bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Weak signal enhancement by nonlinear resonance control in a forced nano-electromechanical resonator
Authors: Chowdhury Avishek , Clerc Marcel G. , Barbay Sylvain , Robert-Philip Isabelle , Braive Remy
Published: May 2020

Driven non-linear resonators can display sharp resonances or even multistable behaviours amenable to induce strong enhancements of weak signals. Such enhancements can make use of the phenomenon of vibrational resonance, whereby a weak low-frequency signal applied to a bistable resonator can be amplified by driving the non-linear oscillator with another appropriately-adjusted non-resonant high-frequency field. Here we demonstrate experimentally and theoretically a significant resonant enhancement of a weak signal by use of a vibrational force, yet in a monostable system consisting of a driven nano-electromechanical nonlinear resonator. The oscillator is subjected to a strong quasi-resonant drive and to two additional tones: a weak signal at lower frequency and a non-resonant driving at an intermediate frequency. We analyse this phenomenon in terms of coherent nonlinear resonance manipulation. Our results illustrate a general mechanism which might have applications in the fields of microwave signal amplification or sensing for instance.
Dual heterogeneous structures lead to ultrahigh strength and uniform ductility in a Co-Cr-Ni medium-entropy alloy
Authors: Du X. H. , Li W. P. , Chang H. T. , Yang T. , Duan G. S. , Wu B. L. , Huang J. C. , Chen F. R. , Liu C. T. , Chuang W. S. , Lu Y. , Sui M. L. , Huang E. W.
Published: May 2020

Alloys with ultra-high strength and sufficient ductility are highly desired for modern engineering applications but difficult to develop. Here we report that, by a careful controlling alloy composition, thermomechanical process, and microstructural feature, a Co-Cr-Ni-based medium-entropy alloy (MEA) with a dual heterogeneous structure of both matrix and precipitates can be designed to provide an ultra-high tensile strength of 2.2 GPa and uniform elongation of 13% at ambient temperature, properties that are much improved over their counterparts without the heterogeneous structure. Electron microscopy characterizations reveal that the dual heterogeneous structures are composed of a heterogeneous matrix with both coarse grains (10∼30 μm) and ultra-fine grains (0.5∼2 μm), together with heterogeneous L12-structured nanoprecipitates ranging from several to hundreds of nanometers. The heterogeneous L12 nanoprecipitates are fully coherent with the matrix, minimizing the elastic misfit strain of interfaces, relieving the stress concentration during deformation, and playing an active role in enhanced ductility.
YAP1/TAZ drives ependymoma-like tumour formation in mice
Authors: Eder Noreen , Roncaroli Federico , Domart Marie-Charlotte , Horswell Stuart , Andreiuolo Felipe , Flynn Helen R. , Lopes Andre T. , Claxton Suzanne , Kilday John-Paul , Collinson Lucy , Mao Jun-Hao , Pietsch Torsten , Thompson Barry , Snijders Ambrosius P. , Ultanir Sila K.
Published: May 2020

YAP1 gene fusions have been observed in a subset of paediatric ependymomas. Here we show that, ectopic expression of active nuclear YAP1 (nlsYAP5SA) in ventricular zone neural progenitor cells using conditionally-induced NEX/NeuroD6-Cre is sufficient to drive brain tumour formation in mice. Neuronal differentiation is inhibited in the hippocampus. Deletion of YAP1’s negative regulators LATS1 and LATS2 kinases in NEX-Cre lineage in double conditional knockout mice also generates similar tumours, which are rescued by deletion of YAP1 and its paralog TAZ. YAP1/TAZ-induced mouse tumours display molecular and ultrastructural characteristics of human ependymoma. RNA sequencing and quantitative proteomics of mouse tumours demonstrate similarities to YAP1-fusion induced supratentorial ependymoma. Finally, we find that transcriptional cofactor HOPX is upregulated in mouse models and in human YAP1-fusion induced ependymoma, supporting their similarity. Our results show that uncontrolled YAP1/TAZ activity in neuronal precursor cells leads to ependymoma-like tumours in mice.
Trefoil factors share a lectin activity that defines their role in mucus
Authors: Järvå Michael A. , Lingford James P. , John Alan , Soler Niccolay Madiedo , Scott Nichollas E. , Goddard-Borger Ethan D.
Published: May 2020

The mucosal epithelium secretes a host of protective disulfide-rich peptides, including the trefoil factors (TFFs). The TFFs increase the viscoelasticity of the mucosa and promote cell migration, though the molecular mechanisms underlying these functions have remained poorly defined. Here, we demonstrate that all TFFs are divalent lectins that recognise the GlcNAc-α-1,4-Gal disaccharide, which terminates some mucin-like O-glycans. Degradation of this disaccharide by a glycoside hydrolase abrogates TFF binding to mucins. Structural, mutagenic and biophysical data provide insights into how the TFFs recognise this disaccharide and rationalise their ability to modulate the physical properties of mucus across different pH ranges. These data reveal that TFF activity is dependent on the glycosylation state of mucosal glycoproteins and alludes to a lectin function for trefoil domains in other human proteins.
The use of a natural substrate for immobilization of microalgae cultivated in wastewater
Authors: Garbowski Tomasz , Pietryka Mirosława , Pulikowski Krzysztof , Richter Dorota
Published: May 2020

The methods of separation of microalgae has a significant impact in the economic aspects of their cultivation. In this study, pine bark was used as a substrate for immobilization of microalgal biomass cultivated in raw municipal sewage. The experiment was conducted in cylindrical photobioreactors (PBRs) with circulation of wastewater. Biomass was cultivated for 42 days. After that time, abundant growth of the biofilm with microalgae on the surface of pine bark as well as improvement of the quality of treated sewage were observed. The efficiency of removal of nutrients from wastewater was 64–81% for total nitrogen and 97–99% for total phosphorus. Moreover, the concentration of suspended solids in sewage was reduced, which resulted in a decrease in turbidity by more than 90%. Colorimetric analysis and Volatile Matter (VM) content in the substrate showed a decrease in the Higher Heating Value (HHV) and concentration of VM due to the proliferation of biofilm.
Long-term treatment with subcutaneous immunoglobulin in patients with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy: a follow-up period up to 7 years
Authors: Gentile L. , Mazzeo A. , Russo M. , Arimatea I. , Vita G. , Toscano A.
Published: May 2020

Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP) is a rare and heterogeneous acquired sensory-motor polyneuropathy with autoimmune pathogenesis. Intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIG) are a well-established therapy for CIDP: it is well known that at least two-thirds of these patients need these infusions for several years. More recently, Subcutaneous Immunoglobulins (SCIg) have been proved to be effective: this finding has been confirmed either in isolated cases or in few randomized trials. However, it appeared that the longest SCIg treatment follow up lasted no longer than 48 months. We report herein the results of a long-term SCIg treatment with a follow up period up to 7 years (84 months), considering safety, tolerability and patients’ perception of SCIg treatment in a CIDP population. We studied 17 patients (10 M; 7 F) with a diagnosis of CIDP, defined according to the EFNS/PNS criteria, successfully treated with IVIG every 4/6 weeks before being switched to SCIg treatment. Clinical follow-up included, apart from a routinely clinical assessment, the administration of Medical Research Council (MRC) sum-score, the Overall Neuropathy Limitation Scale (ONLS) and the Life Quality Index questionnaire (LQI). The results showed that, in the majority of this pre-selected group of CIDP patients (16/17), SCIg were well tolerated and were preferred over IVIG. Strength and motor functions remained stable or even improved during the long term follow-up (up to 84 months) with benefits on walking capability and resistance, manual activity performances and fatigue reduction.
The role of the adaptor molecule STING during Schistosoma mansoni infection
Authors: Souza Cláudia , Sanches Rodrigo C. O. , Assis Natan R. G. , Marinho Fábio V. , Mambelli Fábio S. , Morais Suellen B. , Gimenez Enrico G. T. , Guimarães Erika S. , Castro Tiago B. R. , Oliveira Sergio C.
Published: May 2020

Schistosomiasis is a human parasitic disease responsible for serious consequences for public health, as well as severe socioeconomic impacts in developing countries. Here, we provide evidence that the adaptor molecule STING plays an important role inSchistosoma mansoniinfection.S. mansoniDNA is sensed by cGAS leading to STING activation in murine embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs). Sting−/−and C57BL/6 (WT) mice were infected with schistosome cercariae in order to assess parasite burden and liver pathology. Sting−/−miceshowedworm burden reduction but no change in the number of eggs or granuloma numbers and area when compared to WT animals. Immunologically, a significant increase in IFN-γ production by the spleen cells was observed in Sting−/−animals. Surprisingly, Sting−/−mice presented an elevated percentage of neutrophils in lungs, bronchoalveolar lavage, and spleens. Moreover, Sting−/−neutrophils exhibited increased survival rate, but similar ability to kill schistosomulain vitrowhen stimulated with IFN-γ when compared to WT cells. Finally, microbiota composition was altered in Sting−/−mice, revealing a more inflammatory profile when compared to WT animals. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that STING signaling pathway is important forS. mansoniDNA sensing and the lack of this adaptor molecule leads to enhanced resistance to infection.
Implications of personality and parental education on healthy lifestyles among adolescents
Authors: Yañez Aina M , Bennasar-Veny Miquel , Leiva Alfonso , García-Toro Mauro
Published: May 2020

Several studies have shown an association between personality and health status. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between personality traits, parental education and health-related lifestyles in a cohort of Spanish adolescents. This is a longitudinal study with a source population of 1,123 third-year students (aged 14–15) in secondary schools in Spain. At the baseline evaluation sociodemographic variables, parental education and personality (Big Five Questionnaire for Children) were collected. At 18 months of follow-up health related lifestyles, including adherence to a healthy diet (KidMed index), tobacco and alcohol consumption, physical exercise, sleep problems and recreative screen and social network time were collected. A total of 824 adolescents (73.4%) completed the 18 months assessment and 695 (84.3%) presented valid data. Higher conscientiousness was associated to a lower risk for non-adherence to Mediterranean diet (OR = 0.7, 95% CIs=0.5–0.9), tobacco (OR = 0.5, 95% CIs=0.3–0.7) and alcohol consumption (OR = 0.6, 95% CIs=0.5–0.8), excessive use of screens (OR = 0.7, 95% CIs=0.5–0.9) and social network sites (OR = 0.7, 95% CIs=0.5–0.8). Higher levels of extraversion was significantly related to a lower risk of physical inactivity (OR = 0.7, 95% CIs=0.6–0.9), but they are at a higher risk of low adherence to Mediterranean diet (OR = 1.3, 95% CIs=1.0–1.7), tobacco (OR = 2.7, 95% CIs=1.7–4.3) and alcohol consumption (OR = 1.9, 95% CIs=1.5–2.4) and excessive use of social network sites (OR = 1.6, 95% CIs=1.3–1.9). High levels of emotional instability were associated with tobacco consumption (OR = 1.5, 95% CIs=1.0–2.2) and sleep problems (OR = 2.0, 95% CIs=1.5–2.7). Finally, we found an association with lower parental education and adolescents’ low adherence to Mediterranean diet (OR = 1.6, 95% CIs=1.0–2.4) and sleep problems (OR = 1.8, 95% CIs=1.0–3.0). Cluster analysis of health-related behaviours indicated the presence of two different clusters (unhealthy and healthy adolescents) that were associated with personality traits. Conscientiousness, extraversion, emotional instability and parental education are independent factors associated with the acquisition of adolescent healthy lifestyles.
The early local and systemic Type I interferon responses to ultraviolet B light exposure are cGAS dependent
Authors: Skopelja-Gardner Sladjana , An Jie , Tai Joyce , Tanaka Lena , Sun Xizhang , Hermanson Payton , Baum Rebecca , Kawasumi Masaoki , Green Richard , Gale Michael , Kalus Andrea , Werth Victoria P. , Elkon Keith B.
Published: May 2020

Most systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients are photosensitive and ultraviolet B light (UVB) exposure worsens cutaneous disease and precipitates systemic flares of disease. The pathogenic link between skin disease and systemic exacerbations in SLE remains elusive. In an acute model of UVB-triggered inflammation, we observed that a single UV exposure triggered a striking IFN-I signature not only in the skin, but also in the blood and kidneys. The early IFN-I signature was significantly higher in female compared to male mice. The early IFN-I response in the skin was almost entirely, and in the blood partly, dependent on the presence of cGAS, as was skin inflammatory cell infiltration. Inhibition of cGAMP hydrolysis augmented the UVB-triggered IFN-I response. UVB skin exposure leads to cGAS-activation and both local and systemic IFN-I signature and could contribute to acute flares of disease in susceptible subjects such as patients with SLE.
Mapping the mechanical properties of paintings via nanoindentation: a new approach for cultural heritage studies
Authors: Tiennot Mathilde , Paardekam Erik , Iannuzzi Davide , Hermens Erma
Published: May 2020

A comprehensive understanding of the behaviour of the heterogenous layers within the paint stratigraphies in historical paintings is crucial to evaluate their long term stability. We aim to refine nanoindentation as a new tool to investigate the mechanical behaviour of historical oil paints, by adapting the probes and the protocol already used in biomechanical research on soft tissues. The depth-controlled indentation profile performed with a spherical probe provides an evaluation of the non-linear viscoelastic behaviour of the individual layers in paint at local scale. The technique is non-destructive and guarantees the integrity of the surface after indentation. The mapping of elasticity demonstrates the properties’ heterogeneity of the composite material within the paint layers, as well as between the individual layers and their interfaces.
Near-threshold fatigue crack propagation without oxide-induced crack closure
Authors: Tazoe Koki , Tanaka Hiroto , Oka Masanori , Yagawa Genki
Published: May 2020

An accurate value for the threshold stress intensity factor range, ΔKth, is a key parameter for studying crack-like defects. However, it is difficult to obtain accurate ΔKthvalues due to oxide-induced crack closure. In this study, we report conditions for minimizing the effects of oxide-induced crack closure near the threshold region, where a concave curve of the effect on the loading frequency on oxide-induced crack closure is achieved. The resulting conditions allow for an accurate determination of ΔKth, which is a key material parameter relating to the pertinent loading ratio.
Core versus cuttings samples for geochemical and petrophysical analysis of unconventional reservoir rocks
Authors: Sanei Hamed , Ardakani Omid H. , Akai Takashi , Akihisa Kunio , Jiang Chunqing , Wood James M.
Published: May 2020

Core samples from petroleum wells are costly to obtain, hence drill cuttings are commonly used as an alternative source of rock measurements for reservoir, basin modelling, and sedimentology studies. However, serious issues such as contamination from drilling mud, geological representativeness, and physical alteration can cast uncertainty on the results of studies based on cuttings samples. This paper provides a unique comparative study of core and cuttings samples obtained from both vertical and horizontal sections of a petroleum well drilled in the Canadian Montney tight gas siltstone reservoir to investigate the suitability of cuttings for a wide range of geochemical and petrophysical analyses. The results show that, on average, the bulk quantity of kerogen or solid bitumen measured in cuttings is comparable to that of the core samples. However, total organic carbon (TOC) measurements are influenced by oil-based drilling mud (OBM) contamination. Solvent-cleaning of cuttings has been shown to effectively remove OBM contamination in light, medium, and heavy range hydrocarbons and to produce similar kerogen/solid bitumen measurements to that of core samples. Similarly, pyrolysis methods provide an alternative to the solvent-cleaning procedure for analysis of kerogen/solid bitumen in as-received cuttings. Microscopic study substantiates the presence of significant contamination by OBM and caved organic and inorganic matter in the cuttings, which potentially influence the bulk geochemistry of the samples. Furthermore, minerals in the cuttings display induced micro-fractures due to physical impacts of the drilling process. These drilling-induced micro-fractures affect petrophysical properties by artificially enhancing the measured porosity and permeability.
Bombax ceiba (Linn.) calyxes ameliorate methylglyoxal-induced oxidative stress via modulation of RAGE expression: identification of active phytometabolites by GC-MS analysis
Authors: Komati Anusha , Anand Ajay , Shaik Hussain , Mudiam Mohana Krishna Reddy , Suresh Babu Katragadda , Tiwari Ashok Kumar
Published: May 2020

Non-enzymatic reactions between proteins and methylglyoxal (MG) result in the formation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs). Bombax ceiba calyx extract prevents the formation of AGEs.
Finger-like membrane protrusions are favored by heterogeneities in the actin network
Authors: Gat Shachar , Simon Camille , Campillo Clément , Bernheim-Groswasser Anne , Sykes Cécile
Published: May 2020

The pure effect of actin polymerization through branching, triggered at the membrane surface, generates both dendritic (conical) and conventional filopodia-like (cylindrical) membrane deformations depending on the initial heterogeneity in the actin network.
A one-step potentiometric immunoassay for plasma cardiac troponin I using an antibody-functionalized bis-MPA–COOH dendrimer as a competitor with improved sensitivity
Authors: Ni Erru , Fang Yizhen , Ma Fangfang , Ge Gaoshun , Wu Jingyi , Wang Yingying , Lin Yao , Xie Huabin
Published: May 2020

Herein, we have reported a new one-step potentiometric immunoassay for the sensitive and specific detection of human plasma cardiac troponin I (cTnI), a biomarker of cardio-cerebrovascular diseases.
Effects of carbon number and bond saturation on hydrocarbon combustion over a diesel oxidation catalyst
Authors: Tsuchiya Akihiro , Masaoka Sota , Ohyama Junya , Sawabe Kyoichi , Satsuma Atsushi
Published: May 2020

The poisoning effect of hydrocarbons (C3–C16) on a diesel oxidation catalyst was clarified byin situFTIR and kinetic analysis. The light-off temperature depends on the competitive adsorption of hydrocarbons and oxygen.
Tuning the reactivity of ethylene oligomerization by HZSM-5 framework Alf proximity
Authors: Chen Genwei , Liu Hua , Fadaeerayeni Siavash , Shan Junjun , Xing Aihua , Cheng Jihong , Wang Hui , Xiang Yizhi
Published: May 2020

The reactivity of HZSM-5 catalysts for ethylene oligomerization is highly dependent upon their framework Alf proximity.
Catalytic oxidations by dehydrogenation of alkanes, alcohols and amines with defined (non)-noble metal pincer complexes
Authors: Budweg Svenja , Junge Kathrin , Beller Matthias
Published: May 2020

The present review highlights the latest developments in the field of transition metal-catalysed oxidations, in particular C–C–, C–O– and C–N-bond dehydrogenations.
Novel syntheses of carbazole-3,6-dicarboxylate ligands and their utilization for porous coordination cages
Authors: Rowland Casey A. , Yap Glenn P. A. , Bloch Eric D.
Published: May 2020

A benzyl-protecting strategy affords access to large quantities of carbazole-based ligands or molecular adsorbents with tunable inter-cage interactions.
Heterometallic trinuclear oxo-centered clusters as single-source precursors for synthesis of stoichiometric monodisperse transition metal ferrite nanocrystals
Authors: Sanchez-Lievanos Karla R. , Tariq Mehrin , Brennessel William W. , Knowles Kathryn E.
Published: May 2020

Solvothermal reactions of MIIFe2III(μ3-O)(μ2-O2CR)6(H2O)3 (R = CF3, M = Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn) clusters produce monodisperse, phase-pure MFe2O4 nanocrystals.
Correction: Heterobimetallic ruthenium–zinc complexes with bulky N-heterocyclic carbenes: syntheses, structures and reactivity
Authors: Espinal-Viguri Maialen , Varela-Izquierdo Victor , Miloserdov Fedor M. , Riddlestone Ian M. , Mahon Mary F. , Whittlesey Michael K.
Published: May 2020

Correction for ‘Heterobimetallic ruthenium–zinc complexes with bulky N-heterocyclic carbenes: syntheses, structures and reactivity’ by Maialen Espinal-Viguri et al., Dalton Trans., 2019, 48, 4176–4189, DOI: 10.1039/C8DT05023F.
A HMCuS@MnO2 nanocomplex responsive to multiple tumor environmental clues for photoacoustic/fluorescence/magnetic resonance trimodal imaging-guided and enhanced photothermal/photodynamic therapy
Authors: Li Qian , Ren Junjie , Chen Qiubing , Liu Weiwei , Xu Zhigang , Cao Yang , Kang Yuejun , Xue Peng
Published: May 2020

Surface functionalization of HMCuS NPs with MnO2 as a gatekeeper of encapsulated Ce6 for tumor microenvironment responsive and imaging-guided combination therapy.
Multi-component (Ag–Au–Cu–Pd–Pt) alloy nanoparticle-decorated p-type 2D-molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) for enhanced hydrogen sensing
Authors: Urs Kusuma M. B. , Katiyar Nirmal Kumar , Kumar Ritesh , Biswas Krishanu , Singh Abhishek K. , Tiwary C. S. , Kamble Vinayak
Published: May 2020

The nanoscale interface between multi-component (Ag–Au–Cu–Pd–Pt) alloy nanoparticles on MoS2sheets increase its work function making an ohmic contact into Schottky with gold electrodes. This drastically enhances response towards hydrogen gas.
A bottom-up strategy toward a flexible vanadium dioxide/silicon nitride composite film with infrared sensing performance
Authors: Ma He , Wang Yu , Fu Yulan , Zhang Xinping
Published: May 2020

Traditional VO2films grown on rigid substrates are inflexible, which limits their applications. In this work, we successfully prepared VO2/silicon nitride composite films by a simple template method.
The alignment-dependent properties and applications of graphene moiré superstructures on the Ru(0001) surface
Authors: Zhang Leining , Dong Jichen , Guan Zhaoyong , Zhang Xiuyun , Ding Feng
Published: May 2020

The moiré superstructure of graphene on a lattice-mismatched metal substrate has profound effects on the electronic properties of graphene and can be used for many applications.
The breaking beads approach for photocleavage from solid support
Authors: Bakhatan Yasmeen , Alshanski Israel , Grunhaus Dana , Hurevich Mattan
Published: May 2020

Grinding of polystyrene beads accelerates photocleavage.
Cationic quaternary ammonium salt-catalyzed LED-induced living radical polymerization within situhalogen exchange
Authors: Li Feifei , Yang Wanting , Li Mengmeng , Zhou Lin , Lei Lin
Published: May 2020

Cationic quaternary ammonium salts were employed as organocatalysts for light-emitting diode (LED)-induced living radical polymerization (LRP) with thein situhalogen exchange of methacrylate monomers.
A biocompatible artificial tendril with a spontaneous 3D Janus multi-helix-perversion configuration
Authors: Su Yingchun , Taskin Mehmet Berat , Dong Mingdong , Han Xiaojun , Besenbacher Flemming , Chen Menglin
Published: May 2020

Through side-by-side electrospinning, Janus microfibers were transformed into 3D multi-helix-perversion microstructures due to the mismatch strain achieving Janus cellular patterning.
Phomretones A–F, C12 polyketides from the co-cultivation of Phoma sp. YUD17001 and Armillaria sp.
Authors: Li Hong-Tao , Liu Tao , Yang Ruining , Xie Fei , Yang Zhi , Yang Yabin , Zhou Hao , Ding Zhong-Tao
Published: May 2020

Co-cultivation of Phoma sp. YUD17001 with Armillaria sp. led to the production of six new C12 polyketides.
Design, characterization and evaluation of β-hairpin peptide hydrogels as a support for osteoblast cell growth and bovine lactoferrin delivery
Authors: De Leon-Rodriguez Luis M. , Park Young-Eun , Naot Dorit , Musson David S. , Cornish Jillian , Brimble Margaret A.
Published: May 2020

Self-assembling peptide H4LMAX-RGDS hydrogels, designed to enhance bone regeneration, are cytocompatible and capable of delivering the bone anabolic factor lactoferrin to increase osteoblast cell number.
Temperature-regulated adhesion of impacting drops on nano/microtextured monostable superrepellent surfaces
Authors: Shi Songlin , Lv Cunjing , Zheng Quanshui
Published: May 2020

When a drop impacts a monostable superrepellent surface, the solid–liquid wetted region could be regulated by varying the temperature of the surface. We construct connections between the wetting state transition on the microscale and the condensation in the nanotextures.
An electrically active gecko-effect soft gripper under a low voltage by mimicking gecko's adhesive structures and toe muscles
Authors: Tian Hongmiao , Liu Haoran , Shao Jinyou , Li Shuai , Li Xiangming , Chen Xiaoming
Published: May 2020

An electrically active gecko-effect soft gripper under a low voltage based on adhesive structures and liquid crystal elastomers.
The multidrug resistance can be reversed for the decrease of P-gp and LRP by inhibiting PI3K/Akt/NF-κB signal pathway in nasopharynx carcinoma
Authors: Liu Jin , Zhu Mingyi , Feng Yun , Tang Qianli , Xu Meng
Published: May 2020

Aim: To investigate the relationship between PI3K/Akt/NF-κB cellular signal pathway and the expression of P-gp and LRP in multidrug resistance (MDR) cell of nasopharyngeal carcinoma.

Method: The PI3K, p-Akt and NF-κB/p65 as the activity of PI3K/Akt/NF-κB were detected by Western blot. The expressions of LRP and P-gp were detected by Western blot and real-time PCR.

Result: The RIs of CNE/DDP group to DDP, 5-Fu, VCR, ADR and PTX were 35.04, 18.14, 24.13, 12.00 and 10.18, respectively. The RIs of LY-294002 group were 11.77, 5.83, 3.07, 3.86 and 3.34, and PDTC group were 11.08, 6.55, 7.66, 2.18 and 4.05. The expressions of PI3K, p-Akt and NF-κBp65, LRP and P-gp were increased and mRNA of LRP and P-gp were up-regulated in CNE/DDP. The expression of p-Akt in LY-294002 group was down-regulated. The expression of NF-κB p65 in PDTC group was decreased. The mRNA of LRP and P-gp in LY-294002 group and PDTC group were decreased.

Conclusion: MDR of nasopharyngeal carcinoma cell can be regulated by activating PI3K/Akt/NF-κB signal pathway and then increase the expression of P-gp and LRP. The MDR of nasopharyngeal carcinoma cell can be reversed by inhibiting PI3K/Akt/NF-κB signal pathway.
Exosomes derived from circRNA Rtn4-modified BMSCs attenuate TNF-α-induced cytotoxicity and apoptosis in murine MC3T3-E1 cells by sponging miR-146a
Authors: Cao Guijun , Meng Xianqing , Han Xiaodong , Li Jinhua
Published: May 2020

Osteoporosis is the most common and complex skeletal disorder worldwide. Exosomes secreted by bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (BMSCs) are considered as an ideal seed source for bone tissue regeneration. However, the role of exosomes secreted by BMSCs (BMSCs-Exos) in osteoporosis and its underlying mechanisms remain unclear. In the present study, the expression of microRNA (miRNA)-146a and circular RNA (circRNA) Rtn4 (circ-Rtn4) was evaluated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), and their protein expression was determined by Western blotting. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was performed to detect caspase-3 activity. Cell viability and apoptosis were assessed using 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2yl-)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and flow cytometry analysis, respectively. Luciferase reporter assay was exploited for target validation. Results showed that tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) dose-dependently increased miR-146a expression, inhibited cell viability, and promoted cell apoptosis, as indicated by increased caspase-3, cleaved caspase-3, and Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax) expression as well as caspase-3 activity. However, miR-146a silencing or co-culture with BMSCs-Exos blocked these effects. Moreover, co-culture with exosomes-derived from circ-Rtn4-modified BMSCs (Rtn4-Exos) attenuated TNF-α-induced cytotoxicity and apoptosis in MC3T3-E1 cells, as evidenced by the decrease in caspase-3, cleaved caspase-3, and Bax protein expression and caspase-3 activity. In addition, miR-146a was identified as a target of circ-Rtn4, and Rtn4-Exos exerted their function in TNF-α-treated MC3T3-E1 cells by sponging miR-146a. Hence, our findings suggested that Rtn4-Exos attenuated TNF-α-induced cytotoxicity and apoptosis in murine MC3T3-E1 cells by sponging miR-146a, suggesting that Rtn4-Exos may serve as novel candidates for treating osteoporosis.
CD37 high expression as a potential biomarker and association with poor outcome in acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Zhang Qi , Han Qi , Zi Jie , Song Chunhua , Ge Zheng
Published: May 2020

Background: CD37, a member of the transmembrane 4 superfamilies (TM4SF), has been proved to be abnormally expressed in a range of malignancies. Herein, we investigate the effects of CD37 expression and analyze its clinical outcome in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients.

Methods: The RNA-seq and clinical data of AML patients were obtained from cBioPortal database. CD37 correlated genes, the expression prolife and survival curve of eight key genes were acquired from Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA) and UALCAN. Pathway enrichment and protein–protein interaction (PPI) network analysis were performed based on metascape databases.

Results: Our results showed that CD37 mRNA expression level was significantly up-regulated in patients with AML compared with healthy persons. Patients with high CD37 expression had shorter overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS). Pathway analysis data showed that CD37 is involved in DNA replication, RNA transport, Salmonella infection, ribonucleoprotein complex biogenesis, cell cycle phase transition and so on. Furthermore, we found eight genes correlated with CD37 are all highly expressed in AML patients, and high expression is associated with poor prognosis.

Conclusion: Our study described systematical expression profiles and the prognostic values of CD37 in AML; our data suggested CD37 might be novel therapeutic target and promising prognostic biomarker in the patients.
Increased MUC1 plus a larger quantity and complex size for MUC5AC in the peripheral airway lumen of long-term tobacco smokers
Authors: Padra Médea , Andersson Anders , Levänen Bettina , Premaratne Pushpa , Asgeirsdottir Helga , Tengvall Sara , Christenson Karin , Stockfelt Marit , Bozinovski Steven , Yoshihara Shigemi , Lantz Ann-Sofie , Palmberg Lena , Dahlén Barbro , Larsson Kjell , Qvarfordt Ingemar , Lindén Sara K. , Lindén Anders
Published: May 2020

There is little information on mucins versus potential regulatory factors in the peripheral airway lumen of long-term smokers with (LTS+) and without (LTS−) chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). We explored these matters in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) samples from two study materials, both including LTS+ and LTS− with a very similar historic exposure to tobacco smoke, and healthy non-smokers (HNSs; n=4–20/group). Utilizing slot blot and immunodetection of processed (filtered and centrifuged), as well as unprocessed BAL samples from one of the materials, we compared the quantity and fraction of large complexes of mucins. All LTS displayed an enhanced (median) level of MUC5AC compared with HNS. LTS− displayed a higher level of large MUC5AC complexes than HNS while LTS+ displayed a similar trend. In all LTS, total MUC5AC correlated with blood leukocytes, BAL neutrophil elastase and net gelatinase activity. Large mucin complexes accounted for most MUC5B, without clear group differences. In all LTS, total MUC5B correlated with total MUC5AC and local bacteria. In the same groups, large MUC5B complexes correlated with serum cotinine. MUC1 was increased and correlated with BAL leukocytes in all LTS whereas MUC2 was very low and without clear group differences. Thus, the main part of MUC5AC and MUC5B is present as large complexes in the peripheral airway lumen and historic as well as current exposure to tobacco smoke emerge as potential regulatory factors, regardless of COPD per se. Bacteria, leukocytes and proteinases also constitute potential regulatory factors, of interest for future therapeutic strategies.
Homocysteine induces melanocytes apoptosis via PERK–eIF2α–CHOP pathway in vitiligo
Authors: Chen Jiaxi , Zhuang Tongtian , Chen Jianru , Tian Yangzi , Yi Xiuli , Ni Qingrong , Zhang Weigang , Song Pu , Jian Zhe , Liu Ling , Cui Tingting , Li Kai , Gao Tianwen , Li Chunying , Li Shuli
Published: May 2020

Vitiligo is a depigmentation disorder that develops as a result of the progressive disappearance of epidermal melanocytes. The elevated level of amino acid metabolite homocysteine (Hcy) has been identified as circulating marker of oxidative stress and known as a risk factor for vitiligo. However, the mechanism underlying Hcy-regulated melanocytic destruction is currently unknown. The present study aims to elucidate the effect of Hcy on melanocytic destruction and its involvement in the pathogenesis of vitiligo. Our results showed that Hcy level was significantly elevated in the serum of progressive vitiligo patients. Notably, Hcy induced cell apoptosis in melanocytes via activating reactive oxygen species (ROS) and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress protein kinase RNA-like ER kinase (PERK)–eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2α (eIF2α)–C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP) pathway. More importantly, folic acid, functioning in the transformation of Hcy, could lower the intracellular Hcy level and further reverse the apoptotic effect of Hcy on melanocytes. Additionally, Hcy disrupted melanogenesis whereas folic acid supplementation could reverse the melanogenesis defect induced by Hcy in melanocytes. Taken together, Hcy is highly increased in vitiligo patients at progressive stage, and our in vitro studies revealed that folic acid could protect melanocytes from Hcy-induced apoptosis and melanin synthesis inhibition, indicating folic acid as a potential benefit agent for patients with progressive vitiligo.
Blood Plasma Hormone–Level Influence on Vocal Function
Authors: Plexico Laura W. , Sandage Mary J. , Kluess Heidi A. , Franco-Watkins Ana M. , Neidert Leslie E.
Published: May 2020

Purpose

This preliminary study examined the influence of menstrual cycle phase and hormone levels on acoustic measurements of vocal function in reproductive and postmenopausal females. Mean fundamental frequency (f0), speaking fundamental frequency (Sf0), and cepstral peak prominence (CPP) were evaluated. It was hypothesized that Sf0 and CPP would be lower during the luteal and ischemic phases of the menstrual cycle. Group differences with lower values in postmenopausal females and greater variability in the reproductive females were also hypothesized.

Method

A mixed factorial analysis of variance was used to examine differences between reproductive and postmenopausal females and the four phases of the menstrual cycle. Separate analyses of variances were implemented for each of the dependent measures. Twenty-eight female participants (15 reproductive cycling, 13 postmenopausal) completed the study. Participants were recorded reading the Rainbow Passage and sustaining the vowel /a/. Mean vocal f0, Sf0, and CPP were determined from the acoustic samples. Blood assays were used to determine estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, and neuropeptide Y levels at four data collection time points.

Results

Group differences in hormone levels and Sf0 values were established with the postmenopausal group having significantly lower hormone levels and significantly lower Sf0 than the reproductive cycling group across the phases. Analysis of the reproductive group by hormone levels and cycle phase revealed no significant differences for CPP or Sf0 across phases. Higher estrogen was identified in the ovulation phase, and higher progesterone was identified in the luteal phase.

Conclusions

Significant differences in hormone levels and Sf0 were identified between groups. Within the reproductive cycling group, the lack of significant difference in acoustic measures relative to hormone levels indicated that the measures taken may not have been sensitive enough to identify hormonally mediated vocal function changes. The participant selection may have biased the findings in that health conditions and medications that are known to influence voice function were used as exclusion criteria.
Asymmetry and Positioning of the Levator Veli Palatini Muscle in Children With Repaired Cleft Palate
Authors: Kotlarek Katelyn J. , Pelland Catherine M. , Blemker Silvia S. , Jaskolka Michael S. , Fang Xiangming , Perry Jamie L.
Published: May 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the differences in velopharyngeal dimensions as well as levator veli palatini (levator) muscle morphology, positioning, and symmetry of children with repaired cleft palate with velopharyngeal insufficiency (VPI), children with repaired cleft palate with complete velopharyngeal closure, and children with noncleft anatomy.

Method

Fifteen children ranging in age from 4 to 8 years were recruited for this study. Ten of the participants had a history of repaired cleft palate, half with documented VPI and the other half with velopharyngeal closure. Five participants with noncleft anatomy were matched for age from a normative database. The magnetic resonance imaging protocol, processing methods, and analysis are consistent with that used in previous literature.

Results

Regarding velopharyngeal dimensions, median values were statistically significantly different between groups for sagittal angle (
p
= .031) and effective velopharyngeal ratio (
p
= .013). With respect to the levator muscle, median values were statistically significant for average extravelar length (
p
= .018), thickness at midline (
p
= .021), and thickness between the left and right muscle bundles at the point of insertion into the velum (
p
= .037). Remaining measures were not statistically significant.

Conclusions

The levator muscle is significantly different among these three groups with respect to thickness at midline, extravelar length, and symmetry at the point of insertion into the velum. Sagittal angle and effective velopharyngeal ratio are also significantly different. Participants with repaired cleft palate and VPI displayed the greatest degree of asymmetry. Future research should control for surgical procedure type to determine the impact of surgery on the levator muscle and surrounding velopharyngeal anatomy.
Predicting Expressive Language From Early Vocalizations in Young Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: Which Vocal Measure Is Best?
Authors: McDaniel Jena , Yoder Paul , Estes Annette , Rogers Sally J.
Published: May 2020

Purpose

This study was designed to test the incremental validity of more expensive vocal development variables relative to less expensive variables for predicting later expressive language in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). We devote particular attention to the added value of coding the quality of vocalizations over the quantity of vocalizations because coding quality adds expense to the coding process. We are also interested in the added value of more costly human-coded vocal variables relative to those generated through automated analyses.

Method

Eighty-seven children with ASD aged 13–30 months at study initiation participated. For quantity of vocalizations, we derived one variable from human coding of brief communication samples and one from an automated process for daylong naturalistic audio samples. For quality of vocalizations, we derived four human-coded variables and one automated variable. A composite expressive language measure was derived at study entry, and 6 and 12 months later. The 12 months–centered intercept of a simple linear growth trajectory was used to quantify later expressive language.

Results

When statistically controlling for human-coded or automated quantity of vocalization variables, human-coded quality of vocalization variables exhibited incremental validity for predicting later expressive language skills. Human-coded vocal variables also predicted later expressive language skills when controlling for the analogous automated vocal variables.

Conclusion

In sum, these findings support devoting resources to human coding of the quality of vocalizations from communication samples to predict later expressive language skills in young children with ASD despite the greater costs of deriving these variables.

Supplemental Material

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.12276458
Fast calculation of carrier harmonic iron losses caused by pulse width modulation in interior permanent magnet synchronous motors
Authors: Zhu Sa , Dong Jianning , Li Yanru , Hua Wei
Published: May 2020

Normal calculation of the carrier harmonic iron losses (CHILs) brought by the pulse width modulated (PWM) voltage source inverter in interior permanent magnet synchronous motors by the time‐stepping finite‐element analysis (TSFEA) with short time steps is very time‐consuming. In this study, a novel method for fast calculation is proposed, where a combination of the frozen differential reluctivity tensor method and the time‐harmonic finite‐element analysis is proposed to investigate the relationship between PWM voltage harmonics and the corresponding CHILs, with which the CHILs in stator and rotor are fast‐calculated with the voltage harmonics in stator and rotor reference frames, respectively. Besides, the eddy current reaction effect in electrical steel sheets on the CHILs at high frequency is considered by an analytical method and validated with the TSFEA. The results reveal that eight parameters are recommended to calculate the CHILs at different operating conditions, which vary with the fundamental current. Consequently, the CHIL map over the entire operating conditions can be fast‐calculated using the analytical spectra of the PWM voltages. Experiment on a specimen is conducted to validate the accuracy of the proposed method, which shows it depends on whether the equivalent differential permeability of the silicon steel can be accurately modelled.
Fully planar slow‐wave substrate integrated waveguide based on broadside‐coupled complementary split ring resonators for mmWave and 5G components
Authors: Nitas Michalis , Passia Maria‐Thaleia , Yioultsis Traianos V.
Published: May 2020

The authors propose a new metamaterial‐inspired substrate integrated waveguide (SIW) that utilises broadside‐coupled complementary split ring resonators (BC‐CSRRs) instead of metalised via holes, to confine propagation within the guiding channel. Due to the resonant behaviour of the BC‐CSRRs, blocking of in‐plane propagation is achieved in a straightforward and efficient manner. The final waveguide is synthesised by employing two rows of CSRRs instead of each via row, resulting in a fully‐planar, easy to fabricate, cost‐effective solution. This new waveguide exhibits outstanding propagation characteristics, with losses close to those of the conventional SIW, providing a highly promising platform to implement low‐cost planar components for millimetre‐wave applications. To further confirm the potential of implementing CSRR‐based SIW components, they provide designs of leaky‐wave antennas in the X‐ and Ka‐band, utilising this new concept.
Canonical synthesis of transversal bandpass filters
Authors: Guo Zai‐Cheng , Zhu Lei , Wong Sai‐Wai
Published: May 2020

The objective of this study is to try to find a canonical solution to realise transversal bandpass filters (BPFs), especially transversal BPFs with high order. For this purpose, first, a new configuration composed of coupled lines and transmission lines is proposed. After a series of simple transformations and approximations executed, the proposed configuration is simplified to a circuit with four paths between the source and load, and each path contains one half‐wavelength resonator. Then based on the modularity of transversal filters, a dual‐mode resonator is used to replace the half‐wavelength resonator in each path. Thus, the order of transversal BPF could be extended to five, six and even higher. It is shown that the proposed configuration could realise arbitrary BPFs specified by a transversal coupling matrix, including single‐passband filter with multiple transmission zeros, self‐equalised BPF and multi‐passband filters. In final, a class of BPFs is synthesised, designed and measured to prove the validity of the approach.
Proposal of novel photonic crystal fibre for sensing adulterated petrol and diesel with kerosene in terahertz frequencies
Authors: Kabir Yakasai Izaddeen , Abas Pg Emeroylariffion , Begum Feroza
Published: May 2020

A novel liquid‐core photonic crystal fibre (LC‐PCF) based on the Zeonex substrate has been proposed for sensing the varying concentration of kerosene in petrol and diesel fuels in terahertz frequencies. Fuel sample infiltration is achieved by designing a single hexagon in the porous core region. The LC‐PCF has been numerically studied using a finite element method. By filling the core hexagon with different petrol–kerosene and diesel–kerosene concentrations, sensitivity and transmission profiles of the proposed LC‐PCF have been examined. The impact of different design parameters of the fibre on its performance has been analysed, allowing the optimum design parameter set to be selected for further analysis. The proposed fibre shows relative sensitivities above 96% and effective material losses in the order of 10−3. With negligible confinement losses, the proposed fibre demonstrates near‐zero ultra‐flattened group velocity dispersion profiles within 1–1.6 THz. It is envisaged that the proposed fibre may be fabricated easily due to its simple design, and thus, serving as a significant step towards understanding THz pulse interaction with liquid petrochemical products.
Design and implementation path of intelligent transportation information system based on artificial intelligence technology
Authors: Xia Wen‐hui , Zhou Dan , Xia Qian‐yin , Zhang Lan‐rui
Published: May 2020

By using the concept, guiding ideology and design idea of artificial intelligence (AI) and Internet of Thing, this study puts forward the logistics intelligent transportation system (ITS) model, structure design and function design based on AI, focusing on the time value and information value of the intelligent logistics information system. The results show that the design of ITS model based on AI includes three modules: input, transformation and output of ITS. The ITS supply chain management platform and function design of freight vehicles with AI is feasible and prospective. The application of AI technology in ITS has great value and development prospect.