bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hmox1 promotes osteogenic differentiation at the expense of reduced adipogenic differentiation induced by BMP9 in C3H10T1/2 cells
Authors: Liu Xiaohua , Ji Caixia , Xu Li , Yu TingTing , Dong Chaoqun , Luo Jinyong
Published: January 2018

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are multipotent progenitors that can differentiate into a variety of cell types under proper stimuli. Bone morphogenetic protein 9 (BMP9) is able to simultaneously induce both adipogenic and osteogenic differentiation of MSCs although the regulatory molecules involved remain to be fully identified and characterized. Heme oxygenase 1 (Hmox1) plays an essential role not only in fat metabolism, but also in bone development. In the present study, we investigated the functional role of Hmox1 in BMP9‐induced osteogenic/adipogenic differentiation in MSCs line C3H10T1/2 and probed the possible mechanism involved. We found that BMP9 promoted the endogenous expression of Hmox1 in C3H10T1/2 cells. Overexpression of Hmox1 or cobalt protoporphyrin (CoPP), an inducer of Hmox1, increased BMP9‐induced osteogenic differentiation in vitro. Subcutaneous stem cell implantation in nude mice further confirmed that Hmox1 potentiated BMP9‐induced ectopic bone formation in vivo. In contrast, Hmox1 reduced BMP9‐induced adipogenic differentiation in C3H10T1/2 cells. Although had no obvious effect on BMP9‐induced Smad1/5/8 phosphorylation, Hmox1 enhanced phosphorylation of p38, and AKT, while decreased phosphorylation of ERK1/2. Furthermore, Hmox1 increased total β‐catenin protein level, and promoted the nuclear translocation of β‐catenin in C3H10T1/2 cells. Taken together, our study strongly suggests that Hmox1 is likely to potentiate osteogenic differentiation and yet decrease adipogenic differentiation induced by BMP9 possibly through regulation of multiple signaling pathways.
Exploring sand fly salivary proteins to design multiepitope subunit vaccine to fight against visceral leishmaniasis
Authors: Pandey Rajan Kumar , Prajapati Vijay Kumar
Published: January 2018

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is caused by the parasites of Leishmania donovani complex, leads to the death of 20 000 to 40 000 people from 56 affected countries, worldwide. Till date, there is not a single available vaccine candidate to prevent the VL infection, and treatment only relies upon expensive and toxic chemotherapeutic options. Consequently, immunoinformatics approach was applied to design a multiepitope‐based subunit vaccine to enhance the humoral as well as cell‐mediated immunity. Constructed vaccine candidate was further subjected to evaluation on allergenicity and antigenicity and physiochemical parameters. Later on, disulfide engineering was performed to increase the stability of vaccine construct. Also, molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation study were performed to check the binding affinity and stability of toll‐like receptor‐4 to vaccine construct complex. Finally, codon optimization and in silico cloning were performed to ensure the expression of proposed vaccine construct in a microbial expression system.
Drosophila melanogaster: A model to study obesity effects on genes expression and developmental changes on descendants
Authors: de Paula Mariane T. , Silva Márcia R. P. , Araújo Stífani M. , Bortolotto Vandreza C. , Martins Illana K. , Macedo Giulianna E. , Franco Jeferson L. , Posser Thaís , Prigol Marina
Published: January 2018

Maternal obesity and metabolic diseases are two of the most important potential dangers to offspring, given that impaired offspring may cause deficiencies that impair the adult life and health. This study evaluated the oxidative damage, the enzymatic antioxidant defenses, and the enzymes of fatty acid metabolism, such as Acyl‐CoA Synthetase and Acetyl‐CoA Synthetase (mRNA expression levels), as well as the modulation of cell stress signaling pathway, as Hsp83, and gene expression and insulin‐like peptide DILP6 in Drosophila melanogaster models that received a high fat diet (HFD) (10% and 20% of coconut oil) throughout their development period. After 7 days, the progenitor flies were removed and, the remaining eggs were monitored daily, until the eclosion. The descendants were then exposed to a regular diet (RD). The results revealed that the HFD caused a decrease in the proportion of eclosion, lifespan, MTT reduction in mitochondrial enriched fractions, AceCS1 levels, mRNA expression levels (SOD and CAT), and in catalase activity a decrease was only observed in the group that received the highest concentration of coconut oil. In parallel, it was demonstrated an increase in the upregulation of HSP83 mRNA levels, but only when 10% of coconut oil was added, and an increase in glucose and triglyceride levels, as well as in DILP6 mRNA levels in larger concentration of coconut oil tested (20%). In conclusion, flies that have progenitors fed with HFD can develop metabolic dysfunctions, causing oxidative insults, which are involved in the shortening of lifespan.
Regulation of RhoA GTPase and various transcription factors in the RhoA pathway
Authors: Kim Jae‐Gyu , Islam Rokibul , Cho Jung Y. , Jeong Hwalrim , Cap Kim‐Cuong , Park Yohan , Hossain Abu J. , Park Jae‐Bong
Published: January 2018

RhoA GTPase plays a variety of functions in regulation of cytoskeletal proteins, cellular morphology, and migration along with various proliferation and transcriptional activity in cells. RhoA activity is regulated by guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs), GTPase activating proteins (GAPs), and the guanine nucleotide dissociation factor (GDI). The RhoA‐RhoGDI complex exists in the cytosol and the active GTP‐bound form of RhoA is located to the membrane. GDI displacement factors (GDFs) including IκB kinase γ (IKKγ) dissociate the RhoA‐GDI complex, allowing activation of RhoA through GEFs. In addition, modifications of Tyr42 phosphorylation and Cys16/20 oxidation in RhoA and Tyr156 phosphorylation and oxidation of RhoGDI promote the dissociation of the RhoA‐RhoGDI complex. The expression of RhoA is regulated through transcriptional factors such as c‐Myc, HIF‐1α/2α, Stat 6, and NF‐κB along with several reported microRNAs. As the role of RhoA in regulating actin‐filament formation and myosin‐actin interaction has been well described, in this review we focus on the transcriptional activity of RhoA and also the regulation of RhoA message itself. Of interest, in the cytosol, activated RhoA induces transcriptional changes through filamentous actin (F‐actin)‐dependent (“actin switch”) or—independent means. RhoA regulates the activity of several transcription regulators such as serum response factor (SRF)/MAL, AP‐1, NF‐κB, YAP/TAZ, β‐catenin, and hypoxia inducible factor (HIF)‐1α. Interestingly, RhoA also itself is localized to the nucleus by an as‐yet‐undiscovered mechanism.
Effects of energy and thermoregulation time on physiological state and sexual signal in a lizard
Authors: Mészáros Boglárka , Herczeg Gábor , Bajer Katalin , Török János , Molnár Orsolya
Published: January 2018

Theory of sexual selection states that males often develop showy signals, which reduce their survival but increase their reproductive success. During mate choice, these conspicuous signals can be honest indicators of individual quality conveying information about the signaler's physiological state. Sexually selected signals are influenced by many environmental factors; however, whether signals and physiological state are affected together is rarely studied. The ultraviolet‐blue throat color of male Lacerta viridis is an intra‐ and intersexually selected signal connected to blood parasite infection and influenced by environmental factors. The aim of this study was to experimentally investigate how ecologically relevant environmental factors affect color signal intensity and key physiological traits parallel. During the mating season, we exposed 40 adult male lizards infected with blood parasites to food and basking time treatments in a full factorial design. We measured color, amount of reactive oxygen metabolites (ROMs), hematocrit, immunocompetence, and blood parasite intensity before and after treatments. High basking time resulted in elevated immunocompetence coupled with increased ROMs. The high food treatment increased nuptial color brightness, but also increased ROMs and decreased immunocompetence. In summary, our study provides experimental evidence about environmentally induced parallel changes in an honest sexual signal and several quality‐indicator physiological traits. We showed that available energy and time for high metabolism have independent and sometimes opposite effects on individual state.
Synthesis of 2‐Aminothiazole Derivatives in Easy Two‐Step, One‐Pot Reaction
Authors: Dziuk Błażej , Kyzioł Janusz B. , Zaleski Jacek , Ejsmont Krzysztof , Zarychta Bartosz
Published: January 2018

Condensation of brominated ethyl acetoacetate with thiourea gives 2‐amino‐5‐ethoxycarbonyl‐4‐methylthiazole (1) and ethyl α‐(2‐amino‐4‐thiazolyl)acetate (2), indicating that bromination of the substrate occurs on both sides of the carbonyl group. X‐ray diffraction studies indicate weak hydrogen bonds of the amino groups, which are not observed in the IR spectra. The 1 molecule adopts planar S,O‐anti conformation in the crystal lattice, whereas the methylene group, insulating thiazole ring and the ester group in 2 molecule, makes it more flexible and makes the ester group nearly perpendicular to the thiazole ring. The small deviations of the bond lengths and angles indicate mesomeric interaction between complementary substituents across the thiazole ring.
Foreign Banks and Financial Inclusion in Emerging and Developing Economies: An Empirical Investigation
Authors: Gopalan Sasidaran , Rajan Ramkishen S.
Published: January 2018

An important dimension of the effects of foreign bank presence on financial sector development relates to that of financial inclusion. Despite its significance, the empirical literature offers little evidence on the relationship between foreign banks and financial inclusion. We examine this relationship by focusing on impact of foreign banks on both the accessibility and usage dimensions of financial inclusion for a panel of 50 emerging and developing economies over 2004–2009. Our findings show that foreign banks have a strong positive impact in furthering financial access while tending to impede the usage dimension, which is robust to alternative methodologies and definitions. Copyright © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dobrava hantavirus variants found in Apodemus flavicollis mice in Kırklareli Province, Turkey
Authors: Polat Ceylan , Sironen Tarja , Plyusnina Angelina , Karatas Ahmet , Sozen Mustafa , Matur Ferhat , Vapalahti Olli , Oktem I. Mehmet Ali , Plyusnin Alexander
Published: January 2018

Hantaviruses infect humans via inhalation of viral particles within secretions of infected rodents or rarely through direct contact with infected rodents. Determining the prevalence of hantavirus infections among rodent populations is of vital importance to obtain information on hantavirus‐related cases and to predict possible outbreaks. We hypothesized that DOBV strains circulating in the Thrace Region in Turkey would be related to other Balkan DOBV strains. In this study, hantavirus infections in the rodent population of the Kırklareli‐İğneada Region (north‐western Turkey, near the Bulgarian border) were investigated. This region is of particular importance, as it is located in the south‐eastern margin of the European continent and was used as an entrance point of Asian faunal elements into Europe. DOBV infection was detected in eight of 73 rodents; all were of the Apodemus flavicollis species. Partial sequences of the viral S‐, M‐, and L‐genome segments were recovered and compared with previously reported DOBV sequences. The newly characterized Turkish strains were similar to other DOBV variants. Silent nucleotide mutations were dominant. The hantavirus prevalence in the İğneada region was similar to what has been reported in Greece and Bulgaria. For the first time, the M‐segment sequences of DOBV from Turkey were recovered and genetic data of hantaviruses from Thrace region of Turkey were obtained.
Impacts of the subarctic frontal zone on the North Pacific storm track in the cold season: an observational study
Authors: Yao Yao , Zhong Zhong , Yang Xiu‐Qun
Published: January 2018

In this study, potential impacts of the North Pacific subarctic frontal zone (SAFZ) variation, including its intensity variation and meridional shift, upon the subseasonally varying North Pacific storm track are investigated by using the 100‐year reanalysis data sets. Regression analysis indicates that the changes in the SAFZ intensity and meridional position have significant influence on the North Pacific storm track, which intensifies with the strengthening of the SAFZ and moves northwards following the northwards shift of the SAFZ. However, the storm‐track response pattern exhibits distinct differences from one calendar month to another. Specifically, the storm‐track response to the SAFZ intensity variation is strongest in February and March; while its response to the SAFZ meridional shift is most pronounced in November and December. However, the storm‐track response is relatively weak in January. Further analysis shows that the intensified (or northwards shifted) SAFZ would result in changes in the near‐surface baroclinicity and hence affects the storm track, while the weak storm‐track response in January is not the result of the anomalous near‐surface baroclinicity. The investigation of the local energetics reveals that changes in the baroclinic energy conversion (BCEC) associated with the SAFZ variation are consistent with the storm‐track anomalies, indicating that the BCEC plays a crucial role in modulating the subseasonal changes in the storm‐track response. In January, the weakened BCEC contributes to the reduced storm‐track response to the SAFZ variation.
The influence of Aloe vera gel incorporation on the physicochemical and mechanical properties of banana starch‐chitosan edible films
Authors: Pinzon Magda I , Garcia Omar R , Villa Cristian C
Published: January 2018

BACKGROUND

Aloe vera (AV) gel is a promising material in food conservation, given its widely reported antimicrobial and antioxidant activity; however, its application in the formation of edible films and coatings has been small owing its low film‐forming capability. The aim of this study was to investigate the physicochemical properties of film‐forming solutions and films prepared using unripe banana starch–chitosan and AV gel at different AV gel concentrations.

RESULTS

Our results showed that AV gel considerably affected the rheological and optical properties of the edible coatings, mainly due to increased amounts of solids brought by the AV gel. Film‐forming capacity and physicochemical properties were also studied; most of the film properties were affected by the inclusion of AV gel, with decreased water vapor permeability, tensile strength and elongation at break. Fourier transform infrared studies showed that the inclusion of AV gel disrupts the interaction between starch and chitosan molecules; however, further studies are needed to fully understand the specific interactions between the components of AV gel and both starch and chitosan molecules.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that the addition of AV gel creates a crosslinking effect between the phenolic compounds in AV gel and starch molecules, which disrupts the starch–chitosan interaction and greatly affects the properties of both the film‐forming solution and edible films. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
3D computer vision based on machine learning with deep neural networks: A review
Authors: Vodrahalli Kailas , Bhowmik Achintya K.
Published: January 2018

Recent advances in the field of computer vision can be attributed to the emergence of deep learning techniques, in particular convolutional neural networks. Neural networks, partially inspired by the brain's visual cortex, enable a computer to “learn” the most important features of the images it is shown in relation to a specific, specified task. Given sufficient data and time, (deep) convolutional neural networks offer more easily designed, more generalizable, and significantly more accurate end‐to‐end systems than is possible with previously employed computer vision techniques. This review paper seeks to provide an overview of deep learning in the field of computer vision with an emphasis on recent progress in tasks involving 3D visual data. Through a backdrop of the mammalian visual processing system, we hope to also provide inspiration for future advances in automated visual processing.
Electrowetting optical switch with large aperture tuning range
Authors: Li Yannanqi , Yuan Rong‐Ying , Li Lei , Rong Sheng , Wang Qiong‐Hua
Published: January 2018

In this paper, we propose an optical switch by deforming the shape of the liquid droplet. The optical switch consists of two immiscible liquids. The dye‐doped water is conductive, while the clear liquid is insulating. In the voltage‐off state, incident light can pass through the circular aperture formed of clear liquid. When the voltage is applied to the liquids, the surrounding dye‐doped water pushes to the side wall because of the effect of electric field force. So, the diameter of the circular aperture is rapidly reduced, and the incident light is absorbed by the dye‐doped water. Our results show that the device can obtain an optical attenuation (~350:1) and reasonable response time (~320 ms). The diameter of the aperture can be largely tuned from ~0.5 to ~6.2 mm as the applied voltage is changed from ~25 to ~65 V. The proposed optical switch has potential applications in light shutters, tunable irises, and variable optical attenuators.
Influencing altruistic tourist behaviour: Persuasive communication to affect attitudes and self‐efficacy beliefs
Authors: Shahzalal Md , Font Xavier
Published: January 2018

This article studies the determinants of altruistic behaviour in a collectivistic country. A focus group discussion identified the determinants and their causal relationships. Partial least square and covariance‐based structural equation modelling provide similar results in 605 questionnaires, which support the model's fit. The tourists are likely to perform more altruistic behaviours if they are exposed to persuasive communication that enhances self‐efficacy beliefs, more than communication tapping into one's sustainability attitudes. The study shows the potential of focusing on altruistic messages in a collectivistic country (Bangladesh) in comparison to the individualistic messages typically shown to be more persuasive in Western countries.
Impact of stone bunds on temporal and spatial variability of soil physical properties: A field study from northern Ethiopia
Authors: Klik Andreas , Schürz Christoph , Strohmeier Stefan , Demelash Melaku Nigus , Ziadat Feras , Schwen Andreas , Zucca Claudio
Published: January 2018

In the Ethiopian Highlands, stone bunds (SBs) are a common practice for soil and water conservation, influencing runoff and erosion processes from sloped agricultural areas. The objective of this study was to investigate how SBs affect spatiotemporal relationships of these processes to better understand their impacts on soil water development at the smallholder farmer's field level. Study area was the Gumara‐Maksegnit Watershed in northern Ethiopia, where two representative transects were investigated: One transect crossed a 71 m‐long field intersected by 2 SBs traced along the contour. The second transect crossed a similar hillslope without conservation structures at a length of 55 m representing baseline (untreated) conditions (no stone bund). During the rainy season of 2012, bulk density and volumetric water content were monitored, and tension disc infiltrometer experiments were performed to determine the saturated hydraulic conductivity and to derive soil water retention characteristics. Our observations show that SB decreased significantly soil bulk density in center and lower zones of SB transect compared with no stone bund. No temporal change was observed. Results targeting the surface soil moisture indicate that infiltration was higher with SB and happened earlier in the rainy season in the zones around the SBs. Saturated hydraulic conductivity was positively affected by SB and increased significantly. Improved soil hydrology by SB fields may increase crop yields by higher soil water contents but also by extending the growing season after the rainy season. Therefore, SBs are a successful measure to establish climate‐resilient agriculture in the Ethiopian Highlands.
Untargeted Metabolomic Screen Reveals Changes in Human Plasma Metabolite Profiles Following Consumption of Fresh Broccoli Sprouts
Authors: Housley Lauren , Magana Armando Alcazar , Hsu Anna , Beaver Laura M. , Wong Carmen P. , Stevens Jan F. , Choi Jaewoo , Jiang Yuan , Bella Deborah , Williams David E. , Maier Claudia S. , Shannon Jackilen , Dashwood Roderick H. , Ho Emily
Published: January 2018

Scope

Several lines of evidence suggest that the consumption of cruciferous vegetables is beneficial to human health. Yet, underlying mechanisms and key molecular targets that are involved with achieving these benefits in humans are still not fully understood. To accelerate this research, we conduct a human study to identify potential molecular targets of crucifers for further study. This study aims to characterize plasma metabolite profiles in humans before and after consuming fresh broccoli sprouts (a rich dietary source of bioactive sulforaphane).

Methods and results

Ten healthy adults consume fresh broccoli sprouts (containing 200 μmol sulforaphane equivalents) at time 0 and provide blood samples at 0, 3, 6, 12, 24, and 48 h. An untargeted metabolomics screen reveals that levels of several plasma metabolites are significantly different before and after sprout intake, including fatty acids (14:0, 14:1, 16:0, 16:1, 18:0, and 18:1), glutathione, glutamine, cysteine, dehydroepiandrosterone, and deoxyuridine monophosphate. Evaluation of all time points is conducted using paired t‐test (R software) and repeated measures analysis of variance for a within‐subject design (Progenesis QI).

Conclusion

This investigation identifies several potential molecular targets of crucifers that may aid in studying established and emerging health benefits of consuming cruciferous vegetables and related bioactive compounds.
A geometric projection method for designing three‐dimensional open lattices with inverse homogenization
Authors: Watts Seth , Tortorelli Daniel A.
Published: January 2018

The article from this special issue was previously published in International Journal for Numerical Methods in Engineering, Volume 112, Issue 11, 2017. For completeness we are including the title page of the article. The full text of the article can be read in Issue 112:11 on Wiley Online Library: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/nme.5569/full
A polynomial‐based method for topology optimization of phononic crystals with unknown‐but‐bounded parameters
Authors: Xie Longxiang , Liu Jian , Huang Guoliang , Zhu Wenqing , Xia Baizhan
Published: January 2018

The design and analysis of phononic crystals (PnCs) are generally based on the deterministic models without considering the effects of uncertainties. However, uncertainties that existed in PnCs may have a nontrivial impact on their band structure characteristics. In this paper, a sparse point sampling–based Chebyshev polynomial expansion (SPSCPE) method is proposed to estimate the extreme bounds of the band structures of PnCs. In the SPSCPE, the interval model is introduced to handle the unknown‐but‐bounded parameters. Then, the sparse point sampling scheme and the finite element method are used to calculate the coefficients of the Chebyshev polynomial expansion. After that, the SPSCPE method is applied for the band structure analysis of PnCs. Meanwhile, the checkerboard and hinge phenomena are eliminated by the hybrid discretization model. In the end, the genetic algorithm is introduced for the topology optimization of PnCs with unknown‐but‐bounded parameters. The specific frequency constraint is considered. Two numerical examples are investigated to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Influence of Childhood and Adolescent Fat Development on Fat Mass Accrual During Emerging Adulthood: A 20‐Year Longitudinal Study
Authors: Barbour‐Tuck Erin , Erlandson Marta , Muhajarine Nazeem , Foulds Heather , Baxter‐Jones Adam
Published: January 2018

Objective

Fat mass and the prevalence of overweight/obesity (OWO) increase during emerging adulthood (EA; 18‐25 years). The factors that contribute to the transition from having healthy weight to having OWO during EA are understudied. This study aimed to identify the independent effect of concurrent physical activity (PA) and energy intake (EI) and childhood/adolescent fat accrual, PA, and EI on EA fat accrual.

Methods

One hundred twenty‐six participants (59 male) were measured serially between 1991 and 2011. Measures included age, height, weight, total body and trunk fat mass (TBF and TrF, in grams) derived from dual‐energy x‐ray absorptiometry, and PA and EI. Composite childhood/adolescent z scores were calculated for each participant (average mean z score) for TBF, TrF, PA, and EI. Multilevel random‐effects models were developed.

Results

EA fat accrual was predicted by childhood and adolescent TBF and TrF z score (0.30 ± 0.05, P < 0.05), respectively, in both sexes. Concurrent PA (−0.06 ± 0.02, P < 0.05) was significant in males only.

Conclusions

These results underscore the importance of maintaining a lower TBF and TrF during childhood and adolescence, and a higher level of PA in order to mitigate TBF and TrF accrual and prevent the transition from having healthy weight to having OWO during EA.
Transcriptional Regulatory Mechanisms in Adipose and Muscle Tissue Associated with Composite Glucometabolic Phenotypes
Authors: Langefeld Carl D. , Comeau Mary E. , Sharma Neeraj K. , Bowden Donald W. , Freedman Barry I. , Das Swapan K.
Published: January 2018

Objective

Tissue‐specific gene expression is associated with individual metabolic measures. However, these measures may not reflect the true but latent underlying biological phenotype. This study reports gene expression associations with multidimensional glucometabolic characterizations of obesity, glucose homeostasis, and lipid traits.

Methods

Factor analysis was computed by using orthogonal rotation to construct composite phenotypes (CPs) from 23 traits in 256 African Americans without diabetes. Genome‐wide transcript expression data from adipose and muscle were tested for association with CPs, and expression quantitative trait loci (eQTLs) were identified by associations between cis‐acting single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and gene expression.

Results

The factor analysis identified six CPs. CPs 1 through 6 individually explained 34%, 12%, 9%, 8%, 6%, and 5% of the variation in 23 glucometabolic traits studied. There were 3,994 and 929 CP‐associated transcripts identified in adipose and muscle tissue, respectively; CP2 had the largest number of associated transcripts. Pathway analysis identified multiple canonical pathways from the CP‐associated transcripts. In adipose and muscle, significant cis‐eQTLs were identified for 558 and 164 CP‐associated transcripts (q‐value < 0.01), respectively.

Conclusions

Adipose and muscle transcripts comprehensively define pathways involved in regulating glucometabolic disorders. Cis‐eQTLs for CP‐associated genes may act as primary causal determinants of glucometabolic phenotypes by regulating transcription of key genes.
Spaced Titania Nanotube Arrays Allow the Construction of an Efficient N‐Doped Hierarchical Structure for Visible‐Light Harvesting
Authors: Nguyen Nhat Truong , Ozkan Selda , Tomanec Ondrej , Zboril Radek , Schmuki Patrik
Published: January 2018

Regularly spaced TiO2 nanotubes were prepared by anodizing a titanium substrate in triethylene glycol electrolyte at elevated temperature. In comparison to conventional TiO2 nanotubes, spaced nanotubes possess an adjustable spacing between the individual nanotubes; this allows for controlled buildup of a hierarchical nanoparticle‐on‐nanotube structure. Here, we use this principle for layer‐by‐layer decoration of the tubes with TiO2 nanoparticles. The hierarchical structure after N doping and NH3 treatment at 450 °C shows a significant enhancement of visible‐light absorption, although it only carries a low doping concentration of nitrogen. For optimized N‐doped and particle‐decorated spaced TiO2 nanotubes, a considerable improvement in photocatalytic activity is obtained in comparison with conventional N‐doped TiO2 nanotubes or comparable N‐doped nanoparticle films. This is attributed to an enhanced visible‐light absorption through the N‐doped nanoparticle shell and a fast charge separation between the shell and the one‐dimensional nanotubular core.
Preparation and characterization of graphene oxide and it application as a reinforcement in polypropylene composites
Authors: Long Jiapeng , Li Sanxi , Liang Jiaming , Wang Zhiguo , Liang Bing
Published: January 2018

In this article, graphene oxide (GO) is modified using Phosphorous acid via the strong –P = O in the study reported in the paper. And the chemical structure was characterized by Fourier Transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and X‐ray diffraction. And polypropylene (PP) composites are prepared by melt compounding method, and functionalized graphene oxide (FGO) is in situ thermally reduced during the processing. The thermal stability, mechanical and flame properties, and morphology for the char layer of composite materials were separately investigated using TG (Thermogravimetric analysis), tensile and charpy impact tests and SEM (scanning electron microscope). The results of SEM and TEM indicate that FGO nanosheets are homogeneously dispersed in polymer matrix with intercalation and exfoliation microstructure. The FGO/PP nanocomposite exhibits higher thermal stability and flame retardant property than those of the GO counterpart and pure PP. During the thermal decomposition, The –P = O introduced to improve the flame effect and the yield of the carbon residue was increase. The heat release rate and the escape of volatile degradation products are reduced in the FGO‐based nanocomposites. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:723–729, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
In Immunopeptidomics We Need a Sniper Instead of a Shotgun
Authors: Faridi Pouya , Purcell Anthony W. , Croft Nathan Paul
Published: January 2018

Immunopeptidomics employs the use of mass spectrometry to identify and quantify peptides presented on the surface of cells by major histocompatibility complex (MHC; human leukocyte antigen [HLA], in humans) molecules, an essential component of adaptive immunity. Currently, immunopeptidomics follows the same or similar workflows as the more established field of shotgun proteomics, yet inherent differences between these two fields create significant drawbacks for the former. In this viewpoint, we would like to highlight such technical issues and provide suggestions for novel workflows that would increase peptide sequencing coverage, depth, and confidence, collectively enhancing the capabilities of the field of immunopeptidomics.
Epigenetic markers in circulating cell‐free DNA as prognostic markers for survival of castration‐resistant prostate cancer patients
Authors: Hendriks Rianne J. , Dijkstra Siebren , Smit Frank P. , Vandersmissen Johan , Van de Voorde Hendrik , Mulders Peter F. A. , van Oort Inge M. , Van Criekinge Wim , Schalken Jack A.
Published: January 2018

Background

: Noninvasive biomarkers to guide personalized treatment for castration‐resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) are needed. In this study, we analyzed hypermethylation patterns of two genes (GSTP1 and APC) in plasma cell‐free DNA (cfDNA) of CRPC patients. The aim of this study was to analyze the cfDNA concentrations and levels of the epigenetic markers and to assess the value of these biomarkers for prognosis.

Methods

: In this prospective study, patients were included before starting new treatment after developing CRPC. The blood samples were collected prior to start of the treatment and at three time points thereafter. cfDNA was extracted from 1.5 mL of plasma and before performing a methylation‐specific PCR, bisulfate modification was carried out.

Results

: The median levels of cfDNA, GSTP1, and APC copies in the baseline samples of CRPC patients (n = 47) were higher than in controls (n = 30). In the survival analysis, the group with baseline marker levels below median had significant less PCa‐related deaths (P‐values <0.02) and did not reach the median survival point. The survival distributions for the groups were statistically significant for the cfDNA concentration, GSTP1 and APC copies, as well as PSA combined with GSTP1 + APC (P‐values <0.03). Furthermore, there were strong positive correlations between PSA and marker response after starting treatment (P‐values <0.04).

Conclusions

: In conclusion, this study showed the kinetics of methylated cfDNA (GSTP1 and APC) in plasma of CRPC patients after starting treatment. Furthermore, the value of the markers before treatment is prognostic for overall survival. These results are promising for developing a test to guide treatment‐decision‐making for CRPC patients.
Adipocytes affect castration‐resistant prostate cancer cells to develop the resistance to cytotoxic action of NK cells with alterations of PD‐L1/NKG2D ligand levels in tumor cells
Authors: Xu Lijun , Shen Mingjing , Chen Xiaodong , Zhu Rongying , Yang Dong‐Rong , Tsai Ying , Keng Peter C. , Chen Yuhchyau , Lee Soo Ok
Published: January 2018

Background

Obesity affects prostate cancer (PCa) progression, and the periprostatic adipose tissue adjacent to the prostate is considered a driving force of disease progression. Adipocytes are the main cell population in adipose tissues and their paracrine role contributes to PCa progression, however its implication in modulating immune reactions remains largely unknown. We investigated the adipocyte role in controlling the susceptibility of castration‐resistant PCa (CRPC) cells to the cytotoxic action of natural killer (NK) cells.

Methods

Using primary NK cells as the NK cell source, NK cell cytotoxicities to CRPC cells, either control media treated or adipocyte‐conditioned media (CM) treated, were tested in lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release‐based assays. The levels of programmed death receptor ligand (PD‐L1) and NK group 2D (NKG2D) ligands in adipocyte CM‐treated CRPC cells were analyzed in qPCR analyses. Effects of blocking adipocyte action on altering PD‐L1/NKG2D ligand levels and the susceptibility of CRPC cells to NK cell cytotoxicity were investigated.

Results

We found NK cell cytotoxicity to CRPC cells decreases when tumor cells are treated with adipocyte CM associated with PD‐L1 and NKG2D ligand level alterations. Further, we discovered that the JAK/Stat3 signaling pathway was responsible for the adipocyte CM effect. Two adipokine molecules, IL‐6 and leptin, were shown to be important in activation of the JAK/Stat3 signaling in CRPC cells to modulate the PD‐L1/NKG2D ligand level alteration. Adding the inhibitors of JAK/Stat3 signaling or neutralizing antibodies of IL‐6 or leptin increased the susceptibility of CRPC cells to NK cell action.

Conclusions

Blocking the adipocyte effect by inhibiting the IL‐6/leptin‐JAK/Stat3 signaling axis may enhance NK cell mediated immunity to CRPC cells and this strategy may help to develop future therapeutics to treat obese PCa patients.
A herbicide structure–activity analysis of the antimalarial lead compound MMV007978 against Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Corral Maxime G , Leroux Julie , Tresch Stefan , Newton Trevor , Stubbs Keith A , Mylne Joshua S
Published: January 2018

BACKGROUND

To fight herbicide‐resistant weeds, new herbicides are needed; particularly ones with new modes of action. Building on the revelation that many antimalarial drugs are herbicidal, here we focus on the Medicines for Malaria Venture antimalarial lead compound MMV007978 that has herbicidal activity against the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana.

RESULTS

Twenty‐two variations of the lead compound thiophenyl motif revealed that change was tolerated provided ring size and charge were retained. MMV007978 was active against select monocot and dicot weeds, and physiological profiling indicated that its mode of action is related to germination and cell division. Of interest is the fact that the compound has a profile that is currently not found among known herbicides.

CONCLUSION

We demonstrate that the antimalarial compound MMV007978 is also herbicidal and that exploiting lead compounds that are often understudied could lead to the identification of interesting herbicidal scaffolds. Further structural investigation of MMV007978 could provide improved herbicidal chemistries with a potential new mode of action. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Reflectivity of Plasmon–Phonon Modes in Grating‐Coupled AlGaN/GaN Heterostructures Grown on SiC and GaN Substrates
Authors: Janonis Vytautas , Jakštas Vytautas , Kašalynas Irmantas , Prystawko Pawel , Kruszewski Piotr
Published: January 2018

Reflectivity of the plasmon–phonon modes in grating‐coupled AlGaN/GaN heterostructures grown either on GaN or on SiC substrates were studied across the Reststrahlen band of semiconductors. The reflection spectra are experimentally obtained and fitted with the numerical data modeled using a rigorous coupled wave analysis method. Analysis of the field plots revealed that the origin of the intense multipeak reflectance minima can be attributed to the strong phonon interaction with the grating plasmons, demonstrating new possibilities for the localization of phonon‐polariton modes within AlGaN/GaN layers. The results are important for the optical and electrical engineering of new sensors, emitters, and modulators employing wide bandgap semiconductor junctions coupled with the metal gratings of the specified design.
Isoflavonoids from Brazilian red propolis down‐regulate the expression of cancer‐related target proteins: A pharmacogenomic analysis
Authors: Nani Bruno Dias , Franchin Marcelo , Lazarini Josy Goldoni , Freires Irlan Almeida , da Cunha Marcos Guilherme , Bueno‐Silva Bruno , de Alencar Severino Matias , Murata Ramiro Mendonça , Rosalen Pedro Luiz
Published: January 2018

Vestitol and neovestitol are bioactive isoflavonoids isolated from Brazilian red propolis, a unique Apis melifera type of propolis botanically originated from Dalbergia ecastophyllum. Although these molecules have relevant biological effects, including anticancer and immunomodulatory activities, their mechanism(s) of action and the affected pathways remain largely unknown. Here, we carried out a pharmacogenomic analysis to investigate the effects of vestitol and neovestitol on the whole‐genome expression in human tumor cells, particularly cancer‐related target proteins. HeLa cells were exposed to the compounds at IC20 and genomic information of treated cells was analyzed using the Illumina transcriptome system and GeneGo MetaCore software. Our results showed that vestitol (IC20 = 214.7 μM) reduced the expression of genes enrolled with the alpha tubulin (fold −3.7), tubulin in microtubules (fold −3.7), and histone h3 (fold = −3.03), and that treatment with neovestitol (IC20 = 102.91 μM) downregulated prostaglandin E synthase gene (fold = −3.12), which are considered ideal targets for anticancer therapy. These data open avenues for the study of vestitol and neovestitol as potential promising candidates for anticancer therapy. Toxicological, non‐clinical, and clinical validation of the findings presented herein is needed.
Facial flushing on upper limb exertion: a rare presentation of superior vena cava obstruction
Authors: Plunkett Michael , Wethasinghe James , O’Donoghue Brendon , Lever Nigel , Wong Conroy
Published: January 2018

Infection remains a significant problem for patients with cardiac‐implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) but can be difficult to diagnose. We describe an unusual presentation of CIED infection in a patient with abandoned pacemaker leads. A 27‐year‐old male presented with facial flushing on upper but not lower limb exertion due to superior vena cava (SVC) obstruction, as well as pleuritic chest pain due to septic emboli. This was successfully treated with antibiotics and complete endovascular extraction of the pacemaker leads. Upper limb exertional facial flushing may be a useful clinical sign for the diagnosis of SVC obstruction. This case report also describes a rare presentation of CIED infection.
Projected climate change impacts on hydrologic flow regimes in the Great Plains of Kansas
Authors: Chatterjee S. , Daniels M.D. , Sheshukov A.Y. , Gao J.
Published: January 2018

Alteration of flow regimes due to change in climate and its potential impact on habitat and species has become a major cause of concern for riverine ecosystems. Areas that are more vulnerable to such changes are semiarid river systems or regions experiencing intermittent flow and cyclic droughts. Although ecological changes are expected to occur with flow regime alterations, the biological changes cannot be predicted until the flow in such regions is analysed. This study addresses this concern by providing an analysis of flow for a semiarid river basin in the Central Great Plains from a 50 and 100‐year projection climate data. The projected data for these two periods are then compared with 30‐year historical data to determine changes in flow. Five major components of flow regime, magnitude, duration, and timing of annual extreme water conditions, frequency and duration of high and low pulses, and rate and frequency of water condition changes, were examined with respect to climate change for their impact on the ecology of the basin. This analysis strongly suggests that inter‐ and intra‐annual changes in flow regimes will result in the intensified drying of the basin represented by the increased number of low flow periods followed by higher occurrences of high flow events of shorter duration with expected changes in climate.
Red‐Emitting Magnetic Nanocomposites Assembled from Ag‐Decorated Fe3O4@SiO2 and Y2O3:Eu3+: Impact of Iron‐Oxide/Silver Nanoparticles on Eu3+ Emission
Authors: Khan Latif U. , Zambon Luis F. M. , Santos Jacinete L. , Rodrigues Rodrigo V. , Costa Luelc S. , Muraca Diego , Pirota Kleber R. , Felinto Maria C. F. C. , Malta Oscar L. , Brito Hermi F.
Published: January 2018

The new multistep approach for co‐assembling magnetic iron oxide nanoflowers with red‐emitting Y2O3:Eu3+ to form luminescent and magnetic nanocomposites was reported. The Fe3O4 core prepared by solvothermal method was layered by SiO2 shell and decorated with small size spherical Ag nanoparticles as well as further coated with Y2O3:Eu3+ luminophore. The nanoflower shape Fe3O4 core of size ∼110 nm and crystalline cubic structure of bifunctional iron‐oxide@Y2O3:Eu3+, Fe3O4@SiO2@Y2O3:Eu3+ and Fe3O4@SiO2‐Ag@Y2O3:Eu3+ (1 mol%) nanomaterials were confirmed from X‐rays diffraction, EDS spectra and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images. The static magnetic measurements supported and manifested nonsuperparamagnetic behavior of the materials at 300 K. The iron oxides are usually luminescence quenchers. In order to rationalize this effect, their optical properties based on their emission spectral data and luminescence decay curves were studied. Experimental intensity parameters (Ωλ), lifetimes (τ), intrinsic quantum yield (
) as well as radiative (Arad) and non‐radiative (Anrad) decay rates were calculated to probe the local chemical environment of the Eu3+ ion and to better understand the phenomena of iron oxide induced luminescence quenching. The highest value of the intrinsic quantum yield (
=74%) for the α‐Fe2O3@Y2O3:Eu3+ (1 mol%) among all the luminescent and magnetic nanocomposites suggests that α‐Fe2O3 phase induces a lower luminescence quenching then Fe3O4/γ‐Fe2O3. The SiO2 thin layer leads to improve the luminescence efficiency, whereas the Ag nanoparticles act as luminescence quencher. These novel Eu3+ nanomaterials may act as a red emitting layer for magnetic and light converting molecular devices.
Role of Cationic Groove and Hydrophobic Residues in Phosphatidylinositol‐Dependent Membrane‐Binding Properties of Tks5‐Phox Homology Domain
Authors: Gorai Sukhamoy , Paul Debasish , Borah Rituparna , Haloi Nandan , Santra Manas Kumar , Manna Debasis
Published: January 2018

Tyrosine kinase substrate with 5 Src homology 3 domains (Tks5) regulates several important cellular functions and is crucial for invadosome formation. The phox homology (PX) domain of Tks5 interacts with phosphatidylinositols (PIPs) and essential for Tks5‐induced invadosome formation. However, PIP‐binding specificity of the Tks5‐PX domain is not clear and its membrane recruitment mechanism also not known. To understand how PX domain deferentially interacts with the PIPs, we quantitatively determined the PIP‐binding properties. These measurements revealed that PX domain has strong PIP‐binding selectivity for PI(3,4)P2 and PI(3)P lipids. Mutational studies showed that the presence of hydrophobic residues at the putative membrane binding surface and basic residues within the PIP‐binding pocket are essential for its membrane penetration and binding properties. In vitro PIP‐selectivity correlates well with the cellular localization patterns of the wild‐type and mutant PX domains in A549 cells. The hydrophobic residues play a crucial role in cellular localization and translocation studies. The mutational analysis allowed for understanding these cellular activities and results are in accordance with their membrane binding properties. Based on our findings, we describe characteristic membrane binding properties of Tks5‐PX domain, in which the protein first interacts with specific PIP‐containing membrane and then its hydrophobic residues partially penetrate into the membrane.
I2‐Catalyzed Synthesis of Disulfides by NaBH4 Mediated Reductive Coupling of Phenylsulfonyl Imidazoles
Authors: Shi Yun , Chen Shi‐Ping , Zhang Fangdong , Chen Baohua
Published: January 2018

The use of sodium borohydride as reductant allows the efficient I2/Phen‐catalyzed reductive coupling of phenylsulfonyl imidazoles, generating the S−S coupling products in moderate to good yields. The mild and non‐metal catalytic conditions display excellent functional group tolerance. This work suggests a new transformation via imidazolyl as a leaving group.