bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Low cost exoskeleton manipulator using bidirectional triboelectric sensors enhanced multiple degree of freedom sensory system
Authors: Zhu Minglu , Sun Zhongda , Chen Tao , Lee Chengkuo 
Published: May 2021

AbstractRapid developments of robotics and virtual reality technology are raising the requirements of more advanced human-machine interfaces for achieving efficient parallel control. Exoskeleton as an assistive wearable device, usually requires a huge cost and complex data processing to track the multi-dimensional human motions. Alternatively, we propose a triboelectric bi-directional sensor as a universal and cost-effective solution to a customized exoskeleton for monitoring all of the movable joints of the human upper limbs with low power consumption. The corresponding movements, including two DOF rotations of the shoulder, twisting of the wrist, and the bending motions, are detected and utilized for controlling the virtual character and the robotic arm in real-time. Owing to the structural consistency between the exoskeleton and the human body, further kinetic analysis offers additional physical parameters without introducing other types of sensors. This exoskeleton sensory system shows a great potential of being an economic and advanced human-machine interface for supporting the manipulation in both real and virtual worlds, including robotic automation, healthcare, and training applications.
Androgen signaling uses a writer and a reader of ADP-ribosylation to regulate protein complex assembly
Authors: Yang Chun-Song , Jividen Kasey , Kamata Teddy , Dworak Natalia , Oostdyk Luke , Remlein Bartlomiej , Pourfarjam Yasin , Kim In-Kwon , Du Kang-Ping , Abbas Tarek , Sherman Nicholas E. , Wotton David , Paschal Bryce M. 
Published: May 2021

AbstractAndrogen signaling through the androgen receptor (AR) directs gene expression in both normal and prostate cancer cells. Androgen regulates multiple aspects of the AR life cycle, including its localization and post-translational modification, but understanding how modifications are read and integrated with AR activity has been difficult. Here, we show that ADP-ribosylation regulates AR through a nuclear pathway mediated by Parp7. We show that Parp7 mono-ADP-ribosylates agonist-bound AR, and that ADP-ribosyl-cysteines within the N-terminal domain mediate recruitment of the E3 ligase Dtx3L/Parp9. Molecular recognition of ADP-ribosyl-cysteine is provided by tandem macrodomains in Parp9, and Dtx3L/Parp9 modulates expression of a subset of AR-regulated genes. Parp7, ADP-ribosylation of AR, and AR-Dtx3L/Parp9 complex assembly are inhibited by Olaparib, a compound used clinically to inhibit poly-ADP-ribosyltransferases Parp1/2. Our study reveals the components of an androgen signaling axis that uses a writer and reader of ADP-ribosylation to regulate protein-protein interactions and AR activity.
Genetic risk factors for colorectal cancer in multiethnic Indonesians
Authors: Yusuf Irawan , Pardamean Bens , Baurley James W. , Budiarto Arif , Miskad Upik A. , Lusikooy Ronald E. , Arsyad Arham , Irwan Akram , Mathew George , Suriapranata Ivet , Kusuma Rinaldy , Kacamarga Muhamad F. , Cenggoro Tjeng W. , McMahan Christopher , Joyner Chase , Pardamean Carissa I. 
Published: May 2021

AbstractColorectal cancer is a common cancer in Indonesia, yet it has been understudied in this resource-constrained setting. We conducted a genome-wide association study focused on evaluation and preliminary discovery of colorectal cancer risk factors in Indonesians. We administered detailed questionnaires and collecting blood samples from 162 colorectal cancer cases throughout Makassar, Indonesia. We also established a control set of 193 healthy individuals frequency matched by age, sex, and ethnicity. A genome-wide association analysis was performed on 84 cases and 89 controls passing quality control. We evaluated known colorectal cancer genetic variants using logistic regression and established a genome-wide polygenic risk model using a Bayesian variable selection technique. We replicate associations for rs9497673, rs6936461 and rs7758229 on chromosome 6; rs11255841 on chromosome 10; and rs4779584, rs11632715, and rs73376930 on chromosome 15. Polygenic modeling identified 10 SNP associated with colorectal cancer risk. This work helps characterize the relationship between variants in the SCL22A3, SCG5, GREM1, and STXBP5-AS1 genes and colorectal cancer in a diverse Indonesian population. With further biobanking and international research collaborations, variants specific to colorectal cancer risk in Indonesians will be identified.
Evaluation of changes in intestinal microbiota in Crohn’s disease patients after anti-TNF alpha treatment
Authors: Sanchis-Artero Laura , Martínez-Blanch Juan Francisco , Manresa-Vera Sergio , Cortés-Castell Ernesto , Valls-Gandia Marina , Iborra Marisa , Paredes-Arquiola Jose Maria , Boscá-Watts Maia , Huguet Jose Maria , Gil-Borrás Rafael , Rodríguez-Morales Josefa , Cortés-Rizo Xavier 
Published: May 2021

AbstractIntestinal dysbiosis is key in the onset and development of Crohn’s disease (CD). We evaluated the microbiota changes in CD patients before and after a six-month anti-TNF treatment, comparing these changes with the microbiota of healthy subjects. This prospective multicenter observational study involved 27 CD patients initiating anti-TNF treatment and 16 healthy individuals. Inflammatory activity was determined at baseline, 3 and 6 months, classifying patients into responders and non-responders. Fecal microbiota was analyzed by massive genomic sequencing thought 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing before and after six months of anti-TNF treatment. The CD cohort showed a decrease in genera of the class Clostridia, short-chain fatty acid producers, and an increase in the phylum Proteobacteria (p < 0.01) versus the healthy cohort. After anti-TNF treatment, the phylum Proteobacteria also increased in non-responders versus responders (13/27) (p < 0.005), with the class Clostridia increasing. In addition, alpha diversity increased in responders versus non-responders (p < 0.01), tending towards eubiosis. An association was found (p < 0.001) in the F.prausnitzii/E.coli ratio between responders and non-responders. The F/E ratio was the most accurate biomarker of anti-TNF response (area under the curve 0.87). Thus, anti-TNF treatment allows partial restoration of intestinal microbiota in responders and the F.prausnitzii/E.coli ratio can provide a reliable indicator of response to anti-TNF in CD.
Augmented reality navigation method for recontouring surgery of craniofacial fibrous dysplasia
Authors: Liu Kai , Gao Yuan , Abdelrehem Ahmed , Zhang Lei , Chen Xi , Xie Le , Wang Xudong 
Published: May 2021

AbstractThe objective of this study is to introduce the application of augmented reality (AR) navigation system developed by the authors in recontouring surgery of craniofacial fibrous dysplasia. Five consecutive patients with craniofacial fibrous dysplasia were enrolled. Through three-dimensional (3D) simulation, a virtual plan was designed to reconstruct the normal anatomical contour of the deformed region. Surgical recontouring was achieved with the assistance of the AR navigation system. The accuracy of the surgical procedure was assessed by superimposing the post-operative 3D craniomaxillofacial model onto the virtual plan. The pre-operative preparation time and operation time were also counted. In all patients, AR navigation was performed successfully, with a mean ± SD of the errors of 1.442 ± 0.234 mm. The operative time of the patients ranged from 60 to 80 min. The pre-operative preparation time was 20 min for each patient. All the patients showed uneventful healing without any complications, in addition to satisfaction with the post-operative aesthetics. Using our AR navigation system in recontouring surgery can provide surgeons with a comprehensive and intuitive view of the recontouring border, as well as the depth, in real time. This method could improve the efficiency and safety of craniofacial fibrous dysplasia recontouring procedures.
PhosIDP: a web tool to visualize the location of phosphorylation sites in disordered regions
Authors: Nicolaou Sonia T. , Hebditch Max , Jonathan Owen J. , Verma Chandra S. , Warwicker Jim 
Published: May 2021

AbstractCharge is a key determinant of intrinsically disordered protein (IDP) and intrinsically disordered region (IDR) properties. IDPs and IDRs are enriched in sites of phosphorylation, which alters charge. Visualizing the degree to which phosphorylation modulates the charge profile of a sequence would assist in the functional interpretation of IDPs and IDRs. PhosIDP is a web tool that shows variation of charge and fold propensity upon phosphorylation. In combination with the displayed location of protein domains, the information provided by the web tool can lead to functional inferences for the consequences of phosphorylation. IDRs are components of many proteins that form biological condensates. It is shown that IDR charge, and its modulation by phosphorylation, is more tightly controlled for proteins that are essential for condensate formation than for those present in condensates but inessential.
Synthesis and in vitro PDT evaluation of red emission polymer dots (R-CPDs) and pyropheophorbide-α conjugates
Authors: Sajjad Faiza , Yan Yi-Jia , Margetić Davor , Chen Zhi-Long 
Published: May 2021

AbstractCarbon based polymer dots have piqued attention of researchers because of excellent biocompatibility, and good solubility. Most of the p-dots are able to generate ROS which is effective for photodynamic therapy for the treatment of cancer while some photosensitizers such as porphyrins possess some drawbacks such as hydrophobicity, and dark toxicity. Therefore in this study we conjugated red emission carbon based polymer with pyropheophorbide-α through amide condensation and π–π stacking. One pot synthesis of the conjugate was successfully achieved. Their photophysiological properties were studied and structures were characterized by FT-IR, TEM and 1HNMR. pH- sensitivity of the conjugates was confirmed using fluorescence and UV–vis spectroscopy. Photo toxicity and dark toxicity of the prepared conjugates were evaluated in human esophageal cancer cell line (Eca-109). Hemocompatibility of the synthesized conjugates was evaluated and proved that the conjugates are safe to use for the treatment of tumor. Our results showed the PS doped p-dots had less dark toxicity and increased light toxicity as well as ROS generation was high as compared to precursor drug. Therefore, incorporation of p-dots to porphyrin improved biocompatibility and enhanced the photodynamic effect.
Alkalinity of diverse water samples can be altered by mercury preservation and borosilicate vial storage
Authors: Mos Benjamin , Holloway Ceylena , Kelaher Brendan P. , Santos Isaac R. , Dworjanyn Symon A. 
Published: May 2021

AbstractWe compared the effects of preservation and storage methods on total alkalinity (AT) of seawater, estuarine water, freshwater, and groundwater samples stored for 0–6 months. Water samples, untreated or treated with HgCl2, 0.45 µm filtration, or filtration plus HgCl2, were stored in polypropylene or borosilicate glass vials for 0, 1, or 6 months. Mean AT of samples treated with HgCl2 was reduced by as much as 49.1 µmol kg−1 (1.3%). Borosilicate glass elevated AT, possibly due to dissolving silicates. There was little change in AT of control and filtered samples stored in polypropylene, except for untreated groundwater (~ 4.1% reduction at 6 months). HgCl2 concentrations of 0.02–0.05% reduced the AT of fresh, estuarine, and ground water samples by as much as 35.5 µmol kg−1 after 1 month, but had little effect on the AT of seawater. Adding glucose as a carbon source for microbial growth resulted in no AT changes in 0.45 µm-filtered samples. We suggest water samples intended for AT analyses can be filtered to 0.45 µm, and stored in polypropylene vials at 4 °C for at least 6 months. Borosilicate glassware and HgCl2 can be avoided to prevent analytical uncertainties and reduce risks related to use of Hg2+.
Genome-wide identification and expression pattern analysis of lipoxygenase gene family in banana
Authors: Liu Fan , Li Hua , Wu Junwei , Wang Bin , Tian Na , Liu Jiapeng , Sun Xueli , Wu Huan , Huang Yuji , Lü Peitao , Cheng Chunzhen 
Published: May 2021

AbstractThe LOX genes have been identified and characterized in many plant species, but studies on the banana LOX genes are very limited. In this study, we respectively identified 18 MaLOX, 11 MbLOX, and 12 MiLOX genes from the Musa acuminata, M. balbisiana and M. itinerans genome data, investigated their gene structures and characterized the physicochemical properties of their encoded proteins. Banana LOXs showed a preference for using and ending with G/C and their encoded proteins can be classified into 9-LOX, Type I 13-LOX and Type II 13-LOX subfamilies. The expansion of the MaLOXs might result from the combined actions of genome-wide, tandem, and segmental duplications. However, tandem and segmental duplications contribute to the expansion of MbLOXs. Transcriptome data based gene expression analysis showed that MaLOX1, 4, and 7 were highly expressed in fruit and their expression levels were significantly regulated by ethylene. And 11, 12 and 7 MaLOXs were found to be low temperature-, high temperature-, and Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. Cubense tropical race 4 (FocTR4)-responsive, respectively. MaLOX8, 9 and 13 are responsive to all the three stresses, MaLOX4 and MaLOX12 are high temperature- and FocTR4-responsive; MaLOX6 and MaLOX17 are significantly induced by low temperature and FocTR4; and the expression of MaLOX7 and MaLOX16 are only affected by high temperature. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) analysis revealed that the expression levels of several MaLOXs are regulated by MeJA and FocTR4, indicating that they can increase the resistance of banana by regulating the JA pathway. Additionally, the weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) of MaLOXs revealed 3 models respectively for 5 (MaLOX7-11), 3 (MaLOX6, 13, and 17), and 1 (MaLOX12) MaLOX genes. Our findings can provide valuable information for the characterization, evolution, diversity and functionality of MaLOX, MbLOX and MiLOX genes and are helpful for understanding the roles of LOXs in banana growth and development and adaptations to different stresses.
Molecular detection of giant snakeheads, Channa micropeltes (Cuvier, 1831), one of the most troublesome fish species
Authors: Osathanunkul Maslin , Minamoto Toshifumi 
Published: May 2021

AbstractA lack of reliable tools for determining the presence and distribution of fish species can impede understanding of predator–prey interactions and fishery management. Conventional fish survey methods are invasive, and can be size or species selective. Combining netting and electrofishing is a current method used to monitor fish species in Phayao Lake (Kwan Phayao), Thailand. However, the methods are inefficient and time-consuming. Recently, locals who rely on inland fisheries in Kwan Phayao expressed their deep concerns about the giant snakehead, Channa micropeltes (Cuvier, 1831) destroying other fish there. The giant snakehead prey on many commercially important fish species, as the prey species is reduced, negative effects on both biodiversity and the fishery sector could follow. Here, an eDNA-based survey was developed to detect the presence of the giant snakehead. Water samples were collected from six sites within Kwan Phayao and 17 sites in Ing River where water flowed into and out of Kwan Payao. The eDNA of the giant snakehead was detected in water samples from all collection sites using the developed qPCR assay with various concentrations. The eDNA was shown here to be a sensitive and reliable tool for fish surveillance so there will be a better chance for developing an effective management strategy.
The impact of atmospheric oxidation on hygroscopicity and cloud droplet activation of inorganic sea spray aerosol
Authors: Rosati Bernadette , Christiansen Sigurd , Dinesen Anders , Roldin Pontus , Massling Andreas , Nilsson E. Douglas , Bilde Merete 
Published: May 2021

AbstractSea spray aerosol (SSA) contributes significantly to natural aerosol particle concentrations globally, in marine areas even dominantly. The potential changes of the omnipresent inorganic fraction of SSA due to atmospheric ageing is largely unexplored. In the atmosphere, SSA may exist as aqueous phase solution droplets or as dried solid or amorphous particles. We demonstrate that ageing of liquid NaCl and artificial sea salt aerosol by exposure to ozone and UV light leads to a substantial decrease in hygroscopicity and cloud activation potential of the dried particles of the same size. The results point towards surface reactions on the liquid aerosols that are more crucial for small particles and the formation of salt structures with water bound within the dried aerosols, termed hydrates. Our findings suggest an increased formation of hydrate forming salts during ageing and the presence of hydrates in dried SSA. Field observations indicate a reduced hygroscopic growth factor of sub-micrometre SSA in the marine atmosphere compared to fresh laboratory generated NaCl or sea salt of the same dry size, which is typically attributed to organic matter or sulphates. Aged inorganic sea salt offers an additional explanation for such a measured reduced hygroscopic growth factor and cloud activation potential.
Phenotypical predictors of pregnancy-related restless legs syndrome and their association with basal ganglia and the limbic circuits
Authors: Chechko Natalia , Lefort-Besnard Jeremy , Goecke Tamme W. , Frensch Markus , Schnakenberg Patricia , Stickel Susanne , Bzdok Danilo 
Published: May 2021

AbstractRestless legs syndrome (RLS) in pregnancy is a common disorder with a multifactorial etiology. A neurological and obstetrical cohort of 308 postpartum women was screened for RLS within 1 to 6 days of childbirth and 12 weeks postpartum. Of the 308 young mothers, 57 (prevalence rate 19%) were identified as having been affected by RLS symptoms in the recently completed pregnancy. Structural and functional MRI was obtained from 25 of these 57 participants. A multivariate two-window algorithm was employed to systematically chart the relationship between brain structures and phenotypical predictors of RLS. A decreased volume of the parietal, orbitofrontal and frontal areas shortly after delivery was found to be linked to persistent RLS symptoms up to 12 weeks postpartum, the symptoms' severity and intensity in the most recent pregnancy, and a history of RLS in previous pregnancies. The same negative relationship was observed between brain volume and not being married, not receiving any iron supplement and higher numbers of stressful life events. High cortisol levels, being married and receiving iron supplements, on the other hand, were found to be associated with increased volumes in the bilateral striatum. Investigating RLS symptoms in pregnancy within a brain-phenotype framework may help shed light on the heterogeneity of the condition.
Cholinergic calcium responses in cultured antennal lobe neurons of the migratory locust
Authors: Bergmann Gregor A. , Bicker Gerd 
Published: May 2021

AbstractLocusts are advantageous organisms to elucidate mechanisms of olfactory coding at the systems level. Sensory input is provided by the olfactory receptor neurons of the antenna, which send their axons into the antennal lobe. So far, cellular properties of neurons isolated from the circuitry of the olfactory system, such as transmitter-induced calcium responses, have not been studied. Biochemical and immunocytochemical investigations have provided evidence for acetylcholine as classical transmitter of olfactory receptor neurons. Here, we characterize cell cultured projection and local interneurons of the antennal lobe by cytosolic calcium imaging to cholinergic stimulation. We bulk loaded the indicator dye Cal-520 AM in dissociated culture and recorded calcium transients after applying cholinergic agonists and antagonists. The majority of projection and local neurons respond with increases in calcium levels to activation of both nicotinic and muscarinic receptors. In local interneurons, we reveal interactions lasting over minutes between intracellular signaling pathways, mediated by muscarinic and nicotinic receptor stimulation. The present investigation is pioneer in showing that Cal-520 AM readily loads Locusta migratoria neurons, making it a valuable tool for future research in locust neurophysiology, neuropharmacology, and neurodevelopment.
Acute toxicity analysis of an inhibitor of BCL2, Disarib, in rats
Authors: Sharma Shivangi , Varsha Kontham Kulangara , Ray Ujjayinee , Siddiqua Humaira , Jose Anjana Elizabeth , Muninarasimaiah Sridhar , Raghavan Sathees C. , Choudhary Bibha 
Published: May 2021

AbstractApoptosis or programmed cell death is a highly regulated process, which eliminates unwanted and damaged cells. Inhibition of apoptosis is a hallmark of cancer cells. BCL2 family proteins are known to play a vital role in the regulation of apoptosis. Overexpression of BCL2, an antiapoptotic protein, provides the advantage of prolonged survival to cancer cells. Over the years, several BCL2 inhibitors have been investigated extensively for their anticancer potential. However, most of them were abolished before clinical use due to their side effects. Previously, we had identified and characterized a novel BCL2 inhibitor, Disarib, with the potential to eliminate tumor cells in a BCL2 specific manner leading to reduction in tumor burden in multiple mouse models. Notably, a head-to-head comparison of Disarib to ABT199, the only FDA approved BCL2 inhibitor revealed that Disarib is as potent as ABT199. Recent studies using mice revealed that Disarib did not invoke significant side effects in mice. In the present study, we have investigated the acute toxicity of Disarib in Wistar rats. The bioavailability studies following exposure of Disarib in Wistar rats revealed its maximum availability in serum at 24 h following oral administration. Acute toxicity analysis revealed that even a dose as high as 2000 mg/kg of Disarib did not cause significant toxicity in rats. There was no significant variation in blood parameters or kidney and liver functions following administration of Disarib. Histological analysis of different tissues from Disarib treated groups revealed standard architecture with no observable cellular damage. Importantly, exposure to Diasrib did not result in genotoxicity as determined by micronucleus assay. Further, solubility assays revealed that besides DMSO, Disarib is also soluble in alcohol. While the high acidic condition can increase the solubility of Disarib, even a lower percentage of alcohol with acidic conditions can improve its solubility. Thus, the toxicological profile in the current study revealed no significant side effects when Disarib was administered orally to rats.
Genesis and influencing factors of the colour of chrysoprase
Authors: Jiang Yuansheng , Guo Ying 
Published: May 2021

AbstractThe genesis and influencing factors of the colour of chrysoprase were studied based on the results of transmission electron microscopy and X-ray fluorescence, ultraviolet–visible and Raman spectroscopies. The results show that under a 6504-K fluorescent lamp, chrysoprase colour is divided into the grades of fancy, fancy intense and fancy deep. The lightness of chrysoprase is affected mainly by its chromium content, the chroma is affected by its nickel content and the hue angle is affected by the sum of its chromium and ferrum contents. The colour of chrysoprase is related significantly to the transmission window that occurs between the two main bands centred at 380 and 660 nm and the absorption peaks at 380 and 660 nm in the ultraviolet–visible spectrum. Chrysoprase with low crystallinity has more nickel and a higher chroma. The inclusions that cause the chrysoprase colour have been identified as pimelite.