bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SIK2 enhances synthesis of fatty acid and cholesterol in ovarian cancer cells and tumor growth through PI3K/Akt signaling pathway
Authors: Zhao Jing , Zhang Xiaohong , Gao Tian , Wang Shanci , Hou Yiran , Yuan Peng , Yang Yi , Yang Tao , Xing Jinliang , Li Jibin , Liu Shujuan
Published: January 2020

Salt-inducible kinase 2 (SIK2) has been established as a regulator of diverse biological processes including cell metabolism. A recent study has reported that SIK2 is required for adipocyte-induced ovarian cancer (OC) survival through facilitating fatty acid oxidation. However, whether SIK2 also plays a role in the lipid synthesis in OC cells remains elusive. Here, we showed that SIK2 significantly promoted the lipid synthesis in OC cells. On the one hand, SIK2 enhanced fatty acid synthesis through upregulating the expression of sterol regulatory element binding protein 1c (SREBP1c) and thus the transcription of major lipogenic enzyme FASN. On the other hand, SIK2 promoted cholesterol synthesis through upregulating the expression of sterol regulatory element binding protein 2 (SREBP2) and thus the transcription of major cholesterol synthesis enzymes HMGCR. Moreover, PI3K/Akt signaling pathway was found to be involved in the upregulation of SREBP1c and SREBP2 in OC cells. Moreover, in vitro and in vivo assays indicated that the SIK2-regulated fatty acid and cholesterol synthesis played a critical role in the growth of OC cells. Our findings demonstrate that SIK2 is a critical regulator of lipid synthesis in OC cells and thus promotes OC growth, which provides a strong line of evidence for this molecule to be used as a therapeutic target in the treatment of this malignancy.
Sestrins are evolutionarily conserved mediators of exercise benefits
Authors: Kim Myungjin , Sujkowski Alyson , Namkoong Sim , Gu Bondong , Cobb Tyler , Kim Boyoung , Kowalsky Allison H. , Cho Chun-Seok , Semple Ian , Ro Seung-Hyun , Davis Carol , Brooks Susan V. , Karin Michael , Wessells Robert J. , Lee Jun Hee
Published: January 2020

Exercise is among the most effective interventions for age-associated mobility decline and metabolic dysregulation. Although long-term endurance exercise promotes insulin sensitivity and expands respiratory capacity, genetic components and pathways mediating the metabolic benefits of exercise have remained elusive. Here, we show that Sestrins, a family of evolutionarily conserved exercise-inducible proteins, are critical mediators of exercise benefits. In both fly and mouse models, genetic ablation of Sestrins prevents organisms from acquiring metabolic benefits of exercise and improving their endurance through training. Conversely, Sestrin upregulation mimics both molecular and physiological effects of exercise, suggesting that it could be a major effector of exercise metabolism. Among the various targets modulated by Sestrin in response to exercise, AKT and PGC1α are critical for the Sestrin effects in extending endurance. These results indicate that Sestrin is a key integrating factor that drives the benefits of chronic exercise to metabolism and physical endurance.
Author Correction: Split intein-mediated selection of cells containing two plasmids using a single antibiotic
Authors: Palanisamy Navaneethan , Degen Anna , Morath Anna , Ballestin Jara Ballestin , Juraske Claudia , Öztürk Mehmet Ali , Sprenger Georg A. , Youn Jung-Won , Schamel Wolfgang W. , Di Ventura Barbara
Published: January 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Publisher Correction: Orthogonal regulation of DNA nanostructure self-assembly and disassembly using antibodies
Authors: Ranallo Simona , Sorrentino Daniela , Ricci Francesco
Published: January 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Nested helicoids in biological microstructures
Authors: Greenfeld Israel , Kellersztein Israel , Wagner H. Daniel
Published: January 2020

Helicoidal formations often appear in natural microstructures such as bones and arthropods exoskeletons. Named Bouligands after their discoverer, these structures are angle-ply laminates that assemble from laminae of chitin or collagen fibers embedded in a proteinaceous matrix. High resolution electron microscope images of cross-sections through scorpion claws are presented here, uncovering structural features that are different than so-far assumed. These include in-plane twisting of laminae around their corners rather than through their centers, and a second orthogonal rotation angle which gradually tilts the laminae out-of-plane. The resulting Bouligand laminate unit (BLU) is highly warped, such that neighboring BLUs are intricately intertwined, tightly nested and mechanically interlocked. Using classical laminate analysis extended to laminae tilting, it is shown that tilting significantly enhances the laminate flexural stiffness and strength, and may improve toughness by diverting crack propagation. These observations may be extended to diverse biological species and potentially applied to synthetic structures.
Programming temporal morphing of self-actuated shells
Authors: Guseinov Ruslan , McMahan Connor , Pérez Jesús , Daraio Chiara , Bickel Bernd
Published: January 2020

Advances in shape-morphing materials, such as hydrogels, shape-memory polymers and light-responsive polymers have enabled prescribing self-directed deformations of initially flat geometries. However, most proposed solutions evolve towards a target geometry without considering time-dependent actuation paths. To achieve more complex geometries and avoid self-collisions, it is critical to encode a spatial and temporal shape evolution within the initially flat shell. Recent realizations of time-dependent morphing are limited to the actuation of few, discrete hinges and cannot form doubly curved surfaces. Here, we demonstrate a method for encoding temporal shape evolution in architected shells that assume complex shapes and doubly curved geometries. The shells are non-periodic tessellations of pre-stressed contractile unit cells that soften in water at rates prescribed locally by mesostructure geometry. The ensuing midplane contraction is coupled to the formation of encoded curvatures. We propose an inverse design tool based on a data-driven model for unit cells’ temporal responses.
Annexin-V stabilizes membrane defects by inducing lipid phase transition
Authors: Lin Yi-Chih , Chipot Christophe , Scheuring Simon
Published: January 2020

Annexins are abundant cytoplasmic proteins, which bind to membranes that expose negatively charged phospholipids in a Ca2+-dependent manner. During cell injuries, the entry of extracellular Ca2+ activates the annexin membrane-binding ability, subsequently initiating membrane repair processes. However, the mechanistic action of annexins in membrane repair remains largely unknown. Here, we use high-speed atomic force microscopy (HS-AFM), fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP), confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) and molecular dynamics simulations (MDSs) to analyze how annexin-V (A5) binds to phosphatidylserine (PS)-rich membranes leading to high Ca2+-concentrations at membrane, and then to changes in the dynamics and organization of lipids, eventually to a membrane phase transition. A5 self-assembly into lattices further stabilizes and likely structures the membrane into a gel phase. Our findings are compatible with the patch resealing through vesicle fusion mechanism in membrane repair and indicate that A5 retains negatively charged lipids in the inner leaflet in an injured cell.
Direction and symmetry transition of the vector order parameter in topological superconductors CuxBi2Se3
Authors: Kawai T. , Wang C. G. , Kandori Y. , Honoki Y. , Matano K. , Kambe T. , Zheng Guo-qing
Published: January 2020

Topological superconductors have attracted wide-spreading interests for the bright application perspectives to quantum computing. Cu0.3Bi2Se3 is a rare bulk topological superconductor with an odd-parity wave function, but the details of the vector order parameter d and its pinning mechanism are still unclear. Here, we succeed in growing CuxBi2Se3 single crystals with unprecedented high doping levels. For samples with x  = 0.28, 0.36 and 0.37 with similar carrier density as evidenced by the Knight shift, the in-plane upper critical field Hc2 shows a two-fold symmetry. However, the angle at which the Hc2 becomes minimal is different by 90° among them, which indicates that the d-vector direction is different for each crystal likely due to a different local environment. The carrier density for x  = 0.46 and 0.54 increases substantially compared to x ≤ 0.37. Surprisingly, the in-plane Hc2 anisotropy disappears, indicating that the gap symmetry undergoes a transition from nematic to isotropic (possibly chiral) as carrier increases.
Continental degassing of helium in an active tectonic setting (northern Italy): the role of seismicity
Authors: Buttitta Dario , Caracausi Antonio , Chiaraluce Lauro , Favara Rocco , Gasparo Morticelli Maurizio , Sulli Attilio
Published: January 2020

In order to investigate the variability of helium degassing in continental regions, its release from rocks and emission into the atmosphere, here we studied the degassing of volatiles in a seismically active region of northern Italy (MwMAX = 6) at the Nirano-Regnano mud volcanic system. The emitted gases in the study area are CH4–dominated and it is the carrier for helium (He) transfer through the crust. Carbon and He isotopes unequivocally indicate that crustal-derived fluids dominate these systems. An high-resolution 3-dimensional reconstruction of the gas reservoirs feeding the observed gas emissions at the surface permits to estimate the amount of He stored in the natural reservoirs. Our study demonstrated that the in-situ production of 4He in the crust and a long-lasting diffusion through the crust are not the main processes that rule the He degassing in the region. Furthermore, we demonstrated that micro-fracturation due to the field of stress that generates the local seismicity increases the release of He from the rocks and can sustain the excess of He in the natural reservoirs respect to the steady-state diffusive degassing. These results prove that (1) the transport of volatiles through the crust can be episodic as function of rock deformation and seismicity and (2) He can be used to highlight changes in the stress field and related earthquakes.
The interaction of Multiple Sclerosis risk loci with Epstein-Barr virus phenotypes implicates the virus in pathogenesis
Authors: Afrasiabi Ali , Parnell Grant P. , Swaminathan Sanjay , Stewart Graeme J. , Booth David R.
Published: January 2020

Translating the findings of genome wide association studies (GWAS) to new therapies requires identification of the relevant immunological contexts to interrogate for genetic effects. In one of the largest GWAS, more than 200 risk loci have been identified for Multiple Sclerosis (MS) susceptibility. Infection with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) appears to be necessary for the development of Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Many MS risk loci are associated with altered gene expression in EBV infected B cells (LCLs). We have interrogated this immunological context to identify interaction between MS risk loci and EBV DNA copy number, intrinsic growth rate and EBV encoded miRNA expression. The EBV DNA copy number was associated with significantly more risk alleles for MS than for other diseases or traits. EBV miRNAs BART4-3p and BART3-5p were highly associated with EBV DNA copy number and MS risk loci. The poliovirus receptor (PVR) risk SNP was associated with EBV DNA copy number, PVR and miRNA expression. Targeting EBV miRNAs BART4-3p and BART3-5p, and the gene PVR, may provide therapeutic benefit in MS. This study also indicates how immunological context and risk loci interactions can be exploited to validate and develop novel therapeutic approaches.
Biomimetic cellular vectors for enhancing drug delivery to the lungs
Authors: Evangelopoulos Michael , Yazdi Iman K. , Acciardo Stefania , Palomba Roberto , Giordano Federica , Pasto Anna , Sushnitha Manuela , Martinez Jonathan O. , Basu Nupur , Torres Armando , Hmaidan Sarah , Parodi Alessandro , Tasciotti Ennio
Published: January 2020

Despite recent advances in drug delivery, the targeted treatment of unhealthy cells or tissues continues to remain a priority. In cancer (much like other pathologies), delivery vectors are designed to exploit physical and biological features of unhealthy tissues that are not always homogenous across the disease. In some cases, shifting the target from unhealthy tissues to the whole organ can represent an advantage. Specifically, the natural organ-specific retention of nanotherapeutics following intravenous administration as seen in the lung, liver, and spleen can be strategically exploited to enhance drug delivery. Herein, we outline the development of a cell-based delivery system using macrophages as a delivery vehicle. When loaded with a chemotherapeutic payload (i.e., doxorubicin), these cellular vectors (CELVEC) were shown to provide continued release within the lung. This study provides proof-of-concept evidence of an alternative class of biomimetic delivery vectors that capitalize on cell size to provide therapeutic advantages for pulmonary treatments.
Quantum random number generators with entanglement for public randomness testing
Authors: Jacak Janusz E. , Jacak Witold A. , Donderowicz Wojciech A. , Jacak Lucjan
Published: January 2020

We discuss a simple idealistic quantum entanglement based protocol for quantum random number generation allowing a trusted third party to publicly perform arbitrarily complex tests of randomness without any violation of the secrecy of the generated bit sequences. The protocol diminishes also an average time of the randomness testing (thus enabling arbitrary shortening of this time with increasing number of entangled qubits).
Comparative Proteomic Analysis in Scar-Free Skin Regeneration in Acomys cahirinus and Scarring Mus musculus
Authors: Yoon Jung Hae , Cho Kun , Garrett Timothy J. , Finch Paul , Maden Malcolm
Published: January 2020

The spiny mouse,Acomys cahirinusdisplays a unique wound healing ability with regeneration of all skin components in a scar-free manner. To identify orchestrators of this regenerative response we have performed proteomic analyses of skin fromAcomysandMus musculusbefore and after wounding. Of the ~2000 proteins identified many are expressed at similar levels inAcomysandMus, but there are significant differences. Following wounding inMusthe complement and coagulation cascades, PPAR signaling pathway and ECM-receptor interactions predominate. InAcomys, other pathways predominate including the Wnt, MAPK, the ribosome, proteasome, endocytosis and tight junction pathways. Notable amongAcomysspecific proteins are several ubiquitin-associated enzymes and kinases, whereas inMusimmuno-modulation proteins characteristic of inflammatory response are unique or more prominent. ECM proteins such as collagens are more highly expressed inMus, but likely more important is the higher expression of matrix remodeling proteases inAcomys. Another distinctive difference betweenAcomysandMuslies in the macrophage-produced arginase 1 is found inMuswhereas arginase 2 is found inAcomys. Thus, we have identified several avenues for experimental approaches whose aim is to reduce the fibrotic response that the typical mammal displays in response to wounding.
A butanolic fraction from the standardized stem extract of Cassia occidentalis L delivered by a self-emulsifying drug delivery system protects rats from glucocorticoid-induced osteopenia and muscle atrophy
Authors: Pal Subhashis , Mittapelly Naresh , Husain Athar , Kushwaha Sapana , Chattopadhyay Sourav , Kumar Padam , Ramakrishna Eppalapally , Kumar Sudhir , Maurya Rakesh , Sanyal Sabyasachi , Gayen Jiaur R. , Mishra Prabhat R. , Chattopadhyay Naibedya
Published: January 2020

We recently reported that a butanol soluble fraction from the stem of Cassia occidentalis (CSE-Bu) consisting of osteogenic compounds mitigated methylprednisone (MP)-induced osteopenia in rats, albeit failed to afford complete protection thus leaving a substantial scope for further improvement. To this aim, we prepared an oral formulation that was a lipid-based self-nano emulsifying drug delivery system (CSE-BuF). The globule size of CSE-BuF was in the range of 100–180 nm of diluted emulsion and the zeta potential was −28 mV. CSE-BuF enhanced the circulating levels of five osteogenic compounds compared to CSE-Bu. CSE-BuF (50 mg/kg) promoted bone regeneration at the osteotomy site and completely prevented MP-induced loss of bone mass and strength by concomitant osteogenic and anti-resorptive mechanisms. The MP-induced downregulations of miR29a (the positive regulator of the osteoblast transcription factor, Runx2) and miR17 and miR20a (the negative regulators of the osteoclastogenic cytokine RANKL) in bone was prevented by CSE-BuF. In addition, CSE-BuF protected rats from the MP-induced sarcopenia and/or muscle atrophy by downregulating the skeletal muscle atrogenes, adverse changes in body weight and composition. CSE-BuF did not impact the anti-inflammatory effect of MP. Our preclinical study established CSE-BuF as a prophylactic agent against MP-induced osteopenia and muscle atrophy.
A special needs dentistry study of institutionalized individuals with intellectual disability in West Sumatra Indonesia
Authors: Ningrum Valendriyani , Wang Wen-Chen , Liao Hung-En , Bakar Abu , Shih Yin-Hwa
Published: January 2020

People with intellectual disability have a higher risk of oral health problems. This study assessed the clinical oral health status and behaviors and treatment needs of people living in an institution in Padang, West Sumatra, Indonesia. We quantified oral health status of 65 individuals with intellectual disability using Oral Hygiene Index Simplified (OHIs), Angle’s classification of malocclusion, Community Periodontal Index and Treatment Need (CPITN), and decay index and also recorded their brushing behavior. We found that males had significantly lower OHIs (p < 0.001), more malocclusion (p < 0.001), greater caries number (p < 0.001), greater CPITN (p = 0.001) and higher need of dental treatment (p < 0.01) than females. Additionally, we found that high caries number was associated with poor OHIS, malocclusion, periodontal disease, and dependent brushing behavior (p < 0.001). The findings of this study imply that there is a gap in appropriate oral health care in individuals with intellectual disability. There should be a greater focus on providing appropriate oral health education to people with intellectual disability, improving the health literacy and quality of care of caregivers, and providing more dentists with specialized training in special needs dentistry.
Nucleus-specific linker histones Hho1 and Mlh1 form distinct protein interactions during growth, starvation and development in Tetrahymena thermophila
Authors: Nabeel-Shah Syed , Ashraf Kanwal , Saettone Alejandro , Garg Jyoti , Derynck Joanna , Lambert Jean-Philippe , Pearlman Ronald E. , Fillingham Jeffrey
Published: January 2020

Chromatin organization influences most aspects of gene expression regulation. The linker histone H1, along with the core histones, is a key component of eukaryotic chromatin. Despite its critical roles in chromatin structure and function and gene regulation, studies regarding the H1 protein-protein interaction networks, particularly outside of Opisthokonts, are limited. The nuclear dimorphic ciliate protozoan Tetrahymena thermophila encodes two distinct nucleus-specific linker histones, macronuclear Hho1 and micronuclear Mlh1. We used a comparative proteomics approach to identify the Hho1 and Mlh1 protein-protein interaction networks in Tetrahymena during growth, starvation, and sexual development. Affinity purification followed by mass spectrometry analysis of the Hho1 and Mlh1 proteins revealed a non-overlapping set of co-purifying proteins suggesting that Tetrahymena nucleus-specific linker histones are subject to distinct regulatory pathways. Furthermore, we found that linker histones interact with distinct proteins under the different stages of the Tetrahymena life cycle. Hho1 and Mlh1 co-purified with several Tetrahymena-specific as well as conserved interacting partners involved in chromatin structure and function and other important cellular pathways. Our results suggest that nucleus-specific linker histones might be subject to nucleus-specific regulatory pathways and are dynamically regulated under different stages of the Tetrahymena life cycle.
Rolipram Protects Mice from Gram-negative Bacterium Escherichia coli-induced Inflammation and Septic Shock
Authors: Lu Xiaying , Wang Juan , Chen Xiaohuan , Jiang Yong , Pan Zhixing K.
Published: January 2020

Sepsis is typically triggered by an overwhelming systemic inflammatory response to pathogens, and may lead to severe organ dysfunction and/or death. Sepsis consequently has a high mortality rate and a high rate of complications for survivors, despite modern medical advances. Therefore, drug identification and validation for the treatment of sepsis is of the utmost importance. As a selective phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitor, rolipram also exhibits the abilities of inhibiting multiple pro-inflammatory cytokines production in macrophages and toxin-induced inflammation in mice. However, this drug has never been studied as a sepsis treatment method. We found that rolipram significantly improves survival in mice challenged with gram-negative bacterium E. coli, CLP, or E. coli derived lipopolysaccharide. We have also found that rolipram inhibits organ damage, pro-inflammatory cytokine production, and intracellular migration of early-stage inflammatory elements. Our results also show that rolipram increases anti-inflammatory cytokine production. The protective effects of rolipram on septic mice may result from inhibition of the MAP kinase and NF-κB signaling pathways. Rolipram may therefore be a potential novel sepsis treatment, one that would bypass the time-consuming and costly drug-discovery process.
Bio-organic fertilizer with reduced rates of chemical fertilization improves soil fertility and enhances tomato yield and quality
Authors: Ye Lin , Zhao Xia , Bao Encai , Li Jianshe , Zou Zhirong , Cao Kai
Published: January 2020

The extensive use of chemical fertilizers poses serious collateral problems such as environmental pollution, pest resistance development and food safety decline. Researches focused on applying plant-beneficial microorganisms to partially replace chemical fertilizer use is increasing due to the requirement of sustainable agriculture development. Thus to investigate the possibility of a plant-beneficial Trichoderma strain and its bio-organic fertilizer product in saving chemical fertilizer application and in improving crop quality, a field trial and continuous pot experiments were carried out with tomato. Four treatments were set up: a reduced application of chemical fertilizer (75% of the conventional application) plus Trichoderma-enriched bio-organic fertilizer (BF), organic fertilizer (OF) or Trichoderma spore suspension (SS), with using the 100% rate of the conventional chemical fertilizer as the control (CF). The results showed that the total soluble sugar, Vitamin C and nitrate accumulations were, respectively, +up to 24%, +up to 57% and –up to 62% in the tomatoes of the BF treatment compared to those of the control (CF). And both of the pot and field trials revealed that reduced rates of chemical fertilizer plus bio-organic fertilizer produced tomato yields equivalent to those obtained using the 100% of the chemical fertilizer. However, application with the inoculant alone (SS) or combined with the organic fertilizer alone (OF) would lead to a yield decreases of 6–38% and 9–35% over the control. Since the increased abundance of soil microflora and the enhanced soil fertility frequently showed positive linear correlations especially in the BF-treated soils, we conclude that the efficacy of this bio-organic fertilizer for maintaining a stable tomato yield and improving tomato quality may be due to the improved soil microbial activity. Thus, the results suggest that the Trichoderma bio-organic fertilizer could be employed in combination with the appropriate rates of chemical fertilizers to get maximum benefits regarding yield, quality and fertilizer savings.
Levels of Polonium-210 in brain and pulmonary tissues: Preliminary study in autopsies conducted in the city of Sao Paulo, Brazil
Authors: Santos Nathalia Villa dos , Vieira Carolina Leticia Zilli , Saldiva Paulo Hilario Nascimento , Paci Mazzilli Barbara , Saiki Mitiko , Saueia Catia Heloisa , De André Carmen Diva Saldiva , Justo Lisie Tocci , Nisti Marcelo Bessa , Koutrakis Petros
Published: January 2020

The accumulation of detectable amounts of radon progeny in human tissues may be a risk factor for development and progression of chronic diseases. In this preliminary study, we analyzed the levels of alpha-emitting radon progeny Polonium-210 (210Po) in the olfactory epithelium, olfactory bulb, frontal lobe, and lung tissues in cadavers from the city of Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil. We also assessed the association between 210Po levels and exposure parameters for urban air pollution using linear regression models adjusted for age, sex, smoke, time living in Sao Paulo, daily commuting, socioeconomic index, and anthracosis (traffic-related black carbon accumulation in the pleural region and in lymph). Our findings show that the concentration of 210Po was associated with anthracosis in lungs of non-smokers (coefficient = 6.0; standard error = 2.9; p = 0.04). Individuals with lower socioeconomic status also had significantly higher 210Po levels in lungs (coefficient = −1.19; standard error = 0.58; p = 0.042). The olfactory bulb had higher 210Po levels than either olfactory epithelium (p = 0.071), frontal lobe (p < 0.001), or lungs (p = 0.037). Our findings of the deposition of 210Po in autopsy tissues suggest that airborne radionuclides may contribute to the development of chronic diseases, including neurodegenerative diseases.
Transfer Learning in ECG Classification from Human to Horse Using a Novel Parallel Neural Network Architecture
Authors: Van Steenkiste Glenn , van Loon Gunther , Crevecoeur Guillaume
Published: January 2020

Automatic or semi-automatic analysis of the equine electrocardiogram (eECG) is currently not possible because human or small animal ECG analysis software is unreliable due to a different ECG morphology in horses resulting from a different cardiac innervation. Both filtering, beat detection to classification for eECGs are currently poorly or not described in the literature. There are also no public databases available for eECGs as is the case for human ECGs. In this paper we propose the use of wavelet transforms for both filtering and QRS detection in eECGs. In addition, we propose a novel robust deep neural network using a parallel convolutional neural network architecture for ECG beat classification. The network was trained and tested using both the MIT-BIH arrhythmia and an own made eECG dataset with 26.440 beats on 4 classes: normal, premature ventricular contraction, premature atrial contraction and noise. The network was optimized using a genetic algorithm and an accuracy of 97.7% and 92.6% was achieved for the MIT-BIH and eECG database respectively. Afterwards, transfer learning from the MIT-BIH dataset to the eECG database was applied after which the average accuracy, recall, positive predictive value and F1 score of the network increased with an accuracy of 97.1%.
Exploring computed tomography in ichnological analysis of cores from modern marine sediments
Authors: Dorador Javier , Rodríguez-Tovar Francisco J. , Titschack Jürgen
Published: January 2020

Ichnological analysis is considered a very useful tool in several disciplines of Earth Sciences, including palaeoenvironmental studies and hydrocarbon exploration. Sediment cores provide excellent records, despite difficulties encountered during study runs due to specific core features. Previous studies using 2D images have proven the benefits of high-resolution image treatment in improving the visibility of ichnological features, but with limitations. 3D computed tomography (CT) techniques were applied to palaeoichnological studies in lithified cores and other disciplines of palaeontology to solve these limitations, but not used for ichnological studies in unconsolidated sediments due to the low density contrast between host sediment and trace fossils. In this study, a CT processing technique, previously tested in coral research, is applied to facilitate the characterisation of the ichnological signature of cores from modern marine soft sediments. This technique allows for the first time the isolation of burrows within these kinds of sediments and the differentiation of intervals based on burrow orientation. Data obtained from the technique are complemented with the ichnological information from conventional core description, thus providing a more complete characterisation of the trace fossil assemblage with additional ichnological properties such as burrow orientation and branching. This will improve palaeoenvironmental interpretations related to changes in energy or oxygenation, and the analysis of reservoir quality given the impact of burrows on porosity and permeability. Therefore, adopting CT to complement visual core description in the ichnological analysis of soft modern marine cores is a very informative approach.
Serial examination of cardiac function and perfusion in growing rats using SPECT/CT for small animals
Authors: Hiromasa Tomo , Taki Junichi , Wakabayashi Hiroshi , Inaki Anri , Okuda Koichi , Shibutani Takayuki , Shiba Kazuhiro , Kinuya Seigo
Published: January 2020

Few studies have evaluated myocardial perfusion and ventricular function in normal, growing rats. We, therefore, evaluated serial changes in cardiac perfusion and function during the growth of normal rats using single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) with technetium (99mTc)-sestamibi. Gated SPECT was serially performed in six normal rats. The left ventricular end-diastolic volume (EDV), end-systolic volume (ESV), stroke volume (SV) and ejection fraction (EF) were calculated with Quantitative Gated SPECT software. The perfusion distribution was calculated as the percentage uptake of each of the 17 segments using Quantitative Perfusion SPECT software. As expected, the body weight (BW) of the rats increased with growth, but their heart rates (HR) did not change over time. EF decreased very slowly over time and showed a negative correlation with BW. EDV, ESV and SV showed strong positive correlations with BW. There were no significant differences in the percentage segmental uptake in 13 of the 17 segments during growth, except for three basal and one apical segments. Therefore, a single normal database could be applied for the evaluation of perfusion abnormalities in rats of at least 8 to 28 weeks old.
Anosmin-1 activates vascular endothelial growth factor receptor and its related signaling pathway for olfactory bulb angiogenesis
Authors: Matsushima Shoko , Shimizu Akio , Kondo Manami , Asano Hirotsugu , Ueno Nobuhiro , Nakayama Hironao , Sato Naoko , Komeno Masahiro , Ogita Hisakazu , Kurokawa-Seo Misuzu
Published: January 2020

Anosmin-1 is a secreted glycoprotein encoded by the ANOS1 gene, and its loss of function causes Kallmann syndrome (KS), which is characterized by anosmia and hypogonadism due to olfactory bulb (OB) dysfunction. However, the physiological function of anosmin-1 remains to be elucidated. In KS, disordered angiogenesis is observed in OB, resulting in its hypoplasia. In this study, we examined the involvement of anosmin-1 in angiogenic processes. Anosmin-1 was detected on the vessel-like structure in OB of chick embryos, and promoted the outgrowth of vascular sprouts as shown by assays of OB tissue culture. Cell migration, proliferation, and tube formation of endothelial cells were induced by treatment with anosmin-1 as well as vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A), and further enhanced by treatment with both of them. We newly identified that anosmin-1 activated VEGF receptor-2 (VEGFR2) by binding directly to it, and its downstream signaling molecules, phospholipase Cγ1 (PLCγ1) and protein kinase C (PKC). These results suggest that anosmin-1 plays a key role in the angiogenesis of developing OB through the VEGFR2–PLCγ1–PKC axis by enhancing the VEGF function.
A thirteen-million-year divergence between two lineages of Indonesian coelacanths
Authors: Kadarusman  , Sugeha Hagi Yulia , Pouyaud Laurent , Hocdé Régis , Hismayasari Intanurfemi B. , Gunaisah Endang , Widiarto Santoso B. , Arafat Gulam , Widyasari Ferliana , Mouillot David , Paradis Emmanuel
Published: January 2020

Coelacanth fishes of the genus Latimeria are the only surviving representatives of a basal lineage of vertebrates that originated more than 400 million years ago. Yet, much remains to be unveiled about the diversity and evolutionary history of these ‘living fossils’ using new molecular data, including the possibility of ‘cryptic’ species or unknown lineages. Here, we report the discovery of a new specimen in eastern Indonesia allegedly belonging to the species L. menadoensis. Although this specimen was found about 750 km from the known geographical distribution of the species, we found that the molecular divergence between this specimen and others of L. menadoensis was great: 1.8% compared to 0.04% among individuals of L. chalumnae, the other living species of coelacanth. Molecular dating analyses suggested a divergence date of ca. 13 million years ago between the two populations of Indonesian coelacanths. We elaborate a biogeographical scenario to explain the observed genetic divergence of Indonesian coelacanth populations based on oceanic currents and the tectonic history of the region over Miocene to recent. We hypothesize that several populations of coelacanths are likely to live further east of the present capture location, with potentially a new species that remains to be described. Based on this, we call for an international effort to take appropriate measures to protect these fascinating but vulnerable vertebrates which represent among the longest branches on the Tree of Life.
Sugarcane calcineurin B-like (CBL) genes play important but versatile roles in regulation of responses to biotic and abiotic stresses
Authors: Su Weihua , Huang Long , Ling Hui , Mao Huaying , Huang Ning , Su Yachun , Ren Yongjuan , Wang Dongjiao , Xu Liping , Muhammad Khushi , Que Youxiong
Published: January 2020

Free calcium ions are common second messengers in plant cells. The calcineurin B-like protein (CBL) is a special calcium sensor that plays an important role in plant growth and stress response. In this study, we obtained three CBL genes (GenBank accession nos. KX013374, KX013375, and KX013376) from sugarcane variety ROC22. The open reading frames of ScCBL genes ranged from 642 to 678 base pairs in length and encoded polypeptides from 213 to 225 amino acids in length. ScCBL2-1, ScCBL3-1, and ScCBL4 were all located in the plasma membrane and cytoplasm. ScCBL2-1 and ScCBL3-1 expression was up-regulated by treatment with salicylic acid (SA), methyl jasmonate (MeJA), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), polyethylene glycol (PEG), sodium chloride (NaCl), or copper chloride (CuCl2). ScCBL4 expression was down-regulated in response to all of these stresses (abscisic acid (ABA), SA, MeJA, and NaCl) except for H2O2, calcium chloride (CaCl2), PEG, and CuCl2. Expression in Escherichia coli BL21 cells showed that ScCBLs can enhance tolerance to NaCl or copper stress. Overexpression of ScCBLs in Nicotiana benthamiana leaves promoted their resistance to infection with the tobacco pathogen Ralstonia solanacearum. The results from the present study facilitate further research regarding ScCBL genes, and in particular, their roles in the response to various stresses in sugarcane.
Fish Feed Quality Is a Key Factor in Impacting Aquaculture Water Environment: Evidence from Incubator Experiments
Authors: Kong Wenwen , Huang Suiliang , Yang Zhenjiang , Shi Feifei , Feng Yibei , Khatoon Zobia
Published: January 2020

The effect of fish feed quality has gained increasing attention to alleviate the harmful environmental impacts induced by intensive aquaculture. In current research, we have conducted an incubator experiment to highlight the effect of fish feed quality on aquaculture water environment. Fish feed from three manufactures with two different dosages (0.1000 g, 0.2000 g) was added to the culture medium with and without Microcystis aeruginosa. Treatments with Microcystis aeruginosa were named as MHT, MHP and MZT; while the treatments without Microcystis aeruginosa named as HT, HP and ZT. Microcystis aeruginosa densities and nutrients concentrations were measured in the study. Results have shown that fish feed quality (manufactures) has a great effect on nutrients concentrations in the absence of Microcystis aeruginosa (P < 0.05). Meanwhile, fish feed can stimulate Microcystis aeruginosa growth that is also influenced by fish feed quality excluding lag phase (0~12 day) significantly in general (P < 0.05). The maximum Microcystis aeruginosa density (Nmax) is 1221.5, 984.5, 581.0, 2265.9, 2056.8 and 1766.6 1 × 104 cells mL−1 for MHT 0.1 g, MHP 0.1 g, MZT 0.1 g, MHT 0.2 g, MHP 0.2 g and MZT 0.2 g, respectively. In treatments with algae, fish feed quality affect total phosphorus (TP) concentrations (except the difference between MHT and MHP) and total nitrogen (TN) concentrations significantly (P < 0.05). For most of consumed nutrients, the obvious differences among all treatments were observed excluding lag phase in general (P < 0.05), which suggest that the nutrient utilization is also dependent on fish feed quality. Keeping in mind the above facts it is concluded that fish feed quality is a key factor in impacting aquaculture water environment.
Flexible loop and helix 2 domains of TCTP are the functional domains of dimerized TCTP
Authors: Lee Heewon , Kim Mi-Sun , Lee Ji-Sun , Cho Hyunsoo , Park Jimin , Hae Shin Dong , Lee Kyunglim
Published: January 2020

Translationally controlled tumor protein (TCTP), also called histamine releasing factor, is an evolutionarily conserved multifunctional protein in eukaryotes. We previously reported that extracellular TCTP acquires its cytokine-like function following dimerization. This study aims to identify the functional domain involved in the cytokine-like function of dimerized TCTP (dTCTP). We performed X-ray crystallographic studies and a deletion mutant of dTCTP which lacks the flexible loop domain. Synthetic peptides corresponding to TCTP domains and antibodies developed against them were examined for the anti-allergic effect. In an OVA-induced airway inflammation mouse model, inhibitory effect of synthetic peptides was evaluated. dTCTP was mediated by dimers between Cys172s of TCTP monomers. Synthetic peptides corresponding to the flexible loop and helix 2 domain of TCTP, and antibodies against them inhibited dTCTP-induced IL-8 release. In particular, the TCTP mutant lacking the flexible loop domain decreased the inflammatory cytokine activity of dTCTP. We conclude that the flexible loop and helix 2 domain of TCTP are the functional domains of dTCTP. They may have the potential to be therapeutic targets in the suppression of allergic reactions induced by dTCTP.
Impact of local thermal stimulation on the correlation between oxygen saturation and speed-resolved blood perfusion
Authors: Wang Guangjun , Jia Shuyong , Liu Mi , Song Xiaojing , Li Hongyan , Chang Xiaorong , Zhang Weibo
Published: January 2020

The physiologically important relationship between oxygen saturation and blood flow is not entirely understood, particularly with regard to the multiple velocity components of flow and temperature. While our previous studies used classic laser Doppler flowmetry combined with an enhanced perfusion probe to assess local blood flow following thermal stimulation, oxygen saturation signals were not assessed. Thus, the current study used multiscale entropy (MSE) and multiscale fuzzy entropy (MFE) to measure the complexity of oxygen saturation signals following thermal stimulation in healthy subjects. The results indicate that thermal stimulation increases oxygen saturation and affects the measured signal complexity in a temperature-dependent fashion. Furthermore, stimulus temperature not only affects the correlation between speed-resolved blood perfusion and oxygen saturation, but also the correlation between the complexity area indices (CAI) of the two signals. These results reflect the complexity of local regulation and adaptation processes in response to stimuli at different temperatures.
Genome-wide association study identifies novel risk variants from RPS6KA1, CADPS, VARS, and DHX58 for fasting plasma glucose in Arab population
Authors: Hebbar Prashantha , Abu-Farha Mohamed , Alkayal Fadi , Nizam Rasheeba , Elkum Naser , Melhem Motasem , John Sumi Elsa , Channanath Arshad , Abubaker Jehad , Bennakhi Abdullah , Al-Ozairi Ebaa , Tuomilehto Jaakko , Pitkaniemi Janne , Alsmadi Osama , Al-Mulla Fahd , Thanaraj Thangavel Alphonse
Published: January 2020

Consanguineous populations of the Arabian Peninsula, which has seen an uncontrolled rise in type 2 diabetes incidence, are underrepresented in global studies on diabetes genetics. We performed a genome-wide association study on the quantitative trait of fasting plasma glucose (FPG) in unrelated Arab individuals from Kuwait (discovery-cohort:n = 1,353; replication-cohort:n = 1,196). Genome-wide genotyping in discovery phase was performed for 632,375 markers from Illumina HumanOmniExpress Beadchip; and top-associating markers were replicated using candidate genotyping. Genetic models based on additive and recessive transmission modes were used in statistical tests for associations in discovery phase, replication phase, and meta-analysis that combines data from both the phases. A genome-wide significant association with high FPG was found at rs1002487 (RPS6KA1) (p-discovery = 1.64E-08, p-replication = 3.71E-04, p-combined = 5.72E-11; β-discovery = 8.315; β-replication = 3.442; β-combined = 6.551). Further, three suggestive associations (p-values < 8.2E-06) with high FPG were observed at rs487321 (CADPS), rs707927 (VARS and 2Kb upstream of VWA7), and rs12600570 (DHX58); the first two markers reached genome-wide significance in the combined analysis (p-combined = 1.83E-12 and 3.07E-09, respectively). Significant interactions of diabetes traits (serum triglycerides, FPG, and glycated hemoglobin) with homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance were identified for genotypes heterozygous or homozygous for the risk allele. Literature reports support the involvement of these gene loci in type 2 diabetes etiology.
Contrasting seasonal patterns of telomere dynamics in response to environmental conditions in the ectothermic sand lizard, Lacerta agilis
Authors: Axelsson Jannike , Wapstra Erik , Miller Emily , Rollings Nicky , Olsson Mats
Published: January 2020

Telomeres, the protective, terminal parts of the chromosomes erode during cell division and as a result of oxidative damage by reactive oxygen species (ROS). Ectotherms rely on the ambient temperature for maintaining temperature-dependent metabolic rate, regulated through behavioural thermoregulation. Their temperature-dependant metabolism, hence also the ROS production, is indirectly regulated through thermoregulation. Consequently, a potential causal chain affecting telomere length and attrition is: temperature (in particular, its deviation from a species-specific optimum) – metabolism - ROS production – anti-oxidation - telomere erosion. We measured telomere length in sand lizards (Lacerta agilis) using qPCR on blood samples from 1998–2006. Effects of climatological parameters (mean temperature and average sunshine hours) in the summer and winter preceding telomere sampling were used as predictors of telomere length in mixed model analysis. During the lizards’ active period (summer), there was a largely negative effect of mean temperature and sun on telomere length, whereas a combined measure of age and size (head length) was positively related to telomere length. During the inactive period of lizards (winter), the results were largely the opposite with a positive relationship between temperature and sunshine hours and telomere length. In all four cases, thermal and age effects on telomere length appeared to be non-linear in the two sexes and seasons, with complex response surface effects on telomere length from combined age and thermal effects.
Quantum information processing with space-division multiplexing optical fibres
Authors: Xavier Guilherme B. , Lima Gustavo
Published: January 2020

The optical fibre is an essential tool for our communication infrastructure since it is the main transmission channel for optical communications. The latest major advance in optical fibre technology is space-division multiplexing, where new fibre designs and components establish multiple co-existing data channels based on light propagation over distinct transverse optical modes. Simultaneously, there have been many recent developments in the field of quantum information processing, with novel protocols and devices in areas such as computing and communication. Here, we review recent results in quantum information based on space-division multiplexing optical fibres, and discuss new possibilities based on this technology.
DNA detection by SERS: hybridisation parameters and the potential for asymmetric PCR
Authors: Macdonald Daniel , Smith Ewen , Faulds Karen , Graham Duncan
Published: January 2020

Addition of complementary DNA induces nanoparticle assembly and SERS response without requirement for further preanalytical steps.
A twin enrichment method based on dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction and field-amplified sample injection for the simultaneous determination of sulfonamides
Authors: Ma Suya , Yang Shixuan , Song Zhihua , Li Jinhua , Shi Qiaocui , You Huiyan , Liu Huitao , Lv Min , Chen Lingxin
Published: January 2020

An offline–online twin enrichment method of DLLME and FASI was developed for simultaneous determination of sulfonamides by CE.
Structural insight into hybrid peptide ε-helices
Authors: Misra Rajkumar , George Gijo , Reja Rahi M. , Dey Sanjit , Raghothama Srinivasarao , Gopi Hosahudya N.
Published: January 2020

Unique ε-helical organizations (11-helices) from β,γ-hybrid peptides composed of chiral β3-amino acids along with achiral 3,3- or 4,4-dimethyl substituted γ-amino acids are disclosed.
Nickel-catalyzed reductive amidation of aryl-triazine ethers
Authors: Heravi Majid M. , Panahi Farhad , Iranpoor Nasser
Published: January 2020

Nickel-catalyzed reductive coupling of activated phenolic compounds in the form of aryl-azine ethers with isocyanates or carbodiimides afforded benzamide derivatives.
Conformationally rigid pyrazoloquinazoline α-amino acids: one- and two-photon induced fluorescence
Authors: Bell Jonathan D. , Harkiss Alexander H. , Nobis David , Malcolm Eilidh , Knuhtsen Astrid , Wellaway Christopher R. , Jamieson Andrew G. , Magennis Steven W. , Sutherland Andrew
Published: January 2020

Conformationally rigid unnatural α-amino acids bearing a pyrazoloquinazoline ring system that are amenable to both one- and two-photon excitation have been developed as new fluorescent probes.
Ionic-liquid-based synthesis of GaN nanoparticles
Authors: Gaiser Hannah F. , Popescu Radian , Gerthsen Dagmar , Feldmann Claus
Published: January 2020

GaN nanoparticles were prepared via microwave-assisted synthesis in ionic liquids. They are well-crystallized (β-GaN) and nanosized (3–8 nm), exhibit a band gap of 3.9 eV, and show green emission with a remarkable quantum yield of 55%.
Spatially resolved electrochemical reversibility of a conducting polymer thin film imaged by oblique-incidence reflectivity difference
Authors: Zhong Changyin , Li Ling , Chen Nan , Peng Zeping , Hu Weihua
Published: January 2020

The spatially resolved electrochemical reversibility of a polyaniline (PANI) thin film is successfully imaged by an oblique-incidence reflectivity difference (OIRD) technique.