bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel outer membrane β-1,6-glucanase is deployed in the predation of fungi by myxobacteria
Authors: Li Zhoukun , Ye Xianfeng , Liu Muxing , Xia Chengyao , Zhang Lei , Luo Xue , Wang Ting , Chen Yue , Zhao Yuqiang , Qiao Yan , Huang Yan , Cao Hui , Gu Xiangyang , Fan Jiaqin , Cui Zhongli , Zhang Zhengguang
Published: May 2019

Myxobacterial predation on bacteria has been investigated for several decades. However, their predation on fungi has received less attention. Here, we show that a novel outer membrane β-1,6-glucanase GluM from Corallococcus sp. strain EGB is essential for initial sensing and efficient decomposition of fungi during predation. GluM belongs to an unstudied family of outer membrane β-barrel proteins with potent specific activity up to 24,000 U/mg, whose homologs extensively exist in myxobacteria. GluM was able to digest fungal cell walls efficiently and restrict Magnaporthe oryzae infection of rice plants. Genetic complementation with gluM restored the fungal predation ability of Myxococcus xanthus CL1001, which was abolished by the disruption of gluM homolog oar. The inability to prey on fungi with cell walls that lack β-1,6-glucans indicates that β-1,6-glucans are targeted by GluM. Our results demonstrate that GluM confers myxobacteria with the ability to feed on fungi, and provide new insights for understanding predator-prey interactions. Considering the attack mode of GluM, we suggest that β-1,6-glucan is a promising target for the development of novel broad-spectrum antifungal agents.
Defining lower limits of biodegradation: atrazine degradation regulated by mass transfer and maintenance demand inArthrobacter aurescensTC1
Authors: Kundu Kankana , Marozava Sviatlana , Ehrl Benno , Merl-Pham Juliane , Griebler Christian , Elsner Martin
Published: May 2019

Exploring adaptive strategies by which microorganisms function and survive in low-energy natural environments remains a grand goal of microbiology, and may help address a prime challenge of the 21st century: degradation of man-made chemicals at low concentrations (“micropollutants”). Here we explore physiological adaptation and maintenance energy requirements of a herbicide (atrazine)-degrading microorganism (Arthrobacter aurescens TC1) while concomitantly observing mass transfer limitations directly by compound-specific isotope fractionation analysis. Chemostat-based growth triggered the onset of mass transfer limitation at residual concentrations of 30 μg L−1 of atrazine with a bacterial population doubling time (td) of 14 days, whereas exacerbated energy limitation was induced by retentostat-based near-zero growth (td = 265 days) at 12 ± 3 μg L−1 residual concentration. Retentostat cultivation resulted in (i) complete mass transfer limitation evidenced by the disappearance of isotope fractionation (ε13C = −0.45‰ ± 0.36‰) and (ii) a twofold decrease in maintenance energy requirement compared with chemostat cultivation. Proteomics revealed that retentostat and chemostat cultivation under mass transfer limitation share low protein turnover and expression of stress-related proteins. Mass transfer limitation effectuated slow-down of metabolism in retentostats and a transition from growth phase to maintenance phase indicating a limit of ≈10 μg L−1 for long-term atrazine degradation. Further studies on other ecosystem-relevant microorganisms will substantiate the general applicability of our finding that mass transfer limitation serves as a trigger for physiological adaptation, which subsequently defines a lower limit of biodegradation.
Active subseafloor microbial communities from Mariana back-arc venting fluids share metabolic strategies across different thermal niches and taxa
Authors: Trembath-Reichert Elizabeth , Butterfield David A , Huber Julie A
Published: May 2019

There are many unknowns regarding the distribution, activity, community composition, and metabolic repertoire of microbial communities in the subseafloor of deep-sea hydrothermal vents. Here we provide the first characterization of subseafloor microbial communities from venting fluids along the central Mariana back-arc basin (15.5–18°N), where the slow-spreading rate, depth, and variable geochemistry along the back-arc distinguish it from other spreading centers. Results indicated that diverse Epsilonbacteraeota were abundant across all sites, with a population of high temperature Aquificae restricted to the northern segment. This suggests that differences in subseafloor populations along the back-arc are associated with local geologic setting and resultant geochemistry. Metatranscriptomics coupled to stable isotope probing revealed bacterial carbon fixation linked to hydrogen oxidation, denitrification, and sulfide or thiosulfate oxidation at all sites, regardless of community composition. NanoSIMS (nanoscale secondary ion mass spectrometry) incubations at 80 °C show only a small portion of the microbial community took up bicarbonate, but those autotrophs had the highest overall rates of activity detected across all experiments. By comparison, acetate was more universally utilized to sustain growth, but within a smaller range of activity. Together, results indicate that microbial communities in venting fluids from the Mariana back-arc contain active subseafloor communities reflective of their local conditions with metabolisms commonly shared across geologically disparate spreading centers throughout the ocean.
DLPFC transcriptome defines two molecular subtypes of schizophrenia
Authors: Bowen Elijah F. W. , Burgess Jack L. , Granger Richard , Kleinman Joel E. , Rhodes C. Harker
Published: May 2019

Little is known about the molecular pathogenesis of schizophrenia, possibly because of unrecognized heterogeneity in diagnosed patient populations. We analyzed gene expression data collected from the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) of post-mortem frozen brains of 189 adult diagnosed schizophrenics and 206 matched controls. Transcripts from 633 genes are differentially expressed in the DLPFC of schizophrenics as compared to controls at Bonferroni-corrected significance levels. Seventeen of those genes are differentially expressed at very high significance levels (<10−8 after Bonferroni correction). The findings were closely replicated in a dataset from an entirely unrelated source. The statistical significance of this differential gene expression is being driven by about half of the schizophrenic DLPFC samples, and importantly, it is the same half of the samples that is driving the significance for almost all of the differentially expressed transcripts. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) of the schizophrenic subjects, based on the transcripts differentially expressed in the schizophrenics as compared to controls, divides them into two groups. “Type 1” schizophrenics have a DLPFC transcriptome similar to that of controls with only four differentially expressed genes identified. “Type 2” schizophrenics have a DLPFC transcriptome dramatically different from that of controls, with 3529 expression array probes to 3092 genes detecting transcripts that are differentially expressed at very high significance levels. These findings were re-tested and replicated in a separate independent cohort, using the RNAseq data from the DLPFC of an independent set of schizophrenics and control subjects. We suggest the hypothesis that these striking differences in DLPFC transcriptomes, identified and replicated in two populations, imply a fundamental biologic difference between these two groups of diagnosed schizophrenics, and we propose specific paths for further testing and expanding the hypothesis.
The expression and function of TRPV4 channels in primate retinal ganglion cells and bipolar cells
Authors: Gao Fan , Yang Zhuo , Jacoby Roy A. , Wu Samuel M. , Pang Ji-Jie
Published: May 2019

The transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (TRPV4) channel may be opened by mechanical stimuli to mediate Ca2+and Na+influxes, and it has been suggested to mediate glaucoma retinopathy. However, it has been mostly unclear how TRPV4 activities affect the function of primate retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). We studied RGCs and bipolar cells (BCs) in the peripheral retina of the old-world primate using whole-cell current-clamp and voltage-clamp recordings, immunomarkers and confocal microscopy. RGCs were distinguished from displaced amacrine cells (ACs) by the absence of GABA and glycine immunoreactivity and possession of an axon and a large soma in the RGC layer. Strong TRPV4 signal was concentrated in medium to large somas of RGCs, and some TRPV4 signal was found in BCs (including PKCα-positive rod BCs), as well as the end feet, soma and outer processes of Mȕller cells. TRPV4 immunoreactivity quantified by the pixel intensity histogram revealed a high-intensity component for the plexiform layers, a low-intensity component for the soma layers of ACs and Mȕller cells, and both components in the soma layers of RGCs and BCs. In large RGCs, TRPV4 agonists 4α-phorbol 12,13 didecanoate (4αPDD) and GSK1016790A reversibly enhanced the spontaneous firing and shortened the delay of voltage-gated Na+(Nav) currents under current-clamp conditions, and under voltage-clamp conditions, 4αPDD largely reversibly increased the amplitude and frequency of spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic currents. In BCs, changes in the membrane tension induced by either applying pressure or releasing the pressure both activated a transient cation current, which reversed at ~ −10 mV and was enhanced by heating from 24 °C to 30 °C. The pressure for the half-maximal effect was ~18 mmHg. These data indicate that functional TRPV4 channels are variably expressed in primate RGCs and BCs, possibly contributing to pressure-related changes in RGCs in glaucoma.
D-Serine made by serine racemase in Drosophila intestine plays a physiological role in sleep
Authors: Dai Xihuimin , Zhou Enxing , Yang Wei , Zhang Xiaohui , Zhang Wenxia , Rao Yi
Published: May 2019

Natural D-serine (D-Ser) has been detected in animals more than two decades ago, but little is known about the physiological functions of D-Ser. Here we reveal sleep regulation by endogenous D-Ser. Sleep was decreased in mutants defective in D-Ser synthesis or its receptor the N-methyl-D-aspartic receptor 1 (NMDAR1), but increased in mutants defective in D-Ser degradation. D-Ser but not L-Ser rescued the phenotype of mutants lacking serine racemase (SR), the key enzyme for D-Ser synthesis. Pharmacological and triple gene knockout experiments indicate that D-Ser functions upstream of NMDAR1. Expression of SR was detected in both the nervous system and the intestines. Strikingly, reintroduction of SR into specific intestinal epithelial cells rescued the sleep phenotype of sr mutants. Our results have established a novel physiological function for endogenous D-Ser and a surprising role for intestinal cells.
People represent their own mental states more distinctly than those of others
Authors: Thornton Mark A. , Weaverdyck Miriam E. , Mildner Judith N. , Tamir Diana I.
Published: May 2019

One can never know the internal workings of another person—one can only infer others' mental states based on external cues. In contrast, each person has direct access to the contents of their own mind. Here, we test the hypothesis that this privileged access shapes the way people represent internal mental experiences, such that they represent their own mental states more distinctly than the states of others. Across four studies, participants considered their own and others' mental states; analyses measured the distinctiveness of mental state representations. Two fMRI studies used representational similarity analyses to demonstrate that the social brain manifests more distinct activity patterns when thinking about one's own states vs. others'. Two behavioral studies complement these findings, and demonstrate that people differentiate between states less as social distance increases. Together, these results suggest that we represent our own mind with greater granularity than the minds of others.
Graphite-protected CsPbBr3 perovskite photoanodes functionalised with water oxidation catalyst for oxygen evolution in water
Authors: Poli Isabella , Hintermair Ulrich , Regue Miriam , Kumar Santosh , Sackville Emma V. , Baker Jenny , Watson Trystan M. , Eslava Salvador , Cameron Petra J.
Published: May 2019

Metal-halide perovskites have been widely investigated in the photovoltaic sector due to their promising optoelectronic properties and inexpensive fabrication techniques based on solution processing. Here we report the development of inorganic CsPbBr3-based photoanodes for direct photoelectrochemical oxygen evolution from aqueous electrolytes. We use a commercial thermal graphite sheet and a mesoporous carbon scaffold to encapsulate CsPbBr3 as an inexpensive and efficient protection strategy. We achieve a record stability of 30 h in aqueous electrolyte under constant simulated solar illumination, with currents above 2 mA cm−2 at 1.23 VRHE. We further demonstrate the versatility of our approach by grafting a molecular Ir-based water oxidation catalyst on the electrolyte-facing surface of the sealing graphite sheet, which cathodically shifts the onset potential of the composite photoanode due to accelerated charge transfer. These results suggest an efficient route to develop stable halide perovskite based electrodes for photoelectrochemical solar fuel generation.
Nanopore blockade sensors for ultrasensitive detection of proteins in complex biological samples
Authors: Chuah Kyloon , Wu Yanfang , Vivekchand S. R. C. , Gaus Katharina , Reece Peter J. , Micolich Adam P. , Gooding J. Justin
Published: May 2019

Nanopore sensors detect individual species passing through a nanoscale pore. This experimental paradigm suffers from long analysis times at low analyte concentration and non-specific signals in complex media. These limit effectiveness of nanopore sensors for quantitative analysis. Here, we address these challenges using antibody-modified magnetic nanoparticles ((anti-PSA)-MNPs) that diffuse at zero magnetic field to capture the analyte, prostate-specific antigen (PSA). The (anti-PSA)-MNPs are magnetically driven to block an array of nanopores rather than translocate through the nanopore. Specificity is obtained by modifying nanopores with anti-PSA antibodies such that PSA molecules captured by (anti-PSA)-MNPs form an immunosandwich in the nanopore. Reversing the magnetic field removes (anti-PSA)-MNPs that have not captured PSA, limiting non-specific effects. The combined features allow detecting PSA in whole blood with a 0.8 fM detection limit. Our ‘magnetic nanoparticle, nanopore blockade’ concept points towards a strategy to improving nanopore biosensors for quantitative analysis of various protein and nucleic acid species.
A synergetic layered inorganic–organic hybrid film for conductive, flexible, and transparent electrodes
Authors: Singh Devendra , Tao Ran , Lubineau Gilles
Published: May 2019

Conductive electrodes are major components of flexible optoelectronic devices. However, existing materials are either very conductive but brittle (e.g., ITO [indium tin-oxide]), or non-brittle but less conductive, with an environment-dependent conductivity (e.g., PEDOT:PSS [poly-(3,4 ethylenedioxythiophene): poly (styrene sulfonic acid)]). Here, we propose a new design that simultaneously takes advantage of both the high conductivity of ITO and the high flexibility of PEDOT:PSS. In our design, a PEDOT:PSS interface is inserted between the film substrate and the ITO layer, creating a hybrid layered structure that retains both its high conductivity and high stability, when the film is deformed. The rational behind the creation of this structure, is that PEDOT:PSS, used as an interface between the locally delaminated ITO layer and the substrate, substantially reduces the detrimental effects of cracks on the electrode’s conductivity. These results open the path for a new generation of transparent electrodes in advanced flexible devices.
Systematic scoping review protocol of methodologies of chronic respiratory disease surveys in low/middle-income countries
Authors: Agarwal Dhiraj , Hanafi Nik Sherina , Chippagiri Soumya , Brakema Evelyn A. , Pinnock Hilary , Khoo Ee Ming , Sheikh Aziz , Liew Su-May , Ng Chiu-Wan , Isaac Rita , Chinna Karuthan , Ping Wong Li , Hussein Norita Binti , Juvekar Sanjay ,   the RESPIRE Collaborators, Das D. , Paul B. , Campbell H. , Grant E. , Fletcher M. , Saha S. , Habib M. , El Arifeen S. , Huque R. , Khatavkar P. , Salvi S. , Yusuf S. , Yusuf M. O. , Bashir N.
Published: May 2019

This protocol describes a systematic scoping review of chronic respiratory disease surveys in low/middle-income countries (LMICs) undertaken as part of the Four Country ChrOnic Respiratory Disease (4CCORD) study within the National Institute for Health Research Global Health Research Unit on Respiratory Health (RESPIRE). Understanding the prevalence and burden of chronic respiratory disease (CRD) underpins healthcare planning. We will systematically scope the literature to identify existing strategies (definitions/questionnaires/diagnostics/outcomes) used in surveys of CRDs in adults in low-resource settings. We will search MEDLINE, EMBASE, ISI WoS, Global Health and WHO Global Health Library [search terms: prevalence AND CRD (COPD, asthma) AND LMICs, from 1995], and two reviewers will independently extract data from selected studies onto a piloted customised data extraction form. We will convene a workshop of the multidisciplinary 4CCORD research team with representatives from the RESPIRE partners (Bangladesh, India, Malaysia, Pakistan and Edinburgh) at which the findings of the scoping review will be presented, discussed and interpreted. The findings will inform a future RESPIRE 4CCORD study, which will estimate CRD burden in adults in Asian LMICs.
Stages identifying and transcriptome profiling of the floral transition in Juglans regia
Authors: Quan Shaowen , Niu Jianxin , Zhou Li , Xu Hang , Ma Li , Qin Yang
Published: May 2019

Using paraffin sections, the stages of walnut female flower bud differentiation were divided into the predifferentiation period (F_1), initial differentiation period (F_2) and flower primordium differentiation period (F_3). Leaf buds collected at the same stage as F_2 were designated JRL. Transcriptomic profiling was performed, and a total of 132,154 unigenes were obtained with lengths ranging from 201 bp to 16,831 bp. The analysis of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) showed that there were 597, 784 and 532 DEGs in the three combinations F_1vsF_2, F_1vsF_3, and F_2vsF_3, respectively. The comparison F_2vsJRL showed that 374 DEGs were differentially expressed between female buds and leaf buds. Thirty-one DEGs related to flowering time were further used to construct coexpression networks, and CRY2 and NF-YA were identified as core DEGs in flowering time regulation. Eighteen DEGs related to flowering time were subjected to real-time quantitative analysis. Our work provides a foundation for further research on the walnut floral transition and provides new resources for future research on walnut biology and biotechnology.
Pharmacological Mobilization and Recruitment of Stem Cells in Rats Stops Abdominal Adhesions After Laparotomy
Authors: Iwasaki Kenichi , Ahmadi Ali Reza , Qi Le , Chen Melissa , Wang Wei , Katsumata Kenji , Tsuchida Akihiko , Burdick James , Cameron Andrew M. , Sun Zhaoli
Published: May 2019

Adhesions are a very common complication in the abdominal surgery. Animal studies and human trials have evaluated strategies designed to reduce and prevent postsurgical adhesions but few have an evidence base that justifies routine use. A strategy to prevent adhesions effectively remains an urgent need. We studied a reproducible model of intra-peritoneal adhesion formation in rats using laparotomy with several peritoneal sutures to produce the adhesions. Here we show that entraining endogenous stem cells into injury sites using the combined effect of AMD3100 and low-dose FK-506 (AF) can reduce the adhesion score significantly and abolish peritoneal adhesions in 45% of animals in a rat model of severe postsurgical intra-abdominal adhesions, compared with saline controls. Searching for mechanisms, we found AF treatment dramatically increased SDF-1 expressing cells, HGF expressing Ym1+ M2 macrophages and CD133+ stem cells in the injury sites of peritoneal surface at day 5 post-operation. Our results demonstrate that medically induced recruitment of autologous stem cells using AF significantly reduced postsurgical intra-abdominal adhesions. These findings suggest a novel effective therapeutic approach to preventing adhesions in patients.
Evaluation of Carum-loaded Niosomes on Breast Cancer Cells:Physicochemical Properties, In Vitro Cytotoxicity, Flow Cytometric, DNA Fragmentation and Cell Migration Assay
Authors: Barani Mahmood , Mirzaei Mohammad , Torkzadeh-Mahani Masoud , Adeli-sardou Mahboubeh
Published: May 2019

Thymoquinone (TQ), a phytochemical compound found in Carum carvil seeds (C. carvil), has a lot of applications in medical especially cancer therapy. However, TQ has a hydrophobic nature, and because of that, its solubility, permeability and its bioavailability in biological mediums are poor. To diminish these drawbacks, we have designed a herbal carrier composed of Ergosterol (herbal lipid), Carum carvil extract (Carum) and nonionic surfactants for herbal cancer treatment. C. carvil was extracted and characterized by GC/Mass. Two different formulations containing TQ and Carum were encapsulated into niosomes (Nio/TQ and Nio/Carum, respectively) and their properties were compared together. Morphology, size, zeta potential, encapsulation efficiency (EE%), profile release rate, in vitro cytotoxicity, flow cytometric, DNA fragmentation and cell migration assay of formulations were evaluated. Results show that both loaded formulations have a spherical morphology, nanometric size and negative zeta potential. EE% of TQ and Carum loaded niosomes was about 92.32% ± 2.32 and 86.25% ± 1.85, respectively. Both loaded formulations provided a controlled release compared with free TQ. MTT assay showed that loaded niosomes have more anti-cancer activity compared with Free TQ and free Carum against MCF-7 cancer cell line and these results were confirmed by flow cytometric analysis. Cell cycle analysis showed G2/M arrest in TQ, Nio/TQ and Nio/Carum formulations. TQ, Nio/TQ and Nio/Carum decreased the migration of MCF7 cells remarkedly. These results show that the TQ and Carum loaded niosomes are novel carriers with high efficiency for encapsulation of low soluble phytochemicals and also would be favourable systems for breast cancer treatment.
Infrared-absorbing carbonaceous tar can dominate light absorption by marine-engine exhaust
Authors: Corbin J. C. , Czech H. , Massabò D. , de Mongeot F. Buatier , Jakobi G. , Liu F. , Lobo P. , Mennucci C. , Mensah A. A. , Orasche J. , Pieber S. M. , Prévôt A. S. H. , Stengel B. , Tay L.-L. , Zanatta M. , Zimmermann R. , El Haddad I. , Gysel M.
Published: May 2019

Ship engines in the open ocean and Arctic typically combust heavy fuel oil (HFO), resulting in light-absorbing particulate matter (PM) emissions that have been attributed to black carbon (BC) and conventional, soluble brown carbon (brC). We show here that neither BC nor soluble brC is the major light-absorbing carbon (LAC) species in HFO-combustion PM. Instead, “tar brC” dominates. This tar brC, previously identified only in open-biomass-burning emissions, shares key defining properties with BC: it is insoluble, refractory, and substantially absorbs visible and near-infrared light. Relative to BC, tar brC has a higher Angstrom absorption exponent (AAE) (2.5–6, depending on the considered wavelengths), a moderately-high mass absorption efficiency (up to 50% of that of BC), and a lower ratio of sp2- to sp3-bonded carbon. Based on our results, we present a refined classification of atmospheric LAC into two sub-types of BC and two sub-types of brC. We apply this refined classification to demonstrate that common analytical techniques for BC must be interpreted with care when applied to tar-containing aerosols. The global significance of our results is indicated by field observations which suggest that tar brC already contributes to Arctic snow darkening, an effect which may be magnified over upcoming decades as Arctic shipping continues to intensify.
Murine obscurin and Obsl1 have functionally redundant roles in sarcolemmal integrity, sarcoplasmic reticulum organization, and muscle metabolism
Authors: Blondelle Jordan , Marrocco Valeria , Clark Madison , Desmond Patrick , Myers Stephanie , Nguyen Jim , Wright Matthew , Bremner Shannon , Pierantozzi Enrico , Ward Samuel , Estève Eric , Sorrentino Vincenzo , Ghassemian Majid , Lange Stephan
Published: May 2019

Biological roles of obscurin and its close homolog Obsl1 (obscurin-like 1) have been enigmatic. While obscurin is highly expressed in striated muscles, Obsl1 is found ubiquitously. Accordingly, obscurin mutations have been linked to myopathies, whereas mutations in Obsl1 result in 3M-growth syndrome. To further study unique and redundant functions of these closely related proteins, we generated and characterized Obsl1 knockouts. Global Obsl1 knockouts are embryonically lethal. In contrast, skeletal muscle-specific Obsl1 knockouts show a benign phenotype similar to obscurin knockouts. Only deletion of both proteins and removal of their functional redundancy revealed their roles for sarcolemmal stability and sarcoplasmic reticulum organization. To gain unbiased insights into changes to the muscle proteome, we analyzed tibialis anterior and soleus muscles by mass spectrometry, uncovering additional changes to the muscle metabolism. Our analyses suggest that all obscurin protein family members play functions for muscle membrane systems.
Structure of Mycobacterium tuberculosis phosphatidylinositol phosphate synthase reveals mechanism of substrate binding and metal catalysis
Authors: Grāve Kristīne , Bennett Matthew D. , Högbom Martin
Published: May 2019

Abstract

Tuberculosis causes over one million yearly deaths, and drug resistance is rapidly developing. Mycobacterium tuberculosis phosphatidylinositol phosphate synthase (PgsA1) is an integral membrane enzyme involved in biosynthesis of inositol-derived phospholipids required for formation of the mycobacterial cell wall, and a potential drug target. Here we present three crystal structures of M. tuberculosis PgsA1: in absence of substrates (2.9 Å), in complex with Mn2+ and citrate (1.9 Å), and with the CDP-DAG substrate (1.8 Å). The structures reveal atomic details of substrate binding as well as coordination and dynamics of the catalytic metal site. In addition, molecular docking supported by mutagenesis indicate a binding mode for the second substrate, D-myo-inositol-3-phosphate. Together, the data describe the structural basis for M. tuberculosis phosphatidylinositol phosphate synthesis and suggest a refined general catalytic mechanism—including a substrate-induced carboxylate shift—for Class I CDP-alcohol phosphotransferases, enzymes essential for phospholipid biosynthesis in all domains of life.
Single-molecule imaging and quantification of the immune-variant adhesin VAR2CSA on knobs of Plasmodium falciparum-infected erythrocytes
Authors: Sanchez Cecilia P. , Karathanasis Christos , Sanchez Rodrigo , Cyrklaff Marek , Jäger Julia , Buchholz Bernd , Schwarz Ulrich S. , Heilemann Mike , Lanzer Michael
Published: May 2019

PfEMP1 (erythrocyte membrane protein 1) adhesins play a pivotal role in the pathophysiology of falciparum malaria, by mediating sequestration of Plasmodium falciparum-infected erythrocytes in the microvasculature. PfEMP1 variants are expressed by var genes and are presented on membrane elevations, termed knobs. However, the organization of PfEMP1 on knobs is largely unclear. Here, we use super-resolution microscopy and genetically altered parasites expressing a modified var2csa gene in which the coding sequence of the photoactivatable mEOS2 was inserted to determine the number and distribution of PfEMP1 on single knobs. The data were verified by quantitative fluorescence-activated cell sorting analysis and immuno-electron microscopy together with stereology methods. We show that knobs contain 3.3 ± 1.7 and 4.3 ± 2.5 PfEMP1 molecules, predominantly placed on the knob tip, in parasitized erythrocytes containing wild type and sickle haemoglobin, respectively. The ramifications of our findings for cytoadhesion and immune evasion are discussed.
Wnt5a is a TLR2/4-ligand that induces tolerance in human myeloid cells
Authors: Mehmeti Meliha , Bergenfelz Caroline , Källberg Eva , Millrud Camilla Rydberg , Björk Per , Ivars Fredrik , Johansson-Lindbom Bengt , Kjellström Sven , André Ingemar , Leandersson Karin
Published: May 2019

Innate immune responses are rapid, dynamic and highly regulated to avoid overt reactions. This regulation is executed by innate immune tolerance mechanisms that remain obscure. Wnt5a is a signalling protein mainly involved in developmental processes and cancer. The effect of Wnt5a on inflammatory myeloid cells is controversial. Here, we combine primary cell cultures, in vitro binding studies, mass spectrometry and Drosophila protein modelling to show that Wnt5a is a direct ligand of toll-like receptor (TLR) 2 and 4. The binding promotes a MyD88-non-canonical nuclear factor of kappa B (NFκB) and AP-1 signalling cascade, with contradictory profiles in mouse (pro-inflammatory) and human (anti-inflammatory) myeloid immune cells. These data reveal that the true nature of Wnt5a in inflammatory cells, is to regulate TLR signals, and in human myeloid cells it acts as an endogenous, tolerance-associated molecular pattern (TAMP), inducing IL-10 and innate immune tolerance.
Surface characterization of thiol ligands on CdTe quantum dots: analysis by 1H NMR and DOSY
Authors: Bonilla Carlos A. Martínez , Flórez Mary-Helena Torres , Molina Velasco Daniel R. , Kouznetsov Vladimir V.
Published: May 2019

Fast and low-cost 1H-NMR/DOSY experiments are a valuable toolbox for CdTe QD complementary characterization, providing valuable information about dynamics and the chemical ligand–core linkage.
Ultrasensitive detection of H. pylori in human feces based on immunomagnetic bead capture and fluorescent quantum dots
Authors: Chen Lili , Li Xiangguang , Zou Tongda , Wang Tiantian , Cui Xiping , Chen Yingshan , Zhang Chunguo , Zhao Suqing
Published: May 2019

A novel fecal test was developed to detect H. pylori based on immunomagnetic beads (IMBs) with monoclonal antibodies sensitively recognizing and capturing the H. pylori, coupled with a polyclonal antibody-conjugating quantum dot probe.
pH-Based immunoassay: explosive generation of hydrogen ions through an immuno-triggered nucleic acid exponential amplification reaction
Authors: Mao Dongsheng , Chen Tianshu , Chen Huinan , Zhou Mengru , Zhai Xingwei , Chen Guifang , Zhu Xiaoli
Published: May 2019

A pH-based immunoassay is developed based on an immuno-triggered explosive generation of hydrogen ions strategy.
The role of intermediate CoxMn1−xO (x = 0.6–0.85) nanocrystals in the formation of active species for the direct production of lower olefins from syngas
Authors: Liu Sixu , Sun Buli , Zhang Yuhua , Li Jinlin , Resasco Daniel E. , Nie Lei , Wang Li
Published: May 2019

Cobalt–manganese (CoMn) oxides obtained through a one-pot synthesis can be controllably reduced to CoxMn1−xO nanocrystals for the direct production of C2–C4 olefins with high selectivity (50.9 mol%) from syngas at high CO conversion (92.4%), higher than predicted by the Anderson–Schulz–Flory distribution.
Copper-catalyzed [4+1]-annulation of 2-alkenylindoles with diazoacetates: a facile access to dihydrocyclopenta[b]indoles
Authors: Dong Kuiyong , Pei Chao , Zeng Qian , Qiu Lihua , Hu Wenhao , Qian Yu , Xu Xinfang
Published: May 2019

A copper-catalyzed [4+1]-annulation of 2-vinylindoles with diazoacetates: a facile access to the dihydrocyclopenta[b]indoles bearing two contiguous all-carbon quaternary centers.
Advanced rechargeable Na–CO2 batteries enabled by a ruthenium@porous carbon composite cathode with enhanced Na2CO3 reversibility
Authors: Guo Luning , Li Bing , Thirumal Vediyappan , Song Jiangxuan
Published: May 2019

Porous ketjen black-supported ruthenium nanoparticles (Ru@KB) as a cathode for reversible Na–CO2 batteries with excellent cycling performance.
Inter-ligand energy transfer in dye chromophores attached to high bandgap SiO2 nanoparticles
Authors: Price Michael B. , Paton Andrew , Gorman Jeffrey , Wagner Isabella , Laufersky Geoffry , Chen Kai , Friend Richard H. , Schmidt Timothy W. , Hodgkiss Justin M. , Davis Nathaniel J. L. K.
Published: May 2019

Simple artificial light harvesting networks can be created by the covalent attachment of organic chromophores to silicon dioxide nanoparticles.
Intrinsic magnetism and biaxial strain tuning in two-dimensional metal halides V3X8 (X = F, Cl, Br, I) from first principles and Monte Carlo simulation
Authors: Xiao Haibo , Wang Xiaonan , Wang Ruilong , Xu Lingfang , Liang Shiheng , Yang Changping
Published: May 2019

A novel family of two-dimensional (2D) crystalline metal superhalogens V3X8 (X = F, Cl, Br, I) with intrinsic magnetism was predicted using first-principles calculations in the framework of density functional theory (DFT).
Unexpected chalcogen bonds in tetravalent sulfur compounds
Authors: Franconetti Antonio , Quiñonero David , Frontera Antonio , Resnati Giuseppe
Published: May 2019

Combined CSD analysis and theoretical calculations show the importance of the polarizability in chalcogen bonding interactions. We provide evidence that the Lewis base has a preference in some cases for the σ-hole that is opposite to the more polarizable group instead of the more electron withdrawing one.
Density functional approach to the description of the structure of dimer nanoparticles at liquid–liquid interfaces
Authors: Sokołowski Stefan , Pizio Orest
Published: May 2019

A density functional approach to the description of the structure of dimer nanoparticles at liquid–liquid interfaces.
Proton transport properties of proton-conducting phosphate glasses at their glass transition temperatures
Authors: Omata Takahisa , Yamaguchi Takuya , Tsukuda Satoshi , Ishiyama Tomohiro , Nishii Junji , Yamashita Toshiharu , Kawazoe Hiroshi
Published: May 2019

Proton mobility at the glass transition temperature of 32 proton-conducting phosphate glasses converges between 2 × 10−9 and 2 × 10−7 cm2 V−1 s−1.
Tetrel bonding interaction: an analysis with the block-localized wavefunction (BLW) approach
Authors: Wang Changwei , Aman Yama , Ji Xiaoxi , Mo Yirong
Published: May 2019

In this study, fifty-one iconic tetrel bonding complexes were studied using the block localized wave function (BLW) method which can derive the self-consistent wavefunction for an electron-localized (diabatic) state where charge transfer is strictly deactivated.
Metal–organic-framework derived Co–Pd bond is preferred over Fe–Pd for reductive upgrading of furfural to tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol
Authors: Pendem Saikiran , Bolla Srinivasa Rao , Morgan David J. , Shinde Digambar B. , Lai Zhiping , Nakka Lingaiah , Mondal John
Published: May 2019

The metal–organic-framework-derived Co–Pd bond can more efficiently catalyze the reductive upgrading of furfural to tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol production as compared to the Fe–Pd bond.
Formation of an NIR-emitting Ag34S3SBB20(CF3COO)62+ cluster from a hydride-protected silver cluster
Authors: Manju C. K. , Ghosh Debasmita , Bodiuzzaman Mohammad , Pradeep Thalappil
Published: May 2019

Formation of an NIR emitting Ag34S3SBB20(CF3COO)62+ cluster.
Asymmetric allyl-activation of organosulfides for high-energy reversible redox flow batteries
Authors: Weng Guo-Ming , Yang Bin , Liu Chi-You , Du Guan-Ying , Li Elise Y. , Lu Yi-Chun
Published: May 2019

This work demonstrates an effective and universal strategy to improve the sluggish organosulfides (R–Sn–R) for redox flow batteries by asymmetric allylsubstituted organosulfides (R–Sn–A).
Performing homogeneous catalytic ozonation using heterogeneous Mn2+-bonded oxidized carbon nanotubes by self-driven pH variation induced reversible desorption and adsorption of Mn2+
Authors: Wang Jing , Quan Xie , Chen Shuo , Yu Hongtao , Chen Yongsheng
Published: May 2019

The merits of homogeneous and heterogeneous catalytic ozonation were united through heterogeneous Mn2+-bonded oxidized CNTs by self-driven pH variation induced reversible de-/ad-sorption of Mn2+.
Synthesis, molecular docking, and biological evaluation of novel 2-pyrazoline derivatives as multifunctional agents for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Unsal-Tan Oya , Tüylü Küçükkılınç Tuba , Ayazgök Beyza , Balkan Ayla , Ozadali-Sari Keriman
Published: May 2019

A novel series of 2-pyrazoline derivatives were designed, synthesized, and evaluated for cholinesterase (ChE) inhibitory, Aβ anti-aggregating and neuroprotective activities.
Cardioprotective mechanism study of salvianic acid A sodium based on a proteome microarray approach and metabolomic profiling of rat serum after myocardial infarction
Authors: Jia Dan , Xiong Liyan , Yu Xuhong , Chen Xiaofei , Wang Tingfang , Chen Alex F. , Chai Yifeng , Zhu Zhenyu , Zhang Chuan
Published: May 2019

SAAS protects against myocardial infarction in rats by reversing multiple metabolic changes.
First-principles study of the effect of compressive strain on oxygen adsorption in Pd/Ni/Cu-alloy-core@Pd/Ir-alloy-shell catalysts
Authors: De Lile Jeffrey Roshan , Lee So Young , Kim Hyoung-Juhn , Pak Chanho , Lee Seung Geol
Published: May 2019

Through synergism between the ligand effect, the d-band center shift, and the surface alloying effect, the Pd3CuNi@PdIr catalyst exhibits the poorest dioxygen adsorption and, consequently, the best catalytic ORR performance.
The origin of intrinsic charge transport for Dirac carbon sheet materials: roles of acetylenic linkage and electron–phonon couplings
Authors: Liu Changdong , Yang Jiong , Xi Jinyang , Ke Xuezhi
Published: May 2019

The charge transport properties of graphene-like Dirac materials can be tuned using the number of acetylenic linkages.
Bifunctional Brønsted base catalyzed inverse-electron-demand aza-Diels–Alder reactions of saccharin-derived 1-azadienes with azlactones
Authors: Ren Xiao-Rui , Lin Jun-Bing , Hu Xiu-Qin , Xu Peng-Fei
Published: May 2019

An enantioselective inverse-electron-demand aza-Diels–Alder reaction of saccharin-derived 1-azadienes and azlactones was developed using a phenylalanine-derived bifunctional Brønsted base-squaramide catalyst.
Quantitative insights into charge-separated states from one- and two-pulse laser experiments relevant for artificial photosynthesis
Authors: Neumann Svenja , Kerzig Christoph , Wenger Oliver S.
Published: May 2019

Quantitative laser flash photolysis experiments with several excitation wavelengths provided unprecedented insights into the charge-separated state photochemistry of molecular triads.
PEDOT thermoelectric composites with excellent power factors prepared by 3-phase interfacial electropolymerization and carbon nanotube chemical doping
Authors: Fan Wusheng , Liang Lirong , Zhang Binbin , Guo Cun-Yue , Chen Guangming
Published: May 2019

Flexible films of PEDOT/a-SWCNT thermoelectric composites were fabricated by a dynamic 3-phase interfacial electropolymerization of PEDOT and p-type chemical doping of SWCNT. The composites reveal excellent power factors.
Structural basis for the C-domain-selective angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition by bradykinin-potentiating peptide b (BPPb)
Authors: Sturrock Edward D. , Lubbe Lizelle , Cozier Gyles E. , Schwager Sylva L.U. , Arowolo Afolake T. , Arendse Lauren B. , Belcher Emma , Acharya K. Ravi
Published: May 2019

Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) is a zinc metalloprotease best known for its role in blood pressure regulation. ACE consists of two homologous catalytic domains, the N- and C-domain, that display distinct but overlapping catalytic functions in vivo owing to subtle differences in substrate specificity. While current generation ACE inhibitors target both ACE domains, domain-selective ACE inhibitors may be clinically advantageous, either reducing side effects or having utility in new indications. Here, we used site-directed mutagenesis, an ACE chimera and X-ray crystallography to unveil the molecular basis for C-domain-selective ACE inhibition by the bradykinin-potentiating peptide b (BPPb), naturally present in Brazilian pit viper venom. We present the BPPb N-domain structure in comparison with the previously reported BPPb C-domain structure and highlight key differences in peptide interactions with the S4 to S9 subsites. This suggests the involvement of these subsites in conferring C-domain-selective BPPb binding, in agreement with the mutagenesis results where unique residues governing differences in active site exposure, lid structure and dynamics between the two domains were the major drivers for C-domain-selective BPPb binding. Mere disruption of BPPb interactions with unique S2 and S4 subsite residues, which synergistically assist in BPPb binding, was insufficient to abolish C-domain selectivity. The combination of unique S9–S4 and S2′ subsite C-domain residues was required for the favourable entry, orientation and thus, selective binding of the peptide. This emphasizes the need to consider factors other than direct protein–inhibitor interactions to guide the design of domain-selective ACE inhibitors, especially in the case of larger peptides.
Complexity‐adjustable SC decoding of polar codes for energy consumption reduction
Authors: Zheng Haotian , Chen Bin , Abanto‐Leon Luis F. , Cao Zizheng , Koonen Ton
Published: May 2019

This study proposes an enhanced list‐aided successive cancellation stack (ELSCS) decoding algorithm with adjustable decoding complexity. Also, a logarithmic likelihood ratio‐threshold based path extension scheme is designed to further reduce the memory consumption of stack decoding. Numerical simulation results show that without affecting the error correction performance, the proposed ELSCS decoding algorithm provides a flexible trade‐off between time complexity and computational complexity, while reducing storage space up to 70%. Based on the fact that most mobile devices operate in environments with stringent energy budget to support diverse applications, the proposed scheme is a promising candidate for meeting requirements of different applications while maintaining a low computational complexity and computing resource utilisation.
Game theory‐based modulation techniques for fifth‐generation cellular system
Authors: Thankaraj Reenaraj , Nagarajan V.
Published: May 2019

The increasing demand for high data rate services necessitates technology advancement and adoption of beyond fourth generation (4G) termed as 5G cellular standards. The capacity of multi‐carrier code‐division multiple access (MCCDMA) systems is limited by multiple access interference (MAI), further the near–far effects and the time‐varying fading instigated by variations in the received power at the base station. However, the most significant problem that needs to be addressed is to contest profound fades, arising frequently, but for a very brief time. To further attain capacity enrichment of a multiple‐input–multiple‐output MCCDMA system, a dispersed power control game with pricing system with various modulation schemes are deliberated. This study shows that the proposed pricing scheme prove to be powerful techniques for attaining an enhanced performance as it results in growth in minimal power utilisation in an MCCDMA system.
Deep learning approach for segmentation of plain carbon steel microstructure images
Authors: Panda Aditi , Naskar Ruchira , Pal Snehanshu
Published: May 2019

To bring about variation in the physical and structural properties or grade of a metal, it is made to undergo specific heat treatment procedures; which can be customized to make the metal microstructure evolve desirably, to obtain specific targeted properties. Recently, computer‐based simulations of such heat treatment procedures have become popular, however, such simulations are feasible only if the digital microstructure images are available in suitable forms (optimal digital forms of the microstructure images means the distinct grains identified and the grain boundaries demarcated, i.e., segmentation of microstructure images). To this end, the authors propose a deep learning based Generative Adversarial Network (GAN) architecture for steel microstructure image segmentation. The authors’ experimental results prove the performance efficiency of the proposed GAN model, as compared to the state‐of‐the‐art. However, the proposed network architecture requires large volumes of training data, in the form of annotated ground truth segmentation masks. The current literature lacks sufficient segmented steel microstructure images for this training, to the best of their knowledge. Hence, their second contribution in this study is the development of a Convolutional Neural Network‐based framework for sufficient ground truths generation, to aid in the proposed segmentation network training.
Parametric GLRT for multichannel adaptive signal detection in space–time correlated compound‐Gaussian disturbance
Authors: He Yuliang , Wang Yan , Zou Nan , Liang Guolong
Published: May 2019

This study considers the problem of adaptive detection for a multichannel signal in the presence of spatially and temporally correlated compound‐Gaussian disturbance. By modelling the disturbance as a multichannel autoregressive process, the authors resort to a parametric generalised likelihood ratio test (PGLRT) with the capability of dimension reduction. In the derivation, due to treating the random texture components of disturbance as deterministic unknown parameters, the test requires no a priori knowledge about the disturbance statistics. Moreover, the involving highly non‐linear maximum‐likelihood (ML) estimation procedure underlying the PGLRT is subtly addressed by ad hoc ML estimators. Accordingly, the derived detector applies to challenging cases with limited or even no training signals for parameter estimation. Such cases (especially when training‐free case) are attractive for signal detection in heterogeneous or fast changing environments. In simulations, the performance evaluations are conducted by means of Monte Carlo trials. Numerical results investigate the issues of the estimator efficiency, detection and false alarm probabilities in terms of several concerned cases. Compared to the existing and benchmark detectors, the proposed PGLRT achieves improved detection performance, in general.
Clinical Application and Outcomes of Upper Extremity Double Plating
Authors: Katthagen J. Christoph , Schliemann Benedikt , Michel Philipp A. , Heilmann Lukas F. , Dyrna Felix , Raschke Michael J.
Published: May 2019

Dual plating in fractures of the upper extremity is well established for the distal humerus. The indication for the use of dual plating has been expanded over the last few years. While dual plating was originally frequently used in revisions of non-unions, it is nowadays also used in primary fixation of diverse complex fractures of the upper extremity. The high biomechanical fixation strength of dual plating is advantageous in regions with high bending and torsional stresses, such as the humeral shaft. An additional anterior plate provides high fixation strength and reduces the risk of loss of reduction in complex proximal humeral fractures and allows for direct fixation of lesser tuberosity fragments. Low-profile plates have been introduced for complex proximal ulna fractures. In dual plating the improved mechanical stability is combined with a reduced risk of implant related soft tissue irritations. The present article provides an overview of current indications for dual plating of upper extremity fractures and outlines technical aspects as well as advantages over conventional fixation techniques.