bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rosana – a new variety of alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.)
Authors: Bugayov V. D. , Gorensky V. M. , Mamaliga V. S. , Maximov A. M.
Published: March 2020

Aim. Lucerne sowing in Ukraine is one of the most common fodder crops from perennial legumes. Most varieties grown today are not sufficiently adapted to a number of unfavorable abiotic and biotic environmental factors. Rosana variety was created to solve some of the above problems under the conditions of the Polissya and the forest-steppe of Ukraine. Methods. 560 plants, differing in high winter resistance and a set of economic and valuable features, were selected from the grassland of Regent's varieties of alfalfa, created in previous years from genetic plasma of varieties WL 202 (USA) and Veselopodolianska 11 (Ukraine). During the four study cycles, gumboil counts were carried out at the level of green mass and seed yield, leafyness, resistance to pathogens of root rot and other diseases, intensity of regrowth in spring and autumn. Results. The Rosana variety is similar to the Regina variety in the form of a bush, the size of leaves, the height of plants, the duration of individual phases of growth and development, and the class of rest. The variety is characterized by high intensity of regrowth, during the growing season can form 3–4 slopes, with increased feed quality, increased seed yield. Resistant to root rot, drought-proof and winter-resistant. Resistant to sinking. Medieval The period of productive longevity is 4–5 years. The height of the plants of the first slope is 80–90 cm. The yield of the seeds is 0.5 t / ha. Collection of dry matter – 14.5–15.0 t / ha. Protein content – 20.9 %, cellulose – 21.4 %. The first slope is 54–55 days. Clearness – 48 %. Conclusions. The quality of Rosana's fodder and seed yield is significantly higher than the Regina variety and the conditional standard. Characterized by a number of other economic and valuable features. It is recommended for distribution in Polissya and Forest-steppe zones of Ukraine in clean and mixed crops with other perennial herbs for the production of high-quality feed (haylage, hay, herbal pellets).

Keywords: alfalfa crop, varietal, winter resistance, dry matter, seeds.
Activity of antioxidant enzymes in chloroplasts of transgenic plants of wheat with double-stranded RNA-suppressor of the prolindehydrogenase gene
Authors: Kulesh S. S. , Dubrovna O. V. , Sokolovska-Serhiienko O. G. , Kiriziy D. A. , Priadkina G. O. , Stasik O. O.
Published: March 2020

Aim. To investigate the activity of antioxidant enzymes in chloroplasts of transgenic wheat plants variety Zymoyarka containing a double-stranded RNA-suppressor of the proline dehydrogenase gene. Methods. Spectrophotometrical determination of the activity of enzymes. Results. Under physiological conditions, the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) in transgenic plants significantly exceeded these indices in non-transgenic forms. Under soil drought, the activity of SOD in transgenic plants decreased significantly and amounted to only 70 % of the activity of this enzyme in control plants, the activity of APX was 12 % lower than that of control. The water deficit increased sharply (4–5 times) the level of free L-proline in transgenic wheat plants with reduced activity pdh. Conclusions. Biotechnological plants of wheat with increased activity of SOD and APX under optimum conditions can be characterized by increased adaptive plasticity compared to plants of original variety with lower activity of the enzymes. The increased activity of antioxidant enzymes may be a prerequisite for increasing the tolerance of these plants to stressors of different origins.

Keywords: Triticum aestivum L., transgenic plants, double-stranded RNA-suppressor of the proline dehydrogenase gene, L-proline, antioxidant enzymes.
Genetic markers of moldovan tsigayand karakul sheep
Authors: Lyutskanov P. I. , Mashner O. A. , Marzanov N. S.
Published: March 2020

Aim. The study of the genetic structure of the two created Moldovan types of sheep – Tsigay wool-meat-dairy and karakul astrakhan -meat-and-milk types by the frequency of antigens, genotypes, alleles, homozygosity level and the number of effective alleles. Methods. Genetic analysis was performed using seven blood group systems (A, B, C, D, M, R, I) by the method of setting the hemolysis and agglutination reactions. Results. At MoldovanTsigay sheep, the frequency of antigens in blood group systems varies from 0.05 to 0.95. There are 38 genotypes and 20 alleles. The total homozygosity constituted 0.5393 and the efficacy per allele was 1.866. In contrast to the Tsigay sheep the Moldovan karakul sheep have 136 genotypes and 48 alleles, the total homozygosity is the same – 0.5230, and the efficiency per allele is almost twice higher – 3.3574. Conclusions.Genetic markers are useful in an objective assessment of genetic diversity and the degree of kinship of sheep breeds. Being an integral part of the genofondof the population, they provide valuable information about the changes occurring in it in the breeding process.

Keywords: Sheep, antigens, genotypes, alleles, homozygosity.
Organization of 5S rDNA repeated unit of Quercus imbricaria Michx.
Authors: Stratiichuk A. S. , Derevenko T. O. , Tynkevych Y. O.
Published: March 2020

Aim. The 5S rDNA repeats represent a universal model for the investigation of molecular evolution of repeated sequences. Also, comparison of 5S rDNA was successfully applied for the elucidation of phylogenetic relationships between the closely related plant species. However, there is practically no data regarding the molecular organization of 5S rDNA repeats in members of the section Lobatae, one of the largest groups of the genus Quercus. Accordingly, our aim was to investigate the 5S rDNA organization for Q. imbricaria, a species that belongs to this section. Methods. DNA extraction, PCR amplification, cloning and sequencing. Results. A complete 5S rDNA repeat of Q. imbricaria was cloned and sequenced. It has been found that in the oak genome, the 5S rDNA coding region contains five nucleotide substitutions as compared to that in Arabidopsis. Nevertheless, the predicted secondary structure of the transcript retains all typical features of 5S rRNA. Presumptive sequence elements of the external promoter were identified in the IGS. Conclusions. The nucleotide substitutions that occur in the 5S rRNA during evolution appear to be compensatory, resulting in conservation of its secondary structure. Due to considerable differences among the species of different sections, the 5S rDNA IGS can be applied for the taxonomic studies in the genus Quercus. Keywords: 5S rDNA, molecular evolution, Quercus, Lobatae.
Molecular structure of 5S rDNA of Mandragora autumnalis Bertol.
Authors: Shelyfist A. Y. , Yakobyshen D. V. , Volkov R. A.
Published: March 2020

Aim. The region encoding 5S rRNA (5S rDNA) is present in the genome of all eukaryotic organisms. The 5S rDNA represents a universal model for studying the molecular evolution of the tandemly arranged repeated sequences. However, in the family Solanaceae, the molecular organization of 5S rDNA has been investigated only for few genera. In this regard, we decided to characterize the molecular structure of the 5S rDNA of Mandragora autumnalis, a representative of the Mandragoreae tribe, which occupies an isolated position in the nightshade family. Methods. PCR amplification, cloning and sequencing. Results. Two 5S rDNA clones of M. autumnalis were sequenced. It was found that in the genome of this species only one class of the 5S rDNA repeats possessing the 103 bp-long intergenic spacer (IGS) is present. This is the smallest size of IGS known to date for the Solanaceae family. The 5S rDNA IGS of M. autumnalis demonstrates a moderate level of sequence-similarity with the IGS of other representatives of the subfamily Solanoideae. Conclusions. The results support the current opinion about the isolated taxonomic position of the genus Mandragora within the subfamily Solanoideae. The increased level of similarity was found in the IGS regions, which contain potential external elements of the RNA polymerase III promoter and terminator. The mutations occurred in the part of the IGS up-stream of the coding region had a compensatory nature, which ensured that the external elements of the promoter were preserved during the evolution. Keywords: 5S rDNA, intergeneric spacer, molecular evolution, Mandragora autumnalis, Solanaceae.
Den historiske drejning
Authors: Skak Mette
Published: March 2020

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Det politologiske eksperiment
Authors: Serritzlew Søren
Published: March 2020

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Handel og klima: Samspil eller konflikt?
Authors: Olsen Birgitte Egelund
Published: March 2020

Med udgangspunkt i en retlig analyse af forholdet mellem WTO og klimaregimet identificerer denne artikel en række af de retlige konflikter, der potentielt kan opstå mellem WTO- og klimaretten. Fokus er på WTO-systemets muligheder for at integrere klima som et lovligt hensyn, når fx EU gennemfører tiltag med henblik på at realisere sine forpligtelser i henhold til Klimakonventionen og de dertil knyttede aftaler, samt på de fremtidige muligheder for i regi af WTO at få gennemført multilaterale aftaler, der har til formål at bidrage til en realisering af de globale klimamålsætninger. Der præsenteres to modeller — præcedensmodellen og lovmodellen - der hver for sig og i samspil vil kunne bidrage til, at den internationale regulering af handel supplerer og støtter den globale klimaregulering.
Common and specific gene signatures among three different endometriosis subtypes
Authors: Jiang Li , Zhang Mengmeng , Wang Sixue , Han Yuanyuan , Fang Xiaoling
Published: March 2020

Aims

To identify the common and specific molecular mechanisms of three well-defined subtypes of endometriosis (EMs): ovarian endometriosis (OE), peritoneal endometriosis (PE), and deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE).

Methods

Four microarray datasets:GSE7305andGSE7307for OE,E-MTAB-694for PE, andGSE25628for DIE were downloaded from public databases and conducted to compare ectopic lesions (EC) with eutopic endometrium (EU) from EMs patients. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) identified by limma package were divided into two parts: common DEGs among three subtypes and specific DEGs in each subtype, both of which were subsequently performed with the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed by common DEGs and five hub genes were screened out from the PPI network. Besides, these five hub genes together with selected interested pathway-related genes were further validated in an independent OE RNA-sequencing datasetGSE105764.

Results

A total of 54 EC samples from three EMs subtypes (OE, PE, DIE) and 58 EU samples were analyzed, from which we obtained 148 common DEGs among three subtypes, and 729 specific DEGs in OE, 777 specific DEGs in PE and 36 specific DEGs in DIE. The most enriched pathway of 148 shared DEGs was arachidonic acid (AA) metabolism, in which most genes were up-regulated in EC, indicating inflammation was the most common pathogenesis of three subtypes. Besides, five hub genes AURKB, RRM2, DTL, CCNB1, CCNB2 identified from the PPI network constructed by 148 shared DEGs were all associated with cell cycle and mitosis, and down-regulated in EC, suggesting a slow and controlled proliferation in ectopic lesions. The KEGG pathway analysis of specific DEGs in each subtype revealed that abnormal ovarian steroidogenesis was a prominent feature in OE; OE and DIE seems to be at more risk of malignant development since both of their specific DEGs were enriched in the pathways in cancer, though enriched genes were different, while PE tended to be more associated with dysregulated peritoneal immune and inflammatory microenvironment.

Conclusion

By integrated bioinformatic analysis, we explored common and specific molecular signatures among different subtypes of endometriosis: activated arachidonic acid (AA) metabolism-related inflammatory process and a slow and controlled proliferation in ectopic lesions were common features in OE, PE and DIE; OE and DIE seemed to be at more risk of malignant development while PE tended to be more associated with dysregulated peritoneal immune and inflammatory microenvironment, all of which could deepen our perception of endometriosis.
ANALISIS PENGARUH DAMPAK TATA RUNG KOTA DAN ANTUSIAS MASYARAKAT DALAM MENGGUNAKAN MASS RAPID TRANSIT (MRT) TERHADAP PENGURANGAN KEMACETAN DKI JAKARTA (LEBAK BULUS-HOTEL INDONESIA)
Authors: Ramadhayanti Ana
Published: March 2020

Berbagai usaha mulai dilakukanoleh pemerintah untuk mengatasi kemacetan mulai darikemunculan moda transportasi smart city seperti busway dan OK TRIP yang saat ini telah hadir dimasyarakat. Sebagai perkembangan dari hal tersebut kini pemerintah telah menghadirkan MRT dengan rute Budaran Hotel Indonesia-Lebak Bulus Grab. Namun hadirnya MRT tersebut harus didukung dengan antusias masyarakat untuk menggunakan MRT.Salah satu wujud dukungan antusias tersebut salah satunya yakni meninggalkan kendaraan pribadi lalu beraralih kekendaraan umum atau transportasi umum. Dengan adanya pembangunan MRT telah merubah tata ruang kota, seperti telah dibuatnya jembatan layang dan lain-lain. Untuk mengetahui lebih lanjut Dampak Tata Rung Kota dan Antusias Masyarakat Dalam Menggunakan Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) Terhadap Pengurangan Kemacetan DKI Jakarta maka harus dilakukan penelitian lebih lanjut. Penelitian ini menggunakan penelitian Kuantitatif, dengan jenis data primer yakni dengan membagikan kuesioner kepada pengguna MRT Jakarta rute Bundaran Hotel Indonesia-Lebak Bulus Grab. Hasil penelitian menujukkan bahwa menjukkan hasil Dampak Tata Rung Kota (X1) dan Antusias Masyarakat (X2) secara bersama-sama mempunyai pengaruh yang signifikan terhadap Pengurangan Kemacetan DKI Jakarta (Y). Semoga dengan dilakukan penelitian ini masyarakat berpartisipasi mendukung program pemerintah dalam mengurangi kemacetan
PENGARUH MEDIA SOSIAL TERHADAP KEPUTUSAN PEMBELIAN MELALUI MOTIVASI KONSUMEN PADA PRODUK FAST FASHION
Authors: Indriyani Ratih , Suri Atita
Published: March 2020

Perkembangan motivasi belanja konsumen ter­ha­dap produk fashion di­dukung oleh perkembangan media so­sial. Di sisi lain pengambilan keputusan pe­m­­­­­­­­­belian dalam fashion sangat dipengaruhi oleh in­for­masi dan sumber yang tersedia di masyarakat. Penelitian ini bertujuan un­tuk me­nge­tahui pe­­ngaruh dari media sosial terhadap ke­pu­tusan pembelian melalui motivasi kon­sumen pa­da produk fast fashion. Penelitian ini menggu­nakan metode kuantitatif. Sebanyak 100 res­pon­den ditentukan dengan menggunakan purposive sam­­pling. Da­ta di­kum­pul­kan meng­gu­nakan ang­ket serta diolah meng­gu­­nakan partial least square. Ha­sil penelitian menunjukkan bah­wa media sos­i­al berpengaruh pada keputusan pembelian, dan motivasi konsumen ber­pe­nga­ruh signifikan ter­­­hadap ke­pu­tusan pembelian produk fast fas­hion
Influences of Saccharomyces cerevisiae on gas exchange and water-use efficiency in Vicia faba L.
Authors: Gao Jing , Wang Nan , Zhang Gang , Yan Yonggang , Wang Genxuan , Zhang Suiqi
Published: March 2020

To examine the hypothesis that microbes can function as antitranspirants regulating stomatal behavior, we studied the effect of Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain BY4741 on gas exchange and water-use efficiency (WUE) in Vicia faba L. Stomatal aperture and photosynthetic parameters were analyzed every day for 7 days after treatment. In the present study, spraying yeast decreased the stomatal aperture. On the 4th, 5th, 6th, and 7th days after the foliar application of yeast, a decreased in net photosynthetic rate (Pn) was observed. This decrease was accompanied with decreases in stomatal conductance (gs), intercellular CO2 concentration (Ci), and transpiration (Tr). The carboxylation efficiency (CE) was reduced by yeast on the 1st day after treatment. On the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd days of treatment, the yeast dramatically decreased the maximum photochemical efficiency of photosystem (PS) II (Fv/Fm) and increased non-photochemical quenching (NPQ); however, these parameters eventually recovered to their normal levels. The marked decrease of qP was observed on the 1st and 2nd days after yeast treatment. At the beginning of the treatment, the yeast decreased electron the transport rate (ETR), but later increased it. Both concentrations of yeast (1×106 and 1×1010 CFU mL−1) increased the WUE on the 4th, 5th, 6th, and 7th days of treatments. At the concentrations of 1×106 CFU mL−1, yeast acted as a more effective antitranspirant, showing higher WUE, than at the concentration of 1 × 1010 CFU mL−1. Pn was positively correlated with Tr and gs on the 7th day of the treatment. Moreover, Tr was much more sensitive to yeast than was Pn. In general, the foliar application of yeast resulted in decreased Tr and increased WUE. The yeast-induced decrease in photosynthesis is mainly caused by stomatal closure, suggesting that yeast can be used as an antitranspirant or a priming agent for improving drought tolerance in plants.
Sanitary quality in seeds from species of Caatinga biome and control methods for fungi
Authors: Nascimento Luan Vítor , Nogueira Geovane de Almeida , Costa Alves Tatianne Raianne , Medeiros Araújo Maria Bruna , Dombroski Jeferson Luiz Dallabona , Machado Frederico Santos , Ambrósio Márcia Michelle de Queiroz
Published: March 2020

Sanitary and quality of seeds of three native species (Aroeira, Jucá, and Mofumbo) from the Caatinga biome, Brazil, and different control methods of microorganisms in seeds were evaluated. We used 500 seeds of each species, 100 for each treatment: control, superficial disinfestation, Enzimatic II, Captana and Mancozebe. Seeds were distributed in Petri dishes containing potato-dextrose-agar culture medium and stored in incubator type Biochemical Oxygen Demand at 28 ± 2 °C for five days. For germination tests, 100 seeds were arranged in germitest paper previously sterilized and moistened with sterilized distilled water, and incubated for 19 (mofumbo), 20 (jucá), and 25 (aroeira) days in incubators at 28 ± 2 °C. Aspergillus flavus, A. niger, A. ochraceus, Lasiodiplodia sp., Penicillium sp. and Rhizopus sp. are associated with the studied seeds. Captana reduced the incidence of Aspergillus and Penicillium in the seeds, being the most efficient in controlling the microfauna associated with these seeds. Enzimatic II also proved to be an efficient control for Aspergillus spp. There was no interference of the tested products on seed germination.
A simplified qPCR method revealing tRNAome remodeling upon infection by genotype 3 hepatitis E virus
Authors: Ou Xumin , Ma Buyun , Zhang Ruyi , Miao Zhijiang , Cheng Anchun , Peppelenbosch Maikel P. , Pan Qiuwei
Published: March 2020

The landscape of tRNA–viral codons regulates viral adaption at the translational level, presumably through adapting to host codon usage or modulating the host tRNAome. We found that the major zoonotic genotype of hepatitis E virus (HEV) has not adapted to host codon usage, prompting exploration of the effects of HEV infection on the host tRNAome. However, tRNAome quantification is largely impeded by the extremely short sequences of tRNAs and redundancy of tRNA genes. Here, we present a length‐extension and stepwise simplified qPCR method that utilizes a universal DNA/RNA hybrid tRNA adaptor and degenerate primers. Using this novel methodology, we observe that HEV infection dramatically reprograms the hepatic tRNAome, which is likely to facilitate translation of viral RNAs. This tRNAome quantification method bears broad implications for future tRNA research and possibly tRNA‐based diagnostics.
Engineered Escherichia coli strains as platforms for biological production of isoprene
Authors: Lee Hyeok‐Won , Park Jung‐Ho , Kim Won‐Kyo , Lee Jin‐Gyeom , Lee Ju‐Seok , Ahn Jung‐Oh , Lee Eun‐Gyo , Lee Hong‐Weon
Published: March 2020

Volatile compounds can be produced by fermentation from genetically engineered microorganisms. Escherichia coli strains are mainly used for isoprene production owing to their higher titers; however, this has thus far been confined to only strains BL21, BL21 (DE3), Rosetta, and BW25113. Here, we tested four groups of E. coli strains for improved isoprene production, including K‐12 (DH5α, BW25113, W3110, MG1655, XL1‐Blue, and JM109), B [Rosetta (DE3), BL21, and BL21 (DE3)], Crooks C, and Waksman W strains. The isoprene productivity of BL21 and MG1655 was remarkably higher than that of the others in 5‐L fermentation, and scale‐up fermentation (300 L) of BL21 was successfully performed. This system shows potential for biobased production of fuel and volatile compounds in industrial applications.
Synthesis, Structure, Properties, and Applications of Bimetallic Nanoparticles of Noble Metals
Authors: Loza Kateryna , Heggen Marc , Epple Matthias
Published: March 2020

Bimetallic nanoparticles of noble metals are of high interest in imaging, biomedical devices, including nanomedicine, and heterogeneous catalysis. Synthesis, properties, characterization, biological properties, and practical applicability of nanoparticles on the basis of platinum group metals and the coin metals Ag and Au are discussed, also in comparison with the corresponding monometallic nanoparticles. In addition to the parameters that are required to characterize monometallic nanoparticles (mainly size, size distribution, shape, crystallographic nature, surface functionalization, charge), further information is required for a full characterization of bimetallic nanoparticles. This concerns the overall elemental composition of a bimetallic nanoparticle population (ratio of the two metals) and the internal distribution of the elements in individual nanoparticles (e.g., the presence of homogeneous alloys, core–shell systems, and possible intermediate stages). It is also important to ensure that all particles are identical in terms of elemental composition, that is, that the homogeneity of the particle population is given. Macroscopic properties like light absorption, antibacterial effects, and catalytic activity depend on these properties. The currently available methods for a full characterization of bimetallic nanoparticles are discussed, and future developments in this field are outlined.
Designed Formation of Double‐Shelled Ni–Fe Layered‐Double‐Hydroxide Nanocages for Efficient Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Zhang Jintao , Yu Le , Chen Ye , Lu Xue Feng , Gao Shuyan , Lou Xiong Wen (David)
Published: March 2020

Delicate design of nanostructures for oxygen‐evolution electrocatalysts is an important strategy for accelerating the reaction kinetics of water splitting. In this work, Ni–Fe layered‐double‐hydroxide (LDH) nanocages with tunable shells are synthesized via a facile one‐pot self‐templating method. The number of shells can be precisely controlled by regulating the template etching at the interface. Benefiting from the double‐shelled structure with large electroactive surface area and optimized chemical composition, the hierarchical Ni–Fe LDH nanocages exhibit appealing electrocatalytic activity for the oxygen evolution reaction in alkaline electrolyte. Particularly, double‐shelled Ni–Fe LDH nanocages can achieve a current density of 20 mA cm−2 at a low overpotential of 246 mV with excellent stability.
Stabilizing Perovskite Light‐Emitting Diodes by Incorporation of Binary Alkali Cations
Authors: Li Nan , Song Lei , Jia Yongheng , Dong Yifan , Xie Fangyan , Wang Liduo , Tao Shuxia , Zhao Ni
Published: March 2020

The poor stability of perovskite light‐emitting diodes (PeLEDs) is a key bottleneck that hinders commercialization of this technology. Here, the degradation process of formamidinium lead iodide (FAPbI3)‐based PeLEDs is carefully investigated and the device stability is improved through binary‐alkalication incorporation. Using time‐of‐flight secondary‐ion mass spectrometry, it is found that the degradation of FAPbI3‐based PeLEDs during operation is directly associated with ion migration, and incorporation of binary alkali cations, i.e., Cs+ and Rb+, in FAPbI3 can suppress ion migration and significantly enhance the lifetime of PeLEDs. Combining experimental and theoretical approaches, it is further revealed that Cs+ and Rb+ ions stabilize the perovskite films by locating at different lattice positions, with Cs+ ions present relatively uniformly throughout the bulk perovskite, while Rb+ ions are found preferentially on the surface and grain boundaries. Further chemical bonding analysis shows that both Cs+ and Rb+ ions raise the net atomic charge of the surrounding I anions, leading to stronger Coulomb interactions between the cations and the inorganic framework. As a result, the Cs+–Rb+‐incorporated PeLEDs exhibit an external quantum efficiency of 15.84%, the highest among alkali cation‐incorporated FAPbI3 devices. More importantly, the PeLEDs show significantly enhanced operation stability, achieving a half‐lifetime over 3600 min.
Electrochemical Dearomative Dihydroxylation and Hydroxycyclization of Indoles
Authors: Wu Ju , Guillot Régis , Kouklovsky Cyrille , Vincent Guillaume
Published: March 2020

We describe a simple and sustainable MgBr2‐mediated electrochemical dearomative dihydroxylation and hydroxycyclization reactions of indoles with water. MgBr2 is used in substoichiometric amount and acts as an electrolyte and potentially as a redox mediator to indirectly oxidize the indole nucleus into a bromonium ion which is involved in the aforementioned reactions.

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Complementary Metal‐Oxide Semiconductor and Memristive Hardware for Neuromorphic Computing
Authors: Rahimi Azghadi Mostafa , Chen Ying-Chen , Eshraghian Jason K. , Chen Jia , Lin Chih-Yang , Amirsoleimani Amirali , Mehonic Adnan , Kenyon Anthony J. , Fowler Burt , Lee Jack C. , Chang Yao-Feng
Published: March 2020

The ever‐increasing processing power demands of digital computers cannot continue to be fulfilled indefinitely unless there is a paradigm shift in computing. Neuromorphic computing, which takes inspiration from the highly parallel, low‐power, high‐speed, and noise‐tolerant computing capabilities of the brain, may provide such a shift. Many researchers from across academia and industry have been studying materials, devices, circuits, and systems, to implement some of the functions of networks of neurons and synapses to develop neuromorphic computing platforms. These platforms are being designed using various hardware technologies, including the well‐established complementary metal‐oxide semiconductor (CMOS), and emerging memristive technologies such as SiOx‐based memristors. Herein, recent progress in CMOS, SiOx‐based memristive, and mixed CMOS‐memristive hardware for neuromorphic systems is highlighted. New and published results from various devices are provided that are developed to replicate selected functions of neurons, synapses, and simple spiking networks. It is shown that the CMOS and memristive devices are assembled in different neuromorphic learning platforms to perform simple cognitive tasks such as classification of spike rate‐based patterns or handwritten digits. Herein, it is envisioned that what is demonstrated is useful to the unconventional computing research community by providing insights into advances in neuromorphic hardware technologies.
The novel R211Q POP1 homozygous mutation causes different pathogenesis and skeletal changes from those of previously reported POP1‐associated anauxetic dysplasia
Authors: Abdulhadi‐Atwan Maha , Klopstock Tehila , Sharaf Muna , Weinberg‐Shukron Ariella , Renbaum Paul , Levy‐Lahad Ephrat , Zangen David
Published: March 2020

Processing of Precursor RNA 1 (POP1) is a core protein component shared by two essential closely related eukaryotic ribonucleoprotein complexes: RNase MRP (the mitochondrial RNA processing ribonuclease) and RNase P. Recently, five patients harboring mutations in POP1 have been reported with severe spondylo‐epi‐metaphyseal dysplasia and extremely short stature. We report a unique clinical phenotype resulting from the novel homozygous R211Q POP1 mutation in three patients from one family, presenting with severe short stature but only subtle skeletal dysplastic changes that are merely metaphyseal. The RNA moiety of the RNase‐MRP complex quantified in RNA extracted from peripheral lymphocytes was dramatically reduced in affected patients indicating instability of the enzymatic complex. However, pre5.8s rRNA, a substrate of RNase‐MRP complex, was not accumulated in patients' RNA unlike in the previously reported POP1 mutations; this may explain the uniquely mild phenotype in our cases, and questions the assumption that alteration in ribosomal biogenesis is the pathophysiological basis for skeletal disorders caused by POP1 mutations. Finally, POP1 mutations should be considered in familial cases with severe short stature even when skeletal dysplasia is not strongly evident.
Widening the gap: White ignorance, race relations and the consequences for Aboriginal people in Australia
Authors: Taylor Penny Skye , Habibis Daphne
Published: March 2020

White ignorance has a critical impact on race relations and is implicated in the maintenance of Aboriginal disadvantage. Addressing this ignorance is a largely overlooked capacity‐building opportunity within Australia's non‐Aboriginal population. It warrants consideration as a key component of strategies targeting Aboriginal disadvantage. Despite the established links between race relations and Aboriginal well‐being, Aboriginal perspectives on non‐Aboriginal people rarely feature in public discourse on “Aboriginal problems.” This paper draws on data from 180 in‐depth interviews with 44 Aboriginal people in Darwin on the topic of White Australian people, culture and race relations. It reports Aboriginal perceptions of White Australian ignorance across areas of great symbolic and practical significance to Aboriginal people's lives. Their experience is that most White Australians are ignorant of the history of colonisation and the complexities of its aftermath. They are ignorant of Aboriginal law, cultures and languages, and of the extent of their own ignorance. The call to address White ignorance subverts assumptions about whose ignorance and capacity must be dealt with in order to progress national goals of reconciliation, address Aboriginal disadvantage and achieve justice and equality for Aboriginal people.
Profibrotic Activation of Human Macrophages in Systemic Sclerosis
Authors: Bhandari Rajan , Ball Michael S. , Martyanov Viktor , Popovich Dillon , Schaafsma Evelien , Han Saemi , ElTanbouly Mohamed , Orzechowski Nicole M. , Carns Mary , Arroyo Esperanza , Aren Kathleen , Hinchcliff Monique , Whitfield Michael L. , Pioli Patricia A.
Published: March 2020

Objective

Genome‐wide gene expression studies implicate macrophages as mediators of fibrosis in systemic sclerosis (SSc), but little is known about how these cells contribute to fibrotic activation in SSc. We undertook this study to characterize the activation profile of SSc monocyte‐derived macrophages and assessed their interaction with SSc fibroblasts.

Methods

Plasma and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were obtained from whole blood from SSc patients (n = 24) and age‐ and sex‐matched healthy controls (n = 12). Monocytes were cultured with autologous or allogeneic plasma to differentiate cells into macrophages. For reciprocal activation studies, macrophages were cocultured with fibroblasts using Transwell plates.

Results

The gene expression signature associated with blood‐derived human SSc macrophages was enriched in SSc skin in an independent cohort and correlated with skin fibrosis. SSc macrophages expressed surface markers associated with activation and released CCL2, interleukin‐6, and transforming growth factor β under basal conditions (n = 8) (P < 0.05). Differentiation of healthy donor monocytes in plasma from SSc patients conferred the immunophenotype of SSc macrophages (n = 13) (P < 0.05). Transwell experiments demonstrated that coculture of SSc macrophages with SSc fibroblasts induced fibroblast activation (n = 3) (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

These data demonstrate that the activation profile of SSc macrophages is profibrotic. SSc macrophages are activated under basal conditions and release mediators and express surface markers associated with both alternative and inflammatory macrophage activation. These findings also suggest that activation of SSc macrophages arises from soluble factors in local microenvironments. These studies implicate macrophages as likely drivers of fibrosis in SSc and suggest that therapeutic targeting of these cells may be beneficial in ameliorating disease in SSc patients.
Direct Binding to NLRP3 Pyrin Domain as a Novel Strategy to Prevent NLRP3‐Driven Inflammation and Gouty Arthritis
Authors: Yang Gabsik , Lee Hye E. , Moon Su‐Jin , Ko Kyung M. , Koh Jung H. , Seok Jin K. , Min Jun‐Ki , Heo Tae‐Hwe , Kang Han C. , Cho Yong‐Yeon , Lee Hye S. , Fitzgerald Katherine A. , Lee Joo Y.
Published: March 2020

Objective

The NLRP3 inflammasome is closely linked to the pathophysiology of a wide range of inflammatory diseases. This study was undertaken to identify small molecules that directly bind to NLRP3 in order to develop pharmacologic interventions for NLRP3‐related diseases.

Methods

A structure‐based virtual screening analysis was performed with ~62,800 compounds to select efficient NLRP3 inhibitors. The production of caspase 1‐p10 and interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) was measured by immunoblotting and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay to examine NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Two gouty arthritis models and an air pouch inflammation model induced by monosodium urate monohydrate (MSU) crystal injection were used for in vivo experiments. Primary synovial fluid cells from gout patients were used to determine the relevance of NLRP3 inflammasome inhibition in human gout.

Results

Beta‐carotene (provitamin A) suppressed the NLRP3 inflammasome activation induced by various activators, including MSU crystals, in mouse bone marrow–derived primary macrophages (P < 0.05). Surface plasmon resonance analysis demonstrated the direct binding of β‐carotene to the pyrin domain (PYD) of NLRP3 (KD = 3.41 × 10−6). Molecular modeling and mutation assays revealed the interaction mode between β‐carotene and the NLRP3 PYD. Inflammatory symptoms induced by MSU crystals were attenuated by oral administration of β‐carotene in gouty arthritis mouse models (P < 0.05), correlating with its suppressive effects on the NLRP3 inflammasome in inflamed tissues. Furthermore, β‐carotene reduced IL‐1β secretion from human synovial fluid cells isolated from gout patients (P < 0.05), showing its inhibitory efficacy in human gout.

Conclusion

Our results present β‐carotene as a selective and direct inhibitor of NLRP3, and the binding of β‐carotene to NLRP3 PYD as a novel pharmacologic strategy to combat NLRP3 inflammasome–driven diseases, including gouty arthritis.
Optimization of β‐mannanase production by Bacillus subtilis US191 using economical agricultural substrates
Authors: Blibech Monia , Farhat‐Khemakhem Ameny , Kriaa Mouna , Aslouj Rania , Boukhris Ines , Alghamdi Othman A. , Chouayekh Hichem
Published: March 2020

The Bacillus subtilis US191 strain producing highly thermostable β‐mannanase was previously selected as potential probiotic candidate for application as feed supplement in poultry industry. Initially, the level of extracellular β‐mannanase production by this strain was 1.48 U ml−1. To improve this enzyme titer, the present study was undertaken to optimize the fermentation conditions through experimental designs and valorization of agro‐industrial byproducts. Using the Plackett–Burman design, in submerged fermentation, a set of 14 culture variables was evaluated in terms of their effects on β‐mannanase production. Locust bean gum (LBG), soymeal, temperature, and inoculum size were subsequently optimized by response surface methodology using Box–Behnken design. Under optimized conditions (1 g L−1 LBG, 8 g L−1 soymeal, temperature of 30°C and inoculum size of 1010 CFU ml−1), a 2.59‐fold enhancement in β‐mannanase titer was achieved. Next, to decrease the enzyme production cost, the effect of partial substitution of LBG (1 g L−1) by agro‐industrial byproducts was investigated, and a Taguchi design was applied. This allowed the attaining of a β‐mannanase production level of 8.75 U ml−1 in presence of 0.25 g L−1 LBG, 5 g L−1 of coffee residue powder, 5 g L−1 of date seeds powder, and 5 g L−1 of prickly pear seeds powder as mannans sources. Overall, a 5.91‐fold improvement in β‐mannanase production by B. subtilis US191 was achieved.
The “histological replacement growth pattern” represents aggressive invasive behavior in liver metastasis from pancreatic cancer
Authors: Watanabe Kazuo , Mitsunaga Shuichi , Kojima Motohiro , Suzuki Hidetaka , Irisawa Ai , Takahashi Hideaki , Sasaki Mitsuhito , Hashimoto Yusuke , Imaoka Hiroshi , Ohno Izumi , Ikeda Masafumi , Akimoto Tetsuo , Ochiai Atsushi
Published: March 2020

Background

In the case of liver metastasis (LM), tumors showing the replacement growth pattern (RGP), in which metastatic cells infiltrate and replace hepatocytes with minimal desmoplastic reaction and inflammatory cell infiltration, associate with a poor prognosis. The heterogeneity, frequency, and prognostic value of the RGP in LM from pancreatic cancer (PCa) are not well known.

Methods

In the circumference of treatment‐naïve resected LMs from patients with PCa, the heterogeneity of the GP was assessed. Next, the clinicopathological features of LMs showing the RGP in needle biopsy specimens were investigated in patients with treatment‐naïve advanced PCa.

Results

Thirteen of the 14 (93%) in all resected LMs and 7 of the 9 (78%) in RGP component GP in resected LMs showed homogeneous GP. A RGP was found in 50% of the needle biopsy specimens of LMs obtained from 107 patients. The median overall survival times in the RGP group and non‐RGP group were 3.6 and 10.4 months. Multivariate analysis identified RGP as an independent poor prognostic factor. Median value of CD8 positive percentage in RGP was lower than that in non‐RGP (0.75 vs 1.46, P = .04). Median overall survival times in low CD8 groups tend to be shorter than those in high CD8 group (8.2 vs 4.2 months).

Conclusion

Most LMs from PCa show a homogeneous GP. The RGP was observed in about a half of the LMs from PCa patients, and was identified as a poor prognostic factor.
Synthesis of Novel (9S)‐Acyloxy Derivatives of Quinidine and Dihydroquinidine as Insecticidal Agents
Authors: Che Zhiping , Yang Jinming , Sun Di , Tian Yuee , Liu Shengming , Lin Xiaomin , Jiang Jia , Chen Genqiang
Published: March 2020

Endeavor to discover biorational natural products‐based insecticides, two series (30) of novel (9S)‐acyloxy derivatives of quinidine and dihydroquinidine were prepared and assessed for their insecticidal activity against Mythimna separata in vivo by the leaf‐dipping method at 1 mg/mL. Among all the compounds, especially four derivatives exhibited the best insecticidal activity with final mortality rates of 71.4 %, 75.0 %, 71.4 %, and 75.0 %, respectively. Relatively speaking, 9‐hydroxy group is well tolerated, and the results showed that after modification of the hydroxy group with an acyloxy group, the insecticidal activity was significantly increased; the configuration at C8/9 position is important for insecticidal activity, and the (9S)‐configuration is optimal; modification of the out‐ring double bond is acceptable, and hydrogenation of the double bond enhances insecticidal activity. These preliminary results will pave the way for further modification of quinidine in the development of potential new insecticides.
CircRNA_0005075 suppresses carcinogenesis via regulating miR‐431/p53/epithelial‐mesenchymal transition axis in gastric cancer
Authors: Wu Jiaming , Chen Zhiheng , Song Yihuan , Zhu Yi , Dou Guangjian , Shen Xuning , Zhou Yuan , Jiang Honggang , Li Jin , Peng Yuping
Published: March 2020

This study was aimed to explore the expression and biological function of circRNA_0005075 in gastric cancer (GC) progression and its underlying mechanism. First, the expression level of circRNA_0005075 and microRNA‐431 (miR‐431) in GC tissues were detected with the quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction. In addition, after down‐regulated the circRNA_0005075 expression by plasmid transfection in GC cells, the Cell Counting Kit‐8 (CCK‐8), EDU, transwell assay were conducted to evaluate the function of circRNA_0005075 or miR‐431 on cell proliferation, metastasis in vitro. Moreover, p53 and Epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) pathway related proteins were also measured with western blotting. Then, our data revealed that CircRNA_0005075 was found to be significantly up‐regulated in GC tissues as well as GC cell lines, and the GC patients with higher CircRNA_0005075 expression were more likely to have poor outcomes. Down‐regulation of CircRNA_0005075 could significantly suppress the GC cell proliferation and cell metastasis ability, while the addition of miR‐431 inhibitors could counteract this effect. Importantly, we discovered that the silencing of circRNA_0005075 could weaken the micro‐RNA sponge function for miR‐431, and then upregulate the expression of p53 and forbid the EMT signalling pathway, and finally suppress the tumourigenesis of GC. To sum up, CircRNA_0005075 could inhibit cell growth and metastasis of GC through regulating the miR‐431/p53/EMT axis.

Significance of the study

The research clearly elucidated the potential role and relative regulatory mechanism of circRNA_0005075 in gastric cancer (GC) progression. Briefly, circRNA_0005075 could directly inhibit the expression level of miR‐431, then regulate the p53/Epithelial‐mesenchymal transition axis, and finally inhibit cell growth and metastasis in GC. Consequently, circRNA_0005075 might act as an oncogene in the GC procession, which provides a promising way for the treatment of GC.
Relationship between resting full‐cycle ratio and fractional flow reserve in assessments of coronary stenosis severity
Authors: Muroya Takahiro , Kawano Hiroaki , Hata Shiro , Shinboku Hiroki , Sonoda Koichiro , Kusumoto Saburo , Eto Ryo , Otsuka Kaishi , Maemura Koji
Published: March 2020

Aim

Comparisons between the resting full‐cycle ratio (RFR), a new physiological resting index, and fractional flow reserve (FFR) in terms of prognostic value are limited. We aimed to identify the prognostic value of concordance between RFR and FFR and to determine the stability of measured RFR.

Methods and Results

We measured FFR and RFR in 161 coronary arteries of 119 patients and classified the data using known cutoffs for FFR (≤0.80) and RFR (≤0.89) into groups; high FFR and high RFR (high FFR/low RFR) group, high FFR and low RFR (high FFR/low RFR) group, low FFR and high RFR (low FFR/high RFR) group, and low FFR and low RFR (low FFR/low RFR) group. The concordance rates in these groups were 42.2% (68/161), 4.4% (7/161), 14.3% (23/161), and 39.1% (63/161), respectively. The concordance between FFR and RFR was 81.4%. The prevalence of females was significantly higher, values for hemoglobin values were significantly lower, and average E/E′ (an index of left ventricular (LV) diastolic function by echocardiography) was significantly higher in high FFR/low RFR group than in low FFR/high RFR group (p = .008, .050, and .028, respectively).

Conclusions

The RFR and FFR values consistently agreed. Female, anemia, and LV diastolic dysfunction may be related to the difference of discordance between high FFR/low RFR and low FFR/high RFR.
Macrogonadotropinoma, a venous thromboembolic event and asymptomatic extensive periventricular white matter changes in a patient with Klinefelter syndrome
Authors: Namboodiri Divya , Ng Hui Yi , Zala Aakansha , Magnussen John , Davidson Andrew , Champion Bernard , Preda Veronica
Published: March 2020

Gonadotropinoma in Klinefelter syndrome (KS) is uncommon and may be a result of protracted stimulation of gonadotrophs from lack of androgen feedback. Associations of white matter changes and increased venous thromboembolic risk have been reported and need to be considered in patients with KS.
Metal‐Free Oxidative Decarboxylative Heteroannulation of Alkynyl Carboxylic Acids with Sulfinates and tert‐Butyl Nitrite toward 2,2‐Disulfonyl‐2H‐Azirines
Authors: Yue Xin , He Xingyi , Wu Yan‐Chen , Hu Ming , Wu Shuang , Xie Ye‐Xiang , Li Jin‐Heng
Published: March 2020

A new TBAF (tetrabutylammonium fluoride)‐promoted TBHP (tert‐butyl hydroperoxide)‐mediated decarboxylative heteroannulation cascades of alkynyl carboxylic acids with sodium sulfinates and TBN (tert‐butyl nitrite) has been developed for producing 2,2‐disulfonyl‐2H‐azirines under metal‐free conditions. By employing readily available tert‐butyl nitrite as the nitrogen source, the method enable the formation of four new chemical bonds in a single reaction through decarboxylation, sulfonylatyion and nitrogen‐incorporation annulation cascades, and provides an efficient access to disulfonylated 2H‐azirines.
Overpotential‐Dependent Volcano Plots to Assess Activity Trends in the Competing Chlorine and Oxygen Evolution Reactions
Authors: Exner Kai S.
Published: March 2020

The selectivity problem of the competing chlorine evolution (CER) and oxygen evolution (OER) reactions at the anode in chlor−alkali electrolysis is a major challenge in the chemical industry. The development of electrode materials with enhanced stability and CER selectivity could result in a significant reduction of the overall process costs. In order to gain an atomic‐scale understanding of the CER versus OER selectivity, commonly, density functional theory (DFT) calculations are employed that are analyzed by the construction of a volcano plot to comprehend trends. Herein, the binding energy of oxygen, ΔEO, has been established as a descriptor in such analyses. In the present article, it is demonstrated that ΔEOis not suitable to assess activity trends in the OER over transition‐metal oxides, such as RuO2(110) and IrO2(110). Quite in contrast, the free‐formation energy of oxygen with respect to hydroxide, ΔGO−OH, reproduces activity trends of RuO2(110) and IrO2(110) in the CER and OER correctly. Consequently, re‐investigation of the CER versus OER selectivity issue, using ΔGO−OHas a descriptor, is strongly suggested.
Construction and Application of Interfacial Inorganic Nanostructures
Authors: Wang Rui , Wei Yicheng , An Li , Yang Rui , Guo Linchuan , Weng Zheng , Da Pengfei , Chen Wenqing , Jin Jing , Li Jianyi , Xi Pinxian
Published: March 2020

Interfacial nanostructured materials have stimulated extensive interests in the research areas of green energy production and conversion due to their unique structures and performance. These interfacial crystalline structures with rich intrinsic defects, such as oxygen vacancies, adatoms, grain boundaries, and substitutional impurities, have led to unique activities in a variety of catalytic reactions. The rational design and engineering development of the interfaces provide an attractive way to optimize the catalytic performance and finally improve the efficiency of energy conversion and storage. Herein, a comprehensive overview of interfacial inorganic nanostructures and their electrocatalytic applications are summarized, and some future challenge and opportunity have also been proposed.