bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Screening of potential miRNA therapeutics for the prevention of multi-drug resistance in cancer cells
Authors: Medarova Zdravka , Pantazopoulos Pamela , Yoo Byunghee
Published: February 2020

Chemotherapy, a major cancer treatment approach, suffers seriously from multidrug resistance (MDR), generally caused by innate DNA repair proteins that reverse the DNA modification by anti-cancer therapeutics or trans-membrane efflux proteins that pump anti-cancer therapeutics out of the cytosol. This project focused on finding microRNAs that can regulate MDR proteins by managing corresponding mRNA levels through post-transcriptional regulation based on nucleotide sequence matching. Screening was done with bioinformatics databases for unpublished/unexplored microRNAs with high nucleotide sequence correspondence to two representative MDR proteins, MGMT (a DNA repair protein) and ABCB1 (an efflux protein), revealing microRNA-4539 and microRNA-4261 respectively. To investigate the enhancement of chemotherapeutics in cancer cells, high MGMT expressing glioblastoma (T98G) and a high ABCB1 expressing triple-negative breast cancer cell line (MDA-MB-231-luc) were treated with varying concentrations of chemotherapeutics and corresponding miRNAs. Newly identified MDR-related miRNAs (MDRmiRs) enhanced the response to anti-cancer therapeutics and resulted in effective cell death. In this study, we demonstrated that therapeutic miRNAs could be identified based on the nucleotide sequence matching of miRNAs to targeted mRNA and the same approach could be employed for the screening of therapeutic candidates to regulate specific target proteins in diverse diseases.
Structural Studies of Epithelial Mesenchymal Transition Breast Tissues
Authors: Mohd Sobri S. N. , Abdul Sani S. F. , Sabtu Siti Norbaini , Looi L. M. , Chiew S. F. , Pathmanathan Dharini , Chio-Srichan Sirinart , Bradley D. A.
Published: February 2020

At the supramolecular level, the proliferation of invasive ductal carcinoma through breast tissue is beyond the range of standard histopathology identification. Using synchrotron small angle x-ray scattering (SAXS) techniques, determining nanometer scale structural changes in breast tissue has been demonstrated to allow discrimination between different tissue types. From a total of 22 patients undergoing symptomatic investigations, different category breast tissue samples were obtained in use of surgically removed tissue, including non-lesional, benign and malignant tumour. Structural components of the tissues were examined at momentum transfer values between q = 0.2 nm−1 and 1.5 nm−1. From the SAXS patterns, axial d-spacing and diffuse scattering intensity were observed to provide the greatest discrimination between the various tissue types, specifically in regard to the epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) structural component in malignant tissue. In non-lesional tissue the axial period of collagen is within the range 63.6–63.7 nm (formalin fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) dewaxed) and 63.4 (formalin fixed), being 0.9 nm smaller than in EMT cancer-invaded regions. The overall intensity of scattering from cancerous regions is a degree of magnitude greater in cancer-invaded regions. Present work has found that the d-spacing of the EMT positive breast cancer tissue (FFPE (dewaxed)) is within the range 64.5–64.7 nm corresponding to the 9th and 10th order peaks. Of particular note in regard to formalin fixation of samples is that no alteration is observed to occur in the relative differences in collagen d-spacing between non-lesional and malignant tissues. This is a matter of great importance given that preserved-sample and also retrospective study of samples is greatly facilitated by formalin fixation. Present results indicate that as aids in tissue diagnosis SAXS is capable of distinguishing areas of invasion by disease as well as delivering further information at the supramolecular level.
A comparison of cost and quality of three methods for estimating density for wild pig (Sus scrofa)
Authors: Davis Amy J. , Keiter David A. , Kierepka Elizabeth M. , Slootmaker Chris , Piaggio Antoinette J. , Beasley James C. , Pepin Kim M.
Published: February 2020

A critical element in effective wildlife management is monitoring the status of wildlife populations; however, resources to monitor wildlife populations are typically limited. We compared cost effectiveness of three common population estimation methods (i.e. non-invasive DNA sampling, camera sampling, and sampling from trapping) by applying them to wild pigs (Sus scrofa) across three habitats in South Carolina, U.S.A where they are invasive. We used mark-recapture analyses for fecal DNA sampling data, spatially-explicit capture-recapture analyses for camera sampling data, and a removal analysis for removal sampling from trap data. Density estimates were similar across methods. Camera sampling was the least expensive, but had large variances. Fecal DNA sampling was the most expensive, although this technique generally performed well. We examined how reductions in effort by method related to increases in relative bias or imprecision. For removal sampling, the largest cost savings while maintaining unbiased density estimates was from reducing the number of traps. For fecal DNA sampling, a reduction in effort only minimally reduced costs due to the need for increased lab replicates while maintaining high quality estimates. For camera sampling, effort could only be marginally reduced before inducing bias. We provide a decision tree for researchers to help make monitoring decisions.
Effective Nephroprotection Against Acute Kidney Injury with a Star-Shaped Polyglutamate-Curcuminoid Conjugate
Authors: Córdoba-David Gina , Duro-Castano Aroa , Castelo-Branco Regiane Cardoso , González-Guerrero Cristian , Cannata Pablo , Sanz Ana B , Vicent María J. , Ortiz Alberto , Ramos Adrián M.
Published: February 2020

The lack of effective pharmacological treatments for acute kidney injury (AKI) remains a significant public health problem. Given the involvement of apoptosis and regulated necrosis in the initiation and progression of AKI, the inhibition of cell death may contribute to AKI prevention/recovery. Curcuminoids are a family of plant polyphenols that exhibit attractive biological properties that make them potentially suitable for AKI treatment. Now, in cultured tubular cells, we demonstrated that a crosslinked self-assembled star-shaped polyglutamate (PGA) conjugate of bisdemethoxycurcumin (St-PGA-CL-BDMC) inhibits apoptosis and necroptosis induced by Tweak/TNFα/IFNγ alone or concomitant to caspase inhibition. St-PGA-CL-BDMC also reduced NF-κB activation and subsequent gene transcription. In vivo, St-PGA-CL-BDMC prevented renal cell loss and preserved renal function in mice with folic acid-induced AKI. Mechanistically, St-PGA-CL-BDMC inhibited AKI-induced apoptosis and expression of ferroptosis markers and also decreased the kidney expression of genes involved in tubular damage and inflammation, while preserving the kidney expression of the protective factor, Klotho. Thus, due to renal accumulation and attractive pharmacological properties, the application of PGA-based therapeutics may improve nephroprotective properties of current AKI treatments.
Facilitating gene editing in potato: a Single-Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) map of the Solanum tuberosum L. cv. Desiree genome
Authors: Sevestre François , Facon Maud , Wattebled Fabrice , Szydlowski Nicolas
Published: February 2020

Genome editing is a powerful tool for plant functional genomics allowing for multiallelic targeted mutagenesis. The recent development of Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR associated protein 9 (Cas9) systems for gene editing in plants allows for simple, cost-effective introduction of site-specific double-stranded DNA breaks. The nuclear genomes of a homozygous doubled-monoploid potato clone (DM) and a heterozygous diploid clone (RH) have been sequenced in 2011. However, common potato cultivars display a highly heterozygous autotetraploid genome thus complicating target design for tetra-allelic gene editing. Here, we report on the SNP physical map of the widely used Solanum tuberosum L. cv. Desiree and on the position of the diverse indels providing an essential tool for target design in genome editing approaches. We used this tool for designing a specific gRNA and successfully knocking-out a newly discovered starch synthase gene (SS6) in potato. Resequencing data are publicly available at the Sequence Read Archive of the NCBI (accession number: PRJNA507597) and will represent a valuable resource for functional genomic studies of various metabolic pathways, cell and plant physiology as well as high-throughput reverse genetics in potato.
Hypoalbuminemia and Obesity in Orthopaedic Trauma Patients: Body Mass Index a Significant Predictor of Surgical Site Complications
Authors: Egbert Ryan C. , Bouck Trevor T. , Gupte Nikhil N. , Pena Miren M. , Dang Khang H. , Ornell Samuel S. , Zelle Boris A.
Published: February 2020

The purpose of this investigation was to identify the prevalence of hypoalbuminemia and obesity in orthopaedic trauma patients with high-energy injuries and to investigate their impact on the incidence of surgical site complications. Patients 18 years of age and older undergoing intramedullary nail fixation of their femoral shaft fractures at a university-based level-1 trauma centre were assessed. Malnutrition was measured using serum markers (albumin <3.5 g/dL) as well as body mass index (BMI) as a marker of obesity (BMI > 30 kg/m2). The primary outcome measure was surgical wound complications. A total of 249 patients were included in this study. Ninety-eight patients (39.4%) presented with hypoalbuminaemia and 80 patients (32.1%) were obese. The overall incidence of wound complications in our study population was 9.65% (n = 25/259). A logistic regression model showed that non-obese patients (BMI < 30 kg/m2) were at significantly reduced risk for perioperative wound complications (Odds Ratio 0.400 [95% confidence interval 0.168, 0.954], p = 0.039). This study demonstrated a substantial prevalence of hypoalbuminemia and obesity among orthopaedic trauma patients with high-energy injuries. Obesity may increase the risk of surgical site complications. Future studies are required to further define malnutrition and its correlation with surgical site complications in orthopaedic trauma patients.
A Novel Approach in Sorting Chirality Species of Single-Wall Carbon Nanotubes Based on an Aqueous Two-Phase System of Polymer-Salt
Authors: Karandish Marziyeh , Fardindoost Somayeh , Pazuki Gholamreza
Published: February 2020

Sorting of distinct (n, m) chirality species of single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) is essential for progress in technical applications in the field of electronic and optic devices. The purpose of this study is to investigate the isolation of single-wall carbon nanotubes based on diameters/chirality in a polymer-salt (polyethylene glycol and sodium citrate) aqueous two-phase system (ATPS) a substitute for common polymer-polymer (polyethylene glycol and dextran) system. The ATPS based on polymer-salt used instead of the common polymer-polymer system due to low viscosity, reduced surface tension, and lower cost of sodium citrate compared to the dextran. For this purpose, the ratio of concentrations of polyethylene glycol to sodium citrate as well as the effect of temperature on the isolation are both investigated and the selectivity and the recovery estimated approximately. The absorbance spectra from both top and bottom phases at different polymer and salt contents and at different temperatures show that by using this system in optimal conditions of polymer to salt ratio of 2:1 at temperature of 20 °C, a suitable separation of nanotubes with 85% yield of the chiral groups of 9 and 10 can be obtained.
Control of the Thermoelectric Properties of Mg2Sn Single Crystals via Point-Defect Engineering
Authors: Saito Wataru , Hayashi Kei , Dong Jinfeng , Li Jing-Feng , Miyazaki Yuzuru
Published: February 2020

Mg2Sn is a potential thermoelectric (TE) material that can directly convert waste heat into electricity. In this study, Mg2Sn single-crystal ingots are prepared by melting under an Ar atmosphere. The prepared ingots contain Mg vacancies (VMg) as point defects, which results in the formation of two regions: an Mg2Sn single-crystal region without VMg (denoted as the single-crystal region) and a region containing VMg (denoted as the VMg region). The VMg region is embedded in the matrix of the single-crystal region. The interface between the VMg region and the single-crystal region is semi-coherent, which does not prevent electron carrier conduction but does increase phonon scattering. Furthermore, electron carrier concentration depends on the fraction of VMg, reflecting the acceptor characteristics of VMg. The maximum figure of merit zTmax of 1.4(1) × 10−2 is realised for the Mg2Sn single-crystal ingot by introducing VMg. These results demonstrate that the TE properties of Mg2Sn can be optimised via point-defect engineering.
Preparation of palladated porous nitrogen-doped carbon using halloysite as porogen: disclosing its utility as a hydrogenation catalyst
Authors: Sadjadi Samahe , Malmir Masoumeh , Lazzara Giuseppe , Cavallaro Giuseppe , Heravi Majid M.
Published: February 2020

In this article, halloysite nanoclay (Hal) was used as porogen for the synthesis of nitrogen doped porous carbon material with high specific surface area and pore volume. To this purpose, polymerization of melamine and terephthalaldehyde (MT) was performed in the presence of amine-functionalized carbon coated Hal (Hal@Glu-2N) that was prepared from hydrothermal treatment of Hal and glucose. Then, the prepared nanocomposite was palladated and carbonized to afford Pd@Hal@C. To further improve the textural properties of the nanocomposite, and introduce more pores in its structure, Hal nanotubes were etched. The characterization of the resulting compound, Pd@C, and comparing it with Pd@Hal@C, showed that etching of Hal significantly increased the specific surface area and pore volume in Pd@C. Pd@C was successfully used as a heterogeneous catalyst for promoting hydrogenation of nitroarens in aqueous media using hydrogen with atmospheric pressure as a reducing agent. The comparison of the structural features and catalytic activity of the catalyst with some control catalysts, including, Pd@Hal, Pd@Hal@Glu, Pd@Hal@Glu-MT and Pd@Hal@C confirmed that nitrogen groups in C could improve the Pd anchoring and suppress its leaching, while etching of Hal and introduction of more pores could enhance the catalytic activity through facilitating the mass transfer.
Integrating random walk with restart and k-Nearest Neighbor to identify novel circRNA-disease association
Authors: Lei Xiujuan , Bian Chen
Published: February 2020

CircRNA is a special type of non-coding RNA, which is closely related to the occurrence and development of many complex human diseases. However, it is time-consuming and expensive to determine the circRNA-disease associations through experimental methods. Therefore, based on the existing databases, we propose a method named RWRKNN, which integrates the random walk with restart (RWR) and k-nearest neighbors (KNN) to predict the associations between circRNAs and diseases. Specifically, we apply RWR algorithm on weighting features with global network topology information, and employ KNN to classify based on features. Finally, the prediction scores of each circRNA-disease pair are obtained. As demonstrated by leave-one-out, 5-fold cross-validation and 10-fold cross-validation, RWRKNN achieves AUC values of 0.9297, 0.9333 and 0.9261, respectively. And case studies show that the circRNA-disease associations predicted by RWRKNN can be successfully demonstrated. In conclusion, RWRKNN is a useful method for predicting circRNA-disease associations.
A valuable computed tomography-based new diagnostic tool for severe chest lesions in active pulmonary tuberculosis: combined application of influencing factors
Authors: Li Kui , Jiang Zicheng , Zhu Yanan , Fan Chuanqi , Li Tao , Ma Wenqi , He Yingli
Published: February 2020

The objective of the present investigation was to explore the influencing factors and value of computed tomography (CT) for diagnosing severe chest lesions in active pulmonary tuberculosis (APTB). This retrospective investigation included 463 patients diagnosed with APTB. Relevant clinical features were collected. Patients were assigned to mild/moderate group or advanced group depending on the lesion severity on chest CT, severe chest CT lesion refers to the moderately dense or less diffuse lesion that exceeds the total volume of one lung, or the dense fusion lesion greater than one third of the volume of one lung, or the lesion with cavity diameter ≥4 cm. Independent risk factors for severe lesions were determined by univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses, and the diagnostic efficiency of the risk factors was assessed by receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC). Chest CT demonstrated that there were 285 (61.56%) cases with severe lesions; multivariate Logistic regression analysis showed dust exposure [odds ratio (OR) = 4.108, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.416–6.986], patient classification (OR = 1.792, 95% CI 1.067–3.012), age (OR = 1.018, 95% CI 1.005–1.030), and albumin-globulin ratio (OR = 0.179, 95% CI 0.084–0.383) to be independently correlated with severe lesions on chest CT. ROC curve analysis showed the cutoff values of age, albumin-globulin ratio and combined score to be 39 years, 0.918 and −0.085, respectively. The predictive value of combined score area under the curve 0.753 (95% CI 0.708–0.798) was higher than that of any single factor. The combined score of these four factors further improved the predictive efficacy.
Synergistic Catalysis of Co(OH)2/CuO for the Degradation of Organic Pollutant Under Visible Light Irradiation
Authors: Akram Naeem , Guo Jia , Ma Wenlan , Guo Yuan , Hassan Afaq , Wang Jide
Published: February 2020

The exploration of advanced water treatment technologies e.g. heterogeneous photocatalysis is the most promising way to address organic pollution issues. Semiconductors based bimetallic photocatalysis with wide bandgap, have displayed splendid degradation performance in the UV light region, but their extension to the visible light/near infra-red region is still a matter of great concern. CuO, Co(OH)2, CoO and Co(OH)2/CuO nanocomposites were synthesized via simple co-precipitation method and further practiced for Rhodamine B (RhB) decomposition by introducing per-sulfate (PS) as a sacrificial agent. Results revealed that Co(OH)2/CuO catalyst had shown robust catalytic activity for RhB photodegradation (degradation time 8 min, k = 0.864 min−1) under light illumination, significantly less (12–60 times) than the other reported bimetallic catalysts. Catalyst also have verified excellent performance for a broader pH range (5–9) with excellent stability. Main reactive species responsible for the photocatalytic reaction were sulfate (SO4•−) and superoxide (O2•) radicals, duly verified by ESR and by using radical scavengers. With outstanding recycling abilities, this is probably the fewer successful attempt for RhB decolorization and can be highly favorable for effluent treatment by using the synergic effect of absorption and photodegradation.
The genetic affinities of Gujjar and Ladakhi populations of India
Authors: Singh Mugdha , Sarkar Anujit , Kumar Devinder , Nandineni Madhusudan R.
Published: February 2020

The Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) and Ladakh in North India owing to their unique geographic location offer a wide variety of landscape from plains to high altitudes and is a congruence of many languages and cultural practices. Here, we present the genetic diversity studies of Gujjars from Jammu region of J&K and Ladakhi population based on a battery of autosomal single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and short tandem repeats (STRs), Y-chromosomal STRs and the control region of the mitochondrial genome. These two populations were observed to be genetically distant to each other as well as to other populations from India. Interestingly, Y-STR analyses showed a closer affinity of Gujjars to other nomadic populations of Pashtuns from Baghlans and Kunduz provinces of Afghanistan and Pashtuns and Sindhis of Pakistan. Gujjars exhibited lesser genetic diversity as compared to Ladakhi population. M30f and M9 were the most abundant mitochondrial haplogroups observed among Gujjars and Ladakhis, respectively. A lower matrilineal to patrilineal diversity was observed for both these populations. The current study presents the first comprehensive analysis of Gujjars and Ladakhis and reveals their unique genetic affiliations with other populations of the world.
Functional dynamics of a single tryptophan residue in a BLUF protein revealed by fluorescence spectroscopy
Authors: Karadi Kristof , Kapetanaki Sofia M. , Raics Katalin , Pecsi Ildiko , Kapronczai Robert , Fekete Zsuzsanna , Iuliano James N. , Collado Jinnette Tolentino , Gil Agnieszka A. , Orban Jozsef , Nyitrai Miklos , Greetham Greg M. , Vos Marten H. , Tonge Peter J. , Meech Stephen R. , Lukacs Andras
Published: February 2020

Blue Light Using Flavin (BLUF) domains are increasingly being adopted for use in optogenetic constructs. Despite this, much remains to be resolved on the mechanism of their activation. The advent of unnatural amino acid mutagenesis opens up a new toolbox for the study of protein structural dynamics. The tryptophan analogue, 7-aza-Trp (7AW) was incorporated in the BLUF domain of the Activation of Photopigment and pucA (AppA) photoreceptor in order to investigate the functional dynamics of the crucial W104 residue during photoactivation of the protein. The 7-aza modification to Trp makes selective excitation possible using 310 nm excitation and 380 nm emission, separating the signals of interest from other Trp and Tyr residues. We used Förster energy transfer (FRET) between 7AW and the flavin to estimate the distance between Trp and flavin in both the light- and dark-adapted states in solution. Nanosecond fluorescence anisotropy decay and picosecond fluorescence lifetime measurements for the flavin revealed a rather dynamic picture for the tryptophan residue. In the dark-adapted state, the major population of W104 is pointing away from the flavin and can move freely, in contrast to previous results reported in the literature. Upon blue-light excitation, the dominant tryptophan population is reorganized, moves closer to the flavin occupying a rigidly bound state participating in the hydrogen-bond network around the flavin molecule.
Author Correction: Investigating the relationship between district-level socioeconomic status and individual obesity in Taiwanese adolescents: A large-scale cross-sectional analysis
Authors: Ni Ying-Lien , Chang Jen-Ho , Chen Lung Hung
Published: February 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Author Correction: Global airborne microbial communities controlled by surrounding landscapes and wind conditions
Authors: Tignat-Perrier Romie , Dommergue Aurélien , Thollot Alban , Keuschnig Christoph , Magand Olivier , Vogel Timothy M. , Larose Catherine
Published: February 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Author Correction: A modular cGAN classification framework: Application to colorectal tumor detection
Authors: Tavolara Thomas E. , Niazi M. Khalid Khan , Arole Vidya , Chen Wei , Frankel Wendy , Gurcan Metin N.
Published: February 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Multiple and sensitive SERS detection of cancer-related exosomes based on gold–silver bimetallic nanotrepangs
Authors: Ning Cui-Fang , Wang Luying , Tian Ya-Fei , Yin Bin-Cheng , Ye Bang-Ce
Published: February 2020

Exosomes are endogenous vesicles of cells, and can be used as important biomarkers for cancers.
An optimized lanthanide-chlorophyll nanocomposite for dual-modal imaging-guided surgery navigation and anti-cancer theranostics
Authors: Wang Yanxing , Lü Wei-Dong , Lin Bi , Yang Fan , Feng Miao , Lv Ruichan
Published: February 2020

A lanthanide-chlorophyll nanocomposite with enhanced red emission under a near-infrared laser was designed for dual-modal imaging-guided surgery navigation and anti-cancer theranostics.
Fluorescent SAM analogues for methyltransferase based DNA labeling
Authors: Goyvaerts Vince , Van Snick Sven , D'Huys Laurens , Vitale Raffaele , Helmer Lauer Milena , Wang Su , Leen Volker , Dehaen Wim , Hofkens Johan
Published: February 2020

In this work, the preparation of new S-adenosyl-l-methionine (SAM) analogues for sequence specific DNA labeling is evaluated. Fluorescent cofactors were synthesized and their applicability in methyltransferase based optical mapping is demonstrated.
Taxodisones A and B: bioactive C30-terpenes with new skeletons from Taxodium distichum and their biosynthetic origin
Authors: Wang Wen-Li , Liu Xiao-Qin , Zhang Mei-Hui , Lin Bin , Zhu Dong-Rong , Li Ling-Nan , Chen Chen , Han Chao , Luo Jian-Guang , Kong Ling-Yi
Published: February 2020

Herein, taxodisones A and B were isolated from the seeds of T. distichum, and the structures, configurations, bioactivities and origin of these compounds were determined.
Cooperative acid–base bifunctional ordered porous solids in sequential multi-step reactions: MOF vs. mesoporous silica
Authors: Cirujano Francisco G. , Martín Nuria , Fu Guangxia , Jia Chunmei , De Vos Dirk
Published: February 2020

Two different catalytic platforms, MOF and mesoporous silica, were compared as porous support for basic amino groups to promote sequential multi-step reactions.
Tuning electronic structure through halide modulation of mesoionic carbene cobalt complexes
Authors: Mantanona Alex J. , Tolentino Daniel R. , Cay Kristine S. , Gembicky Milan , Jazzar Rodolphe , Bertrand Guy , Rinehart Jeffrey D.
Published: February 2020

The first examples of Co(ii) mesoionic carbene complexes (CoX2DippMIC2; X = Cl−, Br−, I−) demonstrate a new electronic perturbation on tetrahedral Co(ii) complexes.
A novel viologen-based coordination polymer with multi-stimuli responsive chromic properties: photochromism, thermochromism, chemochromism and electrochromism
Authors: Li Xiao-Nan , Tu Zu-Ming , Li Li , Wang Zhi-Hui , Zhang Hong
Published: February 2020

A framework exhibiting multi-stimulate responsive chromic properties such as photochromism, hydrochromism, electrochromism and differentiable detection of amines.
Impact of transformation, photodegradation and interaction with glutaraldehyde on the acute toxicity of the biocide DBNPA in cooling tower water
Authors: Wagner Thomas V. , Helmus Rick , Becker Elmar , Rijnaarts Huub H. M. , de Voogt Pim , Langenhoff Alette A. M. , Parsons John R.
Published: February 2020

The reuse of cooling tower water (CTW) can substantially lower the freshwater footprint of cooling towers.
The effect of H2 : N2ratio on the NH3synthesis rate and on process economics over the Co3Mo3N catalyst
Authors: Aslan Mustafa Y. , Hargreaves Justin S. J. , Uner Deniz
Published: February 2020

Ammonia synthesis rates are independent of H2 : N2stoichiometry for H2 : N2> 0.5 over the Co3Mo3N catalyst. Only strongly adsorbed hydrogen is involved in the reaction. Its coverage is independent of hydrogen pressure for H2 : N2> 0.5.
Leucine and isoleucine have similar effects on reducing lipid accumulation, improving insulin sensitivity and increasing the browning of WAT in high-fat diet-induced obese mice
Authors: Ma Qingquan , Zhou Xinbo , Hu Linlin , Chen Jiayi , Zhu Jialiang , Shan Anshan
Published: February 2020

Leucine (Leu) and isoleucine (Ile) have similar effects in the management of obesity and related disorders.
Seed- and solvent-free synthesis of ZSM-5 with tuneable Si/Al ratios for biomass hydrogenation
Authors: Zhang Bin , Douthwaite Mark , Liu Qiang , Zhang Chao , Wu Qifan , Shi Ruhui , Wu Peixuan , Liu Ke , Wang Zhuangqing , Lin Weiwei , Cheng Haiyang , Ma Ding , Zhao Fengyu , Hutchings Graham J.
Published: February 2020

Seed- and solvent-free synthesis of MFI zeolites with tuneable Si/Al ratios (18-∞) was achieved. The key role of F− was evidenced that forming 6-coordinated “F–Al–O–Si” species drove the formation of the zeolitic framework during crystallization.
Interface engineering of two-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenides towards next-generation electronic devices: recent advances and challenges
Authors: Liao Wugang , Zhao Siwen , Li Feng , Wang Cong , Ge Yanqi , Wang Huide , Wang Shibo , Zhang Han
Published: February 2020

This review presents recent advances and challenges in the interface engineering of 2D TMDCs and emerging electronics based on TMDCs.
Marine natural products
Authors: Carroll Anthony R. , Copp Brent R. , Davis Rohan A. , Keyzers Robert A. , Prinsep Michèle R.
Published: February 2020

A comprehensive review of 1554 new MNPs, including numerous novel and bioactive compounds from marine bacteria.
Modular protein–DNA hybrid nanostructures as a drug delivery platform
Authors: Ryu Yiseul , Hong Cheol Am , Song Yunjin , Beak Jonghwi , Seo Bo Am , Lee Joong-jae , Kim Hak-Sung
Published: February 2020

A modular and biocompatible assembly of functional protein–DNA hybrid nanostructures through sequence-specific interactions between zinc-finger proteins and DNA was demonstrated for cytosolic drug delivery.
Intrinsic ferromagnetism with high temperature, strong anisotropy and controllable magnetization in the CrX (X = P, As) monolayer
Authors: Ma An-Ning , Wang Pei-Ji , Zhang Chang-Wen
Published: February 2020

2D ferromagnetic (FM) materials with high temperature, large magnetocrystalline anisotropic energy (MAE), and controllable magnetization are highly desirable for novel nanoscale spintronic applications.
A self-assembled carrier-free nanosonosensitizer for photoacoustic imaging-guided synergistic chemo–sonodynamic cancer therapy
Authors: Dong Caihong , Jiang Qvzi , Qian Xiaoqin , Wu Wencheng , Wang Wenping , Yu Luodan , Chen Yu
Published: February 2020

Nanosonosensitizer, Ce6-PTX@IR783, successfully realized the photoacoustic imaging-guided synergistic chemo–sonodynamic therapy with ultrasound-trigged controllable drug release and acquired high therapeutic efficacy for cancer.
Synthesis of hierarchical Sn/SnO nanosheets assembled by carbon-coated hollow nanospheres as anode materials for lithium/sodium ion batteries
Authors: He Fengrong , Xu Qi , Zheng Baoping , Zhang Jun , Wu Zhenguo , Zhong Yanjun , Chen Yanxiao , Xiang Wei , Zhong Benhe , Guo Xiaodong
Published: February 2020

Hierarchical Sn/SnO nanosheets assembled by carbon-coated hollow nanospheres with promising lithium and sodium storage performances.
An experimental study on the removal of submicron fly ash and black carbon in a gravitational wet scrubber with electrostatic enhancement
Authors: Su Lipeng , Zhang Yu , Du Qian , Dai Xianchao , Gao Jianmin , Dong Peng , Wang Hui
Published: February 2020

The efficiency increases of black carbon and fly ash upon the addition of an electric field to a wet scrubber were expatiated.
Transport properties of polycrystalline SnTe prepared by saturation annealing
Authors: Ibrahim Dorra , Misra Shantanu , Migot Sylvie , Ghanbaja Jaafar , Dauscher Anne , Malaman Bernard , Semprimoschnig Christopher , Candolfi Christophe , Lenoir Bertrand
Published: February 2020

Saturation annealing enables controlling the inherent Sn vacancy concentration in polycrystalline SnTe, without the presence of elemental Sn at the grain boundaries.
Catalytic enantioselective arylative cyclizations of alkynyl 1,3-diketones by 1,4-rhodium(i) migration
Authors: Groves Alistair , Sun Jinwei , Parke Hal R. I. , Callingham Michael , Argent Stephen P. , Taylor Laurence J. , Lam Hon Wai
Published: February 2020

The enantioselective synthesis of densely functionalized polycarbocycles by the rhodium(i)-catalyzed reaction of arylboronic acids with alkynyl 1,3-diketones is described. The key step in these reactions is an alkenyl-to-aryl 1,4-Rh(i) migration..
Recent advances in black phosphorus/carbon hybrid composites: from improved stability to applications
Authors: Tian Yue , Wang Huide , Li Haonan , Guo Zhinan , Tian Bining , Cui Yanxia , Li Zhanfeng , Li Guohui , Zhang Han , Wu Yucheng
Published: February 2020

BP/carbon hybrid composites are a new type of multifunctional materials that integrate the unique properties of carbon materials with the merits of BP into a single hybrid heterostructure, with improved stability and performance in various applications.
Energy-based descriptors for photo-catalytically active metal–organic framework discovery
Authors: Fumanal Maria , Capano Gloria , Barthel Senja , Smit Berend , Tavernelli Ivano
Published: February 2020

A high-throughput screening protocol based on cost-effective computations of light absorption and photo-redox capabilities is proposed to discover promising photo-catalytically active metal–organic frameworks.
Highly aligned hierarchical intrafibrillar mineralization of collagen induced by periodic fluid shear stress
Authors: Du Tianming , Niu Xufeng , Hou Sen , Xu Menghan , Li Zhengwei , Li Ping , Fan Yubo
Published: February 2020

Periodic fluid shear stress plays a dominant role in promoting the preparation of highly oriented HIM of collagen fibers.
Microraft array-based platform for sorting of viable microcolonies based on cell-lethal immunoassay of intracellular proteins in microcolony biopsies
Authors: Smiddy Nicole M. , DiSalvo Matthew , Allbritton-King Jules D. , Allbritton Nancy L.
Published: February 2020

A magnetic, microwell-based plate was established enabling automated collection of colony biopsy fragments into known locations for immunofluorescence assays.
Measuring temperature effects on nanobubble nucleationviaa solid-state nanopore
Authors: Li Qiao , Ying Yi-Lun , Liu Shao-Chuang , Hu Yong-Xu , Long Yi-Tao
Published: February 2020

The temperature effects on nanobubble nucleation have been analyzed with a SiNXsolid-state nanopore.
Crystal phase-dependent electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution performance of ruthenium–boron intermetallics
Authors: Zou Xu , Wang Lina , Ai Xuan , Chen Hui , Zou Xiaoxin
Published: February 2020

Four crystal phases of ruthenium–boron intermetallics, including Ru7B3, RuB, Ru2B3and RuB2, are selectively synthesized and their activity trends toward the HER are investigated.
Synthesis and electronic structure studies of a Cr-imido redox series
Authors: Dong Yuyang , Clarke Ryan M. , Zheng Shao-Liang , Betley Theodore A.
Published: February 2020

We report a family of dipyrrinato Cr imido complexes in oxidation states ranging from CrIII to CrV showcasing the influence of the weak-field dipyrrin on the electronic structure and coordination geometries of the Cr imides.
A novel binuclear Pd(ii) complex displaying synergic peptide cleavage behaviour
Authors: Jiao Yang , Hong Jin , Chen Yuncong , Zhang Yuming , Guo Zijian , Han Zhong , He Weijiang
Published: February 2020

A novel binuclear Pd(ii) complex promotes His- and Met-orientated peptide hydrolysis in an internuclear synergic manner but not Cys-orientated hydrolysis.
Soy protein and chitin sponge-like scaffolds: from natural by-products to cell delivery systems for biomedical applications
Authors: Las Heras Kevin , Santos-Vizcaino Edorta , Garrido Tania , Borja Gutierrez Francisco , Aguirre Jose Javier , de la Caba Koro , Guerrero Pedro , Igartua Manoli , Hernandez Rosa Maria
Published: February 2020

Natural and renewable resources, such as plant proteins and marine polysaccharides, to manufacture scaffolds with suitable properties for biomedical applications.
Chemical synthesis of human milk oligosaccharides: lacto-N-neohexaose (Galβ1 → 4GlcNAcβ1→)23,6Galβ1 → 4Glc
Authors: Bandara Mithila D. , Stine Keith J. , Demchenko Alexei V.
Published: February 2020

The first chemical synthesis of lacto-N-neohexaose (LNnH) has been completed using a convergent synthetic strategy.
Secondary modification of oxidatively-modified proline N-termini for the construction of complex bioconjugates
Authors: Maza Johnathan C. , Ramsey Alexandra V. , Mehare Meire , Krska Shane W. , Parish Craig A. , Francis Matthew B.
Published: February 2020

A sequential oxidative coupling and oxime or hydrazone ligation method allows construction of bifunctional N-terminal bioconjugates.
Non-equilibrium kinetics and trajectory thermodynamics of synthetic molecular pumps
Authors: Astumian R. Dean , Pezzato Cristian , Feng Yuanning , Qiu Yunyan , McGonigal Paul R. , Cheng Chuyang , Stoddart J. Fraser
Published: February 2020

Hypothetical transmembrane rotaxane as a model for trajectory thermodynamic theory of synthetic molecular pumps.
Direct use of 1,3-dienes for the allylation of ketones via catalytic hydroindation
Authors: Suzuki Itaru , Yagi Kensuke , Miyamoto Shinji , Shibata Ikuya
Published: February 2020

In this study, in situ catalytically generated allylic indium from 1,3 dienes and InCl2H was developed for use in the allylation of ketones.
Retraction: 3D printed highly flexible strain sensor based on TPU–graphene composite for feedback from high speed robotic applications
Authors: Gul Jahan Zeb , Sajid Memoon , Choi Kyung Hyun
Published: February 2020

Retraction of ‘3D printed highly flexible strain sensor based on TPU–graphene composite for feedback from high speed robotic applications’ by Jahan Zeb Gul et al., J. Mater. Chem. C, 2019, 7, 4692–4701.
Single cell approaches to address adipose tissue stromal cell heterogeneity
Authors: Rondini Elizabeth A. , Granneman James G.
Published: February 2020

A central function of adipose tissue is in the management of systemic energy homeostasis that is achieved through the co-ordinated regulation of energy storage and mobilization, adipokine release, and immune functions. With the dramatic increase in the prevalence of obesity and obesity-related metabolic disease over the past 30 years, there has been extensive interest in targeting adipose tissue for therapeutic benefit. However, in order for this goal to be achieved it is essential to establish a comprehensive atlas of adipose tissue cellular composition and define mechanisms of intercellular communication that mediate pathologic and therapeutic responses. While traditional methods, such as fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) and genetic lineage tracing, have greatly advanced the field, these approaches are inherently limited by the choice of markers and the ability to comprehensively identify and characterize dynamic interactions among stromal cells within the tissue microenvironment. Single cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq) has emerged as a powerful tool for deconvolving cellular heterogeneity and holds promise for understanding the development and plasticity of adipose tissue under normal and pathological conditions. scRNAseq has recently been used to characterize adipose stem cell (ASC) populations and has provided new insights into subpopulations of macrophages that arise during anabolic and catabolic remodeling in white adipose tissue. The current review summarizes recent findings that use this technology to explore adipose tissue heterogeneity and plasticity.
Dietary carbohydrate intake and the risk of esophageal cancer: a meta-analysis
Authors: Xuan Fei , Li Wei , Guo Xiaoqing , Liu Chuanyong
Published: February 2020

Background: Previous studies had been published to explore the association about carbohydrate intake on esophageal cancer risk, with inconsistent results. This meta-analysis aimed to assess the association between dietary carbohydrate intake and the risk of esophageal cancer.

Methods: Suitable studies were carefully searched with the databases of PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and Wanfang Database. A random-effects model was used for combined odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). Stata software 14.0 was adopted for the analysis.

Results: At the end, 13 publications were included in our study. Pooled results suggested that highest category versus lowest category of carbohydrate intake could reduce the risk of esophageal cancer (summarized OR = 0.627, 95% CI = 0.505–0.778, I2 = 59.9%, Pfor heterogeneity = 0.001). The results for carbohydrate intake on the risk of esophageal adenocarcinoma (summarized OR = 0.569, 95% CI = 0.417–0.777) and esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (summarized OR = 0.665, 95% CI = 0.453–0.975) were consistent with the overall result. A positive association was found in European, Asian, North American populations, instead of South American populations.

Conclusions: In conclusions, dietary carbohydrate intake may have a protective effect against the risk of esophageal cancer.
Fingolimod inhibits proliferation and epithelial–mesenchymal transition in sacral chordoma by inactivating IL-6/STAT3 signalling
Authors: Wang Jiaqi , Hu Wenhao , Du Xiaowen , Sun Ying , Han Shuai , Tu Guanjun
Published: February 2020

Purpose: To explore the sensitivity of the immunosuppressive agent fingolimod (FTY720) in chordoma and determine whether it can serve as an appropriate alternate treatment for unresectable tumours in patients after incomplete surgery.

Methods: Cell viability assays, colony formation assays and EdU assays were performed to evaluate the sensitivity of chordoma cell lines to FTY720. Transwell invasion assays, wound healing assays, flow cytometry, cell cycle analysis, immunofluorescence analysis, Western blotting analysis and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) were performed to evaluate cell invasion, epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) and activation of related pathways after treatment with FTY720. The effect of FTY720 was also evaluated in vivo in a xenograft model.

Results: We found that FTY720 inhibited the proliferation, invasion and metastasis of sacral chordoma cells (P < 0.01). FTY720 also inhibited the proliferation of tumour cells in a xenograft model using sacral chordoma cell lines (P < 0.01). The mechanism was related to the EMT and apoptosis of chordoma cells and inactivation of IL-6/STAT3 signalling in vitro and in vivo.

Conclusions: Our findings indicate that FTY720 may be an effective therapeutic agent against chordoma. These findings suggest that FTY720 is a novel agent that can treat locally advanced and metastatic chordoma.
Sensitivity and Specificity of Pure-Tone and Subjective Hearing Screenings Using Spanish-Language Questions
Authors: Everett Alyssa , Wong Aileen , Piper Rosie , Cone Barbara , Marrone Nicole
Published: February 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to determine the sensitivities and specificities of different audiometric hearing screening criteria and single-item and multi-item hearing disability questionnaires among a group of Spanish-speaking adults in a rural community.

Method

Participants were 131 predominantly older (77% 65+ years) Hispanic/Latinx adults (98%). A structured Spanish-language interview and pure-tone threshold test data were analyzed for each participant. The sensitivities and specificities of three single questions and the Hearing Handicap Index for the Elderly–Screening (HHIE-S;
Ventry & Weinstein, 1983
) in Spanish, as well as three audiometric screening criteria, were evaluated in relation to the pure-tone threshold test for detecting hearing loss.

Results

Sensitivity and specificity of audiometric screening criteria varied, but the highest sensitivity was found for the criterion of > 25 dB HL at 1–4 kHz in either ear. The single self-perception question, “
¿Cree usted que tiene pérdida de audición?
(
Do you think you have a hearing loss?),”
was shown to be the most sensitive self-report screening compared to other single-item questions and the HHIE-S. This single question was as sensitive as an audiometric screening to detect a moderate hearing loss (> 40 dB HL in either ear). Results from the Spanish HHIE-S indicated poor performance to detect hearing loss in this population, consistent with previous research.

Conclusions

Among older Spanish-speaking adults, self-reported hearing status had varying sensitivities depending on the question asked. However, of the tools evaluated, the self-perception question proved to be a more sensitive and specific tool than a multi-item screen. Objective audiometric testing (> 25 dB HL) resulted in the highest sensitivity to detect a mild hearing loss.
On Teaching Counseling: Getting Beyond Informational Counseling
Authors: Luterman David
Published: February 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this article was to examine the current state of counseling education and to present examples of strategies for teaching counseling based on the author's 40 years of university teaching.

Conclusion

Current research suggests that students and clinicians are not getting sufficient training in personal adjustment counseling. A recent unpublished survey suggests that only a few graduate programs require a counseling course for speech-language pathology students. Additional research suggests that, although audiology students do have access to counseling coursework, these courses focus primarily on informational/educational counseling strategies and not on teaching personal adjustment counseling strategies. The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association should review current standards for including counseling training in the curriculum, and graduate programs should review how they are teaching counseling and determine if their processes are effective.
A Survey of Reading Teachers: Collaboration With Speech-Language Pathologists
Authors: Watson Maggie , O'Keefe Casey , Wallace Abigail , Terrell Pamela
Published: February 2020

Purpose

This study investigated reading teachers' (RTs) views of speech-language pathologists' (SLPs) abilities to provide services for clients who have written language disorders. Previous research has shown SLPs often do not provide such services due to time constraints, lack of training, and their perception that other school personnel are more qualified. However, little is known about RTs' views of SLPs' abilities to provide reading/writing intervention.

Method

Three hundred twenty-three RTs responded to a survey designed to determine their perceptions and experiences of SLPs providing services to children with written language difficulties. Respondents were from all regions of the United States.

Results

Approximately 80% of the respondents supported the idea of SLPs providing written language intervention services, with 69% recognizing that there was an evidence base for such intervention. However, many RTs registered some disagreement that SLPs had sufficient training to provide written language instruction and may lack knowledge of the curriculum. These results also identified factors that SLPs wishing to be involved in literacy instruction may need to address including administrative support, involvement in school-wide literacy learning decisions, and participation in professional development opportunities on literacy instruction.

Conclusion

These results indicated that RTs may be supportive of SLPs addressing the written language needs of the students they serve. Although written language intervention is within SLPs' scope of practice, SLPs currently practicing in school settings may need to advocate for themselves to actively be involved in written language instruction.

Supplemental Material

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.14312783