bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing SNP genotyping of noninvasively collected wildlife samples using microfluidic arrays
Authors: von Thaden Alina , Cocchiararo Berardino , Jarausch Anne , Jüngling Hannah , Karamanlidis Alexandros A. , Tiesmeyer Annika , Nowak Carsten , Muñoz-Fuentes Violeta
Published: September 2017

Noninvasively collected samples are a common source of DNA in wildlife genetic studies. Currently, single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotyping using microfluidic arrays is emerging as an easy-to-use and cost-effective methodology. Here we assessed the performance of microfluidic SNP arrays in genotyping noninvasive samples from grey wolves, European wildcats and brown bears, and we compared results with traditional microsatellite genotyping. We successfully SNP-genotyped 87%, 80% and 97% of the wolf, cat and bear samples, respectively. Genotype recovery was higher based on SNPs, while both marker types identified the same individuals and provided almost identical estimates of pairwise differentiation. We found that samples for which all SNP loci were scored had no disagreements across the three replicates (except one locus in a wolf sample). Thus, we argue that call rate (amplification success) can be used as a proxy for genotype quality, allowing the reduction of replication effort when call rate is high. Furthermore, we used cycle threshold values of real-time PCR to guide the choice of protocols for SNP amplification. Finally, we provide general guidelines for successful SNP genotyping of degraded DNA using microfluidic technology.
An optical probe for detecting chondrocyte apoptosis in response to mechanical injury
Authors: Huang Yihui , Zhou Jun , Hakamivala Amirhossein , Wu Jinglei , Hong Yi , Borrelli Joseph , Tang Liping
Published: September 2017

Cartilage injury induced by acute excessive contact stress is common and mostly affects young adult. Although early detection of cartilage injury may prevent serious and lifelong arthritic complications, early detection and treatment is not possible due to the lack of a reliable detection method. Since chondrocyte injury and subsequent cell death are the early signs of cartilage injury, it is likely that cartilage cell apoptosis can be used to predict the extent of injury. To test this hypothesis, a near infrared probe was fabricated to have high affinity to apoptotic cells. In vitro tests show that this apoptosis probe has low toxicity, high specificity, and high affinity to apoptotic cells. In addition, there is a positive relationship between apoptotic cell numbers and fluorescence intensities. Using a mouse xiphoid injury model, we found significant accumulation of the apoptosis probes at the injured xiphoid cartilage site. There was also a positive correlation between probe accumulation and the number of apoptotic chondrocytes within the injured xiphoid cartilage, which was confirmed by TUNEL assay. The results support that the apoptosis probes may serve as a powerful tool to monitor the extent of mechanical force-induced cartilage injury in vivo.
Active Control of Charge Density Waves at Degenerate Semiconductor Interfaces
Authors: Vinnakota Raj K. , Genov Dentcho A.
Published: September 2017

We present an optoelectronic switch for functional plasmonic circuits based on active control of Surface Plasmon Polaritons (SPPs) at degenerate PN+-junction interfaces. Self-consistent multi-physics simulations of the electromagnetic, thermal and IV characteristics of the device have been performed. The lattice matched Indium Gallium Arsenide (In0.53Ga0.47As) is identified as a better semiconductor material compared to Si for the practical implementation of the proposed optoelectronic switch providing higher optical confinement, reduced size and faster operation. The optimal device is shown to operate at signal modulation surpassing −100 dB, responsivity in excess of −600 dB·V−1and switching rates up to 50 GHz, thus potentially providing a new pathway toward bridging the gap between electronic and photonic devices.
Knowledge diffusion of dynamical network in terms of interaction frequency
Authors: Liu Jian-Guo , Zhou Qing , Guo Qiang , Yang Zhen-Hua , Xie Fei , Han Jing-Ti
Published: September 2017

In this paper, we present a knowledge diffusion (SKD) model for dynamic networks by taking into account the interaction frequency which always used to measure the social closeness. A set of agents, which are initially interconnected to form a random network, either exchange knowledge with their neighbors or move toward a new location through an edge-rewiring procedure. The activity of knowledge exchange between agents is determined by a knowledge transfer rule that the target node would preferentially select one neighbor node to transfer knowledge with probability p according to their interaction frequency instead of the knowledge distance, otherwise, the target node would build a new link with its second-order neighbor preferentially or select one node in the system randomly with probability 1 − p. The simulation results show that, comparing with the Null model defined by the random selection mechanism and the traditional knowledge diffusion (TKD) model driven by knowledge distance, the knowledge would spread more fast based on SKD driven by interaction frequency. In particular, the network structure of SKD would evolve as an assortative one, which is a fundamental feature of social networks. This work would be helpful for deeply understanding the coevolution of the knowledge diffusion and network structure.
The utility of mtDNA and rDNA for barcoding and phylogeny of plant-parasitic nematodes from Longidoridae (Nematoda, Enoplea)
Authors: Palomares-Rius J. E. , Cantalapiedra-Navarrete C. , Archidona-Yuste A. , Subbotin S. A. , Castillo P.
Published: September 2017

The traditional identification of plant-parasitic nematode species by morphology and morphometric studies is very difficult because of high morphological variability that can lead to considerable overlap of many characteristics and their ambiguous interpretation. For this reason, it is essential to implement approaches to ensure accurate species identification. DNA barcoding aids in identification and advances species discovery. This study sought to unravel the use of the mitochondrial marker cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (coxI) as barcode for Longidoridae species identification, and as a phylogenetic marker. The results showed that mitochondrial and ribosomal markers could be used as barcoding markers, except for some species from the Xiphinema americanum group. The ITS1 region showed a promising role in barcoding for species identification because of the clear molecular variability among species. Some species presented important molecular variability in coxI. The analysis of the newly provided sequences and the sequences deposited in GenBank showed plausible misidentifications, and the use of voucher species and topotype specimens is a priority for this group of nematodes. The use of coxI and D2 and D3 expansion segments of the 28S rRNA gene did not clarify the phylogeny at the genus level.
Label-free characterization of ultra violet-radiation-induced changes in skin fibroblasts with Raman spectroscopy and quantitative phase microscopy
Authors: Singh S. P. , Kang Sungsam , Kang Jeon Woong , So Peter T. C. , Dasari Ramanchandra Rao , Yaqoob Zahid , Barman Ishan
Published: September 2017

Minimizing morbidities and mortalities associated with skin cancers requires sustained research with the goal of obtaining fresh insights into disease onset and progression under specific stimuli, particularly the influence of ultraviolet rays. In the present study, label-free profiling of skin fibroblasts exposed to time-bound ultra-violet radiation has been performed using quantitative phase imaging and Raman spectroscopy. Statistically significant differences in quantifiable biophysical parameters, such as matter density and cell dry mass, were observed with phase imaging. Accurate estimation of changes in the biochemical constituents, notably nucleic acids and proteins, was demonstrated through a combination of Raman spectroscopy and multivariate analysis of spectral patterns. Overall, the findings of this study demonstrate the promise of these non-perturbative optical modalities in accurately identifying cellular phenotypes and responses to external stimuli by combining molecular and biophysical information.
Bio-fabrication of silver nanoparticles by phycocyanin, characterization, in vitro anticancer activity against breast cancer cell line and in vivo cytotxicity
Authors: El-Naggar Noura El-Ahmady , Hussein Mervat H. , El-Sawah Asmaa Atallah
Published: September 2017

In recent decades, researchers were attracted towards cyanobacterial components which are potential low-cost biological reagents for silver nanoparticle biosynthesis. This article describes the biological synthesis of silver nanoparticles using a proteinaceous pigment phycocyanin extracted from Nostoc linckia as reducing agent. The synthesized silver nanoparticles have a surface plasmon resonance band centered at 425 nm. Face-centered central composite design used for optimization of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) biosynthesis using phycocyanin. The maximum AgNPs biosynthesis obtained using the optimized four variables, initial pH level (10), AgNO3 concentration (5 mM), phycocyanin pigment concentration (1 mg/mL) and incubation period (24 h) was 1100.025 µg/mL. The TEM analysis of AgNPs showed spherical nanoparticles with mean size between 9.39 to 25.89 nm. FTIR spectra showed major peaks of proteins involved in AgNPs biosynthesis by identifying different functional groups involved in effective capping of AgNPs. The biosynthesized AgNPs significantly inhibited the growth of medically important pathogenic Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus), Gram-negative bacteria (Pseudomonas aeruginosa, E. coli and Klebsiella pneumonia). The synthesized AgNPs exhibited effective cytotoxic activity against MCF-7 and the inhibitory concentration (IC50) was recorded at 27.79 ± 2.3 µg/mL. The in vivo studies clearly indicated that AgNPs has a capacity to inhibit the growth of tumor in Ehrlich ascites carcinoma bearing mice.
Organotypic pancreatoids with native mesenchyme develop Insulin producing endocrine cells
Authors: Scavuzzo Marissa A. , Yang Diane , Borowiak Malgorzata
Published: September 2017

Replacement of lost beta cells in patients with diabetes has the potential to alleviate them of their disease, yet current protocols to make beta cells are inadequate for therapy. In vitro screens can reveal the signals necessary for endocrine maturation to improve beta cell production, however the complexities of in vivo development that lead to beta cell formation are lost in two-dimensional systems. Here, we create three-dimensional organotypic pancreatic cultures, named pancreatoids, composed of embryonic day 10.5 murine epithelial progenitors and native mesenchyme. These progenitors assemble in scaffold-free, floating conditions and, with the inclusion of native mesenchyme, develop into pancreatoids expressing markers of different pancreatic lineages including endocrine-like cells. Treatment of pancreatoids with (−)-Indolactam-V or phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate, two protein kinase C activators, leads to altered morphology which otherwise would be overlooked in two-dimensional systems. Protein kinase C activation also led to fewer Insulin+ cells, decreased Ins1 and Ins2 mRNA levels, and increased Pdx1 and Hes1 mRNA levels with a high number of DBA+ cells. Thus, organotypic pancreatoids provide a useful tool for developmental studies, and can further be used for disease modeling, small molecules and genetic screens, or applied to human pluripotent stem cell differentiation for beta-like cell formation.
Patterns of Oxygen Pulse Curve in Response to Incremental Exercise in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease – An Observational Study
Authors: Chuang Ming-Lung , Lin I.-Feng , Huang Shih-Feng , Hsieh Meng-Jer
Published: September 2017

In COPD, pulmonary hyperinflation causes decreased stroke volume thereby decreased oxygen pulse (O2P). While O2P flattening is related to myocardial ischemia in cardiac patients, O2P patterns have seldom been explored in COPD. The aims of the study were to investigate O2P-curve patterns and associated factors in COPD. Seventy-five patients with stable COPD were enrolled. The demographics, cardiac size, physiological measurements and stress EKG were compared among O2P-curve pattern groups. An algorithm to identify O2P-curve patterns was developed in 28 patients. In the remaining 45 patients after excluding two with poor effort, this algorithm revealed 20 (44%) flattening, 16 (36%) increasing, and nine (20%) decreasing patterns. The flattening-type group had lower body mass, cardiac size, and diffusing capacity, and larger lung volumes (p = 0.05–<0.0001) compared to the increasing-type group. During exercise, the flattening-type group had a lower operable O2P and more hyperventilation and dyspnea (p = 0.02–<0.01). None had ST-T changes. Most differences were related to body mass and mildly to inspiratory fraction. The decreasing-type group performed higher effort than the increasing-type group (p < 0.05). In conclusion, O2P flattening was common and was associated with reduced body mass and pulmonary hyperinflation rather than with myocardial ischemia. The decreasing-type may be caused by motivation to exercise.
GYY4137, a Hydrogen Sulfide Donor Modulates miR194-Dependent Collagen Realignment in Diabetic Kidney
Authors: John AM Sashi Papu , Kundu Sourav , Pushpakumar Sathnur , Fordham Maura , Weber Gregory , Mukhopadhyay Manas , Sen Utpal
Published: September 2017

The relationship between hydrogen sulfide (H2S), microRNAs (miRs), matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and poly-ADP-ribose-polymerase-1 (PARP-1) in diabetic kidney remodeling remains mostly obscured. We aimed at investigating whether alteration of miR-194-dependent MMPs and PARP-1 causes renal fibrosis in diabetes kidney, and whether H2S ameliorates fibrosis. Wild type, diabetic Akita mice as well as mouse glomerular endothelial cells (MGECs) were used as experimental models, and GYY4137 as H2S donor. In diabetic mice, plasma H2S levels were decreased while ROS and expression of its modulator (ROMO1) were increased. In addition, alteration of MMPs-9, −13 and −14 expression, PARP-1, HIF1α, and increased collagen biosynthesis as well as collagen cross-linking protein, P4HA1 and PLOD2 were observed along with diminished vascular density in diabetic kidney. These changes were ameliorated by GYY4137. Further, downregulated miRNA-194 was normalized by GYY4137 in diabetic kidney. Similar results were obtained in in vitro condition. Interestingly, miR-194 mimic also diminished ROS production, and normalized ROMO1, MMPs-9, −13 and −14, and PARP-1 along with collagen biosynthesis and cross-linking protein in HG condition. We conclude that decrease H2S diminishes miR-194, induces collagen deposition and realignment leading to fibrosis and renovascular constriction in diabetes. GYY4137 mitigates renal fibrosis in diabetes through miR-194-dependent pathway.
Running reorganizes the circuitry of one-week-old adult-born hippocampal neurons
Authors: Sah Nirnath , Peterson Benjamin D. , Lubejko Susan T. , Vivar Carmen , van Praag Henriette
Published: September 2017

Adult hippocampal neurogenesis is an important form of structural and functional plasticity in the mature mammalian brain. The existing consensus is that GABA regulates the initial integration of adult-born neurons, similar to neuronal development during embryogenesis. Surprisingly, virus-based anatomical tracing revealed that very young, one-week-old, new granule cells in male C57Bl/6 mice receive input not only from GABAergic interneurons, but also from multiple glutamatergic cell types, including mature dentate granule cells, area CA1-3 pyramidal cells and mossy cells. Consistently, patch-clamp recordings from retrovirally labeled new granule cells at 7–8 days post retroviral injection (dpi) show that these cells respond to NMDA application with tonic currents, and that both electrical and optogenetic stimulation can evoke NMDA-mediated synaptic responses. Furthermore, new dentate granule cell number, morphology and excitatory synaptic inputs at 7 dpi are modified by voluntary wheel running. Overall, glutamatergic and GABAergic innervation of newly born neurons in the adult hippocampus develops concurrently, and excitatory input is reorganized by exercise.
Next generation highly resistant mirrors featuring all-silica layers
Authors: Tolenis Tomas , Grinevičiūtė Lina , Smalakys Linas , Ščiuka Mindaugas , Drazdys Ramutis , Mažulė Lina , Buzelis Rytis , Melninkaitis Andrius
Published: September 2017

A principal possibility to overcome fundamental (intrinsic) limit of pure optical materials laser light resistance is investigated by designing artificial materials with desired optical properties. We explore the suitability of high band-gap ultra-low refractive index material (n less than 1.38 at 550 nm) in the context of highly reflective coatings with enhanced optical resistance. The new generation all-silica (porous/nonporous) SiO2 thin film mirror with 99% reflectivity was prepared by glancing angle deposition (GLAD). Its damage performance was directly compared with state of the art hafnia/silica coating produced by Ion-Beam-Sputtering. Laser-Induced Damage Thresholds (LIDT) of both coatings were measured in nanosecond regime at 355 nm wavelength. Novel approach indicates the potential for coating to withstand laser fluence of at least 65 J/cm2 without reaching intrinsic threshold value. Reported concept can be expanded to virtually any design thus opening a new way of next generation thin film production well suited for high power laser applications.
Precipitation in a warming world: Assessing projected hydro-climate changes in California and other Mediterranean climate regions
Authors: Polade Suraj D. , Gershunov Alexander , Cayan Daniel R. , Dettinger Michael D. , Pierce David W.
Published: September 2017

In most Mediterranean climate (MedClim) regions around the world, global climate models (GCMs) consistently project drier futures. In California, however, projections of changes in annual precipitation are inconsistent. Analysis of daily precipitation in 30 GCMs reveals patterns in projected hydrometeorology over each of the five MedClm regions globally and helps disentangle their causes. MedClim regions, except California, are expected to dry via decreased frequency of winter precipitation. Frequencies of extreme precipitation, however, are projected to increase over the two MedClim regions of the Northern Hemisphere where projected warming is strongest. The increase in heavy and extreme precipitation is particularly robust over California, where it is only partially offset by projected decreases in low-medium intensity precipitation. Over the Mediterranean Basin, however, losses from decreasing frequency of low-medium-intensity precipitation are projected to dominate gains from intensifying projected extreme precipitation. MedClim regions are projected to become more sub-tropical, i.e. made dryer via pole-ward expanding subtropical subsidence. California’s more nuanced hydrological future reflects a precarious balance between the expanding subtropical high from the south and the south-eastward extending Aleutian low from the north-west. These dynamical mechanisms and thermodynamic moistening of the warming atmosphere result in increased horizontal water vapor transport, bolstering extreme precipitation events.
A somatotopic bidirectional hand prosthesis with transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation based sensory feedback
Authors: D’Anna Edoardo , Petrini Francesco M. , Artoni Fiorenzo , Popovic Igor , Simanić Igor , Raspopovic Stanisa , Micera Silvestro
Published: September 2017

According to amputees, sensory feedback is amongst the most important features lacking from commercial prostheses. Although restoration of touch by means of implantable neural interfaces has been achieved, these approaches require surgical interventions, and their long-term usability still needs to be fully investigated. Here, we developed a non-invasive alternative which maintains some of the advantages of invasive approaches, such as a somatotopic sensory restitution scheme. We used transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) to induce referred sensations to the phantom hand of amputees. These sensations were characterized in four amputees over two weeks. Although the induced sensation was often paresthesia, the location corresponded to parts of the innervation regions of the median and ulnar nerves, and electroencephalographic (EEG) recordings confirmed the presence of appropriate responses in relevant cortical areas. Using these sensations as feedback during bidirectional prosthesis control, the patients were able to perform several functional tasks that would not be possible otherwise, such as applying one of three levels of force on an external sensor. Performance during these tasks was high, suggesting that this approach could be a viable alternative to the more invasive solutions, offering a trade-off between the quality of the sensation, and the invasiveness of the intervention.
Pandemic 2009 H1N1 Influenza Venus reporter virus reveals broad diversity of MHC class II-positive antigen-bearing cells following infection in vivo
Authors: DiPiazza Anthony , Nogales Aitor , Poulton Nicholas , Wilson Patrick C. , Martínez-Sobrido Luis , Sant Andrea J.
Published: September 2017

Although it is well established that Influenza A virus infection is initiated in the respiratory tract, the sequence of events and the cell types that become infected or access viral antigens remains incompletely understood. In this report, we used a novel Influenza A/California/04/09 (H1N1) reporter virus that stably expresses the Venus fluorescent protein to identify antigen-bearing cells over time in a mouse model of infection using flow cytometry. These studies revealed that many hematopoietic cells, including subsets of monocytes, macrophages, dendritic cells, neutrophils and eosinophils acquire influenza antigen in the lungs early post-infection. Surface staining of the viral HA revealed that most cell populations become infected, most prominently CD45negcells, alveolar macrophages and neutrophils. Finally, differences in infection status, cell lineage and MHC class II expression by antigen-bearing cells correlated with differences in their ability to re-stimulate influenza-specific CD4 T cellsex vivo. Collectively, these studies have revealed the cellular heterogeneity and complexity of antigen-bearing cells within the lung and their potential as targets of antigen recognition by CD4 T cells.
Cytoglobin Promotes Cardiac Progenitor Cell Survival against Oxidative Stress via the Upregulation of the NFκB/iNOS Signal Pathway and Nitric Oxide Production
Authors: Zhang Shuning , Li Xiuchun , Jourd’heuil Frances L. , Qu Shunlin , Devejian Neil , Bennett Edward , Jourd’heuil David , Cai Chuanxi
Published: September 2017

Human cardiac stem/progenitor cells (hCPCs) may serve in regenerative medicine to repair the infarcted heart. However, this approach is severely limited by the poor survival of donor cells. Recent studies suggest that the mammalian globin cytoglobin (CYGB) regulates nitric oxide (NO) metabolism and cell death. In the present study, we found that CYGB is expressed in hCPCs. Through molecular approaches aimed at increasing or decreasing CYGB expression in hCPCs, we found that CYGB functions as a pro-survival factor in response to oxidative stress. This was associated with the upregulation of primary antioxidant systems such as peroxiredoxins-1, heme oxygenase-1, and anti-apoptotic factors, including BCL2, BCL-XL, and MCL1. Most significantly, we established that CYGB increased the expression of NFкB-dependent genes including iNOS, and that iNOS-dependent NO production was required for a feedforward loop that maintains CYGB expression. Our study delineates for the first time a role for a globin in regulating hCPC survival and establishes mechanistic insights in the function of CYGB. It provides a rationale for the exploration of the CYGB pathway as a molecular target that can be used to enhance the effectiveness of cardiac stem/progenitor cell therapy for ischemic heart disease.
Adaptive mutations of neuraminidase stalk truncation and deglycosylation confer enhanced pathogenicity of influenza A viruses
Authors: Park Sehee , Il Kim Jin , Lee Ilseob , Bae Joon-Yong , Yoo Kirim , Nam Misun , Kim Juwon , Sook Park Mee , Song Ki-Joon , Song Jin-Won , Kee Sun-Ho , Park Man-Seong
Published: September 2017

It has been noticed that neuraminidase (NA) stalk truncation has arisen from evolutionary adaptation of avian influenza A viruses (IAVs) from wild aquatic birds to domestic poultry. We identified this molecular alteration after the adaptation of a 2009 pandemic H1N1 virus (pH1N1) in BALB/c mice. The mouse-adapted pH1N1 lost its eight consecutive amino acids including one potential N-linked glycosite from the NA stalk region. To explore the relationship of NA stalk truncation or deglycosylation with viral pathogenicity changes, we generated NA stalk mutant viruses on the pH1N1 backbone by reverse genetics. Intriguingly, either NA stalk truncation or deglycosylation changed pH1N1 into a lethal virus to mice by resulting in extensive pathologic transformation in the mouse lungs and systemic infection affecting beyond the respiratory organs in mice. The increased pathogenicity of these NA stalk mutants was also reproduced in ferrets. In further investigation using a human-infecting H7N9 avian IAV strain, NA stalk truncation or deglycosylation enhanced the replication property and pathogenicity of H7N9 NA stalk mutant viruses in the same mouse model. Taken together, our results suggest that NA stalk truncation or deglycosylation can be the pathogenic determinants of seasonal influenza viruses associated with the evolutionary adaptation of IAVs.
Refractive index engineering through swift heavy ion irradiation of LiNbO3 crystal towards improved light guidance
Authors: Chen Chen , Pang Lilong , Lu Qingming , Wang Lei , Tan Yang , Wang Zhiguang , Chen Feng
Published: September 2017

Swift heavy ion irradiation has been widely used to modify refractive indices of optical materials for waveguide fabrication. In this work, we propose refractive index engineering by swift heavy ion (Ar) irradiation via electronic energy deposition to construct waveguides of diverse geometries in LiNbO3 crystal. The feasibility to modulate the refractive index of LiNbO3 crystal at variable depths through electronic energy depositions of argon ions at different energies has been experimentally explored. The surface and cladding-like optical waveguides with thicknesses of ~13, ~36 and ~23 μm have been produced by using swift Ar ion irradiation at single energy of ~120, ~240, and double energy of (120 + 240) MeV, respectively. The fabricated waveguides are capable of effective waveguiding in single and multiple modes at 1064 nm, which enables efficient guided-wave second harmonic generation at room temperature. This work paves the way to produce waveguides with diverse geometries in dielectric crystals through electronic damage of multiple swift heavy ion irradiation.
Thermal activation energy of 3D vortex matter in NaFe1−x
Co
x
As (x = 0.01, 0.03 and 0.07) single crystals
Authors: Choi W. J. , Seo Y. I. , Ahmad D. , Kwon Yong Seung
Published: September 2017

We report on the thermally activated flux flow dependency on the doping dependent mixed state in NaFe1−x
Co
x
As (x = 0.01, 0.03, and 0.07) crystals using the magnetoresistivity in the case of B//c-axis and B//ab-plane. It was found clearly that irrespective of the doping ratio, magnetoresistivity showed a distinct tail just above the Tc,offset associated with the thermally activated flux flow (TAFF) in our crystals. Furthermore, in TAFF region the temperature dependence of the activation energy follows the relation $$U(T,B)={U}_{0}(B){(1-T/{T}_{c})}^{q}$$
U

(

T
,
B

)

=

U

0

(
B
)

(

1
−
T
/

T

c

)

q

with q = 1.5 in all studied crystals. The magnetic field dependence of the activation energy follows a power law of $${U}_{0}(B)\sim {B}^{-\alpha }$$

U

0

(
B
)

∼

B

−
α

where the exponent α is changed from a low value to a high value at a crossover field of B = ∼2 T, indicating the transition from collective to plastic pinning in the crystals. Finally, it is suggested that the 3D vortex phase is the dominant phase in the low temperature region as compared to the TAFF region in our series samples.
Virome analysis for identification of novel mammalian viruses in bats from Southeast China
Authors: Hu Dan , Zhu Changqiang , Wang Yi , Ai Lele , Yang Lu , Ye Fuqiang , Ding Chenxi , Chen Jiafeng , He Biao , Zhu Jin , Qian Hui , Xu Wenrong , Feng Youjun , Tan Weilong , Wang Changjun
Published: September 2017

Bats have been shown as important mammal resevoirs to carry a variety of zoonotic pathogens. To analyze pathogenic species in bats from southeast coastal regions of China, we performed metagenomic sequencing technology for high throughput sequencing of six sentinels from southeast coastal area of China. We obtained 5,990,261 high quality reads from intestine and lung tissue of 235 bats, including 2,975,371 assembled sequences. 631,490 reads predicted overlapping sequences for the open reading frame (ORF), which accounts for 2.37% of all the sequences (15,012/631,490). Further, the acquired virus sequences were classified into 25 viral families, including 16 vertebrate viruses, four plant viruses and five insect viruses. All bat samples were screened by specific PCR and phylogenetic analysis. Using these techniques, we discovered many novel bat viruses and some bat viruses closely-related to known human/animal pathogens, including coronavirus, norovirus, adenovirus, bocavirus, astrovirus, and circovirus. In summary, this study extended our understanding of bats as the viral reservoirs. Additionally, it also provides a basis for furher studying the transmission of viruses from bats to humans.
Association between Insomnia and Metabolic Syndrome in a Chinese Han Population: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Wang Yan , Jiang Tian , Wang Xiaoqiang , Zhao Jianrong , Kang Jinwang , Chen Min , Wang Haifang , Niu Lili , Wang Youxin , Zhou Yong , Wu Jing , Fu Hui , Cai Zhaoyang , Li Zemin , Chen Junzheng
Published: September 2017

The association between insomnia and metabolic syndrome remains unclear, especially among different-aged groups. A cross-sectional study with 8017 participants was performed to identify whether insomnia was associated with metabolic syndrome or not. Demographic characteristics, lifestyles and other risk factors were collected using a predesigned, semi-structured, self-administered questionnaire, and physical examinations were conducted by certificated community physicians. Insomnia was not independently associated with metabolic syndrome across all subjects; however, the association between insomnia and metabolic syndrome was statistically significant in the male group (odds ratio (OR): 1.35, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.02–1.77) and the middle-aged group (OR: 1.40, 95% CI: 1.09–1.79) but not in the female group, the young adult group or the older group. Analyses of the individual components of metabolic syndrome revealed that insomnia was independently associated with raised blood pressure (OR: 1.24, 95% CI: 1.05–1.43) and low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c) (OR: 1.16, 95% CI: 1.01–1.33). Insomnia was also independently associated with the severity of metabolic abnormalities (OR: 1.17, 95% CI: 1.03–1.32). This study demonstrates an independent association between insomnia and metabolic syndrome in males and middle-aged participants, which suggests that treatment for insomnia will contribute to the prevention of metabolic syndrome in males and the middle-aged population.
Visualization of ligand-induced dopamine D2S and D2L receptor internalization by TIRF microscopy
Authors: Tabor Alina , Möller Dorothee , Hübner Harald , Kornhuber Johannes , Gmeiner Peter
Published: September 2017

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), including the dopamine receptors, represent a group of important pharmacological targets. Upon agonist binding, GPCRs frequently undergo internalization, a process that is known to attenuate functional responses upon prolonged exposure to agonists. In this study, internalization was visualized by means of total internal reflection fluorescence (TIRF) microscopy at a level of discrete single events near the plasma membrane with high spatial resolution. A novel method has been developed to determine the relative extent of internalized fluorescent receptor-ligand complexes by comparative fluorescence quantification in living CHO cells. The procedure entails treatment with the reducing agent sodium borohydride, which converts cyanine-based fluorescent ligands on the membrane surface to a long-lived reduced form. Because the highly polar reducing agent is not able to pass the cell membrane, the fluorescent receptor-ligand complexes located in internalized compartments remain fluorescent under TIRF illumination. We applied the method to investigate differences of the short (D2S) and the long (D2L) isoforms of dopamine D2 receptors in their ability to undergo agonist-induced internalization.
Antihyperglycaemic and organic protective effects on pancreas, liver and kidney by polysaccharides from Hericium erinaceus SG-02 in streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice
Authors: Zhang Chen , Li Juan , Hu Chunlong , Wang Jing , Zhang Jianjun , Ren Zhenzhen , Song Xinling , Jia Le
Published: September 2017

The present work was designed to investigate the antihyperglycaemic and protective effects of two Hericium erinaceus intracellular polysaccharide (HIPS) purified fractions (HIPS1 and HIPS2) from mycelia of H. erinaceus SG-02 on pancreas, liver and kidney in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic mice. The supplementation of HIPS1 and HIPS2 significantly decreased the blood glucose (GLU) levels; suppressed the abnormal elevations of alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine (CRE) levels in serum; improved the antioxidant enzymatic (superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and catalase (CAT)) activities; and attenuated the pathological damage to these organs. The HIPS1 showed superior effects in antihyperglycaemia and organic protection than HIPS2 possible owing to the abundant functional groups (-NH2, -COOH and S=O) in HIPS1, indicating that H. erinaceus SG-02 could be used as a functional food and natural drug for the prevention of diabetes and its complications.
Reovirus inhibits interferon production by sequestering IRF3 into viral factories
Authors: Stanifer Megan L. , Kischnick Christian , Rippert Anja , Albrecht Dorothee , Boulant Steeve
Published: September 2017

Upon viral infection, an arms-race between the cellular intrinsic innate immune system and viral replication is established. To win this race, viruses have established multiple strategies to inhibit the cellular response. Mammalian reovirus (MRV) constitutes a great model to study pathogenesis and life cycle of dsRNA viruses. It replicates in the cytosol of infected cells by forming viral induced-replication compartments, or viral factories. Little is known about the strategy used by MRV to evade the cellular intrinsic immune system. In this study, we unraveled that MRV induces a replication-dependent global reduction in interferon-mediated antiviral immune response. We determined that although MRV leads to the activation and phosphorylation of interferon regulatory factor 3 (IRF3), the nuclear translocation of IRF3 was impaired in infected cells. Additionally, we showed that MRV does not degrade IRF3 but sequesters it in cytoplasmic viral factories. We demonstrate that the viral factory matrix protein μNS is solely responsible for the sequestration of IRF3. This finding highlights novel mechanisms used by MRV to interfere with the intrinsic immune system and places the viral factories as not only a replication compartment but as an active strategy participating in immune evasion.
Isoniazid Killing of Mycobacterium smegmatis NADH Pyrophosphatase Mutant at Single-Cell Level using Microfluidics and Time-Lapse Microscopy
Authors: Elitas Meltem
Published: September 2017

We introduce single-cell analysis for isoniazid-treated Mycobacterium smegmatis mutant, msm1946-NADH pyrophosphatase, using microfluidics and automated time-lapse microscopy. Mycobacterial NADH pyrophosphatase isoforms play an important role for the mechanism of isoniazid and ethionamide activation. Our single-cell analysis revealed important insights on isoniazid killing mechanism that was masked by traditional killing assays, raised significant questions related to viable but non-culturable subpopulation of cells, and existing methods that defines minimum inhibitory concentration of drugs. The major goal of this study was quantitatively analyze bacterial cell parameters to obtain high-resolution data for the time evolution of antibiotic killing at the single-cell level. The presented tools and methods could be applied to the closely related organisms to provide more detailed information for the design and employment of antibiotic treatments.
A facile solvent mediated self-assembly silver nanoparticle mirror substrate for quantitatively improved surface enhanced Raman scattering
Authors: Qu Yanqi , Tan Chen , Zhang Zhiyun , He Lili
Published: September 2017

A simple and controllable assembly of silver nanoparticles by a mediating solvent is introduced to enhance the SERS reproducibility and sensitivity.
Changes induced by non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in liver sinusoidal endothelial cells and hepatocytes: spectroscopic imaging of single live cells at the subcellular level
Authors: Kochan Kamila , Kus Edyta , Szafraniec Ewelina , Wislocka Adrianna , Chlopicki Stefan , Baranska Malgorzata
Published: September 2017

NAFLD is the most prevalent liver disorder worldwide, involving pathogenic mechanisms of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs), hepatocytes and other liver cells.
A multi-functional guanine derivative for studying the DNA G-quadruplex structure
Authors: Ishizuka Takumi , Zhao Pei-Yan , Bao Hong-Liang , Xu Yan
Published: September 2017

A multi-functional guanine derivative, 8FG, as a G-quadruplex stabilizer, a fluorescent probe for the detection of G-quadruplex formation, and a 19F sensor for the observation of the G-quadruplex in vitro and in living cells.
How functional groups influence the ROS generation and cytotoxicity of graphene quantum dots
Authors: Zhou Ya , Sun Hanjun , Wang Faming , Ren Jinsong , Qu Xiaogang
Published: September 2017

Herein we selectively deactivate the ketonic carbonyl, carboxylic, or hydroxyl groups on GQDs and compare their ROS generation ability. The ROS generation ability of GQDs is closely related to these oxygen functional groups, especially for the ketonic carbonyl groups.
Graphene oxide as a catalyst for the diastereoselective transfer hydrogenation in the synthesis of prostaglandin derivatives
Authors: Coman Simona M. , Podolean Iunia , Tudorache Madalina , Cojocaru Bogdan , Parvulescu Vasile I. , Puche Marta , Garcia Hermenegildo
Published: September 2017

Modification of GO by organic molecules changes its catalytic activity in the hydrogen transfer from i-propanol to enones, affecting the selectivity to allyl alcohol and diastereoselectivity to the resulting stereoisomers.
Lysosomal tracking with a cationic naphthalimide using multiphoton fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy
Authors: Li Meng , Ge Haobo , Mirabello Vincenzo , Arrowsmith Rory L. , Kociok-Köhn Gabriele , Botchway Stanley W. , Zhu Weihong , Pascu Sofia I. , James Tony D.
Published: September 2017

A naphthalimide-based chemosensing motif capable of turning on the fluorescence emission in solution and in vitro is reported.
Stereodivergent hydrodefluorination of gem-difluoroalkenes: selective synthesis of (Z)- and (E)-monofluoroalkenes
Authors: Kojima Ryoto , Kubota Koji , Ito Hajime
Published: September 2017

We have developed a novel approach for the stereodivergent hydrodefluorination of gem-difluoroalkenes using copper(i) catalysts to obtain stereodefined monofluoroalkenes. Both (Z)- and (E)-terminal monofluoroalkenes were obtained by hydrodefluorination of gem-difluoroalkenes in the presence of copper(i) catalysts and diboron or hydrosilane, respectively, with high stereoselectivity. DFT calculations were conducted to elucidate the stereoselectivity.
Synthesis of a water-soluble 2,6-helic[6]arene derivative and its strong binding abilities towards quaternary phosphonium salts: an acid/base controlled switchable complexation process
Authors: Zhang Geng-Wu , Han Yuchun , Han Ying , Wang Yilin , Chen Chuan-Feng
Published: September 2017

A water-soluble 2,6-helic[6]arene derivative was synthesized, and it showed strong binding ability and acid/base stimulus-responsive complexation towards quaternary phosphonium salts.
Direct, efficient NHC-catalysed aldehyde oxidative amidation: in situ formed benzils as unconventional acylating agents
Authors: Kumar Vikas , Connon Stephen J.
Published: September 2017

A new N-heterocyclic carbene-catalysed oxidative amidation of aldehydes has been developed which converts the aldehyde to a benzil acylating agent in situ.
A novel polyoxometalate-based hybrid containing a 2D [CoMo8O26]∞ structure as the anode for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Chen Xiaoxia , Wang Zhi , Zhang Ranran , Xu Liqiang , Sun Di
Published: September 2017

A novel polyoxometalate-based anode material was fabricated and showed high initial reversible specific capacity and stable reversible capacity, indicating a prospective class of anode materials for LIBs.
A tandem annulation with a [1,3]-hydride transfer as the key step leading to isochromans
Authors: Wang Yingwei , Li Guangxun , Liu Hongxin , Tang Zhuo , Cao Yuan , Zhao Gang
Published: September 2017

The first [1,3]-hydride transfer/cyclization process for oxacarbenium isomerization.
Intracellular temperature measurements with fluorescent polymeric thermometers
Authors: Uchiyama Seiichi , Gota Chie , Tsuji Toshikazu , Inada Noriko
Published: September 2017

Intracellular temperature can be measured using fluorescent polymeric thermometersviatheir temperature-dependent fluorescence signals.
A modular design for minor groove binding and recognition of mixed base pair sequences of DNA
Authors: Guo Pu , Paul Ananya , Kumar Arvind , Harika Narinder K. , Wang Siming , Farahat Abdelbasset A. , Boykin David W. , Wilson W. David
Published: September 2017

Mixed-sequence-binding, rationally-designed heterocyclic dications specifically recognize a full turn of the DNA minor groove.
Tuning the electronic structure in stanene/graphene bilayers using strain and gas adsorption
Authors: Yun Frank F. , Cortie D. L. , Wang X. L.
Published: September 2017

Epitaxial growth of stanene monolayers on graphene substrates is an attractive synthesis route for atomically thin electronic components. This work examines how such composites will tolerate lattice strain and exposure to ambient atmosphere.
Less stable tautomers form stronger hydrogen bonds: the case of water complexes
Authors: Zilberg Shmuel , Dick Bernhard
Published: September 2017

Hydrogen bonding in cyclic complexes of water with tautomeric pairs of molecules M0and M1is calculated to be stronger by more than 25% for the less stable tautomer M1in all cases where the energy gap between the two tautomers is large (ΔE(M0− M1) > 10 kcal mol−1).
Electronic excitation induced hydrogen-bond adjustment and lattice control in organic–inorganic hybrid cubic perovskites: a fixed occupation molecular dynamics study
Authors: Wang Mo-Ran , Ren Xiang-Yang , Li Xian-Bin , Chen Nian-Ke , Sun Hong-Bo
Published: September 2017

Fixed occupation first-principles study reveals the effect of electronic excitation on lattice of cubic perovskite MAPbI3. With excitations, the hydrogen bonding between MA molecules and inorganic lattice is weakened and the cubic symmetry is recovered.
New complete assignment of X-ray powder diffraction patterns in graphitic carbon nitride using discrete Fourier transform and direct experimental evidence
Authors: Sun Bo-wen , Yu Hong-yu , Yang Yong-jing , Li Hui-jun , Zhai Cheng-yu , Qian Dong-Jin , Chen Meng
Published: September 2017

To date, there have been only a few studies focusing on the assignment of X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns in graphitic carbon nitrides (g-C3N4) and contradictory determination for a broad peak around 12°–14° has been perplexing.
Synthesis and in vivo anticancer evaluation of poly(organo)phosphazene-based metallodrug conjugates
Authors: Hackl Carmen M. , Schoenhacker-Alte Beatrix , Klose Matthias H. M. , Henke Helena , Legina Maria S. , Jakupec Michael A. , Berger Walter , Keppler Bernhard K. , Brüggemann Oliver , Teasdale Ian , Heffeter Petra , Kandioller Wolfgang
Published: September 2017

Macromolecular drug conjugates: Polymer conjugation reduces local side effects and tumor growth in vivo.
Tailoring the morphology followed by the electrochemical performance of NiMn-LDH nanosheet arrays through controlled Co-doping for high-energy and power asymmetric supercapacitors
Authors: Singh Saurabh , Shinde Nanasaheb M. , Xia Qi Xun , Gopi Chandu V. V. M. , Yun Je Moon , Mane Rajaram S. , Kim Kwang Ho
Published: September 2017

A NiCoMn-LDH (10%)//rGO asymmetric supercapacitor device with 574 Wh kg−1 energy density at 749.9 W kg−1 power density and 89.4% retention even after 2500 cycles has been explored.
Tuning linkage isomerism and magnetic properties of bi- and tri-metallic cage silsesquioxanes by cation and solvent effects
Authors: Bilyachenko Alexey N. , Korlyukov Alexander A. , Vologzhanina Anna V. , Khrustalev Victor N. , Kulakova Alena N. , Long Jérôme , Larionova Joulia , Guari Yannick , Dronova Marina S. , Tsareva Ulyana S. , Dorovatovskii Pavel V. , Shubina Elena S. , Levitsky Mikhail M.
Published: September 2017

The ability of the polynuclear cage metallasilsesquioxane [(PhSiO1.5)12(CuO)4(NaO0.5)4(n-BuOH)8] with a globular structure to act as a stable building block of hybrid materials with respect to the substitution of sodium cations and terminal butanol molecules was confirmed.
The fluorescence properties of tiara like structural thiolated palladium clusters
Authors: Chen Jishi , Pan Yanze , Wang Zonghua , Zhao Peng
Published: September 2017

A series of tiara like structural Pdn(SR)2n (5 ≤ n ≤ 20) nanoclusters exhibit emission at 620 nm with excitation at around 268 nm. Their emission is due to ligand to metal charge transfer.
Fluorescent excimers and exciplexes of the purine base derivative 8-phenylethynyl-guanine in DNA hairpins
Authors: Brown Kristen E. , Singh Arunoday P. N. , Wu Yi-Lin , Ma Lin , Mishra Ashutosh K. , Phelan Brian T. , Young Ryan M. , Lewis Frederick D. , Wasielewski Michael R.
Published: September 2017

We characterize the ground- and excited-state electronic interactions between nucleobase analog 8-(4′-phenylethynyl)deoxyguanosine, EG, with natural nucleobases and 7-deazaguanine, as well as between adjacent EG base analogs.
Self-hydrogen transfer hydrogenolysis of β-O-4 linkages in lignin catalyzed by MIL-100(Fe) supported Pd–Ni BMNPs
Authors: Zhang Jia-wei , Lu Guo-ping , Cai Chun
Published: September 2017

A MIL-100(Fe) supported Pd–Ni BMNP catalyst has been fabricated, and the catalyst exhibits superior catalytic performance toward intramolecular transfer hydrogenolysis of lignin model compounds and organosolv lignin.
A strategy for generating high-quality cellulose and lignin simultaneously from woody biomass
Authors: Si Xiaoqin , Lu Fang , Chen Jiazhi , Lu Rui , Huang Qianqian , Jiang Huifang , Taarning Esben , Xu Jie
Published: September 2017

An efficient strategy was developed for achieving high-quality cellulose and lignin simultaneously from woody biomass using solvent thermal treatment.
Smectic nanoclusters in the nematic mesophases of dimeric compounds composed of rod-like azo moieties with lateral substituents
Authors: M. Monika , Roy Arun , Prasad Veena
Published: September 2017

Photochromic liquid crystalline dimers that form smectic nanoclusters in nematic mesophases and are capable of forming organogels have been reported.