bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Latrophilin-2 and latrophilin-3 are redundantly essential for parallel-fiber synapse function in cerebellum
Authors: Zhang Roger Shen , Liakath-Ali Kif , Südhof Thomas C
Published: March 2020

Latrophilin-2 (Lphn2) and latrophilin-3 (Lphn3) are adhesion GPCRs that serve as postsynaptic recognition molecules in CA1 pyramidal neurons of the hippocampus, where they are localized to distinct dendritic domains and are essential for different sets of excitatory synapses. Here, we studied Lphn2 and Lphn3 in the cerebellum. We show that latrophilins are abundantly and differentially expressed in the cerebellar cortex. Using conditional KO mice, we demonstrate that the Lphn2/3 double-deletion but not the deletion of Lphn2 or Lphn3 alone suppresses parallel-fiber synapses and reduces parallel-fiber synaptic transmission by ~50% without altering release probability. Climbing-fiber synapses, conversely, were unaffected. Even though ~50% of total cerebellar Lphn3 protein is expressed in Bergmann glia, Lphn3 deletion from Bergmann glia did not detectably impair excitatory or inhibitory synaptic transmission. Our studies demonstrate that Lphn2 and Lphn3 are selectively but redundantly required in Purkinje cells for parallel-fiber synapses.
A roadmap for gene functional characterisation in crops with large genomes: Lessons from polyploid wheat
Authors: Adamski Nikolai M , Borrill Philippa , Brinton Jemima , Harrington Sophie A , Marchal Clémence , Bentley Alison R , Bovill William D , Cattivelli Luigi , Cockram James , Contreras-Moreira Bruno , Ford Brett , Ghosh Sreya , Harwood Wendy , Hassani-Pak Keywan , Hayta Sadiye , Hickey Lee T , Kanyuka Kostya , King Julie , Maccaferrri Marco , Naamati Guy , Pozniak Curtis J , Ramirez-Gonzalez Ricardo H , Sansaloni Carolina , Trevaskis Ben , Wingen Luzie U , Wulff Brande BH , Uauy Cristobal
Published: March 2020

Understanding the function of genes within staple crops will accelerate crop improvement by allowing targeted breeding approaches. Despite their importance, a lack of genomic information and resources has hindered the functional characterisation of genes in major crops. The recent release of high-quality reference sequences for these crops underpins a suite of genetic and genomic resources that support basic research and breeding. For wheat, these include gene model annotations, expression atlases and gene networks that provide information about putative function. Sequenced mutant populations, improved transformation protocols and structured natural populations provide rapid methods to study gene function directly. We highlight a case study exemplifying how to integrate these resources. This review provides a helpful guide for plant scientists, especially those expanding into crop research, to capitalise on the discoveries made in Arabidopsis and other plants. This will accelerate the improvement of crops of vital importance for food and nutrition security.
Variability in Yield and Yield Components of Selected Pro-vitamin A Maize (Zea mays L.) Varieties in a Humid Environment of Port Harcourt, Nigeria
Authors: Taiwo O. P. , Nwonuala A. I. , Isaiah B. F.
Published: March 2020

This study aimed at assessing the magnitude and nature of genetic variation present in seventeen pro-vitamin A (PVA) maize varieties, investigate the extent of association among agronomic characters responsible for yield and its components in the maize varieties and evaluate the performance of the maize varieties. The field experiment was carried out at the Teaching and Research Farm of the Rivers State University, Nkpolu, Port Harcourt under rain fed conditions in May, 2018 and were laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Data were collected on established plants per plot, days to 50% silking, days to 50% anthesis, anthesis-silking interval, plant height, ear height, final stand count, number of ears harvested, grain moisture content, field weight and grain yield. Results showed significant differences (P < 0.01) among varieties for all traits evaluated. PVASYN-13 had the highest grain yield per hectare among other varieties. High heritability estimates coupled with high genetic advance were observed in established plants per plot, anthesis-silking interval, final stand count, number of ears harvested, field weight and grain yield, an indication of the additive nature of their inheritance. Thus, the presence of variation could serve as basis for selection for yield improvement in maize.
Geostatistical Modelling of Groundwater Quality at Rumuola Community, Port Harcourt, Nigeria
Authors: Amah Victor E. , Agu Fortune A.
Published: March 2020

The groundwater quality of Rumuola community of Rivers State, Nigeria was investigated. This study was done to determine the pollution potential of a solid waste open dump in a borrow pit in the community. The leachate pollution index was calculated for the borrow pit at the centre of the community using weighted additive leachate pollution index. The result showed that the LPI value was 5.31 and has low pollution potential. It was discovered that the groundwater in the entire community was acidic with pH levels ranging from 3.6 to 4.2, which is below NSDWQ’s permissible range of 6.5-8.5. Nickel and arsenic also showed concentrations that were above permissible limits with nickel values averaging 0.033 mg/l which is slightly above the limit of 0.02 mg/l. Arsenic had concentrations that ranged from 0.16 to 1.57 mg/l which is above permissible limits of 0.01 mg/l. WQI was determined using weighted arithmetic water quality index analysis. As a result of the high concentrations of arsenic, the WQI values were very high with values ranging from 144 to 1367 and this shows that the water in the study area is unsuitable for drinking. In modelling the water quality index of Rumuola community, geostatistical methods were applied. Ordinary kriging, Empirical Bayesian kriging (EBK), inverse distance weighting (IDW) and cokriging interpolations methods were used   to produce surface maps showing the distribution of variables using ARCGIS software. The best interpolators were: EBK for pH, TDS, Sulphate and nitrate; Ordinary kriging for Nickel and Hardness; IDW for Iron and arsenic; Cokriging for WQI.
The Activity Budget of Adult Chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes troglodytes) and Environmental Conditions in Mefou Primate Sanctuary, Centre Region, Cameroon
Authors: Maurice Melle Ekane , Gildas Olle Ambe Flaubert , Ekale Bekarikoh Najembe , Fawoh Jeta James
Published: March 2020

Time is a limited parameter of various activities for most wild animals. The study of time budget allotment among various diurnal activities such as feeding, resting, grooming, travelling is essential for the characterization of living and working manner of a primate species, which lay the foundation for interrelating ecology and the behaviour of the species. The survey was focused on determining the activity budget of chimpanzees and their environmental needs in Mefou primate sanctuary. The research data collection was initiated after a brief pilot study of the study area and the animal group. A 4-month-data collection from April – July was carried out and was done the first 10 days of each month, from 8:00am – 6:00pm. The activities of the focal animal observed were recorded alongside the scan data obtained in a 15-minute-interval period. Additionally, observations were recorded on environmental changes. The research data was analyzed by the use of chi-square statistical model. The focal animal revealed a significant relationship on activity budget, X2 = 23.818 df=6, p=0.001. Resting (30%), movement (28%) and feeding (22%) dominated the activity budget profile, while grooming (9%), aggression (6%), play (3%) and climbing (2%) were the least activities observed. The Adult chimpanzees’ behavior showed an association on weather type, X2 = 15.801 df=3, p=0.001 and X2 = 28.975 df=18, p=0.049, respectively. Seasonality witnessed a weak association on the adult animals, X2 = 2.492 df=6, p<0.05. Also, a weak significance was recorded on social activity and seasonality, X2 = 1.379 df=6, p<0.05. This survey discovered that the activities of the adult chimpanzees witnessed alterations due to the changes of environmental conditions.
Perceived Impact of Urban Waterfront Dwellers’ Forced Eviction on Housing, Security and Social Support System in Njemanze and Otodo-Gbame Informal Settlements, Nigeria
Authors: Wizor Collins H. , Emerueh Chike Arinze
Published: March 2020

This paper focuses on the impact forced eviction has on the lives of urban waterfront community dwellers with regards to their housing, security and social support system. Its overall aim is to identify the level of impacts forced eviction had on the inhabitants of the urban waterfront communities and to highlight the need to view forced eviction as a major trigger for a humanitarian disaster. The focus was on two (2) urban waterfront informal settlements in two different cities in Nigeria, namely Njemanze community in Port Harcourt and Otodo-Gbame community in Lagos state. The survey research method was used in this study. A total of 150 questionnaires were administered to affected residents of Njemanze and Otodo-Gbame urban communities. The study revealed that the lives and livelihood of the target population were permanently damaged in one stroke by the singular act of forced eviction and that it provided the impetus for deeper housing problems and security challenges amongst others. It recommends that the government should understand that their first responsibility is to protect lives and property and against this backdrop, approach slum areas seeking community partnership in slum upgrading. Furthermore, the study strongly concluded that forced eviction does not lead to the eradication of slums, rather it causes a humanitarian crisis.
Effect of Storage Temperatures on Phenotypic and Gene Expression of Maize (Zea mays L.) Genotypes
Authors: Olawuyi Odunayo Joseph , Chikeluba Onyinye Mirian , Akanmu Akinlolu Olalekan
Published: March 2020

Introduction: Maize is an important cereal grown globally across wide range of altitude and latitude. Temperature is one of the factors that affect the viability of maize under storage conditions.

Aim: This study, therefore, assessed the effect of different temperature storage levels on the morphological characters and molecular variability of maize genotypes.

Materials and Methods: The seeds of maize genotypes: TZLCOMP4C3, EVDT-W200STRCO, POP66SR/ACR94, POOL18SR QPM, TZM 132, TZM 1291, EVDT- Y2008 STR and TZM 1326 obtained from the National Centre for Genetic Resources and Biotechnology (NACGRAB) Ibadan were stored at different temperature conditions of -80°C, -20°C, 5°C, 50°C, and 25°C for 6 hours. The stored maize was sown in perforated polythene bags containing 7 kg of soil and replicated thrice in a complete randomized design. The molecular variability was also investigated on the maize genotypes stored under the varying temperatures. The effect of storage temperature was significantly higher at 50°C for all growth characters but was not significant at -80°C.

Results: The genotypic effect on the growth characters was significantly (p< 0.05) higher in TZM 132 with plant height (99.09 cm), leaf length (46.54 cm), leaf width (3.05 cm), number of leaves (6.25) and stem length (50.12 cm). The contribution of principal component axis (PCA) showed that PC 1 had the height variation with a proportion of 47.17% and eigen value of 2.83 across the growth characters. Molecular evaluation showed that EVDT-W200STRCO had the highest DNA concentration of 4885.7 ng/μl at storage temperature of 25°C, while EVDT-W200STCO at -20°C recorded the least DNA concentration of 26.60 ng/μl. The highest DNA concentration across the maize varieties were recorded at -20°C (POOL18SR QPM, TZM 132 and TZM 1326), 5°C (TZLCOMP4C3), 25°C (EVDT-W200STRCO and EVDT- Y2008 STR) and 50°C (POP66SR/ACR94 and TZM 1291). OPB 10 had the highest allelic no, gene diversity and polymorphic information content of 15, 0.97 and 97.0% respectively. The genetic distance matrix established relationship among the stored maize genotypes.

Conclusion: Maize seeds can therefore be stored at temperature range of -20°C to 50°C depending on the variety, without losing its viability and molecular constituents.
Weed Control by Single Post-emergence Combination Herbicide Florpyrauxifen-Benzyl Plus Cyhalofop Butyl in Aerobic Rice
Authors: Sreedevi B. , Singh Aarti , Thakur Chandulal , Kumar M. Prasant , Mehra Vinod , Mahenderkumar R. , Srivastava G. K.
Published: March 2020

Florpyrauxifen benzyl + cyhalofop butyl is a new combination herbicide product which has proven to control wide range of weed flora. A two year study was planned in the wet and dry seasons of 2015-16 and 2016-17 to evaluate effective dosage of early post-emergence combination herbicide product florpyrauxifen benzyl + cyhalofop butyl (120; 150 and 180 g ha-1) to manage weeds in aerobic rice and study the residual effect on succeeding maize crop. The results revealed that Barnyard grass (Echinochloa crusgalli) followed by Dinebra retroflexa (viper grass) dominated among the weed flora. The combination product florpyrauxifen benzyl + cyhalofop Butyl 180 g ha-1 contributed to significantly lower density and dry biomass accumulation by grass and broadleaf weeds as compared to weedy check; however its efficacy was poor on sedges at 60 days after sowing (DAS). Highest weed control efficiency was recorded by florpyrauxifen benzyl + cyhalofop butyl 180 g ha-1. The highest yield (4100 and 3420 kg ha-1) was in plots treated with florpyrauxifen benzyl + cyhalofop butyl at 180 g ha-1 and the lowest yield was in florpyrauxifen benzyl 31.25 g ha-1 (3280 and 2870 kg ha-1) followed by bispyribac sodium 25 g ha-1 (3320 and 2940 kg ha-1) in 2015 and 2016, respectively. Weed infestation decreased the rice yield by nearly about 69% in 2015 and 72% in 2016. A strong negative relationship between rice yield and weed biomass was seen which explained 87 and 91% variation in grain yield at 30 and 60 DAS. Combination product florpyrauxifen benzyl + cyhalofop butyl at all rates did not have any residual toxic effect on succeeding maize. Based on the findings, it can be concluded that aerobic rice weeds can be controlled by applying early post-emergence application of combination product florpyrauxifen benzyl + cyhalofop butyl 150 to 180 g ha-1 without any residual toxicity.
Inhibition of Phosphodiesterase 5 Enzyme by Pterine- 6 Carboxylic Acid from Baphia nitida –Related to Erectile Dysfunction: Computational Kinetic
Authors: Iheanyichukwu Wopara, , Mobisson S. K. , Pius Egelege Aziemeola , Uwakwe A. A. , Wegwu M. O.
Published: March 2020

Treatment of erectile dysfunction is associated with inhibition of Phosphodiesterase 5 enzyme. This study deals with the evaluation of Pterin-6-carboxylic acid inhibitory activity on phosphodiesterase 5 (PDB ID: 4OEW) using in silico docking studies. Pterin-6-carboxylic acid from Baphia nitida was isolated using GC-MS and docked into PDE5 active site. The docking result showed that pterin-6-carboxylic acid bind to the active site of phosphodiesterase 5 with the binding energy value of -7.1 and 2.05A° - 2.23A° when compared with other compound found in the plant. Moreso, docking analysis with the ligand identified specific residues such as: Ile 778, Phe 820, Gln 817, Ser 815 and Gln 775 within the binding pocket which played an important role in the ligand binding affinity to the protein. Result from our In silico studies hypothesized that pterin-6-carboxylic acid can be an inhibitory agent for PDE5 protein which could be a potential drug candidate for the treatment of erectile dysfunction.
Ethnobotanical Survey of Medicinal Utilization and Phytochemical Composition of Baobab Tree (Adansonia digitata L.) in Zaria Local Government Area of Kaduna State, Nigeria
Authors: Sodimu A. I. , Usman M. B. , Appah J. , Osunsina O. , Suleiman R. A. , Maikano S. , Lapkat L. G.
Published: March 2020

Medicinal utilization and phytochemical composition of Baobab tree (Adansonia digitata L.) in Zaria Local Government Area of Kaduna State was studied. Twenty (20) questionnaires were randomly administered in each of the six (6) districts to make a total of one hundred and twenty questionnaires (120). Ninety (90) were retrieved. The result revealed that the plant parts (leaves; stem; bark and seed) can be used in treatment and prevention of various diseases such as tuberculosis; anemia; malaria; dysentery; diarrhea; joint pains; serves as anti-diabetic; fever; urinary infection e t c. Infusion is the major (43.33%) method of herbal preparation. Parts of the plants species used in preparing the herbs include: the leaves; bark; root; seeds and fruits. Majority of the herbal are consumed in a dried form. Demographic characteristic of the respondents were also examined. The percentage of Male was (43.34%) while that of their female counter part was (56.66%). Majority (43.33%) of the respondents were between 31 – 40 years age bracket and majority (44.44%) are married with majority (37.78%) having 1-5 house hold size. 45.56% of the respondents had secondary education while 2.22% had no formal education and majority (51.11%) are traditional healers. Quantitative phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of tannins; alkaloids flavonoids; terpenoids; saponins and phenolic acid in various concentrations as there were significant differences (p < 0.05) between these phytochemicals and their plants parts. The presence of varied active ingredients in the different parts of these plants explains their diverse use in the treatment of different disease conditions. However, it is recommended that due to the increased interest in baobab products (especially on its medical utilization) and slow growth of the plant research should be directed on how to develop a new cultivar with short maturation period. Also, the local population particularly the youth should be educated and also encouraged to learn more about the tradition medicine knowledge in order to preserve it from being lost with the old genera.
Soil Fertility for Sustainable Crop Production: A Case Study of Gyerentor in Kete Krachi, Oti Region of Ghana
Authors: Ababio Felix O. , Sadick Adams , Prince Gyekye M. , Edward Calys-Tagoe
Published: March 2020

Soil fertility management is important for sustainable crop production. In the bid to boost the agricultural development in Ghana, Krachi Farm Ltd, identified Gyerentor in Kete Krachi within the West District of the Oti Region, formally Volta Region as a potential area for cashew, cowpea, maize and mango production. However, the fertility status of the soil is not known hence the assessment of the suitability of the soil for the above crop production. 30 soil samples were collected randomly from depths of 0-30 and 30-50 cm. Soil sampling points were identified using a GPS device. Following standard methods adopted by Laboratory Analytical Services Department of Soil Research Institute, Ghana,  the collected soil samples were analyzed to find out their texture, pH, organic matter (OM), nitrogen (N), calcium (Ca), magnesium (mg), potassium (K), sodium (Na) and available phosphorus (P). The soil was acidic with the mean value of 4.5 in the topsoil, OM (1.0%), Ca (2.1 me/100 g), mg (0.8 me/100 g), K (0.3 me/100 g) and P (4.6 ppm). The soil texture was sandy loam and sandy clay loam. The fertility of the soil was low in almost all the studied parameters, especially with respect to OM and the NPK levels. Assessment for various land utilization type (LUT) types did not find it suitable for cashew, cowpea, maize and mango especially due to the extremely acidic condition.
Health Insurance and Healthcare Quality: A Comparative Study between Insured and Uninsured Patients at a Teaching Hospital in Northeast Nigeria
Authors: Daramola O. E. , Oderinde A. F. , Anene C. M. , Abu J. M. , Akande T. M.
Published: March 2020

Objective: Patients’ perception of the quality of care is essential in assessing health services and feedbacks from patient satisfaction surveys are useful in healthcare quality improvements.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was done to evaluate satisfaction with the quality of care among insured patients under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) and uninsured (Out-of-Pocket paying) patients at University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH), Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria. Data were collected from 115 respondents from each group selected by systematic random sampling; using self-administered questionnaires. Analysis was done using IBM SPSS Statistics 20.0.

Results: The overall mean satisfaction for the uninsured group (73.1 ± 7.2) was higher than that of the insured group (71.2 ± 7.5). However, the difference was not statistically significant, p = 0.063. The observed satisfaction levels in the various areas of services accessed among the insured and uninsured group in this study are comparable, except for the significant differences observed in satisfaction with hospital facilities and the availability of prescribed drugs, suggesting the need for the improvement of hospital facilities and availability of drugs.

Conclusion: Despite complaints about the NHIS, it is still generally preferred to out-of-pocket payment by both groups. Therefore, more efforts should be made to expand the population coverage of health insurance to allow the inclusion of more people, while the need for continuous improvement of quality health services cannot also be overemphasized.
Application of a Novel Fractional Order Grey Support Vector Regression Model to Forecast Wind Energy Consumption in China
Authors: Cao Jiahao , Liu Liang , Yang Lizhi , Xie Shuchuan
Published: March 2020

In order to achieve accurate prediction of new energy related data, a fractional grey support vector regression model based on nested cross-validation is proposed. In order to verify the superiority of the new model, China’s wind energy consumption data from 2001 to 2014 were selected, and a fractional grey prediction model, a support vector regression model and a fractional support vector regression combination model were established, and wind energy consumption in China was predicted from 2015 to 2018. Numerical experimental results show that the newly proposed combined prediction model has higher prediction accuracy.
Land Use/Land Cover Dynamics and its Environmental Impacts in Kulfo Watershed, Gamo Highlands, South Western Ethiopia
Authors: Yirgu Teshome , Yihunie Yibeltal , Assele Alemu , Wogayehu Teklu
Published: March 2020

Gamo highland have experienced drastic cover dynamics of land resource resulted from historic settlement, heavy concentration of human and livestock population, and obsolete farming practices. The aim of this study was to examine the dynamics of the land use/land cover and its consequent environmental impacts in Kulfo watershed located in South Western Ethiopia. Historic spatial and socio-economic data were used in GIS and Remote Sensing environment to analyze and map the research data. The result of this study revealed that the Land use/ cover change analysis conducted in three periods (1986, 1999 and 2017) showed a remarkable dynamics and modification over varying cover types. In 1986 the dominant land use land covers were cultivated land (42%) followed by pasture land (23%) and forest land (18.3%). After 32 years (2017), cultivated land (71%), shrub land (7.5%) and bare lands (6.2%) were the three dominant land uses/cover types in the study area. During the study period, cultivation encroached to marginal steep slopes (with gradient more than 60%) and mountain grasslands where once used as a place of celebrating traditional festivals and grazing lands. Such a dramatic change in three-decade period has further increased degraded lands and raised erosion vulnerable areas to 97.2%, the resultant effects of which has greatly threatened the livelihood of communities in the watershed. The land use in the study watershed is not as of the land capability, excess forest, shrub and grasslands were unnecessarily brought under agriculture. Therefore, it is recommended that land has to be used as per its capability and conservation measures shall give attention to erosion prone areas.
Advancing Students’ Educational Experiences with Interdisciplinary Service-Based Learning: Impacting Special Needs Community
Authors: Herrick Kays Stephanie , Love Pamela
Published: March 2020

The purpose of this reflective practice paper is to describe the Special Olympics Arizona MedFest partnership with Grand Canyon University (GCU) and the impact this has on athletes, students, and volunteers. MedFest events provide free physicals to Special Olympics athletes in need. By utilization of principles of service-based interdisciplinary education, undergraduate, and graduate students from GCU’s College of Nursing and Healthcare Professions, had the opportunity to utilize skills learned in the classroom to make a positive impact on the community around them. This reflective practice paper will provide insights to the MedFest event, hurdles faced, recommendations for future MedFest events, and future research to occur.
A Memristor with Low Switching Current and Voltage for 1S1R Integration and Array Operation
Authors: Upadhyay Navnidhi K. , Sun Wen , Lin Peng , Joshi Saumil , Midya Rivu , Zhang Xumeng , Wang Zhongrui , Jiang Hao , Yoon Jung Ho , Rao Mingyi , Chi Miaofang , Xia Qiangfei , Yang J. Joshua
Published: March 2020

Memristor devices could realize their full scaling (2D) and stacking (3D) potential if vertically integrated with a two‐terminal selector in a one selector one memristor (1S1R) crossbar array. However, for a 1S1R‐integrated device to function properly, memristor and selector should be compatible in terms of their material composition and electrical properties. A platinum (Pt)/yttria‐stabilized zirconia (YSZ)/zirconium (Zr) memristor with low forming voltage (<1.5 V), low first reset current (150 µA), fast switching speed (2 ns), low voltage (<1 V) and current (50 µA) resistive switching operation, and multi‐conductance state capabilities is reported. A low activation energy of oxygen vacancy diffusion (Ea,diffusion = 0.7 eV) measured in the YSZ switching layer enables the proposed memristor to have the observed low‐energy operation, which renders it better compatible with a selector device than the more commonly used binary oxides. For a proof‐of‐principle demonstration, the device is vertically integrated with a tunneling selector and successfully performs memristor‐electroforming operations with the selector in a self‐compliant 1S1R integrated device. 1S1R cells into a small array (2 × 2) are further investigated and electroforming and resistive switching operations at the array level are demonstrated.
Binary (Split) Light‐up Aptameric Sensors
Authors: Kolpashchikov Dmitry M. , Spelkov Alexander A.
Published: March 2020

This Minireview discusses the design and applications of binary (also known as split) light‐up aptameric sensors (BLAS). BLAS consist of two RNA or DNA strands and a fluorogenic organic dye added as a buffer component. When associated, the two strands form a dye‐binding site, followed by an increase in fluorescence of the aptamer‐bound dye. The design is cost‐efficient because it uses short oligonucleotides and does not require conjugation of organic dyes with nucleic acids. In some applications, BLAS design is preferable over monolithic sensors because of simpler assay optimization and improved selectivity. RNA‐based BLAS can be expressed in cells and used for the intracellular monitoring of biological molecules. BLAS have been used as reporters of nucleic acid association events in RNA nanotechnology and nucleic‐acid‐based molecular computation. Other applications of BLAS include the detection of nucleic acids, proteins, and cancer cells, and potentially they can be tailored to report a broad range of biological analytes.
The Kalimantacin Polyketide Antibiotics Inhibit Fatty Acid Biosynthesis in Staphylococcus aureus by Targeting the Enoyl‐Acyl Carrier Protein Binding Site of FabI
Authors: Fage Christopher D. , Lathouwers Thomas , Vanmeert Michiel , Gao Ling‐Jie , Vrancken Kristof , Lammens Eveline‐Marie , Weir Angus N. M. , Degroote Ruben , Cuppens Harry , Kosol Simone , Simpson Thomas J. , Crump Matthew P. , Willis Christine L. , Herdewijn Piet , Lescrinier Eveline , Lavigne Rob , Anné Jozef , Masschelein Joleen
Published: March 2020

The enoyl‐acyl carrier protein reductase enzyme FabI is essential for fatty acid biosynthesis in Staphylococcus aureus and represents a promising target for the development of novel, urgently needed anti‐staphylococcal agents. Here, we elucidate the mode of action of the kalimantacin antibiotics, a novel class of FabI inhibitors with clinically‐relevant activity against multidrug‐resistant S. aureus. By combining X‐ray crystallography with molecular dynamics simulations, in vitro kinetic studies and chemical derivatization experiments, we characterize the interaction between the antibiotics and their target, and we demonstrate that the kalimantacins bind in a unique conformation that differs significantly from the binding mode of other known FabI inhibitors. We also investigate mechanisms of acquired resistance in S. aureus and identify key residues in FabI that stabilize the binding of the antibiotics. Our findings provide intriguing insights into the mode of action of a novel class of FabI inhibitors that will inspire future anti‐staphylococcal drug development.
Parahydrogen‐Induced Radio Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation
Authors: Joalland Baptiste , Ariyasingha Nuwandi M. , Lehmkuhl Sören , Theis Thomas , Appelt Stephan , Chekmenev Eduard Y.
Published: March 2020

Radio amplification by stimulated emission of radiation (RASER) was recently discovered in a low‐field NMR spectrometer incorporating a highly specialized radio‐frequency resonator, where a high degree of proton‐spin polarization was achieved by reversible parahydrogen exchange. RASER activity, which results from the coherent coupling between the nuclear spins and the inductive detector, can overcome the limits of frequency resolution in NMR. Here we show that this phenomenon is not limited to low magnetic fields or the use of resonators with high‐quality factors. We use a commercial bench‐top 1.4 T NMR spectrometer in conjunction with pairwise parahydrogen addition producing proton‐hyperpolarized molecules in the Earth's magnetic field (ALTADENA condition) or in a high magnetic field (PASADENA condition) to induce RASER without any radio‐frequency excitation pulses. The results demonstrate that RASER activity can be observed on virtually any NMR spectrometer and measures most of the important NMR parameters with high precision.
Cyclometalated Gold(III)‐Hydride Complexes Exhibit Visible Light‐Induced Thiol Reactivity and Act as Potent Photo‐Activated Anti‐Cancer Agents
Authors: Luo Hejiang , Cao Bei , Chan Albert S. C. , Sun Raymond Wai‐Yin , Zou Taotao
Published: March 2020

The specific gold‐sulfur binding interaction renders gold complexes as promising anti‐cancer agents that can potentially overcome cisplatin resistance; while their unbiased binding towards non‐tumoral off‐target thiol‐proteins has posed a big hurdle to clinical application. Herein we report that cyclometalated gold(III) complexes bearing hydride ligands are highly stable towards thiols in the dark but can efficiently dissociate the auxiliary hydride moiety and generate a gold‐thiol adduct when excited with visible light. In consequence, the photo‐activated gold(III) complexes potently inhibited thioredoxin reductase in association with up to >400‐fold increment of photocytotoxicity (vs. dark condition) without deactivation by serum albumin and along with strong anti‐angiogenesis activity in zebrafish embryos. Importantly, the gold(III)‐hydride complexes could be activated by two‐photon laser irradiation at the phototherapeutic window as effectively as blue‐light irradiation.
Dynamic Spatial Formation and Distribution of Intrinsically Disordered Protein Droplets in Macromolecularly Crowded Protocells
Authors: Zhao Hang , Ibrahimova Vusala , Garanger Elisabeth , Lecommandoux Sébastien
Published: March 2020

Elastin‐like polypeptides (ELPs) have been proposed as a simple model of intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) which can form membraneless organelles by liquid–liquid phase separation (LLPS) in cells. Herein, the behavior of fluorescently labeled ELP is studied in cytomimetic aqueous two‐phase system (ATPS) encapsulated protocells that are formed using microfluidics, which enabled confinement, changes in temperature, and statistical analysis. The spatial organization of ELP could be observed in the ATPS. Furthermore, changes in temperature triggered the dynamic formation and distribution of ELP‐rich droplets within the ATPS, resulting from changes in conformation. Proteins were encapsulated along with ELP in the synthetic protocells and distinct partitioning properties of these proteins and ELP in the ATPS were observed. Therefore, the ability of ELP to coacervate with temperature can be maintained inside a cell‐mimicking system.
Photochemische Transformationen mit Iodazid nach Freisetzung von einem Ionenaustauscherharz
Authors: Kösel Teresa , Schulz Göran , Dräger Gerald , Kirschning Andreas
Published: March 2020

Die photochemische, homolytische Spaltung von Iodazid nach der Freisetzung von polymergebundenen Bisazidoiodat(I)‐Anionen wird beschrieben. Das Azidradikal lässt sich in einer Reihe von Radikalreaktionen einsetzen, darunter die 1,2‐Funktionalisierung von Alkenen und die bislang noch nicht beschriebene chemoselektive Oxidation von sekundären Alkoholen in Gegenwart von primären Alkoholen.
Isolation and Structural Characterization of Eightfold Protonated Octacyanometalates [M(CNH)8]4+ (M=MoIV, WIV) from Superacids
Authors: Sellin Malte , Marvaud Valérie , Malischewski Moritz
Published: March 2020

Octacyanometalates K4[Mo(CN)8] and K4[W(CN)8] are completely protonated in superacidic mixtures of anhydrous hydrogen fluoride and antimony pentafluoride. The resulting hydrogen isocyanide complexes [Mo(CNH)8]4+ [SbF6]−4 and [W(CNH)8]4+ [SbF6]−4 are the first examples of eight‐coordinate homoleptic metal complexes containing hydrogen isocyanide (CNH) ligands. The complexes were crystallographically characterized, revealing hydrogen‐bonded networks with short N⋅⋅⋅H⋅⋅⋅F contacts. Low‐temperature NMR measurements in HF confirmed rapid proton exchange even at −40 °C. Upon protonation, ν(C≡N) increases of about 50 cm−1 which is in agreement with DFT calculations.
Photochemical Transformations with Iodine Azide after Release from an Ion‐Exchange Resin
Authors: Kösel Teresa , Schulz Göran , Dräger Gerald , Kirschning Andreas
Published: March 2020

This report discloses the photochemical homolytic cleavage of iodine azide after its formation following release from polymer‐bound bisazido iodate(I) anions. A series of radical reactions are reported including the 1,2‐functionlization of alkenes and the unprecedented chemoselective oxidation of secondary alcohols in the presence of primary alcohols.
A novel bidentate ligand containing oxime, hydrazone and indole moieties and its BF2+ bridged transition metal complexes and their efficiency against prostate and breast cancer cells
Authors: Babahan Ilknur , Özmen Ali , Aksel Mehran , Bilgin Mehmet Dincer , Gumusada Rukiye , Gunay Muhammet Emin , Eyduran Fatih
Published: March 2020

In this study, a novel bidentate ligand containing oxime, hydrazone, and indole moieties and its BF2+‐bridged transition metal complexes [Ni(II), Cu(II), and Co(II)] were synthesized and their cytotoxic activities against prostate and breast cancer cells were investigated. The vic‐dioxime ligand bearing indole–hydrazone side groups was synthesized by reacting antiglyoximehydrazine (GH2) with 3‐methoxy indole. The ligand forms mononuclear complexes with a metal‐to‐ligand ratio of 1:2 with M = Co(II)(H2O)2, Ni(II), and Cu(II). These metal complexes were then reacted with BF3(C2H5)2O to obtain BF2+‐bridged transition metal complexes. The Co(II) complex of the ligand is proposed to be octahedral with water molecules as axial ligands, whereas the Ni(II) and Cu(II) complexes are proposed to be square planar. Spectral studies showed that the ligand bonded to the metal ion in a neutral bidentate fashion through the azomethine nitrogen atom and the imine oxime group. Structural assignments are supported by a combination of 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), 13C NMR, Fourier‐transform infrared, LC/MS, elemental analyses, and magnetic susceptibility testing. For determining the cytotoxic effects of the novel anticancer products, cancer cells were cultured. The antiproliferative effects were determined using the MCF‐7 breast cancer and PC‐3 prostate cancer cell lines. The antiproliferative effects of the products were analyzed and their apoptotic or necrotic effects were determined with the Hoechst/propidium iodide double staining method in both cancer cell lines. Paclitaxel was used as the positive control (1 μm). The results indicated that the newly synthesized compounds are effective on both cell lines between concentrations of 5 and 40 μm and show their effects by apoptotic mechanisms. Besides, these products were found to be more effective on the MCF‐7 cell line. The cytotoxic efficiency of the newly synthesized products was more than that of paclitaxel (depending on concentration), which is a chemotherapeutic agent used in cancer therapy.
Comparing the performance of low‐grade nickel ore and limestone for treatment of synthetic acid mine drainage
Authors: Turingan Casey Oliver A. , Fabella Divina Joyce A. , Sadol Kim Ahmed N. , Beltran Arnel B. , Alorro Richard D. , Orbecido Aileen H.
Published: March 2020

Goethite is a dominant component of nickel laterite ores, which is capable of adsorbing metal ions in water. The potential of the unused low‐grade nickel ore (LGO) to treat synthetic acid mine drainage (AMD) was investigated. LGO characterization identified the presence of goethite (α‐FeOOH), calcium oxide (CaO), and manganese aluminum oxide. The performance of LGO for AMD treatment was evaluated using jar test and compared with limestone. At 0.5 ml AMD/g media, LGO increased the pH of AMD to 5.36 while limestone completely neutralized it. LGO removed more than 99% of Al and Fe, 94% of Ni, and 93% of sulfates compared to a 70% sulfate removal using limestone. The lower sulfate removal may be due to the armouring of the limestone surface. Furthermore, a batch test was conducted using both LGO and limestone as layered treatment media in an oxic and anoxic setup. Effluent pH remained constant while conductivity and TDS stabilize at 2,000 μS/cm and 1,000 ppm, respectively. Both setups achieved 99% removal of Fe and Al, ~90% Ni removal, and between 70% and 80% sulfate removal. These results indicate that LGO is a possible alternative material to be used for heavy metal adsorption for AMD treatment.
Stratified microbial structure and activity within anode biofilm during electrochemically assisted brewery wastewater treatment
Authors: Mai Qijun , Yang Guiqin , Cao Jiayao , Zhang Xia , Zhuang Li
Published: March 2020

In a bioelectrochemical system (BES), microbial community of anode biofilm is crucial to BES performance. In this study, the stratified pattern of community structure and activity of an anode‐respiring biofilm in a BES fueled with brewery wastewater was investigated over time. The anode biofilm exhibited a superior performance in the removal of ethanol to that of an open‐circuit system. The electrical current density reached a high level of 0.55mA/cm2 with a Coulombic efficiency of 71.4%, but decreased to 0.18mA/cm2 in the late stage of operation. A mature biofilm developed a more active outer layer covering a less active inner core, although the activities of the outer and inner layers of biofilm were similar in the early stage. More Geobacter spp., typical exoelectrogens, were enriched in the outer layer than in the inner layer of biofilm in the early stage, while more Geobacter spp. were distributed in the inner layer than in the outer layer in the late stage. The inactive and Geobacter‐occupied inner layer of biofilm might be responsible for the decreased electricity generation from wastewater in the late stage of operation. This study provides better understanding of the effect of anode biofilm structure on BES performance.
The relationship between sexual activity and sexual attitudes among breast cancer survivors in China
Authors: Yan Rui , Yu Jinming , Tanimoto Tetsuya , Ozaki Akihhiko , Lu Xinyuan , Che Beibei , Zhang Yaxuan , Chen Panzhen , Wang Jiwei
Published: March 2020

Purpose

Less is known about sexual attitudes of breast cancer survivors (BCSs) and its association with sexual activity and sexual dissatisfaction.

Methods

We investigated the proportion of sexual activity and sexual dissatisfaction in a cross‐sectional study among 341 Chinese BCSs aged 30‐75 years old, and we described their association with sexual attitudes, as well as socio‐demographic characteristics, physical health conditions, and mental health problems.

Results

Only 83 (24.3%) individuals reported sexual activity in the past year. More than 50% of BCSs considered that sexual activity had adverse impact on their disease recovery. The sexual attitudes such as “sexual activity may impede disease recovery” (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 0.51; 95% confidence interval, 95% CI: 0.30‐0.88), “sexual activity may cause cancer recurrence or metastasizes” (AOR = 0.51; 95% CI: 0.30‐0.87), and “their partner fear contracting cancer by sexuality” (AOR = 0.47; 95% CI: 0.23‐0.98) were significantly associated with decreased likelihood of reporting sexual activity in the past year. Although 201 (58.9%) BCSs reported that breast cancer decreased the frequency of their sexual activity, only 37 (10.9%) had ever discussed sexuality with a doctor to seek advice.

Conclusions

Most Chinese BCSs were sexually inactive. The sexual misconceptions about cancer were great barriers of sexual activity. Professional sexual education and consultation may be regarded as easy and effective intervention measures to correct BCSs' misguided sexual attitudes, and finally improving the overall sexual health for BCSs.
Metabolites from Two Dominant Thermophilic Fungal Species Thermomyces lanuginosus and Scytalidium thermophilum
Authors: Yang Xiao‐Yu , Zhang Jun‐Xian , Ding Qiu‐Yan , He Zi‐Cong , Zhu Chun‐Yan , Zhang Ke‐Qin , Niu Xue‐Mei
Published: March 2020

Thermomyces lanuginosus and Scytalidium thermophilum are among the most ubiquitous thermophilic fungi in compost and soil. Chemical study on these two prevalent strains collected from Yunnan led to isolation of 23 metabolites, including one new metabolite, therlanubutanolide, and 15 known compounds, isolated from the YGP culture broth of Thermomyces lanuginosus and 7 known compounds isolated from Scytalidium thermophilum, respectively. Therlanubutanolide shared the quite similar features of the same carbon skeleton and saturation as natural hexadecanoic acids. This was the first reported discovery of such a lactone as natural occurring metabolite. All the compounds were reported for the first time from thermophilic fungi. Among them, N‐[(2S,3R,4E,8E)‐1,3‐dihydroxy‐9‐methyloctadeca‐4,8‐dien‐2‐yl]acetamide was for the first time reported to be a naturally occurring metabolite and its NMR data was first provided in this study. A type of PKS‐derived metabolites, three 3,4‐dihydronaphthalen‐1(2H)‐ones, which were widely found in plant pathogenic fungi as phytotoxins and reported to have antimicrobial activity, were obtained from both dominant thermophilic fungi. The frequent occurrence of such PKS phytotoxins in these two thermophilic fungi might suggest particular ecological interest.
Ubiquitin carboxy‐terminal hydrolase L1 – physiology and pathology
Authors: Matuszczak Ewa , Tylicka Marzena , Komarowska Marta Diana , Debek Wojciech , Hermanowicz Adam
Published: March 2020

Ubiquitin C‐terminal hydrolase 1 (UCHL1) is an enzyme unique for its multiple activity – both ligase and hydrolase. UCHL1 was first identified as an abundant protein found in the brain and testes, however its expression is not limited to the neuronal compartment. UCHL1 is also highly expressed in carcinomas of various tissue origins, including those from brain, lung, breast, kidney, colon, prostate, pancreas and mesenchymal tissues. Loss‐of‐function studies and an inhibitor for UCHL1 confirmed the importance of UCHL1 for cancer therapy. So far biological significance of UCHL1 was described in the following processes: spermatogenesis, oncogenesis, angiogenesis, cell proliferation and differentiation in skeletal muscle, inflammation, tissue injury, neuronal injury and neurodegeneration.
Mechanistic Investigation of Photochemical Reactions by Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Zelenka Jan , Roithová Jana
Published: March 2020

This Minireview highlights the application of electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI‐MS) to investigating photochemical reactions. We show possible approaches to on‐line ESI‐MS monitoring of photocatalytic reactions and give examples of the characterization of short‐lived photochemical intermediates by ion spectroscopy. The minireview also exemplifies in‐depth mass spectrometric studies of photoisomerization reactions and photofragmentation reactions. Apart from mechanistic studies, the coupling of photochemistry and mass spectrometry is a powerful approach to studying structure and properties of biomolecules. We show several examples focused on investigation of intrinsic properties of model biomolecules.
Novel volumetric analysis for stent expansion after drug‐eluting stent implantation: An optical coherence tomography study
Authors: Katsura Aritomo , Minami Yoshiyasu , Kato Ayami , Muramatsu Yusuke , Sato Toshimitsu , Hashimoto Takuya , Meguro Kentaro , Shimohama Takao , Ako Junya
Published: March 2020

Objectives

To assess the clinical significance of a novel optical coherence tomography (OCT)‐derived volumetric parameter of stent expansion by comparing it with the conventional parameters in real‐world practice.

Background

The clinical significance of novel parameters in real‐world practice including longer and smaller stents remains to be elucidated.

Methods

A total of 226 de novo lesion treated with drug‐eluting stents in 208 consecutive patients were enrolled. Stent expansion was retrospectively assessed on the final OCT images after stent implantation. The novel parameter was the minimum expansion index (MEI) calculated using a novel algorithm that yields the ideal lumen area in each frame by taking into account vessel tapering. The device‐oriented clinical end point (DoCE) included cardiac death, target vessel‐related myocardial infarction, ischemia‐driven target lesion revascularization.

Results

The MEI in the lesions with a DoCE (n = 22) at 2 years and cases without a DoCE (n = 204) was 64.3 ± 12.0% and 78.5 ± 14.6%, respectively (p < .001). In the receiver operating characteristic curve analyses, the areas under the curve for the MEI (0.787; p < .001) were larger than that for %stent expansion (0.718; p = .001) and minimum stent area (0.664; p = .004) in predicting the DoCE. The best cutoff of MEI for predicting the DoCE was 74.0.

Conclusions

The novel MEI was better than the conventional %stent expansion and minimum stent area for predicting DoCE.