bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Hybrid Model for Fast and Probabilistic Urban Pluvial Flood Prediction
Authors: Li Xiaohan , Willems Patrick
Published: May 2020

Urban flooding is highly uncertain, so the use of probabilistic approaches in early flood warning is encouraged. While well‐established 1‐D/2‐D hydrodynamic sewer models do exist, their deterministic nature and long computational time undermine their applicability for real‐time urban flood nowcasting. Aiming at meeting the needs of fast and probabilistic flood modeling, a new hybrid modeling method integrating a suite of lumped hydrological models and logistic regression is proposed. The lumped models are configured using graph theory techniques, based on the sewer system's topology and characteristics, to account for the spatial heterogeneity and physical processes and properties. The logistic regression models are calibrated to lumped models' results and Yes/No flooding information. Due to its conceptual and data‐driven nature, the hybrid model makes fast probabilistic flood predictions at manhole locations. In two case studies, the results showed that when incorporating most dominant physical processes and properties in the model setup, the hybrid model can achieve up to 86% accuracy for flood warnings issued at 50% probability, with 96% computation saving, compared with a traditional 1‐D hydrodynamic model. When such a detailed model is in place, the hybrid model is set up easily, but the accuracy could be further increased when historical flooding observations are considered.
How Much Modification Can Earth’s Water Cycle Handle?
Authors: Sidder Aaron
Published: May 2020

The planetary boundaries framework defines how much human disturbance various Earth system processes can take, but it may not adequately depict the water cycle or the extent to which we’ve altered it.
Reactivation of an Intraplate Fault by Mine‐Blasting Events: Implications to Regional Seismic Hazard in Western Canada
Authors: Dokht Ramin M. H. , Smith Brindley , Kao Honn , Visser Ryan , Hutchinson Jesse
Published: May 2020

Mining activities are well known for being able to induce local seismicity but have not yet been shown to cause earthquakes over large distances. We analyze a particular group of seismic events recorded from 2014 to 2016 in north‐central British Columbia (BC) that appear to be triggered by the activities at the Mount Milligan Mine. The spatial distribution of the studied events follows a NW‐SE linear trend, with distances up to approximately 100 km from the mining site. To distinguish mining blasts from blasting‐related and natural events, we adopt a multivariate decision tree based on each event's origin time, distance from the mine, and the pseudo‐spectral acceleration ratios of the three‐component waveforms. The calculated dynamic strains from blasts place a distance limit of 20 km for dynamic triggering. However, accounting for the estimated epicentral uncertainty and temporal distribution of the earthquakes' origin times support the existence of blasting‐triggered events at larger distances (up to ∼50 km) from the mine, suggesting that a previously unmapped fault segment is close to critical state and may have been reactivated. The inferred fault segment aligns remarkably well with the southern extent of the Rocky Mountain Trench and may impose a significant hazard to nearby communities if the entire fault segment of about 150 km‐long ruptures.
Improved metabolomic data-based prediction of depressive symptoms using nonlinear machine learning with feature selection
Authors: Takahashi Yuta , Ueki Masao , Yamada Makoto , Tamiya Gen , Motoike Ikuko N. , Saigusa Daisuke , Sakurai Miyuki , Nagami Fuji , Ogishima Soichi , Koshiba Seizo , Kinoshita Kengo , Yamamoto Masayuki , Tomita Hiroaki
Published: May 2020

To solve major limitations in algorithms for the metabolite-based prediction of psychiatric phenotypes, a novel prediction model for depressive symptoms based on nonlinear feature selection machine learning, the Hilbert–Schmidt independence criterion least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (HSIC Lasso) algorithm, was developed and applied to a metabolomic dataset with the largest sample size to date. In total, 897 population-based subjects were recruited from the communities affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake; 306 metabolite features (37 metabolites identified by nuclear magnetic resonance measurements and 269 characterized metabolites based on the intensities from mass spectrometry) were utilized to build prediction models for depressive symptoms as evaluated by the Center for Epidemiologic Studies-Depression Scale (CES-D). The nested fivefold cross-validation was used for developing and evaluating the prediction models. The HSIC Lasso-based prediction model showed better predictive power than the other prediction models, including Lasso, support vector machine, partial least squares, random forest, and neural network.l-leucine, 3-hydroxyisobutyrate, and gamma-linolenyl carnitine frequently contributed to the prediction. We have demonstrated that the HSIC Lasso-based prediction model integrating nonlinear feature selection showed improved predictive power for depressive symptoms based on metabolome data as well as on risk metabolites based on nonlinear statistics in the Japanese population. Further studies should use HSIC Lasso-based prediction models with different ethnicities to investigate the generality of each risk metabolite for predicting depressive symptoms.
Neoadjuvant modified FOLFIRINOX followed by postoperative gemcitabine in borderline resectable pancreatic adenocarcinoma: a Phase 2 study for clinical and biomarker analysis
Authors: Yoo Changhoon , Lee Sang Soo , Song Ki Byung , Jeong Jae Ho , Hyung Jaewon , Park Do Hyun , Song Tae Jun , Seo Dong Wan , Lee Sung Koo , Kim Myung-Hwan , Lee Seung Soo , Kim Jin Hee , Jin Hyung-seung , Park Jin-hong , Hwang Dae Wook , Lee Jae Hoon , Lee Woohyung , Chang Heung-Moon , Kim Kyu-pyo , Ryoo Baek-Yeol , Kim Song Cheol
Published: May 2020

Background

Patients with borderline resectable pancreatic cancer (BRPC) have poor prognosis with upfront surgery.

Methods

This was a single-arm Phase 2 trial for clinical and biomarker analysis. The primary endpoint is 1-year progression-free survival (PFS) rate. Patients received 8 cycles of neoadjuvant modified (m) FOLFIRINOX. Up to 6 cycles of gemcitabine were given for patients who underwent surgery. Plasma immune cell subsets were measured for analysing correlations with overall survival (OS).

Results

Between May 2016 and March 2018, 44 chemotherapy- and radiotherapy-naïve patients with BRPC were included. With neoadjuvant mFOLFIRINOX, the objective response rate was 34.1%, and curative-intent surgery was done in 27 (61.4%) patients. With a median follow-up duration of 20.6 months (95% confidence interval [CI], 19.7–21.6 months), the median PFS and OS were 12.2 months (95% CI, 8.9–15.5 months) and 24.7 months (95% CI, 12.6–36.9), respectively. The 1-year PFS rate was 52.3% (95% CI, 37.6–67.0%). Higher CD14+ monocyte (quartile 4 vs 1–3) and lower CD69+ γδ T cell (γδ TCR+/CD69+) levels (quartiles 1–3 vs 4) were significantly associated with poor OS (p = 0.045 and p = 0.043, respectively).

Conclusions

Neoadjuvant mFOLFIRINOX followed by postoperative gemcitabine were feasible and effective in BRPC patients. Monocyte and γδ T cells may have prognostic implications for patients with pancreatic cancer. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02749136.
Dynamics of apomictic and sexual reproduction during primary succession on a glacier forefield in the Swiss Alps
Authors: Sailer Christian , Stöcklin Jürg , Grossniklaus Ueli
Published: May 2020

Apomixis, the asexual reproduction through seeds, is thought to provide reproductive assurance when ploidy is not even and/or when population density is low. Therefore, apomicts are expected to be more abundant, and the frequency of apomictic offspring higher, at early stages of primary succession when mates are rare. To test this hypothesis, we sampled facultative apomictic Hieracium pilosella L. along the successional gradient on a glacier forefield and determined their ploidy, the level of apomixis in their offspring, and the genetic diversity of the entire meta-population and within subpopulations. We found that apomixis is more common in odd- and aneuploid cytotypes, which are more frequent at early stages of primary succession. However, apomixis was uncommon at all successional stages and sexual hexaploids were dominating throughout. Reproductive assurance was reflected in the higher fertility of all odd-ploid apomictic plants (3×, 5×) by avoiding meiosis, illustrating that apomixis provides an escape from sterility, as proposed by Darlington. Odd-ploid plants are supposedly better colonizers (Baker’s law), which is supported by their higher occurrence close to the glacier snout. Independent of succession, we found gene flow between apomicts and sexuals, which allows for the continuous creation of new apomictic and sexual genotypes. We conclude that apomixis in H. pilosella does indeed provide an escape from sterility, and therefore reproductive assurance, in aneuploid cytotypes. We further propose that apomixis preserves beneficial combinations of unlinked alleles in every generation for as long as apomictic genotypes persist in the population.
Elevated plasma oxytocin levels and higher satisfaction with life in young oral contraceptive users
Authors: Garforth Benjamin , Degnbol Helle , Terris Elizabeth T. , Zak Paul J. , Winterdahl Michael
Published: May 2020

Oral contraception (OC) is used by approximately fifty-five million women in the USA alone and is listed as an essential medicine by the World Health Organisation. Altered mood is a common reason for OC cessation. Here we investigate the effects of OC on hormones that are linked to mood. We obtained blood samples from 185 young women (average age 21.2) in two cohorts and tested the effects of OC on plasma levels of oxytocin, adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), estradiol, progesterone and testosterone. We related plasma hormone levels with self-reported measures of mood, well-being and depression. OC-users in both cohorts showed elevated basal oxytocin, lower ACTH, estradiol, progesterone and testosterone compared with non-OC users. Satisfaction With Life Score (SWLS) was higher in OC -users compared to non-OC users, with no differences in the Beck Depression Score (BDI) and Positive And Negative Affect Schedule (PANES). In conclusion, our data show alterations in hormone levels and SWLS in response to OC.
Continuously-tunable light–matter coupling in optical microcavities with 2D semiconductors
Authors: Wall Franziska , Mey Oliver , Schneider Lorenz Maximilian , Rahimi-Iman Arash
Published: May 2020

A theoretical variation between the two distinct light–matter coupling regimes, namely weak and strong coupling, becomes uniquely feasible in open optical Fabry—Pérot microcavities with low mode volume, as discussed here. In combination with monolayers of transition-metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) such as WS2, which exhibits a large exciton oscillator strength and binding energy, the room-temperature observation of hybrid bosonic quasiparticles, referred to as exciton–polaritons and characterized by a Rabi splitting, comes into reach. In this context, our simulations using the transfer-matrix method show how to tailor and alter the coupling strength actively by varying the relative field strength at the excitons’ position – exploiting a tunable cavity length, a transparent PMMA spacer layer and angle-dependencies of optical resonances. Continuously tunable coupling for future experiments is hereby proposed, capable of real-time adjustable Rabi splitting as well as switching between the two coupling regimes. Being nearly independent of the chosen material, the suggested structure could also be used in the context of light–matter-coupling experiments with quantum dots, molecules or quantum wells. While the adjustable polariton energy levels could be utilized for polariton-chemistry or optical sensing, cavities that allow working at the exceptional point promise the exploration of topological properties of that point.
Genomic profiling of antimicrobial resistance genes in clinical isolates of Salmonella Typhi from patients infected with Typhoid fever in India
Authors: Katiyar Amit , Sharma Priyanka , Dahiya Sushila , Singh Harpreet , Kapil Arti , Kaur Punit
Published: May 2020

The development of multidrug resistance in Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi currently forms a major roadblock for the treatment of enteric fever. This poses a major health problem in endemic regions and extends to travellers returning from developing countries. The appearance of fluoroquinolone non-susceptible strains has resulted in use of ceftriaxone as drug of choice with azithromycin being recommended for uncomplicated cases of typhoid fever. A recent sporadic instance of decreased susceptibility to the latest drug regime has necessitated a detailed analysis of antimicrobial resistance genes and possible relationships with their phenotypes to facilitate selection of future treatment regimes. Whole genome sequencing (WGS) was conducted for 133 clinical isolates from typhoid patients. Sequence output files were processed for pan-genome analysis and prediction of antimicrobial resistance genes. The WGS analyses disclosed the existence of fluoroquinolone resistance conferring mutations in gyrA, gyrB, parC and parE genes of all strains. Acquired resistance determining mechanisms observed included catA1 genes for chloramphenicol resistance, dfrA7, dfrA15, sul1 and sul2 for trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole and blaTEM-116/blaTEM-1B genes for amoxicillin. No resistance determinants were found for ceftriaxone and cefixime. The genotypes were further correlated with their respective phenotypes for chloramphenicol, ampicillin, co-trimoxazole, ciprofloxacin and ceftriaxone. A high correlation was observed between genotypes and phenotypes in isolates of S. Typhi. The pan-genome analysis revealed that core genes were enriched in metabolic functions and accessory genes were majorly implicated in pathogenesis and antimicrobial resistance. The pan-genome of S. Typhi appears to be closed (Bpan  =  0.09) as analysed by Heap’s law. Simpson’s diversity index of 0.51 showed a lower level of genetic diversity among isolates of S. Typhi. Overall, this study augments the present knowledge that WGS can help predict resistance genotypes and eventual correlation with phenotypes, enabling the chance to spot AMR determinants for fast diagnosis and prioritize antibiotic use directly from sequence.
Aphid-infested beans divert ant attendance from the rosy apple aphid in apple-bean intercropping
Authors: Pålsson Joakim , Porcel Mario , Hansen Mette Frimodt , Offenberg Joachim , Nardin Tiziana , Larcher Roberto , Tasin Marco
Published: May 2020

Ecological intensification of cropping systems aims at restoring multi-functionality while supporting current productivity levels. Intercropping is a form of ecological intensification involving ecological processes beneficial to farmers that do not take place in monocultures. Thus, it represents a practical approach to decrease the use of synthetic inputs such as insecticides in cultivated systems. Whereas insecticide reduction via intercropping-facilitated suppression of aphids is reported in literature, the majority of published studies focussed on herbaceous crops. Thus, the effect of intercropping on aphid populations of cultivated trees remains largely unaddressed. In this study we hypothesized that intercropping a specific companion plant within perennial crops would divert ant attendance from an aphid attacking the crop to another aphid feeding on the newly introduced plant, reducing aphid damage on the crop. We tested our hypothesis in the system of apple (Malus domesticaBorkhausen), the rosy apple aphid (Dysaphis plantagineaPasserini) and the black garden ant (Lasius nigerL.). Bean plants (Vicia faba) with the black bean aphid (Aphis fabaeScopoli) were intercropped within apple trees inoculated withD. plantaginea. We measured ant attendance, aphid development and survival as well as honeydew composition on both plant species through semi-field and field experiments. The majority of ants chose to attendA. fabaeoverD. plantagineain the semi-field experiment with potted plants. In the orchard, a larger majority of scouts were scored onA. fabaeoverD. plantaginea. A higher number ofD. plantagineacolonies remained active in the apple control, whilst they were almost eradicated by intercropping. Although chemical analyses of honeydew disclosed differences in the carbohydrate and amino acid profiles between aphid species, the difference in honeydew composition did not explain the preference forA. fabae. Ants did not discriminate between the two honeydew mimics both in laboratory and field bioassays. Our results showed the potential of intercropping apple trees with beans as a method to reduce ant attendance and thus colony survival. We propose that intercropping represents a bottom-up approach towards ecological intensification of perennial crops. Together with other ecosystem-based measures such as habitat management, intercropping should be considered when planning ecosystem redesign to increase biological control of pests.
Blink Rate Patterns Provide a Reliable Measure of Individual Engagement with Scene Content
Authors: Ranti Carolyn , Jones Warren , Klin Ami , Shultz Sarah
Published: May 2020

Eye-blinking has emerged as a promising means of measuring viewer engagement with visual content. This method capitalizes on the fact that although we remain largely unaware of our eye-blinking in everyday situations, eye-blinks are inhibited at precise moments in time so as to minimize the loss of visual information that occurs during a blink. Probabilistically, the more important the visual information is to the viewer, the more likely he or she will be to inhibit blinking. In the present study, viewer engagement was experimentally manipulated in order to: (1) replicate past studies suggesting that a group of viewers will blinklessoften when watching content that they perceive asmoreimportant or relevant; (2) test the reliability of the measure by investigating constraints on the timescale over which blink rate patterns can be used to accurately quantify viewer engagement; and (3) examine whether blink rate patterns can be used to quantify what anindividual– as opposed to agroupof viewers—perceives as engaging. Results demonstrate that blink rate patterns can be used to measure changes in individual and group engagement that unfold over relatively short (1 second) and long (60 second) timescales. However, for individuals with lower blink rates, blink rate patterns may provide less optimal measures when engagement shifts rapidly (at intervals of 1 second or less). Findings support the use of eye-blink measures in future studies investigating a person’s subjective perception of how engaging a stimulus is.
Critical role of SOX2–IGF2 signaling in aggressiveness of bladder cancer
Authors: Chiu Yu-Fan , Wu Chia-Chang , Kuo Ming-Han , Miao Chia-Cheng , Zheng Ming-Yi , Chen Pei-Yu , Lin Sheng-Chieh , Chang Junn-Liang , Wang Yuan-Hung , Chou Yu-Ting
Published: May 2020

Signaling elicited by the stem cell factors SOX2, OCT4, KLF4, and MYC not only mediates reprogramming of differentiated cells to pluripotency but has also been correlated with tumor malignancy. In this study, we found SOX2 expression signifies poor recurrence-free survival and correlates with advanced pathological grade in bladder cancer. SOX2 silencing attenuated bladder cancer cell growth, while its expression promoted cancer cell survival and proliferation. Under low-serum stress, SOX2 expression promoted AKT phosphorylation and bladder cancer cells’ spheroid-forming capability. Furthermore, pharmacological inhibition of AKT phosphorylation, using MK2206, inhibited the SOX2-mediated spheroid formation of bladder cancer cells. Gene expression profiling showed that SOX2 expression, in turn, induced IGF2 expression, while SOX2 silencing inhibited IGF2 expression. Moreover, knocking down IGF2 and IGF1R diminished bladder cancer cell growth. Lastly, pharmacological inhibition of IGF1R, using linsitinib, also inhibited the SOX2-mediated spheroid formation of bladder cancer cells under low-serum stress. Our findings indicate the SOX2–IGF2 signaling affects the aggressiveness of bladder cancer cell growth. This signaling could be a promising biomarker and therapeutic target for bladder cancer intervention.
Quantification of adsorbed and dangling citrate ions on gold nanoparticle surface using thermogravimetric analysis
Authors: Bajaj Manish , Wangoo Nishima , Jain D. V. S. , Sharma Rohit K.
Published: May 2020

A novel approach involving thermo-gravimetricanalysis (TGA) for the quantification of citrate ions present on the surface of gold nanoparticles has been reported. TGA study was carried out on AuNPs in response to parameters such as concentration of tri-sodium citrate and pH of gold nanoparticles depicting that the number of citrate ion present on gold nanoparticles is highly pH dependent. In general, the citrate ions were observed to be higher in alkaline conditions contradicting earlier beliefs. These results also underline the significance of TGA as a novel tool for quantification of citrate molecules present on gold nanoparticle surface. Thus, the present approach not only provides with an insight into mechanistic details of gold nanoparticle synthesis but also opens the usage of TGA for understanding the nano range association of molecules.
Profound alterations of the chromatin architecture at chromosome 11p15.5 in cells from Beckwith-Wiedemann and Silver-Russell syndromes patients
Authors: Rovina Davide , La Vecchia Marta , Cortesi Alice , Fontana Laura , Pesant Matthieu , Maitz Silvia , Tabano Silvia , Bodega Beatrice , Miozzo Monica , Sirchia Silvia M.
Published: May 2020

Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome (BWS) and Silver-Russell syndrome (SRS) are imprinting-related disorders associated with genetic/epigenetic alterations of the 11p15.5 region, which harbours two clusters of imprinted genes (IGs). 11p15.5 IGs are regulated by the methylation status of imprinting control regions ICR1 and ICR2. 3D chromatin structure is thought to play a pivotal role in gene expression control; however, chromatin architecture models are still poorly defined in most cases, particularly for IGs. Our study aimed at elucidating 11p15.5 3D structure, via 3C and 3D FISH analyses of cell lines derived from healthy, BWS or SRS children. We found that, in healthy cells, IGF2/H19 and CDKN1C/KCNQ1OT1 domains fold in complex chromatin conformations, that facilitate the control of IGs mediated by distant enhancers. In patient-derived cell lines, we observed a profound impairment of such a chromatin architecture. Specifically, we identified a cross-talk between IGF2/H19 and CDKN1C/KCNQ1OT1 domains, consisting in in cis, monoallelic interactions, that are present in healthy cells but lost in patient cell lines: an inter-domain association that sees ICR2 move close to IGF2 on one allele, and to H19 on the other. Moreover, an intra-domain association within the CDKN1C/KCNQ1OT1 locus seems to be crucial for maintaining the 3D organization of the region.
Apparent Contact Angle around the Periphery of a Liquid Drop on Roughened Surfaces
Authors: Huang Xuemin , Gates Ian
Published: May 2020

The wetting of roughened surfaces is complicated since not all of the surface of the irregular surface is wetted and thus, the three-phase contact line for the liquid drop is a complex, three-dimensional line that varies according to the dimensions of the roughness and its spatial heterogeneity. This can cause the contact line to not sit within a constant height horizontal plane especially when air is trapped underneath the liquid layer. Here, we explore the effect of roughness on the effective contact angle of a water droplet on a roughened hydrophobic surface. The results show that the apparent contact angle varies around the periphery of the droplet due to the roughness of the surface on first contact. Also, repeated wetting of the droplet on the surface reveals that the apparent contact angle changes due to residual liquid remaining on the roughened surface. The results also show that the Wenzel and Cassie-Baxter models tend to overestimate the apparent contact angle on the roughened surfaces.
Hepatic steatosis among people living with HIV in Southern Brazil: prevalence and risk factors
Authors: Pezzini Marina Ferri , Cheinquer Hugo , de Araujo Alexandre , Schmidt-Cerski Carlos T. , Sprinz Eduardo , Herz-Wolff Fernando , Poeta Julia
Published: May 2020

Chronic liver disease is an important cause of morbidity and mortality among people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and is frequently related to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The objective is to estimate the prevalence and risk factors of hepatic steatosis among consecutive patients with stable HIV infection on antiretroviral therapy (ART). Also, the use of transient elastography (TE) as a mean to identify a subgroup at risk for non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and/or liver fibrosis. HIV infected patients were enrolled between August2016 and February2017. Inclusion criteria: ≥18 years with undetectable HIV viral load. Exclusion criteria: pregnancy; alcohol intake ≥20 g/day and co-infection B or C viruses. Patients underwent ultrasound (US) to diagnose liver steatosis. Significant fibrosis (≥F2) was estimated if at least one of the following were present: APRI > 1.0, FIB4 > 3 and/or liver stiffness ≥7.1kPa. Subjects with TE ≥ 7.1kPa were proposed a liver biopsy and NAFLD Scoring System (NAS) ≥ 3 was considered as diagnosis of NASH. A total of 98 patients were included. Liver steatosis was diagnosed in 31 patients (31.6%) and was independently associated with male gender, BMI, ALT and total bilirubin levels. The prevalence of significant fibrosis assessed by TE, APRI and FIB4 was 26.9%, 6.4% and 3.2%, respectively. Seven patients had a TE result ≥7.1kPa. NASH was found in 5 (83.3%). Among HIV infected patients undergoing ART, almost one third have NAFLD. Neither TE, APRI or FIB4 were able to act as surrogates for significant liver fibrosis. Nevertheless, TE ≥ 7.1kPa was able to accurately select a subgroup of patients at risk for NASH.
Quantification of tissue volume in the hindlimb of mice using microcomputed tomography images and analysing software
Authors: Wiinholt Alexander , Gerke Oke , Dalaei Farima , Bučan Amar , Madsen Christoffer Bing , Sørensen Jens Ahm
Published: May 2020

When studying illnesses that cause disturbance in volume such as lymphedema, reliable quantification of tissue volume is important. Lymphedema results in swelling and enlargement of extremities and can be both physically and psychologically stressful to the patient. Experiments in rodent models provide a cost-effective research platform and are important for preclinical research on lymphedema. When performing such research, it can be crucial to measure the changes in tissue volume. Researchers must ensure that the risk of measurement error, when measuring the tissue volume, is as low as possible. The main goal of this article was to perform a comprehensive examination of the intra- and interrater agreement and hereby assess the risk of measurement error when using microcomputed tomography (µCT) images to measure hindlimb volume. We examined the agreement between four raters with different levels of prior experience and found that the risk of measurement error is extremely low when using this method. The main limitation of this method is that it is relatively expensive and time-consuming. The main advantages of this method are that it is easily learned and that it has a high intra- and interrater agreement, even for raters with no prior measuring experience.
Mitochondrial sphingosine-1-phosphate lyase is essential for phosphatidylethanolamine synthesis and survival of Trypanosoma brucei
Authors: Dawoody Nejad Ladan , Stumpe Michael , Rauch Monika , Hemphill Andrew , Schneiter Roger , Bütikofer Peter , Serricchio Mauro
Published: May 2020

Sphingosine-1-phosphate is a signaling molecule involved in the control of cell migration, differentiation, survival and other physiological processes. This sphingolipid metabolite can be degraded by the action of sphingosine-1-phosphate lyase (SPL) to form hexadecenal and ethanolamine phosphate. The importance of SPL-mediated ethanolamine phosphate formation has been characterized in only few cell types. We show that in the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma brucei, expression of TbSpl is essential for cell survival. Ablation of TbSpl expression increased sphingosine-1-phosphate levels and reduced de novo formation and steady-state levels of the glycerophospholipid phosphatidylethanolamine (PE). Growth of TbSpl-depleted parasites could be in part rescued by ethanolamine supplementation to the growth medium, indicating that the main function of TbSpl is to provide ethanolamine phosphate for PE synthesis. In contrast to most cell types analyzed, where SPL localizes to the endoplasmic reticulum, we found by high-resolution microscopy that TbSpl is a mitochondrial protein. In spite of its mitochondrial localization, TbSpl depletion had no apparent effect on mitochondrial morphology but resulted in aggregation of acidocalcisomes. Our results link mitochondria to sphingolipid metabolism and suggest possible roles for PE in acidocalcisome function.
Author Correction: Cumulative impact of anti-sea lice treatment (azamethiphos) on health status of Rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss, Walbaum 1792) in aquaculture
Authors: Barisic Josip , Cannon Stuart , Quinn Brian
Published: May 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Multiplexed drug testing of tumor slices using a microfluidic platform
Authors: Horowitz L. F. , Rodriguez A. D. , Dereli-Korkut Z. , Lin R. , Castro K. , Mikheev A. M. , Monnat R. J. , Folch A. , Rostomily R. C.
Published: May 2020

Current methods to assess the drug response of individual human cancers are often inaccurate, costly, or slow. Functional approaches that rapidly and directly assess the response of patient cancer tissue to drugs or small molecules offer a promising way to improve drug testing, and have the potential to identify the best therapy for individual patients. We developed a digitally manufactured microfluidic platform for multiplexed drug testing of intact cancer slice cultures, and demonstrate the use of this platform to evaluate drug responses in slice cultures from human glioma xenografts and patient tumor biopsies. This approach retains much of the tissue microenvironment and can provide results rapidly enough, within days of surgery, to guide the choice of effective initial therapies. Our results establish a useful preclinical platform for cancer drug testing and development with the potential to improve cancer personalized medicine.
Cells grown in three-dimensional spheroids mirror in vivo metabolic response of epithelial cells
Authors: Lagies Simon , Schlimpert Manuel , Neumann Simon , Wäldin Astrid , Kammerer Bernd , Borner Christoph , Peintner Lukas
Published: May 2020

Metabolism in cells adapts quickly to changes in nutrient availability and cellular differentiation status, including growth conditions in cell culture settings. The last decade saw a vast increase in three-dimensional (3D) cell culture techniques, engendering spheroids and organoids. These methods were established to improve comparability to in vivo situations, differentiation processes and growth modalities. How far spheroids mimic in vivo metabolism, however, remains enigmatic. Here, to our knowledge, we compare for the first time metabolic fingerprints between cells grown as a single layer or as spheroids with freshly isolated in situ tissue. While conventionally grown cells express elevated levels of glycolysis intermediates, amino acids and lipids, these levels were significantly lower in spheroids and freshly isolated primary tissues. Furthermore, spheroids differentiate and start to produce metabolites typical for their tissue of origin. 3D grown cells bear many metabolic similarities to the original tissue, recommending animal testing to be replaced by 3D culture techniques.
Tau affects P53 function and cell fate during the DNA damage response
Authors: Sola Martina , Magrin Claudia , Pedrioli Giona , Pinton Sandra , Salvadè Agnese , Papin Stéphanie , Paganetti Paolo
Published: May 2020

Abstract

Cells are constantly exposed to DNA damaging insults. To protect the organism, cells developed a complex molecular response coordinated by P53, the master regulator of DNA repair, cell division and cell fate. DNA damage accumulation and abnormal cell fate decision may represent a pathomechanism shared by aging-associated disorders such as cancer and neurodegeneration. Here, we examined this hypothesis in the context of tauopathies, a neurodegenerative disorder group characterized by Tau protein deposition. For this, the response to an acute DNA damage was studied in neuroblastoma cells with depleted Tau, as a model of loss-of-function. Under these conditions, altered P53 stability and activity result in reduced cell death and increased cell senescence. This newly discovered function of Tau involves abnormal modification of P53 and its E3 ubiquitin ligase MDM2. Considering the medical need with vast social implications caused by neurodegeneration and cancer, our study may reform our approach to disease-modifying therapies.
Zn(ii) detection and biological activity of a macrocycle containing a bis(oxadiazole)pyridine derivative as fluorophore
Authors: Ambrosi Gianluca , Fanelli Mirco , Paoli Paola , Formica Mauro , Paderni Daniele , Rossi Patrizia , Micheloni Mauro , Giorgi Luca , Fusi Vieri
Published: May 2020

A macrocyclic ligand able to detect Zn(ii) and Cd(ii) ions in aqueous solution at pH = 7 through a CHEF effect with antiproliferative properties is presented.
Radiosynthesis and evaluation of 4-(6-[18F]Fluoro-4-(5-isopropoxy-1H-indazol-3-yl)pyridin-2-yl)morpholine as a novel radiotracer candidate targeting leucine-rich repeat kinase 2
Authors: Mori Wakana , Yamasaki Tomoteru , Hattori Yasushi , Zhang Yiding , Kumata Katsushi , Fujinaga Masayuki , Hanyu Masayuki , Nengaki Nobuki , Zhang Hong , Zhang Ming-Rong
Published: May 2020

A novel compound FIPM was developed and labeled with fluorine-18 in vivo visualization of LRRK2 in the brain.
Comparison of ZnO nanowires grown on e-beam evaporated Ag and ZnO seed layers
Authors: Geng Yulin , Jeronimo Karina , Bin Che Mahzan Muhammad Ammar , Lomax Peter , Mastropaolo Enrico , Cheung Rebecca
Published: May 2020

A systematic comparison between ZnO nanowires' hetero and homo growth: from the viewpoints of the growth mechanism, crystal quality, and optical properties.
Detecting reactive islands in a system-bath model of isomerization
Authors: Naik Shibabrat , Wiggins Stephen
Published: May 2020

Reactive islands in a system-bath model of isomerization detected by the singular features in the Lagrangian descriptor contour map.
Tunable n-type and p-type doping of two-dimensional layered PdSe2viaorganic molecular adsorption
Authors: Gao Yunzhi , Liu Xiaofeng , Hu Wei , Yang Jinlong
Published: May 2020

2D PdSe2can realize tunable p-type and n-type doping by adsorbed with two kinds of organic molecules, an electrophilic molecule TCNQ and a nucleophilic molecule TTF. Such effective bipolar doping of PdSe2would broaden its applications in nanoelectronics.
Photochromism of metal–organic frameworks based on carbazole-dicarboxylic acid and bipyridine: sensing adjustment by controlling strut-to-strut energy transfer
Authors: Liu Han , Fan Yanru , Li Xiao , Gao Kuan , Li Huijie , Yang Yisen , Meng Xiangru , Wu Jie , Hou Hongwei
Published: May 2020

Efficient strut-to-strut energy transfer (antenna behavior) was observed in the well-ordered donor–acceptor system. Color tuning, adjustment of gamut, and regulation of sensitivity can be realized by the judicious choice of the constitutions of MOFs.
A study on temperature sensing performance based on the luminescence of Eu3+ and Er3+ co-doped YNbO4
Authors: Mao Jiashan , Jiang Bin , Wang Peng , Qiu Liting , Abass Muhammad Tahir , Wei Xiantao , Chen Yonghu , Yin Min
Published: May 2020

Eu3+ and Er3+ co-doped YNbO4 powder phosphors were synthesized by a traditional high-temperature solid-state reaction method.
The Pd(0) and Pd(ii) cocatalyzed isomerization of alkynyl epoxides to furans: a mechanistic investigation using DFT calculations
Authors: Wang Ting , Guo Xianming , Chen Tao , Li Juan
Published: May 2020

DFT calculations were performed to explore the mechanism for Pd(0) and Pd(ii) cocatalyzed conversion of alkynyl epoxides to furans.
Strong magnetic coupling of spins in Fe(ii) dimers with differently charged thioindigo ligands
Authors: Konarev Dmitri V. , Kuzmin Alexey V. , Batov Mikhail S. , Khasanov Salavat S. , Otsuka Akihiro , Yamochi Hideki , Kitagawa Hiroshi , Lyubovskaya Rimma N.
Published: May 2020

Coordination complex of iron(ii) with radical anion and dianion of thioindigo {[2.2.2]cryptand(K+)}2{FeII(TI˙−)(TI2−)}2·2C6H4Cl2 (1) is obtained. Complex has two high-spin FeII centers separated by oxygen atoms, and two TI˙− radical anions coordinated to FeII.
Electrocatalytic reactivity of imine/oxime-type cobalt complex for direct perfluoroalkylation of indole and aniline derivatives
Authors: Cui Luxia , Ono Toshikazu , Morita Yoshitsugu , Hisaeda Yoshio
Published: May 2020

Imine/Oxime-type cobalt complex-catalyzed direct perfluoroalkylation of indole and aniline derivatives with nonafluorobutyl iodide (n-C4F9I) under mild electrochemical method was demonstrated.
A microcube-like hierarchical heterostructure of α-Fe2O3@α-MoO3 for trimethylamine sensing
Authors: Yang Jing , Liu Jiaqiang , Baihan Li  , Han Le , Xu Yan
Published: May 2020

A hierarchical heterostructure of α-Fe2O3@α-MoO3 microcubes was prepared and it exhibited excellent selectivity and high sensitivity for triethylamine gas.
Removal trends of sulfonamides and their ARGs during soil aquifer treatment and subsequent chlorination: effect of aerobic and anaerobic biodegradation
Authors: Qin Kena , Chen Yan , Li Jianju , Xue Chonghua , Wei Liangliang , Song Xugang , Ding Jing , Zhao Qingliang
Published: May 2020

Soil aquifer treatment significantly decreased the SA concentration in recharged synthetic water and aerobic biodegradation played a great role.
Electro-thermal transport in disordered nanostructures: a modeling perspective
Authors: Ducry Fabian , Aeschlimann Jan , Luisier Mathieu
Published: May 2020

We review here how molecular dynamics and quantum transport can be combined to shed light on the performance of, for example, conductive bridging random access memories, and we show that electro-thermal effects play a critical role.
A magnetic immunoconjugate nanoplatform for easy colorimetric detection of the NS1 protein of dengue virus in infected serum
Authors: Ramírez-Navarro Ramsés , Polesnak Peter , Reyes-Leyva Julio , Haque Ubydul , Vazquez-Chagoyán Juan Carlos , Pedroza-Montero Martín R. , Méndez-Rojas Miguel A. , Angulo-Molina Aracely
Published: May 2020

We report, as a proof of principle, the design and performance of a simple, cheap and efficient colorimetric test for the detection of the dengue virus NS1 protein, assisted by an immunoconjugate of Fe3O4 nanoparticles coupled to anti-NS1 antibodies.
New exciplex systems composed of triazatruxene donors and N-heteroarene-cored acceptors
Authors: Hu Yuan-Cheng , Lin Zong-Liang , Huang Tzu-Chien , Lee Jhih-Wei , Wei Wei-Chih , Ko Tzu-Yu , Lo Chun-Yuan , Chen Deng-Gao , Chou Pi-Tai , Hung Wen-Yi , Wong Ken-Tsung
Published: May 2020

Three triazatruxene-based donors Tr-Me, Tr-Ph, and Tr-Tol were intermixed with three acceptors 3P-T2T, 3P-T2P, and 3P-Pyr equipping with different heteroarene cores to generate an array of nine blends to probe the feasibility of exciplex formation.
The linkers in fluorene-labeled 2′-deoxyuridines affect fluorescence discriminating phenomena upon duplex formation
Authors: Lee So Young , Hong Seung Woo , Yeo Hyeonuk , Hwang Gil Tae
Published: May 2020

Three fluorene-labeled 2′-deoxyuridines that differ in terms of their linkers have been introduced at the central positions of oligodeoxynucleotides to examine the effects that their linkers have on the emission properties upon duplex formations.
Rapid solidification of Portland cement/polyacrylamide hydrogel (PC/PAM) composites for diverse wastewater treatments
Authors: Ye Shaoxiong , Feng Pan , Zhang Wei
Published: May 2020

Novel and stable PC/PAM composites were designed and could serve as a matrix for rapid solidification of various wastewaters, greatly facilitating the applicability of the cementitious solidification method in emergency circumstances.
Isolation and synthesis of cryptosanguinolentine (isocryptolepine), a naturally-occurring bioactive indoloquinoline alkaloid
Authors: Thobokholt Elida N. , Larghi Enrique L. , Bracca Andrea B. J. , Kaufman Teodoro S.
Published: May 2020

The isolation and properties of the heterocycle are detailed and the diversity of chemical approaches toward the natural product are systematically ordered and reviewed.
Amphiphilic drug–peptide–polymer conjugates based on poly(ethylene glycol) and hyperbranched polyglycerol for epidermal growth factor receptor targeting: the effect of conjugate aggregation on in vitro activity
Authors: Pethő Lilla , Kasza György , Lajkó Eszter , Láng Orsolya , Kőhidai László , Iván Béla , Mező Gábor
Published: May 2020

EGFR targeting drug–polymer–peptide conjugates have enhanced solubility wherein in vitro biological activity highly depends on the structure of conjugates due to their amphiphilic character and self-aggregation properties.
An MRI contrast agent based on a zwitterionic metal-chelating polymer for hepatorenal angiography and tumor imaging
Authors: Zhang Peisen , Wang Zihua , Wang Yiyang , Wang Yuqing , Liu Chunyan , Cao Kai , Lu Yijie , Behboodpour Leila , Hou Yi , Gao Mingyuan
Published: May 2020

A zwitterionic MRI contrast agent Gd-PAA with exceptionally high r1 was designed for hepatorenal angiography and tumor imaging.
Tuning the edge-on oriented ordering of solution-aged poly(3-hexylthiophene) thin films
Authors: Saifuddin Md , Mukhopadhyay Mala , Biswas Arindam , Gigli Lara , Plaisier Jasper R. , Hazra Satyajit
Published: May 2020

In solution-aged thin films, edge-on oriented ordering of nanofibers, along the z-direction, extends by thermal annealing, while near the film–substrate interface, it improves by combined solvent vapor and thermal annealing
Low-temperature radiofrequency coblation reduces treatment interval and post-operative pain of laryngotracheal recurrent respiratory papillomatosis
Authors: Hao Fang , Yue Liyan , Yin Xiaoyan , Wang Xiaotong , Shan Chunguang
Published: May 2020

Laryngeal papillomatosis is a benign disease in the larynx but with the potential to develop into significant complications as a result of its high recurrence rate. CO2 laser and radiofrequency controlled ablation (coblation) have been used to treat recurrent respiratory papillomatosis, but detailed comparisons of their respective treatment outcomes are not fully investigated. This retrospective study examines the procedure time, time interval between interventions, blood loss during operation, post-operative complications and pain scores among patients who received either CO2 laser or radiofrequency coblation interventions for laryngotracheal recurrent respiratory papillomatosis. Compared with CO2 laser intervention, radiofrequency coblation significantly reduced operation time, time interval between interventions, blood loss during operation and number of times bipolar electrocoagulation needed in each procedure. Post-operatively, pain scores after radiofrequency coblation were significantly lower than those after CO2 laser intervention. Incidence rates of post-operative complications, in terms of palate pharyngeal mucosa damage, bleeding and subcutaneous emphysema, were also significantly reduced after radiofrequency coblation. Low-temperature radiofrequency coblation is a superior intervention compared with CO2 laser against laryngotracheal recurrent respiratory papillomatosis.
Extracts of ThaiPerilla frutescensnutlets attenuate tumour necrosis factor-α-activated generation of microparticles, ICAM-1 and IL-6 in human endothelial cells
Authors: Paradee Narisara , Utama-ang Niramon , Uthaipibull Chairat , Porter John B. , Garbowski Maciej W. , Srichairatanakool Somdet
Published: May 2020

Elevation of endothelial microparticles (EMPs) play an important role in the progression of inflammation-related vascular diseases such as cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Thai perilla (Perilla frutescens) nutlets are rich in phenolic compounds and flavonoids that exert potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. We found that the ethyl acetate (EA) and ethanol (Eth) extracts of Thai perilla nutlets contain phenolic compounds such as luteolin, apigenin, chryseoriol and their glycosides, which exhibit antioxidant activity. The goal of the present study was to investigate the effects of the extracts on endothelial activation and EMPs generation in tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α)-induced EA.hy926 cells. We found that TNF-α (10 ng/ml) activated EA.hy926 cells and subsequently generated EMPs. Pre-treatment with the extracts significantly attenuated endothelial activation by decreasing the expression of the intracellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) in a dose-dependent manner. Only the Eth extract showed protective effects against overproduction of interleukin-6 (IL-6) in the activated cells. Furthermore, the extracts significantly reduced TNF-α-enhanced EMPs generation in a dose-dependent manner. In conclusion, Thai perilla nutlet extracts, especially the Eth extract, may have potential to protect endothelium against vascular inflammation through the inhibition of endothelial activation and the generation of endothelial microparticles (EMPs).
Knockdown of LncRNA CRNDE suppresses proliferation and P-glycoprotein-mediated multidrug resistance in acute myelocytic leukemia through the Wnt/β-catenin pathway
Authors: Kang Yiqing , Zhang Suping , Cao Weijie , Wan Dingming , Sun Ling
Published: May 2020

Mechanisms involved in non-coding RNAs have been implicated in multidrug resistance (MDR) of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Long non-coding RNA (lncRNAs) colorectal neoplasia differentially expressed (CRNDE) is reported to be involved in the malignant progression in AML. The purpose of the present study is to explore the roles and potential molecular mechanism of CRNDE in the MDR in AML. In our study, we confirmed that the expression of CRNDE was significantly up-regulated in patients with AML, especially in AML patients after adriamycin (ADR)-based chemotherapy. Spearman correlation analysis showed a positive correlation between the levels of CRNDE and MDR1 in AML patients after ADR-based chemotherapy. Moreover, CRNDE was up-regulated in AML cells, especially in ADR-resistant AML cells. Multidrug resistance protein 1 (MDR1)/p-glycoprotein (P-gp) levels were significantly increased in ADR-resistant AML cells, compared with parental AML cells. CRNDE down-regulation inhibited cell proliferation, promoted apoptosis, reduced Ki67 expression and enhanced cleaved caspase-3 expression in AML and ADR-resistant AML cells. In addition, CRNDE knockdown led to down-regulation of P-gp/MDR1, β-catenin, c-Myc and cyclinD1 expression, and enhanced the drug sensitivity to ADR in ADR-resistant AML cells. In conclusion, knockdown of CRNDE suppresses proliferation and P-gp-mediated MDR in ADR-resistant AML cells via inhibiting the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, suggesting that repression of CRNDE might be a therapeutic target to reverse MDR of ADR-resistant AML cells.