bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cognitive and emotional empathy after stimulation of brain mineralocorticoid and NMDA receptors in patients with major depression and healthy controls
Authors: Nowacki Jan , Wingenfeld Katja , Kaczmarczyk Michael , Chae Woo Ri , Abu-Tir Ikram , Deuter Christian Eric , Piber Dominique , Hellmann-Regen Julian , Otte Christian
Published: July 2020

Mineralocorticoid receptors (MR) are predominantly expressed in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. Both brain areas are associated with social cognition, which includes cognitive empathy (ability to understand others’ emotions) and emotional empathy (ability to empathize with another person). MR stimulation improves memory and executive functioning in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) and healthy controls, and leads to glutamate-mediated N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDA-R) signaling. We examined whether the beneficial effects of MR stimulation can be extended to social cognition (empathy), and whether DCS would have additional beneficial effects. In this double-blind placebo-controlled single-dose study, we randomized 116 unmedicated MDD patients (mean age 34 years, 78% women) and 116 age-, sex-, and education years-matched healthy controls to four conditions: MR stimulation (fludrocortisone (0.4 mg) + placebo), NMDA-R stimulation (placebo + D-cycloserine (250 mg)), MR and NMDA-R stimulation (both drugs), or placebo. Cognitive and emotional empathy were assessed by the Multifaceted Empathy Test. The study was registered on clinicaltrials.gov (NCT03062150). MR stimulation increased cognitive empathy across groups, whereas NMDA-R stimulation decreased cognitive empathy in MDD patients only. Independent of receptor stimulation, cognitive empathy did not differ between groups. Emotional empathy was not affected by MR or NMDA-R stimulation. However, MDD patients showed decreased emotional empathy compared with controls but, according to exploratory analyses, only for positive emotions. We conclude that MR stimulation has beneficial effects on cognitive empathy in MDD patients and healthy controls, whereas NMDA-R stimulation decreased cognitive empathy in MDD patients. It appears that MR rather than NMDA-R are potential treatment targets to modulate cognitive empathy in MDD.
In vitro and ex vivo gene expression profiling reveals differential kinetic response of HSPs and UPR genes is associated with PI resistance in multiple myeloma
Authors: Mitra Amit Kumar , Kumar Harish , Ramakrishnan Vijay , Chen Li , Baughn Linda , Kumar Shaji , Rajkumar S. Vincent , Van Ness Brian G.
Published: July 2020

Extensive inter-individual variation in response to chemotherapy (sensitive vs resistant tumors) is a serious cause of concern in the treatment of multiple myeloma (MM). In this study, we used human myeloma cell lines (HMCLs), and patient-derived CD138+ cells to compare kinetic changes in gene expression patterns between innate proteasome inhibitor (PI)-sensitive and PI-resistant HMCLs following test dosing with the second-generation PI Ixazomib. We found 1553 genes that changed significantly post treatment in PI-sensitive HMCLs compared with only seven in PI-resistant HMCLs (p < 0.05). Genes that were uniquely regulated in PI-resistant lines were RICTOR (activated), HNF4A, miR-16-5p (activated), MYCN (inhibited), and MYC (inhibited). Ingenuity pathway analysis (IPA) using top kinetic response genes identified the proteasome ubiquitination pathway (PUP), and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2)-mediated oxidative stress response as top canonical pathways in Ix-sensitive cell lines and patient-derived cells, whereas EIF2 signaling and mTOR signaling pathways were unique to PI resistance. Further, 10 genes were common between our in vitro and ex vivo post-treatment kinetic PI response profiles and Shaughnessy’s GEP80-postBz gene expression signature, including the high-risk PUP gene PSMD4. Notably, we found that heat shock proteins and PUP pathway genes showed significant higher upregulation in Ix-sensitive lines compared with the fold-change in Ix-resistant myelomas.
Correction: Alpl prevents bone ageing sensitivity by specifically regulating senescence and differentiation in mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Liu Wenjia , Zhang Liqiang , Xuan Kun , Hu Chenghu , Liu Shiyu , Liao Li , Li Bei , Jin Fang , Shi Songtao , Jin Yan
Published: July 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Protein-coated corrole nanoparticles for the treatment of prostate cancer cells
Authors: Soll Matan , Chen Qiu-Cheng , Zhitomirsky Benny , Lim Punnajit P. , Termini John , Gray Harry B. , Assaraf Yehuda G. , Gross Zeev
Published: July 2020

Development of novel therapeutic strategies to eradicate malignant tumors is of paramount importance in cancer research. In a recent study, we have introduced a facile protocol for the preparation of corrole-protein nanoparticles (NPs). These NPs consist of a corrole-core coated with protein. We now report that a novel lipophilic corrole, (2)Ga, delivered as human serum albumin (HSA)-coated NPs, displayed antineoplastic activity towards human prostate cancer DU-145 cells. Cryo-TEM analysis of these NPs revealed an average diameter of 50.2 ± 8.1 nm with a spherical architecture exhibiting low polydispersity. In vitro cellular uptake of (2)Ga/albumin NPs was attributable to rapid internalization of the corrole through ligand binding-dependent extracellular release and intercalation of the corrole cargo into the lipid bilayer of the plasma membrane. This finding is in contrast with a previously reported study on corrole-protein NPs that displayed cellular uptake via endocytosis. Investigation of the non-light-induced mechanism of action of (2)Ga suggested the induction of necrosis through plasma membrane destabilization, impairment of calcium homeostasis, lysosomal stress and rupture, as well as formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). (2)Ga also exhibited potent light-induced cytotoxicity through ROS generation. These findings demonstrate a rapid cellular uptake of (2)Ga/protein NPs along with targeted induction of tumor cell necrosis.
Publisher Correction: Endothelial progeria induces adipose tissue senescence and impairs insulin sensitivity through senescence associated secretory phenotype
Authors: Barinda Agian Jeffilano , Ikeda Koji , Nugroho Dhite Bayu , Wardhana Donytra Arby , Sasaki Naoto , Honda Sakiko , Urata Ryota , Matoba Satoaki , Hirata Ken-ichi , Emoto Noriaki
Published: July 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Defect-mediated Rashba engineering for optimizing electrical transport in thermoelectric BiTeI
Authors: Li Xin , Sheng Ye , Wu Lihua , Hu Shunbo , Yang Jiong , Singh David J. , Yang Jihui , Zhang Wenqing
Published: July 2020

The Rashba effect plays a vital role in electronic structures and related functional properties. The strength of the Rashba effect can be measured by the Rashba parameter αR; it is desirable to manipulate αR to control the functional properties. The current work illustrates how αR can be systematically tuned by doping, taking BiTeI as an example. A five-point-spin-texture method is proposed to efficiently screen doped BiTeI systems with the Rashba effect. Our results show that αR in doped BiTeI can be manipulated within the range of 0–4.05 eV Å by doping different elements. The dopants change αR by affecting both the spin–orbit coupling strength and band gap. Some dopants with low atomic masses give rise to unexpected and sizable αR, mainly due to the local strains. The calculated electrical transport properties reveal an optimal αR range of 2.75–3.55 eV Å for maximizing the thermoelectric power factors. αR thus serves as an effective indicator for high-throughput screening of proper dopants and subsequently reveals a few promising Rashba thermoelectrics. This work demonstrates the feasibility of defect-mediated Rashba engineering for optimizing the thermoelectric properties, as well as for manipulating other spin-related functional properties.
Thread-based multiplexed sensor patch for real-time sweat monitoring
Authors: Terse-Thakoor Trupti , Punjiya Meera , Matharu Zimple , Lyu Boyang , Ahmad Meraj , Giles Grace E. , Owyeung Rachel , Alaimo Francesco , Shojaei Baghini Maryam , Brunyé Tad T. , Sonkusale Sameer
Published: July 2020

Sensor platforms that exploit the fibrous textile threads as substrates offer great promise since they can be directly sewn, woven or stitched on to any clothing. They can also be placed directly in intimate contact with the skin. In this work, we present a thread-based sensing platform in the form of a multiplexed sensing patch for continuous simultaneous on-skin monitoring of sweat. The patch performs real-time, on-body measurements of important biomarkers present in sweat such as electrolytes (sodium and ammonium ions), metabolites (lactate) and acidity (pH). Flexible threads coated with conductive inks were used as sensing electrodes. Selective potentiometric detection of electrolytes and pH was made possible through ion-selective membrane deposition and pH-sensitive polyaniline coating on threads, respectively. An amperometric enzymatic sensing scheme with lactate oxidase was used for the detection of lactate. An array of the thread sensors is integrated onto a patch with connectivity to a miniaturized circuit module containing a potentiostat, microprocessor and wireless circuitry for wireless smartphone readout. Extensive in vitro validation and an in vivo human pilot study involving a maximal exertion test show the promise of this platform for real-time physiological monitoring of human performance/fitness under stress, as well as diagnostic monitoring through sweat analysis.
Author Correction: Analog errors in quantum annealing: doom and hope
Authors: Pearson Adam , Mishra Anurag , Hen Itay , Lidar Daniel A.
Published: July 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
SimpylCellCounter: an automated solution for quantifying cells in brain tissue
Authors: Bal Aneesh , Maureira Fidel , Arguello Amy A.
Published: July 2020

Manual quantification of activated cells can provide valuable information about stimuli-induced changes within brain regions; however, this analysis remains time intensive. Therefore, we created SimpylCellCounter (SCC), an automated method to quantify cells that express cFos protein, an index of neuronal activity, in brain tissue and benchmarked it against two widely-used methods: OpenColonyFormingUnit (OCFU) and ImageJ Edge Detection Macro (IMJM). In Experiment 1, manually-obtained cell counts were compared to those detected via OCFU, IMJM and SCC. The absolute error in counts (manual versus automated method) was calculated and error types were categorized as false positives or negatives. In Experiment 2, performance analytics of OCFU, IMJM and SCC were compared. In Experiment 3, SCC analysis was conducted on images it was not trained on, to assess its general utility. We found SCC to be highly accurate and efficient in quantifying cells with circular morphologies that expressed cFos. Additionally, SCC utilized a new approach to count overlapping cells with a pretrained convolutional neural network classifier. The current study demonstrates that SCC is a novel, automated tool to quantify cells in brain tissue and complements current, open-sourced methods designed to detect cells in vitro.
Quantum entanglement maintained by virtual excitations in an ultrastrongly-coupled-oscillator system
Authors: Zhou Jian-Yong , Zhou Yue-Hui , Yin Xian-Li , Huang Jin-Feng , Liao Jie-Qiao
Published: July 2020

We study the effect of quantum entanglement maintained by virtual excitations in an ultrastrongly-coupled harmonic-oscillator system. Here, the quantum entanglement is caused by the counterrotating interaction terms and hence it is maintained by the virtual excitations. We obtain the analytical expression for the ground state of the system and analyze the relationship between the average excitation numbers and the ground-state entanglement. We also study the entanglement dynamics between the two oscillators in both the closed- and open-system cases. In the latter case, the quantum master equation is microscopically derived in the normal-mode representation of the coupled-oscillator system. This work will open a route to the study of quantum information processing and quantum physics based on virtual excitations.
Investigating the biological potential of galactic cosmic ray-induced radiation-driven chemical disequilibrium in the Martian subsurface environment
Authors: Atri Dimitra
Published: July 2020

There is growing evidence suggesting the presence of aqueous environment on ancient Mars, raising the question of the possibility of life in such an environment. Subsequently, with the erosion of the Martian atmosphere resulting in drastic changes in its climate, surface water disappeared, shrinking habitable spaces on the planet, with only a limited amount of water remaining near the surface in form of brines and water–ice deposits. Life, if it ever existed, would have had to adapt to harsh modern conditions, which includes low temperatures and surface pressure, and high radiation dose. Presently, there is no evidence of any biological activity on the planet’s surface, however, the subsurface environment, which is yet to be explored, is less harsh, has traces of water in form of water–ice and brines, and undergoes radiation-driven redox chemistry. I hypothesize that Galactic Cosmic Ray (GCR)-induced radiation-driven chemical disequilibrium can be used for metabolic energy by extant life, and host organisms using mechanisms seen in similar chemical and radiation environments on Earth. I propose a GCR-induced radiolytic zone, and discuss the prospects of finding such life with Rosalind Franklin rover of the ExoMars mission.
Transcriptional portrait of M. bovis BCG during biofilm production shows genes differentially expressed during intercellular aggregation and substrate attachment
Authors: Flores-Valdez Mario Alberto , Aceves-Sánchez Michel de Jesús , Peterson Eliza J. R. , Baliga Nitin , Bravo-Madrigal Jorge , De la Cruz-Villegas Miguel Ángel , Ares Miguel A. , Born Sarah , Voskuil Martin , Pérez-Padilla Nayeli Areli , Burciaga-Flores Mirna , Camacho-Villegas Tanya Amanda , Espinoza-Jorge María Guadalupe
Published: July 2020

Mycobacterium tuberculosis and M. smegmatis form drug-tolerant biofilms through dedicated genetic programs. In support of a stepwise process regulating biofilm production in mycobacteria, it was shown elsewhere that lsr2 participates in intercellular aggregation, while groEL1 was required for biofilm maturation in M. smegmatis. Here, by means of RNA-Seq, we monitored the early steps of biofilm production in M. bovis BCG, to distinguish intercellular aggregation from attachment to a surface. Genes encoding for the transcriptional regulators dosR and BCG0114 (Rv0081) were significantly regulated and responded differently to intercellular aggregation and surface attachment. Moreover, a M. tuberculosis H37Rv deletion mutant in the Rv3134c-dosS-dosR regulon, formed less biofilm than wild type M. tuberculosis, a phenotype reverted upon reintroduction of this operon into the mutant. Combining RT-qPCR with microbiological assays (colony and surface pellicle morphologies, biofilm quantification, Ziehl–Neelsen staining, growth curve and replication of planktonic cells), we found that BCG0642c affected biofilm production and replication of planktonic BCG, whereas ethR affected only phenotypes linked to planktonic cells despite its downregulation at the intercellular aggregation step. Our results provide evidence for a stage-dependent expression of genes that contribute to biofilm production in slow-growing mycobacteria.
Adverse perinatal outcomes of chronic intervillositis of unknown etiology: an observational retrospective study of 122 cases
Authors: Mattuizzi Aurélien , Sauvestre Fanny , André Gwenaëlle , Poingt Marion , Camberlein Camille , Carles Dominique , Pelluard Fanny , Blanco Patrick , Sentilhes Loïc , Lazaro Estibaliz
Published: July 2020

Our study aimed to assess perinatal outcomes and recurrence rate of Chronic Intervillositis of Unknown Etiology (CIUE). We conducted an observational retrospective study in a tertiary care university hospital in France from January 1, 1997 to July 31, 2018. 122 pregnancies (102 women) with CIUE were included. Cases of the Department of Histopathology placenta database were re-analysed independently by three pathologists specializing in fetal pathology. Diagnosis of CIUE was confirmed according to: (1) the presence of cellular infiltrate in the intervillous space, (2) ~ 80% of the mononuclear cells in the intervillous space positive for CD68, (3) infiltration occupying at least 5% of the intervillous space, and (4) no clinical or histopathological sign of infection. Outcomes of pregnancies with CIUE (miscarriages, stillbirths, terminations of pregnancy, live birth with or without prematurity or fetal growth restriction) and proportion of CIUE recurrence were analysed. The lost pregnancies comprised 17 (13.9%) miscarriages, 17 (13.9%) stillbirths, and 18 (14.8%) terminations of pregnancy. Of the 70 (57.4%) pregnancies that led to a live birth, 38 (54.3%) new-borns were premature and 50 (72.5%) exhibited fetal growth restriction. Among the 102 women, 23 subsequently became pregnant, half of whom (n = 11) developed recurrent CIUE. CIUE was associated with high rates of adverse perinatal outcomes, including pregnancy loss, fetal growth restriction, and preterm birth with a risk of recurrence nearly 50%.
Convolutional neural networks improve fungal classification
Authors: Vu Duong , Groenewald Marizeth , Verkley Gerard
Published: July 2020

Sequence classification plays an important role in metagenomics studies. We assess the deep neural network approach for fungal sequence classification as it has emerged as a successful paradigm for big data classification and clustering. Two deep learning-based classifiers, a convolutional neural network (CNN) and a deep belief network (DBN) were trained using our recently released barcode datasets. Experimental results show that CNN outperformed the traditional BLAST classification and the most accurate machine learning based Ribosomal Database Project (RDP) classifier on datasets that had many of the labels present in the training datasets. When classifying an independent dataset namely the “Top 50 Most Wanted Fungi”, CNN and DBN assigned less sequences than BLAST. However, they could assign much more sequences than the RDP classifier. In terms of efficiency, it took the machine learning classifiers up to two seconds to classify a test dataset while it was 53 s for BLAST. The result of the current study will enable us to speed up the taxonomic assignments for the fungal barcode sequences generated at our institute as ~ 70% of them still need to be validated for public release. In addition, it will help to quickly provide a taxonomic profile for metagenomics samples.
Genome-wide association study and polygenic risk score analysis of esketamine treatment response
Authors: Li Qingqin S. , Wajs Ewa , Ochs-Ross Rachel , Singh Jaskaran , Drevets Wayne C.
Published: July 2020

To elucidate the genetic underpinnings of the antidepressant efficacy of S-ketamine (esketamine) nasal spray in major depressive disorder (MDD), we performed a genome-wide association study (GWAS) in cohorts of European ancestry (n = 527). This analysis was followed by a polygenic risk score approach to test for associations between genetic loading for psychiatric conditions, symptom profiles and esketamine efficacy. We identified a genome-wide significant locus in IRAK3 (p = 3.57 × 10–8, rs11465988, β = − 51.6, SE = 9.2) and a genome-wide significant gene-level association in NME7 (p = 1.73 × 10–6) for esketamine efficacy (i.e. percentage change in symptom severity score compared to baseline). Additionally, the strongest association with esketamine efficacy identified in the polygenic score analysis was from the genetic loading for depressive symptoms (p = 0.001, standardized coefficient β = − 3.1, SE = 0.9), which did not reach study-wide significance. Pathways relevant to neuronal and synaptic function, immune signaling, and glucocorticoid receptor/stress response showed enrichment among the suggestive GWAS signals.
The polyketide synthase PKS15 has a crucial role in cell wall formation in Beauveria bassiana
Authors: Udompaisarn Somsiri , Toopaang Wachiraporn , Sae-Ueng Udom , Srisuksam Chettida , Wichienchote Nuchnudda , Wasuwan Rudsamee , Nahar Nur Amalina Shamsun , Tanticharoen Morakot , Amnuaykanjanasin Alongkorn
Published: July 2020

Entomopathogenic fungi utilize specific secondary metabolites to defend against insect immunity, thereby enabling colonization of their specific hosts. We are particularly interested in the polyketide synthesis gene pks15, which is involved in metabolite production, and its role in fungal virulence. Targeted disruption of pks15 followed by genetic complementation with a functional copy of the gene would allow for functional characterization of this secondary metabolite biosynthesis gene. Using a Beauveria bassiana ∆pks15 mutant previously disrupted by a bialophos-resistance (bar) cassette, we report here an in-cis complementation at bar cassette using CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing. A bar-specific short guide RNA was used to target and cause a double-strand break in bar, and a donor DNA carrying a wild-type copy of pks15 was co-transformed with the guide RNA. Isolate G6 of ∆pks15 complemented with pks15 was obtained and verified by PCR, Southern analyses and DNA sequencing. Compared to ∆pks15 which showed a marked reduction in sporulation and insect virulence, the complementation in G6 restored with insect virulence, sporulation and conidial germination to wild-type levels. Atomic force and scanning electron microscopy revealed that G6 and wild-type conidial wall surfaces possessed the characteristic rodlet bundles and rough surface while ∆pks15 walls lacked the bundles and were relatively smoother. Conidia of ∆pks15 were larger and more elongated than that of G6 and the wild type, indicating changes in their cell wall organization. Our data indicate that PKS15 and its metabolite are likely not only important for fungal virulence and asexual reproduction, but also cell wall formation.
Effects of amines on the formation and photodegradation of DCNM under UV/chlorine disinfection
Authors: Deng Lin , Liao Xueying , Shen Jiaxin , Xu Bohui
Published: July 2020

Investigations were conducted to examine the effects of amine type and initial concentration, free chlorine concentration, UV light intensity, pH and tert-butyl alcohol (TBA) on the formation of dichloronitromethane (DCNM) under UV/chlorine. Methylamine (MA), dimethylamine (DMA) and poly-dimethyl diallyl ammonium chloride (PolyDADMAC) were selected as the amine precursors of DCNM. And the reaction products of amines were explored through observing the contents of various nitrogen under UV/chlorine. Experimental results indicated that the higher of the intensity of UV light, the concentration of amines and free chlorine, the greater of the amount of DCNM formation; the amine substance with simple structure is more likely oxidized to form DCNM, so the potential of MA to form DCNM is the largest among three amines; the formation of DCNM decreased with increasing pH from 6.0 to 8.0; due to adding TBA into the reaction solution, halogen and hydroxyl radicals were restrained which resulted the DCNM formation decreased. In the reaction process, the formation of DCNM from amines increased at the beginning, then decreased and almost disappeared due to photodegradation. During the formation and photodegradation of DCNM, the dissolved organic nitrogen could be transformed into the ammonia-nitrogen (NH3-N) and nitrate-nitrogen (NO3−-N).
EGCG impedes human Tau aggregation and interacts with Tau
Authors: Sonawane Shweta Kishor , Chidambaram Hariharakrishnan , Boral Debjyoti , Gorantla Nalini Vijay , Balmik Abhishek Ankur , Dangi Abha , Ramasamy Sureshkumar , Marelli Udaya Kiran , Chinnathambi Subashchandrabose
Published: July 2020

Tau aggregation and accumulation is a key event in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease. Inhibition of Tau aggregation is therefore a potential therapeutic strategy to ameliorate the disease. Phytochemicals are being highlighted as potential aggregation inhibitors. Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) is an active phytochemical of green tea that has shown its potency against various diseases including aggregation inhibition of repeat Tau. The potency of EGCG in altering the PHF assembly of full-length human Tau has not been fully explored. By various biophysical and biochemical analyses like ThS fluorescence assay, MALDI-TOF analysis and Isothermal Titration Calorimetry, we demonstrate dual effect of EGCG on aggregation inhibition and disassembly of full-length Tau and their binding affinity. The IC50 for Tau aggregation by EGCG was found to be 64.2 μM.
A model for classification of invasive fungal rhinosinusitis by computed tomography
Authors: Slonimsky Guy , McGinn Johnathan D. , Goyal Neerav , Crist Henry , Hennessy Max , Gagnon Eric , Slonimsky Einat
Published: July 2020

Our purpose was to classify acute invasive fungal rhinosinusitis (AIFR) caused by Mucor versus Aspergillus species by evaluating computed tomography radiological findings. Two blinded readers retrospectively graded radiological abnormalities of the craniofacial region observed on craniofacial CT examinations obtained during initial evaluation of 38 patients with eventually pathology-proven AIFR (13:25, Mucor:Aspergillus). Binomial logistic regression was used to analyze correlation between variables and type of fungi. Score-based models were implemented for analyzing differences in laterality of findings, including the ‘unilateral presence’ and ‘bilateral mean’ models. Binary logistic regression was used, with Score as the only predictor and Group (Mucor vs Aspergillus) as the only outcome. Specificity, sensitivity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and accuracy were determined for the evaluated models. Given the low predictive value of any single evaluated anatomical site, a ‘bilateral mean’ score-based model including the nasal cavity, maxillary sinuses, ethmoid air cells, sphenoid sinus and frontal sinuses yielded the highest prediction accuracy, with Mucor induced AIFR correlating with higher prevalence of bilateral findings. The odds ratio for the model while integrating the above anatomical sites was 12.3 (p < 0.001). PPV, NPV, sensitivity, specificity and accuracy were 0.85, 0.82, 0.92, 0.69 and 0.84 respectively. The abnormal radiological findings on craniofacial CT scans of Mucor and Aspergillus induced AIFR could be differentiated based on laterality, with Mucor induced AIFR associated with higher prevalence of bilateral findings.
Relative efficacy of three approaches to mitigate Crown-of-Thorns Starfish outbreaks on Australia’s Great Barrier Reef
Authors: Westcott David A. , Fletcher Cameron S. , Kroon Frederieke J. , Babcock Russell C. , Plagányi Eva E. , Pratchett Morgan S. , Bonin Mary C.
Published: July 2020

Population outbreaks of Crown-of-Thorns Starfish (COTS; Acanthaster spp.) are a major contributor to loss of hard coral throughout the Indo-Pacific. On Australia’s Great Barrier Reef (GBR), management interventions have evolved over four COTS outbreaks to include: (1) manual COTS control, (2) Marine Protected Area (MPA) zoning, and, (3) water quality improvement. Here we evaluate the contribution of these three approaches to managing population outbreaks of COTS to minimize coral loss. Strategic manual control at sites reduced COTS numbers, including larger, more fecund and damaging individuals. Sustained reduction in COTS densities and improvements in hard coral cover at a site were achieved through repeated control visits. MPAs influenced initial COTS densities but only marginally influenced final hard coral cover following COTS control. Water quality improvement programs have achieved only marginal reductions in river nutrient loads delivered to the GBR and the study region. This, a subsequent COTS outbreak, and declining coral cover across the region suggest their contributions are negligible. These findings support manual control as the most direct, and only effective, means of reducing COTS densities and improving hard coral cover currently available at a site. We provide recommendations for improving control program effectiveness with application to supporting reef resilience across the Indo-Pacific.
In vivo effect of magnetic microspheres loaded with E2-a in the treatment of alveolar echinococcosis
Authors: Li Zhi , Zhang Guochao , Luo Yanping , Gao Qi , Wang Jianghua , Chen Chong , Xu Xiaoying , Zhao Yingying , Li Tingting , Ma Xingming
Published: July 2020

The alveolar echinococcosis of human is a severe helminthic disease caused by the larva of Echinococcus multilocularis tapeworms. Novel compounds or therapy strategies for the treatment of alveolar echinococcosis are urgently needed due to the limitation of the widely used albendazole. Magnetic microspheres as drug carriers in magnetically targeted therapy of tumor have gained growing interests advantaged by delivering the drug to the aimed site, achieving localized therapeutic effect effectively under the influence of an external magnetic field. In this study, we formulated magnetic microspheres loaded with E2-a (PLGA-Fe-E2-a) and identified the activity in E. multilocularis-infected mice which infected with 3,000 protoscoleces intraperitoneally. Compared with the untreated control, with the help of a magnet, there was a significant reduction in parasite burden with PLGA-Fe-E2-a treatment and similar reduction observed with albendazole. PLGA-Fe-E2-a treatment group also showed a significant increase in the IFN-γ level and impaired morphological and ultrastructural alterations. Most importantly, one-third concentrations of E2-a from PLGA-Fe-E2 based on the release profile of E2-a was equally effective in inhibiting metacestode growth as E2-a treated group, supporting efficacy and bioavailability of a drug. It will be an alternative treatment for alveolar echinococcosis using magnetic microspheres as drug carriers.
Patient-derived ovarian cancer organoids capture the genomic profiles of primary tumours applicable for drug sensitivity and resistance testing
Authors: Nanki Yoshiko , Chiyoda Tatsuyuki , Hirasawa Akira , Ookubo Aki , Itoh Manabu , Ueno Masaru , Akahane Tomoko , Kameyama Kaori , Yamagami Wataru , Kataoka Fumio , Aoki Daisuke
Published: July 2020

The use of primary patient-derived organoids for drug sensitivity and resistance testing could play an important role in precision cancer medicine. We developed expandable ovarian cancer organoids in < 3 weeks; these organoids captured the characteristics of histological cancer subtypes and replicated the mutational landscape of the primary tumours. Seven pairs of organoids (3 high-grade serous, 1 clear cell, 3 endometrioid) and original tumours shared 59.5% (36.1–73.1%) of the variants identified. Copy number variations were also similar among organoids and primary tumours. The organoid that harboured the BRCA1 pathogenic variant (p.L63*) showed a higher sensitivity to PARP inhibitor, olaparib, as well as to platinum drugs compared to the other organoids, whereas an organoid derived from clear cell ovarian cancer was resistant to conventional drugs for ovarian cancer, namely platinum drugs, paclitaxel, and olaparib. The overall success rate of primary organoid culture, including those of various histological subtypes, was 80% (28/35). Our data show that patient-derived organoids are suitable physiological ex vivo cancer models that can be used to screen effective personalised ovarian cancer drugs.
Extracellular gp96 is a crucial mediator for driving immune hyperactivation and liver damage
Authors: Guan Zeliang , Ding Yun , Liu Yongai , Zhang Yu , Zhao Jingmin , Li Changfei , Li Zihai , Meng Songdong
Published: July 2020

Liver failure leads to the massive necrosis of hepatocytes, releasing large amounts of intracellular components including damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs). We found that extracellular gp96 levels in serum were elevated in patients with chronic hepatitis B infection (CHB) and acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF). Meanwhile, the gp96 level positively correlated with hepatic necroinflammation. We employed two mouse liver damage and liver failure models induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) plus d-galactosamine (d-Galn), and concanavalin A (ConA) to identify the function of extracellular gp96. As a result, the inhibition of extracellular gp96 by a specific peptide efficiently mitigated both LPS/d-Galn- and ConA-induced liver injury and immune hyperactivation, whereas exogenous gp96 aggravated the symptoms of hepatic injury in mice but not in Kupffer cells-ablated mice. The exposure of Kupffer cells to gp96 induced the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Collectively, our data demonstrate that gp96 released from necrotic hepatocytes aggravates immune hyperactivation and promotes liver damage and possibly the development of liver failure mainly by activating Kupffer cells.
Colonization history affects heating rates of invasive cane toads
Authors: Kosmala Georgia K. , Brown Gregory P. , Shine Richard
Published: July 2020

Amphibians in hot climates may be able to avoid high temperatures by controlling their rates of heating. In northern Australia, invasive cane toads (Rhinella marina) experience hot dry conditions in newly-colonized (western) sites but milder conditions in longer-occupied (eastern) sites. Under standardized conditions, toads from western sites heated less rapidly than did conspecifics from an eastern site. The availability of free water slowed heating rates of eastern but not western toads. Thus, the colonization of climatically extreme sites has been accompanied by a rapid shift in the toads’ ability to remain cool under hot conditions, even when free water is not available.
A comparison of the effectiveness of azelaic and pyruvic acid peels in the treatment of female adult acne: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Chilicka Karolina , Rogowska Aleksandra M. , Szyguła Renata , Dzieńdziora-Urbińska Iwona , Taradaj Jakub
Published: July 2020

Chemical peels are widely used as therapeutic agents in dermatology and cosmetology. This study aims to explore the differences in the effectiveness of azelaic and pyruvic acid peels in the treatment of acne vulgaris. Eligibility criteria for participants were: female gender, 18–25 years of age, no dermatological treatment within the last 12 months and mild to moderate papulopustular acne. We treated 120 young women (with a mean age of 22 years old) with six peeling sessions at 2-week intervals. In the parallel clinical study design, one randomized group (n = 60, 50%) was treated using azelaic acid (AA), whereas the second group participated in pyruvic acid (PA) sessions. We evaluated the patients clinically twice (before and after treatment), using the Scale of Hellegren–Vincent Severity Symptoms to assess the acne diagnosis, and the Nati Analyzer to estimate the skin properties (oily skin, desquamation, porosity, and moisture). The clinical evaluation of the patients demonstrated a significant reduction of acne severity symptoms in both the AA and PA groups, after the peeling sessions. An effect was also found in terms of decreasing desquamation and the oiliness of the skin. PA showed a more significant reduction of greasy skin than AA. In conclusion, after the six peeling sessions using AA and PA, all patients showed better skin parameters in term of reduced oiliness and desquamation. Both AA and PA peelings are a safe and efficient treatment for mild acne, however, during the selection of one of the two acids, side effects, skin properties, and patients’ preferences should be taken into account. This study was registered in the ISRCTN registry (registration number ISRCTN79716614, 17/01/2020).
Great apes selectively retrieve relevant memories to guide action
Authors: Bobrowicz Katarzyna , Johansson Mikael , Osvath Mathias
Published: July 2020

Memory allows us to draw on past experiences to inform behaviour in the present. However, memories rarely match the situation at hand exactly, and new situations regularly trigger multiple related memories where only some are relevant to act upon. The flexibility of human memory systems is largely attributed to the ability to disregard irrelevant, but salient, memories in favour of relevant ones. This is considered an expression of an executive function responsible for suppressing irrelevant memories, associated with the prefrontal cortex. It is unclear to what extent animals have access to this ability. Here, we demonstrate, in a series of tool-use tasks designed to evoke conflicting memories, that chimpanzees and an orangutan suffer from this conflict but overcome it in favour of a more relevant memory. Such mnemonic flexibility is among the most advanced expressions of executive function shown in animals to date and might explain several behaviours related to tool-use, innovation, planning and more.
Synthesis of nickel nanoparticles by a green and convenient method as a magnetic mirror with antibacterial activities
Authors: Ahghari Mohammad Reza , Soltaninejad Vahhab , Maleki Ali
Published: July 2020

In this work, a simple protocol was described for the synthesis of nickel magnetic mirror nanoparticles (NMMNPs) including antibacterial activities. The identification of NMNPs was carried out by field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) images, energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis, X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images and vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) curve. The antibacterial activities are investigated against S. aureus and E. coli as the Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, respectively. The UV–Vis absorption was also studied in the present of NMMNPs at different time intervals that disclosed decreasing of the bacterial concentration. More than 80% of the bacteria were disappeared after treating in the presence of NMMNPs for 18 h. The Ni-NPs revealed an excellent mirror attribute with a well-controlled transmission (7%). A better light-reflectivity over conventional glass or a mercury mirror proved their utility for domestic uses in comparison with conventional mirrors as rather toxic materials like mercury. Owing to its magnetic properties, this kind of mirror can be easily made onto glass by using an external magnet. An ordered crystalline structure, admissible magnetic properties, substantial antibacterial activities, tunable mirror properties, mild reaction conditions, and overall, the facile synthesis are the specific features of the present protocol for the possible uses of NMMNPs in diverse applications.
Author Correction: PENet—a scalable deep-learning model for automated diagnosis of pulmonary embolism using volumetric CT imaging
Authors: Huang Shih-Cheng , Kothari Tanay , Banerjee Imon , Chute Chris , Ball Robyn L. , Borus Norah , Huang Andrew , Patel Bhavik N. , Rajpurkar Pranav , Irvin Jeremy , Dunnmon Jared , Bledsoe Joseph , Shpanskaya Katie , Dhaliwal Abhay , Zamanian Roham , Ng Andrew Y. , Lungren Matthew P.
Published: July 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Implementation of self-regulatory instruction to promote students’ achievement and learning strategies in the high school chemistry classroom
Authors: Kadioglu-Akbulut Cansel , Uzuntiryaki-Kondakci Esen
Published: July 2020

The current study investigated the effectiveness of self-regulatory instruction developed based on guided inquiry on 11th grade students’ use of learning strategies and achievement in chemistry, compared to traditionally designed chemistry instruction. Additionally, the self-regulatory processes in which students engaged and the development of these processes over the course of the study were examined. For this purpose, mixed-method design was employed. In total, 78 students participated in the study: 38 students in the experimental group and 40 students in the control group. Additionally, four students from each classroom were selected as focal students, using the maximum variation sampling method. Quantitative data were collected using Chemistry Achievement Test and Cognitive and Metacognitive Strategies Scale; qualitative data were obtained through journals and think-aloud protocols. Five dependent variables were studied: achievement in chemistry, and the four learning strategies of rehearsal, elaboration, organization, and metacognitive self-regulation. A mixed multivariate analyses of variance was run to analyze the quantitative data and the deductive method was used to analyze the qualitative data. Quantitative results indicated a slight improvement in student achievement in the experimental group and no significant difference regarding learning strategies. However, analyses of think-aloud protocols revealed that students in the experimental group used metacognitive strategies more often, which were associated with self-regulated learning, and in turn achieved more—gave more correct responses and/or provided more complete scientific explanations—compared to the students in the control group.
Determination of lead in human placenta tissue employing slurry sampling and detection by electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry
Authors: Kriegerová Katarína , Procházková Simona , Tuček Jozef , Rísová Vanda , Halko Radoslav
Published: July 2020

A new analytical procedure was developed for the determination of lead in human placental tissue by direct ultrasonic slurry sampling combined with electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry (SS-ET AAS).
A microfiber scaffold-based 3Din vitrohuman neuronal culture model of Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Ranjan Vivek Damodar , Qiu Lifeng , Lee Jolene Wei-Ling , Chen Xuelong , Jang Se Eun , Chai Chou , Lim Kah-Leong , Tan Eng-King , Zhang Yilei , Huang Wei Min , Zeng Li
Published: July 2020

Highly efficient neurogenic differentiation, maturation as well as spontaneous amplification of pathogenic amyloid-beta 42 (Aβ42) and phospho-tau expression were achieved on interfacing iPSC-derived neurons with 3D PLGA microfiber scaffolds.
Imaging the reactivity and width of graphene's boundary region
Authors: AlSalem Huda S. , Al-Goul Soha T. , García-Miranda Ferrari Alejandro , Brownson Dale A. C. , Velarde Luis , Koehler Sven P. K.
Published: July 2020

The reactivity of graphene at its boundary region has been imaged using non-linear spectroscopy to address the controversy whether the terraces of graphene or its edges are more reactive.
Adaptation of thermophilic acetyltransferase to a water-mediated catalytic mechanism
Authors: Chang Yu-Yung , Hagawa Sora , Hsu Chun-Hua
Published: July 2020

Two is better than one: thermophilic Nα-acetyltransferase SsArd1 develops a strategy to adapt to higher temperatures for water-mediated catalysis.
CdS nanoparticles grown in situ on oxygen deficiency-rich WO3−x nanosheets: direct Z-scheme heterojunction towards enhancing visible light-driven hydrogen evolution
Authors: Ran Qi , Zhong Tao , Li Fengyuan , Yu Zebin , Hou Yanping , Qian Lun , Huang Jun , Jiang Ronghua , Zhang Heqing , Sun Qianqian
Published: July 2020

This work introduces the synthesis of direct Z-scheme CdS/WO3−x heterojunction photocatalysts and the application of photocatalytic hydrogen evolution.
Frame-invariant Fick diffusion matrices of multicomponent fluid mixtures
Authors: Ortiz de Zárate José M. , Sengers Jan V.
Published: July 2020

Frame-dependent versus frame-independent Fick diffusivities for a ternary mixture.
Nanoparticles influence miscibility in LCST polymer blends: from fundamental perspective to current applications
Authors: Muzata Tanyaradzwa S. , L. Jagadeshvaran P. , Bose Suryasarathi
Published: July 2020

Polymer blending is an effective method that can be used to fabricate new versatile materials with enhanced properties.
What is the driving force behind molecular triangles and their guests? A quantum chemical perspective about host–guest interactions
Authors: Nagurniak Glaucio R. , Piotrowski Maurício J. , Muñoz-Castro Àlvaro , Cascaldi João B. S. , Parreira Renato L. T. , Caramori Giovanni F.
Published: July 2020

The physical nature of host–guest interactions occurring between molecular triangles and linear anions was explored using DFT calculations combined with energy decomposition analyses, nuclear independent chemical shift, and non-covalent interactions.
Large and tunable negative thermal expansion induced by a synergistic effect in M2II[MIV(CN)8] Prussian blue analogues
Authors: Wang Chunyan , Chang Dahu , Gao Qilong , Liu Chengyan , Wang Qinggao , Huang Xiaowei , Jia Yu
Published: July 2020

The synergistic effect between acoustic and optic modes of low frequencies enhanced the NTE in M2II[MIV(CN)8].
Lithium, sodium and magnesium ion conduction in solid state mixed polymer electrolytes
Authors: Puthirath Anand B. , Tsafack Thierry , Patra Sudeshna , Thakur Pallavi , Chakingal Nithya , Saju Sreehari K. , Baburaj Abhijit , Kato Keiko , Babu Ganguli , Narayanan Tharangattu N. , Ajayan Pulickel M.
Published: July 2020

A theoretical and experimental demonstration of a simple mixture of similar polymer systems (PEO and PDMS) for increasing cation conductivity can reopen new opportunities for the development of safer and environment-friendly solid-state batteries.
Understanding the ECL interaction of luminol and Ru(bpy)32+ luminophores by spectro-electrochemiluminescence
Authors: Ibáñez David , González-García María Begoña , Hernández-Santos David , Fanjul-Bolado Pablo
Published: July 2020

Spectro-electrochemiluminescence is a powerful technique that allows the detailed analysis of the ECL interaction of different luminophores as luminol and tris(2,2′-bipyridyl)dichlororuthenium(ii) (Ru(bpy)32+).
Critical insights into the interactions of heat shock protein 70 with phospholipids
Authors: Dhanasekaran Madhumitha , Komal  , K. Geethika , Kumar Pankaj , Mandal Soumit S.
Published: July 2020

Study of the interaction of Hsp70 with supported lipid bilayers explains the mechanism of its translocation through the membranes.
Platinum–palladium alloy nanotetrahedra with tuneable lattice-strain for enhanced intrinsic activity
Authors: Miao Ruifang , Chang Fangfang , Ren Mengyun , He Xianhong , Yang Lin , Wang Xiaolei , Bai Zhengyu
Published: July 2020

Understanding how to regulate lattice strain of PtPd NTDs and the correlation of PtPd NTDs between the compositions, tuneable lattice strain and the electrocatalytic properties.
A waste newspaper/multi-walled carbon nanotube/TiO2 interlayer for improving the cycling stability of lithium–sulfur batteries by anchoring polysulfides
Authors: Yan Chenyu , Zhou Xue , Wei Yanhao , He Shengtai
Published: July 2020

Waste newspaper is directly used as a substrate to prepare a composited interlayer of lithium–sulfur batteries for anchoring polysulfides.
Covalent pendulous anthraquinone polymers coupled on graphenes for efficient capacitance storage in both alkaline and acidic media
Authors: Cheng Tingting , Jiang Yuelin , Jin Linhui , Kong Aiguo , Shan Yongkui
Published: July 2020

Novel crystalline covalent organic polymers (COPs) were constructed by reacting 1,4-diaminoanthraquinone with 1,3,5-triformylphloroglucinol or tris(4-formylphenyl)amine (TPDA or TADA).
Effects of intragastric tryptophan on acute changes in the plasma tryptophan/large neutral amino acids ratio and relationship with subsequent energy intake in lean and obese men
Authors: Hajishafiee Maryam , Ullrich Sina S. , Steinert Robert E. , Poppitt Sally D. , Luscombe-Marsh Natalie D. , Horowitz Michael , Feinle-Bisset Christine
Published: July 2020

This study investigated the association between the tryptophan to large neutral amino acids ratio after intragastric tryptophan administration with energy intake in normal-weight people and those with obesity.
Palladium-catalyzed ionic liquid-accelerated oxidative annulation of acetylenic oximes with unactivated long-chain enols
Authors: Hu Miao , Lin Zidong , Li Jianxiao , Wu Wanqing , Jiang Huanfeng
Published: July 2020

An NHC-palladium-catalyzed ionic liquid-accelerated oxidative annulation/functionalization with H2O or an ionic liquid as the medium was accomplished.