bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Attenuation of radiation toxicity by the phosphine resistance factor dihydrolipoamide dehydrogenase (DLD)
Authors: Alzahrani Saad M. , Ebert Paul R.
Published: April 2019

Phosphine gas is an excellent fumigant for disinfesting stored grain of insect pests, but heavy reliance on phosphine has led to resistance in grain pests that threatens its efficacy. Phosphine-resistance was previously reported to be mediated by the enzyme DLD. Here we explore the relationship between phosphine toxicity and genotoxic treatments with the goal of understanding how phosphine works. Specifically, we utilized mutant lines either sensitive or resistant to phosphine, gamma irradiation or UV exposure. The phosphine-resistance mutation in the enzyme of energy metabolism, dihydrolipoamide dehydrogenase exhibited cross-resistance to UV and ionizing radiation. Two radiation-sensitive mutants that are defective in DNA repair as well as a mutant that is defective in the activation of the DAF-16 stress response transcription factor all exhibit sensitivity to phosphine that exceeds the sensitivity of the wild type control. A radiation resistance mutation incep-1, the p53 orthologue, that is deficient in double strand break repair of DNA and is also deficient in apoptosis causes radiation-resistance results but sensitivity toward phosphine.
Enhanced early-life nutrition upregulates cholesterol biosynthetic gene expression and Sertoli cell maturation in testes of pre-pubertal Holstein bulls
Authors: Johnson Chinju , Dance Alysha , Kovalchuk Igor , Kastelic John , Thundathil Jacob
Published: April 2019

Well-fed prepuberal Holstein bulls had larger testes, earlier puberty, higher LH, testosterone and IGF-1, earlier and more proliferating and differentiating Sertoli cells, and greater sperm production potential. The objective was to determine effects of pre-pubertal nutrition on mRNA expression of testicular genes. Holstein bull calves were fed high or low diets (20 or 12% crude protein, respectively and 71.6 or 64.4% Total Digestible Nutrients) from 2 wk, castrated at 8, 16, 24 and 32 wk and testicular mRNA extracted and sequenced. Differential expression of genes mainly occurred at 16 and 24 wk. At 16 wk, functional analysis (DAVID) of DE mRNA revealed common biological processes including “cholesterol” and “fatty acid biosynthesis,” with most genes (including HMGCR, HMGCS1, HSD17) upregulated in high-diet bulls (P < 0.05). Major pathways enriched at 16 wk were “cholesterol biosynthesis”, “steroid metabolism” and “activation of gene expression by Sterol regulatory element binding protein (SREBP)” (P < 0.05). In high-diet bulls, mature Sertoli cell marker Connexin 43, was upregulated at 16 wk and immature Sertoli cell marker (AMH) downregulated at 24 wk. There was an indirect interaction between insulin family receptor and most upregulated cholesterol biosynthesis genes. Pre-pubertal nutrition enhanced testicular cholesterol/steroid biosynthesis and Sertoli cell maturation.
Adoptive Transfer of Bone Marrow-Derived Monocytes Ameliorates Schistosoma mansoni -Induced Liver Fibrosis in Mice
Authors: de Souza Veruska Cintia Alexandrino , Moura Danielle Maria Nascimento , de Castro Maria Carolina Accioly Brelaz , Bozza Patrícia Torres , de Almeida Paiva Ligia , Fernandes Camila Juliet Barbosa , Leão Renata Lins Carneiro , Lucena Jéssica Paula , de Araujo Roni Evencio , de Melo Silva Alex José , Figueiredo Regina Celia Bressan Queiroz , de Oliveira Sheilla Andrade
Published: April 2019

Liver diseases are a major health problem worldwide leading to high mortality rates and causing a considerable economic burden in many countries. Cellular therapies as potential treatments for liver diseases have proven beneficial in most of the conditions. In recent years, studies involving therapy with bone marrow cells have been implemented to promote liver regeneration and to reduce hepatic fibrosis, however identifying the cell population present in the bone marrow that is responsible for hepatic improvement after therapy is still necessary. The aim of the present study was the evaluation of the therapeutic efficacy of monocytes obtained from bone marrow in fibrosis resulting from S. mansoni infection in C57BL/6 mice. Monocytes were isolated by immunomagnetic separation and administered to the infected animals. The effects of treatment were evaluated through morphometric, biochemical, immunological and molecular analyzes. Monocyte therapy promoted reduction of liver fibrosis induced by S. mansoni infection, associated with a decrease in production of inflammatory and pro-fibrogenic mediators. In addition, monocyte infusion caused downregulation of factors associated with the M1 activation profile, as well as upregulation of M2reg markers. The findings altogether reinforce the hypothesis that the predominance of M2reg macrophages, producers of immunosuppressive cytokines, may favor the improvement of hepatic fibrosis in a preclinical model, through fibrous tissue remodeling, modulation of the inflammatory response and fibrogenesis.
2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin abolishes circadian regulation of hepatic metabolic activity in mice
Authors: Fader Kelly A. , Nault Rance , Doskey Claire M. , Fling Russell R. , Zacharewski Timothy R.
Published: April 2019

Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) activation is reported to alter the hepatic expression of circadian clock regulators, however the impact on clock-controlled metabolism has not been thoroughly investigated. This study examines the effects of AhR activation on hepatic transcriptome and metabolome rhythmicity in male C57BL/6 mice orally gavaged with 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) every 4 days for 28 days. TCDD diminished the rhythmicity of several core clock regulators (e.g. Arntl, Clock, Nr1d1, Per1, Cry1, Nfil3) in a dose-dependent manner, involving either a ≥ 3.3-fold suppression in amplitude or complete loss of oscillation. Accordingly, protein levels (ARNTL, REV-ERBα, NFIL3) and genomic binding (ARNTL) of select regulators were reduced and arrhythmic following treatment. As a result, the oscillating expression of 99.6% of 5,636 clock-controlled hepatic genes was abolished including genes associated with the metabolism of lipids, glucose/glycogen, and heme. For example, TCDD flattened expression of the rate-limiting enzymes in both gluconeogenesis (Pck1) and glycogenesis (Gys2), consistent with the depletion and loss of rhythmicity in hepatic glycogen levels. Examination of polar hepatic extracts by untargeted mass spectrometry revealed that virtually all oscillating metabolites lost rhythmicity following treatment. Collectively, these results suggest TCDD disrupted circadian regulation of hepatic metabolism, altering metabolic efficiency and energy storage.
Iron deficiency disrupts embryonic haematopoiesis but not the endothelial to haematopoietic transition
Authors: Shvartsman Maya , Bilican Saygın , Lancrin Christophe
Published: April 2019

In this study, we aimed to explore how cellular iron status affects embryonic haematopoiesis. For this purpose, we used a model of mouse embryonic stem cell differentiation into embryonic haematopoietic progenitors. We modulated the iron status by adding either the iron chelator Deferoxamine (DFO) for iron deficiency, or ferric ammonium citrate for iron excess, and followed the emergence of developing haematopoietic progenitors. Interestingly, we found that iron deficiency did not block the endothelial to haematopoietic transition, the first step of haematopoiesis. However, it did reduce the proliferation, survival and clonogenic capacity of haematopoietic progenitors. Surprisingly, iron deficiency affected erythro-myeloid progenitors significantly more than the primitive erythroid ones. Erythro-myeloid progenitors expressed less transferrin-receptor on the cell surface and had less labile iron compared to primitive erythroid progenitors, which could reduce their capacity to compete for scarce iron and survive iron deficiency. In conclusion, we show that iron deficiency could disturb haematopoiesis at an early embryonic stage by compromising more severely the survival, proliferation and differentiation of definitive haematopoietic progenitors compared to restricted erythroid progenitors.
KCC1 Activation protects Mice from the Development of Experimental Cerebral Malaria
Authors: Hortle Elinor , Starrs Lora , Brown Fiona C. , Jane Stephen M. , Curtis David J. , McMorran Brendan J. , Foote Simon J. , Burgio Gaetan
Published: April 2019

Plasmodium falciparummalaria causes half a million deaths per year, with up to 9% of this mortality caused by cerebral malaria (CM). One of the major processes contributing to the development of CM is an excess of host inflammatory cytokines. Recently K+ signaling has emerged as an important mediator of the inflammatory response to infection; we therefore investigated whether mice carrying an ENU induced activation of the electroneutral K+ channel KCC1 had an altered response toPlasmodium berghei. Here we show that Kcc1M935K/M935Kmice are protected from the development of experimental cerebral malaria, and that this protection is associated with an increased CD4+ and TNFa response. This is the first description of a K+ channel affecting the development of experimental cerebral malaria.
Exergy valorization of a water electrolyzer and CO2 hydrogenation tandem system for hydrogen and methane production
Authors: Mendoza-Hernandez Omar S. , Shima Asuka , Matsumoto Hiroshige , Inoue Mitsuhiro , Abe Takayuki , Matsuzaki Yoshio , Sone Yoshitsugu
Published: April 2019

In this work, we introduce a water electrolysis and CO2 hydrogenation tandem system which focuses on methane generation. The concept consists of a water electrolyzer thermally coupled to a CO2 hydrogenation reactor, where the power required to generate hydrogen comes from renewable energy. A thermodynamic analysis of the tandem system was carried out. Our analysis exposes that it is possible to increase the exergy efficiency of the water electrolyzer and CO2 hydrogenation system by thermal coupling, where the thermal energy required to split water into H2 and O2 during the electrolysis process is compensated by the heat generated during the CO2 hydrogenation reaction. Here, the conditions at which high exergy efficiency can be achieved were identified.
Fertilizer management and soil type influence grain zinc and iron concentration under contrasting smallholder cropping systems in Zimbabwe
Authors: Manzeke Muneta G. , Mtambanengwe Florence , Watts Michael J. , Hamilton Elliott M. , Lark R. Murray , Broadley Martin R. , Mapfumo Paul
Published: April 2019

Micronutrient deficiencies remain prevalent in food systems of southern Africa, although advances in biofortification through crop breeding and agronomy provide opportunities to address these. We determined baseline soil availability of zinc (Zn) and iron (Fe) and the effects of soil type and farmer management on extractable soil Zn and Fe and subsequent concentration in cereal and legume grains under two contrasting agro-ecologies in Zimbabwe. Soil and crop surveys were conducted in Hwedza and Mutasa Districts of Zimbabwe in 2015–16 on 350 locations over different soil types. Fields with different levels of productivity (designated as “most” and “least” productive fields) were sampled using an inherited hierarchical randomized sampling design. Grain Zn and Fe concentration in maize (Zea mays), sorghum (Sorghum bicolor), finger millet (Eleusine coracana) and cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) were generally insufficient for adequate human nutrition. A Linear Mixed Effects (LME) model revealed that diethylene triamine penta-acetic acid- (DTPA) extractable soil Zn concentration and grain Zn concentration were affected primarily by field productivity level. DTPA-extractable soil Zn concentration was more than two-fold greater on the most productive fields (mean 0.8 mg kg−1) than on the least productive fields, with mean grain Zn concentration of 25.2 mg grain Zn kg−1 which was 13% greater than seen on the least productive fields.  An interaction effect of field productivity level and total soil Zn concentration on DTPA-extractable soil Zn concentration suggests potential contribution of organic matter management to unlocking unavailable forms of soil Zn. DTPA-extractable soil Fe and grain Fe concentration were primarily affected by soil type and crop type, respectively. The LME modelling approach revealed additional soil geochemical covariates affected DTPA-extractable soil Zn and Fe concentration and grain Zn and Fe concentration within Districts. Future studies can therefore be powered to detect their roles at wider spatial scales for sustainable management of crop Zn and Fe nutrition.
Experimental Study of Retention on the Combination of Bifidobacterium with High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) Synergistic Substance in Tumor Tissues
Authors: Gao Xuan , Zou Wenjuan , Jiang Binglei , Xu Die , Luo Yong , Xiong Jie , Yan Sijing , Wang Yaotai , Tang Yu , Chen Chun , Li Huanan , Qiao Hai , Wang Qi , Zou Jianzhong
Published: April 2019

High intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) has been recently regarded to be a new type of technique for non-invasive ablation of local tumors and HIFU synergists could significantly improve its therapeutic efficiency. The therapeutic efficiency of HIFU is greatly limited by the low retention of HIFU synergists in the target area and short residence time. This study aimed to explore a method to increase the deposition of HIFU synergists in tumors. Cationic lipid nanoparticle can be used to enhance the HIFU ablation effect, but there is still a problem for it that the deposition amount in the tumor tissue is small and the residence time is short. Bifidobacterium is highly biosafe and can be selectively colonized in the hypoxic zone of tumor tissue. Cationic lipid nanoparticles can be observed in vitro by attachment to bifidobacterium by electrostatic adsorption. And the effect of the proliferation of bifidobacterium in tumor tissues on the retention amount and retention time of cationic lipid nanoparticles in vivo was evaluated. Results showed that the cationic lipid nanoparticles were linked to the surface of Bifidobacterium effectively in vitro, while in vivo, the retention amount and retention time of cationic lipid nanoparticles could be increased by Bifidobacterium in tumor tissues, which provided a new method for improving the therapeutic efficiency of HIFU.
The immune mediated role of extracellular HMGB1 in a heterotopic model of bladder cancer radioresistance
Authors: Ayoub Mina , Shinde-Jadhav Surashri , Mansure Jose Joao , Alvarez Fernando , Connell Tanner , Seuntjens Jan , Piccirillo Ciriaco A. , Kassouf Wassim
Published: April 2019

Radical cystectomy (RC) together with bilateral pelvic lymph node dissection remains the standard treatment for muscle invasive bladder cancer (MIBC). However, radiation-based treatments such as tri-modal therapy (TMT) involving maximally performed transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT), radiotherapy (XRT), and a chemosensitizer represent an attractive, less invasive alternative. Nevertheless, 25–30% of MIBC patients will experience local recurrence after TMT and half will develop metastasis. Radioresistance of tumor cells could potentially be one of the causes for local recurrence post treatment. High mobility group box-1 (HMGB1) was shown to play a role in bladder cancer radioresistance through its intracellular functions in promoting DNA damage repair and autophagy. Recently, HMGB1 was found to be passively released from irradiated tumor cells. However, less is known about the involvement of extracellular HMGB1 in impairing radiation response and its exact role in modulating the tumor immune microenvironment after XRT. We identified a novel mechanism of bladder cancer radioresistance mediated by the immunological functions of HMGB1. The combination of radiation plus extracellular HMGB1 inhibition markedly improved the radiation response of tumors and resulted in marked changes in the immune landscape. Moreover, combining radiation and HMGB1 inhibition significantly impaired tumor infiltrating MDSCs and TAMs -but not Tregs- and shifted the overall tumor immune balance towards anti-tumoral response. We conclude that extracellular HMGB1 is involved in bladder cancer radioresistance through promoting pro-tumor immune mechanisms.
The Na+/H+-Exchanger NHE1 Regulates Extra- and Intracellular pH and Nimodipine-sensitive [Ca2+]i in the Suprachiasmatic Nucleus
Authors: Cheng Pi-Cheng , Lin Hsin-Yi , Chen Ya-Shuan , Cheng Ruo-Ciao , Su Hung-Che , Huang Rong-Chi
Published: April 2019

The central clock in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) has higher metabolic activity than extra-SCN areas in the anterior hypothalamus. Here we investigated whether the Na+/H+ exchanger (NHE) may regulate extracellular pH (pHe), intracellular pH (pHi) and [Ca2+]i in the SCN. In hypothalamic slices bathed in HEPES-buffered solution a standing acidification of ~0.3 pH units was recorded with pH-sensitive microelectrodes in the SCN but not extra-SCN areas. The NHE blocker amiloride alkalinised the pHe. RT-PCR revealed mRNA for plasmalemmal-type NHE1, NHE4, and NHE5 isoforms, whereas the NHE1-specific antagonist cariporide alkalinised the pHe. Real-time PCR and western blotting failed to detect day-night variation in NHE1 mRNA and protein levels. Cariporide induced intracellular acidosis, increased basal [Ca2+]i, and decreased depolarisation-induced Ca2+ rise, with the latter two effects being abolished with nimodipine blocking the L-type Ca2+ channels. Immunofluorescent staining revealed high levels of punctate colocalisation of NHE1 with serotonin transporter (SERT) or CaV1.2, as well as triple staining of NHE1, CaV1.2, and SERT or the presynaptic marker Bassoon. Our results indicate that NHE1 actively extrudes H+ to regulate pHi and nimodipine-sensitive [Ca2+]i in the soma, and along with CaV1.2 may also regulate presynaptic Ca2+ levels and, perhaps at least serotonergic, neurotransmission in the SCN.
User-defined morphogen patterning for directing human cell fate stratification
Authors: Regier Mary C. , Tokar Jacob J. , Warrick Jay W. , Pabon Lil , Berthier Erwin , Beebe David J. , Stevens Kelly R.
Published: April 2019

Concentration gradients of biochemical stimuli such as morphogens play a critical role in directing cell fate patterning across species and throughout development but are not commonly recapitulated in vitro. While in vitro biomolecule gradients have been generated using customized microfluidic platforms, broad implementation has been limited because these platforms introduce new variables to cell culture such as externally driven flow, culture in a specialized matrix, or extended time for in situ long range diffusion. Here we introduce a method that enables preforming and then transferring user-controlled gradients to cells in standard “open” cultures. Our gradient patterning devices are modular and decoupled from the culture substrate. We find that gradient generation and transfer are predictable by finite element modeling and that device and loading parameters can be used to tune the stimulus pattern. Furthermore, we demonstrate use of these devices to spatially define morphogen signal gradients and direct peri-gastrulation fate stratification of human pluripotent stem cells. This method for extrinsic application of biochemical signal gradients can thus be used to spatially influence cellular fate decisions in a user-controlled manner.
Polysaccharides from Trifolium repens L. extracted by different methods and extraction condition optimization
Authors: Shang Hongmei , Li Ran , Wu Hongxin , Sun Zewei
Published: April 2019

Four different extraction methods, including hot water extraction (HWE), ultrasonic-assisted extraction (UAE), enzyme-assisted extraction (EAE) and ultrasonic-enzyme-assisted extraction (UEAE), were applied to extract polysaccharides from Trifolium repens L. (TRPs). In addition, response surface methodology (RSM) was performed to optimize the extraction conditions of TRPs. The results showed that different extraction methods had significant effects on the extraction yields and antioxidant activities of TRPs. TRPs extracted by the EAE method (10.57%) and UEAE method (10.62%) had significantly higher extraction yields than TRPs extracted by the HWE method (8.35%) and UAE method (9.43%) (P < 0.05). However, there was no significant difference between the extraction yields of the EAE method and UEAE method (P > 0.05). TRPs extracted by the EAE method had a higher content of uronic acid and exhibited better antioxidant capacities. Therefore, EAE was selected as the optimal extraction method to extract TRPs. The optimal extraction conditions of EAE to extract TPRs were liquid–solid ratio 30 mL/g, enzymolysis time 87 min, enzyme-complex dosage 1.6% and pH 6, leading to a TRPs yield of 13.15%.
Al atomistic surface modulation on colloidal gradient quantum dots for high-brightness and stable light-emitting devices
Authors: Lee Jae-Sung , Kang Byoung-Ho , Kim Sae-Wan , Kwon Jin-Beom , Kim Ok-Sik , Byun Young Tae , Kwon Dae-Hyuk , Bae Jin-Hyuk , Kang Shin-Won
Published: April 2019

Quantum-dot (QD) light-emitting devices (QLEDs) have been attracting considerable attention owing to the unique properties of process, which can control the emission wavelength by controlling the particle size, narrow emission bandwidth, and high brightness. Although there have been rapid advances in terms of luminance and efficiency improvements, the long-term device stability is limited by the low chemical stability and photostability of the QDs against moisture and air. In this study, we report a simple method, which can for enhance the long-term stability of QLEDs against oxidation by inserting Al into the shells of CdSe/ZnS QDs. The Al coated on the ZnS shell of QDs act as a protective layer with Al2O3 owing to photo-oxidation, which can prevents the photodegradation of QD with prolonged irradiation and stabilize the device during a long-term operation. The QLEDs fabricated using CdSe/ZnS/Al QDs exhibited a maximum luminance of 57,580 cd/m2 and current efficiency of 5.8 cd/A, which are significantly more than 1.6 times greater than that of CdSe/ZnS QDs. Moreover, the lifetimes of the CdSe/ZnS/Al-QD-based QLEDs were significantly improved owing to the self-passivation at the QD surfaces.
Cellular and molecular mechanisms associated with ischemic stroke severity in female mice with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Hénaut Lucie , Grissi Maria , Brazier François , Assem Maryam , Poirot-Leclercq Sabrina , Lenglet Gaëlle , Boudot Cédric , Avondo Carine , Boullier Agnès , Choukroun Gabriel , Massy Ziad. A , Kamel Saïd , Chillon Jean-Marc
Published: April 2019

Ischemic stroke is highly prevalent in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients and has been associated with a higher risk of neurological deterioration and in-hospital mortality. To date, little is known about the processes by which CKD worsens ischemic stroke. This work aimed to investigate the cellular and molecular mechanism associated with ischemic stroke severity in an in vivo model of CKD. CKD was induced through right kidney cortical electrocautery in 8-week-old female C57BL/6 J mice followed by left total nephrectomy. Transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (tMCAO) was performed 6 weeks after left nephrectomy. Twenty-four hours after tMCAO, the infarct volumes were significantly wider in CKD than in SHAM mice. CKD mice displayed decreased neuroscore, impaired ability to remain on rotarod device, weaker muscular strength and decreased prehensile score. Apoptosis, neuronal loss, glial cells recruitment and microglia/macrophages M1 signature genes CD32, CD86, IL-1β, IL-6, MCP1 and iNOS were significantly increased within ischemic lesions of CKD mice. This effect was associated with decreased AMP kinase phosphorylation and increased activation of the NFΚB pathway. Pharmacological targeting of AMP kinase activity, which is known to block microglia/macrophages M1 polarization, appears promising to improve stroke recovery in CKD.
Changes in the intestine microbial, digestion and immunity of Litopenaeus vannamei in response to dietary resistant starch
Authors: Duan Yafei , Wang Yun , Liu Qingsong , Dong Hongbiao , Li Hua , Xiong Dalin , Zhang Jiasong
Published: April 2019

Resistant starch (RS) is a constituent of dietary fibre that has beneficial effects on the intestine physiological function of animals. However, the roles of RS on shrimp intestine health is unknown. In this study, we investigated the the effects of dietary RS on the microbial composition, and digestive and immune-related indices in the intestine of Litopenaeus vannamei. The shrimp were fed with diets containing different levels of RS: 0 g/kg (Control), 10 g/kg (RS1), 30 g/kg (RS2) and 50 g/kg (RS3) for 56 days. The results showed that dietary RS improved the morphology of the intestine mucosa. RS also increased the activity of digestive enzymes (AMS, LPS, Tryp, and Pep) and immune enzymes (PO, T-AOC, T-NOS, and NO), and the expression levels of immune-related genes (proPO, ALF, Lys, HSP70, Trx, Muc-1, Muc-2, Muc-5AC, Muc-5B, and Muc-19). A microbiome analysis indicated that dietary RS increased the short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) contents and altered the composition of the intestine microbial. Specifically, RS increased the abundances of Proteobacteria and decreased the abundance of Bacteroidetes. At the genus level, the beneficial bacteria (Lutimonas, Ruegeria, Shimia, Mesoflavibacter, and Mameliella) were enriched, which might be involved in degrading toxins and producing beneficial metabolites; while potential pathogens (Formosa and Pseudoalteromonas) were decreased in response to dietary RS. Our results revealed that dietary RS could improve the intestine health of L. vannamei, probably via modulating the intestine microbial composition and SCFAs contents, and enhancing the digestion and immunity of the shrimp.
Genome-wide patterns of population structure and association mapping of nut-related traits in Persian walnut populations from Iran using the Axiom J. regia 700K SNP array
Authors: Arab Mohammad Mehdi , Marrano Annarita , Abdollahi-Arpanahi Rostam , Leslie Charles A. , Askari Hossein , Neale David B. , Vahdati Kourosh
Published: April 2019

Persian plateau (including Iran) is considered as one of the primary centers of origin of walnut. Sampling walnut trees originating from this arena and exploiting the capabilities of next-generation sequencing (NGS) can provide new insights into the degree of genetic variation across the walnut genome. The present study aimed to explore the population structure and genomic variation of an Iranian collection of Persian walnut (Juglans regiaL.) and identify loci underlying the variation in nut and kernel related traits using the new AxiomJ. regia700K SNP genotyping array. We genotyped a diversity panel including 95 walnut genotypes from eight Iranian provinces with a variety of climate zones. A majority of the SNPs (323,273, 53.03%) fell into the “Poly High Resolution” class of polymorphisms, which includes the highest quality variants. Genetic structure assessment, using several approaches, divided the Iranian walnut panel into four principal clusters, reflecting their geographic partitioning. We observed high genetic variation across all of the populations (HO = 0.34 and HE = 0.38). The overall level of genetic differentiation among populations was moderate (FST = 0.07). However, the Semnan population showed high divergence from the other Iranian populations (on average FST = 0.12), most likely due to its geographical isolation. Based on parentage analysis, the level of relatedness was very low among the Iranian walnuts examined, reflecting the geographical distance between the Iranian provinces considered in our study. Finally, we performed a genome-wide association study (GWAS), identifying 55 SNPs significantly associated with nut and kernel-related traits. In conclusion, by applying the novel AxiomJ. regia700K SNP array we uncovered new unexplored genetic diversity and identified significant marker-trait associations for nut-related traits in Persian walnut that will be useful for future breeding programs in Iran and other countries.
Visual Performance in Eyes Undergoing Femtosecond Laser-Assisted Keratoplasty for Advanced Keratoconus
Authors: Kamiya Kazutaka , Takahashi Masahide , Igarashi Akihito , Shoji Nobuyuki
Published: April 2019

This study was aimed to compare visual performance in eyes having femtosecond laser-assisted keratoplasty (FLAK) for grade 4 keratoconus and keratoconic eyes according to the Amsler-Krumeich classification. We comprised 15 eyes of 15 patients undergoing FLAK for grade 4 keratoconus and 69 of 69 keratoconic patients (grade 1; 26 eyes, 2; 17 eyes, 3; 10 eyes, and 4; 16 eyes), and compared best spectacle-corrected visual acuity (BSCVA), corneal astigmatism (CA), corneal densitometry (CD), and corneal higher-order aberrations (CHOAs) using the Scheimpflug rotating camera. BSCVA in the post-FLAK group was significantly better than that in grade 3 or 4 group, but not than that in grade 1 or 2 group. CA was significantly lower than that in grade 3 or 4 group, but not than that in grade 1 or 2 group. CD was significantly higher than that in grade 1, 2, and 3 group, and significantly lower than that in grade 4 group. CHOAs were significantly lower than that in grade 3 or 4 group, but not than that in grade 1 or 2 group. FLAK showed significantly better BSCVA, and less CA and CHOAs, than grade 3 or 4 keratoconus, and showed less CD than grade 4 keratoconus.
A non-damaging purification method: decoupling the toxicity of multi-walled carbon nanotubes and their associated metal impurities
Authors: Darne Christian , Desforges Alexandre , Berrada Nawal , Fontana Caroline , Guichard Yves , Gaté Laurent , Bégin Dominique , Le Normand François , Valsaque Fabrice , Ghanbaja Jaafar , Gleize Jérôme , Vigolo Brigitte
Published: April 2019

Toxicity induced by multi-walled carbon nanotubes and their metal impurities.
The detection of petroleum contaminants in soil based on multiphoton electron extraction spectroscopy
Authors: Zhu Chenwei , Zhou Ran , Zhang Youjian , Chen Ji , Tang Shisong , Li Xiangyou , Zeng Xiaoyan
Published: April 2019

The fast detection of petroleum contaminants in soil is very important and urgent for environmental monitoring.
Influence of photooxidation on the lipid profile of rapeseed oil using UHPLC-QTOF-MS and multivariate data analysis
Authors: Wu Ying , Xu Feiran , Ji Shengyang , Ji Jialu , Qin Fuyi , Ju Xingrong , Wang Lifeng
Published: April 2019

Rapeseed oil, the third most commonly consumed vegetable oil in the world, can easily deteriorate under photooxidative conditions.
Correction: Different hydrogen bonding environments of the retinal protonated Schiff base control the photoisomerization in channelrhodopsin-2
Authors: Guo Yanan , Wolff Franziska E. , Schapiro Igor , Elstner Marcus , Marazzi Marco
Published: April 2019

Correction for ‘Different hydrogen bonding environments of the retinal protonated Schiff base control the photoisomerization in channelrhodopsin-2’ by Yanan Guo et al., Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys., 2018, 20, 27501–27509.
Boosting photobioredox catalysis by morpholine electron donors under aerobic conditions
Authors: Gonçalves Leticia C. P. , Mansouri Hamid R. , PourMehdi Shadi , Abdellah Mohamed , Fadiga Bruna S. , Bastos Erick L. , Sá Jacinto , Mihovilovic Marko D. , Rudroff Florian
Published: April 2019

Morpholine derivatives expand the applicability of photobiocatalysis towards stabilization of flavin-based bio- and photocatalysts.
Photoluminescent Cu(i) vs. Ag(i) complexes: slowing down emission in Cu(i) complexes by pentacoordinate low-lying excited states
Authors: Carbonell-Vilar José M. , Fresta Elisa , Armentano Donatella , Costa Rubén D. , Viciano-Chumillas Marta , Cano Joan
Published: April 2019

Replacement of copper(i) ions by silver(i) improves the solid-state photoluminescence properties.
Rationale for the reactivity differences between main group and d0 transition metal complexes toward olefin polymerisation
Authors: Tabatabaie Elham S. , Dehghanpour Saeed , Mosaddegh Elnaz , Babaahmadi Rasool , Chipman Antony , Yates Brian F. , Ariafard Alireza
Published: April 2019

A ring strain in a four-membered ring transition structure plays an important role in controlling the activation barrier to an olefin insertion into a M–R bond.
A 3D [WS4Cu4]2+ cluster-based material with high iodine uptake capability
Authors: Liu Meng-Di , Abrahams Brendan F. , Ren Zhi-Gang , Lang Jian-Ping
Published: April 2019

A three-dimensional heterothiometallic [WS4Cu4]2+ cluster-supported porous framework material with an unusual topology, which displays good performance in iodine uptake.
Stereoselective semi-synthesis of the neuroprotective natural product, serofendic acid
Authors: Perusse Dimitri , Smanski Michael J.
Published: April 2019

Our synthesis of neuroprotectant serofendic acid from biosourced ent-atis-16-en-19-oic acid represents the best route to date.
Regioselective and oxidant-free sulfinylation of indoles and pyrroles with sulfinamides
Authors: Ji Yuan-Zhao , Zhang Jin-Yu , Li Hui-Jing , Han Chunguang , Yang Yi-Kun , Wu Yan-Chao
Published: April 2019

An unexpected time-controlled highly selective C3- or C2-sulfinylation of pyrroles with sulfinamides is reported here for the first time.
A rearrangement involving a solid-state melt reaction for the synthesis of multifunctional tetrasubstituted olefins
Authors: Bakthadoss Manickam , Raman Selvakumar , Mushaf Mohammad
Published: April 2019

A new catalyst- and solvent-free intramolecular rearrangement sequence leading towards benzimidazole-tethered tetrasubstituted olefins through a solid-state melt reaction (SSMR).
Introducing static cross-linking points into dynamic covalent polymer gels that display freezing-induced mechanofluorescence: enhanced force transmission efficiency and stability
Authors: Kato Sota , Aoki Daisuke , Otsuka Hideyuki
Published: April 2019

Freezing polymer gels that are cross-linked by tetraarylsuccinonitrile (TASN) moieties, which can generate pink and fluorescent yellow radicals in response to mechanical stress, induces mechanofluorescence from the dynamic dissociation of the TASN groups.
Enhanced reversible capability of a macroporous ZnMn2O4/C microsphere anode with a water-soluble binder for long-life and high-rate lithium-ion storage
Authors: Li Huan , Yang Tianbo , Jin Bo , Zhao Ming , Jin Enmei , Jeong Sangmun , Jiang Qing
Published: April 2019

ZnMn2O4 and carbon are mixed uniformly to form macroporous ZnMn2O4/C microspheres consisting of many tiny nanoparticles. The macroporous ZnMn2O4/C microsphere anode with a CMC binder shows superior cycle performance in lithium-ion batteries.
Novel asymmetric photodimerization reaction of coumarin derivatives bearing a chiral 2-oxazolidinone auxiliary
Authors: Itoh Kennosuke , Odate Fumiya , Karikomi Takuma , Obe Keishi , Miyamori Tsutomu , Kamiya Hideaki , Yoza Kenji , Nagai Kenichiro , Fujii Hideaki , Suga Hiroyuki , Tokunaga Ken
Published: April 2019

Photodimerization of chiral coumarin-3-carboxamide affords the syn-HT dimer with moderate diastereoselectivity and we propose a mechanism on the basis of DFT calculations.
Adequate prediction for inhibitor affinity of Aβ40protofibril using the linear interaction energy method
Authors: Ngo Son Tung , Mai Binh Khanh , Derreumaux Philippe , Vu Van V.
Published: April 2019

The efficient approach to estimate inhibitors targeting Aβ oligomers and fibrils is an important issue in Alzheimer's disease treatment.
Identification of different carbenium ion intermediates in zeolites with identical chabazite topology via13C–13C through-bond NMR correlations
Authors: Xiao Dong , Han Xiuwen , Bao Xinhe , Hou Guangjin , Blanc Frédéric
Published: April 2019

Multidimensional NMR experiments explicitly distinguish differences in carbenium ion intermediates stabilized in two zeolites with identical topology.
Strain-induced crystal growth and molecular orientation of poly(isobutylene-isoprene) rubber at low temperatures
Authors: Chen Pinzhang , Lin Yuanfei , Zhao Jingyun , Chang Jiarui , Chen Xiaowei , Meng Lingpu , Wang Daoliang , Chen Wei
Published: April 2019

In situ SR-WAXD study of strain-induced crystal growth and structural evolution of poly(isobutylene-isoprene) rubber in the strain–temperature space.
Ultrathin trimetallic metal–organic framework nanosheets for highly efficient oxygen evolution reaction
Authors: Ding Mengmeng , Chen Jing , Jiang Meiwen , Zhang Xiaojun , Wang Guangfeng
Published: April 2019

Ultrathin trimetallic metal–organic framework nanosheets using 2-methylimidazole as an organic ligand are greatly improving the performance of oxygen evolution reaction due to their more active centres and better ion transfer passage.
Transition metal-embedded two-dimensional C3N as a highly active electrocatalyst for oxygen evolution and reduction reactions
Authors: Zhou Yanan , Gao Guoping , Kang Jun , Chu Wei , Wang Lin-Wang
Published: April 2019

The best catalyst for OER is Rh-VCCwithηOERof 0.35 V, followed by Co-VCC(0.43 V). For ORR, Rh-VCCexhibits the lowestηORRvalue of 0.27 V, followed by Co-VCC(0.42 V).
Surface-engineered mesoporous Pt nanodendrites with Ni dopant for highly enhanced catalytic performance in hydrogen evolution reaction
Authors: Li Lu , Wang Shan , Xiong Laifei , Wang Bin , Yang Guang , Yang Shengchun
Published: April 2019

Hydrogen production by electrolyzing water is expected to be one of the most effective strategies to realize the comprehensive utilization of clean energy and thus alleviate the growing environmental problems.
Bimetallic Ag3Cu porous networks for ambient electrolysis of nitrogen to ammonia
Authors: Yu Hongjie , Wang Ziqiang , Yang Dandan , Qian Xiaoqian , Xu You , Li Xiaonian , Wang Hongjing , Wang Liang
Published: April 2019

Bimetallic Ag3Cu porous networks exhibit superior electrocatalytic NRR performance due to their structural advantages and bimetallic composition.
Correction: Enabling room-temperature processed highly efficient and stable 2D Ruddlesden–Popper perovskite solar cells with eliminated hysteresis by synergistic exploitation of additives and solvents
Authors: Yu Shuang , Yan Yajie , Chen Yani , Chábera Pavel , Zheng Kaibo , Liang Ziqi
Published: April 2019

Correction for ‘Enabling room-temperature processed highly efficient and stable 2D Ruddlesden–Popper perovskite solar cells with eliminated hysteresis by synergistic exploitation of additives and solvents’ by Shuang Yu et al., J. Mater. Chem. A, 2019, 7, 2015–2021.
How cyclic chain topology can reduce the crystallization rate of poly(3-hexylthiophene) and promote the formation of liquid crystalline phases in comparison with linear analogue chains
Authors: Maiz Jon , Liu Guoming , Ruipérez Fernando , Delbosc Nicolas , Coulembier Olivier , Wang Dujin , Müller Alejandro J.
Published: April 2019

Topology effect induces notable changes in the crystalline texture of cyclic P3HT chain conformations.
Down-regulation of lncRNA-NEF indicates poor prognosis in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Liang Zhanqiang , Zhu Bingshuai , Meng Dongdong , Shen Xiwen , Li Xuemin , Wang Zhongzhen , Li Liantao
Published: April 2019

LncRNA-NEF is a tumor suppressor lncRNA in liver cancer. The present study aimed to investigate the role of lncRNA-NEF in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (IHCC), which is second most common type of primary cancer of the hepatobiliary system that causes high mortality rate. In the present study we found that lncRNA-NEF was down-regulated, while Runt-related transcription factor 1 (RUNX1) was up-regulated in tumor tissues than in adjacent healthy tissues of IHCC patients. Expression levels of lncRNA-NEF and RUNX1 were significantly and reversely correlated in tumor tissues but not in adjacent healthy tissues. Plasma levels of lncRNA-NEF were significantly lower in IHCC patients than in healthy controls. Down-regulation of lncRNA-NEF effectively distinguished stage I and II IHCC patients from healthy controls. Patients were followed up for 5 years, patients with high plasma levels of lncRNA-NEF showed significantly better survival conditions compared with patients with low expression levels of lncRNA-NEF. LncRNA-NEF overexpression led to inhibited expression of RUNX1 in cells of IHCC cell lines and inhibited cancer cell migration and invasion. In contrast, RUNX1 overexpression showed no significant effects on lncRNA-NEF expression, but attenuated the effects of lncRNA-NEF overexpression on cancer cell migration and invasion. We therefore concluded that lncRNA-NEF participated in IHCC possibly by interacting with RUNX1.
Vocal Development in Infants and Toddlers With Bilateral Cochlear Implants and Infants With Normal Hearing
Authors: Välimaa Taina T. , Kunnari Sari M. , Laukkanen-Nevala Päivi , Ertmer David J.
Published: April 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to investigate the time course of vocal development in infants and toddlers with bilateral cochlear implants (CIs; bilateral CI group) who are acquiring Finnish and to compare their progress to that of infants with normal hearing and typical development (TD group).

Method

Five thousand nine hundred sixty-four spontaneous utterances of 30 infants and toddlers (15 in both groups) were classified as either precanonical (PC) vocalizations, basic canonical syllables (BCS), or advanced forms (AF) levels. Time course of development and group differences were analyzed in a prospective longitudinal study during a time course of 1 year: before implantation and 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months after CI activation for the bilateral CI group and at 6, 9, and 12 months of age for the TD group.

Results

The least mature PC vocalizations decreased and the BCS and AF vocalizations increased for both the bilateral CI and TD groups during the follow-up period of 1 year. The bilateral CI group produced a lower percentage of PC vocalizations (effect size, ηp2= .35) and a higher percentage of BCS (effect size, ηp2= .16) and AF vocalizations (effect size, ηp2= 0.24) than the TD group.

Conclusions

The findings of this study showed that vocal development of infants and toddlers with early-identified profound hearing loss is delayed before CI activation. Findings also showed that infants and toddlers with bilateral CIs make rapid advancements in vocal development after implantation compared to infants with typical development. However, their vocal development seems to remain delayed at least during the 1st year of bilateral CI use as compared to the well-documented milestones of infants and toddlers with typical development. Information about the vocal development time course following bilateral CI activation helps parents recognize progress in auditory-guided speech development before the emergence and the use of spoken words in communication.
„Genesung bedeutet nicht Restitution einer alten, sondern Genesis einer neuen Gesundheit“
Authors: Matthiessen Peter F. , Irnich Dominik , Niklas Anke
Published: April 2019

Um eine umfassende Erkenntnis unserer Patienten zu gewinnen, bedeutet die Herausforderung, ihnen aus unterschiedlichen Sichtweisen und mit verschiedenen Erkenntnismethoden zu begegnen – unvoreingenommen, einfühlsam und wertschätzend
Modell für eine kooperative Schwangerenvorsorge von Ärztin und Hebamme
Authors: Laß Christine , Becker Juliette
Published: April 2019

Eine kompetente Begleitung und Beratung in der Schwangerschaft zählt zum originären Aufgabenfeld der Hebammen. Dennoch wird die Schwangerenvorsorge gemäß den Mutterschaftsrichtlinien meist mit ärztlicher Betreuung assoziiert. Unsere Autorinnen stellen ihr Kooperationsmodell vor, bei dem Hebamme und Gynäkologin schwangeren Frauen eine gemeinsame Vorsorge anbieten. Nachfolgend beschreiben sie, wie eine Zusammenarbeit der Professionen auf Augenhöhe gelingen kann und welche Vorteile sie für die Ratsuchenden bietet.
Urospermia indicating ectopic ureters in breeding dogs – 3
cases
Authors: Günzel-Apel Anne-Rose , Wolf Karola , Beining Franziska Werhahn , Baumeister Anke , Bach Jan-Peter , Hungerbühler Stephan , Nickel Rafael
Published: April 2019

An Entlebucher Mountain Dog (57 months old, case 1), a Labrador Retriever (24
months, case 2) and an Irish Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier (31 months old, case 3)
were presented for breeding soundness evaluation to the clinic. During semen
collection in all 3 dogs, the pre-secretion and the sperm-rich fraction showed
normal consistency and colour, whereas the prostatic secretion (3 rd ejaculate
fraction) appeared strikingly yellow. In cases 1 and 2, a severely decreased
sperm motility (asthenozoospermia) and an increased amount of abnormal
spermatozoa (teratozoospermia), and in case 3, a moderately decreased total
sperm count (oligozoospermia) were detected. Sonographical examination revealed
abnormal findings regarding the uretero-vesical junction and ectopic ureters.
Therefore it is concluded that urine admixture to the 3 rd ejaculate fraction
may indicate the presence of ectopic ureters and may cause impairment of semen
quality and fertility. The present cases raise questions regarding urospermia
concerning: 1. its incidence in dogs in general and in connection with ectopic
ureters and 2. its relevance as a cause of deficient ejaculate quality and
subfertility or infertility.
Therapie des akuten viralen
Katzenschnupfens
Authors: Bergmann Michèle , Ballin Anne , Schulz Bianka , Dörfelt René , Hartmann Katrin
Published: April 2019

Die Haupterreger des Katzenschnupfens, das feline Herpesvirus-1 (FHV-1) und das
feline Calicivirus (FCV), sind in Katzenpopulationen weit verbreitet, vor allem
in Haushalten mit vielen Katzen auf engem Raum. Katzen mit schweren klinischen
Symptomen müssen meist stationär behandelt werden. Eine intensive symptomatische
Therapie wirkt sich positiv auf den Heilungsverlauf aus. Der Einsatz antiviraler
Medikamente bei Katzen ist limitiert, da viele der Substanzen unwirksam oder bei
systemischer Gabe toxisch sind. Antivirale Medikamente werden daher vor allem
lokal zur Therapie FHV-1-assoziierter Augenveränderungen eingesetzt. Famciclovir
ist jedoch als wirksames Virostatikum zur systemischen Therapie bei Katzen mit
FHV-1-bedingten Symptomen geeignet. Gegen FCV sind nur wenige antivirale
Medikamente verfügbar. Der Einsatz von Immunglobulinen führte in einer
kontrollierten Studie bei Katzen mit FHV-1- und/oder FCV-Infektion zu einer
signifikant schnelleren Besserung der Symptome eines akuten
Katzenschnupfens.
Schulter-Arm-Schmerzen aus neuro-orthopädischer Sicht
Authors: Rommel Oliver , Jäger Georg
Published: April 2019

Schulter-Arm-Schmerzen können Folge unterschiedlicher Erkrankungen aus dem neurologischen und orthopädischen Fachgebiet sein. Symptome von Seiten des Nervensystems sowie von Gelenken und Weichteilen können einander überlappen und sich beeinflussen. Daher ist eine sorgfältige Diagnostik notwendig.

Die 3 vorgestellten Kasuistiken zeigen die Vielfalt der zugrunde liegenden Erkrankungen, die zu Schulter-Arm-Schmerzen führen können. Therapeutisch steht ein breites Spektrum von medikamentösen, physiotherapeutischen, naturheilkundlichen, infiltrativen und operativen Verfahren zur Verfügung.