bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Large-scale dynamics of perceptual decision information across human cortex
Authors: Wilming Niklas , Murphy Peter R. , Meyniel Florent , Donner Tobias H.
Published: October 2020

Perceptual decisions entail the accumulation of sensory evidence for a particular choice towards an action plan. An influential framework holds that sensory cortical areas encode the instantaneous sensory evidence and downstream, action-related regions accumulate this evidence. The large-scale distribution of this computation across the cerebral cortex has remained largely elusive. Here, we develop a regionally-specific magnetoencephalography decoding approach to exhaustively map the dynamics of stimulus- and choice-specific signals across the human cortical surface during a visual decision. Comparison with the evidence accumulation dynamics inferred from behavior disentangles stimulus-dependent and endogenous components of choice-predictive activity across the visual cortical hierarchy. We find such an endogenous component in early visual cortex (including V1), which is expressed in a low (<20 Hz) frequency band and tracks, with delay, the build-up of choice-predictive activity in (pre-) motor regions. Our results are consistent with choice- and frequency-specific cortical feedback signaling during decision formation.
Thermal runaway of Lithium-ion batteries employing LiN(SO2F)2-based concentrated electrolytes
Authors: Hou Junxian , Lu Languang , Wang Li , Ohma Atsushi , Ren Dongsheng , Feng Xuning , Li Yan , Li Yalun , Ootani Issei , Han Xuebing , Ren Weining , He Xiangming , Nitta Yoshiaki , Ouyang Minggao
Published: October 2020

Concentrated electrolytes usually demonstrate good electrochemical performance and thermal stability, and are also supposed to be promising when it comes to improving the safety of lithium-ion batteries due to their low flammability. Here, we show that LiN(SO2F)2-based concentrated electrolytes are incapable of solving the safety issues of lithium-ion batteries. To illustrate, a mechanism based on battery material and characterizations reveals that the tremendous heat in lithium-ion batteries is released due to the reaction between the lithiated graphite and LiN(SO2F)2 triggered thermal runaway of batteries, even if the concentrated electrolyte is non-flammable or low-flammable. Generally, the flammability of an electrolyte represents its behaviors when oxidized by oxygen, while it is the electrolyte reduction that triggers the chain of exothermic reactions in a battery. Thus, this study lights the way to a deeper understanding of the thermal runaway mechanism in batteries as well as the design philosophy of electrolytes for safer lithium-ion batteries.
Accommodating individual travel history and unsampled diversity in Bayesian phylogeographic inference of SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Lemey Philippe , Hong Samuel L. , Hill Verity , Baele Guy , Poletto Chiara , Colizza Vittoria , O’Toole Áine , McCrone John T. , Andersen Kristian G. , Worobey Michael , Nelson Martha I. , Rambaut Andrew , Suchard Marc A.
Published: October 2020

Spatiotemporal bias in genome sampling can severely confound discrete trait phylogeographic inference. This has impeded our ability to accurately track the spread of SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic, despite the availability of unprecedented numbers of SARS-CoV-2 genomes. Here, we present an approach to integrate individual travel history data in Bayesian phylogeographic inference and apply it to the early spread of SARS-CoV-2. We demonstrate that including travel history data yields i) more realistic hypotheses of virus spread and ii) higher posterior predictive accuracy compared to including only sampling location. We further explore methods to ameliorate the impact of sampling bias by augmenting the phylogeographic analysis with lineages from undersampled locations. Our reconstructions reinforce specific transmission hypotheses suggested by the inclusion of travel history data, but also suggest alternative routes of virus migration that are plausible within the epidemiological context but are not apparent with current sampling efforts.
Impact of tides and sea-level on deep-sea Arctic methane emissions
Authors: Sultan Nabil , Plaza-Faverola Andreia , Vadakkepuliyambatta Sunil , Buenz Stefan , Knies Jochen
Published: October 2020

Sub-sea Arctic methane and gas hydrate reservoirs are expected to be severely impacted by ocean temperature increase and sea-level rise. Our understanding of the gas emission phenomenon in the Arctic is however partial, especially in deep environments where the access is difficult and hydro-acoustic surveys are sporadic. Here, we report on the first continuous pore-pressure and temperature measurements over 4 days in shallow sediments along the west-Svalbard margin. Our data from sites where gas emissions have not been previously identified in hydro-acoustic profiles show that tides significantly affect the intensity and periodicity of gas emissions. These observations imply that the quantification of present-day gas emissions in the Arctic may be underestimated. High tides, however, seem to influence gas emissions by reducing their height and volume. Hence, the question remains as to whether sea-level rise may partially counterbalance the potential threat of submarine gas emissions caused by a warmer Arctic Ocean.
The reductive glycine pathway allows autotrophic growth of Desulfovibrio desulfuricans
Authors: Sánchez-Andrea Irene , Guedes Iame Alves , Hornung Bastian , Boeren Sjef , Lawson Christopher E. , Sousa Diana Z. , Bar-Even Arren , Claassens Nico J. , Stams Alfons J. M.
Published: October 2020

Six CO2 fixation pathways are known to operate in photoautotrophic and chemoautotrophic microorganisms. Here, we describe chemolithoautotrophic growth of the sulphate-reducing bacterium Desulfovibrio desulfuricans (strain G11) with hydrogen and sulphate as energy substrates. Genomic, transcriptomic, proteomic and metabolomic analyses reveal that D. desulfuricans assimilates CO2 via the reductive glycine pathway, a seventh CO2 fixation pathway. In this pathway, CO2 is first reduced to formate, which is reduced and condensed with a second CO2 to generate glycine. Glycine is further reduced in D. desulfuricans by glycine reductase to acetyl-P, and then to acetyl-CoA, which is condensed with another CO2 to form pyruvate. Ammonia is involved in the operation of the pathway, which is reflected in the dependence of the autotrophic growth rate on the ammonia concentration. Our study demonstrates microbial autotrophic growth fully supported by this highly ATP-efficient CO2 fixation pathway.
Integrative genomic analysis reveals mechanisms of immune evasion in P. falciparum malaria
Authors: Dieng Mame Massar , Diawara Aïssatou , Manikandan Vinu , Tamim El Jarkass Hala , Sermé Samuel Sindié , Sombié Salif , Barry Aïssata , Coulibaly Sam Aboubacar , Diarra Amidou , Drou Nizar , Arnoux Marc , Yousif Ayman , Tiono Alfred B. , Sirima Sodiomon B. , Soulama Issiaka , Idaghdour Youssef
Published: October 2020

The mechanisms behind the ability of Plasmodium falciparum to evade host immune system are poorly understood and are a major roadblock in achieving malaria elimination. Here, we use integrative genomic profiling and a longitudinal pediatric cohort in Burkina Faso to demonstrate the role of post-transcriptional regulation in host immune response in malaria. We report a strong signature of miRNA expression differentiation associated with P. falciparum infection (127 out of 320 miRNAs, B-H FDR 5%) and parasitemia (72 miRNAs, B-H FDR 5%). Integrative miRNA-mRNA analysis implicates several infection-responsive miRNAs (e.g., miR-16-5p, miR-15a-5p and miR-181c-5p) promoting lymphocyte cell death. miRNA cis-eQTL analysis using whole-genome sequencing data identified 1,376 genetic variants associated with the expression of 34 miRNAs (B-H FDR 5%). We report a protective effect of rs114136945 minor allele on parasitemia mediated through miR-598-3p expression. These results highlight the impact of post-transcriptional regulation, immune cell death processes and host genetic regulatory control in malaria.
Brain disconnections link structural connectivity with function and behaviour
Authors: Thiebaut de Schotten Michel , Foulon Chris , Nachev Parashkev
Published: October 2020

Brain lesions do not just disable but also disconnect brain areas, which once deprived of their input or output, can no longer subserve behaviour and cognition. The role of white matter connections has remained an open question for the past 250 years. Based on 1333 stroke lesions, here we reveal the human Disconnectome and demonstrate its relationship to the functional segregation of the human brain. Results indicate that functional territories are not only defined by white matter connections, but also by the highly stereotyped spatial distribution of brain disconnections. While the former has granted us the possibility to map 590 functions on the white matter of the whole brain, the latter compels a revision of the taxonomy of brain functions. Overall, our freely available Atlas of White Matter Function will enable improved clinical-neuroanatomical predictions for brain lesion studies and provide a platform for explorations in the domain of cognition.
Rational design of a microbial consortium of mucosal sugar utilizers reduces Clostridiodes difficile colonization
Authors: Pereira Fátima C. , Wasmund Kenneth , Cobankovic Iva , Jehmlich Nico , Herbold Craig W. , Lee Kang Soo , Sziranyi Barbara , Vesely Cornelia , Decker Thomas , Stocker Roman , Warth Benedikt , von Bergen Martin , Wagner Michael , Berry David
Published: October 2020

Many intestinal pathogens, including Clostridioides difficile, use mucus-derived sugars as crucial nutrients in the gut. Commensals that compete with pathogens for such nutrients are therefore ecological gatekeepers in healthy guts, and are attractive candidates for therapeutic interventions. Nevertheless, there is a poor understanding of which commensals use mucin-derived sugars in situ as well as their potential to impede pathogen colonization. Here, we identify mouse gut commensals that utilize mucus-derived monosaccharides within complex communities using single-cell stable isotope probing, Raman-activated cell sorting and mini-metagenomics. Sequencing of cell-sorted fractions reveals members of the underexplored family Muribaculaceae as major mucin monosaccharide foragers, followed by members of Lachnospiraceae, Rikenellaceae, and Bacteroidaceae families. Using this information, we assembled a five-member consortium of sialic acid and N-acetylglucosamine utilizers that impedes C. difficile’s access to these mucosal sugars and impairs pathogen colonization in antibiotic-treated mice. Our findings underscore the value of targeted approaches to identify organisms utilizing key nutrients and to rationally design effective probiotic mixtures.
Publisher Correction: The observation of vibrating pear-shapes in radon nuclei
Authors: Butler P. A. , Gaffney L. P. , Spagnoletti P. , Konki J. , Scheck M. , Smith J. F. , Abrahams K. , Bowry M. , Cederkäll J. , Chupp T. , de Angelis G. , De Witte H. , Garrett P. E. , Goldkuhle A. , Henrich C. , Illana A. , Johnston K. , Joss D. T. , Keatings J. M. , Kelly N. A. , Komorowska M. , Kröll T. , Lozano M. , Singh B. S. Nara , O’Donnell D. , Ojala J. , Page R. D. , Pedersen L. G. , Raison C. , Reiter P. , Rodriguez J. A. , Rosiak D. , Rothe S. , Shneidman T. M. , Siebeck B. , Seidlitz M. , Sinclair J. , Stryjczyk M. , Van Duppen P. , Vinals S. , Virtanen V. , Warr N. , Wrzosek-Lipska K. , Zielinska M.
Published: October 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Author Correction: Super-resolution microscopy compatible fluorescent probes reveal endogenous glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor distribution and dynamics
Authors: Ast Julia , Arvaniti Anastasia , Fine Nicholas H. F. , Nasteska Daniela , Ashford Fiona B. , Stamataki Zania , Koszegi Zsombor , Bacon Andrea , Jones Ben J. , Lucey Maria A. , Sasaki Shugo , Brierley Daniel I. , Hastoy Benoit , Tomas Alejandra , D’Agostino Giuseppe , Reimann Frank , Lynn Francis C. , Reissaus Christopher A. , Linnemann Amelia K. , D’Este Elisa , Calebiro Davide , Trapp Stefan , Johnsson Kai , Podewin Tom , Broichhagen Johannes , Hodson David J.
Published: October 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Biquadratic exchange interactions in two-dimensional magnets
Authors: Kartsev Alexey , Augustin Mathias , Evans Richard F. L. , Novoselov Kostya S. , Santos Elton J. G.
Published: October 2020

Magnetism in recently discovered van der Waals materials has opened several avenues in the study of fundamental spin interactions in truly two-dimensions. A paramount question is what effect higher-order interactions beyond bilinear Heisenberg exchange have on the magnetic properties of few-atom thick compounds. Here we demonstrate that biquadratic exchange interactions, which is the simplest and most natural form of non-Heisenberg coupling, assume a key role in the magnetic properties of layered magnets. Using a combination of nonperturbative analytical techniques, non-collinear first-principles methods and classical Monte Carlo calculations that incorporate higher-order exchange, we show that several quantities including magnetic anisotropies, spin-wave gaps and topological spin-excitations are intrinsically renormalized leading to further thermal stability of the layers. We develop a spin Hamiltonian that also contains antisymmetric exchanges (e.g., Dzyaloshinskii–Moriya interactions) to successfully rationalize numerous observations, such as the non-Ising character of several compounds despite a strong magnetic anisotropy, peculiarities of the magnon spectrum of 2D magnets, and the discrepancy between measured and calculated Curie temperatures. Our results provide a theoretical framework for the exploration of different physical phenomena in 2D magnets where biquadratic exchange interactions have an important contribution.
Proteomic and transcriptomic profiling of aerial organ development in Arabidopsis
Authors: Mergner Julia , Frejno Martin , Messerer Maxim , Lang Daniel , Samaras Patroklos , Wilhelm Mathias , Mayer Klaus F. X. , Schwechheimer Claus , Kuster Bernhard
Published: October 2020

Plant growth and development are regulated by a tightly controlled interplay between cell division, cell expansion and cell differentiation during the entire plant life cycle from seed germination to maturity and seed propagation. To explore some of the underlying molecular mechanisms in more detail, we selected different aerial tissue types of the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana, namely rosette leaf, flower and silique/seed and performed proteomic, phosphoproteomic and transcriptomic analyses of sequential growth stages using tandem mass tag-based mass spectrometry and RNA sequencing. With this exploratory multi-omics dataset, development dynamics of photosynthetic tissues can be investigated from different angles. As expected, we found progressive global expression changes between growth stages for all three omics types and often but not always corresponding expression patterns for individual genes on transcript, protein and phosphorylation site level. The biggest difference between proteomic- and transcriptomic-based expression information could be observed for seed samples. Proteomic and transcriptomic data is available via ProteomeXchange and ArrayExpress with the respective identifiers PXD018814 and E-MTAB-7978.
Health risk indices and zooplankton-based assessment of a tropical rainforest river contaminated with iron, lead, cadmium, and chromium
Authors: Isibor Patrick Omoregie , Imoobe Tunde O. Thaddeus , Dedeke Gabriel Adewunmi , Adagunodo Theophilus Aanuoluwa , Taiwo Olugbenga Samson
Published: October 2020

Oil exploration’s devastation on health and the environment may far outweigh its economic benefits. An oil spill occurred at Egbokodo River in Delta State, Nigeria, thereby polluting the land and water bodies. The study was therefore aimed at evaluating the impacts of iron, lead, cadmium, and chromium on the zooplankton community structure of Egbokodo River and the potential health risks. Zooplankton and surface water samples were collected to investigate the concentrations of trace metals and zooplankton abundance. The associated carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic effects of the metals in the water were analyzed. Trace metal concentrations in the surface water were determined using atomic absorption spectroscopy (Philips model PU 9100) and zooplankton samples were collected using a hydrobios plankton net (mesh size 25 µm). Total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH) and oil and grease (OG) were determined using Agilent 7890B gas chromatography coupled to flame ionization detector (GC-FID) and volumetric analysis respectively. The trend of the abundance of zooplanktons cross the river was 18 individuals (Station A) < 100 individuals (Station B) < 155 individuals (Station C). Cyclopoida proved to be the most resilient to the impacts of the oil spill. On a taxa basis, the order of abundance among Calanoida, Cyclopoida, Cladoceran, and Harpacticoida was Station C > Station B > Station A, except in Amphipoda where Station B > Station C > Station A was observed. Iron and lead posed significant carcinogenic risks that are liable to be inflicted by the ingestion of the water. The cumulative non-carcinogenic health risk in the male was the only significant (> 1) among the age groups. Total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH), oil and grease (OG), iron, and lead had notable impacts on the general abundance of zooplankton in the aquatic habitat. The dominance of the Cyclopoida in the river buttressed the impact of the oil spill which warrants a prompt remediation measure. The pollution had notable ecological impacts on the zooplankton community structure of the aquatic habitat. The adults in the nearby human populations are liable to elicit carcinogenic health challenges associated with lead and iron ingestion. The males are at risk of non-carcinogenic illnesses which are associated with the combined toxicity effects of all the metals. The study suggests that the pollution in Egbokodo River was validated by the dominance of the Cyclopoida in the aquatic habitat. The study confers bioindicator reputation on the Cyclopoida for future biomonitoring studies.
Batch and continuous fixed bed adsorption of heavy metals removal using activated charcoal from neem (Azadirachta indica) leaf powder
Authors: Patel Himanshu
Published: October 2020

The present investigate was intended for adsorption of heavy metals i.e. Pb, Cu, Cr, Zn, Ni and Cd onto activated charcoal prepared from neem leaf powder (AC-NLP) using batch and column studies. Batch adsorption was performed using different variables like adsorbent dose, temperature and contact duration. Thermodynamic analysis of batch treatment concluded that adsorption is thermodynamically feasible and endothermic. This adsorption followed the Pseudo second-order kinetic model derived from correlation coefficient values of chemical kinetic studies. For column study, interpretation of breakthrough curves and parameters were conducted by varying flow rate, initial concentration and bed height; and reveal that optimum conditions were lower flow rate (5 mL/min) and lower initial concentration (5 mg/L) and higher bed height (20 cm). Comparisons of batch and column study through isotherm models were evaluated and column study is more preferred than batch treatment. Maximum Thomas adsorption capacity was achieved upto 205.6, 185.8, 154.5, 133.3, 120.6, 110.9 mg/g for Pb, Cu, Cd, Zn, Ni and Cr respectively. This removal pattern is elucidated by metal ionic properties. Various adsorbing agents such as acids and bases were utilized for adsorption–desorption of AC-NLP.
Vitamin C–squalene bioconjugate promotes epidermal thickening and collagen production in human skin
Authors: Gref R. , Deloménie C. , Maksimenko A. , Gouadon E. , Percoco G. , Lati E. , Desmaële D. , Zouhiri F. , Couvreur P.
Published: October 2020

Vitamin C (Vit C) benefits to human skin physiology notably by stimulating the biosynthesis of collagen. The main cutaneous collagens are types I and III, which are less synthesized with aging. Vit C is one of the main promotors of collagen formation but it poorly bypasses the epidermis stratum corneum barrier. To address this challenge, we developed a lipophilic version of Vit C for improving skin diffusion and delivery. Vit C was covalently conjugated to squalene (SQ), a natural lipid of the skin, forming a novel Vit C–SQ derivative suitable for cream formulation. Its biological activity was investigated on human whole skin explants in an ex vivo model, through histology and protein and gene expression analyses. Results were compared to Vit C coupled to the reference lipophilic compound palmitic acid, (Vit C–Palmitate). It was observed that Vit C–SQ significantly increased epidermal thickness and preferentially favored collagen III production in human skin after application for 10 days. It also promoted glycosaminoglycans production in a higher extent comparatively to Vit C–Palmitate and free Vit C. Microdissection of the explants to separate dermis and epidermis allowed to measure higher transcriptional effects either in epidermis or in dermis. Among the formulations studied, the strongest effects were observed with Vit C–SQ.
A highly sensitive and specific real-time quantitative PCR for BRAF V600E/K mutation screening
Authors: Lung Jrhau , Hung Ming-Szu , Lin Yu-Ching , Jiang Yuan Yuan , Fang Yu-Hung , Lu Ming-Shian , Hsieh Ching-Chuan , Wang Chia-Siu , Kuan Feng-Che , Lu Chang-Hsien , Chen Ping-Tsung , Lin Chieh-Mo , Chou Yen-Li , Lin Chin-Kuo , Yang Tsung-Ming , Chen Fen Fen , Lin Paul Yann , Hsieh Meng-Jer , Tsai Ying Huang
Published: October 2020

Mutations that lead to constitutive activation of key regulators in cellular processes are one of the most important drivers behind vigorous growth of cancer cells, and are thus prime targets in cancer treatment. BRAF V600E mutation transduces strong growth and survival signals for cancer cells, and is widely present in various types of cancers including lung cancer. A combination of BRAF inhibitor (dabrafenib) and MEK inhibitor (trametinib) has recently been approved and significantly improved the survival of patients with advanced NSCLC harboring BRAF V600E/K mutation. To improve the detection of BRAF V600E/K mutation and investigate the incidence and clinicopathological features of the mutation in lung cancer patients of southern Taiwan, a highly sensitive and specific real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) method, able to detect single-digit copies of mutant DNA, was established and compared with BRAF V600E-specific immunohistochemistry. Results showed that the BRAF V600E mutation was present at low frequency (0.65%, 2/306) in the studied patient group, and the detection sensitivity and specificity of the new RT-qPCR and V600E-specific immunohistochemistry both reached 100% and 97.6%, respectively. Screening the BRAF V600E/K mutation with the RT-qPCR and V600E-specific immunohistochemistry simultaneously could help improve detection accuracy.
Pathophysiology of high fat diet induced obesity: impact of probiotic banana juice on obesity associated complications and hepatosteatosis
Authors: Konda Prabhakar Yellanur , Poondla Vijayakumar , Jaiswal Krishna Kumar , Dasari Sreenivasulu , Uyyala Reddemma , Surtineni Venkata Prasad , Egi Janardhan Yadav , Masilamani Anthony Johnson Antony , Bestha Lakshmi , Konanki Sreenath , Muthulingam Muthukumaran , Lingamgunta Lakshman Kumar , Aloor Bindu Prasuna , Tirumalaraju Sridevi , Sade Ankanna , Ratnam Kamsala Venkata , Nagaraja Sreeharsha , Ramakrishnan Ranjani , Natesan Vijayakumar
Published: October 2020

The high fat diet alters intestinal microbiota due to increased intestinal permeability and susceptibility to microbial antigens leads to metabolic endotoxemia. But probiotic juices reported for various health benefits. In this background we hypothesized that pectinase treated probiotic banana juice has diverse effects on HFD induced obesity and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. 20 weeks fed HFD successfully induced obesity and its associated complications in experimental rats. The supplementation of probiotic banana juice for 5 months at a dose of 5 mL/kg bw/day resulted significant decrease (p < 0.05) in body weight (380 ± 0.34), total fat (72 ± 0.8), fat percentage (17 ± 0.07) and fat free mass (165 ± 0.02). Reduction (p < 0.05) in insulin resistance (5.20 ± 0.03), lipid profile (TC 120 ± 0.05; TG 160 ± 0.24; HDL 38 ± 0.03), liver lipid peroxidation (0.7 ± 0.01), hepatic enzyme markers (AST 82 ± 0.06; ALT 78 ± 0.34; ALP 42 ± 0.22), and hepatic steatosis by increasing liver antioxidant potential (CAT 1.4 ± 0.30; GSH 1.04 ± 0.04; SOD 0.82 ± 0.22) with normal hepatic triglycerides (15 ± 0.02) and glycogen (0.022 ± 0.15) contents and also showed normal liver size, less accumulation of lipid droplets with only a few congestion. It is concluded that the increased intestinal S. cerevisiae yeast can switch anti-obesity, antidiabetic, antioxidative stress, antioxidant and anti-hepatosteatosis effect. This study results will have significant implications for treatment of NAFLD.
Motor cortex gliomas induces microstructural changes of large fiber tracts revealed by TBSS
Authors: Wang Xiangdong , Zhou Chunyao , Wang Lei , Wang Yinyan , Jiang Tao
Published: October 2020

Gliomas grow and invade along white matter fiber tracts. This study assessed the effects of motor cortex gliomas on the cerebral white matter fiber bundle skeleton. The motor cortex glioma group included 21 patients, and the control group comprised 14 healthy volunteers. Both groups underwent magnetic resonance imaging-based 3.0 T diffusion tensor imaging. We used tract-based spatial statistics to analyze the characteristics of white matter fiber bundles. The left and right motor cortex glioma groups were analyzed separately from the control group. Results were statistically corrected by the family-wise error rate. Compared with the controls, patients with left motor cortex gliomas exhibited significantly reduced fractional anisotropy and an increased radial diffusivity in the corpus callosum. The alterations in mean diffusivity (MD) and the axial diffusivity (AD) were widely distributed throughout the brain. Furthermore, atlas-based analysis showed elevated MD and AD in the contralateral superior fronto-occipital fasciculus. Motor cortex gliomas significantly affect white matter fiber microstructure proximal to the tumor. The range of affected white matter fibers may extend beyond the tumor-affected area. These changes are primarily related to early stage tumor invasion.
MicroRNA-340-5p inhibits colon cancer cell migration via targeting of RhoA
Authors: Algaber Anwar , Al-Haidari Amr , Madhi Raed , Rahman Milladur , Syk Ingvar , Thorlacius Henrik
Published: October 2020

Colon cancer is the third most common cancer and a significant cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Metastasis is the most insidious aspect of cancer progression. Convincing data suggest that microRNAs (miRs) play a key function in colon cancer biology. We examined the role of miR-340-5p in regulating RhoA expression as well as cell migration and invasion in colon cancer cells. Levels of miR-340-5p and RhoA mRNA varied inversely in serum-free and serum-grown HT-29 and AZ-97 colon cancer cells. It was found transfection with miR-340-5p not only decreased expression of RhoA mRNA and protein levels in HT-29 cells but also reduced colon cancer cell migration and invasion. Bioinformatics analysis predicted one putative binding sites at the 3′-UTR of RhoA mRNA. Targeting this binding site with a specific blocker reversed mimic miR-340-5p-induced inhibition of RhoA activation and colon cancer cell migration and invasion. These novel results suggest that miR-340-5p is an important regulator of colon cancer cell motility via targeting of RhoA and further experiments are warranted to evaluate the role of miR-340-5p in colon cancer metastasis.
Characterization of a Cul9–Parkin double knockout mouse model for Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Hollville Emilie , Joers Valerie , Nakamura Ayumi , Swahari Vijay , Tansey Malú G. , Moy Sheryl S. , Deshmukh Mohanish
Published: October 2020

Mitochondrial quality control is essential for the long-term survival of postmitotic neurons. The E3 ubiquitin ligase Parkin promotes the degradation of damaged mitochondria via mitophagy and mutations in Parkin are a major cause of early-onset Parkinson’s disease (PD). Surprisingly however, mice deleted for Parkin alone are rather asymptomatic for PD-related pathology, suggesting that other complementary or redundant mitochondrial quality control pathways may exist in neurons. Mitochondrial damage is often accompanied by the release of toxic proteins such as cytochrome c. We have reported that once in the cytosol, cytochrome c is targeted for degradation by the E3 ligase CUL9 in neurons. Here we examined whether CUL9 and Parkin cooperate to promote optimal neuronal survival in vivo. We generated mice deficient for both Cul9 and Parkin and examined them for PD-related phenotypes. Specifically, we conducted assays to examine behavioural deficits (locomotor, sensory, memory and learning) and loss of dopaminergic neurons in both males and females. Our results show that the loss of Cul9 and Parkin together did not enhance the effect of Parkin deficiency alone. These results indicate that while both Parkin and CUL9 participate in mitochondrial quality control, neurons likely have multiple redundant mechanisms to ensure their long-term survival.
Daily mapping of Australian Plague Locust abundance
Authors: Mangeon Stéphane , Spessa Allan , Deveson Edward , Darnell Ross , Kriticos Darren J.
Published: October 2020

Locust population outbreaks have been a longstanding problem for Australian agriculture. Since its inception in the mid-1970s, The Australian Plague Locust Commission (APLC) is responsible for monitoring, forecasting and controlling populations of several locust pest species across inland eastern Australia (ca. two million km2). Ground surveys are typically targeted according to prevailing environmental conditions. However, due to the sheer size of the region and limited resources, such surveys remain sparse. Here we develop daily time-step statistical models of populations of Chortoicetes terminifera (Australian plague locust) that can used to predict abundances when observations are lacking, plus uncertainties. We firstly identified key environmental covariates of locust abundance, then examined their relationship with C. terminifera populations by interpreting the responses of Generalized Additive Models (GAM). We also illustrate how estimates of C. terminifera abundance plus uncertainties can be visualized across the region. Our results support earlier studies, specifically, populations peak in grasslands with high productivity, and decline rapidly under very hot and dry conditions. We also identified new relationships, specifically, a strong positive effect of vapour pressure and sunlight, and a negative effect of soil sand content on C. terminifera abundance. Our modelling tool may assist future APLC management and surveillance effort.
Blood RNA signatures predict recent tuberculosis exposure in mice, macaques and humans
Authors: Ault Russell C. , Headley Colwyn A. , Hare Alexander E. , Carruthers Bridget J. , Mejias Asuncion , Turner Joanne
Published: October 2020

Tuberculosis (TB) is the leading cause of death due to a single infectious disease. Knowing when a person was infected with Mycobacteriumtuberculosis (M.tb) is critical as recent infection is the strongest clinical risk factor for progression to TB disease in immunocompetent individuals. However, time since M.tb infection is challenging to determine in routine clinical practice. To define a biomarker for recent TB exposure, we determined whether gene expression patterns in blood RNA correlated with time since M.tb infection or exposure. First, we found RNA signatures that accurately discriminated early and late time periods after experimental infection in mice and cynomolgus macaques. Next, we found a 6-gene blood RNA signature that identified recently exposed individuals in two independent human cohorts, including adult household contacts of TB cases and adolescents who recently acquired M.tb infection. Our work supports the need for future longitudinal studies of recent TB contacts to determine whether biomarkers of recent infection can provide prognostic information of TB disease risk in individuals and help map recent transmission in communities.
MicroRNAs as systemic biomarkers to assess distress in animal models for gastrointestinal diseases
Authors: Kumstel Simone , Janssen-Peters Heike , Abdelrahman Ahmed , Tang Guanglin , Xiao Ke , Ernst Nicole , Wendt Edgar Heinz Uwe , Palme Rupert , Seume Nico , Vollmar Brigitte , Thum Thomas , Zechner Dietmar
Published: October 2020

Severity assessment of animal experiments is mainly conducted by using subjective parameters. A widely applicable biomarker to assess animal distress could contribute to an objective severity assessment in different animal models. Here, the distress of three murine animal models for gastrointestinal diseases was assessed by multiple behavioral and physiological parameters. To identify possible new biomarkers for distress 750 highly conserved microRNAs were measured in the blood plasma of mice before and after the induction of pancreatitis. Deregulated miRNA candidates were identified and further quantified in additional animal models for pancreatic cancer and cholestasis. MiR-375 and miR-203 were upregulated during pancreatitis and down regulated during cholestasis, whereas miR-132 was upregulated in all models. Correlation between miR-132 and plasma corticosterone concentrations resulted in the highest correlation coefficient, when compared to the analysis of miR-375, miR-203 and miR-30b. These results indicate that miR-132 might function as a general biomarker for distress, whereas the other miRNAs were altered in a disease specific manner. In conclusion, plasma miRNA profiling may help to better characterize the level of distress in mouse models for gastrointestinal diseases.
Specific and direct modulation of the interaction between adhesion GPCR GPR56/ADGRG1 and tissue transglutaminase 2 using synthetic ligands
Authors: Salzman Gabriel S. , Zhang Shu , Fernandez Celia G. , Araç Demet , Koide Shohei
Published: October 2020

Blocking the interaction between cell-surface receptors and their ligands is a proven therapeutic strategy. Adhesion G protein-coupled receptors (aGPCRs) are key cell-surface receptors that regulate numerous pathophysiological processes, and their large extracellular regions (ECRs) mediate ligand binding and function. The aGPCR GPR56/ADGRG1 regulates central nervous system myelination and melanoma progression by interacting with its ligand, tissue transglutaminase 2 (TG2), but the molecular basis for this interaction is largely undefined. Here, we show that the C-terminal portion of TG2 directly interacted with the GPR56 ECR with high-nanomolar affinity, and used site-directed mutagenesis to identify a patch of conserved residues on the pentraxin/laminin-neurexin-sex-hormone-binding-globulin-like (PLL) domain of GPR56 as the TG2 binding site. Importantly, we also show that the GPR56-TG2 interaction was blocked by previously-reported synthetic proteins, termed monobodies, that bind the GPR56 ECR in a domain- and species-specific manner. This work provides unique tools to modulate aGPCR-ligand binding and establishes a foundation for the development of aGPCR-targeted therapeutics.
Neuroprotection by remote ischemic conditioning in the setting of acute ischemic stroke: a preclinical two-centre study
Authors: Basalay Maryna V. , Wiart Marlene , Chauveau Fabien , Dumot Chloe , Leon Christelle , Amaz Camille , Bolbos Radu , Cash Diana , Kim Eugene , Mechtouff Laura , Cho Tae-Hee , Nighoghossian Norbert , Davidson Sean M. , Ovize Michel , Yellon Derek M.
Published: October 2020

Reperfusion is the only existing strategy for patients with acute ischemic stroke, however it causes further brain damage itself. A feasible therapy targeting reperfusion injury is remote ischemic conditioning (RIC). This was a two-centre, randomized, blinded international study, using translational imaging endpoints, aimed to examine the neuroprotective effects of RIC in ischemic stroke model. 80 male rats underwent 90-min middle cerebral artery occlusion. RIC consisted of 4 × 5 min cycles of left hind limb ischemia. The primary endpoint was infarct size measured on T2-weighted MRI at 24 h, expressed as percentage of the area-at-risk. Secondary endpoints were: hemispheric space-modifying edema, infarct growth between per-occlusion and 24 h MRI, neurofunctional outcome measured by neuroscores. 47 rats were included in the analysis after applying pre-defined inclusion criteria. RIC significantly reduced infarct size (median, interquartile range: 19% [8%; 32%] vs control: 40% [17%; 59%], p = 0.028). This effect was still significant after adjustment for apparent diffusion coefficient lesion size in multivariate analysis. RIC also improved neuroscores (6 [3; 8] vs control: 9 [7; 11], p = 0.032). Other secondary endpoints were not statistically different between groups. We conclude that RIC in the setting of acute ischemic stroke in rats is safe, reduces infarct size and improves functional recovery.
The sequence at Spike S1/S2 site enables cleavage by furin and phospho-regulation in SARS-CoV2 but not in SARS-CoV1 or MERS-CoV
Authors: Örd Mihkel , Faustova Ilona , Loog Mart
Published: October 2020

The Spike protein of the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV2 contains an insertion 680SPRRAR↓SV687 forming a cleavage motif RxxR for furin-like enzymes at the boundary of S1/S2 subunits. Cleavage at S1/S2 is important for efficient viral entry into target cells. The insertion is absent in other CoV-s of the same clade, including SARS-CoV1 that caused the 2003 outbreak. However, an analogous cleavage motif was present at S1/S2 of the Spike protein of the more distant Middle East Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus MERS-CoV. We show that a crucial third arginine at the left middle position, comprising a motif RRxR is required for furin recognition in vitro, while the general motif RxxR in common with MERS-CoV is not sufficient for cleavage. Further, we describe a surprising finding that the two serines at the edges of the insert SPRRAR↓SV can be efficiently phosphorylated by proline-directed and basophilic protein kinases. Both phosphorylations switch off furin’s ability to cleave the site. Although phospho-regulation of secreted proteins is still poorly understood, further studies, supported by a recent report of ten in vivo phosphorylated sites in the Spike protein of SARS-CoV2, could potentially uncover important novel regulatory mechanisms for SARS-CoV2.
Single-cell and spatial transcriptomics enables probabilistic inference of cell type topography
Authors: Andersson Alma , Bergenstråhle Joseph , Asp Michaela , Bergenstråhle Ludvig , Jurek Aleksandra , Fernández Navarro José , Lundeberg Joakim
Published: October 2020

The field of spatial transcriptomics is rapidly expanding, and with it the repertoire of available technologies. However, several of the transcriptome-wide spatial assays do not operate on a single cell level, but rather produce data comprised of contributions from a – potentially heterogeneous – mixture of cells. Still, these techniques are attractive to use when examining complex tissue specimens with diverse cell populations, where complete expression profiles are required to properly capture their richness. Motivated by an interest to put gene expression into context and delineate the spatial arrangement of cell types within a tissue, we here present a model-based probabilistic method that uses single cell data to deconvolve the cell mixtures in spatial data. To illustrate the capacity of our method, we use data from different experimental platforms and spatially map cell types from the mouse brain and developmental heart, which arrange as expected.
Upconversion optogenetic micro-nanosystem optically controls the secretion of light-responsive bacteria for systemic immunity regulation
Authors: Yang Chun , Cui Meihui , Zhang Yingying , Pan Huizhuo , Liu Jing , Wang Shixing , Ma Ning , Chang Jin , Sun Tao , Wang Hanjie
Published: October 2020

Chemical molecules specifically secreted into the blood and targeted tissues by intestinal microbiota can effectively affect the associated functions of the intestine especially immunity, representing a new strategy for immune-related diseases. However, proper ways of regulating the secretion metabolism of specific strains still remain to be established. In this article, an upconversion optogenetic micro-nanosystem was constructed to effectively regulate the specific secretion of engineered bacteria. The system included two major modules: (i) Modification of secretory light-responsive engineered bacteria. (ii) Optical sensing mediated by upconversion optogenetic micro-nanosystem. This system could regulate the efficient secretion of immune factors by engineered bacteria through optical manipulation. Inflammatory bowel disease and subcutaneously transplanted tumors were selected to verify the effectiveness of the system. Our results showed that the endogenous factor TGF-β1 could be controllably secreted to suppress the intestinal inflammatory response. Additionally, regulatory secretion of IFN-γ was promoted to slow the progression of B16F10 tumor.
Filtering spins by scattering from a lattice of point magnets
Authors: Ghazaryan Areg , Lemeshko Mikhail , Volosniev Artem G.
Published: October 2020

Nature creates electrons with two values of the spin projection quantum number. In certain applications, it is important to filter electrons with one spin projection from the rest. Such filtering is not trivial, since spin-dependent interactions are often weak, and cannot lead to any substantial effect. Here we propose an efficient spin filter based upon scattering from a two-dimensional crystal, which is made of aligned point magnets. The polarization of the outgoing electron flux is controlled by the crystal, and reaches maximum at specific values of the parameters. In our scheme, polarization increase is accompanied by higher reflectivity of the crystal. High transmission is feasible in scattering from a quantum cavity made of two crystals. Our findings can be used for studies of low-energy spin-dependent scattering from two-dimensional ordered structures made of magnetic atoms or aligned chiral molecules.
Nanographitic coating enables hydrophobicity in lightweight and strong microarchitected carbon
Authors: Kudo Akira , Bosi Federico
Published: October 2020

Metamaterials that are lightweight, stiff, strong, scalable and hydrophobic have been achieved separately through different materials and approaches, but achieving them in one material is an outstanding challenge. Here, stereolithography and pyrolysis are employed to create carbon microlattices with cubic topology and a strut width of 60–70 µm, with specific strength and stiffness of up to 468.62 MPa cm3 g−1 and 14.39 GPa cm3 g−1 at a density of 0.55 g cm−3, higher than existing microarchitected materials and approaching those of the strongest truss nanolattices. Subsequent fast Joule-heating then introduces a hierarchical nanographitic skin that enables hydrophobicity, with a water contact angle of 135 ± 2°, improving the hydrophilic response of pyrolytic carbon. As the Joule heating induced sp2-hybridization and nano-texturing predominantly affect the strut sheath, the effect on mechanical response is limited to a reduction in the distribution of compressive strength of as-pyrolyzed architectures by ~80% and the increase of the mean effective stiffness by ~15%. These findings demonstrate a technique to fabricate high strength, low density, and hydrophobic nanographite-coated carbon microlattices.
Colorado River water supply is predictable on multi-year timescales owing to long-term ocean memory
Authors: Chikamoto Yoshimitsu , Wang S.-Y. Simon , Yost Matt , Yocom Larissa , Gillies Robert R.
Published: October 2020

Skillful multi-year climate forecasts provide crucial information for decision-makers and resource managers to mitigate water scarcity, yet such forecasts remain challenging due to unpredictable weather noise and the lack of dynamical model capability. Here we demonstrate that the annual water supply of the Colorado River is predictable up to several years in advance by a drift-free decadal climate prediction system using a fully coupled climate model. Observational analyses and model experiments show that prolonged shortages of water supply in the Colorado River are significantly linked to sea surface temperature precursors including tropical Pacific cooling, North Pacific warming, and southern tropical Atlantic warming. In the Colorado River basin, the water deficits can reduce crop yield and increase wildfire potential. Thus, a multi-year prediction of severe water shortages in the Colorado River basin could be useful as an early indicator of subsequent agricultural loss and wildfire risk.
An efficient fluorescent nano-sensor of N-doped carbon dots for the determination of 2,4,6-trinitrophenol and other applications
Authors: Wang Dongxiu , Li Pengxia , Li Junfen , Dong Chuan
Published: October 2020

Diagram illustration for the synthesis and applications of the CDs
Europium nanosphere-based fluorescence strip sensor for ultrasensitive and quantitative determination of fumonisin B1
Authors: Guo Lingling , Wang Zhongxing , Xu Xinxin , Xu Liguang , Kuang Hua , Xiao Jing , Xu Chuanlai
Published: October 2020

The developed time-resolved fluorescence immunochromatographic assay can be widely applicable as an ultrasensitive, rapid detection method for FB1 in grains.
Polymerisation-induced self-assembly (PISA) as a straightforward formulation strategy for stimuli-responsive drug delivery systems and biomaterials: recent advances
Authors: Phan Hien , Taresco Vincenzo , Penelle Jacques , Couturaud Benoit
Published: October 2020

Stimuli-responsive amphiphilic block copolymers obtained by PISA have emerged as promising nanocarriers for enhancing site-specific and on-demand drug release in response to a range of stimuli such as pH, redox agents, light or temperature.
1,2,4-Triazolato paddlewheel dibismuth complexes with very short Bi(ii)–Bi(ii) bonds: bismuth(iii) oxidation of 1,2,4-triazolato anions into neutral N-1,2,4-triazolyl radicals
Authors: Zhao Ming-Gang , Li Li , He Ru-Ru , Zhang Xiang , Ma Jian-Ping , Su Ji-Hu , Zheng Wenjun
Published: October 2020

Bismuth(iii) oxidation of 1,2,4-triazolato anions allowed paddlewheel 1,2,4-triazolato dibismuth complexes to be isolated and the reaction involved the neutral N-1,2,4-triazolyl radicals that were evidenced by EPR analysis.
Effects of natural organic matter (NOM), metal-to-sulfide ratio and Mn2+on cadmium sulfide nanoparticle growth and colloidal stability
Authors: Hoffmann Kevin , Christl Iso , Kaegi Ralf , Kretzschmar Ruben
Published: October 2020

Growth of naturally occurring CdS nanoparticles is constrained by natural organic matter (NOM), which also limits the reduction of CdS colloidal stability by Mn2+and prevents incorporation of Mn into the CdS crystal lattice.
Removal of arsenic(iii) from water by 2D zeolitic imidazolate framework-67 nanosheets
Authors: Zhao Pin , Jian Meipeng , Xu Rongming , Zhang Qi , Xiang Chao , Liu Ruiping , Zhang Xiwang , Liu Huijuan
Published: October 2020

Ultrathin 2D metal–organic framework nanosheets can efficiently and rapidly capture arsenate from water.
Guest-conditioned multicolor writing on cellulose nanocrystal canvases
Authors: Soto Miguel A. , Zhang Dongjie , Xu Yitao , Shi Yihan , Patrick Brian O. , Hamad Wadood Y. , MacLachlan Mark J.
Published: October 2020

Supramolecular smart paper has been created by embedding ionic macrocycles within cellulose nanocrystal films. The films can be written on with inks composed of colourless π-electron-rich molecules to reveal colourful, rewriteable patterns.