bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regulation of insulin resistance by targeting the insulin‐like growth factor 1 receptor with microRNA‐122‐5p in hepatic cells
Authors: Dong Li , Hou Xiaoyu , Liu Fengsui , Tao Hong , Zhang Yunjia , Zhao Hang , Song Guangyao
Published: April 2019

Insulin resistance (IR) is a common etiology of type 2 diabetes (T2D) defined by a state of decreased reactivity to insulin in multiple organs, such as the liver. This study aims to investigate how microRNA‐122‐5p (miR‐122) regulates the hepatic IR in vitro. We first found that the miR‐122 level was upregulated in the liver of rats fed with a high‐fat diet and injected with streptozotocin (T2D rats), while the expression level of insulin‐like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF‐1R), a potential target of miR‐122, was downregulated in the diabetic liver. In vitro, glucosamine‐induced IR was introduced in HepG2 hepatic cells, and the levels of miR‐122 and IGF‐1R were further assessed. An increase of miR‐122 level and a decrease of IGF‐IR level were observed in IR hepatic cells, which was the same as that in the diabetic liver. Results of the luciferase reporter assay validated IGF‐1R as a direct target of miR‐122. Moreover, in IR HepG2 cells, antagonizing miR‐122 with its specific inhibitor enhanced glucose uptake and suppressed the expression of glucose 6‐phosphatase and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase, two key enzymes in regulating gluconeogenesis. Such alterations induced by the miR‐122 inhibitor in IR hepatic cells were impaired when IGF‐1R was simultaneously knocked down. In addition, the PI3K/Akt pathway was deactivated in IR cells, and then reactivated with miR‐122 inhibitor transfection. In conclusion, our study demonstrates that miR‐122 is able to regulate IR in hepatic cells by targeting IGF‐1R.
Let‐7b‐5p inhibits proliferation and motility in squamous cell carcinoma cells through negative modulation of KIAA1377
Authors: Zheng Shutao , Liu Qing , Ma Rong , Tan Doudou , Shen Tongxue , Zhang Xiao , Lu Xiaomei
Published: April 2019

KIAA1377 has been found to be linked with lymph node metastasis in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) in our previous study; however, the regulation of KIAA1377 remains far from understood. Herein, to understand the regulation of KIAA1377 from the angle of microRNA (miRNA)–messenger RNA (mRNA) modulation in the setting of SCC cells, the basal level of KIAA1377 was determined by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) and western blot analysis in KYSE‐150 and HeLa cells; biological roles of KIAA1377 contributing in the proliferation, migration, and invasion were evaluated using 3‐(4,5‐dimethyl‐2‐thiazolyl)‐2,5‐diphenyl‐2H‐tetrazolium bromide (MTT), wound‐healing and Transwell assays, respectively, after KIAA1377 was knocked out mediated by the CRISPR‐Cas9 system. Bioinformatic prediction revealed that let‐7b‐5p was a putative miRNA regulating KIAA1377, which was ensuingly validated by the luciferase reporter assay; after which, variation of KIAA1377 expression was further verified by qRT‐PCR and western blot analysis. Moreover, the biological roles of let‐7b‐5p in proliferation, migration, and invasion of KYSE‐150 and HeLa cells were also evaluated. It was exhibited that KIAA1377 was able to promote the proliferation and motility of both KYSE‐150 and HeLa cells, which can be reverted by re‐expression of let‐7b‐5p. The luciferase reporter assay verified that let‐7b‐5p can diametrically target KIAA1377. Collectively, our data demonstrated that let‐7b‐5p can directly but negatively regulate KIAA1377 in SCC cell lines, Ecal109, and HeLa cells.
JQ1, a BET‐bromodomain inhibitor, inhibits human cancer growth and suppresses PD‐L1 expression
Authors: Liu Kaisheng , Zhou Zhifan , Gao Hengyuan , Yang Fang , Qian Yajun , Jin Hongtao , Guo Yaomin , Liu Ying , Li Haili , Zhang Cheng , Guo Jinan , Wan Yong , Chen Rui
Published: April 2019

Most traditional cytotoxic chemotherapeutic agents have poor aqueous solubility and significant toxicity. Hence, there is a need to develop molecule‐targeted drugs. Programmed death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1) is associated with the prognosis of several cancer types, and blockade of PD‐1/PD‐L1 signaling increases the amplitude of anti‐tumor immunity. In the present study, we investigated the effects of JQ1, a bromodomain and extraterminal‐bromodomain inhibitor, on cell growth, and messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein levels of PD‐L1 in renal cell carcinoma primary culture cells, and prostate, liver, and lung cancer cell lines. The results of the cell counting kit‐8 assay suggested that JQ1 inhibits cell growth in a dose‐dependent manner. The mRNA and protein levels of PD‐L1 decreased in the primary culture of JQ1‐treated renal carcinoma, prostate cancer, liver cancer, and lung cancer cell lines. In addition, the mRNA level of PD‐L2 also decreased in the JQ1‐treated cells. Overall, JQ1 might be a potential anti‐tumor agent.
On the interaction of ribosomal protein RPL22e with microtubules
Authors: Chudinova Elena M. , Brodsky Ilya B. , Nadezhdina Elena S.
Published: April 2019

Microtubule (MT) protein preparations often contain components of the translation machinery, including ribosome proteins. To understand the biological meaning of it we studied the interaction of ribosomal protein RPL22e with the MT. We found that bacteria expressed purified RPL22e‐GFP‐6His did co‐sediment with brain tubulin MTs with 1.3 µM dissociation coefficient. Such a KD is comparable to some specific MT‐associated proteins. Distinct in vitro interaction of RPL22e‐GFP with MTs was also observed by TIRF microscopy. In real‐time assay, RPL22e‐GFP molecules stayed bound to MTs for several seconds, and 15% of them demonstrated random‐walk along MTs with diffusion coefficient 0.03 µ2/s. Deletion of basic areas of RPL22e did not have an impact on KD, and deletion of acidic tail slightly increased association with MTs. Interestingly, the deletion of acidic tail increased diffusion coefficient as well. The interaction of RPL22e with MTs is hardly noticeable in vivo in cultured cells, probably since a significant part of the protein is incorporated into the ribosomes. The mobility of ribosomal protein on the MTs probably prevents its interfering with MT‐dependent transport and could ameliorate its transport to the nucleus.
Transition Metal (Fe, Co and Ni)−Carbide−Nitride (M−C−N) Nanocatalysts: Structure and Electrocatalytic Applications
Authors: Jin Jing , Yin Jie , Liu Hongbo , Lu Min , Li Jianyi , Tian Meng , Xi Pinxian
Published: April 2019

Transition metal−carbon−nitrogen (M−C−N) nanocrystals, such as hybrid‐structure, heterostructure, and cluster or single metal atoms anchored on carbon−nitrogen skeleton, have attracted wide attention in various fields for their superior physicochemical properties. However, it remains a great challenge to synthesize those M−C−N nanocrystals on a large nanoscale for their intrinsic characteristics, which further limited their extensive application in different fields. In this minireview, we present an overview of those M−C−N nanostructures in terms of their synthetic methods, applications and relationship between structure and properties. In addition, this review will also provide some perspectives on the challenges and opportunities of those nanomaterials.
Al2O3/Yttria‐Stabilized Zirconia Hollow‐Fiber Membrane Incorporated with Iron Oxide for Pb(II) Removal
Authors: Paiman Syafikah Huda , Rahman Mukhlis A , Abas Khairul Hamimah , Abd Aziz Azian , Ismail Ahmad Fauzi , Hafiz Dzarfan Othman Mohd , Jaafar Juhana , Mohd Norddin Mohammad Noorul Anam
Published: April 2019

Removal by absorptive ceramic membranes can simultaneously absorb and separate metal ions from water. Alumina/yttria‐stabilized zirconia (Al2O3/YSZ) hollow‐fiber membranes, fabricated using phase inversion and sintering process, were deposited with iron oxide by an in‐situ hydrothermal process. The results showed that α‐Fe2O3 was produced and incorporated across the membranes. A reduction in flux was recorded with the deposition of α‐Fe2O3. However, it improved the adsorption capacity for heavy metal adsorption. The adsorption‐separation test demonstrated that the optimized membrane is able to completely remove Pb(II) ions after two hours.
A Cost‐Effective and Scaleable Approach for the In‐Situ Synthesis of Porous Carbon‐Coated Micrometer‐Sized AlSi Particles as Anode for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Li Cheng , Li Xitao , Zheng Yan‐Zhen , Wu Jiaojiao , Ding Haiyang , Tao Xia
Published: April 2019

Silicon is intensively investigated as one of the most promising lithium‐ion battery anode material due to its high theoretical capacity. Here, spherical micro‐sized porous AlSi coated by a carbon layer (AlSi@C) are fabricated from low‐cost commercial AlSi alloy by delicately controlling an acid etching period, followed by polymerization and carbonization. A small amount of residual Al is beneficial to maintain the spherical morphology and enhance the electrical conductivity of the AlSi anode. Profiting from the porous structure and carbon coating layer, micro‐sized porous AlSi@C exhibits a high initial coulombic efficiency of 84.2 %, delivers an initial specific discharge capacity of 1650 mA h g−1 at a current density of 0.50 A g−1, and still retains 824 mA h g−1 after 300 cycles. This work provides a facile and scalable synthetic strategy for the preparation of porous Si‐based anode materials from low‐cost AlSi alloy, and it is expected to realize the industrialization of preparation of porous Si‐based anode materials.
Nanoconfinement of the Low‐Temperature Dark Conglomerate: Structural Control from Focal Conics to Helical Nanofilaments
Authors: Foley Lee , Park Wongi , Yang Minyong , Carlson Eric , Korblova Eva , Yoon Dong Ki , Walba David M.
Published: April 2019

The helical nanofilament (HNF) and low‐temperature dark conglomerate (DC) liquid‐crystal (LC) phases of bent‐core molecules show the same local layer structure but present different bulk morphologies. The DC phase is characterized by the formation of nanoscale toric focal conics, whereas the HNF phase is constructed of bundles of twisted layers. Although the local layer structure is similar in both phases, materials that form these phases tend to form one morphology in preference to the other. Targeted control of the nanostructures would provide pathways to potential applications and insight into how conditions drive a specific phase formation. Here, W624, a compound known to form the DC phase is confined in nanometer scale channels of porous anodized aluminum oxide (AAO) membranes. Within each nanochannel, the DC phase is suppressed forming the HNF structure instead, indicating the nanoscale spatial limitation can control the phase structure of the DC phase.
Batch and Continuous‐Flow Iron(II)‐Catalyzed Synthesis of Sulfilimines and Sulfoximines using N‐Mesyloxycarbamates
Authors: Lai Calvine , Mathieu Gary , Gabrielli Tabarez Lucia Paola , Lebel Hélène
Published: April 2019

The synthesis of sulfilimines and sulfoximines with N‐mesyloxycarbamates in presence of catalytic iron(II) chloride hydrate is described. The use of 1‐butylimidazole as a base proved instrumental in enabling a homogeneous reaction mixture compatible with continuous flow processes. The amination is applicable to a wide range of substrates, and affords the desired product in good to excellent yields within 1 to 60 minutes.
Room‐Temperature Photogeneration of Nitrosyl Linkage Isomers in Ruthenium Nitrosyl Complexes
Authors: Mikhailov Artem A. , Wenger Emmanuel , Kostin Gennadiy A. , Schaniel Dominik
Published: April 2019

The conditions for the photogeneration of NO linkage isomers at room temperature are studied. By pulsed laser irradiation in the blue spectral range, the long‐lived Ru−ON isomer can be generated at room temperature, which is crucial for potential applications, such as holography and data storage. By using static and time‐resolved spectroscopy (UV/Vis and IR), we give evidence that the liftime of the Ru−(η2‐(NO)) isomer is a decisive parameter for the formation of the Ru−ON isomer at high temperature owing to a two‐step isomerization mechanism Ru−NO→Ru−(η2‐(NO))→Ru−ON. Furthermore, we report the low‐temperature structures for each isomer, which were revealed by photocrystallography.
Synthesis of a Perfluorinated Phenoxyphosphorane and Conversion to Its Hexacoordinate Anions
Authors: Marczenko Katherine M. , Johnson Chloe‐Louise , Chitnis Saurabh S.
Published: April 2019

We report the synthesis and structural characterization of a neutral PV Lewis acid, P(OC6F5)5, and salts containing the six‐coordinate anions [P(OC6F5)5F]− and [P(OC6F5)6]−. The latter anion exhibits a rare example of F–πarene interactions in both the solid and the solution phase, which has been quantitatively studied by variable‐temperature (VT) NMR spectroscopy. The Lewis acid strength of P(OC6F5)5 has been assessed through experimental fluoride ion competition experiments and quantum‐chemical calculations of its fluoride ion affinity (FIA) and global electrophilicity index (GEI). Our findings highlight the importance of considering solvent effects in electrophilicity calculations, even when neutral Lewis acids are involved, and show a rare divergence between FIA and GEI trends. The coordinating abilities of the [P(OC6F5)6]− and [P(OC6F5)5F]− anions towards the trityl cation, as a prototypical electrophile, have been assessed.
Pesticides from the EU First and Second Watch Lists in the Water Environment
Authors: Pietrzak Damian , Kania Jarosław , Malina Grzegorz , Kmiecik Ewa , Wątor Katarzyna
Published: April 2019

The contamination of water with pesticides used in agriculture and urban areas is a priority issue that is currently of global concern. In 2015, the European Union (EU) published the first Watch List (1st WL), which showed the necessity for Union‐wide monitoring of ten organic substances/groups of substances in the field of water policy. The list includes, among other items, eight pesticides: five neonicotinoids (acetamiprid, clothianidin, imidacloprid, thiacloprid, and thiamethoxam), and methiocarb, oxadiazon, and tri‐allate. In 2018 the EU published the second Watch List, which repealed the 1st WL. In this list, among other changes, one pesticide (metaflumizone) was added, and two (oxadiazon and tri‐allate) were removed. This review summarizes the current state of knowledge on the reported occurrence and concentrations of these pesticides in surface and groundwaters and in effluents from wastewater treatment plants derived from 73 studies in 21 countries worldwide. Imidacloprid, acetamiprid and thiamethoxam were the most frequently found pesticides due to their widespread use, while metaflumizone, methiocarb, oxadiazon, and tri‐allate are less studied pesticides whose occurrence in water is also poorly reported. More investigation is needed to assess the occurrence and impact of these pesticides on the aquatic environment worldwide in the context of water supply and human security.
Preparation of Cells from Embryonic Organs for Single‐Cell RNA Sequencing
Authors: Sekiguchi Rei , Hauser Belinda
Published: April 2019

Although single‐cell RNA sequencing (scRNA‐seq) has become one of the most powerful methods available for transcriptome analysis, the quality of scRNA‐seq data largely depends on cell preparation. Cell preparation from cultured cells and tissues requires different methods because of the inherent differences between these two categories of cells. Compared to cultured cells, tissues have more extracellular matrix, and the cells are generally more adherent and thus difficult to dissociate. The challenge is to achieve sufficient dissociation, cell counts, and viability all at the same time. This protocol describes approaches that help achieve these goals. These include a cold dissociation technique using cryophilic proteases active at cold temperature, timing of trituration during protease digestion, as well as filtration and washing methods that optimize cell viability and retention. Materials and equipment that optimize the process will also be discussed. © 2019 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Supramolecular Coordination of Pb2+ Defects in Hybrid Lead Halide Perovskite Films Using Truxene Derivatives as Lewis Base Interlayers
Authors: Aktas Ece , Jiménez‐López Jesús , Rodríguez‐Seco Cristina , Pudi Rajesh , Ortuño Manuel A. , López Núria , Palomares Emilio
Published: April 2019

Truxene derivatives, due to their molecular structure and properties, are good candidates for the passivation of defects when deposited onto hybrid lead halide perovskite thin films. Moreover, their semiconductor characteristics can be tailored through the modification of their chemical structure, which allows‐upon light irradiation‐ the interfacial charge transfer between the perovskite film and the truxene molecules. In this work, we analysed the use of the molecules as surface passivation agents and their use in complete functional solar cells. We observed that these molecules reduce the non‐radiative carrier recombination dynamics in the perovskite thin film through the supramolecular complex formation between the Truxene molecule and the Pb2+ defects at the perovskite surface. Interestingly, this supramolecular complexation neither affect the carrier recombination kinetics nor the carriers collection but induced noticeable hysteresis on the photocurrent vs voltage curves of the solar cells under 1 sun illumination.
Chemical Z−E Isomer Switching of Arylazopyrazoles Using Acid
Authors: Gibson Rosina S. L. , Calbo Joaquín , Fuchter Matthew J.
Published: April 2019

Arylazopyrazoles show significant potential as next‐generation photoswitches, in particular because of the high thermal stability of their Z‐isomers. Herein we investigate the potential to perform Z−E isomer chemical switching of arylazopyrazoles using acid. We show that acid‐accelerated isomerisation allows for robust Z−E switching using mild acids and opens up the possibility to use light‐acid cycles to near quantitatively and reversibly switch the arylazopyrazoles at room temperature. We attribute the chemical switching to azonium formation, facilitated by mesomeric stabilisation by the pyrazole ring. Coupled with their exceptionally long Z‐isomer half‐lives, we believe our study may open up a wider array of functional opportunities for the arylazopyrazoles.
Ruthenium Nanoparticles for Catalytic Water Splitting
Authors: Creus Jordi , De Tovar Jonathan , Romero Nuria , García‐Antón Jordi , Philippot Karine , Bofill Roger , Sala Xavier
Published: April 2019

Both global warming and limited fossil resources make the transition from fossil to solar fuels an urgent matter. In this regard, the splitting of water activated by sunlight is a sustainable and carbon‐free new energy conversion scheme able to produce efficient technological devices. The availability of appropriate catalysts is essential for the proper kinetics of the two key processes involved, namely, the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). During the last decade, ruthenium nanoparticle derivatives have emerged as true potential substitutes for the state‐of‐the‐art platinum and iridium oxide species for the HER and OER, respectively. Thus, after a summary of the most common methods for catalyst benchmarking, this review covers the most significant developments of ruthenium‐based nanoparticles used as catalysts for the water‐splitting process. Furthermore, the key factors that govern the catalytic performance of these nanocatalysts are discussed in view of future research directions.
Molecular Catalysts Immobilized on Semiconductor Photosensitizers for Proton Reduction toward Visible‐Light‐Driven Overall Water Splitting
Authors: Morikawa Takeshi , Sato Shunsuke , Sekizawa Keita , Arai Takeo , Suzuki Tomiko M.
Published: April 2019

Photocatalytic or photoelectrochemical hydrogen production by water splitting is one of the key reactions for the development of an energy supply that enables a clean energy system for a future sustainable society. Utilization of solar photon energy for the uphill water splitting reaction is a promising technology, and therefore many systems using semiconductor photocatalysts and semiconductor photoelectrodes for the reaction producing hydrogen and dioxygen in a 2:1 stoichiometric ratio have been reported. In these systems, molecular catalysts are also considered to be feasible; recently, systems based on molecular catalysts conjugated with semiconductor photosensitizers have been used for photoinduced hydrogen generation by proton reduction. Additionally, there are reports that the so‐called Z‐scheme (two‐step photoexcitation) mechanism realizes the solar‐driven uphill reaction by overall water splitting. Although the number of these reports is still small compared to those of all‐inorganic systems, the advantages of molecular cocatalysts and its immobilization on a semiconductor are attractive. This Minireview provides a brief overview of approaches and recent research progress toward molecular catalysts immobilized on semiconductor photocatalysts and photoelectrodes for solar‐driven hydrogen production with the stoichiometric uphill reaction of hydrogen and oxygen generation.
Bushmeat trade consequences predict higher anxiety, restraint, and dominance in chimpanzees
Authors: Ortín Sara , Úbeda Yulán , Garriga Rosa M. , Llorente Miquel
Published: April 2019

More data are needed for a better understanding of the long‐term influence of wider and combined stressful events in chimpanzee personality development. We evaluated the effects of bushmeat trade outcomes on the personality development in 84 African sanctuary chimpanzees. The chimpanzees presented different backgrounds regarding maternal care, social exposure, and abuse. We evaluated personality traits in chimpanzees using the Cattell 16PF personality questionnaire, the first application of this questionnaire in this species. We found that chimpanzees were rated as higher in anxiety after long social deprivation during infancy and juvenility, and if high human exposure was experienced. Mother‐reared chimpanzees were rated as lower in restraint than hand‐reared chimpanzees. Finally, mother‐reared chimpanzees were rated as less dominant than hand‐reared chimpanzees and rated higher when they had experienced severe mistreatment. Results suggest a wide range of possible stressful events could be potentially shaping rescued chimpanzees’ personality and demonstrating the detrimental outcomes and consequences of the bushmeat and pet trade.
Molecular sexing assays in 114 mammalian species: In silico sequence reanalysis and a unified graphical visualization of diagnostic tests
Authors: Strah Rebeka , Kunej Tanja
Published: April 2019

Molecular‐based methods for identifying sex in mammals have a wide range of applications, from embryo manipulation to ecological studies. Various sex‐specific or homologous genes can be used for this purpose, PCR amplification being a common method. Over the years, the number of reported tests and the range of tested species have increased greatly. The aim of the present analysis was to retrieve PCR‐based sexing assays for a range of mammalian species, gathering the gene sequences from either the articles or online databases, and visualize the molecular design in a uniform manner. For nucleotide alignment and diagnostic test visualization, the following genomic databases and tools were used: NCBI, Ensembl Nucleotide BLAST, ClustalW2, and NEBcutter V2.0. In the 45 gathered articles, 59 different diagnostic tests based on eight different PCR‐based methods were developed for 114 mammalian species. Most commonly used genes for the analysis were ZFX, ZFY, AMELX, and AMELY. The tests were most commonly based on sex‐specific insertions and deletions (SSIndels) and sex‐specific sequence polymorphisms (SSSP). This review provides an overview of PCR‐based sexing methods developed for mammals. This information will facilitate more efficient development of novel molecular sexing assays and reuse of previously developed tests. Development of many novel and improvement of previously developed tests is also expected with the rapid increase in the quantity and quality of available genetic information.
Changes in genetic diversity and differentiation in Red‐cockaded woodpeckers (Dryobates borealis) over the past century
Authors: Miller Mark P. , Vilstrup Julia T. , Mullins Thomas D. , McDearman Will , Walters Jeffrey R. , Haig Susan M.
Published: April 2019

Red‐cockaded woodpeckers (RCW; Dryobates borealis) declined after human activities reduced their fire‐maintained pine ecosystem to <3% of its historical range in the southeastern United States and degraded remaining habitat. An estimated 1.6 million RCW cooperative breeding groups declined to about 3,500 groups with no more than 10,000 birds by 1978. Management has increased RCW population abundances since they were at their lowest in the 1990s. However, no range‐wide study has been undertaken since then to investigate the impacts of this massive bottleneck or infer the effects of conservation management and recent demographic recoveries. We used mitochondrial DNA sequences (mtDNA) and nine nuclear microsatellite loci to determine if range‐wide demographic declines resulted in changes to genetic structure and diversity in RCW by comparing samples collected before 1970 (mtDNA data only), between 1992 and 1995 (mtDNA and microsatellites), and between 2010 and 2014 (mtDNA and microsatellites). We show that genetic diversity has been lost as detected by a reduction in the number of mitochondrial haplotypes. This reduction was apparent in comparisons of pre‐1970 mtDNA data with data from the 1992–1995 and 2010–2014 time points, with no change between the latter two time points in mtDNA and microsatellite analyses. The mtDNA data also revealed increases in range‐wide genetic differentiation, with a genetically panmictic population present throughout the southeastern United States in the pre‐1970s data and subsequent development of genetic structure that has remained unchanged since the 1990s. Genetic structure was also uncovered with the microsatellite data, which like the mtDNA data showed little change between the 1992–1995 and 2010–2014 data sets. Temporal haplotype networks revealed a consistent, star‐like phylogeny, suggesting that despite the overall loss of haplotypes, no phylogenetically distinct mtDNA lineages were lost when the population declined. Our results may suggest that management during the last two decades has prevented additional losses of genetic diversity.
Differential responses to global change of aquatic and terrestrial invasive species: evidences from a meta‐analysis
Authors: Stephens Kambridge L. , Dantzler‐Kyer Maryanne E. , Patten Michael A. , Souza Lara
Published: April 2019

Increases in carbon dioxide (CO2), temperature, and precipitation can have varying effects on environmental conditions and resources affecting species’ performance and overall function of native and non‐native species that may influence future biodiversity. More attention is being focused on how climate change impacts the performance of co‐occurring native and introduced species. No synthesis has solely examined how invasive plant and animal species perform under climate change across both terrestrial and aquatic habitats. We asked the following questions: (1) How will combined and single climate change factors influence the performance of non‐native species? (2) Which habitat types are more affected by climate factors in a combined or single manner? (3) What guilds/functional groups, within aquatic vs. terrestrial habitats, are more impacted by climate factors? To better understand this, we conducted a meta‐analysis examining the relative influence climate change factors (carbon dioxide (CO2)/acidification, temperature, precipitation) have on invasive species’ performance. Our results indicate that global change factors had an overall increased performance on invasive species in terrestrial habitats with an opposite effect observed in aquatic habitats. Plant functional groups were positively affected, whereas animal guilds were generally negatively impacted by global changes. Our findings suggest that while invasive taxa are affected differently by global changes, responses are confounded by habitat type, and, therefore, to fully understand global change impacts on invasive taxa, increased representation of animal studies in terrestrial systems and plants in aquatic systems is needed.
Micronutrients may influence the efficacy of ectomycorrhizas to support tree seedlings in a lowland African rain forest
Authors: Newbery David M. , Neba Godlove A.
Published: April 2019

In the lowland rain forest of SW Cameroon, a field experiment tested whether ectomycorrhizal hyphal connections might affect the growth and survival of seedlings of a principal tree species, Microberlinia bisulcata, close to its adults. Nursery‐raised seedlings were planted into fine‐, medium‐, and coarse‐mesh root bags, and as no‐bag controls, in replicate subplots. The bags prevented fungal hyphae, and fine‐ and medium‐sized roots, respectively, entering from the outside forest floor root mat. Harvests were taken after 1 and 2 yr, with non‐destructive recording in between. Seedlings grew in typically low‐light locations. Survivorship did not differ between treatments (33%), but seedlings grew significantly better in terms of stem dry mass by harvest 2 in the medium‐mesh compared with other treatments. Treatment 1 to 3 seedlings had stem masses 25, 44, and 5% higher than controls, respectively. Using a method of differences across treatments, the positive effect of ectomycorrhizas on growth was 13.6%, while the negative effect of root competition (RCM) was 31.2% (net outcome = 17.6%). Adjustment was made to account for root penetration damaging some mesh bags. Differences in growth in replicate subplots were, however, much larger than those for treatments. Elemental analysis of seedling plant parts showed few differences between treatments, but phosphorus was high in stems, aluminum and iron were very high in roots, and copper was deficiently low in leaves. Soil analyses revealed very low copper levels, suggesting with the seedling results that this element was critically limiting for seedlings. Ectomycorrhizas are probably important for copper uptake (as for phosphorus), so roots may have been competing for this element. Because seedlings were growing in the shade and the soil was inhibitory to roots, they could not form network connections enough to positively out‐balance root competition. The efficacy of ectomycorrhizal networks for at least seedling establishment in this forest is low.
Spatial modeling of Audubon Christmas Bird Counts reveals fine‐scale patterns and drivers of relative abundance trends
Authors: Meehan Timothy D. , Michel Nicole L. , Rue Håvard
Published: April 2019

Bird counts by community volunteers provide valuable information about the conservation needs of many bird species. The statistical modeling techniques commonly used to analyze these counts provide robust, long‐term population trend estimates from heterogeneous community science data at regional, national, and continental scales. Here, we present a new modeling approach that increases the spatial resolution of trend estimates and reduces the computational burden of trend estimation, each by an order of magnitude. We demonstrate the approach with data for the American Robin (Turdus migratorius) from Audubon Christmas Bird Counts conducted between 1966 and 2017. We show that aggregate regional trend estimates from the proposed method aligned well with those from the current standard method, and that spatial variation in trends was associated with winter temperatures and human population densities as predicted by ecological energetics. This technique can provide reasonable large‐scale trend estimates for users interested in general patterns, while also providing higher‐resolution estimates for examining correlates of abundance trends at finer spatial scales, which is a prerequisite for tailoring management plans to local conditions.
Consumptive and non‐consumptive effects of predators vary with the ontogeny of their prey
Authors: Pessarrodona Albert , Boada Jordi , Pagès Jordi F. , Arthur Rohan , Alcoverro Teresa
Published: April 2019

Predators exert a strong influence on ecological communities by reducing the abundance of prey (consumptive effects) and shaping their foraging behavior (non‐consumptive effects). Although the prevalence of trophic cascades triggered by non‐consumptive effects is increasingly recognized in a wide range of ecosystems, how its relative strength changes as prey individuals grow in size along various life stages remains poorly resolved. We investigated how the effects of predators vary with the ontogeny of a key herbivorous sea urchin, which is responsible for transforming diverse macroalgal forests to a barren state dominated by bare rock and encrusting coralline algae. We conducted a series of field and laboratory experiments to determine how susceptibility to predation, prey behavioral responses, and grazing impact on algal cover vary with sea urchin size. The consumptive effects of predators were greater on smaller sea urchin size classes, which were more susceptible to predation. Unexpectedly however, predator non‐consumptive effects acted only on larger sea urchins, significantly reducing their grazing activity in the presence of predator cues. Crucially, only these larger sea urchins were capable of overgrazing macroalgae in the field, with non‐consumptive effects reducing sea urchin foraging activity and macroalgal grazing impact by 60%. The decoupling between risk and fear as prey grow indicates that the strength of consumptive and non‐consumptive trophic cascades may act differently at different ontogenetic stages of prey. While the consumptive effects of predators directly influence population numbers, the consequences of non‐consumptive effects may far outlive consumptive effects as prey grow, finding refuge in size, but not from fear.
Theoretical Investigation of Regioselectivity in the Rh‐Catalyzed Coupling Reaction of 3‐Phenylthiophene with Styrene
Authors: Hayashi Yoshihiro , Satoh Tetsuya , Miura Masahiro , Kawauchi Susumu
Published: April 2019

The regioselectivity of the Rh‐catalyzed coupling reaction of 3‐phenylthiophene with styrene was investigated by quantum chemistry calculations. Previous experimental studies showed that styrene selectively couples to the phenyl moiety of the phenylthiophene in the coupling reaction. In this work, possible reaction paths for the coupling were evaluated using theoretical calculations, and the most energetically reasonable catalytic sequence was found to be the following: (1) The Rh catalyst cleaves two C–H bonds on the phenyl and thiophene moieties, leading to a five‐membered rhodacycle intermediate. (2) Styrene is inserted into the C–Rh bond on the phenyl group of the rhodacycle. (3) Then, β‐hydrogen elimination occurs to form 2′‐alkenylated 3‐phenylthiophene. Natural bond orbital analysis results suggest that the key product‐determining step, i.e., the preferential insertion of styrene to the phenyl side (2), occurs due to the difference in π‐electron density between the phenyl and thienyl groups of the five‐membered rhodacycle intermediate.
Exploration of Catalytic Activity of Trypsin for C(sp3)‐H Functionalization and Consequent C‐C Bond Formation
Authors: Shukla Ratnakar Dutt , Rai Byanju , Kumar Atul
Published: April 2019

Employment of trypsin for C(sp3)‐H functionalization to construct a new C‐C bond utilizing 2‐methylbenzothiazole/2‐methyl benzoxazole with diones has been explored. This novel and greener approach have been effectively utilized to afford bioactive 3‐substituted‐3‐Hydroxy‐2‐oxindoles. Furthermore, the presented method combines the enzyme promiscuity and C‐H functionalization which open up and expands the repertoire of chemoenzymatic C‐H functionalization.
A Green Alternative for the Conversion of Arylboronic Acids/Esters into Phenols Promoted by a Reducing Agent, Sodium Sulfite
Authors: Castro‐Godoy Willber D. , Schmidt Luciana C. , Argüello Juan E.
Published: April 2019

Hydroxylation of arylboronic acids and arylboronic esters using sodium sulfite and oxygen as the source of ultimate oxidant proceeds rapidly in water under transition metal‐free conditions. This remarkable mild and environmentally benign protocol represents a green alternative to synthesize phenols using inexpensive starting materials in a simple methodology. This new application for sodium sulfite shows a wide tolerance of functional groups, and it is compatible with oxidizable functionalities.
Semisynthesis of 3‐Hydroxyoxindole Rapamycin Analogues Through Site‐ and Stereoselective Trapping of Oxonium Ylides in RhII‐Catalyzed Three‐Component Reactions
Authors: Qiu Lin , Su Meng , Wen Zhongqing , Zhu Xiangcheng , Duan Yanwen , Huang Yong
Published: April 2019

The site‐ and diastereoselective functionalization of 40‐OH in rapamycin by 3‐hydroxyoxindole moieties was efficiently achieved through the active protic oxonium ylide trapping reactions using isatins, resulting in 31 new analogues of rapamycin. This study not only significantly expanded the known active rapalogs, but showcased the broad utility of multi‐component reactions in late‐stage functionalization of complex natural products.
Does changing weight change pain? Retrospective data analysis from a national multidisciplinary weight management service
Authors: Dunlevy Colin , MacLellan Grace A. , O’Malley Emer , Blake Catherine , Breen Cathy , Gaynor Karen , Wallace Natalie , Yoder Ruth , Casey Domhnall , Mehegan John , Fullen Brona M. , O’Shea Donal
Published: April 2019

Background

Musculoskeletal (MSK) pain is common in obese populations. Multidisciplinary Tier 3 weight management services (WMS) are effective in reducing weight; however, MSK pain as an outcome is not routinely reported post‐WMS interventions.

Methods

Following ethical approval this retrospective design study using anonymized data from a national WMS established changes in anthropometric and pain prevalence and intensity scores as well as establishing variables predictive of achieving clinically significant changes (CSC) in pain scores.

Results

Of the 806 patients registered to the WMS (January 2011–February 2015), 59% (n = 476; CI = 56–62) attended their reassessments at 6 months. The overall mean age was 45.1 ± 12 years and 62% (n = 294) were female. At baseline 70% (n = 281; CI = 65–75) reported low back pain (LBP) and 59% (n = 234; CI = 54–64) had knee pain. At reassessment 37.3% (n = 177) of patients lost ≥5% body weight, 58.7% (n = 279) were weight stable (5% weight loss or gain) and 4.0% (n = 19) gained ≥5% body weight. Low back and knee pain prevalence reduced significantly for those who lost ≥5% body weight. Variables predictive of a CSC in LBP numerical rating scale (NRS) score included a higher baseline NRS score, weighing more, and rating losing weight as being important (p < 0.05). Higher baseline NRS and being younger resulted in higher odds of a CSC in knee pain NRS (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Overall this WMS was effective for clinical weight loss. For those who lost most weight prevalence of knee and LBP reduced. Imbedding pain management strategies within WMS’s may provide a more holistic approach to obesity management.

Significance

Weight loss can reduce musculoskeletal pain, particularly for those who lose more weight. Imbedding pain management strategies within these services may provide a more holistic approach to obesity management.
Performance study of the multiwavelet discontinuous Galerkin approach for solving the Green‐Naghdi equations
Authors: Sharifian Mohammad Kazem , Hassanzadeh Yousef , Kesserwani Georges , Shaw James
Published: April 2019

This paper presents a multiresolution discontinuous Galerkin (DG) scheme for the adaptive solution of Boussinesq‐type equations. The model combines multiwavelet (MW)–based grid adaptation with a DG solver based on the system of fully nonlinear and weakly dispersive Green‐Naghdi (GN) equations. The key feature of the adaptation procedure is to conduct a multiresolution analysis using MWs on a hierarchy of nested grids to improve the efficiency of the reference DG scheme on a uniform grid by computing on a locally refined adapted grid. This way, the local resolution level will be determined by manipulating MW coefficients controlled by a single user‐defined threshold value. The proposed adaptive multiwavelet DG solver for GN equations is assessed using several benchmark problems related to wave propagation and transformation in nearshore areas. The numerical results demonstrate that the proposed scheme retains the accuracy of the reference scheme, while significantly reducing the computational cost.
Drax group's bioenergy CCS (BECCS) project
Authors: Clayton Carl
Published: April 2019

Carbon Capture and Storage is a new technology which must be adapted to the particular situation in which it is utilised. In effect one size does not fit all. To this end, adaptation and innovation will always be at the heart of the CCUS implementation. In this article Carl Clayton, Drax Group Research and Innovation Engineer, talks to GHGS&T about the latest innovation in carbon capture at Drax Power Station in the UK.
Glioma risk associated with extent of estimated European genetic ancestry in African Americans and Hispanics
Authors: Ostrom Quinn T. , Egan Kathleen M. , Nabors L. Burt , Gerke Travis , Thompson Reid C. , Olson Jeffrey J. , LaRocca Renato , Chowdhary Sajeel , Eckel‐Passow Jeanette E. , Armstrong Georgina , Wiencke John K. , Bernstein Jonine L. , Claus Elizabeth B. , Il'yasova Dora , Johansen Christoffer , Lachance Daniel H. , Lai Rose K. , Merrell Ryan T. , Olson Sara H. , Sadetzki Siegal , Schildkraut Joellen M. , Shete Sanjay , Houlston Richard S. , Jenkins Robert B. , Wrensch Margaret R. , Melin Beatrice , Amos Christopher I. , Huse Jason T. , Barnholtz‐Sloan Jill S. , Bondy Melissa L.
Published: April 2019

Glioma incidence is highest in non‐Hispanic Whites, and to date, glioma genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) to date have only included European ancestry (EA) populations. African Americans and Hispanics in the US have varying proportions of EA, African (AA) and Native American ancestries (NAA). It is unknown if identified GWAS loci or increased EA is associated with increased glioma risk. We assessed whether EA was associated with glioma in African Americans and Hispanics. Data were obtained for 832 cases and 675 controls from the Glioma International Case–Control Study and GliomaSE Case–Control Study previously estimated to have <80% EA, or self‐identify as non‐White. We estimated global and local ancestry using fastStructure and RFMix, respectively, using 1,000 genomes project reference populations. Within groups with ≥40% AA (AFR≥0.4), and ≥15% NAA (AMR≥0.15), genome‐wide association between local EA and glioma was evaluated using logistic regression conditioned on global EA for all gliomas. We identified two regions (7q21.11, p = 6.36 × 10−4; 11p11.12, p = 7.0 × 10−4) associated with increased EA, and one associated with decreased EA (20p12.13, p = 0.0026) in AFR≥0.4. In addition, we identified a peak at rs1620291 (p = 4.36 × 10−6) in 7q21.3. Among AMR≥0.15, we found an association between increased EA in one region (12q24.21, p = 8.38 × 10−4), and decreased EA in two regions (8q24.21, p = 0. 0010; 20q13.33, p = 6.36 × 10−4). No other significant associations were identified. This analysis identified an association between glioma and two regions previously identified in EA populations (8q24.21, 20q13.33) and four novel regions (7q21.11, 11p11.12, 12q24.21 and 20p12.13). The identifications of novel association with EA suggest regions to target for future genetic association studies.
Gold nanoparticles and polyethylene glycol alleviate clinical symptoms and alter cytokine secretion in a mouse model of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis
Authors: Aghaie Tayebe , Jazayeri Mir Hadi , Avan Amir , Anissian Ali , Salari Ali‐Akbar
Published: April 2019

Gold nanoparticles (GNPs) are attractive nanoparticles with unique electronic and optical properties in the nanotechnology field and are widely used in various biomedical fields. Studies have shown that these particles also exhibit antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory properties. On the other hand, polyethylene glycol (PEG) that used to stabilize GNPs also exhibits antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory properties due to their membrane resealing properties. The aim of this study was to evaluate the ameliorative effect of GNPs and PEG in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), an animal model of multiple sclerosis (MS). EAE was induced in female C57BL/6 mice with injection of an emulsion of myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG35‐55) peptide and Freund's adjuvant. GNPs measuring 25 nm were prepared, and their size was determined using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), then intraperitoneal injection of GNPs and PEG (MW 1500; 30% w/v) was initiated after immunization and continued until the day 27 postimmunization (13 injections in total). The EAE clinical scores and body weights were evaluated. We analyzed cental nervous system's cell infiltration and demyelinated lesions using hematoxylin and eosin and luxol fast blue staining, respectively. Also, interleukin‐23 and interleukin‐27 were examined using the ELISA technique. The severity of MS symptoms was significantly decreased in the treated groups with GNPs and PEG. Histological examination of the spinal cord showed that the number and severity of cells’ infiltration and demyelinated lesions decreased significantly, and also the cytokine levels of IL‐23 and IL‐27 altered in treated groups. These results show that GNPs and PEG ameliorate the clinical course of EAE in mice. Our findings demonstrate proof of principle for potential of GNPs and PEG as novel agents for therapeutic approaches in the alleviated clinical symptoms of MS. © 2019 IUBMB Life, 71(9):1313–1321, 2019
Effect of microwave and probe sonication processes on sol–gel‐derived bioactive glass and its structural and biocompatible investigations
Authors: Chitra S. , Bargavi P. , Balakumar S.
Published: April 2019

This study is to investigate the effect of synthesis approaches on morphology, porosity, and biocompatibility of bioactive glass (BG). BG prepared through sol–gel approach was subsequently subjected to microwave and probe sonication techniques to investigate the structural and morphological effect. Hexagonal rod‐shaped morphology was obtained in sol–gel‐derived bioactive glass, whereas mesoporous particles and spherical‐shaped morphology were observed in probe‐sonicated and microwave‐assisted sol–gel approaches, respectively. The probe‐sonicated BG has mesopores with pore diameter of 14.7 nm, whereas surface porosity of 1.5 nm, and 3.5 nm for pure sol–gel and microwave‐assisted sol–gel fabricated BGs. Granular size, shape, and porosity have a significant role at the point of contact with cellular membrane. Therefore, we studied the biocompatibility with respect to morphology and porosity of the fabricated BGs. From this study, we observed that the BG prepared using probe sonication method controls the particle size, further it enhances the porosity that altogether improves the biocompatibility. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 108B:143–155, 2020.