bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pinning Despair and Distress – Suicide-Related Content on Visual Social Media Platform Pinterest
Authors: Guidry Jeanine P. D. , O'Donnell Nicole H. , Miller Carrie A. , Perrin Paul B. , Carlyle Kellie E.
Published: November 2020

Abstract. Background: The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that an individual dies by suicide every 40 s. Aim: Our aim was to analyze how suicide is portrayed on the visual social media platform Pinterest. Method: This study used a quantitative content analysis of 500 suicide-related Pinterest posts. Content codes included the presence of factors related to the WHO media reporting guidelines. Results: The majority of posts were published by individual Pinterest users, with public and mental health entities rarely present. Suicidal ideation content was more prevalent in visuals than in accompanying text on Pinterest. Considering the WHO media suicide-reporting guidelines, posts featured more helpful than harmful content, but explicit details of suicides and suicide attempts were still prevalent. Finally, comments were more likely to identify with suicidal ideation or post negative content than post supportive content. Limitations: Content analysis cannot discern motivations behind posts; future studies should include other methods. Conclusion: This study suggests there is a critical need for further research into Pinterest and suicide-related topics.
Trends in Suicidal Behaviors Among US Adults 2015–2018
Authors: Yockey R. Andrew , King Keith , Vidourek Rebecca
Published: November 2020

Abstract. Background: Suicide remains a major public health problem in the United States. The purpose of this study was to examine trends in suicide ideation, planning, and attempts among a national sample of US adults. Method: We used aggregated 2015–2018 data from the National Survey Drug Use and Health Survey. We utilized demographic and substance use questions with each suicide behavior. We assessed weighted absolute and relative changes in a national sample of 7,654 adults. Results: Results revealed that from 2015 to 2018, there was a 16.0% increase in suicide ideation, 18.6% increase in suicide planning, and 11.6% increase in suicide attempts. Significant increases in each behavior were found in African Americans, younger adults, sexual minorities, and individuals who reported past-year drug use. Limitations: Limitations include self-report of suicidal behaviors and desirability of answers. Conclusion: We believe our findings can inform harm reduction efforts and health messages surrounding suicide prevention.
Measuring Massive Magnetic Meteorites
Authors: Wight Andrew
Published: November 2020

A new tool to measure the magnetic signatures of big meteorites could not only aid NASA’s mission to Psyche; it could also help solve mysteries about how magnetic fields formed in our early solar system.
Expression of CARD8 in human atherosclerosis and its regulation of inflammatory proteins in human endothelial cells
Authors: Paramel Geena V. , Karadimou Glykeria , Eremo Anna Göthlin , Ljungberg Liza U. , Hedin Ulf , Olofsson Peder S. , Folkersen Lasse , Paulsson-Berne Gabrielle , Sirsjö Allan , Fransén Karin
Published: November 2020

The Caspase activation and recruitment domain 8 (CARD8) protein is a component of innate immunity and overexpression of CARD8 mRNA was previously identified in atherosclerosis. However, very little is known about the regulation of CARD8 in endothelial cells and atherosclerosis. The aim of this study was to investigate CARD8 in the regulation of cytokine and chemokine expression in endothelial cells. Sections of human atherosclerotic lesions and non-atherosclerotic arteries were immunostained for CARD8 protein. Expression of CARD8 was correlated to mediators of inflammation in atherosclerotic lesions using Biobank of Karolinska Endarterectomies microarray data. The CARD8 mRNA was knocked-down in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) in vitro, followed by quantitative RT-PCR analysis and OLINK Proteomics. Endothelial and smooth muscle cells in arterial tissue expressed CARD8 and CARD8 correlated with vWF, CD163 and the expression of inflammatory genes, such as CXCL1, CXCL6 and PDGF-A in plaque. Knock-down of CARD8 in HUVECs significantly altered proteins involved in inflammatory response, such as CXCL1, CXCL6, PDGF-A, MCP-1 and IL-6. The present study suggest that CARD8 regulate the expression of cytokines and chemokines in endothelial cells and atherosclerotic lesions, suggesting that CARD8 plays a significant role in endothelial activation.
Prediction of mortality in severe acute malnutrition in hospitalized children by faecal volatile organic compound analysis: proof of concept
Authors: van den Brink Deborah A. , de Meij Tim , Brals Daniella , Bandsma Robert H. J. , Thitiri Johnstone , Ngari Moses , Mwalekwa Laura , de Boer Nanne K. H. , Wicaksono Alfian , Covington James A. , van Rheenen Patrick F. , Voskuijl Wieger P.
Published: November 2020

Children with severe acute malnutrition (SAM) display immature, altered gut microbiota and have a high mortality risk. Faecal volatile organic compounds (VOCs) reflect the microbiota composition and may provide insight into metabolic dysfunction that occurs in SAM. Here we determine whether analysis of faecal VOCs could identify children with SAM with increased risk of mortality. VOC profiles from children who died within six days following admission were compared to those who were discharged alive using machine learning algorithms. VOC profiles of children who died could be separated from those who were discharged with fair accuracy (AUC) = 0.71; 95% CI 0.59–0.87; P = 0.004). We present the first study showing differences in faecal VOC profiles between children with SAM who survived and those who died. VOC analysis holds potential to help discover metabolic pathways within the intestinal microbiome with causal association with mortality and target treatments in children with SAM.

Trial Registration: The F75 study is registered at clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02246296.
Investigations on spreading of PRRSV among swine herds by improved minimum spanning network analysis
Authors: Szabó Péter Márton , Szalay Dóra , Kecskeméti Sándor , Molnár Tamás , Szabó István , Bálint Ádám
Published: November 2020

In Hungary, the economic losses caused by porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) led to the launching of a national PRRSV Eradication Program. An important element of the program was investigating the spread of PRRSV among swine herds and the possible ways of introduction by sequencing of the open reading frame 5 (ORF5) gene. However, the classical phylogenetic tree presentation cannot explain several genetic relationships clearly, while more precise visualization can be represented by network tree diagram. In this paper, we describe a practical and easy-to-follow enriched minimum spanning similarity network application for improved representation of phylogenetic relations among viral strains. This method eliminated the necessity of applying a predefined, arbitrary cut-off or computationally extensive algorithms. The network-based visualization allowed processing and visualizing large amount of data equally for the laboratory, private and official veterinarians, and helped identify the potential connections between different viral sequences that support data-driven decisions in the eradication program. By applying network analysis, previously unknown epidemiological connections between infected herds were identified, and virus spreading was analyzed within short period of time. In our study, we successfully built and applied network analysis tools in the course of the Hungarian PRRSV Eradication Program.
Electronic health record alerts enhance mass screening for chronic hepatitis B
Authors: Chak Eric , Li Chin-Shang , Chen Moon S. , MacDonald Scott , Bowlus Christopher
Published: November 2020

To measure the effect of an electronic health record (EHR) alert on chronic hepatitis B (CHB) screening among at-risk Asian and Pacific Islanders (API). API patients who had not yet completed hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) testing were identified by a novel EHR-based population health tool. At-risk API patients in Cohort 1 (primarily privately insured) and Cohort 2 (includes Medicare and/or Medicaid) were randomized to alert activation in their electronic medical charts or not. In total, 8299 API were found to be deficient in HBsAg completion at baseline within our health system. In Cohort 1, 1542 patients and 1568 patients were randomized to the alert and control respectively. In Cohort 2, 2599 patients and 2590 patients were randomized to the alert and control respectively. For both cohorts combined, 389 HBsAg tests were completed in the alert group compared to 177 HBsAg tests in the control group (p < 0.0001; OR = 2.3; 95% CI 1.94–2.80), but there was no increased detection of HBsAg positivity from the alert (15 versus 13 respectively, p = 0.09; OR = 0.5; 95% CI 0.24–1.09). Our results demonstrate that personalized, automated electronic alerts increase screening for CHB, but more comprehensive measures are needed to detect HBsAg positive patients.

NIH Trial Registry Number: NCT04240678.
A multi-disciplinary comparison of great ape gut microbiota in a central African forest and European zoo
Authors: Narat Victor , Amato Katherine R. , Ranger Noémie , Salmona Maud , Mercier-Delarue Séverine , Rupp Stephanie , Ambata Philippe , Njouom Richard , Simon François , Giles-Vernick Tamara , LeGoff Jérôme
Published: November 2020

Comparisons of mammalian gut microbiota across different environmental conditions shed light on the diversity and composition of gut bacteriome and suggest consequences for human and animal health. Gut bacteriome comparisons across different environments diverge in their results, showing no generalizable patterns linking habitat and dietary degradation with bacterial diversity. The challenge in drawing general conclusions from such studies lies in the broad terms describing diverse habitats (“wild”, “captive”, “pristine”). We conducted 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing to characterize intestinal microbiota of free-ranging sympatric chimpanzees and gorillas in southeastern Cameroon and sympatric chimpanzees and gorillas in a European zoo. We conducted participant-observation and semi-structured interviews among people living near these great apes to understand better their feeding habits and habitats. Unexpectedly, bacterial diversity (ASV, Faith PD and Shannon) was higher among zoo gorillas than among those in the Cameroonian forest, but zoo and Cameroonian chimpanzees showed no difference. Phylogeny was a strong driver of species-specific microbial composition. Surprisingly, zoo gorilla microbiota more closely resembled that of zoo chimpanzees than of Cameroonian gorillas. Zoo living conditions and dietary similarities may explain these results. We encourage multidisciplinary approach integrating environmental sampling and anthropological evaluation to characterize better diverse environmental conditions of such investigations.
Musashi expression in intestinal stem cells attenuates radiation-induced decline in intestinal permeability and survival in Drosophila
Authors: Sharma Amit , Akagi Kazutaka , Pattavina Blaine , Wilson Kenneth A. , Nelson Christopher , Watson Mark , Maksoud Elie , Harata Ayano , Ortega Mauricio , Brem Rachel B. , Kapahi Pankaj
Published: November 2020

Exposure to genotoxic stress by environmental agents or treatments, such as radiation therapy, can diminish healthspan and accelerate aging. We have developed a Drosophila melanogaster model to study the molecular effects of radiation-induced damage and repair. Utilizing a quantitative intestinal permeability assay, we performed an unbiased GWAS screen (using 156 strains from the Drosophila Genetic Reference Panel) to search for natural genetic variants that regulate radiation-induced gut permeability in adult D. melanogaster. From this screen, we identified an RNA binding protein, Musashi (msi), as one of the possible genes associated with changes in intestinal permeability upon radiation. The overexpression of msi promoted intestinal stem cell proliferation, which increased survival after irradiation and rescued radiation-induced intestinal permeability. In summary, we have established D. melanogaster as an expedient model system to study the effects of radiation-induced damage to the intestine in adults and have identified msi as a potential therapeutic target.
Role of the EF-hand and coiled-coil domains of human Rab44 in localisation and organelle formation
Authors: Ogawa Kohei , Kadowaki Tomoko , Tokuhisa Mitsuko , Yamaguchi Yu , Umeda Masahiro , Tsukuba Takayuki
Published: November 2020

Rab44 is a large Rab GTPase that contains an amino-terminal EF-hand domain, a coiled-coil domain, and a carboxyl-terminal Rab GTPase domain. However, the roles of the EF-hand and coiled-coil domains remain unclear. Here, we constructed various deletion and point mutants of human Rab44. When overexpressed in HeLa cells, the wild-type Rab44 (hWT) formed ring-like structures, and partially localised to lysosomes. The dominant negative mutant, hT847N, localised to lysosomes and the cytosol, while the constitutively active mutant, hQ892L, formed ring-like structures, and partially localised to the plasma membrane and nuclei. The hΔEF, hΔcoil, and h826-1021 mutants also formed ring-like structures; however, their localisation patterns differed from hWT. Analysis of live imaging with LysoTracker revealed that the size of LysoTracker-positive vesicles was altered by all other mutations than the hC1019A and hΔEF. Treatment with ionomycin, a Ca2+ ionophore, induced the translocation of hWT and hΔcoil into the plasma membrane and cytosol, but had no effect on the localisation of the hΔEF and h826-1021 mutants. Thus, the EF- hand domain is likely required for the partial translocation of Rab44 to the plasma membrane and cytosol following transient Ca2+ influx, and the coiled-coil domain appears to be important for localisation and organelle formation.
Early medieval genetic data from Ural region evaluated in the light of archaeological evidence of ancient Hungarians
Authors: Csáky Veronika , Gerber Dániel , Szeifert Bea , Egyed Balázs , Stégmár Balázs , Botalov Sergei Gennad’evich , Grudochko Ivan Valer’evich , Matveeva Natalia Petrovna , Zelenkov Alexander Sergejevich , Sleptsova Anastasiia Viktorovna , Goldina Rimma Dmitrievna , Danich Andrey Vasilevich , Mende Balázs Gusztáv , Türk Attila , Szécsényi-Nagy Anna
Published: November 2020

The ancient Hungarians originated from the Ural region of Russia, and migrated through the Middle-Volga region and the Eastern European steppe into the Carpathian Basin during the ninth century AD. Their Homeland was probably in the southern Trans-Ural region, where the Kushnarenkovo culture was disseminated. In the Cis-Ural region Lomovatovo and Nevolino cultures are archaeologically related to ancient Hungarians. In this study we describe maternal and paternal lineages of 36 individuals from these regions and nine Hungarian Conquest period individuals from today’s Hungary, as well as shallow shotgun genome data from the Trans-Uralic Uyelgi cemetery. We point out the genetic continuity between the three chronological horizons of Uyelgi cemetery, which was a burial place of a rather endogamous population. Using phylogenetic and population genetic analyses we demonstrate the genetic connection between Trans-, Cis-Ural and the Carpathian Basin on various levels. The analyses of this new Uralic dataset fill a gap of population genetic research of Eurasia, and reshape the conclusions previously drawn from tenth to eleventh century ancient mitogenomes and Y-chromosomes from Hungary.
A zebrafish functional genomics model to investigate the role of human A20 variants in vivo
Authors: Cultrone Daniele , Zammit Nathan W. , Self Eleanor , Postert Benno , Han Jeremy Z. R. , Bailey Jacqueline , Warren Joanna , Croucher David R. , Kikuchi Kazu , Bogdanovic Ozren , Chtanova Tatyana , Hesselson Daniel , Grey Shane T.
Published: November 2020

Germline loss-of-function variation inTNFAIP3, encoding A20, has been implicated in a wide variety of autoinflammatory and autoimmune conditions, with acquired somatic missense mutations linked to cancer progression. Furthermore, human sequence data reveals that the A20 locus contains ~ 400 non-synonymous coding variants, which are largely uncharacterised. The growing number of A20 coding variants with unknown function, but potential clinical impact, poses a challenge to traditional mouse-based approaches. Here we report the development of a novel functional genomics approach that utilizes a new A20-deficient zebrafish (Danio rerio) model to investigate the impact ofTNFAIP3genetic variants in vivo. A20-deficient zebrafish are hyper-responsive to microbial immune activation and exhibit spontaneous early lethality. Ectopic addition of human A20 rescued A20-null zebrafish from lethality, while missense mutations at two conserved A20 residues, S381A and C243Y, reversed this protective effect. Ser381 represents a phosphorylation site important for enhancing A20 activity that is abrogated by its mutation to alanine, or by a causal C243Y mutation that triggers human autoimmune disease. These data reveal an evolutionarily conserved role forTNFAIP3in limiting inflammation in the vertebrate linage and show how this function is controlled by phosphorylation. They also demonstrate how a zebrafish functional genomics pipeline can be utilized to investigate the in vivo significance of medically relevant humanTNFAIP3gene variants.
Author Correction: The Adipocyte Na/K-ATPase Oxidant Amplification Loop is the Central Regulator of Western Diet-Induced Obesity and Associated Comorbidities
Authors: Pratt Rebecca D. , Brickman Cameron , Nawab Athar , Cottrill Cameron , Snoad Brian , Lakhani Hari Vishal , Jelcick Austin , Henderson Brandon , Bhardwaj Niharika N. , Sanabria Juan R. , Liu Jiang , Xie Zijian , Abraham Nader G. , Shapiro Joseph I. , Sodhi Komal
Published: November 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Vaginal microbiota diversity and paucity of Lactobacillus species are associated with persistent hrHPV infection in HIV negative but not in HIV positive women
Authors: Dareng Eileen O. , Ma Bing , Adebamowo Sally N. , Famooto Ayotunde , Ravel Jacques , Pharoah Paul P. , Adebamowo Clement A.
Published: November 2020

The vaginal microbiota is thought to play a role in modulating risk of high-risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV) infection. We examined the relationship between the vaginal microbiota and persistent hrHPV infection in HIV-negative and HIV-positive women. We used 16S-rRNA sequencing to characterize the vaginal microbiota of two serial samples taken six months apart from 211 Nigerian women (67%, 142/211 HIV-positive and 33%, 69/211 HIV-negative) and evaluated the association between the vaginal microbiota and persistent hrHPV infection using generalized estimating equation logistic regression models and linear discriminant analysis effect size (LEfSe) algorithm to identify phylotypic biomarkers of persistent hrHPV infection. The high diversity microbiota, Community State Type IV-B, was the most prevalent in both HIV-negative (38% at baseline, 30% at the follow-up visit) and HIV-positive (27% at baseline, 35% at the follow-up visit) women. The relationship between the vaginal microbiota and persistent hrHPV was modified by HIV status. In HIV-negative women, women with Lactobacillus dominant microbiota had lower odds (OR: 0.35, 95% CI 0.14–0.89, p = 0.03) of persistent hrHPV compared to women with Lactobacillus deficient microbiota. While among HIV-positive women, the odds of being persistently infected with hrHPV was higher in women with Lactobacillus dominant microbiota (OR: 1.25, 95% CI 0.73–2.14 p = 0.41). This difference in effect estimates by HIV was statistically significant (p = 0.02). A high diversity vaginal microbial community with paucity of Lactobacillus species was associated with persistent hrHPV infection in HIV-negative women but not in HIV-positive women.
Glomerular filtration barrier dysfunction in a self-limiting, RNA virus-induced glomerulopathy resembles findings in idiopathic nephrotic syndromes
Authors: Nusshag Christian , Stütz Alisa , Hägele Stefan , Speer Claudius , Kälble Florian , Eckert Christoph , Brenner Thorsten , Weigand Markus A. , Morath Christian , Reiser Jochen , Zeier Martin , Krautkrämer Ellen
Published: November 2020

Podocyte injury has recently been described as unifying feature in idiopathic nephrotic syndromes (INS). Puumala hantavirus (PUUV) infection represents a unique RNA virus-induced renal disease with significant proteinuria. The underlying pathomechanism is unclear. We hypothesized that PUUV infection results in podocyte injury, similar to findings in INS. We therefore analyzed standard markers of glomerular proteinuria (e.g. immunoglobulin G [IgG]), urinary nephrin excretion (podocyte injury) and serum levels of the soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR), a proposed pathomechanically involved molecule in INS, in PUUV-infected patients. Hantavirus patients showed significantly increased urinary nephrin, IgG and serum suPAR concentrations compared to healthy controls. Nephrin and IgG levels were significantly higher in patients with severe proteinuria than with mild proteinuria, and nephrin correlated strongly with biomarkers of glomerular proteinuria over time. Congruently, electron microcopy analyses showed a focal podocyte foot process effacement. suPAR correlated significantly with urinary nephrin, IgG and albumin levels, suggesting suPAR as a pathophysiological mediator in podocyte dysfunction. In contrast to INS, proteinuria recovered autonomously in hantavirus patients. This study reveals podocyte injury as main cause of proteinuria in hantavirus patients. A better understanding of the regenerative nature of hantavirus-induced glomerulopathy may generate new therapeutic approaches for INS.
Female sex mitigates motor and behavioural phenotypes in TDP-43Q331K knock-in mice
Authors: Watkins Jodie , Ghosh Anshua , Keerie Amy F. A. , Alix James J. P. , Mead Richard J. , Sreedharan Jemeen
Published: November 2020

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) are overlapping neurodegenerative disorders. ALS is more commonly seen in men than women and the same may be the case for FTD. Preclinical models demonstrating sex-specific vulnerability may help to understand female resistance to ALS-FTD and thereby identify routes to therapy. We previously characterised a TDP-43Q331K knock-in mouse, which demonstrated behavioural phenotypes reminiscent of ALS-FTD in males. Here we present our behavioural observations of female TDP-43Q331K mutants. Female TDP-43Q331K knock-in mice displayed increased weight relative to wild-type and increased food intake at 20 months of age, much later than previously observed in male mutants. Spontaneous digging behaviour was initially normal and only declined in mutants in the second year of life. Gait analysis using Catwalk (https://www.noldus.com/catwalk-xt) found significant deficits in the second year of life, while nocturnal running behaviour was attenuated from ~ 250 days of life. These results indicate that while female TDP-43Q331K knock-in mice do display progressive behavioural phenotypes, these are less severe than we previously noted in male mutants. Further studies of male and female TDP-43Q331K knock-in mice may help to unravel the mechanisms underlying sex-specific vulnerability in ALS-FTD.
Low genetic diversity indicating the threatened status of Rhizophora apiculata (Rhizophoraceae) in Malaysia: declined evolution meets habitat destruction
Authors: Azman Amelia , Ng Kevin-Kit-Siong , Ng Chin-Hong , Lee Chai-Ting , Tnah Lee-Hong , Zakaria Nurul-Farhanah , Mahruji Suhaila , Perdan Khairuddin , Abdul-Kadir Md-Zaidey , Cheng Acga , Lee Soon-Leong
Published: November 2020

Worldwide, many mangrove species are experiencing significant population declines, including Rhizophora apiculata, which is one of the most widespread and economically important species in tropical Asia. In Malaysia, there has been an alarming decline in R. apiculata populations driven primarily by anthropogenic activities. However, the lack of genetic and demographic information on this species has hampered local efforts to conserve it. To address these gaps, we generated novel genetic information for R. apiculata, based on 1,120 samples collected from 39 natural populations in Peninsular Malaysia. We investigated its genetic diversity and genetic structure with 19 transcriptome and three nuclear microsatellite markers. Our analyses revealed a low genetic diversity (mean He: 0.352) with significant genetic differentiation (FST: 0.315) among populations of R. apiculata. Approximately two-third of the populations showed significant excess of homozygotes, indicating persistent inbreeding which might be due to the decrease in population size or fragmentation. From the cluster analyses, the populations investigated were divided into two distinct clusters, comprising the west and east coasts of Peninsular Malaysia. The western cluster was further divided into two sub-clusters with one of the sub-clusters showing strong admixture pattern that harbours high levels of genetic diversity, thus deserving high priority for conservation.
Towards the scalable isolation of cellulose nanocrystals from tunicates
Authors: Dunlop Matthew J. , Clemons Craig , Reiner Richard , Sabo Ronald , Agarwal Umesh P. , Bissessur Rabin , Sojoudiasli Helia , Carreau Pierre J. , Acharya Bishnu
Published: November 2020

In order for sustainable nanomaterials such as cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) to be utilized in industrial applications, a large-scale production capacity for CNCs must exist. Currently the only CNCs available commercially in kilogram scale are obtained from wood pulp (W-CNCs). Scaling the production capacity of W-CNCs isolation has led to their use in broader applications and captured the interest of researchers, industries and governments alike. Another source of CNCs with potential for commercial scale production are tunicates, a species of marine animal. Tunicate derived CNCs (T-CNCs) are a high aspect ratio CNC, which can complement commercially available W-CNCs in the growing global CNC market. Herein we report the isolation and characterization of T-CNCs from the tunicate Styela clava, an invasive species currently causing significant harm to local aquaculture communities. The reported procedure utilizes scalable CNC processing techniques and is based on our experiences from laboratory scale T-CNC isolation and pilot scale W-CNC isolation. To our best knowledge, this study represents the largest scale where T-CNCs have been isolated from any tunicate species, under any reaction conditions. Demonstrating a significant step towards commercial scale isolation of T-CNCs, and offering a potential solution to the numerous challenges which invasive tunicates pose to global aquaculture communities.
The bone marrow microenvironment of pre-B acute lymphoblastic leukemia at single-cell resolution
Authors: Anderson Denise , Skut Patrycja , Hughes Anastasia M. , Ferrari Emanuela , Tickner Jennifer , Xu Jiake , Mullin Benjamin H. , Tang Dave , Malinge Sébastien , Kees Ursula R. , Kotecha Rishi S. , Lassmann Timo , Cheung Laurence C.
Published: November 2020

The bone marrow microenvironment (BMM) plays a key role in leukemia progression, but its molecular complexity in pre-B cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL), the most common cancer in children, remains poorly understood. To gain further insight, we used single-cell RNA sequencing to characterize the kinetics of the murine BMM during B-ALL progression. Normal pro- and pre-B cells were found to be the most affected at the earliest stages of disease and this was associated with changes in expression of genes regulated by the AP1-transcription factor complex and regulatory factors NELFE, MYC and BCL11A. Granulocyte–macrophage progenitors show reduced expression of the tumor suppressor long non-coding RNANeat1and disruptions in the rate of transcription. Intercellular communication networks revealed monocyte-dendritic precursors to be consistently active during B-ALL progression, with enriched processes including cytokine-mediated signaling pathway, neutrophil-mediated immunity and regulation of cell migration and proliferation. In addition, we confirmed that the hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell compartment was perturbed during leukemogenesis. These findings extend our understanding of the complexity of changes and molecular interactions among the normal cells of the BMM during B-ALL progression.
In vitro protective effects of Paeonia officinalis var. mascula callus extract on human keratinocytes
Authors: Letsiou Sophia , Bakea Artemis , Holefors Anna , Rembiesa Jadwiga , Spanidi Eleni , Gardikis Konstantinos
Published: November 2020

Natural ingredients have been used to improve the state of health in humans. The genus Paeonia has been studied only limited yet it’s reported to have many activities such as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. To this context, here we focused on an endemic Paeonia species in Attica. This study aims to present the development of the Paeonia officinalis var. mascula callus extract and its pleiotropic bioactivity on human primary keratinocytes exploring its potential application as an active agent in skin-related products. This extract showed a high scavenging activity with high phenolic content and an interesting metabolic profile. At a molecular level, the study on the transcript accumulation of genes revealed that this extract exhibits in vitro skin-related protection properties by mediating mitochondrial energy, cell proliferation, immune and inflammatory response and positively regulates genes involved in epidermal and in stratum corneum function. Besides, the extract is proven not skin irritant on reconstructed human skin model. These findings indicate that the specific P. officinalis var. mascula extract possesses significant in vitro protection activity on human epidermis and provides new insights into its beneficial role in skin confirming that the advent of biotechnology contribution the past few decades.
Characterization of transcriptional response of Lactobacillus plantarum under acidic conditions provides insight into bacterial adaptation in fermentative environments
Authors: Jung Sera , Lee Jong-Hee
Published: November 2020

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) play an important role in kimchi fermentation by metabolizing raw materials into diverse metabolites. Bacterial adaptation is therefore a crucial element of fermentation. In this study, we investigated the transcriptional changes of Lactobacillus plantarum under acidic conditions to evaluate the elements of bacterial adaptation critical for fermentation. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) have shown that transport function is primarily affected by acidic conditions. Five of the 13 significantly down-regulated genes and 7 of the 25 significantly up-regulated genes were found to have transport-related functions. We quantified the intracellular leucine content of bacteria grown at different pH ranges, determining that optimal bacterial leucine transport could be controlled by acidity during fermentation. Inhibition of L. plantarum growth was investigated and compared with other LAB at a pH range of 6.2–5.0. Interestingly, valinomycin inhibited L. plantarum growth from pH 6.2 to 5.0. This showed that L. plantarum had a wider range of transport functions than other LAB. These results suggested that L. plantarum had robust transport functions, and that this was the crucial factor for bacterial adaptation during fermentation.
Computational modeling of drug separation from aqueous solutions using octanol organic solution in membranes
Authors: Pishnamazi Mahboubeh , Nakhjiri Ali Taghvaie , Taleghani Arezoo Sodagar , Ghadiri Mahdi , Marjani Azam , Shirazian Saeed
Published: November 2020

Continuous membrane separation of pharmaceuticals from an aqueous feed was studied theoretically by development of high-performance mechanistic model. The model was developed based on mass and momentum transfer to predict separation and removal of ibuprofen (IP) and its metabolite compound, i.e. 4-isobutylacetophenone (4-IBAP) from aqueous solution. The modeling study was carried out for a membrane contactor considering mass transport of solute from feed to organic solvent (octanol solution). The solute experiences different mass transfer resistances during the removal in membrane system which were all taken into account in the modeling. The model’s equations were solved using computational fluid dynamic technique, and the simulations were carried out to understand the effect of process parameters, flow pattern, and membrane properties on the removal of both solutes. The simulation results indicated that IP and 4-IBAP can be effectively removed from aqueous feed by adjusting the process parameters and flow pattern. More removal was obtained when the feed flows in the shell side of membrane system due to improving mass transfer. Also, feed flow rate was indicated to be the most affecting process parameter, and the highest solute removal was obtained at the lowest feed flow rate.
Salient distractors open the door of perception: alpha desynchronization marks sensory gating in a working memory task
Authors: Fodor Zsuzsanna , Marosi Csilla , Tombor László , Csukly Gábor
Published: November 2020

Focusing attention on relevant information while ignoring distracting stimuli is essential to the efficacy of working memory. Alpha- and theta-band oscillations have been linked to the inhibition of anticipated and attentionally avoidable distractors. However, the neurophysiological background of the rejection of task-irrelevant stimuli appearing in the focus of attention is not fully understood. We aimed to examine whether theta and alpha-band oscillations serve as an indicator of successful distractor rejection. Twenty-four students were enrolled in the study. 64-channel EEG was recorded during a modified Sternberg working memory task where weak and strong (salient) distractors were presented during the retention period. Event-related spectral perturbation in the alpha frequency band was significantly modulated by the saliency of the distracting stimuli, while theta oscillation was modulated by the need for cognitive control. Moreover, stronger alpha desynchronization to strong relative to weak distracting stimuli significantly increased the probability of mistakenly identifying the presented distractor as a member of the memory sequence. Therefore, our results suggest that alpha activity reflects the vulnerability of attention to distracting salient stimuli.
ZNF354C is a transcriptional repressor that inhibits endothelial angiogenic sprouting
Authors: Oo James A. , Irmer Barnabas , Günther Stefan , Warwick Timothy , Pálfi Katalin , Izquierdo Ponce Judit , Teichmann Tom , Pflüger-Müller Beatrice , Gilsbach Ralf , Brandes Ralf P. , Leisegang Matthias S.
Published: November 2020

Zinc finger proteins (ZNF) are a large group of transcription factors with diverse functions. We recently discovered that endothelial cells harbour a specific mechanism to limit the action of ZNF354C, whose function in endothelial cells is unknown. Given that ZNF354C has so far only been studied in bone and tumour, its function was determined in endothelial cells. ZNF354C is expressed in vascular cells and localises to the nucleus and cytoplasm. Overexpression of ZNF354C in human endothelial cells results in a marked inhibition of endothelial sprouting. RNA-sequencing of human microvascular endothelial cells with and without overexpression of ZNF354C revealed that the protein is a potent transcriptional repressor. ZNF354C contains an active KRAB domain which mediates this suppression as shown by mutagenesis analysis. ZNF354C interacts with dsDNA, TRIM28 and histones, as observed by proximity ligation and immunoprecipitation. Moreover, chromatin immunoprecipitation revealed that the ZNF binds to specific endothelial-relevant target-gene promoters. ZNF354C suppresses these genes as shown by CRISPR/Cas knockout and RNAi. Inhibition of endothelial sprouting by ZNF354C is dependent on the amino acids DV and MLE of the KRAB domain. These results demonstrate that ZNF354C is a repressive transcription factor which acts through a KRAB domain to inhibit endothelial angiogenic sprouting.
Microparticle manipulation using laser-induced thermophoresis and thermal convection flow
Authors: Qian Yang , Neale Steven L. , Marsh John H.
Published: November 2020

We demonstrate manipulation of microbeads with diameters from 1.5 to 10 µm and Jurkat cells within a thin fluidic device using the combined effect of thermophoresis and thermal convection. The heat flow is induced by localized absorption of laser light by a cluster of single walled carbon nanotubes, with no requirement for a treated substrate. Characterization of the system shows the speed of particle motion increases with optical power absorption and is also affected by particle size and corresponding particle suspension height within the fluid. Further analysis shows that the thermophoretic mobility (DT) is thermophobic in sign and increases linearly with particle diameter, reaching a value of 8 µm2 s−1 K−1 for a 10 µm polystyrene bead.
Polyacrylate-magnetite nanocomposite as a potential multifunctional additive for lube oil
Authors: Dey Koushik , Karmakar Gobinda , Upadhyay Mahua , Ghosh Pranab
Published: November 2020

The application of polymer nanocomposites (PNCs) in lubricant industry has attracted considerable interest due to their much enhanced properties compared to neat polymers. In this study, magnetite (Fe3O4) nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesized. Then PNCs were prepared by reinforcing these NPs in the homopolymer of dodecyl acrylate in different percentages. The characterization of the prepared NPs and PNCs was done by different analytical techniques. Thermal stability is determined through thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Performance evaluation of the PNCs as viscosity index improver, pour point depressant and antiwear additive was carried out by blending them with a mineral base stock at different percentage ratios. Standard ASTM methods are followed to carry out the evaluations. It is found that with increasing the percentage of nanocomposites in the base stock, the overall performance of the furnished lubricant is enhanced.
Microscale diamond protection for a ZnO coated fiber optic sensor
Authors: Kosowska Monika , Listewnik Paulina , Majchrowicz Daria , Rycewicz Michał , Bechelany Mikhael , Fleger Yafit , Chen Mingzhou , Fixler Dror , Dholakia Kishan , Szczerska Małgorzata
Published: November 2020

Fiber optic sensors are widely used in environmental, biological and chemical sensing. Due to the demanding environmental conditions in which they can be used, there is a risk of damaging the sensor measurement head placed in the measuring field. Sensors using nanolayers deposited upon the fiber structure are particularly vulnerable to damage. A thin film placed on the surface of the fiber end-face can be prone to mechanical damage or deteriorate due to unwanted chemical reactions with the surrounding agent. In this paper, we investigated a sensor structure formed with a Zinc Oxide (ZnO) coating, deposited by Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD) on the tip of a single-mode fiber. A nanocrystalline diamond sheet (NDS) attached over the ZnO is described. The diamond structure was synthesized in a Microwave Plasma Assisted Chemical Vapor Deposition System. The deposition processes of the nanomaterials, the procedure of attaching NDS to the fiber end-face covered with ZnO, and the results of optical measurements are presented.
Application of the decision tree method to lithology identification of volcanic rocks-taking the Mesozoic in the Laizhouwan Sag as an example
Authors: Duan Yajun , Xie Jun , Su Yanchun , Liang Huizhen , Hu Xiao , Wang Qizhen , Pan Zhiping
Published: November 2020

The decision tree method can be used to identify complex volcanic rock lithology by dividing lithology sample data layer by layer and establishing a tree structure classification model. Mesozoic volcanic strata are widely developed in the Bohai Bay Basin, the rock types are complex and diverse, and the logging response is irregular. Taking the D oilfield of the Laizhouwan Sag in the Bohai Bay Basin as an example, this study selects volcanic rocks with good development scales and single-layer thicknesses of more than 0.2 m as samples. Based on a comparison of various lithology identification methods and both coring and logging data, using the decision tree analysis method and the probability density characteristics of logging parameters, six logging parameters with good sensitivity to the response of the volcanic rocks of the above formation are selected (resistivity (RD), spontaneous potential (SP), density (ZDEN), natural gamma ray (GR), acoustic (DT), and compensated neutron correction (CNCF) curves), which are combined to form a lithology classifier with a tree structure similar to a flow chart. This method can clearly express the process and result of identifying volcanic rock lithology with each logging curve. Additionally, crossplots and imaging logging are used to identify the volcanic rock structure, and the core data are used to correct the identified lithology. A combination of conventional logging, imaging logging and the decision tree method is proposed to identify volcanic rock lithology, which substantially improves the accuracy of rock identification.
Author Correction: Comparison of visual performance between monofocal and multifocal intraocular lenses of the same material and basic design
Authors: Tanabe Hirotaka , Tabuchi Hitoshi , Shojo Tomohiro , Yamauchi Tomofusa , Takase Kosuke
Published: November 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
A TIMS-TOF mass spectrometry study of disaccharides from in situ ESI derivatization with 3-pyridinylboronate
Authors: Li Lei , Yu Jiancheng , Xie Chengyi , Wang Chenlu , Guan Pengfei , Hu Jun Jack , Tang Keqi
Published: November 2020

Mobilograms of in situ ESI 3-pyridinylboronic acid tagging of isomaltose in the positive or negative mode.
Effect of the electrolyte on K-metal batteries
Authors: Touja Justine , Le Pham Phuong Nam , Louvain Nicolas , Monconduit Laure , Stievano Lorenzo
Published: November 2020

The comparison of different electrolytes showed that both salt concentration and anion are key parameters for controlling the performance of K-metal batteries.
Electrochemical CO2 reduction over nanoparticles derived from an oxidized Cu–Ni intermetallic alloy
Authors: Suzuki Tomiko M. , Ishizaki Toshitaka , Kosaka Satoru , Takahashi Naoko , Isomura Noritake , Seki Juntaro , Matsuoka Yoriko , Oh-ishi Keiichiro , Oshima Ayako , Kitazumi Kosuke , Sekizawa Keita , Morikawa Takeshi
Published: November 2020

Positive effect of Ni species on electrochemical CO2 reduction for C2 formation over an oxide derived Cu-based nanoparticle catalyst.
Mössbauer isomer shifts and effective contact densities obtained by the exact two-component (X2C) relativistic method and its local variants
Authors: Zhu Hong , Gao Chun , Filatov Michael , Zou Wenli
Published: November 2020

A standalone program to calculate scalar relativistic effective contact densities.
The electron–phonon coupling constant for single-layer graphene on metal substrates determined from He atom scattering
Authors: Benedek Giorgio , Manson Joseph R. , Miret-Artés Salvador
Published: November 2020

A theory, previously formulated for conducting surfaces, is extended to extract the electron-phonon coupling strength λ for graphene supported on metal substrates from the thermal attenuation (Debye–Waller factor) of helium scattering reflectivity.
Monitoring aromatic ring-currents in Mg-porphyrin by time-resolved circular dichroism
Authors: Nam Yeonsig , Rouxel Jérémy R. , Lee Jin Yong , Mukamel Shaul
Published: November 2020

Using a time-resolved circular dichroism signal to monitor aromatic ring currents in Mg-porphyrin.
Correction: Salt parameterization can drastically affect the results from classical atomistic simulations of water desalination by MoS2 nanopores
Authors: Abal João P. K. , Bordin José Rafael , Barbosa Marcia C.
Published: November 2020

Correction for ‘Salt parameterization can drastically affect the results from classical atomistic simulations of water desalination by MoS2 nanopores’ by João P. K. Abal et al., Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys., 2020, 22, 11053–11061, DOI: 10.1039/d0cp00484g.
Efficient photocatalytic chemoselective and stereoselective C–C bond formation over AuPd@N-rich carbon nitride
Authors: Jiang Heyan , Xu Jie , Zhang Sishi , Cheng Hongmei , Zang Cuicui , Bian Fengxia
Published: November 2020

High unsymmetrical chemoselective Ullmann biaryl products and satisfactory Z-type stereoselective Heck reaction products could be achieved through changing the visible light color over AuPd@N-Rich carbon nitride under mild conditions.
Simultaneous determination of dihydroxybenzene isomers using a three-dimensional over-oxidized polypyrrole–reduced graphene oxide composite film electrode prepared by an electrochemical method
Authors: Song Kai-li , Li Rui , Li Kun , Yu Hao
Published: November 2020

A 3D-over-oxidized polypyrrole–reduced graphene oxide composite film was prepared by an electrochemical procedure, which showed high electrochemical activity and good selectivity for simultaneous determination of dihydroxybenzene isomers.
Green synthesis ofOpuntia-derived carbon nanodots for the catalytic decolourization of cationic dyes
Authors: Beker Sabrina A. , Truskewycz Adam , Cole Ivan , Ball Andrew S.
Published: November 2020

Carbon nanodots, rich in functional groups and synthesised using green precursors, catalyse the decolourization of dyes under mild conditions.
P5W30/g-C3N4heterojunction thin film with improved photoelectrochemical performance for solar water splitting
Authors: Yousefi Mozhde , Eshghi Hossein , Karimi-Nazarabad Mahdi , Farhadipour Abolghasem
Published: November 2020

For the first time, to design a new photocatalyst, a Preyssler-type polyoxometalate was composited with g-C3N4to improve its photoelectrochemical performance.
Intelligent electrochromic-supercapacitor based on effective energy level matching poly(indole-6-carboxylicacid)/WO3 nanocomposites
Authors: Li Zhiyuan , Wang Baoying , Zhao Xiaoqian , Guo Qingfu , Nie Guangming
Published: November 2020

A high-quality electrochromic-supercapacitor based on poly(indole-6-carboxylicacid)/WO3 nanocomposites can intelligently monitor the energy storage state by changing the color of the device.
Evaluation of adsorptive desulfurization performance and economic applicability comparison of activated carbons prepared from various carbon sources
Authors: Chen Kun , Li Weining , Biney Bernard Wiafe , Li Zhuo , Shen Jiahua , Wang Zongxian
Published: November 2020

Selection and preparation method of a low-cost, environmentally-friendly desulfurization adsorbent raw material.
Preparation of a CuGaSe2single crystal and its photocathodic properties
Authors: Ikeda Shigeru , Fujita Wakaba , Okamoto Riku , Nose Yoshitaro , Katsube Ryoji , Yoshino Kenji , Harada Takashi
Published: November 2020

Sunlight-induced photoelectrochemical H2evolution was achived by using a photocathode based on a chalcopyrite CuGaSe2single crystal.
Combination of polyhexamethylene guanidine hydrochloride and potassium peroxymonosulfate to disinfect ready-to-eat lettuce
Authors: Wang Jiayi , Yu Yougui , Dong Yuemei
Published: November 2020

Combination of polyhexamethylene guanidine hydrochloride and potassium peroxymonosulfate can achieve consistent disinfection effects as those obtained with polyhexamethylene guanidine hydrochloride but at a lower cost.