bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic aberrations in iPSCs are introduced by a transient G1/S cell cycle checkpoint deficiency
Authors: Araki Ryoko , Hoki Yuko , Suga Tomo , Obara Chizuka , Sunayama Misato , Imadome Kaori , Fujita Mayumi , Kamimura Satoshi , Nakamura Miki , Wakayama Sayaka , Nagy Andras , Wakayama Teruhiko , Abe Masumi
Published: January 2020

A number of point mutations have been identified in reprogrammed pluripotent stem cells such as iPSCs and ntESCs. The molecular basis for these mutations has remained elusive however, which is a considerable impediment to their potential medical application. Here we report a specific stage at which iPSC generation is not reduced in response to ionizing radiation, i.e. radio-resistance. Quite intriguingly, a G1/S cell cycle checkpoint deficiency occurs in a transient fashion at the initial stage of the genome reprogramming process. These cancer-like phenomena, i.e. a cell cycle checkpoint deficiency resulting in the accumulation of point mutations, suggest a common developmental pathway between iPSC generation and tumorigenesis. This notion is supported by the identification of specific cancer mutational signatures in these cells. We describe efficient generation of human integration-free iPSCs using erythroblast cells, which have only a small number of point mutations and INDELs, none of which are in coding regions.
Low cost satellite constellations for nearly continuous global coverage
Authors: Singh Lake A. , Whittecar William R. , DiPrinzio Marc D. , Herman Jonathan D. , Ferringer Matthew P. , Reed Patrick M.
Published: January 2020

Satellite services are fundamental to the global economy, and their design reflects a tradeoff between coverage and cost. Here, we report the discovery of two alternative 4-satellite constellations with 24- and 48-hour periods, both of which attain nearly continuous global coverage. The 4-satellite constellations harness energy from nonlinear orbital perturbation forces (e.g., Earth’s geopotential, gravitational effects of the sun and moon, and solar radiation pressure) to reduce their propellant and maintenance costs. Our findings demonstrate that small sacrifices in global coverage at user-specified longitudes allow operationally viable constellations with significantly reduced mass-to-orbit costs and increased design life. The 24-hour period constellation reduces the overall required vehicle mass budget for propellant by approximately 60% compared to a geostationary Earth orbit constellation with similar coverage over typical satellite lifetimes. Mass savings of this magnitude permit the use of less expensive launch vehicles, installation of additional instruments, and substantially improved mission life.
Microengineered human blood–brain barrier platform for understanding nanoparticle transport mechanisms
Authors: Ahn Song Ih , Sei Yoshitaka J. , Park Hyun-Ji , Kim Jinhwan , Ryu Yujung , Choi Jeongmoon J. , Sung Hak-Joon , MacDonald Tobey J. , Levey Allan I. , Kim YongTae
Published: January 2020

Challenges in drug development of neurological diseases remain mainly ascribed to the blood–brain barrier (BBB). Despite the valuable contribution of animal models to drug discovery, it remains difficult to conduct mechanistic studies on the barrier function and interactions with drugs at molecular and cellular levels. Here we present a microphysiological platform that recapitulates the key structure and function of the human BBB and enables 3D mapping of nanoparticle distributions in the vascular and perivascular regions. We demonstrate on-chip mimicry of the BBB structure and function by cellular interactions, key gene expressions, low permeability, and 3D astrocytic network with reduced reactive gliosis and polarized aquaporin-4 (AQP4) distribution. Moreover, our model precisely captures 3D nanoparticle distributions at cellular levels and demonstrates the distinct cellular uptakes and BBB penetrations through receptor-mediated transcytosis. Our BBB platform may present a complementary in vitro model to animal models for prescreening drug candidates for the treatment of neurological diseases.
Selection from a pool of self-assembling lipid replicators
Authors: Colomer Ignacio , Borissov Arseni , Fletcher Stephen P.
Published: January 2020

Replication and compartmentalization are fundamental to living systems and may have played important roles in life’s origins. Selection in compartmentalized autocatalytic systems might provide a way for evolution to occur and for life to arise from non-living systems. Herein we report selection in a system of self-reproducing lipids where a predominant species can emerge from a pool of competitors. The lipid replicators are metastable and their out-of-equilibrium population can be sustained by feeding the system with starting materials. Phase separation is crucial for selective surfactant formation as well as autocatalytic kinetics; indeed, no selection is observed when all reacting species are dissolved in the same phase. Selectivity is attributed to a kinetically controlled process where the rate of monomer formation determines which replicator building blocks are the fittest. This work reveals how kinetics of a phase-separated autocatalytic reaction may be used to control the population of out-of-equilibrium replicators in time.
Generation of mesenchyme free intestinal organoids from human induced pluripotent stem cells
Authors: Mithal Aditya , Capilla Amalia , Heinze Dar , Berical Andrew , Villacorta-Martin Carlos , Vedaie Marall , Jacob Anjali , Abo Kristine , Szymaniak Aleksander , Peasley Megan , Stuffer Alexander , Mahoney John , Kotton Darrell N. , Hawkins Finn , Mostoslavsky Gustavo
Published: January 2020

Efficient generation of human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived human intestinal organoids (HIOs) would facilitate the development of in vitro models for a variety of diseases that affect the gastrointestinal tract, such as inflammatory bowel disease or Cystic Fibrosis. Here, we report a directed differentiation protocol for the generation of mesenchyme-free HIOs that can be primed towards more colonic or proximal intestinal lineages in serum-free defined conditions. Using aCDX2eGFPiPSC knock-in reporter line to track the emergence of hindgut progenitors, we follow the kinetics ofCDX2expression throughout directed differentiation, enabling the purification of intestinal progenitors and robust generation of mesenchyme-free organoids expressing characteristic markers of small intestinal or colonic epithelium. We employ HIOs generated in this way to measureCFTRfunction using cystic fibrosis patient-derived iPSC lines before and after correction of theCFTRmutation, demonstrating their future potential for disease modeling and therapeutic screening applications.
Posterior basolateral amygdala to ventral hippocampal CA1 drives approach behaviour to exert an anxiolytic effect
Authors: Pi Guilin , Gao Di , Wu Dongqin , Wang Yali , Lei Huiyang , Zeng Wenbo , Gao Yang , Yu Huiling , Xiong Rui , Jiang Tao , Li Shihong , Wang Xin , Guo Jing , Zhang Si , Yin Taoyuan , He Ting , Ke Dan , Li Ruining , Li Honglian , Liu Gongping , Yang Xifei , Luo Min–Hua , Zhang Xiaohui , Yang Ying , Wang Jian–Zhi
Published: January 2020

The basolateral amygdala (BLA) and ventral hippocampal CA1 (vCA1) are cellularly and functionally diverse along their anterior–posterior and superficial-deep axes. Here, we find that anterior BLA (aBLA) and posterior BLA (pBLA) innervate deep-layer calbindin1-negative (Calb1−) and superficial-layer calbindin1-positive neurons (Calb1+) in vCA1, respectively. Photostimulation of pBLA–vCA1 inputs has an anxiolytic effect in mice, promoting approach behaviours during conflict exploratory tasks. By contrast, stimulating aBLA–vCA1 inputs induces anxiety-like behaviour resulting in fewer approaches. During conflict stages of the elevated plus maze task vCA1Calb1+ neurons are preferentially activated at the open-to-closed arm transition, and photostimulation of vCA1Calb1+ neurons at decision-making zones promotes approach with fewer retreats. In the APP/PS1 mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease, which shows anxiety-like behaviour, photostimulating the pBLA–vCA1Calb1+ circuit ameliorates the anxiety in a Calb1-dependent manner. These findings suggest the pBLA–vCA1Calb1+ circuit from heterogeneous BLA–vCA1 connections drives approach behaviour to reduce anxiety-like behaviour.
Inhibition within a premotor circuit controls the timing of vocal turn-taking in zebra finches
Authors: Benichov Jonathan I. , Vallentin Daniela
Published: January 2020

Vocal turn-taking is a fundamental organizing principle of human conversation but the neural circuit mechanisms that structure coordinated vocal interactions are unknown. The ability to exchange vocalizations in an alternating fashion is also exhibited by other species, including zebra finches. With a combination of behavioral testing, electrophysiological recordings, and pharmacological manipulations we demonstrate that activity within a cortical premotor nucleus orchestrates the timing of calls in socially interacting zebra finches. Within this circuit, local inhibition precedes premotor neuron activation associated with calling. Blocking inhibition results in faster vocal responses as well as an impaired ability to flexibly avoid overlapping with a partner. These results support a working model in which premotor inhibition regulates context-dependent timing of vocalizations and enables the precise interleaving of vocal signals during turn-taking.
Comparative therapeutic efficacy of remdesivir and combination lopinavir, ritonavir, and interferon beta against MERS-CoV
Authors: Sheahan Timothy P. , Sims Amy C. , Leist Sarah R. , Schäfer Alexandra , Won John , Brown Ariane J. , Montgomery Stephanie A. , Hogg Alison , Babusis Darius , Clarke Michael O. , Spahn Jamie E. , Bauer Laura , Sellers Scott , Porter Danielle , Feng Joy Y. , Cihlar Tomas , Jordan Robert , Denison Mark R. , Baric Ralph S.
Published: January 2020

Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) is the causative agent of a severe respiratory disease associated with more than 2468 human infections and over 851 deaths in 27 countries since 2012. There are no approved treatments for MERS-CoV infection although a combination of lopinavir, ritonavir and interferon beta (LPV/RTV-IFNb) is currently being evaluated in humans in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Here, we show that remdesivir (RDV) and IFNb have superior antiviral activity to LPV and RTV in vitro. In mice, both prophylactic and therapeutic RDV improve pulmonary function and reduce lung viral loads and severe lung pathology. In contrast, prophylactic LPV/RTV-IFNb slightly reduces viral loads without impacting other disease parameters. Therapeutic LPV/RTV-IFNb improves pulmonary function but does not reduce virus replication or severe lung pathology. Thus, we provide in vivo evidence of the potential for RDV to treat MERS-CoV infections.
Melting of recycled ancient crust responsible for the Gutenberg discontinuity
Authors: Liu Jia , Hirano Naoto , Machida Shiki , Xia Qunke , Tao Chunhui , Liao Shili , Liang Jin , Li Wei , Yang Weifang , Zhang Guoying , Ding Teng
Published: January 2020

A discontinuity in the seismic velocity associated with the lithosphere-asthenosphere interface, known as the Gutenberg discontinuity, is enigmatic in its origin. While partial mantle melts are frequently suggested to explain this discontinuity, it is not well known which factors critically regulate the melt production. Here, we report geochemical evidence showing that the melt fractions in the lithosphere-asthenosphere boundary were enhanced not only by accumulation of compacted carbonated melts related to recycled ancient marine sediments, but also by partial melting of a pyroxene-rich mantle domain related to the recycled oceanic eclogite/pyroxenites. This conclusion is derived from the first set of Mg isotope data for a suite of young petit-spot basalts erupted on the northwest Pacific plate, where a clearly defined Gutenberg discontinuity exists. Our results reveal a specific linkage between the Gutenberg discontinuity beneath the normal oceanic regions and the recycling of ancient subducted crust and carbonate through the deep Earth.
Strong inverse kinetic isotope effect observed in ammonia charge exchange reactions
Authors: Petralia L. S. , Tsikritea A. , Loreau J. , Softley T. P. , Heazlewood B. R.
Published: January 2020

Isotopic substitution has long been used to understand the detailed mechanisms of chemical reactions; normally the substitution of hydrogen by deuterium leads to a slower reaction. Here, we report our findings on the charge transfer collisions of cold $${{\rm{Xe}}}^{+}$$

Xe

+

ions and two isotopologues of ammonia, $${{\rm{NH}}}_{3}$$

NH

3

and $${{\rm{ND}}}_{3}$$

ND

3

. Deuterated ammonia is found to react more than three times faster than hydrogenated ammonia. Classical capture models are unable to account for this pronounced inverse kinetic isotope effect. Moreover, detailed ab initio calculations cannot identify any (energetically accessible) crossing points between the reactant and product potential energy surfaces, indicating that electron transfer is likely to be slow. The higher reactivity of $${{\rm{ND}}}_{3}$$

ND

3

is attributed to the greater density of states (and therefore lifetime) of the deuterated reaction complex compared to the hydrogenated system. Our observations could provide valuable insight into possible mechanisms contributing to deuterium fractionation in the interstellar medium.
Cold-induced urticarial autoinflammatory syndrome related to factor XII activation
Authors: Scheffel Jörg , Mahnke Niklas A. , Hofman Zonne L. M. , Maat Steven de , Wu Jim , Bonnekoh Hanna , Pengelly Reuben J. , Ennis Sarah , Holloway John W. , Kirchner Marieluise , Mertins Philipp , Church Martin K. , Maurer Marcus , Maas Coen , Krause Karoline
Published: January 2020

Hereditary autoinflammatory diseases are caused by gene mutations of the innate immune pathway, e.g. nucleotide receptor protein 3 (NLRP3). Here, we report a four-generation family with cold-induced urticarial rash, arthralgia, chills, headache and malaise associated with an autosomal-dominant inheritance. Genetic studies identify a substitution mutation in geneF12(T859A, resulting in p.W268R) which encodes coagulation factor XII (FXII). Functional analysis reveals enhanced autocatalytic cleavage of the mutated protein and spontaneous FXII activation in patient plasma and in supernatant of transfected HEK293 cells expressing recombinant W268R-mutated proteins. Furthermore, we observe reduced plasma prekallikrein, cleaved high molecular weight kininogen and elevated plasma bradykinin. Neutrophils are identified as a local source of FXII. Interleukin-1β (IL-1β) is upregulated in lesional skin and mononuclear donor cells exposed to recombinant mutant proteins. Treatment with icatibant (bradykinin-B2-antagonist) or anakinra (interleukin-1-antagonist) reduces disease activity in patients. In conclusion, our findings provide a link between contact system activation and cytokine-mediated inflammation.
Reconciling the disagreement between observed and simulated temperature responses to deforestation
Authors: Chen Liang , Dirmeyer Paul A.
Published: January 2020

Land use changes have great potential to influence temperature extremes. However, contradictory summer daytime temperature responses to deforestation are reported between observations and climate models. Here we present a pertinent comparison between multiple satellite-based datasets and climate model deforestation experiments. Observationally-based methods rely on a space-for-time assumption, which compares neighboring locations with contrasting land covers as a proxy for land use changes over time without considering possible atmospheric feedbacks. Offline land simulations or subgrid-level analyses agree with observed warming effects only when the space-for-time assumption is replicated. However, deforestation-related cloud and radiation effects manifest in coupled climate simulations and observations at larger scales, which show that a reduction of hot extremes with deforestation – as simulated in a number of CMIP5 models – is possible. Our study provides a design and analysis methodology for land use change studies and highlights the importance of including land-atmosphere coupling, which can alter deforestation-induced temperature changes.
Colloidal interactions and unusual crystallization versus de-mixing of elastic multipoles formed by gold mesoflowers
Authors: Yuan Ye , Tasinkevych Mykola , Smalyukh Ivan I.
Published: January 2020

Colloidal interactions in nematic liquid crystals can be described as interactions between elastic multipoles that depend on particle shape, topology, chirality, boundary conditions and induced topological defects. Here, we describe a nematic colloidal system consisting of mesostructures of gold capable of inducing elastic multipoles of different order. Elastic monopoles are formed by relatively large asymmetric mesoflower particles, for which gravity and elastic torque balancing yields monopole-type interactions. High-order multipoles are instead formed by smaller mesoflowers with a myriad of shapes corresponding to multipoles of different orders, consistent with our computer simulations based on free energy minimization. We reveal unexpected many-body interactions in this colloidal system, ranging from de-mixing of elastic monopoles to a zoo of unusual colloidal crystals formed by high-order multipoles like hexadecapoles. Our findings show that gold mesoflowers may serve as a designer toolkit for engineering colloidal interaction and self-assembly, potentially exceeding that in atomic and molecular systems.
Mechanical breathing in organic electrochromics
Authors: Wang Xiaokang , Chen Ke , de Vasconcelos Luize Scalco , He Jiazhi , Shin Yung C. , Mei Jianguo , Zhao Kejie
Published: January 2020

The repetitive size change of the electrode over cycles, termed as mechanical breathing, is a crucial issue limiting the quality and lifetime of organic electrochromic devices. The mechanical deformation originates from the electron transport and ion intercalation in the redox active material. The dynamics of the state of charge induces drastic changes of the microstructure and properties of the host, and ultimately leads to structural disintegration at the interfaces. We quantify the breathing strain and the evolution of the mechanical properties of poly(3,4-propylenedioxythiophene) thin films in-situ using customized environmental nanoindentation. Upon oxidation, the film expands nearly 30% in volume, and the elastic modulus and hardness decrease by a factor of two. We perform theoretical modeling to understand thin film delamination from an indium tin oxide (ITO) current collector under cyclic load. We show that toughening the interface with roughened or silica-nanoparticle coated ITO surface significantly improves the cyclic performance.
Cervical epithelial damage promotes Ureaplasma parvum ascending infection, intrauterine inflammation and preterm birth induction in mice
Authors: Pavlidis Ioannis , Spiller Owen B. , Sammut Demarco Gabriella , MacPherson Heather , Howie Sarah E. M. , Norman Jane E. , Stock Sarah J.
Published: January 2020

Around 40% of preterm births are attributed to ascending intrauterine infection, andUreaplasma parvum(UP) is commonly isolated in these cases. Here we present a mouse model of ascending UP infection that resembles human disease, using vaginal inoculation combined with mild cervical injury induced by a common spermicide (Nonoxynol-9, as a surrogate for any mechanism of cervical epithelial damage). We measure bacterial load in a non-invasive manner using a luciferase-expressing UP strain, and post-mortem by qPCR and bacterial titration. Cervical exposure to Nonoxynol-9, 24 h pre-inoculation, facilitates intrauterine UP infection, upregulates pro-inflammatory cytokines, and increases preterm birth rates from 13 to 28%. Our results highlight the crucial role of the cervical epithelium as a barrier against ascending infection. In addition, we expect the mouse model will facilitate further research on the potential links between UP infection and preterm birth.
Plant metabolism of nematode pheromones mediates plant-nematode interactions
Authors: Manohar Murli , Tenjo-Castano Francisco , Chen Shiyan , Zhang Ying K. , Kumari Anshu , Williamson Valerie M. , Wang Xiaohong , Klessig Daniel F. , Schroeder Frank C.
Published: January 2020

Microorganisms and nematodes in the rhizosphere profoundly impact plant health, and small-molecule signaling is presumed to play a central role in plant rhizosphere interactions. However, the nature of the signals and underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. Here we show that the ascaroside ascr#18, a pheromone secreted by plant-parasitic nematodes, is metabolized by plants to generate chemical signals that repel nematodes and reduce infection. Comparative metabolomics of plant tissues and excretions revealed that ascr#18 is converted into shorter side-chained ascarosides that confer repellency. An Arabidopsis mutant defective in two peroxisomal acyl-CoA oxidases does not metabolize ascr#18 and does not repel nematodes, indicating that plants, like nematodes, employ conserved peroxisomal β-oxidation to edit ascarosides and change their message. Our results suggest that plant-editing of nematode pheromones serves as a defense mechanism that acts in parallel to conventional pattern-triggered immunity, demonstrating that plants may actively manipulate chemical signaling of soil organisms.
Differential modulation of NREM sleep regulation and EEG topography by chronic sleep restriction in mice
Authors: Kim Bowon , Hwang Eunjin , Strecker Robert E. , Choi Jee Hyun , Kim Youngsoo
Published: January 2020

Compensatory elevation in NREM sleep EEG delta power has been typically observed following prolonged wakefulness and widely used as a sleep homeostasis indicator. However, recent evidence in human and rodent chronic sleep restriction (CSR) studies suggests that NREM delta power is not progressively increased despite of accumulated sleep loss over days. In addition, there has been little progress in understanding how sleep EEG in different brain regions responds to CSR. Using novel high-density EEG electrode arrays in the mouse model of CSR where mice underwent 18-h sleep deprivation per day for 5 consecutive days, we performed an extensive analysis of topographical NREM sleep EEG responses to the CSR condition, including period-amplitude analysis of individual slow waves. As previously reported in our analysis of REM sleep responses, we found different patterns of changes: (i) progressive decrease in NREM sleep duration and consolidation, (ii) persistent enhancement in NREM delta power especially in the frontal and parietal regions, and (iii) progressive increases in individual slow wave slope and frontal fast oscillation power. These results suggest that multiple sleep-wake regulatory systems exist in a brain region-specific manner, which can be modulated independently, especially in the CSR condition.
Calcite incorporated in silica/collagen xerogels mediates calcium release and enhances osteoblast proliferation and differentiation
Authors: Rößler S. , Unbehau R. , Gemming T. , Kruppke B. , Wiesmann H.-P. , Hanke T.
Published: January 2020

Multiphasic silica/collagen xerogels are biomaterials designed for bone regeneration. Biphasic silica/collagen xerogels (B30) and triphasic xerogels (B30H20 or B30CK20) additionally containing hydroxyapatite or calcite were demonstrated to exhibit several structural levels. On the first level, low fibrillar collagen serves as template for silica nanoparticle agglomerates. On second level, this silica-enriched matrix phase is fiber-reinforced by collagen fibrils. In case of hydroxyapatite incorporation in B30H20, resulting xerogels exhibit a hydroxyapatite-enriched phase consisting of hydroxyapatite particle agglomerates next to silica and low fibrillar collagen. Calcite in B30CK20 is incorporated as single non-agglomerated crystal into the silica/collagen matrix phase with embedded collagen fibrils. Both the structure of multiphasic xerogels and the manner of hydroxyapatite or calcite incorporation have an influence on the release of calcium from the xerogels. B30CK20 released a significantly higher amount of calcium into a calcium-free solution over a three-week period than B30H20. In calcium containing incubation media, all xerogels caused a decrease in calcium concentration as a result of their bioactivity, which was superimposed by the calcium release for B30CK20 and B30H20. Proliferation of human bone marrow stromal cells in direct contact to the materials was enhanced on B30CK20 compared to cells on both plain B30 and B30H20.
Multiple gene promoter methylation and clinical stage in adjacent normal tissues: Effect on prognosis of colorectal cancer in Taiwan
Authors: Hsu Chih-Hsiung , Hsiao Cheng-Wen , Sun Chien-An , Wu Wen-Chih , Yang Tsan , Hu Je-Ming , Liao Yu-Chan , Huang Chi-Hua , Chen Chao-Yang , Lin Fu-Huang , Chou Yu-Ching
Published: January 2020

This study provide an insight that the panel genes methylation status in different clinical stage tended to reflect a different prognosis even in matched normal tissues, to clinical recommendation. We enrolled 153 colorectal cancer patients from a medical center in Taiwan and used the candidate gene approach to select five genes involved in carcinogenesis pathways. We analyzed the relationship between DNA methylation with different cancer stages and the prognostic outcome. There were significant trends of increasing risk of 5-year time to progression and event-free survival of subjects with raising number of hypermethylation genes both in normal tissue and tumor tissue. The group with two or more genes with aberrant methylation in the advanced cancer stages (Me/advanced) had lower 5-year event-free survival among patients with colorectal cancer in either normal or tumor tissue. The adjusted hazard ratios in the group with two or more genes with aberrant methylation with advanced cancer stages (Me/advanced) were 8.04 (95% CI, 2.80–23.1; P for trend <0.01) and 8.01 (95% CI, 1.92–33.4; P for trend <0.01) in normal and tumor tissue, respectively. DNA methylation status was significantly associated with poor prognosis outcome. This finding in the matched normal tissues of colorectal cancer patients could be an alternative source of prognostic markers to assist clinical decision making.
Genetic Variants Associated with Chronic Kidney Disease in a Spanish Population
Authors: Corredor Zuray , Filho Miguel Inácio da Silva , Rodríguez-Ribera Lara , Velázquez Antonia , Hernández Alba , Catalano Calogerina , Hemminki Kari , Coll Elisabeth , Silva Irene , Diaz Juan Manuel , Ballarin José , Vallés Prats Martí , Calabia Martínez Jordi , Försti Asta , Marcos Ricard , Pastor Susana
Published: January 2020

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients have many affected physiological pathways. Variations in the genes regulating these pathways might affect the incidence and predisposition to this disease. A total of 722 Spanish adults, including 548 patients and 174 controls, were genotyped to better understand the effects of genetic risk loci on the susceptibility to CKD. We analyzed 38 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in candidate genes associated with the inflammatory response (interleukins IL-1A, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α, ICAM-1), fibrogenesis (TGFB1), homocysteine synthesis (MTHFR), DNA repair (OGG1, MUTYH, XRCC1, ERCC2, ERCC4), renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (CYP11B2, AGT), phase-II metabolism (GSTP1, GSTO1, GSTO2), antioxidant capacity (SOD1, SOD2, CAT, GPX1, GPX3, GPX4), and some other genes previously reported to be associated with CKD (GLO1, SLC7A9, SHROOM3, UMOD, VEGFA, MGP, KL). The results showed associations of GPX1, GSTO1, GSTO2, UMOD, and MGP with CKD. Additionally, associations with CKD related pathologies, such as hypertension (GPX4, CYP11B2, ERCC4), cardiovascular disease, diabetes and cancer predisposition (ERCC2) were also observed. Different genes showed association with biochemical parameters characteristic for CKD, such as creatinine (GPX1, GSTO1, GSTO2, KL, MGP), glomerular filtration rate (GPX1, GSTO1, KL, ICAM-1, MGP), hemoglobin (ERCC2, SHROOM3), resistance index erythropoietin (SOD2, VEGFA, MTHFR, KL), albumin (SOD1, GSTO2, ERCC2, SOD2), phosphorus (IL-4, ERCC4 SOD1, GPX4, GPX1), parathyroid hormone (IL-1A, IL-6, SHROOM3, UMOD, ICAM-1), C-reactive protein (SOD2, TGFB1,GSTP1, XRCC1), and ferritin (SOD2, GSTP1, SLC7A9, GPX4). To our knowledge, this is the second comprehensive study carried out in Spanish patients linking genetic polymorphisms and CKD.
Broadband Frequency Scanning Spoof Surface Plasmon Polariton Design with Highly Confined Endfire Radiations
Authors: Kandwal Abhishek , Li Jingzhen , Igbe Tobore , Liu Yuhang , Li Sinan , Wang Lei , Hao Yang , Nie Zedong
Published: January 2020

This paper proposes a compact broadband frequency scanning spoof surface plasmon polariton (SSPP) based design for efficient endfire radiations with high field confinement. Through the dispersion engineering, highly confined field distribution has been obtained in the operating frequency region. The proposed SSPP antenna has achieved a continuous through endfire scanning in the X-band at other operating frequencies which is in general difficult to obtain for SSPP based antennas. In the proposed design methodology, the swore-shaped surface plasmon antenna has both edges corrugated with an array of rectangular grooves which effectively confines the electromagnetic field into a slow travelling wave. The surface impedances along both edges were engineered to be different at operating frequencies as to force the surface current to preferentially flow along either edge of the antenna to a different extent. The design with overall dimensions of (55 × 30) mm2 has achieved a broadband of 4 GHz with high peak measured gain of 9.8 dBi and peak efficiency of about 95 percent in the X-band. The antenna has been further tested experimentally for scanning application of target location also.
Enhancing quantum annealing performance by a degenerate two-level system
Authors: Watabe Shohei , Seki Yuya , Kawabata Shiro
Published: January 2020

Quantum annealing is an innovative idea and method for avoiding the increase of the calculation cost of the combinatorial optimization problem. Since the combinatorial optimization problems are ubiquitous, quantum annealing machine with high efficiency and scalability will give an immeasurable impact on many fields. However, the conventional quantum annealing machine may not have a high success probability for finding the solution because the energy gap closes exponentially as a function of the system size. To propose an idea for finding high success probability is one of the most important issues. Here we show that a degenerate two-level system provides the higher success probability than the conventional spin-1/2 model in a weak longitudinal magnetic field region. The physics behind this is that the quantum annealing in this model can be reduced into that in the spin-1/2 model, where the effective longitudinal magnetic field may open the energy gap, which suppresses the Landau–Zener tunneling providing leakage of the ground state. We also present the success probability of the Λ-type system, which may show the higher success probability than the conventional spin-1/2 model.
Unified and Exact Framework for Variance-Based Uncertainty Relations
Authors: Zheng Xiao , Ma Shao-Qiang , Zhang Guo-Feng , Fan Heng , Liu Wu-Ming
Published: January 2020

We provide a unified and exact framework for the variance-based uncertainty relations. This unified framework not only recovers some well-known previous uncertainty relations, but also fixes the deficiencies of them. Utilizing the unified framework, we can construct the new uncertainty relations in both product and sum form for two and more incompatible observables with any tightness we require. Moreover, one can even construct uncertainty equalities to exactly express the uncertainty relation by the unified framework, and the framework is therefore exact in describing the uncertainty relation. Some applications have been provided to illustrate the importance of this unified and exact framework. Also, we show that the contradiction between uncertainty relation and non-Hermitian operator, i.e., most of uncertainty relations will be violated when applied to non-Hermitian operators, can be fixed by this unified and exact framework.
A Deep Ultraviolet Mode-locked Laser Based on a Neural Network
Authors: Lu Haoyuan , Xu Hao , Zhao Jianye , Hou Dong
Published: January 2020

Deep ultraviolet lasers based on the phenomenon of mode-locking have been used widely in many areas in recent years, for example, in semiconductors, the environment and biomedicine. In the development of a mode-locked deep ultraviolet laser, one of the most important aspects is to optimize the multiple parameters of the complex system. Traditional optimization methods require experimenters with more optimization experience, which limits the wide application of the lasers. In this study, we optimize the deep ultraviolet mode-locked laser system using an online neural network to solve this problem. The neural network helps us control the position of the crystal, the length of the cavity, the position of the focusing lens and the temperature of the frequency doubling crystal. We generate a deep ultraviolet mode-locked laser with a power of 18 mW and a spectral center at 205 nm. This result is greatly improved compared to previous results with the same pump power. This technology provides a universal solution to multiparameter problems in the optimization of lasers.
Rhodopsin and melanopsin coexist in mammalian sperm cells and activate different signaling pathways for thermotaxis
Authors: Roy Debarun , Levi Kohava , Kiss Vladimir , Nevo Reinat , Eisenbach Michael
Published: January 2020

Recently, various opsin types, known to be involved in vision, were demonstrated to be present in human and mouse sperm cells and to be involved there in thermosensing for thermotaxis. In vision, each opsin type is restricted to specific cells. The situation in this respect in sperm cells is not known. It is also not known whether or not both signaling pathways, found to function in sperm thermotaxis, are each activated by specific opsins, as in vision. Here we addressed these questions. Choosing rhodopsin and melanopsin as test cases and employing immunocytochemical analysis with antibodies against these opsins, we found that the majority of sperm cells were stained by both antibodies, indicating that most of the cells contained both opsins. By employing mutant mouse sperm cells that do not express melanopsin combined with specific signaling inhibitors, we furthermore demonstrated that rhodopsin and melanopsin each activates a different pathway. Thus, in mammalian sperm thermotaxis, as in vision, rhodopsin and melanopsin each triggers a different signaling pathway but, unlike in vision, both opsin types coexist in the same sperm cells.
In vivo evidence of significant placental growth factor release by normal pregnancy placentas
Authors: Cerdeira Ana Sofia , Kandzija Neva , Pargmae Pille , Tome Mariana , Zhang Wei , Cooke William R. , Agrawal Swati , James Tim , Redman Christopher , Vatish Manu
Published: January 2020

Placental growth factor (PlGF) is an angiogenic factor identified in the maternal circulation, and a key biomarker for the diagnosis and management of placental disorders. Furthermore, enhancing the PlGF pathway is regarded as a promising therapy for preeclampsia. The source of PlGF is still controversial with some believing it to be placental in origin while others refute this. To explore the source of PlGF, we undertook a prospective study enrolling normal pregnant women undergoing elective caesarean section. The level of PlGF was estimated in 17 paired serum samples from the uterine vein (ipsilateral or contralateral to the placental insertion) during caesarean section and from a peripheral vein on the same day and second day post-partum. PlGF levels were higher in the uterine than in the peripheral vein with a median difference of 52.2 (IQR 20.1–85.8) pg/mL p = 0.0006. The difference when the sampled uterine vein was ipsilateral to the placenta was 54.8 (IQR 37.1–88.4) pg/mL (n = 11) and 23.7 (IQR −11; 70.5) pg/mL (n = 6) when the sample was contralateral. Moreover, PlGF levels fell by 83% on day 1–2 post-partum. Our findings strongly support the primary source of PlGF to be placental. These findings will be of value in designing target therapies such as PlGF overexpression, to cure placental disorders during pregnancy.
Comparison of different input modalities and network structures for deep learning-based seizure detection
Authors: Cho Kyung-Ok , Jang Hyun-Jong
Published: January 2020

The manual review of an electroencephalogram (EEG) for seizure detection is a laborious and error-prone process. Thus, automated seizure detection based on machine learning has been studied for decades. Recently, deep learning has been adopted in order to avoid manual feature extraction and selection. In the present study, we systematically compared the performance of different combinations of input modalities and network structures on a fixed window size and dataset to ascertain an optimal combination of input modalities and network structures. The raw time-series EEG, periodogram of the EEG, 2D images of short-time Fourier transform results, and 2D images of raw EEG waveforms were obtained from 5-s segments of intracranial EEGs recorded from a mouse model of epilepsy. A fully connected neural network (FCNN), recurrent neural network (RNN), and convolutional neural network (CNN) were implemented to classify the various inputs. The classification results for the test dataset showed that CNN performed better than FCNN and RNN, with the area under the curve (AUC) for the receiver operating characteristics curves ranging from 0.983 to 0.984, from 0.985 to 0.989, and from 0.989 to 0.993 for FCNN, RNN, and CNN, respectively. As for input modalities, 2D images of raw EEG waveforms yielded the best result with an AUC of 0.993. Thus, CNN can be the most suitable network structure for automated seizure detection when applied to the images of raw EEG waveforms, since CNN can effectively learn a general spatially-invariant representation of seizure patterns in 2D representations of raw EEG.
Serious interference of dissolved organic compounds in the laser induced fluorimetric determination of uranium in water: a selective & sensitive method for the laser induced fluorimetric determination of uranium in water
Authors: Tarafder P. K. , Mondal R. K. , Chakrapani G.
Published: January 2020

In this report, serious negative interference of Dissolved Organic Compounds (DOCs) in the laser/LED fluorimetric determination of uranium in natural and waste waters has been amply demonstrated.
Fluorescent nanosensor forin situdetection of phosphate and alkaline phosphatase in mice with parathyroid dysfunction
Authors: Xu Jiheng , Zhang Hui , Zhang Wei , Li Ping , Zhang Wen , Wang Hui , Tang Bo
Published: January 2020

A composite nanosensor based on Zr(iv)-MOFs and PNPP was developed, which successfully applied for thein situfluorescence imaging of phosphate and ALP levels in mice with parathyroid dysfunction.
Piezoresistive and chemiresistive gas sensing by metal-free graphene layers
Authors: Kitayama Hiroki , Ekayev Mukam Charyyarovich , Ohba Tomonori
Published: January 2020

We demonstrate distinction of piezoresistive and chemiresistive properties of metal-free graphene-based sensors on a quartz substrate.
Turn-on fluorescence in a pyridine-decorated tetraphenylethylene: the cooperative effect of coordination-driven rigidification and silver ion induced aggregation
Authors: Wang Ning , Zhang Junying , Xu Xing-Dong , Feng Shengyu
Published: January 2020

A newly designed TPE ligand displayed a large fluorescence enhancement in the presence of silver ions in a dilute solution, leading to tunable fluorescence properties by simply mixing AIE and ACQ molecules.
A dimolybdenum paddlewheel as a building block for heteromultimetallic structures
Authors: Knöfel Nicolai D. , Schoo Christoph , Seifert Tim P. , Roesky Peter W.
Published: January 2020

A series of heteromultimetallic complexes, containing a Mo24+core unit, were synthesized based on a bifunctional phosphine–carboxylic acid ligand system, leadingi.e.to the formation of supramolecular structuresviaaurophilic interactions.
Development of a novel palm fiber biofilm electrode reactor (PBER) for nitrate-contaminated wastewater treatment: performance and mechanism
Authors: Yang Chen , Feng Chuanping , Chen Nan , Deng Yang , Hu Weiwu , Xue Lijing
Published: January 2020

The main pathways for nitrate reduction are electrochemical reduction, heterotrophic denitrification, hydrogen autotrophic denitrification and extracellular electron transfer.
Protective effect of Lachnum polysaccharide on dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis in mice
Authors: Zong Shuai , Ye Ziyang , Zhang Xinmiao , Chen Hui , Ye Ming
Published: January 2020

Lachnum polysaccharide alleviated dextran sulfate sodium induced experimental colitis through inhibiting excessive inflammatory response, inflammasome activation, endoplasmic reticulum stress and oxidative/nitrosative stress.
Remodeling of Zn2+ homeostasis upon differentiation of mammary epithelial cells
Authors: Han Yu , Sanford Lynn , Simpson David M , Dowell Robin D , Palmer Amy E
Published: January 2020

Zinc is the second most abundant transition metal in humans and an essential nutrient required for growth and development of newborns. During lactation, mammary epithelial cells differentiate into a secretory phenotype, uptake zinc from blood circulation, and export it into mother’s milk. At the cellular level, many zinc-dependent cellular processes, such as transcription, metabolism of nutrients, and proliferation are involved in the differentiation of mammary epithelial cells. Using mouse mammary epithelial cells as a model system, we investigated the remodeling of zinc homeostasis during differentiation induced by treatment with the lactogenic hormones cortisol and prolactin. RNA-Seq at different stages of differentiation revealed changes in global gene expression, including genes encoding zinc-dependent proteins and regulators of zinc homeostasis. Increases in mRNA levels of three zinc homeostasis genes, Slc39a14 (ZIP14) and metallothioneins (MTs) I and II were induced by cortisol but not by prolactin. The cortisol-induced increase was partially mediated by the nuclear glucocorticoid receptor signaling pathway. An increase in the cytosolic labile Zn2+ pool was also detected in lactating mammary cells, consistent with upregulation of MTs. We found that the zinc transporter ZIP14 was important for the expression of a major milk protein, whey acid protein (WAP), as knockdown of ZIP14 dramatically decreased WAP mRNA levels. In summary, our study demonstrated remodeling of zinc homeostasis upon differentiation of mammary epithelial cells resulting in changes in cytosolic Zn2+ and differential expression of zinc homeostasis genes, and these changes are important for establishing the lactation phenotype.
Albumin-driven disassembly of lipidic nanoparticles: the specific case of the squalene-adenosine nanodrug
Authors: Gobeaux Frédéric , Bizeau Joëlle , Samson Firmin , Marichal Laurent , Grillo Isabelle , Wien Frank , Yesylevsky Semen O. , Ramseyer Christophe , Rouquette Marie , Lepêtre-Mouelhi Sinda , Desmaële Didier , Couvreur Patrick , Guenoun Patrick , Renault Jean-Philippe , Testard Fabienne
Published: January 2020

Albumin forms a complex with the squalene-adenosine prodrug and by doing so drives the disassembly of the squalene-adenosine nanoparticles.
SQUID-on-tip with single-electron spin sensitivity for high-field and ultra-low temperature nanomagnetic imaging
Authors: Anahory Y. , Naren H. R. , Lachman E. O. , Buhbut Sinai S. , Uri A. , Embon L. , Yaakobi E. , Myasoedov Y. , Huber M. E. , Klajn R. , Zeldov E.
Published: January 2020

A SQUID-on-tip device with a record size (39 nm), sensitivity (0.29 μB Hz−1/2), and operating temperature (300 mK) is reported, making it possible to image the stray magnetic field of Fe3O4 nanocubes on a single-nanoparticle level.
Investigation of catalyst-assisted growth of nonpolar GaN nanowiresviaa modified HVPE process
Authors: Zhang Cai , Liu Xiaoyuan , Li Jing , Zhang Xinglai , Yang Wenjing , Jin Xin , Liu Fei , Yao Jinlei , Jiang Xin , Liu Baodan
Published: January 2020

Catalyst-assisted nonpolar GaN nanowires with a triangular cross section have been synthesized using a modified HVPE process.
Potential interference with microtubule assembly by graphene: a tug-of-war
Authors: Luan Binquan , Cheng Shengfeng
Published: January 2020

With the ever-increasing demand for graphene-based materials and their promising applications in numerous nanotechnologies, the biological effects of graphene on living systems have become crucial and ought to be well understood.
Fabrication of a highly dispersed/active Pd nanoparticle supported catalyst: a cation-assisted reduction method in ethylene glycol–water solution at mild temperature
Authors: Xiang Chunpeng , Xiao Yanhua , Bai Hang , Yin Xia , Peng Meng , Yang Xiaojun , Ding Yigang , Du Zhiping
Published: January 2020

Controllable and recyclable fabrication of a highly dispersed/active Pd/Al2O3-CARM catalyst at 50 °C by introducing M2+ (M = Mn, Zn or Cu) ions to promote the reduction of Pd2+ in ethylene glycol–water solution.
In situobservations of the structural dynamics of platinum–cobalt–hydroxide nanocatalysts under CO oxidation
Authors: Huang Li , Song Xueyang , Lin Yue , Liu Chengyong , He Wenxue , Wang Siyu , Long Zhixin , Sun Zhihu
Published: January 2020

We report on the structural dynamics of platinum–cobalt–hydroxide catalysts during CO oxidation, and their correlation with the catalytic activity.
Substituent-controlled chemoselective synthesis of multi-substituted pyridones via a one-pot three-component cascade reaction
Authors: Liu Shitao , Li Jisen , Lin Junjie , Liu Fujun , Liu Teng , Huang Chao
Published: January 2020

A substituent-controlled chemoselective cycloaddition reaction which afforded a variety of 2-pyridones and 4-pyridones in good to excellent yields, respectively, has been developed.
Nitrilotriacetic acid-end-functionalized polycaprolactone as a template for polymer–protein nanocarriers
Authors: Jose Leeja , Hwang Aran , Lee Chaeyeon , Shim KyuHwan , Song Jae Kwang , An Seong Soo A. , Paik Hyun-jong
Published: January 2020

Doxorubicin loaded Nickel-complexed nitrilotriacetic acid-end-functionalized polycaprolactone based biocompatible polymer–protein hybrid nanocarriers were developed in a one-pot process.
Visible light-mediated atom transfer radical addition to styrene: base controlled selective (phenylsulfonyl)difluoromethylation
Authors: Sheng Jie , Bian Kang-Jie , Su Yi-Ming , Liao Guang-Xu , Duan Ruomeng , Li Chen , Liu Zhihong , Wang Xi-Sheng
Published: January 2020

A visible-light-mediated (phenylsulfonyl)difluoromethylation of styrenes has been developed to afford both ATRA and heck-type products by simply tuning the bases.
Comment on “Quantum interference effects in biphenyl dithiol for gas detection” by J. Prasongkit and A. R. Rocha, RSC Adv., 2016, 64, 59299–59304
Authors: Grigoriev Anton , Jafri Hassan , Leifer Klaus
Published: January 2020

We find from our calculations that the binding energies for the NO2 molecules, calculated in this paper, are too low, most likely due to the lacking optimization of the site at which the gas molecule binds to the BPDT.
The adsorption characteristics and degradation mechanism of tinidazole on an anatase TiO2 surface: a DFT study
Authors: Qin Qiaoqiao , Qin Haichuan , Li Kai , Tan Ruolan , Liu Xiangyang , Li Laicai
Published: January 2020

The adsorption characteristics and degradation mechanism of tinidazole on TiO2(101) and (001) surfaces under vacuum and aqueous solution conditions were studied by density functional theory (DFT).
Studies on the effects of different multiwalled carbon nanotube functionalization techniques on the properties of bio-based hybrid non-isocyanate polyurethane
Authors: He Xin , Xu Xiaoling , Bo Guangxu , Yan Yunjun
Published: January 2020

Different types of surface modification on MWCNTs can affect the thermal stability and water absorption of composites.