bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ATR is essential for preservation of cell mechanics and nuclear integrity during interstitial migration
Authors: Kidiyoor Gururaj Rao , Li Qingsen , Bastianello Giulia , Bruhn Christopher , Giovannetti Irene , Mohamood Adhil , Beznoussenko Galina V. , Mironov Alexandre , Raab Matthew , Piel Matthieu , Restuccia Umberto , Matafora Vittoria , Bachi Angela , Barozzi Sara , Parazzoli Dario , Frittoli Emanuela , Palamidessi Andrea , Panciera Tito , Piccolo Stefano , Scita Giorgio , Maiuri Paolo , Havas Kristina M. , Zhou Zhong-Wei , Kumar Amit , Bartek Jiri , Wang Zhao-Qi , Foiani Marco
Published: September 2020

ATR responds to mechanical stress at the nuclear envelope and mediates envelope-associated repair of aberrant topological DNA states. By combining microscopy, electron microscopic analysis, biophysical and in vivo models, we report that ATR-defective cells exhibit altered nuclear plasticity and YAP delocalization. When subjected to mechanical stress or undergoing interstitial migration, ATR-defective nuclei collapse accumulating nuclear envelope ruptures and perinuclear cGAS, which indicate loss of nuclear envelope integrity, and aberrant perinuclear chromatin status. ATR-defective cells also are defective in neuronal migration during development and in metastatic dissemination from circulating tumor cells. Our findings indicate that ATR ensures mechanical coupling of the cytoskeleton to the nuclear envelope and accompanying regulation of envelope-chromosome association. Thus the repertoire of ATR-regulated biological processes extends well beyond its canonical role in triggering biochemical implementation of the DNA damage response.
Correlation between the static and dynamic responses of organic single-crystal field-effect transistors
Authors: Sawada Taiki , Yamamura Akifumi , Sasaki Mari , Takahira Kayo , Okamoto Toshihiro , Watanabe Shun , Takeya Jun
Published: September 2020

Transistors, the most important logic elements, are maintained under dynamic influence during circuit operations. Practically, circuit design protocols and frequency responsibility should stem from a perfect agreement between the static and dynamic properties. However, despite remarkable improvements in mobility for organic semiconductors, the correlation between the device performances achieved under static and dynamic circumstances is controversial. Particularly in the case of organic semiconductors, it remains unclear whether parasitic elements that relate to their unique molecular aggregates may violate the radiofrequency circuit model. Thus, we herein report the manufacture of micrometre-scale transistor arrays composed of solution-processed organic semiconductors, which achieve near very high-frequency band operations. Systematic investigations into the device geometrical factors revealed that the radiofrequency circuit model established on a solid-state continuous medium is extendable to organic single-crystal field-effect transistors. The validity of this radiofrequency circuit model allows a reliable prediction of the performances of organic radiofrequency devices.
Structural basis of mammalian mucin processing by the human gut O-glycopeptidase OgpA from Akkermansia muciniphila
Authors: Trastoy Beatriz , Naegeli Andreas , Anso Itxaso , Sjögren Jonathan , Guerin Marcelo E.
Published: September 2020

Akkermansia muciniphilais a mucin-degrading bacterium commonly found in the human gut that promotes a beneficial effect on health, likely based on the regulation of mucus thickness and gut barrier integrity, but also on the modulation of the immune system. In this work, we focus in OgpA fromA. muciniphila, anO-glycopeptidase that exclusively hydrolyzes the peptide bondN-terminal to serine or threonine residues substituted with anO-glycan. We determine the high-resolution X-ray crystal structures of the unliganded form of OgpA, the complex with the glycodrosocinO-glycopeptide substrate and its product, providing a comprehensive set of snapshots of the enzyme along the catalytic cycle. In combination withO-glycopeptide chemistry, enzyme kinetics, and computational methods we unveil the molecular mechanism ofO-glycan recognition and specificity for OgpA. The data also contribute to understanding howA. muciniphilaprocesses mucins in the gut, as well as analysis of post-translationalO-glycosylation events in proteins.
Dependence of DNA length on binding affinity between TrpR and trpO of DNA
Authors: Shimamoto Nobuo , Toda Mikito , Nara Shigetoshi , Komatsuzaki Tamiki , Kamagata Kiyoto , Kinebuchi Takashi , Tomizawa Jun-ichi
Published: September 2020

We scrutinize the length dependency of the binding affinity of bacterial repressor TrpR protein to trpO (specific site) on DNA. A footprinting experiment shows that the longer the DNA length, the larger the affinity of TrpR to the specific site on DNA. This effect termed “antenna effect” might be interpreted as follows: longer DNA provides higher probability for TrpR to access to the specific site aided by one-dimensional diffusion along the nonspecific sites of DNA. We show that, however, the antenna effect cannot be explained while detailed balance holds among three kinetic states, that is, free protein/DNA, nonspecific complexes, and specific complex. We propose a working hypothesis that slow degree(s) of freedom in the system switch(es) different potentials of mean force causing transitions among the three states. This results in a deviation from detailed balance on the switching timescale. We then derive a simple reaction diffusion/binding model that describes the antenna effect on TrpR binding to its target operator. Possible scenarios for such slow degree(s) of freedom in TrpR–DNA complex are addressed.
Blood biomarkers indicate that the preclinical stages of Alzheimer's disease present overlapping molecular features
Authors: Di Costanzo Alfonso , Paris Debora , Melck Dominique , Angiolillo Antonella , Corso Gaetano , Maniscalco Mauro , Motta Andrea
Published: September 2020

It is still debated whether non-specific preclinical symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) can have diagnostic relevance. We followed the evolution from cognitively normal to AD by NMR-based metabolomics of blood sera. Multivariate statistical analysis of the NMR profiles yielded models that discriminated subjective memory decline (SMD), mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and AD. We validated a panel of six statistically significant metabolites that predicted SMD, MCI and AD in a blind cohort with sensitivity values ranging from 88 to 95% and receiver operating characteristic values from 0.88 to 0.99. However, lower values of specificity, accuracy and precision were observed for the models involving SMD and MCI, which is in line with the pathological heterogeneity indicated by clinical data. This excludes a “linear” molecular evolution of the pathology, pointing to the presence of overlapping “gray-zones” due to the reciprocal interference of the intermediate stages. Yet, the clear difference observed in the metabolic pathways of each model suggests that pathway dysregulations could be investigated for diagnostic purposes.
Generation of myostatin edited horse embryos using CRISPR/Cas9 technology and somatic cell nuclear transfer
Authors: Moro Lucia Natalia , Viale Diego Luis , Bastón Juan Ignacio , Arnold Victoria , Suvá Mariana , Wiedenmann Elisabet , Olguín Martín , Miriuka Santiago , Vichera Gabriel
Published: September 2020

The application of new technologies for gene editing in horses may allow the generation of improved sportive individuals.
Here, we aimed to knock out the myostatin gene (MSTN), a negative regulator of muscle mass development, using CRISPR/Cas9 and to generate edited embryos for the first time in horses. We nucleofected horse fetal fibroblasts with 1, 2 or 5 µg of 2 different gRNA/Cas9 plasmids targeting the first exon of MSTN. We observed that increasing plasmid concentrations improved mutation efficiency. The average efficiency was 63.6% for gRNA1 (14/22 edited clonal cell lines) and 96.2% for gRNA2 (25/26 edited clonal cell lines). Three clonal cell lines were chosen for embryo generation by somatic cell nuclear transfer: one with a monoallelic edition, one with biallelic heterozygous editions and one with a biallelic homozygous edition, which rendered edited blastocysts in each case. Both MSTN editions and off-targets were analyzed in the embryos. In conclusion, CRISPR/Cas9 proved an efficient method to edit the horse genome in a dose dependent manner with high specificity. Adapting this technology sport advantageous alleles could be generated, and a precision breeding program could be developed.
The dynamics between in vitro culture and metabolism: embryonic adaptation to environmental changes
Authors: de Lima Camila Bruna , dos Santos Érika Cristina , Ispada Jéssica , Fontes Patrícia Kubo , Nogueira Marcelo Fábio Gouveia , dos Santos Charles Morphy Dias , Milazzotto Marcella Pecora
Published: September 2020

Previous studies have discussed the importance of an optimal range of metabolic activity during preimplantation development. To avoid factors than can trigger an undesirable trajectory, it is important to learn how nutrients and metabolites interact to help launching the correct developmental program of the embryo, and how much the in vitro culture system can impair this process. Here, using the bovine model, we describe a factorial experimental design used to investigate the biochemical and molecular signature of embryos in response to different combinations of morphological features—i.e. speed of development—and external stimuli during in vitro culture—i.e. different oxygen tensions and glucose supplementation. Our analyses demonstrate that the embryos present heterogeneous metabolic responses depending on early morphological phenotypes and the composition of their surroundings. However, despite the contribution of each single stimulus for the embryo phenotype, oxygen tension is determinant for such differences. The lower oxygen environment boosts the metabolism of embryos with faster kinetics, in particular those cultured in lower glucose concentrations.
The interaction of atoms and molecules with nanocapsules and hollow nanowires
Authors: Poteryaeva Valentina A. , Bubenchikov Michael A. , Bubenchikov Alexey Michailovich , Lun-Fu Alexandr Viktorovich
Published: September 2020

Nanoporous membranes are widely used in various fields, such as gas separation, water purification, catalytic processes, and the use of batteries in electrodes. Nowadays, hollow carbon spheres or nanowires are attracting attention of researchers and experimenters due to high adjustability of their mechanical and chemical properties. This makes it possible, among other things, to more accurately adjust permeability of membranes created from this material for various atoms and molecules, which ensures a good degree of gas separation. The mathematical simulation of gas separation via nanocapsule and hollow nanowire porous membrane is performed. Research has shown that such membranes are able to separate He/$$\text{CH}_4$$

CH
4

/$$\text{H}_2$$

H
2

/$$\text{N}_2$$

N
2

gas mixtures.
Author Correction: Gaze behaviour to lateral face stimuli in infants who do and do not receive an ASD diagnosis
Authors: Donati Georgina , Davis Rachael , Forrester Gillian S.
Published: September 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
High glucose alters the DNA methylation pattern of neurodevelopment associated genes in human neural progenitor cells in vitro
Authors: Kandilya Deepika , Shyamasundar Sukanya , Singh Dhiraj Kumar , Banik Avijit , Hande Manoor Prakash , Stünkel Walter , Chong Yap Seng , Dheen S. Thameem
Published: September 2020

Maternal diabetes alters the global epigenetic mechanisms and expression of genes involved in neural tube development in mouse embryos. Since DNA methylation is a critical epigenetic mechanism that regulates gene functions, gene-specific DNA methylation alterations were estimated in human neural progenitor cells (hNPCs) exposed to high glucose (HG) in the present study. The DNA methylation pattern of genes involved in several signalling pathways including axon guidance (SLIT1-ROBO2 pathway), and Hippo pathway (YAP and TAZ) was altered in hNPCs exposed to HG. The expression levels of SLIT1-ROBO2 pathways genes (including its effectors, SRGAP1 and CDC42) which mediates diverse cellular processes such as proliferation, neurogenesis and axon guidance, and Hippo pathway genes (YAP and TAZ) which regulates proliferation, stemness, differentiation and organ size were downregulated in hNPCs exposed to HG. A recent report suggests a possible cross-talk between SLIT1-ROBO2 and TAZ via CDC42, a mediator of actin dynamics. Consistent with this, SLIT1 knockdown downregulated the expression of its effectors and TAZ in hNPCs, suggesting that HG perturbs the cross-talk between SLIT1-ROBO2 and TAZ in hNPCs. Overall, this study demonstrates that HG epigenetically alters the SLIT1-ROBO2 and Hippo signalling pathways in hNPCs, forming the basis for neurodevelopmental disorders in offspring of diabetic pregnancy.
Glucose metabolism responds to perceived sugar intake more than actual sugar intake
Authors: Park Chanmo , Pagnini Francesco , Langer Ellen
Published: September 2020

The authors examine study participants who have Type 2 diabetes to determine whether cognition affects glucose levels in contrast to widely held suppositions. Thirty participants who have type 2 diabetes consume beverages that have identical ingredients but have deceptive nutrition facts labels. Blood glucose levels measured four times before and after beverage consumption show that blood glucose levels increase when participants believe the beverage has high sugar content as portrayed on the labels. Also, individual eating behaviors and nutritional satisfaction are linked to changes in blood glucose levels. The study results support the concept of anticipatory budgeting on glucose metabolism. The findings provide pressing evidence for the psychobiological model of chronic disease, suggesting that psychological intervention programs may be important for diabetes management, beyond current programs in which type 2 diabetes is managed through diet, exercise, and medications only.
Spatial mapping of the collagen distribution in human and mouse tissues by force volume atomic force microscopy
Authors: Calò Annalisa , Romin Yevgeniy , Srouji Rami , Zambirinis Constantinos P. , Fan Ning , Santella Anthony , Feng Elvin , Fujisawa Sho , Turkekul Mesruh , Huang Sharon , Simpson Amber L. , D’Angelica Michael , Jarnagin William R. , Manova-Todorova Katia
Published: September 2020

Changes in the elastic properties of living tissues during normal development and in pathological processes are often due to modifications of the collagen component of the extracellular matrix at various length scales. Force volume AFM can precisely capture the mechanical properties of biological samples with force sensitivity and spatial resolution. The integration of AFM data with data of the molecular composition contributes to understanding the interplay between tissue biochemistry, organization and function. The detection of micrometer-size, heterogeneous domains at different elastic moduli in tissue sections by AFM has remained elusive so far, due to the lack of correlations with histological, optical and biochemical assessments. In this work, force volume AFM is used to identify collagen-enriched domains, naturally present in human and mouse tissues, by their elastic modulus. Collagen identification is obtained in a robust way and affordable timescales, through an optimal design of the sample preparation method and AFM parameters for faster scan with micrometer resolution. The choice of a separate reference sample stained for collagen allows correlating elastic modulus with collagen amount and position with high statistical significance. The proposed preparation method ensures safe handling of the tissue sections guarantees the preservation of their micromechanical characteristics over time and makes it much easier to perform correlation experiments with different biomarkers independently.
Perfluorooctanoic acid in indoor particulate matter triggers oxidative stress and inflammation in corneal and retinal cells
Authors: Tien Peng-Tai , Lin Hui-Ju , Tsai Yi-Yu , Lim Yun-Ping , Chen Chih Sheng , Chang Ching-Yao , Lin Chao-Jen , Chen Jamie Jiin-Yi , Wu Shan-Mei , Huang Yuh-Jeen , Wan Lei
Published: September 2020

To investigate the particle size distribution of particulate matter and the concentration of specific perfluorinated compounds in indoor dust samples from several locations. Then, we used cell-based assays to investigate the effect of perfluorinated compounds on human corneal epithelial (HCEpiC), endothelial cells (HCEC) and retinal pigment epithelial cells (RPE). Indoor dust samples were collected at five different locations and PM50–10, PM10–2.5, and PM2.5–1 were fractionized. The presence and levels of 8:2 fluorotelomer alcohol, 10:2 fluorotelomer alcohol, and perfluorooctanoic acid were detected by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. The effect of perfluorooctanoic acid on the activation of reactive oxygen species, transepithelial resistance as well as the expression of interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-8 were determined. The basolateral media of human corneal epithelial or human corneal endothelial cells were used to treat human corneal endothelial or retinal pigment epithelial cells, respectively to indicate the potential of ocular surface inflammation may result in retinal inflammation. Among perfluorinated compounds, only perfluorooctanoic acid was detected in all indoor dust samples. Perfluorooctanoic acid had the highest concentration among all perfluorinated compounds in the samples. Exposure to perfluorooctanoic acid impaired tight junction sealing and increased the levels of reactive oxygen species in human corneal epithelial cells. In human corneal epithelial cells, secretion of IL-6 and IL-8 in both apical and basolateral media was promoted significantly by perfluorooctanoic acid treatment. Stimulation with the basolateral media from perfluorooctanoic acid-treated human corneal epithelial cells induced inflammation in human corneal endothelial cells. The treatment of retinal pigment epithelial cells with the basolateral media from stimulated human corneal endothelial cells also elicited the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines. The results indicate that perfluorooctanoic acid exposure impaired the tight junction of corneal cells and caused inflammatory reactions in the retina. Exposure of the cornea to perfluorooctanoic acid contained in particulate matter might induce oxidative stress and inflammation in the retina and represent a risk factor for age-related macular degeneration.
A cross-sectional study on risk factors for infection with Parvovirus B19 and the association with anaemia in a febrile paediatric population in Ghana
Authors: Herr Wiebke , Krumkamp Ralf , Hogan Benedikt , Dekker Denise , Gyau Kennedy , Owusu-Dabo Ellis , Sarpong Nimako , Jaeger Anna , Loag Wibke , Winter Doris , Akenten Charity Wiafe , Eibach Daniel , Fickenscher Helmut , Eis-Hübinger Anna , May Jürgen , Kreuels Benno
Published: September 2020

Parvovirus B19 (B19V) occurs globally and can cause severe anaemia. The role of co-infections with Plasmodium falciparum (P. falciparum) has been controversially discussed. The study aimed to determine prevalence and severity of B19V infection, and the effect of co-infections on the risk for anaemia. Between November 2013 and April 2015 a total of 1186 hospital visits of children with fever admitted to a hospital in Ghana were recorded. Malaria, B19V and additional diagnostics for fever causes were performed. Recent B19V infection was defined as PCR and/or IgM positivity. Risk factors for a B19V infection and for anaemia were analysed. The prevalence of anaemia was compared between children with/without B19V infection, stratified for the presence of malaria. B19V IgM/PCR was positive in 6.4% (n = 76; 40 IgM + , 30 PCR + , 6 IgM + and PCR +). Among the B19V cases 60.5% had a simultaneous P. falciparum infection. B19V IgM positivity but not PCR positivity was associated with moderate-severe anaemia (OR = 2.6; 95%-CI: 1.3–5.3; P < 0.01 vs. OR = 0.9; 95%-CI: 0.4–1.8; P = 0.70). P. falciparum and IgM positive B19V infection were independent risk factors for anaemia with no evidence of effect modification. Our data show a significant association between B19V infection, defined as IgM but not PCR positivity, and moderate-severe anaemia. A multiplicative effect of B19V and P. falciparum infection was not found.
Rheological analysis of sputum from patients with chronic bronchial diseases
Authors: Patarin Jérémy , Ghiringhelli Étienne , Darsy Guillaume , Obamba Martinien , Bochu Philippe , Camara Boubou , Quétant Sébastien , Cracowski Jean-Luc , Cracowski Claire , Robert de Saint Vincent Matthieu
Published: September 2020

Bronchial diseases are characterised by the weak efficiency of mucus transport through the lower airways, leading in some cases to the muco-obstruction of bronchi. It has been hypothesised that this loss of clearance results from alterations in the mucus rheology, which are reflected in sputum samples collected from patients, making sputum rheology a possible biophysical marker of these diseases and their evolution. However, previous rheological studies have focused on quasi-static viscoelastic (linear storage and loss moduli) properties only, which are not representative of the mucus mobilisation within the respiratory tract. In this paper, we extend this approach further, by analysing both quasi-static and some dynamic (flow point) properties, to assess their usability and relative performance in characterising several chronic bronchial diseases (asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and cystic fibrosis) and distinguishing them from healthy subjects. We demonstrate that pathologies influence substantially the linear and flow properties. Linear moduli are weakly condition-specific and even though the corresponding ranges overlap, distinct levels can be identified. This directly relates to the specific mucus structure in each case. In contrast, the flow point is found to strongly increase in muco-obstructive diseases, which may reflect the complete failure of mucociliary clearance causing episodic obstructions. These results suggest that the analysis of quasi-static and dynamic regimes in sputum rheology is in fact useful as these regimes provide complementary markers of chronic bronchial diseases.
A link between appendectomy and gastrointestinal cancers: a large-scale population-based cohort study in Korea
Authors: Park Youn Young , Lee Kil-yong , Oh Seong Taek , Park Sang Hyun , Han Kyung Do , Lee Jaeim
Published: September 2020

An association between appendectomy and subsequent gastrointestinal (GI) cancer development has been postulated, although the evidence is limited and inconsistent. To provide clarification, we investigated the link between appendectomy and GI cancers in a large nationwide appendectomy cohort. This cohort was derived from the claims database of the National Health Insurance Service in South Korea and comprised 158,101 patients who had undergone appendectomy between 2007 and 2014. A comparison cohort of 474,303 subjects without appendectomy was selected after 1:3 matching by age and sex. The incidence of GI cancers after appendectomy was observed, and risk factors for GI cancers were determined by using a multivariable-adjusted proportional hazards model. Appendectomy did not significantly increase the incidence of GI cancers in the overall population (1.529 and 1.557 per 1000 person-years in the non-appendectomy and appendectomy cohorts, respectively). However, appendectomy significantly increased the incidence of GI cancers in subgroups consisting of elderly (≥ 60 years) patients (adjusted HR, 1.102; 95% confidence interval, 1.011–1.201; p = 0.028) or women (adjusted HR, 1.180; 95% confidence interval, 1.066–1.306; p = 0.001).
Integrating metabolomics and targeted gene expression to uncover potential biomarkers of fungal/oomycetes-associated disease susceptibility in grapevine
Authors: Maia Marisa , Ferreira António E. N. , Nascimento Rui , Monteiro Filipa , Traquete Francisco , Marques Ana P. , Cunha Jorge , Eiras-Dias José E. , Cordeiro Carlos , Figueiredo Andreia , Sousa Silva Marta
Published: September 2020

Vitis vinifera, one of the most cultivated fruit crops, is susceptible to several diseases particularly caused by fungus and oomycete pathogens. In contrast, other Vitis species (American, Asian) display different degrees of tolerance/resistance to these pathogens, being widely used in breeding programs to introgress resistance traits in elite V. vinifera cultivars. Secondary metabolites are important players in plant defence responses. Therefore, the characterization of the metabolic profiles associated with disease resistance and susceptibility traits in grapevine is a promising approach to identify trait-related biomarkers. In this work, the leaf metabolic composition of eleven Vitis genotypes was analysed using an untargeted metabolomics approach. A total of 190 putative metabolites were found to discriminate resistant/partial resistant from susceptible genotypes. The biological relevance of discriminative compounds was assessed by pathway analysis. Several compounds were selected as promising biomarkers and the expression of genes coding for enzymes associated with their metabolic pathways was analysed. Reference genes for these grapevine genotypes were established for normalisation of candidate gene expression. The leucoanthocyanidin reductase 2 gene (LAR2) presented a significant increase of expression in susceptible genotypes, in accordance with catechin accumulation in this analysis group. Up to our knowledge this is the first time that metabolic constitutive biomarkers are proposed, opening new insights into plant selection on breeding programs.
Targeting colony stimulating factor-1 receptor signalling to treat ectopic pregnancy
Authors: Ahmad S. Furquan , Duncan W. Colin , Campbell Lisa L. , Beaty Robyn E. , Koscielniak Magda , Collins Frances , Saunders Philippa T. K. , Horne Andrew W.
Published: September 2020

1–2% of pregnancies are ectopic, the majority implanting in the Fallopian tube. A single, systemic dose of methotrexate, a DNA-synthesis (S phase) inhibitor, has been used since 1991 for outpatient treatment of women with stable EP. However, methotrexate has limited clinical and cost effectiveness, restricting its use to 25–30% of these women. There is an unmet need for better medical treatment for EP. Colony stimulating factor-1 (CSF-1) promotes placentation and creates a pro-inflammatory environment that is fundamental for the maintenance of a normal pregnancy. We hypothesised that CSF-1 is also involved in the placentation and maintenance of an EP. Herein, we demonstrate the immunolocalisation of the CSF-1 receptor (CSF-1R) as well as its ligand (CSF-1) in immortalised first trimester trophoblast cells. We show that a specific CSF-1R kinase inhibitor, GW2580, abolishes CSF-1 induced trophoblast cell proliferation and migration and can be cytotoxic. We then demonstrate the expression of CSF-1R and CSF-1 in the cytotrophoblast and syncytiotrophoblast within ectopic implantation sites from women with EP. Our data suggests that CSF-1 is involved in the survival and proliferation of trophoblast cells in EP. This suggests that pharmacological disruption of CSF-1/CSF-1R signaling axis could be the basis of a new therapeutic for EP.
Osteopontin regulates biomimetic calcium phosphate crystallization from disordered mineral layers covering apatite crystallites
Authors: Iline-Vul Taly , Nanda Raju , Mateos Borja , Hazan Shani , Matlahov Irina , Perelshtein Ilana , Keinan-Adamsky Keren , Althoff-Ospelt Gerhard , Konrat Robert , Goobes Gil
Published: September 2020

Details of apatite formation and development in bone below the nanometer scale remain enigmatic. Regulation of mineralization was shown to be governed by the activity of non-collagenous proteins with many bone diseases stemming from improper activity of these proteins. Apatite crystal growth inhibition or enhancement is thought to involve direct interaction of these proteins with exposed faces of apatite crystals. However, experimental evidence of the molecular binding events that occur and that allow these proteins to exert their functions are lacking. Moreover, recent high-resolution measurements of apatite crystallites in bone have shown that individual crystallites are covered by a persistent layer of amorphous calcium phosphate. It is therefore unclear whether non-collagenous proteins can interact with the faces of the mineral crystallites directly and what are the consequences of the presence of a disordered mineral layer to their functionality. In this work, the regulatory effect of recombinant osteopontin on biomimetic apatite is shown to produce platelet-shaped apatite crystallites with disordered layers coating them. The protein is also shown to regulate the content and properties of the disordered mineral phase (and sublayers within it). Through solid-state NMR atomic carbon-phosphorous distance measurements, the protein is shown to be located in the disordered phases, reaching out to interact with the surfaces of the crystals only through very few sidechains. These observations suggest that non-phosphorylated osteopontin acts as regulator of the coating mineral layers and exerts its effect on apatite crystal growth processes mostly from afar with a limited number of contact points with the crystal.
Anticorrosive non-crystalline coating prepared by plasma electrolytic oxidation for ship low carbon steel pipes
Authors: Ma Chunsheng , Liu Jian , Zhu Xinhe , Xue Wenbin , Yan Zhijun , Cheng Dong , Fu Jingguo , Ma Shenglin
Published: September 2020

A corrosion-resistant non-crystalline coating was fabricated by plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) on Q235 low carbon steel for ship pipes. The distribution and composition of chemical elements and phases of PEO coatings were analyzed by an orthogonal experiment, and the formation mechanism of PEO coatings was discussed. The corrosion current densities and corrosion potentials were measured. The results indicated that the formation of a transition layer mainly containing Fe3O4 was crucial for achieving an excellent coating quality. Furthermore, the corrosion current density of coated steel was reduced by 78% compared with the bare steel.
Influence of Co concentration on properties of NiO film by sparking under uniform magnetic field
Authors: Tippo Posak , Thongsuwan Wiradej , Wiranwetchayan Orawan , Kumpika Tewasin , Kantarak Ekkapong , Singjai Pisith
Published: September 2020

Nickel oxide (NiO) films cover numerous electronic applications, including transparent conducting oxides and hole transport layer, because of its high transparency and wide band gap. A sparking discharge is a new and unique method for the deposition of NiO films due to non-complex operation and non-requirement of a vacuum atmosphere. Unfortunately, NiO films by the sparking method display a porous surface with inferior crystallinity. By assisting a uniform magnetic field in the sparking method, the porous and the crystallinity of NiO are improved. However, electrical properties of the NiO films deposited by this strategy are poor. In order to improve the electrical properties of NiO, a substitutional of Ni ions by Co ions is considered. In this study, we report an influence of Co concentration on properties of NiO films by sparking under a uniform magnetic field. Our results indicate that an increase in Co concentration to 0.1 M improves the crystallinity and increases a carrier concentration of NiO, resulting in a reduction of the resistivity. This consequence is in agreement with the increase in a number of higher-valence Ni3+ because of the Co2+ substituted Ni2+. Based on our research, Co-NiO film is promising materials for a transparent conductor.
Spidroin profiling of cribellate spiders provides insight into the evolution of spider prey capture strategies
Authors: Kono Nobuaki , Nakamura Hiroyuki , Mori Masaru , Tomita Masaru , Arakawa Kazuharu
Published: September 2020

Orb-weaving spiders have two main methods of prey capture: cribellate spiders use dry, sticky capture threads, and ecribellate spiders use viscid glue droplets. Predation behaviour is a major evolutionary driving force, and it is important on spider phylogeny whether the cribellate and ecribellate spiders each evolved the orb architecture independently or both strategies were derived from an ancient orb web. These hypotheses have been discussed based on behavioural and morphological characteristics, with little discussion on this subject from the perspective of molecular materials of orb web, since there is little information about cribellate spider-associated spidroin genes. Here, we present in detail a spidroin catalogue of six uloborid species of cribellate orb-weaving spiders, including cribellate and pseudoflagelliform spidroins, with transcriptome assembly complemented with long read sequencing, where silk composition is confirmed by proteomics. Comparative analysis across families (Araneidae and Uloboridae) shows that the gene architecture, repetitive domains, and amino acid frequencies of the orb web constituting silk proteins are similar among orb-weaving spiders regardless of the prey capture strategy. Notably, the fact that there is a difference only in the prey capture thread proteins strongly supports the monophyletic origin of the orb web.
Vitreous levels of interleukin-35 as a prognostic factor in B-cell vitreoretinal lymphoma
Authors: Takeda Atsunobu , Hasegawa Eiichi , Nakao Shintaro , Ishikawa Keijiro , Murakami Yusuke , Hisatomi Toshio , Arima Mitsuru , Yawata Nobuyo , Oda Yoshinao , Kimura Kazuhiro , Yoshikawa Hiroshi , Sonoda Koh-Hei
Published: September 2020

Vitreoretinal lymphoma (VRL) is a rare disease of B-cell origin with poor prognosis. Regulatory cytokines promote tumor development by suppressing antitumor immunity in several cancer types, including B-cell malignancies. To identify the regulatory cytokines associated with poor prognosis in patients with B-cell VRL, we determined the regulatory cytokines profiles in the vitreous humor of patients with VRL. This retrospective study included 22 patients with VRL, 24 with non-infectious uveitis (NIU), and 20 with idiopathic epiretinal membrane (control). Vitreous concentrations of regulatory cytokines were assessed using a cytometric beads assay and association with clinical data was examined. IL-35 and soluble IL-2 receptor α levels were significantly higher in patients with VRL and NIU than those in the control group. The 5-year overall survival (OS) rates for the group with high intravitreal IL-35 was significantly poorer than those for the group with low intravitreal IL-35, who were diagnosed with VRL at the onset (P = 0.024, log-rank test). The 5-year OS rates with intravitreal IL-35 levels above and below the median were 40.0% and 83.3%, respectively. Our results suggest that high intravitreal IL-35 levels indicate poor prognosis for patients diagnosed with B-cell VRL at the onset.
Silver nanoparticles coated by green graphene quantum dots for accelerating the healing of MRSA-infected wounds
Authors: Zhong Xianghua , Tong Chunyi , Liu Tiansheng , Li Li , Liu Xu , Yang Yuejun , Liu Rushi , Liu Bin
Published: September 2020

Bacterial infection, especially multidrug-resistant bacteria-induced infection, threatens human health seriously, which has posed great challenges for clinical therapy.
Engineering hydrogels by soaking: from mechanical strengthening to environmental adaptation
Authors: Zhou Xiaohu , Li Chun , Zhu Lifei , Zhou Xuechang
Published: September 2020

The soaking strategy could not only strengthen hydrogels with superior mechanical properties but also provide the hydrogels with environmentally adapting properties.
Synthesis of Weinreb amides using diboronic acid anhydride-catalyzed dehydrative amidation of carboxylic acids
Authors: Shimada Naoyuki , Takahashi Naoya , Ohse Naoki , Koshizuka Masayoshi , Makino Kazuishi
Published: September 2020

We have developed a first catalytic methodology for the synthesis of Weinreb amides using dehydrative amidation of carboxylic acids.
Disulfonation of terminal alkynes for 1,2-bisulfonylethenes
Authors: Wang Yu , Tang Kongshuang , Liu Zhaohong , Ning Yongquan
Published: September 2020

A highly efficient and operationally simple method for the synthesis of 1,2-disulfonylethenes involving a hypervalent iodineI(iii) reagent to promote disulfonation of terminal alkynes has been developed for the first time.
Oriented construction of S-doped, exposed {001} facet BiOBr nanosheets with abundant oxygen vacancies and promoted visible-light-driven photocatalytic performance
Authors: Huang Meina , Li Ju , Su Wenli , Huang Xindi , Li Bin , Fan Minguang , Dong Lihui , He Haixiang
Published: September 2020

S-doping orients the facet growth of BiOBr nanosheets from original exposed {010} plane towards {001}-dominant plane, resulting in narrower bandgap energy, higher efficient charges separation and oxygen vacancies (OVs) concentration.
Influence of anions and mole ratio on the formation of 2-D coordination networks of thiacalix[4]-bis-monothiacrown-5
Authors: Ju Huiyeong , Lee Jai Young , Lee Shim Sung
Published: September 2020

Anion and mole-ratio dependent formation of 2-D coordination polymers of thiacalix[4]-bis-monothiacrown-5 incorporating sulfur bridges in the rim and a sulfur donor in the crown loop is reported.
Structural diversity, gas adsorption and magnetic properties of three coordination polymers based on a rigid multicarboxylate ligand
Authors: Gao Lingling , Bian Yongjun , Tian Yuan , Chen Yongqiang , Hu Tuoping
Published: September 2020

A pictogram: the gas adsorption and magnetic properties of three Co(ii) coordination polymers constructed from 3,5-di(2′,5′-dicarboxylphenyl)benzoic acid ligand have been explored.
Kinetic investigation of thermal and photoinduced homolysis of alkylated verdazyls
Authors: Votkina Darya E. , Petunin Pavel V. , Trusova Marina E. , Postnikov Pavel S. , Audran Gérard , Marque Sylvain R. A.
Published: September 2020

The generation of verdazyl radicals under heating or irradiation have been highlighted.
Selective bond formation triggered by short optical pulses: quantum dynamics of a four-center ring closure
Authors: Valentini Alessio , van den Wildenberg Stephan , Remacle F.
Published: September 2020

Making bonds with attopulses: quantum dynamics of the ring closure of norbornadiene to quadricyclane.
The atmospheric importance of methylamine additions to Criegee intermediates
Authors: Mull Henry F. , Aroeira Gustavo J. R. , Turney Justin M. , Schaefer Henry F.
Published: September 2020

The methylamine addition to Criegee intermediates is investigated using high level ab initio methods.
Disorder–order and order–order phase transformations in Ta5C4phases predicted using the evolutionary algorithm and symmetry analysis
Authors: Kostenko M. G. , Gusev A. I. , Lukoyanov A. V.
Published: September 2020

Based on the formation enthalpy and cohesion energy magnitudes and on the symmetry reduction, the triclinic Ta5C4superstructure is the most favorable among all Ta5C4phases predicted.
Gas phase formation of cyclopentanaphthalene (benzindene) isomers via reactions of 5- and 6-indenyl radicals with vinylacetylene
Authors: Zhao Long , Kaiser Ralf I. , Lu Wenchao , Kostko Oleg , Ahmed Musahid , Evseev Mikhail M. , Bashkirov Eugene K. , Oleinikov Artem D. , Azyazov Valeriy N. , Mebel Alexander M. , Howlader A. Hasan , Wnuk Stanislaw F.
Published: September 2020

The reaction of indenyl radicals with vinylacetylene leads to cyclopentanaphthalene at low temperature.
Next-generation DNA damage sequencing
Authors: Mingard Cécile , Wu Junzhou , McKeague Maureen , Sturla Shana J.
Published: September 2020

DNA damage sequencing strategies.
Ligand effects on electronic structure and bonding in U(iii) coordination complexes: a combined MCD, EPR and computational study
Authors: Wolford Nikki J. , Yu Xiaojuan , Bart Suzanne C. , Autschbach Jochen , Neidig Michael L.
Published: September 2020

Spectroscopy and theory enable broader insight into electronic structure and bonding in U(iii) coordination complexes, focusing on systems with Tp* ligands.
Understanding thein situstate of lignocellulosic biomass during ionic liquids-based engineering of renewable materials and chemicals
Authors: Rajan Kalavathy , Elder Thomas , Abdoulmoumine Nourredine , Carrier Danielle Julie , Labbé Nicole
Published: September 2020

Morphological and physico-chemical changes in lignocellulosic biomass during ionic liquids-based processing.
Rh(i)-Catalyzed regioselective arylcarboxylation of acrylamides with arylboronic acids and CO2
Authors: Cai Lei , Fu Lei , Zhou Chunlin , Gao Yuzhen , Li Shangda , Li Gang
Published: September 2020

The first Rh(i)-catalyzed regioselective arylcarboxylation of electron-deficient acrylamides with arylboronic acids under atmospheric pressure of CO2 has been developed.
Highly selective production of propionic acid from lactic acid catalyzed by NaI
Authors: Liu Shengqin , Feng Huan , Li Teng , Wang Yantao , Rong Nianxin , Yang Weiran
Published: September 2020

Efficient and highly selective production of propionic acid from biomass derived lactic acid was realized using I−/H2 without adding other strong acids or metal catalysts.
Lignin fractionation from laboratory to commercialization: chemistry, scalability and techno-economic analysis
Authors: Jiang Xiao , Abbati de Assis Camilla , Kollman Matthew , Sun Runkun , Jameel Hasan , Chang Hou-min , Gonzalez Ronalds
Published: September 2020

A detailed techno-economic analysis on industrial scale lignin fractionation using green solvents.
A new agarose-based microsystem to investigate cell response to prolonged confinement
Authors: Prunet A. , Lefort S. , Delanoë-Ayari H. , Laperrousaz B. , Simon G. , Barentin C. , Saci S. , Argoul F. , Guyot B. , Rieu J.-P. , Gobert S. , Maguer-Satta V. , Rivière C.
Published: September 2020

A unique tool to analyze the role of long-term effects of mechanical confinement in normal and pathological conditions.
Long-term effects of impurities on the particle size and optical emission of carbon dots
Authors: Javed Nasir , O'Carroll Deirdre M.
Published: September 2020

A significant increase in the size of CDs with time after synthesis is reported. Their luminescence also gradually decreases with time. The emission from purified CDs originates from surface states that strongly depend on solvent environment.
Hybrid-atom-doped NiMoO4 nanotubes for oxygen evolution reaction
Authors: Yin Zhuoxun , Zhang Shu , Chen Wei , Xinzhi Ma , Zhou Yang , Zhang Zhuanfang , Wang Xin , Li Jinlong
Published: September 2020

Doping with hybrid atoms can narrow the band gap of NiMoO4 nanotubes, improving their performance in the oxygen evolution reaction.
Core–shell magnetic mesoporous N-doped silica nanoparticles: solid base catalysts for the preparation of some arylpyrimido[4,5-b]quinoline diones under green conditions
Authors: Neamani Shekofeh , Moradi Leila , Sun Mingxuan
Published: September 2020

Preparation of core–shell magnetic mesoporous N-doped silica nanoparticles as a new solid base catalyst was studied. obtained catalyst was used for the preparation of some arylpyrimido[4,5-b]quinoline diones under green conditions.
Rhodium effects on Pt anode materials in a direct alkaline ethanol fuel cell
Authors: Messa Moreira Thamyres Fernandes , Neto Sidney Aquino , Lemoine Charly , Kokoh Kouakou Boniface , Morais Cláudia , Napporn Teko Wilhelmin , Olivi Paulo
Published: September 2020

The development of efficient catalysts for ethanol oxidation in alkaline medium requires an approach that avoids surfactant molecules from being adsorbed at active sites and decreasing the electrochemical performance of the direct ethanol fuel cell.
MRI contrast enhancement of liver pre-neoplasia using iron–tannic nanoparticles
Authors: Phatruengdet Thipjutha , Intakhad Jannarong , Tapunya Monreudee , Chariyakornkul Arpamas , Hlaing Chi Be , Wongpoomchai Rawiwan , Pilapong Chalermchai
Published: September 2020

Imaging liver preneoplasia could be considered beneficial in first-line assessment of early stage liver cancer.
Lipid membrane interactions of self-assembling antimicrobial nanofibers: effect of PEGylation
Authors: Nielsen Josefine Eilsø , König Nico , Yang Su , Skoda Maximilian W. A. , Maestro Armando , Dong He , Cárdenas Marité , Lund Reidar
Published: September 2020

Wrane interaction of a series of self-assembling antimicrobial peptides with and without PEGylation using small angle X-ray and neutron scattering and neutron reflectometry.
Temperature-modulated selective C(sp3)–H or C(sp2)–H arylation through palladium catalysis
Authors: Gogula Thirupathi , Zhang Jinquan , Lonka Madhava Reddy , Zhang Shuaizhong , Zou Hongbin
Published: September 2020

Unprecedented 16-membered tetramer or [6,5]-fused palladacycle, mutually shadowboxing-like transformed from the shared common intermediate, accomplishes the Pd-catalysed temperature-dependent selective arylation of C(sp2)–H or C(sp3)–H.
Oxoiron(v) mediated selective electrochemical oxygenation of unactivated C–H and CC bonds using water as the oxygen source
Authors: Chandra Bittu , K. M. Hellan , Pattanayak Santanu , Gupta Sayam Sen
Published: September 2020

A biomimetic iron complex-mediated selective and efficient electrochemical oxygenation of unactivated C–H bonds and CC bonds using water as an O-atom source.
2′-O-Trifluoromethylated RNA – a powerful modification for RNA chemistry and NMR spectroscopy
Authors: Himmelstoß Maximilian , Erharter Kevin , Renard Eva , Ennifar Eric , Kreutz Christoph , Micura Ronald
Published: September 2020

The new 2′-OCF3 label for nucleic acid NMR spectroscopy carries high potential to outcompete currently applied fluorine labels because of significantly advanced performance.
Metal oxide-free flexible organic solar cells with 0.1 M perchloric acid sprayed polymeric anodes
Authors: Wan Juanyong , Fan Xi , Huang Huihui , Wang Jinzhao , Zhang Zhiguo , Fang Junfeng , Yan Feng
Published: September 2020

A small amount of HClO4spraying treatment can pull the flexible anode's Fermi level down, substantially decrease the sheet resistance, and induce an intimate contact at interfaces, suitable for fabricating high-performance flexible organic solar cells.
Dielectric resonator antennas based on high quality factor MgAl2O4 transparent dielectric ceramics
Authors: Du Chao , Guo Huan-Huan , Zhou Di , Chen He-Tuo , Zhang Jian , Liu Wen-Feng , Su Jin-Zhan , Liu Hai-Wen
Published: September 2020

A transparent MgAl2O4 cylindrical ceramic, prepared via hot isostatic pressing, was used as a dielectric resonator antenna taking on good performance using the HE11δ fundamental modes.
Ecoresorbable smart fluids with controlled electroresponsive properties by various metal doping
Authors: Gwon Hyukjoon , Park Sohee , Lee Seungae
Published: September 2020

Ecoresorbable electroresponsive smart fluids which are non-toxic, naturally decomposable as well as exhibit remarkable electroresponsive performances are developed.
Broadband emission in all-inorganic metal halide perovskites with intrinsic vacancies
Authors: Jiang Feng , Jiang Xingxing , Zheng Weihao , Ouyang Yu , Zhang Yushuang , Li Lihui , Fan Peng , Zhao Hepeng , Li Yang , Jiang Ying , Zhu Xiaoli , Zhuang Xiujuan , Feng Yexin , Pan Anlian
Published: September 2020

Introducing some lanthanide ions with suitable ionic radius into octahedral [PbX6] units to cause permanent lattice distortion and create potential fluctuations in the crystal lattice might facilitate the formation of STEs in CsPbX3.