bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
De novo transcriptome analysis of Lantana camara L. revealed candidate genes involved in phenylpropanoid biosynthesis pathway
Authors: Shah Muzammil , Alharby Hesham F. , Hakeem Khalid Rehman , Ali Niaz , Rahman Inayat Ur , Munawar Mohd , Anwar Yasir
Published: August 2020

Lantana camara L. is an economically important essential oil producing plant belonging to family Verbenaceae. It is used in medication for treating various diseases like cancer, ulcers, tumor, asthma and fever. The plant is a useful source of essential bioactive compounds such as steroids, flavonoids and phenylpropanoid glycosides etc. Nonetheless, very little is known about the genomic or transcriptomic resources of L. camara, and this might be the reason of hindering molecular studies leading to identification of improved lines. Here we used Illumina sequencing platform and performed the L. camara leaf (LCL) and root (LCR) de novo transcriptome analyses. A total of 70,155,594 and 84,263,224 clean reads were obtained and de novo assembly generated 72,877 and 513,985 unigenes from leaf (LCL) and root (LCR) respectively. Furthermore, the pathway analysis revealed the presence of 229 and 943 genes involved in the phenylpropanoid biosynthesis in leaf and root tissues respectively. Similarity search was performed against publically available genome databases and best matches were found with Sesamum indicum (67.5%) that were much higher than that of Arabidopsis thaliana (3.9%). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first comprehensive transcriptomic analysis of leaf and root tissues of this non-model plant from family Verbenaceae and may serve as a baseline for further molecular studies.
Surgical procedures in the pilonidal sinus disease: a systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Bi Siwei , Sun Kaibo , Chen Shanshan , Gu Jun
Published: August 2020

The most appropriate surgical treatment for pilonidal sinus disease (PSD) is still in dispute. This study aims to comprehensively compare the outcomes of surgical interventions using network meta-analysis. Randomized controlled trial studies were searched systematically to identify all eligible studies in multiple databases and previous publications and Bayesian network meta-analysis was performed. Our primary outcome was the recurrence rate. Differences in the findings of the studies were explored in meta regressions and sensitivity analyses. The risk of bias of each study was assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. Confidence in evidence was assessed using CINeMA (Confidence in Network Meta-Analysis). A total of 39 studies and 5,061 patients were identified and the most common surgical intervention was the Limberg flap. In network meta-analysis, modified Limberg flap and off-midline closure were associated with the lowest recurrence rate. However, the Karydakis flap was associated with shorter operation time by several minutes compared with other interventions and few significant results were found in other outcomes. Modified Limberg flap and off-midline closure provided relatively low recurrence and complications rates. Therefore, they could be two promising surgical interventions for PSD patients.
Theoretical and experimental investigation of Xenotime-type rare earth phosphate REPO4, (RE = Lu, Yb, Er, Y and Sc) for potential environmental barrier coating applications
Authors: Han Jing , Wang Yanfei , Liu Rongjun , Wan Fan
Published: August 2020

The mechanical and thermophysical properties of Xenotime-type REPO4(RE = Lu, Yb, Er, Y and Sc) have been theoretically and experimentally investigated for a potential environmental barrier coating (EBC) topcoat application. The results show that the current studied REPO4exhibits a quasi-ductile property, suggesting a potential long life expectancy of its made coatings. Further, from the study of underlying parameters governing thermophysical properties of a ceramic, low thermal expansion coefficients (TECs) and low thermal conductivities cannot be achieved simultaneously, due to mutual exclusive nature of above two parameters. REPO4has been unveiled to have rather small TECs, attributing partly to its weak lattice anharmonicity, and is thus well-matched with silicon carbide based ceramic matrix composites. Last, the current investigated REPO4exhibits very good high-temperature water vapor corrosion resistance, excellent calcium-magnesium aluminosilicates (CMAS) resistance as well as excellent chemical compatibility with silicon bond coats at elevated temperatures. Therefore, the Xenotime-type rare earth phosphates are a promising EBC topcoat material.
Sprouty2 regulates positioning of retinal progenitors through suppressing the Ras/Raf/MAPK pathway
Authors: Sun Jian , Yoon Jaeho , Lee Moonsup , Hwang Yoo-Seok , Daar Ira O.
Published: August 2020

Sproutys are negative regulators of the Ras/Raf/MAPK signaling pathway and involved in regulation of organogenesis, differentiation, cell migration and proliferation. Although the function of Sproutys have been extensively studied during embryonic development, their role and mode of action during eye formation in vertebrate embryonic development is still unknown. Here we show that Xenopus sprouty2 is expressed in the optic vesicle at late neurula stage and knockdown of Sprouty2 prevents retinal progenitors from populating the retina, which in turn gives rise to small eyes. In the absence of Sprouty2, progenitor cell population of the retina can be restored by blocking the MAPK signaling pathway through overexpression of DN-Ras or DN-Raf. In contrast, activation of the MAPK pathway through overexpression of a constitutively active form of c-Raf (ca-Raf) inhibits progenitor population of the retina, similar to the Sprouty2 loss-of-function phenotype. Moreover, we present evidence that the retinal defect observed in Sprouty2 morphants is attributed to the failure of proper movement of retinal progenitors into the optic vesicle, rather than an effect on progenitor cell survival. These results suggest that Sprouty2 is required for the positioning of retinal progenitors within the optic vesicle through suppressing Ras/Raf/MAPK signaling pathway.
Nanoscale light element identification using machine learning aided STEM-EDS
Authors: Kim Hong-Kyu , Ha Heon-Young , Bae Jee-Hwan , Cho Min Kyung , Kim Juyoung , Han Jeongwoo , Suh Jin-Yoo , Kim Gyeung-Ho , Lee Tae-Ho , Jang Jae Hoon , Chun Dongwon
Published: August 2020

Light element identification is necessary in materials research to obtain detailed insight into various material properties. However, reported techniques, such as scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM)-energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) have inadequate detection limits, which impairs identification. In this study, we achieved light element identification with nanoscale spatial resolution in a multi-component metal alloy through unsupervised machine learning algorithms of singular value decomposition (SVD) and independent component analysis (ICA). Improvement of the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) in the STEM-EDS spectrum images was achieved by combining SVD and ICA, leading to the identification of a nanoscale N-depleted region that was not observed in as-measured STEM-EDS. Additionally, the formation of the nanoscale N-depleted region was validated using STEM–electron energy loss spectroscopy and multicomponent diffusional transformation simulation. The enhancement of SNR in STEM-EDS spectrum images by machine learning algorithms can provide an efficient, economical chemical analysis method to identify light elements at the nanoscale.
Finite element analysis of load transition on sacroiliac joint during bipedal walking
Authors: Toyohara Ryota , Kurosawa Daisuke , Hammer Niels , Werner Michael , Honda Keita , Sekiguchi Yusuke , Izumi Shin-Ichi , Murakami Eiichi , Ozawa Hiroshi , Ohashi Toshiro
Published: August 2020

The sacroiliac joint (SIJ) is burdened with variant loads. However, no methods have allowed to measure objectively how the SIJ deforms during bipedal walking. In this study, in-vivo walking conditions were replicated in a kinematic model combining the finite element method with 3D walking analysis data divided into five phases in order to visualize the load transition on the SIJ and clarify the role of the SIJ. Both models with and without inclusion of the SIJ were investigated. In models with bilateral SIJs, the displacement differed greatly between the sacrum and both hip bones on the SIJ as the boundary. The movements of the sacrum involved a nutation movement in the stance phase and a counter-nutation in the swing phase relative to the ilium. In models without SIJs, the displacement of the pelvis and loads of pelvic ligaments decreased, and the equivalent stress of the SIJs increased compared to the model with SIJs. The walking loads cause distortion of the entire pelvis, and stress concentration at the SIJ are seen due to the morphology of the pelvic ring. However, the SIJs help dissipate the resulting stresses, and the surrounding ligaments are likewise involved in load transmission.
Administration of small-molecule guanabenz acetate attenuates fatty liver and hyperglycemia associated with obesity
Authors: Yoshino Satoshi , Iwasaki Yusaku , Matsumoto Shunichi , Satoh Tetsurou , Ozawa Atsushi , Yamada Eijiro , Kakizaki Satoru , Trejo Juan Alejandro Oliva , Uchiyama Yasuo , Yamada Masanobu , Mori Masatomo
Published: August 2020

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is characterized by excessive accumulation of hepatic triglycerides (TG) and hyperglycemia arising due to persistent insulin resistance, and is profoundly linked to obesity. However, there is currently no established treatment for NAFLD in obese human subjects. We previously isolated Helz2, the expression of which was upregulated in human and mouse NAFLD, and its deletion activated the hepatic expression of functional leptin receptor long form (Leprb) and suppressed NAFLD development and body weight (BW) gain in obese mice. A high-throughput assay of small-molecule drugs revealed that guanabenz acetate (Ga), originally used to treat hypertension, possesses a high affinity constant against HELZ2, and its administration activates LEPRB expression in HepG2 cells in vitro. The chronic oral administration of Ga shows the selective leptin sensitization in the liver via upregulation of hepatic Leprb expression, which affects expression of genes involved in lipogenesis and fatty acid β-oxidation and diminishes hepatocyte hypertrophy with droplets enriched in TG in high-fat diet-induced obese mice. This activity significantly improves insulin resistance to decrease hyperglycemia and hepatocyte and adipocyte weights, resulting in BW reduction without reducing food intake. Regarding drug repositioning, Ga has the potential to effectively treat NAFLD and hyperglycemia in obese patients.
Neuronal subclass-selective proteomic analysis in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Aburaya Shunsuke , Yamauchi Yuji , Hashimoto Takashi , Minakuchi Hiroyoshi , Aoki Wataru , Ueda Mitsuyoshi
Published: August 2020

Neurons are categorised into many subclasses, and each subclass displays different morphology, expression patterns, connectivity and function. Changes in protein synthesis are critical for neuronal function. Therefore, analysing protein expression patterns in individual neuronal subclass will elucidate molecular mechanisms for memory and other functions. In this study, we used neuronal subclass-selective proteomic analysis with cell-selective bio-orthogonal non-canonical amino acid tagging. We selected Caenorhabditis elegans as a model organism because it shows diverse neuronal functions and simple neural circuitry. We performed proteomic analysis of all neurons or AFD subclass neurons that regulate thermotaxis in C. elegans. Mutant phenylalanyl tRNA synthetase (MuPheRS) was selectively expressed in all neurons or AFD subclass neurons, and azido-phenylalanine was incorporated into proteins in cells of interest. Azide-labelled proteins were enriched and proteomic analysis was performed. We identified 4,412 and 1,834 proteins from strains producing MuPheRS in all neurons and AFD subclass neurons, respectively. F23B2.10 (RING-type domain-containing protein) was identified only in neuronal cell-enriched proteomic analysis. We expressed GFP under the control of the 5′ regulatory region of F23B2.10 and found GFP expression in neurons. We expect that more single-neuron specific proteomic data will clarify how protein composition and abundance affect characteristics of neuronal subclasses.
Evaluation of biochemical and hematological parameters in adults with Down syndrome
Authors: de Gonzalo-Calvo David , Barroeta Isabel , Nan Madalina Nicoleta , Rives José , Garzón Diana , Carmona-Iragui María , Benejam Bessy , Videla Laura , Fernández Susana , Altuna Miren , Valldeneu Sílvia , Blesa Rafael , Lleó Alberto , Blanco-Vaca Francisco , Fortea Juan , Tondo Mireia
Published: August 2020

Down syndrome (DS) is the most common worldwide cause of intellectual disability of genetic origin and the most common chromosomal disorder affecting live-born infants. In addition to intellectual disability, individuals with DS have other comorbidities and complex medical conditions. The increase in the life expectancy of patients with DS requires expanding the knowledge about their clinical characteristics and related laboratory parameters. Several studies exploring laboratory tests in DS patients exist, but their focus is limited to specific areas of metabolism. Therefore, our main goal was to describe the biochemical and hematological findings in a DS cohort and to compare the values to those of a control population. A total of 248 DS individuals and 84 control subjects were enrolled. DS individuals had a higher frequency of several clinical conditions compared to control individuals and presented with significant differences with respect to the controls in both biochemical and hematological parameters. We found age- and sex-related differences in several of the parameters. A good understanding of the differences in our cohort might be of aid in the clinical follow-up of adults with DS, especially considering that the lifespan of DS individuals may reach 60 years of age in developed countries.
Effects of a microbial restoration substrate on plant growth and rhizosphere bacterial community in a continuous tomato cropping greenhouse
Authors: Zheng Xuefang , Wang Ziran , Zhu Yujing , Wang Jieping , Liu Bo
Published: August 2020

Continuous cropping of tomato is increasingly practiced in greenhouse cultivation, leading to several soil-related obstacles. In this study, a type of microbial restoration substrate (MRS) was used to amend soils from the re-cropping of tomato for 8 years under greenhouse-cultivated conditions. Two treatments were established: using 1,500 kg hm−2 of MRS to amend soil as treatment (TR), and non-MRS as control (CK). The severity of bacterial wilt (BW), soil properties and rhizobacterial community composition under two different treatments were compared. The application of MRS led to an average 83.75% reduction in the severity of BW, and significantly increased the plant height, root activity and yield. Meanwhile, soil pH, soil organic contents (SOC), total nitrogen (TN) and exchangeable calcium were significantly increased (P < 0.05) by MRS treatment. Illumina-MiSeq sequencing analysis of the 16S rRNA genes revealed that MRS increased the diversity of the tomato rhizobacterial community. The relative abundances of Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria and Bacteroidetes were enhanced, whereas those of Acidobacteria, Chloroflexi, TM7 and Firmicutes were decreased by MRS. The redundancy analysis (RDA) revealed that the severity of tomato BW was negatively correlated with the relative abundances of Actinobacteria, Bacteroidetes and Proteobacteria, but positively correlated with those of Gemmatimonadetes, Firmicutes and Acidobacteria. In addition, the effects of MRS on rhizobacterial metabolic potentials were predicted using a Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) database, implying that MRS could significantly increase nitrogen metabolisms and reduce carbon metabolism. Together, our results indicated that the use of MRS could reestablish soil microbial communities, which was beneficial to plant health compared with the control.
Antibiotic use and hygiene interact to influence the distribution of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria in low-income communities in Guatemala
Authors: Ramay Brooke M. , Caudell Mark A. , Cordón-Rosales Celia , Archila L. Diego , Palmer Guy H. , Jarquin Claudia , Moreno Purificación , McCracken John P. , Rosenkrantz Leah , Amram Ofer , Omulo Sylvia , Call Douglas R.
Published: August 2020

To examine the effects of poor sanitation and hygiene on the prevalence of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria, we surveyed households in two rural and two urban communities in Guatemala (N = 196 randomly selected households). One adult (≥ 18-years old) and, when available, one child (≤ 5 years-old) provided a stool sample. Up to 48 presumptive Escherichia coli isolates were collected from each stool sample (n = 21,256 total) and were subjected to breakpoint assays for ten antibiotics. Mixed-effects logistic models were used to identify potential factors influencing the likelihood of harboring antibiotic-resistant bacteria. For nine out of ten antibiotics, the odds of detecting resistant bacteria decreased by ~ 32% (odds ratios, OR 0.53–0.8, P < 0.001) for every unit of improvement of a hygiene scale. Hygiene differences between households had a greater impact on prevalence compared to antibiotic use differences. The likelihood of detecting resistant isolates was lower for five antibiotics among households that boiled raw milk before consumption (OR 0.31–0.69), and higher for nine antibiotics in urban households (OR > 1.89–9.6). Poor hygiene conditions likely obscure effects of individual antibiotic use, presumably due to enhanced microbial transmission. Consequently, efforts to improve antibiotic stewardship should be coupled with improving hygiene conditions.
Risk factors of immune checkpoint inhibitor-related interstitial lung disease in patients with lung cancer: a single-institution retrospective study
Authors: Okada Naoto , Matsuoka Rie , Sakurada Takumi , Goda Mitsuhiro , Chuma Masayuki , Yagi Kenta , Zamami Yoshito , Nishioka Yasuhiko , Ishizawa Keisuke
Published: August 2020

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) elicit antitumour effects by activating the host immunity and cause immune-related adverse events (irAEs). ICI-related interstitial lung disease (ICI-ILD) is a fatal irAE that is difficult to treat; moreover, its incidence is relatively higher in patients with lung cancer. Therefore, early ICI-ILD detection and intervention are important for patient safety. However, a risk assessment method for ICI-ILD has not been established and the prediction of ICI-ILD occurrence is difficult. The aim of our study was to identify the risk factors associated with ICI-ILD. To this end, we retrospectively analysed 102 patients with lung cancer who first received ICI and completed the treatment between April 2016 and December 2019 at Tokushima University Hospital. Nineteen patients had all grades of ICI-ILD and 10 had grade ≥ 3 ICI-ILD. The 30-day mortality rate of patients with grade ≥ 3 ICI-ILD was the highest among all patients (P < 0.01). The multivariate logistic analysis indicated that the performance status ≥ 2 alone and both performance status ≥ 2 and ≥ 50 pack-year were independent risk factors of ICI-ILD of grade ≥ 3 and all grades, respectively. Overall, our study provides insights to predict ICI-ILD occurrence.
Upregulation of circ_0000199 in circulating exosomes is associated with survival outcome in OSCC
Authors: Luo Yanwei , Liu Fengxia , Guo Jie , Gui Rong
Published: August 2020

Studies have found that circRNA in exosomes is associated with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) progression. In this study, we examined the expression of circ_0000199 in circulating exosomes from patients with OSCC and its role in the evaluation of relapse and prognosis. Real‐time quantitative reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction was performed to assess circ_0000199 expression in circulating exosomes from 108 patients with OSCC and 50 healthy people. Gain- and loss-functional experiments were performed to assess the role of circ_0000199 on cell proliferation and apoptosis in OSCC cells. Our results showed that the high level of circ_0000199 in circulating exosomes was significantly associated with betel quid chewing, tumor size, lymphatic metastasis, and TNM stage in patients with OSCC. In addition, the patients with high exosomal circ_0000199 had higher tumor recurrence rate and higher mortality rate than the patients with low exosomal circ_0000199. Overexpression of circ_0000199 promoted, while knockdown of circ_0000199 inhibited OSCC cell growth. Bioinformatics analysis predicted that circ_0000199 interacted with miR-145-5p and miR-29b-3p simultaneously, which were involved in multiple tumor‐related signaling pathways. In conclusion, upregulation of circ_0000199 in circulating exosomes from patients with OSCC is positively associated with poor survival outcome. Circulating exosomal circ_0000199 can be used as a biomarker and potential therapeutic target for OSCC.
Structural insights of the enzymes from the chitin utilization locus of Flavobacterium johnsoniae
Authors: Mazurkewich Scott , Helland Ronny , Mackenzie Alasdair , Eijsink Vincent G. H. , Pope Phillip B. , Brändén Gisela , Larsbrink Johan
Published: August 2020

Chitin is one of the most abundant renewable organic materials found on earth. The chitin utilization locus in Flavobacterium johnsoniae, which encodes necessary proteins for complete enzymatic depolymerization of crystalline chitin, has recently been characterized but no detailed structural information on the enzymes was provided. Here we present protein structures of the F. johnsoniae chitobiase (FjGH20) and chitinase B (FjChiB). FjGH20 is a multi-domain enzyme with a helical domain not before observed in other chitobiases and a domain organization reminiscent of GH84 (β-N-acetylglucosaminidase) family members. The structure of FjChiB reveals that the protein lacks loops and regions associated with exo-acting activity in other chitinases and instead has a more solvent accessible substrate binding cleft, which is consistent with its endo-chitinase activity. Additionally, small angle X-ray scattering data were collected for the internal 70 kDa region that connects the N- and C-terminal chitinase domains of the unique 158 kDa multi-domain chitinase A (FjChiA). The resulting model of the molecular envelope supports bioinformatic predictions of the region comprising six domains, each with similarities to either Fn3-like or Ig-like domains. Taken together, the results provide insights into chitin utilization by F. johnsoniae and reveal structural diversity in bacterial chitin metabolism.
Haptoglobin polymorphisms in Latin American populations
Authors: Soejima Mikiko , Koda Yoshiro
Published: August 2020

Several genetic polymorphisms of the haptoglobin gene (HP) or haptoglobin-related gene (HPR) were reported to show a population-specific distribution and to be associated with not only serum haptoglobin (HP) but also cholesterol levels. For such association studies, it is important to know the distribution of polymorphisms or their haplotypes in the populations concerned. However, no comprehensive genetic studies have explored this in Latin Americans, and not every human variation or genotype is available in a database. In this study, we determined the genotypes of common HP (HP1 and HP2), HPdel, rs5471, rs5472, and rs2000999 in several Latin American populations. Haplotypes of rs5472-common HP-rs2000999 polymorphisms were estimated. We did not encounter any HPdel, and the frequencies of rs5471 A, rs5472 A, HP1, and rs2000999 G were higher than their counterpart alleles in studied populations. All of the alleles with higher frequency in the Latin Americans are associated with higher serum HP and lower cholesterol levels. Both A-1-G (probably HP1S) and G-1-G (probably HP1F) haplotypes were higher in Latin American populations than those in other geographic regions. In addition, the genetic influx from populations of other continents into Peruvians seems to be relatively lower than that into other Latin Americans.
Transient binding and jumping dynamics of p53 along DNA revealed by sub-millisecond resolved single-molecule fluorescence tracking
Authors: Subekti Dwiky Rendra Graha , Murata Agato , Itoh Yuji , Takahashi Satoshi , Kamagata Kiyoto
Published: August 2020

Characterization of the target search dynamics of DNA-binding proteins along DNA has been hampered by the time resolution of a standard single-molecule fluorescence microscopy. Here, we achieved the time resolution of 0.5 ms in the fluorescence microscopy measurements by optimizing the fluorescence excitation based on critical angle illumination and by utilizing the time delay integration mode of the electron-multiplying charge coupled device. We characterized the target search dynamics of the tumor suppressor p53 along nonspecific DNA at physiological salt concentrations. We identified a short-lived encounter intermediate before the formation of the long-lived p53–DNA complex. Both the jumps and the one-dimensional diffusion of p53 along DNA were accelerated at higher salt concentrations, suggesting the rotation-uncoupled movement of p53 along DNA grooves and conformational changes in the p53/DNA complex. This method can be used to clarify the unresolved dynamics of DNA-binding proteins previously hidden by time averaging.
Nanostructured selenium-doped biphasic calcium phosphate with in situ incorporation of silver for antibacterial applications
Authors: Nie Lei , Hou Mengjuan , Wang Tianwen , Sun Meng , Hou Ruixia
Published: August 2020

Selenium-doped nanostructure has been considered as an attractive approach to enhance the antibacterial activity of calcium phosphate (CaP) materials in diverse medical applications. In this study, the selenium-doped biphasic calcium phosphate nanoparticles (SeB-NPs) were first synthesized. Then, silver was in situ incorporated into SeB-NPs to obtain nanostructured composite nanoparticles (AgSeB-NPs). Both SeB-NPs and AgSeB-NPs were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy (UV–Vis), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and Raman spectra. The results confirmed that the SeO32− was doped at the PO43− position and silver nanoparticles were deposited on the surface of SeB-NPs. Next, Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) analysis displayed that the prepared AgSeB-NPs had a needle-cluster-like morphology. CCK-8 analysis revealed SeB-NPs and AgSeB-NPs had good cytocompatibility with osteoblasts. The antibacterial activity of the prepared AgSeB-NPs was confirmed by using Gram-negative E. coli and Gram-positive S. aureus. The above results manifested the significance of the final AgSeB-NPs for biomedical applications.
Climate change impact on flood and extreme precipitation increases with water availability
Authors: Tabari Hossein
Published: August 2020

The hydrological cycle is expected to intensify with global warming, which likely increases the intensity of extreme precipitation events and the risk of flooding. The changes, however, often differ from the theorized expectation of increases in water‐holding capacity of the atmosphere in the warmer conditions, especially when water availability is limited. Here, the relationships of changes in extreme precipitation and flood intensities for the end of the twenty-first century with spatial and seasonal water availability are quantified. Results show an intensification of extreme precipitation and flood events over all climate regions which increases as water availability increases from dry to wet regions. Similarly, there is an increase in the intensification of extreme precipitation and flood with the seasonal cycle of water availability. The connection between extreme precipitation and flood intensity changes and spatial and seasonal water availability becomes stronger as events become less extreme.
The gut microbiome in dogs with congestive heart failure: a pilot study
Authors: Seo Joonbum , Matthewman Linda , Xia Dong , Wilshaw Jenny , Chang Yu-Mei , Connolly David J.
Published: August 2020

Compromised gut health and dysbiosis in people with heart failure has received a great deal of attention over the last decade. Whether dogs with heart failure have a similar dysbiosis pattern to what is described in people is currently unknown. We hypothesised that dogs with congestive heart failure have quantifiable dysbiosis compared to healthy dogs that are similar in sex and age. A total of 50 dogs (15 healthy dogs and 35 dogs with congestive heart failure) were prospectively recruited, and their faecal gut microbiome was assessed using 16S rRNA sequencing (Illumina MiSeq platform). There was no significant change in the microbial diversity and richness in dogs with congestive heart failure. However, there was an increase in abundance of Proteobacteria in the congestive heart failure group (p = 0.014), particularly due to an increase in the familyEnterobacteriaceae(p = 0.002) andEscherichia coli(p = 0.033). We conclude that dogs with congestive heart failure have dysbiosis, and we show additional trends in our data suggesting that dogs may have a similar pattern to that described in people. The results of this study provide useful preliminary information and raise the possibility that dogs represent a clinically relevant animal model of dysbiosis in people with heart failure.
Risk factors for ocular hypertension after intravitreal dexamethasone implantation in diabetic macular edema
Authors: Choi Moon Young , Kwon Jin-woo
Published: August 2020

We designed a retrospective observational study to identify factors associated with ocular hypertension [OHTN, defined as intraocular pressure (IOP) > 25 mmHg] after intravitreal dexamethasone (IVD) implantation in diabetic macular edema (DME) patients. We measured IOP monthly after placement of an IVD implant, and identified the trend of IOP, incidence of OHTN, and its associated systemic or ocular factors. On average, IOP was highest at 2 months after IVD implantation. Of 84 DME patients who received an IVD implant, 3 (3.57%) presented with an IOP ≥ 25 mmHg at 1 month after implantation, 6 (7.14%) at 2 months, and 2 (2.38%) at 3 months. Compared with the non-OHTN group, the OHTN group had significantly shorter axial lengths and were younger. Logistic regression analysis revealed that axial length < 23.00 mm and age < 57 years were associated with OHTN occurrence. Patients whose IOP was elevated > 30% or ≥ 20 mmHg at 1 month post-implantation, subsequently developed OHTN with statistical significance. In conclusion, shorter axial length and younger age were associated with OHTN occurrence after IVD implantation. Additionally, identifying levels or trends in IOP at 1 month after the IVD procedure may be helpful in predicting subsequent OHTN occurrence.
Photocatalytic CO2 conversion: What can we learn from conventional COx hydrogenation?
Authors: Kong Tingting , Jiang Yawen , Xiong Yujie
Published: August 2020

This tutorial review elucidates how to design catalytically active sites for efficient and highly selective photocatalytic reduction of CO2 by learning from conventional CO2 hydrogenation and syngas conversion.
Comparison of liver and plasma metabolic profiles in piglets of different ages as animal models for paediatric population
Authors: Albóniga Oihane E. , González Oskar , Alonso Rosa M. , Xu Yun , Goodacre Royston
Published: August 2020

Plasma is a potential surrogate matrix for liver and the statistical combination of both matrices helps to better understand the differences in metabolic profiles among study groups of different ages.
Visible light-enabled selective depolymerization of oxidized lignin by an organic photocatalyst
Authors: Li Shuyuan , Hao Zhongkai , Wang Kaixuan , Tong Min , Yang Yanan , Jiang Huating , Xiao Yao , Zhang Fang
Published: August 2020

A novel and efficient strategy for the selective depolymerization of lignin model compounds and organosolv lignin via a visible-light-induced photocatalytic continuous-flow reactor was first developed by using perylene diimide (PDI) as a organocatalyst.
Reactivation of sulfide-protected [FeFe] hydrogenase in a redox-active hydrogel
Authors: Oughli Alaa A. , Hardt Steffen , Rüdiger Olaf , Birrell James A. , Plumeré Nicolas
Published: August 2020

[FeFe] hydrogenases are highly active hydrogen conversion catalysts, whose oxygen sensitivity prevents their widespread application. Here, an oxygen-stable inactive form was reactivated in a redox hydrogel enabling its practical use under air.
Theoretical investigation of the dissociation chemistry of formyl halides in the gas phase
Authors: Gahlaut Anchal , Paranjothy Manikandan
Published: August 2020

Halogen substituted analogues of formaldehyde, HXCO (X = F, Cl, Br, and I), play a crucial role in the degradation of stratospheric ozone.
A novel SiO monolayer with a negative Poisson's ratio and Dirac semimetal properties
Authors: Du Hui , Li Guoling , Chen Jiao , Lv Zhenlong , Chen Yuanzheng , Liu Shijie
Published: August 2020

Although a number of interesting physical properties such as a negative Poisson's ratio (NPR) and Dirac semimetal (DS) properties have been recently predicted in two-dimensional (2D) materials, the realization of a 2D material that exhibit both of these DS and NPR features has rarely been reported.
Subtle changes in hydrogen bond orientation result in glassification of carbon capture solvents
Authors: Bañuelos José Leobardo , Lee Mal-Soon , Ngyuen Manh-Thuong , Zhang Difan , Malhotra Deepika , Cantu David C. , Glezakou Vassiliki-Alexandra , Rousseau Roger , Headen Thomas F. , Dalgliesh Robert M. , Heldebrant David J. , Graham Trent R. , Han Kee Sung , Saunders Steven R.
Published: August 2020

Multidisciplinary experimental and theoretical study highlighting the molecular-scale structural and dynamic properties of CO2 capture solvents during a temperature-, time- and CO2-loading-dependent metastable/glassy transition.
Efficient hydrogenolysis of aryl ethers over Ce-MOF supported Pd NPs under mild conditions: mechanistic insight using density functional theoretical calculations
Authors: Kar Ashish Kumar , Kaur Surinder Pal , Kumar T. J. Dhilip , Srivastava Rajendra
Published: August 2020

The significant Pd0 content and optimum bonding of the reactant & product (higher adsorption energy of benzyl phenyl ether and lower desorption energy for phenol) are responsible for the exceptional catalytic activity of Pd/Ce-MOF.
Enhanced sieving of cellulosic microfiber membranesviatuning of interlayer spacing
Authors: Karim Zoheb , Monti Susanna , Barcaro Giovanni , Svedberg Anna , Ansari Mohd Ayub , Afrin Sadaf
Published: August 2020

Functionally active membranes made of cellulosic microfibers (CMFs) have emerged as promising sorbents for the removal of nano-sized pollutants from water.
In vitro gastric emptying characteristics of konjac glucomannan with different viscosity and its effects on appetite regulation
Authors: Shang Longchen , Wang Yi , Ren Yanyan , Ai Tingyang , Zhou Peiyuan , Hu Ling , Wang Ling , Li Jing , Li Bin
Published: August 2020

The effect of meal viscosity imparted by the konjac glucomannan on gastric emptying was explored with a human gastric simulator, which was followed by a consumer test to reveal the relationship between the meal viscosity and satiating capacity.
Optimisation of laser and mass spectrometer parameters for the in situ analysis of Rb/Sr ratios by LA-ICP-MS/MS
Authors: Gorojovsky Lauren , Alard Olivier
Published: August 2020

This study presents a comprehensive examination of LA-ICP-MS/MS operating parameters and calibration strategies for the precise and accurate determination of in situ Rb/Sr ratios.
Molecular engineering of a porphyrin-based hierarchical superstructure: planarity control of a discotic metallomesogen for high thermal conductivity
Authors: Park Minwook , Kang Dong-Gue , Ko Hyeyoon , Rim Minwoo , Tran Duy Thanh , Park Sungjune , Kang Minji , Kim Tae-Wook , Kim Namil , Jeong Kwang-Un
Published: August 2020

The thermal conductivity of a porphyrin-based discotic reactive metallomesogen can be precisely controlled by adjusting its molecular planarity and hierarchical superstructure.
Understanding the enhanced catalytic activity of bimetallic AuCu/TiO2in CO2adsorption and activation: a density functional theory study
Authors: Liu Li , Lv Pingli
Published: August 2020

The up-shift of the d-band centers of Cu atoms makes Au–Cu bimetallic NPs have much higher activity on the TiO2(101) surface.
Rapid and sensitive quantification of cell-associated multi-walled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Steinmetz Lukas , Bourquin Joel , Barosova Hana , Haeni Laetitia , Caldwell Jessica , Milosevic Ana , Geers Christoph , Bonmarin Mathias , Taladriz-Blanco Patricia , Rothen-Rutishauser Barbara , Petri-Fink Alke
Published: August 2020

For the first time lock-in thermography is utilized to assess cell-associated nanoparticles and carbon nanotubes.
Multi-level flash memory device based on stacked anisotropic ReS2–boron nitride–graphene heterostructures
Authors: Wu Enxiu , Xie Yuan , Wang Shijie , Zhang Daihua , Hu Xiaodong , Liu Jing
Published: August 2020

Direction-sensitive multi-level flash memory based on stacked anisotropic ReS2–boron nitride–graphene heterostructures.
Tri-(Fe/F/N)-doped porous carbons as electrocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction in both alkaline and acidic media
Authors: Diao Yongxing , Liu Hanmeng , Yao Zhixia , Liu Yaosheng , Hu Guangxing , Zhang Qifang , Li Zhuang
Published: August 2020

The uniformly dispersed Fe–Nx and the increased defects after F doping make tri-(Fe/F/N)-doped porous carbons electrocatalysts have superior ORR performance than Pt/C in both alkaline and acidic media.
Nitroalkanes as electrophiles: synthesis of triazole-fused heterocycles with neuroblastoma differentiation activity
Authors: Aksenov Nicolai A. , Aksenov Alexander V. , Kirilov Nikita K. , Arutiunov Nikolai A. , Aksenov Dmitrii A. , Maslivetc Vladimir , Zhao Zhenze , Du Liqin , Rubin Michael , Kornienko Alexander
Published: August 2020

A reaction of nitroalkanes with heterocycles possessing a 2-hydrazinylpyridine moiety leading to triazole-fused polyheterocyclic systems with neuroblastoma differentiation activity was discovered.
Route exploration and synthesis of the reported pyridone-based PDI inhibitor STK076545
Authors: Greve Eric , Lindeman Sergey V. , Scartelli Christina , Lin Lin , Flaumenhaft Robert , Dockendorff Chris
Published: August 2020

A 5-step synthesis of a reported PDI inhibitor was developed using an aldol reaction with an allyl ester. Conventional approaches for preparing β-keto amides with a pyridone in the alpha position were complicated by undesired fragmentations or rearrangements.
Hydroquinone and benzoquinone-catalyzed aqueous Knoevenagel condensation
Authors: Takakura Ryoya , Koyama Kaho , Kuwata Marina , Yamada Tsuyoshi , Sajiki Hironao , Sawama Yoshinari
Published: August 2020

Aqueous Knoevenagel condensation of various aldehydes with malononitrile could efficiently proceed using hydroquinone and benzoquinone as mixed catalysts.
Two new approaches based on dynamic carboxyl–hydroxyl or hydroxyl–carboxyl transformation for high molecular weight poly(butylene maleate)
Authors: Chen Tong , Tian Sunan , Xie Zhining , Guo Zhao-Xia , Xu Jun , Guo Bao-Hua
Published: August 2020

Synthesis of high molecular weight maleic acid-based polyesters via a green approach is of great significance but also a huge challenge.
Thermoreversible cross-linking of ethylene/propylene copolymers based on Diels–Alder chemistry: the cross-linking reaction kinetics
Authors: Liu Shuhui , Liu Xiaoyan , He Zongke , Liu Liying , Niu Hui
Published: August 2020

The kinetics of the cross-linking reaction of ethylene/propylene rubbers based on Diels–Alder chemistry was detected by the rheological method.
Understanding the role of galectin inhibitors as potential candidates for SARS-CoV-2 spike protein:in silicostudies
Authors: Sethi Aaftaab , Sanam Swetha , Munagalasetty Sharon , Jayanthi Sivaraman , Alvala Mallika
Published: August 2020

Galectin 3 have the potential to inhibit the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. We validated the studies by docking, MD and MM/GBSA calculations.
Structural characterization and anticancer potency of centipede oligopeptides in human chondrosarcoma cancer: inducing apoptosis
Authors: Ren Yuebing , Song Haibo , Wu Yuanpeng , Ma Xiaochun , Yu Xuezhong , Liu Jia , Sun Jianhui , Zhang Zhicheng
Published: August 2020

CO-10 induced cell apoptosis with mitochondria dysfunction and caspases, ASK1-MAPKs pathway activation.
3D printing of milk-based product
Authors: Lee Cheng Pau , Karyappa Rahul , Hashimoto Michinao
Published: August 2020

We developed a method to 3D-print milk-based inks at room temperature by changing the rheological properties. The method is based on direct ink writing (DIW) and permits multi-material printing of 3D edible structures.
Anin silicoperception for newly isolated flavonoids from peach fruit as privileged avenue for a countermeasure outbreak of COVID-19
Authors: Allam Ahmed E. , Assaf Hamdy K. , Hassan Heba Ali , Shimizu Kuniyoshi , Elshaier Yaseen A. M. M.
Published: August 2020

3′-Hydroxy-4′-methoxy-chroman-7-O-β-d-glucopyranoside4, together with three known compounds, ferulic acid heptyl ester1, naringenin2, and 4,2′,4′-trihydroxy-6′-methoxychalcone-4′-O-β-d-glucopyranoside3, was isolated from peach fruits.
Gamma-radiated biochar carbon for improved supercapacitor performance
Authors: Adhamash Ezaldeen , Pathak Rajesh , Qiao Qiquan , Zhou Yue , McTaggart Robert
Published: August 2020

(a) Schematic of the biochar carbon YP-50 exposed to gamma radiation. (b) Cyclic Voltammetry of supercapacitor with untreated biochar and biochar treated with 50 kGy, 100 kGy, and 150 kGy gamma-radiation.
Influence of nanoparticle-based nano-nutrients on the growth performance and physiological parameters in tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)
Authors: Khan M. Z. H. , Hossain M. M. M. , Khan M. , Ali M. S. , Aktar S. , Moniruzzaman M. , Khan Mala
Published: August 2020

The present study was conducted to evaluate the effects of dietary nano-nutrients on the growth, physiological and amino acid responses in tilapia fish.
Parallel G-quadruplex-mediated protein dimerization and activation
Authors: Thi Truong Tuom Tinh , Cao Cuong , Dang Dung Thanh
Published: August 2020

Parallel G-quadruplex (G4) can act as a target-inducer of dimerization and activation of proteins fusing with RHAU peptide.
Retraction: Equilibrium and kinetic studies on adsorptive removal of malachite green by the citrate-stabilized magnetite nanoparticles
Authors: Fisher Laura
Published: August 2020

Retraction of ‘Equilibrium and kinetic studies on adsorptive removal of malachite green by the citrate-stabilized magnetite nanoparticles’ by Rashmi Rani Mishra et al., RSC Adv., 2014, 4, 51787–51793, DOI: 10.1039/C4RA07651F.
Stability of radical-functionalized gold surfaces by self-assembly and on-surface chemistry
Authors: Junghoefer Tobias , Nowik-Boltyk Ewa Malgorzata , de Sousa J. Alejandro , Giangrisostomi Erika , Ovsyannikov Ruslan , Chassé Thomas , Veciana Jaume , Mas-Torrent Marta , Rovira Concepció , Crivillers Núria , Casu Maria Benedetta
Published: August 2020

We have investigated the radical functionalization of gold with a derivative of the perchlorotriphenylmethyl radical using two methods: by chemisorption from the radical solution and by on surface chemical derivation from a precursor.
Exploring the properties and potential biomedical applications of NSAID-capped peptide hydrogels
Authors: Jervis Peter J. , Amorim Carolina , Pereira Teresa , Martins José A. , Ferreira Paula M. T.
Published: August 2020

This review summarises the work published by our research group, alongside other research groups, on supramolecular hydrogels consisting of short peptides conjugated to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Chameleon skin-inspired polymeric particles for the detection of toluene vapor
Authors: Avşar Deniz Işınsu , Bukusoglu Emre
Published: August 2020

Chameleon skin-inspired polymeric particles that are synthesized from cholesteric liquid crystal-templates offer accurate detection of toluene vapor.
Rational design of transition metal single-atom electrocatalysts: a simulation-based, machine learning-accelerated study
Authors: Wu Lianping , Guo Tian , Li Teng
Published: August 2020

With maximum atom-utilization efficiency, single atom catalysts (SACs) are surging as a new research frontier in catalysis science.
Non-conjugated diketone as a linkage for enhancing the rate performance of poly(perylenediimides)
Authors: Gao Xiang , Chen Yuan , Gu Chengjun , Wen Jing , Peng Xiang , Liu Jiacheng , Zhang Zhanhui , Zhang Qi , Liu Zhitian , Wang Chengliang
Published: August 2020

Non-conjugated carbonyl groups as the linkage facilitated the rate performance of polyimides in sodium-ion batteries.
In situ formation of injectable hydrogels for chronic wound healing
Authors: Gao Yunfen , Li Zhen , Huang Jun , Zhao Meng , Wu Jun
Published: August 2020

Hydrogels have been widely used in wound healing treatment over the past decade.
ROS-initiated chemiluminescence-driven payload release from macrocycle-based Azo-containing polymer nanocapsules
Authors: Sun Chen , Wang Ziyi , Yue Ludan , Huang Qiaoxian , Lu Siyu , Wang Ruibing
Published: August 2020

ROS-responsive polymer nanocapsules formed via crosslinking cucurbit[6]uril by an azobenzene derivative was developed for specific payload release and alleviating inflammation.
Lanthanide-functionalized metal–organic frameworks as ratiometric luminescent sensors
Authors: Zhao Yifang , Li Dan
Published: August 2020

This review summarizes the recent progress of lanthanide-functionalized metal–organic frameworks as ratiometric luminescent sensors in various fields.