bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
BPIFB1 (LPLUNC1) inhibits radioresistance in nasopharyngeal carcinoma by inhibiting VTN expression
Authors: Wei Fang , Tang Le , He Yi , Wu Yingfen , Shi Lei , Xiong Fang , Gong Zhaojian , Guo Can , Li Xiayu , Liao Qianjin , Zhang Wenling , Ni Qianxi , Luo Jia , Li Xiaoling , Li Yong , Peng Cong , Chen Xiang , Li Guiyuan , Xiong Wei , Zeng Zhaoyang
Published: April 2018

Bactericidal/permeability-increasing-fold-containing family B member 1 (BPIFB1, previously named LPLUNC1) is highly expressed in the nasopharynx and significantly downregulated in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). Low expression is also associated with poor prognosis in patients with NPC. Radiotherapy is a routine treatment for NPC; however, radioresistance is a major cause of treatment failure. Thus, we aimed to investigate the role of BPIFB1 in the radioresponse of NPC. Colony formation and cell survival results showed that BPIFB1 sensitized NPC cells to ionizing radiation. VTN, a previously identified BPIFB1-binding protein, was shown to induce cell proliferation and survival, G2/M phase arrest, DNA repair, activation of the ATM-Chk2 and ATR-Chk1 pathways, and anti-apoptotic effects after exposure to radiation, facilitating NPC cell radioresistance. However, BPIFB1 inhibited this VTN-mediated radioresistance, ultimately improving NPC radiosensitivity. In conclusion, this study is the first to demonstrate the functions of BPIFB1 and VTN in the NPC radioresponse. Our findings indicated that promoting BPIFB1 expression and targeting VTN might represent new therapeutic strategies for NPC.
Suppressor of cytokine signalling-2 limits IGF1R-mediated regulation of epithelial–mesenchymal transition in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Zhou Yue , Zhang Zhilei , Wang Ning , Chen Jizheng , Zhang Xu , Guo Min , John Zhong Li , Wang Qian
Published: April 2018

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), including adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, is the leading cause of death from lung malignancies and has a poor prognosis due to metastasis. Suppressor of cytokine signalling-2 (SOCS2), a feedback inhibitor of cytokine signalling, has been shown to be involved in growth control. Here, we show that SOCS2 were significantly downregulated in tumour foci in NSCLC patients. The expression levels of SOCS2 significantly correlated with clinical stage, lymph node metastasis, histological subtype and survival time. In particular, the decreased expression of SOCS2 significantly associated with advanced pathological stage, lymph node metastasis and shorter overall survival in lung adenocarcinoma patients. In vivo animal results showed that overexpressed SOCS2 attenuated the metastatic characteristics of lung adenocarcinoma, including by inhibiting the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT). Further functional studies indicated that insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1)-driven migratory and invasive behaviours of lung adenocarcinoma cells can be partially suppressed by exogenous SOCS2 expression. Investigations into the mechanism of action revealed that SOCS2 inhibits EMT by inactivating signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) and STAT5 via the competitive binding of SOCS2 to the STAT binding sites on IGF1R. Altogether, our results reveal an important role for SOCS2 dysregulation in the pathogenicity of lung adenocarcinoma, suggest its potential use as a biomarker for diagnosing lung adenocarcinoma, and paves the way to develop novel therapy targets as the axis of SOCS2–IGF1R–STAT in lung adenocarcinoma.
Genetic and pharmacological inhibition of Cdk1 provides neuroprotection towards ischemic neuronal death
Authors: Marlier Quentin , Jibassia Florian , Verteneuil Sébastien , Linden Jérôme , Kaldis Philipp , Meijer Laurent , Nguyen Laurent , Vandenbosch Renaud , Malgrange Brigitte
Published: April 2018

Cell cycle proteins are mainly expressed by dividing cells. However, it is well established that these molecules play additional non-canonical activities in several cell death contexts. Increasing evidence shows expression of cell cycle regulating proteins in post-mitotic cells, including mature neurons, following neuronal insult. Several cyclin-dependent kinases (Cdks) have already been shown to mediate ischemic neuronal death but Cdk1, a major cell cycle G2/M regulator, has not been investigated in this context. We therefore examined the role of Cdk1 in neuronal cell death following cerebral ischemia, using both in vitro and in vivo genetic and pharmacological approaches. Exposure of primary cortical neurons cultures to 4 h of oxygen–glucose deprivation (OGD) resulted in neuronal cell death and induced Cdk1 expression. Neurons from Cdk1-cKO mice showed partial resistance to OGD-induced neuronal cell death. Addition of R-roscovitine to the culture medium conferred neuroprotection against OGD-induced neuronal death. Transient 1-h occlusion of the cerebral artery (MCAO) also leads to Cdk1 expression and activation. Cdk1-cKO mice displayed partial resistance to transient 1-h MCAO. Moreover, systemic delivery of R-roscovitine was neuroprotective following transient 1-h MCAO. This study demonstrates that promising neuroprotective therapies can be considered through inhibition of the cell cycle machinery and particularly through pharmacological inhibition of Cdk1.
TRIM29 negatively controls antiviral immune response through targeting STING for degradation
Authors: Li Qijie , Lin Liangbin , Tong Yanli , Liu Yantong , Mou Jun , Wang Xiaodong , Wang Xiuxuan , Gong Yanqiu , Zhao Yi , Liu Yi , Zhong Bo , Dai Lunzhi , Wei Yu-Quan , Zhang Huiyuan , Hu Hongbo
Published: April 2018

Innate immune system is armed by several lines of pattern recognition receptors to sense various viral infection and to initiate antiviral immune response. This process is under a tight control and the negative feedback induced by infection and/or inflammation is critical to maintain immune homoeostasis and to prevent autoimmune disorders, however, the molecular mechanism is not fully understood. Here we report TRIM29, a ubiquitin E3 ligase, functions as an inducible negative regulator of innate immune response triggered by DNA virus and cytosolic DNA. DNA virus and cytosolic DNA stimulation induce TRIM29 expression robustly in macrophages and dendritic cells, although the basal level of TRIM29 is undetectable in those cells. TRIM29 deficiency elevates IFN-I and proinflammatory cytokine production upon viral DNA and cytosolic dsDNA stimulation. Consistently, in vivo experiments show that TRIM29-deficient mice are more resistant to HSV-1 infection than WT controls, indicated by better survival rate and reduced viral load in organs. Mechanism studies suggest that STING–TBK1–IRF3 signaling pathway in TRIM29 KO cells is significantly enhanced and the degradation of STING is impaired. Furthermore, we identify that TRIM29 targets STING for K48 ubiquitination and degradation. This study reveals TRIM29 as a crucial negative regulator in immune response to DNA virus and cytosolic DNA, preventing potential damage caused by overcommitted immune responses.
Antiviral effects of ferric ammonium citrate
Authors: Wang Hongbin , Li Zheng , Niu Junling , Xu Yongfen , Ma Li , Lu Ailing , Wang Xun , Qian Zhikang , Huang Zhong , Jin Xia , Leng Qibin , Wang Jianhua , Zhong Jin , Sun Bing , Meng Guangxun
Published: April 2018

Iron is an essential nutrient for cell survival and is crucial for DNA replication, mitochondrial function and erythropoiesis. However, the immunological role of iron in viral infections has not been well defined. Here we found the iron salt ferric ammonium citrate (FAC) inhibited Influenza A virus, HIV virus, Zika virus, and Enterovirus 71 (EV71) infections. Of note, both iron ion and citrate ion were required for the antiviral capability of FAC, as other iron salts and citrates did not exhibit viral inhibition. Mechanistically, FAC inhibited viral infection through inducing viral fusion and blocking endosomal viral release. These were further evidenced by the fact that FAC induced liposome aggregation and intracellular vesicle fusion, which was associated with a unique iron-dependent cell death. Our results demonstrate a novel antiviral function of FAC and suggest a therapeutic potential for iron in the control of viral infections.
Selective deletion of PPARβ/δ in fibroblasts causes dermal fibrosis by attenuated LRG1 expression
Authors: Sng Ming Keat , Chan Jeremy Soon Kiat , Teo Ziqiang , Phua Terri , Tan Eddie Han Pin , Wee Jonathan Wei Kiat , Koh Nikki Jun Ning , Tan Chek Kun , Chen Jia Peng , Pal Mintu , Tong Benny Meng Kiat , Tnay Ya Lin , Ng Xuan Rui , Zhu Pengcheng , Chiba Shunsuke , Wang Xiaomeng , Wahli Walter , Tan Nguan Soon
Published: April 2018

Connective tissue diseases of the skin are characterized by excessive collagen deposition in the skin and internal organs. Fibroblasts play a pivotal role in the clinical presentation of these conditions. Nuclear receptor peroxisome-proliferator activated receptors (PPARs) are therapeutic targets for dermal fibrosis, but the contribution of the different PPAR subtypes are poorly understood. Particularly, the role of fibroblast PPARβ/δ in dermal fibrosis has not been elucidated. Thus, we generated a mouse strain with selective deletion of PPARβ/δ in the fibroblast (FSPCre-Pparb/d−/−) and interrogated its epidermal and dermal transcriptome profiles. We uncovered a downregulated gene, leucine-rich alpha-2-glycoprotein-1 (Lrg1), of previously unknown function in skin development and architecture. Our findings suggest that the regulation of Lrg1 by PPARβ/δ in fibroblasts is an important signaling conduit integrating PPARβ/δ and TGFβ1-signaling networks in skin health and disease. Thus, the FSPCre-Pparb/d−/− mouse model could serve as a novel tool in the current gunnery of animal models to better understand dermal fibrosis.
Dop1 enhances conspecific olfactory attraction by inhibiting miR-9a maturation in locusts
Authors: Guo Xiaojiao , Ma Zongyuan , Du Baozhen , Li Ting , Li Wudi , Xu Lingling , He Jing , Kang Le
Published: April 2018

Dopamine receptor 1 (Dop1) mediates locust attraction behaviors, however, the mechanism by which Dop1 modulates this process remains unknown to date. Here, we identify differentially expressed small RNAs associated with locust olfactory attraction after activating and inhibiting Dop1. Small RNA transcriptome analysis and qPCR validation reveal that Dop1 activation and inhibition downregulates and upregulates microRNA-9a (miR-9a) expression, respectively. miR-9a knockdown in solitarious locusts increases their attraction to gregarious volatiles, whereas miR-9a overexpression in gregarious locusts reduces olfactory attraction. Moreover, miR-9a directly targets adenylyl cyclase 2 (ac2), causing its downregulation at the mRNA and protein levels. ac2 responds to Dop1 and mediates locust olfactory attraction. Mechanistically, Dop1 inhibits miR-9a expression through inducing the dissociation of La protein from pre-miR-9a and resulting in miR-9a maturation inhibition. Our results reveal a Dop1–miR-9a–AC2 circuit that modulates locust olfactory attraction underlying aggregation. This study suggests that miRNAs act as key messengers in the GPCR signaling.
High-capacity optical long data memory based on enhanced Young’s modulus in nanoplasmonic hybrid glass composites
Authors: Zhang Qiming , Xia Zhilin , Cheng Yi-Bing , Gu Min
Published: April 2018

Emerging as an inevitable outcome of the big data era, long data are the massive amount of data that captures changes in the real world over a long period of time. In this context, recording and reading the data of a few terabytes in a single storage device repeatedly with a century-long unchanged baseline is in high demand. Here, we demonstrate the concept of optical long data memory with nanoplasmonic hybrid glass composites. Through the sintering-free incorporation of nanorods into the earth abundant hybrid glass composite, Young’s modulus is enhanced by one to two orders of magnitude. This discovery, enabling reshaping control of plasmonic nanoparticles of multiple-length allows for continuous multi-level recording and reading with a capacity over 10 terabytes with no appreciable change of the baseline over 600 years, which opens new opportunities for long data memory that affects the past and future.
Breast and pancreatic cancer interrupt IRF8-dependent dendritic cell development to overcome immune surveillance
Authors: Meyer Melissa A. , Baer John M. , Knolhoff Brett L. , Nywening Timothy M. , Panni Roheena Z. , Su Xinming , Weilbaecher Katherine N. , Hawkins William G. , Ma Cynthia , Fields Ryan C. , Linehan David C. , Challen Grant A. , Faccio Roberta , Aft Rebecca L. , DeNardo David G.
Published: April 2018

Tumors employ multiple mechanisms to evade immune surveillance. One mechanism is tumor-induced myelopoiesis, whereby the expansion of immunosuppressive myeloid cells can impair tumor immunity. As myeloid cells and conventional dendritic cells (cDCs) are derived from the same progenitors, we postulated that myelopoiesis might impact cDC development. The cDC subset, cDC1, which includes human CD141+DCs and mouse CD103+DCs, supports anti-tumor immunity by stimulating CD8+T-cell responses. Here, to understand how cDC1 development changes during tumor progression, we investigated cDC bone marrow progenitors. We found localized breast and pancreatic cancers induce systemic decreases in cDC1s and their progenitors. Mechanistically, tumor-produced granulocyte-stimulating factor downregulates interferon regulatory factor-8 in cDC progenitors, and thus results in reduced cDC1 development. Tumor-induced reductions in cDC1 development impair anti-tumor CD8+T-cell responses and correlate with poor patient outcomes. These data suggest immune surveillance can be impaired by tumor-induced alterations in cDC development.
Design of high-strength refractory complex solid-solution alloys
Authors: Singh Prashant , Sharma Aayush , Smirnov A. V. , Diallo Mouhamad S. , Ray Pratik K. , Balasubramanian Ganesh , Johnson Duane D.
Published: April 2018

Nickel-based superalloys and near-equiatomic high-entropy alloys containing molybdenum are known for higher temperature strength and corrosion resistance. Yet, complex solid-solution alloys offer a huge design space to tune for optimal properties at slightly reduced entropy. For refractory Mo-W-Ta-Ti-Zr, we showcase KKR electronic structure methods via the coherent-potential approximation to identify alloys over five-dimensional design space with improved mechanical properties and necessary global (formation enthalpy) and local (short-range order) stability. Deformation is modeled with classical molecular dynamic simulations, validated from our first-principle data. We predict complex solid-solution alloys of improved stability with greatly enhanced modulus of elasticity (3× at 300 K) over near-equiatomic cases, as validated experimentally, and with higher moduli above 500 K over commercial alloys (2.3× at 2000 K). We also show that optimal complex solid-solution alloys are not described well by classical potentials due to critical electronic effects.
Cardiac arrhythmia and neuroexcitability gene variants in resected brain tissue from patients with sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP)
Authors: Friedman Daniel , Kannan Kasthuri , Faustin Arline , Shroff Seema , Thomas Cheddhi , Heguy Adriana , Serrano Jonathan , Snuderl Matija , Devinsky Orrin
Published: April 2018

Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) is the leading cause of epilepsy-related mortality in young adults. The exact mechanisms are unknown but death often follows a generalized tonic–clonic seizure. Proposed mechanisms include seizure-related respiratory, cardiac, autonomic, and arousal dysfunction. Genetic drivers underlying SUDEP risk are largely unknown. To identify potential SUDEP risk genes, we compared whole-exome sequences (WES) derived from formalin-fixed paraffin embedded surgical brain specimens of eight epilepsy patients who died from SUDEP with seven living controls matched for age at surgery, sex, year of surgery and lobe of resection. We compared identified variants from both groups filtering known polymorphisms from publicly available data as well as scanned for epilepsy and candidate SUDEP genes. In the SUDEP cohort, we identified mutually exclusive variants in genes involved in µ-opiod signaling, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glutamate-mediated synaptic signaling, including ARRB2, ITPR1, GABRR2, SSTR5, GRIK1, CTNAP2, GRM8, GNAI2 and GRIK5. In SUDEP patients we also identified variants in genes associated with cardiac arrhythmia, including KCNMB1, KCNIP1, DPP6, JUP, F2, and TUBA3D, which were not present in living epilepsy controls. Our data shows that genomic analysis of brain tissue resected for seizure control can identify potential genetic biomarkers of SUDEP risk.
Rhythmic abilities and musical training in Parkinson’s disease: do they help?
Authors: Cochen De Cock V. , Dotov D. G. , Ihalainen P. , Bégel V. , Galtier F. , Lebrun C. , Picot M. C. , Driss V. , Landragin N. , Geny C. , Bardy B. , Dalla Bella S.
Published: April 2018

Rhythmic auditory cues can immediately improve gait in Parkinson’s disease. However, this effect varies considerably across patients. The factors associated with this individual variability are not known to date. Patients’ rhythmic abilities and musicality (e.g., perceptual and singing abilities, emotional response to music, and musical training) may foster a positive response to rhythmic cues. To examine this hypothesis, we measured gait at baseline and with rhythmic cues in 39 non-demented patients with Parkinson’s disease and 39 matched healthy controls. Cognition, rhythmic abilities and general musicality were assessed. A response to cueing was qualified as positive when the stimulation led to a clinically meaningful increase in gait speed. We observed that patients with positive response to cueing (n = 17) were more musically trained, aligned more often their steps to the rhythmic cues while walking, and showed better music perception as well as poorer cognitive flexibility than patients with non-positive response (n = 22). Gait performance with rhythmic cues worsened in six patients. We concluded that rhythmic and musical skills, which can be modulated by musical training, may increase beneficial effects of rhythmic auditory cueing in Parkinson’s disease. Screening patients in terms of musical/rhythmic abilities and musical training may allow teasing apart patients who are likely to benefit from cueing from those who may worsen their performance due to the stimulation.
Author Correction: RPI-Bind: a structure-based method for accurate identification of RNA-protein binding sites
Authors: Luo Jiesi , Liu Liang , Venkateswaran Suresh , Song Qianqian , Zhou Xiaobo
Published: April 2018

A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML and PDF versions of this paper. The error has not been fixed in the paper.
Author Correction: Limited evidence on the effectiveness of interventions to reduce livestock predation by large carnivores
Authors: Eklund Ann , López-Bao José Vicente , Tourani Mahdieh , Chapron Guillaume , Frank Jens
Published: April 2018

A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML and PDF versions of this paper. The error has not been fixed in the paper.
Response of Aquatic Bacterial Communities to Hydraulic Fracturing in Northwestern Pennsylvania: A Five-Year Study
Authors: Ulrich Nikea , Kirchner Veronica , Drucker Rebecca , Wright Justin R. , McLimans Christopher J. , Hazen Terry C. , Campa Maria F. , Grant Christopher J. , Lamendella Regina
Published: April 2018

Horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing extraction procedures have become increasingly present in Pennsylvania where the Marcellus Shale play is largely located. The potential for long-term environmental impacts to nearby headwater stream ecosystems and aquatic bacterial assemblages is still incompletely understood. Here, we perform high-throughput sequencing of the 16 S rRNA gene to characterize the bacterial community structure of water, sediment, and other environmental samples (n = 189) from 31 headwater stream sites exhibiting different histories of fracking activity in northwestern Pennsylvania over five years (2012–2016). Stream pH was identified as a main driver of bacterial changes within the streams and fracking activity acted as an environmental selector for certain members at lower taxonomic levels within stream sediment. Methanotrophic and methanogenic bacteria (i.e. Methylocystaceae, Beijerinckiaceae, and Methanobacterium) were significantly enriched in sites exhibiting Marcellus shale activity (MSA+) compared to MSA− streams. This study highlighted potential sentinel taxa associated with nascent Marcellus shale activity and some of these taxa remained as stable biomarkers across this five-year study. Identifying the presence and functionality of specific microbial consortia within fracking-impacted streams will provide a clearer understanding of the natural microbial community’s response to fracking and inform in situ remediation strategies.
A transmission electron microscope study of Néel skyrmion magnetic textures in multilayer thin film systems with large interfacial chiral interaction
Authors: McVitie S. , Hughes S. , Fallon K. , McFadzean S. , McGrouther D. , Krajnak M. , Legrand W. , Maccariello D. , Collin S. , Garcia K. , Reyren N. , Cros V. , Fert A. , Zeissler K. , Marrows C. H.
Published: April 2018

Skyrmions in ultrathin ferromagnetic metal (FM)/heavy metal (HM) multilayer systems produced by conventional sputtering methods have recently generated huge interest due to their applications in the field of spintronics. The sandwich structure with two correctly-chosen heavy metal layers provides an additive interfacial exchange interaction which promotes domain wall or skyrmion spin textures that are Néel in character and with a fixed chirality. Lorentz transmission electron microscopy (TEM) is a high resolution method ideally suited to quantitatively image such chiral magnetic configurations. When allied with physical and chemical TEM analysis of both planar and cross-sectional samples, key length scales such as grain size and the chiral variation of the magnetisation variation have been identified and measured. We present data showing the importance of the grain size (mostly < 10 nm) measured from direct imaging and its potential role in describing observed behaviour of isolated skyrmions (diameter < 100 nm). In the latter the region in which the magnetization rotates is measured to be around 30 nm. Such quantitative information on the multiscale magnetisation variations in the system is key to understanding and exploiting the behaviour of skyrmions for future applications in information storage and logic devices.
Bordetella pseudohinzii targets cilia and impairs tracheal cilia-driven transport in naturally acquired infection in mice
Authors: Perniss Alexander , Schmidt Nadine , Gurtner Corinne , Dietert Kristina , Schwengers Oliver , Weigel Markus , Hempe Julia , Ewers Christa , Pfeil Uwe , Gärtner Ulrich , Gruber Achim D. , Hain Torsten , Kummer Wolfgang
Published: April 2018

Several species of the Gram-negative genus Bordetella are the cause of respiratory infections in mammals and birds, including whooping cough (pertussis) in humans. Very recently, a novel atypical species, Bordetella pseudohinzii, was isolated from laboratory mice. These mice presented no obvious clinical symptoms but elevated numbers of neutrophils in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and inflammatory signs in histopathology. We noted that this species can occur at high prevalence in a mouse facility despite regular pathogen testing according to the FELASA-recommendations. Affected C57BL/6 J mice had, in addition to the reported pulmonary alterations, tracheal inflammation with reduced numbers of ciliated cells, slower ciliary beat frequency, and largely (>50%) compromised cilia-driven particle transport speed on the mucosal surface, a primary innate defence mechanism. In an in vitro-model, Bordetella pseudohinzii attached to respiratory kinocilia, impaired ciliary function within 4 h and caused epithelial damage within 24 h. Regular testing for this ciliotropic Bordetella species and excluding it from colonies that provide mice for lung research shall be recommended. On the other hand, controlled colonization and infection with Bordetella pseudohinzii may serve as an experimental model to investigate mechanisms of mucociliary clearance and microbial strategies to escape from this primary innate defence response.
The tremendous potential of deep-sea mud as a source of rare-earth elements
Authors: Takaya Yutaro , Yasukawa Kazutaka , Kawasaki Takehiro , Fujinaga Koichiro , Ohta Junichiro , Usui Yoichi , Nakamura Kentaro , Kimura Jun-Ichi , Chang Qing , Hamada Morihisa , Dodbiba Gjergj , Nozaki Tatsuo , Iijima Koichi , Morisawa Tomohiro , Kuwahara Takuma , Ishida Yasuyuki , Ichimura Takao , Kitazume Masaki , Fujita Toyohisa , Kato Yasuhiro
Published: April 2018

Potential risks of supply shortages for critical metals including rare-earth elements and yttrium (REY) have spurred great interest in commercial mining of deep-sea mineral resources. Deep-sea mud containing over 5,000 ppm total REY content was discovered in the western North Pacific Ocean near Minamitorishima Island, Japan, in 2013. This REY-rich mud has great potential as a rare-earth metal resource because of the enormous amount available and its advantageous mineralogical features. Here, we estimated the resource amount in REY-rich mud with Geographical Information System software and established a mineral processing procedure to greatly enhance its economic value. The resource amount was estimated to be 1.2 Mt of rare-earth oxide for the most promising area (105 km2 × 0–10 mbsf), which accounts for 62, 47, 32, and 56 years of annual global demand for Y, Eu, Tb, and Dy, respectively. Moreover, using a hydrocyclone separator enabled us to recover selectively biogenic calcium phosphate grains, which have high REY content (up to 22,000 ppm) and constitute the coarser domain in the grain-size distribution. The enormous resource amount and the effectiveness of the mineral processing are strong indicators that this new REY resource could be exploited in the near future.
Targeting the polyadenylation factor EhCFIm25 with RNA aptamers controls survival in Entamoeba histolytica
Authors: Ospina-Villa Juan David , Dufour Alexandre , Weber Christian , Ramirez-Moreno Esther , Zamorano-Carrillo Absalom , Guillen Nancy , Lopez-Camarillo César , Marchat Laurence A.
Published: April 2018

Messenger RNA 3′-end polyadenylation is an important regulator of gene expression in eukaryotic cells. In our search for new ways of treating parasitic infectious diseases, we looked at whether or not alterations in polyadenylation might control the survival of Entamoeba histolytica (the agent of amoebiasis in humans). We used molecular biology and computational tools to characterize the mRNA cleavage factor EhCFIm25, which is essential for polyadenylation in E. histolytica. By using a strategy based on the systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment, we identified single-stranded RNA aptamers that target EhCFIm25. The results of RNA-protein binding assays showed that EhCFIm25 binds to the GUUG motif in vitro, which differs from the UGUA motif bound by the homologous human protein. Accordingly, docking experiments and molecular dynamic simulations confirmed that interaction with GUUG stabilizes EhCFIm25. Incubating E. histolytica trophozoites with selected aptamers inhibited parasite proliferation and rapidly led to cell death. Overall, our data indicate that targeting EhCFIm25 is an effective way of limiting the growth of E. histolytica in vitro. The present study is the first to have highlighted the potential value of RNA aptamers for controlling this human pathogen.
Fine Needle-Diathermy Regresses Pathological Corneal (Lymph)Angiogenesis and Promotes High-Risk Corneal Transplant Survival
Authors: Le Viet Nhat Hung , Schneider Ann-Charlott , Scholz Rebecca , Bock Felix , Cursiefen Claus
Published: April 2018

Pathological corneal hem- and lymphangiogenesis are prime risk factors for corneal graft rejection. Fine needle-diathermy (FND) is an option to regress corneal blood vessels; however, whether this treatment besides clinically visible blood vessels also affects invisible lymphatic vessels is so far unknown. Here we test the hypothesis that FND destroys not only blood but also lymphatic vessels, thereby promotes corneal high-risk graft survival. The effect of FND was studied in vivo using BALB/c mice and the model of suture-induced corneal neovascularization. Mice were divided into three groups: FND, ANTI (anti-inflammatory therapy) and NON (control). Five, 7, 10 and 20 days after cauterization, corneas were harvested and stained with LYVE-1, CD31 to quantify (lymph)angiogenesis. The long-term survival of allografts was compared between the three groups. FND caused significant regression of both blood and lymphatic vessels compared to the control group at all time points (p < 0.05) with the most obvious effect at day 7 (p < 0.01). Graft survival was significantly prolonged when transplants were placed into the FND pretreated group (p < 0.0001). The effect of the anti-inflammatory therapy alone was less effective compared to FND (p < 0.05). This novel lymphangioregressive effect of FND can be used clinically to precondition high-risk recipients to promote graft survival.
GC–MS-based urinary organic acid profiling reveals multiple dysregulated metabolic pathways following experimental acute alcohol consumption
Authors: Irwin Cindy , Mienie Lodewyk J. , Wevers Ron A. , Mason Shayne , Westerhuis Johan A. , van Reenen Mari , Reinecke Carolus J.
Published: April 2018

Metabolomics studies of diseases associated with chronic alcohol consumption provide compelling evidence of several perturbed metabolic pathways. Moreover, the holistic approach of such studies gives insights into the pathophysiological risk factors associated with chronic alcohol-induced disability, morbidity and mortality. Here, we report on a GC–MS-based organic acid profiling study on acute alcohol consumption. Our investigation — involving 12 healthy, moderate-drinking young men — simulated a single binge drinking event, and indicated its metabolic consequences. We generated time-dependent data that predicted the metabolic pathophysiology of the alcohol intervention. Multivariate statistical modelling was applied to the longitudinal data of 120 biologically relevant organic acids, of which 13 provided statistical evidence of the alcohol effect. The known alcohol-induced increased NADH:NAD+ ratio in the cytosol of hepatocytes contributed to the global dysregulation of several metabolic reactions of glycolysis, ketogenesis, the Krebs cycle and gluconeogenesis. The significant presence of 2-hydroxyisobutyric acid supports the emerging paradigm that this compound is an important endogenous metabolite. Its metabolic origin remains elusive, but recent evidence indicated 2-hydroxyisobutyrylation as a novel regulatory modifier of histones. Metabolomics has thus opened an avenue for further research on the reprogramming of metabolic pathways and epigenetic networks in relation to the severe effects of alcohol consumption.
Study of mucin turnover in the small intestine by in vivo labeling
Authors: Schneider Hannah , Pelaseyed Thaher , Svensson Frida , Johansson Malin E. V.
Published: April 2018

Mucins are highly glycosylated proteins which protect the epithelium. In the small intestine, the goblet cell-secreted Muc2 mucin constitutes the main component of the loose mucus layer that traps luminal material. The transmembrane mucin Muc17 forms part of the carbohydrate-rich glycocalyx covering intestinal epithelial cells. Our study aimed at investigating the turnover of these mucins in the small intestine by using in vivo labeling of O-glycans with N-azidoacetylgalactosamine. Mice were injected intraperitoneally and sacrificed every hour up to 12 hours and at 24 hours. Samples were fixed with preservation of the mucus layer and stained for Muc2 and Muc17. Turnover of Muc2 was slower in goblet cells of the crypts compared to goblet cells along the villi. Muc17 showed stable expression over time at the plasma membrane on villi tips, in crypts and at crypt openings. In conclusion, we have identified different subtypes of goblet cells based on their rate of mucin biosynthesis and secretion. In order to protect the intestinal epithelium from chemical and bacterial hazards, fast and frequent renewal of the secreted mucus layer in the villi area is combined with massive secretion of stored Muc2 from goblet cells in the upper crypt.
Metabolic profiling of sourdough fermented wheat and rye bread
Authors: Koistinen Ville M. , Mattila Outi , Katina Kati , Poutanen Kaisa , Aura Anna-Marja , Hanhineva Kati
Published: April 2018

Sourdough fermentation by lactic acid bacteria is commonly used in bread baking, affecting several attributes of the final product. We analyzed whole-grain wheat and rye breads and doughs prepared with baker’s yeast or a sourdough starter includingCandida milleri,Lactobacillus brevisandLactobacillus plantarumusing non-targeted metabolic profiling utilizing LC–QTOF–MS. The aim was to determine the fermentation-induced changes in metabolites potentially contributing to the health-promoting properties of whole-grain wheat and rye. Overall, we identified 118 compounds with significantly increased levels in sourdough, including branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) and their metabolites, small peptides with high proportion of BCAAs, microbial metabolites of phenolic acids and several other potentially bioactive compounds. We also identified 69 compounds with significantly decreased levels, including phenolic acid precursors, nucleosides, and nucleobases. Intensive sourdough fermentation had a higher impact on the metabolite profile of whole-grain rye compared to milder whole-grain wheat sourdough fermentation. We hypothesize that the increased amount of BCAAs and potentially bioactive small peptides may contribute to the insulin response of rye bread, and in more general, the overall protective effect against T2DM and CVD.
Graphene wrinkle effects on molecular resonance states
Authors: Nirmalraj Peter N. , Thodkar Kishan , Guerin Sarah , Calame Michel , Thompson Damien
Published: April 2018

Wrinkles are a unique class of surface corrugations present over diverse length scales from Kinneyia-type wrinkles in Archean-era sedimentary fossils to nanoscopic crinkling in two-dimensional crystals. Lately, the role of wrinkles on graphene has been subject to debate as devices based on graphene progress towards commercialization. While the topology and electronic structure of graphene wrinkles is known, data on wrinkle geometrical effects on molecular adsorption patterns and resonance states is lacking. Here, we report molecular superstructures and enhancement of free-molecular electronic states of pentacene on graphene wrinkles. A new trend is observed where the pentacene energy gap scales with wrinkle height, as wrinkles taller than 2 nm significantly screen metal induced hybridization. Combined with density functional theory calculations, the impact of wrinkles in tuning molecular growth modes and electronic structure is clarified at room-temperature. These results suggest the need to rethink wrinkle engineering in modular devices based on graphene and related 2D materials interfacing with electronically active molecules.
Vortices enable the complex aerobatics of peregrine falcons
Authors: Gowree Erwin R. , Jagadeesh Chetan , Talboys Edward , Lagemann Christian , Brücker Christoph
Published: April 2018

The peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus) is known for its extremely high speeds during hunting dives or stoop. Here we demonstrate that the superior manoeuvrability of peregrine falcons during stoop is attributed to vortex-dominated flow promoted by their morphology, in the M-shape configuration adopted towards the end of dive. Both experiments and simulations on life-size models, derived from field observations, revealed the presence of vortices emanating from the frontal and dorsal region due to a strong spanwise flow promoted by the forward sweep of the radiale. These vortices enhance mixing for flow reattachment towards the tail. The stronger wing and tail vortices provide extra aerodynamic forces through vortex-induced lift for pitch and roll control. A vortex pair with a sense of rotation opposite to that from conventional planar wings interacts with the main wings vortex to reduce induced drag, which would otherwise decelerate the bird significantly during pull-out. These findings could help in improving aircraft performance and wing suits for human flights.
ShinyR-DAM: a program analyzing Drosophila activity, sleep and circadian rhythms
Authors: Cichewicz Karol , Hirsh Jay
Published: April 2018

We developed a web application ShinyR-DAM for analyzing Drosophila locomotor activity, sleep and circadian rhythms recorded by the Drosophila Activity Monitor (DAM) system (TriKinetics, Waltham, MA). Comparing with the existing programs for DAM data analysis, ShinyR-DAM greatly decreases the complexity and time required to analyze the data, producing informative and customizable plots, summary tables, and data files for statistical analysis. Our program has an intuitive graphical user interface that enables novice users to quickly perform complex analyses.
FePO4 as an anode material to obtain high-performance sodium-based dual-ion batteries
Authors: Li Chao , Wang Xiaohong , Li Jiayu , Wang Hongyu
Published: April 2018

Herein, FePO4 was for the first time proposed to serve as an anode material (the sodium intercalation host), to obtain novel sodium-based dual-ion batteries.
Quantitative analysis of zero-field splitting parameter distributions in Gd(iii) complexes
Authors: Clayton Jessica A. , Keller Katharina , Qi Mian , Wegner Julia , Koch Vanessa , Hintz Henrik , Godt Adelheid , Han Songi , Jeschke Gunnar , Sherwin Mark S. , Yulikov Maxim
Published: April 2018

The Zero-Field Splitting (ZFS) distributions in Gd(iii) centers are accurately analyzed, with detailed discussion of error bars, and compared to the calculations with superposition model.
Life cycle considerations of nano-enabled agrochemicals: are today's tools up to the task?
Authors: Pourzahedi Leila , Pandorf Madelyn , Ravikumar Dwarakanath , Zimmerman Julie B. , Seager Thomas P. , Theis Thomas L. , Westerhoff Paul , Gilbertson Leanne M. , Lowry Gregory V.
Published: April 2018

Nano specific challenges of applying LCA towards nano-enabled agrochemicals to assess their environmental implications are identified in this perspective.
Precise and accurate boron and lithium isotopic determinations for small sample-size geological materials by MC-ICP-MS
Authors: Liu Yung-Hsin , Huang Kuo-Fang , Lee Der-Chuen
Published: April 2018

A low-blank, high-precision and highly reproducible technique for boron (B) and lithium (Li) isotope analyses in small sample-size silicate materials by Multi-Collector Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (MC-ICP-MS) was developed in this study.
Synthesis, structural characterization, biological evaluation and molecular docking studies of new platinum(ii) complexes containing isocyanides
Authors: Fereidoonnezhad Masood , Shahsavari Hamid R. , Abedanzadeh Sedigheh , Nezafati Ali , Khazali Ali , Mastrorilli Piero , Babaghasabha Mojgan , Webb James , Faghih Zeinab , Faghih Zahra , Bahemmat Samira , Beyzavi M. Hassan
Published: April 2018

Platinum(ii) complexes with various isocyanides are prepared and their biological activities are studied.
Influence of ancillary ligands on the photophysical properties of cyclometalated organoplatinum(ii) complexes
Authors: Samandar Sangari Mozhgan , Golbon Haghighi Mohsen , Nabavizadeh S. Masoud , Pfitzner Arno , Rashidi Mehdi
Published: April 2018

The photophysical properties of three series of cyclometalated organoplatinum(ii) complexes were studied and the influence of changing the ancillary ligands and substituents on their luminescence properties were investigated.
Remarkable water-soluble ZnO nanocrystals: from ‘click’ functionalization to a supramolecular aggregation enhanced emission phenomenon
Authors: Grala Agnieszka , Wolska-Pietkiewicz Małgorzata , Wróbel Zbigniew , Ratajczyk Tomasz , Kuncewicz Joanna , Lewiński Janusz
Published: April 2018

We report on alkyne-functionalized ZnO NCs, their efficient phase transfer protocol via surface modification and the unprecedented (for II–VI semiconductors) AEE phenomenon.
Fabrication of highly permeable thin-film nanocomposite forward osmosis membranes via the design of novel freestanding robust nanofiber substrates
Authors: Obaid M. , Kang Yesol , Wang Sungrok , Yoon Myung-Han , Kim Chang-Min , Song Jun-ho , Kim In S.
Published: April 2018

Although forward osmosis (FO) technology is considered to be a sustainable solution for the water and energy shortage, it has not been commercialized yet due to a few factors.
Silica microsphere templated self-assembly of a three-dimensional carbon network with stable radio-frequency negative permittivity and low dielectric loss
Authors: Xie Peitao , Wang Zhongyang , Zhang Zidong , Fan Runhua , Cheng Chuanbing , Liu Hu , Liu Yao , Li Tingxi , Yan Chao , Wang Ning , Guo Zhanhu
Published: April 2018

Both stable negative permittivity and low dielectric loss are observed in silica microsphere templated carbon nanocomposites.
Analysis of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 by enzyme-initiated auto-PARylation-controlled aggregation of hemin-graphene nanocomposites
Authors: Liu Yong , Xu Xiaolin , Yang Haitang , Xu Ensheng , Wu Shuangshuang , Wei Wei , Chen Jin
Published: April 2018

Poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP-1) is a highly conserved nuclear enzyme, which binds tightly to damaged DNA and plays a key role in DNA repair, recombination, proliferation, and genomic stability.
A fluorescent probe based on a Tb3+/Cu2+ co-functionalized MOF for urinary sarcosine detection
Authors: Sun Na-Na , Yan Bing
Published: April 2018

A novel luminescent probe based on a Tb3+/Cu2+ heterometallic metal–organic framework (MOF) was first designed for beamed monitoring of urinary sarcosine, a differential metabolite that can indicate the progression of prostate cancer (PCa).
Competition of cation–π and exo-wall π–π interactions: a novel approach to achieve ultrasensitive response
Authors: Zhang You-Ming , Zhu Wei , Qu Wen-Juan , Zhong Kai-Peng , Chen Xiao-Peng , Yao Hong , Wei Tai-Bao , Lin Qi
Published: April 2018

A novel approach to achieve ultrasensitive response was successfully developed by rationally introducing the competition between cation–π and exo-wall π–π interactions into a pillar[5]arene-based supramolecular organogel (P5N-OG).
Highly effective electrosynthesis of hydrogen peroxide from oxygen on a redox-active cationic covalent triazine network
Authors: Peng Lan-Zhen , Liu Pei , Cheng Qing-Qing , Hu Wen-Jing , Liu Yahu A. , Li Jiu-Sheng , Jiang Biao , Jia Xue-Shun , Yang Hui , Wen Ke
Published: April 2018

The 2e− reversible redox process of a cationic covalent triazine network mediates the selective oxygen reduction to produce H2O2.
Efficient peptide ligation between allyl-protected Asp and Cys followed by palladium-mediated deprotection
Authors: Kamo Naoki , Hayashi Gosuke , Okamoto Akimitsu
Published: April 2018

Difficult peptide ligation between Asp and Cys and subsequent deprotection proceeded in one pot by adding a small amount of Pd/TPPTS complex.
An order–disorder phase transition in the van der Waals based solvate of C60 and CClBrH2
Authors: Ye Jin , Barrio Maria , Céolin René , Qureshi Navid , Negrier Philippe , Rietveld Ivo B. , Tamarit Josep Lluís
Published: April 2018

The (010) plane of the C60·2CBrClH2 monoclinic (C2/m) co-crystal with both molecular entities, C60 and CBrClH2, orientationally ordered.
Morphology control and photoluminescence properties of Eu3+-activated Y4Al2O9 nanophosphors for solid state lighting applications
Authors: Das Antika , Saha Subhajit , Panigrahi Karamjyoti , Mitra Anuradha , Chatterjee Rituparna , Ghorai Uttam Kumar , Das Biswajit , Chattopadhyay Kalyan Kumar
Published: April 2018

Spherical Eu3+:Y4Al2O9 nanophosphors exhibit brilliant PL behavior with enhanced color purity and excited state lifetime.
Molecular structure and interactions of water intercalated in nickel hydroxide
Authors: Jahangiri Soran , Mosey Nicholas J.
Published: April 2018

The structure and properties of α-Ni(OH)2 containing water and nitrate have been investigated computationally.
Tunable polaron-induced coloration of tungsten oxide via a multi-step control of the physicochemical property for the detection of gaseous F
Authors: Lee Sang Yeon , Shim Gowoon , Park Jucheol , Seo Hyungtak
Published: April 2018

The tunable polaron effect of amorphous tungsten oxide on FTO substrates has been used to detect fluorine in the gas phase via photochemical and gasochromic reactions.
Vibrational spectroscopy of hydrogens in diamond: a quantum mechanical treatment
Authors: Gentile Francesco Silvio , Salustro Simone , Desmarais Jacques Kontak , Ferrari Anna Maria , D'Arco Philippe , Dovesi Roberto
Published: April 2018

Structural, electronic, energetic and vibrational characterizations of the VHn (n = 1 to 4) defects in diamonds are investigated with quantum mechanical simulations.
Application of far-infrared spectroscopy to the structural identification of protein materials
Authors: Han Yanchen , Ling Shengjie , Qi Zeming , Shao Zhengzhong , Chen Xin
Published: April 2018

Far-IR spectroscopy was applied to monitor the structure of two types of silk fibroins and the results indicate that they both show several sharp characteristic peaks, which are totally different from those of globular proteins.
Mediating both valence and conduction bands of TiO2 by anionic dopants for visible- and infrared-light photocatalysis
Authors: Chen Tingwei , Liu Guokui , Jin Fan , Wei Min , Feng Jin , Ma Yuchen
Published: April 2018

By the formation of a C2 dimer in the carbon homo-doped TiO2 surface, opposite shifts of both valence and conduction bands are observed, which contribute to the narrowing of the band gap.
Identifying the effective phosphorous species over modified P-ZSM-5 zeolite: a theoretical study
Authors: Chu Yueying , Gao Xiuzhi , Zhang Xin , Xu Guangtong , Li Guangchao , Zheng Anmin
Published: April 2018

In this work, a density functional theory (DFT) study was carried out to address the fundamental description of the effective phosphorous species that could improve the framework stability and reduce the coke deposition formation on the P-ZSM-5 zeolite.
Investigations on the charge transfer mechanism at donor/acceptor interfaces in the quest for descriptors of organic solar cell performance
Authors: Muraoka Azusa , Fujii Mikiya , Mishima Kenji , Matsunaga Hiroki , Benten Hiroaki , Ohkita Hideo , Ito Shinzaburo , Yamashita Koichi
Published: April 2018

Herein, we theoretically and experimentally investigated the mechanisms of charge separation processes of organic thin-film solar cells.
Iron oxide nanowire-based filter for inactivation of airborne bacteria
Authors: Wang Dawei , Zhu Bin , He Xiang , Zhu Zan , Hutchins Grant , Xu Ping , Wang Wei-Ning
Published: April 2018

The iron oxide nanowire-based filter shows promise for the efficient control of indoor air bioaerosol.
Multispecies calibration: a novel application for inductively coupled plasma tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Williams Charles B. , Donati George L.
Published: April 2018

ICP-MS/MS is used to generate multiple oxide and ammonia species in a novel calibration method for As, Co and Mn.
Inner filter effect based selective detection of picric acid in aqueous solution using green luminescent copper nanoclusters
Authors: Shanmugaraj Krishnamoorthy , John S. Abraham
Published: April 2018

Designing superior probes to detect trace amounts of picric acid (PA) is of huge importance for homeland security and environmental protection.
Synthesis and characterization of a novel oxo-bridged binuclear iron(iii) complex: its catalytic application in the synthesis of benzoxazoles using benzyl alcohol in water
Authors: Safaei Elham , Alaji Zahra , Panahi Farhad , Wojtczak Andrzej , Jagličić Janez Zvonko
Published: April 2018

A novel oxo-bridged binuclear iron(iii) complex was found to be an efficient catalyst in the synthesis of benzoxazoles from benzyl alcohols.