polymethyl methacrylate micro-sphere arrays. Liquid epoxy completely fills the pores in a BaTiO3 sponge during vacuum de-foaming, forming a solid composite. The resulting composites possess a maximum dielectric constant of εr~332 and εr/εm~85, compared to εr~38 in a sample filled with BaTiO3 NPs, at 1 kHz. The composites also possess, at 100 kV cm−1, a high discharge energy density of Ud~105 × 10−3 J cm−3 and Ud/Um~51, and electric displacement of 3.2 μC cm−2, compared with those utilizing traditional strategies at low electric fields. Finite element simulation reveals the enhanced energy density is due to a high local electric displacement in composites.
Laser-metal interaction dynamics during additive manufacturing resolved by detection of thermally-induced electron emission
Authors: DePond Philip J. , Fuller John C. , Khairallah Saad A. , Angus Justin R. , Guss Gabe , Matthews Manyalibo J. , Martin Aiden A.
Published: November 2020

In situ monitoring is required to improve the understanding and increase the reliability of additive manufacturing methods such as laser powder bed fusion (LPBF). Current diagnostic methods for LPBF capture optical images, X-ray radiographs, or measure the emission of thermal or acoustic signals from the component. Herein, a methodology based on the thermal emission of electrons - thermionic emission - from the metal surface during LPBF is proposed which can resolve laser-material interaction dynamics. The high sensitivity of thermionic emission to surface temperature and surface morphology is revealed to enable precise determination of the transition between conduction and keyhole mode melting regimes. Increases in thermionic emission are correlated to laser scanning conditions that give rise to pore formation and regions where surface defects are pronounced. The information presented here is a critical step in furthering our understanding and validation of laser-based metal additive manufacturing.
Homogeneous and efficient production of a bacterial nanocellulose-lactoferrin-collagen composite under an electric field as a matrix to promote wound healing
Authors: Yuan Haibin , Chen Lin , Hong Feng F.
Published: November 2020

A novel BNC/LF/COL membrane fabricated using an electrophoresis-based technology showed superior advantages in water-holding capability and antibacterial activity, with higher cytocompatibility as well as greater therapeutic effect in wound healing.
Cancer cell-targeted cisplatin prodrug delivery in vivo via metabolic labeling and bioorthogonal click reaction
Authors: Liu Xun , Wu Fan , Cai Kaimin , Zhao Ziyin , Zhang Zhimin , Chen Yongbing , Liu Yong , Cheng Jianjun , Yin Lichen
Published: November 2020

DCL-AAM selectively labels cancer cells with azido groups, and thus allows tumor-targeted delivery of DBCO-cisplatin prodrug via bioorthogonal click chemistry.
A two-step resin based approach to reveal survivin-selective fluorescent probes
Authors: Ambrose Andrew J. , Pham Nhan T. , Sivinski Jared , Guimarães Larissa , Mollasalehi Niloufar , Jimenez Paula , Abad Maria A. , Jeyaprakash A. Arockia , Shave Steven , Costa-Lotufo Letícia V. , La Clair James J. , Auer Manfred , Chapman Eli
Published: November 2020

A dual-resin system was developed that united confocal-fluorescent imaging for hit identification and microscale NMR for hit isolation and structure elucidation. Using this approach, we identified two natural products that bound to the inhibitor of apoptosis protein, survivin.
Role of Ga3+ promoter in the direct synthesis of iso-butanol via syngas over a K–ZnO/ZnCr2O4 catalyst
Authors: Zhang Tao , Zeng Chunyang , Wu Yingquan , Gong Nana , Yang Jiaqian , Yang Guohui , Tsubaki Noritatsu , Tan Yisheng
Published: November 2020

ZG, gallium cluster and ZnGa2O4 were formed by introducing Ga3+ to K–ZnO/ZnCr2O4 iso-butanol catalyst. Only a moderate amount of ZG promotes the space time yield (STY) and selectivity of alcohols for iso-butanol synthesis.
Lamellar flower-like porous MoS2 as an efficient cocatalyst to boost photocatalytic hydrogen evolution of CdS
Authors: Su Lei , Luo Lulu , Wang Junwen , Song Tao , Tu Weixia , Wang Zhou-jun
Published: November 2020

A lamellar flower-like porous MoS2 cocatalyst with the synergistic role of porous and lamellar structures was configured to boost photocatalytic performance of CdS in hydrogen evolution reaction.
The first step of arsenoplatin-1 aggregation in solution unveiled by solving the crystal structure of its protein adduct
Authors: Ferraro Giarita , Cirri Damiano , Marzo Tiziano , Pratesi Alessandro , Messori Luigi , Merlino Antonello
Published: November 2020

AP-1 spontaneously aggregates in aqueous solutions. The structure of the adduct formed by an AP-1 trimer with lysozyme offers insight into the process of the oligomer's growth.
Why analysing microplastics in floodplains matters: application in a sedimentary context
Authors: Lechthaler Simone , Esser Verena , Schüttrumpf Holger , Stauch Georg
Published: November 2020

Microplastics are mainly transported in rivers where different fluvial processes occur that can defined by microplastic detection.
Nanoimprinted conducting nanopillar arrays made of MWCNT/polymer nanocomposites: a study by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy
Authors: Xiao Chuan , Zhao Yuming , Zhou Wei
Published: November 2020

Conducting vertical nanopillar arrays can serve as three-dimensional nanostructured electrodes with improved electrical recording and electrochemical sensing performance in bio-electronics applications.
Synthesis and properties of a high-performance environment-friendly micro–nano filtration reducer
Authors: Wang Yanling , Jiang Baoyang , Lan Jincheng , Xu Ning , Sun Jinsheng , Meng Lingtao
Published: November 2020

In this research study, we modified hydroxyethyl cellulose to obtain hydrophobically associating hydroxyethyl cellulose, and grafted it onto the surface of nano-calcium carbonate to obtain a graft copolymer.
Applicability of biomass autohydrolyzates as corrosion inhibiting deicing agents
Authors: Hong Changyoung , Narron Robert , Jameel Hasan , Park Sunkyu
Published: November 2020

A deicing agent from renewable resources is necessary to overcome the disadvantages of traditional deicing agents. Biomass autohydrolyzates have a potential as corrosion inhibiting deicing agent.
High quality N-polar GaN films grown with varied V/III ratios by metal–organic vapor phase epitaxy
Authors: Li Chengguo , Zhang Kang , Qiaoyu Zeng  , Yin Xuebing , Ge Xiaoming , Wang Junjun , Wang Qiao , He Chenguang , Zhao Wei , Chen Zhitao
Published: November 2020

N-polar GaN films (C, D, E, F) grown with varied V/III ratio show improved crystallinity and reduced impurity concentrations.
Preparation and catalytic properties of poly(methyl methacrylate)-supported Pd0 obtained from room-temperature, dark reduction of ionic aggregates of the unstable Pd2+ solution ionomer
Authors: Tan Jinqiang , Zhu Huamei , Cao Shasha , Chen Sisi , Tian Yuanfu , Ding Dachuan , Zheng Xuan , Hu Chuanqun , Hu Tao , Wu Chonggang
Published: November 2020

A polymer-supported Pd0 nanocatalyst is prepared by using mechanochemical reduction as the driving force for the reaction.
All-in-one mitochondria-targeted NIR-II fluorophores for cancer therapy and imaging
Authors: Zheng Yujia , Li Qianqian , Wu Jing , Luo Ziyi , Zhou Wenyi , Li Anguo , Chen Yanling , Rouzi Tuerxunayi , Tian Tian , Zhou Hui , Zeng Xiaodong , Li Yang , Cheng Xiaoding , Wei Yongchang , Deng Zixin , Zhou Fuling , Hong Xuechuan
Published: November 2020

Small-molecule subcellular organelle-targeting theranostic probes are crucial for early disease diagnosis and treatment.
A pyrone remodeling strategy to access diverse heterocycles: application to the synthesis of fascaplysin natural products
Authors: Palani Vignesh , Perea Melecio A. , Gardner Kristen E. , Sarpong Richmond
Published: November 2020

The synthesis of diverse N-fused heterocycles, including the pyrido[1,2-a]indole scaffold, using an efficient pyrone remodeling strategy is described.
Bio-inspired surface modification of iron oxide nanoparticles for active stabilization in hydrogels
Authors: Ahmadi Mostafa , Monji Donya , Taromi Faramarz Afshar
Published: November 2020

Bio-inspire surface modification of iron oxide nanoparticles with dopamine promotes the colloidal stability and integrates new transient bonds with PVA chains.
Towards large-scale electrochemical energy storage in the marine environment with a highly-extensible “paper-like” seawater supercapacitor device
Authors: Cheng Situo , Dai Zhe , Fu Jiecai , Cui Peng , Wei Kun , Zhang Yaxiong , Wu Yin , Liu Yupeng , Sun Zhenheng , Shao Zhipeng , Cui Xiaosha , Su Qing , Xie Erqing
Published: November 2020

The all-in-one architecture design offers a promising strategy for future high-performance energy storage devices in the marine environment.
Interface photo-charge kinetics regulation by carbon dots for efficient hydrogen peroxide production
Authors: Li Yi , Zhao Yajie , Nie Haodong , Wei Kaiqiang , Cao Jingjing , Huang Hui , Shao Mingwang , Liu Yang , Kang Zhenhui
Published: November 2020

Interface photo-charge kinetics can be regulated by carbon dots for efficient hydrogen peroxide production.
Interface engineering of transitional metal sulfide–MoS2 heterostructure composites as effective electrocatalysts for water-splitting
Authors: Li Yanqiang , Yin Zehao , Cui Ming , Liu Xuan , Xiong Jiabin , Chen Siru , Ma Tingli
Published: November 2020

Recent progress about transitional metal sulfide–MoS2 heterostructure composites are reviewed based on the view point of interface engineering.
Local administration and enhanced release of bone metabolic antibodies from hydroxyapatite/chondroitin sulfate nanocomposite microparticles using zinc cations
Authors: Watanabe Hajime , Ikoma Toshiyuki , Sotome Shinichi , Okawa Atsushi
Published: November 2020

A model of the diffusion of IgG molecules in the pores of HAp/ChS microparticles in the presence of zinc cations is shown. Zinc cations adsorbed on the microparticles can improve human IgG diffusion in the pores to increase the subsequent release.
Oxygen-vacancy-rich cobalt–aluminium hydrotalcite structures served as high-performance supercapacitor cathode
Authors: Wang Guorong , Jin Zhiliang
Published: November 2020

Appropriate oxygen vacancy was introduced into CoAl LDHs by reduction treatment, which improved the supercapacitor performance of its.
β-glucan from Lentinus edodes inhibits breast cancer progression via the Nur77/HIF-1α axis
Authors: Zhang Xiuru , Li Tingting , Liu Shuwen , Xu Yiming , Meng Minjun , Li Xiumin , Lin Zhichao , Wu Qici , Xue Yu , Pan Yutian , Alitongbieke Gulimiran
Published: November 2020

Background: β-glucan from Lentinus edodes (LNT) is a plant-derived medicinal fungus possessing significant bioactivities on anti-tumor. Both hypoxia-induced factor-1α (HIF)-1α and Nur77 have been shown to be involved in the development of breast cancer. However, there is yet no proof of Nur77/HIF-1α involvement in the process of LNT-mediated tumor-inhibition effect.

Methods: Immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence and Hematoxylin–Eosin staining were used to investigate tumor growth and metastasis in MMTV-PyMT transgenic mice. Proliferation and metastasis-associated molecules were determined by Western blotting and reverse transcription-quantitative PCR. Hypoxic cellular model was established under the exposure of CoCl2. Small interference RNA was transfected using Lipofectamine reagent. The ubiquitin proteasome pathway was blunted by adding the proteasome inhibitor MG132.

Results: LNT inhibited the growth of breast tumors and the development of lung metastases from breast cancer, accompanied by a decreased expression of HIF-1α in the tumor tissues. In in vitro experiments, hypoxia induced the expression of HIF-1α and Nur77 in breast cancer cells, while LNT addition down-regulated HIF-1α expression in an oxygen-free environment, and this process was in a manner of Nur77 dependent. Mechanistically, LNT evoked the down-regulation of HIF-1α involved the Nur77-mediated ubiquitin proteasome pathway. A strong positive correlation between Nur77 and HIF-1α expression in human breast cancer specimens was also confirmed.

Conclusion: Therefore, LNT appears to inhibit the progression of breast cancer partly through the Nur77/HIF-1α signaling axis. The findings of the present study may provide a theoretical basis for targeting HIFs in the treatment of breast cancer.