bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bullfrog farms release virulent zoospores of the frog-killing fungus into the natural environment
Authors: Ribeiro Luisa P. , Carvalho Tamilie , Becker C. Guilherme , Jenkinson Thomas S. , Leite Domingos da Silva , James Timothy Y. , Greenspan Sasha E. , Toledo Luís Felipe
Published: September 2019

Bullfrog farming and trade practices are well-established, globally distributed, and economically valuable, but pose risks for biodiversity conservation. Besides their negative impacts on native amphibian populations as an invasive species, bullfrogs play a key role in spreading the frog-killing fungusBatrachochytrium dendrobatidis(Bd) in the natural environment. Bullfrogs are tolerant to Bd, meaning that they can carry high infection loads without developing chytridiomycosis. To test the potential of bullfrog farms as reservoirs for diverse and virulent chytrid genotypes, we quantified Bd presence, prevalence and infection loads across approximately 1,500 farmed bullfrogs and in the water that is released from farms into the environment. We also described Bd genotypic diversity within frog farms by isolating Bd from dozens of infected tadpoles. We observed individuals infected with Bd in all sampled farms, with high prevalence (reaching 100%) and high infection loads (average 71,029 zoospore genomic equivalents). Average outflow water volume from farms was high (60,000 L/day), with Bd zoospore concentration reaching approximately 50 million zoospores/L. Because virulent pathogen strains are often selected when growing in tolerant hosts, we experimentally tested whether Bd genotypes isolated from bullfrogs are more virulent in native anuran hosts compared to genotypes isolated from native host species. We genotyped 36 Bd isolates from two genetic lineages and found that Bd genotypes cultured from bullfrogs showed similar virulence in native toads when compared to genotypes isolated from native hosts. Our results indicate that bullfrog farms can harbor high Bd genotypic diversity and virulence and may be contributing to the spread of virulent genotypes in the natural environment. We highlight the urgent need to implement Bd monitoring and mitigation strategies in bullfrog farms to aid in the conservation of native amphibians.
Pharmacological inhibition of Notch signaling regresses pre-established abdominal aortic aneurysm
Authors: Sharma Neekun , Dev Rishabh , Ruiz-Rosado Juan de Dios , Partida-Sanchez Santiago , Guerau-de-Arellano Mireia , Dhakal Pramod , Kuivaniemi Helena , Hans Chetan P.
Published: September 2019

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is characterized by transmural infiltration of myeloid cells at the vascular injury site. Previously, we reported preventive effects of Notch deficiency on the development of AAA by reduction of infiltrating myeloid cells. In this study, we examined if Notch inhibition attenuates the progression of pre-established AAA and potential implications. Pharmacological Notch inhibitor (N-[N-(3,5-difluorophenacetyl)-L-alanyl]-(S)-phenylglycine t-butyl ester; DAPT) was administered subcutaneously three times a week starting at day 28 of angiotensin II (AngII) infusion. Progressive increase in pulse wave velocity (PWV), maximal intra-luminal diameter (MILD) and maximal external aortic diameter (MEAD) were observed at day 56 of the AngII. DAPT prevented such increase in MILD, PWV and MEAD (P < 0.01). Histologically, the aortae of DAPT-treated Apoe−/− mice had significant reduction in inflammatory response and elastin fragmentation. Naked collagen microfibrils and weaker banded structure observed in the aortae of Apoe−/− mice in response to AngII, were substantially diminished by DAPT. A significant decrease in the proteolytic activity in the aneurysmal tissues and vascular smooth muscle cells (vSMCs) was observed with DAPT (P < 0.01). In human and mouse AAA tissues, increased immunoreactivity of activated Notch signaling correlated strongly with CD38 expression (R2 = 0.61). Collectively, we propose inhibition of Notch signaling as a potential therapeutic target for AAA progression.
Potent modulation of the CepR quorum sensing receptor and virulence in a Burkholderia cepacia complex member using non-native lactone ligands
Authors: Slinger Betty L. , Deay Jacqueline J. , Chandler Josephine R. , Blackwell Helen E.
Published: September 2019

The Burkholderia cepacia complex (Bcc) is a family of closely related bacterial pathogens that are the causative agent of deadly human infections. Virulence in Bcc species has been shown to be controlled by the CepI/CepR quorum sensing (QS) system, which is mediated by an N-acyl L-homoserine lactone (AHL) signal (C8-AHL) and its cognate LuxR-type receptor (CepR). Chemical strategies to block QS in Bcc members would represent an approach to intercept this bacterial communication process and further delineate its role in infection. In the current study, we sought to identify non-native AHLs capable of agonizing or antagonizing CepR, and thereby QS, in a Bcc member. We screened a library of AHL analogs in cell-based reporters for CepR, and identified numerous highly potent CepR agonists and antagonists. These compounds remain active in a Bcc member, B. multivorans, with one agonist 250-fold more potent than the native ligand C8-AHL, and can affect QS-controlled motility. Further, the CepR antagonists prolong C. elegans survival in an infection model. These AHL analogs are the first reported non-native molecules that both directly modulate CepR and impact QS-controlled phenotypes in a Bcc member, and represent valuable chemical tools to assess the role of QS in Bcc infections.
TBK1 Limits mTORC1 by Promoting Phosphorylation of Raptor Ser877
Authors: Antonia Ricardo J. , Castillo Johnny , Herring Laura E. , Serafin D. Stephen , Liu Pengda , Graves Lee M. , Baldwin Albert S. , Hagan Robert S.
Published: September 2019

While best known for its role in the innate immune system, the TANK-binding kinase 1 (TBK1) is now known to play a role in modulating cellular growth and autophagy. One of the major ways that TBK1 accomplishes this task is by modulating the mechanistic Target of Rapamycin (mTOR), a master regulator that when activated promotes cell growth and inhibits autophagy. However, whether TBK1 promotes or inhibits mTOR activity is highly cell type and context dependent. To further understand the mechanism whereby TBK1 regulates mTOR, we tested the hypothesis that TBK1 phosphorylates a key component of the mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1), Raptor. Using kinase assays coupled with mass spectrometry, we mapped the position of the TBK1 dependent phosphorylation sites on Raptor in vitro. Among the sites identified in vitro, we found that TBK1 promotes Raptor Ser877 phosphorylation in cells both basally and in response to pathogen-associated molecules known to induce TBK1 activity. The levels of Raptor Ser877 phosphorylation were inversely correlated with the levels of mTOR activity. Expression of a mutant Raptor that could not be phosphorylated at Ser877 led to an increase in mTORC1 activity. We conclude that TBK1 limits mTORC1 activity by promoting Raptor Ser877 phosphorylation.
EDX-analysis of fluoride precipitation on human enamel
Authors: Scholz Konstantin Johannes , Federlin Marianne , Hiller Karl-Anton , Ebensberger Helga , Ferstl Gerlinde , Buchalla Wolfgang
Published: September 2019

One mechanism of action for the anticaries effect of topical fluoridation is through precipitation of CaF2. In this in vitro study energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDX) is used as a semiquantitative method to detect enamel fluoride-precipitation under the influence of acidic and neutral pH-value and absence or presence of a salivary pellicle. Crowns of 30 human caries-free third molars were quartered into four specimens and the enamel surface ground flat and polished. Two specimens each were stored in human saliva (120 minutes pellicle formation). Teeth were randomly allocated into 6 treatment groups: NaF_a (experimental acidic sodium fluoride; 12500 ppmF−, pH 4.75); NaF_n (experimental neutral sodium fluoride; 12500 ppmF−, pH 7.0); GB_a (acidic gel base; 0 ppmF−, pH 4.75); GB_n (neutral gel base; 0 ppmF−, pH 7.0); AmF-NaF_a (experimental acidic amine/sodium fluoride; 12500 ppmF−, pH 4.75); EG_a (acidic amine/sodium fluoride; Elmex Geleé, CP-GABA GmbH; 12500 ppmF−, pH 4.75). Each gel was applied for 60 seconds to one specimen with and one specimen without pellicle. Two specimens served as controls (no gel, without/with pellicle). Atomic percent (At%) of O, F, Na, Mg, P, Ca was measured by EDX. ∆At% and Ca/P-ratios were calculated. EDX could semi-quantify superficial enamel fluoride-precipitation. Only specimens treated with acidic fluoride gels showed fluoride-precipitation, a salivary pellicle tended to decrease At%F.
A Bone Morphogenetic Protein (BMP)-derived Peptide Based on the Type I Receptor-binding Site Modifies Cell-type Dependent BMP Signalling
Authors: Tong Zhen , Guo Jingxu , Glen Robert C. , Morrell Nicholas W. , Li Wei
Published: September 2019

Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are multifunctional cytokines of the transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) superfamily with potential therapeutic applications due to their broad biological functionality. Designing BMP mimetics with specific activity will contribute to the translational potential of BMP-based therapies. Here, we report a BMP9 peptide mimetic, P3, designed from the type I receptor binding site, which showed millimolar binding affinities for the type I receptor activin receptor like kinase 1 (ALK1), ALK2 and ALK3. Although showing no baseline activity, P3 significantly enhanced BMP9-induced Smad1/5 phosphorylation as well as ID1, BMPR2, HEY1 and HEY2 gene expression in pulmonary artery endothelial cells (hPAECs), and this activity is dependent on its alpha helix propensity. However, in human dermal microvascular endothelial cells, P3 did not affect BMP9-induced Smad1/5 phosphorylation, but potently inhibited ALK3-dependent BMP4-induced Smad1/5 phosphorylation and gene expression. In C2C12 mouse myoblast cells, P3 had no effect on BMP9-induced osteogenic signalling, which is primarily mediated by ALK2. Interestingly, a previously published peptide from the knuckle region of BMP9 was found to inhibit BMP4-induced Smad1/5 phosphorylation. Together, our data identify a BMP9-derived peptide that can selectively enhance ALK1-mediated BMP9 signalling in hPAECs and modulate BMP9 and BMP4 signalling in a cell type-specific manner.
Same species, different prerequisites: investigating body condition and foraging success in young reef sharks between an atoll and an island system
Authors: Weideli Ornella C. , Bouyoucos Ian A. , Papastamatiou Yannis P. , Mescam Gauthier , Rummer Jodie L. , Planes Serge
Published: September 2019

Acquiring and storing energy is vital to sharks of all age-classes. Viviparous shark embryos receive endogenous maternal energy reserves to sustain the first weeks after birth. Then, in order to maintain body condition, sharks must start foraging. Our goal was to understand whether maternal energy investments vary between blacktip reef sharks (Carcharhinus melanopterus) from two populations and to what extent body condition and the initiation of foraging might be affected by presumably variable maternal investments. A total of 546 young sharks were captured at St. Joseph atoll (Seychelles) and Moorea (French Polynesia) between 2014 and 2018, and indices of body condition and percentage of stomachs containing prey were measured. Maternal investment was found to be site-specific, with significantly larger, heavier, and better conditioned individuals in Moorea. Despite these advantages, as time progressed, Moorea sharks exhibited significant decreases in body condition and were slower to initiate foraging. We suggest that the young sharks’ foraging success is independent of the quality of maternal energy resources, and that other factors, such as prey availability, prey quality, and/or anthropogenic stressors are likely responsible for the observed differences across sites. Insights into intraspecific variations in early life-stages may further support site-specific management strategies for young sharks from nearshore habitats.
The interactive effects of mowing and N addition did not weaken soil net N mineralization rates in semi-arid grassland of Northern China
Authors: Luo Yükun , Wang Changhui , Shen Yan , Sun Wei , Dong Kuanhu
Published: September 2019

As the largest portion of the terrestrial ecosystems, the arid and semi-arid grassland ecosystem is relatively sensitive and vulnerable to nitrogen (N) deposition. Mowing, the main management in Inner Mongolia grassland also has deep direct and indirect effect on N transformation by removing the nutrient from soils. However, the interaction effect of N addition and mowing on N transformation is still unclear, especially in semi-arid grassland. Here, we conducted a field-manipulated experiment to assess N addition (10 g N m−2 y−1) and mowing (in the middle of August) effects on soil net N mineralization rate across 4 growing seasons (2006–2009) in a semi-arid grassland in Inner Mongolia of northern China. We found that N addition with or without mowing led to significant effect on soil ammonification rate and net N mineralization rate, but had no significant effect on nitrification rates. Furthermore, mowing had no significant effect on soil net N mineralization, ammonification and nitrification rates. N addition and Mowing decreased microbial respiration and metabolic quotient, whereas the interaction of N addition and mowing had no significant effect on microbial respiration and metabolic quotient. Our results indicated that the effects of mowing and N addition did not interactively weaken soil net N mineralization rates in a semi-arid grassland of Northern China. Therefore, the anthropic management (i.e. mowing for hay once a year) with N addition may be a sustainable approach for restoration and reconstruction of vegetation in the abandoned grassland  of Northern China.
Identification, Functional Characterization, and Pharmacological Analysis of Two Sulfakinin Receptors in the Medically-Important Insect Rhodnius prolixus
Authors: Bloom Mark , Lange Angela B. , Orchard Ian
Published: September 2019

The chordate gastrin/cholecystokinin and ecdysozoan sulfakinin (SK)-signaling systems are functionally and structurally homologous. In the present study, we isolated the cDNA sequences encoding the SK receptors in Rhodnius prolixus (Rhopr-SKR-1 and Rhopr-SKR-2). The Rhopr-SKRs have been functionally characterized and their intracellular signaling pathways analysed via a functional receptor assay. Both Rhopr-SKRs are exclusively activated via the two native R. prolixus sulfakinins, Rhopr-SK-1 and Rhopr-SK-2, but not via nonsulfated Rhopr-SK-1. The Rhopr-SKRs are each linked to the intracellular Ca2+ second messenger pathway, and not to the cyclic AMP pathway. Spatial transcript expression analyses revealed that each Rhopr-SKR is predominantly expressed in the central nervous system with lower expression throughout peripheral tissues. The critical importance of the SK-signaling pathway in the blood-feeding behaviour of R. prolixus was demonstrated by knockdown of the transcripts for Rhopr-SKs and Rhopr-SKRs, which results in an increase in the mass of blood meal taken. The parasite causing Chagas disease is transmitted to the host after R. prolixus has taken a blood meal, and characterization of the SKRs provides further understanding of the coordination of feeding and satiation, and ultimately the transmission of the parasite.
Estimating dyskinesia severity in Parkinson’s disease by using a waist-worn sensor: concurrent validity study
Authors: Rodríguez-Molinero Alejandro , Pérez-López Carlos , Samà Albert , Rodríguez-Martín Daniel , Alcaine Sheila , Mestre Berta , Quispe Paola , Giuliani Benedetta , Vainstein Gabriel , Browne Patrick , Sweeney Dean , Quinlan Leo R. , Arostegui J. Manuel Moreno , Bayes Àngels , Lewy Hadas , Costa Alberto , Annicchiarico Roberta , Counihan Timothy , Laighin Gearòid Ò. , Cabestany Joan
Published: September 2019

Our research team previously developed an accelerometry-based device, which can be worn on the waist during daily life activities and detects the occurrence of dyskinesia in patients with Parkinson’s disease. The goal of this study was to analyze the magnitude of correlation between the numeric output of the device algorithm and the results of the Unified Dyskinesia Rating Scale (UDysRS), administered by a physician. In this study, 13 Parkinson’s patients, who were symptomatic with dyskinesias, were monitored with the device at home, for an average period of 30 minutes, while performing normal daily life activities. Each patient’s activity was simultaneously video-recorded. A physician was in charge of reviewing the recorded videos and determining the severity of dyskinesia through the UDysRS for every patient. The sensor device yielded only one value for dyskinesia severity, which was calculated by averaging the recorded device readings. Correlation between the results of physician’s assessment and the sensor output was analyzed with the Spearman’s correlation coefficient. The correlation coefficient between the sensor output and UDysRS result was 0.70 (CI 95%: 0.33–0.88; p = 0.01). Since the sensor was located on the waist, the correlation between the sensor output and the results of the trunk and legs scale sub-items was calculated: 0.91 (CI 95% 0.76–0.97: p < 0.001). The conclusion is that the magnitude of dyskinesia, as measured by the tested device, presented good correlation with that observed by a physician.
Increased abundance of proteobacteria in aggressive Crohn’s disease seven years after diagnosis
Authors: Vester-Andersen M. K. , Mirsepasi-Lauridsen H. C. , Prosberg M. V. , Mortensen C. O. , Träger C. , Skovsen K. , Thorkilgaard T. , Nøjgaard C. , Vind I. , Krogfelt K. A. , Sørensen N. , Bendtsen F. , Petersen A. M.
Published: September 2019

Intestinal dysbiosis in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients depend on disease activity. We aimed to characterize the microbiota after 7 years of follow-up in an unselected cohort of IBD patients according to disease activity and disease severity. Fifty eight Crohn’s disease (CD) and 82 ulcerative colitis (UC) patients were included. Disease activity was assessed by the Harvey-Bradshaw Index for CD and Simple Clinical Colitis Activity Index for UC. Microbiota diversity was assessed by 16S rDNA MiSeq sequencing. In UC patients with active disease and in CD patients with aggressive disease the richness (number of OTUs, p = 0.018 and p = 0.013, respectively) and diversity (Shannons index, p = 0.017 and p = 0.023, respectively) were significantly decreased. In the active UC group there was a significant decrease in abundance of the phylum Firmicutes (p = 0.018). The same was found in CD patients with aggressive disease (p = 0.05) while the abundance of Proteobacteria phylum showed a significant increase (p = 0.03) in CD patients. We found a change in the microbial abundance in UC patients with active disease and in CD patients with aggressive disease. These results suggest that dysbiosis of the gut in IBD patients is not only related to current activity but also to the course of the disease.
Role of Clathrin Assembly Protein-2 Beta Subunit during White Spot Syndrome Virus Infection in Black Tiger Shrimp Penaeus monodon
Authors: Jatuyosporn Thapanan , Laohawutthichai Pasunee , Supungul Premruethai , Sotelo-Mundo Rogerio R. , Ochoa-Leyva Adrian , Tassanakajon Anchalee , Krusong Kuakarun
Published: September 2019

White spot syndrome virus (WSSV) is one of the most lethal viruses severely affecting shrimp industry. This disease can cause 100% mortality of farmed shrimp within a week. This work aims to characterize clathrin assembly proteins in Penaeus monodon and investigate their roles in WSSV entry. In general, clathrin assembly proteins form complexes with specific receptors and clathrins, leading to clathrin-mediated endocytosis. Adaptor protein 2 (AP-2), which is responsible for endocytosis at plasma membrane, consists of four subunits including α, β2, μ2 and σ2. Knockdown of clathrin coat AP17, or σ subunit of AP-2 dramatically reduced WSSV infectivity. Similar results were observed, when shrimp were pre-treated with chlorpromazine (CPZ), an inhibitor of clathrin-dependent endocytosis. The complete open reading frames of AP-2β and μ subunits of P. monodon are reported. PmAP-2 β was up-regulated about 4-fold at 6 and 36 h post-WSSV infection. Knockdown of PmAP-2β delayed shrimp mortality during WSSV infection, of which WSSV intermediate early 1 gene expression was also down-regulated. Immunogold-labelling and transmission electron microscopy revealed that PmAP-2β co-localized with WSSV particles at plasma membrane. In addition, PmAP-2β-silencing significantly affected the expression levels of PmSTAT, PmDOME, PmDorsal and ALFPm3 during WSSV infection. It is possible that PmAP-2β is associated with the JAK/STAT and the Toll pathway.
Molecular diversity and selective sweeps in maize inbred lines adapted to African highlands
Authors: Wegary Dagne , Teklewold Adefris , Prasanna Boddupalli M. , Ertiro Berhanu T. , Alachiotis Nikolaos , Negera Demewez , Awas Geremew , Abakemal Demissew , Ogugo Veronica , Gowda Manje , Semagn Kassa
Published: September 2019

Little is known on maize germplasm adapted to the African highland agro-ecologies. In this study, we analyzed high-density genotyping by sequencing (GBS) data of 298 African highland adapted maize inbred lines to (i) assess the extent of genetic purity, genetic relatedness, and population structure, and (ii) identify genomic regions that have undergone selection (selective sweeps) in response to adaptation to highland environments. Nearly 91% of the pairs of inbred lines differed by 30–36% of the scored alleles, but only 32% of the pairs of the inbred lines had relative kinship coefficient <0.050, which suggests the presence of substantial redundancy in allelic composition that may be due to repeated use of fewer genetic backgrounds (source germplasm) during line development. Results from different genetic relatedness and population structure analyses revealed three different groups, which generally agrees with pedigree information and breeding history, but less so by heterotic groups and endosperm modification. We identified 944 single nucleotide polymorphic (SNP) markers that fell within 22 selective sweeps that harbored 265 protein-coding candidate genes of which some of the candidate genes had known functions. Details of the candidate genes with known functions and differences in nucleotide diversity among groups predicted based on multivariate methods have been discussed.
Quantifying the potential for bluetongue virus transmission in Danish cattle farms
Authors: Haider Najmul , Kjær Lene Jung , Skovgård Henrik , Nielsen Søren Achim , Bødker Rene
Published: September 2019

We used a mechanistic transmission model to estimate the number of infectious bites (IBs) generated per bluetongue virus (BTV) infected host (cattle) using estimated hourly microclimatic temperatures at 22,004 Danish cattle farms for the period 2000–2016, and Culicoides midge abundance based on 1,453 light-trap collections during 2007–2016. We used a range of published estimates of the duration of the hosts’ infectious period and equations for the relationship between temperature and four key transmission parameters: extrinsic incubation period, daily vector survival rate, daily vector biting rate and host-to-vector transmission rate resulting in 147,456 combinations of daily IBs. More than 82% combinations of the parameter values predicted > 1 IBs per host. The mean IBs (10–90th percentiles) for BTV per infectious host were 59 (0–73) during the transmission period. We estimated a maximum of 14,954 IBs per infectious host at some farms, while a best-case scenario suggested transmission was never possible at some farms. The use of different equations for the vector survival rate and host-to-vector transmission rates resulted in large uncertainty in the predictions. If BTV is introduced in Denmark, local transmission is very likely to occur. Vectors infected as late as mid-September (early autumn) can successfully transmit BTV to a new host until mid-November (late autumn).
Comparative evaluation of RNA-Seq library preparation methods for strand-specificity and low input
Authors: Sarantopoulou Dimitra , Tang Soon Yew , Ricciotti Emanuela , Lahens Nicholas F. , Lekkas Damien , Schug Jonathan , Guo Xiaofeng S. , Paschos Georgios K. , FitzGerald Garret A. , Pack Allan I. , Grant Gregory R.
Published: September 2019

Library preparation is a key step in sequencing. For RNA sequencing there are advantages to both strand specificity and working with minute starting material, yet until recently there was no kit available enabling both. The Illumina TruSeq stranded mRNA Sample Preparation kit (TruSeq) requires abundant starting material while the Takara Bio SMART-Seq v4 Ultra Low Input RNA kit (V4) sacrifices strand specificity. The SMARTer Stranded Total RNA-Seq Kit v2 - Pico Input Mammalian (Pico) by Takara Bio claims to overcome these limitations. Comparative evaluation of these kits is important for selecting the appropriate protocol. We compared the three kits in a realistic differential expression analysis. We prepared and sequenced samples from two experimental conditions of biological interest with each of the three kits. We report differences between the kits at the level of differential gene expression; for example, the Pico kit results in 55% fewer differentially expressed genes than TruSeq. Nevertheless, the agreement of the observed enriched pathways suggests that comparable functional results can be obtained. In summary we conclude that the Pico kit sufficiently reproduces the results of the other kits at the level of pathway analysis while providing a combination of options that is not available in the other kits.
Sound symbolism processing is lateralized to the right temporal region in the prelinguistic infant brain
Authors: Yang Jiale , Asano Michiko , Kanazawa So , Yamaguchi Masami K. , Imai Mutsumi
Published: September 2019

Sound symbolism, which is the systematic and non-arbitrary link between a word and its meaning, has been suggested to bootstrap language acquisition in infants. However, it is unclear how sound symbolism is processed in the infants’ brain. To address this issue, we investigated the cortical response in 11-month-old infants in relation to sound-symbolic correspondences using near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS). Two types of stimuli were presented: a novel visual stimulus (e.g., a round shape) followed by a novel auditory stimulus that either sound-symbolically matched (moma) or mismatched (kipi) the shape. We found a significant hemodynamic increase in the right temporal area, when the sound and the referent sound were symbolically matched, but this effect was limited to themomastimulus. The anatomical locus corresponds to the right posterior superior temporal sulcus (rSTS), which is thought to process sound symbolism in adults. These findings suggest that prelinguistic infants have the biological basis to detect cross-modal correspondences between word sounds and visual referents.
Activation of 5-HT2 Receptors Reduces Inflammation in Vascular Tissue and Cholesterol Levels in High-Fat Diet-Fed Apolipoprotein E Knockout Mice
Authors: Flanagan Thomas W. , Sebastian Melaine N. , Battaglia Diana M. , Foster Timothy P. , Maillet Emeline L. , Nichols Charles D.
Published: September 2019

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a progressive cardiovascular syndrome characterized by cholesterol-induced focal arterial lesions that impair oxygen delivery to the heart. As both innate and adaptive immune cells play critical roles in the formation and progression of arterial plaques and endothelial cell dysfunction, CAD is commonly viewed as a chronic inflammatory disorder. Our lab has previously discovered that 5-HT2A receptor activation with the 5-HT2 receptor selective agonist (R)-2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodoamphetamine [(R)-DOI] has potent anti-inflammatory activity in both cell culture and whole animal models. Here we have examined the putative therapeutic effects of (R)-DOI in the ApoE−/− high fat model of cardiovascular disease. Subcutaneously implanted osmotic minipumps were used to infuse sustained low rates (0.15 μg / hr) of (R)-DOI∙HCl to mice fed a high-fat “Western” diet. (R)-DOI treated mice had significant reductions in expression levels of mRNA for inflammatory markers like Il6 in vascular tissue, normalized glucose homeostasis, and reduced circulating cholesterol levels. As cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death both globally and in the Western world, activation of 5-HT2A receptors at sub-behavioral levels may represent a new strategy to treat inflammation-based cardiovascular disease.
Identification and characterization of phage protein and its activity against two strains of multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Al-Wrafy Fairoz , Brzozowska Ewa , Górska Sabina , Drab Marek , Strus Magdalena , Gamian Andrzej
Published: September 2019

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic pathogen with a capacity to develop antibiotic resistance, which underlies a larger proportion of hospital-acquired infections and higher morbidity and mortality, compared to other bacterial infections. Effective novel approaches for treatment of infections induced by this pathogen are therefore necessary. Phage therapy represents a promising alternative solution to eradicate antibiotic-resistant pathogens. Here, we investigated phage protein efficacy against multi-drug resistant (MDR) P. aeruginosa PAR21 and PAR50 strains isolated from diabetic foot ulcer patients. The results obtained using spot assay, zymography, spectrophotometry and scanning electron microscopy at low voltage (SEM-LV) indicate that the phage protein, PA-PP, exerts activity against P. aeruginosa PAR50 while having no impact on the PAR21 strain. Using LC-MS-MS/MS and comparative analysis of the peptide molecular mass with the protein sequence database, PA-PP was identified as a member of the serine protease family, a result corroborated by its ability to digest casein. We additionally showed a capacity of PA-PP to digest porin protein on the bacterial outer membrane (OM). Moreover, synergistic activity between PA-PP protein and piperacillin led to higher sensitivity of bacterial cells to this antibiotic. Our collective findings suggest that PA-PP targets porin protein on PAR50 OM, thereby increasing its sensitivity to specific antibiotics. The adverse effects observed on bacterial cells using SEM-LV suggest further roles of this protein that remain to be established.
Dissection of Pharmacological Mechanism of Chinese Herbal Medicine Yihuo Huatan Formula on Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: A Systems Pharmacology-Based Study
Authors: Zhang Xia-Wei , Liu Wei , Jiang Hong-Li , Mao Bing
Published: September 2019

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is one of the most common respiratory diseases. Yihuo Huatan Formula (YHF), as a proven Chinese Herbal Medicine (CHM), has been verified to be effective in the treatment of stable COPD through years’ of practice. Nevertheless, its working mechanism is still unclear. We sought to systematically decipher the mechanism of YHF for treating stable COPD using systems pharmacology-based method that integrates pharmacokinetic screening, target prediction, network analyses, GO and KEGG enrichment analyses. Firstly, a total of 1267 chemicals out of 15 herbal components were included in YHF chemical database. Among them, 180 potential active molecules were screened out through pharmacokinetic evaluation. Then 258 targets of the active molecules were predicted, of which 84 were chosen for further analyses. Finally, the network analyses and GO and KEGG enrichment methods suggested a therapeutic effect of YHF on the alleviation of airway inflammation, decrease of mucus secretion, maintenance of immune homeostasis and benefit of COPD comorbidities, by regulating multiple targets and pathways. The systems pharmacology-based approach helps to understand the underlying working mechanism of YHF in stable COPD from a holistic perspective, and offers an exemplification for systematically uncovering the action mechanisms of CHM.
Phenotypic characterisation of regulatory T cells in dogs reveals signature transcripts conserved in humans and mice
Authors: Wu Ying , Chang Yu-Mei , Stell Anneliese J. , Priestnall Simon L. , Sharma Eshita , Goulart Michelle R. , Gribben John , Xia Dong , Garden Oliver A.
Published: September 2019

Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are a double-edged regulator of the immune system. Aberrations of Tregs correlate with pathogenesis of inflammatory, autoimmune and neoplastic disorders. Phenotypically and functionally distinct subsets of Tregs have been identified in humans and mice on the basis of their extensive portfolios of monoclonal antibodies (mAb) against Treg surface antigens. As an important veterinary species, dogs are increasingly recognised as an excellent model for many human diseases. However, insightful study of canine Tregs has been restrained by the limited availability of mAb. We therefore set out to characterise CD4+CD25highT cells isolatedex vivofrom healthy dogs and showed that they possess a regulatory phenotype, function, and transcriptomic signature that resembles those of human and murine Tregs. By launching a cross-species comparison, we unveiled a conserved transcriptomic signature of Tregs and identified that transcripthip1may have implications in Treg function.
Cell Therapy: Effect of Locally Injected Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Derived from Bone Marrow or Adipose Tissue on Bone Regeneration of Rat Calvarial Defects
Authors: Freitas Gileade P. , Lopes Helena B. , Souza Alann T. P. , Oliveira Paula G. F. P. , Almeida Adriana L. G. , Souza Lucas E. B. , Coelho Paulo G. , Beloti Marcio M. , Rosa Adalberto L.
Published: September 2019

Treatment of large bone defects is a challenging clinical situation that may be benefited from cell therapies based on regenerative medicine. This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of local injection of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (BM-MSCs) or adipose tissue-derived MSCs (AT-MSCs) on the regeneration of rat calvarial defects. BM-MSCs and AT-MSCs were characterized based on their expression of specific surface markers; cell viability was evaluated after injection with a 21-G needle. Defects measuring 5 mm that were created in rat calvaria were injected with BM-MSCs, AT-MSCs, or vehicle-phosphate-buffered saline (Control) 2 weeks post-defect creation. Cells were tracked by bioluminescence, and 4 weeks post-injection, the newly formed bone was evaluated by µCT, histology, nanoindentation, and gene expression of bone markers. BM-MSCs and AT-MSCs exhibited the characteristics of MSCs and maintained their viability after passing through the 21-G needle. Injection of both BM-MSCs and AT-MSCs resulted in increased bone formation compared to that in Control and with similar mechanical properties as those of native bone. The expression of genes associated with bone formation was higher in the newly formed bone induced by BM-MSCs, whereas the expression of genes involved in bone resorption was higher in the AT-MSC group. Cell therapy based on local injection of BM-MSCs or AT-MSCs is effective in delivering cells that induced a significant improvement in bone healing. Despite differences observed in molecular cues between BM-MSCs and AT-MSCs, both cells had the ability to induce bone tissue formation at comparable amounts and properties. These results may drive new cell therapy approaches toward complete bone regeneration.
Corrosion prevention of commercial alloys by air-water interface grown, edge on oriented, ultrathin squaraine film
Authors: Pandey Rajiv Kumar , Mishra Richa , Ji Gopal , Prakash Rajiv
Published: September 2019

Copper is one of the most demanded commercial metal/alloys in world market. The demand for copper in industries such as electrical, electronics, automobile, telecommunications, defence, etc. as well as in daily life has escalated in the recent years due to its versatile physical and chemical properties. However destruction of copper surface by any means, preferably corrosion, can limit its vast application. For protection from corrosion, various techniques are used to coat metal substrates with passivating materials. These techniques are either complex as well as expensive, or provide incomplete protection in acid media. To address these issues, floating film transfer method (FFTM) is utilized in this work for obtaining ultrathin film of squaraine (passivating molecule) as well as their easy and fast transfer over copper substrate. The squaraine film is deposited on copper substrate in layers, viz., 1 to 4 layers. The corrosion behavior is examined in 0.1 M HCl using electrochemical techniques as well as surface characterization techniques, which portray that copper corrosion is hampered in harmony with the layers deposited. Nearly 40% corrosion protection is reached for copper coated with 1 layer of squaraine. However, the protection is amplified up to 98% with 4 layers of squaraine, which clearly substantiates the supremacy of this coating method over reported methods of protection. This technique and the material (squaraine) are both for the first time being used in the field of corrosion protection. The easy growth of ultrathin film at air-water interface as well as its rapid transfer over substrate promotes use of FFTM for efficient corrosion protection on industrial scale.
Recent advances in copper sulphide-based nanoheterostructures
Authors: Liu Maixian , Liu Yang , Gu Bobo , Wei Xunbin , Xu Gaixia , Wang Xiaomei , Swihart Mark T. , Yong Ken-Tye
Published: September 2019

This tutorial summarizes and integrates recent advances in design and synthesis of copper sulfide-based nanoheterostructures and their applications in energy and healthcare.
A wavelength-resolved electrochemiluminescence resonance energy transfer ratiometric immunosensor for detection of cardiac troponin I
Authors: Zhu Liping , Ye Jing , Yan Mengxia , Zhu Qiuju , Yang Xiurong
Published: September 2019

A wavelength-resolved electrochemiluminescence resonance energy transfer ratiometric immunosensor from Au-g-C3N4 to Au NCs has been constructed for the first time.
Electronic and spin delocalization in a switchable trinuclear triphenylene trisemiquinone bridged Ni3 complex
Authors: Wang Yiting , Lambert François , Rivière Eric , Guillot Régis , Herrero Christian , Tissot Antoine , Halime Zakaria , Mallah Talal
Published: September 2019

An electro-switchable trinuclear Ni3-trisemquinone complex with electronic and spin dependent oxidation state delocalization.
Open-air preparation of cross-linked CO2-responsive polymer vesicles by enzyme-assisted photoinitiated polymerization-induced self-assembly
Authors: Yu Liangliang , Zhang Yuxuan , Dai Xiaocong , Xu Qin , Zhang Li , Tan Jianbo
Published: September 2019

An open-air strategy via enzyme-assisted photoinitiated polymerization-induced self-assembly (photo-PISA) in water is developed for preparing cross-linked CO2-responsive vesicles at high solids contents.
A new chemical approach for proximity labelling of chromatin-associated RNAs and proteins with visible light irradiation
Authors: Li Lan , Liang Jiying , Luo Hao , Tam K. Ming , Tse Edmund C. M. , Li Ying
Published: September 2019

A new nucleus-localized singlet oxygen generator was designed and synthesized.
Selectivity-tunable amine aerobic oxidation catalysed by metal-free N,O-doped carbons
Authors: Li Yingguang , Shang Sensen , Wang Lianyue , Lv Ying , Niu Jingyang , Gao Shuang
Published: September 2019

The first metal-free N,O-doped mesoporous carbo-catalytic system successfully switches between imine and nitrile products for primary amine oxidation.
The mechanism of thiophene oxidation on metal-free two-dimensional hexagonal boron nitride
Authors: Lv Naixia , Sun Linghao , Chen Linlin , Li Yujun , Zhang Jinrui , Wu Peiwen , Li Hongping , Zhu Wenshuai , Li Huaming
Published: September 2019

DFT calculations reveal the zigzag-N edge site is the most favorable site for thiophene oxidation, followed by the armchair and zigzag-B sites.
A revised model of silicon oxidation during the dissolution of silicon in HF/HNO3mixtures
Authors: Rietig Anja , Langner Thomas , Acker Jörg
Published: September 2019

This article presents a comprehensive quantification of the gaseous and dissolved reaction products formed during the etching of Si in HF/HNO3mixtures and provides a revised model of HNO3reduction during the oxidation of Si.
Characteristics ofl-threonine transaldolase for asymmetric synthesis of β-hydroxy-α-amino acids
Authors: Xu Lian , Wang Li-Chao , Xu Xin-Qi , Lin Juan
Published: September 2019

Characteristic al-threonine transaldolase (LTTA) and reaction conditions optimization for asymmetric synthesis ofl-threo-β-hydroxy-α-amino acids.
One-step synthesis and P–H bond cleavage reactions of the phosphanyl complex syn-[MoCp{PH(2,4,6-C6H2tBu3)}(CO)2] to give heterometallic phosphinidene-bridged derivatives
Authors: Alvarez M. Angeles , Burgos Mónica , García M. Esther , García-Vivó Daniel , Ruiz Miguel A. , Vega Patricia
Published: September 2019

Photolysis, deprotonation and one-electron reduction enable the title complex to render new phosphinidene derivatives with heterometallic Mo–P–M cores (M = Re, Fe, Au).
A unique formyl iodoargentate exhibiting luminescent and photocurrent response properties
Authors: Yang Lili , Zhou Jian , An Litao , Cao Shumei , Hu Jun
Published: September 2019

A unique formyl iodoargentate contains an unprecedented CHO− link mode, which exhibits luminescent and photocurrent response properties.
A brief overview of metal complexes as nuclear imaging agents
Authors: MacPherson Douglas S. , Fung Kimberly , Cook Brendon E. , Francesconi Lynn C. , Zeglis Brian M.
Published: September 2019

In this review, we seek to provide a brief and accessible overview of metal complex-based radiopharmaceuticals for nuclear imaging.
Capacitive deionization of saline water using graphene nanosphere decorated N-doped layered mesoporous carbon frameworks
Authors: Khan Zaheen Ullah , Yan Tingting , Han Jinlong , Shi Liyi , Zhang Dengsong
Published: September 2019

Capacitive deionization (CDI) is an alternative water purification technology.
Catalyst design insights from modelling a titanium-catalyzed multicomponent reaction
Authors: Aldrich Kelly E. , Kansal Dhwani , Odom Aaron L.
Published: September 2019

Heteroleptic catalyst stability toward disproportionation was modelled based on ligand donor abilities, which is of critical importance in some catalyses.
Synthesis of rutaecarpine alkaloids via an electrochemical cross dehydrogenation coupling reaction
Authors: Li Qian-Yu , Cheng Shi-Yan , Tang Hai-Tao , Pan Ying-Ming
Published: September 2019

We have developed a metal- and oxidant-free method for the synthesis of rutaecarpine alkaloids via an electrochemical CDC reaction.
Finding the optimal design of a passive microfluidic mixer
Authors: Wang Junchao , Zhang Naiyin , Chen Jin , Rodgers Victor G. J. , Brisk Philip , Grover William H.
Published: September 2019

Find an optimal design and establish the design criteria of a passive microfluidic mixer using a multi-objective genetic algorithm.
Non-swelling hydrogel-based microfluidic chips
Authors: Shen Chong , Li Yingjun , Wang Ying , Meng Qin
Published: September 2019

We use a non-swelling hydrogel to construct microfluidic chips and show that they could potentially be applicable for cell/tissue-related applications, performing much better than conventional PDMS or existing hydrogel based microfluidic chips.
Exploring the chelation-based plant strategy for iron oxide nanoparticle uptake in garden cress (Lepidium sativum) using magnetic particle spectrometry
Authors: Ju Minseon , Navarreto-Lugo Monica , Wickramasinghe Sameera , Milbrandt Nathalie B. , McWhorter Ariel , Samia Anna Cristina S.
Published: September 2019

Magnetic particle spectrometry offers a reliable and facile approach for the screening of promising nanoengineered fertilizers.
Synthesis of benzoazepine derivatives via Rh(iii)-catalyzed inert C(sp2)–H functionalization and [4 + 3] annulation
Authors: Xu Yuanshuang , Zhang Linghua , Liu Mengyang , Zhang Xiaopeng , Zhang Xinying , Fan Xuesen
Published: September 2019

A novel synthesis of benzoazepine derivatives via Rh(iii)-catalyzed inert C(sp2)–H bond functionalization and [4 + 3] annulation is presented.
Conjugated oligomers with alternating heterocycles from a single monomer: synthesis and demonstration of electroluminescence
Authors: Urrego-Riveros Sara , Bremer Matthias , Hoffmann Jonas , Heitmann Anne , Reynaldo Thibault , Buhl Janek , Gates Paul J. , Sönnichsen Frank D. , Hissler Muriel , Gerken Martina , Staubitz Anne
Published: September 2019

A synthetic strategy for push–pull oligomers is based on a nucleophile and electrophile selective synthesis of the corresponding monomers.
A graphite-modified natural stibnite mineral as a high-performance anode material for sodium-ion storage
Authors: Li Hongliang , Deng Mingxiang , Hou Hongshuai , Ji Xiaobo
Published: September 2019

The natural stibnite mineral modified with graphite provides a reference for the development of natural mineral as first-hand materials in energy storage and a new approach to improve natural stibnite mineral composites as anode in SIBs.
Biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles using endophytic bacteria and their role in inhibition of rice pathogenic bacteria and plant growth promotion
Authors: Ibrahim Ezzeldin , Fouad Hatem , Zhang Muchen , Zhang Yang , Qiu Wen , Yan Chengqi , Li Bin , Mo Jianchu , Chen Jianping
Published: September 2019

The mechanism of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) to inhibit rice pathogenic bacteria.
Modulation of JNK-1/ β-catenin signaling byLactobacillus casei, inulin and their combination in 1,2-dimethylhydrazine-induced colon cancer in mice
Authors: Ali Mohammed S. , Hussein Rasha M. , Gaber Yasser , Hammam Olfat A. , Kandeil Mohamed A.
Published: September 2019

Thelactobacillus caseiand inulin modulate the expression of JNK-1, GSK3β and β-catenin proteins and enrich the beneficial bacteria to protect from colon cancer in mice.
Core–shell ZnO:Ga-SiO2 nanocrystals: limiting particle agglomeration and increasing luminescence via surface defect passivation
Authors: Procházková Lenka , Vaněček Vojtěch , Čuba Václav , Pjatkan Radek , Martinez-Turtos Rosana , Jakubec Ivo , Buryi Maksym , Omelkov Sergey , Auffray Etiennette , Lecoq Paul , Mihóková Eva , Nikl Martin
Published: September 2019

Heat treatment is needed to increase the luminescence intensity of ZnO:Ga particles, but it comes at the cost of higher particle agglomeration.
Enantiomeric helical TiO2 nanofibers modulate different peptide assemblies and subsequent cellular behaviors
Authors: Jie Xu , Xu Deng , Wei Weili
Published: September 2019

Enantiomeric inorganic helical TiO2 nanofibers directed the different assembly processes of insulin and subsequent cellular behaviors.
Highly efficient solar seawater desalination with environmentally friendly hierarchical porous carbons derived from halogen-containing polymers
Authors: Liu Fenghua , Wang Lijian , Bradley Robert , Zhao Binyuan , Wu Weiping
Published: September 2019

Hierarchical porous carbon derived from polyvinyl chloride enabled record high evaporation rate and high energy conversion in solar seawater desalination.
Platinum and rhodium complexes ligated by imidazolium-substituted phosphine as efficient and recyclable catalysts for hydrosilylation
Authors: Jankowska-Wajda Magdalena , Bartlewicz Olga , Szpecht Andrea , Zajac Adrian , Smiglak Marcin , Maciejewski Hieronim
Published: September 2019

Platinum and rhodium complexes ligated by imidazolium substituted phosphine were obtained with high yields and applied as efficient catalysts.
Microwave magnetoimpedance and ferromagnetic resonance in Pr0.6Sr0.4MnO3
Authors: Chanda A. , Mahendiran R.
Published: September 2019

We report magnetoimpedance of a ferromagnetic Pr0.6Sr0.4MnO3 sample carrying alternating current (ac) of frequency f = 1 MHz to 3 GHz measured using an impedance analyzer and also broad band ferromagnetic resonance (f = 2 to 18 GHz).