bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cytoplasmic Asporin promotes cell migration by regulating TGF-β/Smad2/3 pathway and indicates a poor prognosis in colorectal cancer
Authors: Li Hengcun , Zhang Zheng , Chen Lei , Sun Xiujing , Zhao Yu , Guo Qingdong , Zhu Shengtao , Li Peng , Min Li , Zhang Shutian
Published: February 2019

Previous studies revealed that Asporin (ASPN) is a potential mediator in the development of various types of cancer as a secreted stroma protein, but the function of ASPN inside the cancer cells remains largely unknown. Here, we demonstrated a higher expression level of ASPN in colorectal cancer (CRC) than matched normal tissues, and 25% (2/8) CRC showed copy number variation (CNV) gain/amplification inASPNgene. Both higher ASPN expression levels andASPNCNV gain/amplification indicated a worse prognosis in CRC patients. ASPN can promote proliferation, migration, and invasion of CRC cells, and inhibit apoptosis by activating Akt/Erk and TGF-β/Smad2/3 signalings. Further investigations revealed that ASPN interacts with Smad2/3, facilitates its translocation into nucleus, and up-regulates the expression of Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) related genes. Rescue assays confirmed that TGF-β signaling is essential for the effects of ASPN on promoting CRC cell migration and invasion. In conclusion, ASPN promotes the migration and invasion of CRC cells via TGF-β/Smad2/3 pathway and could serve as a potential prognostic biomarker in CRC patients.
Pasireotide protects mammalian cochlear hair cells from gentamicin ototoxicity by activating the PI3K–Akt pathway
Authors: Kucharava Krystsina , Sekulic-Jablanovic Marijana , Horvath Lukas , Bodmer Daniel , Petkovic Vesna
Published: February 2019

Gentamicin is a widely used antibiotic for the treatment of gram-negative bacterial infections; however, its use often results in significant and permanent hearing loss. Hearing loss resulting from hair cell (HC) degeneration affects millions of people worldwide, and one major cause is the loss of sensory HCs in the inner ear due to aminoglycoside exposure. Strategies to overcome the apparently irreversible loss of HCs in mammals are crucial for hearing protection. Here, we report that the somatostatin analog pasireotide protects mouse cochlear HCs from gentamicin damage using a well-established in vitro gentamicin-induced HC loss model and that the otoprotective effects of pasireotide are due to Akt up-regulation via the PI3K–Akt signal pathway activation. We demonstrate active caspase signal in organ of Corti (OC) explants exposed to gentamicin and show that pasireotide treatment activates survival genes, reduces caspase signal, and increases HC survival. The neuropeptide somatostatin and its selective analogs have provided neuroprotection by activating five somatostatin receptor (SSTR1–SSTR5) subtypes. Pasireotide has a high affinity for SSTR2 and SSTR5, and the addition of SSTR2- and SSTR5-specific antagonists leads to a loss of protection. The otoprotective effects of pasireotide were also observed in a gentamicin-injured animal model. In vivo studies have shown that 13 days of subcutaneous pasireotide application prevents gentamicin-induced HC death and permanent hearing loss in mice. Auditory brainstem response analysis confirmed the protective effect of pasireotide, and we found a significant threshold shift at all measured frequencies (4, 8, 16, 24, and 32 kHz). Together, these findings indicate that pasireotide is a novel otoprotective peptide acting via the PI3K–Akt pathway and may be of therapeutic value for HC protection from ototoxic insults.
Selective hematopoietic stem cell ablation using CD117-antibody-drug-conjugates enables safe and effective transplantation with immunity preservation
Authors: Czechowicz Agnieszka , Palchaudhuri Rahul , Scheck Amelia , Hu Yu , Hoggatt Jonathan , Saez Borja , Pang Wendy W. , Mansour Michael K. , Tate Tiffany A. , Chan Yan Yi , Walck Emily , Wernig Gerlinde , Shizuru Judith A. , Winau Florian , Scadden David T. , Rossi Derrick J.
Published: February 2019

Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is a curative therapy for blood and immune diseases with potential for many settings beyond current standard-of-care. Broad HSCT application is currently precluded largely due to morbidity and mortality associated with genotoxic irradiation or chemotherapy conditioning. Here we show that a single dose of a CD117-antibody-drug-conjugate (CD117-ADC) to saporin leads to > 99% depletion of host HSCs, enabling rapid and efficient donor hematopoietic cell engraftment. Importantly, CD117-ADC selectively targets hematopoietic stem cells yet does not cause clinically significant side-effects. Blood counts and immune cell function are preserved following CD117-ADC treatment, with effective responses by recipients to both viral and fungal challenges. These results suggest that CD117-ADC-mediated HSCT pre-treatment could serve as a non-myeloablative conditioning strategy for the treatment of a wide range of non-malignant and malignant diseases, and might be especially suited to gene therapy and gene editing settings in which preservation of immunity is desired.
BLADE-ON-PETIOLE genes temporally and developmentally regulate the sheath to blade ratio of rice leaves
Authors: Toriba Taiyo , Tokunaga Hiroki , Shiga Toshihide , Nie Fanyu , Naramoto Satoshi , Honda Eriko , Tanaka Keisuke , Taji Teruaki , Itoh Jun-Ichi , Kyozuka Junko
Published: February 2019

Axis formation is a fundamental issue in developmental biology. Axis formation and patterning in plant leaves is crucial for morphology and crop productivity. Here, we reveal the basis of proximal-distal patterning in rice leaves, which consist of a proximal sheath, a distal blade, and boundary organs formed between these two regions. Analysis of the three rice homologs of the Arabidopsis BLADE-ON-PETIOLE1 (BOP1) gene indicates that OsBOPs activate proximal sheath differentiation and suppress distal blade differentiation. Temporal expression changes of OsBOPs are responsible for the developmental changes in the sheath:blade ratio. We further identify that the change in the sheath:blade ratio during the juvenile phase is controlled by the miR156/SPL pathway, which modifies the level and pattern of expression of OsBOPs. OsBOPs are also essential for differentiation of the boundary organs. We propose that OsBOPs, the main regulators of proximal-distal patterning, control temporal changes in the sheath:blade ratio of rice leaves.
Combining lifestyle risks to disentangle brain structure and functional connectivity differences in older adults
Authors: Bittner Nora , Jockwitz Christiane , Mühleisen Thomas W. , Hoffstaedter Felix , Eickhoff Simon B. , Moebus Susanne , Bayen Ute J. , Cichon Sven , Zilles Karl , Amunts Katrin , Caspers Svenja
Published: February 2019

Lifestyle contributes to inter-individual variability in brain aging, but previous studies focused on the effects of single lifestyle variables. Here, we studied the combined and individual contributions of four lifestyle variables - alcohol consumption, smoking, physical activity, and social integration - to brain structure and functional connectivity in a population-based cohort of 549 older adults. A combined lifestyle risk score was associated with decreased gyrification in left premotor and right prefrontal cortex, and higher functional connectivity to sensorimotor and prefrontal cortex. While structural differences were driven by alcohol consumption, physical activity, and social integration, higher functional connectivity was driven by smoking. Results suggest that combining differentially contributing lifestyle variables may be more than the sum of its parts. Associations generally were neither altered by adjustment for genetic risk, nor by depressive symptomatology or education, underlining the relevance of daily habits for brain health.
Author Correction: Layer-dependent quantum cooperation of electron and hole states in the anomalous semimetal WTe2
Authors: Das Pranab Kumar , Di Sante D. , Vobornik I. , Fujii J. , Okuda T. , Bruyer E. , Gyenis A. , Feldman B. E. , Tao J. , Ciancio R. , Rossi G. , Ali M. N. , Picozzi S. , Yazdani A. , Panaccione G. , Cava R. J.
Published: February 2019

This Article contains an error in the spelling of the author A. Yazdani, which is incorrectly given as A. Yadzani. The error has not been fixed in the original PDF and HTML versions of the Article.
Network-based integrated analysis of omics data reveal novel players of TGF-β1-induced EMT in human peritoneal mesothelial cells
Authors: Han Soo Min , Ryu Hye-Myung , Suh Jinjoo , Lee Kong-Joo , Choi Soon-Youn , Choi Sangdun , Kim Yong-Lim , Huh Joo Young , Ha Hunjoo
Published: February 2019

Long-term peritoneal dialysis is associated with progressive fibrosis of the peritoneum. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of mesothelial cells is an important mechanism involved in peritoneal fibrosis, and TGF-β1 is considered central in this process. However, targeting currently known TGF-β1-associated pathways has not proven effective to date. Therefore, there are still gaps in understanding the mechanisms underlying TGF-β1-associated EMT and peritoneal fibrosis. We conducted network-based integrated analysis of transcriptomic and proteomic data to systemically characterize the molecular signature of TGF-β1-stimulated human peritoneal mesothelial cells (HPMCs). To increase the power of the data, multiple expression datasets of TGF-β1-stimulated human cells were employed, and extended based on a human functional gene network. Dense network sub-modules enriched with differentially expressed genes by TGF-β1 stimulation were prioritized and genes of interest were selected for functional analysis in HPMCs. Through integrated analysis, ECM constituents and oxidative stress-related genes were shown to be the top-ranked genes as expected. Among top-ranked sub-modules, TNFAIP6, ZC3H12A, and NNT were validated in HPMCs to be involved in regulation of E-cadherin, ZO-1, fibronectin, and αSMA expression. The present data shows the validity of network-based integrated analysis in discovery of novel players in TGF-β1-induced EMT in peritoneal mesothelial cells, which may serve as new prognostic markers and therapeutic targets for peritoneal dialysis patients.
Uncovering The Role of Oxygen in Ni-Fe(OxHy) Electrocatalysts using In situ Soft X-ray Absorption Spectroscopy during the Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Drevon Dorian , Görlin Mikaela , Chernev Petko , Xi Lifei , Dau Holger , Lange Kathrin M.
Published: February 2019

In-situ X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) at the oxygen K-edge was used to investigate the role of oxygen during the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in an electrodeposited Ni-Fe(OxHy) electrocatalyst in alkaline pH. We show the rise of a pre-peak feature at 529 eV in the O K-edge spectra, correlated to the appearance of a shoulder at the Ni L3-edge and formation of oxidized Ni3+/4+-O. Then, for the first time, we track the spectral changes in a dynamic fashion in both the soft and hard X-ray regimes during cyclic voltammetry (in situ CV-XAS) to obtain a fine-tuned resolution of the potential-related changes. The pre-peak feature at the O K-edge likely signifies formation of an electron deficient oxygen site. The electrophilic oxygen species appears and disappears reversibly in correlation with the Ni2+ ↔ Ni3+/4+ process, and persists during OER catalysis as long the metal is oxidized. Our study provides new insight into OER electrocatalysis: Before onset of the O-O bond formation step, the catalytic oxyhydroxide has accumulated electron deficiencies by both, oxidation of transition metal ions and formation of partially oxidized oxygen sites.
Very low prevalence of anti-HAV in Japan: high potential for future outbreak
Authors: Yamamoto Chikako , Ko Ko , Nagashima Shintaro , Harakawa Takayuki , Fujii Toshiko , Ohisa Masayuki , Katayama Keiko , Takahashi Kazuaki , Okamoto Hiroaki , Tanaka Junko
Published: February 2019

Since the early 21st century, almost all developed countries have had a very low hepatitis A virus antibody (anti-HAV) sero-prevalence profile, as sanitation conditions and health care facilities have been optimized to a universal standard. There has not been a report on anti-HAV prevalence among a large scale population in Japan since 2003. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the current HAV status among the general population in Hiroshima. From each age and sex specific group, a total of 1,200 samples were randomly selected from 7,682 stocked serum samples from residents’ and employees’ annual health check-ups during 2013–2015. Total anti-HAV was detected using Chemiluminescent Enzyme Immunoassay. The overall anti-HAV sero-prevalence was 16.8%. In both males and females, anti-HAV prevalence among individuals between 20–59 years of age was as low as 0.0–2.0%, whilst that among 70 s was as high as 70.0–71.0%. A large number of residents aged under 60 are now susceptible to HAV infection. The cohort reduction trend of anti-HAV in Japan exposes the high possibility of mass outbreak in the future. HAV vaccine especially to younger generation and high risk population may prevent outbreak in Japan.
A Rotating-Coil Magnetometer for Scanning Transversal Field Harmonics in Accelerator Magnets
Authors: Arpaia Pasquale , Caiafa Gianni , Russenschuck Stephan
Published: February 2019

This paper presents a rotating-coil magnetometer that was designed and validated for scanning local transversal field harmonics, required for extracting so-called pseudo-multipoles in accelerator magnets. The magnetometer consists of four layers of flexible printed circuits with a track thickness of 40 μm. The design aimed at maximizing the sensitivity factors for field harmonics up to order 13 and at a compensation ratio for the main component in the same range of what is achievable with standard rotating coils. Key innovative features of the induction coil are the shape for minimizing the sensitivity to the longitudinal field component and the manufacturing technology. The design, the uncertainty analysis of the manufacturing tolerances, as well as preliminary application results are presented.
Intravitreal aflibercept for active polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy without active polyps
Authors: Lee Sang Eun , Jang Jun Won , Kang Se Woong , Park Kyu Hyung , Lee Dong Won , Kim Jae Hui , Bae KunHo
Published: February 2019

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of intravitreal aflibercept for active polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) without active polyps and to identify prognostic factors. We enrolled 40 eyes from 40 patients who manifested PCV with exudation but without active polyps after prior treatment with photodynamic therapy (PDT) and/or anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) other than aflibercept. Participants were initially given three consecutive intravitreal injections of aflibercept at 1-month intervals, followed by injections every 2 months in the maintenance phase. Spectral-domain optical coherence tomographic and indocyanine green angiographic features were assessed to determine associations between anatomical parameters and visual outcomes 14 months later. Mean visual acuity improved from 61.5 ± 11.1 letters at baseline to 68.1 ± 13.6 letters at 14 months (P = 0.001). Better vision and a smaller branching vascular network at baseline and 1 month after three monthly injections (visit 4) were associated with better final vision (P < 0.001). The presence of an inner retinal cyst at visit 4 was significantly related to worse final vision (P = 0.011). Intravitreal aflibercept improved the visual and anatomical outcomes of PCV with exudation from BVN after pre-treatment with PDT and/or anti-VEGF other than aflibercept. Better vision, smaller lesion size, and absence of an inner retinal cyst after induction therapy may predict better visual outcome.
Lattice dynamics, mechanical stability and electronic structure of Fe-based Heusler semiconductors
Authors: Khandy Shakeel Ahmad , Islam Ishtihadah , Gupta Dinesh C. , Khenata Rabah , Laref A.
Published: February 2019

The structural and mechanical stability of Fe2TaAl and Fe2TaGa alloys along with the electronic properties are explored with the help of density functional theory. On applying different approximations, the enhancement of semiconducting gap follows the trend as GGA < mBJ < GGA + U. The maximum forbidden gaps observed by GGA + U method are Eg = 1.80 eV for Fe2TaAl and 1.30 eV for Fe2TaGa. The elastic parameters are simulated to determine the strength and ductile nature of these materials. The phonon calculations determine the dynamical stability of all these materials because of the absence of any negative frequencies. Basic understandings of structural, elastic, mechanical and phonon properties of these alloys are studied first time in this report.
Genome reorganization of the GmSHMT gene family in soybean showed a lack of functional redundancy in resistance to soybean cyst nematode
Authors: Lakhssassi Naoufal , Patil Gunvant , Piya Sarbottam , Zhou Zhou , Baharlouei Azam , Kassem My Abdelmajid , Lightfoot David A. , Hewezi Tarek , Barakat Abdelali , Nguyen Henry T. , Meksem Khalid
Published: February 2019

In soybeans, eighteen members constitute the serine hydroxymethyltransferase (GmSHMT) gene family, of which the cytosolic-targetedGmSHMT08c member has been reported to mediate resistance to soybean cyst nematode (SCN). This work presents a comprehensive study of theSHMTgene family members, including synteny, phylogeny, subcellular localizations, haplotypes, protein homology modeling, mutational, and expression analyses. Phylogenetic analysis showed thatSHMTgenes are divided into four classes reflecting their subcellular distribution (cytosol, nucleus, mitochondrion, and chloroplast). Subcellular localization of selected GmSHMT members supports theirin-silicopredictions and phylogenetic distribution. Expression and functional analyses showed thatGmSHMTgenes display many overlapping, but some divergent responses during SCN infection. Furthermore, mutational analysis reveals that all isolated EMS mutants that lose their resistance to SCN carry missense and nonsense mutations at theGmSHMT08c, but none of theGmshmt08cmutants carried mutations in the otherGmSHMTgenes. Haplotype clustering analysis using the whole genome resequencing data from a collection of 106 diverse soybean germplams (15X) was performed to identify allelic variants and haplotypes within theGmSHMTgene family. Interestingly, only the cytosolic-localized GmSHMT08c presented SNP clusters that were associated with SCN resistance, supporting our mutational analysis. Although eightGmSHMTmembers respond to the nematode infestation, functional and mutational analysis has shown the absence of functional redundancy in resistance to SCN. Structural analysis and protein homology modeling showed the presence of spontaneous mutations at important residues within the GmSHMT proteins, suggesting the presence of altered enzyme activities based on substrate affinities. Due to the accumulation of mutations during the evolution of the soybean genome, the other GmSHMT members have undergone neofunctionalization and subfunctionalization events.
Erythrocytes as bioreactors to decrease excess ammonium concentration in blood
Authors: Protasov Eugeniy S. , Borsakova Daria V. , Alexandrovich Yuliya G. , Korotkov Anatoliy V. , Kosenko Elena A. , Butylin Andrey A. , Ataullakhanov Fazoil I. , Sinauridze Elena I.
Published: February 2019

Increased blood ammonium concentrations cause neurological complications. Existing drugs are not always sufficiently effective. Alternatively, erythrocytes-bioreactors (EBRs) loaded with enzymes utilizing ammonium, were suggested for ammonium removal from blood. However all they worked only for a short period of time. The reasons for this were not investigated. In this study, EBR mathematical models were developed and analysed based on the reactions of glycolysis and different enzymes utilizing ammonium, which showed that the efficiency and duration of EBRs’ functioning could be limited due to low permeability of the cell membrane for some key substrates and products. A new enzyme system including glutamate dehydrogenase and alanine aminotransferase was proposed and realised experimentally, which was not limited by cell membrane permeability for glutamate and α-ketoglutarate due to creating metabolic pathway where these metabolites were produced and consumed cyclically. New bioreactors removed ammoniumin vitroat the rate of 1.5 mmol/h × lRBCs(for human bioreactors) andin vivoin a model of hyperammoniemia in mice at the rate of 2.0 mmol/h × lRBCs(for mouse bioreactors), which correlated with model calculations. Experimental studies proved the proposed mathematical models are correct. Mathematical simulation of erythrocyte-bioreactors opens new opportunities for analysing the efficiency of any enzyme included in erythrocytes.
Differential expression of CXCR3 and CCR6 on CD4+ T-lymphocytes with distinct memory phenotypes characterizes tuberculosis-associated immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome
Authors: Silveira-Mattos Paulo S. , Narendran Gopalan , Akrami Kevan , Fukutani Kiyoshi F. , Anbalagan Selvaraj , Nayak Kaustuv , Subramanyam Sudha , Subramani Rajasekaran , Vinhaes Caian L. , Souza Deivide Oliveira-de , Antonelli Lis R. , Satagopan Kumar , Porter Brian O. , Sher Alan , Swaminathan Soumya , Sereti Irini , Andrade Bruno B.
Published: February 2019

Immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS) occurs in up to 40% of individuals co-infected with pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) and HIV, primarily upon antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation. Phenotypic changes in T-cells during TB-IRIS and their relationship with systemic inflammation are not fully understood. In this prospective cohort study, we followed 48 HIV-positive patients with PTB from South India before and after ART initiation, examining T-lymphocyte subsets and inflammatory biomarkers in peripheral blood. Quantification of naïve (CD27+CD45RO−) as well as effector memory CD4+ T cells (CD27−CD45RO+) at weeks 2–6 after ART initiation could distinguish TB-IRIS from non-IRIS individuals. Additional analyses revealed that ART reconstituted different quantities of CD4+ T lymphocyte subsets with preferential expansion of CXCR3+ CCR6− cells in TB-IRIS patients. Moreover, there was an expansion and functional restoration of central memory (CD27+CD45RO+) CXCR3+CCR6− CD4+ lymphocytes and corresponding cytokines, with reduction in CXCR3−CCR6+ cells after ART initiation only in those who developed TB-IRIS. Together, these observations trace a detailed picture of CD4+ T cell subsets tightly associated with IRIS, which may serve as targets for prophylactic and/or therapeutic interventions in the future.
Genome-wide profiling of human papillomavirus DNA integration in liquid-based cytology specimens from a Gabonese female population using HPV capture technology
Authors: Nkili-Meyong Andriniaina Andy , Moussavou-Boundzanga Pamela , Labouba Ingrid , Koumakpayi Ismaël Hervé , Jeannot Emmanuelle , Descorps-Declère Stéphane , Sastre-Garau Xavier , Leroy Eric M. , Belembaogo Ernest , Berthet Nicolas
Published: February 2019

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is recognised as the cause of precancerous and cancerous cervical lesions. Furthermore, in high-grade lesions, HPV is frequently integrated in the host cell genome and associated with the partial or complete loss of the E1 and E2 genes, which regulate the activity of viral oncoproteins E6 and E7. In this study, using a double-capture system followed by high-throughput sequencing, we determined the HPV integration status present in liquid-based cervical smears in an urban Gabonese population. The main inclusion criteria were based on cytological grade and the detection of the HPV16 genotype using molecular assays. The rate of HPV integration in the host genome varied with cytological grade: 85.7% (6/7), 71.4% (5/7), 66.7% (2/3) 60% (3/5) and 30.8% (4/13) for carcinomas, HSIL, ASCH, LSIL and ASCUS, respectively. For high cytological grades (carcinomas and HSIL), genotypes HPV16 and 18 represented 92.9% of the samples (13/14). The integrated form of HPV16 genotype was mainly found in high-grade lesions in 71.4% of samples regardless of cytological grade. Minority genotypes (HPV33, 51, 58 and 59) were found in LSIL samples, except HPV59, which was identified in one HSIL sample. Among all the HPV genotypes identified after double capture, 10 genotypes (HPV30, 35, 39, 44, 45, 53, 56, 59, 74 and 82) were detected only in episomal form. Our study revealed that the degree of HPV integration varies with cervical cytological grade. The integration event might be a potential clinical prognostic biomarker for the prediction of the progression of neoplastic lesions.
Effect of Chemical Permeation Enhancers on Skin Permeability: In silico screening using Molecular Dynamics simulations
Authors: Gupta Rakesh , Dwadasi Balarama Sridhar , Rai Beena , Mitragotri Samir
Published: February 2019

Breaching of the skin barrier is essential for delivering active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) for pharmaceutical, dermatological and aesthetic applications. Chemical permeation enhancers (CPEs) are molecules that interact with the constituents of skin’s outermost and rate limiting layer stratum corneum (SC), and increase its permeability. Designing and testing of new CPEs is a resource intensive task, thus limiting the rate of discovery of new CPEs. In-silico screening of CPEs in a rigorous skin model could speed up the design of CPEs. In this study, we performed coarse grained (CG) molecule dynamics (MD) simulations of a multilayer skin lipid matrix in the presence of CPEs. The CPEs are chosen from different chemical functionalities including fatty acids, esters, and alcohols. A multi-layer in-silico skin model was developed. The CG parameters of permeation enhancers were also developed. Interactions of CPEs with SC lipids was studied in silico at three different CPE concentrations namely, 1% w/v, 3% w/v and 5% w/v. The partitioning and diffusion coefficients of CPEs in the SC lipids were found to be highly size- and structure-dependent and these dependencies are explained in terms of structural properties such as radial distribution function, area per lipid and order parameter. Finally, experimentally reported effects of CPEs on skin from the literature are compared with the simulation results. The trends obtained using simulations are in good agreement with the experimental measurements. The studies presented here validate the utility of in-silico models for designing, screening and testing of novel and effective CPEs.
Analysis and Predictability of Drought In Northwest Africa Using Optical and Microwave Satellite Remote Sensing Products
Authors: Le Page Michel , Zribi Mehrez
Published: February 2019

In a context of high stress on water resources and agricultural production at the global level, together with climate change marked by an increase in the frequency of these events, drought is considered to be a strong threat both socially and economically. The Mediterranean region is a hot spot of climate change; it is also characterized by a scarcity of water resources that places intense pressure on agricultural productivity. This article analyzes the potential for using multiple remote sensing tools in the quantification and predictability of drought in Northwest Africa. Three satellite products are considered: the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), Soil Moisture Index (SWI), and Land Surface Temperature (LST). A discussion of the variability of these products and their inter-correlation is presented, illustrating a generally high consistency between them. Statistical anomaly indices are then computed and a drought severity mapping is presented. The results illustrate in particular a high percentage of dry conditions in the region studied during the last ten years (2007–2017). Finally, we propose the use of the analog statistical approach to identify similar evolutions of the three variables in the past. Although this technique is not a forecast, it provides a strong indication of the plausible future trajectory of a given hydrological season.
CLOCK gene polymorphisms and quality of aging in a cohort of nonagenarians – The MUGELLO Study
Authors: Pagliai Giuditta , Sofi Francesco , Dinu Monica , Sticchi Elena , Vannetti Federica , Molino Lova Raffaele , Ordovàs José Marìa , Gori Anna Maria , Marcucci Rossella , Giusti Betti , Macchi Claudio
Published: February 2019

A total of 356 elderly subjects [257F; 88–106 years] were genotyped for three polymorphisms of the CLOCK gene by TaqMan real-time PCR approach, in order to find associations with quality of aging. Subjects homozygous for the minor allele of rs1801260 were less frequently overweight (p = 0.046), had higher fasting glucose levels (p = 0.037), better scores at the Clock Drawing Test (CDT) (p = 0.047) and worse scores at the Geriatric Depression Scale (p = 0.032). Subjects homozygous for the minor allele of rs11932595 showed higher fasting glucose levels (p = 0.044) and better scores at CDT (p = 0.030). Conversely, subjects homozygous for the minor allele of rs4580704 showed higher triglyceride (p = 0.012), and LDL-cholesterol levels (p = 0.44), and a greater adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MD) (p = 0.044). In addition, AAC, AAG, GGC and AGC (rs1801260–rs11932595–rs4580704) haplotypes were analyzed: AAG was associated with higher risk of overweight (p = 0.008), hypertriglyceridemia (p = 0.040) and hypercholesterolemia (p = 0.036); GGC with lower risk of hyperglycemia (p = 0.022), better sleep pattern (p = 0.001) and with better score at mini-mental state examination (p = 0.010); AGC with lower risk of depression (p = 0.026) and AAC with lower adherence to the MD (p = 0.028). Therefore, CLOCK gene polymorphisms let us hypothesize an involvement in the quality of aging in a cohort of nonagenarians.
Correlated transitions in TKE and mass distributions of fission fragments described by 4-D Langevin equation
Authors: Usang Mark Dennis , Ivanyuk Fedir A. , Ishizuka Chikako , Chiba Satoshi
Published: February 2019

We have decomposed to symmetric and asymmetric modes the mass-TKE fission fragment distributions calculated by 4-dimensional Langevin approach and observed how the dominant fission mode and symmetric mode change as functions of $${Z}^{2}/\sqrt[3]{A}$$

Z

2

/

A
3

of the fissioning system in the actinides and trans-actinide region. As a result, we found that the symmetric mode makes a sudden transition from super-long to super short fission mode around 254Es. The dominant fission modes on the other hand, are persistently asymmetric except for 258Fm, 259Fm and 260Md when the dominant fission mode suddenly becomes symmetric although it returns to the asymmetric mode around 256No. These correlated “twin transitions” have been known empirically by Darleane Hoffman and her group back in 1989, but for the first time we have given a clear explanation in terms of a dynamical model of nuclear fission. More specifically, since we kept the shape model parameters unchanged over the entire mass region, we conclude that the correlated twin transition emerge naturally from the dynamics in 4-D potential energy surface.
Evaluation of Oral Cavity DNA Extraction Methods on Bacterial and Fungal Microbiota
Authors: Rosenbaum Jennifer , Usyk Mykhaylo , Chen Zigui , Zolnik Christine P. , Jones Heidi E. , Waldron Levi , Dowd Jennifer B. , Thorpe Lorna E. , Burk Robert D.
Published: February 2019

The objective of this study was to evaluate the most effective method of DNA extraction of oral mouthwash samples for use in microbiome studies that utilize next generation sequencing (NGS). Eight enzymatic and mechanical DNA extraction methods were tested. Extracted DNA was amplified using barcoded primers targeting the V6 variable region of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene and the ITS1 region of the fungal ribosomal gene cluster and sequenced using the Illumina NGS platform. Sequenced reads were analyzed using QIIME and R. The eight methods yielded significantly different quantities of DNA (p < 0.001), with the phenol-chloroform extraction method producing the highest total yield. There were no significant differences in observed bacterial or fungal Shannon diversity (p = 0.64, p = 0.93 respectively) by extraction method. Bray-Curtis beta-diversity did not demonstrate statistically significant differences between the eight extraction methods based on bacterial (R2 = 0.086, p = 1.00) and fungal (R2 = 0.039, p = 1.00) assays. No differences were seen between methods with or without bead-beating. These data indicate that choice of DNA extraction method affect total DNA recovery without significantly affecting the observed microbiome.
The buried knot technique for all inside graft link preparation leads to superior biomechanical graft link stability
Authors: Tiefenboeck Thomas M. , Hirtler Lena , Winnisch Markus , Binder Harald , Koch Thomas , Komjati Micha , Hofbauer Marcus , Ostermann Roman C.
Published: February 2019

The aim of this study was to measure and compare the biomechanical properties of two different graft link preparation techniques for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. We hypothesised that there would be differences in elongation, load at failure and failure mode due to the different graft link preparation techniques. Thirty fresh-frozen anatomical specimen knees were used. Both tendons (semitendinosus and gracilis) were harvested and randomly assigned to two groups. Graft links prepared with a continuous loop technique were allocated to group 1, whereas those prepared with a buried-knot technique were allocated to group 2. The mechanical properties of both techniques were measured. A mean load to failure of 731 N and an overall graft elongation of 6 mm was found in the continuous loop group. In the buried-knot group, a higher load to failure (848 N) and a lower mean overall elongation (5 mm) was found. The buried-knot technique showed better results with significantly higher load to failure and significantly less elongation compared to the continuous loop technique. It is essential in clinical practice to choose the most accurate technique for graft link preparation to ensure graft stability, especially in the early phase of recovery.
Arabidopsis HUA ENHANCER 4 delays flowering by upregulating the MADS-box repressor genes FLC and MAF4
Authors: Ortuño-Miquel Samanta , Rodríguez-Cazorla Encarnación , Zavala-Gonzalez Ernesto A. , Martínez-Laborda Antonio , Vera Antonio
Published: February 2019

The adaptive success of flowering plants is largely due to their ability to align floral production with optimal conditions. InArabidopsis thaliana, MADS-box repressors of the FLC/MAF-clade prevent flowering under non-inductive conditions, although the role of some members is not yet clearly defined. Using a genetic strategy, we identified the KH-domain geneHEN4, previously shown to be involved in MADS-box floral homeotic gene regulation, as a modulator of flowering time. Loss-of-functionhen4mutants are early-flowering, and their response to low growth-temperature (16 °C) and day-length is altered. Interestingly,hen4plants showed dramatic reduction ofFLCandMAF4transcripts, whereas other flowering repressors of the same clade (FLM, MAF2, MAF3, MAF5) remained unaltered. We also determined thathen4, partly due to loss ofFLC, accelerates the vegetative phase-change. This report provides insight into flowering time control and highlights the potential of versatile regulators such asHEN4to coordinate the juvenile-to-adult transition and floral timing.
Learning curves and teaching when acquiring nut-cracking in humans and chimpanzees
Authors: Boesch Christophe , Bombjaková Daša , Meier Amelia , Mundry Roger
Published: February 2019

Humans are considered superior to other species in their tool using skills. However, most of our knowledge about animals comes from observations in artificial conditions with individuals removed from their natural environment. We present a first comparison of humans and chimpanzees spontaneously acquiring the same technique as they forage in their natural environment. We compared the acquisition of thePandanut-cracking technique between Mbendjele foragers from the Republic of Congo and the Taï chimpanzees from Côte d’Ivoire. Both species initially acquire the technique slowly with similar kinds of mistakes, with years of practice required for the apprentice to become expert. Chimpanzees more rapidly acquired the technique when an apprentice, and reached adult efficiency earlier than humans. Adult efficiencies in both species did not differ significantly. Expert-apprentice interactions showed many similar instances of teaching in both species, with more variability in humans due, in part to their more complex technique. While in humans, teaching occurred both vertically and obliquely, only the former existed in chimpanzees. This comparison of the acquisition of a natural technique clarifies how the two species differed in their technical intelligence. Furthermore, our observations support the idea of teaching in both species being more frequent for difficult skills.
New world goat populations are a genetically diverse reservoir for future use
Authors: Paim Tiago do Prado , Faria Danielle Assis , Hay El Hamidi , McManus Concepta , Lanari Maria Rosa , Esquivel Laura Chaverri , Cascante María Isabel , Alfaro Esteban Jimenez , Mendez Argerie , Faco Olivardo , Silva Kleibe de Moraes , Mezzadra Carlos Alberto , Mariante Arthur , Paiva Samuel Rezende , Blackburn Harvey D.
Published: February 2019

Western hemisphere goats have European, African and Central Asian origins, and some local or rare breeds are reported to be adapted to their environments and economically important. By-in-large these genetic resources have not been quantified. Using 50 K SNP genotypes of 244 animals from 12 goat populations in United States, Costa Rica, Brazil and Argentina, we evaluated the genetic diversity, population structure and selective sweeps documenting goat migration to the “New World”. Our findings suggest the concept of breed, particularly among “locally adapted” breeds, is not a meaningful way to characterize goat populations. The USA Spanish goats were found to be an important genetic reservoir, sharing genomic composition with the wild ancestor and with specialized breeds (e.g. Angora, Lamancha and Saanen). Results suggest goats in the Americas have substantial genetic diversity to use in selection and promote environmental adaptation or product driven specialization. These findings highlight the importance of maintaining goat conservation programs and suggest an awaiting reservoir of genetic diversity for breeding and research while simultaneously discarding concerns about breed designations.
Screening of α-glucosidase inhibitors from natural flavonoids by an in-capillary assay combining PMMA and EMMA
Authors: Zhao Huan-Huan , Liu Ying-Qian , Chen Juan
Published: February 2019

An in-capillary assay method combining PMMA and EMMA was proposed for screening α-glucosidase inhibitors from natural flavonoids.
Non-invasive monitoring of a circadian relevant biomarker from easily accessible body fluids using hybrid aqueous–ionic buffer interfaces on flexible substrates
Authors: Upasham Sayali , Bhadsavle Serena , Prasad Shalini
Published: February 2019

In this paper, we demonstrate a hybrid flexible biosensor comprised of an aqueous and ionic interface integrated onto metallic gold microelectrodes for rapid and noninvasive monitoring of cortisol.
Comparison of GC-MS/MS and LC-MS/MS for the analysis of hormones and pesticides in surface waters: advantages and pitfalls
Authors: He Ping , Aga Diana S.
Published: February 2019

The occurrence of endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in aquatic environments has long been a concern because of their threat to human and aquatic health.
A novel template repairing-PCR (TR-PCR) reaction platform for microRNA detection using translesional synthesis on DNA templates containing abasic sites
Authors: Zhou Dianming , Lin Xiaohui , Gao Weichen , Piao Jiafang , Li Shufei , He Ning , Qian Zhiyong , Zhao Miao , Gong Xiaoqun
Published: February 2019

We report template repairing-PCR, a novel reverse transcription-free RNA PCR based on miRNA-primed bypass synthesis at the abasic sites on the PCR template.
Out-of-plane magnetic anisotropy energy in the Ni3Bz3molecule
Authors: Alonso-Lanza Tomás , González Jhon W. , Aguilera-Granja Faustino , Ayuela Andrés
Published: February 2019

Ni3Bz3molecule shows a large magnetic anisotropy energy of 8 meV, with the easy axis perpendicular to the plane of Ni metal atoms. Note that the corresponding bare Ni3cluster has an in-plane easy axis.
Symmetric dissociation of the water molecule with truncation energy error. A benchmark study
Authors: Almora-Díaz César X. , Ramírez-Solís Alejandro , Bunge Carlos F.
Published: February 2019

We use selected CI with truncation energy error to study the symmetric dissociation of H2O with two triple zeta quality bases. In both cases, the difference between CBS energy errors at the equilibrium geometry and dissociation is larger than 10 mH thus chemically accurate NPE values do not guarantee a chemically accurate PES.
Water adsorption, dissociation and oxidation on SrTiO3 and ferroelectric surfaces revealed by ambient pressure X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy
Authors: Domingo Neus , Pach Elzbieta , Cordero-Edwards Kumara , Pérez-Dieste Virginia , Escudero Carlos , Verdaguer Albert
Published: February 2019

Unveiling surface adsorbates under atmospheric conditions and in surface water redox reactions on TiO2 terminated surfaces and ferroelectric oxides, as studied by AP-XPS.
Click and release: bioorthogonal approaches to “on-demand” activation of prodrugs
Authors: Ji Xingyue , Pan Zhixiang , Yu Bingchen , De La Cruz Ladie Kimberly , Zheng Yueqin , Ke Bowen , Wang Binghe
Published: February 2019

This review summarizes recent developments in using bioorthogonal chemistry in prodrug design for the delivery of traditional small molecule- and gasotransmitter-based therapeutics.
The electrooxidation of formic acid catalyzed by Pd–Ga nanoalloys
Authors: Xu Shaocen , Zhang Jing , Wang Juan , Lv Lin , Sun Yuejia , Huang Xiaowei , Lin Tsungwu , Huang Xing , Shao Lidong
Published: February 2019

Pd–Ga nanoalloys exhibit enhanced catalytic activity and stability towards the HCOOH oxidation reaction.
Water mediated oxygen activation in NH3 SCR reaction over a Cu-SAPO-34 catalyst: a first principles study
Authors: Shi Lu , Zhang Jie , Shen Gurong , Fan Dequan , Wen Yanwei , Zhao Yunkun , Chen Rong , Shen Meiqing , Shan Bin
Published: February 2019

H2O co-adsorbed with NH3 on Cu sites decreases the reaction energy barriers of O2 activation over Cu-SAPO-34 at low temperature.
Effectiveness of a copper based molluscicide for controlling Dreissena adults
Authors: Lake-Thompson Ian , Hofmann Ron
Published: February 2019

Pilot scale experiments were conducted to test the copper-based EarthTec QZ molluscicide for killing adult quagga mussels.
Understanding the structural complexity of dissolved organic matter: isomeric diversity
Authors: Leyva Dennys , Tose Lilian V. , Porter Jacob , Wolff Jeremy , Jaffé Rudolf , Fernandez-Lima Francisco
Published: February 2019

In the present work, the advantages of ESI-TIMS-FT-ICR MS to address the isomeric content of dissolved organic matter are studied.
Time-resolved particle image velocimetry and 3D simulations of single particles in the new conical ICP torch
Authors: Guo Xiaoman , Alavi Sina , Dalir Elham , Dai Jingmin , Mostaghimi Javad
Published: February 2019

The new “conical” torch is a powerful tool for ICP-MS/OES applications as demonstrated by time-resolved particle image velocimetry and 3D computer simulations of single particles.
Tumor cell capture from blood by flowing across antibody-coated surfaces
Authors: Andree K. C. , Mentink A. , Nguyen A. T. , Goldsteen P. , van Dalum G. , Broekmaat J. J. , van Rijn C. J. M. , Terstappen L. W. M. M.
Published: February 2019

Here we presented a set-up which can be used to capture cancer cells in continues flow fusing a functionalized surface.
On-chip phenotypic investigation of combinatory antibiotic effects by generating orthogonal concentration gradients
Authors: Kim Seunggyu , Masum Fahim , Kim Ju-Kang , Chung Hyun Jung , Jeon Jessie S.
Published: February 2019

We propose a microfluidic cell-based drug screening platform to investigate combinatory antibiotic effects by automatically generating concentration combinations.
Visible light to switch-on desorption from goethite
Authors: Šutka Anna , Järvekülg Martin , Gross Karlis Agris , Kook Mati , Käämbre Tanel , Visnapuu Meeri , Trefalt Gregor , Šutka Andris
Published: February 2019

Switching adsorption–desorption by visible light would provide the possibility for a wide range of applications that require controlled release-on-demand.
Glowing gold nanoparticle coating: restoring the lost property from bulk gold
Authors: Kawabe Yukari , Ito Takashi , Yoshida Hiroaki , Moriwaki Hiroshi
Published: February 2019

Gold nanoparticles deposited on a cellulose filter with pencil drawing appear golden in color.
Enhancement of thermal energy transport across the graphene/h-BN heterostructure interface
Authors: Liu Feng , Zou Rui , Hu Ning , Ning Huiming , Yan Cheng , Liu Yaolu , Wu Liangke , Mo Fuhao , Fu Shaoyun
Published: February 2019

Interface topography has great impact on thermal energy transport across the GR/h-BN heterostructure interface.
Ir(iii)-Catalyzed [4 + 2] cyclization of azobenzene and diazotized Meldrum's acid for the synthesis of cinnolin-3(2H)-one
Authors: Borah Gongutri , Patel Pitambar
Published: February 2019

The first report on Ir(iii)-catalyzed C–H alkylation/cyclization of azobenzene with diazotized Meldrum's acid was developed for the synthesis of cinnoline-3(2H)-one-4-carboxylic acid and its ester derivative under mild conditions.
R–Cl/SnCl4/n-Bu4NCl-induced direct living cationic polymerization of naturally-derived unprotected 4-vinylphenol, 4-vinylguaiacol, and 4-vinylcatechol in CH3CN
Authors: Takeshima Hisaaki , Satoh Kotaro , Kamigaito Masami
Published: February 2019

A R–Cl/SnCl4/n-Bu4NCl-initiating system induced direct living cationic polymerization of naturally derived styrene monomers with phenol and catechol groups in CH3CN.
B2pin2-catalyzed oxidative cleavage of a CC double bond with molecular oxygen
Authors: Cheng Zhen , Jin Weiwei , Liu Chenjiang
Published: February 2019

B2pin2-catalyzed oxidative cleavage of the CC double bond of an olefin with molecular oxygen as the oxidant and oxygen source has been developed.
Poly(ethylene oxide)/Ag ions and nanoparticles/1-hexyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate composite membranes with long-term stability for olefin/paraffin separation
Authors: Jeon Hyunsik , Kang Sang Wook
Published: February 2019

A poly(ethylene oxide)(PEO)/AgBF4/1-hexyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate (HMIM+BF4−) composite membrane with long-term stability was prepared for olefin/paraffin separation.
Strain-enhanced properties of van der Waals heterostructure based on blue phosphorus and g-GaN as a visible-light-driven photocatalyst for water splitting
Authors: Ren Kai , Wang Sake , Luo Yi , Xu Yujing , Sun Minglei , Yu Jin , Tang Wencheng
Published: February 2019

Many strategies have been developed to overcome the critical obstacles of fast recombination of photogenerated charges and the limited ability of semiconductor photocatalysts to absorb visible light.
A novel highly specific and ultrasensitive fluorescent probe for monitoring hypochlorous acid and its application in live cells
Authors: Li Xinyuan , Wu Liu , Zhao Ziyang , Liu Caiyun , Zhu Baocun
Published: February 2019

A highly specific, ultrasensitive, thiocarbamate-caged fluorescein probe was developed for real-time detection of HOCl in live cells.
Simultaneous immobilization of NH4+ and Mn2+ from electrolytic manganese residue using phosphate and magnesium sources
Authors: Chen Hongliang , Long Qian , Zhang Yutao , Qin Lan
Published: February 2019

Immobilization of contaminants from electrolytic manganese residue (EMR) is essential for the safe stacking and reuse of EMR.