bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Laboratory-scale characterization of saturated soil samples through ultrasonic techniques
Authors: Liu Hongwei , Maghoul Pooneh , Shalaby Ahmed
Published: February 2020

The propagation of poroelastic waves in a soil specimen is dependent on the physical and mechanical properties of the soil. In the geotechnical practice, such properties are obtained through in-situ geotechnical testings or element soil testings in the laboratory. These methods require almost advanced equipment and both testing and sample preparation may be expensive and time-consuming. This paper aims to present an algorithm for a laboratory-scale ultrasonic non-destructive testing to determine the physical and mechanical properties of saturated soil samples based on the distribution of stress waves. The ultrasonic setup, in comparison to most conventional soil lab testing equipment, is low-cost and non-invasive such that it reduces the soil disturbance. For this purpose, a poro-elastodynamic forward solver and differential evolution global optimization algorithm were applied to characterize the porosity, density, and other mechanical properties for a soil column. The forward solver was developed based on a semi-analytical solution which does not require intensive computational efforts encountered in standard numerical techniques such as the finite element method. It was concluded that the proposed high-frequency ultrasonic technique characterizes effectively the saturated soil samples based on the output stress wave measured by the receiver. This development makes geotechnical investigations time-efficient and cost-effective, and as such more suited to applications in remote areas.
Selection and validation of miR-1280 as a suitable endogenous normalizer for qRT-PCR Analysis of serum microRNA expression in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Pratama Muhammad Yogi , Cavalletto Luisa , Tiribelli Claudio , Chemello Liliana , Pascut Devis
Published: February 2020

Normalization procedures for the qRT-PCR analysis of miRNA in biological samples are recommended to reduce the variability caused by pre-analytical factors. Since there is no universal standardized normalization strategy for miRNA qRT-PCR studies, we conducted a throughout study to evaluate a panel of small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs) as reference gene candidate for biomarker studies in serum samples of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Five sncRNAs (miR-1280, miR-1275, SNORD-116, SNORD-68, and U6) were chosen as candidate of reference genes. This study included 122 patients with HCC and was organized into a “pilot phase” consisting of 20 serum samples of HCC patients, and a “validation phase” of 102 patients. Expression level of these candidates were analyzed by qRT-PCR. Assessment of gene stability was performed using four different integrative platforms (geNorm NormFinder, Bestkeeper, and the Delta Ct method). To determine the gene stability during the follow-up of the patient, we extend the analysis of the validation cohort at T1 (1 month after treatment) and T2 (6 month after treatment). MiR-1280 was identified as the most stably expressed reference gene in both pilot and validation phase also during the follow-up. MiR-1280 appears a reliable reference gene candidate in biomarker studies.
Replacing the eleven native tryptophans by directed evolution produces an active P-glycoprotein with site-specific, non-conservative substitutions
Authors: Swartz Douglas J. , Singh Anukriti , Sok Narong , Thomas Joshua N. , Weber Joachim , Urbatsch Ina L.
Published: February 2020

P-glycoprotein (Pgp) pumps an array of hydrophobic compounds out of cells, and has major roles in drug pharmacokinetics and cancer multidrug resistance. Yet, polyspecific drug binding and ATP hydrolysis-driven drug export in Pgp are poorly understood. Fluorescence spectroscopy using tryptophans (Trp) inserted at strategic positions is an important tool to study ligand binding. In Pgp, this method will require removal of 11 endogenous Trps, including highly conserved Trps that may be important for function, protein-lipid interactions, and/or protein stability. Here, we developed a directed evolutionary approach to first replace all eight transmembrane Trps and select for transport-active mutants in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Surprisingly, many Trp positions contained non-conservative substitutions that supportedin vivoactivity, and were preferred over aromatic amino acids. The most active construct, W(3Cyto), served for directed evolution of the three cytoplasmic Trps, where two positions revealed strong functional bias towards tyrosine. W(3Cyto) and Trp-less Pgp retained wild-type-like protein expression, localization and transport function, and purified proteins retained drug stimulation of ATP hydrolysis and drug binding affinities. The data indicate preferred Trp substitutions specific to the local context, often dictated by protein structural requirements and/or membrane lipid interactions, and these new insights will offer guidance for membrane protein engineering.
Renal accumulation of prooxidant mineral elements and CKD in domestic cats
Authors: Alborough R. , Grau-Roma L. , de Brot S. , Hantke G. , Vazquez S. , Gardner D. S.
Published: February 2020

Felids have a high incidence of chronic kidney disease (CKD), for which the most common renal lesion is chronic interstitial nephritis (CIN). CIN can be induced by tissue oxidative stress, which is determined by the cellular balance of pro- and anti-oxidant metabolites. Fish-flavoured foods are more often fed to cats than dogs, and such foods tend to have higher arsenic content. Arsenic is a pro-oxidant metallic element. We propose that renal accumulation of pro-oxidant elements such as arsenic and depletion of anti-oxidant elements such as zinc, underpin the high incidence of CIN in domestic cats. Total arsenic and other redox-reactive metal elements were measured in kidneys (after acid-digestion) and urine (both by inductively-coupled plasma-mass spectrometry) of domestic cats (kidneys, n = 56; urine, n = 21), domestic dogs (kidneys, n = 54; urine, n = 28) and non-domesticated Scottish Wildcats (kidneys, n = 17). Renal lesions were graded by severity of CIN. In our randomly sampled population, CIN was more prevalent in domestic cat versus domestic dog (51%, n = 32 of 62 cats; 15%, 11 of 70 dogs were positive for CIN, respectively). CIN was absent from all Scottish wildcats. Tissue and urinary (corrected for creatinine) arsenic content was higher in domestic cats, relative to domestic dogs and wildcats. Urine arsenic was higher in domestic cats and dogs with CIN. Arsenobetaine, an organic and relatively harmless species of arsenic, was the primary form of arsenic found in pet foods. In summary, the kidneys of domestic cats appear to have greater levels of pro-oxidant trace elements, as compared to dogs and wildcats. Since there was no difference in renal arsenic levels in cats with or without CIN, renal arsenic accumulation does not appear a primary driver of excess CIN in cats. Given clear differences in renal handling of pro vs. anti-oxidant minerals between cats and dogs, further in vivo balance studies are warranted. These may then inform species-specific guidelines for trace element incorporation into commercial diets.
The effects of NMDA receptor blockade on TMS-evoked EEG potentials from prefrontal and parietal cortex
Authors: Rogasch Nigel C. , Zipser Carl , Darmani Ghazaleh , Mutanen Tuomas P. , Biabani Mana , Zrenner Christoph , Desideri Debora , Belardinelli Paolo , Müller-Dahlhaus Florian , Ziemann Ulf
Published: February 2020

Measuring the brain’s response to transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) with electroencephalography (EEG) offers unique insights into the cortical circuits activated following stimulation, particularly in non-motor regions where less is known about TMS physiology. However, the mechanisms underlying TMS-evoked EEG potentials (TEPs) remain largely unknown. We assessed TEP sensitivity to changes in excitatory neurotransmission mediated by n-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptors following stimulation of non-motor regions. In fourteen male volunteers, resting EEG and TEPs from prefrontal (PFC) and parietal (PAR) cortex were measured before and after administration of either dextromethorphan (NMDA receptor antagonist) or placebo across two sessions in a double-blinded pseudo-randomised crossover design. At baseline, there were amplitude differences between PFC and PAR TEPs across a wide time range (15–250 ms), however the signals were correlated after ~80 ms, suggesting early peaks reflect site-specific activity, whereas late peaks reflect activity patterns less dependent on the stimulated sites. Early TEP peaks were not reliably altered following dextromethorphan compared to placebo, although findings were less clear for later peaks, and low frequency resting oscillations were reduced in power. Our findings suggest that early TEP peaks (<80 ms) from PFC and PAR reflect stimulation site specific activity that is largely insensitive to changes in NMDA receptor-mediated neurotransmission.
Photosensitive inhibition of the GABA system in vitro
Authors: Sun Lei , Liu Xinying , Li Xue , Li Mi
Published: February 2020

In the central nervous system (CNS), γ–aminobutyric acid A (GABAA) receptors mediate two types of inhibitory effects. Phasic inhibition involves the activation of synaptic GABAA receptors, and tonic inhibition is mediated by extrasynaptic GABAA receptors. GABAA receptors are important regulators of neuronal activity and are involved in a range of neurological disorders. In this study, we conducted sIPSCs recordings on hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurons in WT SD rats and found that exposure to blue light could specifically block the tonic inhibition and sIPSCs, and regulate neuronal activity. These observations indicate the existence of a non-opsin photosensitive pathway that regulates the GABA inhibitory system in the CNS.
Agreement of ocular biometric measurements in young healthy eyes between IOLMaster 700 and OA-2000
Authors: Liao Xuan , Peng Yue , Liu Bo , Tan Qing-Qing , Lan Chang-Jun
Published: February 2020

This prospective cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate the agreement of two new biometers for measuring ocular biometric parameters in young healthy eyes. Ocular biometric parameters were measured using IOLMaster 700 and OA-2000. Power vector analyses of Cartesian (J0) and oblique (J45) components of corneal astigmatism were performed. The right eyes of 103 healthy volunteers were analyzed. The 95% limits of agreement ranged from −0.03 to 0.03 mm, −0.08 to 0.07 mm, −0.18 to 0.18 diopters (D), −1.09 to 1.16 D, −1.18 to 1.15 D for axial length (AL), anterior chamber depth (ACD), mean keratometry, J0 and J45 respectively, which were all comparable between the two biometers, while significant differences were detected in lens thickness (LT), central corneal thickness (CCT), white-to-white (WTW) and pupil diameter (PD). Predicted intraocular lens (IOL) powers were comparable between the two biometers by Haigis and Barrett Universal II formulas, while not by SRK/T, Hoffer Q and Holladay 2. Excepting CCT, WTW and PD meaurements, IOLMaster 700 and OA-2000 have excellent agreement on ocular biometric measurements and astigmatism power vectors, which provides more options for ocular biometric measurements and enables constant optimization for IOL power calculation.
Maturational delay and asymmetric information flow of brain connectivity in SHR model of ADHD revealed by topological analysis of metabolic networks
Authors: Ha Seunggyun , Lee Hyekyoung , Choi Yoori , Kang Hyejin , Jeon Se Jin , Ryu Jong Hoon , Kim Hee Jin , Cheong Jae Hoon , Lim Seonhee , Kim Bung-Nyun , Lee Dong Soo
Published: February 2020

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a complex brain development disorder characterized by hyperactivity/impulsivity and inattention. A major hypothesis of ADHD is a lag of maturation, which is supported mainly by anatomical studies evaluating cortical thickness. Here, we analyzed changes of topological characteristics of whole-brain metabolic connectivity in twelve SHR rats selected as ADHD-model rats by confirming behavior abnormalities using the marble burying test, open field test, and delay discounting task and 12 Wistar Kyoto rats as the control group, across development from 4 weeks old (childhood) and 6 weeks old (entry of puberty). A topological approach based on graph filtrations revealed a lag in the strengthening of limbic-cortical/subcortical connections in ADHD-model rats. This in turn related to impaired modularization of memory and reward-motivation associated regions. Using mathematical network analysis techniques such as single linkage hierarchical clustering and volume entropy, we observed left-lateralized connectivity in the ADHD-model rats at 6 weeks old. Our findings supported the maturational delay of metabolic connectivity in the SHR model of ADHD, and also suggested the possibility of impaired and compensative reconfiguration of information flow over the brain network.
An integrated analysis of rare CNV and exome variation in Autism Spectrum Disorder using the Infinium PsychArray
Authors: Bacchelli Elena , Cameli Cinzia , Viggiano Marta , Igliozzi Roberta , Mancini Alice , Tancredi Raffaella , Battaglia Agatino , Maestrini Elena
Published: February 2020

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition with a complex and heterogeneous genetic etiology. While a proportion of ASD risk is attributable to common variants, rare copy-number variants (CNVs) and protein-disrupting single-nucleotide variants (SNVs) have been shown to significantly contribute to ASD etiology. We analyzed a homogeneous cohort of 127 ASD Italian families genotyped with the Illumina PsychArray, to perform an integrated analysis of CNVs and SNVs and to assess their contribution to ASD risk. We observed a higher burden of rare CNVs, especially deletions, in ASD individuals versus unaffected controls. Furthermore, we identified a significant enrichment of rare CNVs intersecting ASD candidate genes reported in the SFARI database. Family-based analysis of rare SNVs genotyped by the PsychArray also indicated an increased transmission of rare SNV variants from heterozygous parents to probands, supporting a multigenic model of ASD risk with significant contributions of both variant types. Moreover, our study reinforced the evidence for a significant role of VPS13B, WWOX, CNTNAP2, RBFOX1, MACROD2, APBA2, PARK2, GPHN, and RNF113A genes in ASD susceptibility. Finally, we showed that the PsychArray, besides providing useful genotyping data in psychiatric disorders, is a valuable and cost-efficient tool for genic CNV detection, down to 10 kb.
Oxidant stress and renal function among children with chronic kidney disease: a repeated measures study
Authors: Jacobson Melanie H. , Liu Mengling , Wu Yinxiang , Furth Susan , Warady Bradley , Trachtman Howard , Trasande Leonardo
Published: February 2020

It is hypothesized that chronic kidney disease (CKD) induces oxidant stress which contributes to the decline in kidney function. However, few studies have incorporated longitudinal designs and no studies have investigated this association among children. Using data from the Chronic Kidney Disease in Children (CKiD) study, we examined longitudinal associations between urinary biomarkers of oxidant stress, 8-OH deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and F2-isoprostane, and measures of renal function and blood pressure among children with CKD. Baseline levels of 8-OHdG were positively associated with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) over time and a log-unit increase in baseline 8-OHdG predicted a 5.68 ml/min/1.73 m2 increase in eGFR (95% Confidence Interval (CI): 3.75, 7.61). This association was attenuated when longitudinal measures of 8-OHdG were analyzed in relation to longitudinal eGFR (per log-unit increase in 8-OHdG, β = 0.81, 95% CI: 0.22, 1.39). Baseline 8-OHdG concentrations were also associated with decreased proteinuria over time, as measured by urinary protein:creatinine ratio. In addition, F2-isoprostane concentrations were associated with increases in eGFR, but only when baseline levels (vs. longitudinal levels) were considered in relation to longitudinal eGFR. There were no significant associations between either 8-OHdG or F2-isoprostane and blood pressure over time. Urinary measures of oxidant stress are not associated with worsening GFR over time. Our findings suggest that excretion of these biomarkers may be influenced by changes in glomerular and tubular function in varying patterns, which would limit their value in evaluating the impact of oxidant stress on CKD progression in children.
Short-term flooding increases CH4 and N2O emissions from trees in a riparian forest soil-stem continuum
Authors: Schindler Thomas , Mander Ülo , Machacova Katerina , Espenberg Mikk , Krasnov Dmitrii , Escuer-Gatius Jordi , Veber Gert , Pärn Jaan , Soosaar Kaido
Published: February 2020

One of the characteristics of global climate change is the increase in extreme climate events, e.g., droughts and floods. Forest adaptation strategies to extreme climate events are the key to predict ecosystem responses to global change. Severe floods alter the hydrological regime of an ecosystem which influences biochemical processes that control greenhouse gas fluxes. We conducted a flooding experiment in a mature grey alder (Alnus incana (L.) Moench) forest to understand flux dynamics in the soil-tree-atmosphere continuum related to ecosystem N2O and CH4 turn-over. The gas exchange was determined at adjacent soil-tree-pairs: stem fluxes were measured in vertical profiles using manual static chambers and gas chromatography; soil fluxes were measured with automated chambers connected to a gas analyser. The tree stems and soil surface were net sources of N2O and CH4 during the flooding. Contrary to N2O, the increase in CH4 fluxes delayed in response to flooding. Stem N2O fluxes were lower although stem CH4 emissions were significantly higher than from soil after the flooding. Stem fluxes decreased with stem height. Our flooding experiment indicated soil water and nitrogen content as the main controlling factors of stem and soil N2O fluxes. The stems contributed up to 88% of CH4 emissions to the stem-soil continuum during the investigated period but soil N2O fluxes dominated (up to 16 times the stem fluxes) during all periods. Conclusively, stem fluxes of CH4 and N2O are essential elements in forest carbon and nitrogen cycles and must be included in relevant models.
The BDNF Val66Met polymorphism affects negative memory bias in civilian women with PTSD
Authors: Hori Hiroaki , Itoh Mariko , Yoshida Fuyuko , Lin Mingming , Niwa Madoka , Hakamata Yuko , Ino Keiko , Imai Risa , Ogawa Sei , Matsui Mie , Kamo Toshiko , Kunugi Hiroshi , Kim Yoshiharu
Published: February 2020

Memory abnormalities are considered a core feature of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Studies attempting to quantify such memory dysfunction in PTSD have reported that individuals with this disorder exhibit selective memory bias toward negative material. The low expression Met allele of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) Val66Met polymorphism has been associated with the aetiology of PTSD and with memory abnormalities. It is therefore possible that theBDNFVal66Met polymorphism can moderate the relationship between PTSD and memory bias. Here we examined this association in 50 civilian women with PTSD and 70 non-trauma-exposed healthy control women. All subjects were genotyped for theBDNFVal66Met (rs6265) polymorphism. Negative memory bias was assessed using a recognition memory task. Patients showed significantly greater negative memory bias compared to controls. In patients, negative memory bias significantly increased with increasing numbers of Met alleles; while no significant relationship was seen in controls. Further pairwise analyses revealed that patients with the Met allele had significantly greater negative memory bias than controls. These results suggest that the relationship between PTSD and negative memory bias can be moderated by theBDNFVal66Met polymorphism. More studies are needed to further clarify the relationship between this polymorphism and memory abnormalities in PTSD.
Systematic analysis of the Hippo pathway organization and oncogenic alteration in evolution
Authors: Chen Yuxuan , Han Han , Seo Gayoung , Vargas Rebecca Elizabeth , Yang Bing , Chuc Kimberly , Zhao Huabin , Wang Wenqi
Published: February 2020

The Hippo pathway is a central regulator of organ size and a key tumor suppressor via coordinating cell proliferation and death. Initially discovered in Drosophila, the Hippo pathway has been implicated as an evolutionarily conserved pathway in mammals; however, how this pathway was evolved to be functional from its origin is still largely unknown. In this study, we traced the Hippo pathway in premetazoan species, characterized the intrinsic functions of its ancestor components, and unveiled the evolutionary history of this key signaling pathway from its unicellular origin. In addition, we elucidated the paralogous gene history for the mammalian Hippo pathway components and characterized their cancer-derived somatic mutations from an evolutionary perspective. Taken together, our findings not only traced the conserved function of the Hippo pathway to its unicellular ancestor components, but also provided novel evolutionary insights into the Hippo pathway organization and oncogenic alteration.
Fecal bacteria and metabolite responses to dietary lysozyme in a sow model from late gestation until lactation
Authors: Xu Shengyu , Shi Jiankai , Dong Yanpeng , Li Zimei , Wu Xiaoling , Lin Yan , Che Lianqiang , Li Jian , Feng Bin , Fang Zhengfeng , Zhuo Yong , Wang Jianping , Wu De , Ren Zhihua , Shen Yanping
Published: February 2020

Lysozyme (LZM) is a natural anti-bacterial protein that is found in the saliva, tears and milk of all mammals including humans. Its anti-bacterial properties result from the ability to cleave bacterial cell walls, causing bacterial death. The current study was conducted to investigate the effects of dietary LZM on fecal microbial composition and variation in metabolites in sow. The addition of LZM decreased the fecal short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). Zonulin and endotoxin in the serum, and feces, were decreased with lysozyme supplementation. Furthermore, fecal concentrations of lipocalin-2 and the pro-inflammatory cytokine TNF-α were also decreased while the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 was increased by lysozyme supplementation. 16S rRNA gene sequencing of the V3-V4 region suggested that fecal microbial levels changed at different taxonomic levels with the addition of LZM. Representative changes included the reduction of diversity between sows, decreased Bacteroidetes, Actinobacteria, Tenericutes and Spirochaetes during lactation as well as an increase in Lactobacillus. These findings suggest that dietary lysozyme supplementation from late gestation to lactation promote microbial changes, which would potentially be the mechanisms by which maternal metabolites and inflammatory status was altered after LZM supplementation.
Natural history footage provides new reef fish biodiversity information for a pristine but rarely visited archipelago
Authors: Liggins Libby , Sweatman Jenny Ann , Trnski Thomas , Duffy Clinton A. J. , Eddy Tyler D. , Aguirre J. David
Published: February 2020

There remain parts of our planet that are seldom visited by humans, let alone scientists. In such locations, crowd-sourced or citizen scientist data can be critical in describing biodiversity and detecting change. Rangitāhua, the Kermadec Islands, are 750 km from the nearest human-habitation. Although our knowledge of this near pristine location has increased with recent biodiversity expeditions, we still lack comprehensive understanding of the marine biodiversity surrounding the islands. In 2015, professional underwater videographers were commissioned to produce a nature documentary focused on Rangitāhua’s reefs. We strategically surveyed the raw documentary video and examined how biodiversity estimates differed from traditional scientific surveys. We uncovered three new fish species records for Rangitāhua, extending the known distribution for each species, two of which are also new records for New Zealand waters. Comparison of documentary video footage with scientific survey methods showed that estimates of reef fish species richness from the documentary video were similar to stationary surveys, but lower than non-stationary surveys. Moreover, all survey methods, including documentary video, captured different fish assemblages, reflecting each method’s particular bias. Overall, we provide a proof-of-concept for how collaborations between scientists and professional natural historians, such as videographers and photographers, can provide valuable biodiversity information.
Early detection of red palm weevil using distributed optical sensor
Authors: Ashry Islam , Mao Yuan , Al-Fehaid Yousef , Al-Shawaf Abdulmoneim , Al-Bagshi Mansour , Al-Brahim Salman , Ng Tien Khee , Ooi Boon S.
Published: February 2020

Red palm weevil (RPW) poses a serious threat to the cultivation of date palms. It is considered to be the most destructive epidemic pest of palms, responsible for massive economic losses worldwide. Curative methods for RPW are not difficult to apply; however, the early detection of the pest remains a great challenge. Although several detection techniques have been implemented for the early detection of RPW, none of these methods have been proven to be reliable. Here, we use an optical-fiber-distributed acoustic sensor (DAS) as a paradigm shift technology for the early detection of RPW. Our sensitive sensor shows a detection of feeding sound produced by larvae as young as 12 days, in an infested tree. In comparison with existing, commonly-used technologies, this novel sensing technique represents a cost-effective and non-invasive alternative that could provide 24-7, real-time monitoring of 1,000 palm trees or even more. It could also monitor the temperature, an essential feature to control farm fires, another major problem for the cultivation of palm trees around the world.
Dissecting the Genetic Complexity of Fusarium Crown Rot Resistance in Wheat
Authors: Pariyar Shree R. , Erginbas-Orakci Gul , Dadshani Said , Chijioke Oyiga Benedict , Léon Jens , Dababat Abdelfattah A. , Grundler Florian M. W.
Published: February 2020

Fusarium crown rot (FCR) is one of the most important diseases of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). FCR is mainly caused by the fungal pathogens Fusarium culmorum and F. pseudograminearum. In order to identify new sources of resistance to FCR and to dissect the complexity of FCR resistance, a panel of 161 wheat accessions was phenotyped under growth room (GR) and greenhouse conditions (GH). Analysis of variance showed significant differences in crown rot development among wheat accessions and high heritability of genotype-environment interactions for GR (0.96) and GH (0.91). Mixed linear model analysis revealed seven novel quantitative trait loci (QTLs) linked to F. culmorum on chromosomes 2AL, 3AS, 4BS, 5BS, 5DS, 5DL and 6DS for GR and eight QTLs on chromosomes on 3AS, 3BS, 3DL, 4BS (2), 5BS, 6BS and 6BL for GH. Total phenotypic variances (R²) explained by the QTLs linked to GR and GH were 48% and 59%, respectively. In addition, five favorable epistasis interactions among the QTLs were detected for both GR and GH with and without main effects. Epistatic interaction contributed additional variation up to 21% under GR and 7% under GH indicating strong effects of environment on the expression of QTLs. Our results revealed FCR resistance responses in wheat to be complex and controlled by multiple QTLs.
In-vivo vascular application via ultra-fast bioprinting for future 5D personalised nanomedicine
Authors: Foresti Ruben , Rossi Stefano , Pinelli Silvana , Alinovi Rossella , Sciancalepore Corrado , Delmonte Nicola , Selleri Stefano , Caffarra Cristina , Raposio Edoardo , Macaluso Guido , Macaluso Claudio , Freyrie Antonio , Miragoli Michele , Perini Paolo
Published: February 2020

The design of 3D complex structures enables new correlation studies between the engineering parameters and the biological activity. Moreover, additive manufacturing technology could revolutionise the personalised medical pre-operative management due to its possibility to interplay with computer tomography. Here we present a method based on rapid freeze prototyping (RFP) 3D printer, reconstruction cutting, nano dry formulation, fast freeze gelation, disinfection and partial processes for the 5D digital models functionalisation. We elaborated the high-resolution computer tomography scan derived from a complex human peripheral artery and we reconstructed the 3D model of the vessel in order to obtain and verify the additive manufacturing processes. Then, based on the drug-eluting balloon selected for the percutaneous intervention, we reconstructed the biocompatible eluting-freeform coating containing 40 nm fluorescent nanoparticles (NPs) by means of RFP printer and we tested the in-vivo feasibility. We introduced the NPs-loaded 5D device in a rat’s vena cava. The coating dissolved in a few minutes releasing NPs which were rapidly absorbed in vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) and human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) in-vitro. We developed 5D high-resolution self-dissolving devices incorporating NPs with the perspective to apply this method to the personalised medicine.
The extracytoplasmic function sigma factor σVreI is active during infection and contributes to phosphate starvation-induced virulence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Otero-Asman Joaquín R. , Quesada José M. , Jim Kin K. , Ocampo-Sosa Alain , Civantos Cristina , Bitter Wilbert , Llamas María A.
Published: February 2020

The extracytoplasmic function sigma factor σVreI of the human pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa promotes transcription of potential virulence determinants, including secretion systems and secreted proteins. Its activity is modulated by the VreR anti-σ factor that inhibits the binding of σVreI to the RNA polymerase in the absence of a (still unknown) inducing signal. The vreI-vreR genes are expressed under inorganic phosphate (Pi) starvation, a physiological condition often encountered in the host that increases P. aeruginosa pathogenicity. However, whether or not σVreI is active in vivo during infection and contributes to the Pi starvation-induced virulence of this pathogen has not been analyzed yet. Using zebrafish embryos and a human alveolar basal epithelial cell line as P. aeruginosa hosts, we demonstrate in this work that σVreI is active during infection and that lack of σVreI considerably reduces the Pi starvation-induced virulence of this pathogen. Surprisingly, lack of the σVreI inhibitor, the VreR anti-σ factor, also diminishes the virulence of P. aeruginosa. By transcriptomic analyses we show that VreR modulates gene expression not only in a σVreI-dependent but also in a σVreI-independent manner. This includes potential virulence determinants and transcriptional regulators that could be responsible for the reduced virulence of the ΔvreR mutant.
Association between Serum Calcium and Risk of Cardiometabolic Disease among Community-dwelling Adults in Taiwan
Authors: Chou Cheng-Wai , Fang Wen-Hui , Chen Yuan-Yuei , Wang Chung-Ching , Kao Tung-Wei , Wu Chen-Jung , Chen Wei-Liang
Published: February 2020

Serum calcium, although only comprising 1% of total body calcium, is involved in intracellular signal pathways, vascular dilatation/constriction, and muscle contraction, which are crucial for insulin secretion, cholesterol catabolism, and blood pressure regulation. As far as we know, research on the relationship between serum calcium level and metabolic syndrome (MetS), diabetes, and hypertension in one longitudinal study is rare. Owing to the crucial role of serum calcium in human cardiometabolic physiology and lack of related study so far, this study aims to describe the relationship between serum calcium level and the incidence of MetS, diabetes, and hypertension. During the period 2010–2016, there are two parts to our study: cross-sectional analysis and longitudinal analysis. Logistic regression was applied for cross-sectional analysis of the association between serum calcium level or albumin-corrected calcium (ACCA) and the prevalence of MetS, diabetes, or hypertension. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used for calculating of optimal cut-off value of serum calcium and ACCA. Cox proportional regression for development of MetS, diabetes, and hypertension according to different cut-off values of serum calcium level and ACCA were conducted. At baseline, there were 27,364 participants in our study. Serum calcium level had positive association with diabetes in the total population, male, and female. ACCA level had positive association with diabetes in the total population, male, and female. In unadjusted and multivariate Cox proportional hazard models, serum calcium level was associated with increased risk of incident MetS in the total population and male. ACCA was associated with increased risk of incident MetS in the total population and male. ACCA was associated with increased risk of incident diabetes in the total population and male participants. This study describes the relationship between serum calcium level and the incidence of MetS, diabetes, and hypertension. Higher serum calcium level is associated with increased risk of MetS, diabetes, and hypertension.
Effect of manual approaches with osteopathic modality on brain correlates of interoception: an fMRI study
Authors: Cerritelli Francesco , Chiacchiaretta Piero , Gambi Francesco , Perrucci Mauro Gianni , Barassi Giovanni , Visciano Christian , Bellomo Rosa Grazia , Saggini Raoul , Ferretti Antonio
Published: February 2020

The present randomised placebo controlled trial explored the extent to which osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) affects brain activity, particularly the insula, during both an “interoceptive awareness” and “exteroceptive awareness” task in a sample of 32 right-handed adults with chronic Low Back Pain (CLBP) randomly assigned to either the OMT or sham group. Patients received 4 weekly sessions and fMRI was performed at enrolment (T0), immediately after the first session (T1) and at 1 month (T2). The results revealed that the OMT produced a distinct and specific reduction in BOLD response in specific brain areas related to interoception, i.e., bilateral insula, ACC, left striatum and rMFG. The observed trend across the three time points appears uncharacteristic. At T1, a marginal increase of the BOLD response was observed in all the above-mentioned areas except the rMFG, which showed a decrease in BOLD response. At T2, the response was the opposite: areas related to interoception (bilateral insula and ACC) as well as the rMFG and left striatum demonstrated significant decreased in BOLD response. The findings of this study provide an insight into the effects of manual therapies on brain activity and have implications for future research in the field.
Author Correction: Metagenome-assembled genomes provide new insight into the microbial diversity of two thermal pools in Kamchatka, Russia
Authors: Wilkins Laetitia G. E. , Ettinger Cassandra L. , Jospin Guillaume , Eisen Jonathan A.
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: AIM2 inflammasome-derived IL-1β induces postoperative ileus in mice
Authors: Hupa Kristof Johannes , Stein Kathy , Schneider Reiner , Lysson Mariola , Schneiker Bianca , Hornung Veit , Latz Eicke , Iwakura Yoichiro , Kalff Jörg C. , Wehner Sven
Published: February 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Biomolecular analyses reveal the age, sex and species identity of a near-intact Pleistocene bird carcass
Authors: Dussex Nicolas , Stanton David W. G. , Sigeman Hanna , Ericson Per G. P. , Gill Jacquelyn , Fisher Daniel C. , Protopopov Albert V. , Herridge Victoria L. , Plotnikov Valery , Hansson Bengt , Dalén Love
Published: February 2020

Ancient remains found in permafrost represent a rare opportunity to study past ecosystems. Here, we present an exceptionally well-preserved ancient bird carcass found in the Siberian permafrost, along with a radiocarbon date and a reconstruction of its complete mitochondrial genome. The carcass was radiocarbon dated to approximately 44–49 ka BP, and was genetically identified as a female horned lark. This is a species that usually inhabits open habitat, such as the steppe environment that existed in Siberia at the time. This near-intact carcass highlights the potential of permafrost remains for evolutionary studies that combine both morphology and ancient nucleic acids.
Restoring drifted electron microscope volumes using synaptic vesicles at sub-pixel accuracy
Authors: Stephensen Hans Jacob Teglbjærg , Darkner Sune , Sporring Jon
Published: February 2020

Imaging ultrastructures in cells using Focused Ion Beam Scanning Electron Microscope (FIB-SEM) yields section-by-section images at nano-resolution. Unfortunately, we observe that FIB-SEM often introduces sub-pixel drifts between sections, in the order of 2.5 nm. The accumulation of these drifts significantly skews distance measures and geometric structures, which standard image registration techniques fail to correct. We demonstrate that registration techniques based on mutual information and sum-of-squared-distances significantly underestimate the drift since they are agnostic to image content. For neuronal data at nano-resolution, we discovered that vesicles serve as a statistically simple geometric structure, making them well-suited for estimating the drift with sub-pixel accuracy. Here, we develop a statistical model of vesicle shapes for drift correction, demonstrate its superiority, and provide a self-contained freely available application for estimating and correcting drifted datasets with vesicles.
Binding of the periplakin linker requires vimentin acidic residues D176 and E187
Authors: Odintsova Elena , Mohammed Fiyaz , Trieber Catharine , Rodriguez-Zamora Penelope , Al-Jassar Caezar , Huang Tzu-Han , Fogl Claudia , Knowles Timothy , Sridhar Pooja , Kumar Jitendra , Jeeves Mark , Chidgey Martyn , Overduin Michael
Published: February 2020

Plakin proteins form connections that link the cell membrane to the intermediate filament cytoskeleton. Their interactions are mediated by a highly conserved linker domain through an unresolved mechanism. Here analysis of the human periplakin linker domain structure reveals a bi-lobed module transected by an electropositive groove. Key basic residues within the periplakin groove are vital for co-localization with vimentin in human cells and compromise direct binding which also requires acidic residues D176 and E187 in vimentin. We propose a model whereby basic periplakin linker domain residues recognize acidic vimentin side chains and form a complementary binding groove. The model is shared amongst diverse linker domains and can be used to investigate the effects of pathogenic mutations in the desmoplakin linker associated with arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy. Linker modules either act solely or collaborate with adjacent plakin repeat domains to create strong and adaptable tethering within epithelia and cardiac muscle.
Visualizing morphological principles for efficient photocurrent generation in organic non-fullerene acceptor blends
Authors: Köntges Wolfgang , Perkhun Pavlo , Kammerer Jochen , Alkarsifi Riva , Würfel Uli , Margeat Olivier , Videlot-Ackermann Christine , Simon Jean-Jacques , Schröder Rasmus R. , Ackermann Jörg , Pfannmöller Martin
Published: February 2020

Analytical electron microscopy reveals local molecular arrangements of PBDB-T:ITIC determining performance of current organic solar cells.
Ageing, dehulling and cooking of Bambara groundnuts: consequences for mineral retention and in vitro bioaccessibility
Authors: Gwala Shannon , Kyomugasho Clare , Wainaina Irene , Rousseau Sofie , Hendrickx Marc , Grauwet Tara
Published: February 2020

Postharvest storage and subsequent processing influences mineral concentrations and bioaccessibility.
Quality control of on-surface-synthesised seven-atom wide armchair graphene nanoribbons
Authors: Ishii Ayumu , Shiotari Akitoshi , Sugimoto Yoshiaki
Published: February 2020

Atomic-scale characterization of products by scanning probe microscopy clarified that the quality of on-surface-synthesised graphene nanoribbons was improved by increasing the precursor deposition amount.
The mineralization, drug release and in vivo bone defect repair properties of calcium phosphates/PLA modified tantalum scaffolds
Authors: Zhou Rong , Ni Hai-Jian , Peng Jin-Hui , Liu Ning , Chen Shu , Shao Jia-Hua , Fu Qi-Wei , Liu Jun-Jian , Chen Feng , Qian Qi-Rong
Published: February 2020

Calcium phosphate modified tantalum scaffolds displayed high performance on mineralization, sustained drug release and in vivo bone defect repair.
The catalytic ozonation of diazinon using nano-MgO@CNT@Gr as a new heterogenous catalyst: the optimization of effective factors by response surface methodology
Authors: Asgari Ghorban , Seidmohammadi Abdolmotaleb , Esrafili Ali , Faradmal Javad , Noori Sepehr Mohammad , Jafarinia Maghsoud
Published: February 2020

In this research, the degradation of the insecticide diazinon was studied using a new hybrid catalyst consisting of magnesium oxide nanoparticles (nano-MgO), carbon nanotubes (CNTs), and graphite (Gr), nano-MgO@CNT@Gr, under various experimental conditions.
ThX – a next-generation probe for the early detection of amyloid aggregates
Authors: Needham Lisa-Maria , Weber Judith , Varela Juan A. , Fyfe James W. B. , Do Dung T. , Xu Catherine K. , Tutton Luke , Cliffe Rachel , Keenlyside Benjamin , Klenerman David , Dobson Christopher M. , Hunter Christopher A. , Müller Karin H. , O'Holleran Kevin , Bohndiek Sarah E. , Snaddon Thomas N. , Lee Steven F.
Published: February 2020

Introducing ThX, a next-generation ThT derivative that allows for the early detection of amyloid aggregates at the bulk and single-aggregate levels.
Ultra-small cobalt nanoparticles from molecularly-defined Co–salen complexes for catalytic synthesis of amines
Authors: Senthamarai Thirusangumurugan , Chandrashekhar Vishwas G. , Gawande Manoj B. , Kalevaru Narayana V. , Zbořil Radek , Kamer Paul C. J. , Jagadeesh Rajenahally V. , Beller Matthias
Published: February 2020

We report the synthesis of in situ generated cobalt nanoparticles from molecularly defined complexes as efficient and selective catalysts for reductive amination reactions.
Collective dynamics of coherent motile cells on curved surfaces
Authors: Lin Shao-Zhen , Li Yue , Ji Jing , Li Bo , Feng Xi-Qiao
Published: February 2020

Collective cell crawling on curved surfaces can exhibit diverse dynamic patterns including global rotation, local swirling, spiral crawling, and serpentine crawling, depending on cell–cell interactions and geometric constraints.
The influence of interfacial interactions on the conductivity and phase behaviour of organic ionic plastic crystal/polymer nanoparticle composite electrolytes
Authors: Nti Frederick , Porcarelli Luca , Greene George W. , Zhu Haijin , Makhlooghiazad Faezeh , Mecerreyes David , Howlett Patrick C. , Forsyth Maria , Wang Xiaoen
Published: February 2020

The interactions between OIPCs and polymer nanoparticles create interfacial layers that control the ion mobility of the resulting composite.
Multifunctional composite hydrogel bolus with combined self-healing, antibacterial and adhesive functions for radiotherapy
Authors: Hou Yi , Song Ying , Sun Xiaodong , Jiang Yulin , He Meiling , Li Yubao , Chen Xianchun , Zhang Li
Published: February 2020

TPU/PAAm hydrogel with excellent mechanical, adhesive, self-healing and antibacterial properties has been successfully prepared as a desirable bolus for radiotherapy.
D–π–A-type triphenylamine dye covalent-functionalized g-C3N4 for highly efficient photocatalytic hydrogen evolution
Authors: Zhang Chao , Liu Jiandong , Liu Xingliang , Xu Shiai
Published: February 2020

Reaction mechanism for the higher photocatalytic performance of H2 production of g-C3N4NSs/TC1 under visible light irradiation (λ ≥ 400 nm).
Post-synthetic metal-ion metathesis in a single-crystal-to-single-crystal process: improving the gas adsorption and separation capacity of an indium-based metal–organic framework
Authors: Liu Shuang , Liu Bing , Yao Shuo , Liu Yunling
Published: February 2020

By means of post-synthetic metal-ion metathesis, Cu ions selectively substitute In ions in the paddlewheel of JLU-Liu40-In to construct JLU-Liu40-In/Cu, which has significant improved the ability of thermal stability and gas sorption and separation.
One-pot synthesis at room temperature of epoxides and linalool derivative pyrans in monolacunary Na7PW11O39-catalyzed oxidation reactions by hydrogen peroxide
Authors: Vilanculo Castelo B. , Da Silva Márcio J. , Teixeira Milena Galdino , Villarreal Jesus Avendano
Published: February 2020

In this work, the catalyst Na7PW11O39 was used in a new one-pot synthesis route to oxidize linalool to valuable derivatives (i.e., vinyltetrahydrofuran, vinyltetrahydropyran, and diepoxide), using a green oxidant (H2O2) at room temperature.
Incorporating self-assembled silane-crosslinked carbon dots into perovskite solar cells to improve efficiency and stability
Authors: Li Zhiqi , Guo Jiaxin , Li Zhuowei , Han Wenbin , Ren Guanhua , Liu Chunyu , Shen Liang , Guo Wenbin
Published: February 2020

An inserted C3H4Cl3F3Si insulating layer can provide a tunneling junction to conduct electrons and block holes, leading to photo-generated carrier transport and collection.
Zwitterionic near-infrared fluorophore for targeted photothermal cancer therapy
Authors: Lim Wonbong , Jo Gayoung , Kim Eun Jeong , Cho Hoonsung , Park Min Ho , Hyun Hoon
Published: February 2020

A zwitterionic NIR fluorophore ZW800-Cl showed intrinsic preferential tumor accumulation and an excellent photothermal capability without the need for chemical modifications with tumor-specific ligands and photosensitizers.
Magnetothermal microfluidic-directed synthesis of quantum dots
Authors: Cheng Rui , Ma Kangzhe , Ye Hong-Gang , Ling Luting , Wu Guan , Wang Cai-Feng , Chen Su
Published: February 2020

A powerful magnetothermal microfluidic technique is demonstrated to rapidly and continuously prepare quantum dots with good optical performance useful for color conversion materials in wide-color-gamut backlight displays.
Single-material organic solar cells with fully conjugated electron-donor alkoxy-substituted bithiophene units and electron-acceptor benzothiadiazole moieties alternating in the main chain
Authors: Marinelli Martina , Lanzi Massimiliano , Liscio Andrea , Zanelli Alberto , Zangoli Mattia , Di Maria Francesca , Salatelli Elisabetta
Published: February 2020

Main chain conjugated linear polymers, constituted by alternating electron-donor (D) and -acceptor (A) moieties, have been prepared with the aim of testing their performances as photoactive components in single material organic solar cells (SMOSCs).