bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Action sequences instead of representational levels
Authors: Kempson Ruth , Gregoromichelaki Eleni
Published: November 2017

Despite enthusiastic agreement that experimental data are directly relevant for determining grammar architecture, we present one main objection to the conclusions that the authors draw from their results: The data are perfectly compatible – in fact, much more in line – with an alternative that does not rely on syntactic representations. Instead, it is processing actions whose activation for comprehension/production explains intra-/inter-speaker priming.
Structural priming is most useful when the conclusions are statistically robust
Authors: Mahowald Kyle , James Ariel , Futrell Richard , Gibson Edward
Published: November 2017

Branigan & Pickering (B&P) claim that the success of structural priming as a method should “end the current reliance on acceptability judgments.” Structural priming is an interesting and useful phenomenon, but we are dubious that the effect is powerful enough to test many detailed claims about specific points of syntactic theory.
The malleability of linguistic representations poses a challenge to the priming-based experimental approach
Authors: Ryskin Rachel , Brown-Schmidt Sarah
Published: November 2017

Recent findings show that experience with a syntactic structure has long-term consequences for how that structure will be processed in the future, which suggests that linguistic representations are not static entities that can be probed reliably without alteration. Thus, leveraging the effect of previous exposure to a syntactic structure appears to be an inappropriate method for studying invariant properties of language.
Integrated real-time task and motion planning for multiple robots under path and communication uncertainties
Authors: Woosley Bradley , Dasgupta Prithviraj
Published: November 2017

We consider a problem where robots are given a set of task locations to visit with coarsely known distances. The robots must find the task ordering that reduces the overall distance to visit the tasks. We propose an abstraction that models the uncertainty in the paths, and a Markov Decision Process-based algorithm that selects paths that reduces the expected distance to visit the tasks. We also describe a distributed coordination algorithm to resolve path conflicts. We have shown that our task selection is optimal, our coordination is deadlock-free, and have experimentally verified our approach in hardware and simulation.
Effects of seasonality and habitat on the browsing and frugivory preferences of Tapirus terrestris in north-western Amazonia
Authors: Vélez Juliana , Espelta Josep Maria , Rivera Orlando , Armenteras Dolors
Published: November 2017

Herbivore foraging is influenced by spatial and seasonal changes in the production of leaves and fruits. To understand how herbivores respond to these changes, it is necessary to identify their habitat preferences and how they use the vegetation available. In the Neotropical region, one of the largest terrestrial herbivores is the lowland tapir (Tapirus terrestris), a species important for its dual role as browser and seed disperser. The objective of this study was to determine the species and plant components (leaves, fruits) utilized by T. terrestris in different time periods and habitats, in relation to changes in food availability in the north-western Amazon. Tapir diet was established through identification of browsing signs and faecal analysis, from data collected in the field during the months of March, April, August and September of 2015. Plant species availability for browsing was sampled in ten 2 × 50-m transects and fruit productivity was estimated in linear transects (~9 km). We found that T. terrestris mostly consumed vegetative parts, i.e. fibre (70–90%), and to a lesser extent fruits (10–30%). Food consumption was selective and concentrated in habitats with higher availability of preferred plants. When fruit intake increased, selectivity in browsing became more intense and limited to preferred species. This information, coupled with our findings about seasonal differences in browsing vs. frugivory patterns, provides valuable knowledge for understanding how environmental heterogeneity may influence the foraging ecology of the lowland tapir.
Disfluencies signal reference to novel objects for adults but not children
Authors: OWENS Sarah J. , THACKER Justine M. , GRAHAM Susan A.
Published: November 2017

Speech disfluencies can guide the ways in which listeners interpret spoken language. Here, we examined whether three-year-olds, five-year-olds, and adults use filled pauses to anticipate that a speaker is likely to refer to a novel object. Across three experiments, participants were presented with pairs of novel and familiar objects and heard a speaker refer to one of the objects using a fluent (“Look at the ball/lep!”) or disfluent (“Look at thee uh ball/lep!”) expression. The salience of the speaker's unfamiliarity with the novel referents, and the way in which the speaker referred to the novel referents (i.e., a noun vs. a description) varied across experiments. Three- and five-year-olds successfully identified familiar and novel targets, but only adults’ looking patterns reflected increased looks to novel objects in the presence of a disfluency. Together, these findings demonstrate that adults, but not young children, use filled pauses to anticipate reference to novel objects.
Can a customer relationship management program improve recruitment for primary care research studies?
Authors: Johnston Sharon , Wong Sabrina T. , Blackman Stephanie , Chau Leena W. , Grool Anne M. , Hogg William
Published: November 2017

Background: Recruiting family physicians into primary care research studies requires researchers to continually manage information coming in, going out, and coming in again. In many research groups, Microsoft Excel and Access are the usual data management tools, but they are very basic and do not support any automation, linking, or reminder systems to manage and integrate recruitment information and processes. Objective: We explored whether a commercial customer relationship management (CRM) software program – designed for sales people in businesses to improve customer relations and communications – could be used to make the research recruitment system faster, more effective, and more efficient. Findings: We found that while there was potential for long-term studies, it simply did not adapt effectively enough for our shorter study and recruitment budget. The amount of training required to master the software and our need for ongoing flexible and timely support were greater than the benefit of using CRM software for our study.
GENERALISED DIVISOR SUMS OF BINARY FORMS OVER NUMBER FIELDS
Authors: Frei Christopher , Sofos Efthymios
Published: November 2017

Estimating averages of Dirichlet convolutions $1\ast \unicode[STIX]{x1D712}$, for some real Dirichlet character $\unicode[STIX]{x1D712}$ of fixed modulus, over the sparse set of values of binary forms defined over $\mathbb{Z}$ has been the focus of extensive investigations in recent years, with spectacular applications to Manin’s conjecture for Châtelet surfaces. We introduce a far-reaching generalisation of this problem, in particular replacing $\unicode[STIX]{x1D712}$ by Jacobi symbols with both arguments having varying size, possibly tending to infinity. The main results of this paper provide asymptotic estimates and lower bounds of the expected order of magnitude for the corresponding averages. All of this is performed over arbitrary number fields by adapting a technique of Daniel specific to $1\ast 1$. This is the first time that divisor sums over values of binary forms are asymptotically evaluated over any number field other than $\mathbb{Q}$. Our work is a key step in the proof, given in subsequent work, of the lower bound predicted by Manin’s conjecture for all del Pezzo surfaces over all number fields, under mild assumptions on the Picard number.
DISPARATE LESSONS
Authors: Reyes Daisy Verduzco
Published: November 2017

This paper compares the identity-formation processes of Latino students in three different college contexts (a liberal arts college, a research university, and a regional public university). Drawing on ethnographic observations, in-depth interviews, and surveys of members of Latino student organizations, I chart the distinct ways in which Latino students interact with one another and arrive at particular ethnic identities on different campuses. By applying ethnoracialization theory to mesolevel settings, I examine how students respond to external ascription as they co-construct and negotiate their ethnic-racial understandings. I identify three different patterns by which students deploy panethnic boundaries, specifically, as they adopt and define identity labels: inclusive Latino identification signifying solidarity above all, qualified Latino identification mediated through specific organizational membership, and the rejection of panethnic identities. I consider how the organizational context of each campus provides a distinct racial climate that mediates student interactions and potentially shapes the disparate identity outcomes that result. The findings suggest that, beyond providing academic experiences, colleges also provide Latino students with disparate lessons regarding who they are and where they fit in the ethnoracial hierarchy.
From Traction to Friction in Thailand: The Emerging Southeast Asian DevelopmentProblematique
Authors: Rigg Jonathan
Published: November 2017

Using the notion of an emerging developmentproblematiquein Southeast Asia, this paper uses Thailand to argue that the development challenge is not being solved by economic growth, but reworked. Furthermore, while the policy aims of the early development era could be quite easily identified, measured and addressed, those that have emerged since the Millennium have proved to be more difficult to specify and less amenable to resolution. Drawing on village studies in northeast Thailand, this paper argues that the social adjustments and perturbations engendered by development have created second-order, often more intractable problems and challenges. In this way, the development traction of the early development decades has frequently turned into friction, with the state and its planning and development agencies increasingly struggling to meet both their own objectives and the aspirations of those for whom development was intended. It is also argued that Thailand'sproblematiqueis reflected in three emerging gaps: a development gap between what the Thai government is attempting to achieve and the willingness of the Thai population to join in that journey; a political gap reflected in Thailand's Red Shirt/Yellow Shirt conflict; and an aspirational gap between what has been achieved and what is aspired to.
Ly6G+ neutrophil-derived miR-223 inhibits the NLRP3 inflammasome in mitochondrial DAMP-induced acute lung injury
Authors: Feng Zunyong , Qi Shimei , Zhang Yue , Qi Zhilin , Yan Liang , Zhou Jing , He Fang , Li Qianqian , Yang Yanyan , Chen Qun , Xiao Shi , Li Qiang , Chen Yang , Zhang Yao
Published: November 2017

MicroRNA (miRNA) mediates RNA interference to regulate a variety of innate immune processes, but how miRNAs coordinate the mechanisms underlying acute lung injury/acute respiratory distress syndrome (ALI/ARDS) in patients with pulmonary inflammatory injury is still unknown. In this study, we demonstrated that miR-223 limits the number of Ly6G+ neutrophils and inhibits the activity of the NLRP3 inflammasome to alleviate ALI induced by mitochondrial damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) (MTDs). miR-223 expression is increased in the lungs of MTD-induced mice or ARDS patients following trauma/transfusion or following the physiological remission of ALI/ARDS. miR-223−/+ mice exhibited more severe ALI and cytokine dysregulation. Other studies have shown that MTD-induced increases in miR-223 expression are mainly contributed by Ly6G+ neutrophils from the haematopoietic system. miR-223 blocks bone marrow-derived Ly6G+ neutrophil differentiation and inhibits peripheral cytokine release. In addition, MTD-induced miR-223 expression activates a negative feedback pathway that targets the inhibition of NLRP3 expression and IL-1β release; therefore, miR-223 deficiency can lead to the sustained activation of NLRP3-IL-1β. Finally, elimination of peripheral Ly6G+ neutrophils and pharmacological blockade of the miR-223–NLRP3–IL-1β signalling axis could alleviate MTD-induced ALI. In summary, miR-223 is essential for regulating the pathogenesis of DAMP-induced ALI.
Correction: Corrigendum: A simple and versatile design concept for fluorophore derivatives with intramolecular photostabilization
Authors: van der Velde Jasper H. M. , Oelerich Jens , Huang Jingyi , Smit Jochem H. , Jazi Atieh Aminian , Galiani Silvia , Kolmakov Kirill , Gouridis Giorgos , Eggeling Christian , Herrmann Andreas , Roelfes Gerard , Cordes Thorben
Published: November 2017

Nature Communications 7: Article number: 10144 (2016); Published: 11 January 2016; Updated: 16 November 2017 This Article contains an error in Fig. 4. Figure 4b shows the structure of the rhodamine dye Alexa488, not the Alexa555 used in this work. The structure of Alexa555 is not known.
A signal-amplifiable biochip quantifies extracellular vesicle-associated RNAs for early cancer detection
Authors: Hu Jiaming , Sheng Yan , Kwak Kwang Joo , Shi Junfeng , Yu Bohao , Lee L. James
Published: November 2017

Detection of extracellular vesicle (EV)-associated RNAs with low expression levels in early-stage cancer remains a challenge and is highly valuable. Here, we report a nanoparticle-based biochip that could capture circulating EVs without isolation, brighten encapsulated RNAs, and amplify fluorescence signals in situ in a single step. We confine catalyzed hairpin DNA circuit (CHDC) in cationic lipid-polymer hybrid nanoparticles (LPHNs) that are tethered on a chip. LPHN features a core-shell-corona structure that facilitates the transfer and mixing of CHDC with EV-associated RNAs when forming the LPHN–EV nanocomplex. CHDC is triggered upon target RNA binding and quickly generate amplified signals. The signal amplification efficiency of LPHN–CHDC is demonstrated in artificial EVs, cancer cells, and cancer cell-derived EVs. We show that LPHN–CHDC biochip with signal amplification capability could selectively and sensitively identify low expression glypican-1 mRNA in serum EVs, distinguishing patients with early- and late-stage pancreatic cancer from healthy donors and patients with benign pancreatic disease.
Fabrication and Verification of Conjugated AuNP-Antibody Nanoprobe for Sensitivity Improvement in Electrochemical Biosensors
Authors: Khashayar Patricia , Amoabediny Ghassem , Larijani Bagher , Hosseini Morteza , Vanfleteren Jan
Published: November 2017

This study was designed to obtain covalently coupled conjugates as means for achieving higher stability and better coverage of the AuNPs by antibodies on the particle surface suitable for sensor performance enhancement. Starting by using a modified protocol, colloid gold solution, with mean AuNP core size of ~6 nm was synthesized. The protocol used for conjugation of AuNPs to osteocalcin antibody in this study relies on covalent and electrostatic attractions between constituents. Varieties of conjugates with varying combinations of crosslinkers and different concentrations were successfully synthesized. The obtained products were characterized and their properties were studied to determine the best candidate in sense of antibody - antigen reactivity. Using AuNP-GSH-NHS-Ab combination (1:1:1), the tertiary structure of the protein was maintained and thus the antibody remained functional in the future steps. This one-pot method provided a simple method for covalently coupling antibodies on the particle surface while keeping their functionality intact. The AuNP content of the solution also accelerated electron transfer rate and thus amplifies the detection signal. With the developed and discussed technique herein, a simple solution is modeled to be used for measuring serum levels of biomarkers in single and/or multiplexed sensor systems.
Full-wave modeling of broadband near field scanning microwave microscopy
Authors: Wu Bi-Yi , Sheng Xin-Qing , Fabregas Rene , Hao Yang
Published: November 2017

A three-dimensional finite element numerical modeling for the scanning microwave microscopy (SMM) setup is applied to study the full-wave quantification of the local material properties of samples. The modeling takes into account the radiation and scattering losses of the nano-sized probe neglected in previous models based on low-frequency assumptions. The scanning techniques of approach curves and constant height are implemented. In addition, we conclude that the SMM has the potential for use as a broadband dielectric spectroscopy operating at higher frequencies up to THz. The results demonstrate the accuracy of previous models. We draw conclusions in light of the experimental results.
Hyperoxidation of ether-linked phospholipids accelerates neutrophil extracellular trap formation
Authors: Yotsumoto Satoshi , Muroi Yuito , Chiba Tatsuya , Ohmura Rio , Yoneyama Maki , Magarisawa Megumi , Dodo Kosuke , Terayama Naoki , Sodeoka Mikiko , Aoyagi Ryohei , Arita Makoto , Arakawa Satoko , Shimizu Shigeomi , Tanaka Masato
Published: November 2017

Because neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) formation is involved in the pathology of a wide variety of diseases, NET-regulating compounds are expected to be useful for the therapies of these diseases. In this study, we identified sulfasalazine (SSZ) as a potent enhancer of NET formation bothin vitroandin vivo. Although SSZ did not increase the amount of ROS generated, it accelerated the generation of ether-linked oxidized phospholipids, such as PE (18;1e/15-HETE) and PC (16;0e/13-HODE). Trolox, but not 2-ME, effectively suppressed lipid oxidation and NET formation that were induced by SSZ. SSZ is known as a potent inducer of ferroptosis in cancer cells by inhibiting xCT, a component of the cystine transporter. However, we found that SSZ accelerated NET formation in an xCT-independent manner. Structure-activity relationship studies revealed that the sulfapyridine moiety of SSZ plays a central role in enhancing NET formation. Furthermore, we found that two additional sulfonamide and sulfone derivatives possess NET-inducing activity by accelerating lipid oxidation. These results indicate that the hyperoxidation of ether-linked phospholipids is a key mechanism for accelerating NET formation.
Influence of experimental parameters on the laser heating of an optical trap
Authors: Català Frederic , Marsà Ferran , Montes-Usategui Mario , Farré Arnau , Martín-Badosa Estela
Published: November 2017

In optical tweezers, heating of the sample due to absorption of the laser light is a major concern as temperature plays an important role at microscopic scale. A popular rule of thumb is to consider that, at the typical wavelength of 1064 nm, the focused laser induces a heating rate of B = 1 °C/100 mW. We analysed this effect under different routine experimental conditions and found a remarkable variability in the temperature increase. Importantly, we determined that temperature can easily rise by as much as 4 °C at a relatively low power of 100 mW, for dielectric, non-absorbing particles with certain sets of specific, but common, parameters. Heating was determined from measurements of light momentum changes under drag forces at different powers, which proved to provide precise and robust results in watery buffers. We contrasted the experiments with computer simulations and obtained good agreement. These results suggest that this remarkable heating could be responsible for changes in the sample under study and could lead to serious damage of live specimens. It is therefore advisable to determine the temperature increase in each specific experiment and avoid the use of a universal rule that could inadvertently lead to critical changes in the sample.
Temporal depolarization of mitochondria during M phase
Authors: Hirusaki Kotoe , Yokoyama Kaho , Cho Kyunghak , Ohta Yoshihiro
Published: November 2017

Mitochondrial activity in cells must be tightly controlled in response to changes in intracellular circumstances. Despite drastic changes in intracellular conditions and mitochondrial morphology, it is not clear how mitochondrial activity is controlled during M phase of the cell cycle. Here, we show that mitochondrial activity is drastically changed during M phase. Mitochondrial membrane potential changed during M phase progression. Mitochondria were polarized until metaphase to the same extent as mitochondria in interphase cells, but were depolarized at around telophase and cytokinesis. After cytokinesis, mitochondrial membrane potential was recovered. In addition, the generation of superoxide anions in mitochondria was significantly reduced at metaphase even in the presence of antimycin A, an inhibitor of complex III. These results suggest that the electron supply to the mitochondrial electron transfer chain is suppressed during M phase. This suppression might decrease the reactive oxygen species generated by the fragmentation of mitochondria during M phase.
Hyperpolarized [1-13C]-acetate Renal Metabolic Clearance Rate Mapping
Authors: Mikkelsen Emmeli F. R. , Mariager Christian Østergaard , Nørlinger Thomas , Qi Haiyun , Schulte Rolf F. , Jakobsen Steen , Frøkiær Jørgen , Pedersen Michael , Stødkilde-Jørgensen Hans , Laustsen Christoffer
Published: November 2017

11C-acetate is a positron emission tomography (PET) tracer of oxidative metabolism, whereas hyperpolarized 13C-acetate can be used in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for investigating specific metabolic processes. The aims of this study were to examine if the kinetic formalism of 11C-acetate PET in the kidneys is comparable to that of 13C-acetate MRI, and to compare the dynamic metabolic information of hyperpolarized 13C-acetate MRI with that obtained with 11C-acetate PET. Rats were examined with dynamic hyperpolarized 13C-acetate MRI or 11C-acetate PET before and after intravenous injection of furosemide, a loop diuretic known to alter both the hemodynamics and oxygen consumption in the kidney. The metabolic clearance rates (MCR) were estimated and compared between the two modalities experimentally in vivo and in simulations. There was a clear dependency on the mean transit time and MCR for both 13C-acetate and 11C-acetate following furosemide administration, while no dependencies on the apparent renal perfusion were observed. This study demonstrated that hyperpolarized 13C-acetate MRI is feasible for measurements of the intrarenal energetic demand via the MCR, and that the quantitative measures are correlated with those measured by 11C-acetate PET, even though the temporal window is more than 30 times longer with 11C-acetate.
Effect of maternal glycemia and weight status on offspring birth measures and BMI-z among Chinese population in the first year
Authors: Huang Yilin , Yin Baoming , Liang Xiaohong , Mei Hong , Lu Hongyan , Xie Shuixian , Bei Weihong , Mei Wenhua , Zhang Jianduan
Published: November 2017

To investigate the effects of maternal fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and pre-pregnancy weight status (PPWS) on offspring birth measures and body mass index z-score (BMI-z) in the first year, we conducted a prospective study of 1,096 mother-infant dyads in Guangdong, China, 2014–2015. Multivariate logistic regression was used to test independent/interaction associations of maternal FPG and PPWS with macrosomia/large for gestational age (LGA). Association of PPWS and FPG with offspring BMI-z in the first year was assessed by the linear mixed effects models. For each 1-mmol/L increase in FPG, the risk of macrosomia and LGA was elevated by 2.74 and 2.01 (95% CI: 1.85, 7.60 and 1.54, 5.88), respectively. No main effect of PPWS or interaction association of FPG and PPWS on macrosomia/LGA was observed (P > 0.05). A relation between maternal FPG and PPWS was detected (P < 0.05). Infants of Q5 FPG mothers, those who were born to OWO mothers, had a 0.35 increase in the BMI-z (95% CI: 0.16, 0.55) compared with infants of NW mothers. In conclusion, maternal FPG is positively associated with macrosomia/LGA. Maternal PPWS and FPG considerably interacted for the association with the risk of offspring high BMI-z in the first year.
Tuning the Composition and Structure of Amorphous Molybdenum Sulfide/Carbon Black Nanocomposites by Radiation Technique for Highly Efficient Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Cao Pengfei , Peng Jing , Liu Siqi , Cui Yu , Hu Yang , Chen Bo , Li Jiuqiang , Zhai Maolin
Published: November 2017

Amorphous molybdenum sulfide/carbon black (MoSx/C) nanocomposites are synthesized by a facile one-step γ-ray radiation induced reduction process. Amorphous MoSx shows better intrinsic activity than crystalline MoS2. And the composition and amorphous structure of MoSx could be expediently tuned by absorbed dose for excellent catalytic activity. Meanwhile, the addition of carbon black leads to a significant decrease of charge transfer resistance and increase of active sites of MoSx/C composite. Consequently, MoSx/C nanocomposite shows Pt-like catalytic activity towards hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), which requires an onset over potential of 40 mV and over potential of 76 mV to achieve a current density of 10 mA cm−2, and the corresponding Tafel slope is 48 mV decade−1. After 6000 CV cycles, the catalytic activity of MoSx/C shows no obvious decrease. However, when platinum (Pt) foil is used as counter electrode, MoSx/C composite show better catalytic activity abnormally after long-term cycling tests. The dissolution of Pt was observed in HER and the Pt dissolution mechanism is elucidated by further analyzing the surface composition of after-cycling electrodes, which offers highly valuable guidelines for using Pt electrode in HER.
Early vaccination protects against childhood leukemia: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Morra Mostafa Ebraheem , Kien Nguyen Dang , Elmaraezy Ahmed , Abdelaziz Omar Ayman M. , Elsayed Ahmed Lotfy , Halhouli Oday , Montasr Ahmed Mosaad , Vu Tran Le-Huy , Ho Chau , Foly Amr Sayed , Phi Anh Phan , Abdullah Wessam Magdy , Mikhail Marina , Milne Elizabeth , Hirayama Kenji , Huy Nguyen Tien
Published: November 2017

Leukemia is the most commonly diagnosed childhood cancer, although its etiology is still largely unknown. Growing evidence supports a role for infection in the etiology of acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), and the involvement of the immune system suggests that vaccination may also play a role. However, the findings presented in the published literature are inconsistent. Therefore, we conducted a PRISMA systematic review and meta-analysis. 14 studies were identified and meta-analyzed. Vaccinations studied comprised Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine, Triple vaccine, Hepatitis B vaccine (HBV), Polio, Measles, Rubella, Mumps, trivalent MMR vaccine and Haemophilus influenza type B (HiB) vaccine. We observed a protective association between any vaccination in the first year of life and risk of childhood leukemia (summary odds ratio (OR) 0.58 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.36–0.91]). When individual vaccines were analysed, some evidence of an association was seen only for BCG (summary OR 0.73 [95% CI 0.50–1.08]). In conclusion, early vaccination appears to be associated with a reduced risk of childhood leukemia. This finding may be underpinned by the association observed for BCG. Given the relatively imprecise nature of the results of this meta-analysis, our findings should be interpreted cautiously and replicated in future studies.
ZIKV infection regulates inflammasomes pathway for replication in monocytes
Authors: Khaiboullina S. F. , Uppal T. , Sarkar R. , Gorzalski A. , St Jeor S. , Verma S. C.
Published: November 2017

ZIKV causes microcephaly by crossing the placental barrier, however, the mechanism of trans-placental dissemination of ZIKV remains unknown. Here, we sought to determine whether monocytes, which can cross tissue barriers, assist ZIKV dissemination to the fetus. We determined this by infecting monocytes with two strains of ZIKV: South American (PRVABC59) and Nigerian (IBH30656) and analyzing viral replication. We found that ZIKV infects and replicates in monocytes and macrophages, which results in the modulation of a large number of cellular genes. Analysis of these genes identified multiple pathways including inflammasome to be targeted by ZIKV, which was confirmed by analyzing the transcript levels of the proteins of inflammasome pathways, NLRP3, ASC, caspase 1, IL-1 and IL-18. Interestingly, IFNα and the IFN inducible gene, MxA were not enhanced, suggesting prevention of innate antiviral defense by ZIKV. Also, inhibition of inflammasome led to an increased transcriptional activity of IFNα, MxA and CXCL10. Based on these results we suggest that ZIKV transcription is regulated by inflammasomes.
Sleep Deprivation Diminishes Attentional Control Effectiveness and Impairs Flexible Adaptation to Changing Conditions
Authors: Whitney Paul , Hinson John M. , Satterfield Brieann C. , Grant Devon A. , Honn Kimberly A. , Van Dongen Hans P. A.
Published: November 2017

Insufficient sleep is a global public health problem resulting in catastrophic accidents, increased mortality, and hundreds of billions of dollars in lost productivity. Yet the effect of sleep deprivation (SD) on decision making and performance is often underestimated by fatigued individuals and is only beginning to be understood by scientists. The deleterious impact of SD is frequently attributed to lapses in vigilant attention, but this account fails to explain many SD-related problems, such as loss of situational awareness and perseveration. Using a laboratory study protocol, we show that SD individuals can maintain information in the focus of attention and anticipate likely correct responses, but their use of such a top-down attentional strategy is less effective at preventing errors caused by competing responses. Moreover, when the task environment requires flexibility, performance under SD suffers dramatically. The impairment in flexible shifting of attentional control we observed is distinct from lapses in vigilant attention, as corroborated by the specificity of the influence of a genetic biomarker, the dopaminergic polymorphism DRD2 C957T. Reduced effectiveness of top-down attentional control under SD, especially when conditions require flexibility, helps to explain maladaptive performance that is not readily explained by lapses in vigilant attention.
Connection adaption for control of networked mobile chaotic agents
Authors: Zhou Jie , Zou Yong , Guan Shuguang , Liu Zonghua , Xiao Gaoxi , Boccaletti S.
Published: November 2017

In this paper, we propose a strategy for the control of mobile chaotic oscillators by adaptively rewiring connections between nearby agents with local information. In contrast to the dominant adaptive control schemes where coupling strength is adjusted continuously according to the states of the oscillators, our method does not request adaption of coupling strength. As the resulting interaction structure generated by this proposed strategy is strongly related to unidirectional chains, by investigating synchronization property of unidirectional chains, we reveal that there exists a certain coupling range in which the agents could be controlled regardless of the length of the chain. This feature enables the adaptive strategy to control the mobile oscillators regardless of their moving speed. Compared with existing adaptive control strategies for networked mobile agents, our proposed strategy is simpler for implementation where the resulting interaction networks are kept unweighted at all time.
Strongly Coupled Magnetic and Electronic Transitions in Multivalent Strontium Cobaltites
Authors: Lee J. H. , Choi Woo Seok , Jeen H. , Lee H.-J. , Seo J. H. , Nam J. , Yeom M. S. , Lee H. N.
Published: November 2017

The topotactic phase transition in SrCoO
x
(x = 2.5–3.0) makes it possible to reversibly transit between the two distinct phases, i.e. the brownmillerite SrCoO2.5 that is a room-temperature antiferromagnetic insulator (AFM-I) and the perovskite SrCoO3 that is a ferromagnetic metal (FM-M), owing to their multiple valence states. For the intermediate x values, the two distinct phases are expected to strongly compete with each other. With oxidation of SrCoO2.5, however, it has been conjectured that the magnetic transition is decoupled to the electronic phase transition, i.e., the AFM-to-FM transition occurs before the insulator-to-metal transition (IMT), which is still controversial. Here, we bridge the gap between the two-phase transitions by density-functional theory calculations combined with optical spectroscopy. We confirm that the IMT actually occurs concomitantly with the FM transition near the oxygen content x = 2.75. Strong charge-spin coupling drives the concurrent IMT and AFM-to-FM transition, which fosters the near room-T magnetic transition characteristic. Ultimately, our study demonstrates that SrCoO
x
is an intriguingly rare candidate for inducing coupled magnetic and electronic transition via fast and reversible redox reactions.
Matrix metalloproteinase-9 activity and a downregulated Hedgehog pathway impair blood-brain barrier function in an in vitro model of CNS tuberculosis
Authors: Brilha Sara , Ong Catherine W. M. , Weksler Babette , Romero Nacho , Couraud Pierre-Olivier , Friedland Jon S.
Published: November 2017

Central nervous system tuberculosis (CNS TB) has a high mortality and morbidity associated with severe inflammation. The blood-brain barrier (BBB) protects the brain from inflammation but the mechanisms causing BBB damage in CNS TB are uncharacterized. We demonstrate that Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) causes breakdown of type IV collagen and decreases tight junction protein (TJP) expression in a co-culture model of the BBB. This increases permeability, surface expression of endothelial adhesion molecules and leukocyte transmigration. TJP breakdown was driven by Mtb-dependent secretion of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9. TJP expression is regulated by Sonic hedgehog (Shh) through transcription factor Gli-1. In our model, the hedgehog pathway was downregulated by Mtb-stimulation, but Shh levels in astrocytes were unchanged. However, Scube2, a glycoprotein regulating astrocyte Shh release was decreased, inhibiting Shh delivery to brain endothelial cells. Activation of the hedgehog pathway by addition of a Smoothened agonist or by addition of exogenous Shh, or neutralizing MMP-9 activity, decreased permeability and increased TJP expression in the Mtb-stimulated BBB co-cultures. In summary, the BBB is disrupted by downregulation of the Shh pathway and breakdown of TJPs, secondary to increased MMP-9 activity which suggests that these pathways are potential novel targets for host directed therapy in CNS TB.
Speeding up bioproduction of selenium nanoparticles by using Vibrio natriegens as microbial factory
Authors: Fernández-Llamosas Helga , Castro Laura , Blázquez María Luisa , Díaz Eduardo , Carmona Manuel
Published: November 2017

Selenium and selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) are extensively used in biomedicine, electronics and some other industrial applications. The bioproduction of SeNPs is gaining interest as a green method to manufacture these biotechnologically relevant products. Several microorganisms have been used for the production of SeNPs either under aerobic or anaerobic conditions. Vibrio natriegens is a non-pathogenic fast-growing bacterium, easily cultured in different carbon sources and that has recently been engineered for easy genetic manipulation in the laboratory. Here we report that V. natriegens was able to perfectly grow aerobically in the presence of selenite concentrations up to 15 mM with a significant survival still observed at concentrations as high as 100 mM selenite. Electron microscopy and X-ray spectroscopy analyses demonstrate that V. natriegens cells growing aerobically in selenite-containing LB medium at 30 °C produced spherical electron-dense SeNPs whose size ranged from 100–400 nm. Selenite reduction just started at the beginning of the exponential growth phase and the release of SeNPs was observed after cell lysis. Remarkably, V. natriegens produced SeNPs faster than other described microorganisms that were proposed as model bioreactors for SeNPs production. Thus, the fast-growing V. natriegens bacterium becomes a suitable biocatalyst for bioremediation of selenite and for speeding-up the eco-friendly synthesis of SeNPs.
Declining pre-monsoon dust loading over South Asia: Signature of a changing regional climate
Authors: Pandey Satyendra K. , Vinoj V. , Landu K. , Babu S. Suresh
Published: November 2017

Desert dust over the Indian region during pre-monsoon season is known to strengthen monsoon circulation, by modulating rainfall through the elevated heat pump (EHP) mechanism. In this context, an insight into long term trends of dust loading over this region is of significant importance in understanding monsoon variability. In this study, using long term (2000 to 2015) aerosol measurements from multiple satellites, ground stations and model based reanalysis, we show that dust loading in the atmosphere has decreased by 10 to 20% during the pre-monsoon season with respect to start of this century. Our analysis reveals that this decrease is a result of increasing pre-monsoon rainfall that in turn increases (decreases) wet scavenging (dust emissions) and slowing circulation pattern over the Northwestern part of the sub-continent.
Water and Blood Repellent Flexible Tubes
Authors: Hoshian Sasha , Kankuri Esko , Ras Robin H. A. , Franssila Sami , Jokinen Ville
Published: November 2017

A top-down scalable method to produce flexible water and blood repellent tubes is introduced. The method is based on replication of overhanging nanostructures from an aluminum tube template to polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) via atomic layer deposition (ALD) assisted sacrificial etching. The nanostructured PDMS/titania tubes are superhydrophobic with water contact angles 163 ± 1° (advancing) and 157 ± 1° (receding) without any further coating. Droplets are able to slide through a 4 mm (inner diameter) tube with low sliding angles of less than 10° for a 35 µL droplet. The superhydrophobic tube shows up to 5,000 times increase in acceleration of a sliding droplet compared to a control tube depending on the inclination angle. Compared to a free falling droplet, the superhydrophobic tube reduced the acceleration by only 38.55%, as compared to a 99.99% reduction for a control tube. The superhydrophobic tubes are blood repellent. Blood droplets (35 µL) roll through the tubes at 15° sliding angles without leaving a bloodstain. The tube surface is resistant to adhesion of activated platelets unlike planar control titania and smooth PDMS surfaces.
The influence of curvature on the properties of the plasma membrane. Insights from atomistic molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Yesylevskyy Semen O. , Rivel Timothée , Ramseyer Christophe
Published: November 2017

In this work we conduct a systematic analysis of the influence of curvature on various properties of a realistic model of mammalian plasma membrane with asymmetric lipid content of monolayers and a realistic concentration of cholesterol. In order to do this we developed new technique for simulating membranes with the global membrane curvature restricted to any desirable value while keeping free lateral diffusion of the lipids and without introducing artifacts or perturbing the membrane structure. We show that the thickness of the hydrophobic core of the concave monolayer decreases by approximately 1.3 Å in comparison to that of the flat membrane, while the thickness of the convex monolayer does not change. The order parameter of the lipid tails decreases significantly in the certain layers of the curved membrane. The area per lipid increases in the convex monolayer and decreases in the concave monolayer. The cholesterol inclination angle decreases when the curvature of a particular monolayer changes from concave to convex. The amount of cholesterol in the minor fraction located between the membrane leaflets is zero in the membrane with positive curvature and increases to 1.7% in the flat membrane and to 2.5% in the membrane with negative curvature.
Covalent post-assembly modification in metallosupramolecular chemistry
Authors: Roberts Derrick A. , Pilgrim Ben S. , Nitschke Jonathan R.
Published: November 2017

This review examines the growing variety of covalent reactions used to achieve the post-assembly modification of self-assembled metallosupramolecular complexes.
Electrogenerated chemiluminescence of Ru(bpy)32+at a black phosphorus quantum dot modified electrode and its sensing application
Authors: Zhang Lei , Tian KaiJin , Dong YongPing , Ding HouCheng , Wang ChengMing
Published: November 2017

Strong anodic electrogenerated chemiluminescence (ECL) of Ru(bpy)32+can be obtained under neutral conditions at a black phosphorus quantum dot (BPQD) modified electrode due to the catalytic effect of BPQDs. Dopamine exhibits an apparent inhibiting effect on the ECL signal, and as a result, can be sensitively detected.
A flexible Sb2O3/carbon cloth composite as a free-standing high performance anode for sodium ion batteries
Authors: Fei Jei , Cui Yali , Li Jiayin , Xu Zhanwei , Yang Jun , Wang Ruiyi , Cheng Yayi , Hang Jianfeng
Published: November 2017

A flexible Sb2O3/carbon cloth (CC) composite is synthesized using a simple solvothermal method.
Synthesis and characterization of the first inhibitor ofN-acylphosphatidylethanolamine phospholipase D (NAPE-PLD)
Authors: Castellani Beatrice , Diamanti Eleonora , Pizzirani Daniela , Tardia Piero , Maccesi Martina , Realini Natalia , Magotti Paola , Garau Gianpiero , Bakkum Thomas , Rivara Silvia , Mor Marco , Piomelli Daniele
Published: November 2017

ARN19874 is a quinazolinedione sulfonamide derivative that inhibits NAPE-PLD, a membrane-associated enzyme that cleavesN-acylphosphatidylethanolamines (NAPEs) into fatty acid ethanolamides (FAEs).
Self-sorted pore-formation in the construction of heteropore covalent organic frameworks based on orthogonal reactions
Authors: Liang Rong-Ran , Xu Shun-Qi , Pang Zhong-Fu , Qi Qiao-Yan , Zhao Xin
Published: November 2017

Covalent organic frameworks bearing two different kinds of micropores have been constructed based on the orthogonal formation of dynamic covalent bonds. The orthogonal reactions result in an unprecedented self-sorted pore-formation in the polymerization process.
Reaction monitoring reveals poisoning mechanism of Pd2(dba)3 and guides catalyst selection
Authors: Colletto Chiara , Burés Jordi , Larrosa Igor
Published: November 2017

We have discovered that the dba ligand in the commonly used Pd2(dba)3·CHCl3 cross-coupling pre-catalyst is susceptible to bis-arylation when used in the presence of aryl iodides.
Highlights from Faraday Discussion FDSERS17: Surface Enhanced Raman Scattering – SERS, Glasgow, UK, 30th August–1st September 2017
Authors: Di Martino G. , Fleming H. , Kamp M. , Lussier F.
Published: November 2017

The 2017 Faraday Discussion on Surface Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) attracted more than a hundred delegates, bringing together a real mix of SERS researchers embracing chemistry, physics, and engineering. The meeting gave an overview of the liveliness of SERS, characterised by open questions and fascinating science still to discover.
Cyclometallated platinum(ii) and palladium(ii) complexes containing 1,5-diarylbiguanides: synthesis, characterisation and hydrogen bond-directed assembly
Authors: McKay Aidan P. , Shillito Georgina E. , Gordon Keith C. , McMorran David A.
Published: November 2017

[M(ppy)(big)] (M = Pt(ii), Pd(ii), big = 1,5-diarylbiguanide) complexes are synthesised and their promise as tectons for hydrogen bond-directed assembly is explored.
Boric acid co-crystals in guar gelation
Authors: Perrin Andrea , Goodwin Melissa J. , Musa Osama M. , Yufit Dmitry S. , Steed Jonathan W.
Published: November 2017

Boric acid/lactam co-crystals have been applied as novel delivery agents for guar cross-linking.
Analytical solution of the PELDOR inverse problem using the integral Mellin transform
Authors: Matveeva Anna G. , Nekrasov Vyacheslav M. , Maryasov Alexander G.
Published: November 2017

The model-free approach used does not introduce systematic distortions in the computed distance distribution function between two spins and appears to result in noise grouping in the short distance range.
Solvatochromism in perylene diimides; experiment and theory
Authors: Fuller C. A. , Finlayson C. E.
Published: November 2017

Combined spectroscopic and theoretical study of perylene derivatives, aiming towards improved empirical models of solvatochromism effects in small molecule chromophores.
Stable Fe nanomagnets encapsulated inside vertically-aligned carbon nanotubes
Authors: Bondino Federica , Magnano Elena , Ciancio Regina , Castellarin Cudia Carla , Barla Alessandro , Carlino Elvio , Yakhou-Harris Flora , Rupesinghe Nalin , Cepek Cinzia
Published: November 2017

Element-specific and surface-sensitive measurements provide evidence of magnetic remanence up to room temperature, low coercivity and high stability of 5–10 nm iron metal nanoparticles encapsulated inside the tip of vertically-aligned mm-long carbon nanotubes.
Tuning the inter-molecular charge transfer, second-order nonlinear optical and absorption spectra properties of a π-dimer under an external electric field
Authors: Gao Feng-Wei , Xu Hong-liang , Su Zhong-Min
Published: November 2017

Different strengths of external electric fields enhance the stability, control the inter-molecular charge transfer and strengthen the nonlinear optical responses of a π-dimer.
An efficient organic magnesium borate-based electrolyte with non-nucleophilic characteristics for magnesium–sulfur battery
Authors: Du Aobing , Zhang Zhonghua , Qu Hongtao , Cui Zili , Qiao Lixin , Wang Longlong , Chai Jingchao , Lu Tao , Dong Shanmu , Dong Tiantian , Xu Huimin , Zhou Xinhong , Cui Guanglei
Published: November 2017

An efficient organic magnesium borate-based electrolyte with non-nucleophilic characteristics for magnesium–sulfur battery.
Base-mediated tandem sulfonylation and oximation of alkenes in water
Authors: Wang Bin , Tang Lin , Liu Liyan , Li Yanan , Yang Yu , Wang Zhiyong
Published: November 2017

A base-mediated bifunctionalization of alkenes for the synthesis of α-sulfonylethanone oximes was developed in water under metal-free conditions. This reaction features a wide substrate scope and facile starting materials to afford the desired products in high yields.
The excellent dye-photosensitized degradation performance over hierarchical BiOCl nanostructures fabricated via a facile microwave-hydrothermal process
Authors: Liu Renyue , Wu Zhen , Tian Jian , Yu Changlin , Li Shaoyu , Yang Kai , Liu Xingqiang , Liu Minchao
Published: November 2017

The hierarchical BiOCl nanostructure was fabricated via a facile microwave-hydrothermal process, showing an excellent dye-photosensitized degradation performance.
Cytotoxic neolignans from the traditional Chinese medicine Daphniphyllum macropodum Miq.
Authors: Ma Xinhua , Yang Jie , Brown Christopher L. , Wang Chao , Deng Shihao , Ke Ruifang , Xu Shicheng , Huang Mi , Yang Xinzhou , Feng Yunjiang
Published: November 2017

Four new neolignans (1–4) were isolated from the seeds of Daphniphyllum macropodum Miq. and the evaluated for their antiproliferative activity showed that 2 could induced the apoptosis in A549 cells through activating the mitochondrial pathway.
Tailored sol–gel immobilized lipase preparates for the enzymatic kinetic resolution of heteroaromatic alcohols in batch and continuous flow systems
Authors: Moisă Mădălina Elena , Spelmezan Cristina Georgiana , Paul Cristina , Bartha-Vári Judith Hajnal , Bencze László Csaba , Irimie Florin Dan , Paizs Csaba , Péter Fráncisc , Toşa Monica Ioana
Published: November 2017

The EKR of some heteroaromatic secondary ethanols with tailored sol–gel immobilized lipases in batch and continuous-flow reactors was studied. The productivity in continuous-flow mode is higher than in batch mode.