bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expert opinion—management of chronic myeloid leukemia after resistance to second-generation tyrosine kinase inhibitors
Authors: Hochhaus Andreas , Breccia Massimo , Saglio Giuseppe , García-Gutiérrez Valentín , Réa Delphine , Janssen Jeroen , Apperley Jane
Published: May 2020

Regardless of line of therapy, treatment goals in chronic phase chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) are: avoid progression to accelerated phase or blast crisis CML such that patients achieve a life expectancy comparable with that of the general population; avoid adverse events (AEs); and restore and maintain quality of life. The most important prognostic factor for achieving these goals is response to tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) at key milestones. For patients failing a TKI, a treatment change is mandatory to limit the risk of progression and death. There is currently no precise guideline for patients that fail a second-generation TKI, and there is a paucity of data to guide clinical decision making in this setting. There is, therefore, an unmet need for practical and actionable guidance on how to manage patients who fail a second-generation TKI. Although the term ‘failure’ includes patients failing for resistance or intolerance, the focus of this paper is failure of a second-generation TKI because of resistance. CML patients who fail their first second-generation TKI for true resistance need a more potent therapy. In these patients, the key issues to consider are the relative appropriateness of early allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation or the use of a further TKI. Selection of the next line of treatment after second-generation TKI resistance should be individualized and must be based on patient-specific factors including cytogenetics, mutation profile, comorbidities, age, previous history of AEs with prior TKI therapy, and risk profile for AEs on specific TKIs. This expert opinion paper is not in conflict with existing recommendations, but instead represents an evolution of previous notions, based on new data, insights, and clinical experience. We review the treatment options for patients resistant to second-generation TKI therapy and provide our clinical opinions and guidance on key considerations for treatment decision making.
Isocitrate dehydrogenase 2 contributes to radiation resistance of oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma via regulating mitochondrial function and ROS/pAKT signalling
Authors: Chen Xuan , Zhuo Shichao , Xu Wenzhe , Chen Xue , Huang Di , Sun Xiaozheng , Cheng Yufeng
Published: May 2020

Background

Antioxidase alleviates the accumulation of radiation-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) and therefore has strong connections with radioresistance. Isocitrate dehydrogenase 2 (IDH2) facilitates the turnover of antioxidase, but its role in radiotherapeutic efficiency in oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) still remains elusive.

Methods

The involvement of IDH2 in radiotherapeutic efficacy in ESCC was investigated in vitro and vivo by IDH2 knockdown. IDH2 expression in biopsy specimens of 141 patients was identified to evaluate its clinical significance.

Results

We found that Kyse510 and Kyse140 cells were more radioresistant and had higher IDH2 expression. In these two cell lines, IDH2 knockdown intensified the radiation-induced ROS overload and oxidative damage on lipid, protein, and nucleic acids. In addition, IDH2 silencing aggravated the radiation-induced mitochondrial dysfunction and cell apoptosis and ultimately promoted radiosensitisation via inhibiting AKT phosphorylation in a ROS-dependent manner. Furthermore, IDH2 depletion facilitated the radiation-induced growth inhibition and cell apoptosis in murine xenografts. Finally, IDH2 expression was correlated with definite chemoradiotherapy (dCRT) efficacy and served as an independent prognostic factor for survival of ESCC patients.

Conclusions

IDH2 plays a key role in the radioresistance of ESCC. Targeting IDH2 could be a promising regimen to improve radiotherapeutic efficiency in ESCC patients.
Internalization mechanisms of brain-derived tau oligomers from patients with Alzheimer’s disease, progressive supranuclear palsy and dementia with Lewy bodies
Authors: Puangmalai Nicha , Bhatt Nemil , Montalbano Mauro , Sengupta Urmi , Gaikwad Sagar , Ventura Frank , McAllen Salome , Ellsworth Anna , Garcia Stephanie , Kayed Rakez
Published: May 2020

Tau aggregates propagate in brain cells and transmit to neighboring cells as well as anatomically connected brain regions by prion-like mechanisms. Soluble tau aggregates (tau oligomers) are the most toxic species that initiate neurodegeneration in tauopathies, such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD), progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), and dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB). Exogenous tau aggregates have been shown to be internalized by brain cells; however, the precise cellular and molecular mechanisms that underlie the internalization of tau oligomers (TauO) remain elusive. Using brain-derived tau oligomers (BDTOs) from AD, PSP, and DLB patients, we investigated neuronal internalization mechanisms of BDTOs, including the heparan sulfate proteoglycan (HSPG)-mediated pathway, clathrin-mediated pathway, and caveolae-mediated pathway. Here, we demonstrated that the HSPG-mediated pathway regulates internalization of BDTOs from AD and DLB, while HSPG-mediated and other alternative pathways are involved in the internalization of PSP-derived tau oligomers. HSPG antagonism significantly reduced the internalization of TauO, prevented tau translocation to the endosomal–lysosomal system, and decreased levels of hyperphosphorylated tau in neurons, the well-known contributor for neurofibrillary tangles (NFT) accumulation, degeneration of neurons, and cognitive decline. Furthermore, siRNA-mediated silencing of heparan sulfate (HS)-synthesizing enzyme, exostosin-2, leads to decreased internalization of BDTOs, prevented tau-induced autophagy–lysosomal pathway impairment, and decreased hyperphosphorylated tau levels. Collectively, these findings suggest that HSPG-mediated endocytosis and exostsin-2 are involved in neuronal internalization of TauO and subsequent tau-dependent neuropathology in AD and DLB.
Oncogenic driver genes and tumor microenvironment determine the type of liver cancer
Authors: Wang Gang , Wang Qian , Liang Ning , Xue Hongyuan , Yang Tao , Chen Xuguang , Qiu Zhaoyan , Zeng Chao , Sun Tao , Yuan Weitang , Liu Chaoxu , Chen Zhangqian , He Xianli
Published: May 2020

Primary liver cancer (PLC) may be mainly classified as the following four types: hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC), hepatoblastoma (HB), and combined hepatocellular carcinoma and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (cHCC-ICC). The majority of PLC develops in the background of tumor microenvironment, such as inflammatory microenvironments caused by viral hepatitis, alcoholic or nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, carbon tetrachloride (CCl4), 3,5-diethoxycarbonyl-1,4-dihydrocollidine (DDC), and necroptosis-associated hepatic cytokine microenvironment caused by necroptosis of hepatocytes. However, the impact of different types of microenvironments on the phenotypes of PLC generated by distinct oncogenes is still unclear. In addition, the cell origin of different liver cancers have not been clarified, as far as we know. Recent researches show that mature hepatocytes retain phenotypic plasticity to differentiate into cholangiocytes. More importantly, our results initially demonstrated that HCC, ICC, and cHCC-ICC could originate from mature hepatocytes rather than liver progenitor cells (LPCs), hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and cholangiocytes in AKT-driven, AKT/NICD-driven and AKT/CAT-driven mouse PLC models respectively by using hydrodynamic transfection methodology. Therefore, liver tumors originated from mature hepatocytes embody a wide spectrum of phenotypes from HCC to CC, possibly including cHCC-ICC and HB. However, the underlying mechanism determining the cancer phenotype of liver tumors has yet to be delineated. In this review, we will provide a summary of the possible mechanisms for directing the cancer phenotype of liver tumors (i.e., ICC, HCC, and cHCC-ICC) in terms of oncogenic driver genes and tumor microenvironment. Moreover, this study initially revealed the cell origin of different types of liver cancer.
Atypical chemokine receptor ACKR3/CXCR7 controls postnatal vasculogenesis and arterial specification by mesenchymal stem cells via Notch signaling
Authors: Wei Sung-Tai , Huang Yen‐Chih , Hsieh Mei-Ling , Lin Yu-Jung , Shyu Woei-Cherng , Chen Hui-Chen , Hsieh Chia-Hung
Published: May 2020

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are known to play a role in postnatal vasculogenesis and hold great promise for vascular regeneration. However, the mechanisms by which the endothelial differentiation and specification of MSCs remain unclear. We examined the potential role and molecular mechanisms of atypical chemokine receptor ACKR3/CXCR7 in MSC-mediated endothelial cell differentiation and specification. Here, we showed that vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) activate CXCR7 expression on MSCs through PDGF receptors, PDGFRα and PDGFRβ-mediated phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt signaling. Genetic and pharmacologic blockage of CXCR7 on MSCs suppressed the VEGF or stromal cell-derived factor 1 (SDF)-1-induced the capacity for vasculogenesis in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, CXCR7 gain of function markedly promoted vasculogenesis by MSCs in vitro and in vivo and induced endothelial differentiation along the arterial endothelial cell lineage via upregulation of Notch signaling. However, blockade of Notch signaling inhibited CXCR7-induced vasculogensis by MSCs. These results indicate CXCR7 is a critical regulator of MSC-mediated postnatal vasculogenesis and arterial specification via Notch signaling.
Formate induces a metabolic switch in nucleotide and energy metabolism
Authors: Oizel Kristell , Tait-Mulder Jacqueline , Fernandez-de-Cossio-Diaz Jorge , Pietzke Matthias , Brunton Holly , Lilla Sergio , Dhayade Sandeep , Athineos Dimitri , Blanco Giovanny Rodriguez , Sumpton David , Mackay Gillian M. , Blyth Karen , Zanivan Sara R. , Meiser Johannes , Vazquez Alexei
Published: May 2020

Formate is a precursor for the de novo synthesis of purine and deoxythymidine nucleotides. Formate also interacts with energy metabolism by promoting the synthesis of adenine nucleotides. Here we use theoretical modelling together with metabolomics analysis to investigate the link between formate, nucleotide and energy metabolism. We uncover that endogenous or exogenous formate induces a metabolic switch from low to high adenine nucleotide levels, increasing the rate of glycolysis and repressing the AMPK activity. Formate also induces an increase in the pyrimidine precursor orotate and the urea cycle intermediate argininosuccinate, in agreement with the ATP-dependent activities of carbamoyl-phosphate and argininosuccinate synthetase. In vivo data for mouse and human cancers confirms the association between increased formate production, nucleotide and energy metabolism. Finally, the in vitro observations are recapitulated in mice following and intraperitoneal injection of formate. We conclude that formate is a potent regulator of purine, pyrimidine and energy metabolism.
Tumor suppressor death-associated protein kinase 1 inhibits necroptosis by p38 MAPK activation
Authors: Wu Yung-Hsuan , Chou Ting-Fang , Young Leslie , Hsieh Fu-Yi , Pan Hsuan-Yin , Mo Shu-Ting , Brown Shani Bialik , Chen Ruey-Hwa , Kimchi Adi , Lai Ming-Zong
Published: May 2020

Death-associated protein kinase 1 (DAPK1, DAPk, DAPK) is known for its involvement in apoptosis and autophagy-associated cell death. Here, we identified an unexpected function of DAPK1 in suppressing necroptosis. DAPK1-deficiency renders macrophages and dendritic cells susceptible to necroptotic death. We also observed an inhibitory role for DAPK1 in necroptosis in HT-29 cells, since knockdown or knockout of DAPK1 in such cells increased their sensitivity to necroptosis. Increased necroptosis was associated with enhanced formation of the RIPK1–RIPK3–MLKL complex in these DAPK1-deficient cells. We further found that DAPK1-deficiency led to decreased MAPK activated kinase 2 (MK2) activation and reduced RIPK1 S321 phosphorylation, with this latter representing a critical step controlling necrosome formation. Most TNF signaling pathways, including ERK, JNK, and AKT, were not regulated by DAPK. In contrast, DAPK bound p38 MAPK and selectively promoted p38 MAPK activation, resulting in enhanced MK2 phosphorylation. Our results reveal a novel role for DAPK1 in inhibiting necroptosis and illustrate an unexpected selectivity for DAPK1 in promoting p38 MAPK-MK2 activation. Importantly, our study suggests that modulation of necroptosis and p38/MK2-mediated inflammation may be achieved by targeting DAPK1.
Molecular architecture of the luminal ring of the Xenopus laevis nuclear pore complex
Authors: Zhang Yanqing , Li Sai , Zeng Chao , Huang Gaoxingyu , Zhu Xuechen , Wang Qifan , Wang Kunpeng , Zhou Qiang , Yan Chuangye , Zhang Wusheng , Yang Guangwen , Liu Minhao , Tao Qinghua , Lei Jianlin , Shi Yigong
Published: May 2020

The nuclear pore complex (NPC) mediates the flow of substances between the nucleus and cytoplasm in eukaryotic cells. Here we report the cryo-electron tomography (cryo-ET) structure of the luminal ring (LR) of the NPC from Xenopus laevis oocyte. The observed key structural features of the LR are independently confirmed by single-particle cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) analysis. The LR comprises eight butterfly-shaped subunits, each containing two symmetric wings. Each wing consists of four elongated, tubular protomers. Within the LR subunit, the eight protomers form a Finger domain, which directly contacts the fusion between the inner and outer nuclear membranes and a Grid domain, which serves as a rigid base for the Finger domain. Two neighboring LR subunits interact with each other through the lateral edges of their wings to constitute a Bumper domain, which displays two major conformations and appears to cushion neighboring NPCs. Our study reveals previously unknown features of the LR and potentially explains the elastic property of the NPC.
Tuning lithium-peroxide formation and decomposition routes with single-atom catalysts for lithium–oxygen batteries
Authors: Song Li-Na , Zhang Wei , Wang Ying , Ge Xin , Zou Lian-Chun , Wang Huan-Feng , Wang Xiao-Xue , Liu Qing-Chao , Li Fei , Xu Ji-Jing
Published: May 2020

Lithium-oxygen batteries with ultrahigh energy density have received considerable attention as of the future energy storage technologies. The development of effective electrocatalysts and a corresponding working mechanism during cycling are critically important for lithium-oxygen batteries. Here, a single cobalt atom electrocatalyst is synthesized for lithium-oxygen batteries by a polymer encapsulation strategy. The isolated moieties of single atom catalysts can effectively regulate the distribution of active sites to form micrometre-sized flower-like lithium peroxide and promote the decomposition of lithium peroxide by a one-electron pathway. The battery with single cobalt atoms can operate with high round-trip efficiency (86.2%) and long-term stability (218 days), which is superior to a commercial 5 wt% platinum/carbon catalyst. We reveal that the synergy between a single atom and the support endows the catalyst with excellent stability and durability. The promising results provide insights into the design of highly efficient catalysts for lithium-oxygen batteries and greatly expand the scope of future investigation.
Turbulent coherent structures and early life below the Kolmogorov scale
Authors: Krieger Madison S. , Sinai Sam , Nowak Martin A.
Published: May 2020

Major evolutionary transitions, including the emergence of life, likely occurred in aqueous environments. While the role of water’s chemistry in early life is well studied, the effects of water’s ability to manipulate population structure are less clear. Population structure is known to be critical, as effective replicators must be insulated from parasites. Here, we propose that turbulent coherent structures, long-lasting flow patterns which trap particles, may serve many of the properties associated with compartments — collocalization, division, and merging — which are commonly thought to play a key role in the origins of life and other evolutionary transitions. We substantiate this idea by simulating multiple proposed metabolisms for early life in a simple model of a turbulent flow, and find that balancing the turnover times of biological particles and coherent structures can indeed enhance the likelihood of these metabolisms overcoming extinction either via parasitism or via a lack of metabolic support. Our results suggest that group selection models may be applicable with fewer physical and chemical constraints than previously thought, and apply much more widely in aqueous environments.
Water acting as a catalyst for electron-driven molecular break-up of tetrahydrofuran
Authors: Wang Enliang , Ren Xueguang , Baek WoonYong , Rabus Hans , Pfeifer Thomas , Dorn Alexander
Published: May 2020

Low-energy electron-induced reactions in hydrated molecular complexes are important in various fields ranging from the Earth’s environment to radiobiological processes including radiation therapy. Nevertheless, our understanding of the reaction mechanisms in particular in the condensed phase and the role of water in aqueous environments is incomplete. Here we use small hydrogen-bonded pure and mixed dimers of the heterocyclic molecule tetrahydrofuran (THF) and water as models for biochemically relevant systems. For electron-impact-induced ionization of these dimers, a molecular ring-break mechanism is observed, which is absent for the THF monomer. Employing coincident fragment ion mass and electron momentum spectroscopy, and theoretical calculations, we find that ionization of the outermost THF orbital initiates significant rearrangement of the dimer structure increasing the internal energy and leading to THF ring-break. These results demonstrate that the local environment in form of hydrogen-bonded molecules can considerably affect the stability of molecular covalent bonds.
Comprehensive aptamer-based screening identifies a spectrum of urinary biomarkers of lupus nephritis across ethnicities
Authors: Stanley Samantha , Vanarsa Kamala , Soliman Samar , Habazi Deena , Pedroza Claudia , Gidley Gabriel , Zhang Ting , Mohan Shree , Der Evan , Suryawanshi Hemant , Tuschl Thomas , Buyon Jill , Putterman Chaim , Mok Chi Chiu , Petri Michelle , Saxena Ramesh , Mohan Chandra
Published: May 2020

Emerging urinary biomarkers continue to show promise in evaluating lupus nephritis (LN). Here, we screen urine from active LN patients for 1129 proteins using an aptamer-based platform, followed by ELISA validation in two independent cohorts comprised of 127 inactive lupus, 107 active LN, 67 active non-renal lupus patients and 74 healthy controls, of three different ethnicities. Urine proteins that best distinguish active LN from inactive disease are ALCAM, PF-4, properdin, and VCAM-1 among African-Americans, sE-selectin, VCAM-1, BFL-1 and Hemopexin among Caucasians, and ALCAM, VCAM-1, TFPI and PF-4 among Asians. Most of these correlate significantly with disease activity indices in the respective ethnic groups, and surpass conventional metrics in identifying active LN, with better sensitivity, and negative/positive predictive values. Several elevated urinary molecules are also expressed within the kidneys in LN, based on single-cell RNAseq analysis. Longitudinal studies are warranted to assess the utility of these biomarkers in tracking lupus nephritis.
Locally coupled electromechanical interfaces based on cytoadhesion-inspired hybrids to identify muscular excitation-contraction signatures
Authors: Cai Pingqiang , Wan Changjin , Pan Liang , Matsuhisa Naoji , He Ke , Cui Zequn , Zhang Wei , Li Chengcheng , Wang Jianwu , Yu Jing , Wang Ming , Jiang Ying , Chen Geng , Chen Xiaodong
Published: May 2020

Coupling myoelectric and mechanical signals during voluntary muscle contraction is paramount in human–machine interactions. Spatiotemporal differences in the two signals intrinsically arise from the muscular excitation–contraction process; however, current methods fail to deliver local electromechanical coupling of the process. Here we present the locally coupled electromechanical interface based on a quadra-layered ionotronic hybrid (named as CoupOn) that mimics the transmembrane cytoadhesion architecture. CoupOn simultaneously monitors mechanical strains with a gauge factor of ~34 and surface electromyogram with a signal-to-noise ratio of 32.2 dB. The resolved excitation–contraction signatures of forearm flexor muscles can recognize flexions of different fingers, hand grips of varying strength, and nervous and metabolic muscle fatigue. The orthogonal correlation of hand grip strength with speed is further exploited to manipulate robotic hands for recapitulating corresponding gesture dynamics. It can be envisioned that such locally coupled electromechanical interfaces would endow cyber–human interactions with unprecedented robustness and dexterity.
A chemically self-charging aqueous zinc-ion battery
Authors: Zhang Yan , Wan Fang , Huang Shuo , Wang Shuai , Niu Zhiqiang , Chen Jun
Published: May 2020

Self-charging power systems integrating energy harvesting technologies and batteries are attracting extensive attention in energy technologies. However, the conventional integrated systems are highly dependent on the availability of the energy sources and generally possess complicated configuration. Herein, we develop chemically self-charging aqueous zinc-ion batteries with a simplified two-electrode configuration based on CaV6O16·3H2O electrode. Such system possesses the capability of energy harvesting, conversion and storage simultaneously. It can be chemically self-recharged by the spontaneous redox reaction between the discharged cathode and oxygen from the ambient environment. Chemically self-recharged zinc-ion batteries display an initial open-circuit voltage of about 1.05 V and a considerable discharge capacity of about 239 mAh g−1, indicating the excellent self-rechargeability. Impressively, such chemically self-charging zinc-ion batteries can also work well at chemical or/and galvanostatic charging hybrid modes. This work not only provides a route to design chemically self-charging energy storage, but also broadens the horizons of aqueous zinc-ion batteries.
Exercise enhances motor skill learning by neurotransmitter switching in the adult midbrain
Authors: Li Hui-quan , Spitzer Nicholas C.
Published: May 2020

Physical exercise promotes motor skill learning in normal individuals and those with neurological disorders but its mechanism of action is unclear. We find that one week of voluntary wheel running enhances the acquisition of motor skills in normal adult mice. One week of running also induces switching from ACh to GABA expression in neurons in the caudal pedunculopontine nucleus (cPPN). Consistent with regulation of motor skills, we show that the switching neurons make projections to the substantia nigra (SN), ventral tegmental area (VTA) and ventrolateral-ventromedial nuclei of the thalamus (VL-VM). Use of viral vectors to override transmitter switching blocks the beneficial effect of running on motor skill learning. We suggest that neurotransmitter switching provides the basis by which sustained running benefits motor skill learning, presenting a target for clinical treatment of movement disorders.
Genes and genomes and unnecessary complexity in precision medicine
Authors: Singh Rama S. , Gupta Bhagwati P.
Published: May 2020

The sequencing of the human genome heralded the new age of ‘genetic medicine’ and raised the hope of precision medicine facilitating prolonged and healthy lives. Recent studies have dampened this expectation, as the relationships among mutations (termed ‘risk factors’), biological processes, and diseases have emerged to be more complex than initially anticipated. In this review, we elaborate upon the nature of the relationship between genotype and phenotype, between chance-laden molecular complexity and the evolution of complex traits, and the relevance of this relationship to precision medicine. Molecular contingency, i.e., chance-driven molecular changes, in conjunction with the blind nature of evolutionary processes, creates genetic redundancy or multiple molecular pathways to the same phenotype; as time goes on, these pathways become more complex, interconnected, and hierarchically integrated. Based on the proposition that gene-gene interactions provide the major source of variation for evolutionary change, we present a theory of molecular complexity and posit that it consists of two parts, necessary and unnecessary complexity, both of which are inseparable and increase over time. We argue that, unlike necessary complexity, comprising all aspects of the organism’s genetic program, unnecessary complexity is evolutionary baggage: the result of molecular constraints, historical circumstances, and the blind nature of evolutionary forces. In the short term, unnecessary complexity can give rise to similar risk factors with different genetic backgrounds; in the long term, genes become functionally interconnected and integrated, directly or indirectly, affecting multiple traits simultaneously. We reason that in addition to personal genomics and precision medicine, unnecessary complexity has consequences in evolutionary biology.
Furo[3,2-c]coumarin-derived Fe3+ Selective Fluorescence Sensor: Synthesis, Fluorescence Study and Application to Water Analysis
Authors: Sarih Norfatirah Muhamad , Ciupa Alexander , Moss Stephen , Myers Peter , Slater Anna Grace , Abdullah Zanariah , Tajuddin Hairul Anuar , Maher Simon
Published: May 2020

Furocoumarin (furo[3,2-c]coumarin) derivatives have been synthesized from single step, high yielding (82–92%) chemistry involving a 4-hydroxycoumarin 4 + 1 cycloaddition reaction. They are characterized by FTIR,1H-NMR, and, for the first time, a comprehensive UV-Vis and fluorescence spectroscopy study has been carried out to determine if these compounds can serve as useful sensors. Based on the fluorescence data, the most promising furocoumarin derivative (2-(cyclohexylamino)-3-phenyl-4H-furo[3,2-c]chromen-4-one,FH), exhibits strong fluorescence (ФF = 0.48) with long fluorescence lifetime (5.6 ns) and large Stokes’ shift, suggestingFHcould be used as a novel fluorescent chemosensor. FH exhibits a highly selective, sensitive and instant turn-off fluorescence response to Fe3+over other metal ions which was attributed to a charge transfer mechanism. Selectivity was demonstrated against 13 other competing metal ions (Na+, K+, Mg2+, Ca2+, Mn2+, Fe2+, Al3+, Ni2+, Cu2+, Zn2+, Co2+, Pb2+and Ru3+) and aqueous compatibility was demonstrated in 10% MeOH-H2O solution. TheFHsensor coordinates Fe3+in a 1:2 stoichiometry with a binding constant, Ka = 5.25 × 103 M−1. This novel sensor has a limit of detection of 1.93 µM, below that of the US environmental protection agency guidelines (5.37 µM), with a linear dynamic range of ~28 (~2–30 µM) and an R2value of 0.9975. As an exemplar application we demonstrate the potential of this sensor for the rapid measurement of Fe3+in mineral and tap water samples demonstrating the real-world application of FH as a “turn off” fluorescence sensor.
Antimicrobial resistance genes in raw milk for human consumption
Authors: Tóth Adrienn Gréta , Csabai István , Krikó Eszter , Tőzsér Dóra , Maróti Gergely , Patai Árpád V. , Makrai László , Szita Géza , Solymosi Norbert
Published: May 2020

The increasing prevalence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a significant threat to global health. More and more multi-drug-resistant bacterial strains cause life-threatening infections and the death of thousands of people each year. Beyond disease control animals are often given antibiotics for growth promotion or increased feed efficiency, which further increase the chance of the development of multi-resistant strains. After the consumption of unprocessed animal products, these strains may meet the human bacteriota. Among the foodborne and the human populations, antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) may be shared by horizontal gene transfer. This study aims to test the presence of antimicrobial resistance genes in milk metagenome, investigate their genetic position and their linkage to mobile genetic elements. We have analyzed raw milk samples from public markets sold for human consumption. The milk samples contained genetic material from various bacterial species and the in-depth analysis uncovered the presence of several antimicrobial resistance genes. The samples contained complete ARGs influencing the effectiveness of acridine dye, cephalosporin, cephamycin, fluoroquinolone, penam, peptide antibiotics and tetracycline. One of the ARGs, PC1 beta-lactamase may also be a mobile element that facilitates the transfer of resistance genes to other bacteria, e.g. to the ones living in the human gut.
Bryophytes can recognize their neighbours through volatile organic compounds
Authors: Vicherová Eliška , Glinwood Robert , Hájek Tomáš , Šmilauer Petr , Ninkovic Velemir
Published: May 2020

Communication between vascular plants through volatile organic compounds (VOCs) impacts on ecosystem functioning. However, nothing is known about that between non-vascular plants. To investigate plant–plant VOCs interaction in bryophytes we exposed rare peatland moss Hamatocaulis vernicosus to VOCs of its common competitor Sphagnum flexuosum in an air-flow system of connected containers under artificial light, supplemented or unsupplemented by far-red (FR) light. When exposed to VOCs of S. flexuosum, shoots of H. vernicosus elongated and emitted six times higher amounts of a compound chemically related to β-cyclocitral, which is employed in stress signalling and allelopathy in vascular plants. The VOCs emission was affected similarly by FR light addition, possibly simulating competition stress. This is the first evidence of plant–plant VOCs interaction in non-vascular plants, analogous to that in vascular plants. The findings open new possibilities for understanding the language and evolution of communication in land plants.
A Diagnostic Algorithm using Multi-parametric MRI to Differentiate Benign from Malignant Myometrial Tumors: Machine-Learning Method
Authors: Malek Mahrooz , Tabibian Elnaz , Rahimi Dehgolan Milad , Rahmani Maryam , Akhavan Setareh , Sheikh Hasani Shahrzad , Nili Fatemeh , Hashemi Hassan
Published: May 2020

This study aimed to develop a diagnostic algorithm for preoperative differentiating uterine sarcoma from leiomyoma through a supervised machine-learning method using multi-parametric MRI. A total of 65 participants with 105 myometrial tumors were included: 84 benign and 21 malignant lesions (belonged to 51 and 14 patients, respectively; based on their postoperative tissue diagnosis). Multi-parametric MRI including T1-, T2-, and diffusion-weighted (DW) sequences with ADC-map, contrast-enhanced images, as well as MR spectroscopy (MRS), was performed for each lesion. Thirteen singular MRI features were extracted from the mentioned sequences. Various combination sets of selective features were fed into a machine classifier (coarse decision-tree) to predict malignant or benign tumors. The accuracy metrics of either singular or combinational models were assessed. Eventually, two diagnostic algorithms, a simple decision-tree and a complex one were proposed using the most accurate models. Our final simple decision-tree obtained accuracy = 96.2%, sensitivity = 100% and specificity = 95%; while the complex tree yielded accuracy, sensitivity and specificity of 100%. To summarise, the complex diagnostic algorithm, compared to the simple one, can differentiate tumors with equal sensitivity, but a higher specificity and accuracy. However, it needs some further time-consuming modalities and difficult imaging calculations. Trading-off costs and benefits in appropriate situations must be determinative.
Cyclin A1 in Oocytes Prevents Chromosome Segregation And Anaphase Entry
Authors: Radonova Lenka , Pauerova Tereza , Jansova Denisa , Danadova Jitka , Skultety Michal , Kubelka Michal , Anger Martin
Published: May 2020

In several species, including Xenopus, mouse and human, two members of cyclin A family were identified. Cyclin A2, which is ubiquitously expressed in dividing cells and plays role in DNA replication, entry into mitosis and spindle assembly, and cyclin A1, whose function is less clear and which is expressed in spermatocytes, leukemia cells and in postmitotic multiciliated cells. Deletion of the gene showed that cyclin A1 is essential for male meiosis, but nonessential for female meiosis. Our results revealed, that the cyclin A1 is not only dispensable in oocytes, we show here that its expression is in fact undesirable in these cells. Our data demonstrate that the APC/C and proteasome in oocytes are unable to target sufficiently cyclin A1 before anaphase, which leads into anaphase arrest and direct inhibition of separase. The cyclin A1-induced cell cycle arrest is oocyte-specific and the presence of cyclin A1 in early embryos has no effect on cell cycle progression or chromosome division. Cyclin A1 is therefore not only an important cell cycle regulator with biased expression in germline, being essential for male and damaging for female meiosis, its persistent expression during anaphase in oocytes shows fundamental differences between APC/C function in oocytes and in early embryos.
Tuning interfacial Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interactions in thin amorphous ferrimagnetic alloys
Authors: Quessab Y. , Xu J-W. , Ma C. T. , Zhou W. , Riley G. A. , Shaw J. M. , Nembach H. T. , Poon S. J. , Kent A. D.
Published: May 2020

Skyrmions can be stabilized in magnetic systems with broken inversion symmetry and chiral interactions, such as Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interactions (DMI). Further, compensation of magnetic moments in ferrimagnetic materials can significantly reduce magnetic dipolar interactions, which tend to favor large skyrmions. Tuning DMI is essential to control skyrmion properties, with symmetry breaking at interfaces offering the greatest flexibility. However, in contrast to the ferromagnet case, few studies have investigated interfacial DMI in ferrimagnets. Here we present a systematic study of DMI in ferrimagnetic CoGd films by Brillouin light scattering. We demonstrate the ability to control DMI by the CoGd cap layer composition, the stack symmetry and the ferrimagnetic layer thickness. The DMI thickness dependence confirms its interfacial nature. In addition, magnetic force microscopy reveals the ability to tune DMI in a range that stabilizes sub-100 nm skyrmions at room temperature in zero field. Our work opens new paths for controlling interfacial DMI in ferrimagnets to nucleate and manipulate skyrmions.
Experimental demonstration of broadband impedance matching using coupled electromagnetic resonators
Authors: Lv Xiaolong , Li Chuanfei , Que Yaohua , Li Guofeng , Hou Xiaojuan , Li Ying , Li Linfeng , Sun Yibo , Guo Yunsheng
Published: May 2020

Impedance matching is an important factor for the electromagnetic resonators used to construct metasurfaces with perfect absorption and transmission properties. However, these resonators usually exhibit narrowband characteristics, thus greatly restricting their potential for application to metasurfaces to obtain excellent absorption and transmission performances. Therefore, realization of impedance matching over a wider range is of major importance. In this work, we demonstrate broadband impedance matching both theoretically and experimentally through use of coupled inductor-capacitor (LC) resonant coils, which are typical electromagnetic resonators. By adding a third resonant coil into the conventional system composed of two completely mismatched resonant coils, the new system realizes broadband impedance matching when the reflected impedances of the first two coils with respect to the third resonant coil are equal. The results in this work can provide useful guidance for realization of metasurfaces with broadband perfect absorption and transmission constructed using any type of electromagnetic resonator.
Breakdown of One-to-One Correspondence in Energy and Volume in a High-Pressure Heat-Treated Zr-Based Metallic Glass During Annealing
Authors: Yamada Rui , Shibazaki Yuki , Abe Yasuto , Ryu Wookha , Saida Junji
Published: May 2020

The glassy state of a high-pressure heat-treated Zr50Cu40Al10 metallic glass was investigated from energetic and volumetric perspectives. The specific heat (Cp) data of initial heating and subsequent cooling from the supercooled liquid region indicates that the sample behaviour cannot be explained simply by the derivative of the well-known enthalpy (H)–temperature (T) curve. Unlike the Cp data, the thermal-expansion coefficient (α) value increased monotonically during the first heating step, which suggests the collapse of a one-to-one correspondence between the energy and volume during the process. The α data of the cooling process follow almost the same path as those of the as-cast process, whereas the corresponding Cp curves do not. This result implies that the volume appears to be more sensitive to obeying external heat compared with energy, which highlights the different time scale for achieving an equilibrium state in energy and volume. The second heating data of the Cp and α exhibit an inverse relationship against the corresponding first heating set, which confirms the breakdown of a one-to-one correspondence during annealing. The newly constructed energy–density diagram shows that the treated sample is rejuvenated volumetrically but is relaxed energetically during aging, which has never been observed experimentally previously.
Publisher Correction: The Value of Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing in Determining Severity in Patients with both Systolic Heart Failure and COPD
Authors: da Luz Goulart Cássia , dos Santos Polliana Batista , Caruso Flávia Rossi , Arêas Guilherme Peixoto Tinoco , Marinho Renan Shida , de Faria Camargo Patricia , da Silva Alexandre Tiago , Oliveira Claudio R. , da Silva Andréa Lúcia Gonçalves , Mendes Renata Gonçalves , Roscani Meliza Goi , Borghi-Silva Audrey
Published: May 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
The globally invasive small Indian mongoose Urva auropunctata is likely to spread with climate change
Authors: Louppe Vivien , Leroy Boris , Herrel Anthony , Veron Géraldine
Published: May 2020

Invasive alien species represent one of the major factors of global loss of biodiversity and disruption of natural ecosystems. The small Indian mongoose,Urva auropunctata, is considered one of the wild carnivore species with the greatest negative impact on global biodiversity. Understanding of the factors underpinning the species’ distribution and potential dispersion in a context of climate change thus appears crucial in the conservation of native ecosystems. Here we modelled the current and future climatically favourable areas for the small Indian mongoose using Ecological Niche Modelling based on data sets filtrated in environmental spaces. Projections from these models show extensive current favourable geographical areas, covering continental and insular regions within tropical and sub-tropical latitudes. Moreover, predictions for 2050 reveal that climate change is likely to expand current favourable areas north of the current favourable spaces, particularly in Eastern Europe. This climate-induced expansion is particularly worrisome given that the species is already spreading in the Balkan region. Our projections suggest that it is very likely that the small Indian mongoose will have an increasing influence on ecosystems and biodiversity in Europe by 2050.
Efficient microalgae inactivation and growth control by locally enhanced electric field treatment (LEEFT)
Authors: Liu Peirui , Zhou Jianfeng , Wang Ting , Yu Cecilia , Hong Yu , Xie Xing
Published: May 2020

Locally enhanced electric field treatment (LEEFT) has been utilized as a novel and promising technology for efficient microalgae inactivation and growth control.
Comparative characterisation of non-monodisperse gold nanoparticle populations by X-ray scattering and electron microscopy
Authors: Yang Ye , Liao Suiyang , Luo Zhi , Qi Runzhang , Mac Fhionnlaoich Niamh , Stellacci Francesco , Guldin Stefan
Published: May 2020

A cross-method comparison for quasi-monodisperse, polydisperse and bimodal gold nanoparticles of 2–7 nm in diameter between conventional image analysis of transmission electron micrographs and small-angle X-ray scattering with form-free Monte Carlo fitting.
Au nanoparticle preconcentration coupled with CE-electrochemiluminescence detection for sensitive analysis of fluoroquinolones in European eel (Anguilla anguilla)
Authors: Liu Meihua , Guo Longhua , Yin Yuechun , Chen Lifen , Chen Zhitao , Liu Jingjing , Qiu Bin
Published: May 2020

Gold nanoparticles are utilized for preconcentration of fluoroquinolones in European eel.
Rh(iii) hydroxocomplexes speciation using HPLC-ESI-MS
Authors: Volchek Victoria V. , Berdyugin Semen N. , Shuvaeva Olga V. , Sheven Dmitriy G. , Vasilchenko Danila B. , Korenev Sergey V.
Published: May 2020

The comprehensive identification of polynuclear species of Rh(iii) was successfully executed by HPLC-ESI-MS combination.
Plasticizer-free and pH-independent ion-selective optode films based on a solvatochromic dye
Authors: Wang Xuewei , Zhou Yang , Decker Vanessa , Meyerhoff Mark , Sun Meng , Cui Yu
Published: May 2020

A layer of a solvatochromic dye, an ionophore, and an ion-exchanger deposited on a Nylon membrane enables highly selective colorimetric and fluorometric ion sensing.
Synthesis, structure and reactivity of NO+, NO˙ and NO−pincer PCN-Rh complexes
Authors: Gallego Cecilia Mariel , Gaviglio Carina , Ben-David Yehoshoa , Milstein David , Doctorovich Fabio , Pellegrino Juan
Published: May 2020

Synthesis of a rhodium PCN pincer-type nitrosyl complex is described. Coordination to the metallic center by weakly coordinating anions was found, as well as a slight stabilization of higher oxidation states when compared to a PCP analogue.
Impact of structural changes in heteroleptic bismuth phosphinates on their antibacterial activity in Bi-nanocellulose composites
Authors: Herdman Megan E. , Werrett Melissa V. , Duffin Rebekah N. , Stephens Liam J. , Brammananth Rajini , Coppel Ross L. , Batchelor Warren , Andrews Philip C.
Published: May 2020

A series of diphenyl mono-phosphinato bismuth complexes were synthesised to study the effect of ligand choice on antibacterial activity, mammalian cell toxicity, and their behaviour in Bi-nanocellulose composites for use as antibacterial materials.
Adsorption performance and mechanism of antibiotics from aqueous solutions on porous boron nitride–carbon nanosheets
Authors: Wang Gang , Zhang Yunqi , Wang Shiyong , Wang Yuwei , Song Haoran , Lv Sihao , Li Changping
Published: May 2020

BCN adsorbents exhibit superior adsorption performance for antibiotics and excellent reusability by simple high temperature calcination.
Atomic spectrometry update: review of advances in atomic spectrometry and related techniques
Authors: Evans E. Hywel , Pisonero Jorge , Smith Clare M. M. , Taylor Rex N.
Published: May 2020

This review covers advances in atomic spectrometric techniques, including atomic emission, absorption, fluorescence and mass spectrometry. Material on speciation and coupled techniques is not covered as this is included in a separate ASU review.
Challenges and approaches towards upscaling the assembly of hybrid perovskite solar cells
Authors: Shalan Ahmed Esmail
Published: May 2020

In the current review, we have reported the practical potential of PSCs, strategies, challenges, and approaches towards large-area scale PSC modulesviadifferent deposition techniques as well as functional materials for the device architecture.
High-efficiency and stable photocatalytic hydrogen evolution of rhenium sulfide co-catalyst on Zn0.3Cd0.7S
Authors: Huang Jindi , Li Xin , Jin Xiaoli , Wang Li , Deng Yu , Su Fengyun , Wong Po Keung , Ye Liqun
Published: May 2020

Photocatalytic hydrogen evolution is an attractive technology to solve the growing energy crisis.
Epitaxial graphene/Ge interfaces: a minireview
Authors: Dedkov Yuriy , Voloshina Elena
Published: May 2020

This review highlights recent progress in the studies of the growth and electronic properties of epitaxial graphene on Ge surfaces.
Vertically-oriented MoS2 nanosheets for nonlinear optical devices
Authors: Bolhuis M. , Hernandez-Rueda J. , van Heijst S. E. , Tinoco Rivas M. , Kuipers L. , Conesa-Boj S.
Published: May 2020

We demonstrate a novel strategy for large-area fabrication of vertical MoS2 exhibiting enhanced non-linear optical signal for applications in photonics.
Free-standing graphene oxide mid-infrared polarizers
Authors: Zheng Xiaorui , Xu Bing , Li Shuo , Lin Han , Qiu Ling , Li Dan , Jia Baohua
Published: May 2020

Mid-infrared free-standing graphene oxide polarizers with working wavelengths from 2 μm to 14 μm, and an extinction ratio of 20 dB.
Layered MoS2 defect-driven in situ synthesis of plasmonic gold nanocrystals visualizes the planar size and interfacial diversity
Authors: Li Bang Lin , Zou Hao Lin , Luo Hong Qun , Leong David Tai , Li Nian Bing
Published: May 2020

MoS2 edge and planar defects guide the spontaneous growth of plasmonic gold nanostructures, contributing to the homogeneous doping of semiconductors on metal nanocrystals with modulated optical characteristics.
Synthesis of glycosyl sulfoximines by a highly chemo- and stereoselective NH- and O-transfer to thioglycosides
Authors: Tota Arianna , Carlucci Claudia , Pisano Luisa , Cutolo Giuliano , Clarkson Guy J. , Romanazzi Giuseppe , Degennaro Leonardo , Bull James A. , Rollin Patrick , Luisi Renzo
Published: May 2020

The first highly stereoselective sulfoximine formation directly from sulfides is achieved in the preparation of unprecedented glycosyl sulfoximines. X-ray analysis and a computational model establish the configuration at sulfur.
Recent progress of transition metal-catalysed regioselective C–H transformations based on noncovalent interactions
Authors: Kuninobu Yoichiro , Torigoe Takeru
Published: May 2020

Recent advances in the transition metal-catalysed regioselective C–H transformations controlled by noncovalent interactions between substrates and reagents or ligands are summarised.
Dibenzothiophene-S,S-dioxide-bispyridinium-fluorene-based polyelectrolytes for cathode buffer layers of polymer solar cells
Authors: Chen Guiting , Cheng Dan , Zou Wenyan , Cai Ziyan , Xie Yufeng , Chen Yaqi , He Baitian , Hao Hongqing , Yang Wei , Cao Yong
Published: May 2020

The successful applications of PFSOPyCl and its newly synthesized derivative PFSOPyCl-E cathode modifiers in inverted polymer solar cells are presented.
Room temperature synthesis of block copolymer nano-objects with different morphologies via ultrasound initiated RAFT polymerization-induced self-assembly (sono-RAFT-PISA)
Authors: Wan Jing , Fan Bo , Liu Yiyi , Hsia Tina , Qin Kaiyuan , Junkers Tanja , Teo Boon M. , Thang San H.
Published: May 2020

The first room temperature synthesis of diblock copolymer nano-objects with different morphologies using ultrasound (990 kHz) initiated reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer PISA (sono-RAFT-PISA) in aqueous system.
SO2F2-Mediated one-pot cascade process for transformation of aldehydes (RCHO) to cyanamides (RNHCN)
Authors: Zhao Yiyong , Wei Junjie , Ge Shuting , Zhang Guofu , Ding Chengrong
Published: May 2020

Our gram-scale process uses abundant and inexpensive aldehydes, a clean nitrogen source, requires no additional carbon atoms, is transition-metal free, and features easy work-up and excellent functional group compatibility.
Correction: Support for instructional scaffolding with 1H NMR spectral features in organic chemistry textbook problems
Authors: Anderson Shannon Y. C. , Ong Whitney S. Y. , Offerdahl Erika G. , Momsen Jennifer L.
Published: May 2020

Correction for ‘Support for instructional scaffolding with 1H NMR spectral features in organic chemistry textbook problems’ by Shannon Y. C. Anderson et al., Chem. Educ. Res. Pract., 2020, DOI: 10.1039/c9rp00252a.