bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regulation of invasion and peritoneal dissemination of ovarian cancer by mesothelin manipulation
Authors: Coelho Ricardo , Ricardo Sara , Amaral Ana Luísa , Huang Yen-Lin , Nunes Mariana , Neves José Pedro , Mendes Nuno , López Mónica Nuñez , Bartosch Carla , Ferreira Verónica , Portugal Raquel , Lopes José Manuel , Almeida Raquel , Heinzelmann-Schwarz Viola , Jacob Francis , David Leonor
Published: July 2020

Peritoneal dissemination is a particular form of metastasis typically observed in ovarian cancer and the major cause for poor patient’s outcome. Identification of the molecular players involved in ovarian cancer dissemination can offer an approach to develop treatment strategies to improve clinical prognosis. Here, we identified mesothelin (MSLN) as a crucial protein in the multistep process of peritoneal dissemination of ovarian cancer. We demonstrated that MSLN is overexpressed in primary and matched peritoneal metastasis of high-grade serous carcinomas (HGSC). Using several genetically engineered ovarian cancer cell lines, resulting in loss or gain of function, we found that MSLN increased cell survival in suspension and invasion of tumor cells through the mesothelial cell layer in vitro. Intraperitoneal xenografts established with MSLNhigh ovarian cancer cell lines showed enhanced tumor burden and spread within the peritoneal cavity. These findings provide strong evidences that MSLN is a key player in ovarian cancer progression by triggering peritoneal dissemination and provide support for further clinical investigation of MSLN as a therapeutic target in HGSC.
Expression of ETS1 in gastric epithelial cells positively regulate inflammatory response in Helicobacter pylori-associated gastritis
Authors: Teng Yongsheng , Cang Baocheng , Mao Fangyuan , Chen Weisan , Cheng Ping , Peng Liusheng , Luo Ping , Lu Dongshui , You Nan , Zou Quanming , Zhuang Yuan
Published: July 2020

Gastric epithelial cells (GECs) provide the first point of contact of the host by Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), and the interaction between H. pylori and GECs plays a critical role in H. pylori-associated diseases. Aberrant expression of transcription factors (TFs) contributes to the pathogenesis of inflammatory disorders, including H. pylori-associated gastritis. ETS (E26 transformation specific) transcription factor family is one of the largest families of evolutionarily conserved TFs, regulating critical functions during cell homeostasis. We screened ETS family gene expression in H. pylori-infected mouse and human GECs and found that ETS1 (ETS proto-oncogene 1, transcription factor) expression was highly affected by H. pylori infection. Then, we reported that ETS1 was induced in GECs by H. pylori via cagA activated NF-κB pathway. Notably, we demonstrated that proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β and TNFα have synergistic effects on ETS1 expression during H. pylori infection in an NF-κB-pathway-dependent manner. RNA-seq assay and Gene-ontology functional analysis revealed that ETS1 positively regulate inflammatory response during H. pylori infection. Increased ETS1 is also detected in the gastric mucosa of mice and patients with H. pylori infection. Collectively, these data showed that ETS1 may play an important role in the pathogenesis of H. pylori-associated gastritis.
NSs amyloid formation is associated with the virulence of Rift Valley fever virus in mice
Authors: Léger Psylvia , Nachman Eliana , Richter Karsten , Tamietti Carole , Koch Jana , Burk Robin , Kummer Susann , Xin Qilin , Stanifer Megan , Bouloy Michèle , Boulant Steeve , Kräusslich Hans-Georg , Montagutelli Xavier , Flamand Marie , Nussbaum-Krammer Carmen , Lozach Pierre-Yves
Published: July 2020

Amyloid fibrils result from the aggregation of host cell-encoded proteins, many giving rise to specific human illnesses such as Alzheimer’s disease. Here we show that the major virulence factor of Rift Valley fever virus, the protein NSs, forms filamentous structures in the brain of mice and affects mortality. NSs assembles into nuclear and cytosolic disulfide bond-dependent fibrillary aggregates in infected cells. NSs structural arrangements exhibit characteristics typical for amyloids, such as an ultrastructure of 12 nm-width fibrils, a strong detergent resistance, and interactions with the amyloid-binding dye Thioflavin-S. The assembly dynamics of viral amyloid-like fibrils can be visualized in real-time. They form spontaneously and grow in an amyloid fashion within 5 hours. Together, our results demonstrate that viruses can encode amyloid-like fibril-forming proteins and have strong implications for future research on amyloid aggregation and toxicity in general.
CD96, a new immune checkpoint, correlates with immune profile and clinical outcome of glioma
Authors: Liu Fangkun , Huang Jing , He Fengqiong , Ma Xiaodong , Fan Fan , Meng Ming , Zhuo Yang , Zhang Liyang
Published: July 2020

CD96 is a promising candidate for immunotherapy. However, its role and importance in glioma remains unknown. We thus aimed to genetically and clinically characterize CD96 expression in gliomas. For this, we extracted RNA-seq data of 699 glioma samples from the TCGA dataset and validated these findings using the CGGA dataset comprising 325 glioma samples. Clinical and isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) mutation status were also analyzed. Various packages in R language were mainly used for statistical analysis. CD96 expression was significantly up-regulated in high-grade, IDH-wildtype, and mesenchymal-molecular subtype gliomas based on TCGA data, which was validated using the CGGA dataset. Subsequent gene ontology analysis of both datasets suggested that genes relevant to CD96 are mainly involved in immune functions in glioma as such genes were positively correlated with CD96 expression. To further explore the relationship between CD96 and immune responses, we selected seven immune-related metagenes and found that CD96 expression was positively correlated with HCK, LCK, and MHC II in the CGGA and TCGA cohorts but negatively associated with IgG. Further, Pearson correlation analysis showed that CD96 is associated with TIGIT, CD226, CRTAM, TIM-3, PD-L1, CTLA-4, and STAT3, indicating the additive antitumoral effects of these checkpoint proteins. CD96 was also suggested to play an important role in immune responses and positively collaborate with other checkpoint members. These findings show that CD96 is promising candidate for immunotherapy, and that such agents could complement current immunotherapy strategies for glioma.
Impact of hearing aid noise reduction algorithms on the speech-evoked auditory brainstem response
Authors: Seol Hye Yoon , Park Suyeon , Ji Yoon Sang , Hong Sung Hwa , Moon Il Joon
Published: July 2020

The purposes of this study are to investigate the neural representation of a speech stimulus in the auditory system of individuals with normal hearing (NH) and those with hearing aids (HAs) and to explore the impact of noise reduction algorithms (NR) on auditory brainstem response to complex sounds (cABR). Twenty NH individuals and 28 HA users completed puretone audiometry, the Korean version of the Hearing in Noise Test (K-HINT), and cABR. In 0 and +5 dB signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs), the NH group was tested in /da/ only (quiet) and /da/ with white noise (WN) conditions while the HA group was tested in /da/ only, /da/ WN, /da/ WN NR ON, and /da/ WN NR OFF conditions. Significant differences were observed between /da/ only and /da/ WN conditions for F0 in both groups, but no SNR effect was observed for both groups. Findings of this study are consistent with previous literature that diminished cABR amplitudes indicate reduced representation of sounds in the auditory system. This is the first to examine the effect of a specific HA feature on cABR responses.
Low geomagnetic field strength during End-Cretaceous Deccan volcanism and whole mantle convection
Authors: T. Radhakrishna , Mohamed Asanulla R. , M. Venkateshwarlu , S. Soumya G.
Published: July 2020

Knowledge about long-term variation of the geomagnetic dipole field remains in its nascent stage because of the paucity of reliable experimental data over geological periods. Here, we present the first robust experimental data from the largest Cretaceous flood basalt province on Earth, the ~65–66 Ma Deccan basalt within a thick (1250 m) unbiased stratigraphic section down to the basement, recovered from a drill hole of the Koyna Deep Scientific Drilling Project in the Western Ghats, India. Critical analysis of the result along with similar results of the Cretaceous age find that (i) the dipole moment during the end Cretaceous Deccan eruption is the lowest in whole of Cretaceous (ii) dipole moment at the onset/termination of the Cretaceous Normal Superchron is apparently lower relative to that in mid-superchron, however, such differences cannot be deciphered in shorter polarities probably because of insufficient time to develop recognizable variations (iii) inverse relation between dipole moment and reversal rate is lacking and (iv) a cause and effect relation between core-mantle boundary heat flux and low dipole moment that appears to be the principle governing factor in forming the Large Igneous Provinces on the surface of earth.
An ultra-high bandwidth nano-electronic interface to the interior of living cells with integrated fluorescence readout of metabolic activity
Authors: Ren Dandan , Nemati Zahra , Lee Chia-Hung , Li Jinfeng , Haddadi Kamel , Wallace Douglas C. , Burke Peter J.
Published: July 2020

We present the first ever broadband, calibrated electrical connection to the inside of a cell. The interior of a vital, living cell contains multiple dynamic and electrically active organelles such as mitochondria, chloroplasts, lysosomes, and the endoplasmic reticulum. However, little is known about the detailed electrical activity inside the cell. Here we show an ultra-high bandwidth nano-electronic interface to the interior of living cells with integrated fluorescence readout of metabolic activity. On-chip/on-petri dish nanoscale capacitance calibration standards are used to quantify the electronic coupling from bench to cell from DC to 26 GHz (with cell images at 22 GHz). The interaction of static to high frequency electromagnetic fields with the cell constituents induce currents of free charges and local reorganization of linked charges. As such, this enables a direct, calibrated, quantitative, nanoscale electronic interface to the interior of living cells. The interface could have a variety of applications in interfacing life sciences to nano-electronics, including electronic assays of membrane potential dynamics, nano-electronic actuation of cellular activity, and tomographic, nano-radar imaging of the morphology of vital organelles in the cytoplasm, during all phases of the cell life cycle (from development to senescence), under a variety of physiological environments, and under a broad suite of pharmacological manipulations.
Analysis of the StoRM cohort reveals physical activity to be associated with survival in metastatic breast cancer
Authors: Delrieu Lidia , Jacquet Emmanuelle , Segura-Ferlay Céline , Blanc Ellen , Febvey-Combes Olivia , Friedenreich Christine , Romieu Gilles , Jacot William , Rios Maria , Heudel Pierre-Etienne , Roemer-Becuwe Célia , Jouannaud Christelle , Tredan Olivier , Chaigneau Loïc , Arnedos Monica , Orfeuvre Hubert , Quenel-Tueux Nathalie , Jacquin Jean-Philippe , Ferrero Jean-Marc , Moullet Isabelle , Abadie-Lacourtoisie Sophie , Penault-Llorca Frédérique , Cox David , Bachelot Thomas
Published: July 2020

Benefits of physical activity are widely demonstrated for early stage cancers but few studies have focused on metastatic disease. The purpose of this study was to determine the impact of physical activity on survival in patients with metastatic breast cancer. We conducted a secondary analysis of the national, multicentric, non-randomized, prospective cohort SNPs to Risk of Metastasis (StoRM) study. The level of physical activity was self-reported at inclusion and divided into three categories of physical activity: light level, moderate level, and vigorous level. Overall, 833 patients (56.2%) completed the physical activity questionnaire at baseline on average physical activity during the previous year: 11.6% had a light level of physical activity, 69.0% achieved moderate levels of physical activity and 19.3% reported vigorous levels of physical activity. After adjustment for confounding, physical activity was not statistically significantly associated with overall survival in the whole population. Subgroup analysis identified that both vigorous and moderate physical activity were associated with statistically significantly improved overall survival compared to light physical activity level only in the HER2 positive subgroup (HR 0.23; 95% CI 0.07–0.70, p = 0.01 and HR 0.38; 95% CI 0.15–0.96, p = 0.04). Physical activity done during the previous year was associated with survival in HER2 positive metastatic breast cancer patients. These results suggest that overall survival in metastatic breast cancer patients could be improved through physical activity which should be considered as a complementary intervention for these individuals. The study showed that moderate/vigorous levels of physical activity were associated with better overall survival, and that these associations remained statistically significant in multivariate analysis in the HER2 positive subgroup. These results have clinical relevance and justify the recommendations for physical activity interventions in metastatic breast cancer.
Late mortality in survivors of childhood cancer in Hungary
Authors: Jakab Zsuzsanna , Garami Miklos , Bartyik Katalin , Csoka Monika , Erdelyi Daniel Janos , Hauser Peter , Juhasz Attila , Kelemen Agnes , Krivan Gergely , Masat Peter , Müller Judit , Nagy Csilla , Peter György , Renyi Imre , Szegedi Istvan , Vojcek Agnes , Zombori Marianna , Bardi Edit , Kovacs Gabor
Published: July 2020

The Hungarian Pediatric Oncology Network provides centralized treatment and population-based registration for cases of childhood cancer since 1973. We collected and analized data on late mortality, secondary malignancies and cardiac diseases in survivors (> 5 years) of childhood cancer to evaluate long-term risks. We extracted all solid tumour cases (3,650 followed up for 5–39.3 years, diagnosis: 1973–2008) from the database of the Hungarian Childhood Cancer Registry and checked against the Population Registry. Among the 301 patients who died after 5 years (8.2%) the most common causes of death were progression of primary cancer (52.5%), secondary malignancies (16%) and cardiovascular diseases (8%). Late mortality rates (SMR, total: 35,006 pyrs) showed highly elevated risk of death (SMR: 10.7 95% CI 9–12.4) for the second 5 years of follow up and moderately elevated risk for 10-year survivors (SMR: 3.5 95% CI 3–4.1). Marked differences were detected in the pattern of causes of death between diagnostic groups of primary cancer; with highest risks beyond 10 years for CNS tumours, Hodgkin disease, osteosarcoma and advanced stage neuroblastoma. The longstanding mortality risk for 5-year survivors underlines the need for tailored long-term follow-up and monitoring of late consequences according to the context of different primary diseases of childhood cancer.
Optimization of spin Hall magnetoresistance in heavy-metal/ferromagnetic-metal bilayers
Authors: Karwacki Łukasz , Grochot Krzysztof , Łazarski Stanisław , Skowroński Witold , Kanak Jarosław , Powroźnik Wiesław , Barnaś Józef , Stobiecki Feliks , Stobiecki Tomasz
Published: July 2020

We present experimental data and their theoretical description on spin Hall magnetoresistance (SMR) in bilayers consisting of a heavy metal (H) coupled to in-plane magnetized ferromagnetic metal (F), and determine contributions to the magnetoresistance due to SMR and anisotropic magnetoresistance (AMR) in five different bilayer systems: $$\hbox {W}/\text {Co}_{20}\text {Fe}_{60}\text {B}_{20}$$W/Co20Fe60B20, $$\text {Co}_{20}\text {Fe}_{60}\text {B}_{20}/\hbox {Pt}$$Co20Fe60B20/Pt, $$\hbox {Au}/\text {Co}_{20}\text {Fe}_{60}\text {B}_{20}$$Au/Co20Fe60B20, W/Co, and Co/Pt. The devices used for experiments have different interfacial properties due to either amorphous or crystalline structures of constitutent layers. To determine magnetoresistance contributions and to allow for optimization, the AMR is explicitly included in the diffusion transport equations in the ferromagnets. The results allow determination of different contributions to the magnetoresistance, which can play an important role in optimizing prospective magnetic stray field sensors. They also may be useful in the determination of spin transport properties of metallic magnetic heterostructures in other experiments based on magnetoresistance measurements.
Glycated albumin precipitation using aptamer conjugated magnetic nanoparticles
Authors: Fayazi R. , Habibi-Rezaei M. , Heiat M. , Javadi-Zarnaghi F. , Taheri R. A.
Published: July 2020

To develop a strategy for the elimination of prefibrillar amyloid aggregates, a three-step non-modified DNA aptamer conjugation on silica-coated magnetic nanoparticles was carried out to achieve aptamer conjugated on MNP (Ap-SiMNP). Prefibrillar amyloid aggregates are generated under a diabetic condition which are prominently participated in developing diabetic complications. The binding properties of candidate DNA aptamer against serum albumin prefibrillar amyloid aggregates (AA20) were verified using electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA) and surface plasmon resonance spectroscopy (SPR) analysis. The chloro-functionalized silica-coated MNPs were synthesized then a nano-targeting structure as aptamer conjugated on MNP (Ap-SiMNP) was constructed. Finally, Ap-SiMNP was verified for specific binding efficiency and AA20 removal using an external magnetic field. The candidate aptamer showed a high binding capacity at EMSA and SPR analysis (KD = 3.4 × 10─9 M) and successfully used to construct Ap-SiMNP. Here, we show a proof of concept for an efficient bio-scavenger asAp-SiMNP to provide a promising opportunity to consider as a possible strategy to overcome some diabetic complications through specific binding/removal of toxic AA20 species.
Analysis of non-conjugated steroids in water using paper spray mass spectrometry
Authors: Jjunju Fred. P. M. , Damon Deidre E. , Romero-Perez David , Young Iain S. , Ward Ryan J. , Marshall Alan , Maher Simon , Badu-Tawiah Abraham K.
Published: July 2020

A novel strategy for the direct analysis of non-conjugated steroids in water using paper spray mass spectrometry (PS-MS) has been developed. PS-MS was used in the identification and quantification of non-conjugated (free) steroids in fish tank water samples. Data shown herein indicates that individual amounts of free steroids can be detected in aqua as low as; 0.17 ng/µL, 0.039 ng/µL, 0.43 ng/µL, 0.0076 ng/µL for aldosterone, corticosterone, cortisol, and β-estrone, respectively, and with an average relative standard deviation of ca. < 10% in the positive ion mode using PS-MS/MS. Direct detection of free steroids in a raw water mixture, from aquaculture, without prior sample preparation is demonstrated. The presence of free steroids released in fish water samples was confirmed via tandem mass spectrometry using collision-induced dissociation. This approach shows promise for rapid and direct water quality monitoring to provide a holistic assessment of non-conjugated steroids in aqua.
Influencing electroclinical features and prognostic factors in patients with anti-NMDAR encephalitis: a cohort follow-up study in Chinese patients
Authors: Wang Yingxin , Miao Ailiang , Shi Yongwei , Ge Jianqing , Wang Lingling , Yu Chuanyong , Xu Haiyan , Yu Yuanwen , Huang Shuyang , Li Yihan , Wang Xiaoshan
Published: July 2020

The clinical manifestations of patients with anti-N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (anti-NMDAR) encephalitis in East China and factors associated with prognosis were analyzed. A retrospective study of 106 patients (58 females; 48 males) with anti-NMDAR encephalitis in East China was carried out from June 2015 to February 2019. Clinical features and factors influencing outcomes were reviewed. Behavioral changes were observed in 74.5% (79/106) of patients, and comprised the initial symptoms in 61.3% (65/106). Seizures were observed in 67% (71/106) of patients, and served as initial symptoms in 31.1% (33/106). A total of 54.9% (39/71) of seizures were focal seizures. More clinical symptoms were observed in female patients than in male patients (P = 0.000). Similarly, background activity (BA) with high cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) antibody titers at the peak stage was more severe in female patients than in male patients (P = 0.000). The Binary logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses revealed the factors associated with poor outcomes included consciousness disturbance (OR 4.907, 95% CI 1.653–14.562, P = 0.004; area: 65.4%, sensitivity: 44.2%, specificity: 86.5%, P = 0.014), EEG BA (OR 3.743, 95% CI 1.766–7.932, P = 0.001; area: 76.6%, sensitivity: 73%, specificity: 75%, P = 0.000), number of symptoms (OR 2.911, 95% CI 1.811–4.679, P = 0.000; area: 77.1%, sensitivity: 59.5%, specificity: 78.6%, P = 0.000) and CSF antibody titer (OR 31.778, 95% CI 8.891–113.57, P = 0.000; area: 83.9%, sensitivity: 89.2%, specificity: 78.6%, P = 0.000). EEG BA and number of symptoms were associated with CSF antibody titers. Consciousness disturbances, EEG BA, number of symptoms and CSF antibody titers served as predictors of poor outcomes.
Identification of ovarian high-grade serous carcinoma cell lines that show estrogen-sensitive growth as xenografts in immunocompromised mice
Authors: De Haven Brandon Alexis , Box Gary , Hallsworth Albert , Court William , Matthews Nicoll , Herodek Balint , Arteagabeitia Aitor Bermejo , Valenti Melanie , Kirkin Vladimir
Published: July 2020

Ovarian cancer remains a significant challenge in women worldwide. Tumors of the high-grade serous carcinoma (HGSC) type represent the most common form of the disease. Development of new therapies for HGSC has been hampered by a paucity of preclinical models in which new drugs could be tested for target engagement and anti-tumor efficacy. Here, we systematically assessed in vivo growth of ovarian cancer cells, including six validated HGSC cell lines, in highly immunocompromised NSG mice by varying the injection site. We found that, with the exception of OVCAR3, HGSC cell lines COV318, COV362, KURAMOCHI, OVCAR4, and OVSAHO, generally demonstrate poor growth as either subcutaneous or intraperitoneal xenografts. Intrabursal injections performed with KURAMOCHI and COV362 cells did not improve tumor growth in vivo. Additional analysis revealed that OVSAHO and COV362 express moderate levels of estrogen receptor (ERα), which translated into improved growth of xenografts in the presence of 17β-Estradiol. Surprisingly, we also found that the growth of the widely used non-HGSC ovarian cell line SKOV3 could be significantly improved by estrogen supplementation. By describing successful establishment of estrogen-sensitive HGSC xenograft models, OVSAHO and COV362, this work will enable testing of novel therapies for this aggressive form of ovarian cancer.
An entropy-based framework to analyze structural power and power alliances in social networks
Authors: Dellnitz Andreas , Rödder Wilhelm
Published: July 2020

Power is a central phenomenon in societies. So for ages, numerous power perceptions in philosophy and sociology have existed. Measuring power of an actor in its social fabric is a difficult issue, however. After sketching first attempts for this in social network analyses, we develop a new power theory. To this end, we distinguish between vertices in the network and actors acting in vertices. Vertices get structural power potential from their position in the net. In an entropy-driven model such potential can be calculated for all vertices; for selected networks, the method is exemplified. Actors in vertices can deploy power potential once they have respective personal skills, and dominate actors in adjacent vertices. If chosen with suitable care, an alliance of actors can even dominate the whole network. The findings are applied to the famous 9/11-network with 34 vertices and 93 edges.
Nurr1 performs its anti-inflammatory function by regulating RasGRP1 expression in neuro-inflammation
Authors: Oh Mihee , Kim Sun Young , Gil Jung-Eun , Byun Jeong-Su , Cha Dong-Wook , Ku Bonsu , Lee Woonghee , Kim Won-Kon , Oh Kyoung-Jin , Lee Eun-Woo , Bae Kwang-Hee , Lee Sang Chul , Han Baek-Soo
Published: July 2020

Nurr1, a transcription factor belonging to the orphan nuclear receptor, has an essential role in the generation and maintenance of dopaminergic neurons and is important in the pathogenesis of Parkinson’ disease (PD). In addition, Nurr1 has a non-neuronal function, and it is especially well known that Nurr1 has an anti-inflammatory function in the Parkinson’s disease model. However, the molecular mechanisms of Nurr1 have not been elucidated. In this study, we describe a novel mechanism of Nurr1 function. To provide new insights into the molecular mechanisms of Nurr1 in the inflammatory response, we performed Chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing (ChIP-Seq) on LPS-induced inflammation in BV2 cells and finally identified the RasGRP1 gene as a novel target of Nurr1. Here, we show that Nurr1 directly binds to the RasGRP1 intron to regulate its expression. Moreover, we also identified that RasGRP1 regulates the Ras-Raf-MEK-ERK signaling cascade in LPS-induced inflammation signaling. Finally, we conclude that RasGRP1 is a novel regulator of Nurr1’s mediated inflammation signaling.
Germ cell depletion in recipient testis has adverse effects on spermatogenesis in orthotopically transplanted testis pieces via retinoic acid insufficiency
Authors: Tsuchimoto Akihiro , Tone Masaaki , Ogonuki Narumi , Hada Masashi , Ogura Atsuo , Takashima Seiji
Published: July 2020

Germ cell depletion in recipient testes is indispensable for successful transplantation of spermatogonial stem cells. However, we found that such treatment had an adverse effect on spermatogenesis of orthotopically transplanted donor testis tissues. In the donor tissue, the frequency of stimulated by retinoic acid (RA) 8 (STRA8) expression was reduced in germ cells, suggesting that RA signalling indispensable for spermatogenesis was attenuated in germ cell-depleted recipient testes. In this context, germ cell depletion diminished expression of testicularAldh1a2, which is responsible for testicular RA synthesis, whileCyp26b1, which is responsible for testicular RA metabolism, was still expressed even after germ cell depletion, suggesting an alteration of the RA synthesis/metabolism ratio. These observations suggested that RA insufficiency was one of the causes of the defective donor spermatogenesis. Indeed, repetitive RA administrations significantly improved donor spermatogenesis to produce fertile offspring without any side effects. These findings may contribute to improving fertility preservation techniques for males, especially to prevent iatrogenic infertility induced by chemotherapy in prepubertal cancer patients.
Ste2 receptor-mediated chemotropism of Fusarium graminearum contributes to its pathogenicity against wheat
Authors: Sridhar Pooja S. , Trofimova Daria , Subramaniam Rajagopal , González-Peña Fundora Dianevys , Foroud Nora A. , Allingham John S. , Loewen Michele C.
Published: July 2020

Fusarium Head Blight of wheat, caused by the filamentous fungus Fusarium graminearum, leads to devastating global food shortages and economic losses. While many studies have addressed the responses of both wheat and F. graminearum during their interaction, the possibility of fungal chemotropic sensing enabling pathogenicity remains unexplored. Based on recent findings linking the pheromone-sensing G-protein-coupled receptor Ste2 to host-directed chemotropism in Fusarium oxysporum, we investigated the role of the Ste2 receptor and its downstream signaling pathways in mediating chemotropism of F. graminearum. Interestingly, a chemotropic response of growing hyphae towards catalytically active Triticum aestivum ‘Roblin’ cultivar secreted peroxidases was detected, with deletion of STE2 in F. graminearum leading to loss of the observed response. At the same time, deletion of STE2 significantly decreased infection on germinating wheat coleoptiles, highlighting an association between Ste2, chemotropism and infection by F. graminearum. Further characterization revealed that the peroxidase-directed chemotropism is associated with stimulation of the fungal cell wall integrity mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling cascade. Altogether, this study demonstrates conservation of Ste2-mediated chemotropism by Fusarium species, and its important role in mediating pathogenicity.
Rational synthesis of atomically thin quantum structures in nanowires based on nucleation processes
Authors: Tomioka Katsuhiro , Motohisa Junichi , Fukui Takashi
Published: July 2020

Excitonic properties in quantum dot (QD) structure are essential properties for applications in quantum computing, cryptography, and photonics. Top-down fabrication and bottom-up growth by self-assembling for forming the QDs have shown their usefulness. These methods, however, still inherent issues in precision integrating the regimes with high reproducibility and positioning to realize the applications with on-demand quantum properties on Si platforms. Here, we report on a rational synthesis of embedding atomically thin InAs in nanowire materials on Si by selective-area regrowth. An extremely slow growth rate specified for the synthesis demonstrated to form smallest quantum structures reaching nuclear size, and provided good controllability for the excitonic states on Si platforms. The system exhibited sharp photoluminescence spectra originating from exciton and bi-exciton suggesting the carriers were confined inside the nuclei. The selective-area regrowth would open new approach to integrate the exciton states with Si platforms as building-blocks for versatile quantum systems.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: Cost effective liquid phase exfoliation of MoS2 nanosheets and photocatalytic activity for wastewater treatment enforced by visible light
Authors: Sahoo Dhirendra , Kumar Birendra , Sinha Jaivardhan , Ghosh Subhasis , Roy Susanta Sinha , Kaviraj Bhaskar
Published: July 2020

Scalable production of high-quality MoS2 nanosheets remains challenging for industrial applications and research in basic sciences. N-methyl-2pyrrolidine (NMP) is a commonly used solvent for exfoliation of MoS2 nanosheets having further disadvantage of slow volatility rate. The present study demonstrates a cost-effective facile chemical route to synthesize few-layer MoS2 nanosheets using acetone as a solvent and by varying bulk initial concentration of samples to scale up the production in large scale to fulfill the demand for potential applications. In our study, we aim to obtain stable growth of high quality few layer MoS2 nanosheets by long sonication times. Optical absorption spectra, Raman spectra, size of nanosheets and layer thickness of as-grown MoS2 nanosheets were found to be matching with those obtained from other synthesis methods. Effective photocatalytic performance of MoS2 nanosheets without being consumed as a reactant was experimented by decomposing Methylene Blue dye in aqueous solution under irradiation of visible light. This study provides an idea to synthesize low-cost, sustainable and efficient photocatalytic material in large scale for the next generation to control water pollution quite efficiently by protecting the environment from the contamination coming from these dyes.
Association between survival and levetiracetam use in glioblastoma patients treated with temozolomide chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Roh Tae Hoon , Moon Ju Hyung , Park Hun Ho , Kim Eui Hyun , Hong Chang-Ki , Kim Se Hoon , Kang Seok-Gu , Chang Jong Hee
Published: July 2020

This study was conducted to assess whether levetiracetam (LEV) affects the survival of patients with glioblastoma (GBM) treated with concurrent temozolomide (TMZ) chemotherapy. To this end, from 2004 to 2016, 322 patients with surgically resected and pathologically confirmed isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH)-wildtype GBM who received TMZ-based chemoradiotherapy were analysed. The patients were divided into two groups based on whether LEV was used as an anticonvulsant both at the time of surgery and the first visit thereafter. The median overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were compared between the groups. The OS was 21.1 and 17.5 months in the LEV (+) and LEV (−) groups, respectively (P = 0.003); the corresponding PFS was 12.3 and 11.2 months (P = 0.017). The other prognostic factors included age, extent of resection, O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) promoter methylation status, and Karnofsky Performance Status (KPS) score. The multivariate analysis showed age (hazard ratio [HR], 1.02; P < 0.001), postoperative KPS score (HR 0.99; P = 0.002), complete tumour resection (HR 0.52; P < 0.001), MGMT promoter methylation (HR 0.75; P < 0.001), and LEV use (HR 0.72; P = 0.011) were significantly associated with OS. In conclusion, LEV use was associated with prolonged survival in patients with GBM treated with concurrent TMZ chemoradiotherapy.
Sub-maximal endurance exercise does not mediate alterations of somatosensory thresholds
Authors: Kortenjann Ann-Christin , Banzer Winfried , Fleckenstein Johannes
Published: July 2020

Physical exercise has been shown to alter sensory functions, such as sensory detection or perceived pain. However, most contributing studies rely on the assessment of single thresholds, and a systematic testing of the sensory system is missing. This randomised, controlled cross-over study aims to determine the sensory phenotype of healthy young participants and to assess if sub-maximal endurance exercise can impact it. We investigated the effects of a single bout of sub-maximal running exercise (30 min at 80% heart rate reserve) compared to a resting control in 20 healthy participants.
The sensory profile was assessed applying quantitative sensory testing (QST) according to the protocol of the German Research Network on Neuropathic Pain. QST comprises a broad spectrum of thermal and mechanical detection and pain thresholds. It was applied to the forehead of study participants prior and immediately after the intervention. Time between cross-over sessions was one week. Sub-maximal endurance exercise did not significantly alter thermal or mechanical sensory function (time × group analysis) in terms of detection and pain thresholds. The sensory phenotypes did not indicate any clinically meaningful deviation of sensory function. The alteration of sensory thresholds needs to be carefully interpreted, and only systematic testing allows an improved understanding of mechanism. In this context, sub-maximal endurance exercise is not followed by a change of thermal and mechanical sensory function at the forehead in healthy volunteers.
A longitudinal study of semen quality among Chinese sperm donor candidates during the past 11 years
Authors: Liu Junjie , Dai Yanpeng , Li Yushan , Yuan Enwu , Wang Quanxian , Wang Xingling , Guan Yichun
Published: July 2020

Studies suggest that semen quality is declining globally, however, the debate remains open due to the possible effects of ethnic and geographical differences. This study aimed to explore whether semen quality of sperm donor candidates has changed in Henan Province, China from 2009 to 2019. In this retrospective study, we included 23,936 sperm donor candidates who were recruited by the Henan Human Sperm Bank of China between 2009 and 2019. To minimize intra-individual bias, we included only the first ejaculate provided by each sperm donor candidate. The following parameters were measured: volume, sperm concentration, total sperm count, progressive motility, and total motility. After adjustment for age, body mass index (BMI), and sexual abstinence duration, we evaluated changes in main semen parameters over time using multiple linear regression analyses. The sperm concentration decreased from 62.0 million/mL in 2009 to 32.0 million/mL in 2019 (P < 0.001), with an average annual rate of 3.9%. The total sperm count decreased from 160.0 million in 2009 to 80.0 million in 2019 (P < 0.001), with an average annual rate of 4.2%. The progressive motility decreased from 54.0% in 2009 to 40.0% in 2019 (P < 0.001), with an average annual rate of 2.5%. The total motility decreased from 60.0% in 2009 to 46.0% in 2019 (P < 0.001), with an average annual rate of 1.9%. Our results indicated that semen quality among sperm donor candidates had decreased during the study period in Henan Province, China.
Injury intensifies T cell mediated graft-versus-host disease in a humanized model of traumatic brain injury
Authors: Diaz Miguel F. , Horton Paulina D. , Kumar Akshita , Livingston Megan , Mohammadalipour Amina , Xue Hasen , Skibber Max A. , Ewere Adesuwa , Toledano Furman Naama E. , Aroom Kevin R. , Zhang Songlin , Gill Brijesh S. , Cox Charles S. , Wenzel Pamela L.
Published: July 2020

The immune system plays critical roles in promoting tissue repair during recovery from neurotrauma but is also responsible for unchecked inflammation that causes neuronal cell death, systemic stress, and lethal immunodepression. Understanding the immune response to neurotrauma is an urgent priority, yet current models of traumatic brain injury (TBI) inadequately recapitulate the human immune response. Here, we report the first description of a humanized model of TBI and show that TBI places significant stress on the bone marrow. Hematopoietic cells of the marrow are regionally decimated, with evidence pointing to exacerbation of underlying graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) linked to presence of human T cells in the marrow. Despite complexities of the humanized mouse, marrow aplasia caused by TBI could be alleviated by cell therapy with human bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs). We conclude that MSCs could be used to ameliorate syndromes triggered by hypercytokinemia in settings of secondary inflammatory stimulus that upset marrow homeostasis such as TBI. More broadly, this study highlights the importance of understanding how underlying immune disorders including immunodepression, autoimmunity, and GVHD might be intensified by injury.
Perinatal exposure to diets with different n-6:n-3 fatty acid ratios affects olfactory tissue fatty acid composition
Authors: Khoury Spiro , Soubeyre Vanessa , Cabaret Stéphanie , Merle Laetitia , Grégoire Stéphane , Deprêtre Nicolas , Jarriault David , Grosmaitre Xavier , Bretillon Lionel , Berdeaux Olivier , Acar Niyazi , Le Bon Anne Marie
Published: July 2020

The olfactory mucosa (OM) and the olfactory bulb (OB) are responsible for the detection and processing of olfactory signals. Like the brain and retina, they contain high levels of n-3 and n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), which are essential for the structure and function of neuronal and non-neuronal cells. Since the influence of the maternal diet on olfactory lipid profiles of the offspring has been poorly explored, we examined the effects of feeding mice during the perinatal period with diets containing an adequate linoleic acid level but either deficient in α-linolenic acid (ALA) or supplemented in n-3 long-chain PUFAs on the lipid composition of dams and weaning offspring olfactory tissues. In both the OM and OB, the low n-3 ALA diet led to a marked reduction in n-3 PUFAs with a concomitant increase in n-6 PUFAs, whereas consumption of the high n-3 PUFA diet reduced n-6 PUFAs and increased n-3 PUFAs. Structural analysis showed that the molecular species profiles of the main phospholipid classes of olfactory tissues from weaning pups were markedly affected by the maternal diets. This study demonstrates that the PUFA status of olfactory tissues is sensitive to diet composition from the early stages of development.
Collective choice fosters sustainable resource management in the presence of asymmetric opportunities
Authors: Nockur Laila , Arndt Laetitia , Keller Johannes , Pfattheicher Stefan
Published: July 2020

Asymmetric distribution of opportunities among actors can reinforce the conflict between individual and collective interests in social dilemma situations. The present study investigates the interplay of asymmetric distribution of opportunities to consume resources and three choice systems: individual choice, median choice, and majority voting. Participants (N = 248) took part in a common resource game in groups of four under each of the three choice systems. We examined the average percentage taken of the resource as well as satisfaction and fairness ratings depending on the choice system in interaction with (a) whether the distribution of opportunities among group members was symmetric versus asymmetric, and (b) the status of an actor (advantaged versus disadvantaged) within asymmetric groups. Both implemented collective choice systems (median choice and majority voting) increased sustainable resource management, especially in asymmetric groups, by restricting overconsumption of advantaged individuals, as well as satisfaction and fairness ratings. Collective choice increased collective welfare by increasing profits of disadvantaged individuals and members of symmetric groups. The results indicate that in the presence of asymmetric distribution of opportunities, collective choice is a means to reconcile the conflict between individual and collective interests in social dilemmas and to foster sustainable resource management.
The sample size effect in metallic glass deformation
Authors: Champion Yannick , Thurieau Nicolas
Published: July 2020

The sample size effect on deformation mode of glasses is one of the most misunderstood properties of this class of material. This effect is intriguing, since materials deemed macroscopically brittle become plastic at small size. We propose an explanation of this phenomenon for metallic glasses. A thermodynamic description of the local rearrangement zones activated under an applied stress is proposed. Using the Poisson distribution to describe the statistics of these zones and the statistical physics to associate entropy, we define a critical sample size for the change in the deformation mode. Predictions are in agreement with experimental observations and reveal hidden structural parameters describing the glassy state.
Clinical outcomes and quality of life associated with the use of a biosynthetic mesh for complex ventral hernia repair: analysis of the “Italian Hernia Club” registry
Authors: Rognoni Carla , Cuccurullo Diego , Borsoi Ludovica , Bonavina Luigi , Asti Emanuele , Crovella Feliciano , Bassi Uberto Andrea , Carbone Gabriele , Guerini Francesca , De Paolis Paolo , Pessione Silvia , Greco Vincenzo Maria , Baccarini Elisabetta , Soliani Giorgio , Sagnelli Carlo , Crovella Clotilde , Trapani Vincenzo , De Nisco Carlo , Eugeni Emilio , Zanzi Federico , De Nicola Enrico , Marioni Antonio , Rosignoli Alessandro , Silvestro Roberto , Tarricone Rosanna , Piccoli Micaela
Published: July 2020

With the development of newer meshes and approaches to hernia repair, it is currently difficult to evaluate their performances while considering the patients’ perspective. The aim of the study was to assess the clinical outcomes and quality of life consequences of abdominal hernia repairs performed in Italy using Phasix and Phasix ST meshes through the analysis of real-world data to support the choice of new generation biosynthetic meshes. An observational, prospective, multicentre study was conducted in 10 Italian clinical centres from May 2015 to February 2018 and in 15 Italian clinical centres from March 2018 to May 2019. The evaluation focused on patients with VHWG grade II–III who underwent primary ventral hernia repair or incisional hernia intervention with a follow-up of at least 18 months. Primary endpoints included complications’ rates, and secondary outcomes focused on patient quality of life as measured by the EuroQol questionnaire. Seventy-five patients were analysed. The main complications were: 1.3% infected mesh removal, 4.0% superficial infection requiring procedural intervention, 0% deep/organ infection, 8.0% recurrence, 5.3% reintervention, and 6.7% drained seroma. The mean quality of life utility values ranged from 0.768 (baseline) to 0.967 (36 months). To date, Phasix meshes have proven to be suitable prostheses in preventing recurrence, with promising outcomes in terms of early and late complications and in improving patient quality of life.
mTOR sustains inflammatory response in celiac disease
Authors: Sedda S. , Dinallo V. , Marafini I. , Franzè E. , Paoluzi O. A. , Izzo R. , Giuffrida P. , Di Sabatino A. , Corazza G. R. , Monteleone G.
Published: July 2020

Celiac disease (CD) is an enteropathy triggered by the ingestion of gluten proteins in genetically predisposed individuals and characterized by excessive activation of effector immune cells and enhanced production of inflammatory cytokines. However, factors/mechanisms that amplify the ongoing mucosal inflammation in CD are not fully understood. In this study, we assessed whether mammalian target of Rapamycin (mTOR), a pathway that combines intra- and extra-cellular signals and acts as a central regulator for the metabolism, growth, and function of immune and non-immune cells, sustains CD-associated immune response. Our findings indicate that expression of phosphorylated (p)/active form of mTOR is increased in protein lysates of duodenal biopsy samples taken from patients with active CD (ACD) as compared to normal controls. In ACD, activation of mTOR occurs mainly in the epithelial compartment and associates with enhanced expression of p-4EBP, a downstream target of mTOR complex (mTORC)1, while expression of p-Rictor, a component of mTORC2, is not increased. Stimulation of mucosal explants of inactive CD patients with pepsin-trypsin-digested (PT)-gliadin or IFN-γ/IL-21, two cytokines produced in CD by gluten-specific T cells, increases p-4EBP expression. Consistently, blockade of such cytokines in cultures of ACD mucosal explants reduces p-4EBP. Finally, we show that inhibition of mTORC1 with rapamycin in ACD mucosal explants reduces p-4EBP and production of IL-15, a master cytokine produced by epithelial cells in this disorder. Our data suggest that ACD inflammation is marked by activation of mTORC1 in the epithelial compartment.
Picoliter enzyme reactor on a nanofluidic device exceeding the bulk reaction rate
Authors: Yamamoto Koki , Morikawa Kyojiro , Imanaka Hiroyuki , Imamura Koreyoshi , Kitamori Takehiko
Published: July 2020

A picoliter enzyme reactor using a trypsin immobilized nanochannel realized 25 times faster reaction than the bulk reaction.
An RGD modified water-soluble fluorophore probe for in vivo NIR-II imaging of thrombosis
Authors: Wu Yanping , Wang Chao , Guo Jiaqi , Carvalho Abdlay , Yao Yuyu , Sun Pengfei , Fan Quli
Published: July 2020

Synthesis of an organic near-infrared second-window fluorescent probe targeting in vivo and in vitro thrombi.
Atomically dispersed metal sites stabilized on a nitrogen doped carbon carrier via N2 glow-discharge plasma
Authors: Tang Weijing , Li Jing , Zheng Jian , Chu Wei , Wang Ning
Published: July 2020

Single-atoms (SAs) can be achieved via electron reduction and nitrogen anchoring that enable the fast nucleation but slow growth of metal ions under N2 plasma compared with a traditional calcination approach.
A short peptide that preferentially binds c-MYC G-quadruplex DNA
Authors: Minard Aisling , Morgan Danielle , Raguseo Federica , Di Porzio Anna , Liano Denise , Jamieson Andrew G. , Di Antonio Marco
Published: July 2020

G-quadruplexes are nucleic-acids secondary structures that are highly abundant in the human genome. In this work,we identified a short-peptide that displays selectivity for the G-quadruplex formed in the promoter region of the oncogene c-MYC.
Surface motifs regulated aggregation induced emission in gold–silver nanoclusters
Authors: Bain Dipankar , Maity Subarna , Patra Amitava
Published: July 2020

Surface motifs matter in the aggregation-induced emission of gold silver nanoclusters.