bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cumulative impact of anti-sea lice treatment (azamethiphos) on health status of Rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss, Walbaum 1792) in aquaculture
Authors: Barisic Josip , Cannon Stuart , Quinn Brian
Published: November 2019

Despite its widespread use in aquaculture, the impact of chemical anti-sea lice treatment on salmonids following application in a commercial farm has not been previously reported. This work reports the cumulative effect of three consecutive anti-sea lice treatments using azamethiphos on the health status of aquaculture reared rainbow trout through the investigation of clinical chemistry, histopathology and proteome expression. The serum biomarkers showed decreasing trends in total protein, albumin and potassium concentrations and an average increase of total bilirubin and phosphate concentration towards the end of the treatment period. Principal component analysis clearly distinguished correlated pairs of biomarkers and also demonstrates a shift from acute to chronic effects as treatment progresses. Proteomic analysis confirmed alterations of proteins involved in clot formation, immune reaction and free heme binding. Tissue damage after the series of delousing treatments, exhibited increased deposits of hemosiderin. Results from this study suggest an impact of azamethiphos on trout health through intravascular haemolysis and consequently from pathophysiologic process of haemoglobin metabolism and its products, causing chronic kidney injury from iron deposits. This is the first report to demonstrate in fish the impact of active iron accumulation in different organs from physiological processes that can seriously impair normal function.
Impact of BMI on peak growth hormone responses to provocative tests and therapeutic outcome in children with growth hormone deficiency
Authors: Yang Aram , Cho Sung Yoon , Kwak Min Jung , Kim Su Jin , Park Sung Won , Jin Dong-Kyu , Lee Ji-Eun
Published: November 2019

This study investigated the relationship between peak stimulated growth hormone (GH) and body mass index (BMI), as well as the impact of BMI on therapeutic response in patients with GH deficiency (GHD). A total of 460 patients were enrolled in the study. The patients were divided into four groups as per the etiology and peak GH values: idiopathic (n = 439), organic (n = 21), complete (n = 114), and partial (n = 325) GHD groups. Subsequently, they were classified as normal, overweight, or obese based on their BMI. There was no difference in BMI between complete and partial GHD. A significant negative relationship between peak GH and BMI were found. Moreover, obese GHD children had a considerably better therapeutic response in height increase and BMI decrease during 2 years of GH treatment compared to non-obese children with GHD. There was no difference between peak GH and type of GH stimulation test (GHST), except the clonidine test, which showed a much lower peak GH in obese GHD children. In conclusion, BMI had a negative impact on peak GH response, and therapeutic outcome was more favorable in the obese group. Despite no difference in GH response by type of GHST, the degree of obesity differentially affected the results.
Synergistic activity of Hsp90 inhibitors and anticancer agents in pancreatic cancer cell cultures
Authors: Daunys Simonas , Matulis Daumantas , Petrikaitė Vilma
Published: November 2019

Heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) is a widely investigated target for anticancer therapy. The experimental Hsp90 inhibitors ICPD47 and ICPD62 demonstrated anticancer activity against colorectal, osteosarcoma and cervical cancer cell lines. However, their anticancer activity has not been investigated against pancreatic cancer cell lines yet, and there are no data about synergistic activity of these compounds in combination with clinically used anticancer agents. Pancreatic cancer cell lines, MIA PaCa-2 and PANC-1 were exposed to ICPD47 and ICPD62 alone and in combinations with antimetabolites gemcitabine (GEM), 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and topoisomerase inhibitor doxorubicin (DOX). Effects on cell viability were determined by MTT assay. The synergistic activity was evaluated using Chou-Talalay method. Also, 3D cell cultures were formed using 3D Bioprinting method and the activity of each compound and their combinations was examined by measuring the size change of spheroids. The strongest synergistic activities were determined in combinations using all ratios of ICPD47 with GEM and ICPD62 with GEM in MIA PaCa-2 cell line (combination index <0.5). The combinations of ICPD47 with 5-FU and ICPD47 with GEM in a ratio of 1:5 showed the greatest effect on tumour spheroid growth in both cell lines. The ICPD47 in combination with mild hyperthermia showed significant results, where the EC50 value in PANC-1 cell line dropped from 4.04 ± 0.046 to 1.68 ± 0.004 µM. The ICPD47 and ICPD62 under the same conditions could act synergistically with GEM, 5-FU and DOX and is worth of further investigations, and studies of synergistic effect is a promising path for more efficient anticancer therapies.
Author Correction: Signalling through the yeast MAPK Cell Wall Integrity pathway controls P-body assembly upon cell wall stress
Authors: García Raúl , Pulido Verónica , Orellana-Muñoz Sara , Nombela César , de Aldana Carlos R. Vázquez , Rodríguez-Peña José M. , Arroyo Javier
Published: November 2019

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Correlations between the metabolic profile and 18F-FDG-Positron Emission Tomography-Computed Tomography parameters reveal the complexity of the metabolic reprogramming within lung cancer patients
Authors: Vanhove Karolien , Thomeer Michiel , Derveaux Elien , Shkedy Ziv , Owokotomo Olajumoke Evangelina , Adriaensens Peter , Mesotten Liesbet
Published: November 2019

Several studies have demonstrated that the metabolite composition of plasma may indicate the presence of lung cancer. The metabolism of cancer is characterized by an enhanced glucose uptake and glycolysis which is exploited by 18F-FDG positron emission tomography (PET) in the work-up and management of cancer. This study aims to explore relationships between 1H-NMR spectroscopy derived plasma metabolite concentrations and the uptake of labeled glucose (18F-FDG) in lung cancer tissue. PET parameters of interest are standard maximal uptake values (SUVmax), total body metabolic active tumor volumes (MATVWTB) and total body total lesion glycolysis (TLGWTB) values. Patients with high values of these parameters have higher plasma concentrations of N-acetylated glycoproteins which suggest an upregulation of the hexosamines biosynthesis. High MATVWTB and TLGWTB values are associated with higher concentrations of glucose, glycerol, N-acetylated glycoproteins, threonine, aspartate and valine and lower levels of sphingomyelins and phosphatidylcholines appearing at the surface of lipoproteins. These higher concentrations of glucose and non-carbohydrate glucose precursors such as amino acids and glycerol suggests involvement of the gluconeogenesis pathway. The lower plasma concentration of those phospholipids points to a higher need for membrane synthesis. Our results indicate that the metabolic reprogramming in cancer is more complex than the initially described Warburg effect.
Three-dimensional descriptive study of the pterygomaxillary region related to pterygoid implants: A retrospective study
Authors: Salinas-Goodier Carmen , Rojo Rosa , Murillo-González Jorge , Prados-Frutos Juan Carlos
Published: November 2019

The objective of this study was to analyze three-dimensionally the morphological characteristics of the pterygomaxillary region related to pterygoid implants. Volume, height, width and bone density were studied in relation to age, sex and dental status. This retrospective observational study analyzed the CBCT of 52 hemi-maxillas three-dimensionally (females n = 28, males n = 24; dentate = 31, edentulous = 21). Patients were exposed between September 2009 and October 2014, and data collection was performed between November 2015 and May 2016. Bone density, volume, height and width were analyzed in various locations of the maxilla and pterygoid process, and the variables age, gender and dental status patients were compared. The results show that the mean width of the pterygomaxillary joint was 7.5 mm (SD 1.00 mm), mean height was 12.51 mm (SD 1,82 mm) and mean volume was 321.7 mm3 (SD 142.02 mm3). Statistically significant differences between dentate and edentulous patients were found, showing a higher osseous density in dentate patients in the pterygoid process (758.2, SD 106.8, 95% CI 729.2 to 787.3 GSD - Gray Scale Density - compared to 689.9, SD 107.3, 95% CI 660.8 to 719.1 GSD; P = 0.022). In the maxilla, density was statistically significant lower in female subjects (571.0, SD 74.1, 95% CI 594.9 to 645.4 GSD) than in male subjects (620.2, SD 93.8, 95% CI 594.4 to 645.4 GSD, P = 0.047). In conclusion, due to the significant variation in the morphological characteristics of the pterygomaxillary region among subjects, personalized pre-surgical radiological assessment should always be performed. Gender, age and dental status are critical factors as they significantly affect bone density in this region.
An aptasensor for the detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis secreted immunogenic protein MPT64 in clinical samples towards tuberculosis detection
Authors: Sypabekova Marzhan , Dukenbayev Kanat , Tsepke Anna , Akisheva Akmaral , Oralbayev Nurlan , Kanayeva Damira
Published: November 2019

This work presents experimental results on detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis secreted protein MPT64 using an interdigitated electrode (IDE) which acts as a platform for capturing an immunogenic protein and an electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) as a detection technique. The assay involves a special receptor, single stranded DNA (ssDNA) aptamer, which specifically recognizes MPT64 protein. The ssDNA immobilization on IDE was based on a co-adsorbent immobilization at an optimized ratio of a 1/100 HS-(CH6)6-OP(O)2O-(CH2CH2O)6-5′-TTTTT-aptamer-3′/6-mercaptohexanol. The optimal sample incubation time required for a signal generation on an aptamer modified IDE was found to be at a range of 15–20 min. Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) results confirmed a possible formation of an aptamer - MPT64 complex with a 20 nm roughness on the IDE surface vs. 4.5 nm roughness for the IDE modified with the aptamer only. A limit of detection for the EIS aptasensor based on an IDE for the detection of MPT64 in measurement buffer was 4.1 fM. The developed EIS aptasensor was evaluated on both serum and sputum clinical samples from the same TB (−) and TB (+) patients having a specificity and sensitivity for the sputum sample analysis 100% and 76.47%, respectively, and for the serum sample analysis 100% and 88.24%, respectively. The developed aptasensor presents a sensitive method for the TB diagnosis with the fast detection time.
Changes of urine metabolite profiles are induced by inactivated influenza vaccine inoculations in mice
Authors: Sasaki Eita , Kusunoki Hideki , Momose Haruka , Furuhata Keiko , Hosoda Kazuo , Wakamatsu Kaori , Mizukami Takuo , Hamaguchi Isao
Published: November 2019

The safety evaluation of vaccines is critical to avoid the development of side effects in humans. To increase the sensitivity of detection for toxicity tests, it is important to capture not only pathological changes but also physiological changes. 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy analysis of biofluids produces profiles that show characteristic responses to changes in physiological status. In this study, mouse urine metabolomics analysis with 1H NMR was performed using different influenza vaccines of varying toxicity to assess the usefulness of 1H NMR in evaluating vaccine toxicity. Two types of influenza vaccines were used as model vaccines: a toxicity reference vaccine (RE) and a hemagglutinin split vaccine. According to the blood biochemical analyses, the plasma alanine transaminase levels were increased in RE-treated mice. Changes in metabolite levels between mice administered different types of influenza vaccines were observed in the 1H NMR spectra of urine, and a tendency toward dosage-dependent responses for some spectra was observed. Hierarchical clustering analyses and principal component analyses showed that the changes in various urine metabolite levels allowed for the classification of different types of vaccines. Among them, two liver-derived metabolites were shown to largely contribute to the formation of the cluster. These results demonstrate the possibility that urine metabolomics analysis could provide information about vaccine-induced toxicity and physiological changes.
Microbiota potentialized larvicidal action of imidazolium salts against Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae)
Authors: Pilz-Junior Harry Luiz , de Lemos Alessandra Bittencourt , de Almeida Kauana Nunes , Corção Gertrudes , Schrekker Henri Stephan , Silva Carlos Eugenio , da Silva Onilda Santos
Published: November 2019

Mosquitoes are important vectors of pathogens due to their blood feeding behavior. Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae) transmits arboviruses, such as dengue, Zika, and Chikungunya. This species carries several bacteria that may be beneficial for its biological and physiological development. Therefore, studying the response of its microbiota to chemical products could result in vector control. Recently, imidazolium salts (IS) were identified as effective Ae. aegypti larvicides. Considering the importance of the mosquito microbiota, this study addressed the influence of IS on the bacteria of Ae. aegypti larvae. After exposition of larvae to different IS concentrations, the cultured microbiota was identified through culturomics and mass spectrometry, and the non-cultivated microbiota was characterized by molecular markers. In addition, the influence of the IS on axenic larvae was studied for comparison. There was an alteration in both cultivable species and in their diversity, including modifications in bacterial communities. The axenic larvae were less susceptible to the IS, which was increased after exposing these larvae to bacteria of laboratory breeding water. This highlights the importance of understanding the role of the larval microbiota of Ae. aegypti in the development of imidazolium salt-based larvicides. Such effect of IS towards microbiota of Ae. aegypti larvae, through their antimicrobial action, increases their larvicidal potential.
Anthropogenic pressures drive population genetic structuring across a Critically Endangered lemur species range
Authors: Baden Andrea L. , Mancini Amanda N. , Federman Sarah , Holmes Sheila M. , Johnson Steig E. , Kamilar Jason , Louis Edward E. , Bradley Brenda J.
Published: November 2019

In recent decades Madagascar has experienced significant habitat loss and modification, with minimal understanding of how human land use practices have impacted the evolution of its flora and fauna. In light of ongoing and intensifying anthropogenic pressures, we seek new insight into mechanisms driving genetic variability on this island, using a Critically Endangered lemur species, the black-and-white ruffed lemur (Varecia variegata), as a test case. Here, we examine the relative influence of natural and anthropogenic landscape features that we predict will impose barriers to dispersal and promote genetic structuring across the species range. Using circuit theory, we model functional connectivity among 18 sampling localities using population-based genetic distance (FST). We optimized resistance surfaces using genetic algorithms and assessed their performance using maximum-likelihood population-effects mixed models. The best supported resistance model was a composite surface that included two anthropogenic features, habitat cover and distance to villages, suggesting that rapid land cover modification by humans has driven change in the genetic structure of wild lemurs. Primary conservation priority should be placed on mitigating further forest loss and connecting regions identified as having low dispersal potential to prevent further loss of genetic diversity and promote the survival of other moist forest specialists.
The hepcidin concentration decreases in hypothyroid patients with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis following restoration of euthyroidism
Authors: Hernik Aleksandra , Szczepanek-Parulska Ewelina , Filipowicz Dorota , Abdolall Ali , Borowczyk Martyna , Wrotkowska Elżbieta , Czarnywojtek Agata , Krasiński Zbigniew , Ruchała Marek
Published: November 2019

The purpose of the study was to measure the hepcidin concentration and evaluate Fe homeostasis indices in a prospective study on patients with newly diagnosed hypothyroidism in the course of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (HT) and following successful therapy. The prospective observational study consisted of 34 patients. The clinical evaluation and laboratory tests were performed at diagnosis (T0) and after restoration of euthyreosis 12 weeks later (T1). The median level of hepcidin was significantly lower (p = 0.002) after recovery (7.7 [6.2–13.0] ng/mL) than that before treatment (17.4 [7.6–20.4] ng/mL), while creatinine (p = 0.011) and GFR (p < 0.001) significantly improved after euthyroidism was achieved. A positive correlation was observed between hepcidin and fT3 (p = 0.033, r = 0.465) at T0. In the females, the level of hepcidin positively correlated with ferritin concentration before (p < 0.001, r = 0.928) and after treatment (p < 0.001, r = 0.835). A statistically significant difference was observed in RDW-CV (red blood cell distribution width - coefficient of variation) between the hypothyroid and euthyroid states. In conclusion, a decrease in hepcidin concentration during the transition from the hypothyroid state to euthyroidism in patients with HT is associated with the observed dynamics in iron homeostasis, mainly reflected by improvement in RDW-CV and significant correlations between ferritin and hepcidin as well as between hepcidin and fT3.
No influence of eye gaze on emotional face processing in the absence of conscious awareness
Authors: Caruana Nathan , Inkley Christine , Zein Marwa El , Seymour Kiley
Published: November 2019

The human brain has evolved specialised mechanisms to enable the rapid detection of threat cues, including emotional face expressions (e.g., fear and anger). However, contextual cues – such as gaze direction – influence the ability to recognise emotional expressions. For instance, anger paired with direct gaze, and fear paired with averted gaze are more accurately recognised compared to alternate conjunctions of these features. It is argued that this is because gaze direction conveys the relevance and locus of the threat to the observer. Here, we used continuous flash suppression (CFS) to assess whether the modulatory effect of gaze direction on emotional face processing occurs outside of conscious awareness. Previous research using CFS has demonstrated that fearful facial expressions are prioritised by the visual system and gain privileged access to awareness over other expressed emotions. We hypothesised that if the modulatory effects of gaze on emotional face processing occur also at this level, then the gaze-emotion conjunctions signalling self-relevant threat will reach awareness faster than those that do not. We report that fearful faces gain privileged access to awareness over angry faces, but that gaze direction does not modulate this effect. Thus, our findings suggest that previously reported effects of gaze direction on emotional face processing are likely to occur once the face is detected, where the self-relevance and locus of the threat can be consciously appraised.
Mechanistic insights into autocrine and paracrine roles of endothelial GABA signaling in the embryonic forebrain
Authors: Choi Yong Kee , Vasudevan Anju
Published: November 2019

The developing cerebral cortex uses a complex developmental plan involving angiogenesis, neurogenesis and neuronal migration. Our recent studies have highlighted the importance of endothelial cell secreted GABA signaling in the embryonic forebrain and established novel autonomous links between blood vessels and the origin of neuropsychiatric diseases. A GABA pathway operates in both endothelial cells and GABAergic neurons of the embryonic telencephalon; however, while the neuronal GABA pathway has been extensively studied, little is known about the endothelial GABA pathway. Our recently generated Vgat endothelial cell knockout mouse model that blocks GABA release from endothelial cells, serves as a new tool to study how endothelial GABA signaling shapes angiogenesis and neurovascular interactions during prenatal development. Quantitative gene expression profiling reveals that the endothelial GABA signaling pathway influences genes connected to specific processes like endothelial cell proliferation, differentiation, migration, tight junction formation, vascular sprouting and integrity. It also shows how components of the neuronal GABA pathway, for instance receptor mediated signaling, cell cycle related components and transcription factors are affected in the absence of endothelial GABA release. Taken together, our findings delineate the close relationship between vascular and nervous systems that begin early in embryogenesis establishing their future interactions and interdependence.
Systemic and Ocular Determinants of Choroidal Structures on Optical Coherence Tomography of Eyes with Diabetes and Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Kinoshita Takamasa , Imaizumi Hiroko , Shimizu Miho , Mori Junya , Hatanaka Akira , Aoki Shuichiro , Miyamoto Hirotomo , Iwasaki Masanori , Murao Fumiko , Niki Masanori , Sano Hiroki , Sonoda Shozo , Sakamoto Taiji , Mitamura Yoshinori
Published: November 2019

Knowledgeof the choroidal structures in eyes with diabetes and diabetic retinopathy (DR) should provide information on the pathogenesis of DR. A prospective study was performed to determine the systemic and ocular factors that affect the choroidal structures in eyes with diabetes. Two-hundred consecutive diabetic subjects consisted of 160 treatment-naïve patients with different stages of DR and 40 patients with proliferative DR with prior panretinal photocoagulation (PRP). All underwent blood and urine tests and enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography (EDI-OCT). The cross-sectional EDI-OCT images of the subfoveal choroid were binarized to measure the total choroidal area (TCA), luminal area, and stromal area. Multivariate regression analyses were performed to determine the systemic and ocular factors that were significantly correlated with the choroidal structures. The subfoveal choroidal thickness, TCA, luminal area, and stromal area were larger at more advanced stage of DR, and smaller in eyes with PRP than those without (P < 0.001). The TCA and stromal area were significantly and positively correlated with the degree of albuminuria (P = 0.034, P = 0.025, respectively). The choroidal lumen and stroma may increase as the stages of DR progress and decrease after PRP. Albuminuria may be associated with the choroidal stromal edema.
MiR-146a is over-expressed and controls IL-6 production in cystic fibrosis macrophages
Authors: Luly Francesco R. , Lévêque Manuella , Licursi Valerio , Cimino Giuseppe , Martin-Chouly Corinne , Théret Nathalie , Negri Rodolfo , Cavinato Luca , Ascenzioni Fiorentina , Del Porto Paola
Published: November 2019

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an inherited disease that is characterised by susceptibility to bacterial infections and chronic lung inflammation. Recently, it was suggested that macrophages contribute to impaired host defence and excessive inflammatory responses in CF. Indeed, dysfunction attributed to CF macrophages includes decreased bacterial killing and exaggerated inflammatory responses. However, the mechanisms behind such defects have only been partially defined. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as key regulators of several macrophage functions, including their activation, differentiation and polarisation. The goal of this study was to investigate whether miRNA dysregulation underlies the functional abnormalities of CF macrophages. MiRNA profiling of macrophages was performed, with 22 miRNAs identified as differentially expressed between CF and non-CF individuals. Among these, miR-146a was associated with significant enrichment of validated target genes involved in responses to microorganisms and inflammation. As miR-146a dysregulation has been reported in several human inflammatory diseases, we analysed the impact of increased miR-146a expression on inflammatory responses of CF macrophages. These data show that inhibition of miR-146a in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated CF macrophages results in increased interleukin-6 production, which suggests that miR-146a overexpression in CF is functional, to restrict inflammatory responses.
Tailoring the surface area and the acid–base properties of ZrO2 for biodiesel production from Nannochloropsis sp.
Authors: Rahman Nurul Jannah Abd , Ramli Anita , Jumbri Khairulazhar , Uemura Yoshimitsu
Published: November 2019

Bifunctional heterogeneous catalysts have a great potential to overcome the shortcomings of homogeneous and enzymatic catalysts and simplify the biodiesel production processes using low-grade, high-free-fatty-acid feedstock. In this study, we developed ZrO2-based bifunctional heterogeneous catalysts for simultaneous esterification and transesterification of microalgae to biodiesel. To avoid the disadvantage of the low surface area of ZrO2, the catalysts were prepared via a surfactant-assisted sol-gel method, followed by hydrothermal treatments. The response surface methodology central composite design was employed to investigate various factors, like the surfactant/Zr molar ratio, pH, aging time, and temperature on the ZrO2 surface area. The data were statistically analyzed to predict the optimal combination of factors, and further experiments were conducted for verification. Bi2O3 was supported on ZrO2 via the incipient wetness impregnation method. The catalysts were characterized by a variety of techniques, which disclosed that the surfactant-assisted ZrO2 nanoparticles possess higher surface area, better acid–base properties, and well-formed pore structures than bare ZrO2. The highest yield of fatty acid methyl esters (73.21%) was achieved using Bi2O3/ZrO2(CTAB), and the catalytic activity of the developed catalysts was linearly correlated with the total densities of the acidic and basic sites. The mechanism of the simultaneous reactions was also discussed.
Interface polarization model for a 2-dimensional electron gas at the BaSnO3/LaInO3 interface
Authors: Kim Young Mo , Markurt T. , Kim Youjung , Zupancic M. , Shin Juyeon , Albrecht M. , Char Kookrin
Published: November 2019

In order to explain the experimental sheet carrier density n2D at the interface of BaSnO3/LaInO3, we consider a model that is based on the presence of interface polarization in LaInO3 which extends over 2 pseudocubic unit cells from the interface and eventually disappears in the next 2 unit cells. Considering such interface polarization in calculations based on 1D Poisson-Schrödinger equations, we consistently explain the dependence of the sheet carrier density of BaSnO3/LaInO3 heterinterfaces on the thickness of the LaInO3 layer and the La doping of the BaSnO3 layer. Our model is supported by a quantitative analysis of atomic position obtained from high resolution transmission electron microscopy which evidences suppression of the octahedral tilt and a vertical lattice expansion in LaInO3 over 2–3 pseudocubic unit cells at the coherently strained interface.
Biochemical characterization and chemical validation of Leishmania MAP Kinase-3 as a potential drug target
Authors: Raj Shweta , Saha Gundappa , Sasidharan Santanu , Dubey Vikash Kumar , Saudagar Prakash
Published: November 2019

Protozoan parasites of the Leishmania genus have evolved unique signaling pathways that can sense various environmental changes and trigger stage differentiation for survival and host infectivity. MAP kinase (MAPK) plays a critical role in various cellular activities like cell differentiation, proliferation, stress regulation, and apoptosis. The Leishmania donovani MAPK3 (LdMAPK3) is involved in the regulation of flagella length and hence plays an important role in disease transmission. Here, we reported the gene cloning, protein expression, biochemical characterizations, inhibition studies and cell proliferation assay of LdMAPK3. The recombinant purified LdMAPK3 enzyme obeys the Michaelis-Menten equation with Km and Vmax of LdMAPK3 was found to be 20.23 nM and 38.77 ± 0.71 nmoles ATP consumed/mg LdMAPK3/min respectively. The maximum kinase activity of LdMAPK3 was recorded at 35 °C and pH 7. The in-vitro inhibition studies with two natural inhibitors genistein (GEN) and chrysin (CHY) was evaluated against LdMAPK3. The Ki value for GEN and CHY were found to be 3.76 ± 0.28 µM and Ki = 8.75 ± 0.11 µM respectively. The IC50 value for the compounds, GEN and CHY against L. donovani promastigotes were calculated as 9.9 µg/mL and 13 µg/mL respectively. Our study, therefore, reports LdMAPK3 as a new target for therapeutic approach against leishmaniasis.
Maxwell Fisheye Lens Based Retrodirective Array
Authors: Abbasi Muhammad Ali Babar , Fusco Vincent F.
Published: November 2019

A Maxwell fisheye lens using parallel plate index grading is presented in this study to develop a passive retrodirective antenna array. As a proof-of-concept a design frequency of 10 GHz was selected for fabrication and experiment. The design principals of the lens are discussed, which enables 85% energy flow at the drain probe (also referred to as image point) of the lens. It is shown that the image in the Maxwell fisheye lens has a point symmetry with a reverse phase, which makes it possible to realize passive retrodirective action using the lens. This arrangement is significantly more practical than previous passive retrodirective topologies due to the un-constrained number of connections to radiating elements that it can support without the need for multi-layer technology. In the realization described here, a cross-polarized microstrip patch antenna array is connected to the source and drain probes of the lens structure in order to form the retrodirective array. The strategy for selecting the optimal transmission line lengths required to connect the antennas to the lens for maximum re-radiation power is described and implemented. Experimental results for a prototype high efficiency passive retrodirective array based on the theoretical design considerations presented in this paper are reported.
The effects of oxygen concentration on cell death, anti-oxidant transcription, acute inflammation, and cell proliferation in precision-cut lung slices
Authors: Ruigrok Mitchel J. R. , Tomar Jasmine , Frijlink Henderik W. , Melgert Barbro N. , Hinrichs Wouter L. J. , Olinga Peter
Published: November 2019

Although animal models are often used in drug research, alternative experimental models are becoming more popular as they reduce animal use and suffering. Of particular interest are precision-cut lung slices, which refer to explants – with a reproducible thickness and diameter – that can be cultured ex vivo. Because lung slices (partially) reflect functional and structural features of whole tissue, they are often applied in the field of immunology, pharmacology, toxicology, and virology. Nevertheless, previous research failed to adequately address concerns with respect to the viability of lung slices. For instance, the effect of oxygen concentration on lung slice viability has never been thoroughly investigated. Therefore, the main goal of this study was to investigate the effect of oxygen concentration (20 vs. 80% O2) on the degree of cell death, anti-oxidant transcription, acute inflammation, and cell proliferation in lung slices. According to the results, slices incubated at 20% O2 displayed less cell death, anti-oxidant transcription, and acute inflammation, as well as more cell proliferation, demonstrating that these slices were considerably more viable than slices cultured at 80% O2. These findings expand our knowledge on lung slices and their use as an alternative experimental model in drug research.
A molecular clone of Chronic Bee Paralysis Virus (CBPV) causes mortality in honey bee pupae (Apis mellifera)
Authors: Seitz Kerstin , Buczolich Katharina , Dikunová Alžbeta , Plevka Pavel , Power Karen , Rümenapf Till , Lamp Benjamin
Published: November 2019

Among the many diseases compromising the well-being of the honey bee (Apis mellifera) the chronic paralysis syndrome of adult honey bees is one of the best described. The causative agent, chronic bee paralysis virus (CBPV), is a positive sense, single-stranded RNA virus with a segmented genome. Segment 1 encodes three putative open reading frames (ORFs), including the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase and other non-structural protein coding regions. Segment 2 encodes four putative ORFs, which contain the genes of supposed structural proteins. In this study, we established a reverse genetic system for CBPV by molecular cloning of DNA copies of both genome segments. CBPV rescue was studied in imago and honey bee pupae infection models. Virus replication and progeny virus production was only initiated when capped RNAs of both genome segments were injected in honey bees. As injection of these clonal RNAs caused clinical symptoms similar to wild-type CBPV infection, we conclude that the novel molecular clone fulfilled Koch’s postulates. Our virus clone will enable in-depth analysis of CBPV pathogenesis and help to increase knowledge about this important honey bee disease.
Direct interaction between the hepatitis B virus core and envelope proteins analyzed in a cellular context
Authors: Pastor Florentin , Herrscher Charline , Patient Romuald , Eymieux Sebastien , Moreau Alain , Burlaud-Gaillard Julien , Seigneuret Florian , de Rocquigny Hugues , Roingeard Philippe , Hourioux Christophe
Published: November 2019

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) production requires intricate interactions between the envelope and core proteins. Analyses of mutants of these proteins have made it possible to map regions involved in the formation and secretion of virions. Tests of binding between core and envelope peptides have also been performed in cell-free conditions, to study the interactions potentially underlying these mechanisms. We investigated the residues essential for core-envelope interaction in a cellular context in more detail, by transiently producing mutant or wild-type L, S, or core proteins separately or in combination, in Huh7 cells. The colocalization and interaction of these proteins were studied by confocal microscopy and co-immunoprecipitation, respectively. The L protein was shown to constitute a molecular platform for the recruitment of S and core proteins in a perinuclear environment. Several core amino acids were found to be essential for direct interaction with L, including residue Y132, known to be crucial for capsid formation, and residues L60, L95, K96 and I126. Our results confirm the key role of L in the tripartite core-S-L interaction and identify the residues involved in direct core-L interaction. This model may be valuable for studies of the potential of drugs to inhibit HBV core-envelope interaction.
Revealing the constituents of Egypt’s oldest beer using infrared and mass spectrometry
Authors: Farag Mohamed A. , Elmassry Moamen M. , Baba Masahiro , Friedman Renée
Published: November 2019

Previous studies have shown that the Ancient Egyptians used malted wheat and barley as the main ingredients in beer brewing, but the chemical determination of the exact recipe is still lacking. To investigate the constituents of ancient beer, we conducted a detailed IR and GC-MS based metabolite analyses targeting volatile and non-volatile metabolites on the residues recovered from the interior of vats in what is currently the world’s oldest (c. 3600 BCE) installation for large-scale beer production located at the major pre-pharaonic political center at Hierakonpolis, Egypt. In addition to distinguishing the chemical signatures of various flavoring agents, such as dates, a significant result of our analysis is the finding, for the first time, of phosphoric acid in high level probably used as a preservative much like in modern beverages. This suggests that the early brewers had acquired the knowledge needed to efficiently produce and preserve large quantities of beer. This study provides the most detailed chemical profile of an ancient beer using modern spectrometric techniques and providing evidence for the likely starting materials used in beer brewing.
Retraction: A simple rhodamine-based dual signalling reversible molecular switch for recognition of Al(iii) with promising applications for advanced logic operations – ‘OR’, ‘Keypad Lock’ & ‘INHIBIT’ logic function and cell-imaging studies
Authors: Mistri Tarun , Alam Rabiul , Bhowmick Rahul , Mandal Sushil Kumar , Dolai Malay , Khuda-Bukhsh Anisur Rahman , Ali Mahammad
Published: November 2019

Retraction of ‘A simple rhodamine-based dual signalling reversible molecular switch for recognition of Al(iii) with promising applications for advanced logic operations – ‘OR’, ‘Keypad Lock’ & ‘INHIBIT’ logic function and cell-imaging studies’ by Tarun Mistri et al., Analyst, 2014, DOI: 10.1039/C3AN02255B.
Leukocyte-mimicking nanovesicles for effective doxorubicin delivery to treat breast cancer and melanoma
Authors: Molinaro Roberto , Martinez Jonathan O. , Zinger Assaf , De Vita Alessandro , Storci Gianluca , Arrighetti Noemi , De Rosa Enrica , Hartman Kelly A. , Basu Nupur , Taghipour Nima , Corbo Claudia , Tasciotti Ennio
Published: November 2019

Biomimetic nanovesicles deriving from leukocytes membrane proteins, called leukosomes, exhibit increased targeting of cancer vasculature and stroma by exploiting the inflammatory pathway responsible for recruiting immune cells to the cancer lesion.
The photoredox alkylarylation of styrenes with alkyl N-hydroxyphthalimide esters and arenes involving C–H functionalization
Authors: Wang Xia , Han Ya-Fei , Ouyang Xuan-Hui , Song Ren-Jie , Li Jin-Heng
Published: November 2019

The In(OTf)3-promoted three-component photoredox alkylarylation of styrenes with alkyl NHP esters and arenes to access alkylated arene derivatives through C–C bond cleavage and C–H functionalization is reported.
Spatially separated cocatalysts for efficient charge separation: a hollow Pt/CdS/N–ZnO/CoOx graphene microtubule with high stability for photocatalytic reactions and sustainable recycling
Authors: Liang Yong , Chen Yuexing , Zhao Maojun , Lin Li , Duan Rongtao , Jiang Yuanyuan , Yan Jun , Wang Ying , Zeng Jun , Zhang Yunsong
Published: November 2019

The spatially separated Pt/CdS/N–ZnO/CoOx graphene microtubule (PCNZCo-GM) with double cocatalysts is prepared by a capillary action assisted hydrothermal method for enhancing charge separation efficiency and photocatalytic oxidation ability.
Why we might be misusing process mass intensity (PMI) and a methodology to apply it effectively as a discovery level metric
Authors: Monteith Edward R. , Mampuys Pieter , Summerton Louise , Clark James H. , Maes Bert U. W. , McElroy C. Robert
Published: November 2019

Are the comparisons of PMI values fair and informative, are you making a like versus like assessment?
Phage-mimicking antibacterial core–shell nanoparticles
Authors: Hopf Juliane , Waters Margo , Kalwajtys Veronica , Carothers Katelyn E. , Roeder Ryan K. , Shrout Joshua D. , Lee Shaun W. , Nallathamby Prakash D.
Published: November 2019

We present a broad-spectrum antibacterial nanoparticle that works by structurally mimicking bacteria-killing viruses (phages) at the nanoscale to combat the increasing frequency of nosocomial infections caused by antibiotic-resistant microorganisms.
Synthesis of energetic salts containing three heterocyclic anions by a one-pot condensation reaction
Authors: Peng Panpan , Hu Baoping , Lu Feipeng , Du Yao , Zhao Chaofeng , Su Hui , Zhang Pengcheng , Li Shenghua , Pang Siping
Published: November 2019

Energetic ionic salts 1 and 2 containing three heterocyclic anions were prepared in a one-pot reaction using 1,3,5-benzenetricarboxaldehyde, aminoguanidine salts, and organic energetic salts (5-nitrotetrazole and 3,5-dinitro-1,2,4-triazole ammonium salt).
Visible-light-induced cascade sulfonylation/cyclization of N-propargylindoles with aryldiazonium tetrafluoroborates via the insertion of sulfur dioxide
Authors: Liu Yu , Wang Qiao-Lin , Chen Zan , Chen Pu , Tang Ke-Wen , Zhou Quan , Xie Jun
Published: November 2019

A simple and efficient visible-light-catalyzed cascade sulfonylation/cyclization of N-propargylindoles with K2S2O5 and aryldiazonium tetrafluoroborates for the construction of 2-sulfonyl-substituted 9H-pyrrolo[1,2-a]indoles is developed.
Dewar lactone as a modular platform to a new class of substituted poly(acetylene)s
Authors: Seo Jinwon , Lee Stanfield Y. , Bielawski Christopher W.
Published: November 2019

A variety of 3-substituted-4-halocyclobutenes originating from Dewar lactone (2-oxabicyclo[2.2.0]hex-5-en-3-one) were synthesized and polymerized using the Hoveyda–Grubbs 2nd generation catalyst.
Retracted Article: Long non-coding RNA KCNQ1OT1 regulates cell proliferation, apoptosis and chemo-sensitivity through modulating the miR-186-5p/NCAM1 axis in acute myeloid leukemia cells
Authors: Dai Jing , Wang Kai , Liu Tao , Wang Qiong , Pang Yingxu
Published: November 2019

Recent studies show that lncRNA KCNQ1OT1 and microRNA-186-5p (miR-186-5p) are involved in various human cancers.
Practical PBT/PC/GNP composites with anisotropic thermal conductivity
Authors: Zheng Xiaolei , Wen Bianying
Published: November 2019

The selective distribution of thermally conductive fillers in a co-continuous polymer blends provides an industrialized preparation method that takes into account both the properties and functions of thermally conductive composites.
Switched reaction specificity in polyesterases towards amide bond hydrolysis by enzyme engineering
Authors: Biundo Antonino , Subagia Raditya , Maurer Michael , Ribitsch Doris , Syrén Per-Olof , Guebitz Georg M.
Published: November 2019

The constitution of a water network for the nitrogen inversion mechanism by H-bonding can increase amide-containing substrate acceptance of polyesterases.
Ultralow lattice thermal conductivity and high thermoelectric performance of monolayer KCuTe: a first principles study
Authors: Gu Jinjie , Huang Lirong , Liu Shengzong
Published: November 2019

The excellent thermoelectric performance of monolayer KCuTe is discovered by first-principles study for the first time.
Secondary amine selective Petasis (SASP) bioconjugation
Authors: Sim Yonnette E. , Nwajiobi Ogonna , Mahesh Sriram , Cohen Ryan D. , Reibarkh Mikhail Y. , Raj Monika
Published: November 2019

Secondary amine selective Petasis (SASP) bioconjugation for the selective labeling of peptides and proteins with N-terminal secondary amines.
Programmable mismatch-fueled high-efficiency DNA signal converter
Authors: Zhang Xiao-long , Yang Zhe-han , Chang Yuan-yuan , Liu Di , Li Yun-rui , Chai Ya-qin , Zhuo Ying , Yuan Ruo
Published: November 2019

Herein, by directly introducing mismatched reactant DNA, high-reactivity and high-threshold enzyme-free target recycling amplification (EFTRA) is explored.
A novel single-atom catalyst for CO oxidation in humid environmental conditions: Ni-embedded divacancy graphene
Authors: Jiang Quanguo , Zhang Jianfeng , Huang Huajie , Wu Yuping , Ao Zhimin
Published: November 2019

A termolecular Eley–Rideal (TER) mechanism is preferred for CO oxidation on Ni-DG in humid environments, and the energy barrier for the rate limiting step (2CO + O2 → OCOOCO) is only 0.34 eV.
Monomolecular VB2-doped MOFs for photocatalytic oxidation with enhanced stability, recyclability and selectivity
Authors: Zhang Ruoqian , Song Xinhua , Liu Yuanyuan , Wang Peng , Wang Zeyan , Zheng Zhaoke , Dai Ying , Huang Baibiao
Published: November 2019

Monomolecular VB2 was immobilized onto UiO-66 taking advantage of the ligand defects in the latter, and 1O2 became the only reactive oxygen species, resulting in high selectivity towards benzyl alcohol oxidation.
MOF-derived 3D hierarchical nanoarrays consisting of NiCoZn-S nanosheets coupled with granular NiCo2S4nanowires for high-performance hybrid supercapacitors
Authors: Yang Qingjun , Liu Yu , Deng Chengyu , Yan Ming , Shi Weidong
Published: November 2019

CF@NiCoZn-S/NiCo2S4nanoarrays including 1D granular NiCo2S4nanowires, 2D NiCoZn-S nanosheets and 3D flexible carbon fibers achieve excellent electrochemical properties.
Metallic state two-dimensional holey-structured Co3FeN nanosheets as stable and bifunctional electrocatalysts for zinc–air batteries
Authors: Guo Hai-Peng , Gao Xuan-Wen , Yu Neng-Fei , Zheng Zhi , Luo Wen-Bin , Wu Chang , Liu Hua-Kun , Wang Jia-Zhao
Published: November 2019

Two-dimensional holey-structured metallic-state Co3FeN nanosheets exhibit enhanced catalytic properties owing to the complete exposure of atoms and low OH* adsorption energy.
In vivo two-photon imaging/excited photothermal therapy strategy of a silver-nanohybrid
Authors: Huang Ze , Gao Li , Kong Lin , Zhang Hui-Hui , Yang Jia-Xiang , Li Lin
Published: November 2019

A multi-functional nanohybrid (PyAnOH-Ag) with both a two-photon photothermal therapy (TP-PTT) effect and two-photon excited fluorescence (TPEF) imaging performance has been fabricated based on interfacial coordination interactions.
Stretchable, compressible, self-healable carbon nanotube mechanically enhanced composite hydrogels with high strain sensitivity
Authors: Pan Chenguang , Wang Jijun , Ji Xingxiang , Liu Libin
Published: November 2019

The P(DAC-co-AM)/CNT hydrogels synthesized by random copolymerization possess multi-functions due to the reversible ionic interaction and hydrogen bond interactions.
A novel 3D-printable hydrogel with high mechanical strength and shape memory properties
Authors: Zhou Qiang , Yang Kaixiang , He Jiaqing , Yang Haiyang , Zhang Xingyuan
Published: November 2019

The three-dimensional (3D)-printing of hydrogels with excellent mechanical properties has attracted extensive attention owing to their potential applications in many fields.
Mesoporous silica hybrids as an antireflective coating to enhance light harvesting and achieve over 16% efficiency of organic solar cells
Authors: Wang Yalun , Chen Mengxue , Li Donghui , Huang Zhiwei , Mao Yuchao , Han Wenjiao , Wang Tao , Liu Dan
Published: November 2019

Mesoporous silica nanoparticle hybrids have been synthesized and explored to cast as an antireflective coating onto the glass substrate of non-fullerene organic solar cells (OSCs) to enhance the light absorption and efficiency (from 15.4% to 16.2%).
To enhance the performance of all-inorganic perovskite photodetectors via constructing both bilayer heterostructure and bipolar carrier transporting channels
Authors: Hu Jinming , Shi Yuansheng , Zhang Zhenheng , Zhi Ruonan , Li Hailong , Tang Yi , Yang Shengyi , Zou Bingsuo
Published: November 2019

To enhance the device performance of all-inorganic perovskite photodetectors via constructing both bilayer heterostructure and bipolar carrier transporting channels.
High stress-driven voltages in net-like layer-supported organic–inorganic perovskites
Authors: Tusiime Rogers , Zabihi Fatemeh , Tebyetekerwa Mike , Yousry Yasmin Mohamed , Wu Yue , Eslamian Morteza , Yang Shengyuan , Ramakrishna Seeram , Yu Muhuo , Zhang Hui
Published: November 2019

Huge mechano-electrical performance obtained from net-like PVDF composites infiltrated with methylammonium lead iodide under vertical ultrasonic vibration, without additional poling.
High-sensitivity X-ray detectors based on solution-grown caesium lead bromide single crystals
Authors: Zhang Hongjian , Wang Fangbao , Lu Yufei , Sun Qihao , Xu Yadong , Zhang Bin-Bin , Jie Wanqi , Kanatzidis Mercouri G.
Published: November 2019

High-sensitivity X-ray detectors made of solution grown CsPbBr3 single crystals with high crystalline quality was reported in this work. The device with asymmetric electrodes configuration shows high sensitivity of 1256 μC Gy−1 cm−2.