bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An integrative approach unveils FOSL1 as an oncogene vulnerability in KRAS-driven lung and pancreatic cancer
Authors: Vallejo Adrian , Perurena Naiara , Guruceaga Elisabet , Mazur Pawel K. , Martinez-Canarias Susana , Zandueta Carolina , Valencia Karmele , Arricibita Andrea , Gwinn Dana , Sayles Leanne C. , Chuang Chen-Hua , Guembe Laura , Bailey Peter , Chang David K. , Biankin Andrew , Ponz-Sarvise Mariano , Andersen Jesper B. , Khatri Purvesh , Bozec Aline , Sweet-Cordero E. Alejandro , Sage Julien , Lecanda Fernando , Vicent Silve
Published: February 2017

KRAS mutated tumours represent a large fraction of human cancers, but the vast majority remains refractory to current clinical therapies. Thus, a deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms triggered by KRAS oncogene may yield alternative therapeutic strategies. Here we report the identification of a common transcriptional signature across mutant KRAS cancers of distinct tissue origin that includes the transcription factor FOSL1. High FOSL1 expression identifies mutant KRAS lung and pancreatic cancer patients with the worst survival outcome. Furthermore, FOSL1 genetic inhibition is detrimental to both KRAS-driven tumour types. Mechanistically, FOSL1 links the KRAS oncogene to components of the mitotic machinery, a pathway previously postulated to function orthogonally to oncogenic KRAS. FOSL1 targets include AURKA, whose inhibition impairs viability of mutant KRAS cells. Lastly, combination of AURKA and MEK inhibitors induces a deleterious effect on mutant KRAS cells. Our findings unveil KRAS downstream effectors that provide opportunities to treat KRAS-driven cancers.
Understanding the glacial methane cycle
Authors: Hopcroft Peter O. , Valdes Paul J. , O’Connor Fiona M. , Kaplan Jed O. , Beerling David J.
Published: February 2017

Atmospheric methane (CH4) varied with climate during the Quaternary, rising from a concentration of 375 p.p.b.v. during the last glacial maximum (LGM) 21,000 years ago, to 680 p.p.b.v. at the beginning of the industrial revolution. However, the causes of this increase remain unclear; proposed hypotheses rely on fluctuations in either the magnitude of CH4 sources or CH4 atmospheric lifetime, or both. Here we use an Earth System model to provide a comprehensive assessment of these competing hypotheses, including estimates of uncertainty. We show that in this model, the global LGM CH4 source was reduced by 28–46%, and the lifetime increased by 2–8%, with a best-estimate LGM CH4 concentration of 463–480 p.p.b.v. Simulating the observed LGM concentration requires a 46–49% reduction in sources, indicating that we cannot reconcile the observed amplitude. This highlights the need for better understanding of the effects of low CO2 and cooler climate on wetlands and other natural CH4 sources.
NO3− anions can act as Lewis acid in the solid state
Authors: Bauzá Antonio , Frontera Antonio , Mooibroek Tiddo J.
Published: February 2017

Identifying electron donating and accepting moieties is crucial to understanding molecular aggregation, which is of pivotal significance to biology. Anions such as NO3− are typical electron donors. However, computations predict that the charge distribution of NO3− is anisotropic and minimal on nitrogen. Here we show that when the nitrate’s charge is sufficiently dampened by resonating over a larger area, a Lewis acidic site emerges on nitrogen that can interact favourably with electron rich partners. Surveys of the Cambridge Structural Database and Protein Data Bank reveal geometric preferences of some oxygen and sulfur containing entities around a nitrate anion that are consistent with this ‘π-hole bonding’ geometry. Computations reveal donor–acceptor orbital interactions that confirm the counterintuitive Lewis π–acidity of nitrate.
Tumour and host cell PD-L1 is required to mediate suppression of anti-tumour immunity in mice
Authors: Lau Janet , Cheung Jeanne , Navarro Armando , Lianoglou Steve , Haley Benjamin , Totpal Klara , Sanders Laura , Koeppen Hartmut , Caplazi Patrick , McBride Jacqueline , Chiu Henry , Hong Rebecca , Grogan Jane , Javinal Vincent , Yauch Robert , Irving Bryan , Belvin Marcia , Mellman Ira , Kim Jeong M. , Schmidt Maike
Published: February 2017

Expression of PD-L1, the ligand for T-cell inhibitory receptor PD-1, is one key immunosuppressive mechanism by which cancer avoids eradication by the immune system. Therapeutic use of blocking antibodies to PD-L1 or its receptor PD-1 has produced unparalleled, durable clinical responses, with highest likelihood of response seen in patients whose tumour or immune cells express PD-L1 before therapy. The significance of PD-L1 expression in each cell type has emerged as a central and controversial unknown in the clinical development of immunotherapeutics. Using genetic deletion in preclinical mouse models, here we show that PD-L1 from disparate cellular sources, including tumour cells, myeloid or other immune cells can similarly modulate the degree of cytotoxic T-cell function and activity in the tumour microenvironment. PD-L1 expression in both the host and tumour compartment contribute to immune suppression in a non-redundant fashion, suggesting that both sources could be predictive of sensitivity to therapeutic agents targeting the PD-L1/PD-1 axis.
Correction: Corrigendum: How a life-like system emerges from a simple particle motion law
Authors: Schmickl Thomas , Stefanec Martin , Crailsheim Karl
Published: February 2017

Scientific Reports 6: Article number: 37969; published online: 30 November 2016; updated: 21 February 2017. In the original version of this Article, all instances of “simple” were incorrectly given as “simplistic”. This error has now been corrected in the PDF and HTML versions of the Article.
Stellera chamaejasme and its constituents induce cutaneous wound healing and anti-inflammatory activities
Authors: Kim Myungsuk , Lee Hee Ju , Randy Ahmad , Yun Ji Ho , Oh Sang-Rok , Nho Chu Won
Published: February 2017

Stellera chamaejasmeL. (Thymelaeaceae) is a perennial herb that is widely used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat tumours, tuberculosis and psoriasis.S. chamaejasmeextract (SCE) possesses anti-inflammatory, analgesic and wound healing activities; however, the effect ofS. chamaejasmeand its active compounds on cutaneous wound healing has not been investigated. We assessed full-thickness wounds of Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats and topically applied SCE for 2 weeks.In vitrostudies were performed using HaCaT keratinocytes, Hs68 dermal fibroblasts and RAW 264.7 macrophages to determine cell viability (MTT assay), cell migration, collagen expression, nitric oxide (NO) production, prostaglandin E2(PGE2) production, inflammatory cytokine expression and β-catenin activation.In vivo, wound size was reduced and epithelisation was improved in SCE-treated SD rats.In vitro, SCE and its active compounds induced keratinocyte migration by regulating the β-catenin, extracellular signal-regulated kinase and Akt signalling pathways. Furthermore, SCE and its active compounds increased mRNA expression of type I and III collagen in Hs68 fibroblasts. SCE and chamechromone inhibited NO and PGE2release and mRNA expression of inflammatory mediators in RAW 264.7 macrophages. SCE enhances the motility of HaCaT keratinocytes and improves cutaneous wound healing in SD rats.
Correction: Corrigendum: Structures, Phase Transitions and Tricritical Behavior of the Hybrid Perovskite Methyl Ammonium Lead Iodide
Authors: Whitfield P. S. , Herron N. , Guise W. E. , Page K. , Cheng Y. Q. , Milas I. , Crawford M. K.
Published: February 2017

Scientific Reports 6: Article number: 35685; published online: 21 October 2016; updated: 21 February 2017. In this Article, there are errors in the figure legends: In Figure 6c: ‘Lattice parameters determined from the synchrotron X-ray diffraction scans of the cubic 200 and tetragonal 220/004 Bragg peaks.
A simple approach for preparation of affinity matrices: Simultaneous purification and reversible immobilization of a streptavidin mutein to agarose matrix
Authors: Wu Sau-Ching , Wang Chris , Hansen Dave , Wong Sui-Lam
Published: February 2017

SAVSBPM18 is an engineered streptavidin for affinity purification of both biotinylated biomolecules and recombinant proteins tagged with streptavidin binding peptide (SBP) tags. To develop a user-friendly approach for the preparation of the SAVSBPM18-based affinity matrices, a designer fusion protein containing SAVSBPM18 and a galactose binding domain was engineered. The galactose binding domain derived from the earthworm lectin EW29 was genetically modified to eliminate a proteolytic cleavage site located at the beginning of the domain. This domain was fused to the C-terminal end of SAVSBPM18. It allows the SAVSBPM18 fusions to bind reversibly to agarose and can serve as an affinity handle for purification of the fusion. Fluorescently labeled SAVSBPM18 fusions were found to be stably immobilized on Sepharose 6B-CL. The enhanced immobilization capability of the fusion to the agarose beads results from the avidity effect mediated by the tetrameric nature of SAVSBPM18. This approach allows the consolidation of purification and immobilization of SAVSBPM18 fusions to Sepharose 6B-CL in one step for affinity matrix preparation. The resulting affinity matrix has been successfully applied to purify both SBP tagged β-lactamase and biotinylated proteins. No significant reduction in binding capacity of the column was observed for at least six months.
Heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein A1 regulates rhythmic synthesis of mouse Nfil3 protein via IRES-mediated translation
Authors: Kim Hyo-Jin , Lee Hwa-Rim , Seo Ji-Young , Ryu Hye Guk , Lee Kyung-Ha , Kim Do-Yeon , Kim Kyong-Tai
Published: February 2017

Nuclear factor, interleukin 3, regulated (Nfil3, also known as E4 Promoter-Binding Protein 4 (E4BP4)) protein is a transcription factor that binds to DNA and generally represses target gene expression. In the circadian clock system, Nfil3 binds to a D-box element residing in the promoter of clock genes and contributes to their robust oscillation. Here, we show that the 5′-untranslated region (5′-UTR) of Nfil3 mRNA contains an internal ribosome entry site (IRES) and that IRES-mediated translation occurs in a phase-dependent manner. We demonstrate that heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein A1 (hnRNP A1) binds to a specific region of Nfil3 mRNA and regulates IRES-mediated translation. Knockdown of hnRNP A1 almost completely abolishes protein oscillation without affecting mRNA oscillation. Moreover, we observe that intracellular calcium levels, which are closely related to bone formation, depend on Nfil3 levels in osteoblast cell lines. We suggest that the 5′-UTR mediated cap-independent translation of Nfil3 mRNA contributes to the rhythmic expression of Nfil3 by interacting with the RNA binding protein hnRNP A1. These data provide new evidence that the posttranscriptional regulation of clock gene expression is important during bone metabolism.
The distribution of the apparent diffusion coefficient as an indicator of the response to chemotherapeutics in ovarian tumour xenografts
Authors: Tourell Monique C. , Shokoohmand Ali , Landgraf Marietta , Holzapfel Nina P. , Poh Patrina S. P. , Loessner Daniela , Momot Konstantin I.
Published: February 2017

Diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (DW-MRI) was used to evaluate the effects of single-agent and combination treatment regimens in a spheroid-based animal model of ovarian cancer. Ovarian tumour xenografts grown in non-obese diabetic/severe-combined-immunodeficiency (NOD/SCID) mice were treated with carboplatin or paclitaxel, or combination carboplatin/paclitaxel chemotherapy regimens. After 4 weeks of treatment, tumours were extracted and underwent DW-MRI, mechanical testing, immunohistochemical and gene expression analyses. The distribution of the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) exhibited an upward shift as a result of each treatment regimen. The 99-th percentile of the ADC distribution (“maximum ADC”) exhibited a strong correlation with the tumour size (r2 = 0.90) and with the inverse of the elastic modulus (r2 = 0.96). Single-agent paclitaxel (n = 5) and combination carboplatin/paclitaxel (n = 2) treatment regimens were more effective in inducing changes in regions of higher cell density than single-agent carboplatin (n = 3) or the no-treatment control (n = 5). The maximum ADC was a good indicator of treatment-induced cell death and changes in the extracellular matrix (ECM). Comparative analysis of the tumours’ ADC distribution, mechanical properties and ECM constituents provides insights into the molecular and cellular response of the ovarian tumour xenografts to chemotherapy. Increased sample sizes are recommended for future studies. We propose experimental approaches to evaluation of the timeline of the tumour’s response to treatment.
Image-based adaptive optics for in vivo imaging in the hippocampus
Authors: Champelovier D. , Teixeira J. , Conan J.-M. , Balla N. , Mugnier L. M. , Tressard T. , Reichinnek S. , Meimon S. , Cossart R. , Rigneault H. , Monneret S. , Malvache A.
Published: February 2017

Adaptive optics is a promising technique for the improvement of microscopy in tissues. A large palette of indirect and direct wavefront sensing methods has been proposed for in vivo imaging in experimental animal models. Application of most of these methods to complex samples suffers from either intrinsic and/or practical difficulties. Here we show a theoretically optimized wavefront correction method for inhomogeneously labeled biological samples. We demonstrate its performance at a depth of 200 μm in brain tissue within a sparsely labeled region such as the pyramidal cell layer of the hippocampus, with cells expressing GCamP6. This method is designed to be sample-independent thanks to an automatic axial locking on objects of interest through the use of an image-based metric that we designed. Using this method, we show an increase of in vivo imaging quality in the hippocampus.
NMDA Receptor Expression in the Thalamus of the Stargazer Model of Absence Epilepsy
Authors: Barad Z. , Grattan D. R. , Leitch B.
Published: February 2017

In the stargazer mouse model of absence epilepsy, altered corticothalamic excitation of reticular thalamic nucleus (RTN) neurons has been suggested to contribute to abnormal synchronicity in the corticothalamic-thalamocortical circuit, leading to spike-wave discharges, the hallmark of absence seizures. AMPA receptor expression and function are decreased in stargazer RTN, due to a mutation of AMPAR auxiliary subunit stargazin. It is unresolved and debated, however, if decreased excitation of RTN is compatible with epileptogenesis. We tested the hypothesis that relative NMDAR expression may be increased in RTN and/or thalamic synapses in stargazers using Western blot on dissected thalamic nuclei and biochemically isolated synapses, as well as immunogold cytochemistry in RTN. Expression of main NMDAR subunits was variable in stargazer RTN and relay thalamus; however, mean expression values were not statistically significantly different compared to controls. Furthermore, no systematic changes in synaptic NMDAR levels could be detected in stargazer thalamus. In contrast, AMPAR subunits were markedly decreased in both nucleus-specific and synaptic preparations. Thus, defective AMPAR trafficking in stargazer thalamus does not appear to lead to a ubiquitous compensatory increase in total and synaptic NMDAR expression, suggesting that elevated NMDAR function is not mediated by changes in protein expression in stargazer mice.
Image processing in digital pathology: an opportunity to solve inter-batch variability of immunohistochemical staining
Authors: Van Eycke Yves-Rémi , Allard Justine , Salmon Isabelle , Debeir Olivier , Decaestecker Christine
Published: February 2017

Immunohistochemistry (IHC) is a widely used technique in pathology to evidence protein expression in tissue samples. However, this staining technique is known for presenting inter-batch variations. Whole slide imaging in digital pathology offers a possibility to overcome this problem by means of image normalisation techniques. In the present paper we propose a methodology to objectively evaluate the need of image normalisation and to identify the best way to perform it. This methodology uses tissue microarray (TMA) materials and statistical analyses to evidence the possible variations occurring at colour and intensity levels as well as to evaluate the efficiency of image normalisation methods in correcting them. We applied our methodology to test different methods of image normalisation based on blind colour deconvolution that we adapted for IHC staining. These tests were carried out for different IHC experiments on different tissue types and targeting different proteins with different subcellular localisations. Our methodology enabled us to establish and to validate inter-batch normalization transforms which correct the non-relevant IHC staining variations. The normalised image series were then processed to extract coherent quantitative features characterising the IHC staining patterns.
Elevated expression of placental growth factor is associated with airway-wall vascular remodelling and thickening in smokers with asthma
Authors: Wu Dong , Lai Tianwen , Yuan Yalian , Chen Min , Xia Jun , Li Wen , Pan Guihai , Yuan Binfan , Lv Quanchao , Li Yanyu , Li Dongmin , Wu Bin
Published: February 2017

The increased expression of placental growth factor (PlGF) in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and allergy-related asthma suggests its role in the pathogenesis of these diseases. In asthmatic smokers, airway remodelling is accompanied by an accelerated decline in lung function. However, whether PlGF contributes to the persistent airflow obstruction and vascular remodelling typically seen in asthmatic smokers is unknown. In this study we measured lung function, airway-wall thickening, and PlGF levels in serum and induced sputum in 74 asthmatic and 42 healthy smokers and never-smokers. Using human lung microvascular endothelial cells (HLMECs), we evaluated the in vitro effects of PlGF on each step of vascular remodelling, including proliferation, migration, stress-fibre expression, and tubule formation. Our data showed significantly higher serum and sputum PlGF levels in asthma patients, especially asthmatic smokers, than in healthy controls. Serum and sputum PlGF levels correlated negatively with post-bronchodilator forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) and the FEV1/forced vital capacity, but positively with airway-wall thickening. Stimulation of HLMECs with rhPlGF promoted all of the steps of airway-microvascular remodelling. These findings provide insights into the influence of cigarette smoking on the structural changes in the airways of asthmatics and the important pathogenic role played by PlGF.
Electrically tunable metasurface based on Mie-type dielectric resonators
Authors: Su Zhaoxian , Zhao Qian , Song Kun , Zhao Xiaopeng , Yin Jianbo
Published: February 2017

In this paper, we have designed a metasurface based on electrically tunable Mie-type resonators and theoretically demonstrated its tunable response to electromagnetic waves with varying frequency. The metasurface consists of disk-like ferroelectric resonators arrayed on a metal film and the upper surface of resonators is covered by ion gel film which is transparent for incident electromagnetic wave. Using the metal film and ion gel film as electrodes, the permittivity of the resonators can be adjusted by an external electric field and, as a result, the reflection phase of the resonators can be dynamically adjusted in a relatively wide range. By programmable controlling the electric field strength applied on resonators of metasurface, a 2π phase ramp can be realized and, thereby, the arbitrary reflection behavior of incident waves with varied frequency is obtained. Because of the tunability, this metasurface can also be used to design adaptive metasurface lens and carpet cloak.
A Phylogenetic Perspective on Biogeographical Divergence of the Flora in Yunnan, Southwestern China
Authors: Liu Shuiyin , Zhu Hua , Yang Jie
Published: February 2017

In recent years, an increasing number of studies incorporated biogeography with phylogenetic analyses to reveal the origin and evolutionary history of specific floras. In this study, we constructed the mega-phylogeny of the floras of three representative regions across Yunnan, southwestern China. We analyzed the phylogenetic structure and beta diversity based on the presence/absence of species (genus or family) data to investigate the phylogenetic patterns of regional floras. We found conspicuous divergence at the genus and species level in the pattern of phylogenetic structures, which most likely related to historical biogeography. The flora of southern Yunnan was shaped by the strike-slip extrusion of Indochina and the regional climatic stability, while the flora of northwestern Yunnan was shaped by the uplift of the Himalaya-Tibetan Plateau and the oscillations of the glacial-interglacial periods. The flora of central Yunnan had nearly equal proportions of the northern and southern floras that may be derived from a common Tertiary tropical or subtropical flora. Geological events fit well with the floristic and phylogenetic patterns across Yunnan. This study highlighted the importance of linking phylogenetic analyses to biogeographic interpretations to improve our understanding of the origin, evolution and divergence of regional floras.
First-Principles Correlated Approach to the Normal State of Strontium Ruthenate
Authors: Acharya S. , Laad M. S. , Dey Dibyendu , Maitra T. , Taraphder A.
Published: February 2017

The interplay between multiple bands, sizable multi-band electronic correlations and strong spin-orbit coupling may conspire in selecting a rather unusual unconventional pairing symmetry in layered Sr2RuO4. This mandates a detailed revisit of the normal state and, in particular, the T-dependent incoherence-coherence crossover. Using a modern first-principles correlated view, we study this issue in the actual structure of Sr2RuO4 and present a unified and quantitative description of a range of unusual physical responses in the normal state. Armed with these, we propose that a new and important element, that of dominant multi-orbital charge fluctuations in a Hund’s metal, may be a primary pair glue for unconventional superconductivity. Thereby we establish a connection between the normal state responses and superconductivity in this system.
First evidence of denitrification vis-à-vis monsoon in the Arabian Sea since Late Miocene
Authors: Tripathi Shubham , Tiwari Manish , Lee Jongmin , Khim Boo-Keun ,   IODP Expedition 355 Scientists, Pandey Dhananjai K. , Clift Peter D. , Kulhanek Denise K. , Andò Sergio , Bendle James A.P. , Aharonovich Sophia , Griffith Elizabeth M. , Gurumurthy Gundiga P. , Hahn Annette , Iwai Masao , Kumar Anil , Kumar A. Ganesh , Liddy Hannah M. , Lu Huayu , Lyle Mitchell W. , Mishra Ravi , Radhakrishna Tallavajhala , Routledge Claire M. , Saraswat Rajeev , Saxena Rakesh , Scardia Giancarlo , Sharma Girish K. , Singh Arun D. , Steinke Stephan , Suzuki Kenta , Tauxe Lisa , Xu Zhaokai , Yu Zhaojie
Published: February 2017

In the Arabian Sea, South Asian monsoon (SAM)-induced high surface water productivity coupled with poor ventilation of intermediate water results in strong denitrification within the oxygen minimum zone (OMZ). Despite the significance of denitrification in the Arabian Sea, we have no long-term record of its evolution spanning the past several million years. Here, we present the first record of denitrification evolution since Late Miocene (~10.2 Ma) in the Eastern Arabian Sea, where the SAM generates moderate surface water productivity, based on the samples retrieved during the International Ocean Discovery Program (IODP) Expedition 355. We find that (i) the SAM was persistently weaker from ~10.2 to 3.1 Ma; it did not intensify at ~8 Ma in contrast to a few previous studies, (ii) on tectonic timescale, both the SAM and the East Asian Monsoon (EAM) varied synchronously, (iii) the first evidence of denitrification and productivity/SAM intensification was at ~3.2–2.8 Ma that coincided with Mid-Pliocene Warm Period (MPWP), and (iv) the modern strength of the OMZ where denitrification is a permanent feature was attained at ~1.0 Ma.
The Correlation and Risk Factors between Carotid Intima-Media Thickening and Alcoholic Liver Disease Coupled with Helicobacter pylori Infection
Authors: Bao-Ge Qu , Hui Wang , Yi-Guo Jia , Ji-Liang Su , Zhong-Dong Wang , Ya-Fei Wang , Xing-Hai Han , Yuan-Xun Liu , Jin-Dun Pan , Guang-Ying Ren
Published: February 2017

The aim of this study was to explore the associations and differences in influencing factors between alcoholic liver disease (ALD) coupled with Helicobacter pylori infection and atherosclerosis and to determine whether there is a “double hit phenomenon” in atherosclerosis patients with ALD and H. pylori infections. Included cases (n = 160) were categorized into 4 groups: 41 cases of ALD coupled with H. pylori infections (group A), 35 cases of H. pylori infections without ALD (group B), 37 cases of ALD without H. pylori infections (group C), and 47 normal control cases (group D). CIMT was significantly greater in group A than in groups B and D (P = 0.005 and P = 0.001, respectively). The GLM univariate analysis found that CIMT was significantly greater in group A than in groups B, C and D (P = 0.018, P = 0.001 and P = 0.009, respectively). We found that BMI and ALT, AST and ApoB levels were independent predictors of CIMT (P = 0.000, P = 0.000, P = 0.012 and P = 0.014, respectively). ALD coupled with H. pylori infection may result in significant CIMT thickening, but H. pylori infection without ALD and ALD without H. pylori infection does not, suggesting that a “double hit phenomenon” occurs. Additionally, BMI, and ALT, AST and ApoB levels were independent risk factors for increased CIMT.
Earth’s oldest ‘Bobbit worm’ – gigantism in a Devonian eunicidan polychaete
Authors: Eriksson Mats E. , Parry Luke A. , Rudkin David M.
Published: February 2017

Whilst the fossil record of polychaete worms extends to the early Cambrian, much data on this group derive from microfossils known as scolecodonts. These are sclerotized jaw elements, which generally range from 0.1–2 mm in size, and which, in contrast to the soft-body anatomy, have good preservation potential and a continuous fossil record. Here we describe a new eunicidan polychaete,Websteroprion armstrongigen. et sp. nov., based primarily on monospecific bedding plane assemblages from the Lower-Middle Devonian Kwataboahegan Formation of Ontario, Canada. The specimens are preserved mainly as three-dimensional moulds in the calcareous host rock, with only parts of the original sclerotized jaw walls occasionally present. This new taxon has a unique morphology and is characterized by an unexpected combination of features seen in several different Palaeozoic polychaete families.Websteroprion armstrongiwas a raptorial feeder and possessed the largest jaws recorded in polychaetes from the fossil record, with maxillae reaching over one centimetre in length. Total body length of the species is estimated to have reached over one metre, which is comparable to that of extant ‘giant eunicid’ species colloquially referred to as ‘Bobbit worms’. This demonstrates that polychaete gigantism was already a phenomenon in the Palaeozoic, some 400 million years ago.
General planar transverse domain walls realized by optimized transverse magnetic field pulses in magnetic biaxial nanowires
Authors: Li Mei , Wang Jianbo , Lu Jie
Published: February 2017

The statics and field-driven dynamics of transverse domain walls (TDWs) in magnetic nanowires (NWs) have attracted continuous interests because of their theoretical significance and application potential in future magnetic logic and memory devices. Recent results demonstrate that uniform transverse magnetic fields (TMFs) can greatly enhance the wall velocity, meantime leave a twisting in the TDW azimuthal distribution. For application in high-density NW devices, it is preferable to erase the twisting so as to minimize magnetization frustrations. Here we report the realization of a completely planar TDW with arbitrary tilting attitude in a magnetic biaxial NW under a TMF pulse with fixed strength and well-designed orientation profile. We smooth any twisting in the TDW azimuthal plane thus completely decouple the polar and azimuthal degrees of freedom. The analytical differential equation describing the polar angle distribution is derived and the resulting solution is not the Walker-ansatz form. With this TMF pulse comoving, the field-driven dynamics of the planar TDW is investigated with the help of the asymptotic expansion method. It turns out the comoving TMF pulse increases the wall velocity under the same axial driving field. These results will help to design a series of modern magnetic devices based on planar TDWs.
Modeling contribution of shallow groundwater to evapotranspiration and yield of maize in an arid area
Authors: Gao Xiaoyu , Huo Zailin , Qu Zhongyi , Xu Xu , Huang Guanhua , Steenhuis Tammo S.
Published: February 2017

Capillary rise from shallow groundwater can decrease the need for irrigation water. However, simple techniques do not exist to quantify the contribution of capillary flux to crop water use. In this study we develop the Agricultural Water Productivity Model for Shallow Groundwater (AWPM-SG) for calculating capillary fluxes from shallow groundwater using readily available data. The model combines an analytical solution of upward flux from groundwater with the EPIC crop growth model. AWPM-SG was calibrated and validated with 2-year lysimetric experiment with maize. Predicted soil moisture, groundwater depth and leaf area index agreed with the observations. To investigate the response of model, various scenarios were run in which the irrigation amount and groundwater depth were varied. Simulations shows that at groundwater depth of 1 m capillary upward supplied 41% of the evapotranspiration. This reduced to 6% at groundwater depth of 2 m. The yield per unit water consumed (water productivity) was nearly constant for 2.3 kg/m3. The yield per unit water applied (irrigation water productivity) increased with decreasing irrigation water because capillary rise made up in part for the lack of irrigation water. Consequently, using AWPM-SG in irrigation scheduling will be beneficial to save more water in areas with shallow groundwater.
Response of rhizosphere soil microbial to Deyeuxia angustifolia encroaching in two different vegetation communities in alpine tundra
Authors: Li Lin , Xing Ming , Lv Jiangwei , Wang Xiaolong , Chen Xia
Published: February 2017

Deyeuxia angustifolia(Komarov) Y. L Chang is an herb species originating from the birch forests in the Changbai Mountain. Recently, this species has been found encroaching into large areas in the western slopes of the alpine tundra in the Changbai Mountain, threatening the tundra ecosystem. In this study, we systematically assessed the response of the rhizosphere soil microbial toD. angustifoliaencroaching in alpine tundra by conducting experiments for two vegetation types (shrubs and herbs) by real-time PCR and Illumina Miseq sequencing methods. The treatments consisted ofD. angustifoliasites (DA), native sites (NS, NH) and encroaching sites (ES, EH). Our results show that (1) Rhizosphere soil properties of the alpine tundra were significantly impacted byD. angustifoliaencroaching; microbial nutrient cycling and soil bacterial communities were shaped to be suitable forD. angustifoliagrowth; (2) The two vegetation community rhizosphere soils responded differently toD. angustifoliaencroaching; (3) By encroaching into both vegetation communities,D. angustifoliacould effectively replace the native species by establishing positive plant-soil feedback. The strong adaptation and assimilative capacity contributed toD. angustifoliaencroaching in the alpine tundra. Our research indicates thatD. angustifoliasignificantly impacts the rhizosphere soil microbial of the alpine tundra.
Clinical Investigation of the Posterior scleral contraction to Treat Macular Traction Maculopathy in Highly Myopic Eyes
Authors: Pan An-Peng , Wan Ting , Zhu Shuang-Qian , Dong Liang , Xue An-Quan
Published: February 2017

Myopic traction maculopathy (MTM) can cause vision disabilities in highly myopic eyes. This retrospective case series investigated the clinical outcomes of posterior scleral contraction (PSC) using genipin-cross-linked sclera as the material to treat MTM in highly myopic eyes. In total, 32 eyes from 29 highly myopic patients who underwent PSC for MTM were recruited. The changes in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and axial length were evaluated, macular reattachment and macular hole (MH) closure was assessed by optical coherence tomography, and complications were evaluated. At the final follow-up, the retina was completely reattached in 25 eyes (78.1%), essentially reattached in 4 eyes (12.5%), and partially reattached in 3 eyes (9.4%). The logMAR BCVA improved significantly from 1.18 ± 0.45 preoperatively to 0.87 ± 0.45 postoperatively (P < 0.001). The 32 eyes were further divided into the MH group (16 eyes) and the non-MH group (16 eyes) for comparison. The MH was closed in 9 eyes (56.3%). The retinal reattachment rate was 75.0% in the MH group and 81.25% in the non-MH group, and the logMAR BCVA improved significantly in both groups. The PSC using genipin-cross-linked sclera as the material can effectively treat MTM in highly myopic eyes, and significant visual improvement can be achieved with minimal complications.
No evidence for the presence of genetic variants predisposing to psychotic disorders on the non-deleted 22q11.2 allele of VCFS patients
Authors: Guipponi M , Santoni F , Schneider M , Gehrig C , Bustillo X B , Kates W R , Morrow B , Armando M , Vicari S , Sloan-Béna F , Gagnebin M , Shashi V , Hooper S R , Eliez S , Antonarakis S E
Published: February 2017

The velo-cardio-facial syndrome (VCFS) is caused by hemizygous deletions on chromosome 22q11.2. The VCFS phenotype is complex and characterized by frequent occurrence of neuropsychiatric symptoms with up to 25–30% of cases suffering from psychotic disorders compared with only ~1% in the general population (odds ratio≈20–25). This makes the 22q11.2 deletion one of the most prominent risk factors for schizophrenia. However, its penetrance for neuropsychiatric phenotypes is incomplete suggesting that additional risk factors are required for disease development. These additional risk factors could lie anywhere on the genome, but by reducing the normal diploid to a haploid state, the 22q11.2 deletion could result in the unmasking of otherwise recessive alleles or functional variants on the non-deleted 22q11.2 allele. To test this hypothesis, we captured and sequenced the whole 22q11.2 non-deleted region in 88 VCFS patients with (n=40) and without (n=48) psychotic disorders to identify genetic variation that could increase the risk for schizophrenia. Single nucleotide variants (SNVs), small insertions/deletions (indels) and copy number variants were called and their distributions were compared between the two diagnostic groups using variant-, gene- and region-based association tests. None of these tests resulted in statistical evidence for the existence of a genetic variation in the non-deleted allele that would increase schizophrenia risk in VCFS patients. Power analysis showed that our study was able to achieve >80% statistical power to detect association of a risk variant with an odd ratio of ⩾22. However, it is certainly under-powered to detect risk variant of smaller effect sizes. Our study did not provide evidence that genetic variants of very large effect size located on the non-deleted 22q1.2 allele in VCFS patients increase the risk for developing psychotic disorders. Variants with smaller effects may be located in the remaining 22q11.2 allele and elsewhere in the genome. Therefore, whole exome or even genome sequencing for larger sample size would appear to be the next logical steps in the search for the genetic modifiers of the 22q11.2-deletion neuropsychiatric phenotype.
Transcriptomic analyses and leukocyte telomere length measurement in subjects exposed to severe recent stressful life events
Authors: Lopizzo N , Tosato S , Begni V , Tomassi S , Cattane N , Barcella M , Turco G , Ruggeri M , Riva M A , Pariante C M , Cattaneo A
Published: February 2017

Stressful life events occurring in adulthood have been found able to affect mood and behavior, thus increasing the vulnerability for several stress-related psychiatric disorders. However, although there is plenty of clinical data supporting an association between stressful life events in adulthood and an enhanced vulnerability for psychopathology, the underlying molecular mechanisms are still poorly investigated. Thus, in this study we performed peripheral/whole-genome transcriptomic analyses in blood samples obtained from 53 adult subjects characterized for recent stressful life events occurred within the previous 6 months. Transcriptomic data were analyzed using Partek Genomics Suite; pathway and network analyses were performed using Ingenuity Pathway Analysis and GeneMANIA Software. We found 207 genes significantly differentially expressed in adult subjects who reported recent stressful life experiences (n=21) compared with those without such experiences (n=32). Moreover, the same subjects exposed to such stressful experiences showed a reduction in leukocyte telomere length. A correlation analyses between telomere length and transcriptomic data indicated an association between the exposures to recent stressful life events and the modulation of several pathways, mainly involved in immune-inflammatory-related processes and oxidative stress, such as natural killer cell signaling, interleukin-1 (IL-1) signaling, MIF regulation of innate immunity and IL-6 signaling. Our data suggest an association between exposures to recent stressful life events in adulthood and alterations in the immune, inflammatory and oxidative stress pathways, which could be also involved in the negative effect of stressful life events on leukocyte telomere length. The modulation of these mechanisms may underlie the clinical association between the exposure to recent Stressful life events in adulthood and an enhanced vulnerability to develop psychiatric diseases in adulthood.
Synthesis of new photosensitive H2BBQ2+[ZnCl4]2−/[(ZnCl)2(μ-BBH)] complexes, through selective oxidation of H2O to H2O2
Authors: Stylianou M. , Hadjiadamou I. , Drouza C. , Hayes S. C. , Lariou E. , Tantis I. , Lianos P. , Tsipis A. C. , Keramidas A. D.
Published: February 2017

A two-electron photosensitive H2O to H2O2oxidizer, H2BBQ2+[ZnCl4]2−/[(ZnCl)2(μ-BBH)], has been synthesized. An aqueous {[(ZnCl)2(μ-BBH)]||H2O2} solar rechargeable galvanic cell has been constructed.
The key role of the composition and structural features in fluoride ion conductivity in tysonite Ce1−xSrxF3−x solid solutions
Authors: Dieudonné Belto , Chable Johann , Body Monique , Legein Christophe , Durand Etienne , Mauvy Fabrice , Fourcade Sébastien , Leblanc Marc , Maisonneuve Vincent , Demourgues Alain
Published: February 2017

Evolution with x of RT ionic conductivity of RE1−xAExF3−x showing that Ce1−xSrxF3−x is the best F− tysonite conductor is discussed.
Solar thermochemical splitting of CO2 into separate streams of CO and O2 with high selectivity, stability, conversion, and efficiency
Authors: Marxer Daniel , Furler Philipp , Takacs Michael , Steinfeld Aldo
Published: February 2017

Solar reactor technology for splitting CO2via a 2-step thermochemical redox cycle using concentrated solar radiation.
Increasing evidence indicates low bioaccumulation of carbon nanotubes
Authors: Bjorkland Rhema , Tobias David A. , Petersen Elijah J.
Published: February 2017

Carbon nanotubes generally appear to form a class that should be designated as a low concern for bioaccumulation.
Shining light on low-temperature methanol aqueous-phase reforming using homogeneous Ru-pincer complexes – operando Raman-GC studies
Authors: Strobel Vinzent , Schuster Julian Jonathan , Braeuer Andreas Siegfried , Vogt Lydia Katharina , Junge Henrik , Haumann Marco
Published: February 2017

A combination of operando Raman spectroscopy with online GC and volume-flow monitoring allows rapid insight into low-temperature methanol reforming.
Deep learning and 3D-DESI imaging reveal the hidden metabolic heterogeneity of cancer
Authors: Inglese Paolo , McKenzie James S. , Mroz Anna , Kinross James , Veselkov Kirill , Holmes Elaine , Takats Zoltan , Nicholson Jeremy K. , Glen Robert C.
Published: February 2017

Imaging using 3-D DESI mass spectral data combined with deep learning reveals the topology and heterogeneity of colorectal cancer.
Synthesis of enaminones via copper-catalyzed decarboxylative coupling reaction under redox-neutral conditions
Authors: Zhu Zhongzhi , Tang Xiaodong , Li Jianxiao , Li Xianwei , Wu Wanqing , Deng Guohua , Jiang Huanfeng
Published: February 2017

A novel copper-catalyzed C(sp3)–H oxidative functionalization of oxime acetates for the synthesis of enaminones under redox-neutral conditions has been developed.
Molecular isomerism induced Fe(ii) spin state difference based on the tautomerization of the 4(5)-methylimidazole group
Authors: Han Wang-Kang , Li Zhi-Hua , Zhu Wei , Li Tao , Li Zaijun , Ren Xuehong , Gu Zhi-Guo
Published: February 2017

Two iron(ii) structural isomers with only one methyl position difference in their ligands exhibit different spin states due to the competition of the electronic effect and steric crowding.
B–B bond activation and NHC ring-expansion reactions of diboron(4) compounds, and accurate molecular structures of B2(NMe2)4, B2eg2, B2neop2and B2pin2
Authors: Eck Martin , Würtemberger-Pietsch Sabrina , Eichhorn Antonius , Berthel Johannes H. J. , Bertermann Rüdiger , Paul Ursula S. D. , Schneider Heidi , Friedrich Alexandra , Kleeberg Christian , Radius Udo , Marder Todd B.
Published: February 2017

B–B bond activation and NHC ring-expansion at low T.
Phosphorescent Pt(ii) complexes bearing a monoanionic C^N^N luminophore and tunable ancillary ligands
Authors: Hebenbrock Marian , Stegemann Linda , Kösters Jutta , Doltsinis Nikos L. , Müller Jens , Strassert Cristian A.
Published: February 2017

A new monoanionic pincer luminophore is presented, yielding phosphorescent Pt(ii) complexes bearing a neutral 1,2,3-triazole ring introduced via click chemistry. The overall charge, intermolecular interactions and excited state properties can be manipulated and controlled.
Steady state statistical correlations predict bistability in reaction motifs
Authors: Chakravarty Suchana , Barik Debashis
Published: February 2017

We show that steady state cross-moments and cross-cumulants predict bistability in feedback-regulated reaction networks.
Iridium catalyzed acceptor/acceptor carbene insertion into N–H bonds in water
Authors: Ramakrishna Kankanala , Sivasankar Chinnappan
Published: February 2017

Carbenes from highly stable acceptor/acceptor diazo compounds can be inserted into the N–H bonds of aromatic amines using an Ir(i) catalyst in an aqueous medium.
Stimuli-responsive liquid crystal physical gels based on the hierarchical superstructures of benzene-1,3,5-tricarboxamide macrogelators
Authors: Choi Yu-Jin , Yoon Won-Jin , Kim Dae-Yoon , Park Minwook , Lee Yumin , Jung Daseal , Kim Jin-Soo , Yu Yeon-Tae , Lee Cheul-Ro , Jeong Kwang-Un
Published: February 2017

Stimuli-responsive liquid crystal physical gels (LCPGs) were fabricated by using the hierarchical superstructures of benzene-1,3,5-tricarboxamide macrogelators in a host nematic LC medium.
Fast power–frequency function estimation for induction heating appliances
Authors: Domingo N. , Barragán L.A. , Montiel J.M.M. , Domínguez A. , Artigas J.I.
Published: February 2017

Induction heating appliances use control algorithms to regulate the power delivered to the vessel in a wide range [50 W–3.5 kW]. Switching frequency is commonly used to control the delivered power, hence an accurate identification of the power–frequency function would be useful, especially in multiple‐output power converters. However, this function exhibits a severe variability due to temperature or vessel‐inductor geometrical alignment, what reduces the performance of the open‐loop control strategies. A method is presented to estimate the power–frequency function in just half a period of the utility voltage. The method packs several switching frequencies in the short identification period. The load is modelled as an equivalent series resistance–inductance, where both parameters vary linearly with respect to the switching frequency. The method is able to safely estimate the function using only switching frequencies well above resonance, but crucially, it is able to extrapolate accurately the delivered power levels even close to resonance.
Reliable emergency message dissemination protocol for urban internet of vehicles
Authors: Zhu Wanting , Gao Deyun , Foh Chuan Heng , Zhang Hongke , Chao Han‐Chieh
Published: February 2017

As an important component of the intelligent transportation system, internet‐of‐vehicles technology has attracted considerable attention. The dissemination of event‐driven emergency messages with high reliability and low delay is vital to ensure traffic safety and improve traffic efficiency in urban environment. In this study, the authors propose a reliable emergency message dissemination protocol taking into account the urban road characteristics and scalability requirements, which consists of a layout‐aware ready‐to‐broadcast‐emergency‐message and clear‐to‐broadcast‐emergency‐message handshake mechanism and a redundant relay node adaptation mechanism. Finally, the simulation results confirm the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed scheme.
Symbol error rate of QO‐STBC based decode‐and‐forward cooperative communication system over generalised – and – fading channels
Authors: Surendar Maruthu , Rajput Sourabh Singh , Muthuchidambaranathan P.
Published: February 2017

In this study, the authors derive the closed form expressions for symbol error rate (SER) of a quasi‐orthogonal space‐time block code (QO‐STBC) based multi‐relay cooperative communication system using M‐ary phase‐shift keying (M‐PSK) modulation over generalised – fading channel. For the same system over – fading channel, due to the unobtainability of the closed form SER expressions, the analysis is restricted to binary‐PSK and the bit error rate (BER) has been derived. The authors employ decode‐and‐forward protocol at the relays and maximal ratio combiner at the destination. For the ease of analysis, the authors consider a three relay cooperative network and the SER has been derived which could be extended to any number of relays or QO‐STBCs. First, the expressions of SER were expressed in terms of moment generating function (MGF) and finally, the available closed form expression for MGF of – and – channel distributions are used to obtain the final expression of theoretical BER/SER. The validity of the obtained BER/SER expressions for a three relay cooperative system are verified through Monte–Carlo simulations by varying the channel parameters of – and – fading channels.