bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The lateral parabrachial nucleus, but not the thalamus, mediates thermosensory pathways for behavioural thermoregulation
Authors: Yahiro Takaki , Kataoka Naoya , Nakamura Yoshiko , Nakamura Kazuhiro
Published: July 2017

Thermoregulatory behaviour, such as migration to a comfortable thermal environment, is a representative innate animal behaviour and facilitates effective autonomic regulation of body temperature with a reduced cost of resources. Here we determine the central thermosensory ascending pathway that transmits information on environmental temperature from cutaneous thermoreceptors to elicit thermoregulatory behaviour. To examine the contribution of the spinothalamocortical pathway, which is known to mediate thermosensory transmission for perception of skin temperature, we lesioned thalamic regions mediating this pathway in rats. Thalamic-lesioned rats showed compromised electroencephalographic responses in the primary somatosensory cortex to changes in skin temperature, indicating functional ablation of the spinothalamocortical pathway. However, these lesioned rats subjected to a two-floor innocuous thermal plate preference test displayed intact heat- and cold-avoidance thermoregulatory behaviours. We then examined the involvement of the lateral parabrachial nucleus (LPB), which mediates cutaneous thermosensory signaling to the thermoregulatory center for autonomic thermoregulation. Inactivation of neurons in the LPB eliminated both heat- and cold-avoidance thermoregulatory behaviours and ablated heat defense. These results demonstrate that the LPB, but not the thalamus, mediates the cutaneous thermosensory neural signaling required for behavioural thermoregulation, contributing to understanding of the central circuit that generates thermal comfort and discomfort underlying thermoregulatory behaviours.
Generation of complement protein C3 deficient pigs by CRISPR/Cas9-mediated gene targeting
Authors: Zhang Wei , Wang Guan , Wang Ying , Jin Yong , Zhao Lihua , Xiong Qiang , Zhang Lining , Mou Lisha , Li Rongfeng , Yang Haiyuan , Dai Yifan
Published: July 2017

Complement protein C3 is the pivotal component of the complement system. Previous studies have demonstrated that C3 has implications in various human diseases and exerts profound functions under certain conditions. However, the delineation of pathological and physiological roles of C3 has been hampered by the insufficiency of suitable animal models. In the present study, we applied the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated (Cas) system to target theC3gene in porcine fetal fibroblasts. Our results indicated that CRISPR/Cas9 targeting efficiency was as high as 84.7%, and the biallelic mutation efficiency reached at 45.7%. The biallelic modified colonies were used as donor for somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) technology to generate C3 targeted piglets. A total of 19C3knockout (KO) piglets were produced and their plasma C3 protein was undetectable by western blot analysis and ELISA. The hemolytic complement activity and complement-dependent cytotoxicity assay further confirmed that C3 was disrupted in these piglets. TheseC3KO pigs could be utilized as a valuable large animal model for the elucidation of the roles of C3.
Interleukin33 deficiency causes tau abnormality and neurodegeneration with Alzheimer-like symptoms in aged mice
Authors: Carlock C , Wu J , Shim J , Moreno-Gonzalez I , Pitcher M R , Hicks J , Suzuki A , Iwata J , Quevado J , Lou Y
Published: July 2017

Late-onset Alzheimer’s disease (AD) remains a medical mystery. Recent studies have linked it to impaired repair of aged neurons. Potential involvement of interleukin33 (IL33) in AD has been reported. Here we show that IL33, which was expressed by up to 75% astrocytes in the aged brains, was critical for repair of aged neurons. Mice lacking Il33 gene (Il33−/−) developed AD-like disease after 60–80 weeks, which was characterized by tau abnormality and a heavy loss of neurons/neurites in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus accompanied with cognition/memory impairment. We detected an abrupt aging surge in the cortical and hippocampal neurons at middle age (40 weeks). To counter the aging surge, wild-type mice rapidly upregulated repair of DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) and autophagic clearance of cellular wastes in these neurons. Il33−/− mice failed to do so, but instead went on to develop rapid accumulation of abnormal tau, massive DSBs and abnormal autophagic vacuoles in these neurons. Thus, uncontrolled neuronal aging surge at middle age due to lack of IL33 resulted in neurodegeneration and late-onset AD-like symptome in Il33−/− mice. Our study also suggests that the aging surge is a time to search for biomarkers for early diagnosis of AD before massive neuron loss.
Sandwiched gold/PNIPAm/gold microstructures for smart plasmonics application: towards the high detection limit and Raman quantitative measurements
Authors: Elashnikov R. , Mares D. , Podzimek T. , Švorčík V. , Lyutakov O.
Published: July 2017

A smart plasmonic SERS platform, comprising a layer of a stimuli-responsive polymer sandwiched between two gold layers, is reported.
In vitro and in vivo analysis of visible light crosslinkable gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) hydrogels
Authors: Noshadi Iman , Hong Seonki , Sullivan Kelly E. , Shirzaei Sani Ehsan , Portillo-Lara Roberto , Tamayol Ali , Shin Su Ryon , Gao Albert E. , Stoppel Whitney L. , Black III Lauren D. , Khademhosseini Ali , Annabi Nasim
Published: July 2017

Engineering visible light crosslinked GelMA hydrogels with tunable physical properties.
Platinum(ii) photo-catalysis for highly selective difluoroalkylation reactions
Authors: Zhong Jian-Ji , Yang Chen , Chang Xiao-Yong , Zou Chao , Lu Wei , Che Chi-Ming
Published: July 2017

A platinum(ii) photo-catalysis for highly selective difluoroalkylation reactions with high efficiency, good substrate scope and high selectivity was developed.
Microwave induced “egg yolk” structure in Cr/V-MIL-53
Authors: Depauw Hannes , Nevjestić Irena , De Winne Jonatan , Wang Guangbo , Haustraete Katrien , Leus Karen , Verberckmoes An , Detavernier Christophe , Callens Freddy , De Canck Els , Vrielinck Henk , Van Der Voort Pascal
Published: July 2017

Using a one pot microwave procedure, mixed-metal “egg yolk” MOFs are created, with a core of (Cr/V)-MIL-53 and a shell of Cr-MIL-53.
A five coordination Cu(ii) cluster-based MOF and its application in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals via sp3 C–H/N–H oxidative coupling
Authors: Tran Thuan V. , Le Hanh T. N. , Ha Hiep Q. , Duong Xuan N. T. , Nguyen Linh H.-T. , Doan Tan L. H. , Nguyen Ha L. , Truong Thanh
Published: July 2017

Five coordination sites of Cu(ii) cluster were found in VNU-18 that showed highly efficient catalytic property for the oxidative C–H activation via N–H bonds.
Comparative studies on the therapeutic benefit of targeted α-particle radiation therapy for the treatment of disseminated intraperitoneal disease
Authors: Milenic Diane E. , Baidoo Kwamena E. , Kim Young-Seung , Barkley Rachel , Brechbiel Martin W.
Published: July 2017

Choosing an appropriate α-emitter for targeted therapy resides in multiple variables beyond efficacy such as the economics of injected dose.
Luminescence properties and warm white LED application of a ternary-alkaline fluoride red phosphor K2NaAlF6:Mn4+
Authors: Wang L. Y. , Song E. H. , Deng T. T. , Zhou Y. Y. , Liao Z. F. , Zhao W. R. , Zhou B. , Zhang Q. Y.
Published: July 2017

Electroluminescence spectra and a photograph of a LED device featuring K2NaAlF6:Mn4+under 20 mA drive current as well as a CIE chromaticity diagram for the WLED.
A straightforward one-pot synthesis of bioactive N-aryl oxazolidin-2-ones via a highly efficient Fe3O4@SiO2-supported acetate-based butylimidazolium ionic liquid nanocatalyst under metal- and solvent-free conditions
Authors: Gupta Radhika , Yadav Manavi , Gaur Rashmi , Arora Gunjan , Sharma Rakesh Kumar
Published: July 2017

A supported ionic liquid-based magnetic nanocatalyst has been fabricated for the formation of pharmaceutically importantN-aryl oxazolidin-2-ones.
Structure–metabolism-relationships in the microsomal clearance of piperazin-1-ylpyridazines
Authors: Llona-Minguez Sabin , Ghassemian Artin , Baranczewski Pawel , Desroses Matthieu , Koolmeister Tobias , Artursson Per , Scobie Martin , Helleday Thomas
Published: July 2017

In this study, we provide insight into the metabolic profile of a series of piperazin-1-ylpyridazines suffering from rapid in vitro intrinsic clearance in a metabolic stability assay using liver microsomes.
Crosslinked chitosan nanoparticle-anchored magnetic multi-wall carbon nanotubes: a bio-nanoreactor with extremely high activity toward click-multi-component reactions
Authors: Shaabani Ahmad , Afshari Ronak , Hooshmand Seyyed Emad
Published: July 2017

In the present study, we have designed a procedure for the synthesis of a bio-nanoreactor catalyst, crosslinked chitosan nanoparticle-anchored magnetic multi-wall carbon nanotubes (CS NPs/MWCNT@Fe3O4), via an in situ ionotropic gelation method.
Molecular modelling approach to elucidate the thermal decomposition routes of vanillin
Authors: Verma Anand Mohan , Kishore Nanda
Published: July 2017

Gas phase pyrolytic studies of vanillin, which is a promising model compound of lignin-derived bio-oil, were performed using the B3LYP/6-311+g(d,p) level of theory under the DFT framework. This theoretical study unravels and elucidates the competitive reaction pathways for the production of various products and their kinetics. The reaction kinetics are presented using both gas phase and solvation models.
Detecting patchy nanoparticle assembly at the single-particle level
Authors: Pothorszky S. , Zámbó D. , Szekrényes D. , Hajnal Z. , Deák A.
Published: July 2017

In situ optical scattering spectroscopy measurements performed on individual objects shed light on the assembly of patchy nanorods and spheres.
A fluorescent turn on nanoprobe for simultaneous visualization of dual-targets involved in cell apoptosis and drug screening in living cells
Authors: Zhang Xiaolong , Liao Naishun , Chen Geng , Zheng Aixian , Zeng Yongyi , Liu Xiaolong , Liu Jingfeng
Published: July 2017

The nanoprobe was constructed for real-time monitoring of cell apoptosis biomarkers (cytochrome c and caspase-3) and evaluating apoptosis-related drug efficacy.
Concealing the taste of the Guinness World's most bitter substance by using a synthetic nanocontainer
Authors: Yang Xue , Li Shengke , Zhang Qing-Wen , Zheng Ying , Bardelang David , Wang Lian-Hui , Wang Ruibing
Published: July 2017

The bitterness of the world's bitterest substance was dramatically concealed by using a synthetic nanocontainer, demonstrating its significant taste-masking potential.
A general method for ultrathin 1D oxide nanomaterials
Authors: Zhao Yuxin , Sun Bing , Zhang Shucai , Wang Lin , Gao Xin , Liu Quanzhen , Mu Shanjun , Zhang Miao , Hu Shi , Huo Ziyang
Published: July 2017

A series of oxide ultrathin nanomaterials are prepared via a general method and the catalytic property is demonstrated in CeO2.
PU/PMMA composites synthesized by reaction-induced phase separation: a general approach to achieve a shape memory effect
Authors: Zhang Yufen , Li Weiwei , Wu Ronglan , Wang Wei
Published: July 2017

We report a study on the triple-shape memory polymer composition of polyurethane/polymethyl methacrylate (PU/PMMA) synthesized using reaction-induced phase separation.
High-temperature colossal dielectric behavior of BaZrO3ceramics
Authors: Tong Lei , Li Haibo , Ni Wei , Guo Youmin , Li Qiuju , Wang Hong , Wang Chunchang
Published: July 2017

BaZrO3(BZO) powders were synthesized by solution combustion based on the glycine nitrate process.
Real single ion solvation free energies with quantum mechanical simulation
Authors: Duignan Timothy T. , Baer Marcel D. , Schenter Gregory K. , Mundy Christopher J.
Published: July 2017

Single ion solvation free energies are one of the most important properties of electrolyte solutions and yet there is ongoing debate about what these values are. Only the values for neutral ion pairs are known.
Nickel-catalyzed asymmetric hydrogenation of β-acylamino nitroolefins: an efficient approach to chiral amines
Authors: Gao Wenchao , Lv Hui , Zhang Tonghuan , Yang Yuhong , Chung Lung Wa , Wu Yun-Dong , Zhang Xumu
Published: July 2017

The Ni-catalyzed asymmetric hydrogenation of challenging β-acylamino nitroolefins was achieved under mild conditions, affording β-acylamino nitroalkanes in excellent yields and with high enantioselectivities.
Wrinkle and crack-dependent charge transport in a uniaxially strained conducting polymer film on a flexible substrate
Authors: Sarkar Biporjoy , Satapathy Dillip K. , Jaiswal Manu
Published: July 2017

We investigate charge transport in poly(3,4-ethylene dioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) films on functionalized polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) substrates under varying uniaxial strain up to 16%.
Faradaic deionization of brackish and sea water via pseudocapacitive cation and anion intercalation into few-layered molybdenum disulfide
Authors: Srimuk Pattarachai , Lee Juhan , Fleischmann Simon , Choudhury Soumyadip , Jäckel Nicolas , Zeiger Marco , Kim Choonsoo , Aslan Mesut , Presser Volker
Published: July 2017

This work establishes molybdenum disulfide/carbon nanotube electrodes for the electrochemical desalination of high molar saline water.
Fe3O4nanoparticles coated with a guanidinium-functionalized polyelectrolyte extend the pH range for phosphate binding
Authors: Paltrinieri Laura , Wang Min , Sachdeva Sumit , Besseling Nicolaas A. M. , Sudhölter Ernst J. R. , de Smet Louis C. P. M.
Published: July 2017

This work shows the enhanced effect of functional coatings on phosphate adsorption at alkaline conditions using Fe3O4NPs.
Structure and dynamics of adl-homocysteine functionalized fullerene-C60–gold nanocomposite: a femtomolarl-histidine sensor
Authors: Sutradhar Sanjeeb , Jacob Geevarghese Vadakken , Patnaik Archita
Published: July 2017

An Au@Hcys-C60nanocomposite forl-histidine sensing.
Preparation of novel anionic polymeric ionic liquid materials and their potential application to protein adsorption
Authors: Dang Meng , Deng Qiliang , Fang Guozhen , Zhang Dongdong , Liu Jingmin , Wang Shuo
Published: July 2017

A series of novel anionic polymeric ionic liquid materials were prepared and used to adsorb bovine hemoglobin from bovine blood.
Contrast agents for cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging: an overview
Authors: Meloni Marco M. , Barton Stephen , Xu Lei , Kaski Juan C. , Song Wenhui , He Taigang
Published: July 2017

Contrast agents for Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance (CMR) play a major role in research and clinical cardiology.
Excitonic interaction amongst InP/ZnS salt pellets
Authors: Altintas Yemliha , Faruk Yazici Ahmet , Unlu Miray , Dadi Seyma , Genc Sinan , Mutlugun Evren
Published: July 2017

FRET enabled Cd-free quantum dot pellets for white light generation has been demonstrated.
CRISPR-Cas adaptive immunity and the three Rs
Authors: Killelea Tom , Bolt Edward L.
Published: July 2017

In this summary, we focus on fundamental biology of Clustered Regularly Interspersed Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR)-Cas (CRISPR-associated proteins) adaptive immunity in bacteria. Emphasis is placed on emerging information about functional interplay between Cas proteins and proteins that remodel DNA during homologous recombination (HR), DNA replication or DNA repair. We highlight how replication forks may act as ‘trigger points’ for CRISPR adaptation events, and the potential for cascade-interference complexes to act as precise roadblocks in DNA replication by an invader MGE (mobile genetic element), without the need for DNA double-strand breaks.
Scalable Syntheses of Chirally Pure Mono-protected and Orthogonally Di-protected cis-3,4-Diaminotetrahydrofurans
Authors: Weiberth Franz , Bourque Andre , Elenbaas Steven , Hanna Reda , Powers Matthew , Siegel Craig , Zhao Jin
Published: July 2017

Scalable and chromatography-free syntheses of chirally pure and orthogonally protected cis-3,4-diaminotetrahydrofurans prepared from a single starting material, 3,4-epoxytetrahydrofuran, are presented.
Electron Transfer Reactions in Atom Transfer Radical Polymerization
Authors: Fantin Marco , Lorandi Francesca , Gennaro Armando , Isse Abdirisak , Matyjaszewski Krzysztof
Published: July 2017

Electrochemistry may seem an outsider to the field of polymer science and controlled radical polymerization. Nevertheless, several electrochemical methods have been used to determine the mechanism of atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP), using both a thermodynamic and a kinetic approach. Indeed, electron transfer reactions involving the metal catalyst, initiator/dormant species, and propagating radicals play a crucial role in ATRP. In this mini-review, electrochemical properties of ATRP catalysts and initiators are discussed, together with the mechanism of the atom and electron transfer in ATRP.

1 Introduction

2 Thermodynamic and Electrochemical Properties of ATRP Catalysts

3 Thermodynamic and Electrochemical Properties of Alkyl Halides and Alkyl Radicals

4 Atom Transfer from an Electrochemical and Thermodynamic Standpoint

5 Mechanism of Electron Transfer in ATRP

6 Electroanalytical Techniques for the Kinetics of ATRP Activation

7 Electrochemically Mediated ATRP

8 Conclusions
Tubercular Abscess of the Spleen in a Child: Conservative Management and Long-Term Follow-Up
Authors: Williams Vijai , Chandrasekaran Sarvanan , Seetharaman Keerthivasan , Sodhi Kushaljit , Dayal Devi
Published: July 2017

Isolated involvement of the spleen is a rare manifestation of childhood tuberculosis. The rare occurrence and presence of nonspecific clinical features often pose diagnostic challenges even in countries where tuberculosis is endemic. Splenectomy is often performed for establishing the diagnosis or achieving a cure in combination with antitubercular therapy (ATT). In this report, we describe a boy who presented with nonspecific symptoms and was detected to have a well-defined lesion in the spleen on ultrasonography. The diagnosis of tubercular splenic abscess was made after line probe assay for the detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and cytomorphology of the aspirated material. The tubercular abscess showed complete healing after 9 months of four-drug ATT.
Die Rechtsfrage: Muss ich Klienten vor der Behandlung über Zuzahlung und Rezeptgebühr informieren?
Authors: Pitz Andreas
Published: July 2017

„Muss mein Klient unterzeichnen, dass er über die 10-prozentige Zuzahlung und die 10 Euro Rezeptgebühr informiert ist und dass sich die Beträge seitens der Krankenkassen ändern können? Muss ich ihm mitteilen, wenn sich die Zuzahlung erhöht hat?“

Praxisinhaberin aus dem Rhein-Neckar-Kreis
Assessment: OCAIRS 4.0 – Wie Klienten ihre Betätigung erleben
Authors: Kranz Florence
Published: July 2017

Wer das Betätigungsleben eines Klienten ergründen möchte, kommt am MOHO und seinen Verfahren kaum vorbei. Das „Interview zu Betätigungsbedingungen“ (OCAIRS) bietet die Möglichkeit, verschiedene MOHO-Bereiche wie Rollen, Interessen oder Gewohnheiten aus dem Blickwinkel des Klienten heraus zu verstehen und therapeutische Ansatzpunkte zu finden.
The heterogeneity of discourse: expanding the field of discourse analysis
Authors: Maingueneau Dominique
Published: July 2017

This contribution aims to outline some limits of discourse analysis today. Discourse analysis may not privilege any specific kind of data, but, like modern linguistics since the beginning of the 20th century, most discourse analysts focus on a restricted area within the manifold manifestations of discourse. They take for granted that discourse must be modeled after conversational practices, and/or that the basic relevant unit of discourse analysis is the pair text/genre. This restriction can be explained by the historical context in which discursive approaches have emerged. However, it can be argued that such a standard is not relevant for a wide range of data, that discourse practices can be divided into various regimes, which correspond to various models of communication and must accordingly be analyzed with specific concepts and toolkits. This article discusses two main phenomena that call this standard into question: (1) the notion of genre on the Internet; (2) “textless sentences” and authorship. Indeed, these all imply another conception of discourse activity that deserves to be taken into account if we are to consider discourse activity in the full diversity of its manifestations.
Bibliometric indicators: the origin of their log-normal distribution and why they are not a reliable proxy for an individual scholar’s talent
Authors: Ruocco Giancarlo , Daraio Cinzia , Folli Viola , Leonetti Marco
Published: July 2017

There is now compelling evidence that the statistical distributions of extensive individual bibliometric indicators collected by a scholar, such as the number of publications or the total number of citations, are well represented by a Log-Normal function when homogeneous samples are considered. A Log-Normal distribution function is the normal distribution for the logarithm of the variable. In linear scale it is a highly skewed distribution with a long tail in the high productivity side. We are still lacking a detailed and convincingab-initiomodel able to explain observed Log-Normal distributions—this is the gap this paper sets out to fill. Here, we propose a general explanation of the observed evidence by developing a straightforward model based on the following simple assumptions: (1) the materialist principle of the natural equality of human intelligence, (2) thesuccess breeds successeffect, also known as Merton effect, which can be traced back to the Gospel parables about the Talents (Matthew) and Minas (Luke), and, (3) therecognitionandreputationmechanism. Building on these assumptions we propose a distribution function that, although mathematically not identical to a Log-Normal distribution, shares with it all its main features. Our model well reproduces the empirical distributions, so the hypotheses at the basis of the model arenot falsified. Therefore the distributions of the bibliometric parameters observedmightbe the result of chance and noise (chaos) related to multiplicative phenomena connected to apublish or perishinflationary mechanism, led by scholars’ recognition and reputations. In short, being a scholar in the right tail or in the left tail of the distribution could have very little connection to her/his merit and achievements. This interpretationmightcast some doubts on the use of the number of papers and/or citations as a measure of scientific achievements. A tricky issue seems to emerge, that is:what then do bibliometric indicators really measure? This issue calls for deeper investigations into the meaning of bibliometric indicators. This is an interesting and intriguing topic for further research to be carried out within a wider interdisciplinary investigation of the science of science, which may include elements and investigation tools from philosophy, psychology and sociology.
Cellulosic fibres of flax recruit both primary and secondary cell wall cellulose synthases during deposition of thick tertiary cell walls and in the course of graviresponse
Authors: Mokshina Natalia , Gorshkov Oleg , Ibragimova Nadezda , Chernova Tatyana , Gorshkova Tatyana
Published: July 2017

Cellulose synthesising complex consists of cellulose synthase (CESA) subunits encoded by a multigene family; different sets of CESA genes are known to be expressed during primary and secondary cell wall formation. We examined the expression of LusCESAs in flax (Linum usitatissimum L.) cellulosic fibres at various stages of development and in the course of graviresponse by means of RNA-Seq and quantitative PCR. Transcripts for both primary and secondary cell wall-related CESAs were abundant in fibres depositing highly cellulosic tertiary cell walls. Gravistimulation of flax plants temporally increased the abundance of CESA transcripts, specifically in phloem fibres located at the pulling stem side. Construction of coexpression networks for LusCESAs revealed that both primary and secondary cell wall-related CESAs were involved in the joint coexpression group in fibres depositing tertiary cell walls, as distinct from other tissues, where these genes were within separate groups. The obtained data suggest that fibres depositing tertiary cell walls have a specific mechanism of cellulose biosynthesis and a specific way of its regulation.
Glacial/interglacial wetland, biomass burning, and geologic methane emissions constrained by dual stable isotopic CH4ice core records
Authors: Bock Michael , Schmitt Jochen , Beck Jonas , Seth Barbara , Chappellaz Jérôme , Fischer Hubertus
Published: July 2017

Significance

Polar ice is a unique archive of past atmosphere. Here, we present methane stable isotope records (used as source fingerprint) for the current and two past interglacials and their preceding glacial maxima. Our data are used to constrain global emissions of methane. Tropical wetlands and floodplains seem to be the dominant sources of atmospheric methane changes, steered by past variations in sea level, monsoon intensity, temperature, and the water table. In contrast, geologic emissions of methane are stable over a wide range of climatic conditions. The long-term shift seen in both isotopes for the last 25,000 y compared with older intervals is likely connected to changes in the terrestrial biosphere and fire regimes as a consequence of megafauna extinction.
LGI1 tunes intrinsic excitability by regulating the density of axonal Kv1 channels
Authors: Seagar Michael , Russier Michael , Caillard Olivier , Maulet Yves , Fronzaroli-Molinieres Laure , De San Feliciano Marina , Boumedine-Guignon Norah , Rodriguez Léa , Zbili Mickael , Usseglio Fabrice , Formisano-Tréziny Christine , Youssouf Fahamoe , Sangiardi Marion , Boillot Morgane , Baulac Stéphanie , Benitez María José , Garrido Juan-José , Debanne Dominique , El Far Oussama
Published: July 2017

Significance

Leucine-rich glioma-inactivated 1 (LGI1) is a secreted neuronal protein associated in a multiprotein complex with Kv1 channels. Natural mutations in this protein are found in the early-adulthood–onset disorder “autosomal dominant epilepsy with auditory features” and animal models with
Lgi1
genetic deletion display spontaneous seizures. We investigated the potential link between LGI1 depletion and intrinsic neuronal excitability. We found that LGI1 determines neuronal excitability in CA3 pyramidal neurons through the control of axonal Kv1-channel expression. Genetic deletion of
Lgi1
induces a robust diminution in Kv1 channels, especially in axons where they colocalize with LGI1, very likely contributing to epileptogenesis. These results strongly suggest that LGI1 controls neuronal excitability by regulating Kv1-channel expression.
Changes in E-cadherin rigidity sensing regulate cell adhesion
Authors: Collins Caitlin , Denisin Aleksandra K. , Pruitt Beth L. , Nelson W. James
Published: July 2017

Significance

Mechanical cues, such as changes in rigidity (resistance to deformation) of the surrounding microenvironment, regulate cell behaviors. Integrin-based rigidity sensing has been examined extensively, but studies investigating cadherin-based rigidity sensing at cell–cell contacts are lacking. Our study provides insight into mechanisms underlying E-cadherin–dependent rigidity sensing. We demonstrate that E-cadherin adhesions are acutely sensitive to a change in the rigidity of polyacrylamide (PA) gels functionalized with the extracellular domain of E-cadherin (Ecad-Fc) and that actin nucleating proteins and Rho GTPases activated upon cell adhesion to Ecad-Fc PA gels are also required for early stages in cell–cell adhesion. We hypothesize that E-cadherin rigidity sensing facilitates the transition from initial cell–cell adhesion to more stable contacts.
Host-mediated impairment of parasite maturation during blood-stage
Plasmodium
infection
Authors: Khoury David S. , Cromer Deborah , Akter Jasmin , Sebina Ismail , Elliott Trish , Thomas Bryce S. , Soon Megan S. F. , James Kylie R. , Best Shannon E. , Haque Ashraful , Davenport Miles P.
Published: July 2017

Significance

Adaptive immunity to
Plasmodium falciparum
takes years to develop in endemic regions, leaving young children vulnerable to high parasite burdens and severe malaria. Host innate immune responses clearly occur during infection and may control parasite numbers in nonimmune individuals, for example by accelerating parasite removal from circulation. However, evidence of whether and how this occurs in vivo remains sparse. We set out to measure host removal of parasites during acute blood-stage
Plasmodium
infection in mice. However, rather than being removed more rapidly, parasites unexpectedly persisted in circulation. Persistence resulted from host-dependent slowing of parasite maturation. Thus
Plasmodium
maturation within red blood cells does not occur at a constant rate in vivo and can be influenced by the host itself.
Chromosome segregation drives division site selection in
Streptococcus pneumoniae
Authors: van Raaphorst Renske , Kjos Morten , Veening Jan-Willem
Published: July 2017

Significance

Precise cell division is crucial for all cellular life. In the pneumococcus, which kills more than a million people annually, the protein MapZ was recently identified as a marker for the division site. By developing a suite of tools, including a chromosome labeling system and CRISPR/Cas9-based perturbation of chromosome segregation, we mapped the pneumococcal cell cycle in detail. We show that MapZ is not involved in division site selection but is important for setting the correct angle of the division plane. Importantly, we demonstrate that the pneumococcus has a unique chromosomal organization and that timely replication and segregation of the chromosomal origin to the future cell division site is a key determinant for correct positioning of cell division proteins.
FSIP1 binds HER2 directly to regulate breast cancer growth and invasiveness
Authors: Liu Tong , Zhang Hao , Sun Li , Zhao Danyu , Liu Peng , Yan Meisi , Zaidi Neeha , Izadmehr Sudeh , Gupta Animesh , Abu-Amer Wahid , Luo Minna , Yang Jie , Ou Xunyan , Wang Yining , Bai Xuefeng , Wang Yan , New Maria I. , Zaidi Mone , Yuen Tony , Liu Caigang
Published: July 2017

Significance

Fibrous sheath interacting protein 1 (FSIP1) has recently been identified as a prognostic marker for human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-positive breast cancers. Its increased expression is importantly associated with poor outcomes. Here, we document that FSIP1 is a signaling partner to HER2, and that FSIP inhibition reduces cell growth and invasiveness in HER2-positive breast cancer cells. Considering its limited expression in normal tissues, FSIP1 may become a potentially druggable target for the therapy of HER2-positive breast cancers, and provide a new mechanism for improved therapeutic responses to current HER2 blockers, such as trastuzumab.
RsmA and AmrZ orchestrate the assembly of all three type VI secretion systems in
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Allsopp Luke P. , Wood Thomas E. , Howard Sophie A. , Maggiorelli Federica , Nolan Laura M. , Wettstadt Sarah , Filloux Alain
Published: July 2017

Significance

Bacteria evolved molecular weapons to help them thrive in polymicrobial environments. The type VI secretion system (T6SS) is a gun loaded with a great diversity of bacterial toxins. On contact with neighboring cells, toxins are fired, and in the absence of immunity, the prey is killed, allowing the attacker to prevail. Each bacterium can be equipped with several distinct T6SSs, and it is unclear whether they are simultaneously active or whether each has a specific role in a particular environment. Here we showed that production of the three
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
T6SSs is orchestrated by global regulators. We suggest it may be possible for simultaneous assembly of multiple T6SSs within a single cell, priming it to fight a wide variety of organisms.
Diatom centromeres suggest a mechanism for nuclear DNA acquisition
Authors: Diner Rachel E. , Noddings Chari M. , Lian Nathan C. , Kang Anthony K. , McQuaid Jeffrey B. , Jablanovic Jelena , Espinoza Josh L. , Nguyen Ngocquynh A. , Anzelmatti Miguel A. , Jansson Jakob , Bielinski Vincent A. , Karas Bogumil J. , Dupont Christopher L. , Allen Andrew E. , Weyman Philip D.
Published: July 2017

Significance

Centromeres are genomic sites facilitating chromosome segregation during cell division. We report our discovery of diatom centromeres and the description of centromere identity in the stramenopile protists. We also show that simple requirements for diatom centromeres permit ecologically relevant foreign DNA molecules to function as diatom centromeres by “hijacking” chromosome maintenance features. Because little is known at the molecular level about chromosome maintenance in diatoms, this paper provides experimental data with broad implications for cellular biology studies and biotechnology applications. The ability to maintain circular artificial chromosomes using foreign DNA sequences is unique among organisms with studied centromeres and opens up fascinating evolutionary questions about the mechanisms of nuclear gene acquisition from the multiple endosymbiotic events characterizing the stramenopile lineage.
Traffic is a major source of atmospheric nanocluster aerosol
Authors: Rönkkö Topi , Kuuluvainen Heino , Karjalainen Panu , Keskinen Jorma , Hillamo Risto , Niemi Jarkko V. , Pirjola Liisa , Timonen Hilkka J. , Saarikoski Sanna , Saukko Erkka , Järvinen Anssi , Silvennoinen Henna , Rostedt Antti , Olin Miska , Yli-Ojanperä Jaakko , Nousiainen Pekka , Kousa Anu , Dal Maso Miikka
Published: July 2017

Significance

We report the significant presence of traffic-originated nanocluster aerosol (NCA) particles in a particle diameter range of 1.3–3.0 nm of urban air, determine the emission factors for the NCA, and evaluate its global importance. Our findings are important because they significantly update the current understanding of atmospheric aerosol in urban areas. They demonstrate that in urban air, extremely small particles form a significant fraction of the total particle number and are a direct result of anthropogenic emissions, that is, the emissions from road traffic. Thus, our findings also imply that in urban areas, an atmospheric nucleation process is not necessary for the formation of a large number of particles that affect population health and climate.
Polymorphism at a mimicry supergene maintained by opposing frequency-dependent selection pressures
Authors: Chouteau Mathieu , Llaurens Violaine , Piron-Prunier Florence , Joron Mathieu
Published: July 2017

Significance

Although biological diversity is being lost at an alarming rate, a mimetic butterfly from the Amazon reveals a selective mechanism that can lead to rich adaptive diversity. In these toxic and vividly colored butterflies, several forms are maintained within populations, accurately mimicking distinct local butterflies, and controlled by differentiated alleles of a supergene. Such diversity is not expected because selection by predators promotes the fixation of a single morph. We show that the mating behavior favors pairings of dissimilar forms and boosts allelic diversity at the mimicry supergene. Therefore, sexual selection maintains a phenotypic diversity that predators channel and refine into a diversity of warning phenotypes, which correspond to the signals used by other defended species of butterflies in the local community.
Genome sequence of a diabetes-prone rodent reveals a mutation hotspot around the ParaHox gene cluster
Authors: Hargreaves Adam D. , Zhou Long , Christensen Josef , Marlétaz Ferdinand , Liu Shiping , Li Fang , Jansen Peter Gildsig , Spiga Enrico , Hansen Matilde Thye , Pedersen Signe Vendelbo Horn , Biswas Shameek , Serikawa Kyle , Fox Brian A. , Taylor William R. , Mulley John Frederick , Zhang Guojie , Heller R. Scott , Holland Peter W. H.
Published: July 2017

Significance

A core question in evolutionary biology is how mutation and selection adapt and constrain species to specialized habitats. We sequenced the genome of the sand rat, a desert rodent susceptible to nutritionally induced diabetes, and discovered an unusual chromosome region skewed toward G and C nucleotides. This region includes the
Pdx1
homeobox gene, a transcriptional activator of
insulin
, which has undergone massive sequence change, likely contributing to diabetes and adaptation to low caloric intake. Our results imply that mutation rate varies within a genome and that hotspots of high mutation rate may influence ecological adaptation and constraint. In addition, we caution that divergent regions can be omitted by conventional short-read sequencing approaches, a consideration for existing and future genome sequencing projects.
Insight into the mechanism of nonenzymatic RNA primer extension from the structure of an RNA-GpppG complex
Authors: Zhang Wen , Tam Chun Pong , Walton Travis , Fahrenbach Albert C. , Birrane Gabriel , Szostak Jack W.
Published: July 2017

Significance

Rudimentary mechanisms of genome replication are essential for the earliest RNA-based cellular life, yet it is unknown how RNA or related polymers could have replicated nonenzymatically. For decades, 2-methylimidazole–activated GMP (2-MeImpG) has been used as a model substrate. We recently showed that two 2-MeImpG monomers react to form an imidazolium-bridged dinucleotide, which then reacts rapidly with the RNA primer. To explore this mechanism, we cocrystallized an RNA primer–template complex with several 5ʹ-5ʹ–linked analogs of the imidazolium-bridged intermediate. The closest analog, GpppG, binds to RNA in a conformation that explains the high reactivity of the imidazolium-bridged intermediate, whereas the structures of other dinucleotide ligands appear less favorable. Our study provides insight into the fundamental mechanism of nonenzymatic RNA self-replication.
Hepatic ZIP14-mediated zinc transport is required for adaptation to endoplasmic reticulum stress
Authors: Kim Min-Hyun , Aydemir Tolunay B. , Kim Jinhee , Cousins Robert J.
Published: July 2017

Significance

Unresolved endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress corresponds with various chronic diseases, such as hepatic steatosis and diabetes. Although cellular zinc deficiency has been implicated in causing ER stress, the effect of disturbed zinc homeostasis on hepatic ER stress and a role for zinc during stress are unclear. This study reveals that ER stress increases hepatic zinc accumulation via enhanced expression of metal transporter ZIP14. Unfolded protein response-activated transcription factors ATF4 and ATF6α regulate
Zip14
expression in hepatocytes. During ER stress, ZIP14-mediated zinc transport is critical for preventing prolonged apoptotic cell death and steatosis, thus leading to hepatic cellular adaptation to ER stress. These results highlight the importance of normal zinc transport for adaptation to ER stress and to reduce disease risk.
Genome-wide screen for genes involved in eDNA release during biofilm formation by
Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: DeFrancesco Alicia S. , Masloboeva Nadezda , Syed Adnan K. , DeLoughery Aaron , Bradshaw Niels , Li Gene-Wei , Gilmore Michael S. , Walker Suzanne , Losick Richard
Published: July 2017

Significance

The human pathogen
Staphylococcus aureus
forms biofilms in which cells are held together in clusters by an electrostatic net of extracellular DNA (eDNA). How eDNA is released from cells to form this net is unknown. We report the development of a genetic approach to identifying genes involved in eDNA release. This approach should be generally amenable to identifying genes involved in eDNA release by other biofilm-forming bacteria that aggregate in a DNA-containing matrix. The genes we identified in
S. aureus
provide fresh insights into how eDNA is released and provide potential therapeutic targets for drug development.
Phylogenomics reveals rapid, simultaneous diversification of three major clades of Gondwanan frogs at the Cretaceous–Paleogene boundary
Authors: Feng Yan-Jie , Blackburn David C. , Liang Dan , Hillis David M. , Wake David B. , Cannatella David C. , Zhang Peng
Published: July 2017

Significance

Frogs are the dominant component of semiaquatic vertebrate faunas. How frogs originated and diversified has long attracted the attention of evolutionary biologists. Here, we recover their evolutionary history by extensive sampling of genes and species and present a hypothesis for frog evolution. In contrast to prior conclusions that the major frog clades were established in the Mesozoic, we find that ∼88% of living frogs originated from three principal lineages that arose at the end of the Mesozoic, coincident with the Cretaceous–Paleogene (K–Pg) mass extinction event that decimated nonavian dinosaurs 66 Mya. The K–Pg extinction events played a pivotal role in shaping the current diversity and geographic distribution of modern frogs.
Four-stranded mini microtubules formed by
Prosthecobacter
BtubAB show dynamic instability
Authors: Deng Xian , Fink Gero , Bharat Tanmay A. M. , He Shaoda , Kureisaite-Ciziene Danguole , Löwe Jan
Published: July 2017

Significance

Microtubules, essential in eukaryotic cells, are wide and hollow tubes that are formed through the polymerisation of αβ-tubulin proteins. Microtubules provide tracks for motor-driven cellular transport. Dynamic instability of microtubules, the stochastic change between slow growth and rapid shrinkage, is important during mitotic DNA segregation. Although microtubules were thought to be unique to eukaryotes, certain bacteria are exceptions because they possess BtubAB proteins that are closely related to tubulins and form hollow tubes. We demonstrate with the atomic structure of bacterial BtubAB “mini microtubules” that they share many features with eukaryotic microtubules, and that they exhibit dynamic instability. Our work highlights deep conservation of structure and dynamics between bacterial and eukaryotic microtubules, providing clues about their evolution.
Starch granule evidence for the earliest potato use in North America
Authors: Louderback Lisbeth A. , Pavlik Bruce M.
Published: July 2017

Significance

Starch granules of
Solanum jamesii
extracted from ground stone tools establish wild potato use as early as 10,900–10,100 calendar years B.P. in southern Utah. This discovery is the earliest documented use of potatoes in North America, an important energy source that has been largely undervalued or even ignored when diet breadth analyses and optimal foraging theory have been applied in archaeological studies. Younger deposits also contained tools with
S. jamesii
granules, indicating at least 4,000 years of intermittent use. Ethnographic and historical accounts from the region extend the period of use to more than 10,000 years. Given this long prehistory and history, the question arises as to whether some
S. jamesii
populations could have undergone transport, cultivation, and eventual domestication over such a long period of time.
Unearthing a sesterterpene biosynthetic repertoire in the Brassicaceae through genome mining reveals convergent evolution
Authors: Huang Ancheng C. , Kautsar Satria A. , Hong Young J. , Medema Marnix H. , Bond Andrew D. , Tantillo Dean J. , Osbourn Anne
Published: July 2017

Significance

Sesterterpenoids are a rare terpene class with largely unexplored chemical diversity and bioactivities, representing a potential new drug source. Sesterterpene synthases catalyze the first committed biosynthesis step and shape sesterterpene structural diversity. Here, using a customized algorithm for systematically surveying plant genomes, we unearth a sesterterpene synthase gene repertoire in the Brassicaceae that synthesizes fungal-type sesterterpenes with diverse scaffolds, thus fueling the drug-discovery pipeline. Mechanistic studies shed light on the origin of structural diversification and offer insights for expanding nature’s diversity by protein engineering. Our work also supports the concept of convergent evolution in natural product biosynthesis.
Global priorities for conservation across multiple dimensions of mammalian diversity
Authors: Brum Fernanda T. , Graham Catherine H. , Costa Gabriel C. , Hedges S. Blair , Penone Caterina , Radeloff Volker C. , Rondinini Carlo , Loyola Rafael , Davidson Ana D.
Published: July 2017

Significance

Approximately a quarter of all land mammals are currently threatened, mostly by human activities including habitat loss and harvesting. Here, we provide the first biological map of priority areas that captures all three dimensions of mammalian biodiversity: taxonomic, phylogenetic, and traits. We find limited overlap in priority regions across the three dimensions and with currently protected areas, indicating that conservation planning should consider multiple dimensions of biodiversity to maximize biodiversity conservation. Our complementarity-based prioritization provides a conservation solution that can be incorporated in future conservation planning efforts aimed at helping protect not only species but also evolutionary potential and ecosystem function.
Fibroblast growth factor signaling instructs ensheathing glia wrapping of
Drosophila
olfactory glomeruli
Authors: Wu Bing , Li Jiefu , Chou Ya-Hui , Luginbuhl David , Luo Liqun
Published: July 2017

Significance

This research reports that reciprocal interactions between
Drosophila
olfactory neurons and ensheathing glia mediate the formation of neuronal compartments, groups of synapses that are packed into discrete structures called “glomeruli” that carry specific olfactory information. Ensheathing glia respond to a neuronal cue, the FGF Thisbe, to pattern the boundaries of the nascent compartments. Neural compartments, in turn, require such glial barriers to separate themselves from neighboring compartments and thus ensure the correct organization of the olfactory circuit. These findings highlight the importance of glia in the assembly and maintenance of neural circuits and the functions of FGF signaling in these processes.
Delineation of an immunosuppressive gradient in hepatocellular carcinoma using high-dimensional proteomic and transcriptomic analyses
Authors: Chew Valerie , Lai Liyun , Pan Lu , Lim Chun Jye , Li Juntao , Ong Raymond , Chua Camillus , Leong Jing Yao , Lim Kiat Hon , Toh Han Chong , Lee Ser Yee , Chan Chung Yip , Goh Brian K. P. , Chung Alexander , Chow Pierce K. H. , Albani Salvatore
Published: July 2017

Significance

The roles of tumor-infiltrating leukocytes in mediating cancer progression are well recognized, but a multidimensional analysis of the entire cancer immune system is lacking. Here, we dissected the cancer-immune landscape in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) across tumor, nontumor, and peripheral blood cells using time-of-flight mass cytometry, multiplex immunofluorescence tissue staining, and NanoString analysis. We identified various immune subsets that were enriched in the tumor microenvironment and their potential impact on the tumor immunity based on their detailed phenotypes. This study has validated the concept of a cancer-immune gradient and demonstrated in primary HCC that immune-cell subsets become progressively suppressive as they traverse the nontumor to tumor microenvironment. These data have opened avenues for the design of immunotherapeutics in HCC.