bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of movement representation techniques on motor learning of thumb-opposition tasks
Authors: Cuenca-Martínez Ferran , Suso-Martí Luis , León-Hernández Jose Vicente , La Touche Roy
Published: July 2020

The present work is the first study that assess long run change after motor learning. The study’s main objective was to evaluate the short to medium-term impact of motor imagery (MI) and action observation (AO) on motor learning of a sequence of thumb-opposition tasks of increasing complexity. We randomly assigned 45 participants to an AO, MI, or placebo observation (PO) group. A sequence of 12 thumb-opposition tasks was taught for 3 consecutive days (4 per day). The primary outcome was accuracy. The secondary outcomes were required time and perfect positioning. The outcomes were assessed immediately after the intervention and at 1 week, 1 month and 4 months postintervention. Regarding the primary outcome, AO group had significantly higher accuracy than the MI or PO group until at least 4 months (p < 0.01, d > 0.80). However, in the bimanual positions, AO was not superior to MI at 1 week postintervention. Regarding secondary outcomes, AO group required less time than the MI group to remember and perform the left-hand and both-hand gestures, with a large effect size (p < 0.01, d > 0.80). In terms of percentage of perfect positions, AO group achieved significantly better results than the MI group until at least 4 months after the intervention in the unimanual gestures (p < 0.01, d > 0.80) and up to 1 month postintervention in the bimanual gestures (p = 0.012, d = 1.29). AO training resulted in greater and longer term motor learning than MI and placebo intervention. If the goal is to learn some motor skills for whatever reason (e.g., following surgery or immobilization.), AO training should be considered clinically.
Application of remote sensing to identify Copper–Lead–Zinc deposits in the Heiqia area of the West Kunlun Mountains, Chinas
Authors: Fan Yu-Hai , Wang Hui
Published: July 2020

The harsh natural environment and inaccessibility of the West Kunlun Mountains are barriers for their investigation via field geology. Remote sensing technology has the advantage of being efficient on a macroscale and not being restricted by terrain or road conditions in sparsely vegetated areas with exposed bedrock. This work focuses on copper–lead–zinc deposits in the Heiqia area in the West Kunlun Mountains as a case study to illustrate the application of IKONOS remote sensing images as major data sources to fabricate a standard image map, the extraction of information on ore-controlling factors and mineralization through the use of image enhancement methods, and the interpretation of remote sensing data to identify mineral resources. Alteration anomaly information was extracted from ASTER data, verified via field survey and sampling, and used to develop a remote sensing model for utilization in future prospecting efforts. The results of the survey showed that in IKONOS (band 3, 2, and 1 synthesis) images, the copper mineralization zone exhibits interlaced gray-white, blue-gray, and blue tones in a narrow strip-like pattern, while the lead–zinc mineralization zone shows gray-white, light gray-yellow, and yellowish-brown tones in a strip-like pattern. The main remotely sensed alteration anomalies are characteristic of hydroxyl. Six hydroxyl anomalies were delineated in the study area, of which five were found to be copper–lead–zinc deposits. The location of the ore bodies coincides well with the ASTER anomalies extracted. Two Cu–Pb–Zn mineralization belts are present in the study area. The ore-bearing rock series of belt No. I is phyllite interbedded with metasandstone, and the ore comprises mainly copper deposits supplemented by lead–zinc deposits. Belt No. II is in limestone and consists mainly of lead–zinc deposits supplemented by copper deposits. A remote sensing geological prospecting model for structurally altered Wenquangou Group copper–lead–zinc deposits with a genesis related to hot water basins is established. This provides a basis for future prospecting for similar minerals in the West Kunlun metallogenic belt.
Impact of 10-Myr scale monsoon dynamics on Mesozoic climate and ecosystems
Authors: Ikeda Masayuki , Ozaki Kazumi , Legrand Julien
Published: July 2020

Earth’s orbital variations on timescales of 104–105 years, known as Milankovitch cycles, have played a critical role in pacing climate change and ecosystem dynamics, through glacial and/or monsoon dynamics. However, the climatic and biotic consequences of these cycles on much longer (~ 107 years) timescales remain unclear, due to a lack of long proxy records with precise age constraints. Here, we show ~ 10-Myr scale variations in early Mesozoic (250–180 Ma) records of lake-level, desert distribution, biogenic-silica burial flux, atmospheric CO2 levels (pCO2), and sea-surface-temperature (SST). Their phase relationships, coupled with carbon cycle modeling results, suggest that orbitally-paced summer monsoon dynamics modulates changes in terrestrial weatherability by ~ 20%, affecting changes in pCO2 of up to 500–1,000 ppmv and 3–7 °C SST. We also infer that these ~ 10-Myr scale climatic variations could have been causally linked to biotic turnover, size variations in dinosaur footprints, and tetrapod dispersal, potentially through spatio-temporal variations in resource availability and arid-hot climatic barriers at low-middle latitudes.
Discovery of a new mode of oviparous reproduction in sharks and its evolutionary implications
Authors: Nakaya Kazuhiro , White William T. , Ho Hsuan-Ching
Published: July 2020

Two modes of oviparity are known in cartilaginous fishes, (1) single oviparity where one egg case is retained in an oviduct for a short period and then deposited, quickly followed by another egg case, and (2) multiple oviparity where multiple egg cases are retained in an oviduct for a substantial period and deposited later when the embryo has developed to a large size in each case. Sarawak swellsharkCephaloscyllium sarawakensisof the family Scyliorhinidae from the South China Sea performs a new mode of oviparity, which is named “sustained single oviparity”, characterized by a lengthy retention of a single egg case in an oviduct until the embryo attains a sizable length. The resulting fecundity of the Sarawak swellshark within a season is quite low, but this disadvantage is balanced by smaller body, larger neonates and quicker maturation. The Sarawak swellshark is further uniquely characterized by having glassy transparent egg cases, and this is correlated with a vivid polka-dot pattern of the embryos. Five modes of lecithotrophic (yolk-dependent) reproduction, i.e. short single oviparity, sustained single oviparity, multiple oviparity, yolk-sac viviparity of single pregnancy and yolk-sac viviparity of multiple pregnancy were discussed from an evolutionary point of view.
Surface Water CO2 variability in the Gulf of Mexico (1996–2017)
Authors: Kealoha Andrea K. , Shamberger Kathryn E. F. , DiMarco Steven F. , Thyng Kristen M. , Hetland Robert D. , Manzello Derek P. , Slowey Niall C. , Enochs Ian C.
Published: July 2020

Approximately 380,000 underway measurements of sea surface salinity, temperature, and carbon dioxide (CO2) in the Gulf of Mexico (GoM) were compiled from the Surface Ocean CO2 Atlas (SOCAT) to provide a comprehensive observational analysis of spatiotemporal CO2 dynamics from 1996 to 2017. An empirical orthogonal function (EOF) was used to derive the main drivers of spatial and temporal variability in the dataset. In open and coastal waters, drivers were identified as a biological component linked to riverine water, and temperature seasonality. Air-sea flux estimates indicate the GoM open (− 0.06 ± 0.45 mol C m−2 year−1) and coastal (− 0.03 ± 1.83 mol C m−2 year−1) ocean are approximately neutral in terms of an annual source or sink for atmospheric CO2. Surface water pCO2 in the northwest and southeast GoM open ocean is increasing (1.63 ± 0.63 µatm  year−1 and 1.70 ± 0.14 µatm year−1, respectively) at rates comparable to those measured at long-term ocean time-series stations. The average annual increase in coastal CO2 was 3.20 ± 1.47 µatm year-1 for the northwestern GoM and 2.35 ± 0.82 µatm year−1 for the west Florida Shelf. However, surface CO2 in the central (coastal and open) GoM, which is influenced by Mississippi and Atchafalaya River outflow, remained fairly stable over this time period.
EGF-mediated reduced miR-92a-1-5p controls HTR-8/SVneo cell invasion through activation of MAPK8 and FAS which in turn increase MMP-2/-9 expression
Authors: Malik Ankita , Pal Rahul , Gupta Satish Kumar
Published: July 2020

The members of human miR-17-92 cluster are implicated in several cancers and are known to increase cancer cells invasiveness. The present study reports reduced expression of miR-92a-1-5p in EGF treated HTR-8/SVneo trophoblastic cells by NGS and qRT-PCR. Overexpression of miR-92a-1-5p led to significantly reduced EGF-mediated HTR-8/SVneo cells invasion. MAPK8 and FAS were predicted to be miR-92a-1-5p targets, and confirmed to be reduced by qRT-PCR and Western blotting in trophoblast cells overexpressing miR-92a-1-5p. The binding of miR-92a-1-5p to MAPK8 and FAS 3′-UTR was confirmed by Luciferase reporter assay and Rescue assay. EGF increases MMP-2 & MMP-9 expression and reduces TIMP1 expression in HTR-8/SVneo cells. Inhibition of MAPK8 (by SP600125) reduced EGF-mediated MMP-9/TIMP1 ratio and invasion. Similarly, silencing of FAS by siRNA reduced EGF-mediated MMP-2/TIMP1 ratio and invasion. Treatment of HTR-8/SVneo cells with STAT1/3 inhibitors or siRNAs led to loss of EGF-mediated reduction in miR-92a-1-5p levels. Inserting the predicted binding sites of STAT3 present in promoter region of miR-92a-1-5p upstream of Luciferase promoter reduced its expression in presence of STAT3 expression vector. Thus, EGF leads to reduced miR-92a-1-5p expression which may be regulated by STAT1/STAT3 and controls HTR-8/SVneo cells invasion by targeting MAPK8 and FAS, which in turn increases MMP-2/MMP-9 expression.
The coffee agroecosystem: bio-economic analysis of coffee berry borer control (Hypothenemus hampei)
Authors: Cure José Ricardo , Rodríguez Daniel , Gutierrez Andrew Paul , Ponti Luigi
Published: July 2020

Coffee, after petroleum, is the most valuable commodity globally in terms of total value (harvest to coffee cup). Here, our bioeconomic analysis considers the multitude of factors that influence coffee production. The system model used in the analysis incorporates realistic field models based on considerable new field data and models for coffee plant growth and development, the coffee/coffee berry borer (CBB) dynamics in response to coffee berry production and the role of the CBB parasitoids and their interactions in control of CBB. Cultural control of CBB by harvesting, cleanup of abscised fruits, and chemical sprays previously considered are reexamined here to include biopesticides for control of CBB such as entomopathogenic fungi (Beauveria bassiana, Metarhizium anisopliae) and entomopathogenic nematodes (Steinernema sp., Heterorhabditis). The bioeconomic analysis estimates the potential of each control tactic singly and in combination for control of CBB. The analysis explains why frequent intensive harvesting of coffee is by far the most effective and economically viable control practice for reducing CBB infestations in Colombia and Brazil.
Electrically programmable probabilistic bit anti-correlator on a nanomagnetic platform
Authors: McCray Mason T. , Abeed Md Ahsanul , Bandyopadhyay Supriyo
Published: July 2020

Execution of probabilistic computing algorithms require electrically programmable stochasticity to encode arbitrary probability functions and controlled stochastic interaction or correlation between probabilistic (p-) bits. The latter is implemented with complex electronic components leaving a large footprint on a chip and dissipating excessive amount of energy. Here, we show an elegant implementation with just two dipole-coupled magneto-tunneling junctions (MTJ), with magnetostrictive soft layers, fabricated on a piezoelectric film. The resistance states of the two MTJs (high or low) encode the p-bit values (1 or 0) in the two streams. The first MTJ is driven to a resistance state with desired probability via a current or voltage that generates spin transfer torque, while the second MTJ’s resistance state is determined by dipole coupling with the first, thus correlating the second p-bit stream with the first. The effect of dipole coupling can be varied by generating local strain in the soft layer of the second MTJ with a local voltage (~ 0.2 V) and that varies the degree of anti-correlation between the resistance states of the two MTJs and hence between the two streams (from 0 to 100%). This paradigm generates the anti-correlation with “wireless” dipole coupling that consumes no footprint on a chip and dissipates no energy, and it controls the degree of anti-correlation with electrically generated strain that consumes minimal footprint and is extremely frugal in its use of energy. It can be extended to arbitrary number of bit streams. This realizes an “all-magnetic” platform for generating correlations or anti-correlations for probabilistic computing. It also implements a simple 2-node Bayesian network.
High frequency response of thick REBCO coated conductors in the framework of the FCC study
Authors: Romanov Artur , Krkotić Patrick , Telles Guilherme , O’Callaghan Joan , Pont Montse , Perez Francis , Granados Xavier , Calatroni Sergio , Puig Teresa , Gutierrez Joffre
Published: July 2020

A thorough microwave response study of high temperature superconductors, considered as an alternative beam screen coating, has become integral in the design decisions for CERN’s future research infrastructure. Here, we present the surface resistance $$R_{s}$$Rs of various $$\text {REBa}_{2}\text {Cu}_{3}\text {O}_{7-x}$$REBa2Cu3O7-x (RE = rare earth) coated conductors available in large scale as a function of magnetic field in a broad temperature range measured by a Hakki–Coleman type resonator with resonant frequency $$\nu \approx {8}\,{\text {GHz}}$$ν≈8GHz. Analysis of the high frequency dissipation supported by DC transport characterization reveals the vortex dynamics in thick $$\text {REBa}_{2}\text {Cu}_{3}\text {O}_{7-x}$$REBa2Cu3O7-x films. Determined microscopic vortex parameters span over a wide range of magnitudes and reflect the relevance of the superconducting layer’s microstructure. We demonstrate that the depinning frequencies $$\nu _0$$ν0 surpass $$\nu$$ν, which confirms the operation in high performing, low dissipation pinning regime at measurement conditions. Surface impedance extrapolation to FCC-hh conditions points towards a significant outperformance of copper by coated conductors in terms of surface resistance. The surface resistance margins would open up potential ways for a more efficient frontier circular collider.
High taurine supplementation in plant protein-based diets improves growth and organoleptic characteristics of European seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax)
Authors: Kotzamanis Yannis , Tsironi Theofania , Brezas Andreas , Grigorakis Kriton , Ilia Vassiliki , Vatsos Ioannis , Romano Nicholas , van Eys Jan , Kumar Vikas
Published: July 2020

Plant-based proteins are increasingly being used in aquafeeds, but one of the limitations is taurine deficiency that can be especially detrimental for carnivorous fish. In this study, taurine supplementation in high plant protein diets (low fish meal, 15%) was investigated on the growth performance and fillet organoleptic characteristics of European seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax), juveniles (78 ± 0.4 g). Five diets were formulated to contain 0 (C−), 5 (T5), 10 (T10) or 20 (T20) added taurine (g/kg), while a control diet (C+) included two-fold higher amount of fishmeal (30%) with no taurine supplementation. Seabass fed the T20 or C+ diet showed similar growth, which was significantly higher compared to those in the C-treatment. Histological examination of the muscle, liver and intestine were similar among treatments. No effect on spoilage bacterial growth or production of total volatile basic nitrogen was observed. Taurine supplementation significantly reduced fillet drip loss, while the fillets of European seabass fed the T10 and T20 diets showed significant higher and lower hardness and adhesiveness values, respectively. Moreover, fillet chewiness was also found to be significantly higher in fish fed the T20 diet compared to C+ and C− diets. Overall, it seems that high dietary taurine supplementation acted as a growth promoter and concurrently improved significantly the postharvest quality characteristics of seabass, which may be attributed to its role in maintaining cell membrane integrity and permeability.
Comparing ultrafiltration and equilibrium dialysis to measure unbound plasma dolutegravir concentrations based on a design of experiment approach
Authors: Metsu David , Lanot Thomas , Fraissinet François , Concordet Didier , Gayrard Véronique , Averseng Manon , Ressault Alice , Martin-Blondel Guillaume , Levade Thierry , Février Frédéric , Chatelut Etienne , Delobel Pierre , Gandia Peggy
Published: July 2020

Dolutegravir therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) could be improved by measuring the unbound dolutegravir plasma concentration (Cu), particularly in patients experiencing virological failure or toxicity despite achieving appropriate DTG total plasma concentrations. Equilibrium dialysis (ED) is the gold standard to measure Cu, but ED is time consuming, precluding its use in clinical practice. In contrast, ultrafiltration is applicable to TDM, but is sensitive to numerous analytical conditions. In order to evaluate measurements of Cu by ultrafiltration, ultrafiltration conditions were validated by comparison with ED. DTG concentrations were measured by LC–MS/MS. Three ultrafiltration factors (temperature, duration and relative centrifugal force [RCF]) were evaluated and compared to ED (25/37 °C), using a design of experiment strategy. Temperature was found to influence Cu results by ED (p = 0.036) and UF (p = 0.002) when results were analysed with ANOVA. Relative centrifugal force (2000 g) and time (20 min) interacted to influence Cu (p = 0.006), while individually they did not influence Cu (p = 0.88 and p = 0.42 for RCF and time). Ultrafiltration conditions which yielded the most comparable results to ED were 37 °C, 1000 g for 20 min. Ultrafiltration results greatly depended on analytical conditions, confirming the need to validate the method by comparison with ED in order to correctly interpret DTG Cu.
Transcriptomic differences between male and female Trachycarpus fortunei
Authors: Feng Xiao , Yang Zhao , Xiu-rong Wang , Ying Wang
Published: July 2020

Trachycarpus fortunei (Hook.) is a typical dioecious plant, which has important economic value. There is currently no sex identification method for the early stages of T. fortunei growth. The aim of this study was to obtain expression and site differences between male and female T. fortunei transcriptomes. Using the Illumina sequencing platform, the transcriptomes of T. fortunei male and female plants were sequenced. By analyzing transcriptomic differences, the chromosomal helical binding protein (CHD1), serine/threonine protein kinase (STPK), cytochrome P450 716B1, and UPF0136 were found to be specifically expressed in T. fortunei males. After single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) detection, a total of 12 male specific sites were found and the THUMP domain protein homologs were found to be male-biased expressed. Cytokinin dehydrogenase 6 (CKX6) was upregulated in male flowers and the lower concentrations of cytokinin (CTK) may be more conducive to male flower development. During new leaf growth, flavonoid and flavonol biosynthesis were initiated. Additionally, the flavonoids, 3′,5′-hydroxylase (F3′5′H), flavonoids 3′-hydroxylase, were upregulated, which may cause the pale yellow phenotype. Based on these data, it can be concluded that inter-sex differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and specific SNP loci may be associated with sex determination in T. fortunei.
A preliminary investigation into the use of molecular oxide and hydride secondary ion relationships for improvement of the 236U/238U determination on a NanoSIMS 50L
Authors: Zirakparvar N. Alex , Hexel Cole R. , Smith Julie B. , Miskowiec Andrew J. , Spano Tyler L. , Kapsimalis Roger
Published: July 2020

A NanoSIMS 50L is used to investigate uranium molecular (235U16O, 236U16O, 238U16O, 235U1H, 238U1H, 236U16O1H, and 238U16O1H) and elemental (235U, 236U, and 238U) secondary ion production during sputtering of synthetic UO2 and the NIST-610 standard to determine if: (1) the 236U16O/238U16O molecular oxide ratio performs better than the 236U/238U elemental ratio, and (2) there is co-variance between the molecular hydrides and oxides. Despite an order of magnitude greater abundance of 236U16O secondary ions (compared to 236U), the 236U16O/238U16O ratios are less accurate than the 236U/238U ratios. Further work is needed before the higher count rate of the 236U16O secondary ion can be used to obtain a better 236U/238U ratio. The second objective was undertaken because correction for the interference of 235U1H on the 236U secondary ion species typically utilizes the 238U1H/238U ratio. This becomes problematic in samples containing 239Pu, so our aim was to understand if the hydride formation rate can be constrained independently of having to measure the 238U1H. We document correlations between the hydride (238U1H and 238U16O1H) and oxide (236U16O) secondary ions, suggesting that pursuing an alternative correction regime is worthwhile.
Nano assembly of NiFe spheres anchored on f-MWCNT for electrocatalytic reduction and sensing of nitrofurantoin in biological samples
Authors: Hwa Kuo-Yuan , Sharma Tata Sanjay Kanna
Published: July 2020

The current study reports a facile simple, low-cost electrochemical sensor in the detection of nitrofurantoin (NFT) by using NiFe/f-MWCNT hybrid composite as a promising electrocatalyst. NFT is an antibiotic drug that is extensively using in pharmaceuticals and also in animal food production which causes a severe threat for both human and animal environments. Extending the residues of NFT are left into rivers, soils, lakes, and groundwaters either found or discharged leading health issues. To this NiFe/f-MWCNT composite was synthesized using a hydrothermal mechanism and then ultrasonicated to form a hybrid composite for catalytic evaluation and electrochemical detection of NFT for the very first time. Furthermore, the physicochemical properties of NiFe nanospheres conjugated on f-MWCNT are scrutinized using various analytical and spectroscopical techniques. Resulting transmission electron microscopy (TEM) displays a chain like NiFe nanospheres anchored on f-MWCNT with a well-defined spherical shape, without any comprehensive agglomeration. The NiFe/f-MWCNT screen printed carbon paste electrode (SPCE) displayed an excellent electrocatalytic activity for NFT with a LOD of 0.03 µM and a sensitivity of 11.45 µA µM−1 cm−2. establishing a new selectivity and with the existence of co-interfering compounds. To enhance the practical abilities analysis were performed in Human serum and urine samples which resulted in satisfactory recoveries with high precision and linear accuracy illustrated in Scheme 1.
Auditory stimuli degrade visual performance in virtual reality
Authors: Malpica Sandra , Serrano Ana , Gutierrez Diego , Masia Belen
Published: July 2020

We report an auditory effect of visual performance degradation in a virtual reality (VR) setting, where the viewing conditions are significantly different from previous studies. With the presentation of temporally congruent but spatially incongruent sound, we can degrade visual performance significantly at detection and recognition levels. We further show that this effect is robust to different types and locations of both auditory and visual stimuli. We also analyze participants behavior with an eye tracker to study the underlying cause of the degradation effect. We find that the performance degradation occurs even in the absence of saccades towards the sound source, during normal gaze behavior. This suggests that this effect is not caused by oculomotor phenomena, but rather by neural interactions or attentional shifts.
The contribution of photosynthesis traits and plant height components to plant height in wheat at the individual quantitative trait locus level
Authors: Yu Ma , Liu Ze-Hou , Yang Bin , Chen Hua , Zhang Hong , Hou Da-Bin
Published: July 2020

Plant height is an important agronomic trait for morphogenesis and grain yield formation in wheat. In this study, we performed both normal and multivariate conditional quantitative trait locus (QTL) analyses for plant height with spike length, internode number, length of the first internode to the sixth internode from the top during harvest, and photosynthesis traits at the seedling stage and heading stage based on a recombinant inbred line population. A total of 49 normal QTLs were detected, as well as 312 conditional QTLs. The genetic region Xbcd1970-Xbcd262 on chromosome 2D harbored the most QTLs, with 6 normal QTLs and 39 conditional QTLs. A comparison between the normal and conditional QTL mapping analyses suggested that the length of the third internode, fourth internode, and fifth internode from the top showed a high genetic association with plant height, whereas all photosynthesis traits showed weaker associations. This comparative analysis could serve as a platform for dissecting the genetic relation between objective traits and other phenotypic traits before manipulation of genes collocated with QTL clusters.
Functional high-intensity exercise is more effective in acutely increasing working memory than aerobic walking: an exploratory randomized, controlled trial
Authors: Wilke Jan
Published: July 2020

Aerobic and resistance exercise acutely increase cognitive performance (CP). High-intensity functional training (HIFT) combines the characteristics of both regimes but its effect on CP is unclear. Thirty-five healthy individuals (26.7 ± 3.6 years, 18 females) were randomly allocated to three groups. The first (HIFT) performed a functional whole-body workout at maximal effort and in circuit format, while a second walked at 60% of the heart rate reserve (WALK). The third group remained physically inactive reading a book (CON). Before and after the 15-min intervention period, CP was assessed with the Stroop Test, Trail Making Test and Digit Span Test. Repeated-measures ANOVAs and post-hoc 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were used to detect time/group differences. A significant group*time interaction was found for the backwards condition of the Digit Span Test (p = 0.04) and according to the 95% CI, HIFT was superior to WALK and CON. Analysis of the sum score of the Digit Span Test and the incongruent condition of the Stroop Test, furthermore, revealed main effects for time (p < 0.05) with HIFT being the only intervention improving CP. No differences were found for the Trail Making Test (p > 0.05). In conclusion, HIFT represents an appropriate method to acutely improve working memory, potentially being superior to moderate aerobic-type exercise.
Author Correction: Phosphoinositides regulate the TCR/CD3 complex membrane dynamics and activation
Authors: Chouaki Benmansour Nassima , Ruminski Kilian , Sartre Anne-Marie , Phelipot Marie-Claire , Salles Audrey , Bergot Elise , Wu Ambroise , Chicanne Gaëtan , Fallet Mathieu , Brustlein Sophie , Billaudeau Cyrille , Formisano Anthony , Mailfert Sébastien , Payrastre Bernard , Marguet Didier , Brasselet Sophie , Hamon Yannick , He Hai-Tao
Published: July 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Regulation of MYO18B mRNA by a network of C19MC miRNA-520G, IFN-γ, CEBPB, p53 and bFGF in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Jinesh Goodwin G. , Napoli Marco , Ackerman Hayley D. , Raulji Payal M. , Montey Nicole , Flores Elsa R. , Brohl Andrew S.
Published: July 2020

MYO18B has been proposed to contribute to the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the signals that govern MYO18B transcription are not known. Here we show that, a network of C19MC miRNA-520G, IFN-γ, CEBPB and p53 transcriptional-defects promote MYO18B mRNA expression in HCCs. IFN-γ by itself suppresses MYO18B transcription, but promotes it when miRNA-520G is stably overexpressed. Similarly, CEBPB-liver-enriched activator protein (LAP) isoform overexpression suppresses MYO18B transcription but promotes transcription when the cells are treated with IFN-γ. Furthermore, miR-520G together with mutant-p53 promotes MYO18B transcription. Conversely, bFGF suppresses MYO18B mRNA irrespective of CEBPB, miR-520G overexpression or IFN-γ treatment. Finally high MYO18B expression reflects poor prognosis while high MYL5 or MYO1B expression reflects better survival of HCC patients. Thus, we identified a network of positive and negative regulators of MYO18B mRNA expression which reflects the survival of HCC patients.
Poorly known 2018 floods in Bosra UNESCO site and Sergiopolis in Syria unveiled from space using Sentinel-1/2 and COSMO-SkyMed
Authors: Tapete Deodato , Cigna Francesca
Published: July 2020

The instability situation affecting the Middle East poses threats to preservation of cultural heritage. Mapping efforts based on satellite imagery currently concentrate more on recording human-induced damage than impacts of unforeseen natural events (e.g. floods). In 2018, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bosra and the landscape of Sergiopolis-Resafa in Syria were flooded after heavy rainfall. While the first incident was reported by heritage organisations (although information was limited to the main monument), the second event was completely unknown. Using optical and radar satellite images from the European Commission’s Copernicus Sentinels fleet and the Italian Space Agency’s COSMO-SkyMed constellation, we prove that these data are an enormous reservoir of information to assess comprehensively the duration, extent and severity of such natural events. In Bosra, several key assets were flooded besides the Roman Theatre, with waters taking from few days to several weeks to evacuate and dry out. In Sergiopolis, while the main ruins were sheltered by the fortification walls, the nearby floodplain was inundated. The floodwater-flow pattern resembled the simulations developed by archaeologists to prove the existence of an ancient system of embankments and dam. Our results suggest that many other events posing risk to heritage assets, otherwise unnoticed, may be unveiled if current satellite imagery archives, yet to analyse, are systematically screened.
Roles of sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ ATPase pump in the impairments of lymphatic contractile activity in a metabolic syndrome rat model
Authors: Lee Yang , Chakraborty Sanjukta , Muthuchamy Mariappan
Published: July 2020

The intrinsic lymphatic contractile activity is necessary for proper lymph transport. Mesenteric lymphatic vessels from high-fructose diet-induced metabolic syndrome (MetSyn) rats exhibited impairments in its intrinsic phasic contractile activity; however, the molecular mechanisms responsible for the weaker lymphatic pumping activity in MetSyn conditions are unknown. Several metabolic disease models have shown that dysregulation of sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ ATPase (SERCA) pump is one of the key determinants of the phenotypes seen in various muscle tissues. Hence, we hypothesized that a decrease in SERCA pump expression and/or activity in lymphatic muscle influences the diminished lymphatic vessel contractions in MetSyn animals. Results demonstrated that SERCA inhibitor, thapsigargin, significantly reduced lymphatic phasic contractile frequency and amplitude in control vessels, whereas, the reduced MetSyn lymphatic contractile activity was not further diminished by thapsigargin. While SERCA2a expression was significantly decreased in MetSyn lymphatic vessels, myosin light chain 20, MLC20 phosphorylation was increased in these vessels. Additionally, insulin resistant lymphatic muscle cells exhibited elevated intracellular calcium and decreased SERCA2a expression and activity. The SERCA activator, CDN 1163 partially restored lymphatic contractile activity in MetSyn lymphatic vessel by increasing phasic contractile frequency. Thus, our data provide the first evidence that SERCA2a modulates the lymphatic pumping activity by regulating phasic contractile amplitude and frequency, but not the lymphatic tone. Diminished lymphatic contractile activity in the vessels from the MetSyn animal is associated with the decreased SERCA2a expression and impaired SERCA2 activity in lymphatic muscle.
Mitochondrial function parameters as a tool for tailored drug treatment of an individual with psychosis: a proof of concept study
Authors: Bar-Yosef Tamara , Hussein Wessal , Yitzhaki Ofer , Damri Odeya , Givon Limor , Marom Carmit , Gurman Vlada , Levine Joseph , Bersudsky Yuly , Agam Galila , Ben-Shachar Dorit
Published: July 2020

Pharmacological treatment of mental disorders is currently decided based on "trial and error" strategy. Mitochondrial multifaceted dysfunction is assumed to be a major factor in the pathophysiology and treatment of schizophrenia (SZ) and bipolar disorder (BD). This study aimed to explore the feasibility of using a profile of mitochondrial function parameters as a tool to predict the optimal drug for an individual patient (personalized medicine). Healthy controls (n = 40), SZ (n = 48) and BD (n = 27) patients were recruited. Mental and global state of the subjects, six mitochondrial respiration parameters and 14 mitochondrial function-related proteins were assessed in fresh lymphocytes following in-vitro or in-vivo treatment with five antipsychotic drugs and two mood-stabilizers. In healthy controls, hierarchal clustering shows a drug-specific effect profile on the different mitochondrial parameters following in-vitro exposure. Similar changes were observed in untreated SZ and BD patients with psychosis. Following a month of treatment of the latter patients, only responders showed a significant correlation between drug-induced in-vitro effect (prior to in-vivo treatment) and short-term in-vivo treatment effect for 45% of the parameters. Long- but not short-term psychotropic treatment normalized mitochondria-related parameters in patients with psychosis. Taken together, these data substantiate mitochondria as a target for psychotropic drugs and provide a proof of concept for selective mitochondrial function-related parameters as a predictive tool for an optimized psychotropic treatment in a given patient. This, however, needs to be repeated with an expanded sample size and additional mitochondria related parameters.
Impact of the nisin modification machinery on the transport kinetics of NisT
Authors: Lagedroste Marcel , Reiners Jens , Smits Sander H. J. , Schmitt Lutz
Published: July 2020

Lanthipeptides are ribosomally synthesized and post-translationally modified peptides containing dehydrated amino acids and (methyl-)lanthionine rings. One of the best-studied examples is nisin produced by Lactococcus lactis. Nisin is synthesized as a precursor peptide comprising of an N-terminal leader peptide and a C-terminal core peptide. Amongst others, the leader peptide is crucial for enzyme recognition and acts as a secretion signal for the ABC transporter NisT that secretes nisin in a proposed channeling mechanism. Here, we present an in vivo secretion analysis of this process in the presence and absence of the nisin maturation machinery, consisting of the dehydratase NisB and the cyclase NisC. Our determined apparent secretion rates of NisT show how NisB and NisC modulate the transport kinetics of NisA. Additional in vitro studies of the detergent-solubilized NisT revealed how these enzymes and the substrates again influence the activity of transporter. In summary, this study highlights the pivotal role of NisB for NisT in the secretion process.
IL-21 Stimulates the expression and activation of cell cycle regulators and promotes cell proliferation in EBV-positive diffuse large B cell lymphoma
Authors: Wang Yuxuan , Wang Chengcheng , Cai Xiyunyi , Mou Chang , Cui Xueting , Zhang Yingying , Ge Feng , Dong Hao , Hao Yuanyuan , Cai Lei , Wu Shuting , Feng Chenjie , Chen Jiamin , Li Jianyong , Xu Wei , Fan Lei , Xie Weijia , Tong Yue , Gu Harvest Feng , Wu Liang
Published: July 2020

The clinical features of EBV-positive diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) indicate a poorer prognosis than EBV-negative DLBCL. Currently, there is no efficacious drug for EBV-positive DLBCL. The cytokine interleukin-21 (IL-21) has been reported to be pro-apoptotic in DLBCL cell lines and is being explored as a new therapeutic strategy for this type of lymphomas. However, our previous studies showed that IL-21 stimulation of EBV-positive DLBCL cell lines leads to increased proliferation. Here, analysis of a rare clinical sample of EBV-positive DLBCL, in combination with a NOD/SCID mouse xenograft model, confirmed the effect of IL-21 on the proliferation of EBV-positive DLBCL cells. Using RNA-sequencing, we identified the pattern of differentially-expressed genes following IL-21 treatment and verified the expression of key genes at the protein level using western blotting. We found that IL-21 upregulates expression of the host MYC and AP-1 (composed of related Jun and Fos family proteins) and STAT3 phosphorylation, as well as expression of the viral LMP-1 protein. These proteins are known to promote the G1/S phase transition to accelerate cell cycle progression. Furthermore, in NOD/SCID mouse xenograft model experiments, we found that IL-21 treatment increases glucose uptake and angiogenesis in EBV-positive DLBCL tumours. Although more samples are needed to validate these observations, our study reconfirms the adverse effects of IL-21 on EBV-positive DLBCL, which has implications for the drug development of DLBCL.
Neural innervation as a potential trigger of morphological color change and sexual dimorphism in cichlid fish
Authors: Liang Yipeng , Meyer Axel , Kratochwil Claudius F.
Published: July 2020

Many species change their coloration during ontogeny or even as adults. Color change hereby often serves as sexual or status signal. The cellular and subcellular changes that drive color change and how they are orchestrated have been barely understood, but a deeper knowledge of the underlying processes is important to our understanding of how such plastic changes develop and evolve. Here we studied the color change of the Malawi golden cichlid (Melanchromis auratus). Females and subordinate males of this species are yellow and white with two prominent black stripes (yellow morph; female and non-breeding male coloration), while dominant males change their color and completely invert this pattern with the yellow and white regions becoming black, and the black stripes becoming white to iridescent blue (dark morph; male breeding coloration). A comparison of the two morphs reveals that substantial changes across multiple levels of biological organization underlie this polyphenism. These include changes in pigment cell (chromatophore) number, intracellular dispersal of pigments, and tilting of reflective platelets (iridosomes) within iridophores. At the transcriptional level, we find differences in pigmentation gene expression between these two color morphs but, surprisingly, 80% of the genes overexpressed in the dark morph relate to neuronal processes including synapse formation. Nerve fiber staining confirms that scales of the dark morph are indeed innervated by 1.3 to 2 times more axonal fibers. Our results might suggest an instructive role of nervous innervation orchestrating the complex cellular and ultrastructural changes that drive the morphological color change of this cichlid species.
Pregnancy environment, and not preconception, leads to fetal growth restriction and congenital abnormalities associated with diabetes
Authors: Tsai Pai-Jong Stacy , Yamauchi Yasuhiro , Riel Jonathan M. , Ward Monika A.
Published: July 2020

Maternal diabetes can lead to pregnancy complications and impaired fetal development. The goal of this study was to use a mouse model of reciprocal embryo transfer to distinguish between the preconception and gestational effects of diabetes. To induce diabetes female mice were injected with a single high dose of streptozotocin and 3 weeks thereafter used as oocyte donors for in vitro fertilization (IVF) and as recipients for embryo transfer. Following IVF embryos were cultured to the blastocyst stage in vitro or transferred to diabetic and non-diabetic recipients. Diabetic and non-diabetic females did not differ in regard to the number of oocytes obtained after ovarian stimulation, oocytes ability to become fertilized, and embryo development in vitro. However, diabetic females displayed impaired responsiveness to superovulation. Reciprocal embryo transfer resulted in similar incidence of live fetuses and abortions, and no changes in placental size. However, fetuses carried by diabetic recipients were smaller compared to those carried by non-diabetic recipients, regardless hyperglycemia status of oocyte donors. Congenital abnormalities were observed only among the fetuses carried by diabetic recipients. The findings support that the diabetic status during pregnancy, and not the preconception effect of diabetes on oogenesis, leads to fetal growth restriction and congenital deformities.
Evidence of scavenging behaviour in crested porcupine
Authors: Coppola Francesca , Guerrieri Denise , Simoncini Andrea , Varuzza Paolo , Vecchio Giuseppe , Felicioli Antonio
Published: July 2020

The vegetarian diet of many herbivorous mammals is supplemented with proteins of animal origin, especially in young individuals and in breeding females, to provide key proteins necessary for both growth and breeding. Among porcupine species, only the Cape porcupine (Hystrix africaeaustralis) has been observed to consume carrion flesh. From June to August 2019, a pigeon carcass was placed together with corn in 7 study settlements and near 2 monitored capture-traps, in order to assess the carrion flesh feeding habits of the crested porcupine (Hystrix cristata). Scavenging behaviour was recorded on four occasions. All the recorded individuals were adults and at least one was female. This demonstrates that the crested porcupine occasionally does eat flesh. Such evidence raises important questions concerning the relationship between feeding habits and the physiological needs of this herbivorous rodent.
Preferentially expressed antigen in melanoma as a novel diagnostic marker differentiating thymic squamous cell carcinoma from thymoma
Authors: Taniguchi Yohei , Ishida Mitsuaki , Saito Tomohito , Ryota Hironori , Utsumi Takahiro , Maru Natsumi , Matsui Hiroshi , Hino Haruaki , Tsuta Koji , Murakawa Tomohiro
Published: July 2020

Thymic squamous cell carcinoma (TSQCC), accounting for 70–80% of thymic carcinoma cases, is distinct from thymoma. However, differential diagnosis for type B3 thymoma is sometimes challenging, even with established markers for TSQCC, including KIT and CD5, which are expressed in ~ 80% of TSQCCs and ~ 3% of thymomas. Novel TSQCC-specific markers would facilitate precise diagnosis and optimal treatment. Herein, we found that preferentially expressed antigen in melanoma (PRAME) may be a novel TSQCC-specific diagnostic marker. We comprehensively profiled 770 immune-related mRNAs in 10 patients with TSQCC and two healthy controls, showing that PRAME and KIT were significantly upregulated in TSQCC (adjusted p values = 0.045 and 0.0011, respectively). We then examined PRAME expression in 17 TSQCCs and 116 thymomas via immunohistochemistry. All 17 (100%) TSQCCs displayed diffuse and strong PRAME expression, whereas eight of 116 (6.8%) thymomas displayed focal and weak expression (p < 0.0001). KIT and CD5 were positive in 17 (100%) and 16 (94.1%) TSQCCs, respectively, whereas one (0.9%) type B3 thymoma showed double positivity for KIT and CD5. The KIT-/CD5-positive type B3 thymoma was negative for PRAME. Thus, combinatorial evaluation of PRAME with KIT and CD5 may facilitate a more precise diagnosis of TSQCC.
Effect of different biochars on acid soil and growth parameters of rice plants under aluminium toxicity
Authors: Shetty Rajpal , Prakash Nagabovanalli Basavarajappa
Published: July 2020

Biochar is known to decrease the soil acidity and in turn enhance the plant growth by increasing soil fertility. Major objective of the present work was to understand the effect of biochar treatment on alleviation of soil aluminium (Al) toxicity and its role in enhancing plant growth parameters. Soil incubation study was conducted to understand the effect of biochar (Eucalyptus wood, bamboo, and rice husk) on soil pH, soluble and exchangeable Al in soil with and without Al addition. Another independent pot experiment with rice crop (Oryza sativa L. var. Anagha) was carried out for 120 days to examine the effect of biochars on soil properties and growth parameters of rice plants. Wood biochar application to soil at 20 t ha−1 was found to be highly consistent in decreasing soil acidity and reducing soluble and exchangeable Al under both studies. We conclude that wood biochar at higher dose performed better in reducing soluble and exchangeable Al in comparison to other biochars indicating its higher ameliorating capacity. However, rice husk biochar was effective under Al untreated soil, indicating the role of Si-rich biochars in enhancing plant growth.
Observation of Dirac state in half-Heusler material YPtBi
Authors: Hosen M. Mofazzel , Dhakal Gyanendra , Dimitri Klauss , Choi Hongchul , Kabir Firoza , Sims Christopher , Pavlosiuk Orest , Wiśniewski Piotr , Durakiewicz Tomasz , Zhu Jian-Xin , Kaczorowski Dariusz , Neupane Madhab
Published: July 2020

The prediction of non-trivial topological electronic states in half-Heusler compounds makes these materials good candidates for discovering new physics and devices as half-Heusler phases harbour a variety of electronic ground states, including superconductivity, antiferromagnetism, and heavy-fermion behaviour. Here, we report a systematic studies of electronic properties of a superconducting half-Heusler compound YPtBi, in its normal state, investigated using angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy. Our data reveal the presence of a Dirac state at the $$\Gamma$$Γ point of the Brillouin zone at 500 meV below the Fermi level. We observe the presence of multiple Fermi surface pockets, including two concentric hexagonal and six half-oval shaped pockets at the $$\Gamma$$Γ and K points of the Brillouin zone, respectively. Furthermore, our measurements show Rashba-split bands and multiple surface states crossing the Fermi level, this is also supported by the first-principles calculations. Our findings of a Dirac state in YPtBi contribute to the establishing of half-Heusler compounds as a potential platform for novel topological phases.