bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structure Elucidation of Helical Aromatic Foldamer–Protein Complexes with Large Contact Surface Areas
Authors: Reddy Post Sai , Langlois d'Estaintot Béatrice , Granier Thierry , Mackereth Cameron D. , Fischer Lucile , Huc Ivan
Published: July 2019

The development of large synthetic ligands could be useful to target the sizeable surface areas involved in protein–protein interactions. Herein, we present long helical aromatic oligoamide foldamers bearing proteinogenic side chains that cover up to 450 Å2 of the human carbonic anhydrase II (HCA) surface. The foldamers are composed of aminoquinolinecarboxylic acids bearing proteinogenic side chains and of more flexible aminomethyl‐pyridinecarboxylic acids that enhance helix handedness dynamics. Crystal structures of HCA‐foldamer complexes were obtained with a 9‐ and a 14‐mer both showing extensive protein–foldamer hydrophobic contacts. In addition, foldamer–foldamer interactions seem to be prevalent in the crystal packing, leading to the peculiar formation of an HCA superhelix wound around a rod of stacked foldamers. Solution studies confirm the positioning of the foldamer at the protein surface as well as a dimerization of the complexes.
Synthesis of Nitrogen‐Containing Goniothalamin Analogues with Higher Cytotoxic Activity and Selectivity against Cancer Cells
Authors: Meirelles Matheus A. , Braga Carolyne B. , Ornelas Catia , Pilli Ronaldo A.
Published: July 2019

Two series of racemic goniothalamin analogues displaying nitrogen‐containing groups were designed and synthesized. A total of 19 novel analogues were evaluated against a panel of four different cancer cell lines, along with the normal prostate cell line PNT2 to determine their selectivity. Among them, goniothalamin chloroacrylamide 13 e displayed the lowest IC50 values for both MCF‐7 (0.5 μm) and PC3 (0.3 μm) cells, about 26‐fold more potent than goniothalamin (1). Besides its higher potency, compound 13 e also displayed much higher selectivity than goniothalamin. In contrast, goniothalamin isobutyramide 13 c was the most potent analogue against Caco‐2 cells (IC50=0.8 μm), about 10‐fold more potent and 17‐fold more selective than 1. These results reveal the potential of compounds 13 c and 13 e for further in vivo studies, representing the first goniothalamin analogues with IC50 values in the low micromolar range and high selectivity against MCF‐7, Caco‐2, and PC3 cancer cell lines.
A New Small‐Molecule Donor Containing Non‐Fused Ring π‐Bridge Enables Efficient Organic Solar Cells with High Open Circuit Voltage and Low Acceptor Content
Authors: Wang Kun , Guo Xia , Ye Chennan , Wang Yulong , Meng Yuan , Li Xiaojie , Zhang Maojie
Published: July 2019

To achieve high open‐circuit voltage (Voc) and low acceptor content, the molecular design of a small‐molecule donor with low energy loss (Eloss) is very important for solution‐processable organic solar cells (OSCs). Herein, we designed and synthesized a new coplanar A−D−A structured organic small‐molecule semiconductor with non‐fused ring structure π‐bridge, namely B2TPR, and applied it as donor material in OSCs. Owing to the strong electron‐withdrawing effect of the end group and the coplanar π‐bridge, B2TPR exhibits a low‐lying highest occupied molecular orbital and strong crystallinity. Furthermore, benefiting from the coplanar molecular skeleton, the high hole mobility, balanced charge transport and reduced recombination were achieved, leading to a high fill factor (FF). The OSCs based on B2TPR : PC71BM blend film (w/w=1 : 0.35) demonstrates a moderate power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 7.10 % with a remarkable Voc of 0.98 V and FF of 64 %, corresponding to a low fullerene content of 25.9 % and a low Eloss of 0.70 eV. These results demonstrate the great potential of small‐molecule with structure of B2TPR for future low‐cost organic photovoltaic applications.
Modulation instability of lower hybrid waves leading to cusp solitons in electron–positron(hole)–ion Thomas Fermi plasma
Authors: Ehsan Zahida , Tsintsadze N.L. , Fedele Renato , Haque Q. , Shah H.A.
Published: July 2019

Following the idea of three‐wave resonant interactions of lower hybrid waves, it is shown that quantum‐modified lower hybrid (QLH) wave in electron–positron–ion plasma with spatial dispersion can decay into another QLH wave (where electron and positrons are activated, whereas ions remain in the background) and another ultra‐low frequency quantum‐modified ultra‐low frequency Lower Hybrid (QULH) (where ions are mobile). Quantum effects like Bohm potential and Fermi pressure on the lower hybrid wave significantly reshaped the dispersion properties of these waves. Later, a set of non‐linear Zakharov equations were derived to consider the formation of QLH wave solitons, with the non‐linear contribution from the QLH waves. Furthermore, modulational instability of the lower hybrid wave solitons is investigated, and consequently, its growth rates are examined for different limiting cases. As the growth rate associated with the three‐wave resonant interaction is generally smaller than the growth associated with the modulational instability, only the latter have been investigated. Soliton solutions from the set of coupled Zakharov and NLS equations in the quasi‐stationary regime have been studied. Ordinary solitons are an attribute of non‐linearity, whereas a cusp soliton solution featured by nonlocal nonlinearity has also been studied. Such an approach to lower hybrid waves and cusp solitons study in Fermi gas comprising electron positron and ions is new and important. The general results obtained in this quantum plasma theory will have widespread applicability, particularly for processes in high‐energy plasma–laser interactions set for laboratory astrophysics and solid‐state plasmas.
Hydroponic‐based smart irrigation system using Internet of Things
Authors: Lakshmiprabha Kakkanallur Ethirajan , Govindaraju Chinnathambi
Published: July 2019

Agriculture is a science that deals with the cultivating the soil, growing crops, and raising livestock. In India, the agricultural sector contributes GDP of around 16% and 10% of export earnings. Due to the advancement in smart technologies, the different types of irrigation techniques such as hydroponics and aeroponics are utilized for higher crop yields in a small area. In this work, the smart irrigation system using Internet of Things (IoT) is proposed for hydroponic system. Further, the experimental prototype is developed, and real‐time physical data such as temperature, humidity, and water flow are monitored, controlled, and logged with the help of ThingSpeak IoT platform. Results demonstrate that the proposed system is capable of monitoring and controlling the hydroponic environment and can be able to yield higher crop production.
Sympatric speciation in the Simulium arcticum s. l. complex (Diptera: Simuliidae): The Rothfels model updated
Authors: Shields Gerald F. , Procunier William S.
Published: July 2019

We tested the Rothfels sympatric speciation model for black flies by comparing all available data for sex‐chromosome diversity with the geographic locations of larval collection sites within the Simulium arcticum complex of black flies (Diptera: Simuliidae). Five separate data sets equaling about 20,000 larvae were included from throughout the geographic range of this complex. We record a total of 31 taxa having unique sex chromosomes, all of which demonstrate linkage disequilibrium with most taxa sharing autosomal polymorphisms. All siblings share portions of their distributions with S. negativum, the presumed oldest member of the complex. Twenty‐one of 22 cytotypes have distributions within the ranges of siblings thus supporting the sympatric speciation model of Rothfels. Chromosomally diverse sites may require analysis of as many as 200 larvae to be properly described. There is no effect of any inversions influencing the occurrence of other inversions. Finally, we report a new cytotype, Simulium arcticum IIL‐6, which we originally discovered in Alaska. Aspects of future genomic research are discussed as they relate to the main chromosomal structural/functional tenants of the model.

OPEN RESEARCH BADGE

This article has earned an Open Data Badge for making publicly available the digitally‐shareable data necessary to reproduce the reported results. The data are available at https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.7719398
Measuring avian specialization
Authors: Morelli Federico , Benedetti Yanina , Møller Anders Pape , Fuller Richard A.
Published: July 2019

Measuring the extent to which a species is specialized is a major challenge in ecology, with important repercussions for fundamental research as well as for applied ecology and conservation. Here, we develop a multidimensional index of specialization based on five sets of ecological characteristics of breeding bird species. We used two recent databases of species traits of European birds based on foraging ecology, habitat, and breeding characteristics. The indices of specialization were calculated by applying the Gini coefficient, an index of inequality. The Gini coefficient is a measure of statistical dispersion on a scale between 0 and 1, reflecting a gradient from low to high specialization, respectively. Finally, we tested the strength of the phylogenetic signal of each specialization index to understand how the variance of such indices is shared throughout the phylogeny. The methods for constructing and evaluating a multidimensional index of bird specialization could also be applied to other taxa and regions, offering a simple but useful tool, particularly suited for global or biogeographic studies, as a contribution to comparative estimates of the degree of specialization of species.
Vegetation ring formation by water overland flow in water‐limited environments: Field measurements and mathematical modelling
Authors: Yizhaq Hezi , Stavi Ilan , Swet Nitzan , Zaady Eli , Katra Itzhak
Published: July 2019

Vegetation rings are a unique vegetation pattern found in drylands. Most examples are found in clonal plants growing in sandy soils with confined root zones. Using field measurements and numerical simulations, we found that water overland flow is a predominant mechanism that drives ring formation in the clonal speciesAsphodelus ramosus. In these rings, an infiltration contrast develops due to aeolian feedback between vegetation and wind‐induced particle transport. Fine particles settle at the patch's centre, reducing water infiltrability compared with that of its perimeter. In turn, this encourages the development of biological soil crust in the ring's centre, further decreasing water infiltration in this micro‐environment. These processes cause the development of surface run‐off source–sink relations between the ring's centre and perimeter. The outcome of this process is the formation of three different micro‐environments: the centre of the patch, characterized by low soil‐water content; its perimeter, characterized by higher soil‐water content; and the matrix, also characterized by higher soil‐water content. Competition for the water resource between the ramets at the perimeter and the ones at the centre leads to dieback, resulting in ring formation. Measurements of soil‐water content in rings ofA. ramosusin the semiarid Negev of Israel throughout 5 years showed that the soil‐water content in the ring's centre is lower than that at its perimeter and matrix. These results are in accord with numerical simulations of a mathematical model for plant species with confined roots grown under highly seasonal rainfalls in water‐limited environments.
Targeting Treg cells in cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Tanaka Atsushi , Sakaguchi Shimon
Published: July 2019

Foxp3‐expressing regulatory T (Treg) cells, which are indispensable for preventing autoimmunity, also suppress effective tumor immunity. Treg cells abundantly infiltrate into tumor tissues, which is often associated with poor prognosis in cancer patients. Removal of Treg cells enhances anti‐tumor immune responses but may also elicit autoimmunity. A key issue in devising Treg‐targeting cancer immunotherapy is, therefore, how to specifically deplete Treg cells infiltrating into tumor tissues without affecting tumor‐reactive effector T cells, while suppressing autoimmunity. This can be achieved by differentially controlling Treg and effector T cells by various ways. In this review, we discuss how tumor‐infiltrating Foxp3+ Treg cells hamper effective anti‐tumor immune responses especially in tumor tissues and how they can be specifically targeted for augmenting tumor immunity but not autoimmunity.
Stereoselective Approaches toward the Synthesis of Nucleoside Antibiotic Core Aminoribosyl Glycyluridine
Authors: Patel Bhautikkumar , Grant Gary , Zunk Matthew , Rudrawar Santosh
Published: July 2019

Antibiotics that have a novel mechanism of action are urgently required for treatment of drug‐resistant microorganisms. Naturally occurring nucleoside antibiotics have shown promising antibacterial activity by inhibiting bacterial translocase MraY, a key enzyme involved in catalysis of the first step of bacterial peptidoglycan biosynthesis. Despite having promising antibiotic properties, a major challenge toward development of this important class of compounds as drug candidates is their complex multistep synthesis. Specifically, efficient synthetic methodologies toward producing the aminoribosylated uridine‐derived core unit in a stereo‐controlled manner is seen as an essential prerequisite for detailed structure‐activity relationship (SAR) studies. This review summarizes approaches available for the stereoselective synthesis of nucleoside core pharmacophores, including both 5′‐C‐glycyluridine (GlyU) as well as it's β‐selective ribosylation.
Electrospun Mesoporous Poly(Styrene‐Block‐Methyl‐ Methacrylate) Nanofibers as Biosensing Platform: Effect of Fibers Porosity on Sensitivity
Authors: Nathani Akash , Sharma Chandra S.
Published: July 2019

The present work demonstrates the use of mesoporous nanofibers for the enhanced analytical performance of electrochemical biosensor. By exploiting the phase separation property of the block copolymers, a simple three‐step process was used to generate the porosity in the nanofibers. Here we present the effect of the porosity on the sensing ability of the electrospun PS‐b‐PMMA nanofibers. The functional groups present on the nanofiber surface were characterized using DPV. The nanofibers modified electrode showed a large decrease in the oxidation current with the increase in the pH from 4.2 to 6.8 for the anionic redox couple whereas the change in the current is negligible for a neutral redox couple, this suggested the presence of ‐COOH groups. A one‐step process was used for the immobilization of biotin. There were about 35.5 % and 66.6 % decrease in the redox current for the as‐spun and porous nanofibers after functionalization respectively which indicate the presence of a high amount of active sites in the porous nanofibers. Finally, the sensor response was studied using streptavidin (1μg/ml–1fg/ml) as a model analyte. CV studies showed a 2.7‐fold increase whereas DPV showed a 6‐fold increase in the sensitivity for the porous nanofibers as compared to the as‐spun nanofibers.
Effect of Different Carbon Blacks on the Simultaneous Electroanalysis of Drugs as Water Contaminants Based on Screen‐printed Sensors
Authors: Deroco Patricia Batista , Fatibello‐Filho Orlando , Arduini Fabiana , Moscone Danila
Published: July 2019

For the construction of the sensor, three different carbon black (CB) materials (VULCAN XC72R, BLACK PEARLS 4750 and CB N220) were explored as modifying nanomaterial. Firstly, the electrochemical activity of the each SPE modified was compared by cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy technique, using [Fe(CN)6]3−/4− as redox couple. After demonstrating that electrodes modified with different types of CB were characterized by improved electrochemical performances when compared with bare electrodes, and among them, electrodes modified with CB BP4750 is characterised by slightly better electrochemical properties, this type of electrode was used for the development of the analytical method. By applying SWV technique in 0.2 mol L−1 phosphate buffer (pH 3.0), the obtained analytical curves for ACP and LVF were found linearly from 4.0 to 80.0 μmol L−1 and from 0.90 to 70.0 μmol L−1 with limit of detection of 2.6 μmol L−1 and 0.42 μmol L−1 for ACP and LVF, respectively. Finally, the quantification of these drugs in river water was evaluated using the new here‐proposed sensor by recovery method in spiked samples, obtaining satisfactory recovery values. The results achieved demonstrated that the developed analytical tool is of great analytical interest being easy to use, cost‐effective, miniaturized, and thus suitable for low cost on site analysis.
Synthesis of Tri‐functional Core‐shell CuO@carbon Quantum Dots@carbon Hollow Nanospheres Heterostructure for Non‐enzymatic H2O2 Sensing and Overall Water Splitting Applications
Authors: Kumar J. Sharath , Bolar Saikat , Murmu Naresh Chandra , Ganesh R. Sankar , Inokawa Hiroshi , Banerjee Amit , Kuila Tapas
Published: July 2019

A core‐shell structure with CuO core and carbon quantum dots (CQDs) and carbon hollow nanospheres (CHNS) shell was prepared through facile in‐situ hydrothermal process. The composite was used for non‐enzymatic hydrogen peroxide sensing and electrochemical overall water splitting. The core‐shell structure was established from the transmission electron microscopy image analysis. Raman and UV‐Vis spectroscopy analysis confirmed the interaction between CuO and CQDs. The electrochemical studies showed the limit of detection and sensitivity of the prepared composite as 2.4 nM and 56.72 μA μM−1 cm−2, respectively. The core‐shell structure facilitated better charge transportation which in turn exhibited elevated electro‐catalysis towards hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and overall water splitting. The overpotential of 159 mV was required to achieve 10 mA cm−2 current density for HER and an overpotential of 322 mV was required to achieve 10 mA cm−2 current density for OER in 1.0 M KOH. A two‐electrode system was constructed for overall water splitting reaction, which showed 10 and 50 mA cm−2 current density at 1.83 and 1.96 V, respectively. The prepared CuO@CQDs@CHNS catalyst demonstrated excellent robustness in HER and OER catalyzing condition along with overall water splitting reaction. Therefore, the CuO@CQDs@CHNS could be considered as promising electro‐catalyst for H2O2 sensing, HER, OER and overall water splitting.
First Order Derivative Voltammetry on the in situ Surfactant Modified Electrode for Naringin Quantification
Authors: Ziyatdinova Guzel , Yakupova Elvira , Ziganshina Endzhe , Budnikov Herman
Published: July 2019

Carboxylated multi‐walled carbon nanotubes based glassy carbon electrodes (MWNT‐COOH/GCE) modified in situ with surfactants (sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), cetylpyridinium bromide (CPB) and Triton X100) have been tested for the naringin determination. The effect of surfactant nature and concentration on the voltammetric characteristics of naringin has been evaluated. Anionic 100 μM SDS shows the highest 2.7‐fold increase of the oxidation currents in comparison to MWNT‐COOH/GCE. The irreversible electrooxidation of naringin is surface‐controlled process with the one electron and one proton transfer. Under conditions of first order derivative linear sweep voltammetry in Britton‐Robinson buffer (BRB) pH 8.0, the analytical ranges of 0.75–25 and 25–100 μM with the LOD and LOQ of 0.14 and 0.46 μM, respectively, have been obtained. The electrode response is selective in the presence of ascorbic, gallic and p‐coumaric acids as well as quercetin, catechin and rutin. The method has been applied for the naringin quantification in grapefruit juices.
Improving CO2/CH4 and CO2/N2 adsorptive selectivity of Cu‐BTC and MOF‐derived nanoporous carbon by modification with nitrogen‐containing groups
Authors: Salehi Samira , Anbia Mansoor , Razavi Fatemeh
Published: July 2019

For the first time in this study compared the adsorption capacity and selectivity of carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrogen (N2) on amine‐modified copper(II) benzene‐1,3,5‐tricarboxylate (Cu‐BTC) and metal organic framework‐derived nanoporous carbon (MOF/NPC) by employing a volumetric measurement. The MOF/NPC is synthesized via direct carbonization of the Cu‐BTC as a template without any carbon precursor at 900°C under N2 atmosphere and shows easy synthesis, large surface area, high excellent thermal and chemical stability as well as high resistance to moisture. All the prepared materials are characterized by nitrogen adsorption/desorption, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The porous supports could be effectively improved for CO2 adsorption with amine groups due to their high affinity toward CO2. CO2 adsorption capacity for MOF/NPC is 7.50 mmol g−1 when MOF/NPC is modified with the amine, CO2 adsorption capacity is increased (from 7.50 to 11.40 mmol g−1) at 298 K and 10 bar.
Interaction of a Barium‐Calcium‐Silicate Glass Composite Sealant with Sanergy HT 441
Authors: Gross‐Barsnick S.‐M. , Margaritis N. , de Haart U. , Huczkowski P. , Quadakkers W. J.
Published: July 2019

The interaction between Sandvik's coated Sanergy HT 441 (EN 1.4509) with a cerium‐cobalt layer as chromium evaporation barrier and a glass‐ceramic composite sealant on the basis of BaO‐CaO‐SiO2 was investigated in this study. The oxidation behavior of the steel was analyzed by long‐term weight change measurements of strip samples at 800 °C for 10,000 h followed by scanning electron microscopy on cross‐sectioned samples. A double oxide layer was formed consisting of chromia close to the steel and a layer with 18 wt.% Cr, 11% Co, 10% Mn to the air side. The interface of the joined samples had a reaction layer similar to the oxidized steel surface with an additional phase formation consisting of Co/Mn/Fe and low in oxygen facing the glass‐ceramic interface. After these preliminary tests the coated Sanergy HT 441 was integrated as frames into a four layered F10‐stack with 80 cm2 cell area and was tested for 3,500 h at operation temperature of 700 °C and 0.5 A cm−2 constant current mode followed by 20 thermal cycles between 700 and 200 °C. The stack had shown similar performance and gas‐tightness compared to stacks assembled with Crofer 22 APU. The post‐test characterization had shown adhesive fracture patterns when dismantling the stack parts.
The experimental study of biogas production when digesting chicken manure with a biochar additive
Authors: Baltrėnas Pranas , Paliulis Dainius , Kolodynskij Vitalij
Published: July 2019

The research aims to evaluate the output of biogas and the concentration of CH4 and gaseous impurities such as CO2 and H2S in the process of digesting chicken manure without additives (experiment A) and with 10% of biochar additive (by mass of the dry load) (experiment B) under anaerobic and mesophilic conditions. It has been found that the average output of biogas from a particular amount of chicken manure (experiments A and B) obtained in the 45‐day experimental research is similar in both cases and reaches 12.88 l d–1 and 12.36 l d–1, respectively. However, the biochar additive increases CH4 concentration in biogas and reduces the concentration of gaseous impurities (CO2 and H2S) in biogas. The maximum concentration of CH4 in biogas obtained from a load of manure with biochar additive is higher than that in biogas obtained by using a load without a biochar additive, and reaches 72.0% and 68.5%, respectively. The average CO2 concentration, reaching 33.09% and 47.5%, respectively, in biogas obtained from the load with 10% of biochar additive is lower than that in biogas obtained from the manure load without an additive. The average concentration of H2S in the biogas obtained in experiment B is lower than that in experiment A and reaches 95.9 mg m–3 and 195.5 mg m–3, respectively. The biochar additive adsorbs gaseous impurities (CO2 and H2S) from biogas without adsorbing CH4. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparison of weight gain between levonorgestrel and etonogestrel implants after 12 months of insertion
Authors: Okunola Temitope O. , Bola‐Oyebamiji Sekinat B. , Sowemimo Oluwaseun
Published: July 2019

Objective

To compare weight gain between women using etonogestrel implants and those using levonorgestrel implants 12 months after insertion.

Methods

A multicenter prospective cohort study was performed on women recruited from family planning clinics between July 2016 and August 2017. The main study outcome was mean weight gain after 12 months of insertion of the implants.

Results

The present study included 150 women (age range 18–45 years) using levonorgestrel implants and 167 women using etonogestrel implants. The women recruited had been using implants for less than 6 months; implants had been inserted 6–12 months after their last pregnancy. Participants were followed up until 12 months after insertion through telephone conversations. Baseline parameters were obtained from the clinic records and weight was measured within 6 weeks of the 12‐month anniversary of insertion of the implants. Data were analyzed with SPSS version 23. Weight gain in the levonorgestrel group was significantly higher than in the etonogestrel group (3.16 ± 4.08 vs 0.77 ± 3.76, P = 0.013; relative risk 1.69, 95% confidence interval 1.46–1.96). There were no differences in the occurrence of menstrual irregularities and client satisfaction.

Conclusion

Women using levonorgestrel implants were more likely to gain weight compared to those using etonogestrel implants after 12 months of insertion.
Association of caspase 8 promoter variants and haplotypes with the risk of breast cancer and its molecular profile in an Iranian population: A case‐control study
Authors: Bagherabad Matineh Barati , Afzaljavan Fahimeh , Vahednia Elham , Rivandi Mahdi , Vakili Fatemeh , Sadr Susan Sadat Hashemi , Shandiz Fatemeh Homaei , Pasdar Alireza
Published: July 2019

Caspase 8 (CASP8) gene plays a key role in the regulation of apoptotic cell death. Expression variation in this gene has been associated with the risk of breast cancer. The aim of this study was to investigate the association of rs3834129 and rs3769821, as functional variants, and their haplotypes with molecular profile as well as the risk of breast cancer in an Iranian population. A case‐control study was conducted on 812 participants including 293 breast cancer patients and 519 healthy controls. Genotyping was performed by polymerase chain reaction–based methods. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS Ver16. The association between polymorphisms and haplotypes with the risk of breast cancer was estimated by calculating odds ratios (OR) and chi‐square (χ2) tests. In comparison with ins allele (I) of rs3834129, carriers of del allele (D) showed a lower risk of breast cancer (OR, 0.65; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.49‐0.87; P = 0.004). The multivariate logistic regression model indicated DD genotype as an independent factor for a decreased risk of breast cancer in our population (OR, 0.18; 95% CI, 0.06‐0.58; P = 0.004). Also, the C allele of rs3769821 was associated with a 43% increased risk of breast cancer (P = 0.005); however, after adjustment for confounding factors, no association with rs3769821 and breast cancer was observed. In addition, D‐T haplotype and diplotype presented protective effects (P < 0.05). Our results indicate that genetic variations in the promoter region of CASP8 gene, especially rs3834129, may serve as a genetic risk factor for breast cancer in an Iranian population.
Circulating microRNAs as potential diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets in prostate cancer: Current status and future perspectives
Authors: Movahedpour Ahmad , Ahmadi Nahid , Ghasemi Younes , Savardashtaki Amir , Shabaninejad Zahra
Published: July 2019

Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the most common malignancies among men. Despite advancement in technology and medicine over past decades, late diagnosis remains a critical milestone in effective treatment. Therefore, it is necessary to identify novel and reliable biomarkers which are specifically sensitive and specific for prognosis and prediction of clinical outcomes. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play important roles in posttranslational regulations of genes. Circulating and exosomal miRNAs can be applied as useful diagnostic markers for a different type of malignancies, including PCa. Herein, we summarized various roles of miRNAs (diagnostic, therapeutic, and prognostic) in PCa. Moreover, we highlighted exosomal miRNAs as a new candidate in diagnosis and monitoring response to therapy in patients with PCa.
Exogenous expression of caveolin‐1 is sufficient for hepatic stellate cell activation
Authors: Ilha Mariana , Moraes Ketlen da Silveira , Rohden Francieli , Martins Leo Anderson Meira , Borojevic Radovan , Lenz Guido , Barbé‐Tuana Florencia , Guma Fátima Costa Rodrigues
Published: July 2019

Caveolin‐1 (Cav‐1) expression is increased in hepatic stellate cells (HSC) upon liver cirrhosis and it functions as an integral membrane protein of lipid rafts and caveolae that regulates and integrates multiple signals as a platform. This study aimed to evaluate the role of Cav‐1 in HSC. Thus, the effects of exogenous expression of Cav‐1 in GRX cells, a model of activated HSC, were determined. Here, we demonstrated through evaluating well‐known HSC activation markers – such as α‐smooth muscle actin, collagen I, and glial fibrillary acidic protein – that up regulation of Cav‐1 induced GRX to a more activated phenotype. GRXEGFP‐Cav1 presented an increased migration, an altered adhesion pattern, a reorganization f‐actin cytoskeleton, an arrested cell cycle, a modified cellular ultrastructure, and a raised endocytic flux. Based on this, GRX
EGFP‐Cav1 represents a new cellular model that can be an important tool for understanding of events related to HSC activation. Furthermore, our results reinforce the role of Cav‐1 as a molecular marker of HSC activation.
Computational aided mechanistic understanding of Camellia sinensis bioactive compounds against co‐chaperone p23 as potential anticancer agent
Authors: Bharadwaj Shiv , Lee Kyung Eun , Dwivedi Vivek Dhar , Yadava Umesh , Kang Sang Gu
Published: July 2019

Co‐chaperon p23 has been well established as molecular chaperon for the heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) that further leads to immorality in cancer cells by providing defense against Hsp90 inhibitors, and as stimulating agent for generating overexpressed antiapoptotic proteins, that is, Hsp70 and Hsp27. The natural compounds such as catechins from Camellia sinensis (green tea) are also well known for inhibition activity against various cancer. However, molecular interaction profile and potential lead bioactive compounds against co‐chaperon p23 from green tea are not yet reported. To this context, we study the various secondary metabolites of green tea against co‐chaperon p23 using structure‐based virtual screening from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) database. Following 26 compounds were obtained from TCM database and further studied for extra precision molecular docking that showed binding score between −10.221 and −2.276 kcal/mol with co‐chaperon p23. However, relative docking score to known inhibitors, that is, ailanthone (−4.54 kcal/mol) and gedunin ( 3.60 kcal/mol) along with ADME profile analysis concluded epicatechin (−7.013 kcal/mol) and cis‐theaspirone (−4.495 kcal/mol) as potential lead inhibitors from green tea against co‐chaperone p23. Furthermore, molecular dynamics simulation and molecular mechanics generalized born surface area calculations validated that epicatechin and cis‐theaspirone have significantly occupied the active region of co‐chaperone p23 by hydrogen and hydrophobic interactions with various residues including most substantial amino acids, that is, Thr90, Ala94, and Lys95. Hence, these results supported the fact that green tea contained potential compounds with an ability to inhibit the cancer by disrupting the co‐chaperon p23 activity.
Long non‐coding RNA THRIL predicts increased acute respiratory distress syndrome risk and positively correlates with disease severity, inflammation, and mortality in sepsis patients
Authors: Wang Yan'e , Fu Xiaoxing , Yu Bo , Ai Fen
Published: July 2019

Background

This present study aimed to investigate the correlation of long non‐coding RNA THRIL (lnc‐THRIL) with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) risk, disease severity, inflammation, and mortality in sepsis patients.

Methods

A total of 109 sepsis patients admitted to intensive care units were consecutively recruited, and their blood samples were collected. After admission, patients were supervised and screened daily to identify the occurrence of ARDS. Clinical characteristics, routine laboratory testing, and disease severity were recorded, and all enrolled patients were followed up until death in the hospital or discharge for mortality records. Lnc‐THRIL was detected by quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and inflammatory cytokine levels were measured by human enzyme‐linked immunoassay.

Results

A total of 32 (29.4%) sepsis patients occurred ARDS and 77 (71.6%) did not. Lnc‐THRIL was upregulated in ARDS group compared with non‐ARDS group, and it had good value in distinguishing ARDS from non‐ARDS in sepsis patients (AUC: 0.706; 95%CI: 0.602‐0.809). Besides, lnc‐THRIL, smoke, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease independently predicted increased risk of ARDS. As for disease severity, lnc‐THRIL positively correlated with APACHE II score and SOFA score in sepsis patients. Regarding inflammation, lnc‐THRIL was positively associated with CRP, PCT, TNF‐α, and IL‐1β levels in sepsis patients. Additionally, the mortality rate was 30.2%, and lnc‐THRIL was upregulated in non‐survivors compared with survivors, presenting a good value (AUC: 0.780; 95%CI: 0.683‐0.876) in predicting mortality in sepsis patients.

Conclusion

Lnc‐THRIL predicts increased risk of ARDS and positively correlates with disease severity, inflammation, and mortality in sepsis patients.
Ablation of RhoA impairs Th17 cell differentiation and alleviates house dust mite-triggered allergic airway inflammation
Authors: Yang Jun-Qi , Kalim Khalid W , Li Yuan , Zheng Yi , Guo Fukun
Published: July 2019

Asthma is a heterogeneous chronic airway inflammation in which Th2 and Th17 cells are key players in its pathogenesis. We have reported that RhoA of Rho GTPases orchestrated glycolysis for Th2 cell differentiation and allergic airway inflammation by the use of a conditional RhoA-deficient mouse line. However, the role of RhoA in Th17 cells remains to be elucidated. In this study, we investigated the effects of RhoA deficiency on Th17 cells in the context of ex vivo cell culture systems and an in vivo house dust mites (HDM)-induced allergic airway inflammation. We found that RhoA deficiency inhibited Th17 differentiation and effector cytokine secretion, which was associated with the downregulations of Stat3 and Rorγt, key Th17 transcription factors. Furthermore, loss of RhoA markedly suppressed Th17 and neutrophil-involved airway inflammation induced by HDM in mice. The infiltrating inflammatory cells in the lungs and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluids were dramatically reduced in conditional RhoA-deficient mice. Th17 as well as Th2 effector cytokines were suppressed in the airways at both protein and mRNA levels. Interestingly, Y16, a specific RhoA inhibitor, was able to recapitulate the most phenotypes of RhoA genetic deletion in Th17 differentiation and allergic airway inflammation. Our data demonstrate that RhoA is a key regulator of Th17 cell differentiation and function. RhoA might serve as a potential novel therapeutic target for asthma and other inflammatory disorders.
A high‐performance CMOS four‐stage amplifier
Authors: Soltani Zanjani Masoud , Asiyabi Tayebeh , Biabanifard Sadegh
Published: July 2019

In this paper, we theoretically propose and mathematically describe an effective four‐stage structure in Complementary metal‐oxide‐semiconductor (CMOS) technology based on differential block feedback. The special architecture of frequency compensation network improves frequency response with very small value of compensation capacitor, which results in low die area occupation. The presented novel and simple four‐stage structure is frequency compensated just via single Miller capacitor and a differential block. Symbolical transfer function is calculated, and circuit dynamics are introduced. To well explain theoretical description, the proposed configuration at circuit level is simulated using Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Limited (TSMC) 0.18‐μm CMOS technology and HSPICE circuit simulator. The proposed configuration and corresponding circuit benefits from circuit simplicity and low die‐area occupation. The frequency compensation network forms two Miller loops with negative loop gains. Feedback paths are amplified via differential block while feedforward paths are attenuated, leads to improving frequency response compare with conventional structures. Ample simulation results are in good agreement with theoretical description. Leveraging the concept and method proposed four‐stage amplifier exhibits 170 dB, 8.12 MHz, and 90° as direct current (DC) gain, Gain‐BandWidth Product (GBW), and Pase Margin (PM), respectively. The supply voltage is set to 1.8 V, while the simulated circuit consumes 380 μW.
Translating striatal activity from brain slice to whole animal neurophysiology: A guide for neuroscience research integrating diverse levels of analysis
Authors: Cromwell Howard Casey
Published: July 2019

An important goal of this review is highlighting research in neuroscience as examples of multilevel functional and anatomical analyses addressing basic science issues and applying results to the understanding of diverse disorders. The research of Dr. Michael Levine, a leader in neuroscience, exemplifies this approach by uncovering fundamental properties of basal ganglia function and translating these findings to clinical applications. The review focuses on neurophysiological research connecting results from in vitro and in vivo recordings. A second goal is to utilize these research connections to produce novel, accurate descriptions for corticostriatal processing involved in varied, complex functions. Medium spiny neurons in striatum act as integrators combining input with baseline activity creating motivational “events.” Basic research on corticostriatal synapses is described and links developed to issues with clinical relevance such as inhibitory gating, self‐injurious behavior, and relative reward valuation. Work is highlighted on dopamine–glutamate interactions. Individual medium spiny neurons express both D1 and D2 receptors and encode information in a bivalent manner depending upon the mix of receptors involved. Current work on neurophysiology of reward processing has taken advantage of these basic approaches at the cellular and molecular levels. Future directions in studying physiology of reward processing and action sequencing could profit by incorporating the divergent ways dopamine modulates incoming neurochemical signals. Primary investigators leading research teams should mirror Mike Levine's efforts in “climbing the mountain” of scientific inquiry by performing analyses at different levels of inquiry, integrating the findings, and building comprehensive answers to problems unsolvable without this bold approach.
Thermal conditions during neonatal anoxia affect the endogenous level of brain‐derived neurotrophic factor
Authors: Kletkiewicz Hanna , Maliszewska Justyna , Jaworski Krzysztof , Jermacz Łukasz , Smoliński Dariusz J. , Rogalska Justyna
Published: July 2019

Anoxia during delivery is a complication that can disturb infant brain development leading to various types of neurological disorders. Our studies have shown that increased body temperature of newborn rats of both sexes intensifies the postanoxic oxidative stress and prevents triggering the endogenous adaptive response such as HIF‐1α activation. Currently, brain‐derived neurotrophic factor‐BDNF is considered to be a modulator of neuronal plasticity. In the developing brain, mature BDNF and its precursor exhibit prosurvival action through the TrkB receptor and proapoptotic functions binding to p75NTR, respectively. The aim of our experiments was to check the effects of body temperature on the postanoxic level of BDNF and on the expression of its receptors as well as on the marker of apoptosis—caspase‐3 in the rat brain. Two‐day‐old Wistar Han rats (male/female ratio, 1:1) were exposed to anoxia in 100% nitrogen atmosphere for 10 min in different thermal conditions, which allowed them to regulate their rectal temperature at the following levels: normothermic—33°C; hyperthermic—37°C; and extremely hyperthermic—39°C. Thermal conditions during neonatal anoxia affected the level of proBDNF, BDNF as well as their receptors and caspase‐3 in the forebrain. The increased BDNF protein level followed by decreased caspase‐3 protein level was probably dependent on body temperature under anoxic conditions and was observed only in rats maintaining decreased body temperature. The positive effect of BDNF was not observed under hyperthermic conditions. Moreover, BDNF level changes correlated with body temperature probably affected the learning and spatial memory in juvenile rats.
Modification of kynurenine pathway via inhibition of kynurenine hydroxylase attenuates surgical brain injury complications in a male rat model
Authors: Zakhary George , Sherchan Prativa , Li Qian , Tang Jiping , Zhang John H.
Published: July 2019

Neurosurgical procedures result in surgically induced brain injury (SBI) that causes postoperative complications including brain edema and neuronal apoptosis in the surrounding brain tissue. SBI leads to the release of cytokines that indirectly cause the stimulation of kynurenine 3‐monooxygenase (KMO) and the release of neurotoxic quinolinic acid (QUIN). This study tested a KMO inhibitor, RO 61‐8048, to prevent postoperative brain edema and consequent neuronal apoptosis in an in vivo model of SBI. A rodent model of SBI was utilized which involves partial resection of the right frontal lobe. A total of 127 Sprague‐Dawley male rats (weight 275–325 g) were randomly divided into the following groups: Sham surgical group, SBI, SBI + DMSO, SBI + RO 61‐8048 (10 mg/kg), SBI + RO 61‐8048 (40 mg/kg), and SBI + RO 61‐8048 (40 mg/kg) + KAT II inhibitor PF‐04859989 (5 mg/kg). RO 61‐8048 was administered by intraperitoneal injection after SBI. Postoperative assessment at different time points included brain water content (brain edema), neurological scoring, and western blot. SBI increased brain water content (ipsilateral frontal lobe), decreased neurological function, and increased apoptotic markers compared with sham animals. Treatment with RO 61‐8048 (40 mg/kg) reduced brain water content and improved long‐term neurological function after SBI. RO 61‐8048 increased the expression of kynurenic acid while reducing QUIN and apoptotic markers in the surrounding brain tissue after SBI. These neuroprotective effects were reversed by PF‐04859989. This study suggests KMO inhibition via RO 61‐8048 as a potential postoperative therapy following neurosurgical procedures.
Evaluation of laccase production by Ganoderma lucidum in submerged and solid‐state fermentation using different inducers
Authors: Rodrigues Euderléia M. , Karp Susan G. , Malucelli Lucca C. , Helm Cristiane V. , Alvarez Thabata M.
Published: July 2019

Laccases are multicopper oxidases with high potential for industrial applications. Several basidiomycete fungi are natural producers of this enzyme; however, the optimization of production and selection of inducers for increased productivity coupled with low costs is necessary. Lignocellulosic residues are important lignin sources and potential inducers for laccase production. Pinus taeda, a dominant source of wood‐based products, has not been investigated for this purpose yet. The aim of this study was to evaluate the production of laccase by the basidiomycete fungus Ganoderma lucidum in the presence of different inducers in submerged and solid‐state fermentation. The results of submerged fermentation in presence of 5 μM CuSO
4, 2 mM ferulic acid, 0.1 g/L P. taeda sawdust, or 0.05 g/L Kraft lignin indicated that although all the tested inducers promoted increase in laccase activity in specific periods of time, the presence of 2 mM ferulic acid resulted in the highest value of laccase activity (49 U/L). Considering the submerged fermentation, experimental design following the Plackett–Burman method showed that the concentrations of ferulic acid and P. taeda sawdust had a significant influence on the laccase activity. The highest value of 785 U/L of laccase activity on submerged fermentation was obtained on the seventh day of cultivation. Finally, solid‐state fermentation cultures in P. taeda using ferulic acid or CuSO
4 as inducers resulted in enzymatic activities of 144.62 and 149.89 U/g, respectively, confirming the potential of this approach for laccase production by G. lucidum.
Seasonal rainfall forecasting for the Yangtze River basin using statistical and dynamical models
Authors: Qian Shuni , Chen Jie , Li Xiangquan , Xu Chong‐Yu , Guo Shenglian , Chen Hua , Wu Xushu
Published: July 2019

Summer monsoon rainfall forecasting in the Yangtze River basin is highly valuable for water resource management and for the control of floods and droughts. However, improving the accuracy of seasonal forecasting remains a challenge. In this study, a statistical model and four dynamical global circulation models (GCMs) are applied to conduct seasonal rainfall forecasts for the Yangtze River basin. The statistical forecasts are achieved by establishing a linear regression relationship between the sea surface temperature (SST) and rainfall. The dynamical forecasts are achieved by downscaling the rainfall predicted by the four GCMs at the monthly and seasonal scales. Historical data of monthly SST and GCM hindcasts from 1982 to 2010 are used to make the forecast. The results show that the SST‐based statistical model generally outperforms the GCM simulations, with higher forecasting accuracy that extends to longer lead times of up to 12 months. The SST statistical model achieves a correlation coefficient up to 0.75 and the lowest mean relative error of 6%. In contrast, the GCMs exhibit a sharply decreasing forecast accuracy with lead times longer than 1 month. Accordingly, the SST statistical model can provide reliable guidance for the seasonal rainfall forecasts in the Yangtze River basin, while the results of GCM simulations could serve as a reference for shorter lead times. Extensive scope exists for further improving the rainfall forecasting accuracy of GCM simulations.
Synoptic climatology of tropical and subtropical South America and adjoining seas as inferred from Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite imagery
Authors: Satyamurty Prakki , Rosa Marcelo B.
Published: July 2019

Three‐hourly infrared, visible and water vapour channel satellite imagery from the Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite for the 15‐year period 2003–2017 is processed to obtain a climatology for the South American region. All major features such as the Intertropical Convergence Zones, the South Atlantic Convergence Zone, the Amazon Basin convection, the Atacama Desert and the Northeast Brazil semiarid region are well delineated. Seasonal migrations and shifts of cloud systems are obtained. The study reveals the precise locations and extents of convective regions associated with large scale permanent and semi‐permanent features. The double Intertropical Convergence Zone in eastern equatorial Pacific is discussed. Some hitherto unnoticed and little discussed features such as the coastal cloud inhibition near the southeastern Brazil region and a conspicuous convective region near the coast of the state of Para are found. The dynamical reasons for the formation of these features are postulated. This climatology should serve to validate different climate‐scenario models and Numerical Weather Prediction models, besides providing guidance to operational meteorologists of the region.