bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Introgression of Sub1 (SUB1) QTL in mega rice cultivars increases ethylene production to the detriment of grain- filling under stagnant flooding
Authors: Kuanar Sandhya Rani , Molla Kutubuddin Ali , Chattopadhyay Krishnendu , Sarkar Ramani Kumar , Mohapatra Pravat Kumar
Published: December 2019

In the recent time, Submergence1 (Sub1)QTL, responsible for imparting tolerance to flash flooding, has been introduced in many rice cultivars, but resilience of the QTL to stagnant flooding (SF) is not known. The response of Sub1-introgression has been tested on physiology, molecular biology and yield of two popular rice cultivars (Swarna and Savitri) by comparison of the parental and Sub1-introgression lines (SwarnaSub1 and SavitriSub1) under SF. Compared to control condition SF reduced grain yield and tiller number and increased plant height and Sub1- introgression mostly matched these effects. SF increased ethylene production by over-expression of ACC-synthase and ACC-oxidase enzyme genes of panicle before anthesis in the parental lines. Expression of the genes changed with Sub1-introgression, where some enzyme isoform genes over-expressed after anthesis under SF. Activities of endosperm starch synthesizing enzymes SUS and AGPase declined concomitantly with rise ethylene production in the Sub1-introgressed lines resulting in low starch synthesis and accumulation of soluble carbohydrates in the developing spikelets. In conclusion, Sub1-introgression into the cultivars increased susceptibility to SF. Subjected to SF, the QTL promoted genesis of ethylene in the panicle at anthesis to the detriment of grain yield, while compromising with morphological features like tiller production and stem elongation.
The most common RNF43 mutant G659Vfs*41 is fully functional in inhibiting Wnt signaling and unlikely to play a role in tumorigenesis
Authors: Tu Jianghua , Park Soohyun , Yu Wangsheng , Zhang Sheng , Wu Ling , Carmon Kendra , Liu Qingyun J.
Published: December 2019

RNF43 is an E3 ligase that inhibits Wnt signaling by ubiquitinating Wnt receptors for degradation. It is mutated in various cancer types with the most recurrent mutation being the frameshift G659Vfs*41 with frequencies of ~5–8% in colon, stomach and endometrial cancers. This mutation, a deletion of G in a 7-G repeat, has been assumed to encode an inactive enzyme that would lead to increased Wnt signaling and drive tumorigenesis, yet no functional characterization has been reported. We analyzed the distribution of G659Vfs*41 and its association with other cancer gene mutations, and found that the mutation occurred nearly exclusively in tumors with low expression of the DNA mismatch repair gene MLH1. Mutant RNF43-G659Vfs*41 was no different from wild type RNF43 in expression, stability, localization, R-spondin binding, and inhibition of Wnt signaling. No dominant negative activity of the mutant was observed. Colon tumors with RNF43-G659Vfs*41 had low Wnt/β-catenin signaling and were frequently mutated in BRAF. A colon cancer cell line with RNF43-G659Vfs*41 and BRAF-V600E mutations was sensitive to activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling. These findings suggest that the frequent occurrence of RNF43-G659Vfs*41 may result from error-prone replication of the 7-G repeat in MLH1-deficient tumors and that the mutation itself does not inactivate enzyme.
Numerical simulation of the tsunamis generated by the Sciara del Fuoco landslides (Stromboli Island, Italy)
Authors: Fornaciai A. , Favalli M. , Nannipieri L.
Published: December 2019

Stromboli volcano (Aeolian Arc, Italy) experiences many mass failures along the Sciara del Fuoco (SdF) scar, which frequently trigger tsunamis of various sizes. In this work, we simulate tsunami waves generated by landslides occurring in the SdF through numerical simulations carried out in two steps: (i) the tsunami triggering, wave propagation and the effects on Stromboli are simulated using the 3D non-hydrostatic model NHWAVE; (ii) generated train waves are then input into the 2D Boussinesq model FUNWAVE-TVD to simulate wave propagation in the Southern Tyrrhenian Sea (STS). We simulated the following scenarios: (i) the tsunami runup, inland inundation and wave propagation at Stromboli triggered by submarine landslides with volumes of 7.1, 11.8, 17.6 and 23.5 × 106 m3 and subaerial landslides with volumes of 4.7, 7.1, 11.8 and 35.3 × 106 m3; (ii) tsunami propagation in the STS triggered by submarine landslides with volumes of 11.8 and 17.6 × 106 m3 and by subaerial landslides with volumes of 7.1 and 35.3 × 106 m3. We estimate that the damages of the last relevant tsunami at Stromboli, which occurred in 2002, could have been generated either by a subaqueous failure of about 17.6-23.5 × 106 m3 along the SdF or/and a subaerial failure of about 4.7-7.1 × 106 m3. The coasts most affected by this phenomenon are not necessarily located near the failure, because the bathymetry and topography can dramatically increase the waves heights locally. Tsunami waves are able to reach the first Stromboli populated beaches in just over 1 minute and the harbour in less than 7 minutes. After about 30 minutes the whole Aeolian Arc would be impacted by maximum tsunami waves. After 1 hour and 20 minutes, waves would encompass the whole STS arriving at Capri.
A negative feedback mechanism links UBC gene expression to ubiquitin levels by affecting RNA splicing rather than transcription
Authors: Bianchi Marzia , Crinelli Rita , Giacomini Elisa , Carloni Elisa , Radici Lucia , Scarpa Emanuele-Salvatore , Tasini Filippo , Magnani Mauro
Published: December 2019

UBC gene plays a critical role in maintaining ubiquitin (Ub) homeostasis. It is upregulated under stress conditions, and herein we report that it is downregulated upon Ub overexpression. Downregulation occurs in a dose-dependent manner, suggesting the existence of a fine-tuned Ub sensing mechanism. This “sensor” requires a conjugation competent ubiquitin to detect Ub levels. Searching the sensor among the transcription factors involved in basal and stress-induced UBC gene expression was unsuccessful. Neither HSF1 and HSF2, nor Sp1 and YY1 are affected by the increased Ub levels. Moreover, mutagenesis of their binding sites in the UBC promoter-driven reporter constructs does not impair the downmodulation effect. Epigenetic studies show that H2A and H2B ubiquitination within the UBC promoter region is unchanged upon ubiquitin overexpression. Noteworthy, quantification of nascent RNA molecules excludes that the downmodulation arises in the transcription initiation step, rather pointing towards a post-transcriptional mechanism. Indeed, a significantly higher fraction of unspliced UBC mRNA is detected in ubiquitin overexpressing cells, compared to empty vector transfected cells. Our findings suggest how increasing cellular ubiquitin levels may control the expression of UBC gene by negatively affecting the splicing of its pre-mRNA, providing a straightforward feedback strategy for the homeostatic control of ubiquitin pools.
Author Correction: A Peptoid Delivers CoQ-derivative to Plant Mitochondria via Endocytosis
Authors: Asfaw Kinfemichael Geressu , Liu Qiong , Maisch Jan , Münch Stephan W. , Wehl Ilona , Bräse Stefan , Bogeski Ivan , Schepers Ute , Nick Peter
Published: December 2019

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Transmural and rate-dependent profiling of drug-induced arrhythmogenic risks through in silico simulations of multichannel pharmacology
Authors: Zhao Ping’an , Li Pan
Published: December 2019

In vitro human ether-à-go-go related gene (hERG) inhibition assay alone might provide insufficient information to discriminate “safe” from “dangerous” drugs. Here, effects of multichannel inhibition on cardiac electrophysiology were investigated using a family of cardiac cell models (Purkinje (P), endocardial (Endo), mid-myocardial (M) and epicardial (Epi)). We found that: (1) QT prolongation alone might not necessarily lead to early afterdepolarization (EAD) events, and it might be insufficient to predict arrhythmogenic liability; (2) the occurrence and onset of EAD events could be a candidate biomarker of drug-induced arrhythmogenicity; (3) M cells are more vulnerable to drug-induced arrhythmias, and can develop early afterdepolarization (EAD) at slower pacing rates; (4) the application of quinidine can cause EADs in all cell types, while INaL is the major depolarizing current during the generation of drug-induced EAD in P cells, ICaL is mostly responsible in other cell types; (5) drug-induced action potential (AP) alternans with beat-to-beat variations occur at high pacing rates in P cells. These results suggested that quantitative profiling of transmural and rate-dependent properties can be essential to evaluate drug-induced arrhythmogenic risks, and may provide mechanistic insights into drug-induced arrhythmias.
Changes in hypothermal stress-induced hepatic mitochondrial metabolic patterns between fresh water- and seawater-acclimated milkfish, Chanos chanos
Authors: Chang Chia-Hao , Liu Zong-Zheng , Lee Tsung-Han
Published: December 2019

Milkfish (Chanos chanos) is a tropical euryhaline species. It can acclimate to fresh water (FW) or seawater (SW) and be cultured in both. In winter, cold snaps cause huge losses in milkfish revenue. Compared to FW-acclimated individuals, SW-acclimated milkfish have better low-temperature tolerance. Under hypothermal stress, a stable energy supply is critical to maintain normal liver function. In this study, the levels of key mitochondrial enzymes (citrate synthase (CS) and cytochrome c oxidase (COX)) in milkfish livers were examined. The CS:COX activity ratio in FW milkfish significantly increased under hypothermal stress (18 °C) whereas ATP (the end product of aerobic metabolism) was downregulated. Therefore, the activities of the enzymes involved in mitochondrial amino acid biosynthesis (aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH)) were evaluated to elucidate energy flow in milkfish livers under hypothermal stress. In FW milkfish, GDH activity was upregulated whereas AST activity was downregulated. Nevertheless, the levels of all the aforementioned enzymes did not significantly change in SW milkfish under hypothermal stress. In summary, we clarified the mechanism accounting for the fact that SW milkfish have superior low-temperature tolerance to FW milkfish and demonstrated that SW and FW milkfish have different and unique strategies for regulating energy flow.
Influence of pure fluorides and stannous ions on the initial bacterial colonization in situ
Authors: Kirsch Jasmin , Hannig Matthias , Winkel Pia , Basche Sabine , Leis Birgit , Pütz Norbert , Kensche Anna , Hannig Christian
Published: December 2019

The present clinical-experimental study aims to examine the effect of pure experimental fluoride solutions and stannous chloride on the initial oral bioadhesion under in situ conditions. After 1 min of pellicle formation on bovine enamel slabs, 12 subjects rinsed with 8 ml of the fluoride test solutions (NaF, Na2PO3F, AmF, SnF2,) with 500 ppm fluoride concentration each for 1 min. Additionally, rinsing without a solution (control) and rinsing with 1563 ppm SnCl2 solution took place for 1 min. Afterwards, fluorescence microscopy took place to visualize bacterial adhesion and glucan formation (8 h oral exposition) with DAPI and ConA and the BacLight method. TEM was performed to visualize the pellicle ultrastructure together with EDX to detect stannous ions. The rinsing solutions with pure SnF2 and SnCl2 reduced significantly the initial bacterial colonization (DAPI). While, NaF and Na2PO3F showed no significant effect compared to the control. There was no significant difference between AmF, SnF2 and SnCl2. All tested experimental solutions showed no reducing effect on the glucan formation. Considerable alterations of the pellicle ultrastructure resulted from rinsing with the Sn-containing solutions. SnF2 appears to be the most effective type of fluoride to reduce initial bacterial colonization in situ. The observed effects primarily have to be attributed to the stannous ions’ content.
A STELLA simulation model for in vitro dissolution testing of respirable size particles
Authors: Eedara Basanth Babu , Tucker Ian G. , Das Shyamal C.
Published: December 2019

In vitro dissolution testing is a useful quality control tool to discriminate the formulations and to approximate the in vivo drug release profiles. A dissolution apparatus has been custom-made for dissolution testing of dry powder formulations in a small volume of stationary medium (25 μL spread over 4.91 cm2 area i.e. ~50 μm thick). To understand the system and predict the key parameters which influence the dissolution of respirable size particles, a simulation model was constructed using STELLA modeling software. Using this model, the permeation (dissolution followed by diffusion through the membrane) of two anti-tubercular drugs of differing solubilities, moxifloxacin (17.68 ± 0.85 mg mL−1) and ethionamide (0.46 ± 0.02 mg mL−1), from the respirable size particles and their diffusion from a solution were simulated. The simulated permeation profiles of moxifloxacin from solution and respirable size particles were similar, indicating fast dissolution of the particles. However, the simulated permeation profile of ethionamide from respirable size particles showed slower permeation compared to the solution indicating the slow dissolution of the respirable size particles of ethionamide. The sensitivity analysis suggested that increased mucus volume and membrane thickness decreased the permeation of drug. While this model was useful in predicting and distinguishing the dissolution behaviours of respirable size moxifloxacin and ethionamide, further improvement could be made using appropriate initial parameter values obtained by experiments.
Author Correction: A full-width half-maximum method to assess retinal vascular structural changes in patients with ischemic heart disease and microvascular angina
Authors: Xu Bo Lun , Zhou Wen Li , Zhu Tie Pei , Cheng Ke Yun , Li Yi Jie , Zhan Hai Jing , Jiang Li Gang , Tong Yu Hua
Published: December 2019

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Understanding the diversity of genetic outcomes from CRISPR-Cas generated homology-directed repair
Authors: Sansbury Brett M. , Hewes Amanda M. , Kmiec Eric B.
Published: December 2019

As CRISPR-Cas systems advance toward clinical application, it is essential to identify all the outcomes of gene-editing activity in human cells. Reports highlighting the remarkable success of homology-directed repair (HDR) in the treatment of inherited diseases may inadvertently underreport the collateral activity of this remarkable technology. We are utilizing an in vitro gene-editing system in which a CRISPR-Cas complex provides the double-stranded cleavage and a mammalian cell-free extract provides the enzymatic activity to promote non-homologous end joining, micro-homology mediated end joining, and homology-directed repair. Here, we detail the broad spectrum of gene-editing reaction outcomes utilizing Cas9 and Cas12a in combination with single-stranded donor templates of the sense and nonsense polarity. This system offers the opportunity to see the range of outcomes of gene-editing reactions in an unbiased fashion, detailing the distribution of DNA repair outcomes as a function of a set of genetic tools.
Brightness-gated two-color coincidence detection unravels two distinct mechanisms in bacterial protein translation initiation
Authors: Höfig Henning , Yukhnovets Olessya , Remes Cristina , Kempf Noemie , Katranidis Alexandros , Kempe Daryan , Fitter Jörg
Published: December 2019

Life on the molecular scale is based on a complex interplay of biomolecules under which the ability of binding is crucial. Fluorescence based two-color coincidence detection (TCCD) is commonly used to characterize molecular binding, but suffers from an underestimation of coincident events. Here, we introduce a brightness-gated TCCD which overcomes this limitation and benchmark our approach with two custom-made calibration samples. Applied to a cell-free protein synthesis assay, brightness-gated TCCD unraveled a previously disregarded mode of translation initiation in bacteria.
20 years of developments in optical frequency comb technology and applications
Authors: Fortier Tara , Baumann Esther
Published: December 2019

Optical frequency combs were developed nearly two decades ago to support the world’s most precise atomic clocks. Acting as precision optical synthesizers, frequency combs enable the precise transfer of phase and frequency information from a high-stability reference to hundreds of thousands of tones in the optical domain. This versatility, coupled with near-continuous spectroscopic coverage from microwave frequencies to the extreme ultra-violet, has enabled precision measurement capabilities in both fundamental and applied contexts. This review takes a tutorial approach to illustrate how 20 years of source development and technology has facilitated the journey of optical frequency combs from the lab into the field.
Highly sensitive and selective non-enzymatic glucose detection based on indigo carmine/hemin/H2O2 chemiluminescence
Authors: Fereja Tadesse Haile , Kitte Shimeles Addisu , Zafar Muhammad Nadeem , Halawa Mohamed Ibrahim , Han Shuang , Zhang Wei , Xu Guobao
Published: December 2019

Chemiluminescence of indigo carmine/glucose/hemin/H2O2 has been reported for the first time, and used for sensitive non-enzymatic detection of glucose and indigo carmine.
A novel approach for the screening analysis of anticancer compounds from traditional Chinese medicine by a G-quadruplex functionalized magnetic system
Authors: Zhang Yi , Wu Jia , Liu Xiuxiu , Sun Hongxia , Chen Yin , Fu Chunmei , Xu Xiaoping , Yang Shu , Tang Yalin
Published: December 2019

G-quadruplex (G4) is a four-stranded DNA structure, viewed as an emerging therapeutic target in oncology. G4 coated magnetic screening system provides a feasible, easy-operating approach for anticancer drug discovery.
The interaction of an amorphous metal–organic cage-based solid (aMOC) with miRNA/DNA and its application on a quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) sensor
Authors: Jin Xia , Zhang Yu-Ping , Li Dian-Mei , Ma Ding , Zheng Sheng-Run , Wu Chu-Hong , Li Jia-Ying , Zhang Wei-Guang
Published: December 2019

The interaction between an aMOC and miRNA/DNA is studied and the use of the aMOC as an effective amplifier in a QCM sensor to detect miRNA is developed for the first time.
Rational design of a mesoporous silica-based cathode for efficient trapping of polysulfides in Li–S batteries
Authors: Chen Chao , Xu Huifang , Zhang Bingkai , Jiang Qingbin , Zhang Yaping , Li Lei , Lin Zhan
Published: December 2019

We develop a mesoporous silica-based cathode for efficient trapping of lithium polysulfides. This cathode consists of a mesoporous silica (HMS), highly dispersed NiO nanoparticles embedded in the silica structure and a conductive polymer prepared by in situ polymerization.
A photoactivatable microRNA probe for identification of microRNA targets and light-controlled suppression of microRNA target expression
Authors: Chen Lei , Sun Yu , Li Jinbo , Zhang Yan
Published: December 2019

A dual-functional microRNA probe was constructed for identification of microRNA targets and regulation of microRNA function through light control.
An ultrafast responsive NO2 gas sensor based on a hydrogen-bonded organic framework material
Authors: Wang Yijie , Liu Di , Yin Jianbo , Shang Yanxue , Du Juan , Kang Zixi , Wang Rongming , Chen Yanli , Sun Daofeng , Jiang Jianzhuang
Published: December 2019

A new type of HOF-based gas sensor with high selectivity, ultra-fast response and a lower limit of detection to NO2 has been developed for the first time.
Template effect of innocent and coordinating anions on the formation of interpenetrated 2D and 3D networks: methyl orange and iodine sorption studies
Authors: Baig Fayaz , Rangan Krishnan , Eappen Shibu M. , Mandal Sanjay K. , Sarkar Madhushree
Published: December 2019

A pyridyl based Schiff base resulted in a 2D staircase network (CP1) with Cd(ii) when ClO4− is the counter anion while the use of benzene-1,3-disulphonate counter anion resulted in a novel 3D Cd(ii) coordination polymer with threefold interpenetration (CP2).
Phase diagrams and dynamical evolution of the triple-pathway electro-oxidation of formic acid on platinum
Authors: Freire Joana G. , Calderón-Cárdenas Alfredo , Varela Hamilton , Gallas Jason A. C.
Published: December 2019

A detailed numerical study including stability phase diagrams for the dynamical evolution of the electro-oxidation of formic acid on platinum was reported. The study evidences the existence of intertwined stability phases and the absence of chaos.
Benchmark ab initio and dynamical characterization of the stationary points of reactive atom + alkane and SN2 potential energy surfaces
Authors: Czakó Gábor , Győri Tibor , Olasz Balázs , Papp Dóra , Szabó István , Tajti Viktor , Tasi Domonkos A.
Published: December 2019

We review composite ab initio and dynamical methods and their applications to characterize stationary points of atom/ion + molecule reactions.
Tuning the excited-state intramolecular proton transfer (ESIPT) process of indole–pyrrole systems by π-conjugation and substitution effects: experimental and computational studies
Authors: Zhang Nuonuo , Zhang Tingting , Wen Liu , Wang Long , Yan Jiaying , Zheng Kaibo
Published: December 2019

A series of amino (NH)-type hydrogen-bonding (H-bonding) compounds, BNDAB-1–4, containing π-enlarged indole and β-ethoxycarbonyl-substituted pyrrole units were designed and synthesized.
Exploring fast water permeation through aquaporin-mimicking membranes
Authors: Shahbabaei Majid , Kim Daejoong
Published: December 2019

Using molecular dynamics simulations, herein, we illustrate that a bending structure shows different behaviors for fast water transport through aquaporin-mimicking membranes in multilayer graphene and tubular structures.
Liquid metal electrode-enabled flexible microdroplet sensor
Authors: Zhang Renchang , Ye Zi , Gao Meng , Gao Chang , Zhang Xudong , Li Lei , Gui Lin
Published: December 2019

A liquid metal-based soft sensor for droplet detection and evaluation in flexible microchannels.
Branched versus linear: side-chain effect on fluorinated wide bandgap donors and their applications in organic solar cells
Authors: Duan Tainan , Liang Ru-Ze , Fu Yingying , Chang Yuying , Kan Zhipeng , Zhong Cheng , Xie Zhiyuan , Yu Donghong
Published: December 2019

We report a new series of wide band-gap small organic molecules as donor-materials featuring an indaceno[1,2-b:5,6-b′]dithiophene (IDT) core and fluorinated thiophene linkers for solution-processed organic solar cells.
Flexible and high-energy-density Zn/MnO2 batteries enabled by electrochemically exfoliated graphene nanosheets
Authors: Shi Fangxu , Mang Chaocheng , Liu Haiwei , Dong Yanfeng
Published: December 2019

Electrochemically exfoliated graphene nanosheets were proposed for flexible and high-performance Zn–MnO2 batteries without polymer binder and metal current collectors.
Hierarchical nanotwins in single-crystal-like nickel with high strength and corrosion resistance producedviaa hybrid technique
Authors: Li Qiang , Xue Sichuang , Price Patrick , Sun Xing , Ding Jie , Shang Zhongxia , Fan Zhe , Wang Han , Zhang Yifan , Chen Youxing , Wang Haiyan , Hattar Khalid , Zhang Xinghang
Published: December 2019

Single-crystal-like nanotwinned Nickel was preparedviaa hybrid technique and it renders superb mechanical behaviors and corrosion resistance.
Recent progress of TMD nanomaterials: phase transitions and applications
Authors: Huang H. H. , Fan Xiaofeng , Singh David J. , Zheng W. T.
Published: December 2019

The diversity of electronic characteristics of TMDs ranging from the semiconducting, semi-metallic to metallic have broadened their application in catalysis, electrode materials and next-generation functional electronic devices.
Quantum dot embedded N-doped functionalized multiwall carbon nanotubes boost the short-circuit current of Ru(ii) based dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Wasim Khan Muhammad , Zuo Xueqin , Yang Qun , Tang Huaibao , Rehman Khalid Mehmood Ur , Wu Mingzai , Li Guang
Published: December 2019

Here, we report zinc sulfide quantum dots, ZnS(QDs), moored on N-doped functionalized multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) wrapped with reduced graphene oxide (rGO).
Construction of a thermo-responsive copolymer-stabilized Fe3O4@CD@PdNP hybrid and its application in catalytic reduction
Authors: Yang Yu , Duan Haichao , Xia Siwen , Lü Changli
Published: December 2019

A thermo-responsive copolymer stabilized Fe3O4@CDs@PdNP hybrid was fabricated as a nanocatalyst for catalytic reduction reaction with excellent recyclability and controllable thermo-responsive catalytic property.
Correction: High-detectivity perovskite-based photodetector using a Zr-doped TiOx cathode interlayer
Authors: Ji Chan Hyuk , Kim Kee Tae , Oh Se Young
Published: December 2019

Correction for ‘High-detectivity perovskite-based photodetector using a Zr-doped TiOx cathode interlayer’ by C. H. Ji et al., RSC Adv., 2018, 8, 8302–8309.
Predicting adsorption selectivities from pure gas isotherms for gas mixtures in metal–organic frameworks
Authors: Kundu Arpan , Sillar Kaido , Sauer Joachim
Published: December 2019

A new mixing rule (geometric mean) is proposed with substantial improvements compared to the widely used ideal adsorbed solution theory for adsorbates with strong lateral interactions.
Efficient polymerase chain reaction assisted by metal–organic frameworks
Authors: Sun Chunli , Cheng Yong , Pan Yong , Yang Juliang , Wang Xudong , Xia Fan
Published: December 2019

Many new materials have the ability to optimize polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Metal-organic frame materials UiO-66 and ZIF-8 can enhance sensitivity, specificity and efficiency of PCR, indicating their potential as PCR enhancers.
The N-terminal of NBPF15 causes multiple types of aggregates and mediates phase transition
Authors: Wu Han , Zhai Liu-Tao , Guo Xue-Xue , Rety Stephane , Xi Xu-Guang
Published: December 2019

The neuroblastoma breakpoint family (NBPF) consists of 24 members that play an important role in neuroblastoma and other cancers. NBPF is an evolutionarily recent gene family that encodes several repeats of Olduvai domain and an abundant N-terminal region. The function and biochemical properties of both Olduvai domain and the N-terminal region remain enigmatic. Human NBPF15 encodes a 670 AA protein consisting of six clades of Olduvai domains. In this study, we synthesized and expressed full-length NBPF15, and purified a range of NBPF15 truncations which were analyzed using dynamic light scattering (DLS), superdex200 (S200), small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS), far-UV circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy, transmission electron microscope (TEM), and crystallography. We found that proteins containing both the N-terminal region and Olduvai domain are heterogeneous with multiple types of aggregates, and some of them underwent a liquid-to-solid phase transition, probably because of the entanglement within the N-terminal coiled-coil. Proteins that contain only the Olduvai domain are homogeneous extended monomers, and those with the conserved clade 1 (CON1) have manifested a tendency to crystallize. We suggest that the entanglements between the mosaic disorder-ordered segments in NBPF15 N terminus have triggered the multiple types of aggregates and phase transition of NBPF15 proteins, which could be associated with Olduvai-related cognitive dysfunction diseases.
A functional polymorphism rs10830963 in melatonin receptor 1B associated with the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus
Authors: Huang Bo , Wang Yu-kun , Qin Lin-yuan , Wei Qin , Liu Nian , Jiang Min , Yu Hong-ping , Yu Xiang-yuan
Published: December 2019

The melatonin receptor 1B (MTNR1B) polymorphism rs10830963 C>G has been reported to be associated with the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) with inconsistent results. To clarify the effect of the polymorphism on the risk of GDM, a meta-analysis therefore was performed. Pooled OR with its corresponding 95%CI was used to estimate the strength of the association. Totally 14 eligible studies with a number of 5033 GDM patients and 5614 controls were included in this meta-analysis. Results indicated that the variant G allele was significantly associated with an increased GDM risk (CG vs. CC: OR = 1.25, 95% CI = 1.11−1.40, P < 0.001; GG vs. CC: OR = 1.78, 95% CI = 1.45−2.19, P < 0.001; G vs. C: OR = 1.33, 95% CI = 1.21−1.47, P < 0.001). In the stratified analysis by ethnicity, similar results were found in Asians (CG vs. CC: OR = 1.15, 95%CI = 1.02−1.28, P = 0.020; GG vs. CC: OR = 1.52, 95% CI = 1.23−1.89, P < 0.001; G vs. C: OR = 1.23, 95% CI = 1.10−1.37, P < 0.001) and in Caucasians (CG vs. CC: OR = 1.40, 95% CI = 1.16−1.70, P < 0.001; GG vs. CC: OR = 2.21, 95% CI = 1.54−3.17, P < 0.001; G vs. C: OR = 1.47, 95% CI = 1.24−1.73, P < 0.001). FPRP and TSA analyses confirmed findings support that the rs10830963 G allele increases the risk of GDM, and further functional experimental studies are warranted to explore and clarify the potential mechanism.
Integrative analysis of shared genetic pathogenesis by autism spectrum disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder
Authors: Liu Dongbai , Cao Hongbao , Kural Kamil Can , Fang Qi , Zhang Fuquan
Published: December 2019

Many common pathological features have been observed for both autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). However, no systematic analysis of the common gene markers associated with both ASD and OCD has been conducted so far. Here, two batches of large-scale literature-based disease–gene relation data (updated in 2017 and 2019, respectively) and gene expression data were integrated to study the possible association between OCD and ASD at the genetic level. Genes linked to OCD and ASD present significant overlap (P-value <2.64e-39). A genetic network of over 20 genes was constructed, through which OCD and ASD may exert influence on each other. The 2017-based analysis suggested six potential common risk genes for OCD and ASD (CDH2, ADCY8, APOE, TSPO, TOR1A, and OLIG2), and the 2019-based study identified two more genes (DISP1 and SETD1A). Notably, the gene APOE identified by the 2017-based analysis has been implicated to have an association with ASD in a recent study (2018) with DNA methylation analysis. Our results support the possible complex genetic associations between OCD and ASD. Genes linked to one disease are worth further investigation as potential risk factors for the other.
Dynamic characteristics of lipid metabolism in cultured granulosa cells from geese follicles at different developmental stages
Authors: Gao Shanyan , Gan Xiang , He Hua , Hu Shenqiang , Deng Yan , Chen Xi , Li Li , Hu Jiwei , Li Liang , Wang Jiwen
Published: December 2019

Previous studies have shown that lipid metabolism in granulosa cells (GCs) plays a vital role during mammalian ovarian follicular development. However, little research has been done on lipid metabolism in avian follicular GCs. The goal of the present study was to investigate the dynamic characteristics of lipid metabolism in GCs from geese pre-hierarchical (6–10 mm) and hierarchical (F4-F2 and F1) follicles during a 6-day period of in vitro culture. Oil red O staining showed that with the increasing incubation time, the amount of lipids accumulated in three cohorts of GCs increased gradually, reached the maxima after 96 h of culture, and then decreased. Moreover, the lipid content varied among these three cohorts, with the highest in F1 GCs. The qPCR results showed genes related to lipid synthesis and oxidation were highest expressed in pre-hierarchical GCs, while those related to lipid transport and deposition were highest expressed in hierarchical GCs. These results suggested that the amount of intracellular lipids in GCs increases with both the follicular diameter and culture time, which is accompanied by significant changes in expression of genes related to lipid metabolism. Therefore, it is postulated that the lipid accumulation capacity of geese GCs depends on the stage of follicle development and is finely regulated by the differential expression of genes related to lipid metabolism.
Development and validation of a nomogram to predict the prognosis of patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the bladder
Authors: Hu Mei-Di , Chen Si-Hai , Liu Yuan , Jia Ling-Hua
Published: December 2019

Background: The present study aimed to develop and validate a nomogram based on expanded TNM staging to predict the prognosis for patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the bladder (SCCB).

Methods: A total of 595 eligible patients with SCCB identified in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) dataset were randomly divided into training set (n = 416) and validation set (n = 179). The likelihood ratio test was used to select potentially relevant factors for developing the nomogram. The performance of the nomogram was validated on the training and validation sets using a C-index with 95% confidence interval (95% CI) and calibration curve, and was further compared with TNM staging system.

Results: The nomogram included six factors: age, T stage, N stage, M stage, the method of surgery and tumor size. The C-indexes of the nomogram were 0.768 (0.741–0.795) and 0.717 (0.671–0.763) in the training and validation sets, respectively, which were higher than the TNM staging system with C-indexes of 0.580 (0.543–0.617) and 0.540 (0.484–0.596) in the training and validation sets, respectively. Furthermore, the decision curve analysis (DCA) proved that the nomogram provided superior clinical effectiveness.

Conclusions: We developed a nomogram that help predict individualized prognosis for patients with SCCB.
Mitochondrial dynamic modulation exerts cardiometabolic protection in obese insulin-resistant rats
Authors: Maneechote Chayodom , Palee Siripong , Apaijai Nattayaporn , Kerdphoo Sasiwan , Jaiwongkam Thidarat , Chattipakorn Siriporn C. , Chattipakorn Nipon
Published: December 2019

Obese insulin resistance impairs cardiac mitochondrial dynamics by increasing mitochondrial fission and decreasing mitochondrial fusion, leading to mitochondrial damage, myocardial cell death and cardiac dysfunction. Therefore, inhibiting fission and promoting fusion could provide cardioprotection in this pre-diabetic condition. We investigated the combined effects of the mitochondrial fission inhibitor (Mdivi1) and fusion promoter (M1) on cardiac function in obese insulin-resistant rats. We hypothesized that Mdivi1 and M1 protect heart against obese insulin-resistant condition, but also there will be greater improvement using Mdivi1 and M1 as a combined treatment. Wistar rats (n=56, male) were randomly assigned to a high-fat diet (HFD) and normal diet (ND) fed groups. After feeding with either ND or HFD for 12 weeks, rats in each dietary group were divided into groups to receive either the vehicle, Mdivi1 (1.2 mg/kg, i.p.), M1 (2 mg/kg, i.p.) or combined treatment for 14 days. The cardiac function, cardiac mitochondrial function, metabolic and biochemical parameters were monitored before and after the treatment. HFD rats developed obese insulin resistance which led to impaired dynamics balance and function of mitochondria, increased cardiac cell apoptosis and dysfunction. Although Mdivi1, M1 and combined treatment exerted similar cardiometabolic benefits in HFD rats, the combined therapy showed a greater reduction in mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS). Mitochondrial fission inhibitor and fusion promoter exerted similar levels of cardioprotection in a pre-diabetic condition.
Diversity order of precoding‐aided spatial modulation using receive antenna selection
Authors: Kim S.
Published: December 2019

In this Letter, the authors analyse the diversity order of the precoding‐aided spatial modulation (PSM) system with receive antenna subset (RAS) selection. It is shown that when there are transmit antennas, receive antennas, and selected receive antennas, the achievable diversity order is given by , where the product gain of is achieved by the zero‐forcing precoding scheme and another of can be attained by the optimal RAS selection algorithm.
Broadband planar slot antenna using a simple single‐layer FSS stopband
Authors: Belmessaoud Djaouida , Rouabah Khaled , Messaoudene Idris , Denidni Tayeb A.
Published: December 2019

In this study, the authors propose a simple structure of a new broadband planar slot antenna using a wide single‐layer frequency selective surface (FSS) stopband. The proposed design is realised in two stages. First, the performances of the FSS unit cells are investigated using the finite element method of high‐frequency structure simulator. Besides, the FSS structure considered as a stop‐band filter in the bandwidth , is also validated by computer simulation technology microwave studio. Second, this FSS reflector is combined with a miniaturised wideband planar slot antenna . The final proposed combination is also designed, optimised, fabricated and validated by measurements. The obtained results show an operating impedance bandwidth of including the Worldwide interoperability for Microwave Access band, the C band for satellite applications, and the Wireless Local Area Network band. Furthermore, the antenna provides an measured maximum gain. Compared to the same antenna without FSS, a maximum gain enhancement of is achieved by the proposed structure. In addition, the back lobes are reduced in the proposed structure by , compared to a simple antenna. The total size of the proposed antenna, integrating the FSS, is .
USco1621 B and USco1556 B: Two wide companions at the deuterium-burning mass limit in Upper Scorpius
Authors: Chinchilla Patricia , Béjar Víctor J. S. , Lodieu Nicolas , Gauza Bartosz , Zapatero Osorio Maria Rosa , Rebolo Rafael , Garrido Antonio Pérez , Alvarez Carlos , Manjavacas Elena
Published: December 2019

Aims. Our objective is to identify analogues of gas giant planets, but located as companions at wide separations of very young stars. The main purpose is to characterise the binarity frequency and the properties of these substellar objects, and to elucidate their early evolutionary stages.

Methods. To identify these objects, we cross correlated the Visible and Infrared Survey Telescope for Astronomy Hemisphere Survey and the United Kingdom Infrared Telescope Infrared Deep Sky Survey Galactic Clusters Survey catalogues to search for common proper motion companions to 1195 already known members of Upper Scorpius (USco; age ~5–10 Myr, distance ~145 pc). We present the discovery and spectroscopic characterisation of two very wide substellar companions of two early-M stars in Upper Scorpius: USco1621 B and USco1556 B. We obtained optical and near-infrared low-resolution spectroscopy of the candidates to characterise their spectral energy distribution and confirm their youth and membership to the association. We also acquired adaptive optics images of the primaries and secondaries to search for signs of binarity and close companions.

Results. By comparison with field dwarfs and other young members of USco, we determined a spectral type of M8.5 in the optical for both companions, along with L0 and L0.5 in the near-infrared for USco1621 B and USco1556 B, respectively. The spectra of the two companions show evident markers of youth, such as weak alkaline Na I and K I lines, along with the triangular shape of the H-band. The comparison with theoretical evolutionary models gives estimated masses of 0.015 ± 0.002 and 0.014 ± 0.002 M⊙, with temperatures of 2270 ± 90 and 2240 ± 100 K, respectively. The physical separations between the components of both systems are 2880 ± 20 and 3500 ± 40 AU for USco1621 and USco1556 systems, respectively. We did not find any additional close companion in the adaptive optics images. The probability that the two secondaries are physically bound to their respective primaries, and not chance alignments of USco members, is 86%, and the probability that none of them are physically related is 1.0%.
The ALMA Frontier Fields Survey
Authors: Carvajal R. , Bauer F. E. , Bouwens R. J. , Oesch P. A. , González-López J. , Anguita T. , Aravena M. , Demarco R. , Guaita L. , Infante L. , Kim S. , Kneissl R. , Koekemoer A. M. , Messias H. , Treister E. , Villard E. , Zitrin A. , Troncoso P.
Published: December 2019

Context.The Hubble Frontier Fields offer an exceptionally deep window into the high-redshift universe, covering a substantially larger area than the Hubble Ultra-Deep field at low magnification and probing 1–2 mag deeper in exceptional high-magnification regions. This unique parameter space, coupled with the exceptional multi-wavelength ancillary data, can facilitate for useful insights into distant galaxy populations.

Aims.We aim to leverage Atacama Large Millimetre Array (ALMA) band 6 (≈263 GHz) mosaics in the central portions of five Frontier Fields to characterize the infrared (IR) properties of 1582 ultraviolet (UV)-selected Lyman-Break Galaxies (LBGs) at redshifts ofz ∼ 2–8. We investigated individual and stacked fluxes and IR excess (IRX) values of the LBG sample as functions of stellar mass (M⋆), redshift, UV luminosity and slopeβ, and lensing magnification.

Methods.LBG samples were derived from color-selection and photometric redshift estimation withHubbleSpace Telescope photometry. Spectral energy distributions -templates were fit to obtain luminosities, stellar masses, and star formation rates for the LBG candidates. We obtained individual IR flux and IRX estimates, as well as stacked averages, using both ALMA images andu–vvisibilities.

Results.Two (2) LBG candidates were individually detected above a significance of 4.1-σ, while stacked samples of the remaining LBG candidates yielded no significant detections. We investigated our detections and upper limits in the context of the IRX–M⋆and IRX–βrelations, probing at least one dex lower in stellar mass than past studies have done. Our upper limits exclude substantial portions of parameter space and they are sufficiently deep in a handful of cases to create mild tension with the typically assumed attenuation and consensus relations. We observe a clear and smooth trend betweenM⋆andβ, which extends to low masses and blue (low)βvalues, consistent with expectations from previous works.
Urethrolithiasis beim Hund – eine retrospektive Untersuchung an 83 Rüden
Authors: Thiel Cetina , Häußler Thomas Christian , Kramer Martin , Tacke Sabine
Published: December 2019

Gegenstand und Ziel Die Urethrolithiasis ist eine häufige Ursache für Harnabsatzstörungen. Ziel der retrospektiven
Studie war, Fälle von Rüden zu evaluieren, bei denen Harnröhrensteine unter standardisierter Epiduralanästhesie in die
Harnblase zurückverlagert wurden.

Material und Methode Die Daten von 83 männlichen Hunden mit Urethrolithiasis wurden hinsichtlich klinischer
Symptome, Lokalisation der Harnsteine, Anzahl der Urethrolithen, Art der bildgebenden Diagnostik und des operativen
Eingriffs sowie der Ergebnisse der postoperativen Röntgenkontrollen ausgewertet. Zusätzlich erfolgte eine Auswertung der
bakteriologischen Urinuntersuchungen und Steinanalysen. Alle Patienten erhielten zusätzlich zu einer Allgemeinanästhesie
eine standardisierte Epiduralanästhesie.

Ergebnisse Mit einer Ausnahme wurden alle der 83 Rüden wegen Harnabsatzbeschwerden vorgestellt, die bei 33
Patienten chronisch waren. In 66 Fällen ließen sich röntgendichte Konkremente in der Harnröhre nachweisen, 11-mal wurde
die Diagnose Urethrolithiasis mittels sonografischer Untersuchung gestellt und bei 6 Patienten führte eine
Katheterisierung mit nachfolgendem Nachweis der Harnsteine in der Harnblase zur Diagnose Urethrolithiasis. Mehr als ein
Drittel der Hunde wiesen zum Vorstellungszeitpunkt ausschließlich Konkremente in der Urethra auf. Bei 44 Rüden wurden 3
oder mehr Urethrasteine diagnostiziert. Bei 77 von 83 Hunden (92,7 %) gelang es, alle Harnsteine unter
Epiduralanästhesie in die Harnblase zurückzuverlagern. Neun Patienten mit röntgendichten Harnsteinen wiesen bei der
postoperativen radiologischen Kontrolle residuale Konkremente auf.

Schlussfolgerung Für die zuverlässige radiologische Diagnostik von Harnsteinen beim Rüden muss bedacht werden,
dass sich ein nicht unerheblicher Anteil ausschließlich in der Harnröhre befindet. Das Vorliegen röntgendurchlässiger
Urethrasteine kann durch sonografische Untersuchung der Harnröhre evaluiert werden, die alleinige
Ultraschalluntersuchung der Harnblase reicht hier nicht aus. Eine Epiduralanästhesie sollte spätestens dann in Erwägung
gezogen werden, wenn Spülversuche zur Behebung der urethralen Obstruktion erfolglos bleiben. Die postoperative
radiologische Kontrolle nach Laparozystotomie hinsichtlich einer vollständigen Steinentfernung ist bei röntgendichten
Urolithen auf jeden Fall anzuraten.
Neuigkeiten zur praktischen ABC-Blutgruppen-Bestimmung bei Katzen
Authors: Kehl Alexandra , Truchet Laura , Langbein-Detsch Ines , Müller Elisabeth , Giger Urs
Published: December 2019

Bis in die 1980er Jahre wurden die Blutgruppen bei Katzen als unwichtig angesehen. Seitdem gab es jedoch viele neue
Erkenntnisse. Wir wissen heute: Das wichtigste Blutgruppensystem der Katze ist das AB-Blutgruppensystem
(umbenannt als ABC-Blutgruppensystem) und umfasst die Blutgruppen A, B und AB (heute
C genannt). Katzen haben natürlich vorkommende Antikörper gegen die Antigene der jeweils anderen Blutgruppe.
Insbesondere Katzen mit Blutgruppe B haben hohe Titer an natürlich vorkommenden Anti-A-Alloantikörpern.
Dadurch kann es bei A-B-inkompatiblen Bluttransfusionen und bei der sog. neonatalen Isoerythrolyse bei Welpen mit
Typ A und C (AB) von Muttertieren mit Typ B zu Unverträglichkeitsreaktionen kommen. Um dies
zu verhindern, ist es essenziell, für Zucht und im Vorfeld von Transfusionen die Blutgruppe und die zugrundeliegende
Genetik zu kennen. Klinisch helfen serologische und genetische Tests. Diese Synopsis gibt einen aktuellen Überblick über
die Blutgruppen, deren physiologische und genetische Grundlagen, mögliche Unverträglichkeitsreaktionen sowie die
verschiedenen Nachweismethoden zu deren Vermeidung.
Stereoselective anti-SN2′-Substitutions of Secondary Alkylcopper-Zinc Reagents with Allylic Epoxides: Total Synthesis of (3S,6R,7S)-Zingiberenol
Authors: Skotnitzki Juri , Kremsmair Alexander , Kicin Bilal , Saeb Rakan , Ruf Vincent , Knochel Paul
Published: December 2019

Chiral secondary mixed alkylcopper-zinc reagents were prepared from the corresponding alkyl iodides and reacted with allylic epoxides via an anti-SN2′-substitution and retention of configuration of the chiral alkylorganometallic, leading to chiral allylic alcohols. This method was used in a total synthesis of the natural product (3S,6R,7S)-zingiberenol in 8 steps and 9.7% overall yield [dr (3S,6R) = 99:1; dr (6R,7S) = 81:19] starting from commercially available 3-methyl-2-cyclohexenone.
14.4.12 4H-1-Benzopyran-4-ones (Update 2019)
Authors: Dong X. , Liu H.
Published: December 2019

This chapter is an update to the earlier Science of Synthesis contribution (Section 14.4.3) describing methods for the synthesis of 4H-1-benzopyran-4-ones. It focuses on the literature published in the period 2004—2018, with most methods involving cyclization to form the oxygen-containing ring.
14.11.3 Selenopyranones and Benzoselenopyranones (Update 2019)
Authors: Chen C. , Yu L.
Published: December 2019

This chapter is an update to the earlier Science of Synthesis contribution (Section 14.11) describing methods for the synthesis of selenopyranones and benzoselenopyranones. Recent interest in this area has in part been generated by the discovery that some 9H-selenoxanthen-9-ones and selenopyran in particular, exhibit very good absorption of near-infrared light, which means they have potential applications in many fields such as medicine, sensors/detectors, and catalysis.