bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The miRNA-targeted transcriptome of porcine alveolar macrophages upon infection with Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus
Authors: Dhorne-Pollet Sophie , Crisci Elisa , Mach Nuria , Renson Patricia , Jaffrézic Florence , Marot Guillemette , Maroilley Tatiana , Moroldo Marco , Lecardonnel Jérôme , Blanc Fany , Bertho Nicolas , Bourry Olivier , Giuffra Elisabetta
Published: February 2019

Host miRNAs are known to modulate the cell response to virus infections. We characterized the miRNA-targeted transcriptome of porcine alveolar macrophages (PAMs) at early times after infection with a subtype 1.1 strain of PRRSV (Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus). We performed the immunoprecipitation of RISC (RNA-induced Silencing Complex) followed by microarray analysis of the RISC-bound miRNA targets (RIP-Chip) to evaluate the relative enrichment or depletion of expressed genes in RISC. The miRNA-mediated regulation occurred early after PRRSV infection and decreased fast (1,241 and 141 RISC-bound genes at 7 h and 10 h post-infection, respectively); it affected several cell functions with evidence of miRNA buffering of upregulated interferon-related genes. Eight miRNAs were highly enriched in RISC of both control and infected cells with no evidence of differential expression. Although miR-335-5p was the miRNA with most predicted targets among enriched RISC-bound genes, no effects on surface markers, cytokine expression and PRRSV replication were detected upon miR-335-5p mimics of primary PAMs. Our results do not point to specific miRNA-driven mechanisms regulating the early response to infection with this PRRSV 1.1 strain and indicate that the miRNome expressed by steady-state PAMs reacts promptly to counterbalance PRRSV infection by a pervasive modulation of host functions.
Cervical cancer detection by DNA methylation analysis in urine
Authors: Snoek Barbara C. , Splunter Annina P. van , Bleeker Maaike C. G. , Ruiten Maartje C. van , Heideman Daniëlle A. M. , Rurup W. Frederik , Verlaat Wina , Schotman Hans , Gent Mignon van , Trommel Nienke E. van , Steenbergen Renske D. M.
Published: February 2019

Urine samples provide a potential alternative to physician-taken or self-collected cervical samples for cervical screening. Screening by primary hrHPV testing requires additional risk assessment (so-called triage) of hrHPV-positive women. Molecular markers, such as DNA methylation, have proven most valuable for triage when applied to cervical specimens. This study was set out to compare hrHPV and DNA methylation results in paired urine and cervical scrapes, and to evaluate the feasibility of DNA methylation analysis in urine to detect cervical cancer. Urine samples (n = 41; native and sediment) and paired cervical scrapes (n = 38) from cervical cancer patients, and urine from 44 female controls, were tested for hrHPV and 6 methylation markers. Results on native urine and sediment were highly comparable. A strong agreement was found between hrHPV testing on urine and scrapes (kappa = 0.79). Also, methylation levels in urine were moderately to strongly correlated to those detected in scrapes (r = 0.508–0.717). All markers were significantly increased in urine from cervical cancer patients compared to controls and showed a good discriminatory power for cervical cancer (AUC = 0.744–0.887). Our results show a good agreement of urine-based molecular analysis with reference cervical samples, and suggest that urine-based DNA methylation testing may provide a promising strategy for cervical cancer detection.
A novel organic-rich meteoritic clast from the outer solar system
Authors: Kebukawa Yoko , Ito Motoo , Zolensky Michael E. , Greenwood Richard C. , Rahman Zia , Suga Hiroki , Nakato Aiko , Chan Queenie H. S. , Fries Marc , Takeichi Yasuo , Takahashi Yoshio , Mase Kazuhiko , Kobayashi Kensei
Published: February 2019

The Zag meteorite which is a thermally-metamorphosed H ordinary chondrite contains a primitive xenolithic clast that was accreted to the parent asteroid after metamorphism. The cm-sized clast contains abundant large organic grains or aggregates up to 20 μm in phyllosilicate-rich matrix. Here we report organic and isotope analyses of a large (~10 μm) OM aggregate in the Zag clast. The X-ray micro-spectroscopic technique revealed that the OM aggregate has sp2 dominated hydrocarbon networks with a lower abundance of heteroatoms than in IOM from primitive (CI,CM,CR) carbonaceous chondrites, and thus it is distinguished from most of the OM in carbonaceous meteorites. The OM aggregate has high D/H and 15N/14N ratios (δD = 2,370 ± 74‰ and δ15N = 696 ± 100‰), suggesting that it originated in a very cold environment such as the interstellar medium or outer region of the solar nebula, while the OM is embedded in carbonate-bearing matrix resulting from aqueous activities. Thus, the high D/H ratio must have been preserved during the extensive late-stage aqueous processing. It indicates that both the OM precursors and the water had high D/H ratios. Combined with 16O-poor nature of the clast, the OM aggregate and the clast are unique among known chondrite groups. We further propose that the clast possibly originated from D/P type asteroids or trans-Neptunian Objects.
Effectiveness of ZnPc and of an amine derivative to inactivate Glioblastoma cells by Photodynamic Therapy: an in vitro comparative study
Authors: Velazquez Fabiola N. , Miretti Mariana , Baumgartner Maria T. , Caputto Beatriz L. , Tempesti Tomas C. , Prucca César G.
Published: February 2019

Glioblastoma multiforme is considered to be one of the most aggressive types of tumors of the central nervous system, with a poor prognosis and short survival periods of ~ one year. The current protocol for glioblastoma treatment includes the surgical excision of the primary tumor followed by radio and chemotherapy. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is considered a promising strategy for the treatment of several types of tumors. Phthalocyanines (Pcs) are good photosensitizers (PSs) for PDT because they induce cell death in several cellular models. ZnPc (Zn(II)phthalocyanine) is a well-known Pc, extensively tested in different cells and tumor models, but its evaluation on a glioblastoma model has been poorly studied. Herein, we compare the capacity of ZnPc and one of its derivatives, Zn(II)tetraminephthalocyanine (TAZnPc), to photoinactivate glioblastoma cells (T98G, MO59, LN229 and U87-MG) in culture. We measured the cellular uptake, the toxicity in the dark and the subcellular localization of the different Pcs, as well as the clonogenic capacity of surviving cells after PDT. The mechanism of cell death induced after PDT was determined by measuring caspase 3 activation, DNA fragmentation, phosphatidylserine externalization, mitochondrial morphological changes and loss of mitochondrial membrane potential as well as lysosomal membrane integrity. Overall, ZnPc and TAZnPc present good properties to be used as PSs with photoinactivation capacity on glioblastoma cells.
A T7 autogene-based hybrid mRNA/DNA system for long-term shRNA expression in cytoplasm without inefficient nuclear entry
Authors: Kwak Seo Young , Han Hee Dong , Ahn Hyung Jun
Published: February 2019

The transient silencing effects currently demonstrated by nonviral siRNA delivery systems limit the therapeutic utility of RNAi, but it remains a technical challenge to prolong duration of gene silencing. We have developed a T7 autogene-based hybrid mRNA/DNA system to enable long-term expression of shRNA in cytoplasm in vitro and in vivo. This hybrid mRNA/DNA system consists of T7 polymerase (T7pol) mRNA, pT7/shRNA-encoding DNA fragment and T7 autogene plasmid, and it can generate higher levels of T7pol proteins, compared to pCMV-triggering T7 autogene system, especially without the need of nuclear entry of any gene. A large amount of T7pol proteins produced are used to induce pT7-driven expression of shRNA in cytoplasm, and through cellular processing of RNA hairpins, mature siRNAs are generated for more than 13 days. We here demonstrate that a single liposomal delivery of this hybrid system leads to the long-term silencing effects in vitro and in vivo, in contrast to the conventional siRNA methods relying on the repeated administrations every 2 or 3 days. These sustainable shRNA expression properties in cytoplasm can provide an efficient strategy to address the limitations caused by shRNA-encoding plasmid DNA systems such as low nuclear entry efficiency and short-term silencing effect. The development of long-term shRNA expression system in vivo could scale down administration frequency of RNAi therapeutics in the treatment of chronic diseases, thereby increasing its clinical utility.
The kidney anion exchanger 1 affects tight junction properties via claudin-4
Authors: Lashhab Rawad , Rumley Alina C. , Arutyunov Denis , Rizvi Midhat , You Charlotte , Dimke Henrik , Touret Nicolas , Zimmermann Richard , Jung Martin , Chen Xing-Zhen , Alexander Todd , Cordat Emmanuelle
Published: February 2019

In the renal collecting duct, intercalated cells regulate acid-base balance by effluxing protons through the v-H+-ATPase, and bicarbonate via apical pendrin or the basolateral kidney anion exchanger 1 (kAE1). Additionally, collecting duct cells play an essential role in transepithelial absorption of sodium and chloride. Expression of kAE1 in polarized MDCK I cells was previously shown to decrease trans-epithelial electrical resistance (TEER), suggesting a novel role for kAE1 in paracellular permeability. In our study, we not only confirmed that inducible expression of kAE1 in mIMCD3 cells decreased TEER but we also observed (i) increased epithelial absolute permeability to both sodium and chloride, and (ii) that this effect was dependent on kAE1 activity. Further, kAE1 regulated tight junction properties through the tight junction protein claudin-4, a protein with which it physically interacts and colocalizes. These findings unveil a novel interaction between the junctional protein claudin-4 and the kidney anion exchanger, which may be relevant to ion and/or pH homeostasis.
Unique properties of PTEN-L contribute to neuroprotection in response to ischemic-like stress
Authors: Jochner Magdalena C. E. , An Junfeng , Lättig-Tünnemann Gisela , Kirchner Marieluise , Dagane Alina , Dittmar Gunnar , Dirnagl Ulrich , Eickholt Britta J. , Harms Christoph
Published: February 2019

Phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) signalling might influence neuronal survival after brain ischemia. However, the influence of the less studied longer variant termed PTEN-L (or PTENα) has not been studied to date. Therefore, we examined the translational variant PTEN-L in the context of neuronal survival. We identified PTEN-L by proteomics in murine neuronal cultures and brain lysates and established a novel model to analyse PTEN or PTEN-L variants independently in vitro while avoiding overexpression. We found that PTEN-L, unlike PTEN, localises predominantly in the cytosol and translocates to the nucleus 10–20 minutes after glutamate stress. Genomic ablation of PTEN and PTEN-L increased neuronal susceptibility to oxygen-glucose deprivation. This effect was rescued by expression of either PTEN-L indicating that both PTEN isoforms might contribute to a neuroprotective response. However, in direct comparison, PTEN-L replaced neurons were protected against ischemic-like stress compared to neurons expressing PTEN. Neurons expressing strictly nuclear PTEN-L NLS showed increased vulnerability, indicating that nuclear PTEN-L alone is not sufficient in protecting against stress. We identified mutually exclusive binding partners of PTEN-L or PTEN in cytosolic or nuclear fractions, which were regulated after ischemic-like stress. GRB2-associated-binding protein 2, which is known to interact with phosphoinositol-3-kinase, was enriched specifically with PTEN-L in the cytosol in proximity to the plasma membrane and their interaction was lost after glutamate exposure. The present study revealed that PTEN and PTEN-L have distinct functions in response to stress and might be involved in different mechanisms of neuroprotection.
Nasal mucus glutathione transferase activity and impact on olfactory perception and neonatal behavior
Authors: Robert-Hazotte Aline , Faure Philippe , Neiers Fabrice , Potin Catherine , Artur Yves , Coureaud Gérard , Heydel Jean-Marie
Published: February 2019

In olfaction, to preserve the sensitivity of the response, the bioavailability of odor molecules is under the control of odorant-metabolizing enzymes (OMEs) expressed in the olfactory neuroepithelium. Although this enzymatic regulation has been shown to be involved in olfactory receptor activation and perceptual responses, it remains widely underestimated in vertebrates. In particular, the possible activity of OMEs in the nasal mucus, i.e. the aqueous layer that lined the nasal epithelium and forms the interface for airborne odorants to reach the olfactory sensory neurons, is poorly known. Here, we used the well-described model of the mammary pheromone (MP) and behavioral response in rabbit neonates to challenge the function of nasal mucus metabolism in an unprecedented way. First, we showed, in the olfactory epithelium, a rapid glutathione transferase activity toward the MP by ex vivo real-time mass spectrometry (PTR-MS) which supported an activity in the closest vicinity of both the odorants and olfactory receptors. Indeed and second, both the presence and activity of glutathione transferases were evidenced in the nasal mucus of neonates using proteomic and HPLC analysis respectively. Finally, we strikingly demonstrated that the deregulation of the MP metabolism by in vivo mucus washing modulates the newborn rabbit behavioral responsiveness to the MP. This is a step forward in the demonstration of the critical function of OMEs especially in the mucus, which is at the nasal front line of interaction with odorants and potentially subjected to physiopathological changes.
Modeling ErbB2-p130Cas interaction to design new potential anticancer agents
Authors: Costamagna Andrea , Rossi Sebastiano Matteo , Natalini Dora , Simoni Matilde , Valabrega Giorgio , Defilippi Paola , Visentin Sonja , Ermondi Giuseppe , Turco Emilia , Caron Giulia , Cabodi Sara
Published: February 2019

The ErbB2 receptor tyrosine kinase is overexpressed in approximately 15–20% of breast tumors and associated with aggressive disease and poor clinical outcome. p130Cas represents a nodal scaffold protein regulating cell survival, migration and proliferation in normal and pathological contexts. p130Cas overexpression in ErbB2 human breast cancer correlates with poor prognosis and metastasis formation. Recent data indicate that p130Cas association to ErbB2 protects ErbB2 from degradation, thus enhancing tumorigenesis. Therefore, inhibiting p130Cas/ErbB2 interaction might represent a new therapeutic strategy to target breast cancer. Here we demonstrate by performing Molecular Modeling, Molecular Dynamics, dot blot, ELISA and fluorescence quenching experiments, that p130Cas binds directly to ErbB2. Then, by structure-based virtual screening, we identified two potential inhibitors of p130Cas/ErbB2 interaction. Their experimental validation was performed in vitro and in ErbB2-positive breast cancer cellular models. The results highlight that both compounds interfere with p130Cas/ErbB2 binding and significantly affect cell proliferation and sensitivity to Trastuzumab. Overall, this study identifies p130Cas/ErbB2 complex as a potential breast cancer target revealing new therapeutic perspectives for protein-protein interaction (PPI).
Integrative Analysis Revealing Human Adipose-Specific Genes and Consolidating Obesity Loci
Authors: Ahn Jinsoo , Wu Huiguang , Lee Kichoon
Published: February 2019

Identification of adipose-specific genes has contributed to an understanding of mechanisms underlying adipocyte development and obesity. Herein, our analyses of the recent Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx) database revealed 38 adipose-specific/enhanced protein coding genes, among which 3 genes were novel adipose-specific, and 414 highly differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between subcutaneous and omental adipose depots. By integrative analyses of genome-wide association studies (GWASs), 14 adipose-specific/enhanced genes and 60 DEGs were found to be associated with obesity-related traits and diseases, consolidating evidence for contribution of these genes to the regional fat distribution and obesity phenotypes. In addition, expression of HOXC cluster was up-regulated in subcutaneous adipose tissue, and the majority of the HOXB cluster was expressed highly in omental adipose tissue, indicating differential expression patterns of HOX clusters in adipose depots. Our findings on the distinct gene expression profiles in adipose tissue and their relation to obesity provide an important foundation for future functional biological studies and therapeutic targets in obesity and associated diseases.
Abrupt changes of hydrothermal activity in a lava dome detected by combined seismic and muon monitoring
Authors: Le Gonidec Y. , Rosas-Carbajal M. , Bremond d’Ars J. de , Carlus B. , Ianigro J.-C. , Kergosien B. , Marteau J. , Gibert D.
Published: February 2019

The recent 2014 eruption of the Ontake volcano in Japan recalled that hydrothermal fields of moderately active volcanoes have an unpredictable and hazardous behavior that may endanger human beings. Steam blasts can expel devastating ejecta and create craters of several tens of meters. The management of such hydrothermal events in populated areas is problematic because of their very short time of occurrence. At present no precursory signal is clearly identified as a potential warning of imminent danger. Here we show how the combination of seismic noise monitoring and muon density tomography allows to detect, with an unprecedented space and time resolution, the increase of activity (at timescales of few hours to few days) of a hydrothermal spot located 50 to 100 m below the summit of an active volcano, the La Soufrière of Guadeloupe, in the Lesser Antilles. We show how the combination of those two methods improves the risk evaluation of short-term hazards and the localization of the involved volumes in the volcano. We anticipate that the deployment of networks of various sensors including temperature probes, seismic antennas and cosmic muon telescopes around such volcanoes could valuably contribute to early warning decisions.
Detection of Mycobacterium leprae DNA in soil: multiple needles in the haystack
Authors: Tió-Coma Maria , Wijnands Thomas , Pierneef Louise , Schilling Anna Katarina , Alam Korshed , Roy Johan Chandra , Faber William R. , Menke Henk , Pieters Toine , Stevenson Karen , Richardus Jan Hendrik , Geluk Annemieke
Published: February 2019

Leprosy is an infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae affecting the skin and nerves. Despite decades of availability of adequate treatment, transmission is unabated and transmission routes are not completely understood. Despite the general assumption that untreated M. leprae infected humans represent the major source of transmission, scarce reports indicate that environmental sources could also play a role as a reservoir. We investigated whether M. leprae DNA is present in soil of regions where leprosy is endemic or areas with possible animal reservoirs (armadillos and red squirrels). Soil samples (n = 73) were collected in Bangladesh, Suriname and the British Isles. Presence of M. leprae DNA was determined by RLEP PCR and genotypes were further identified by Sanger sequencing. M. leprae DNA was identified in 16.0% of soil from houses of leprosy patients (Bangladesh), in 10.7% from armadillos’ holes (Suriname) and in 5% from the habitat of lepromatous red squirrels (British Isles). Genotype 1 was found in Bangladesh whilst in Suriname the genotype was 1 or 2. M. leprae DNA can be detected in soil near human and animal sources, suggesting that environmental sources represent (temporary) reservoirs for M. leprae.
Multilevel information storage using magnetoelastic layer stacks
Authors: Pattnaik D. P. , Beardsley R. P. , Love C. , Cavill S. A. , Edmonds K. W. , Rushforth A. W.
Published: February 2019

The use of voltages to control magnetisation via the inverse magnetostriction effect in piezoelectric/ferromagnet heterostructures holds promise for ultra-low energy information storage technologies. Epitaxial galfenol, an alloy of iron and gallium, has been shown to be a highly suitable material for such devices because it possesses biaxial anisotropy and large magnetostriction. Here we experimentally investigate the properties of galfenol/spacer/galfenol structures in which the compositions of the galfenol layers are varied in order to produce different strengths of the magnetic anisotropy and magnetostriction constants. Based upon these layers, we propose and simulate the operation of an information storage device that can operate as an energy efficient multilevel memory cell.
Adiponectin is associated with cardio-metabolic traits in Mexican children
Authors: He Juehua , Stryjecki Carolina , Reddon Hudson , Peralta-Romero Jesus , Karam-Araujo Roberto , Suarez Fernando , Gomez-Zamudio Jaime , Burguete-Garcia Ana , Alyass Akram , Cruz Miguel , Meyre David
Published: February 2019

The adipocyte-derived adiponectin hormone bridges obesity and its cardio-metabolic complications. Genetic variants at the ADIPOQ locus, in ADIPOR1, and ADIPOR2 have been associated with adiponectin concentrations and cardio-metabolic complications in diverse ethnicities. However, no studies have examined these associations in Mexican children. We recruited 1 457 Mexican children from Mexico City. Six genetic variants in or near ADIPOQ (rs182052, rs2241766, rs266729, rs822393), ADIPOR1 (rs10920533), and ADIPOR2 (rs11061971) were genotyped. Associations between serum adiponectin, genetic variants, and cardio-metabolic traits were assessed using linear and logistic regressions adjusted for age, sex, and recruitment center. Serum adiponectin concentration was negatively associated with body mass index, waist to hip ratio, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, total cholesterol, triglycerides, fasting glucose, fasting insulin, homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance, dyslipidemia and overweight/obesity status (7.76 × 10−40 ≤ p ≤ 3.00 × 10−3). No significant associations between genetic variants in ADIPOQ, ADIPOR1, and ADIPOR2 and serum adiponectin concentration were identified (all p ≥ 0.30). No significant associations between the six genetic variants and cardio-metabolic traits were observed after Bonferroni correction (all p < 6.9 × 10−4). Our study suggests strong associations between circulating adiponectin concentration and cardio-metabolic traits in Mexican children.
Microfluidic model systems used to emulate processes occurring during soft particle filtration
Authors: Bouhid de Aguiar Izabella , Meireles Martine , Bouchoux Antoine , Schroën Karin
Published: February 2019

Cake layer formation in membrane processes is an inevitable phenomenon. For hard particles, especially cake porosity and thickness determine the membrane flux, but when the particles forming the cake are soft, the variables one has to take into account in the prediction of cake behavior increase considerably. In this work we investigate the behavior of soft polyacrylamide microgels in microfluidic model membranes through optical microscopy for in situ observation both under regular flow and under enhanced gravity conditions. Particles larger than the pore are able to pass through deformation and deswelling. We find that membrane clogging time and cake formation is not dependent on the applied pressure but rather on particle and membrane pore properties. Furthermore, we found that particle deposits subjected to low pressures and low g forces deform in a totally reversible fashion. Particle deposits subjected to higher pressures only deform reversibly if they can re-swell due to capillary forces, otherwise irreversible compression is observed. For membrane processes this implies that when using deformable particles, the pore size is not a good indicator for membrane performance, and cake formation can have much more severe consequences compared to hard particles due to the sometimes-irreversible nature of soft particle compression.
Cold-priming of chloroplast ROS signalling is developmentally regulated and is locally controlled at the thylakoid membrane
Authors: van Buer Jörn , Prescher Andreas , Baier Margarete
Published: February 2019

24 h exposure to 4 °C primes Arabidopsis thaliana in the pre-bolting rosette stage for several days against full cold activation of the ROS responsive genes ZAT10 and BAP1 and causes stronger cold-induction of pleiotropically stress-regulated genes. Transient over-expression of thylakoid ascorbate peroxidase (tAPX) at 20 °C mimicked and tAPX transcript silencing antagonized cold-priming of ZAT10 expression. The tAPX effect could not be replaced by over-expression of stromal ascorbate peroxidase (sAPX) demonstrating that priming is specific to regulation of tAPX availability and, consequently, regulated locally at the thylakoid membrane. Arabidopsis acquired cold primability in the early rosette stage between 2 and 4 weeks. During further rosette development, primability was widely maintained in the oldest leaves. Later formed and later maturing leaves were not primable demonstrating that priming is stronger regulated with plant age than with leaf age. In 4-week-old plants, which were strongest primable, the memory was fully erasable and lost seven days after priming. In summary, we conclude that cold-priming of chloroplast-to-nucleus ROS signalling by transient post-stress induction of tAPX transcription is a strategy to modify cell signalling for some time without affecting the alertness for activation of cold acclimation responses.
Endothelin neurotransmitter signalling controls zebrafish social behaviour
Authors: Carreño Gutiérrez Héctor , Colanesi Sarah , Cooper Ben , Reichmann Florian , Young Andrew M. J. , Kelsh Robert N. , Norton William H. J.
Published: February 2019

The formation of social groups is an adaptive behaviour that can provide protection from predators, improve foraging and facilitate social learning. However, the costs of proximity can include competition for resources, aggression and kleptoparasitism meaning that the decision whether to interact represents a trade-off. Here we show that zebrafish harbouring a mutation inendothelin receptor aa(ednraa) form less cohesive shoals than wild-types.ednraa−/−mutants exhibit heightened aggression and decreased whole-body cortisol levels suggesting that they are dominant. These behavioural changes correlate with a reduction of parvocellular arginine vasopressin (AVP)-positive neurons in the preoptic area, an increase in the size of magnocellular AVP neurons and a higher concentration of 5-HT and dopamine in the brain. Manipulation of AVP or 5-HT signalling can rescue the shoaling phenotype ofednraa−/−providing an insight into how the brain controls social interactions.
Inhibitory effects of polysorbate 80 on MRSA biofilm formed on different substrates including dermal tissue
Authors: Ueda Yutaka , Mashima Kota , Miyazaki Motoyasu , Hara Shuuji , Takata Tohru , Kamimura Hidetoshi , Takagi Satoshi , Jimi Shiro
Published: February 2019

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) forms biofilms on necrotic tissues and medical devices, and causes persistent infections. Surfactants act on biofilms, but their mode of action is still unknown. If used in the clinic, cytotoxicity in tissues should be minimized. In this study, we investigated the inhibitory effect of four different surfactants on MRSA biofilm formation, and found that a nonionic surfactant, polysorbate 80 (PS80), was the most suitable. The biofilm inhibitory effects resulted from the inhibition of bacterial adhesion to substrates rather than biofilm disruption, and the effective dose was less cytotoxic for 3T3 fibroblasts. However, the effects were substrate-dependent: positive for plastic, silicon, and dermal tissues, but negative for stainless-steel. These results indicate that PS80 is effective for prevention of biofilms formed by MRSA on tissues and foreign bodies. Therefore, PS80 could be used in medical practice as a washing solution for wounds and/or pretreatment of indwelling catheters.
Correlations among Diabetic Microvascular Complications: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Li Jianqing , Cao Yihong , Liu Weiming , Wang Qiuke , Qian Yifeng , Lu Peirong
Published: February 2019

Early detection of diabetic microvascular complications is of great significance for disease prognosis. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to investigate the correlation among diabetic microvascular complications which may indicate the importance of screening for other complications in the presence of one disorder. PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library were searched and a total of 26 cross-sectional studies met our inclusion criteria. Diabetic retinopathy (DR) had a proven risk association with diabetic kidney disease (DKD) [odds ratio (OR): 4.64, 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.47–8.75, p < 0.01], while DKD also related to DR (OR: 2.37, 95% CI: 1.79–3.15, p < 0.01). In addition, DR was associated with diabetic neuropathy (DN) (OR: 2.22, 95% CI: 1.70–2.90, p < 0.01), and DN was related to DR (OR: 1.73, 95% CI: 1.19–2.51, p < 0.01). However, the risk correlation between DKD and DN was not definite. Therefore, regular screening for the other two microvascular complications in the case of one complication makes sense, especially for patients with DR. The secondary results presented some physical conditions and comorbidities which were correlated with these three complications and thus should be paid more attention.
Risk factors for robot-assisted spinal pedicle screw malposition
Authors: Zhang Jia Nan , Fan Yong , Hao Ding Jun
Published: February 2019

The accuracy of robot-assisted pedicle screw placement is unstable and remains controversial. The purpose of this study was to determine the risk factors for unsatisfactory Renaissance robot-assisted pedicle screw placement. This was a retrospective study of prospective data. From January 2017 to March 2018, 136 robot-assisted pedicle screw placements were performed in our department for spinal diseases, and a total of 874 screws were evaluated. All screws were assessed by the Gertzbein and Robbins classification. A and B were defined as satisfactory. C, D, and E were defined as unsatisfactory. Intraoperative registration failures due to nontechnical reasons or intraoperative adjustment were also defined as unsatisfactory. According to the evaluated results, the screws were divided into the satisfactory group (Group A) and the unsatisfactory group (Group B). The satisfactory rate was defined as satisfactory screws (the screws in Group A)/total screws, and the accurate rate was defined as accuracy screws (the screws in Group A)/the screws implanted by the robot (total screws - failed registration screws - screws adjusted during the operation). The age, sex, BMI, and BMD as well as the type of disease, the degree of vertebral rotation and the type of screw placement (percutaneous implantation or open implantation) were compared between the two groups, with the assessment of potential risk factors for unsatisfactory robot-assisted screw placement using logistic regression. A total of 874 screws were evaluated; there were 759 screws in Group A and 115 screws in Group B. The satisfactory rate was 86.8% (759/874), and the accuracy rate of the robot-placed screws was 94.4% (759/804). After logistic regression analysis, the independent risk factors were identified as obesity (OR 5.357 [95% CI 2.897–9.906], p < 0.01), osteoporosis, vertebral rotation and the presence of congenital scoliosis (OR 9.835 [95% CI 4.279–22.604], p < 0.01), particularly for severe osteoporosis (T < −3.5) and severe vertebral rotation (III-IV). According to the results of this study, obesity, osteoporosis and congenital scoliosis are risk factors for unsatisfactory robot-assisted screw placement. Furthermore, for surgeons in the initial stage of using a robot, we suggest avoiding cases in which a single risk factor or multiple risk factors exist to ensure the safety of the operation and to help augment the confidence of the surgeons.
Controllability affects endocrine response of adolescent male rats to stress as well as impulsivity and behavioral flexibility during adulthood
Authors: Sanchís-Ollé Maria , Fuentes Silvia , Úbeda-Contreras Jesús , Lalanza Jaume F. , Ramos-Prats Arnau , Armario Antonio , Nadal Roser
Published: February 2019

Exposure to stress during adolescence exerts a long-term impact on behavior and might contribute to the development of several neuropsychiatric disorders. In adults, control over stress has been found to protect from the negative consequences of stress, but the influence of controllability at early ages has not been extensively studied. Here, we evaluated in a rodent model the effects of repeated exposure in adolescent male rats to controllable versus uncontrollable foot-shock stress (CST or UST, respectively). Rats were assigned to three groups: non-stress (stress-naïve), CST (exposed to 8 sessions of a two-way shuttle active avoidance task over a period of 22 days) and UST (receiving the same amount of shocks as CST, regardless of their actual behavior). During adulthood, different cohorts were tested in several tasks evaluating inhibitory control and cognitive flexibility: 5-choice serial reaction time, delay-discounting, gambling test and probabilistic reversal learning. Results showed that the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal response to the first shock session was similar in CST and UST animals, but the response to the 8thsession was lower in CST animals. In adulthood, the UST animals presented impaired motor (but not cognitive) impulsivity and more perseverative behavior. The behavioral effects of UST were associated with increased number of D2 dopamine receptors in dorsomedial striatum, but not in other striatal regions. In summary, UST exposure during adolescence induced long-term impairments in impulsivity and compulsivity, whereas CST had only minor effects. These data support a critical role of stress uncontrollability on the long-lasting consequences of stress, as a risk factor for mental illnesses.
Reliability of two methods for identifying the timing of medium latency responses in subjects with and without chronic ankle instability
Authors: Sousa Andreia S. P. , Valente Isabel , Pinto Ana , Santos Rubim
Published: February 2019

This study aims to: (1) to compare 2 methods of assessing the timing of medium latency responses (MLR), in regard to intrasession reliability and mean values, in subjects with and without chronic ankle instability (CAI), and (2) to analyze the influence of CAI in timing of MLR and in its reliability. Thirty six athletes with (16) and without (20) CAI participated. Bilateral electromyography of peroneus longus (PL), peroneus brevis (PB), tibialis anterior (TA) and soleus (SOL) muscles was collected during a unilateral sudden inversion perturbation to assess the timing of MLR onset, in both standing and perturbed positions, through a baseline-based method and a peak-response-based method. The group without CAI presented higher relative reliability of SOL and peroneal muscles MLR with the peak response-based method than with the baseline-based method. Compared with the group without CAI and in both methods, the group with CAI presented a delayed and less reliable TA MLR, as well decreased coefficient variation of PL MLR in the uninjured limb. In conclusion, regardless of the method subjects with CAI present delayed and less reliable TA MLR while in subjects without CAI the peak response-based method provides higher reliability.
Signalling through the yeast MAPK Cell Wall Integrity pathway controls P-body assembly upon cell wall stress
Authors: García Raúl , Pulido Verónica , Orellana-Muñoz Sara , Nombela César , Vázquez de Aldana Carlos R. , Rodríguez-Peña José M. , Arroyo Javier
Published: February 2019

Post-transcriptional control of mRNA is a key event in the regulation of gene expression. From yeast to human cells, P-bodies are cytoplasmic RNA-protein aggregates that play an essential role in this process, particularly under stress conditions. In this work, we show that in the model yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae cell wall stress induces the formation of these structures. This effect is dependent on multiple elements in the Cell Wall Integrity (CWI) MAPK signalling pathway, a signal transduction cascade responsible for the maintenance of cell integrity under adverse environmental conditions. Remarkably, P-body assembly requires the catalytic activity of the MAPK of the pathway, Slt2/Mpk1. In accordance with the control exerted by this signalling pathway, the timing of P-body formation is similar to that of the activation of the CWI pathway. Noticeably, mRNAs whose expression is regulated by this pathway localize in P-bodies after the cell is exposed to stress following a temporal pattern coincident with CWI pathway activation. Moreover, when these mRNAs are overexpressed in a mutant background unable to form visible P-bodies, the cells show hypersensitivity to agents that interfere with cell wall integrity, supporting that they play a role in the mRNA lifecycle under stress conditions.
Polymorphisms in CARD8 and NLRP3 are associated with extrapulmonary TB and poor clinical outcome in active TB in Ethiopia
Authors: Abate Ebba , Blomgran Robert , Verma Deepti , Lerm Maria , Fredrikson Mats , Belayneh Meseret , Söderkvist Peter , Stendahl Olle , Schön Thomas
Published: February 2019

Innate immunity is a first line defense against Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection where inflammasome activation and secretion of the pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-1beta, plays a major role. Thus, genetic polymorphisms in innate immunity-related genes such as CARD8 and NLRP3 may contribute to the understanding of why most exposed individuals do not develop infection. Our aim was to investigate the association between polymorphisms in CARD8 and NLRP3 and active tuberculosis (TB) as well as their relationship to treatment outcome in a high-endemic setting for TB. Polymorphisms in CARD8 (C10X) and NLRP3 (Q705K) were analysed in 1190 TB patients and 1990 healthy donors (HD). There was a significant association between homozygotes in the CARD8 polymorphism and extrapulmonary TB (EPTB), which was not the case for pulmonary TB or HDs. Among TB-patients, there was an association between poor treatment outcome and the NLRP3 (Q705K) polymorphism. Our study shows that inflammasome polymorphisms are associated with EPTB and poor clinical outcome in active TB in Ethiopia. The practical implications and determining causal relationships on a mechanistic level needs further study.
Polymerisation Shrinkage Profiling of Dental Composites using Optical Fibre Sensing and their Correlation with Degree of Conversion and Curing Rate
Authors: Rajan Ginu , Raju Raju , Jinachandran Sagar , Farrar Paul , Xi Jiangtao , Prusty B. Gangadhara
Published: February 2019

Traditional polymerisation shrinkage (PS) measurement systems measure average PS of dental composites, but the true local PS varies along the length and breadth of the composite. The PS depends on the curing light intensity distribution, resultant degree of conversion (DOC) and the curing rate. In this paper, optical fibre Bragg grating (FBG) sensing based technology is used to measure the linear post-gel PS at multiple locations within dental composite specimens, and is correlated with DOC and curing rate. A commercial dental composite is used, and its post-gel PS and DOC are mapped using embedded fibre Bragg grating sensors at different curing conditions. The distance between the curing lamp and the composite specimen is varied which resulted in different intensity distribution across the specimen. The effect of curing light intensity distribution on PS, curing rate and DOC are investigated for demonstrating a relationship among them. It is demonstrated that FBG sensing method is an effective method to accurately profiling post-gel PS across the specimen.
Isolation of gene-edited cells via knock-in of short glycophosphatidylinositol-anchored epitope tags
Authors: Zotova Anastasia , Pichugin Alexey , Atemasova Anastasia , Knyazhanskaya Ekaterina , Lopatukhina Elena , Mitkin Nikita , Holmuhamedov Ekhson , Gottikh Marina , Kuprash Dmitry , Filatov Alexander , Mazurov Dmitriy
Published: February 2019

We describe Surface Oligopeptide knock-in for Rapid Target Selection (SORTS), a novel method to select mammalian cells with precise genome modifications that does not rely on cell cloning. SORTS is designed to disrupt the target gene with an expression cassette encoding an epitope tag embedded into human glycophosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored protein CD52. The cassette is very short, usually less than 250 nucleotides, which simplifies donor DNA construction and facilitates transgene integration into the target locus. The chimeric protein is then expressed from the target promoter, processed and exposed on the plasma membrane where it serves as a marker for FACS sorting with tag-specific antibodies. Simultaneous use of two different epitope tags enables rapid isolation of cells with biallelic knock-ins. SORTS can be easily and reliably applied to a number of genome-editing problems such as knocking out genes encoding intracellular or secreted proteins, protein tagging and inactivation of HIV-1 provirus.
Two triphenylamine-based luminescent metal–organic frameworks as a dual-functional sensor for the detection of nitroaromatic compounds and ofloxacin antibiotic
Authors: Yao Xiao-Qiang , Xiao Guo-Bin , Xie Hua , Qin Dong-Dong , Ma Heng-Chang , Liu Jia-Cheng , Yan Pen-Ji
Published: February 2019

Two solvent-induced luminescent MOFs have been synthesized and MOF1 can be employed as a dual-functional fluorescence sensor for nitroaromatics and antibiotics.
Mechanistic study of ethanol steam reforming on TM–Mo6S8clusters: a DFT study
Authors: Hao Zijun , Guo Ling , Xing Minmin , Zhang Qian
Published: February 2019

The mechanism of ethanol steam reforming (ESR) on TM–Mo6S8(TM = Pt, Pd) clusters is systematically investigated using a combination of the microscopic kinetic model, energetic span model (ESM) and d-band model under density functional theory (DFT) calculations.
Hierarchical porous hollow FeFe(CN)6 nanospheres wrapped with I-doped graphene as anode materials for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Ren Zhengxin , Hu Die , Zhang Xiannan , Liu Dan , Wang Cheng
Published: February 2019

Hierarchical porous hollow FeFe(CN)6 nanospheres were synthesized via a facile anisotropic chemical etching route and integrated with I-doped graphene (IG) to form FeFe(CN)6@IG composites, which were used as anode materials for the lithium-ion battery (LIB) and exhibited high specific capacities, excellent rate properties, and superior cycling stabilities.
Triple conjugated carbon dots as a nano-drug delivery model for glioblastoma brain tumors
Authors: Hettiarachchi Sajini D. , Graham Regina M. , Mintz Keenan J. , Zhou Yiqun , Vanni Steven , Peng Zhilli , Leblanc Roger M.
Published: February 2019

Most of the dual nano drug delivery systems fail to enter malignant brain tumors due to a lack of proper targeting systems and the size increase of the nanoparticles after drug conjugation. Therefore, a triple conjugated system was developed with carbon dots (C-dots) which has an average particle size of 1.5–1.7 nm.
Combined Fenton and starvation therapies using hemoglobin and glucose oxidase
Authors: Ranji-Burachaloo Hadi , Reyhani Amin , Gurr Paul A. , Dunstan Dave E. , Qiao Greg G.
Published: February 2019

Selective cancer treatment using combined Fenton and starvation therapies through hemoglobin and glucose oxidase encapsulated in pH-sensitive ZIF-8.
Associative properties of poly(ethylene glycol)–poly(vinyl acetate) comb-like graft copolymers in water
Authors: Mamusa Marianna , Tempesti Paolo , Bartolini Arianna , Carretti Emiliano , Ghobadi Ahmad F. , Smets Johan , Aouad Yousef G. , Baglioni Piero
Published: February 2019

A PEG-graft-PVAc comb-like copolymer in water forms spherical single-chain nanoparticles that transition towards hierarchically complex structures with increasing polymer concentration.
One-pot synthesis of 4-arylidene imidazolin-5-ones by reaction of amino acid esters with isocyanates and α-bromoketones
Authors: Haung Jia-Yun , Barve Indrajeet J. , Sun Chung-Ming
Published: February 2019

A one-pot multicomponent reaction for assembling substituted 4-arylidene imidazolin-5-ones from l-amino acid methyl esters, iso-, isothio- or isoselenocyanates, and α-bromoketones has been discovered.
Expanding DNA nanomachine functionality through binding-induced DNA output for application in clinical diagnosis
Authors: Du Huan , Yang Peng , Hou Xin , Zhou Rongxing , Hou Xiandeng , Chen Junbo
Published: February 2019

Herein, we describe two homogeneous conversion systems that can convert protein recognition into the release of predesigned output DNA for the activation of DNA nanomachines.
Pentamethylcyclopentadienyl ruthenium “pogo stick” complexes with nitrogen donor ligands
Authors: Peters Marius , Bannenberg Thomas , Bockfeld Dirk , Tamm Matthias
Published: February 2019

The preparation and reactivity of an imidazolin-2-iminato ruthenium complex with a rare one-legged piano-stool (“pogo stick”) geometry is reported.
Correction: Reusable bentonite clay: modelling and optimization of hazardous lead and p-nitrophenol adsorption using a response surface methodology approach
Authors: Zbair Mohamed , Anfar Zakaria , Ahsaine Hassan Ait
Published: February 2019

Correction for ‘Reusable bentonite clay: modelling and optimization of hazardous lead and p-nitrophenol adsorption using a response surface methodology approach’ by Mohamed Zbair et al., RSC Adv., 2019, 9, 5756–5769.
Tongue Strength in Children With and Without Speech Sound Disorders
Authors: Potter Nancy L. , Nievergelt Yves , VanDam Mark
Published: February 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this cross-sectional investigation was to expand the comparative database of pediatric tongue strength for children and adolescents with typical development, ages 3–17 years, and compare tongue strength among children with typical development, speech sound delay/disorders (SD), and motor speech disorders (MSDs).

Method

Tongue strength was measured using the Iowa Oral Performance Instrument in a total of 286 children and adolescents, 228 with typical development, 16 with SD, and 42 with MSDs, including classic galactosemia, a known risk factor for MSD (
n
= 33) and idiopathic MSD (
n
= 9).

Results

For all groups, tongue strength increased rapidly from 3 to 6.5 years of age and then continued to increase with age at a slower rate until 17 years of age. Children with SD's tongue strength did not differ from their typically developing (TD) peers. Children and adolescents with MSDs had decreased tongue strength compared to children with typical development or SD. Tongue strength was not related to severity of speech sound disorders in SD or MSD.

Conclusion

Weak tongue strength does not appear to contribute to speech errors in children with speech sound delays but does appear to be related to speech sound disorders that are neurologic in origin (developmental MSD).