bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transforming growth factor-β is involved in maintaining oocyte meiotic arrest by promoting natriuretic peptide type C expression in mouse granulosa cells
Authors: Yang Jing , Zhang Yu , Xu Xiaoting , Li Jia , Yuan Feifei , Bo Shumin , Qiao Jie , Xia Guoliang , Su Youqiang , Zhang Meijia
Published: July 2019

Natriuretic peptide type C (NPPC) secreted by mural granulosa cells (MGCs) maintains oocyte meiotic arrest via the activation of guanylyl cyclase-linked natriuretic peptide receptor 2 (NPR2). Here, we investigated the effect of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β on NPPC expression in MGCs and oocyte maturation. TGF-β ligands (TGFB1 and TGFB3, but not TGFB2) and receptors (TGFBR1 and TGFBR2) were predominantly expressed in MGCs. The activation of the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) receptor by FSH/equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) increased the levels of TGFB1, TGFBR2, and TGF-β downstream SMAD proteins in MGCs, which were decreased following the activation of the luteinizing hormone (LH) receptor by human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). TGF-β significantly increased the gene and protein levels of NPPC in cultured MGCs through SMAD3 binding to Nppc promoter regions. In the presence of FSH, TGF-β further increased NPPC levels and inhibited oocyte meiotic resumption of cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs). Moreover, Tgfbr2-specific depletion in granulosa cells using Fshr-Cre mice reduced NPPC mRNA and protein levels, resulting in the weak maintenance of oocyte meiotic arrest within large antral follicles. Tgfbr2 depletion also impaired follicle development, ovulation, and female fertility. Taken together, TGF-β-promoted NPPC in MGCs is involved in maintaining oocyte meiotic arrest. FSH and LH could regulate NPPC levels in MGCs via TGF-β and then control the process of oocyte meiosis.
Mitofusin 1 is required for female fertility and to maintain ovarian follicular reserve
Authors: Zhang Man , Bener Muhammed Burak , Jiang Zongliang , Wang Tianren , Esencan Ecem , Scott III Richard , Horvath Tamas , Seli Emre
Published: July 2019

Mitochondria are dynamic organelles that continually adapt their structure through fusion and fission in response to changes in their bioenergetic environment. Targeted deletion of mitochondrial fusion protein mitofusin1 (MFN1) in oocytes resulted in female infertility associated with failure to achieve oocyte maturation. Oocyte-granulosa cell communication was impaired, and cadherins and connexins were downregulated, resulting in follicle developmental arrest at the secondary follicle stage. Deletion of MFN1 in oocytes resulted in mitochondrial dysfunction and altered mitochondrial dynamics, as well as accumulation of ceramide, which contributed to increased apoptosis and a reproductive phenotype that was partially rescued by treatment with ceramide synthesis inhibitor myriocin. Absence of MFN1 and resulting apoptotic cell loss also caused depletion of ovarian follicular reserve, and a phenotype consistent with accelerated female reproductive aging.
CD160 serves as a negative regulator of NKT cells in acute hepatic injury
Authors: Kim Tae-Jin , Park Gayoung , Kim Jeongmin , Lim Seon Ah , Kim Jiyoung , Im Kyungtaek , Shin Min Hwa , Fu Yang-Xin , Del Rio Maria-Luisa , Rodriguez-Barbosa Jose-Ignacio , Yee Cassian , Suh Kyung-Suk , Kim Seong-Jin , Ha Sang-Jun , Lee Kyung-Mi
Published: July 2019

CD160 and BTLA both bind to herpes virus entry mediator. Although a negative regulatory function of BTLA in natural killer T (NKT) cell activation has been reported, whether CD160 is also involved is unclear. By analyzing CD160−/−mice and mixed bone marrow chimeras, we show that CD160 is not essential for NKT cell development. However, CD160−/−mice exhibit severe liver injury after in vivo challenge with α-galactosylceramide (α-GalCer). Moreover, CD160−/−mice are more susceptible to Concanavalin A challenge, and display elevated serum AST and ALT levels, hyperactivation of NKT cells, and enhanced IFN-γ, TNF, and IL-4 production. Lastly, inhibition of BTLA by anti-BTLA mAb aggravates α-GalCer-induced hepatic injury in CD160−/−mice, suggesting that both CD160 and BTLA serve as non-overlapping negative regulators of NKT cells. Our data thus implicate CD160 as a co-inhibitory receptor that delivers antigen-dependent signals in NKT cells to dampen cytokine production during early innate immune activation.
Regulatory pathways governing murine coronary vessel formation are dysregulated in the injured adult heart
Authors: Payne Sophie , Gunadasa-Rohling Mala , Neal Alice , Redpath Andia N. , Patel Jyoti , Chouliaras Kira M. , Ratnayaka Indrika , Smart Nicola , De Val Sarah
Published: July 2019

The survival of ischaemic cardiomyocytes after myocardial infarction (MI) depends on the formation of new blood vessels. However, endogenous neovascularization is inefficient and the regulatory pathways directing coronary vessel growth are not well understood. Here we describe three independent regulatory pathways active in coronary vessels during development through analysis of the expression patterns of differentially regulated endothelial enhancers in the heart. The angiogenic VEGFA-MEF2 regulatory pathway is predominantly active in endocardial-derived vessels, whilst SOXF/RBPJ and BMP-SMAD pathways are seen in sinus venosus-derived arterial and venous coronaries, respectively. Although all developmental pathways contribute to post-MI vessel growth in the neonate, none are active during neovascularization after MI in adult hearts. This was particularly notable for the angiogenic VEGFA-MEF2 pathway, otherwise active in adult hearts and during neoangiogenesis in other adult settings. Our results therefore demonstrate a fundamental divergence between the regulation of coronary vessel growth in healthy and ischemic adult hearts.
An inter-model assessment of the role of direct air capture in deep mitigation pathways
Authors: Realmonte Giulia , Drouet Laurent , Gambhir Ajay , Glynn James , Hawkes Adam , Köberle Alexandre C. , Tavoni Massimo
Published: July 2019

The feasibility of large-scale biological CO2removal to achieve stringent climate targets remains unclear. Direct Air Carbon Capture and Storage (DACCS) offers an alternative negative emissions technology (NET) option. Here we conduct the first inter-model comparison on the role of DACCS in 1.5 and 2 °C scenarios, under a variety of techno-economic assumptions. Deploying DACCS significantly reduces mitigation costs, and it complements rather than substitutes other NETs. The key factor limiting DACCS deployment is the rate at which it can be scaled up. Our scenarios’ average DACCS scale-up rates of 1.5 GtCO2/yr would require considerable sorbent production and up to 300 EJ/yr of energy input by 2100. The risk of assuming that DACCS can be deployed at scale, and finding it to be subsequently unavailable, leads to a global temperature overshoot of up to 0.8 °C. DACCS should therefore be developed and deployed alongside, rather than instead of, other mitigation options.
Extraction of higher-order nonlinear electronic response in solids using high harmonic generation
Authors: Han Seunghwoi , Ortmann Lisa , Kim Hyunwoong , Kim Yong Woo , Oka Takashi , Chacon Alexis , Doran Brent , Ciappina Marcelo , Lewenstein Maciej , Kim Seung-Woo , Kim Seungchul , Landsman Alexandra S.
Published: July 2019

Nonlinear susceptibilities are key to ultrafast lightwave driven optoelectronics, allowing petahertz scaling manipulation of the signal. Recent experiments retrieved a 3rd order nonlinear susceptibility by comparing the nonlinear response induced by a strong laser field to a linear response induced by the otherwise identical weak field. The highly nonlinear nature of high harmonic generation (HHG) has the potential to extract even higher order nonlinear susceptibility terms. However, up till now, such characterization has been elusive due to a lack of direct correspondence between high harmonics and nonlinear susceptibilities. Here, we demonstrate a regime where such correspondence can be clearly made, extracting nonlinear susceptibilities (7th, 9th, and 11th) from sapphire of the same order as the measured high harmonics. The extracted high order susceptibilities show angular-resolved periodicities arising from variation in the band structure with crystal orientation. Our results open a door to multi-channel signal processing, controlled by laser polarization.
Towards a standardized bioinformatics infrastructure for N- and O-glycomics
Authors: Rojas-Macias Miguel A. , Mariethoz Julien , Andersson Peter , Jin Chunsheng , Venkatakrishnan Vignesh , Aoki Nobuyuki P. , Shinmachi Daisuke , Ashwood Christopher , Madunic Katarina , Zhang Tao , Miller Rebecca L. , Horlacher Oliver , Struwe Weston B. , Watanabe Yu , Okuda Shujiro , Levander Fredrik , Kolarich Daniel , Rudd Pauline M. , Wuhrer Manfred , Kettner Carsten , Packer Nicolle H. , Aoki-Kinoshita Kiyoko F. , Lisacek Frédérique , Karlsson Niclas G.
Published: July 2019

The mass spectrometry (MS)-based analysis of free polysaccharides and glycans released from proteins, lipids and proteoglycans increasingly relies on databases and software. Here, we review progress in the bioinformatics analysis of protein-released N- and O-linked glycans (N- and O-glycomics) and propose an e-infrastructure to overcome current deficits in data and experimental transparency. This workflow enables the standardized submission of MS-based glycomics information into the public repository UniCarb-DR. It implements the MIRAGE (Minimum Requirement for A Glycomics Experiment) reporting guidelines, storage of unprocessed MS data in the GlycoPOST repository and glycan structure registration using the GlyTouCan registry, thereby supporting the development and extension of a glycan structure knowledgebase.
Microbiota-derived acetate protects against respiratory syncytial virus infection through a GPR43-type 1 interferon response
Authors: Antunes Krist Helen , Fachi José Luís , de Paula Rosemeire , da Silva Emanuelle Fraga , Pral Laís Passariello , dos Santos Adara Áurea , Dias Greicy Brisa Malaquias , Vargas José Eduardo , Puga Renato , Mayer Fabiana Quoos , Maito Fábio , Zárate-Bladés Carlos R. , Ajami Nadim J. , Sant’Ana Marcella Ramos , Candreva Thamiris , Rodrigues Hosana Gomes , Schmiele Marcio , Silva Clerici Maria Teresa Pedrosa , Proença-Modena José Luiz , Vieira Angélica Thomas , Mackay Charles R. , Mansur Daniel , Caballero Mauricio T. , Marzec Jacqui , Li Jianying , Wang Xuting , Bell Douglas , Polack Fernando P. , Kleeberger Steven R. , Stein Renato T. , Vinolo Marco Aurélio Ramirez , de Souza Ana Paula Duarte
Published: July 2019

Severe respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in infants <2 years-old. Here we describe that high-fiber diet protects mice from RSV infection. This effect was dependent on intestinal microbiota and production of acetate. Oral administration of acetate mediated interferon-β (IFN-β) response by increasing expression of interferon-stimulated genes in the lung. These effects were associated with reduction of viral load and pulmonary inflammation in RSV-infected mice. Type 1 IFN signaling via the IFN-1 receptor (IFNAR) was essential for acetate antiviral activity in pulmonary epithelial cell lines and for the acetate protective effect in RSV-infected mice. Activation of Gpr43 in pulmonary epithelial cells reduced virus-induced cytotoxicity and promoted antiviral effects through IFN-β response. The effect of acetate on RSV infection was abolished in Gpr43−/− mice. Our findings reveal antiviral effects of acetate involving IFN-β in lung epithelial cells and engagement of GPR43 and IFNAR.
Integrated analyses of murine breast cancer models reveal critical parallels with human disease
Authors: Rennhack Jonathan P. , To Briana , Swiatnicki Matthew , Dulak Caleb , Ogrodzinski Martin P. , Zhang Yueqi , Li Caralynn , Bylett Evan , Ross Christina , Szczepanek Karol , Hanrahan William , Jayatissa Muthu , Lunt Sophia Y. , Hunter Kent , Andrechek Eran R.
Published: July 2019

Mouse models have an essential role in cancer research, yet little is known about how various models resemble human cancer at a genomic level. Here, we complete whole genome sequencing and transcriptome profiling of two widely used mouse models of breast cancer, MMTV-Neu and MMTV-PyMT. Through integrative in vitro and in vivo studies, we identify copy number alterations in key extracellular matrix proteins including collagen 1 type 1 alpha 1 (COL1A1) and chondroadherin (CHAD) that drive metastasis in these mouse models. In addition to copy number alterations, we observe a propensity of the tumors to modulate tyrosine kinase-mediated signaling through mutation of phosphatases such as PTPRH in the MMTV-PyMT mouse model. Mutation in PTPRH leads to increased phospho-EGFR levels and decreased latency. These findings underscore the importance of understanding the complete genomic landscape of a mouse model and illustrate the utility this has in understanding human cancers.
Effect of the software binning and averaging data during microcomputed tomography image acquisition
Authors: Friedrichsdorf Simone Peixe , Arana-Chavez Victor Elias , Cattaneo Paolo Maria , Spin-Neto Rubens , Dominguez Gladys Cristina
Published: July 2019

This study describes the effect of the software binning and data averaging during micro CT volume acquisition, on the assessment of root resorption volumes. The mesial roots (n = 9), after orthodontic tooth movement during 14 days, were scanned, using a micro CT system (9 µm/pixel). All roots were reconstructed and the volumes of the resorption lacunae evaluated. The height and width of the pixels vary according to the parameters (A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8, A9) used during the scan. In the root #1 the mean volumes of resorption were similar in A4 and A7; in the root #2 there was no similarity in the mean volumes of resorption in any of the parameters; in root #3 only A4 presented mean volume different from zero (3.05 × 10°). In the root #5, the A1 and A7 presented similar mean volumes and in the A6 and A9 presented near mean volumes. In the root #9 the A1, A4, and A7 presented similar mean volumes and A6 and A9 also had similar mean volumes. Significant difference was detected in the volume of resorption among the roots #2, #5 and #9 (p = 0.04). When analyzing delicate structures such as the roots of rats’ molars, the variation of such parameters will significantly influence the results.
Insights about multi-targeting and synergistic neuromodulators in Ayurvedic herbs against epilepsy: integrated computational studies on drug-target and protein-protein interaction networks
Authors: Choudhary Neha , Singh Vikram
Published: July 2019

Epilepsy, that comprises a wide spectrum of neuronal disorders and accounts for about one percent of global disease burden affecting people of all age groups, is recognised asapasmarain the traditional medicinal system of Indian antiquity commonly known as Ayurveda. Towards exploring the molecular level complex regulatory mechanisms of 63 anti-epileptic Ayurvedic herbs and thoroughly examining the multi-targeting and synergistic potential of 349 drug-like phytochemicals (DPCs) found therein, in this study, we develop an integrated computational framework comprising of network pharmacology and molecular docking studies. Neuromodulatory prospects of anti-epileptic herbs are probed and, as a special case study, DPCs that can regulate metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) are inspected. A novel methodology to screen and systematically analyse the DPCs having similar neuromodulatory potentialvis-à-visDrugBank compounds (NeuMoDs) is developed and 11 NeuMoDs are reported. A repertoire of 74 DPCs having poly-pharmacological similarity with anti-epileptic DrugBank compounds and those under clinical trials is also reported. Further, high-confidence PPI-network specific to epileptic protein-targets is developed and the potential of DPCs to regulate its functional modules is investigated. We believe that the presented schema can open-up exhaustive explorations of indigenous herbs towards meticulous identification of clinically relevant DPCs against various diseases and disorders.
Reduced Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin 9 (PCSK9) function increases lipoteichoic acid clearance and improves outcomes in Gram positive septic shock patients
Authors: Leung Alex K. K. , Genga Kelly Roveran , Topchiy Elena , Cirstea Mihai , Shimada Tadanaga , Fjell Chris , Russell James A. , Boyd John H. , Walley Keith R.
Published: July 2019

Previous studies have shown lipopolysaccharide from Gram-negative bacteria is cleared from the circulation via LDL receptors on hepatocytes, which are downregulated by PCSK9. Whether clearance of Gram positive bacterial lipoteichoic acid (LTA) shows similar dependence on PCSK9, and whether this is clinically relevant in Gram positive human sepsis, is unknown. We examined survival data from three cohorts of patients who had Gram positive septic shock (n = 170, n = 130, and n = 59) and found that patients who carried a PCSK9 loss-of-function (LOF) allele had significantly higher 28-day survival (73.8%) than those with no LOF alleles (52.8%) (p = 0.000038). Plasma clearance of LTA was also found to be increased in PCSK9 knockout mice compared to wildtype control mice (p = 0.002). In addition, hepatocytes pre-treated with recombinant wildtype PCSK9 showed a dose-dependent decrease in uptake of fluorescently-labeled LTA (p < 0.01). In comparison to wildtype PCSK9, hepatocytes pre-treated with 3 different LOF variants of recombinant PCSK9 showed an increase in LTA uptake. This study shows the clearance of LTA follows a similar route as lipopolysaccharide, which is dependent on hepatic LDL receptors. This has important implications in health as strategies aimed at inhibiting PCSK9 function may be an effective treatment option for both Gram-positive and negative sepsis.
A set of molecular markers predicts chemosensitivity to Mitomycin-C following cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy for colorectal peritoneal metastasis
Authors: Shannon Nicholas Brian , Tan Joey Wee-Shan , Tan Hwee Leong , Wang Weining , Chen Yudong , Lim Hui Jun , Tan Qiu Xuan , Hendrikson Josephine , Ng Wai Har , Loo Li Yang , Skanthakumar Thakshayeni , Wasudevan Seettha D. , Kon Oi Lian , Lim Tony Kiat Hon , Tan Grace Hwei Ching , Chia Claramae Shulyn , Soo Khee Chee , Ong Chin-Ann Johnny , Teo Melissa Ching Ching
Published: July 2019

Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) is associated with significant perioperative morbidity and mortality. We aim to generate and validate a biomarker set predicting sensitivity to Mitomycin-C to refine selection of patients with colorectal peritoneal metastasis (CPM) for this treatment. A signature predicting Mitomycin-C sensitivity was generated using data from Genomics of Drug Sensitivity in Cancer and The Cancer Genome Atlas. Validation was performed on CPM patients who underwent CRS-HIPEC (n = 62) using immunohistochemistry (IHC). We determined predictive significance of our set using overall survival as a surrogate endpoint via a logistic regression model. Three potential biomarkers were identified and optimized for IHC. Patients exhibiting lower expression of PAXIP1 and SSBP2 had poorer survival than those with higher expression (p = 0.045 and 0.140, respectively). No difference was observed in patients with differing DTYMK expression (p = 0.715). Combining PAXIP1 and SSBP2 in a set, patients with two dysregulated protein markers had significantly poorer survival than one or no dysregulated marker (p = 0.016). This set independently predicted survival in a Cox regression model (HR 5.097; 95% CI 1.731–15.007; p = 0.003). We generated and validated an IHC prognostic set which could potentially identify patients who are likely to benefit from HIPEC using Mitomycin-C.
Calreticulin Ins5 and Del52 mutations impair unfolded protein and oxidative stress responses in K562 cells expressing CALR mutants
Authors: Salati Simona , Genovese Elena , Carretta Chiara , Zini Roberta , Bartalucci Niccolò , Prudente Zelia , Pennucci Valentina , Ruberti Samantha , Rossi Chiara , Rontauroli Sebastiano , Enzo Elena , Calabresi Laura , Balliu Manjola , Mannarelli Carmela , Bianchi Elisa , Guglielmelli Paola , Tagliafico Enrico , Vannucchi Alessandro M. , Manfredini Rossella
Published: July 2019

Somatic mutations of calreticulin (CALR) have been described in approximately 60–80% of JAK2 and MPL unmutated Essential Thrombocythemia and Primary Myelofibrosis patients. CALR is an endoplasmic reticulum (ER) chaperone responsible for proper protein folding and calcium retention. Recent data demonstrated that the TPO receptor (MPL) is essential for the development of CALR mutant-driven Myeloproliferative Neoplasms (MPNs). However, the precise mechanism of action of CALR mutants haven’t been fully unraveled. In this study, we showed that CALR mutants impair the ability to respond to the ER stress and reduce the activation of the pro-apoptotic pathway of the unfolded protein response (UPR). Moreover, our data demonstrated that CALR mutations induce increased sensitivity to oxidative stress, leading to increase oxidative DNA damage. We finally demonstrated that the downmodulation of OXR1 in CALR-mutated cells could be one of the molecular mechanisms responsible for the increased sensitivity to oxidative stress mediated by mutant CALR. Altogether, our data identify novel mechanisms collaborating with MPL activation in CALR-mediated cellular transformation. CALR mutants negatively impact on the capability of cells to respond to oxidative stress leading to genomic instability and on the ability to react to ER stress, causing resistance to UPR-induced apoptosis.
Multiple genotypes of Echovirus 11 circulated in mainland China between 1994 and 2017
Authors: Li Jie , Yan Dongmei , Chen Li , Zhang Yong , Song Yang , Zhu Shuangli , Ji Tianjiao , Zhou Weimin , Gan Fangrong , Wang Xianjun , Hong Mei , Guan Luyuan , Shi Yong , Wu Guizhen , Xu Wenbo
Published: July 2019

Echovirus 11 (E-11) is one of the most frequently isolated enteroviruses causing meningitis and other diseases such as hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) and acute flaccid paralysis (AFP). Fifty-nine newly determined E-11 VP1 sequences from the China AFP and HFMD surveillance network and 500 E-11 VP1 sequences obtained from the GenBank database, which were associated with 12 categories of diseases, were screened for phylogenetic analysis. Based on the standard method of genotype classification, E-11 strains circulated worldwide were reclassified into six genotypes as A, B, C, D, E, and F, in which genotype F is newly divided, and genotypes A and C are further divided into A1–5 and C1–4 by this research, whereas genotype D was still divided into D1–5 as in a previous study of Oberste et al. Sub-genotype A1 was the predominant sub-genotype in mainland China between 2008–2017, whereas sub-genotype D5 was the predominant sub-genotype circulated outside China from 1998–2014. However, genotype and sub-genotype spectra showed statistical significance among AFP and HFMD cases (χ2 = 60.86, P < 0.001), suggesting that different genotypes might have a tendency to cause different diseases. Strengthening the surveillance of E-11 might provide further information about pathogenic evolution or specific nucleotide mutation associated with different clinical diseases.
Extracellular matrix composition of connective tissues: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: McKee Turney J. , Perlman George , Morris Martin , Komarova Svetlana V.
Published: July 2019

The function of connective tissues depends on the physical and biochemical properties of their extracellular matrix (ECM), which are in turn dictated by ECM protein composition. With the primary objective of obtaining quantitative estimates for absolute and relative amounts of ECM proteins, we performed a systematic review of papers reporting protein composition of human connective tissues. Articles were included in meta-analysis if they contained absolute or relative quantification of proteins found in the ECM of human bone, adipose tissue, tendon, ligament, cartilage and skeletal muscle. We generated absolute quantitative estimates for collagen in articular cartilage, intervertebral disk (IVD), skeletal muscle, tendon, and adipose tissue. In addition, sulfated glycosaminoglycans were quantified in articular cartilage, tendon and skeletal muscle; total proteoglycans in IVD and articular cartilage, fibronectin in tendon, ligament and articular cartilage, and elastin in tendon and IVD cartilage. We identified significant increases in collagen content in the annulus fibrosus of degenerating IVD and osteoarthritic articular cartilage, and in elastin content in degenerating disc. In contrast, collagen content was decreased in the scoliotic IVD. Finally, we built quantitative whole-tissue component breakdowns. Quantitative estimates improve our understanding of composition of human connective tissues, providing insights into their function in physiology and pathology.
Acoustical cues for perception of emotional vocalizations in rats
Authors: Saito Yumi , Tachibana Ryosuke O. , Okanoya Kazuo
Published: July 2019

The ultrasonic vocalizations of rats can transmit affective states to listeners. For example, rats typically produce shorter calls in a higher frequency range in social situations (pleasant call: PC), whereas they emit longer calls with lower frequency in distress situations (distress call: DC). Knowing what acoustical features contribute to auditory discrimination between these two calls will help to better characterize auditory perception of vocalized sounds in rats. In turn, this could lead to better estimation of models for processing vocalizations in sensory systems in general. Here, using an operant discrimination procedure, we examined the impact of various acoustical features on discriminating emotional ultrasonic vocalizations. We did this by systematically swapping three features (frequency range, time duration, and residual frequency-modulation pattern) between two emotional calls. After rats were trained to discriminate between PC and DC, we presented probe stimuli that were synthesized calls with one or two acoustical features swapped, and examined if the rats judged these calls as either PC or DC. The results revealed that all features were important for discrimination between the two call types, but frequency range provided the most information for discrimination. This supports the hypothesis that while rats utilize all acoustical features to perceive emotional vocalizations, they considerably rely on frequency cues.
Two-Dimensional Polyacrylamide Gel Electrophoresis for Metalloprotein Analysis Based on Differential Chemical Structure Recognition by CBB Dye
Authors: Ishikawa Junko , Maeshima Akinori , Mellinger Allyson , Durand Anne , Bourbon Marie-Line , Higo Daichi , Colyer Christa L. , Shibukawa Masami , Ouchane Soufian , Saito Shingo
Published: July 2019

In an effort to develop an analytical method capable of finding new metalloproteins, this is the first report of a new diagonal gel electrophoresis method to isolate and identify metalloproteins, based on the molecular recognition of holo- and apo-metalloproteins (metalbound and -free forms, respectively) by CBB G-250 dye and employing metal ion contaminant sweeping-blue native-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (MICS-BN-PAGE). The difference in electrophoretic mobilities between holo- and apo-forms was exaggerated as a result of interactions between the metalloproteins and the dye with no metal ion dissociation. The different binding modes of proteins with CBB G-250 dye, primarily related to hydrogen bonding, were confirmed by capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE) and molecular docking simulations. Due to in-gel holo/apo conversion between the first and second dimensions of PAGE, holo-metalloproteins in the original sample were completely isolated as spots off the diagonal line in the second dimension of PAGE. To prove the high efficiency of this method for metalloprotein analysis, we successfully identified a copper-binding protein from a total bacterial soluble extract for the first time.
Stretchable Low Impedance Electrodes for Bioelectronic Recording from Small Peripheral Nerves
Authors: Decataldo Francesco , Cramer Tobias , Martelli Davide , Gualandi Isacco , Korim Willian S. , Yao Song T. , Tessarolo Marta , Murgia Mauro , Scavetta Erika , Amici Roberto , Fraboni Beatrice
Published: July 2019

Monitoring of bioelectric signals in peripheral sympathetic nerves of small animal models is crucial to gain understanding of how the autonomic nervous system controls specific body functions related to disease states. Advances in minimally-invasive electrodes for such recordings in chronic conditions rely on electrode materials that show low-impedance ionic/electronic interfaces and elastic mechanical properties compliant with the soft and fragile nerve strands. Here we report a highly stretchable low-impedance electrode realized by microcracked gold films as metallic conductors covered with stretchable conducting polymer composite to facilitate ion-to-electron exchange. The conducting polymer composite based on poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) obtains its adhesive, low-impedance properties by controlling thickness, plasticizer content and deposition conditions. Atomic Force Microscopy measurements under strain show that the optimized conducting polymer coating is compliant with the micro-crack mechanics of the underlying Au-layer, necessary to absorb the tensile deformation when the electrodes are stretched. We demonstrate functionality of the stretchable electrodes by performing high quality recordings of renal sympathetic nerve activity under chronic conditions in rats.
Darkness-induced effects on gene expression in Cosmarium crenatum (Zygnematophyceae) from a polar habitat
Authors: Mundt Florian , Hanelt Dieter , Harms Lars , Heinrich Sandra
Published: July 2019

Light is a key environmental regulator in all photosynthetic organisms. Many studies focused on the physiologic response to changes in light availability of species from the Zygnematophyceae, but the impact of the absence of light and the molecular acclimation process on the other side have been poorly understood. Here we present transcriptomic analyses of Cosmarium crenatum from a polar habitat exposed to darkness. The algae were cultured in dark for one week; cell number and quantum yield of photosystem II (Fv/Fm) were monitored. Cell number was stable, but the Fv/Fm decreased in both groups, darkness-treated and control. Gene expression analysis revealed a strong repression of transcripts associated with photosynthesis, photorespiration and cell wall development. General carbohydrate and lipid metabolism were differentially regulated, but starch is shown to be the primary energy source in these conditions. Additionally, C. crenatum induced mRNA responsible for epigenetic modifications which may be a specific response to an adaption and acclimation to polar conditions. Our study sheds light on the molecular acclimation process to darkness and provides ecological implications for new perspectives in this specialized group of green algae.
Evidence of nanoemulsion as an effective control measure for fruit flies Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Krittika Sudhakar , Indhumathi P. , Vedha Hari B. N. , Ramya Devi D. , Yadav Pankaj
Published: July 2019

Pesticide resistance is a common concern. It exerts close association with economic and health associated problems in various plants and other organisms. Several approaches have been trialled for attracting and trapping the insects and flies that are acting as vectors for transmission of communicable diseases. Although Drosophila melanogaster (fruit flies) is not an agricultural pest, its presence in consumer dwelling areas is an objection to human, as it indicates signs of an unhealthy environment or products. The current study focuses on the development of nanoemulsion with synthetic attractants and entrapping in sticky glue formulation that could provide prolonged effect for attracting and trapping the fruit flies. The results of our study showed the efficient attractive ability of exposed nanoemulsion (A3E1T) containing amyl acetate, ammonia, ethanol and Tween 80 compared to that of control. While the sex-based effect was not very prominent, the nanoemulsion showed a higher relative response index to the flies and increased activity even during their siesta time. Therefore, the nanoemulsion-based approach could be identified as one of the promising lines of attack and a suitable alternative for the existing fruit fly control measures. The present study is the first of its kind in reporting the ability of nanoemulsion formulation to attract and influence the activity of fruit flies D. melanogaster, up to our best of knowledge.
Advanced 3D Imaging of Uterine Leiomyoma’s Morphology by Propagation-based Phase-Contrast Microtomography
Authors: Giuliani Alessandra , Greco Stefania , Pacilè Serena , Zannotti Alessandro , Delli Carpini Giovanni , Tromba Giuliana , Giannubilo Stefano Raffaele , Ciavattini Andrea , Ciarmela Pasquapina
Published: July 2019

Uterine leiomyoma is the most common benign smooth muscle tumor in women pelvis, originating from the myometrium. It is caused by a disorder of fibrosis, with a large production and disruption of extracellular matrix (ECM). Medical treatments are still very limited and no preventative therapies have been developed. We supposed that synchrotron-based phase-contrast microtomography (PhC-microCT) may be an appropriate tool to assess the 3D morphology of uterine leiomyoma, without the use of any contrast agent. We used this technique to perform the imaging and the quantitative morphometric analysis of healthy myometrium and pathologic leiomyomas. The quantitative morphometric analysis of collagen bundles was coupled to the Roschger approach. This method, previously only used to evaluate mineralized bone density distribution, was applied here to study the fibrosis mass density distribution in healthy and pathologic biopsies from two patients. This protocol was shown to be powerful in studying uterine leiomyomas, detecting also small signs of the ECM alteration. This is of paramount importance not only for the follow-up of the present study, i.e. the investigation of different compounds and their possible therapeutic benefits, but also because it offers new methodologic possibilities for future studies of the ECM in soft tissues of different body districts.
Locating potentially lethal genes using the abnormal distributions of genotypes
Authors: Ding Xiaojun , Zhu Xiaoshu
Published: July 2019

Genes are the basic functional units of heredity. Differences in genes can lead to various congenital physical conditions. One kind of these differences is caused by genetic variations named single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). An SNP is a variation in a single nucleotide that occurs at a specific position in the genome. Some SNPs can affect splice sites and protein structures and cause gene abnormalities. SNPs on paired chromosomes may lead to fatal diseases so that a fertilized embryo cannot develop into a normal fetus or the people born with these abnormalities die in childhood. The distributions of genotypes on these SNP sites are different from those on other sites. Based on this idea, we present a novel statistical method to detect the abnormal distributions of genotypes and locate the potentially lethal genes. The test was performed on HapMap data and 74 suspicious SNPs were found. Ten SNP maps “reviewed” genes in the NCBI database. Among them, 5 genes were related to fatal childhood diseases or embryonic development, 1 gene can cause spermatogenic failure, and the other 4 genes were associated with many genetic diseases. The results validated our method. The method is very simple and is guaranteed by a statistical test. It is an inexpensive way to discover potentially lethal genes and the mutation sites. The mined genes deserve further study.
Improvements in structural and optical properties of wafer-scale hexagonal boron nitride film by post-growth annealing
Authors: Lee Seung Hee , Jeong Hokyeong , Okello Odongo Francis Ngome , Xiao Shiyu , Moon Seokho , Kim Dong Yeong , Kim Gi-Yeop , Lo Jen-Iu , Peng Yu-Chain , Cheng Bing-Ming , Miyake Hideto , Choi Si-Young , Kim Jong Kyu
Published: July 2019

Remarkable improvements in both structural and optical properties of wafer-scale hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) films grown by metal-organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) enabled by high-temperature post-growth annealing is presented. The enhanced crystallinity and homogeneity of the MOCVD-grown h-BN films grown at 1050 °C is attributed to the solid-state atomic rearrangement during the thermal annealing at 1600 °C. In addition, the appearance of the photoluminescence by excitonic transitions as well as enlarged optical band gap were observed for the post-annealed h-BN films as direct consequences of the microstructural improvement. The post-growth annealing is a very promising strategy to overcome limited crystallinity of h-BN films grown by typical MOCVD systems while maintaining their advantage of multiple wafer scalability for practical applications towards two-dimensional electronics and optoelectronics.
High-Performance All-Organic DFB and DBR Waveguide Laser with Various Grating Height Fabricated by a Two-Photon Absorption DLW Method
Authors: Tsutsumi Naoto , Kaida Keiichi , Kinashi Kenji , Sakai Wataru
Published: July 2019

Organic solid-state lasers (OSSLs) with distributed feedback (DFB) structures or distributed Bragg reflectors (DBRs) are promising for potential application in bio-sensing and hazardous materials detection. Here, the laser performances of the all-organic DFB waveguide lasers with various grating heights ranging from 0.4 to 4.7 μm were investigated. The grating structures used as the lasing cavity were fabricated using a two-photon absorption (TPA) direct laser writing (DLW) method with an SU-8 negative photoresist. The laser active layer consisted of a rhodamine 6G (R6G) laser dye and a cellulose acetate (CA) matrix. The R6G/CA solution was spin-coated onto the quartz substrate with the cavity (grating) structures to fabricate the DFB waveguide laser devices. The diffraction order of lasing ranged from m = 4 to 7. As the grating height was increased to 1.9 μm, the slope efficiency increased for all diffraction orders and the threshold decreases for each diffraction order. The dependence of the cavity (grating) length on the laser performances was investigated. The slope efficiency increased as the cavity length increased to 300 μm. The effect of the cavity (grating) position on the slope efficiency and the threshold position of the cavity (grating) was also studied. A maximum slope efficiency of 10.2% was achieved for the DFB waveguide laser device with a cavity (grating) length of 300 μm, a cavity position at 6 mm from the emission edge of the waveguide, and an aspect ratio ≈3 between the grating height of 1.74 μm and the grating width of 0.6 μm for the diffraction order m = 6 for lasing.
Knot spectrum of turbulence
Authors: Cooper R. G. , Mesgarnezhad M. , Baggaley A. W. , Barenghi C. F.
Published: July 2019

Streamlines, vortex lines and magnetic flux tubes in turbulent fluids and plasmas display a great amount of coiling, twisting and linking, raising the question as to whether their topological complexity (continually created and destroyed by reconnections) can be quantified. In superfluid helium, the discrete (quantized) nature of vorticity can be exploited to associate to each vortex loop a knot invariant called the Alexander polynomial whose degree characterizes the topology of that vortex loop. By numerically simulating the dynamics of a tangle of quantum vortex lines, we find that this quantum turbulence always contains vortex knots of very large degree which keep forming, vanishing and reforming, creating a distribution of topologies which we quantify in terms of a knot spectrum and its scaling law. We also find results analogous to those in the wider literature, demonstrating that the knotting probability of the vortex tangle grows with the vortex length, as for macromolecules, and saturates above a characteristic length, as found for tumbled strings.
Male mortality rates mirror mortality rates of older females
Authors: Lenart Peter , Kuruczova Daniela , Joshi Peter K. , Bienertová-Vašků Julie
Published: July 2019

Women on average live longer than men, which seems to suggest that women also age slower than men. However, the potential difference in the pace of aging between the sexes is a relatively controversial topic, and both positions, i.e. “men age faster” and “men and women age at the same pace”, have found some support. We therefore employ parametric models previously established in model organisms as well as two nonparametric approaches to compare the pace of aging between the sexes using freely available mortality data from 13 high-income countries. Our results support the hypothesis that men age faster than women while also suggesting that the difference is small and that from a practical standpoint male mortality rates behave similarly to the mortality rates of women approximately eight years their senior.
Efficient Volumetric Absorption Solar Thermal Platforms Employing Thermally Stable - Solar Selective Nanofluids Engineered from Used Engine Oil
Authors: Singh Nirmal , Khullar Vikrant
Published: July 2019

We report a low cost and scalable method to synthesize solar selective nanofluids from ‘used engine oil’. The as-prepared nanofluids exhibit excellent long-term stability (presently tested up to 6 months under undisturbed stagnant conditions at room temperature) and photo-thermal conversion efficiency. Moreover, these were found to retain their stability and functional characteristics even after extended periods (72 hours) of high temperature (300°C) heating, ultra violet light exposure and thermal cyclic loading. Building upon it, we have been able to successfully engineer an efficient volumetric absorption solar thermal platform that employs the as-prepared nanofluids and achieves higher steady state temperatures (approximately 5% higher) relative to the conventional surface absorption based solar thermal system under the sun. The developed volumetric absorption solar thermal platform could prove to be significant step in the evolution of efficient solar thermal systems which could potentially be deployed for host of applications ranging from solar driven heating, air-conditioning, and desalination units to solar energy electricity generation systems.
High-fat diet intake induces depressive-like behavior in ovariectomized rats
Authors: Boldarine Valter T. , Pedroso Amanda P. , Neto Nelson I. P. , Dornellas Ana P. S. , Nascimento Cláudia M. O. , Oyama Lila M. , Ribeiro Eliane B.
Published: July 2019

This study tested the effects of ovariectomy, allied or not to high-fat feeding and estradiol replacement, on hormonal, metabolic and behavioral parameters, to explore the connection of obesity and depression after menopause. Wistar rats were either ovariectomized or sham-operated and fed with either standard chow or lard-enriched diet for twelve weeks. Sub-groups of ovariectomized rats received estradiol replacement. Depressive-like behaviors were assessed by the forced swim test and locomotor activity was assessed by the elevated plus maze test. Ovariectomy alone increased body weight gain and feed efficiency and induced hyperleptinemia and glucose intolerance while it increased caloric intake and body adiposity only marginally. High-fat intake alone induced obesity and, in combination with ovariectomy, accentuated the ovariectomy-induced alterations. Estradiol replacement attenuated the hormonal alterations only in chow-fed rats. Ovariectomy combined with high-fat intake induced depressive-like behaviors, which were marginally attenuated by estradiol. Depressive-like behaviors were associated with metabolic and body composition parameters and with estrogen status. The data indicate that the vulnerability to develop depression after menopause is influenced by high-fat intake. It is suggested that weight management is a crucial issue in postmenopausal women, probably having a beneficial role in preventing the appearance of mental health problems.
Theoretical study on the intrinsic properties of In2Se3/MoS2 as a photocatalyst driven by near-infrared, visible and ultraviolet light
Authors: Zhang Jin-Rong , Deng Xi-Zi , Gao Bin , Chen Lang , Au Chak-Tong , Li Kenli , Yin Shuang-Feng , Cai Meng-Qiu
Published: July 2019

Two-dimensional photocatalysts with full optical absorption have attracted widespread attention for water splitting and pollutant degradation, but only few single materials can meet this criterion.
Rh(i) and Ru(ii) phosphaamidine and phosphaguanidine (1,3-P,N) complexes and their activity for CO2 hydrogenation
Authors: Kandel Ramjee , Schatte Gabriele , Jessop Philip G.
Published: July 2019

Phosphaamidine and phosphaguanidine complexes Rh2Cl2L2(μ-CO), RuCl2L2, [RhL′(COD)]BF4, RuCl2L′(DMSO)2 and RuCl2L′′(DMSO)2 (L = Ph2PC(Ph)NPh, L′ = [iPr2PC(Ph)NiPr, L′′ = Me2NC(PPh2)NiPr) are shown to be precatalysts for CO2 hydrogenation.
Quantifying and elucidating the effect of CO2 on the thermodynamics, kinetics and charge transport of AEMFCs
Authors: Zheng Yiwei , Omasta Travis J. , Peng Xiong , Wang Lianqin , Varcoe John R. , Pivovar Bryan S. , Mustain William E.
Published: July 2019

Exposing operating AEMFCs to CO2 leads to performance-robbing overpotentials, linked to fundamental thermodynamics, transport and kinetics – the impact of which can be reduced through careful systems design and selection of operating conditions.
Overview of HOMEChem: House Observations of Microbial and Environmental Chemistry
Authors: Farmer D. K. , Vance M. E. , Abbatt J. P. D. , Abeleira A. , Alves M. R. , Arata C. , Boedicker E. , Bourne S. , Cardoso-Saldaña F. , Corsi R. , DeCarlo P. F. , Goldstein A. H. , Grassian V. H. , Hildebrandt Ruiz L. , Jimenez J. L. , Kahan T. F. , Katz E. F. , Mattila J. M. , Nazaroff W. W. , Novoselac A. , O'Brien R. E. , Or V. W. , Patel S. , Sankhyan S. , Stevens P. S. , Tian Y. , Wade M. , Wang C. , Zhou S. , Zhou Y.
Published: July 2019

The House Observations of Microbial and Environmental Chemistry (HOMEChem) study was a large-scale collaborative experimental investigation probing indoor air composition and chemistry.
Characterization and comparison of milk fat globule membrane N-glycoproteomes from human and bovine colostrum and mature milk
Authors: Cao Xueyan , Zheng Yan , Wu Shangyi , Yang Ning , Wu Junrui , Liu Biao , Ye Wenhui , Yang Mei , Yue Xiqing
Published: July 2019

Comparison of MFGM N-glycoproteomes among human and bovine colostrum and mature milk reveals diverse compositions and biological functions among them.
Set-up and screening of a fragment library targeting the 14-3-3 protein interface
Authors: Valenti Dario , Neves João Filipe , Cantrelle François-Xavier , Hristeva Stanimira , Lentini Santo Domenico , Obšil Tomáš , Hanoulle Xavier , Levy Laura M. , Tzalis Dimitrios , Landrieu Isabelle , Ottmann Christian
Published: July 2019

Fragment-based driven discovery of 3 new low molecular weight starting points for the modulation of 14-3-3 protein–protein interactions.
4D hydrogel for dynamic cell culture with orthogonal, wavelength-dependent mechanical and biochemical cues
Authors: Zheng Yijun , Liong Han Mitchell Kim , Jiang Qiyang , Li Bin , Feng Jun , del Campo Aránzazu
Published: July 2019

A 4D hydrogel allows user-defined stiffening of the cellular environment and presentation of bioadhesive cues in an orthogonal manner using light of different wavelengths.
Hierarchical fibers for water collection inspired by spider silk
Authors: Chen Wei , Guo Zhiguang
Published: July 2019

The “wet-rebuilt” process of spider silk is considered an effective strategy for water collection. In this review, we give an advanced perspective on the fabrication and water-collection mechanisms from natural spider silks to functional fibers.