bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ASCL1-regulated DARPP-32 and t-DARPP stimulate small cell lung cancer growth and neuroendocrine tumour cell proliferation
Authors: Alam Sk. Kayum , Wang Li , Ren Yanan , Hernandez Christina E. , Kosari Farhad , Roden Anja C. , Yang Rendong , Hoeppner Luke H.
Published: June 2020

Background

Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is the most aggressive form of lung cancer, and new molecular insights are necessary for prognostic and therapeutic advances.

Methods

Dopamine and cAMP-regulated phosphoprotein, Mr 32000 (DARPP-32) and its N-terminally truncated splice variant, t-DARPP, were stably overexpressed or ablated in human DMS-53 and H1048 SCLC cells. Functional assays and immunoblotting were used to assess how DARPP-32 isoforms regulate SCLC cell growth, proliferation, and apoptosis. DARPP-32-modulated SCLC cells were orthotopically injected into the lungs of SCID mice to evaluate how DARPP-32 and t-DARPP regulate neuroendocrine tumour growth. Immunostaining for DARPP-32 proteins was performed in SCLC patient-derived specimens. Bioinformatics analysis and subsequent transcription assays were used to determine the mechanistic basis of DARPP-32-regulated SCLC growth.

Results

We demonstrate in mice that DARPP-32 and t-DARPP promote SCLC growth through increased Akt/Erk-mediated proliferation and anti-apoptotic signalling. DARPP-32 isoforms are overexpressed in SCLC patient-derived tumour tissue, but undetectable in physiologically normal lung. Achaete-scute homologue 1 (ASCL1) transcriptionally activates DARPP-32 isoforms in human SCLC cells.

Conclusions

We reveal new regulatory mechanisms of SCLC oncogenesis that suggest DARPP-32 isoforms may represent a negative prognostic indicator for SCLC and serve as a potential target for the development of new therapies.
Effect of microvesicles from Moringa oleifera containing miRNA on proliferation and apoptosis in tumor cell lines
Authors: Potestà Marina , Roglia Valentina , Fanelli Marialaura , Pietrobono Elisa , Gismondi Angelo , Vumbaca Simone , Nguedia Tsangueu Rick Gildas , Canini Antonella , Colizzi Vittorio , Grelli Sandro , Minutolo Antonella , Montesano Carla
Published: June 2020

Human microvesicles are key mediators of cell–cell communication. Exosomes function as microRNA transporters, playing a crucial role in physiological and pathological processes. Plant microvesicles (MVs) display similar features to mammalian exosomes, and these MVs might enhance plant microRNA delivery in mammals. Considering that plant microRNAs have been newly identified as bioactive constituents in medicinal plants, and that their potential role as regulators in mammals has been underlined, in this study, we characterized MVs purified fromMoringa oleiferaseeds aqueous extract (MOES MVs) and used flow cytometry methods to quantify the ability to deliver their content to host cells. The microRNAs present in MOES MVs were characterized, and through a bioinformatic analysis, specific human apoptosis-related target genes of plant miRNAs were identified. In tumor cell lines, MOES MVs treatment reduced viability, increased apoptosis levels associated with a decrease in B-cell lymphoma 2 protein expression and reduced mitochondrial membrane potential. Interestingly, the effects observed with MOES MVs treatment were comparable to those observed with MOES treatment and transfection with the pool of small RNAs isolated from MOES, used as a control. These results highlight the role of microRNAs transported by MOES MVs as natural bioactive plant compounds that counteract tumorigenesis.
Reversible single crystal-to-single crystal double [2+2] cycloaddition induces multifunctional photo-mechano-electrochemical properties in framework materials
Authors: Sherman Dylan A. , Murase Ryuichi , Duyker Samuel G. , Gu Qinyi , Lewis William , Lu Teng , Liu Yun , D’Alessandro Deanna M.
Published: June 2020

Reversible structural transformations of porous coordination frameworks in response to external stimuli such as light, electrical potential, guest inclusion or pressure, amongst others, have been the subject of intense interest for applications in sensing, switching and molecular separations. Here we report a coordination framework based on an electroactive tetrathiafulvalene exhibiting a reversible single crystal-to-single crystal double [2 + 2] photocyclisation, leading to profound differences in the electrochemical, optical and mechanical properties of the material upon light irradiation. Electrochemical and in situ spectroelectrochemical measurements, in combination with in situ light-irradiated Raman spectroscopy and atomic force microscopy, revealed the variable mechanical properties of the framework that were supported using Density Functional Theory calculations. The reversible structural transformation points towards a plethora of potential applications for coordination frameworks in photo-mechanical and photoelectrochemical devices, such as light-driven actuators and photo-valves for targeted drug delivery.
Effects of nonequilibrium fluctuations on ultrafast short-range electron transfer dynamics
Authors: Lu Yangyi , Kundu Mainak , Zhong Dongping
Published: June 2020

A variety of electron transfer (ET) reactions in biological systems occurs at short distances and is ultrafast. Many of them show behaviors that deviate from the predictions of the classic Marcus theory. Here, we show that these ultrafast ET dynamics highly depend on the coupling between environmental fluctuations and ET reactions. We introduce a dynamic factor, γ (0 ≤ γ ≤ 1), to describe such coupling, with 0 referring to the system without coupling to a “frozen” environment, and 1 referring to the system’s complete coupling with the environment. Significantly, this system’s coupling with the environment modifies the reaction free energy, ΔGγ, and the reorganization energy, λγ, both of which become smaller. This new model explains the recent ultrafast dynamics in flavodoxin and elucidates the fundamental mechanism of nonequilibrium ET dynamics, which is critical to uncovering the molecular nature of many biological functions.
Whole-genome resequencing of wild and domestic sheep identifies genes associated with morphological and agronomic traits
Authors: Li Xin , Yang Ji , Shen Min , Xie Xing-Long , Liu Guang-Jian , Xu Ya-Xi , Lv Feng-Hua , Yang Hua , Yang Yong-Lin , Liu Chang-Bin , Zhou Ping , Wan Peng-Cheng , Zhang Yun-Sheng , Gao Lei , Yang Jing-Quan , Pi Wen-Hui , Ren Yan-Ling , Shen Zhi-Qiang , Wang Feng , Deng Juan , Xu Song-Song , Salehian-Dehkordi Hosein , Hehua Eer , Esmailizadeh Ali , Dehghani-Qanatqestani Mostafa , Štěpánek Ondřej , Weimann Christina , Erhardt Georg , Amane Agraw , Mwacharo Joram M. , Han Jian-Lin , Hanotte Olivier , Lenstra Johannes A. , Kantanen Juha , Coltman David W. , Kijas James W. , Bruford Michael W. , Periasamy Kathiravan , Wang Xin-Hua , Li Meng-Hua
Published: June 2020

Understanding the genetic changes underlying phenotypic variation in sheep (Ovis aries) may facilitate our efforts towards further improvement. Here, we report the deep resequencing of 248 sheep including the wild ancestor (O. orientalis), landraces, and improved breeds. We explored the sheep variome and selection signatures. We detected genomic regions harboring genes associated with distinct morphological and agronomic traits, which may be past and potential future targets of domestication, breeding, and selection. Furthermore, we found non-synonymous mutations in a set of plausible candidate genes and significant differences in their allele frequency distributions across breeds. We identified PDGFD as a likely causal gene for fat deposition in the tails of sheep through transcriptome, RT-PCR, qPCR, and Western blot analyses. Our results provide insights into the demographic history of sheep and a valuable genomic resource for future genetic studies and improved genome-assisted breeding of sheep and other domestic animals.
Natural variations at the Stay-Green gene promoter control lifespan and yield in rice cultivars
Authors: Shin Dongjin , Lee Sichul , Kim Tae-Heon , Lee Jong-Hee , Park Joonheum , Lee Jinwon , Lee Ji Yoon , Cho Lae-Hyeon , Choi Jae Young , Lee Wonhee , Park Ji-Hwan , Lee Dae-Woo , Ito Hisashi , Kim Dae Heon , Tanaka Ayumi , Cho Jun-Hyeon , Song You-Chun , Hwang Daehee , Purugganan Michael D. , Jeon Jong-Seong , An Gynheung , Nam Hong Gil
Published: June 2020

Increased grain yield will be critical to meet the growing demand for food, and could be achieved by delaying crop senescence. Here, via quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping, we uncover the genetic basis underlying distinct life cycles and senescence patterns of two rice subspecies, indica and japonica. Promoter variations in the Stay-Green (OsSGR) gene encoding the chlorophyll-degrading Mg++-dechelatase were found to trigger higher and earlier induction of OsSGR in indica, which accelerated senescence of indica rice cultivars. The indica-type promoter is present in a progenitor subspecies O. nivara and thus was acquired early during the evolution of rapid cycling trait in rice subspecies. Japonica OsSGR alleles introgressed into indica-type cultivars in Korean rice fields lead to delayed senescence, with increased grain yield and enhanced photosynthetic competence. Taken together, these data establish that naturally occurring OsSGR promoter and related lifespan variations can be exploited in breeding programs to augment rice yield.
Quantum-dot and organic hybrid tandem light-emitting diodes with multi-functionality of full-color-tunability and white-light-emission
Authors: Zhang Heng , Su Qiang , Chen Shuming
Published: June 2020

Realizing of full-color quantum-dot LED display remains a challenge because of the poor stability of the blue quantum-dot and the immature inkjet-printing color patterning technology. Here, we develop a multifunctional tandem LED by stacking a yellow quantum-dot LED with a blue organic LED using an indium–zinc oxide intermediate connecting electrode. Under parallel connection and alternate-current driving, the tandem LED is full-color-tunable, which can emit red, green and blue primary colors as well as arbitrary colors that cover a 63% National Television System Committee color triangle. Under series connection and direct current driving, the tandem LED can emit efficient white light with a high brightness of 107000 cd m−2and a maximum external quantum efficiency up to 26.02%. The demonstrated hybrid tandem LED, with multi-functionality of full-color-tunability and white light-emission, could find potential applications in both full-color-display and solid-state-lighting.
Large-scale wet-spinning of highly electroconductive MXene fibers
Authors: Eom Wonsik , Shin Hwansoo , Ambade Rohan B. , Lee Sang Hoon , Lee Ki Hyun , Kang Dong Jun , Han Tae Hee
Published: June 2020

Ti3C2TxMXene is an emerging class of two-dimensional nanomaterials with exceptional electroconductivity and electrochemical properties, and is promising in the manufacturing of multifunctional macroscopic materials and nanomaterials. Herein, we develop a straightforward, continuously controlled, additive/binder-free method to fabricate pure MXene fibers via a large-scale wet-spinning assembly. Our MXene sheets (with an average lateral size of 5.11 μm2) are highly concentrated in water and do not form aggregates or undergo phase separation. Introducing ammonium ions during the coagulation process successfully assembles MXene sheets into flexible, meter-long fibers with very high electrical conductivity (7,713 S cm−1). The fabricated MXene fibers are comprehensively integrated by using them in electrical wires to switch on a light-emitting diode light and transmit electrical signals to earphones to demonstrate their application in electrical devices. Our wet-spinning strategy provides an approach for continuous mass production of MXene fibers for high-performance, next-generation, and wearable electronic devices.
Thiol Groups as a Biomarker for the Diagnosis and Prognosis of Prostate Cancer
Authors: Koike Alexsandro , Robles Brunna Emanuella França , da Silva Bonacini Ana Gabriela , de Alcantara Camila Cataldi , Reiche Edna Maria Vissoci , Dichi Isaias , Maes Michael , Cecchini Rubens , Simão Andréa Name Colado
Published: June 2020

Oxidative stress (OS) is associated with the onset of prostate cancer (PCa). The aims of this study are to examine whether OS biomarkers may be employed as external validating criteria for the diagnosis PCa. This case-control study recruited 204 subjects, 73 patients with PCa, 67 patients with benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH), and 64 healthy controls (HC) and assayed plasma prostate-specific antigen (PSA), protein thiol (−SH) groups, lipid hydroperoxides, carbonyl proteins (PCB), advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP), and total radical-trapping antioxidant parameter (TRAP). -SH groups were significantly and inversely associated with PSA levels. PCa was characterized by lowered -SH groups and red blood cell TRAP levels, and higher PSA, AOPP and PCB levels as compared with BPH and HC. Support vector machine with 10-fold cross-validation showed that PSA values together with -SH groups, PCB and AOPP yielded a cross-validation accuracy of 96.34% for the differentiation of PCa from BPH and HC. The area under the ROC curve using PSA and -SH differentiating PCa from BPH and controls was 0.945. Moreover, lowered -SH, but not PSA, are associated with PCa metastasis and progression. Inflammatory biomarkers were not associated with PCa or BPH. PCa, its progression and metastatic PCa are characterized by lowered antioxidant defenses, especially lowered thiol groups, and increased oxidative stress toxicity, suggesting that these processes play a key role in the pathophysiology of PCa. An algorithm based on -SH and PSA values may be used to differentiate patients with PCa from those with BPH and controls.
Low vision and the risk of dementia: a nationwide population-based cohort study
Authors: Paik Ji-Sun , Ha Minji , Jung Youn Hea , Kim Gee-Hyun , Han Kyung-Do , Kim Hyun-Seung , Lim Dong Hui , Na Kyung-Sun
Published: June 2020

Recent studies suggested that an association exists between vision loss and cognitive impairment, although it is still vague whether there are causal relationships or direct association between low vision and dementia. We were to investigate the association between low vision and dementia in the Korean population using the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) database. We analyzed the data of 6,029,657 subjects aged ≥40 years, drawn from Korea National Health Insurance Service. The hazard ratio (HRs) and 95% confidence interval (CIs) of dementia, Alzheimer’s disease (AD), and Vascular dementia (VD) were estimated using multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression models. Statistical analysis showed that subjects with more severe visual impairments have a higher risk of dementia, AD, and VD after adjusting for compounding variables. The HRs of dementia increased significantly as visual acuity worsened (HRs 1.444 [95% CIs 1.415–1.473] for visual acuity (VA) < 1.0, 1.734 [1.693–1.777] for VA < 0.3, 1.727 [1.686–1.770] for VA < 0.1 and 1.991[1.902–2.085] for visual loss). Baseline visual loss and visual impairment were positively associated with the risk of dementia, AD, and VD. From the results of this nationwide population-based cohort study, we suggest that there is a significant increase in the incidence of dementia in subjects with low vision.
miR-379 links glucocorticoid treatment with mitochondrial response in Duchenne muscular dystrophy
Authors: Sanson Mathilde , Vu Hong Ai , Massourides Emmanuelle , Bourg Nathalie , Suel Laurence , Amor Fatima , Corre Guillaume , Bénit Paule , Barthelemy Inès , Blot Stephane , Bigot Anne , Pinset Christian , Rustin Pierre , Servais Laurent , Voit Thomas , Richard Isabelle , Israeli David
Published: June 2020

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) is a lethal muscle disorder, caused by mutations in the DMD gene and affects approximately 1:5000–6000 male births. In this report, we identified dysregulation of members of the Dlk1-Dio3 miRNA cluster in muscle biopsies of the GRMD dog model. Of these, we selected miR-379 for a detailed investigation because its expression is high in the muscle, and is known to be responsive to glucocorticoid, a class of anti-inflammatory drugs commonly used in DMD patients. Bioinformatics analysis predicts that miR-379 targets EIF4G2, a translational factor, which is involved in the control of mitochondrial metabolic maturation. We confirmed in myoblasts that EIF4G2 is a direct target of miR-379, and identified the DAPIT mitochondrial protein as a translational target of EIF4G2. Knocking down DAPIT in skeletal myotubes resulted in reduced ATP synthesis and myogenic differentiation. We also demonstrated that this pathway is GC-responsive since treating mice with dexamethasone resulted in reduced muscle expression of miR-379 and increased expression of EIF4G2 and DAPIT. Furthermore, miR-379 seric level, which is also elevated in the plasma of DMD patients in comparison with age-matched controls, is reduced by GC treatment. Thus, this newly identified pathway may link GC treatment to a mitochondrial response in DMD.
Thermoelectric properties of graphene-like nanoribbon studied from the perspective of symmetry
Authors: Dai Ye-Bin , Luo Kai , Wang Xue-Feng
Published: June 2020

We have studied the charge and spin thermopower systematically in a ferromagnetic junction of graphene-like zigzag nanoribbon modified by two on-site disorders in the tight-binding model. Symmetries of the transmission spectra and geometry configuration of the two disorders are important factors in determining the thermoelectric properties of the system. Conditions to achieve pure charge and pure spin thermopower are discussed from the perspective of symmetry. Symmetry breaking is required sometimes to obtain large figure of merit. The type and strength of the disorders can be used to further manipulate the spin polarization of thermal current. Disorders inside nanoribbon instead of on edge can then be used to finely tune the performance of the junction. The results may have great application value in designing thermoelectric devices.
All-optical, an ultra-thin endoscopic photoacoustic sensor using multi-mode fiber
Authors: Shabairou Nadav , Lengenfelder Benjamin , Hohmann Martin , Klämpfl Florian , Schmidt Michael , Zalevsky Zeev
Published: June 2020

Photoacoustic endoscopy (PAE) is a method of in-vivo imaging that uses tissue absorption properties. In PAE, the main tools used to detect the acoustic signal are mechanical ultrasound transducers, which require direct contact and which are difficult to miniaturize. All-optic photoacoustic sensors can challenge this issue as they can provide contact-free sensing. Here, we demonstrate sensing of photo-acoustic signals through a multimode fiber (MMF) which can provide an ultra-thin endoscopic photoacoustic sensor. Furthermore, we show the advantage of using the optical-flow method for speckle sensing and extract the photoacoustic signal despite the mode-mixing along the MMF. Moreover, it is demonstrated for the first time that the speckle reconstruction method can be used without the need for imaging of the speckles as this enables the use of multimode fibers for the speckle method.
Gentle stroking stimuli induce affiliative responsiveness to humans in male rats
Authors: Okabe Shota , Takayanagi Yuki , Yoshida Masahide , Onaka Tatsushi
Published: June 2020

Gentle tactile stimuli have been shown to play an important role in the establishment and maintenance of affiliative social interactions. Oxytocin has also been shown to have similar actions. We investigated the effects of gentle stroking on affiliative relationships between humans and rats and the effects of gentle stroking on activation of oxytocin neurons. Male rats received 5-min stroking stimuli from an experimenter every other day for 4 weeks between 3 and 6 weeks of age (S3–6 group), for 4 weeks between 7 and 10 weeks of age (S7–10 group), or for 8 weeks between 3 and 10 weeks of age (S3–10 group). Control rats did not receive stroking stimuli. Rats in the S7–10 and S3–10 groups emitted 50-kHz calls, an index of positive emotion, more frequently during stroking stimuli. Rats in the S3–6, S7–10, and S3–10 groups showed affiliative behaviors toward the experimenter. Oxytocin neurons in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus of rats in the S3–6, S7–10, and S3–10 groups were activated following stroking stimuli. These findings revealed that post-weaning repeated stroking stimuli induce an affiliative relationship between rats and humans and activation of oxytocin neurons.
Novel approach using serum progesterone as a triage to guide management of patients with threatened miscarriage: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Tan Thiam Chye , Ku Chee Wai , Kwek Lee Koon , Lee Kai Wei , Zhang Xiaoxuan , Allen John C. , Zhang Valencia Ru-Yan , Tan Nguan Soon
Published: June 2020

Threatened miscarriage is a common gynaecological emergency, with up to 25% of women eventually progressing to spontaneous miscarriage. The uncertainty of pregnancy outcomes results in significant anxiety. However, there is currently no acceptable framework for triaging patients presenting with threatened miscarriage. We aim to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a novel clinical protocol using a single serum progesterone level to prognosticate and guide management of patients with threatened miscarriage. 1087 women presenting with threatened miscarriage were enrolled in the study. The primary outcome was spontaneous miscarriage by 16 weeks’ gestation. Among the 77.9% (847/1087) of study participants with serum progesterone ≥ 35 nmol/L who were not treated with oral dydrogesterone, the miscarriage rate was 9.6% (81/847). This did not differ significantly from the 8.5% (31/364) miscarriage rate observed in our prior studies; p = 0.566. Among women with serum progesterone < 35 nmol/L who were treated with dydrogesterone, the miscarriage rate was 70.8% (170/240). Our novel clinical triage protocol using a single serum progesterone level allowed both effective risk stratification and a reduction in progestogen use with no significant adverse pregnancy outcomes. This protocol, based on a single serum progesterone cutoff, can be readily adapted for use in other healthcare institutions.
Physicochemical-guided design of cathelicidin-derived peptides generates membrane active variants with therapeutic potential
Authors: Oliveira Nelson G. J. , Cardoso Marlon H. , Velikova Nadya , Giesbers Marcel , Wells Jerry M. , Rezende Taia M. B. , de Vries Renko , Franco Octávio L.
Published: June 2020

The spread of multi-drug resistance and the slow pace at which antibiotics come onto the market are undermining our ability to treat human infections, leading to high mortality rates. Aiming to overcome this global crisis, antimicrobial peptides are considered promising alternatives to counter bacterial infections with multi-drug resistant bacteria. The cathelicidins comprise a well-studied class of AMPs whose members have been used as model molecules for sequence modifications, aiming at enhanced biological activities and stability, along with reduced toxic effects on mammalian cells. Here, we describe the antimicrobial activities, modes of action and structural characterization of two novel cathelicidin-like peptides, named BotrAMP14 and CrotAMP14, which were re-designed from snake batroxicidin and crotalicidin, respectively. BotrAMP14 and CrotAMP14 showed broad-spectrum antibacterial activity against susceptible microorganisms and clinical isolates with minimal inhibitory concentrations ranging from 2–35.1 μM. Moreover, both peptides had low cytotoxicity against Caco-2 cells in vitro. In addition, in vivo toxicity against Galleria mellonella moth larvae revealed that both peptides led to>76% larval survival after 144 h. Microscopy studies suggest that BotrAMP14 and CrotAMP14 destabilize E. coli membranes. Furthermore, circular dichroism and molecular dynamics simulations indicate that, in a membrane-like environment, both peptides adopt α-helical structures that interact with bilayer phospholipids through hydrogen bonds and electrostatic interaction. Thus, we concluded that BotrAMP14 and CrotAMP14 are helical membrane active peptides, with similar antibacterial properties but lower cytotoxicity than the larger parent peptides batroxicidin and crotalicidin, having advantages for drug development strategies.
Development of a novel biodegradable porous iron-based implant for bone replacement
Authors: Wegener Bernd , Sichler Anton , Milz Stefan , Sprecher Christoph , Pieper Korbinian , Hermanns Walter , Jansson Volkmar , Nies Berthold , Kieback Bernd , Müller Peter Ernst , Wegener Veronika , Quadbeck Peter
Published: June 2020

Bone replacement and osteosynthesis require materials which can at least temporarily bear high mechanical loads. Ideally, these materials would eventually degrade and would be replaced by bone deposited from the host organism. To date several metals, notably iron and iron-based alloys have been identified as suitable materials because they combine high strength at medium corrosion rates. However, currently, these materials do not degrade within an appropriate amount of time. Therefore, the aim of the present study is the development of an iron-based degradable sponge-like (i.e. cellular) implant for bone replacement with biomechanically tailored properties. We used a metal powder sintering approach to manufacture a cylindrical cellular implant which in addition contains phosphor as an alloying element. No corrosion inhibiting effects of phosphorus have been found, the degradation rate was not altered. Implant prototypes were tested in an animal model. Bone reaction was investigated at the bone-implant-interface and inside the cellular spaces of the implant. Newly formed bone was growing into the cellular spaces of the implant after 12 months. Signs of implant degradation were detected but after 12 months, no complete degradation could be observed. In conclusion, iron-based open-porous cellular biomaterials seem promising candidates for the development of self-degrading and high load bearing bone replacement materials.
Injectable postoperative enzyme-responsive hydrogels for reversing temozolomide resistance and reducing local recurrence after glioma operation
Authors: Zhao Zongren , Shen Jiawei , Zhang Long , Wang Lansheng , Xu Haoyue , Han Yuhan , Jia Jun , Lu Yang , Yu Rutong , Liu Hongmei
Published: June 2020

Glioma is the most aggressive primary malignant brain tumor.
Platinum-AIEgen coordination complex for imaging-guided annihilation of cisplatin-resistant cancer cells
Authors: He Zhenyan , Gao Yuting , Zhang Haoke , Wang Xiuxia , Meng Fanling , Luo Liang , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: June 2020

A new platinum-AIEgen coordination complex was synthesized, enabling efficient imaging-guided annihilation of cisplatin-resistant cancer cells under mild white light irradiation.
Photo-driven haloazidation cyclization of 1,5-enynes having cyano groups with TMSN3and NIS/NCS/NBS under metal-free conditions
Authors: Zou Long , Wang Lei , Sun Li , Xie Xiaofei , Li Pinhua
Published: June 2020

A visible-light-driven three-component haloazidation cyclization of 1,5-enynes having cyano groups with TMSN3andN-iodo(bromo/chloro)succinimide (NIS/NCS/NBS) under metal-free conditions was developed.
A parallelogram metallomacrocycle bearing self-catenation and its derivative supramolecular isomerism
Authors: Wang Jun , Zhao He , Chen Mingzhao , Jiang Zhiyuan , Wang Feng , Liu Die , Jiang Zhilong , Xie Ting-Zheng , Zhang Zhe , Wang Pingshan
Published: June 2020

A terpyridine-based supramolecular parallelogram metallomacrocycle and its self-catenation (magic ring) have been studied. Moreover, a catenane-like intersected isomeric metallosupramolecule was created by a redesigned ligand.
Merging alkenyl C–H activation with the ring-opening of 1,2-oxazetidines: ruthenium-catalyzed aminomethylation of enamides
Authors: Li Song , Shan Qi-Chao , Hu Lu-Min , Ma Xue-Qing , Hu Xu-Hong
Published: June 2020

1,2-Oxazetidines have been utilized as formaldimine precursors for the direct aminomethylation of enamides under a Ru(ii) species.
A macrocycle directed total synthesis of di-O-methylendiandrin A
Authors: Barnes Timothy H. , Johnson Kara F. , Gorden John D. , Merner Bradley L.
Published: June 2020

The synthesis of di-O-methylendiandrin A has been achieved using diastereoselective, vicinal alkylation and transannular McMurry reactions of a macrocyclic 1,4-diketone, to establish stereochemistry and the strained ring of the natural product.
One-step hydrothermal fabrication of SrMoO4/MoS2 composites with strong interfacial contacts for efficient photoreduction removal of Cr(vi)
Authors: Zhang Yiming , Yang Xiaoyan , Zhang Peng , Liu Dan , Wang Yonglin , Jin Zhouzheng , Mamba Bhekie B. , Kuvarega Alex T. , Gui Jianzhou
Published: June 2020

In situ growth of MoS2 nanosheets on bulk SrMoO4 has been achieved by a one-step hydrothermal strategy. Strong interfacial contacts in 8%-SrMoO4/MoS2 composites endow them with superior photocatalytic performance.
Investigation of the slow relaxation of the magnetization dynamics in homoleptic ene-diamido organodysprosium(iii) complexes with K+/arene interactions
Authors: Long Jérôme , Tolpygin Aleksei O. , Cherkasov Anton V. , Lyssenko Konstantin A. , Guari Yannick , Larionova Joulia , Trifonov Alexander A.
Published: June 2020

Two new Dy3+homolepticate-complexes based on different ene-diamido ligands [K(THF)2][Dy(DAD2R)2] (DAD = [2,6-iPr2C6H3N–CRCR–NC6H3iPr2-2,6], R = H, Me) show K+/arene interactions and single-molecule magnet behavior.
Spin dynamics of hydrothermally synthesized δ-MnO2nanowhiskers
Authors: Gangwar Deepti , Rath Chandana
Published: June 2020

We have reported novel 2D monoclinic,P63/mnm, δ-MnO2nanowhiskers synthesized through a simple and facile hydrothermal route under optimized conditions without using any template.
Gadolinium complexes of macrocyclic diethylenetriamine-N-oxide pentaacetic acid-bisamide as highly stable MRI contrast agents with high relaxivity
Authors: Xu Kehan , Xu Na , Zhang Beibei , Tang Weijun , Ding Yun , Hu Aiguo
Published: June 2020

Macrocyclic gadolinium(iii) complexes with hyphenated-amino-N-oxide (HAO) type ligand structures are designed as efficient magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agents (CAs) with high relaxivity and stability.
More efficient spin–orbit coupling: adjusting the ligand field strength to the second metal ion in asymmetric binuclear platinum(ii) configurations
Authors: Hao Zhaoran , Zhang Kai , Chen Kuan , Wang Pu , Lu Zhiyun , Zhu Weiguo , Liu Yu
Published: June 2020

Two types of asymmetric binuclear platinum(ii) complexes (Pt-1 and Pt-3) bearing different bridging ligands as well as their corresponding mononuclear counterparts (Pt-2, Pt-4, and Pt-5) were synthesized and characterized.
Copper(ii) and zinc(ii) complexes of mono- and bis-1,2,3-triazole-substituted heterocyclic ligands
Authors: Pantalon Juraj Natalija , Krklec Marko , Novosel Tiana , Perić Berislav , Vianello Robert , Raić-Malić Silvana , Kirin Srećko I.
Published: June 2020

Click chemistry is a simple way of preparing a wide scope of ligands that can coordinate metals such as Cu(ii) and Zn(ii), forming complexes of different stoichiometries, geometries and stereochemistries.
A dual-function all-inorganic intercluster salt comprising the polycation ε-[Al13O4(OH)24(H2O)12]7+ and polyanion α-[PMo10V2O40]5− for detoxifying sulfur mustard and soman
Authors: Yu Jialin , Gao Qi , Zhang Lijuan , Zhou Yunshan , Zhong Yuxu , Yin Jianbo , Zhou Yuanyuan , Tao Fangsheng , Wang Yong'an
Published: June 2020

The specially designed intercluster compound can catalytically decontaminate both HD and GD at ambient conditions with high efficiency.
Dynamically directing cell organization via micro-hump structure patterned cell-adhered interfaces
Authors: Yang Wenguang , Sun Lujing , Cai Shuxiang , Chen Yibao , Liang Wenfeng , Zhou Peilin , Yu Haibo , Wang Yuechao , Liu Lianqing
Published: June 2020

We present a simple method to fabricate micro-hump patterned interfaces based on electrohydrodynamic jet (E-jet) printing to control and direct cell organization. Microstructures were rapidly fabricated and cell adhesion was significantly enhanced by the micro-hump structures.
Allocolchicinoids bearing a Michael acceptor fragment for possible irreversible binding of tubulin
Authors: Sazanova Ekaterina S. , Gracheva Iuliia A. , Allegro Diane , Barbier Pascale , Combes Sébastien , Svirshchevskaya Elena V. , Fedorov Alexey Yu
Published: June 2020

We describe an attempt to apply the concept of covalent binding towards the highly active allocolchicinoids selected on the basis of SAR analysis of previously synthesized molecules.
Tolerable upper intake level of iron damages the intestine and alters the intestinal flora in weaned piglets
Authors: Ding Haoxuan , Yu Xiaonan , Chen Lingjun , Han Jianan , Zhao Yang , Feng Jie
Published: June 2020

Iron supplementation has been an intervention to improve iron storage and prevent iron deficiency anemia in weaned piglets and the recommended nutrient intake (RNI) and tolerable upper intake levels (UL) of iron have been established. The purpose of this study is to investigate the potential harm of UL iron to the gut and microbes of weaned piglets. Thirty 23 day old weaned piglets were assigned to three dietary treatments: a basal diet supplemented with 100 (RNI), 300, and 3000 (UL) mg FeSO4 per kg diet for 28 days. Then, we used the intestinal porcine epithelial cell line (IPEC-1) as a cell model to study the effect of UL iron on the gut of weaned piglets. Weaned piglets showed a significant decrease in villus height after feeding on a UL iron diet (P < 0.05). The protein levels of DMT1 and Zip14 decreased, and the protein levels of ferritin increased in the duodenal mucosa (P < 0.05) of UL iron fed weaned piglets. Moreover, UL iron also increased the content of ROS and malondialdehyde and decreased the activity of superoxide dismutase in the duodenal mucosa of weaned piglets (P < 0.05). The addition of UL iron to the diet significantly reduced the expression of tight junction proteins Claudin-1, Occludin, and ZO-1 in the duodenal mucosa of weaned piglets (P < 0.05). In the IPEC-1 cell model, iron induced the production of cytosolic and mitochondrial ROS and reduced the mitochondrial membrane potential, which in turn led to cellular vacuolation and fibrosis. Furthermore, UL iron significantly altered the cecum flora of weaned piglets, and the relative abundance of Clostridiales, Faecalibacterium, and Prevotellaceae decreased significantly (P < 0.05), while the relative abundance of Desulfovibrio and Anaerovibrio increased significantly (P < 0.05). In conclusion, UL iron caused damage to the intestinal villi, induced oxidative stress, reduced iron absorption protein, damaged the intestinal barrier, and modified the intestinal microbial structure in weaned piglets.
In situ construction of hybrid MnO2@GO heterostructures for enhanced visible light photocatalytic, anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant activity
Authors: Ahmad Jahangir , Wahid Malik , Majid Kowsar
Published: June 2020

Hybrid MnO2@GO heterostructure nano-composites with enhanced visible light photocatalytic, anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activity.
Charcoal derived graphene quantum dots for flexible supercapacitor oriented applications
Authors: Singh Arvind , Kumar Sumeet , Ojha Animesh K.
Published: June 2020

In this article, charcoal is used as a new raw material for the synthesis of high yield graphene quantum dots (GQDs) for supercapacitor application.
Stereoselective synthesis of an eleganine A core
Authors: Smits Gints , Zemribo Ronalds
Published: June 2020

The core structure of eleganine A – a cytotoxic indole monoterpene alkaloid – was accessed for the first time.
A self-assembly based on a hydrogel interface: facile, rapid, and large-scale preparation of colloidal photonic crystals
Authors: Wu Mengfan , Zhang Chuyan , Wei Fujing , An Huifang , Wang Xiaqing , Li Dan , Wang Haoyu , Wen Kexiong , Lin Qingyu , Duan Yixiang
Published: June 2020

This is the first time that a hydrogel interface has been used as an assembly interface for the self-assembly of photonic crystals with excellent performances.
Ring-opening Metathesis Polymerisation derived poly(dicyclopentadiene) based materials
Authors: Kovačič Sebastijan , Slugovc Christian
Published: June 2020

This review article summarises the academic work in the fields of initiator development, polymer chemistry and physics, composites, self-healing composites, novel processing opportunities and macro-as well as microporous materials.
Correction: Exploring long-range proton conduction, the conduction mechanism and inner hydration state of protein biopolymers
Authors: Mondal Somen , Agam Yuval , Nandi Ramesh , Amdursky Nadav
Published: June 2020

Correction for ‘Exploring long-range proton conduction, the conduction mechanism and inner hydration state of protein biopolymers’ by Somen Mondal et al., Chem. Sci., 2020, 11, 3547–3556, DOI: 10.1039/C9SC04392F.
Synthesis of material libraries using gas diffusion electrodes
Authors: Prato M. Rafael A. , Van Vught Vincent , Chayambuka Kudakwashe , Pozo Guillermo , Eggermont Sam , Fransaer Jan , Dominguez-Benetton Xochitl
Published: June 2020

Gas-diffusion electrocrystallization (GDEx), driven by oxygen reduction, produces libraries of nanostructures, including birnessites, cubic spinels, tetragonal spinels, and layered double hydroxides, with Co2+ and Mn2+ as metal precursors.
Ternary ZIF-8-derived dual-metal CoCu nanoparticles in porous carbon polyhedra as efficient catalysts for methanol oxidation
Authors: Tang Chaoyun , Asefa Tewodros
Published: June 2020

Novel ternary-metallic ZIFs are synthesized in one step and then converted into efficient dual-metal/nanoporous carbon electrocatalysts for the methanol oxidation reaction.
3D printing of cell-laden electroconductive bioinks for tissue engineering applications
Authors: Rastin Hadi , Zhang Bingyang , Bi Jingxiu , Hassan Kamrul , Tung Tran Thanh , Losic Dusan
Published: June 2020

Bioprinting is an emerging powerful fabrication method, which enables the rapid assembly of 3D bioconstructs with dispensing cell-laden bioinks in pre-designed locations.
Discovery and design of soft polymeric bio-inspired materials with multiscale simulations and artificial intelligence
Authors: Zhai Chenxi , Li Tianjiao , Shi Haoyuan , Yeo Jingjie
Published: June 2020

Establishing the “Materials 4.0” paradigm requires intimate knowledge of the virtual space in materials design.
Galectin-1 inhibits PDGF-BB-induced proliferation and migration of airway smooth muscle cells through the inactivation of PI3K/Akt signaling pathway
Authors: Pang Xinfeng , Qiao Jing
Published: June 2020

Childhood asthma is one of the most common chronic childhood diseases. Platelet-derived growth factor BB (PDGF-BB) induced airway smooth muscle cell (ASMC) proliferation and migration are involved in the pathogenesis of asthma. Galectin-1 (Gal-1) is a glycan-binding protein that has been found to be involved in the progression of asthma. However, the mechanism remains unclear. In the current study, we aimed to evaluate the role of Gal-1 in regulating the phenotype switching of ASMCs, which is an important mechanism in the pathogenesis of asthma. Our results showed that Gal-1 was markedly down-regulated in the samples from asthma patients. In vitro study also proved that Gal-1 expression was decreased in PDGF-BB-stimulated ASMCs. In addition, Gal-1 overexpression significantly inhibited PDGF-BB-induced ASMCs proliferation and migration, while Gal-1 knockdown exhibits opposite effects of Gal-1 overexpression. The PDGF-BB-caused reductions in expressions of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), specific muscle myosin heavy chain (SM-MHC), and calponin were elevated by Gal-1 overexpression, but were deteriorated by Gal-1 knockdown in ASMCs. Furthermore, overexpression of Gal-1 inhibited PDGF-BB-stimulated PI3K/Akt activation in ASMCs. Notably, treatment with IGF-1, an activator of PI3K, reversed the effects of Gal-1 on ASMCs proliferation, migration, and phenotype switching. In conclusion, these findings showed that Gal-1 exerted inhibitory effects on PDGF-BB-stimulated proliferation, migration, and phenotype switching of ASMCs via inhibiting the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. Thus, Gal-1 might be a promising target for the treatment of asthma.
Genome survey sequencing and identification of genomic SSR markers for Rhododendron micranthum
Authors: Zhou Xiao-jun , Liu Meng-xue , Lu Xiao-yu , Sun Shan-shan , Cheng Yan-wei , Ya Hui-yuan
Published: June 2020

Rhododendron micranthum is an evergreen shrub species widely distributed in China that has high ornamental and medicinal value. However, there is a lack of molecular and genomic data for this plant, which severely restricts the development of its relevant research. The objective of the present study was to conduct a first genomic survey of R. micranthum and determine its whole-genome sequencing scheme. Next-generation sequencing (Illumina Hi-Seq Xten) was used to measure the genome size of R. micranthum, K-mer analysis were employed to investigate its genomic profile. Finally, we conducted bioinformatics methods to performed SSR (simple sequence repeat) prediction based on the genomic data. The genome size of R. micranthum was estimated to be 554.22 Mb. The heterozygosity ratio was 0.93%, and the sequence repeat ratio was calculated to be 49.17%. The clean reads of R. micranthum were assembled into 2281551 scaffolds with a N50 value of 916 bp. A total of 479724 SSR molecular markers were identified in the R. micranthum genome, and 871656 pairs of primers designed for application. Among of them, 100 primer pairs were validated, and 71 primer pairs were successfully amplified. In summary, the R. micranthum genome is complex with high heterozygosity and low repeated sequences. In future whole-genome research in R. micranthum, higher-depth ‘2+3’ (Illumina+PacBio) sequencing may yield better assembly results.
Silencing circSLAMF6 represses cell glycolysis, migration, and invasion by regulating the miR-204-5p/MYH9 axis in gastric cancer under hypoxia
Authors: Fang Xinhui , Bai Yangqiu , Zhang Lida , Ding Songze
Published: June 2020

Background: Gastric cancer (GC) is a malignant tumor of the digestive tract. Hypoxia plays an important role in the development of cancer, including GC. The present study aimed to investigate the role of circular RNA SLAMF6 (circSLAMF6) in the progression of GC under hypoxia.

Methods: The expression of circSLAMF6, microRNA-204-5p (miR-204-5p) and myosin heavy chain 9 (MYH9) was measured by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). GC cells were maintained under hypoxia (1% O2) for experiments in vitro. Glucose consumption and lactate production were determined by a Glucose Assay Kit and a Lactate Assay Kit, respectively. Levels of all protein were detected by Western blot. Cell migration and invasion were examined by Transwell assay. The interaction between miR-204-5p and circSLAMF6 or MYH9 was analyzed by dual-luciferase reporter and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays. Murine xenograft model was established to explore the role of circSLAMF6 in vivo.

Results: CircSLAMF6 expression was increased in GC cells under hypoxia. Hypoxia promoted glycolysis, migration, and invasion in GC cells, which were reversed by circSLAMF6 knockdown. CircSLAMF6 was validated as a miR-204-5p sponge, and MYH9 was a target of miR-204-5p. Functionally, miR-204-5p inhibitor weakened the inhibition of circSLAMF6 knockdown on GC cell progression under hypoxia. Besides, MYH9 depletion suppressed glycolysis, migration, and invasion in GC cells under hypoxia. Importantly, circSLAMF6 deficiency inhibited tumor growth in vivo by regulating the miR-204-5p/MYH9 axis.

Conclusion: CircSLAMF6 was involved in glycolysis, migration, and invasion by regulating the miR-204-5p/MYH9 axis in GC cells under hypoxia.
High‐uniformity 1 × 64 linear arrays of silicon carbide avalanche photodiode
Authors: Zhou Xingye , Tan Xin , Lv Yuanjie , Li Jia , Liang Shixiong , Feng Zhihong , Cai Shujun
Published: June 2020

In this Letter, high‐uniformity 1 × 64 linear arrays of 4H‐SiC avalanche photodiode (APD) are reported for ultraviolet detection. Multi‐cycle inductively coupled plasma dry etching was adopted for the bevelled mesa formation, during which the wafers were rotated with a small angle for each cycle to suppress the process variation. As a result, a high pixel yield of 100% and a high‐uniformity breakdown voltage with a fluctuation of smaller than 0.5 V are achieved for the fabricated 1 × 64 4H‐SiC APD linear arrays, which is a great improvement for 4H‐SiC APD arrays. Moreover, the dark currents at 95% of breakdown voltage are below 1 nA for all the 64 pixels. Besides, the pixels in the array show a multiplication gain of larger than 106 and a peak responsivity of 0.12 A/W at 285 nm (corresponding to a maximum quantum efficiency of 52%) at room temperature.
Transkranielle Magnetstimulation
Authors: Golaszewski Stefan M. , Nardone Raffaele
Published: June 2020

Die repetitive transkranielle Magnetstimulation ermöglicht eine nicht invasive Modulation der kortikalen Erregbarkeit des Gehirns, welche durch verschiedene Stimulationsparameter erhöht oder verringert werden kann. Die induzierten Veränderungen können vorübergehend oder längerfristig sein. Es können im Gehirn unterschiedliche neuromodulatorische Prozesse hinsichtlich der stimulierten Region und des stimulierten neuronalen Gewebes induziert werden, was die Schmerzwahrnehmung im Gehirn verändern kann. Es werden kontinuierliche Serien von TMS-Pulsen mit niedriger (≤ 1Hz) oder höherer Frequenz (> 1Hz) mit Hemmung oder Fazilitierung der kortikalen Erregbarkeit durch Veränderungen der synaptischen Transmission angewendet, was zu synaptischer Plastizität insbesondere im Bereich der Langzeitpotenzierung (LTP) oder Langzeitdepression (LTD) führt. Hinreichend Evidenz für die Wirksamkeit der rTMS in der Schmerztherapie gibt es insbesondere für chronisch neuropathische Schmerzen zentraler oder peripherer Genese und für die Fibromyalgie.
Therapien bei der chronisch inflammatorischen demyelinisierenden Polyneuropathie
Authors: Gingele Stefan , Seeliger Tabea , Skripuletz Thomas
Published: June 2020

Die chronisch inflammatorische demyelinisierende Polyneuropathie (CIDP) ist eine behandelbare Erkrankung des peripheren Nervensystems. Ein schneller Therapiebeginn kann bei vielen Patienten zu einer Erkrankungsstabilisierung führen und somit körperliche Behinderungen lindern oder verbessern. Steroide, intravenöse Immunglobuline und Plasmaaustausch können initial eingesetzt werden. Seit 2018 steht eine Behandlung mit subkutanen Immunglobulinen zur Verfügung. Patienten, die sich unter der Behandlung mit intravenösen Immunglobulinen stabilisiert haben, können auf diese neue Therapieform umgestellt werden. Subkutane Immunglobuline bieten viele Vorteile, wie beispielsweise größere Flexibilität im Alltag durch die Möglichkeit der Heimbehandlung, und sie eignen sich deshalb besonders gut für die Langzeitbehandlung von CIDP-Patienten.