bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating the Joint Influence of the Madden‐Julian Oscillation and the Stratospheric Polar Vortex on Weather Patterns in the Northern Hemisphere
Authors: Green Matthew R. , Furtado Jason C.
Published: September 2019

Subseasonal‐to‐seasonal (S2S) forecasts of Northern Hemisphere (NH) extratropical winter weather patterns continue to be a challenging venture. Past studies have considered the individual influence of two modes of climate variability—the Madden‐Julian oscillation (MJO) and the state of the stratospheric polar vortex (SPV)—on the NH polar jet stream and associated weather regimes. This study takes a different approach and quantifies the joint influence of the SPV and the MJO on NH S2S winter weather patterns. Using ERA‐Interim, we illustrate that variability associated with the MJO primarily influences tropospheric patterns across the North Pacific and western North America 10 to 14 days later, while SPV variability has a stronger influence on tropospheric patterns over the North Atlantic and Europe for the same lags. Over the rest of North America and into the Arctic, however, constructive and destructive interference between the MJO and the SPV teleconnections yields unique jet stream and temperature patterns that differ from the single‐mode composites. As such, S2S forecasts of temperature and jet stream patterns across much of North America may improve in accuracy by considering both modes. The study also shows that MJO Phases 2 and 3 events influence the resulting tropospheric circulation via primarily a tropospheric pathway. By contrast, MJO Phases 7 and 8 events modify both the tropospheric and stratospheric circulation with potential feedbacks on the tropospheric circulation at longer lags. Hence, the study suggests another benchmark by which to test S2S dynamical prediction systems, including the importance for modeling stratosphere‐troposphere coupling dynamics correctly.
Tracking the Gust Fronts of Convective Cold Pools
Authors: Fournier Marielle B. , Haerter Jan O.
Published: September 2019

It is increasingly acknowledged that cold pools can influence the initiation of new convective cells. Yet the full complexity of convective organization through cold pool interaction is poorly understood. This lack of understanding may partially be due to the intricacy of the dynamical pattern formed by precipitation cells and their cold pools. Additionally, how exactly cold pools interact is insufficiently known. To better understand this dynamics, we develop a tracking algorithm for cold pool gust fronts. Rather than tracking thermodynamic anomalies, which do not generally coincide with the gust front boundaries, our approach tracks the dynamical cold pool outflow. Our algorithm first determines the locus of the precipitation event. Second, relative to this origin and for each azimuthal bin, the steepest gradient in the near‐surface horizontal radial velocity vr is employed to determine the respective locus of the cold pool gust front edge. Steepest vr gradients imply largest updraft velocities, hence strongest dynamical triggering. Results are compared to a previous algorithm based on the steepest gradient in temperature—highlighting the benefit of the method described here in determining dynamically active gust front regions. Applying the method to a range of numerical experiments, the algorithm successfully tracks an ensemble of cold pools. A linear relation emerges between the peak rain intensity of a given event and maximal vr for its associated cold pool gust front—a relation found to be nearly independent of the specific sensitivity experiment.
Pianp deficiency links GABAB receptor signaling and hippocampal and cerebellar neuronal cell composition to autism-like behavior
Authors: Winkler Manuel , Biswas Siladitta , Berger Stefan M. , Küchler Moritz , Preisendörfer Laurens , Choo Myeongjeong , Früh Simon , Rem Pascal D. , Enkel Thomas , Arnold Bernd , Komljenovic Dorde , Sticht Carsten , Goerdt Sergij , Bettler Bernhard , von Bohlen und Halbach Oliver , Bartsch Dusan , Géraud Cyrill
Published: September 2019

Pianp (also known as Leda-1) is a type I transmembrane protein with preferential expression in the mammalian CNS. Its processing is characterized by proteolytic cleavage by a range of proteases including Adam10, Adam17, MMPs, and the γ-secretase complex. Pianp can interact with Pilrα and the GB1a subunit of the GABABreceptor (GBR) complex. A recent case description of a boy with global developmental delay and homozygous nonsense variant inPIANPsupports the hypothesis that PIANP is involved in the control of behavioral traits in mammals. To investigate the physiological functions of Pianp, constitutive, global knockout mice were generated and comprehensively analyzed. Broad assessment did not indicate malformation or malfunction of internal organs. In the brain, however, decreased sizes and altered cellular compositions of the dentate gyrus as well as the cerebellum, including a lower number of cerebellar Purkinje cells, were identified. Functionally, loss ofPianpled to impaired presynaptic GBR-mediated inhibition of glutamate release and altered gene expression in the cortex, hippocampus, amygdala, and hypothalamus including downregulation ofErdr1, a gene linked to autism-like behavior. Behavioral phenotyping revealed thatPianpdeficiency leads to context-dependent enhanced anxiety and spatial learning deficits, an altered stress response, severely impaired social interaction, and enhanced repetitive behavior, which all represent characteristic features of an autism spectrum disorder-like phenotype. Altogether,Pianprepresents a novel candidate gene involved in autism-like behavior, cerebellar and hippocampal pathology, and GBR signaling.
Correction: PIM2-mediated phosphorylation of hexokinase 2 is critical for tumor growth and paclitaxel resistance in breast cancer
Authors: Yang Tingting , Ren Chune , Qiao Pengyun , Han Xue , Wang Li , Lv Shijun , Sun Yonghong , Liu Zhijun , Du Yu , Yu Zhenhai
Published: September 2019

A correction to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
CPAP promotes angiogenesis and metastasis by enhancing STAT3 activity
Authors: Chen Ruo-Yu , Yen Chia-Jui , Liu Yao-Wen , Guo Chun-Guo , Weng Chieh-Yu , Lai Chien-Hsien , Wang Ju-Ming , Lin Yih-Jyh , Hung Liang-Yi
Published: September 2019

Centrosomal P4.1-associated protein (CPAP) is overexpressed in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and positively correlated with recurrence and vascular invasion. Here, we found that CPAP plays an important role in HCC malignancies. Functional characterization indicated that CPAP overexpression increases tumor growth, angiogenesis, and metastasis ex vivo and in vivo. In addition, overexpressed CPAP contributes to sorafenib resistance. Mechanical investigation showed that the expression level of CPAP is positively correlated with activated STAT3 in HCC. CPAP acts as a transcriptional coactivator of STAT3 by directly binding with STAT3. Interrupting the interaction between CPAP and STAT3 attenuates STAT3-mediated tumor growth and angiogenesis. Overexpression of CPAP upregulates several STAT3 target genes such as IL-8 and CD44 that are involved in angiogenesis, and CPAP mRNA expression is positively correlated with the levels of both mRNAs in HCC. Knocked-down expression of CPAP impairs IL-6-mediated STAT3 activation, target gene expression, cell migration, and invasion abilities. IL-6/STAT3-mediated angiogenesis is significantly increased by CPAP overexpression and can be blocked by decreased expression of IL-8. Our findings not only shed light on the importance of CPAP in HCC malignancies, but also provide potential therapeutic strategies for inhibiting the angiogenesis pathway and treating metastatic HCC.
SREBP-1 inhibitor Betulin enhances the antitumor effect of Sorafenib on hepatocellular carcinoma via restricting cellular glycolytic activity
Authors: Yin Fan , Feng Fan , Wang Lei , Wang Xiaoning , Li Zongwei , Cao Yu
Published: September 2019

Lipid metabolism that correlates tightly to the glucose metabolic regulation in malignant cells includes hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells. The transcription factor Sterol Regulatory Element Binding Protein 1 (SREBP-1), a regulator of fatty acid synthesis, has been shown to pivotally regulate the proliferation and metastasis of HCC cells. However, the intrinsic mechanism by which SREBP-1 regulates the survival of HCC cells remains unclear. In this study, among HCC patients who had dismal responses to Sorafenib, a high SREBP-1 level was found in the tumors and correlated to poor survival. This observation suggested the negative role of SREBP-1 in clinical HCC prognosis. Our mechanistical studies reveal that the inhibition of SREBP-1 via its inhibitor Betulin suppresses cellular glucose metabolism. In addition to the reduced glycolytic activity, a thwarted metastatic potential was observed in HCC cells upon Betulin administration. Moreover, our data show that SREBP-1 inhibition facilitated the antitumor effects of Sorafenib on HCC cells and xenograft tumors.
X-chromosome-linked miR548am-5p is a key regulator of sex disparity in the susceptibility to mitochondria-mediated apoptosis
Authors: Matarrese Paola , Tieri Paolo , Anticoli Simona , Ascione Barbara , Conte Maria , Franceschi Claudio , Malorni Walter , Salvioli Stefano , Ruggieri Anna
Published: September 2019

Sex dimorphism in cell response to stress has previously been investigated by different research groups. This dimorphism could be at least in part accounted for by sex-biased expression of regulatory elements such as microRNAs (miRs). In order to spot previously unknown miR expression differences we took advantage of prior knowledge on specialized databases to identify X chromosome-encoded miRs potentially escaping X chromosome inactivation (XCI). MiR-548am-5p emerged as potentially XCI escaper and was experimentally verified to be significantly up-regulated in human XX primary dermal fibroblasts (DFs) compared to XY ones. Accordingly, miR-548am-5p target mRNAs, e.g. the transcript for Bax, was differently modulated in XX and XY DFs. Functional analyses indicated that XY DFs were more prone to mitochondria-mediated apoptosis than XX ones. Experimentally induced overexpression of miR548am-5p in XY cells by lentivirus vector transduction decreased apoptosis susceptibility, whereas its down-regulation in XX cells enhanced apoptosis susceptibility. These data indicate that this approach could be used to identify previously unreported sex-biased differences in miR expression and that a miR identified with this approach, miR548am-5p, can account for sex-dependent differences observed in the susceptibility to mitochondrial apoptosis of human DFs.
miR-146a attenuates apoptosis and modulates autophagy by targeting TAF9b/P53 pathway in doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity
Authors: Pan Jian-An , Tang Yong , Yu Jian-Ying , Zhang Hui , Zhang Jun-Feng , Wang Chang-Qian , Gu Jun
Published: September 2019

Clinical therapy of doxorubicin (DOX) is limited due to its cardiotoxicity. miR-146a was proved as a protective factor in many cardiovascular diseases, but its role in chronic DOX-induced cardiotoxicity is unclear. The objective of this study was to demonstrate the role of miR-146a in low-dose long-term DOX-induced cardiotoxicity. Experiments have shown that DOX intervention caused a dose-dependent and time-dependent cardiotoxicity involving the increased of apoptosis and dysregulation of autophagy. The cardiotoxicity was inhibited by overexpressed miR-146a and was more severe when miR-146a was downgraded. Further research proved that miR-146a targeted TATA-binding protein (TBP) associated factor 9b (TAF9b), a coactivator and stabilizer of P53, indirectly destroyed the stability of P53, thereby inhibiting apoptosis and improving autophagy in cardiomyocytes. Besides, miR-146a knockout mice were used for in vivo validation. In the DOX-induced model, miR-146a deficiency made it worse whether in cardiac function, cardiomyocyte apoptosis or basal level of autophagy, than wild-type. In conclusion, miR-146a partially reversed the DOX-induced cardiotoxicity by targeting TAF9b/P53 pathway to attenuate apoptosis and adjust autophagy levels.
The molecular basis of chaperone-mediated interleukin 23 assembly control
Authors: Meier Susanne , Bohnacker Sina , Klose Carolin J. , Lopez Abraham , Choe Christian A. , Schmid Philipp W. N. , Bloemeke Nicolas , Rührnößl Florian , Haslbeck Martin , Bieren Julia Esser-von , Sattler Michael , Huang Po-Ssu , Feige Matthias J.
Published: September 2019

The functionality of most secreted proteins depends on their assembly into a defined quaternary structure. Despite this, it remains unclear how cells discriminate unassembled proteins en route to the native state from misfolded ones that need to be degraded. Here we show how chaperones can regulate and control assembly of heterodimeric proteins, using interleukin 23 (IL-23) as a model. We find that the IL-23 α-subunit remains partially unstructured until assembly with its β-subunit occurs and identify a major site of incomplete folding. Incomplete folding is recognized by different chaperones along the secretory pathway, realizing reliable assembly control by sequential checkpoints. Structural optimization of the chaperone recognition site allows it to bypass quality control checkpoints and provides a secretion-competent IL-23α subunit, which can still form functional heterodimeric IL-23. Thus, locally-restricted incomplete folding within single-domain proteins can be used to regulate and control their assembly.
Extracellular nicotinate phosphoribosyltransferase binds Toll like receptor 4 and mediates inflammation
Authors: Managò Antonella , Audrito Valentina , Mazzola Francesca , Sorci Leonardo , Gaudino Federica , Gizzi Katiuscia , Vitale Nicoletta , Incarnato Danny , Minazzato Gabriele , Ianniello Alice , Varriale Antonio , D’Auria Sabato , Mengozzi Giulio , Politano Gianfranco , Oliviero Salvatore , Raffaelli Nadia , Deaglio Silvia
Published: September 2019

Damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) are molecules that can be actively or passively released by injured tissues and that activate the immune system. Here we show that nicotinate phosphoribosyltransferase (NAPRT), detected by antibody-mediated assays and mass spectrometry, is an extracellular ligand for Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and a critical mediator of inflammation, acting as a DAMP. Exposure of human and mouse macrophages to NAPRT activates the inflammasome and NF-κB for secretion of inflammatory cytokines. Furthermore, NAPRT enhances monocyte differentiation into macrophages by inducing macrophage colony-stimulating factor. These NAPRT-induced effects are independent of NAD-biosynthetic activity, but rely on NAPRT binding to TLR4. In line with our finding that NAPRT mediates endotoxin tolerance in vitro and in vivo, sera from patients with sepsis contain the highest levels of NAPRT, compared to patients with other chronic inflammatory conditions. Together, these data identify NAPRT as a endogenous ligand for TLR4 and a mediator of inflammation.
Substrate-integrated photonic doping for near-zero-index devices
Authors: Zhou Ziheng , Li Yue , Li Hao , Sun Wangyu , Liberal Iñigo , Engheta Nader
Published: September 2019

Near-zero-index (NZI) media, a medium with near zero permittivity and/or permeability, exhibits unique wave phenomena and exciting potential for multiple applications. However, previous proof-of-concept realizations of NZI media based on bulky and expensive platforms are not easily compatible with low-cost and miniaturization demands. Here, we propose the method of substrate-integrated (SI) photonic doping, enabling the implementation of NZI media within a printed circuit board (PCB) integrated design. Additionally, the profile of the NZI device is reduced by half by using symmetries. We validate the concept experimentally by demonstrating NZI supercoupling in straight and curve substrate integrated waveguides, also validating properties of position-independent photonic doping, zero-phase advance and finite group delay. Based on this platform, we propose design of three NZI devices: a high-sensitivity dielectric sensor, an efficient acousto-microwave modulator, and an arbitrarily-curved ‘electric fiber’. Our results represent an important step forward in the development of NZI technologies for microwave/terahertz applications.
A highly conductive fibre network enables centimetre-scale electron transport in multicellular cable bacteria
Authors: Meysman Filip J. R. , Cornelissen Rob , Trashin Stanislav , Bonné Robin , Martinez Silvia Hidalgo , van der Veen Jasper , Blom Carsten J. , Karman Cheryl , Hou Ji-Ling , Eachambadi Raghavendran Thiruvallur , Geelhoed Jeanine S. , Wael Karolien De , Beaumont Hubertus J. E. , Cleuren Bart , Valcke Roland , van der Zant Herre S. J. , Boschker Henricus T. S. , Manca Jean V.
Published: September 2019

Biological electron transport is classically thought to occur over nanometre distances, yet recent studies suggest that electrical currents can run along centimetre-long cable bacteria. The phenomenon remains elusive, however, as currents have not been directly measured, nor have the conductive structures been identified. Here we demonstrate that cable bacteria conduct electrons over centimetre distances via highly conductive fibres embedded in the cell envelope. Direct electrode measurements reveal nanoampere currents in intact filaments up to 10.1 mm long (>2000 adjacent cells). A network of parallel periplasmic fibres displays a high conductivity (up to 79 S cm−1), explaining currents measured through intact filaments. Conductance rapidly declines upon exposure to air, but remains stable under vacuum, demonstrating that charge transfer is electronic rather than ionic. Our finding of a biological structure that efficiently guides electrical currents over long distances greatly expands the paradigm of biological charge transport and could enable new bio-electronic applications.
Mitochondrial supercomplex assembly promotes breast and endometrial tumorigenesis by metabolic alterations and enhanced hypoxia tolerance
Authors: Ikeda Kazuhiro , Horie-Inoue Kuniko , Suzuki Takashi , Hobo Rutsuko , Nakasato Norie , Takeda Satoru , Inoue Satoshi
Published: September 2019

Recent advance in cancer research sheds light on the contribution of mitochondrial respiration in tumorigenesis, as they efficiently produce ATP and oncogenic metabolites that will facilitate cancer cell growth. Here we show that a stabilizing factor for mitochondrial supercomplex assembly, COX7RP/COX7A2L/SCAF1, is abundantly expressed in clinical breast and endometrial cancers. Moreover, COX7RP overexpression associates with prognosis of breast cancer patients. We demonstrate that COX7RP overexpression in breast and endometrial cancer cells promotes in vitro and in vivo growth, stabilizes mitochondrial supercomplex assembly even in hypoxic states, and increases hypoxia tolerance. Metabolomic analyses reveal that COX7RP overexpression modulates the metabolic profile of cancer cells, particularly the steady-state levels of tricarboxylic acid cycle intermediates. Notably, silencing of each subunit of the 2-oxoglutarate dehydrogenase complex decreases the COX7RP-stimulated cancer cell growth. Our results indicate that COX7RP is a growth-regulatory factor for breast and endometrial cancer cells by regulating metabolic pathways and energy production.
Synchronous 500-year oscillations of monsoon climate and human activity in Northeast Asia
Authors: Xu Deke , Lu Houyuan , Chu Guoqiang , Liu Li , Shen Caiming , Li Fengjiang , Wang Can , Wu Naiqin
Published: September 2019

Prehistoric human activities were likely influenced by cyclic monsoon climate changes in East Asia. Here we report a decadal-resolution Holocene pollen record from an annually-laminated Maar Lake in Northeast China, a proxy of monsoon climate, together with a compilation of 627 radiocarbon dates from archeological sites in Northeast China which is a proxy of human activity. The results reveal synchronous ~500-year quasi-periodic changes over the last 8000 years. The warm-humid/cold-dry phases of monsoon cycles correspond closely to the intensification/weakening of human activity and the flourishing/decline of prehistoric cultures. Six prosperous phases of prehistoric cultures, with one exception, correspond approximately to warm-humid phases caused by a strengthened monsoon. This ~500-year cyclicity in the monsoon and thus environmental change triggered the development of prehistoric cultures in Northeast China. The cyclicity is apparently linked to the El Niño-Southern Oscillation, against the background of long-term Holocene climatic evolution. These findings reveal a pronounced relationship between prehistoric human activity and cyclical climate change.
Heterogeneity in The Mechanical Properties of Integrins Determines Mechanotransduction Dynamics in Bone Osteoblasts
Authors: Shuaib Aban , Motan Daniyal , Bhattacharya Pinaki , McNabb Alex , Skerry Timothy M. , Lacroix Damien
Published: September 2019

Bone cells are exposed to dynamic mechanical stimulation that is transduced into cellular responses by mechanotransduction mechanisms. The extracellular matrix (ECM) provides a physical link between loading and bone cells, where mechanoreceptors, such as integrins, initiate mechanosensation. Though this relationship is well studied, the dynamic interplay between mechanosensation, mechanotransduction and cellular responses is unclear. A hybrid-multiscale model combining molecular, cellular and tissue interactions was developed to examine links between integrins’ mechanosensation and effects on mechanotransduction, ECM modulation and cell-ECM interaction. The model shows that altering integrin mechanosensitivity threshold (MT) increases mechanotransduction durations from hours to beyond 4 days, where bone formation starts. This is relevant to bone, where it is known that a brief stimulating period provides persistent influences for over 24 hours. Furthermore, the model forecasts that integrin heterogeneity, with respect to MT, would be able to induce sustained increase in pERK baseline > 15% beyond 4 days. This is analogous to the emergence of molecular mechanical memory signalling dynamics. Therefore, the model can provide a greater understanding of mechanical adaptation to differential mechanical responses at different times. Given reduction of bone sensitivity to mechanical stimulation with age, these findings may lead towards useful therapeutic targets for upregulation of bone mass.
Modular Protein Ligation: A New Paradigm as a Reagent Platform for Pre-Clinical Drug Discovery
Authors: Matico Rosalie , Szewczuk Lawrence M. , Pietrak Beth , Chen Stephanie , Dul Ed , Bonnette William G. , Meinhold Derrick W. , Quinque Geoffrey , Totoritis Rachel , Lewis Tia , Grimes Maggie , Fornwald Daniel , McCormick Patricia M. , Schaber Michael , Jiang Yong , Bledsoe Randy , Holbert Marc A.
Published: September 2019

Significant resource is spent by drug discovery project teams to generate numerous, yet unique target constructs for the multiple platforms used to drive drug discovery programs including: functional assays, biophysical studies, structural biology, and biochemical high throughput screening campaigns. To improve this process, we developed Modular Protein Ligation (MPL), a combinatorial reagent platform utilizing Expressed Protein Ligation to site-specifically label proteins at the C-terminus with a variety of cysteine-lysine dipeptide conjugates. Historically, such proteins have been chemically labeled non-specifically through surface amino acids. To demonstrate the feasibility of this approach, we first applied MPL to proteins of varying size in different target classes using different recombinant protein expression systems, which were then evaluated in several different downstream assays. A key advantage to the implementation of this paradigm is that one construct can generate multiple final products, significantly streamlining the reagent generation for multiple early drug discovery project teams.
Transport Properties and Finite Size Effects in β-Ga2O3 Thin Films
Authors: Ahrling Robin , Boy Johannes , Handwerg Martin , Chiatti Olivio , Mitdank Rüdiger , Wagner Günter , Galazka Zbigniew , Fischer Saskia F.
Published: September 2019

Thin films of the wide band gap semiconductor β-Ga2O3 have a high potential for applications in transparent electronics and high power devices. However, the role of interfaces remains to be explored. Here, we report on fundamental limits of transport properties in thin films. The conductivities, Hall densities and mobilities in thin homoepitaxially MOVPE grown (100)-orientated β-Ga2O3 films were measured as a function of temperature and film thickness. At room temperature, the electron mobilities ((115 ± 10) cm2/Vs) in thicker films (>150 nm) are comparable to the best of bulk. However, the mobility is strongly reduced by more than two orders of magnitude with decreasing film thickness ((5.5 ± 0.5) cm2/Vs for a 28 nm thin film). We find that the commonly applied classical Fuchs-Sondheimer model does not explain sufficiently the contribution of electron scattering at the film surfaces. Instead, by applying an electron wave model by Bergmann, a contribution to the mobility suppression due to the large de Broglie wavelength in β-Ga2O3 is proposed as a limiting quantum mechanical size effect.
Metabolomic and gene expression approaches reveal the developmental and environmental regulation of the secondary metabolism of yacón (Smallanthus sonchifolius, Asteraceae)
Authors: Padilla-González Guillermo F. , Frey Maximilian , Gómez-Zeledón Javier , Da Costa Fernando B. , Spring Otmar
Published: September 2019

Acting as chemical defense or signaling compounds, secondary metabolites (SMs) play an essential role in the evolutionary success of many angiosperm plant families. However, the adaptive advantages that SMs confer, and the influence of environmental and developmental factors on SMs expression, remains poorly understood. A study of taxa endemic to the variable Andean climate, using a metabolomics approach, may provide further insight. By analyzing gene expression patterns and metabolic fingerprints, we report herein the developmental and environmental regulation of the secondary metabolism ofSmallanthus sonchifolius(yacón), a medicinal Andean plant. Our results demonstrate a clear developmental stage dependent regulation of the secondary metabolism of yacón leaves wherein the metabolic diversity increases with plant age. However, environmental factors seem to regulate biosynthetic pathways, creating differences in the expression of chemical classes, pointing to an association between transcription levels of relevant genes and the relative amounts of more than 40 different metabolites. This study suggests that the secondary metabolism of yacón is regulated by a complex interplay between environmental factors and developmental stage and provides insight into the regulatory factors and adaptive roles of SMs in Andean taxa.
Light-inducible carotenoid production controlled by a MarR-type regulator in Corynebacterium glutamicum
Authors: Sumi Satoru , Suzuki Yuto , Matsuki Tetsuro , Yamamoto Takahiro , Tsuruta Yudai , Mise Kou , Kawamura Takuya , Ito Yusuke , Shimada Yuka , Watanabe Erika , Watanabe Shoko , Toriyabe Minami , Takano Hatsumi , Ueda Kenji , Takano Hideaki
Published: September 2019

Carotenoid production in some non-phototropic bacteria occurs in a light-dependent manner to protect cells from photo-oxidants. Knowledge regarding the transcriptional regulator involved in the light-dependent production of carotenoids of non-phototrophic bacteria has been mainly confined to coenzyme B12-based photo-sensitive regulator CarH/LitR family proteins belonging to a MerR family transcriptional regulator. In this study, we found that bacteria belonging to Micrococcales and Corynebacteriales exhibit light-dependent carotenoid-like pigment production including an amino acid-producer Corynebacterium glutamicum AJ1511. CrtR is a putative MarR family transcriptional regulator located in the divergent region of a carotenoid biosynthesis gene cluster in the genome of those bacteria. A null mutant for crtR of C. glutamicum AJ1511 exhibited constitutive production of carotenoids independent of light. A complemented strain of the crtR mutant produced carotenoids in a light-dependent manner. Transcriptional analysis revealed that the expression of carotenoid biosynthesis genes is regulated in a light-dependent manner in the wild type, while the transcription was upregulated in the crtR mutant irrespective of light. In vitro experiments demonstrated that a recombinant CrtR protein binds to the specific sequences within the intergenic region of crtR and crtE, which corresponds to −58 to −7 for crtE, and +26 to −28 for crtR with respect to the transcriptional start site, and serves as a repressor for crtE transcription directed by RNA polymerase containing SigA. Taken together, the results indicate that CrtR light-dependently controls the expression of the carotenoid gene cluster in C. glutamicum and probably closely related Actinobacteria.
Computational chemoproteomics to understand the role of selected psychoactives in treating mental health indications
Authors: Fine Jonathan , Lackner Rachel , Samudrala Ram , Chopra Gaurav
Published: September 2019

We have developed the Computational Analysis of Novel Drug Opportunities (CANDO) platform to infer homology of drug behaviour at a proteomic level by constructing and analysing structural compound-proteome interaction signatures of 3,733 compounds with 48,278 proteins in a shotgun manner. We applied the CANDO platform to predict putative therapeutic properties of 428 psychoactive compounds that belong to the phenylethylamine, tryptamine, and cannabinoid chemical classes for treating mental health indications. Our findings indicate that these 428 psychoactives are among the top-ranked predictions for a significant fraction of mental health indications, demonstrating a significant preference for treating such indications over non-mental health indications, relative to randomized controls. Also, we analysed the use of specific tryptamines for the treatment of sleeping disorders, bupropion for substance abuse disorders, and cannabinoids for epilepsy. Our innovative use of the CANDO platform may guide the identification and development of novel therapies for mental health indications and provide an understanding of their causal basis on a detailed mechanistic level. These predictions can be used to provide new leads for preclinical drug development for mental health and other neurological disorders.
Ixodes scapularis salivary gland microRNAs are differentially expressed during Powassan virus transmission
Authors: Hermance Meghan E. , Widen Steven G. , Wood Thomas G. , Thangamani Saravanan
Published: September 2019

Successful tick feeding is facilitated by an assortment of pharmacologically-active factors in tick saliva that create an immunologically privileged micro-environment in the host’s skin. Through a process known as saliva-assisted transmission, bioactive tick salivary factors modulate the host environment, promoting transmission and establishment of a tick-borne pathogen. This phenomenon was previously demonstrated for Powassan virus (POWV), a North American tick-borne flavivirus that is the causative agent of a severe neuroinvasive disease in humans. Here, we sought to characterize the Ixodes scapularis salivary gland microRNAs (miRNAs) expressed during the earliest period of POWV transmission to a mammalian host. POWV-infected and uninfected I. scapularis females were fed on naïve mice for 1, 3, and 6 hours, and Illumina next generation sequencing was used to characterize the salivary gland miRNA expression profiles of POWV-infected versus uninfected ticks. 379 salivary miRNAs were detected, of which 338 are reported here as putative novel I. scapularis miRNAs. 35 salivary gland miRNAs were significantly up-regulated and 17 miRNAs were significantly down-regulated in response to POWV infection. To investigate the potential role of salivary gland miRNAs in POWV replication in-vitro, we transfected miRNA inhibitors into VeroE6 cells to profile temporal POWV replication in mammalian cells. Together, the small RNA sequencing data and the in vitro miRNA inhibition assay suggest that the differentially expressed tick salivary miRNAs could act in regulating POWV replication in host tissues.
Association of Anti-Mullerian Hormone with C-Reactive Protein in Men
Authors: Kadariya Dinesh , Kurbanova Nargiza , Qayyum Rehan
Published: September 2019

While serum anti-mullerian hormone (AMH) levels are inversely associated with all-cause mortality in men, the underlying mechanisms are unclear. Elevated levels of inflammation, also associated with all-cause mortality, and may be the link between AMH and mortality. Hence, we examined the association of AMH with serum c-reactive protein (CRP), a biomarker of inflammation, in men. We included men ≥20 years from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (1999–2004). We used survey weight-adjusted linear regression to examine the association between AMH and CRP without and with adjustment for age, race, body mass index (BMI), smoking, hypertension, diabetes, cholesterol, glomerular filtration rate (GFR), testosterone, androstenedione, and sex hormone binding globulin. Of the 949 men, 212 (22%) were elderly, 493 (52%) Caucasian, 254 (27%) current smokers, 100 (10%) diabetics, and 312 (33%) had hypertension. Mean (SD) AMH was 8.4 (7.2) ng/mL and median (IQR) CRP level was 0.17 (3) mg/L. Using linear regression, each 10 ng/mL rise in AMH was associated with 0.09 mg/dL (95%CI = −0.14 to −0.03; p = 0.002) decrease before and 0.08 mg/dL (95%CI = −0.13 to −0.02; p = 0.004) decrease in CRP after adjusting for potential confounders. Similarly, men in the highest quartile of AMH had significantly lower CRP compared to those in the lowest quartile (unadjusted difference = −0.19 mg/dL; 95%CI = −0.31 to −0.06; p = 0.006, adjusted difference = −0.16 mg/dL; 95%CI = −0.3 to −0.01; p = 0.035). We found an independent, robust, and inverse association between CRP and AMH in men. Effect of AMH on mortality may be through amelioration of inflammation.
Time-Spectral based Polarization-Encoding for Spatial-Temporal Super-Resolved NSOM Readout
Authors: Karelits Matityahu , Mandelbaum Yaakov , Zalevsky Zeev , Karsenty Avi
Published: September 2019

Detection of evanescent waves through Near-field Scanning Optical Microscopy (NSOM) has been simulated in the past, using Finite Elements Method (FEM) and 2D advanced simulations of a silicon Schottky diode, shaped as a truncated trapezoid photodetector, and sharing a subwavelength pin hole aperture. Towards enhanced resolution and next applications, the study of polarization’s influence was added to the scanning. The detector has been horizontally shifted across a vertically oriented Gaussian beam while several E-field modes, are projected on the top of the device. Both electrical and electro-optical simulations have been conducted. These results are promising towards the fabrication of a new generation of photodetector devices which can serve for Time-Spectral based Polarization-Encoding for Spatial-Temporal Super-Resolved NSOM Readout, as developed in the study.
Concentration and pollution assessment of heavy metals within surface sediments of the Raohe Basin, China
Authors: Wei Jin , Duan Maoqing , Li Yiping , Nwankwegu Amechi S. , Ji Yong , Zhang Jie
Published: September 2019

Surface sediment samples were collected from four areas (the Jingdezhen Industrialized Area (JDZ), Upstream (UP), the Dexing Mining Area (DX), and Downstream (DM)) to investigate the concentration and chemical composition of heavy metals. The sediments were analysed for Cu, Zn, Pb, Cd, Cr, As, and Ni using a sequential extraction scheme according to the improved BCR (European Community Bureau of Reference) method. The obtained results show that the maximum values of Cu (793.52 μg·g−1), Zn (72.09 μg·g−1), Pb (222.19 μg·g−1), and Cd (1.60 μg·g−1) were collected from the DX sampling area, while the JDZ area had the highest concentrations of Cr (97.09 μg·g−1), As (318.05 μg·g−1), and Ni (66.35 μg·g−1). The majority of metal values far exceeded their corresponding background values. The risk analysis of geo-accumulation index (Igeo) indicated that the heavy metals Cu and As were the main pollution factors and each element of the pollution degree followed the order of: Cu > As > Pb > Cd > Cr > Zn. Metal partitioning characteristics were also considered and more than 80% of metals show potential bioavailability and toxic effects.
Core set construction and association analysis of Pinus massoniana from Guangdong province in southern China using SLAF-seq
Authors: Bai Qingsong , Cai Yanling , He Boxiang , Liu Wanchuan , Pan Qingyou , Zhang Qian
Published: September 2019

Germplasm resource collection and utilization are important in forestry species breeding. High-through sequencing technologies have been playing increasing roles in forestry breeding. In this study, specific-locus amplified fragment sequencing (SLAF-seq) was employed to analyze 149 masson pine (Pinus massoniana) accessions collected from Guangdong in China. A large number of 471,660 SNPs in the total collection were identified from 599,164 polymorphic SLAF tags. Population structure analysis showed that 149 masson pines could not be obviously divided into subpopulations. Two core sets, containing 29 masson pine accessions for increasing resin and wood yield respectively, were obtained from the total collection. Phenotypic analyses of five traits showed abundant variations, 25 suggestive and 9 significant SNPs were associated with the resin-yielding capacity (RYC’) and volume of wood (VW) using EMMAX and FaST-LMM; 22 suggestive and 11 significant SNPs were associated with RYC’ and VW using mrMLM and FASTmrMLM. Moreover, a large number of associated SNPs were detected in trait HT, DBH, RW and RYC using mrMLM, FASTmrMLM, FASTmrEMMA and ISIS EM-BLASSO. The core germplasm sets would be a valuable resource for masson pine improvement and breeding. In addition, the associated SNP markers would be meaningful for masson pine resource selection.
Detection of Gram-negative bacterial outer membrane vesicles using DNA aptamers
Authors: Shin Hye-Su , Gedi Vinayakumar , Kim Joon-Ki , Lee Dong-ki
Published: September 2019

Infection of various pathogenic bacteria causes severe illness to human beings. Despite the research advances, current identification tools still exhibit limitations in detecting Gram-negative bacteria with high accuracy. In this study, we isolated single-stranded DNA aptamers against multiple Gram-negative bacterial species using Toggle-cell-SELEX (systemic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment) and constructed an aptamer-based detection tool towards bacterial secretory cargo released from outer membranes of Gram-negative bacteria. Three Gram-negative bacteria, Escherichia coli DH5α, E. coli K12, and Serratia marcescens, were sequentially incubated with the pool of random DNA sequences at each SELEX loop. Two aptamers selected, GN6 and GN12, were 4.2-times and 3.6-times higher binding to 108 cells of Gram-negative bacteria than to Gram-positive bacteria tested, respectively. Using GN6 aptamer, we constructed an Enzyme-linked aptamer assay (ELAA) to detect bacterial outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) of Gram-negative bacteria, which contain several outer membrane proteins with potent immunostimulatory effects. The GN6-ELAA showed high sensitivity to detect as low as 25 ng/mL bacterial OMVs. Aptamers developed in this study show a great potential to facilitate medical diagnosis and early detection of bacterial terrorism, based on the ability to detect bacterial OMVs of multiple Gram-negative bacteria.
Nanoantenna enhanced terahertz interaction of biomolecules
Authors: Adak Subham , Tripathi Laxmi Narayan
Published: September 2019

A comprehensive review describing the concepts and significance of FDTD, molecular dynamics, and application of nanoantennas for enhanced THz time-domain spectroscopy.
Ultrasensitive detection of prostate specific antigen using a personal glucose meter based on DNA-mediated immunoreaction
Authors: Sun Feifei , Sun Xiaomei , Jia Yijing , Hu Zhian , Xu Shenghao , Li Lin , Na Na , Ouyang Jin
Published: September 2019

We report a point-of-care immunosensor coupled with a rolling circle reaction and a personal glucose meter for sensitive detection of PSA.
Photon management properties of Yb-doped SnO2nanoparticles synthesized by the sol–gel technique
Authors: Bouras Karima , Schmerber Guy , Aureau Damien , Rinnert Hervé , Rehspringer Jean-Luc , Ihiawakrim Dris , Dinia Aziz , Slaoui Abdelilah , Colis Silviu
Published: September 2019

The functionalization of SnO2nanoparticles with optically active Yb3+ions using the sol–gel method allows UV to NIR spectral conversion and opens new opportunities of down conversion for solar cells applications.
Vibronic spectroscopy of methyl anthranilate and its water complex: hydrogen atom dislocation in the excited state
Authors: Blodgett Karl N. , Sun Dewei , Fischer Joshua L. , Sibert Edwin L. , Zwier Timothy S.
Published: September 2019

Hydrogen atom dislocation in the S1 state of methyl anthranilate and its water complex is characterized using vibronic spectroscopy.
Homogenous electrochemical water oxidation by a nickel(ii) complex based on a macrocyclic N-heterocyclic carbene/pyridine hybrid ligand
Authors: Shahadat Hossain M. , Younus Hussein A. , Ahmad Nazir , Rahaman Md. Abdur , Khattak Zafar A. K. , Zhuiykov Serge , Verpoort Francis
Published: September 2019

Electrochemical water oxidation catalyzed by a homogeneous Ni–NHC/pyridine complex demonstrated electrolyte-dependent catalytic performances. The catalyst displayed a stable catalytic current of oxygen evolution in long-term bulk electrolysis.
Confined Co9S8 into a defective carbon matrix as a bifunctional oxygen electrocatalyst for rechargeable zinc–air batteries
Authors: Meng Lu , Zhan Ling , Jiang Hongliang , Zhu Yihua , Li Chunzhong
Published: September 2019

CE-Co9S8@N,S-CM shows remarkable performance as a bi-functional electrocatalyst, and shows potential in the practical application of zinc–air batteries.
Enhanced photocatalytic activity of g-C3N4/MnO composites for hydrogen evolution under visible light
Authors: Mao Na , Gao Xiaomin , Zhang Chong , Shu Chang , Ma Wenyan , Wang Feng , Jiang Jia-Xing
Published: September 2019

g-C3N4/MnO composites show superior photocatalytic activity for hydrogen evolution under visible light due to the formation of heterojunctions.
2D ultrathin CoP modified MnxCd1−xS with controllable band structure and robust photocatalytic performance for hydrogen generation
Authors: Chen Ran , Ao Yanhui , Wang Chao , Wang Peifang
Published: September 2019

Considerable efforts have been directed towards constructing high-efficiency, earth-abundant and low-cost photocatalysts for hydrogen evolution under visible light irradiation.
The impact of hydrophilic emulsifiers on the physico-chemical properties, microstructure, water distribution andin vitrodigestibility of proteins in fried snacks based on fish meat
Authors: Nawaz Asad , Xiong Zhouyi , Xiong Hanguo , Irshad Sana , Chen Lei , Wang Peng-kai , Ahsan Hafiz Muhammad , Walayat Noman , Qamar Sajid Hussain
Published: September 2019

Hydrophillic emulsifiers strengthened the starch–protein interaction which resulted in improved physio-chemical properties of friend snacks based on fish meat.
Meat proteins in a high-fat diet have a substantial impact on intestinal barriers through mucus layer and tight junction protein suppression in C57BL/6J mice
Authors: Hussain Muzahir , Umair Ijaz Muhammad , Ahmad Muhammad Ijaz , Khan Iftikhar Ali , Brohi Sarfaraz Ahmed , Shah Abid Ullah , Shinwari Kamran Iqbal , Zhao Di , Xu Xinglian , Zhou Guanghong , Li Chunbao
Published: September 2019

Protein diets are well known for body maintenance and weight loss.
Extending the design space in solvent extraction – from supercritical fluids to pressurized liquids using carbon dioxide, ethanol, ethyl lactate, and water in a wide range of proportions
Authors: Pilařová Veronika , Al Hamimi Said , Cunico Larissa P. , Nováková Lucie , Turner Charlotta
Published: September 2019

Fast extractions were achieved by the use of green solvents containing compressed carbon dioxide as a viscosity-lowering entrainer.
Deep eutectic solvents for Cu-catalysed ARGET ATRP under an air atmosphere: a sustainable and efficient route to poly(methyl methacrylate) using a recyclable Cu(ii) metal–organic framework
Authors: Quirós-Montes Luis , Carriedo Gabino A. , García-Álvarez Joaquín , Presa Soto Alejandro
Published: September 2019

A new environmentally-friendly and air-tolerant protocol for the Cu-MOF catalysed ATRP of MMA in a biorenewable deep eutectic solvent is reported, with both the solvent and catalyst being recycled up to six consecutive times.
Epitaxially aligned submillimeter-scale silver nanoplates grown by simple vapor transport
Authors: Yoo Youngdong , Kim Si-in , Han Sol , Lee Hyoban , Kim Jihwan , Kim Han Sung , Ahn Jae-Pyoung , Kang Taejoon , Choo Jaebum , Kim Bongsoo
Published: September 2019

Submillimeter-scale silver nanoplate arrays are grown epitaxially in vapor phase from supported seeds on various substrates.
Fusion growth patterns in atomically precise metal nanoclusters
Authors: Du Xiangsha , Chai Jinsong , Yang Sha , Li Yingwei , Higaki Tatsuya , Li Site , Jin Rongchao
Published: September 2019

This mini-Review summarizes the fusion growth patterns of metal nanoclusters based upon M4, M13 and M14 building blocks.
A novel colorimetric paper sensor based on the layer-by-layer assembled multilayers of surfactants for the sensitive and selective determination of total antioxidant capacity
Authors: Mukdasai Siriboon , Uppachai Pikaned , Srijaranai Supalax
Published: September 2019

A new colorimetric paper sensor, (TBABr/SDS)3/PAD, was successfully fabricated to detect TAC. Good selectivity and sensitivity toward TAC were achieved. The (TBABr/SDS)3/PAD sensor has been applied for TAC detection in food samples.
Dynamic interplay of alkali cations and a natural organic binder in the microstructural evolution of Cu2ZnSnS4 thin films prepared from Cu2ZnSnS4 powder-containing inks
Authors: Mutiari Anies , Bansal Neha , Hamid Raad , Artner Martin , Mayer Veronika , Roth Juergen , Weil Matthias , Wibowo Rachmat Adhi
Published: September 2019

The use of pre-synthesised Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS) sub-micron powders as a raw material for preparing CZTS thin films for photovoltaic absorber applications is examined.
Ureidopeptide GLP-1 analogues with prolonged activity in vivo via signal bias and altered receptor trafficking
Authors: Fremaux Juliette , Venin Claire , Mauran Laura , Zimmer Robert , Koensgen Florian , Rognan Didier , Bitsi Stavroula , Lucey Maria A. , Jones Ben , Tomas Alejandra , Guichard Gilles , Goudreau Sébastien R.
Published: September 2019

This study demonstrates the efficacy of single α-amino acids substitution with ureido residues to design long lasting peptides.
Cerium and nitrogen doped CoP nanorod arrays for hydrogen evolution in all pH conditions
Authors: Liu Pei , Lu Yibin , Ma Wenjun , Ma Linzheng , Liu Qingyun , Zhang Xiao , Guo Jinxue
Published: September 2019

Cerium and nitrogen co-doped CoP nanorod arrays on carbon fiber cloth were developed as pH-universal HER electrocatalyst with the low overpotentials of 66 mV, 72 mV, and 41 mV at 10 mA cm−2 in 0.5 M H2SO4, 1 M PBS, and 1 M KOH, respectively.
Substituent enhanced fluorescence properties of star α-cyanostilbenes and their application in bioimaging
Authors: Gopinath A. , Manivannan N. , Mandal Sudip , Mathivanan N. , Nasar A. Sultan
Published: September 2019

In this paper, we report the fluorescence properties of new star α-cyanostilbene molecules. Fungus cell imaging studies using one of the molecules allowed observing nuclear movement in the live mycelium.
Pillar[5]arenes: a new class of AIEgen macrocycles used for luminescence sensing of Fe3+ ions
Authors: Chen Jin-Fa , Meng Guoyun , Zhu Qian , Zhang Songhe , Chen Pangkuan
Published: September 2019

We investigated the enhanced luminescence of pillar[5]arenes in aggregates and found that they serve as typical aggregation-induced emission (AIE) materials in a highly polar medium.