bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ESRP1 is overexpressed in ovarian cancer and promotes switching from mesenchymal to epithelial phenotype in ovarian cancer cellsThis article has been corrected since Advance Online Publication and an erratum is also printed in this issue
Authors: Jeong H M , Han J , Lee S H , Park H-J , Lee H J , Choi J-S , Lee Y M , Choi Y-L , Shin Y K , Kwon M J
Published: October 2017

Epithelial splicing regulatory protein 1 (ESRP1) and 2 (ESRP2), epithelial cell-specific regulators of alternative splicing, are downregulated during the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT). These factors have roles in tumor progression and metastasis in some cancers; however, their expression and function in ovarian cancer (OC) remain unclear. We found that ESRP1 and ESRP2 mRNAs were expressed at higher levels in OC cells than in immortalized ovarian surface epithelial (IOSE) cells, and confirmed their overexpression in OC tissues at the protein level. The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) data analysis revealed frequent gene amplification of ESRP1 in OC tissues; however, we detected no significant correlation between ESRP1 gene copy number and gene expression in OC cells. Importantly, expression of ESRP1 and ESRP2 was inversely correlated with DNA methylation in OC cells, and ESRP2 overexpression in OC tissues was significantly associated with DNA hypomethylation. Notably, survival analysis using TCGA data from 541 OC tissues revealed that high ESRP1 expression was significantly associated with shorter 5-year survival of patients. Ectopic ESRP1 expression in mesenchymal OC cells promoted cell proliferation but suppressed cell migration. Furthermore, we found that ESRP1 drives a switch from mesenchymal to epithelial phenotype characterized by reduced cell migration in association with induction of epithelial cell-specific variant of CD44 and ENAH. Taken together, our findings suggest that an epigenetic mechanism is involved in ESRP1 overexpression, and that ESRP1 has a role in OC progression.
Androgen receptor increases hematogenous metastasis yet decreases lymphatic metastasis of renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Huang Qingbo , Sun Yin , Ma Xin , Gao Yu , Li Xintao , Niu Yuanjie , Zhang Xu , Chang Chawnshang
Published: October 2017

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is a gender-biased tumor. Here we report that there is also a gender difference between pulmonary metastasis and lymph node metastasis showing that the androgen receptor (AR)-positive ccRCC may prefer to metastasize to lung rather than to lymph nodes. A higher AR expression increases ccRCC hematogenous metastasis yet decreases ccRCC lymphatic metastases. Mechanism dissection indicates that AR enhances miR-185-5p expression via binding to the androgen response elements located on the promoter of miR-185-5p, which suppresses VEGF-C expression via binding to its 3′ UTR. In contrast, AR-enhanced miR-185-5p also promotes HIF2α/VEGF-A expression via binding to the promoter region of HIF2α. Together, these results provide a unique mechanism by which AR can either increase or decrease ccRCC metastasis at different sites and may help us to develop combined therapies using anti-AR and anti-VEGF-C compounds to better suppress ccRCC progression.
HDX reveals the conformational dynamics of DNA sequence specific VDR co-activator interactions
Authors: Zheng Jie , Chang Mi Ra , Stites Ryan E. , Wang Yong , Bruning John B. , Pascal Bruce D. , Novick Scott J. , Garcia-Ordonez Ruben D. , Stayrook Keith R. , Chalmers Michael J. , Dodge Jeffrey A. , Griffin Patrick R.
Published: October 2017

The vitamin D receptor/retinoid X receptor-α heterodimer (VDRRXRα) regulates bone mineralization via transcriptional control of osteocalcin (BGLAP) gene and is the receptor for 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25D3). However, supra-physiological levels of 1,25D3 activates the calcium-regulating gene TRPV6 leading to hypercalcemia. An approach to attenuate this adverse effect is to develop selective VDR modulators (VDRMs) that differentially activate BGLAP but not TRPV6. Here we present structural insight for the action of a VDRM compared with agonists by employing hydrogen/deuterium exchange. Agonist binding directs crosstalk between co-receptors upon DNA binding, stabilizing the activation function 2 (AF2) surfaces of both receptors driving steroid receptor co-activator-1 (SRC1) interaction. In contrast, AF2 of VDR within VDRM:BGLAP bound heterodimer is more vulnerable for large stabilization upon SRC1 interaction compared with VDRM:TRPV6 bound heterodimer. These results reveal that the combination of ligand structure and DNA sequence tailor the transcriptional activity of VDR toward specific target genes.
Levels of exhaled carbon monoxide measured during an intervention program predict 1-year smoking cessation: a retrospective observational cohort study
Authors: Shie Huei-Guan , Pan Sheng-Wei , Yu Wen-Kuang , Chen Wei-Chih , Ho Li-Ing , Ko Hsin-Kuo
Published: October 2017

Life-long smoking cessation is a critical public health objective, but it is difficult for numerous people. This study aimed to identify the independent predictors of 1-year abstinence in smokers motivated to quit and participating in an intervention program. This 6-year retrospective observational cohort study was conducted in smokers who participated in an intervention program. The exhaled carbon monoxide (CO) was sequentially measured on day 1, 8, 15, and 22 of the intervention program. The primary outcome measure was smoking status at 1 year of follow-up. A total of 162 participants were enrolled and divided into a successful quit group (n = 52) and unsuccessful quit group (n = 110). Using a multivariate logistic regression analysis, we reported that the intention to quit (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.475, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.169–1.862,P-value = 0.001), varenicline use (AOR = 3.199, 95% CI = 1.290–7.934,P-value = 0.012) and the exhaled CO level on day 8 (AOR = 0.937, 95% CI = 0.885–0.992,P-value = 0.025) independently predicted 1-year smoking cessation. Moreover, the level of exhaled CO < 4.5 parts per million on day 8 significantly predict successful 1-year smoking cessation (area under curve 0.761, sensitivity 88.2%, and specificity 57.8%,P-value < 0.001). These independent predictors including intention to quit, varenicline use, and exhaled CO level on day 8, may help primary care physicians rearrange resources and refine the strategies for intervention programs to achieve a higher rate of long-term smoking cessation.
Active GSK3β and an intact β-catenin TCF complex are essential for the differentiation of human myogenic progenitor cells
Authors: Agley C. C. , Lewis F. C. , Jaka O. , Lazarus N. R. , Velloso C. , Francis-West P. , Ellison-Hughes G. M. , Harridge S. D. R.
Published: October 2017

Wnt-β-catenin signalling is essential for skeletal muscle myogenesis during development, but its role in adult human skeletal muscle remains unknown. Here we have used human primary CD56Pos satellite cell-derived myogenic progenitors obtained from healthy individuals to study the role of Wnt-β-catenin signalling in myogenic differentiation. We show that dephosphorylated β-catenin (active-β-catenin), the central effector of the canonical Wnt cascade, is strongly upregulated at the onset of differentiation and undergoes nuclear translocation as differentiation progresses. To establish the role of Wnt signalling in regulating the differentiation process we manipulated key nodes of this pathway through a series of β-catenin gain-of-function (GSK3 inhibition and β-catenin overexpression) or loss-of-function experiments (dominant negative TCF4). Our data showed that manipulation of these critical pathway components led to varying degrees of disruption to the normal differentiation phenotype indicating the importance of Wnt signalling in regulating this process. We reveal an independent necessity for active-β-catenin in the fusion and differentiation of human myogenic progenitors and that dominant negative inhibition of TCF4 prevents differentiation completely. Together these data add new mechanistic insights into both Wnt signalling and adult human myogenic progenitor differentiation.
The Hidden Flow Structure and Metric Space of Network Embedding Algorithms Based on Random Walks
Authors: Gu Weiwei , Gong Li , Lou Xiaodan , Zhang Jiang
Published: October 2017

Network embedding which encodes all vertices in a network as a set of numerical vectors in accordance with it’s local and global structures, has drawn widespread attention. Network embedding not only learns significant features of a network, such as the clustering and linking prediction but also learns the latent vector representation of the nodes which provides theoretical support for a variety of applications, such as visualization, link prediction, node classification, and recommendation. As the latest progress of the research, several algorithms based on random walks have been devised. Although those algorithms have drawn much attention for their high scores in learning efficiency and accuracy, there is still a lack of theoretical explanation, and the transparency of those algorithms has been doubted. Here, we propose an approach based on the open-flow network model to reveal the underlying flow structure and its hidden metric space of different random walk strategies on networks. We show that the essence of embedding based on random walks is the latent metric structure defined on the open-flow network. This not only deepens our understanding of random- walk-based embedding algorithms but also helps in finding new potential applications in network embedding.
Saline is as effective as nitrogen scavengers for treatment of hyperammonemia
Authors: van Straten G. , de Sain-van der Velden M. G. M. , van Geijlswijk I. M. , Favier R. P. , Mesu S. J. , Holwerda-Loof N. E. , van der Ham M. , Fieten H. , Rothuizen J. , Spee B. , Verhoeven-Duif N. M.
Published: October 2017

Urea cycle enzyme deficiency (UCED) patients with hyperammonemia are treated with sodium benzoate (SB) and sodium phenylacetate (SPA) to induce alternative pathways of nitrogen excretion. The suggested guidelines supporting their use in the management of hyperammonemia are primarily based on non-analytic studies such as case reports and case series. Canine congenital portosystemic shunting (CPSS) is a naturally occurring model for hyperammonemia. Here, we performed cross-over, randomized, placebo-controlled studies in healthy dogs to assess safety and pharmacokinetics of SB and SPA (phase I). As follow-up safety and efficacy of SB was evaluated in CPSS-dogs with hyperammonemia (phase II). Pharmacokinetics of SB and SPA were comparable to those reported in humans. Treatment with SB and SPA was safe and both nitrogen scavengers were converted into their respective metabolites hippuric acid and phenylacetylglutamine or phenylacetylglycine, with a preference for phenylacetylglycine. In CPSS-dogs, treatment with SB resulted in the same effect on plasma ammonia as the control treatment (i.e. saline infusion) suggesting that the decrease is a result of volume expansion and/or forced diuresis rather than increased production of nitrogenous waste. Consequentially, treatment of hyperammonemia justifies additional/placebo-controlled trials in human medicine.
Transcriptomic profiles of Clostridium ljungdahlii during lithotrophic growth with syngas or H2 and CO2 compared to organotrophic growth with fructose
Authors: Aklujkar Muktak , Leang Ching , Shrestha Pravin M. , Shrestha Minita , Lovley Derek R.
Published: October 2017

Clostridium ljungdahlii derives energy by lithotrophic and organotrophic acetogenesis. C. ljungdahlii was grown organotrophically with fructose and also lithotrophically, either with syngas - a gas mixture containing hydrogen (H2), carbon dioxide (CO2), and carbon monoxide (CO), or with H2 and CO2. Gene expression was compared quantitatively by microarrays using RNA extracted from all three conditions. Gene expression with fructose and with H2/CO2 was compared by RNA-Seq. Upregulated genes with both syngas and H2/CO2 (compared to fructose) point to the urea cycle, uptake and degradation of peptides and amino acids, response to sulfur starvation, potentially NADPH-producing pathways involving (S)-malate and ornithine, quorum sensing, sporulation, and cell wall remodeling, suggesting a global and multicellular response to lithotrophic conditions. With syngas, the upregulated (R)-lactate dehydrogenase gene represents a route of electron transfer from ferredoxin to NAD. With H2/CO2, flavodoxin and histidine biosynthesis genes were upregulated. Downregulated genes corresponded to an intracytoplasmic microcompartment for disposal of methylglyoxal, a toxic byproduct of glycolysis, as 1-propanol. Several cytoplasmic and membrane-associated redox-active protein genes were differentially regulated. The transcriptomic profiles of C. ljungdahlii in lithotrophic and organotrophic growth modes indicate large-scale physiological and metabolic differences, observations that may guide biofuel and commodity chemical production with this species.
Aggregation behavior and reproductive compatibility in the family Cimicidae
Authors: DeVries Zachary , Mick Russell , Balvín Ondřej , Schal Coby
Published: October 2017

Bed bugs (Cimex lectularius) provide a unique opportunity to understand speciation and host-associated divergence in parasites. Recently, two sympatric but genetically distinct lineages ofC. lectulariuswere identified: one associated with humans and one associated with bats. We investigated two mechanisms that could maintain genetic differentiation in the field: reproductive compatibility (via mating crosses) and aggregation fidelity (via two-choice sheltering assays). Effects were assessed at the intra-lineage level (within human-associated bed bugs), inter-lineage level (between human- and bat-associated bed bugs), and inter-species level (betweenC. lectulariusandCimex pipistrelli[bat bug]). Contrary to previous reports, bed bugs were found to be reproductively compatible at both the intra- and inter-lineage levels, but not at the inter-species level (although three hybrids were produced, one of which developed into an adult). Lineage- and species-specific aggregation fidelity was only detected in 8% (4 out of 48) of the aggregation fidelity assays run. These results indicate that under laboratory conditions, host-associated lineages of bed bugs are reproductively compatible, and aggregation pheromones are not capable of preventing gene flow between lineages.
Unobtrusive Nocturnal Heartbeat Monitoring by a Ballistocardiographic Sensor in Patients with Sleep Disordered Breathing
Authors: Zink Matthias Daniel , Brüser Christoph , Stüben Björn-Ole , Napp Andreas , Stöhr Robert , Leonhardt Steffen , Marx Nikolaus , Mischke Karl , Schulz Jörg B. , Schiefer Johannes
Published: October 2017

Sleep disordered breathing (SDB) is known for fluctuating heart rates and an increased risk of developing arrhythmias. The current reference for heartbeat analysis is an electrocardiogram (ECG). As an unobtrusive alternative, we tested a sensor foil for mechanical vibrations to perform a ballistocardiography (BCG) and applied a novel algorithm for beat-to-beat cycle length detection. The aim of this study was to assess the correlation between beat-to-beat cycle length detection by the BCG algorithm and simultaneously recorded ECG. In 21 patients suspected for SDB undergoing polysomnography, we compared ECG to simultaneously recorded BCG data analysed by our algorithm. We analysed 362.040 heartbeats during a total of 93 hours of recording. The baseline beat-to-beat cycle length correlation between BCG and ECG was r
s
 = 0.77 (n = 362040) with a mean absolute difference of 15 ± 162 ms (mean cycle length: ECG 923 ± 220 ms; BCG 908 ± 203 ms). After filtering artefacts and improving signal quality by our algorithm, the correlation increased to r
s
 = 0.95 (n = 235367) with a mean absolute difference in cycle length of 4 ± 72 ms (ECG 920 ± 196 ms; BCG 916 ± 194 ms). We conclude that our algorithm, coupled with a BCG sensor foil provides good correlation of beat-to-beat cycle length detection with simultaneously recorded ECG.
Cognitive appraisal of environmental stimuli induces emotion-like states in fish
Authors: Cerqueira M. , Millot S. , Castanheira M. F. , Félix A. S. , Silva T. , Oliveira G. A. , Oliveira C. C. , Martins C. I. M. , Oliveira R. F.
Published: October 2017

The occurrence of emotions in non-human animals has been the focus of debate over the years. Recently, an interest in expanding this debate to non-tetrapod vertebrates and to invertebrates has emerged. Within vertebrates, the study of emotion in teleosts is particularly interesting since they represent a divergent evolutionary radiation from that of tetrapods, and thus they provide an insight into the evolution of the biological mechanisms of emotion. We report that Sea Bream exposed to stimuli that vary according to valence (positive, negative) and salience (predictable, unpredictable) exhibit different behavioural, physiological and neuromolecular states. Since according to the dimensional theory of emotion valence and salience define a two-dimensional affective space, our data can be interpreted as evidence for the occurrence of distinctive affective states in fish corresponding to each the four quadrants of the core affective space. Moreover, the fact that the same stimuli presented in a predictable vs. unpredictable way elicited different behavioural, physiological and neuromolecular states, suggests that stimulus appraisal by the individual, rather than an intrinsic characteristic of the stimulus, has triggered the observed responses. Therefore, our data supports the occurrence of emotion-like states in fish that are regulated by the individual’s perception of environmental stimuli.
Psilocybin for treatment-resistant depression: fMRI-measured brain mechanisms
Authors: Carhart-Harris Robin L , Roseman Leor , Bolstridge Mark , Demetriou Lysia , Pannekoek J Nienke , Wall Matthew B , Tanner Mark , Kaelen Mendel , McGonigle John , Murphy Kevin , Leech Robert , Curran H Valerie , Nutt David J
Published: October 2017

Psilocybin with psychological support is showing promise as a treatment model in psychiatry but its therapeutic mechanisms are poorly understood. Here, cerebral blood flow (CBF) and blood oxygen-level dependent (BOLD) resting-state functional connectivity (RSFC) were measured with functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) before and after treatment with psilocybin (serotonin agonist) for treatment-resistant depression (TRD). Quality pre and post treatment fMRI data were collected from 16 of 19 patients. Decreased depressive symptoms were observed in all 19 patients at 1-week post-treatment and 47% met criteria for response at 5 weeks. Whole-brain analyses revealed post-treatment decreases in CBF in the temporal cortex, including the amygdala. Decreased amygdala CBF correlated with reduced depressive symptoms. Focusing on a priori selected circuitry for RSFC analyses, increased RSFC was observed within the default-mode network (DMN) post-treatment. Increased ventromedial prefrontal cortex-bilateral inferior lateral parietal cortex RSFC was predictive of treatment response at 5-weeks, as was decreased parahippocampal-prefrontal cortex RSFC. These data fill an important knowledge gap regarding the post-treatment brain effects of psilocybin, and are the first in depressed patients. The post-treatment brain changes are different to previously observed acute effects of psilocybin and other ‘psychedelics’ yet were related to clinical outcomes. A ‘reset’ therapeutic mechanism is proposed.
Adjusting the catalytic properties of cobalt ferrite nanoparticles by pulsed laser fragmentation in water with defined energy dose
Authors: Waag Friedrich , Gökce Bilal , Kalapu Chakrapani , Bendt Georg , Salamon Soma , Landers Joachim , Hagemann Ulrich , Heidelmann Markus , Schulz Stephan , Wende Heiko , Hartmann Nils , Behrens Malte , Barcikowski Stephan
Published: October 2017

Highly active, structurally disordered CoFe2O4/CoO electrocatalysts are synthesized by pulsed laser fragmentation in liquid (PLFL) of a commercial CoFe2O4 powder dispersed in water. A partial transformation of the CoFe2O4 educt to CoO is observed and proposed to be a thermal decomposition process induced by the picosecond pulsed laser irradiation. The overpotential in the OER in aqueous alkaline media at 10 mA cm−2 is reduced by 23% compared to the educt down to 0.32 V with a Tafel slope of 71 mV dec−1. Importantly, the catalytic activity is systematically adjustable by the number of PLFL treatment cycles. The occurrence of thermal melting and decomposition during one PLFL cycle is verified by modelling the laser beam energy distribution within the irradiated colloid volume and comparing the by single particles absorbed part to threshold energies. Thermal decomposition leads to a massive reduction in particle size and crystal transformations towards crystalline CoO and amorphous CoFe2O4. Subsequently, thermal melting forms multi-phase spherical and network-like particles. Additionally, Fe-based layered double hydroxides at higher process cycle repetitions emerge as a byproduct. The results show that PLFL is a promising method that allows modification of the structural order in oxides and thus access to catalytically interesting materials.
Cytotoxicity of thymoquinone alone or in combination with cisplatin (CDDP) against oral squamous cell carcinoma in vitro
Authors: Alaufi Omar M. , Noorwali Abdulwahab , Zahran Fatheya , Al-Abd Ahmed M. , Al-Attas Safia
Published: October 2017

Cisplatin (CDDP) is potent anticancer agent used for several tumor types. Thymoquinone (TQ) is naturally occurring compound drawing great attention as anticancer and chemomodulator for chemotherapies. Herein, we studied the potential cytotoxicity of thymoquinone, CDDP and their combination against human oral squamous cell carcinoma cell in contrast to normal oral epithelial cells. CDDP similarly killed both head and neck squamous cell carcinoma cells (UMSCC-14C) and normal oral epithelial cells (OEC). TQ alone exerted considerable cytotoxicity against UMSCC-14C cells; while it induced weaker killing effect against normal oral epithelial cells (OEC). Equitoxic combination of TQ and CDDP showed additive to synergistic interaction against both UMSCC-14C and OEC cells. TQ alone increased apoptotic cell fraction in UMSCC-14C cells, as early as after 6 hours. In addition, prolonged exposure of UMSCC-14C to TQ alone resulted in 96.7 ± 1.6% total apoptosis which was increased after combination with CDDP to 99.3 ± 1.2% in UMSCC-14C cells. On the other hand, TQ induced marginal increase in the apoptosis in OEC and even decreased the apoptosis induced by CDDP alone. Finally, apoptosis induction results were confirmed by the change in the expression levels of p53, Bcl-2 and Caspase-9 proteins in both UMSCC-14c and OEC cells.
Mesenchymal stem cells from tumor microenvironment favour breast cancer stem cell proliferation, cancerogenic and metastatic potential, via ionotropic purinergic signalling
Authors: Maffey A. , Storini C. , Diceglie C. , Martelli C. , Sironi L. , Calzarossa C. , Tonna N. , Lovchik R. , Delamarche E. , Ottobrini L. , Bianco F.
Published: October 2017

Interaction between tumor cells and the microenvironment is key in initiation, progression, and invasiveness of cancer. In particular, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are recruited to the sites of developing tumors, thus promoting metastasis formation. Although it is well known that MSCs migrate and integrate in the tumor microenvironment (TME), their fate and function inside the tumor is still not clear. In this study, we analyzed the role played by MSCs in breast cancer oncogenesis. Data indicate that interaction of breast cancer cells with MSCs results in an increased proliferation and metabolic activity of breast cancer cells, partially due to MSC-derived microvesicles that are shed in the TME. Moreover, we addressed the question of whether we could modulate such interaction by acting on P2X-mediated intercellular communication. By inhibiting P2X-mediated purinergic signaling, we succeeded in reducing both the cancerogenic as well as the metastatic potential of breast cancer cells co-cultured with MSCs, in 2D as well as in 3D in vitro models. Data obtained demonstrate for the first time that the trophic effect of MSCs on breast cancer cell growth is exerted via ionotropic purinergic signaling, thus suggesting the inhibition of the purinergic signaling system as a potential target for therapeutic intervention.
Catastrophic failure of nacre under pure shear stresses of torsion
Authors: Alghamdi Saleh , Tan Ting , Hale-Sills Christopher , Vilmont Floyd , Xia Tian , Yang Jie , Huston Dryver , Dewoolkar Mandar
Published: October 2017

Nacre, a composite made from biogenic aragonite and proteins, exhibits excellent strength and toughness. Here, we show that nacreous sections can exhibit complete brittle fracture along the tablet interfaces at the proportional limit under pure shear stresses of torsion. We quantitatively separate the initial tablet sliding primarily resisted by nanoscale aragonite pillars from the following sliding resisted by various microscale toughening mechanisms. We postulate that the ductility of nacre can be limited by eliminating tablet interactions during crack propagations. Our findings should help pursuing further insights of layered materials by using torsion.
Aberrant ocular architecture and function in patients with Klinefelter syndrome
Authors: Brand Cristin , Zitzmann Michael , Eter Nicole , Kliesch Sabine , Wistuba Joachim , Alnawaiseh Maged , Heiduschka Peter
Published: October 2017

Klinefelter Syndrome (KS), the most common chromosomal disorder in men (47,XXY), is associated with numerous comorbidities. Based on a number of isolated case reports, we performed the first systematic and comprehensive evaluation of eye health in KS patients with a focus on ocular structure and vascularization. Twenty-one KS patients and 26 male and 38 female controls underwent a variety of non-invasive examinations investigating ocular morphology (examination of retinal thickness, optic nerve head, and cornea) and function (visual field testing and quantification of ocular vessel density by optical coherence tomography angiography). In comparison to healthy controls, KS patients exhibited a smaller foveal avascular zone and a decreased retinal thickness due to a drastically thinner outer nuclear layer. The cornea of KS patients showed a decreased peripheral thickness and volume. In perimetry evaluation, KS patients required brighter stimuli and gave more irregular values. KS patients show an ocular phenotype including morphological and functional features, which is very likely caused by the supernumerary X chromosome. Thus, KS should not be limited to infertility, endocrine dysfunction, neurocognitive and psychosocial comorbidities. Defining an aberrant ocular morphology and function, awareness for possible eye problems should be raised.
Environmental controls on sap flow in black locust forest in Loess Plateau, China
Authors: Ma Changkun , Luo Yi , Shao Mingan , Li Xiangdong , Sun Lin , Jia Xiaoxu
Published: October 2017

Black locust accounts for over 90% of artificial forests in China’s Loess Plateau region. However, water use of black locust is an uphill challenge for this semi-arid region. To accurately quantify tree water use and to explain the related hydrological processes, it is important to collect reliable data for application in the estimation of sap flow and its response to environmental factors. This study measured sap flow in black locust in the 2015 and 2016 growth seasons using the thermal dissipation probes technique and laboratory-calibrated Granier’s equation. The study showed that the laboratory calibrated coefficient α was much larger than the original value presented by Granier, while the coefficient β was similar to the original one. The average daily transpiration was 2.1 mm day−1 for 2015 and 1.6 mm day−1 for 2016. Net solar radiation (Rn) was the key meteorological factor controlling sap flow, followed by vapor pressure deficit (VPD) and then temperature (T). VPD had a threshold control on sap flow at threshold values of 1.9 kPa for 2015 and 1.6 kPa for 2016. The effects of diurnal hysteresis of Rn, VPD and T on sap flow were evident, indicating that black locust water use was conservative.
Stabilization of a bat-pitcher plant mutualism
Authors: Schöner Michael G. , Schöner Caroline R. , Ermisch Rebecca , Puechmaille Sébastien J. , Grafe T. Ulmar , Tan Moi Chan , Kerth Gerald
Published: October 2017

Despite the long persistence of many mutualisms, it is largely unknown which mechanisms stabilize these interactions. This is especially true if only one mutualism partner can choose alternative partners while the other cannot, resulting in a power asymmetry. According to biological market theory the choosing partner should prefer the more dependent partner if the latter offers commodities of higher quality than its competitors. We tested this prediction using Bornean carnivorous pitcher plants (Nepenthes hemsleyana) that strongly rely on faecal nitrogen of bats (Kerivoula hardwickii) which roost inside the pitchers. The bats also roost in furled leaves of various plants. Surprisingly, during field observations the bats did not always chooseN. hemsleyanapitchers despite their superior quality but were generally faithful either to pitchers or to furled leaves. In behavioural experiments 21% of the leaf-roosting bats switched to pitchers, while the majority of these bats and all pitcher-roosting individuals were faithful to the roost type in which we had found them. Genetic differentiation cannot explain this faithfulness, which likely results from different roosting traditions. Such traditions could have stabilizing or destabilizing effects on various mutualisms and should be investigated in more detail.
Long-lasting antiviral innate immune priming in the Lophotrochozoan Pacific oyster, Crassostrea gigas
Authors: Lafont Maxime , Petton Bruno , Vergnes Agnès , Pauletto Marianna , Segarra Amélie , Gourbal Benjamin , Montagnani Caroline
Published: October 2017

In the last decade, a paradigm shift has emerged in comparative immunology. Invertebrates can no longer be considered to be devoid of specific recognition and immune memory. However, we still lack a comprehensive view of these phenomena and their molecular mechanisms across phyla, especially in terms of duration, specificity, and efficiency in a natural context. In this study, we focused on a Lophotrochozoan/virus interaction, as antiviral priming is mostly overlooked in molluscs. Juvenile Crassostrea gigas oysters experience reoccurring mass mortalities events from Ostreid herpes virus 1 with no existing therapeutic treatment. Our results showed that various nucleic acid injections can prime oysters to trigger an antiviral state ultimately protecting them against a subsequent viral infection. Focusing on poly(I:C) as elicitor, we evidenced that it protected from an environmental infection, by mitigating viral replication. That protection seemed to induce a specific antiviral response as poly(I:C) fails to protect against a pathogenic bacteria. Finally, we showed that this phenomenon was long-lasting, persisting for at least 5 months thus suggesting for the first time the existence of innate immune memory in this invertebrate species. This study strengthens the emerging hypotheses about the broad conservation of innate immune priming and memory mechanisms in Lophotrochozoans.
Ecosystem carbon storage in forest fragments of differing patch size
Authors: Ma Lei , Shen Chunyu , Lou Duo , Fu Shenglei , Guan Dongsheng
Published: October 2017

Forest fragmentation threatens the ecosystem carbon (C) storage. The distribution patterns of ecosystem C density are poorly documented for fragmented forests of differing patch size. The objectives of this study were to examine C density in these forest ecosystems and the influence of edge effects on C density. Allometric equations were used to quantify aboveground biomass. Carbon density was estimated by analyzing the C concentration of each component. We found that ecosystem carbon density ranged from 173.9 Mg ha−1 in the small sized forest fragments, to 341.1 Mg ha−1 in the contiguous evergreen sub-tropical forest. Trees (46.5%) and mineral soil (50.2%) were the two largest contributors to the total ecosystem C pool in all fragments. Both C and nitrogen (N) in soil and fine roots were highly heterogeneous among the different fragment sizes and soil depths. We concluded that ecosystem C density of forest fragments were significantly influenced by patch size and edge effects. The fragmented forests in southern China play an important role in the C budget, and need urgent conservation. These results are likely to be further integrated into forest management plans and generalized into other contexts, to evaluate C stocks at the landscape scale.
Oscillatory electrostatic potential on graphene induced by group IV element decoration
Authors: Du Chunyan , Yu Liwei , Liu Xiaojie , Liu Lili , Wang Cai-Zhuang
Published: October 2017

The structures and electronic properties of partial C, Si and Ge decorated graphene were investigated by first-principles calculations. The calculations show that the interaction between graphene and the decoration patches is weak and the semiconductor patches act as agents for weak electron doping without much disturbing graphene electronic π-bands. Redistribution of electrons due to the partial decoration causes the electrostatic potential lower in the decorated graphene areas, thus induced an electric field across the boundary between the decorated and non-decorated domains. Such an alternating electric field can change normal stochastic adatom diffusion to biased diffusion, leading to selective mass transport.
Interfering with the high-affinity interaction between wheat amylase trypsin inhibitor CM3 and toll-like receptor 4: in silico and biosensor-based studies
Authors: Cuccioloni Massimiliano , Mozzicafreddo Matteo , Bonfili Laura , Cecarini Valentina , Giangrossi Mara , Falconi Maurizio , Saitoh Shin-Ichiroh , Eleuteri Anna Maria , Angeletti Mauro
Published: October 2017

Wheat amylase/trypsin bi-functional inhibitors (ATIs) are protein stimulators of innate immune response, with a recently established role in promoting both gastrointestinal and extra-gastrointestinal inflammatory syndromes. These proteins have been reported to trigger downstream intestinal inflammation upon activation of TLR4, a member of the Toll-like family of proteins that activates signalling pathways and induces the expression of immune and pro-inflammatory genes. In this study, we demonstrated the ability of ATI to directly interact with TLR4 with nanomolar affinity, and we kinetically and structurally characterized the interaction between these macromolecules by means of a concerted approach based on surface plasmon resonance binding analyses and computational studies. On the strength of these results, we designed an oligopeptide capable of preventing the formation of the complex between ATI and the receptor.
Finely-tuned NIR-to-visible up-conversion in La2O3:Yb3+,Er3+microcrystals with high quantum yield
Authors: Gao Guojun , Busko Dmitry , Kauffmann-Weiss Sandra , Turshatov Andrey , Howard Ian A. , Richards Bryce S.
Published: October 2017

We report near-infrared-to-visible La2O3:Yb3+,Er3+(LYE) UC materials with a high internal quantum yield (UCQY) of 3.8%, external UCQY (brightness) of 1.6% and tunable emission color.
The active site for the water oxidising anodic iridium oxide probed through in situ Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Pavlovic Zoran , Ranjan Chinmoy , van Gastel Maurice , Schlögl Robert
Published: October 2017

The structure of anodic iridium oxide (IrOx) under water oxidation was explored using in situ Raman spectroscopy and theoretical calculations.
Foamed silicon particles as a high capacity anode material for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Sohn Myungbeom , Park Hyeong-Il , Kim Hansu
Published: October 2017

The foamed Si particles prepared by a milling-assisted alkaline etching process showed excellent electrochemical performance as an anode for lithium-ion batteries.
Visible light-promoted dihydroxylation of styrenes with water and dioxygen
Authors: Yang Bo , Lu Zhan
Published: October 2017

An efficient visible light promoted metal-free dihydroxylation of styrenes with water and dioxygen has been developed for the construction of vicinal alcohols.
High stability of gold nanoparticles towards DNA modification and efficient hybridization via a surfactant-free peptide route
Authors: Li Xin-Yi , Feng Fu-Yan , Wu Zi-Tong , Liu Yi-Zhen , Zhou Xiao-Dong , Hu Ji-Ming
Published: October 2017

A stable, universal, highly efficient approach to quickly load DNA onto AuNPs is proposed with high DNA utilization, further boosting hybridization.
Controlling azobenzene photoswitching through combined ortho-fluorination and -amination
Authors: Ahmed Z. , Siiskonen A. , Virkki M. , Priimagi A.
Published: October 2017

We present a series of visible-light-absorbing azobenzenes through a combination of ortho-fluorination and –amination showing a wide range of cis-lifetimes.
A solution-based single-molecule study of surface-bound PBIs: solvent-mediated environmental effects on molecular flexibility
Authors: Lee Ji-Eun , Han Ye Ri , Ham Sujin , Jun Chul-Ho , Kim Dongho
Published: October 2017

We have investigated the fundamental photophysical properties of surface-bound perylene bisimide (PBI) molecules in solution at the single-molecule level.
Spectroscopic characteristics ofRubricoccus marinusxenorhodopsin (RmXeR) and a putative model for its inward H+transport mechanism
Authors: Inoue Saki , Yoshizawa Susumu , Nakajima Yu , Kojima Keiichi , Tsukamoto Takashi , Kikukawa Takashi , Sudo Yuki
Published: October 2017

On the basis of functional and spectroscopic characterization, we propose a model for the inward proton transport inRmXeR, a newly discovered microbial rhodopsin.
Experimental and theoretical study of the collisional quenching of S(1D) by Ar
Authors: Lara Manuel , Berteloite C. , Paniagua M. , Dayou F. , Le Picard S. D. , Launay J.-M.
Published: October 2017

We present an experimental and theoretical investigation of the deactivation rate of S(1D) atoms by collisions with argon.
Sequential microhydration of cationic 5-hydroxyindole (5HI+): infrared photodissociation spectra of 5HI+–Wn clusters (W = H2O, n ≤ 4)
Authors: Klyne Johanna , Miyazaki Mitsuhiko , Fujii Masaaki , Dopfer Otto
Published: October 2017

The hydrogen-bonding properties of the acidic OH and NH groups of the 5-hydroxyindole cation are probed by infrared spectroscopy and DFT calculations of its microhydrated clusters.
High-nuclearity heterometallic clusters with both an anion and a cation sandwiched by planar cluster units: synthesis, structure and properties
Authors: Chen Zilu , Shen Yanling , Li Lingling , Zou Huahong , Fu Xiaoxiao , Liu Ziyuan , Wang Kai , Liang Fupei
Published: October 2017

We report an unprecedented type of nonadecanuclear heterometallic sandwich structures with both halide anion and alkali metal cation sandwiched by planar nonanuclear clusters.
Asymmetric transfer hydrogenation of aryl ketoesters with a chiral double-chain surfactant-type catalyst in water
Authors: Li Jiahong , Lin Zechao , Huang Qingfei , Wang Qiwei , Tang Lei , Zhu Jin , Deng Jingen
Published: October 2017

A chiral double-chain surfactant-type ligand was designed and synthesized. The rhodium catalyst formed from the ligand can self-assemble into chiral vesicular aggregates in water, which was applied to ATH of broad range of aromatic ketoesters in neat water.
Metal organic frameworks as catalysts in solvent-free or ionic liquid assisted conditions
Authors: Dhakshinamoorthy Amarajothi , Asiri Abdullah M. , Alvaro Mercedes , Garcia Hermenegildo
Published: October 2017

This Critical Review describes the use of Metal Organic Frameworks as Solid Catalysts under Solvent-Free or Ionic Liquid Assisted conditions.
Feasibility study of particle detection and spectral diagnosis of plasma temperature through suspension introduction Ar-MPT-OES
Authors: Su Yong-Yang , Li Zhi-Ming , Wang Wen-Liang , Xu Jiang , Wang Wei , Li Xia-Zhi , Yu Ze
Published: October 2017

The Microwave Plasma Torch (MPT) is an excellent excitation source for on-line monitoring of environmental samples.
Assembly of hollow mesoporous nanoarchitectures composed of ultrafine Mo2C nanoparticles on N-doped carbon nanosheets for efficient electrocatalytic reduction of oxygen
Authors: Guo Yanna , Tang Jing , Henzie Joel , Jiang Bo , Qian Huayu , Wang Zhongli , Tan Haibo , Bando Yoshio , Yamauchi Yusuke
Published: October 2017

A simple method is developed to prepare Mo2C-embedded mesoporous N-doped carbon nanosheets which assemble into hollow spheres.
A new series of mononuclear lanthanide single molecule magnets based on sandwich-type germanomolybdates [Ln(GeMo11O39)2]13− (Ln = ErIII, GdIII, DyIII or TbIII)
Authors: Jin Zhanbin , Bai Jie , Wei Tingting , Li Fengyan , Song Chunli , Luo Xinze , Xu Lin
Published: October 2017

New series of mononuclear lanthanide single molecule magnets based on sandwich-type germanomolybdates have been synthesized and their magnetic properties were investigated.
Nitrogen-doped star-shaped polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons based on fused triazatruxenes: synthesis and optoelectronic properties
Authors: Liu Cheng-Fang , Cheng Cheng , Jiang Yi , Lai Wen-Yong , Huang Wei
Published: October 2017

A novel series of nitrogen-doped star-shaped polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons based on naphthalenes-fused triazatruxenes with fine-tunable optoelectronic properties have been developed.
Novel construction of diversely functionalized N-heteroaryl-2-pyridones via copper(ii)-catalyzed [3+2+1] annulation
Authors: Akhtar Muhammad Saeed , Shim Jae-Jin , Kim Sung Hong , Lee Yong Rok
Published: October 2017

A facile synthesis of diversely functionalizedN-heteroaryl-2-pyridones is achieved by Cu(OTf)2-catalyzed [3+2+1] annulation of various 2-aminopyridinesviacascade reaction.
Synthesis of polysubstituted 3,4-dihydro-2H-thiopyrans by regioselective annulation of 3,3-disubstituted allylic alcohols with a β-oxodithioester
Authors: Kurva Srinivas , Sriramoju Vinodkumar , Madabhushi Sridhar , Nanubolu Jagadeesh Babu
Published: October 2017

Polyfunctionalized 3,4-dihydro-2H-thiopyrans were obtained in high yields via the regioselective annulation of 3,3-disubstituted allylic alcohols with a β-oxodithioester under BF3·Et2O catalysis.
Preparation of TiO2–ZrO2/Au/CeO2 hollow sandwich-like nanostructures for excellent catalytic activity and thermal stability
Authors: Huang Mengqiu , Zhang Yiwei , Zhou Yuming , Zhang Chao , Zhao Shuo , Fang Jiasheng , Gao Yan , Sheng Xiaoli
Published: October 2017

This work reports a novel type of sandwich-like hollow Au-based nanocatalyst, including a TiO2–ZrO2 shell, a hollow CeO2 core and Au nanoparticles of 2–5 nm.
Pd-Catalysed Suzuki coupling of α-bromoethenylphosphonates with organotrifluoroborates: a general protocol for the synthesis of terminal α-substituted vinylphosphonates
Authors: Zhang Li , Fang Yewen , Jin Xiaoping , Xu Housan , Li Ruifeng , Wu Hao , Chen Bin , Zhu Yiming , Yang Yi , Tian Zongming
Published: October 2017

No concern will arise in the preparation of terminal α-substituted vinylphosphonates employing our general and practical protocol.
An effective approach to aryl-substituted propanoic acids via the Pd-catalyzed hydrocarboxylation of stilbenes
Authors: Dai Jie , Ren Wenlong , Li Jingfu , Shi Yian
Published: October 2017

An effective Pd(0)-catalyzed hydrocarboxylation of substituted stilbenes with formic acid and HCOOPh is described. A variety of aryl-substituted propanoic acids are obtained in good yields without using external toxic CO gas.
The screening of metal ion inhibitors for glucose oxidase based on the peroxidase-like activity of nano-Fe3O4
Authors: Wu Yao-hui , Chu Lei , Liu Wen , Jiang Lun , Chen Xiao-yong , Wang Yong-hong , Zhao Yun-lin
Published: October 2017

In this study, a colorimetric method is proposed based on the peroxidase-like activity of Fe3O4magnetic nanoparticles for screening metal ion inhibitors for glucose oxidase activity.
Synthesis and assessment of new cationic gemini surfactants as inhibitors for carbon steel corrosion in oilfield water
Authors: El-Taib Heakal F. , Deyab M. A. , Osman M. M. , Nessim M. I. , Elkholy A. E.
Published: October 2017

Stylized representation of Gemini surfactant molecule.
The effect of additional methyl on the magnetic relaxation and toroidal moment of Dy6 complex
Authors: Lin Shuang-Yan , Wu Jianfeng , Xu Zhikun
Published: October 2017

A new μ4-O bridged Dy6 complex has been successfully synthesized by using methyl modified Schiff-base ligand, which shows SMM behaviour with a non-ignorable QTM and SMT behaviour with a large conventional magnetization.
Facile one-pot synthesis and self-healing properties of tetrazole-based metallopolymers in the presence of iron salts
Authors: Wang Wenxiang , Chen Mifa , Niu Yuzhong , Tao Qian , Bai Liangjiu , Chen Hou , Cheng Zhenping
Published: October 2017

Self-healing MPs were prepared with tetrazole group for coordinating with FeCl3·6H2O by one-pot method. This simple and efficient synthesis will provide a green route for preparing excellent self-healing materials.
Differential pH as a method for increasing cell potential in organic aqueous flow batteries
Authors: Khataee Amirreza , Wedege Kristina , Dražević Emil , Bentien Anders
Published: October 2017

A semi-organic, differential pH flow battery with increased cell voltage shows stable operation for at least 30 days.
All at once: how electrochemistry can be used to design and access multiple compositions in a single sample
Authors: Ruffo Vitor A. , Crisci Alexandre , Chatenet Marian , Camara Giuseppe A.
Published: October 2017

A library of PtRh compositions is simultaneously obtained by electrodeposition in a diffusion-controlled cell. This approach enables to perform compositional studies in a single piece of substrate and open new perspectives of studies in heterogeneous catalysis and electrocatalysis.
Recent advances in hydrogen storage using catalytically and chemically modified graphene nanocomposites
Authors: Nagar Rupali , Vinayan Bhaghavathi P. , Samantaray Sai Smruti , Ramaprabhu Sundara
Published: October 2017

Recent advances in hydrogen storage using catalytically and chemically modified graphene nanocomposites are reviewed and its future outlook discussed.
Ordered multilayer films of hollow sphere aluminium-doped zinc oxide for photoelectrochemical solar energy conversion
Authors: Zhang Menglong , Mitchell Robert W. , Huang Haowei , Douthwaite Richard E.
Published: October 2017

Liquid diffusion occurs throughout an ordered multilayer hollow sphere array of a transparent conducting oxide supporting large photocurrents.
Recent advances in printable secondary batteries
Authors: Du Cheng-Feng , Liang Qinghua , Luo Yubo , Zheng Yun , Yan Qingyu
Published: October 2017

Recent advances in printable secondary batteries and their advantages for powering future wearable smart devices are presented.
An integrated approach towards the fabrication of highly efficient and long-term stable perovskite nanowire solar cells
Authors: Chang Chih-Yu , Tsai Bo-Chou , Lin Min-Zhen , Huang Yu-Ching , Tsao Cheng-Si
Published: October 2017

An integrated approach towards the fabrication of efficient and long-term stable perovskite nanowire solar cells is reported by combining interfacial engineering with a promising encapsulation technique.
Poly(quinone-amine)/nanocarbon composite electrodes with enhanced proton storage capacity
Authors: Navarro-Suárez Adriana M. , Carretero-González Javier , Rojo Teófilo , Armand Michel
Published: October 2017

Novel redox active bi- and terpolymers, containing quinone-amine blocks and wired by nanocarbons, have been synthesized and studied as negative electrodes for electrochemical proton storage.
Pristine carbon nanotube scaffolds for the growth of chondrocytes
Authors: King Alice A. K. , Matta-Domjan Brigitta , Large Matthew J. , Matta Csaba , Ogilvie Sean P. , Bardi Niki , Byrne Hugh J. , Zakhidov Anvar , Jurewicz Izabela , Velliou Eirini , Lewis Rebecca , La Ragione Roberto , Dalton Alan B.
Published: October 2017

The effective growth of chondrocytes and the formation of cartilage is demonstrated on scaffolds of aligned carbon nanotubes.