bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bystander fatigue and CPR quality by older bystanders: a randomized crossover trial comparing continuous chest compressions and 30:2 compressions to ventilations
Authors: Liu Shawn , Vaillancourt Christian , Kasaboski Ann , Taljaard Monica
Published: September 2016

Objectives

This study sought to measure bystander fatigue and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) quality after five minutes of CPR using the continuous chest compression (CCC) versus the 30:2 chest compression to ventilation method in older lay persons, a population most likely to perform CPR on cardiac arrest victims.

Methods

This randomized crossover trial took place at three tertiary care hospitals and a seniors’ center. Participants were aged ≥55 years without significant physical limitations (frailty score ≤3/7). They completed two 5-minute CPR sessions (using 30:2 and CCC) on manikins; sessions were separated by a rest period. We used concealed block randomization to determine CPR method order. Metronome feedback maintained a compression rate of 100/minute. We measured heart rate (HR), mean arterial pressure (MAP), and Borg Exertion Scale. CPR quality measures included total number of compressions and number of adequate compressions (depth ≥5 cm).

Results

Sixty-three participants were enrolled: mean age 70.8 years, female 66.7%, past CPR training 60.3%. Bystander fatigue was similar between CPR methods: mean difference in HR -0.59 (95% CI −3.51-2.33), MAP 1.64 (95% CI −0.23-3.50), and Borg 0.46 (95% CI 0.07-0.84). Compared to 30:2, participants using CCC performed more chest compressions (480.0 v. 376.3, mean difference 107.7; p<0.0001) and more adequate chest compressions (381.5 v. 324.9, mean difference. 62.0; p=0.0001), although good compressions/minute declined significantly faster with the CCC method (p=0.0002).

Conclusions

CPR quality decreased significantly faster when performing CCC compared to 30:2. However, performing CCC produced more adequate compressions overall with a similar level of fatigue compared to the 30:2 method.
The potential and value of epidemiology in curbing non-communicable diseases
Authors: Patel A. , Webster R.
Published: September 2016

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) have reached pandemic levels globally and pose a major threat to social and economic development worldwide. The discipline of epidemiology has done much to bring this issue to the forefront of global health. Epidemiological approaches have broadened our understanding of the impact of NCDs in widening socioeconomic disparities. Over a number of decades, this discipline has also contributed to the development of many preventive measures and treatments of known efficacy and safety. However, epidemiology also has a critical role to play in better translating these discoveries into practice, through the new science of implementation. As we strive to achieve the “25 by 25” goal of a 25% reduction in premature mortality from common NCDs by 2025, the discipline of epidemiology will need to continuously evolve to remain an essential tool for public health action.
Comparison of enteric protozoan infections in four Australian hospitals: variable tests and variable results
Authors: FLETCHER-LARTEY STEPHANIE M. , ANDRESEN DAVID , VAN HAL SEBASTIAN , MERIF JUAN , STARK DAMIEN , RAWLINSON WILLIAM , HARKNESS JOHN , ELLIS JOHN
Published: September 2016

There is limited evidence of the prevalence of enteric protozoon infections in developed settings. We estimated the prevalence of enteric protozoa and evaluated the outcome of testing algorithms used in hospital settings in Sydney, Australia. This retrospective study assessed microbiological data from four public clinical laboratories. Pooled data from the four hospitals revealed the most common enteric protozoon detected wasBlastocystisspp. in an average of 5·4% of cases, followed byGiardia intestinalis(1·1%) andDientamoeba fragilis(0·8%). Protozoon detection rates between hospitals were significantly different and could be based on multiple factors. The modified iron haematoxylin staining method, consistently detected higher rates ofBlastocystisspp., andG. intestinalisin comparison with microscopy of wet preparations, as well as higher rates ofG. intestinalisandCryptosporidiumwhen compared with enzyme immunoassay. The study concludes that there are multiple factors that contribute to the variability in protozoa detection rates in metropolitan hospitals, including widespread variability in the testing protocols for enteric protozoa, individual and population characteristics. A gold standard approach for diagnosis of enteric protozoa is recommended. Molecular diagnostic methods such as polymerase chain reaction would provide consistency across laboratories and yield more reliable estimates of the actual prevalence of enteric protozoa.
Atlas of the Aegean Flora. Part 1: Text & Plates. Part 2: Maps . A. Strid.
Authors: Papagianni Marita G.
Published: September 2016

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Troubles and the Family: Changes and Continuities Since 1943
Authors: Welshman John
Published: September 2016

This article explores continuities and changes in relation to the problem and troubled families’ initiatives across three areas: the ways in which families have been defined and described; the nature of the interventions; and the criteria for ‘success’. First, while the criteria for identifying troubled families seem initially more explicit than those for problem families, data on the families indicate important continuities. Second, although both initiatives have been characterised by the claimed novelty and distinctiveness of the approaches, it is the practical, commonsense nature of the interventions that have also been highlighted. Third, whereas voluntary organisations and local authorities made little effort to assess ‘outcomes’ for problem families, or were pessimistic about the chances of success, the troubled families initiative has focused on costs, savings, payment-by-results and families ‘turned around’. Overall, troubled families have been much more visible in political rhetoric than their 1950s counterparts.
Male-killing symbiont damages host’s dosage-compensated sex chromosome to induce embryonic apoptosis
Authors: Harumoto Toshiyuki , Anbutsu Hisashi , Lemaitre Bruno , Fukatsu Takema
Published: September 2016

Some symbiotic bacteria are capable of interfering with host reproduction in selfish ways. How such bacteria can manipulate host’s sex-related mechanisms is of fundamental interest encompassing cell, developmental and evolutionary biology. Here, we uncover the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlyingSpiroplasma-induced embryonic male lethality inDrosophila melanogaster. Transcriptomic analysis reveals that many genes related to DNA damage and apoptosis are up-regulated specifically in infected male embryos. Detailed genetic and cytological analyses demonstrate that male-killingSpiroplasmacauses DNA damage on the male X chromosome interacting with the male-specific lethal (MSL) complex. The damaged male X chromosome exhibits a chromatin bridge during mitosis, and bridge breakage triggers sex-specific abnormal apoptosis via p53-dependent pathways. Notably, the MSL complex is not only necessary but also sufficient for this cytotoxic process. These results highlight symbiont’s sophisticated strategy to target host’s sex chromosome and recruit host’s molecular cascades toward massive apoptosis in a sex-specific manner.
Dephosphorylated parafibromin is a transcriptional coactivator of the Wnt/Hedgehog/Notch pathways
Authors: Kikuchi Ippei , Takahashi-Kanemitsu Atsushi , Sakiyama Natsuki , Tang Chao , Tang Pei-Jung , Noda Saori , Nakao Kazuki , Kassai Hidetoshi , Sato Toshiro , Aiba Atsu , Hatakeyama Masanori
Published: September 2016

Evolutionally conserved Wnt, Hedgehog (Hh) and Notch morphogen pathways play essential roles in the development, homeostasis and pathogenesis of multicellular organisms. Nevertheless, mechanisms that intracellularly coordinate these signal inputs remain poorly understood. Here we found that parafibromin, a component of the PAF complex, competitively interacts with β-catenin and Gli1, thereby potentiating transactivation of Wnt- and Hh-target genes in a mutually exclusive manner. Parafibromin also binds to the Notch intracellular domain (NICD), enabling concerted activation of Wnt- and Notch-target genes. The transcriptional platform function of parafibromin is potentiated by tyrosine dephosphorylation, mediated by SHP2 phosphatase, while it is attenuated by tyrosine phosphorylation, mediated by PTK6 kinase. Consequently, acute loss of parafibromin in mice disorganizes the normal epithelial architecture of the intestine, which requires coordinated activation/inactivation of Wnt, Hh and/or Notch signalling. Parafibromin integrates and converts signals conveyed by these morphogen pathways into appropriate transcriptional outputs in a tyrosine phosphorylation/dephosphorylation-regulated manner.
The DNA cytosine deaminase APOBEC3H haplotype I likely contributes to breast and lung cancer mutagenesis
Authors: Starrett Gabriel J. , Luengas Elizabeth M. , McCann Jennifer L. , Ebrahimi Diako , Temiz Nuri A. , Love Robin P. , Feng Yuqing , Adolph Madison B. , Chelico Linda , Law Emily K. , Carpenter Michael A. , Harris Reuben S
Published: September 2016

Cytosine mutations within TCA/T motifs are common in cancer. A likely cause is the DNA cytosine deaminase APOBEC3B (A3B). However, A3B-null breast tumours still have this mutational bias. Here we show that APOBEC3H haplotype I (A3H-I) provides a likely solution to this paradox. A3B-null tumours with this mutational bias have at least one copy of A3H-I despite little genetic linkage between these genes. Although deemed inactive previously, A3H-I has robust activity in biochemical and cellular assays, similar to A3H-II after compensation for lower protein expression levels. Gly105 in A3H-I (versus Arg105 in A3H-II) results in lower protein expression levels and increased nuclear localization, providing a mechanism for accessing genomic DNA. A3H-I also associates with clonal TCA/T-biased mutations in lung adenocarcinoma suggesting this enzyme makes broader contributions to cancer mutagenesis. These studies combine to suggest that A3B and A3H-I, together, explain the bulk of ‘APOBEC signature’ mutations in cancer.
Spatiotemporal dynamics of lesion-induced axonal sprouting and its relation to functional architecture of the cerebellum
Authors: Dhar Matasha , Brenner Joshua M. , Sakimura Kenji , Kano Masanobu , Nishiyama Hiroshi
Published: September 2016

Neurodegenerative lesions induce sprouting of new collaterals from surviving axons, but the extent to which this form of axonal remodelling alters brain functional structure remains unclear. To understand how collateral sprouting proceeds in the adult brain, we imaged post-lesion sprouting of cerebellar climbing fibres (CFs) in mice using in vivo time-lapse microscopy. Here we show that newly sprouted CF collaterals innervate multiple Purkinje cells (PCs) over several months, with most innervations emerging at 3–4 weeks post lesion. Simultaneous imaging of cerebellar functional structure reveals that surviving CFs similarly innervate functionally relevant and non-relevant PCs, but have more synaptic area on PCs near the collateral origin than on distant PCs. These results suggest that newly sprouted axon collaterals do not preferentially innervate functionally relevant postsynaptic targets. Nonetheless, the spatial gradient of collateral innervation might help to loosely maintain functional synaptic circuits if functionally relevant neurons are clustered in the lesioned area.
Resilience of bacterial quorum sensing against fluid flow
Authors: Emge Philippe , Moeller Jens , Jang Hongchul , Rusconi Roberto , Yawata Yutaka , Stocker Roman , Vogel Viola
Published: September 2016

Quorum sensing (QS) is a population-density dependent chemical process that enables bacteria to communicate based on the production, secretion and sensing of small inducer molecules. While recombinant constructs have been widely used to decipher the molecular details of QS, how those findings translate to natural QS systems has remained an open question. Here, we compare the activation of natural and synthetic Pseudomonas aeruginosa LasI/R QS systems in bacteria exposed to quiescent conditions and controlled flows. Quantification of QS-dependent GFP expression in suspended cultures and in surface-attached microcolonies revealed that QS onset in both systems was similar under quiescent conditions but markedly differed under flow. Moderate flow (Pe > 25) was sufficient to suppress LasI/R QS recombinantly expressed in Escherichia coli, whereas only high flow (Pe > 102) suppressed QS in wild-type P. aeruginosa. We suggest that this difference stems from the differential production of extracellular matrix and that the matrix confers resilience against moderate flow to QS in wild-type organisms. These results suggest that the expression of a biofilm matrix extends the environmental conditions under which QS-based cell-cell communication is effective and that findings from synthetic QS circuits cannot be directly translated to natural systems.
Rigidity of silicone substrates controls cell spreading and stem cell differentiation
Authors: Vertelov Grigory , Gutierrez Edgar , Lee Sin-Ae , Ronan Edward , Groisman Alex , Tkachenko Eugene
Published: September 2016

The dependences of spreading and differentiation of stem cells plated on hydrogel and silicone gel substrates on the rigidity and porosity of the substrates have recently been a subject of some controversy. In experiments on human mesenchymal stem cells plated on soft, medium rigidity, and hard silicone gels we show that harder gels are more osteogenic, softer gels are more adipogenic, and cell spreading areas increase with the silicone gel substrate rigidity. The results of our study indicate that substrate rigidity induces some universal cellular responses independently of the porosity or topography of the substrate.
All-inkjet-printed thin-film transistors: manufacturing process reliability by root cause analysis
Authors: Sowade Enrico , Ramon Eloi , Mitra Kalyan Yoti , Martínez-Domingo Carme , Pedró Marta , Pallarès Jofre , Loffredo Fausta , Villani Fulvia , Gomes Henrique L. , Terés Lluís , Baumann Reinhard R.
Published: September 2016

We report on the detailed electrical investigation of all-inkjet-printed thin-film transistor (TFT) arrays focusing on TFT failures and their origins. The TFT arrays were manufactured on flexible polymer substrates in ambient condition without the need for cleanroom environment or inert atmosphere and at a maximum temperature of 150 °C. Alternative manufacturing processes for electronic devices such as inkjet printing suffer from lower accuracy compared to traditional microelectronic manufacturing methods. Furthermore, usually printing methods do not allow the manufacturing of electronic devices with high yield (high number of functional devices). In general, the manufacturing yield is much lower compared to the established conventional manufacturing methods based on lithography. Thus, the focus of this contribution is set on a comprehensive analysis of defective TFTs printed by inkjet technology. Based on root cause analysis, we present the defects by developing failure categories and discuss the reasons for the defects. This procedure identifies failure origins and allows the optimization of the manufacturing resulting finally to a yield improvement.
Comprehensive Modeling and Discovery of Mebendazole as a Novel TRAF2- and NCK-interacting Kinase Inhibitor
Authors: Tan Zhi , Chen Lu , Zhang Shuxing
Published: September 2016

TRAF2- and NCK-interacting kinase (TNIK) represents one of the crucial targets for Wnt-activated colorectal cancer. In this study, we curated two datasets and conducted a comprehensive modeling study to explore novel TNIK inhibitors with desirable biopharmaceutical properties. With Dataset I, we derived Comparative Molecular Similarity Indices Analysis (CoMSIA) and variable-selection k-nearest neighbor models, from which 3D-molecular fields and 2D-descriptors critical for the TNIK inhibitor activity were revealed. Based on Dataset II, predictive CoMSIA-SIMCA (Soft Independent Modelling by Class Analogy) models were obtained and employed to screen 1,448 FDA-approved small molecule drugs. Upon experimental evaluations, we discovered that mebendazole, an approved anthelmintic drug, could selectively inhibit TNIK kinase activity with a dissociation constant Kd = ~1 μM. The subsequent CoMSIA and kNN analyses indicated that mebendazole bears the favorable molecular features that are needed to bind and inhibit TNIK.
Polyamines release the let-7b-mediated suppression of initiation codon recognition during the protein synthesis of EXT2
Authors: Imamura Masataka , Higashi Kyohei , Yamaguchi Katsutoshi , Asakura Kiryu , Furihata Tomomi , Terui Yusuke , Satake Toshihiko , Maegawa Jiro , Yasumura Kazunori , Ibuki Ai , Akase Tomoko , Nishimura Kazuhiro , Kashiwagi Keiko , Linhardt Robert J. , Igarashi Kazuei , Toida Toshihiko
Published: September 2016

Proteoglycans (PGs), a family of glycosaminoglycan (GAG)-protein glycoconjugates, contribute to animal physiology through interactions between their glycan chains and growth factors, chemokines and adhesion molecules. However, it remains unclear how GAG structures are changed during the aging process. Here, we found that polyamine levels are correlated with the expression level of heparan sulfate (HS) in human skin. In cultured cell lines, the EXT1 and EXT2 enzymes, initiating HS biosynthesis, were stimulated at the translational level by polyamines. Interestingly, the initiation codon recognition by 43S preinitiation complex during EXT2 translation is suppressed by let-7b, a member of the let-7 microRNA family, through binding at the N-terminal amino acid coding sequence in EXT2 mRNA. Let-7b-mediated suppression of initiation codon depends on the length of 5′-UTR of EXT2 mRNA and its suppression is inhibited in the presence of polyamines. These findings provide new insights into the HS biosynthesis related to miRNA and polyamines.
CXCL13, CXCL10 and CXCL8 as Potential Biomarkers for the Diagnosis of Neurosyphilis Patients
Authors: Wang Cuini , Wu Kaiqi , Yu Qian , Zhang Sufang , Gao Zixiao , Liu Yudan , Ni Liyan , Cheng Yuanyuan , Guan Zhifang , Shi Mei , Lu Haikong , Lou Yongliang , Zhou Pingyu
Published: September 2016

At present, diagnosis for neurosyphilis remains a major clinical challenge. Venereal Disease Research Laboratory (VDRL) titer of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is suboptimally sensitive to diagnose neurosyphilis, which can be negative in neurosyphilis patients, especially in asymptomatic neurosyphilis patients. In the search for biomarkers of neurosyphilis, we investigated the chemokine profile in CSF of neurosyphilis patients and found that the concentrations of CXCL13, CXCL10 and CXCL8 were selectively elevated in neurosyphilis patients and correlated with CSF protein concentration and CSF-VDRL titer. After antibiotic treatment, the concentration of these chemokines was dramatically reduced. The area under the ROC curve (AUC) of CSF CXCL13, CXCL8,CXCL10 and the CSF/serum ratio of CXCL13, CXCL8,CXCL10 in the diagnosis of neurosyphilis were 0.940, 0.899, 0.915, 0.963, 0.846 and 0.926, respectively. The corresponding sensitivities/specificities of CSF CXCL13, CXCL8,CXCL10 and the CSF/serum ratio of CXCL13, CXCL8,CXCL10 in diagnosis of neurosyphilis were 85.4%/89.1%, 79%/90.1% and 79.6%/91.1%, 86.6%/99%, 79%/73.3% and 86%/92.1%, respectively. Our results suggest that the elevated concentrations of CXCL13, CXCL8, and CXCL10 or their increasing CSF/serum ratios may be potential biomarkers of neurosyphilis, particularly for asymptomatic neurosyphilis. Reduced concentration of these chemokines may indicate the prognosis of antibiotic therapy.
Facile preparation of nickel/carbonized wood nanocomposite for environmentally friendly supercapacitor electrodes
Authors: Yaddanapudi Haritha Sree , Tian Kun , Teng Shiang , Tiwari Ashutosh
Published: September 2016

We are reporting a facile way to prepare nickel/carbon nanocomposites from wood as a novel electrode material for supercapacitors. The surface morphology and the structure of the as-prepared electrodes were studied by using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The results indicate that after high-temperature carbonization process, the wood is converted into graphitic carbon with nickel nanoparticles uniformly distributed within the three dimensional structure of the wood. Electrochemical characterization such as cyclic voltammetry (CV), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and galvanostatic charge-discharge measurements were conducted. These results showed that the introduction of nickel into the carbonized wood improves the specific capacitance and the cyclic stability of the nanocomposite electrode over that of the pure carbonized wood electrode. The composite electrode displayed an enhanced capacitive performance of 3616 F/g at 8 A/g and showed an excellent capacitance retention after 6000 charge-discharge cycles. These results endow the nickel nanoparticles impregnated carbonized wood with a great potential for future application in supercapacitors.
Biochemical and genome sequence analyses of Megasphaera sp. strain DISK18 from dental plaque of a healthy individual reveals commensal lifestyle
Authors: Nallabelli Nayudu , Patil Prashant P. , Pal Vijay Kumar , Singh Namrata , Jain Ashish , Patil Prabhu B. , Grover Vishakha , Korpole Suresh
Published: September 2016

Much of the work in periodontal microbiology in recent years has focused on identifying and understanding periodontal pathogens. As the majority of oral microbes have not yet been isolated in pure form, it is essential to understand the phenotypic characteristics of microbes to decipher their role in oral environment. In this study, strain DISK18 was isolated from gingival sulcus and identified as a Megasphaera species. Although metagenomics studies revealed Megasphaera species as a major group within the oral habitat, they have never been isolated in cultivable form to date. Therefore, we have characterized the DISK18 strain to better understand its role in the periodontal ecosystem. Strain Megasphaera sp. DISK18 displayed the ability to adhere and self-aggregate, which are essential requisite features for inhabiting and persisting in oral cavity. It also coaggregated with other pioneer oral colonizers like Streptococcus and Lactobacillus species but not with Veillonella. This behaviour points towards its role in the ecologic succession of a multispecies biofilm as an early colonizer. The absence of virulence determining genes as observed in whole genome sequence analysis coupled with an inability to degrade collagen reveals that Megasphaera sp. strain DISK18 is likely not a pathogenic species and emphasizes its commensal lifestyle.
Neprilysin is a Mediator of Alternative Renin-Angiotensin-System Activation in the Murine and Human Kidney
Authors: Domenig Oliver , Manzel Arndt , Grobe Nadja , Königshausen Eva , Kaltenecker Christopher C. , Kovarik Johannes J. , Stegbauer Johannes , Gurley Susan B. , van Oyen Dunja , Antlanger Marlies , Bader Michael , Motta-Santos Daisy , Santos Robson A. , Elased Khalid M. , Säemann Marcus D. , Linker Ralf A. , Poglitsch Marko
Published: September 2016

Cardiovascular and renal pathologies are frequently associated with an activated renin-angiotensin-system (RAS) and increased levels of its main effector and vasoconstrictor hormone angiotensin II (Ang II). Angiotensin-converting-enzyme-2 (ACE2) has been described as a crucial enzymatic player in shifting the RAS towards its so-called alternative vasodilative and reno-protective axis by enzymatically converting Ang II to angiotensin-(1-7) (Ang-(1-7)). Yet, the relative contribution of ACE2 to Ang-(1-7) formationin vivohas not been elucidated. Mass spectrometry based quantification of angiotensin metabolites in the kidney and plasma of ACE2 KO mice surprisingly revealed an increase in Ang-(1-7), suggesting additional pathways to be responsible for alternative RAS activationin vivo. Following assessment of angiotensin metabolism in kidney homogenates, we identified neprilysin (NEP) to be a major source of renal Ang-(1-7) in mice and humans. These findings were supported by MALDI imaging, showing NEP mediated Ang-(1-7) formation in whole kidney cryo-sections in mice. Finally, pharmacologic inhibition of NEP resulted in strongly decreased Ang-(1-7) levels in murine kidneys. This unexpected new role of NEP may have implications for the combination therapy with NEP-inhibitors and angiotensin-receptor-blockade, which has been shown being a promising therapeutic approach for heart failure therapy.
Quinone derivatives isolated from the endolichenic fungus Phialocephala fortinii are Mdr1 modulators that combat azole resistance in Candida albicans
Authors: Xie Fei , Chang Wenqiang , Zhang Ming , Li Ying , Li Wei , Shi Hongzhuo , Zheng Sha , Lou Hongxiang
Published: September 2016

One of the main azole-resistance mechanisms in Candida pathogens is the upregulation of drug efflux pumps, which compromises the efficacy of azoles and results in treatment failure. The combination of azole-antifungal agents with efflux pump inhibitors represents a promising strategy to combat fungal infection. High-throughput screening of 150 extracts obtained from endolichenic fungal cultures led to the discovery that the extract of Phialocephala fortinii exhibits potent activity for the reversal of azole resistance. From P. fortinii cultures, a total of 15 quinone derivatives, comprising 11 new derivatives and 4 known compounds, were obtained. Among these compounds, palmarumycin P3 (3) and phialocephalarin B (8) specifically modulate the expression of MDR1 to inhibit the activity of drug efflux pumps and therefore reverse azole resistance. The present study revealed Mdr1 targeting as an alternative mechanism for the discovery of new agents to fight antifungal drug resistance.
Self-Replication of Localized Vegetation Patches in Scarce Environments
Authors: Bordeu Ignacio , Clerc Marcel G. , Couteron Piere , Lefever René , Tlidi Mustapha
Published: September 2016

Desertification due to climate change and increasing drought periods is a worldwide problem for both ecology and economy. Our ability to understand how vegetation manages to survive and propagate through arid and semiarid ecosystems may be useful in the development of future strategies to prevent desertification, preserve flora—and fauna within—or even make use of scarce resources soils. In this paper, we study a robust phenomena observed in semi-arid ecosystems, by which localized vegetation patches split in a process called self-replication. Localized patches of vegetation are visible in nature at various spatial scales. Even though they have been described in literature, their growth mechanisms remain largely unexplored. Here, we develop an innovative statistical analysis based on real field observations to show that patches may exhibit deformation and splitting. This growth mechanism is opposite to the desertification since it allows to repopulate territories devoid of vegetation. We investigate these aspects by characterizing quantitatively, with a simple mathematical model, a new class of instabilities that lead to the self-replication phenomenon observed.
Photobiomodulation (blue and green light) encourages osteoblastic-differentiation of human adipose-derived stem cells: role of intracellular calcium and light-gated ion channels
Authors: Wang Yuguang , Huang Ying-Ying , Wang Yong , Lyu Peijun , Hamblin Michael R.
Published: September 2016

Human adipose-derived stem cells (hASCs) have the potential to differentiate into several different cell types including osteoblasts. Photobiomodulation (PBM) or low level laser therapy (LLLT) using red or near-infrared wavelengths has been reported to have effects on both proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of stem cells. We examined the effects of delivering four different wavelengths (420 nm, 540 nm, 660 nm, 810 nm) at the same dose (3 J/cm2) five times (every two days) on hASCs cultured in osteogenic medium over three weeks. We measured expression of the following transcription factors by RT-PCR: RUNX2, osterix and the osteoblast protein, osteocalcin. The 420 nm and 540 nm wavelengths were more effective in stimulating osteoblast differentiation compared to 660 nm and 810 nm. Intracellular calcium was higher after 420 nm and 540 nm and could be inhibited by capsazepine and SKF96365, which also inhibited osteogenic differentiation. We hypothesize that activation of light-gated calcium ion channels by blue and green light could explain our results.
Neuronal networks provide rapid neuroprotection against spreading toxicity
Authors: Samson Andrew J. , Robertson Graham , Zagnoni Michele , Connolly Christopher N.
Published: September 2016

Acute secondary neuronal cell death, as seen in neurodegenerative disease, cerebral ischemia (stroke) and traumatic brain injury (TBI), drives spreading neurotoxicity into surrounding, undamaged, brain areas. This spreading toxicity occurs via two mechanisms, synaptic toxicity through hyperactivity, and excitotoxicity following the accumulation of extracellular glutamate. To date, there are no fast-acting therapeutic tools capable of terminating secondary spreading toxicity within a time frame relevant to the emergency treatment of stroke or TBI patients. Here, using hippocampal neurons (DIV 15–20) cultured in microfluidic devices in order to deliver a localized excitotoxic insult, we replicate secondary spreading toxicity and demonstrate that this process is driven by GluN2B receptors. In addition to the modeling of spreading toxicity, this approach has uncovered a previously unknown, fast acting, GluN2A-dependent neuroprotective signaling mechanism. This mechanism utilizes the innate capacity of surrounding neuronal networks to provide protection against both forms of spreading neuronal toxicity, synaptic hyperactivity and direct glutamate excitotoxicity. Importantly, network neuroprotection against spreading toxicity can be effectively stimulated after an excitotoxic insult has been delivered, and may identify a new therapeutic window to limit brain damage.
Transcriptome meta-analysis reveals a dysregulation in extra cellular matrix and cell junction associated gene signatures during Dengue virus infection
Authors: Afroz Sumbul , Giddaluru Jeevan , Abbas Mohd. Manzar , Khan Nooruddin
Published: September 2016

Dengue Viruses (DENVs) cause one of the most prevalent arthropod-borne viral diseases affecting millions of people worldwide. Identification of genes involved in DENV pathogenesis would help in deciphering molecular mechanisms responsible for the disease progression. Here, we carried out a meta-analysis of publicly available gene expression data of dengue patients and further validated the meta-profile using in-vitro infection in THP-1 cells. Our findings reveal that DENV infection modulates expression of several genes and signalling pathways including interferons, detoxification of ROS and viral assembly. Interestingly, we have identified novel gene signatures comprising of INADL/PATJ and CRTAP (Cartilage Associated Protein), which were significantly down-regulated across all patient data sets as well as in DENV infected THP-1 cells. PATJ and CRTAP genes are involved in maintaining cell junction integrity and collagen assembly (extracellular matrix component) respectively, which together play a crucial role in cell-cell adhesion. Our results categorically reveal that overexpression of CRTAP and PATJ genes restrict DENV infection, thereby suggesting a critical role of these genes in DENV pathogenesis. Conclusively, these findings emphasize the utility of meta-analysis approach in identifying novel gene signatures that might provide mechanistic insights into disease pathogenesis and possibly lead towards the development of better therapeutic interventions.
The PRKD1 promoter is a target of the KRas-NF-κB pathway in pancreatic cancer
Authors: Döppler Heike , Panayiotou Richard , Reid Elizabeth M. , Maimo Willibroad , Bastea Ligia , Storz Peter
Published: September 2016

Increased expression of PRKD1 and its gene product protein kinase D1 (PKD1) are linked to oncogenic signaling in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, but a direct functional relationship to oncogenic KRas has not been established so far. We here describe the PRKD1 gene promoter as a target for oncogenic KRas signaling. We demonstrate that KRas-induced activation of the canonical NF-κB pathway is one mechanism of how PRKD1 expression is increased and identify the binding sites for NF-κB in the PRKD1 promoter. Altogether, these results describe a novel mechanism governing PRKD1 gene expression in PDA and provide a functional link between oncogenic KRas, NF-κB and expression of PRKD1.
How do the strength and type of ENSO affect SST predictability in coupled models
Authors: Sohn Soo-Jin , Tam Chi-Yung , Jeong Hye-In
Published: September 2016

The effects of amplitude and type of the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) on sea surface temperature (SST) predictability on a global scale were investigated, by examining historical climate forecasts for the period 1982–2006 from air-sea coupled seasonal prediction systems. Unlike in previous studies, SST predictability was evaluated in different phases of ENSO and for episodes with various strengths. Our results reveal that the seasonal mean Niño 3.4 index is well predicted in a multi-model ensemble (MME), even for four-month lead predictions. However, coupled models have particularly low skill in predicting the global SST pattern during weak ENSO events. During weak El Niño events, which are also El Niño Modoki in this period, a number of models fail to reproduce the associated tri-pole SST pattern over the tropical Pacific. During weak La Niña periods, SST signals in the MME tend to be less persistent than observations. Therefore, a good ENSO forecast does not guarantee a good SST prediction from a global perspective. The strength and type of ENSO need to be considered when inferring global SST and other climate impacts from model-predicted ENSO information.
Engineering new balancer chromosomes in C. elegans via CRISPR/Cas9
Authors: Iwata Satoru , Yoshina Sawako , Suehiro Yuji , Hori Sayaka , Mitani Shohei
Published: September 2016

Balancer chromosomes are convenient tools used to maintain lethal mutations in heterozygotes. We established a method for engineering new balancers in C. elegans by using the CRISPR/Cas9 system in a non-homologous end-joining mutant. Our studies will make it easier for researchers to maintain lethal mutations and should provide a path for the development of a system that generates rearrangements at specific sites of interest to model and analyse the mechanisms of action of genes.
Neural substrates underlying delusions in schizophrenia
Authors: Zhu Jiajia , Zhuo Chuanjun , Liu Feng , Xu Lixue , Yu Chunshui
Published: September 2016

Delusions are cardinal positive symptoms in schizophrenia; however, the neural substrates of delusions remain unknown. In the present study, we investigated the neural correlates of delusions in schizophrenia using multi-modal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques. Diffusion, structural and perfusion MRIs were performed in 19 schizophrenia patients with severe delusions, 30 patients without delusions and 30 healthy controls. Fractional anisotropy (FA), gray matter volume (GMV) and cerebral blood flow (CBF) were voxel-wisely compared among the three groups. Although patients without delusions exhibited decreased FA in white matter regions and decreased GMV in gray matter regions relative to controls, patients with severe delusions demonstrated comparable FA in all of these white matter regions and similar GMV in most of these gray matter regions. Both patient subgroups had less GMV in the amygdala and anterior cingulate cortex than controls. Although two patient subgroups showed consistent CBF changes relative to controls, only CBF in the anterior cingulate cortex was lower in patients with severe delusions than in patients without delusions. These findings suggest that schizophrenia patients with severe delusions have relatively normal structural integrity. Importantly, the excessively reduced perfusion in the anterior cingulate cortex may be associated with the development of delusions in schizophrenia.
Spectral Interferometry with Electron Microscopes
Authors: Talebi Nahid
Published: September 2016

Interference patterns are not only a defining characteristic of waves, but also have several applications; characterization of coherent processes and holography. Spatial holography with electron waves, has paved the way towards space-resolved characterization of magnetic domains and electrostatic potentials with angstrom spatial resolution. Another impetus in electron microscopy has been introduced by ultrafast electron microscopy which uses pulses of sub-picosecond durations for probing a laser induced excitation of the sample. However, attosecond temporal resolution has not yet been reported, merely due to the statistical distribution of arrival times of electrons at the sample, with respect to the laser time reference. This is however, the very time resolution which will be needed for performing time-frequency analysis. These difficulties are addressed here by proposing a new methodology to improve the synchronization between electron and optical excitations through introducing an efficient electron-driven photon source. We use focused transition radiation of the electron as a pump for the sample. Due to the nature of transition radiation, the process is coherent. This technique allows us to perform spectral interferometry with electron microscopes, with applications in retrieving the phase of electron-induced polarizations and reconstructing dynamics of the induced vector potential.
Transport Phenomena of Water in Molecular Fluidic Channels
Authors: Vo Truong Quoc , Kim BoHung
Published: September 2016

In molecular-level fluidic transport, where the discrete characteristics of a molecular system are not negligible (in contrast to a continuum description), the response of the molecular water system might still be similar to the continuum description if the time and ensemble averages satisfy the ergodic hypothesis and the scale of the average is enough to recover the classical thermodynamic properties. However, even in such cases, the continuum description breaks down on the material interfaces. In short, molecular-level liquid flows exhibit substantially different physics from classical fluid transport theories because of (i) the interface/surface force field, (ii) thermal/velocity slip, (iii) the discreteness of fluid molecules at the interface and (iv) local viscosity. Therefore, in this study, we present the result of our investigations using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations with continuum-based energy equations and check the validity and limitations of the continuum hypothesis. Our study shows that when the continuum description is subjected to the proper treatment of the interface effects via modified boundary conditions, the so-called continuum-based modified-analytical solutions, they can adequately predict nanoscale fluid transport phenomena. The findings in this work have broad effects in overcoming current limitations in modeling/predicting the fluid behaviors of molecular fluidic devices.
Nuclear actin modulates cell motility via transcriptional regulation of adhesive and cytoskeletal genes
Authors: Sharili Amir S. , Kenny Fiona N. , Vartiainen Maria K. , Connelly John T.
Published: September 2016

The actin cytoskeleton is a classic biomechanical mediator of cell migration. While it is known that actin also shuttles in and out of the nucleus, its functions within this compartment remain poorly understood. In this study, we investigated how nuclear actin regulates keratinocyte gene expression and cell behavior. Gene expression profiling of normal HaCaT keratinocytes compared to HaCaTs over-expressing wild-type β-actin or β-actin tagged with a nuclear localization sequence (NLS-actin), identified multiple adhesive and cytoskeletal genes, such as MYL9, ITGB1 and VCL, which were significantly down-regulated in keratinocytes with high levels of nuclear actin. In addition, genes associated with transcriptional regulation and apoptosis were up-regulated in cells over expressing NLS-actin. Functionally, accumulation of actin in the nucleus altered cytoskeletal and focal adhesion organization and inhibited cell motility. Exclusion of endogenous actin from the nucleus by knocking down Importin 9 reversed this phenotype and enhanced cell migration. Based on these findings, we conclude that the level of actin in the nucleus is a transcriptional regulator for tuning keratinocyte migration.
Mechanistic insight into the norepinephrine-induced fibrosis in systemic sclerosis
Authors: Uehara Akihito , Motegi Sei-ichiro , Yamada Kazuya , Uchiyama Akihiko , Perera Buddhini , Toki Sayaka , Ogino Sachiko , Yokoyama Yoko , Takeuchi Yuko , Ishikawa Osamu
Published: September 2016

Raynaud’s phenomenon is frequently observed in systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients and cold- or stress-induced norepinephrine (NE) has been speculated to be associated with vasoconstriction. Objective was to elucidate the role of NE in fibrosis in SSc. IL-6 is a potent stimulator of collagen production in fibroblasts. NE enhanced IL-6 production and proliferation more significantly in SSc fibroblasts than in normal fibroblasts. Furthermore, the production of IL-6 and phosphorylation of p38 in SSc fibroblasts was enhanced by adrenergic receptor (AR)β agonist, isoproterenol, but not ARα agonist, oxymetazoline. ARβ blocker, propranolol, inhibited NE-induced IL-6 production and phosphorylation of p38 in SSc fibroblasts. NE-induced IL-6 was significantly inhibited by p38 inhibitor, SB203580, suggesting that NE-induced phosphorylation of p38 via ARβ enhances IL-6 production in SSc fibroblasts. NE-induced phosphorylation of ERK1/2 via ARα inhibited IL-6 production in SSc fibroblasts. Combined treatment with NE and endothelin-1 resulted in an additive increase in IL-6 production in SSc fibroblasts. NE-induced IL-6/IL-6 receptor trans-signaling increased the production of collagen type I in SSc fibroblasts and both propranolol and SB203580 inhibited NE-induced collagen production. These results suggest that cold exposure and/or emotional stress-induced NE might contribute to the skin fibrosis via potentiation of IL-6 production from fibroblasts in SSc.
Rapid and visual measurement of fat content in peanuts by using the hyperspectral imaging technique with chemometrics
Authors: Yu Hongwei , Liu Hongzhi , Wang Nan , Yang Ying , Shi Aimin , Liu Li , Hu Hui , Mzimbiri Rehema Idriss , Wang Qiang
Published: September 2016

Based on a large number of representative spectral and chemical data, we created a simplified model for predicting and visualizing fat in peanuts.
1H NMR as a release methodology for the analysis of phospholipids and other constituents in infant nutrition
Authors: Monakhova Yulia B. , Betzgen Martina , Diehl Bernd W. K.
Published: September 2016

An 1H NMR method was developed to control five phospholipid (PL) species, namely, phosphatidylcholine (PC), sphingomyelin (SPH), phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), phosphatidylserine (PS) and phosphatidylinositol (PI) in infant nutrition.
N2 activation on Al metal clusters: catalyzing role of BN-doped graphene support
Authors: Kumar Deepak , Pal Sourav , Krishnamurty Sailaja
Published: September 2016

We propose a potential catalytic system for the pre-dissociation of molecular nitrogen, viz. supported Al clusters.
Combined TGA-MS kinetic analysis of multistep processes. Thermal decomposition and ceramification of polysilazane and polysiloxane preceramic polymers
Authors: García-Garrido C. , Sánchez-Jiménez P. E. , Pérez-Maqueda L. A. , Perejón A. , Criado José M.
Published: September 2016

A kinetic study of the complex ceramification of preceramic polymeric precursors using a deconvolution process supported by coupled TGA + MS.
Solvothermal synthesis, stirring-assisted assembly and photoelectric performance of Te nanowires
Authors: Zhong Bin Nian , Fei Guang Tao , Fu Wen Biao , Gong Xin Xin , Gao Xu Dong , Zhang Li De
Published: September 2016

The uniform Te nanowires in large quantity were synthesized by a PVP-assisted solvothermal process under mild conditions, and then assembled into ordered alignment. An infrared photodetector based on the well aligned Te nanowires exhibits excellent photoresponse properties.
The reactivity of platinum microelectrodes
Authors: Jacobse Leon , Raaijman Stefan J. , Koper Marc T. M.
Published: September 2016

Platinum ultramicroelectrodes exhibit lower reactivity towards surface sensitive reactions than macroelectrodes, typically due to (trace) contamination, making electrochemical characterization very important for a proper comparison.
Light-induced charge separation in a P3HT/PC70BM composite as studied by out-of-phase electron spin echo spectroscopy
Authors: Lukina Ekaterina A. , Popov Alexander A. , Uvarov Mikhail N. , Suturina Elizaveta A. , Reijerse Edward J. , Kulik Leonid V.
Published: September 2016

The distance of the initial light-induced charge separation at the P3HT/PCBM interface determined by pulse EPR is several nanometers.
Water bridges anchored by a C–H⋯O hydrogen bond: the role of weak interactions in molecular solvation
Authors: Bhattacherjee Aditi , Wategaonkar Sanjay
Published: September 2016

Hydrogen-bonded water bridges are re-directed from a polar NH bond to a weakly activated C(2)–H bond upon N-methylation. Infrared spectra, supported by ab initio calculations, provide direct evidence of the role of the C(2)–H donor in the solvation of the imidazole ring.
Kinetics of prebiotic depsipeptide formation from the ester–amide exchange reaction
Authors: Yu Sheng-Sheng , Krishnamurthy Ramanarayanan , Fernández Facundo M. , Hud Nicholas V. , Schork F. Joseph , Grover Martha A.
Published: September 2016

In this work, we introduce a kinetic model to study the effectiveness of ester-mediated amide bond formation under prebiotic conditions.
Revisiting the F + HCl → HF + Cl reaction using a multireference coupled-cluster method
Authors: Aoto Yuri Alexandre , Köhn Andreas
Published: September 2016

A potential energy surface for the title reaction is constructed using a multireference coupled-cluster method, giving rate constant in excellent agreement with experiments.
Controlled fabrication of mesoporous TiO2 hierarchical structures as scattering layers to enhance the power conversion efficiency of dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Hwang Dae-Kue , Sung Shi-Joon
Published: September 2016

To meet the nanofabrication requirements, such as control of structure and scalability, we investigated an electrospray-based method to manufacture scattering layers (SLs) for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs).
A combined UHV-STM-flow cell set-up for electrochemical/electrocatalytic studies of structurally well-defined UHV prepared model electrodes
Authors: Schnaidt J. , Beckord S. , Engstfeld A. K. , Klein J. , Brimaud S. , Behm R. J.
Published: September 2016

Atomic scale structural characterization and electrochemical measurements under controlled electrolyte transport conditions are the basis for structure–activity relationships in nanostructured electrodes.
Prediction of flatness-driven quantum spin Hall effect in functionalized germanene and stanene
Authors: Zhang Run-wu , Ji Wei-xiao , Zhang Chang-wen , Li Ping , Wang Pei-ji
Published: September 2016

We used first-principles calculations to predict a class of new QSH phases for f-Ge(Sn)X2 films, which are useful for applications because of not only their sizable nontrivial bulk gaps, but also the tunability of the QSH states by chemical functionalization.
The photophysics of photoredox catalysis: a roadmap for catalyst design
Authors: Arias-Rotondo Daniela M. , McCusker James K.
Published: September 2016

The photophysical properties of transition metal-based charge-transfer chromophores are discussed with an eye toward their application in organic photoredox catalysis.