bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrative description of a new Dactylobiotus (Eutardigrada: Parachela) from Antarctica that reveals an intraspecific variation in tardigrade egg morphology
Authors: Kihm Ji-Hoon , Kim Sanghee , McInnes Sandra J. , Zawierucha Krzysztof , Rho Hyun Soo , Kang Pilmo , Park Tae-Yoon S.
Published: June 2020

Tardigrades constitute one of the most important group in the challenging Antarctic terrestrial ecosystem. Living in various habitats, tardigrades play major roles as consumers and decomposers in the trophic networks of Antarctic terrestrial and freshwater environments; yet we still know little about their biodiversity. The Eutardigrada is a species rich class, for which the eggshell morphology is one of the key morphological characters. Tardigrade egg morphology shows a diverse appearance, and it is known that, despite rare, intraspecific variation is caused by seasonality, epigenetics, and external environmental conditions. Here we reportDactylobiotus ovimutanssp. nov. from King George Island, Antarctica. Interestingly, we observed a range of eggshell morphologies from the new species, although the population was cultured under controlled laboratory condition. Thus, seasonality, environmental conditions, and food source are eliminated, leaving an epigenetic factor as a main cause for variability in this case.
Enhancement of gene expression noise from transcription factor binding to genomic decoy sites
Authors: Dey Supravat , Soltani Mohammad , Singh Abhyudai
Published: June 2020

The genome contains several high-affinity non-functional binding sites for transcription factors (TFs) creating a hidden and unexplored layer of gene regulation. We investigate the role of such “decoy sites” in controlling noise (random fluctuations) in the level of a TF that is synthesized in stochastic bursts. Prior studies have assumed that decoy-bound TFs are protected from degradation, and in this case decoys function to buffer noise. Relaxing this assumption to consider arbitrary degradation rates for both bound/unbound TF states, we find rich noise behaviors. For low-affinity decoys, noise in the level of unbound TF always monotonically decreases to the Poisson limit with increasing decoy numbers. In contrast, for high-affinity decoys, noise levels first increase with increasing decoy numbers, before decreasing back to the Poisson limit. Interestingly, while protection of bound TFs from degradation slows the time-scale of fluctuations in the unbound TF levels, the decay of bound TFs leads to faster fluctuations and smaller noise propagation to downstream target proteins. In summary, our analysis reveals stochastic dynamics emerging from nonspecific binding of TFs and highlights the dual role of decoys as attenuators or amplifiers of gene expression noise depending on their binding affinity and stability of the bound TF.
Impact of pemetrexed chemotherapy on the gut microbiota and intestinal inflammation of patient-lung-derived tumor xenograft (PDX) mouse models
Authors: Pensec Cindy , Gillaizeau Florence , Guenot Dominique , Bessard Anne , Carton Thomas , Leuillet Sébastien , Campone Mario , Neunlist Michel , Blottière Hervé M. , Le Vacon Françoise
Published: June 2020

Chemotherapy remains the gold standard for advanced cancer. Pemetrexed, a chemotherapeutic agent used in non-small cell lung cancer, can induce significant side effects in patients. Although microbiota’s role in the efficacy and/or toxicity of chemotherapy agents has been demonstrated, the impacts of pemetrexed on the gut microbiota and on gastrointestinal inflammation remain unknown. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of pemetrexed and the tumor graft on the gut microbiota composition in immunodeficient mice. The faecal microbiota composition was studied with metabarcoding before, 24-h and one week after treatment. The colon epithelial barrier integrity was evaluated by histological examination, intestinal permeability measurement, and selected cytokines quantification. The tumor graft induced some variations in the microbiota composition. Pemetrexed further increased the relative abundance of Enterobacteriaceae and 3 families from the Firmicutes phylum: Enterococcaceae, Lactobacillaceae and Streptococcaceae. Pemetrexed also significantly altered the epithelial barrier integrity, which was associated with early inflammation. This pilot study shows that the association of a lung tumor graft with pemetrexed causes an alteration in the microbiota composition. Such information increases our knowledge about the impact of chemotherapy on the microbiota, which could help to minimize side effects and improve therapeutic effectiveness in the future.
Short microsecond pulses achieve homogeneous electroporation of elongated biological cells irrespective of their orientation in electric field
Authors: Dermol-Černe Janja , Batista Napotnik Tina , Reberšek Matej , Miklavčič Damijan
Published: June 2020

In gene electrotransfer and cardiac ablation with irreversible electroporation, treated muscle cells are typically of elongated shape and their orientation may vary. Orientation of cells in electric field has been reported to affect electroporation, and hence electrodes placement and pulse parameters choice in treatments for achieving homogeneous effect in tissue is important. We investigated how cell orientation influences electroporation with respect to different pulse durations (ns to ms range), both experimentally and numerically. Experimentally detected electroporation (evaluated separately for cells parallel and perpendicular to electric field) via Ca2+ uptake in H9c2 and AC16 cardiomyocytes was numerically modeled using the asymptotic pore equation. Results showed that cell orientation affects electroporation extent: using short, nanosecond pulses, cells perpendicular to electric field are significantly more electroporated than parallel (up to 100-times more pores formed), and with long, millisecond pulses, cells parallel to electric field are more electroporated than perpendicular (up to 1000-times more pores formed). In the range of a few microseconds, cells of both orientations were electroporated to the same extent. Using pulses of a few microseconds lends itself as a new possible strategy in achieving homogeneous electroporation in tissue with elongated cells of different orientation (e.g. electroporation-based cardiac ablation).
De novo RNA sequencing analysis of Aeluropus littoralis halophyte plant under salinity stress
Authors: Younesi-Melerdi Elham , Nematzadeh Ghorban-Ali , Pakdin-Parizi Ali , Bakhtiarizadeh Mohammad Reza , Motahari Seyed Abolfazl
Published: June 2020

The study of salt tolerance mechanisms in halophyte plants can provide valuable information for crop breeding and plant engineering programs. The aim of the present study was to investigate whole transcriptome analysis ofAeluropus littoralisin response to salinity stress (200 and 400 mM NaCl) byde novoRNA-sequencing. To assemble the transcriptome, Trinity v2.4.0 and Bridger tools, were comparatively used with two k-mer sizes (25 and 32 bp). Thede novoassembled transcriptome by Bridger (k-mer 32) was chosen as final assembly for subsequent analysis. In general, 103290 transcripts were obtained. The differential expression analysis (log2FC > 1 and FDR < 0.01) showed that 1861 transcripts expressed differentially, including169 up and 316 down-regulated transcripts in 200 mM NaCl treatment and 1035 up and 430 down-regulated transcripts in 400 mM NaCl treatment compared to control. In addition, 89 transcripts were common in both treatments. The most important over-represented terms in the GO analysis of differentially expressed genes (FDR < 0.05) were chitin response, response to abscisic acid, and regulation of jasmonic acid mediated signaling pathway under 400 mM NaCl treatment and cell cycle, cell division, and mitotic cell cycle process under 200 mM treatment. In addition, the phosphatidylcholine biosynthetic process term was common in both salt treatments. Interestingly, under 400 mM salt treatment, the PRC1 complex that contributes to chromatin remodeling was also enriched along with vacuole as a general salinity stress responsive cell component. Among enriched pathways, the MAPK signaling pathway (ko04016) and phytohormone signal transduction (ko04075) were significantly enriched in 400 mM NaCl treatment, whereas DNA replication (ko03032) was the only pathway that significantly enriched in 200 mM NaCl treatment. Finally, our findings indicate the salt-concentration depended responses ofA. littoralis, which well-known salinity stress-related pathways are induced in 400 mM NaCl, while less considered pathways, e.g. cell cycle and DNA replication, are highlighted under 200 mM NaCl treatment.
Traumatic Brain Injury Severity in a Network Perspective: A Diffusion MRI Based Connectome Study
Authors: Raizman Reut , Tavor Ido , Biegon Anat , Harnof Sagi , Hoffmann Chen , Tsarfaty Galia , Fruchter Eyal , Tatsa-Laur Lucian , Weiser Mark , Livny Abigail
Published: June 2020

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is often characterized by alterations in brain connectivity. We explored connectivity alterations from a network perspective, using graph theory, and examined whether injury severity affected structural connectivity and modulated the association between brain connectivity and cognitive deficits post-TBI. We performed diffusion imaging network analysis on chronic TBI patients, with different injury severities and healthy subjects. From both global and local perspectives, we found an effect of injury severity on network strength. In addition, regions which were considered as hubs differed between groups. Further exploration of graph measures in the determined hub regions showed that efficiency of six regions differed between groups. An association between reduced efficiency in the precuneus and nonverbal abstract reasoning deficits (calculated using actual pre-injury scores) was found in the controls but was lost in TBI patients. Our results suggest that disconnection of network hubs led to a less efficient network, which in turn may have contributed to the cognitive impairments manifested in TBI patients. We conclude that injury severity modulates the disruption of network organization, reflecting a “dose response” relationship and emphasize the role of efficiency as an important diagnostic tool to detect subtle brain injury specifically in mild TBI patients.
Inequalities by education and marital status in the co-occurrence of cardiovascular risk factors in Finland persisted between 1997–2017
Authors: Paalanen Laura , Härkänen Tommi , Kontto Jukka , Tolonen Hanna
Published: June 2020

Understanding on sociodemographic variation of the co-occurrence of cardiovascular disease risk factors is crucial for planning future prevention strategies. We aimed at examining (1) the co-occurrence of smoking, obesity, hypertension and elevated serum cholesterol by education and marital status, and (2) its trends in different sociodemographic groups in Finland. We used data from cross-sectional health examination surveys among the general population (25–64 years): for 1997–2012 the National FINRISK Study and for 2017 the FinHealth 2017 Survey (n = 25036). A risk factor accumulation score with categories (1) zero, (2) one, (3) two, and (4) three or four elevated risk factors was the outcome in multinomial logistic regression. The risk factor score was more favourable among women, among high education groups, and slightly among participants living with a spouse. Among men, the lowest risk factor score class became more prevalent especially in the intermediate education group, which approached the highest education group over time. Our results indicate an overall transition towards a more favourable risk factor distribution. However, risk factor accumulation among the least educated remained emphasizing the need to develop and implement more targeted prevention interventions and public health policies to decrease the risk factor burden particularly in this group.
Cellular Fibronectin Containing Extra Domain A Causes Insulin Resistance via Toll-like Receptor 4
Authors: Rajak Sangam , Hussain Yusuf , Singh Khushboo , Tiwari Swasti , Ahmad Basir , Bharti Sachi , Prakash Prem
Published: June 2020

We determined the role of cellular fibronectin (CFN) containing the alternatively spliced extra domain A (FN-EDA) in causing insulin resistance (IR) through toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4). Circulating FN-EDA level was evaluated in mouse and rat IR models. Specific anti-FN-EDA antibody and TLR4 inhibitor were used to study its role in IR in mice. CFN protein was injected to evaluate TLR4 dependent effect of FN-EDA in IR. Furthermore, FN-EDA was estimated in blood plasma and correlated with demographic and clinical characteristics in healthy human participants (n = 38). High-fat diet feeding significantly increased circulating FN-EDA in both mouse (P = 0.03) and rat (P = 0.02) IR models. Antibody against FN-EDA protected mice from IR by increasing glucose disposal rate following glucose (P = 0.02) and insulin (P = 0.01) tolerance tests. CFN protein injection caused IR, however, TLR4 inhibitor protected the mice from CFN induced IR. Multivariate regression analysis predicted an independent positive correlation between circulating FN-EDA and fasting plasma glucose (P = 0.003) in healthy human participants. In conclusion, FN-EDA may cause IR through TLR4 by decreasing glucose disposal rate following glucose and insulin load. Targeting FN-EDA thus can be considered as a possible therapeutic strategy to delay prediabetes progression to diabetes.
Wideband Magnetic Excitation System for Atomic Force Microscopy Cantilevers with Megahertz-Order Resonance Frequency
Authors: Hirata Kaito , Igarashi Takumi , Suzuki Keita , Miyazawa Keisuke , Fukuma Takeshi
Published: June 2020

Small cantilevers with a megahertz-order resonance frequency provide excellent sensitivity and speed in liquid-environment atomic force microscopy (AFM). However, stable and accurate oscillation control of a small cantilever requires the photothermal excitation, which has hindered their applications to the studies on photo-sensitive materials. Here, we develop a magnetic excitation system with a bandwidth wider than 4 MHz, enabling a light-free excitation of small cantilevers. In the system, a cantilever with a magnetic bead is driven by a magnetic field generated by a coil. In the coil driver, a differentiation circuit is used for compensating the frequency dependence of the coil impedance and keeping the current constant. By implementing several differentiation circuits with different frequency ranges, we enable to drive various cantilevers having different resonance frequencies with sufficient excitation efficiency. In contrast to the conventional coil driver with a closed-loop circuit, the developed one consists of an open-loop circuit and hence can be stably operated regardless of the coil design. With the developed system, atomic-resolution imaging of mica in liquid using a small cantilever with a megahertz-order resonance frequency is demonstrated. This development should lead to the future applications of AFM with small cantilevers to the studies on various photo-sensitive materials and phenomena.
Sentinel optical and SAR data highlights multi-segment faulting during the 2018 Palu-Sulawesi earthquake (Mw 7.5)
Authors: Bacques Guillaume , de Michele Marcello , Foumelis Michael , Raucoules Daniel , Lemoine Anne , Briole Pierre
Published: June 2020

The main active tectonic structure in the western part of Central Sulawesi (Indonesia) is the left-lateral Palu-Koro strike-slip fault. Its offshore section was thought not to have broken during the Mw 7.5 Palu Earthquake on 28 September 2018, challenging the established knowledge of the tectonic setting at this location. Here, we use Sentinel-1 SAR interferometry to produce a map of the ground velocities in the area of the Mw 7.5 earthquake for the seven months following the 2018 earthquake. We show evidence of surface deformation along the western coast of the Palu bay, indicating that the Palu Koro offshore fault section might have contribute to or been affected by the earthquake. As the possibility of multi-segment ruptures is a high concern in the area because of the high seismic and tsunami hazard, we present here, a fault model that includes the offshore section of the Palu-Koro fault. Thanks to four independents space-based geodetics measurements of the co-seismic displacement (Sentinel-1 and Sentinel-2 correlograms) we constrain the 3D co-seismic ground displacements. The modeling of these displacements allows us to estimate the co-seismic fault slip amplitude and geometry at depth. At the end, we consider the multi-segment faulting scenario, including the offshore section of the Palu-Koro fault, as a plausible model to explain the submarine landslides and the tsunamis. This study also gives the opportunity to observe a super-shear earthquake in the context of a complex fault network and implies an increase in the probability of submarine landslides within the bay in the forthcoming years.
Experimental investigation of jet-induced wall pressure fluctuations over a tangential flat plate at two Reynolds numbers
Authors: Meloni Stefano , Di Marco Alessandro , Mancinelli Matteo , Camussi Roberto
Published: June 2020

The wall pressure fluctuations induced by a subsonic circular jet on a rigid flat plate have been investigated considering two jets with different exit section diameters at the same Mach number. The analysis is aimed at completing the series of papers presented by the authors on the interaction between a subsonic jet and infinite tangential flat plate where the exit Mach number was the only parameter of the jet flow that was varied. In order to analyse other effects out of the Mach number, two configurations with different nozzle exhaust diameters were explored with the objective of isolating the Reynolds number effect keeping fixed the exit Mach number. The nozzle exhaust diameters are 12 mm and 25.4 mm and the instrumented flat plate, installed parallel to the jet flow, is moved at different radial distances from the jet axis. The pressure footprint on the plate has been measured in the stream-wise direction by means of a pair of flush-mounted pressure transducers, providing point-wise pressure signals. Wall pressure fluctuations have been characterised in terms of spectral and statistical quantities. The effect of Reynolds is evidenced and possible scaling relationships that account for the Reynolds dependence are proposed. Implications for modeling the spectral coherence have been considered by the application of the Corcos’ model and the effect of the jet Reynolds number on the model coefficients is analyzed.
The microbial biogeography of the gastrointestinal tract of preterm and term lambs
Authors: Chong Clara Yieh Lin , Vatanen Tommi , Oliver Mark , Bloomfield Frank H. , O’Sullivan Justin M.
Published: June 2020

Nutritional supplementation is a common clinical intervention to support the growth of preterm infants. There is little information on how nutritional supplementation interacts with the developing microbiome of the small intestine, the major site for nutrient metabolism and absorption. We investigated the effect of preterm birth and nutritional supplementation on the mucosal and luminal microbiota along the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) of preterm lambs. Preterm lambs (n = 24) were enterally supplemented with branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), carbohydrate (maltodextrin), or water for two weeks from birth. Term lambs (n = 7) received water. Mucosal scrapings and luminal samples were collected from the duodenum, jejunum, ileum (small intestine) and colon at six weeks post-term age and analysed by 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing. Anatomical site explained 54% (q = 0.0004) of the variance and differences between the term and preterm groups explained 5.7% (q = 0.024) of the variance in microbial beta-diversities. The colon was enriched with Tenericutes and Verrucomicrobia compared to the small intestine, while Actinobacteria, and superphylum Patescibacteria were present in higher abundance in the small intestine compared to the colon. Our findings highlight that early-life short-term nutritional supplementation in preterm lambs does not alter the microbial community residing in the small intestine and colon.
Subjective versus objective, polymer bur-based selective carious tissue removal: 1-year interim analysis of a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Marques Marta Gomes , Hilgert Leandro Augusto , Silva Larissa Ribeiro , Demarchi Karine Medeiros , dos Santos Matias Patrícia Magno , Ribeiro Ana Paula Dias , Leal Soraya Coelho , Paris Sebastian , Schwendicke Falk
Published: June 2020

We aimed to compare subjective (S) vs. objective (O) selective carious tissue removal using hand-excavation versus a self-limiting polymer bur, respectively. A community-based single-blind cluster-randomized controlled superiority trial was performed. This is a 1-year-interim analysis. 115 children (age 7–8 years) with ≥1 vital primary molar with a deep dentin lesion (>1/2 dentin depth) were included (60 S/55 O). The cluster was the child, with eligible molars being treated identically (91 S/86 O). Cavities were prepared and carious tissue on pulpo-proximal walls selectively removed using hand instruments (S), or a self-limiting polymer bur (Polybur P1, Komet). Cavities were restored using glass-hybrid material (Equia Forte, GC). Treatment times and children’s satisfaction were recorded. Generalized-linear models (GLM) and multi-level Cox-regression analysis were applied. Initial treatment times were not significantly different between protocols (mean; 95%CI S: 433; 404–462 sec; O: 412; 382-441 sec; p = 0.378/GLM). There was no significant difference in patients’ satisfaction (p = 0.164). No pulpal exposures occurred. 113 children were re-examined. Failures occurred in 22/84 O-molars (26.2%) and 26/90 S-molars (28.9%). Pulpal complications occurred in 5(6%) O and 2(2.2%) S molars, respectively. Risk of failure was not significantly associated with the removal protocol, age, sex, dental arch or tooth type (p > 0.05/Cox), but was nearly 5-times higher in multi-surface than single-surface restorations (HR: 4.60; 95% CI: 1.70-12.4). Within the limitations of this interim analysis, there was no significant difference in treatment time, satisfaction and risk of failure between O and S.
Cell-free expression tools to study co-translational folding of alpha helical membrane transporters
Authors: Harris Nicola J. , Pellowe Grant A. , Booth Paula J.
Published: June 2020

Most helical membrane proteins fold co-translationally during unidirectional polypeptide elongation by the ribosome. Studies thus far, however, have largely focussed on refolding full-length proteins from artificially induced denatured states that are far removed from the natural co-translational process. Cell-free translation offers opportunities to remedy this deficit in folding studies and has previously been used for membrane proteins. We exploit this cell-free approach to develop tools to probe co-translational folding. We show that two transporters from the ubiquitous Major Facilitator Superfamily can successfully insert into a synthetic bilayer without the need for translocon insertase apparatus that is essential in vivo. We also assess the cooperativity of domain insertion, by expressing the individual transporter domains cell-free. Furthermore, we manipulate the cell-free reaction to pause and re-start protein synthesis at specific points in the protein sequence. We find that full-length protein can still be made when stalling after the first N terminal helix has inserted into the bilayer. However, stalling after the first three helices have exited the ribosome cannot be successfully recovered. These three helices cannot insert stably when ribosome-bound during co-translational folding, as they require insertion of downstream helices.
Construction and characterization of avermectin B2 solid nanodispersion
Authors: Cui Bo , Gao Fei , Zeng Zhanghua , Wang Chunxin , Wang Yan , Sun Changjiao , Zhao Xiang , Guo Liang , Shen Yue , Liu Guoqiang , Cui Haixin
Published: June 2020

Poorly water-soluble pesticide compounds are difficult to be formulated as environmentally friendly formulations with high efficacy. For the conventional formulations, more than 50% of pesticides are lost during application due to the decomposition of active ingredient, dust drift and running off. Therefore, there is an urgent need to construct a novel formulation for improving the bioavailability of pesticides. The avermectin B2 solid nanodispersion was developed by self-emulsifying and solidification technology. The average particle size, surface tension and contact angle on cabbage leaves of the solid nanodispersion were 35.3 nm, 36.6 mN/m and 58°, respectively. The toxicities of the nanoformulation against diamondback moths and root-knot nematode were more than 1.7 times that of conventional emulsion in water and water dispersible granule. This investigation demonstrated that for foliage-applied pesticides, the formulation bioavailability had positive correlation with wettability which was negatively correlated with surface tension and contact angle. This study provides an easy and scalable technique to construct the effective and environmentally friendly nanoformulations. The toxicity improvement of the solid nanodispersion will significantly reduce dosage and environmental pollution of pesticide. The clarified relationship between formulation parameters and biological activity will contribute to the design and construction of novel pesticide formulations.
Opening or closing eyes at rest modulates the functional connectivity of V1 with default and salience networks
Authors: Costumero Víctor , Bueichekú Elisenda , Adrián-Ventura Jesús , Ávila César
Published: June 2020

Current evidence suggests that volitional opening or closing of the eyes modulates brain activity and connectivity. However, how the eye state influences the functional connectivity of the primary visual cortex has been poorly investigated. Using the same scanner, fMRI data from two groups of participants similar in age, sex and educational level were acquired. One group (n = 105) performed a resting state with eyes closed, and the other group (n = 63) performed a resting state with eyes open. Seed-based voxel-wise functional connectivity whole-brain analyses were performed to study differences in the connectivity of the primary visual cortex. This region showed higher connectivity with the default mode and sensorimotor networks in the eyes closed group, but higher connectivity with the salience network in the eyes open group. All these findings were replicated using an open source shared dataset. These results suggest that opening or closing the eyes may set brain functional connectivity in an interoceptive or exteroceptive state.
Effect of Down syndrome and keratoconus on corneal density and volume: a triple comparative study
Authors: Asgari Soheila , Aghamirsalim Mohammadreza , Mehravaran Shiva , Hashemi Hassan
Published: June 2020

Keratoconus (KCN) and Down syndrome affect the corneal density and volume. In this study included Down syndrome patients with and without KCN (24 Down-KCN and 204 Down-nonKCN eyes) and normal age- and gender-matched individuals (184 eyes). Studied parameters were the corneal density measured with Pentacam HR in 5 concentric zones and annuli (0–2 mm, 2–6 mm, 6–10 mm, 10–12 mm, and 0–12 mm) in 4 different depth layers (anterior 120 µm, posterior 60 µm, middle layer, and the full thickness of the cornea), and the 10 mm zone corneal volume. In Down-KCN, Down-nonKCN, and control groups, respectively, mean full thickness density in the 0–12 mm zone was 19.35 ± 2.92, 17.85 ± 2.55, and 15.78 ± 2.67 GSU, and mean corneal volume was 57.45 ± 4.37, 56.99 ± 3.46, and 61.43 ± 3.42mm3. All density readings were significantly different between the three studied groups (all P < 0.01) except full thickness density in 0–2 mm and 2–6 mm (P > 0.05) and corneal volume (P = 0.519) between Down-KCN and Down-nonKCN groups; these inter-group densitometry differences within the 6 mm zone were only in the middle layer, and not the anterior or posterior thickness layers (all P > 0.05). Corneal density increased with age and corneal thickness, but there was no significant relationship with gender. Overall, Down syndrome is associated with increased density and light scatter in all corneal layers up to the 12 mm diameter. In Down patients with KCN, the increased light scatter and density in the 6 mm zone is only in the middle thickness layer. Corneal volume is reduced in Down syndrome irrespective of the presence or absence of KCN.
Utilisation of Design of Experiments Approach to Optimise Supercritical Fluid Extraction of Medicinal Cannabis
Authors: Rochfort Simone , Isbel Ashley , Ezernieks Vilnis , Elkins Aaron , Vincent Delphine , Deseo Myrna A. , Spangenberg German C.
Published: June 2020

Carbon dioxide supercritical fluid extraction (CO2 SFE) is a clean and cost-effective method of extracting cannabinoids from cannabis. Using design of experiment methodologies an optimised protocol for extraction of medicinal cannabis bud material (population of mixed plants, combined THC:CBD approximately 1:1.5) was developed at a scale of one kg per extraction. Key variables investigated were CO2 flow rate, extraction time and extraction pressure. A total of 15 batches were analysed for process development using a two-level, full factorial design of experiments for three variable factors over eleven batches. The initial eleven batches demonstrated that CO2 flow rate has the most influence on the overall yield and recovery of the key cannabinoids, particularly CBD. The additional four batches were conducted as replicated runs at high flow rates to determine reproducibility. The highest extraction weight of 71 g (7.1%) was obtained under high flow rate (150 g/min), with long extraction time (600 min) at high pressure (320 bar). This method also gave the best recoveries of THC and CBD. This is the first study to report the repeated extraction of large amounts of cannabis (total 15 kg) to optimise the CO2 SFE extraction process for a pharmaceutical product.
Fecal dysbiosis associated with colonic hypersensitivity and behavioral alterations in chronically Blastocystis-infected rats
Authors: Defaye Manon , Nourrisson Céline , Baudu Elodie , Lashermes Amandine , Meynier Maëva , Meleine Mathieu , Wawrzyniak Ivan , Bonnin Virginie , Barbier Julie , Chassaing Benoit , Godfraind Catherine , Gelot Agathe , Barnich Nicolas , Ardid Denis , Bonnet Mathilde , Delbac Frédéric , Carvalho Frédéric Antonio , Poirier Philippe
Published: June 2020

Background: Infectious gastroenteritis is a risk factor for the development of post-infectious Irritable Bowel Syndrome (PI-IBS). Recent clinical studies reported a higher prevalence of the intestinal parasite Blastocystis in IBS patients. Using a rat model, we investigated the possible association between Blastocystis infection, colonic hypersensitivity (CHS), behavioral disturbances and gut microbiota changes. Methods: Rats were orally infected with Blastocystis subtype 4 (ST4) cysts, isolated from human stool samples. Colonic sensitivity was assessed by colorectal distension and animal behavior with an automatic behavior recognition system (PhenoTyper), the Elevated Plus Maze test and the Forced Swimming tests. Feces were collected at different time points after infection to study microbiota composition by 16 S rRNA amplicon sequencing and for short-chain fatty acid (SFCA) analysis. Results: Blastocystis-infected animals had non-inflammatory CHS with increased serine protease activity. Infection was also associated with anxiety- and depressive-like behaviors. Analysis of fecal microbiota composition showed an increase in bacterial richness associated with altered microbiota composition. These changes included an increase in the relative abundance of Oscillospira and a decrease in Clostridium, which seem to be associated with lower levels of SCFAs in the feces from infected rats. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that experimental infection of rats with Blastocystis mimics IBS symptoms with the establishment of CHS related to microbiota and metabolic shifts.
Single platelet variability governs population sensitivity and initiates intrinsic heterotypic responses
Authors: Jongen Maaike S. A. , MacArthur Ben D. , Englyst Nicola A. , West Jonathan
Published: June 2020

Investigations into the nature of platelet functional variety and consequences for homeostasis require new methods for resolving single platelet phenotypes. Here we combine droplet microfluidics with flow cytometry for high throughput single platelet function analysis. A large-scale sensitivity continuum was shown to be a general feature of human platelets from individual donors, with hypersensitive platelets coordinating significant sensitivity gains in bulk platelet populations and shown to direct aggregation in droplet-confined minimal platelet systems. Sensitivity gains scaled with agonist potency (convulxin > TRAP-14>ADP) and reduced the collagen and thrombin activation threshold required for platelet population polarization into pro-aggregatory and pro-coagulant states. The heterotypic platelet response results from an intrinsic behavioural program. The method and findings invite future discoveries into the nature of hypersensitive platelets and how community effects produce population level responses in health and disease.
Single-photon oxidation of C60 by self-sensitized singlet oxygen
Authors: Zhang Linqi , Wang Chong , Bao Jiming , Kalkan A. Kaan
Published: June 2020

C60 is regarded as the most efficient singlet oxygen (1O2) photosensitizer. Yet, its oxidation by self-sensitized 1O2 remains unclear. The literature hints both oxygen and C60 must be at excited states to react, implying a two-photon process: first, oxygen is photosensitized (1C60•1O2); second, C60 is photoexcited (1$${\mathrm{C}}_{60}^{\ast}$$

C

60

*

•1O2). However, this scheme is not plausible in a solvent, which would quench 1O2 rapidly before the second photon is absorbed. Here, we uncover a single-photon oxidation mechanism via self-sensitized 1O2 in solvents above an excitation energy of 3.7 eV. Using excitation spectroscopies and kinetics analysis, we deduce photoexcitation of a higher energy transient, 3$${\mathrm{C}}_{60}^{{\ast}{\ast}}$$

C

60

*
*

•3O2, converting to 1$${\mathrm{C}}_{60}^{\ast}$$

C

60

*

•1O2. Such triplet-triplet annihilation, yielding two simultaneously-excited singlets, is unique. Additionally, rate constants derived from this study allow us to predict a C60 half-life of about a minute in the atmosphere, possibly explaining the scarceness of C60 in the environment.
Rotaxanation as a sequestering template to preclude incidental metal insertion in complex oligochromophores
Authors: Ngo Huynh Thien , Lewis James E. M. , Payne Daniel T. , D’Souza Francis , Hill Jonathan P. , Ariga Katsuhiko , Yoshikawa Genki , Goldup Stephen M.
Published: June 2020

Rotaxane as sacrificial template to avoid metal insertion in porphyrinoids during copper catalyzed click reaction.
Intramolecular (directed) electrophilic C–H borylation
Authors: Iqbal S. A. , Pahl J. , Yuan K. , Ingleson M. J.
Published: June 2020

The intramolecular C–H borylation of (hetero)arenes and alkenes using electrophilic boranes is a powerful transition metal free methodology for forming C–B bonds.
A practical method for fabricating superparamagnetic films and the mechanism involved
Authors: Jiang Pei-Cheng , Chang Cheng-Hsun-Tony , Hsieh Chen-Yuan , Su Wei-Bin , Tsay Jyh-Shen
Published: June 2020

A schematic plot showing the OFTC model for describing morphological evolution and magnetic phase transition to form a superparamagnetic state.
Aptamers vs. antibodies as capture probes in optical porous silicon biosensors
Authors: Arshavsky-Graham Sofia , Urmann Katharina , Salama Rachel , Massad-Ivanir Naama , Walter Johanna-Gabriela , Scheper Thomas , Segal Ester
Published: June 2020

Aptamers and antibodies are compared as capture probes in a porous silicon-based optical biosensor for detection of a target protein.
Simultaneous imaging of lysosomal and mitochondrial viscosity during mitophagy using molecular rotors with dual-color emission
Authors: Chen Wen , Han Junyan , She Jiaxin , Wang Fenglin , Zhu Lei , Yu Ru-Qin , Jiang Jian-Hui
Published: June 2020

A schematic illustration of rotors to detect mitochondrial and lysosomal viscosity during mitophagy.
A hybrid superconcentrated electrolyte enables 2.5 V carbon-based supercapacitors
Authors: Wang Weijian , Deng Wenjun , Wang Xusheng , Li Yibo , Zhou Zhuqing , Hu Zongxiang , Xue Mianqi , Li Rui
Published: June 2020

A hybrid electrolyte with a 5.3 V electrochemical window enables 2.5 V carbon-based supercapacitors.
Mild synthesis of Cu2O nanoparticles interfaced at the surface of 2D-Al nanosheets
Authors: Antuch Manuel , Hochepied Jean-François , Catoire Laurent , Deschamps Johnny
Published: June 2020

The microstructure of 2D-Al nanosheets decorated with Cu2O nanoparticles, accompanied by their thermal behavior profile.
Toward multifunctional anticancer therapeutics: post-synthetic carbonate functionalisation of asymmetric Au(i) bis-N-heterocyclic carbenes
Authors: Sen Sajal , Perrin Mark W. , Sedgwick Adam C. , Dunsky Evie Y. , Lynch Vincent M. , He Xiao-Peng , Sessler Jonathan L. , Arambula Jonathan F.
Published: June 2020

A post-synthetic strategy is reported that permits functionalization of Au(i)–bis NHCs via carbonate formation and synthesis of a potential multifunctional anticancer therapeutic.
Structural diversity of hydrogen-bonded complexes comprising phenol-based and pyridine-based components: NLO properties and crystallographic and spectroscopic studies
Authors: Bryndal Iwona , Drozd Marek , Lis Tadeusz , Zaręba Jan K. , Ratajczak Henryk
Published: June 2020

Synthesis of compounds with improved physicochemical properties, including nonlinear optical phenomena such as second harmonic generation, might be considered as one of the most challenging aspects of crystal engineering.
A general strategy based on the self-evolution of building blocks for the construction of one-dimensional hierarchically super-structured TiO2 fibres
Authors: Wang Yun , Huang Haibo , Du Daoguang , Dong Yanfeng , Feng Zhongmin , Wang Yuanpeng , Sun Ting , Xu Yan
Published: June 2020

We provide a general strategy based on the self-evolution of building blocks to fabricate one-dimensional hierarchically superstructured metal-doped titanate and TiO2 materials with coated-nanosheet and interconnected meso-/macropores.
Organic–inorganic hybrid perovskite electronics
Authors: Kang Joohoon , Cho Jeong Ho
Published: June 2020

Organic–inorganic hybrid perovskite is a leading successor for the next generation of (opto)electronics.
Strain tuning of closed topological nodal lines and opposite pockets in quasi-two-dimensional α-phase FeSi2
Authors: Wang Xiaotian , Cheng Zhenxiang , Zhang Gang , Kuang Minquan , Wang Xiao-Lin , Chen Hong
Published: June 2020

α-FeSi2 is a valuable candidate for spintronics application by utilization of type I, type II, and hybrid-type topological nodal line semimetals in a single material tuned by mechanical strain.
Upconverted emission-driven photothermal conversion with gold nanospheres based on triplet–triplet annihilation
Authors: Jin Shota , Sugawa Kosuke , Takeshima Naoto , Igari Shuto , Inoue Wataru , Honda Jotaro , Yoshinari Satoshi , Watanabe Shiryu , Kanai Daisuke , Kanakubo Kotomi , Otsuki Joe
Published: June 2020

Low-energy visible light was converted into heat energy through the excitation of the localized surface plasmon resonance of gold nanospheres excited by upconverted emission based on triplet–triplet annihilation of organic molecules.
Chlorination of N,N-dimethylhydrazine compounds: reaction kinetics, mechanisms, and implications for controlling N-nitrosodimethylamine formation during ozonation
Authors: Lee Woongbae , Na Soyoung , Seo Changdong , Son Heejong , Lee Yunho
Published: June 2020

Pre-chlorination can eliminate N,N-dimethylhydrazine-type ozone–NDMA precursors, which is useful for controlling NDMA in drinking water ozonation.
Functional behaviour and microscopic analysis of ammonium sensors subject to fouling in activated sludge processes
Authors: Cecconi Francesca , Reifsnyder Samuel , Sobhani Reza , Cisquella-Serra Albert , Madou Marc , Rosso Diego
Published: June 2020

ISE-ammonium sensors subject to fouling display an increase in response time and an inexorable degradation of the measurement accuracy. The fouling morphology and composition were also studied by EDX analysis.
Liquid metal gradient fibers with reversible thermal programmability
Authors: Liu Huaizhi , Xin Yumeng , Lou Yang , Peng Yan , Wei Lili , Zhang Jiuyang
Published: June 2020

Liquid metal (LM) is used as fillers gradient dispersed in polymer matrix to prepared LM fiber. Such LM fiber showed distinguished thermally programmable shapes and electrical conductivities.
Methylation dependent gold adsorption behaviour identifies cancer derived extracellular vesicular DNA
Authors: Sina Abu Ali Ibn , Lin Ting-Yun , Vaidyanathan Ramanathan , Wang Zhaoran , Dey Shuvashis , Wang Jing , Behren Andreas , Wuethrich Alain , Carrascosa Laura G. , Trau Matt
Published: June 2020

Methylation dependent gold adsorption behaviour of extracellular vesicular DNA enables liquid biopsy test for cancer.
Mapping the near-field spin angular momenta in the structured surface plasmon polariton field
Authors: Li C. C. , Shi P. , Du L. P. , Yuan X. C.
Published: June 2020

An optical spin-resolved scanning imaging technique was proposed by which the normal to the interface spin component of surface plasmon polaritons can be mapped and the three-dimensional spin vector can be reconstructed with the experimental result.
Near-infrared-light regulated angiogenesis in a 4D hydrogel
Authors: Zheng Yijun , Chen Zhijun , Jiang Qiyang , Feng Jun , Wu Si , del Campo Aránzazu
Published: June 2020

4D hydrogel containing upconverting nanoparticles and modified with light-activatable cell adhesive peptidomimetics controls spatiotemporal angiogenesis with near infrared light.
A radially controlled ZnS interlayer on ultra-long ZnO–Gd2S3 core–shell nanorod arrays for promoting the visible photocatalytic degradation of antibiotics
Authors: Ranjith Kugalur Shanmugam , Ranjith Kumar D. , Ghoreishian Seyed Majid , Huh Yun Suk , Han Young-Kyu , Rajendra Kumar R. T.
Published: June 2020

Heterostructural nanorod (NR) arrays offer commendable visible-light-driven photocatalytic performances.
Tuning epitaxial growth on NaYbF4 upconversion nanoparticles by strain management
Authors: Zhao Jianxiong , Chen Bing , Chen Xian , Zhang Xin , Sun Tianying , Su Dong , Wang Feng
Published: June 2020

The Strain relaxation of rod-like core nanoparticles promotes shell growth with high surface coverage. The resulting core–shell nanostructures show strong multiphoton upconversion luminescence and superior magnetic resonance T1 ionic relaxivity.
Gold nanowire growth through stacking fault mechanism by oleylamine-mediated synthesis
Authors: Moraes Daniel A. , Souza Junior João B. , Ferreira Fabio F. , Mogili Naga Vishnu V. , Varanda Laudemir C.
Published: June 2020

We assigned the growth mechanism of anisotropic tadpole-like gold nanowires to the stable stacking faults and twinned defect formation, with Au-monomer incorporation onto the faulted-faces, resulting in a tail with a mixture of fcc/hcp phases.
Tuning activation and self-immolative properties of the bioorthogonal alkene–azide click-and-release strategy
Authors: Fairhall Jessica M. , Murayasu Madoka , Dadhwal Sumit , Hook Sarah , Gamble Allan B.
Published: June 2020

Combinations of aryl azides and trans-cyclooctenes have been studied in a bioorthogonal click-and-release strategy, with two reaction pairings rapidly releasing phenol at micromolar concentrations.
Syntheses of α-CF3-α-quaternary ketones via p-quinone methides and their derivatization to compounds with successively congested stereogenic centers
Authors: Terashima Kyu , Kawasaki-Takasuka Tomoko , Agou Tomohiro , Kubota Toshio , Yamazaki Takashi
Published: June 2020

NHC-catalyzed 1,6-conjugate additions of a variety of aldehydes to δ-CF3-δ-substituted p-quinone methides and their highly diastereoselective derivatization to compounds with successively congested stereogenic centers were performed.
Insights into Lewis base-catalyzed chemoselective [3 + 2] and [3 + 4] annulation reactions of MBH carbonates
Authors: Deng Qianqian , Li Shi-Jun , Wei Donghui , Lan Yu
Published: June 2020

The chemoselectivity of Lewis base-catalyzed [3 + 2] and [3 + 4] annulation reactions of MBH carbonates can be predicted using FMO overlap analysis.
Computational study of catalyst-controlled regiodivergent pathways in hydroboration of 1,3-dienes: mechanism and origin of regioselectivity
Authors: Fu Zhongxin , Guo Xianming , Li Yupan , Li Juan
Published: June 2020

DFT calculations were performed to elucidate the origins of catalyst-controlled regioselectivity in the hydroboration of 2-substituted 1,3-dienes.
Metal-free chemoselective hydrogenation of unsaturated carbon–carbon bonds via cathodic reduction
Authors: Qin Yongwei , Lu Jingjun , Zou Zirong , Hong Huanliang , Li Yamei , Li Yibiao , Chen Lu , Hu Jinhui , Huang Yubing
Published: June 2020

A straightforward protocol for efficient and highly selective hydrogenation of unsaturated carbon–carbon bonds via electrochemical reduction has been reported.
Magnetic ion oxidation state dependent magnetoelectric coupling strength in Fe doped BCT ceramics
Authors: Chawla Aanchal , Singh Anupinder , Babu P. D. , Singh Mandeep
Published: June 2020

Polycrystalline samples of Ba0.96Ca0.04Ti0.91Fe0.09O3 were prepared using a conventional solid state reaction route with different Fe starting precursors (Fe2O3, Fe3O4). A significant difference in the magnetic and ferroelectric properties was observed.
Photo-initiated rupture of azobenzene micelles to enable the spectroscopic analysis of antimicrobial peptide dynamics
Authors: Roberson Matthew G. , Duncan Julia M. , Flieth Keveen J. , Geary Laina M. , Tucker Matthew J.
Published: June 2020

Membrane mediated peptide conformational changesviaphoto-induced micelle disruption.
Chemically anchored two-dimensional-SiOx/zero-dimensional-MoO2 nanocomposites for high-capacity lithium storage materials
Authors: Kim Soohwan , Yoo Hyundong , Kim Hansu
Published: June 2020

By the synergistic effect of the unique properties of 2D-SiOx and 0D-MoO2, the 2D-SiOx/0D-MoO2 nanocomposites show enhancement in Li-storage properties.
A joint optimization QSAR model of fathead minnow acute toxicity based on a radial basis function neural network and its consensus modeling
Authors: Wang Yukun , Chen Xuebo
Published: June 2020

Acute toxicity of the fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas) is an important indicator to evaluate the hazards and risks of compounds in aquatic environments.
Thermodynamic study of the adsorption of acridinium derivatives on the clay surface
Authors: Yoshida Yuma , Shimada Tetsuya , Ishida Tamao , Takagi Shinsuke
Published: June 2020

Thermodynamic studies indicate that van der Waals and hydrophobic interactions contribute to the adsorption of mono-cationic acridinium derivatives on the clay surface.
Synthesis, structure, and antitumor activity of 2,9-disubstituted perhydro 2,3a,7b,9,10a,14b-hexaazadibenzotetracenes
Authors: Rakhimova Elena B. , Kirsanov Victor Yu. , Tret'yakova Elena V. , Khalilov Leonard M. , Ibragimov Askhat G. , Dzhemileva Lilya U. , D'yakonov Vladimir A. , Dzhemilev Usein M.
Published: June 2020

Catalytic methods for the synthesis of previously unknown 2,9-disubstituted 3bR*,7aR*,10bR*,14aR*-cis-14c,14d-perhydro-2,3a,7b,9,10a,14b-hexaazadibenzotetracenes with pronounced antitumor activity have been developed.
The Baeyer–Villiger rearrangement with metal triflates: new developments toward mechanism
Authors: Latos Piotr , Siewniak Agnieszka , Sitko Magdalena , Chrobok Anna
Published: June 2020

New insight into the mechanism of Baeyer–Villiger oxidation with H2O2 and metal triflates was presented.