bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolution of higher torque in Campylobacter-type bacterial flagellar motors
Authors: Chaban Bonnie , Coleman Izaak , Beeby Morgan
Published: January 2018

Understanding the evolution of molecular machines underpins our understanding of the development of life on earth. A well-studied case are bacterial flagellar motors that spin helical propellers for bacterial motility. Diverse motors produce different torques, but how this diversity evolved remains unknown. To gain insights into evolution of the high-torque ε-proteobacterial motor exemplified by the Campylobacter jejuni motor, we inferred ancestral states by combining phylogenetics, electron cryotomography, and motility assays to characterize motors from Wolinella succinogenes, Arcobacter butzleri and Bdellovibrio bacteriovorus. Observation of ~12 stator complexes in many proteobacteria, yet ~17 in ε-proteobacteria suggest a “quantum leap” evolutionary event. Campylobacter-type motors have high stator occupancy in wider rings of additional stator complexes that are scaffolded by large proteinaceous periplasmic rings. We propose a model for motor evolution wherein independent inner- and outer-membrane structures fused to form a scaffold for additional stator complexes. Significantly, inner- and outer-membrane associated structures have evolved independently multiple times, suggesting that evolution of such structures is facile and poised the ε-proteobacteria to fuse them to form the high-torque Campylobacter-type motor.
Chunking in working memory via content-free labels
Authors: Huang Liqiang , Awh Edward
Published: January 2018

A recent study found that visual working memory performance was enhanced when pairs of colors were predictably paired, and it was interpreted as a form of “memory compression” which implies that more colors could be stored online in a more efficient format. Here we propose an alternative hypothesis that does not entail any increase in the number of individuated representations stored online. Instead, familiar ensembles of items may be attached to a content-free label (e.g., remembering red-white-blue as “American flag”) that can be used to retrieve the constituents of a chunk when they are needed to guide a response. If accessing “compressed” memories requires an additional retrieval process, then access to compressed items should be slower than for uncompressed items. Indeed, Experiments 1 (visual) and 2 (verbal) showed that response times were substantially longer in patterned (i.e., compressed) than in control conditions. In Experiments 3 and 4, regularity-based advantages were eliminated with brief (1000 or 875 ms) response deadlines, in line with our hypothesis that accessing compressed memories requires a slow retrieval process. In sum, while statistical regularities can enable access to larger amounts of information, this information may not be available “online” in the same way as singleton items.
Comparative analysis of bones, mites, soil chemistry, nematodes and soil micro-eukaryotes from a suspected homicide to estimate the post-mortem interval
Authors: Szelecz Ildikó , Lösch Sandra , Seppey Christophe V. W. , Lara Enrique , Singer David , Sorge Franziska , Tschui Joelle , Perotti M. Alejandra , Mitchell Edward A. D.
Published: January 2018

Criminal investigations of suspected murder cases require estimating the post-mortem interval (PMI, or time after death) which is challenging for long PMIs. Here we present the case of human remains found in a Swiss forest. We have used a multidisciplinary approach involving the analysis of bones and soil samples collected beneath the remains of the head, upper and lower body and “control” samples taken a few meters away. We analysed soil chemical characteristics, mites and nematodes (by microscopy) and micro-eukaryotes (by Illumina high throughput sequencing). The PMI estimate on hair14C-data via bomb peak radiocarbon dating gave a time range of 1 to 3 years before the discovery of the remains. Cluster analyses for soil chemical constituents, nematodes, mites and micro-eukaryotes revealed two clusters 1) head and upper body and 2) lower body and controls. From mite evidence, we conclude that the body was probably brought to the site after death. However, chemical analyses, nematode community analyses and the analyses of micro-eukaryotes indicate that decomposition took place at least partly on site. This study illustrates the usefulness of combining several lines of evidence for the study of homicide cases to better calibrate PMI inference tools.
Magnetostructural transformation and magnetocaloric effect of Sn-bonded Mn0.66Fe0.34Ni0.66Fe0.34Si0.66Ge0.34 composite
Authors: Si Yu , Liu Jun , Gong Yuan-yuan , Yuan Sheng-yun , Peng Guo , Xu Gui-zhou , Xu Feng
Published: January 2018

Magnetostructural coupling in MnMX (M = Co or Ni, X = Si or Ge) system attracts considerable attention for the accompanied multi-magnetoresponsive effects. However, due to the large stress generated from the structural transformation, the alloys become shattered or powder-like, hindering the further investigation and their applications. The possible solution is to embed the MnMX powders into metal matrix. In this paper, we choose Mn0.66Fe0.34Ni0.66Fe0.34Si0.66Ge0.34 as a representative of MnMX alloy and produce Mn0.66Fe0.34Ni0.66Fe0.34Si0.66Ge0.34/Sn composite bulk by hot pressing. The magnetostructural-coupled composites exhibit an improved rate of the transformation temperature shift by magnetic field and broadened operating temperature range. Additionally, we also propose a simple formula based on the entropy-temperature diagram to calculate the isothermal entropy change, which is consistent with the results obtained by the Maxwell relation.
Large dynamic range pressure sensor based on two semicircle-holes microstructured fiber
Authors: Liu Zhengyong , Htein Lin , Lee Kang-Kuen , Lau Kin-Tak , Tam Hwa-Yaw
Published: January 2018

This paper presents a sensitive and large dynamic range pressure sensor based on a novel birefringence microstructured optical fiber (MOF) deployed in a Sagnac interferometer configuration. The MOF has two large semicircle holes in the cladding and a rectangular strut with germanium-doped core in the center. The fiber structure permits surrounding pressure to induce large effective index difference between the two polarized modes. The calculated and measured group birefringence of the fiber are 1.49 × 10−4, 1.23 × 10−4, respectively, at the wavelength of 1550 nm. Experimental results shown that the pressure sensitivity of the sensor varied from 45,000 pm/MPa to 50,000 pm/MPa, and minimum detectable pressure of 80 Pa and dynamic range of better than 116 dB could be achieved with the novel fiber sensor. The proposed sensor could be used in harsh environment and is an ideal candidate for downhole applications where high pressure measurement at elevated temperature up to 250 °C is needed.
Hepatic dysfunction and thrombocytopenia induced by excess sFlt1 in mice lacking endothelial nitric oxide synthase
Authors: Oe Yuji , Ko Mieko , Fushima Tomofumi , Sato Emiko , Karumanchi S. Ananth , Sato Hiroshi , Sugawara Junichi , Ito Sadayoshi , Takahashi Nobuyuki
Published: January 2018

Liver dysfunction is a major problem in patients with severe preeclampsia (PE), hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet count (HELLP) syndrome, or in patients receiving anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy. Excessive soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 (sFlt1) that antagonizes VEGF has been implicated in the pathogenesis of PE. VEGF increases the expression of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and activates it. eNOS polymorphisms that cause reduced NO production are associated with PE. The aim of this study was to clarify the role on hepatic function by excess sFlt1 in the absence of eNOS gene product. We first overexpressed sFlt1 using adenovirus in eNOS−/− and eNOS+/+ mice. Excessive sFlt1 and lack of eNOS synergistically increased plasma levels of liver transaminases, exacerbated infiltration of inflammatory cells, elevated expression levels of cytokines in the liver, and aggravated oxidative stress and coagulation abnormalities. Lack of eNOS in the presence of excess sFlt1 also induced thrombocytopenia, whereas eNOS+/+ mice with excess sFlt1 alone showed no or modest liver phenotype. Taken together, excessive sFlt1 and lack of eNOS synergistically induce hepatic dysfunction and thrombocytopenia, suggesting a novel role for VEGF and nitric oxide signaling in hepatocyte-endothelial cross-talk in health and in liver injury states.
Long noncoding RNA CASC9.5 promotes the proliferation and metastasis of lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Zhou Jianlong , Xiao Haiping , Yang Xinglong , Tian Hao , Xu Zhiyong , Zhong Yu , Ma Limin , Zhang Weimin , Qiao Guibin , Liang Jing
Published: January 2018

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are important regulatory factors in tumor development and progression. The lncRNA CASC9.5 is located on chromosome 8 and has a total length of 1316 bp. CASC9.5 plays a tumor-promoting role in the development and progression of brain tumor and colon cancer; however, limited research has been conducted on the role of this lncRNA in lung adenocarcinoma. The present study analyzed 44 lung adenocarcinoma specimens and 2 lung cancer cell lines. It was found that CASC9.5 expression levels were significantly higher in lung cancer tissues and cells compared with normal lung tissues. In addition, the expression level of CASC9.5 was closely related to the TNM (tumor, node and metastasis) stage of lung adenocarcinomas, tumor size, tumor metastasis and tumor metabolism. Moreover, results of the in vivo and in vitro experiments all demonstrated that CASC9.5 promoted lung adenocarcinoma cell proliferation and metabolism by regulating the expression levels of cyclin D1, E-cadherin, N-cadherin and β-catenin. In summary, the present study demonstrated that high levels of CASC9.5 expression promote the proliferation, metastasis and metabolism of lung adenocarcinoma cells and might serve as a prognostic indicator. The present study provides novel findings regarding the diagnosis and treatment of lung adenocarcinoma.
Ensemble landmarking of 3D facial surface scans
Authors: de Jong Markus A. , Hysi Pirro , Spector Tim , Niessen Wiro , Koudstaal Maarten J. , Wolvius Eppo B. , Kayser Manfred , Böhringer Stefan
Published: January 2018

Landmarking of 3D facial surface scans is an important analysis step in medical and biological applications, such as genome-wide association studies (GWAS). Manual landmarking is often employed with considerable cost and rater dependent variability. Landmarking automatically with minimal training is therefore desirable. We apply statistical ensemble methods to improve automated landmarking of 3D facial surface scans. Base landmarking algorithms using features derived from 3D surface scans are combined using either bagging or stacking. A focus is on low training complexity of maximal 40 training samples with template based landmarking algorithms that have proved successful in such applications. Additionally, we use correlations between landmark coordinates by introducing a search strategy guided by principal components (PCs) of training landmarks. We found that bagging has no useful impact, while stacking strongly improves accuracy to an average error of 1.7 mm across all 21 landmarks in this study, a 22% improvement as compared to a previous, comparable algorithm. Heritability estimates in twin pairs also show improvements when using facial distances from landmarks. Ensemble methods allow improvement of automatic, accurate landmarking of 3D facial images with minimal training which is advantageous in large cohort studies for GWAS and when landmarking needs change or data quality varies.
A central role for PI3K-AKT signaling pathway in linking SAMHD1-deficiency to the type I interferon signature
Authors: Oh Changhoon , Ryoo Jeongmin , Park Kiwon , Kim Baek , Daly Michele B. , Cho DongYeon , Ahn Kwangseog
Published: January 2018

The autoimmune disorder Aicardi-Goutières syndrome (AGS) is characterized by a constitutive type I interferon response. SAMHD1 possesses both dNTPase and RNase activities and mutations in SAMHD1 cause AGS; however, how SAMHD1-deficiency causes the type I interferon response in patients with AGS remains unknown. Here, we show that endogenous RNA substrates accumulated in the absence of SAMHD1 act as a major immunogenic source for the type I interferon response. Reconstitution of SAMHD1-negative human cells with wild-type but not RNase-defective SAMHD1 abolishes spontaneous type I interferon induction. We further identify that the PI3K/AKT/IRF3 signaling pathway is essential for the type I interferon response in SAMHD1-deficient human monocytic cells. Treatment of PI3K or AKT inhibitors dramatically reduces the type I interferon signatures in SAMHD1-deficient cells. Moreover, SAMHD1/AKT1 double knockout relieves the type I interferon signatures to the levels observed for wild-type cells. Identification of AGS-related RNA sensing pathway provides critical insights into the molecular pathogenesis of the type I interferonopathies such as AGS and overlapping autoimmune disorders.
Analysis of sequential hair segments reflects changes in the metabolome across the trimesters of pregnancy
Authors: Delplancke Thibaut D. J. , de Seymour Jamie V. , Tong Chao , Sulek Karolina , Xia Yinyin , Zhang Hua , Han Ting-Li , Baker Philip N.
Published: January 2018

The hair metabolome has been recognized as a valuable source of information in pregnancy research, as it provides stable metabolite information that could assist with studying biomarkers or metabolic mechanisms of pregnancy and its complications. We tested the hypothesis that hair segments could be used to reflect a metabolite profile containing information from both endogenous and exogenous compounds accumulated during the nine months of pregnancy. Segments of hair samples corresponding to the trimesters were collected from 175 pregnant women in New Zealand. The hair samples were analysed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. In healthy pregnancies, 56 hair metabolites were significantly different between the first and second trimesters, while 62 metabolites were different between the first and third trimesters (p < 0.05). Additionally, three metabolites in the second trimester hair samples were significantly different between healthy controls and women who delivered small-for-gestational-age infants (p < 0.05), and ten metabolites in third trimester hair were significantly different between healthy controls and women with gestational diabetes mellitus (p < 0.01). The findings from this pilot study provide improved insight into the changes of the hair metabolome during pregnancy, as well as highlight the potential of the maternal hair metabolome to differentiate pregnancy complications from healthy pregnancies.
Home Exercise Training Improves Exercise Capacity in Cirrhosis Patients: Role of Exercise Adherence
Authors: Kruger Calvin , McNeely Margaret L. , Bailey Robert J. , Yavari Milad , Abraldes Juan G. , Carbonneau Michelle , Newnham Kim , DenHeyer Vanessa , Ma Mang , Thompson Richard , Paterson Ian , Haykowsky Mark J. , Tandon Puneeta
Published: January 2018

Cirrhosis patients have reduced peak aerobic power (peak VO2) that is associated with reduced survival. Supervised exercise training increases exercise tolerance. The effect of home-based exercise training (HET) in cirrhosis is unknown. The objective was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of 8 weeks of HET on peak VO2, 6-minute walk distance (6MWD), muscle mass, and quality of life in cirrhosis. Random assignment to 8 weeks of HET (moderate to high intensity cycling exercise, 3 days/week) or usual care. Exercise adherence defined as completing ≥80% training sessions. Paired t-tests and analysis of covariance used for comparisons. Forty patients enrolled: 58% male, mean age 57 y, 70% Child Pugh-A. Between group increases in peak VO2 (1.7, 95% CI: −0.33 to 3.7 ml/kg/min, p = 0.09) and 6MWD (33.7, 95% CI: 5.1 to 62.4 m, p = 0.02) were greater after HET versus usual care. Improvements even more marked in adherent subjects for peak VO2 (2.8, 95% CI: 0.5–5.2 mL/kg/min, p = 0.02) and 6MWD (46.4, 95% CI: 12.4–80.5 m, p = 0.009). No adverse events occurred during testing or HET. Eight weeks of HET is a safe and effective intervention to improve exercise capacity in cirrhosis, with maximal benefits occurring in those who complete ≥80% of the program.
Generation of Functional Dopaminergic Neurons from Reprogramming Fibroblasts by Nonviral-based Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles
Authors: Chang Jen-Hsuan , Tsai Ping-Hsing , Wang Kai-Yi , Wei Yu-Ting , Chiou Shih-Hwa , Mou Chung-Yuan
Published: January 2018

Direct-lineage conversion of the somatic cell by reprogramming, in which mature cells were fully converted into a variety of other cell types bypassing an intermediate pluripotent state, is a promising regenerative medicine approach. Due to the risk of tumorigenesis by viral methods, a non-viral carrier for the delivery of reprogramming factors is very desirable. This study utilized the mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) as a non-viral delivery system for transduction of the three key factors to achieve conversion of mouse fibroblasts (MFs) into functional dopaminergic neuron-like cells (denoted as fDA-neurons). At the same time, a neurogenesis inducer, ISX-9, was co-delivered with the MSNs to promote the direct conversion of neuron-like cells. Good transfection efficiency of plasmid@MSN allowed repeated dosing to maintain high exogenous gene expression analyzed by qPCR and the changes in neural function markers were monitored. To further validate the dopaminergic function and the electrophysiological properties of fDA-neurons, the results of ELISA assay showed the high levels of secreted-dopamine in the conditional medium and rich Na+/K+-channels were observed in the fDA-neurons on Day 22. The results demonstrated that MSN nanocarrier is effective in delivering the reprogramming factors for the conversion of functional dopaminergic neurons from adult somatic cells.
Bidirectional modulation between infiltrating CD3+ T-lymphocytes and astrocytes in the spinal cord drives the development of allodynia in monoarthritic rats
Authors: Zhou Ya-Lan , Zhou Shu-Zhuan , Li Hao-Ling , Hu Man-Li , Li Hui , Guo Qing-Huan , Deng Xiao-Ming , Zhang Yu-Qiu , Xu Hua
Published: January 2018

Increasing evidence suggests that T cells and glia participate in the process of neuropathic pain. However, little is known about the involvement of T cells or the interaction between glia and T cells at the molecular level. Here we investigated the phenotype of T cell infiltration into the spinal cord in inflammatory pain and explored potential crosstalk between glia and T cells. The establishment of monoarthritis produced T cell infiltration and astrocyte activation, exhibiting similar kinetics in the spinal cord. T-cell-deficient (Rag1−/−) mice significantly attenuated MA-induced mechanical allodynia and GFAP upregulation. Double immunofluorescence staining showed that CD3 mainly colocalized with interferon-gamma (IFN-γ). Western blot and flow cytometry showed that multiple intrathecal administrations of astrocytic inhibitor fluorocitrate decreased IFN-γ-production without decreasing T cell number in the spinal cord. Spinal IFN-γ blockade reduced MA-induced mechanical allodynia and astroglial activation. In contrast, treatment with rIFN-γ directly elicited persistent mechanical allodynia and upregulation of GFAP and pJNK1/2 in naïve rats. Furthermore, rIFN-γ upregulated the phosphorylation of NF-κB p65 in cultured astrocytes vitro and spinal dorsal horn vivo. The results suggest that Th1 cells and astrocytes maintain inflammatory pain and imply that there may be a positive feedback loop between these cells via IFN-γ.
Inhibition of RGMa alleviates symptoms in a rat model of neuromyelitis optica
Authors: Harada Kana , Fujita Yuki , Okuno Tatsusada , Tanabe Shogo , Koyama Yoshihisa , Mochizuki Hideki , Yamashita Toshihide
Published: January 2018

Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is an autoimmune disease associated with NMO immunoglobulin G (NMO-IgG), an antibody that selectively binds to the aquaporin-4. Here, we established a localized NMO model by injecting NMO-IgG into the spinal cord, and assessed the efficacy of treating its NMO-like symptoms by blocking repulsive guidance molecule-a (RGMa), an axon growth inhibitor. The model showed pathological features consistent with NMO. Systemic administration of humanized monoclonal anti-RGMa antibody delayed the onset and attenuated the severity of clinical symptoms. Further, it preserved astrocytes and reduced inflammatory-cell infiltration and axonal damage, suggesting that targeting RGMa is effective in treating NMO.
Interface-induced spin Hall magnetoresistance enhancement in Pt-based tri-layer structure
Authors: Huang Shun-Yu , Li Hong-Lin , Chong Cheong-Wei , Chang Yu-Ying , Lee Min-Kai , Huang Jung-Chun-Andrew
Published: January 2018

In this study, we integrated bilayer structure of covered Pt on nickel zinc ferrite (NZFO) and CoFe/Pt/NZFO tri-layer structure by pulsed laser deposition system for a spin Hall magnetoresistance (SMR) study. In the bilayer structure, the angular-dependent magnetoresistance (MR) results indicate that Pt/NZFO has a well-defined SMR behavior. Moreover, the spin Hall angle and the spin diffusion length, which were 0.0648 and 1.31 nm, respectively, can be fitted by changing the Pt thickness in the longitudinal SMR function. Particularly, the MR ratio of the bilayer structure (Pt/NZFO) has the highest changing ratio (about 0.135%), compared to the prototype structure Pt/Y3Fe5O12 (YIG) because the NZFO has higher magnetization. Meanwhile, the tri-layer samples (CoFe/Pt/NZFO) indicate that the MR behavior is related with CoFe thickness as revealed in angular-dependent MR measurement. Additionally, comparison between the tri-layer structure with Pt/NZFO and CoFe/Pt bilayer systems suggests that the SMR ratio can be enhanced by more than 70%, indicating that additional spin current should be injected into Pt layer.
A WNT protein therapeutic improves the bone-forming capacity of autografts from aged animals
Authors: Chen Tao , Li Jingtao , Córdova Luis A. , Liu Bo , Mouraret Sylvain , Sun Qiang , Salmon Benjamin , Helms Jill
Published: January 2018

Autografts tend to be unreliable in older patients. Some of these age-related skeletal changes appear to be attributable to a decline in endogenous WNT signaling. We used a functional in vivo transplantation assay to demonstrate that the bone-forming capacity of an autograft can be traced back to a Wnt-responsive cell population associated with the mineralized bone matrix fraction of a bone graft. Micro-CT imaging, flow cytometry and quantitative analyses demonstrate that this mineralized fraction declines with age, along with a waning in endogenous Wnt signaling; together these factors contribute to the age-related deterioration in autograft efficacy. Using a lipid formulation to stabilize the hydrophobic WNT3A protein, we demonstrate that osteogenic capacity can be restored by incubating the bone graft ex vivo with WNT3A. Compared to control bone grafts, WNT-treated bone grafts give rise to three times more bone. These preclinical results establish a pivotal role for WNT signaling in the age-related decline of autologous bone grafting efficacy, and demonstrate a means to restore that efficacy via local, transient amplification of endogenous Wnt signaling.
Differential Mobility-Mass Spectrometry Double Spike Isotope Dilution Study of Release of β-Methylaminoalanine and Proteinogenic Amino Acids during Biological Sample Hydrolysis
Authors: Beach Daniel G. , Kerrin Elliott S. , Giddings Sabrina D. , Quilliam Michael A. , McCarron Pearse
Published: January 2018

The non-protein amino acid β-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) has been linked to neurodegenerative disease and reported throughout the environment. Proposed mechanisms of bioaccumulation, trophic transfer and chronic toxicity of BMAA rely on the hypothesis of protein misincorporation. Poorly selective methods for BMAA analysis have led to controversy. Here, a recently reported highly selective method for BMAA quantitation using hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography-differential mobility spectrometry-tandem mass spectrometry (HILIC-DMS-MS/MS) is expanded to include proteinogenic amino acids from hydrolyzed biological samples. For BMAA quantitation, we present a double spiking isotope dilution approach using D3-BMAA and 13C15N2-BMAA. These methods were applied to study release of BMAA during acid hydrolysis under a variety of conditions, revealing that the majority of BMAA can be extracted along with only a small proportion of protein. A time course hydrolysis of BMAA from mussel tissue was carried out to assess the recovery of BMAA during sample preparation. The majority of BMAA measured by typical methods was released before a significant proportion of protein was hydrolyzed. Little change was observed in protein hydrolysis beyond typical hydrolysis times but the concentration of BMAA increased linearly. These findings demonstrate protein misincorporation is not the predominant form of BMAA in cycad and shellfish.
Inhibition of insulin resistance by PGE1 via autophagy-dependent FGF21 pathway in diabetic nephropathy
Authors: Wei Wei , An Xing-Rong , Jin Shi-Jie , Li Xiao-Xue , Xu Ming
Published: January 2018

Insulin resistance is a critical process in the initiation and progression of diabetic nephropathy (DN). Alprostadil (Prostaglandin E1, PGE1) had protective effects on renal function. However, it is unknown whether PGE1 inhibited insulin resistance in renal tubule epithelial cells via autophagy, which plays a protective role in DN against insulin resistance. Insulin resistance was induced by palmitic acid (PA) in human HK-2 cells, shown as the decrease of insulin-stimulated AKT phosphorylation, glucose transporter-4 (GLUT4), glucose uptake and enhanced phosphorylation of insulin receptor substrate 1(IRS-1) at site serine 307 (pIRS-1ser307) and downregulated expression of IRS-1. Along with less abundance of p62, autophagy markers LC3B and Beclin-1 significantly increased in HK-2 cells exposed to PA. Such abnormal changes were significantly reversed by PGE1, which mimicked the role of autophagy gene 7 small interfering RNA (ATG7 siRNA). Furthermore, PGE1 promoted the protein expression of autophagy-related fibroblast growth factor-21 (FGF21), which alleviated insulin resistance. Results from western blotting and immunohistochemistry indicated that PGE1 remarkably restored autophagy, insulin resistance and the FGF21 expression in rat kidney of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Collectively, we demonstrated the potential protection of PGE1 on insulin resistance in renal tubules via autophagy-dependent FGF21 pathway in preventing the progression of DN.
Transcriptome changes induced by arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) roots
Authors: Vangelisti Alberto , Natali Lucia , Bernardi Rodolfo , Sbrana Cristiana , Turrini Alessandra , Hassani-Pak Keywan , Hughes David , Cavallini Andrea , Giovannetti Manuela , Giordani Tommaso
Published: January 2018

Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi are essential elements of soil fertility, plant nutrition and productivity, facilitating soil mineral nutrient uptake.Helianthus annuusis a non-model, widely cultivated species. Here we used an RNA-seq approach for evaluating gene expression variation at early and late stages of mycorrhizal establishment in sunflower roots colonized by the arbuscular fungusRhizoglomus irregulare. mRNA was isolated from roots of plantlets at 4 and 16 days after inoculation with the fungus. cDNA libraries were built and sequenced with Illumina technology. Differential expression analysis was performed between control and inoculated plants. Overall 726 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between inoculated and control plants were retrieved. The number of up-regulated DEGs greatly exceeded the number of down-regulated DEGs and this difference increased in later stages of colonization. Several DEGs were specifically involved in known mycorrhizal processes, such as membrane transport, cell wall shaping, and other. We also found previously unidentified mycorrhizal-induced transcripts. The most important DEGs were carefully described in order to hypothesize their roles in AM symbiosis. Our data add a valuable contribution for deciphering biological processes related to beneficial fungi and plant symbiosis, adding anAsteraceae, non-model species for future comparative functional genomics studies.
Exploring Viral Diversity in a Unique South African Soil Habitat
Authors: Segobola Jane , Adriaenssens Evelien , Tsekoa Tsepo , Rashamuse Konanani , Cowan Don
Published: January 2018

The Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve in the Cape Floral Kingdom in South Africa is known for its unique plant biodiversity. The potential presence of unique microbial and viral biodiversity associated with this unique plant biodiversity led us to explore the fynbos soil using metaviromic techniques. In this study, metaviromes of a soil community from the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve has been characterised in detail for the first time. Metaviromic DNA was recovered from soil and sequenced by Next Generation Sequencing. The MetaVir, MG-RAST and VIROME bioinformatics pipelines were used to analyse taxonomic composition, phylogenetic and functional assessments of the sequences. Taxonomic composition revealed members of the order Caudovirales, in particular the family Siphoviridae, as prevalent in the soil samples and other compared viromes. Functional analysis and other metaviromes showed a relatively high frequency of phage-related and structural proteins. Phylogenetic analysis of PolB, PolB2, terL and T7gp17 genes indicated that many viral sequences are closely related to the order Caudovirales, while the remainder were distinct from known isolates. The use of single virome which only includes double stranded DNA viruses limits this study. Novel phage sequences were detected, presenting an opportunity for future studies aimed at targeting novel genetic resources for applied biotechnology.
Genetic variations in NF-κB were associated with the susceptibility to hepatitis C virus infection among Chinese high-risk population
Authors: Tian Ting , Wang Jie , Huang Peng , Li Jun , Yu Rongbin , Fan Haozhi , Xia Xueshan , Han Yaping , Zhang Yun , Yue Ming
Published: January 2018

Polymorphisms within NF-κB pathway genes may be linked to hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection susceptibility and outcomes. We investigated the associations between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in NF-κB and the susceptibility as well as resolution of HCV infection. A Chinese population, including 1125 uninfected control cases, 558 cases with spontaneous viral clearance and 898 cases with persistent HCV infection, was genotyped for four SNPs (rs11820062, rs230530, rs1056890 and rs3774963) using a TaqMan assay. Our logistic analyses indicate that the subjects carrying RelA rs11820062 A allele had a significantly increased risk of HCV susceptibility (P
Bonferroni
 < 0.003125 in a dominant or additive model). In stratified analysis, the increased risk associated with rs11820062 A allele on HCV susceptibility remained in some case subgroups. This study demonstrates that a genetic variant involved in the NF-κB pathway gene (rs11820062 A allele) is associated with an increased HCV susceptibility within a high-risk Chinese population.
Effects of urban sprawl on arthropod communities in peri-urban farmed landscape in Shenbei New District, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China
Authors: Bian Zhen-xing , Wang Shuai , Wang Qiu-bing , Yu Miao , Qian Feng-kui
Published: January 2018

Peri-urban farmland provides a diversity of ecological services. However, it is experiencing increasing pressures from urban sprawl. While the effects of land use associated with farming on arthropod assemblages has received increasing attention, most of this research has been conducted by comparing conventional and organic cropping systems. The present study identifies the effects of urban sprawl and the role of non-cropped habitat in defining arthropod diversity in peri-urban farmed landscapes. Multi-scale arthropod data from 30 sampling plots were used with linear-mixed models to elucidate the effects of distance from urban areas (0–13 km; 13–25 km and >25 km, zones I, II, and III, respectively) on arthropods. Results showed that urban sprawl, disturbed farm landscapes, and disturbance in non-cropped habitats had negative effects on arthropods, the latter requiring arthropods to re-establish annually from surrounding landscapes via dispersal. While arthropod species richness showed no obvious changes, arthropod abundance was lowest in zone II. Generally, patch density (PD), Shannon diversity index (SHDI), and aggregate index (AI) of non-cropped habitat were major drivers of changes in arthropod populations. This study contributes to identifying the effects of urban sprawl on arthropod diversity and documenting the multiple functions of farm landscapes in peri-urban regions.
Phylogenomics illuminates the backbone of the Myriapoda Tree of Life and reconciles morphological and molecular phylogenies
Authors: Fernández Rosa , Edgecombe Gregory D. , Giribet Gonzalo
Published: January 2018

The interrelationships of the four classes of Myriapoda have been an unresolved question in arthropod phylogenetics and an example of conflict between morphology and molecules. Morphology and development provide compelling support for Diplopoda (millipedes) and Pauropoda being closest relatives, and moderate support for Symphyla being more closely related to the diplopod-pauropod group than any of them are to Chilopoda (centipedes). In contrast, several molecular datasets have contradicted the Diplopoda–Pauropoda grouping (named Dignatha), often recovering a Symphyla–Pauropoda group (named Edafopoda). Here we present the first transcriptomic data including a pauropod and both families of symphylans, allowing myriapod interrelationships to be inferred from phylogenomic data from representatives of all main lineages. Phylogenomic analyses consistently recovered Dignatha with strong support. Taxon removal experiments identified outgroup choice as a critical factor affecting myriapod interrelationships. Diversification of millipedes in the Ordovician and centipedes in the Silurian closely approximates fossil evidence whereas the deeper nodes of the myriapod tree date to various depths in the Cambrian-Early Ordovician, roughly coinciding with recent estimates of terrestrialisation in other arthropod lineages, including hexapods and arachnids.
Sensorimotor abilities predict on-field performance in professional baseball
Authors: Burris Kyle , Vittetoe Kelly , Ramger Benjamin , Suresh Sunith , Tokdar Surya T. , Reiter Jerome P. , Appelbaum L. Gregory
Published: January 2018

Baseball players must be able to see and react in an instant, yet it is hotly debated whether superior performance is associated with superior sensorimotor abilities. In this study, we compare sensorimotor abilities, measured through 8 psychomotor tasks comprising the Nike Sensory Station assessment battery, and game statistics in a sample of 252 professional baseball players to evaluate the links between sensorimotor skills and on-field performance. For this purpose, we develop a series of Bayesian hierarchical latent variable models enabling us to compare statistics across professional baseball leagues. Within this framework, we find that sensorimotor abilities are significant predictors of on-base percentage, walk rate and strikeout rate, accounting for age, position, and league. We find no such relationship for either slugging percentage or fielder-independent pitching. The pattern of results suggests performance contributions from both visual-sensory and visual-motor abilities and indicates that sensorimotor screenings may be useful for player scouting.
Preclinical longitudinal imaging of tumor microvascular radiobiological response with functional optical coherence tomography
Authors: Demidov Valentin , Maeda Azusa , Sugita Mitsuro , Madge Victoria , Sadanand Siddharth , Flueraru Costel , Vitkin I. Alex
Published: January 2018

Radiation therapy (RT) is widely used for cancer treatment, alone or in combination with other therapies. Recent RT advances have revived interest in delivering higher dose in fewer fractions, which may invoke both cellular and microvascular damage mechanisms. Microvasculature may thus be a potentially sensitive functional biomarker of RT early response, especially for such emerging RT treatments. However it is difficult to measure directly and non-invasively, and its time course, dose dependencies, and overall importance in tumor control are unclear. We use functional optical coherence tomography for quantitative longitudinalin vivoimaging in preclinical models of human tumor xenografts subjected to 10, 20 and 30 Gy doses, furnishing a detailed assessment of vascular remodeling following RT. Immediate (minutes to tens of minutes) and early (days to weeks) RT responses of microvascular supply, as well as tumor volume and fluorescence intensity, were quantified and demonstrated robust and complex temporal dose-dependent behaviors. The findings were compared to theoretical models proposed in the literature.
Transcriptomic analysis of gene signatures associated with sickle pain
Authors: Paul Jinny A. , Aich Anupam , Abrahante Juan E. , Wang Ying , LaRue Rebecca S. , Rathe Susan K. , Kalland Krystina , Mittal Aditya , Jha Ritu , Peng Fei , Largaespada David A. , Bagchi Anindya , Gupta Kalpna
Published: January 2018

Pain is a hallmark feature of sickle cell disease (SCD). Recurrent and unpredictable acute pain due to vaso-oclussive crises (VOC) is unique to SCD; and can be superimposed on chronic pain. To examine the mechanisms underlying pain in SCD, we performed RNA sequencing of dorsal root ganglion (DRG) of transgenic sickle mice and their age-matched control mice expressing normal human hemoglobin A, at 2 and 5 months of age. Sickle and control mice of both ages were equally divided into hypoxia/reoxygenation (to simulate VOC) and normoxia treatment, resulting in eight groups of mice. Each group had at least six mice. RNA isolated from the DRG was sequenced and paired-end 50 bp sequencing data were generated using Illumina’s HiSeq 2000. This large dataset can serve as a resource for examining transcriptional changes in the DRG that are associated with age and hypoxia/reoxygenation associated signatures of nociceptive mechanisms underlying chronic and acute pain, respectively.
Radiolabelling Liposomal Nanomedicines for PET Imaging
Authors: de Rosales Rafael T. M.
Published: January 2018

The high sensitivity and spatio-temporal resolution of positron emission tomography (PET) makes this non-invasive imaging technique ideal for the in vivo tracking of liposomal nanomedicines in the clinical setting. This image-guided therapeutic approach may eventually allow selection of patients that would benefit from the nanomedicinal treatment and, by doing so, enhance the clinical value/efficacy of this promising treatment. In this chapter, we review the different methods reported to date of radiolabel liposomal nanomedicines with PET isotopes such as 89Zr, 64Cu and 18F and discuss their advantages and limitations for clinical translation.
Liposomes for Hyperthermia Triggered Drug Release
Authors: Lokerse W. J. M. , Kneidl B. , Rysin A. , Petrini M. , Lindner L. H.
Published: January 2018

The use of thermosensitive liposomes (TSLs) for anticancer treatment that were first described in the seventies has gained an increasing amount of attention over the years. In recent decades, various TSL formulations have been designed and tested in many different ways, all having various advantages and disadvantages. We here give an overview on the parameters: (1) base lipids; (2) cholesterol; (3) surface modification; (4) release improvement; (5) encapsulated drugs; (6) active targeting and (7) testing procedures of this broad variety of TSLs. By these means, we aim to establish a broader understanding on how to adequately design a TSL and to test these in a reliable manner. Furthermore, we provide a critical view on the investigated aspects of TSL that were successful and unsuccessful and highlight which areas still require more follow up research.
mRMR-based wavelength selection for quantitative detection of Chinese yellow wine using NIRS
Authors: Chen Lingyi , Zhao Zhonggai , Liu Fei
Published: January 2018

The mRMR algorithm can be applied to NIR analysis as an effective wavelength selection tool.
A curcumin-loaded polymeric micelle as a carrier of a microRNA-21 antisense-oligonucleotide for enhanced anti-tumor effects in a glioblastoma animal model
Authors: Tan Xiaonan , Kim Gyeungyun , Lee Dahee , Oh Jungju , Kim Minkyung , Piao Chunxian , Lee Jaewon , Lee Min Sang , Jeong Ji Hoon , Lee Minhyung
Published: January 2018

A curcumin-loaded polymer micelle was developed for the combined delivery of curcumin and a microRNA-21 antisense-oligonucleotide into glioblastomas.
Can 5-methylcytosine analogues with extended alkyl side chains guide DNA methylation?
Authors: Kotandeniya D. , Seiler C. L. , Fernandez J. , Pujari S. S. , Curwick L. , Murphy K. , Wickramaratne S. , Yan S. , Murphy D. , Sham Yuk Y. , Tretyakova N. Y.
Published: January 2018

The ability of extended forms of 5-methylcytosine to direct DNA methylation by maintenance DNA methyltransferase was investigated.
Conformation-controlled emission of AIE luminogen: a tetraphenylethene embedded pillar[5]arene skeleton
Authors: Han Bin , Zhu Linpeng , Wang Xi , Bai Ming , Jiang Jianzhuang
Published: January 2018

Incubation of a guest 1,4-dicyanobutane molecule inside a tetraphenylethene-embedded pillar scaffold induces a significant change in the molecular conformation, shutting down the AIE properties.
A thermoresponsive supramolecular polymer gel from a heteroditopic calix[4]pyrrole
Authors: Amharar Sana , Yuvayapan Samet , Aydogan Abdullah
Published: January 2018

Anion recognition was utilized on heteroditopic calix[4]pyrrole host–guest systems to obtain a thermoresponsive supramolecular polymer gel.
A series of unprecedented triol-stabilized [H3MW6O24]n−: the missing piece between A- and B-type Anderson–Evans polyoxometalates
Authors: Li Qi , Wei Yongge
Published: January 2018

Several novel triol-ligands functionalized Anderson–Evans type polyoxotungstates, K3Na3[{HOCH2C(CH2O)3}MO3W6–O18] (M = Al, Cr, Co) and K3Na3[{H3CC(CH2O)3}CoO3W6O18], were successfully synthesized and characterized, in which some of the central metal ions have never been found in the Anderson-type polyoxotungstates.
Catalytic asymmetric formal total syntheses of (+)- and (−)-cycloclavine
Authors: Chaudhuri Saikat , Ghosh Santanu , Bhunia Subhajit , Bisai Alakesh
Published: January 2018

Catalytic asymmetric formal syntheses of both enantiomers of (+)- and (−)-cycloclavine (1) have been envisioned via proline catalysed α-aminoxylation of aldehydes followed by an intramolecular Heck cyclization to set vicinal stereocenters.
The homometallic polyoxotungstate archetype {P4W24}
Authors: Yi Xiaofeng , Izarova Natalya V. , Kögerler Paul
Published: January 2018

Integration of phenylphosphonate and phenylarsonate groups render the {P2W12}-based polyoxotungstate {P4W24} accessible, yet still sufficiently reactive for consecutive functionalization steps.
Total synthesis of conosilane A via a site-selective C–H functionalization strategy
Authors: Yuan Ziyun , Hu Xiaojun , Zhang Hao , Liu Lin , Chen Peng , He Min , Xie Xingang , Wang Xiaolei , She Xuegong
Published: January 2018

The strategy developed for the first total synthesis of highly oxygenated natural product conosilane A involving double manipulation of allylic C(sp3)–H functionalization renders the power of C–H functionalization in organic syntheses.
Actuating and memorizing bilayer hydrogels for a self-deformed shape memory function
Authors: Wang Li , Jian Yukun , Le Xiaoxia , Lu Wei , Ma Chunxin , Zhang Jiawei , Huang Youju , Huang Chih-Feng , Chen Tao
Published: January 2018

A general strategy for fabricating a double layer self-deformed shape memory hydrogel which includes a thermo-responsive actuating layer and a pH-responsive memorizing layer is presented.
Effect of lattice strain on the electro-catalytic activity of IrO2 for water splitting
Authors: Sun Wei , Wang Zhiqiang , Zaman Waqas Qamar , Zhou Zhenhua , Cao Limei , Gong Xue-Qing , Yang Ji
Published: January 2018

Lattice strain control of the OER activity of IrO2.
Biologically inspired oxidation catalysis using metallopeptides
Authors: Vicens Laia , Costas Miquel
Published: January 2018

Metalloenzymes can catalyze the oxidation of hydrocarbons with high efficiency and selectivity. For this reason, they are taken as inspiration for the development of new catalyst. A promising strategy is the combination of metal coordination complexes and peptide chains. The use of metallopeptides in oxidation reactions is discussed.
Mechanically-stacked perovskite/CIGS tandem solar cells with efficiency of 23.9% and reduced oxygen sensitivity
Authors: Shen Heping , Duong The , Peng Jun , Jacobs Daniel , Wu Nandi , Gong Junbo , Wu Yiliang , Karuturi Siva Krishna , Fu Xiao , Weber Klaus , Xiao Xudong , White Thomas P. , Catchpole Kylie
Published: January 2018

A perovskite/CIGS tandem configuration is an attractive and viable approach to achieve an ultra-high efficiency and cost-effective all-thin-film solar cell.
Probiotic/prebiotic correction for adverse effects of iron fortification on intestinal resistance to Salmonella infection in weaning mice
Authors: Lin Feifei , Wu Haohao , Zeng Mingyong , Yu Guangli , Dong Shiyuan , Yang Huicheng
Published: January 2018

Our study provides experimental evidence for the increased diarrhea risk upon iron fortification with high pathogen load, and demonstrates that probiotic or prebiotic supplementation can be used to eliminate the potential harm of iron fortification on gut health.
Practical mediated-assembly synthesis of silver nanowires using commercial Camellia sinensis extracts and their antibacterial properties
Authors: Flores-González M. , Talavera-Rojas M. , Soriano-Vargas E. , Rodríguez-González V.
Published: January 2018

Camellia sinensis is a well-known plant used for health purposes due to its high phenolic compound content and antioxidant properties.
Dextran-coated iron oxide nanoparticle-improved therapeutic effects of human mesenchymal stem cells in a mouse model of Parkinson's disease
Authors: Chung Tsai-Hua , Hsu Szu-Chun , Wu Shu-Hui , Hsiao Jong-Kai , Lin Chih-Peng , Yao Ming , Huang Dong-Ming
Published: January 2018

Dex-IO NPs can improve the therapeutic benefit of hMSCs in a PD mouse model.
3D assembly of Ti3C2-MXene directed by water/oil interfaces
Authors: Bian Renji , Lin Ruizhi , Wang Guilin , Lu Gang , Zhi Weiqiang , Xiang Shanglin , Wang Tingwei , Clegg Paul S. , Cai Dongyu , Huang Wei
Published: January 2018

An interfacial route is demonstrated for assembling 2D Ti3C2-MXene into 3D architectures.
Contact laws between nanoparticles: the elasticity of a nanopowder
Authors: Girard Adrien , Ramade Julien , Margueritat Jérémie , Machon Denis , Saviot Lucien , Demoisson Frédéric , Mermet Alain
Published: January 2018

Studies of the mechanical contact between nanometer-scale particles provide fundamental insights into the mechanical properties of materials and the validity of contact laws at the nanoscale which are still under debate for contact surfaces approaching atomic dimensions.
Graphene on {116} faceted monocrystalline anatase nanosheet array for ultraviolet detection
Authors: Liu Yu , Cai Honglei , Wang Fangfang , Wang Jianlin , Huang Qiuping , Fu Zhengping , Lu Yalin
Published: January 2018

A UV photo-detector which hasfast response was created bycombining monocrystalline anatase nanosheet arraywith monolayer graphene.
Dopant-dependent crystallization and photothermal effect of Sb-doped SnO2nanoparticles as stable theranostic nanoagents for tumor ablation
Authors: Yu Nuo , Peng Chen , Wang Zhaojie , Liu Zixiao , Zhu Bo , Yi Zhigao , Zhu Meifang , Liu Xiaogang , Chen Zhigang
Published: January 2018

We revealed the crystallization behavior and tunable photothermal effects of Sb-doped SnO2as novel theranostic nanoagents for tumor ablation.