bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Probe exciplex structure of highly efficient thermally activated delayed fluorescence organic light emitting diodes
Authors: Lin Tzu-Chieh , Sarma Monima , Chen Yi-Ting , Liu Shih-Hung , Lin Ke-Ting , Chiang Pin-Yi , Chuang Wei-Tsung , Liu Yi-Chen , Hsu Hsiu-Fu , Hung Wen-Yi , Tang Wei-Chieh , Wong Ken-Tsung , Chou Pi-Tai
Published: July 2018

The lack of structural information impeded the access of efficient luminescence for the exciplex type thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF). We report here the pump-probe Step-Scan Fourier transform infrared spectra of exciplex composed of a carbazole-based electron donor (CN-Cz2) and 1,3,5-triazine-based electron acceptor (PO-T2T) codeposited as the solid film that gives intermolecular charge transfer (CT), TADF, and record-high exciplex type cyan organic light emitting diodes (external quantum efficiency: 16%). The transient infrared spectral assignment to the CT state is unambiguous due to its distinction from the local excited state of either the donor or the acceptor chromophore. Importantly, a broad absorption band centered at ~2060 cm−1 was observed and assigned to a polaron-pair absorption. Time-resolved kinetics lead us to conclude that CT excited states relax to a ground-state intermediate with a time constant of ~3 µs, followed by a structural relaxation to the original CN-Cz2:PO-T2T configuration within ~14 µs.
A novel probe to assess cytosolic entry of exogenous proteins
Authors: Lu Qiao , Grotzke Jeff E. , Cresswell Peter
Published: July 2018

Dendritic cells use a specialized pathway called cross-presentation to activate CD8+ T cells by presenting peptides from exogenous protein antigens on major histocompatibility complex class I molecules. Considerable evidence suggests that internalized antigens cross endocytic membranes to access cytosolic proteasomes for processing. The mechanism of protein dislocation represents a major unsolved problem. Here we describe the development of a sensitive reporter substrate, an N-glycosylated variant of Renilla luciferase fused to the Fc region of human IgG1. The luciferase variant is designed to be enzymatically inactive when glycosylated, but active after the asparagine to aspartic acid conversion that occurs upon deglycosylation by the cytosolic enzyme N-glycanase-1. The generation of cytosolic luminescence depends on internalization, deglycosylation, the cytosolic AAA-ATPase VCP/p97, and the cytosolic chaperone HSP90. By incorporating a T cell epitope into the fusion protein, we demonstrate that antigen dislocation into the cytosol is the rate limiting step in cross-presentation.
Ba3Mg3(BO3)3F3 polymorphs with reversible phase transition and high performances as ultraviolet nonlinear optical materials
Authors: Mutailipu Miriding , Zhang Min , Wu Hongping , Yang Zhihua , Shen Yihan , Sun Junliang , Pan Shilie
Published: July 2018

Nonlinear optical (NLO) materials are the vital components of future photoelectric technologies as they can broaden the tunable wavelength range supplied by common laser sources. However, the necessary prerequisites for a practical NLO material are rather strict. Accordingly, considerable efforts have been focused on finding potential NLO materials. Here we report two asymmetric beryllium-free borates Pna21- and P$$\bar 6$$

6

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2m-Ba3Mg3(BO3)3F3 featuring NLO-favorable 2∞[Mg3O2F3(BO3)2] layered structures. The reversible phase transition among two polymorphs was demonstrated by multiple experimental tests. The optical measurements reveal that Pna21-Ba3Mg3(BO3)3F3 possesses the optical properties required for ultraviolet NLO applications. Remarkably, Pna21-Ba3Mg3(BO3)3F3 has a large laser damage threshold, a deep-ultraviolet cutoff edge, a favorable anisotropic thermal expansion as well as the capacity of insolubility in water. These optical properties can be comparable or superior to that of commercial NLO material β-BaB2O4, which make Pna21-Ba3Mg3(BO3)3F3 a promising ultraviolet NLO material.
AND-1 fork protection function prevents fork resection and is essential for proliferation
Authors: Abe Takuya , Kawasumi Ryotaro , Giannattasio Michele , Dusi Sabrina , Yoshimoto Yui , Miyata Keiji , Umemura Koyuki , Hirota Kouji , Branzei Dana
Published: July 2018

AND-1/Ctf4 bridges the CMG helicase and DNA polymerase alpha, facilitating replication. Using an inducible degron system in avian cells, we find that AND-1 depletion is incompatible with proliferation, owing to cells accumulating in G2 with activated DNA damage checkpoint. Replication without AND-1 causes fork speed slow-down and accumulation of long single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) gaps at the replication fork junction, with these regions being converted to DNA double strand breaks (DSBs) in G2. Strikingly, resected forks and DNA damage accumulation in G2, but not fork slow-down, are reverted by treatment with mirin, an MRE11 nuclease inhibitor. Domain analysis of AND-1 further revealed that the HMG box is important for fast replication but not for proliferation, whereas conversely, the WD40 domain prevents fork resection and subsequent DSB-associated lethality. Thus, our findings uncover a fork protection function of AND-1/Ctf4 manifested via the WD40 domain that is essential for proliferation and averts genome instability.
Salvage of the 5-deoxyribose byproduct of radical SAM enzymes
Authors: Beaudoin Guillaume A. W. , Li Qiang , Folz Jacob , Fiehn Oliver , Goodsell Justin L. , Angerhofer Alexander , Bruner Steven D. , Hanson Andrew D.
Published: July 2018

5-Deoxyribose is formed from 5′-deoxyadenosine, a toxic byproduct of radical S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) enzymes. The degradative fate of 5-deoxyribose is unknown. Here, we define a salvage pathway for 5-deoxyribose in bacteria, consisting of phosphorylation, isomerization, and aldol cleavage steps. Analysis of bacterial genomes uncovers widespread, unassigned three-gene clusters specifying a putative kinase, isomerase, and sugar phosphate aldolase. We show that the enzymes encoded by the Bacillus thuringiensis cluster, acting together in vitro, convert 5-deoxyribose successively to 5-deoxyribose 1-phosphate, 5-deoxyribulose 1-phosphate, and dihydroxyacetone phosphate plus acetaldehyde. Deleting the isomerase decreases the 5-deoxyribulose 1-phosphate pool size, and deleting either the isomerase or the aldolase increases susceptibility to 5-deoxyribose. The substrate preference of the aldolase is unique among family members, and the X-ray structure reveals an unusual manganese-dependent enzyme. This work defines a salvage pathway for 5-deoxyribose, a near-universal metabolite.
Ultrafast switch-on dynamics of frequency-tuneable semiconductor lasers
Authors: Kundu Iman , Wang Feihu , Qi Xiaoqiong , Nong Hanond , Dean Paul , Freeman Joshua R. , Valavanis Alexander , Agnew Gary , Grier Andrew T. , Taimre Thomas , Li Lianhe , Indjin Dragan , Mangeney Juliette , Tignon Jérôme , Dhillon Sukhdeep S. , Rakić Aleksandar D. , Cunningham John E. , Linfield Edmund H. , Davies A. Giles
Published: July 2018

Single-mode frequency-tuneable semiconductor lasers based on monolithic integration of multiple cavity sections are important components, widely used in optical communications, photonic integrated circuits and other optical technologies. To date, investigations of the ultrafast switching processes in such lasers, essential to reduce frequency cross-talk, have been restricted to the observation of intensity switching over nanosecond-timescales. Here, we report coherent measurements of the ultrafast switch-on dynamics, mode competition and frequency selection in a monolithic frequency-tuneable laser using coherent time-domain sampling of the laser emission. This approach allows us to observe hopping between lasing modes on picosecond-timescales and the temporal evolution of transient multi-mode emission into steady-state single mode emission. The underlying physics is explained through a full multi-mode, temperature-dependent carrier and photon transport model. Our results show that the fundamental limit on the timescales of frequency-switching between competing modes varies with the underlying Vernier alignment of the laser cavity.
Dynamic weakening during earthquakes controlled by fluid thermodynamics
Authors: Acosta M. , Passelègue F. X. , Schubnel A. , Violay M.
Published: July 2018

Earthquakes result from weakening of faults (transient decrease in friction) during co-seismic slip. Dry faults weaken due to degradation of fault asperities by frictional heating (e.g. flash heating). In the presence of fluids, theoretical models predict faults to weaken by thermal pressurization of fault fluid. However, experimental evidence of rock/fluid interactions during dynamic rupture under realistic stress conditions remains poorly documented. Here we demonstrate that the relative contribution of thermal pressurization and flash heating to fault weakening depends on fluid thermodynamic properties. Our dynamic records of laboratory earthquakes demonstrate that flash heating drives strength loss under dry and low (1 MPa) fluid pressure conditions. Conversely, flash heating is inhibited at high fluid pressure (25 MPa) because water’s liquid–supercritical phase transition buffers frictional heat. Our results are supported by flash-heating theory modified for pressurized fluids and by numerical modelling of thermal pressurization. The heat buffer effect has maximum efficiency at mid-crustal depths (~2–5 km), where many anthropogenic earthquakes nucleate.
Author Correction: TLR9 activation via microglial glucocorticoid receptors contributes to degeneration of midbrain dopamine neurons
Authors: Maatouk Layal , Compagnion Anne-Claire , Sauvage Maria-Angeles Carrillo-de , Bemelmans Alexis-Pierre , Leclere-Turbant Sabrina , Cirotteau Vincent , Tohme Mira , Beke Allen , Trichet Michaël , Bazin Virginie , Trawick Bobby N. , Ransohoff Richard M. , Tronche François , Manoury Bénédicte , Vyas Sheela
Published: July 2018

The originally published version of this Article contained an error in the subheading “Microglial GR does not affect DN loss triggered by TLR4 and TLR7,” which was incorrectly given as “Microglial GR does affect DN loss triggered by TLR2 and TLR4”. This has now been corrected in both the PDF and HTML versions of the Article.
Invisible water: the importance of good groundwater governance and management
Authors: Megdal Sharon B.
Published: July 2018

This paper summarizes the results of efforts to bring attention to the importance of understanding and improving groundwater governance and management. Discussion of survey work in the United States and global case studies highlights the importance of focusing attention on this invisible water resource before pollution or depletion of it causes severe economic, environmental, and social dislocations. Better governance and management of groundwater are required to move toward sustainable groundwater use.
Intrinsic Rhythmicity Predicts Synchronization-Continuation Entrainment Performance
Authors: McPherson Trevor , Berger Dorita , Alagapan Sankaraleengam , Fröhlich Flavio
Published: July 2018

Rhythmic entrainment—defined as a stable temporal relationship between external periodic signals and endogenous rhythmic processes—allows individuals to coordinate with environmental rhythms. However, the impact of inter-individual differences on entrainment processes as a function of the tempo of external periodic signals remain poorly understood. To better understand the effects of endogenous differences and varying tempos on rhythmic entrainment, 20 young healthy adults participated in a spontaneous motor tempo (SMT) task and synchronization-continuation tasks at three experimental tempos (50, 70, and 128 bpm; 1200, 857, and 469 ms inter onset interval (IOI)). We hypothesized that SMT task performance and tempo would influence externally paced synchronization-continuation task behavior. Indeed, intrinsic rhythmicity assessed through the SMT task predicted performance in the externally paced task, allowing us to characterize differences in entrainment behavior between participants with low and high endogenous rhythmicity. High rhythmicity individuals, defined by better SMT performance, deviated from externally paced pulses sooner than individuals with low rhythmicity, who were able to maintain externally paced pulses for longer. The magnitude of these behavioral differences depended on the experimental tempo of the synchronization-continuation task. Our results indicate that differences in intrinsic rhythmicity vary between individuals and relate to tempo-dependent entrainment performance.
Long-term variation of satellite-based PM2.5 and influence factors over East China
Authors: He Qianshan , Geng Fuhai , Li Chengcai , Mu Haizhen , Zhou Guangqiang , Liu Xiaobo , Gao Wei , Wang Yanyu , Cheng Tiantao
Published: July 2018

With the explosive economic development of China over the past few decades, air pollution has attracted increasing global concern. Using satellite-based PM2.5 data from 2000 to 2015, we found that the available emissions of atmospheric compositions show similar yearly variation trends to PM2.5, even if the synchronization is not met for each composition, implying that the intensity of anthropogenic emissions dominates the temporal variation of PM2.5 in East China. Empirical orthogonal function analysis demonstrates that the dominant variability in the seasonal PM2.5 is closely associated with climate circulation transformation, incarnated as the specific climate index such as the Asia Polar Vortex intensity in spring, the Northern Hemisphere Subtropical High Ridge Position for the leading mode and the Kuroshio Current SST for the second mode in summer, the Asia Polar Vortex Area for the leading mode and the Pacific Polar Vortex Intensity for the second mode in autumn, the NINO A SSTA for the leading mode and the Pacific Decadal Oscillation for the second mode in winter. Therefore, apart from anthropogenic emissions effects, our results also provide robust evidence that over the past 16 years the climate factor has played a significant role in modulating PM2.5 in eastern China.
Antibiotic resistance, molecular characterizations, and clinical manifestations of Campylobacteriosis at a military medical center in Hawaii from 2012–2016: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Ewers Evan C. , Anisowicz Sarah K. , Ferguson Tomas M. , Seronello Scott E. , Barnhill Jason C. , Lustik Michael B. , Agee Willie , Washington Michael A. , Nahid Md A. , Burnett Mark W. , Bodhidatta Ladaporn , Srijan Apichai , Rukasiri Supaporn , Wassanarungroj Patcharawalai , Ruekit Sirigade , Nobthai Panida , Swierczewski Brett E. , Lurchachaiwong Woradee , Serichantalergs Oralak , Ngauy Viseth
Published: July 2018

Hawaii has one of the highest incidences of Campylobacteriosis in the United States, but there remains little published data on circulating strains or antimicrobial resistance. We characterized 110 clinical Campylobacter isolates (106 C. jejuni, 4 C. coli) processed at Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu, HI from 2012–2016. Twenty-five percent of C. jejuni isolates exhibited fluoroquinolone (FQ) resistance, compared with 16% for tetracycline (TET), and 0% for macrolides. Two of the four C. coli isolates were resistant to FQ, TET, and macrolides. C. jejuni isolates further underwent multilocus sequence typing, pulsed-field gel electrophoresis, and molecular capsular typing. Nineteen capsule types were observed, with two capsule types (HS2 and HS9) being associated with FQ resistance (p < 0.001 and p = 0.006, respectively). HS2 FQ-resistant isolates associated with clonal complex 21, possibly indicating clonal spread in FQ resistance. Macrolides should be considered for treatment of suspect cases due to lack of observed resistance.
MPP+ decreases store-operated calcium entry and TRPC1 expression in Mesenchymal Stem Cell derived dopaminergic neurons
Authors: Sun Yuyang , Selvaraj Senthil , Pandey Sumali , Humphrey Kristen M. , Foster James D. , Wu Min , Watt John A. , Singh Brij B. , Ohm Joyce E.
Published: July 2018

Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder involving the progressive loss of dopaminergic neurons (DNs), with currently available therapeutics, such as L-Dopa, only able to relieve some symptoms. Stem cell replacement is an attractive therapeutic option for PD patients, and DNs derived by differentiating patient specific stem cells under defined in-vitro conditions may present a viable opportunity to replace dying neurons. We adopted a previously published approach to differentiate Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) into DN using a 12-day protocol involving FGF-2, bFGF, SHH ligand and BDNF. While MSC-derived DNs have been characterized for neuronal markers and electrophysiological properties, we investigated store-operated calcium entry (SOCE) mechanisms of these DNs under normal conditions, and upon exposure to environmental neurotoxin, 1-methyl, 4-phenyl pyridinium ion (MPP+). Overall, we show that MSC-derived DNs are functional with regard to SOCE mechanisms, and MPP+ exposure dysregulates calcium signaling, making them vulnerable to neurodegeneration. Since in-vitro differentiation of MSCs into DNs is an important vehicle for PD disease modeling and regenerative medicine, the results of this study may help with understanding of the pathological mechanisms underlying PD.
Alpha B-crystallin C-802G polymorphism and colorectal cancer susceptibility and clinical outcome in Chinese population
Authors: Wu Xiao , Zheng Yuan-Zheng , Han Bin , Wang Ke
Published: July 2018

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most prevalent cancers worldwide and Alpha B-crystallin (CRYAB) protein has been identified as a prognostic biomarker for CRC. We evaluated CRYAB C-802G (rs14133)polymorphism in association with CRC risk and survival in Chinese population. We genotyped for CRYAB C-802G (rs14133), A-1215G (rs2228387) and intron 2 (rs2070894), and assessed their associations with CRC in a case-control study of 441 CRC cases and 500 healthy controls. We also analyzed this polymorphism in relation to overall survival in CRC patients. A significantly different frequency distribution was found in CRYAB C-802G genotypes, but not in A-1215G and intron2 genotypes, between the cases and the controls. Under multivariable logistic regression adjusted for age and gender, CG/GG genotype carriers were associated with increased risk of CRC (OR 1.754, 95% CI 1.338–2.301, P < 0.001) when compared with CC genotype carriers. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards model showed that patients with CG/GG genotype had significant shorter survival time than those with CC genotype, after adjustment for gender and TNM stage (HR 2.347, 95% CI 1.719–3.204, P < 0.001), and after adjustment for gender and tumor grade (HR 2.871, 95% CI 2.121–3.887, P < 0.001), respectively. Our results demonstrated that CG/GG at CRYAB C-802G is correlated with CRC susceptibility and this polymorphism may be an useful marker for clinical outcome of CRC.
Catalytic activity of nickel nanoparticles stabilized by adsorbing polymers for enhanced carbon sequestration
Authors: Seo Seokju , Perez Gabriela Alvarez , Tewari Ketan , Comas Xavier , Kim Myeongsub
Published: July 2018

This work shows the potential of nickel (Ni) nanoparticles (NPs) stabilized by polymers for accelerating carbon dioxide (CO2) dissolution into saline aquifers. The catalytic characteristics of Ni NPs were investigated by monitoring changes in diameter of CO2 microbubbles. An increase in ionic strength considerably reduces an electrostatic repulsive force in pristine Ni NPs, thereby decreasing their catalytic potential. This study shows how cationic dextran (DEX), nonionic poly(vinyl pyrrolidone) (PVP), and anionic carboxy methylcellulose (CMC) polymers, the dispersive behaviors of Ni NPs can be used to overcome the negative impact of salinity on CO2 dissolution. The cationic polymer, DEX was less adsorbed onto NPs surfaces, thereby limiting the Ni NPs’ catalytic activity. This behavior is due to a competition for Ni NPs’ surface sites between the cation and DEX under high salinity. On the other hand, the non/anionic polymers, PVP and CMC could be relatively easily adsorbed onto anchoring sites of Ni NPs by the monovalent cation, Na+. Considerable dispersion of Ni NPs by an optimal concentration of the anionic polymers improved their catalytic capabilities even under unfavorable conditions for CO2 dissolution. This study has implications for enhancing geologic sequestration into deep saline aquifers for the purposes of mitigating atmospheric CO2 levels.
Metabolism of ticagrelor in patients with acute coronary syndromes
Authors: Adamski Piotr , Buszko Katarzyna , Sikora Joanna , Niezgoda Piotr , Barańska Malwina , Ostrowska Małgorzata , Paciorek Przemysław , Navarese Eliano P. , Gorog Diana A. , Kubica Jacek
Published: July 2018

Ticagrelor is a state-of-the-art antiplatelet agent used for the treatment of patients with acute coronary syndromes (ACS). Unlike remaining oral P2Y12 receptor inhibitors ticagrelor does not require metabolic activation to exert its antiplatelet action. Still, ticagrelor is extensively metabolized by hepatic CYP3A enzymes, and AR-C124910XX is its only active metabolite. A post hoc analysis of patient-level (n = 117) pharmacokinetic data pooled from two prospective studies was performed to identify clinical characteristics affecting the degree of AR-C124910XX formation during the first six hours after 180 mg ticagrelor loading dose in the setting of ACS. Both linear and multiple regression analyses indicated that ACS patients presenting with ST-elevation myocardial infarction or suffering from diabetes mellitus are more likely to have decreased rate of ticagrelor metabolism during the acute phase of ACS. Administration of morphine during ACS was found to negatively influence transformation of ticagrelor into AR-C124910XX when assessed with linear regression analysis, but not with multiple regression analysis. On the other hand, smoking appears to increase the degree of ticagrelor transformation in ACS patients. Mechanisms underlying our findings and their clinical significance warrant further research.
Bidirectional association between gastroesophageal reflux disease and depression: Two different nested case-control studies using a national sample cohort
Authors: Kim So Young , Kim Hyung-Jong , Lim Hyun , Kong Il Gyu , Kim Miyoung , Choi Hyo Geun
Published: July 2018

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the associations between gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and depression using a national sample cohort of the Korean population. Data were collected from individuals ≥20 years old in the Korean National Health Insurance Service-National Sample Cohort between 2002 and 2013. We designed two different nested case-control studies. In study I, 60,957 participants with depression were matched at a 1:4 ratio with 243,828 controls, and their previous histories of GERD were analyzed. In study II, 133,089 participants with GERD were matched at a 1:2 ratio with 266,178 controls, and their previous histories of depression were analyzed. Crude and adjusted odds ratios (ORs) were analyzed using unconditional logistic regression analyses, and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Subgroup analyses were performed according to age and sex. The adjusted OR for GERD was 2.01 (95% CI = 1.96–2.07) in the patients with depression (study I). The adjusted OR for depression was 1.48 (95% CI = 1.43–1.52) in the patients with GERD (study II). The results of the subgroup analyses were consistent. GERD and depression displayed bidirectional associations.
Characterization of LE3 and LE4, the only lytic phages known to infect the spirochete Leptospira
Authors: Schiettekatte Olivier , Vincent Antony T. , Malosse Christian , Lechat Pierre , Chamot-Rooke Julia , Veyrier Frédéric J. , Picardeau Mathieu , Bourhy Pascale
Published: July 2018

Leptospira is a phylogenetically unique group of bacteria, and includes the causative agents of leptospirosis, the most globally prevalent zoonosis. Bacteriophages in Leptospira are largely unexplored. To date, a genomic sequence is available for only one temperate leptophage called LE1. Here, we sequenced and analysed the first genomes of the lytic phages LE3 and LE4 that can infect the saprophyte Leptospira biflexa using the lipopolysaccharide O-antigen as receptor. Bioinformatics analysis showed that the 48-kb LE3 and LE4 genomes are similar and contain 62% genes whose function cannot be predicted. Mass spectrometry led to the identification of 21 and 23 phage proteins in LE3 and LE4, respectively. However we did not identify significant similarities with other phage genomes. A search for prophages close to LE4 in the Leptospira genomes allowed for the identification of a related plasmid in L. interrogans and a prophage-like region in the draft genome of a clinical isolate of L. mayottensis. Long-read whole genome sequencing of the L. mayottensis revealed that the genome contained a LE4 phage-like circular plasmid. Further isolation and genomic comparison of leptophages should reveal their role in the genetic evolution of Leptospira.
Soil Properties Drive Microbial Community Structure in a Large Scale Transect in South Eastern Australia
Authors: Xue Pei-Pei , Carrillo Yolima , Pino Vanessa , Minasny Budiman , McBratney Alex. B.
Published: July 2018

Soil microbial communities directly affect soil functionality through their roles in the cycling of soil nutrients and carbon storage. Microbial communities vary substantially in space and time, between soil types and under different land management. The mechanisms that control the spatial distributions of soil microbes are largely unknown as we have not been able to adequately upscale a detailed analysis of the microbiome in a few grams of soil to that of a catchment, region or continent. Here we reveal that soil microbes along a 1000 km transect have unique spatial structures that are governed mainly by soil properties. The soil microbial community assessed using Phospholipid Fatty Acids showed a strong gradient along the latitude gradient across New South Wales, Australia. We found that soil properties contributed the most to the microbial distribution, while other environmental factors (e.g., temperature, elevation) showed lesser impact. Agricultural activities reduced the variation of the microbial communities, however, its influence was local and much less than the overall influence of soil properties. The ability to predict the soil and environmental factors that control microbial distribution will allow us to predict how future soil and environmental change will affect the spatial distribution of microbes.
Diencephalic progenitors contribute to the posterior septum through rostral migration along the hippocampal axonal pathway
Authors: Watanabe Keisuke , Irie Koichiro , Hanashima Carina , Takebayashi Hirohide , Sato Noboru
Published: July 2018

Septal nuclei are telencephalic structures associated with a variety of brain functions as part of the limbic system. The two posterior septal nuclei, the triangular septal nucleus (TS) and the bed nuclei of the anterior commissure (BAC), are involved in fear and anxiety through their projections to the medial habenular nucleus. However, the development of both the TS and BAC remains unclear. Here, we found a novel caudal origin and putative migratory stream of mouse posterior septal neurons arising from the thalamic eminence (TE), a transient developmental structure at the rostral end of the rodent diencephalon. TE-derived cells, which have glutamatergic identity, migrated rostrally and entered the telencephalic territory by passing beneath the third ventricle. Subsequently, they turned dorsally toward the posterior septum. We also observed that TS and BAC neurons in the postnatal septum were labeled with GFP by in utero electroporation into the TE, suggesting a shared origin. Furthermore, TE-derived septal neurons migrated along the fornix, an efferent pathway from the hippocampus. These results demonstrate that posterior septal neurons have a distinct extratelencephalic origin from other septal nuclei. This heterogeneous origin may contribute to neuronal diversity of the septal nuclear complex.
Longitudinal evaluation of serum periostin levels in patients after large-artery atherosclerotic stroke: A prospective observational study
Authors: He Xinwei , Bao Yuyan , Shen Yuguang , Wang En , Hong Weijun , Ke Shaofa , Jin Xiaoping
Published: July 2018

Increasing evidence supports the involvement of periostin in the pathophysiological processes of stroke and atherosclerosis. The aim of this study was to assess circulating periostin levels at different times after large-artery atherosclerotic (LAA) stroke and their association with stroke. Serum periostin levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay on day 1 in 162 patients with LAA stroke and in 108 age- and sex-matched controls, on day 6 after stroke in 134 patients, and during the 4th week after stroke in 46 of the 162 patients. Stroke severity was determined using the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), and the stroke volume was measured. Outcome at 3 months was measured using the modified Rankin Scale (mRS). Our results indicated that periostin levels increased significantly on day 6 after stroke, and this increasing trend persisted for at least 4 weeks after the event. In addition, the increase in periostin levels was positively correlated with the NIHSS scores and stroke volume, but not with the mRS scores after adjusting for the NIHSS scores. In conclusion, these findings suggest that the increase in serum periostin levels observed after stroke may be associated with the stroke severity in patients with LAA stroke.
Tactile learning transfer from the hand to the face but not to the forearm implies a special hand-face relationship
Authors: Muret Dollyane , Dinse Hubert R.
Published: July 2018

In the primary somatosensory cortex, large-scale cortical and perceptual changes have been demonstrated following input deprivation. Recently, we found that the cortical and perceptual changes induced by repetitive somatosensory stimulation (RSS) at a finger transfer to the face. However, whether such cross-border changes are specific to the face remains elusive. Here, we investigated whether RSS-induced acuity changes at the finger can also transfer to the forearm, which is the body part represented on the other side of the hand representation. Our results confirmed the transfer of tactile learning from the stimulated finger to the lip, but no significant changes were observed at the forearm. A second experiment revealed that the same regions on the forearm exhibited improved tactile acuity when RSS was applied there, excluding the possibility of low plastic ability at the arm representation. This provides also the first evidence that RSS can be efficient on body parts other than the hand. These results suggest that RSS-induced tactile learning transfers preferentially from the hand to the face rather than to the forearm. This specificity could arise from a stronger functional connectivity between the cortical hand and face representations, reflecting a fundamental coupling between these body parts.
Prescription of potentially inappropriate medication to older patients presenting to the emergency department: a nationally representative population study
Authors: Chang Chirn-Bin , Lai Hsiu-Yun , Hwang Shinn-Jang , Yang Shu-Yu , Wu Ru-Shu , Liu Hsing-Cheng , Chan Ding-Cheng
Published: July 2018

Potentially inappropriate medication (PIM) was associated with adverse clinical outcomes and higher healthcare resource utilization among older patients. In order to investigate the prevalence of PIM use based on three different sets of criteria and their associated factors among older patients in the emergency department (ED) in Taiwan. The National Health Insurance Research Database was used for this cross-sectional study. Older patients who visited the ED at least once in 2009 were enrolled. PIMs were identified based on the Beers Criteria, PIM-Taiwan criteria, and PRISCUS criteria. Average patient age was 76.7 ± 7.4 years and patients visited the ED 1.8 ± 2.1 times in 2009. The prevalence and frequency of being prescribed at least one PIM at each visit were high according to all three sets of criteria. Performance of the PIM-Taiwan criteria was only inferior to that of the Beers Criteria. The most important factor associated with PIM was the number of medications prescribed in the ED, and PIM use was associated with higher annual health resource utilization in the ED. PIM use was a significant issue and was associated with higher annual emergency care resource utilization in the ED.
Two-photon-induced stretchable graphene supercapacitors
Authors: Thekkekara Litty V. , Chen Xi , Gu Min
Published: July 2018

Direct laser writing with an ultrashort laser beam pulses has emerged as a cost-effective single step technology for realizing high spatial resolution features of three-dimensional structures in confined footprints with potential for large area fabrication. Here we present the two-photon direct laser writing technology to develop high-performance stretchable biomimetic three-dimensional micro-supercapacitors with the fractal electrode distance down to 1 µm. With multilayered graphene oxide films, we show the charge transfer capability enhanced by order of 102while the energy storage density exceeds the results in current lithium-ion batteries. The stretchability and the volumetric capacitance are increased to 150% and 86 mF/cm3(0.181 mF/cm2), respectively. This additive nanofabrication method is highly desirable for the development of self-sustainable stretchable energy storage integrated with wearable technologies. The flexible and stretchable energy storage with a high energy density opens the new opportunity for on-chip sensing, imaging, and monitoring.
Asymptomatic infection of the fungal pathogen Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans in captivity
Authors: Sabino-Pinto Joana , Veith Michael , Vences Miguel , Steinfartz Sebastian
Published: July 2018

One of the most important factors driving amphibian declines worldwide is the infectious disease, chytridiomycosis. Two fungi have been associated with this disease, Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis and B. salamandrivorans (Bsal). The latter has recently driven Salamandra salamandra populations to extirpation in parts of the Netherlands, and Belgium, and potentially also in Germany. Bsal has been detected in the pet trade, which has been hypothesized to be the pathway by which it reached Europe, and which may continuously contribute to its spread. In the present study, 918 amphibians belonging to 20 captive collections in Germany and Sweden were sampled to explore the extent of Bsal presence in captivity. The fungus was detected by quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (qPCR) in ten collections, nine of which lacked clinical symptoms. 23 positives were confirmed by independent processing of duplicate swabs, which were analysed in a separate laboratory, and/or by sequencing ITS and 28 S gene segments. These asymptomatic positives highlight the possibility of Bsal being widespread in captive collections, and is of high conservation concern. This finding may increase the likelihood of the pathogen being introduced from captivity into the wild, and calls for according biosecurity measures. The detection of Bsal-positive alive specimens of the hyper-susceptible fire salamander could indicate the existence of a less aggressive Bsal variant or the importance of environmental conditions for infection progression.
Cycle Based Network Centrality
Authors: Zhou Xiaoping , Liang Xun , Zhao Jichao , Zhang Shusen
Published: July 2018

Paths and cycles are the two pivotal elements in a network. Here, we demonstrate that paths, particularly the shortest ones, are incomplete in information network. However, based on such paths, many network centrality measures are designed. While extensive explorations on paths have been made, modest studies focus on the cycles on measuring network centrality. We study the relationship between the shortest cycle and the shortest path from extensive real-world networks. The results illustrate the incompleteness of the shortest paths on measuring network centrality. Noticing that the shortest cycle is much more robust than the shortest path, we propose two novel cycle-based network centrality measures to address the incompleteness of paths: the shortest cycle closeness centrality (SCC) and the all cycle betweenness centrality (ACC). Notwithstanding we focus on the network centrality problem, our findings on cycles can be applied to explain the incompleteness of paths in applications and could improve the applicability into more scenarios where the paths are employed in network science.
Molecular characterization of echovirus 12 strains isolated from healthy children in China
Authors: Liu Hongbo , Zhang Jie , Zhao Yilin , Zhang Haihao , Lin Keqin , Sun Hao , Huang Xiaoqin , Yang Zhaoqing , Ma Shaohui
Published: July 2018

Human echovirus 12 (E-12) belongs to the enterovirus B species. To date, only one full-length genome sequence of E-12 (prototype strain Travis) is available in the GenBank database. This study determined the complete sequence of three E-12 strains, which were isolated from the stools of three healthy children in Yunnan, China, in 2013. We revealed that the three Yunnan E-12 strains had only 80.8–80.9% nucleotide identity and 96.4–96.8% amino acid identity with the Travis strain based on pairwise comparisons of the complete genome nucleotide and amino acid sequences. The three Yunnan strains shared 99.7% nucleotide identity and 99.1–99.5% amino acid similarity. Phylogenetic and similarity plot analyses showed that intertypic recombination occurred in the non-structural regions of the three Yunnan E-12 strains. This is the first report of the complete genome sequence of E-12 in China and it enriches the complete genome sequences of E-12 in the GenBank database.
Metabolic engineering using iterative self-cloning to improve lipid productivity in Coccomyxa
Authors: Kasai Yuki , Tsukahara Takuya , Ikeda Fukiko , Ide Yoko , Harayama Shigeaki
Published: July 2018

We previously developed a self-cloning system that introduces cDNA of the uridine monophosphate synthase gene (cUMPS) of Coccomyxa sp. strain Obi as a selectable marker into uracil-auxotrophic mutants (Ura−) of the same alga. Here, we developed a Cre/loxP-based system for the removal of cUMPS flanked by directly repeated loxP sites from the Coccomyxa genome using the intracellular delivery of purified Cre recombinase to generate an Ura− strain that was used as a host for second-round transformation using cUMPS as the selection marker. Employing this marker–gene-recycling system, Coccomyxa strains devoid of foreign DNA except the 34-bp loxP sequence, which overexpressed an acyl-(acyl-carrier-protein) thioesterase gene, and a type-2 diacylglycerol acyltransferase gene, were constructed by the sequential introduction of two expression cassettes for the respective genes. One of the resulting strains showed 1.4-fold higher lipid productivity than the wild-type strain. This method will be applicable to other eukaryotic microalgae to create marker-free transgenic strains.
Identification of candidate UDP-glycosyltransferases involved in protopanaxadiol-type ginsenoside biosynthesis in Panax ginseng
Authors: Kang Kyo Bin , Jayakodi Murukarthick , Lee Yun Sun , Nguyen Van Binh , Park Hyun-Seung , Koo Hyun Jo , Choi Ik Young , Kim Dae Hyun , Chung You Jin , Ryu Byeol , Lee Dong Young , Sung Sang Hyun , Yang Tae-Jin
Published: July 2018

Ginsenosides are dammarane-type or triterpenoidal saponins that contribute to the various pharmacological activities of the medicinal herb Panax ginseng. The putative biosynthetic pathway for ginsenoside biosynthesis is known in P. ginseng, as are some of the transcripts and enzyme-encoding genes. However, few genes related to the UDP-glycosyltransferases (UGTs), enzymes that mediate glycosylation processes in final saponin biosynthesis, have been identified. Here, we generated three replicated Illumina RNA-Seq datasets from the adventitious roots of P. ginseng cultivar Cheongsun (CS) after 0, 12, 24, and 48 h of treatment with methyl jasmonate (MeJA). Using the same CS cultivar, metabolomic data were also generated at 0 h and every 12–24 h thereafter until 120 h of MeJA treatment. Differential gene expression, phylogenetic analysis, and metabolic profiling were used to identify candidate UGTs. Eleven candidate UGTs likely to be involved in ginsenoside glycosylation were identified. Eight of these were considered novel UGTs, newly identified in this study, and three were matched to previously characterized UGTs in P. ginseng. Phylogenetic analysis further asserted their association with ginsenoside biosynthesis. Additionally, metabolomic analysis revealed that the newly identified UGTs might be involved in the elongation of glycosyl chains of ginsenosides, especially of protopanaxadiol (PPD)-type ginsenosides.
Lesion location implemented magnetic resonance imaging radiomics for predicting IDH and TERT promoter mutations in grade II/III gliomas
Authors: Arita Hideyuki , Kinoshita Manabu , Kawaguchi Atsushi , Takahashi Masamichi , Narita Yoshitaka , Terakawa Yuzo , Tsuyuguchi Naohiro , Okita Yoshiko , Nonaka Masahiro , Moriuchi Shusuke , Takagaki Masatoshi , Fujimoto Yasunori , Fukai Junya , Izumoto Shuichi , Ishibashi Kenichi , Nakajima Yoshikazu , Shofuda Tomoko , Kanematsu Daisuke , Yoshioka Ema , Kodama Yoshinori , Mano Masayuki , Mori Kanji , Ichimura Koichi , Kanemura Yonehiro
Published: July 2018

Molecular biological characterization of tumors has become a pivotal procedure for glioma patient care. The aim of this study is to build conventional MRI-based radiomics model to predict genetic alterations within grade II/III gliomas attempting to implement lesion location information in the model to improve diagnostic accuracy. One-hundred and ninety-nine grade II/III gliomas patients were enrolled. Three molecular subtypes were identified: IDH1/2-mutant, IDH1/2-mutant with TERT promoter mutation, and IDH-wild type. A total of 109 radiomics features from 169 MRI datasets and location information from 199 datasets were extracted. Prediction modeling for genetic alteration was trained via LASSO regression for 111 datasets and validated by the remaining 58 datasets. IDH mutation was detected with an accuracy of 0.82 for the training set and 0.83 for the validation set without lesion location information. Diagnostic accuracy improved to 0.85 for the training set and 0.87 for the validation set when lesion location information was implemented. Diagnostic accuracy for predicting 3 molecular subtypes of grade II/III gliomas was 0.74 for the training set and 0.56 for the validation set with lesion location information implemented. Conventional MRI-based radiomics is one of the most promising strategies that may lead to a non-invasive diagnostic technique for molecular characterization of grade II/III gliomas.
Relative Efficacy of Checkpoint Inhibitors for Advanced NSCLC According to Programmed Death-Ligand-1 Expression: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis
Authors: Kim Jinchul , Cho Jinhyun , Lee Moon Hee , Lim Joo Han
Published: July 2018

Although currently available immune checkpoint inhibitors with similar but slightly different indications are recommended for patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), their effects by programmed death-ligand-1 (PD-L1) expression level are not yet known. This meta-analysis aims to assess the survival benefit and comparative efficacy of checkpoint inhibitors according to PD-L1 expression level: <1%, 1–49%, and ≥50%. We searched the MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane database through December 2017. A fixed-effect Bayesian network meta-analysis (NMA) was performed to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) for overall survival (OS) with 95% credible intervals (CrIs). Seven trials including 3688 patients were selected from among the 673 screened studies. Checkpoint inhibitor remarkably improved OS over chemotherapy in the PD-L1 ≥ 50% subgroup compared with the PD-L1 < 1% and PD-L1 1–49% subgroups. Atezolizumab, nivolumab, and nivolumab were the most effective agents for second- or later-line settings in the PD-L1 < 1%, PD-L1 1–49%, and PD-L1 ≥ 50% subgroups, respectively. PD-L1 expression ≥50% on tumor cells could be a reliable indicator that helps patient selection in view of cost-efficiency, and each checkpoint inhibitor reported to be the best agent by PD-L1 expression level could be carefully recommended in each PD-L1 expression subgroup.
Sensitivity of Anatase and Rutile Phases of TiO2 to ion irradiation: Examination of the applicability of Coulomb Explosion and Thermal Spike Models
Authors: Rath Haripriya , Dash B. N. , Benyagoub A. , Mishra N. C.
Published: July 2018

Sensitivity of the anatase and rutile phases of titanium dioxide to Swift Heavy Ion (SHI) irradiation was experimentally probed and compared with the predictions of the Coulomb explosion, analytical and inelastic thermal spike models of ion-matter interaction. Conforming to the predictions of all these models, our study indicated higher sensitivity of anatase to these ions than the rutile phase. A detailed examination however revealed that Coulomb explosion model cannot explain either the nature of variation of the interaction cross section of SHI with the energy deposited by these ions, Se to the target electrons, or the relative values of the threshold electronic energy loss, Seth of anatase and rutile. The analytical thermal spike (a-TS) model, using the available physicochemical data for this oxide, predicted that tracks cannot form either in anatase or in rutile by 297 MeV and 511 MeV Ni ions, while inelastic thermal spike (i-TS) model predicted formation of ion tracks by 297 MeV Ni ions and their absence with 511 MeV Ni ions in both anatase and rutile. Our observation agreed with the predictions of i-TS model albeit with a difference in the radius of the tracks. In addition, we observed halo of defect ridden crystalline region of much larger radius around the ion track. Interestingly, the radius of the halo scales with the velocity of the ions, which is opposite to the conventionally observed velocity effect.
Less abundant bacterial groups are more affected than the most abundant groups in composted tannery sludge-treated soil
Authors: Miranda Ana Roberta Lima , Antunes Jadson Emanuel Lopes , de Araujo Fabio Fernando , Melo Vania Maria Maciel , Bezerra Walderly Melgaco , Van den Brink Paul J. , Araujo Ademir Sergio Ferreira de
Published: July 2018

The application of composted tannery sludge (CTS) has promoted shifts in soil chemical properties and, therefore, can affect the soil bacterial community. This study assessed the effect of the CTS on the soil bacterial community over time. The CTS was applied at five rates (0, 2.5, 5, 10 and 20 t/ha), and the bacterial community was evaluated for 180 days. The principal curve response (PRC) analysis showed that the most abundant phyla were not influenced by the CTS rates over time, while the analysis of the bacterial community showed that some of the less abundant phyla were influenced by the CTS rates. Similarly, the PRC analysis for the bacterial classes showed the significant effect of the CTS rates. The redundancy analyses for the bacterial phyla and classes showed the relationship between the significant chemical properties and the bacterial community of the soil after the CTS amendment over time. Therefore, there was a shift in the bacterial community over time with the application of the composted tannery sludge. Our study has shown that the less abundant bacterial groups were more influenced by the CTS than the most abundant bacterial groups and that these bacterial groups were driven by soil chemical properties, primarily chromium (Cr) and the soil pH.