bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
LRRC25 Functions as an Inhibitor of NF-κB Signaling Pathway by Promoting p65/RelA for Autophagic Degradation
Authors: Feng Yanchun , Duan Tianhao , Du Yang , Jin Shouheng , Wang Mingjun , Cui Jun , Wang Rong-Fu
Published: October 2017

Nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) is a family of critical transcription factors that play a critical role in innate immune responses and inflammation, yet the molecular mechanisms responsible for its tight regulation is not fully understood. In this study, we identified LRRC25, a member of leucine-rich repeat (LRR)-containing protein family, as a negative regulator in the NF-κB signaling pathway. Ectopic expression of LRRC25 impaired NF-κB activation, whereas knockout of LRRC25 potentiated NF-κB activation and enhanced the production of inflammatory cytokines. Further study demonstrated that the LRR domain of LRRC25 interacted with the Rel Homology domain (RHD) of p65/RelA and promotes the degradation of p65/RelA. Furthermore, LRRC25 enhanced the interaction between p65/RelA and cargo receptor p62, thus facilitating the degradation of p65/RelA through autophagy pathway. Our study has not only identified LRRC25 as a novel inhibitor of NF-κB signaling pathway, but also uncovers a new mechanism of crosstalk between NF-κB signaling and autophagy pathways.
Unconventional two-dimensional vibrations of a decorated carbon nanotube under electric field: linking actuation to advanced sensing ability
Authors: de Aquino Belisa R. H. , Neek-Amal Mehdi , Milošević Milorad V.
Published: October 2017

We show that a carbon nanotube decorated with different types of charged metallic nanoparticles exhibits unusual two-dimensional vibrations when actuated by applied electric field. Such vibrations and diverse possible trajectories are not only fundamentally important but also have minimum two characteristic frequencies that can be directly linked back to the properties of the constituents in the considered nanoresonator. Namely, those frequencies and the maximal deflection during vibrations are very distinctively dependent on the geometry of the nanotube, the shape, element, mass and charge of the nanoparticle, and are vastly tunable by the applied electric field, revealing the unique sensing ability of devices made of molecular filaments and metallic nanoparticles.
Cdk2 strengthens the intra-S checkpoint and counteracts cell cycle exit induced by DNA damage
Authors: Bačević Katarina , Lossaint Gérald , Achour Thiziri Nait , Georget Virginie , Fisher Daniel , Dulić Vjekoslav
Published: October 2017

Although cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (Cdk2) controls the G1/S transition and promotes DNA replication, it is dispensable for cell cycle progression due to redundancy with Cdk1. Yet Cdk2 also has non-redundant functions that can be revealed in certain genetic backgrounds and it was reported to promote the G2/M DNA damage response checkpoint in TP53 (p53)-deficient cancer cells. However, in p53-proficient cells subjected to DNA damage, Cdk2 is inactivated by the CDK inhibitor p21. We therefore investigated whether Cdk2 differentially affects checkpoint responses in p53-proficient and deficient cell lines. We show that, independently of p53 status, Cdk2 stimulates the ATR/Chk1 pathway and is required for an efficient DNA replication checkpoint response. In contrast, Cdk2 is not required for a sustained DNA damage response and G2 arrest. Rather, eliminating Cdk2 delays S/G2 progression after DNA damage and accelerates appearance of early markers of cell cycle exit. Notably, Cdk2 knockdown leads to down-regulation of Cdk6, which we show is a non-redundant pRb kinase whose elimination compromises cell cycle progression. Our data reinforce the notion that Cdk2 is a key p21 target in the DNA damage response whose inactivation promotes exit from the cell cycle in G2.
Metabolic syndrome in rats is associated with erectile dysfunction by impairing PI3K/Akt/eNOS activity
Authors: Li Rui , Cui Kai , Liu Kang , Li Hao , Zhang Yan , Liu Xiaming , Chen Ruibao , Li Mingchao , Wang Tao , Wang Shaogang , Liu Jihong , Rao Ke
Published: October 2017

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a risk factor for erectile dysfunction (ED), but the underlying mechanisms are unclear. The aims of this study were to determine the underlying mechanisms of metabolic syndrome-related ED (MED). Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were fed a high-fat diet for 6 months, and metabolic parameters were then assessed. An apomorphine test was conducted to confirm MED. Only rats with MED were administered an intracavernosal injection of either epidermal growth factor (EGF) or vehicle for 4 weeks. Erectile responses were evaluated by determining the mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) and intracavernosal pressure (ICP). Levels of protein expression were examined by western blotting and immunohistochemistry. Body weight, fasting blood glucose, plasma insulin and plasma total cholesterol were increased in the MetS rats compared with those in control rats (each﻿ p < 0.05). The  maximum ICP/MAP, total ICP/MAP and concentration of cyclic guanosine mono-phosphate (cGMP) were significantly decreased in MED rats (each p < 0.05). The expression levels of p110α, p-Akt1 (Tyr308)/Akt1 and p-eNOS (Ser1177)/eNOS were reduced in MED rats (each p < 0.05). Activation of the PI3K/Akt/eNOS signaling cascade (intracavernosal injection of EGF) reversed these changes (each p < 0.05). The present study demonstrates that downregulation of the PI3K/Akt/eNOS signaling pathway is involved in MED.
The neonicotinoid insecticide Clothianidin adversely affects immune signaling in a human cell line
Authors: Di Prisco Gennaro , Iannaccone Marco , Ianniello Flora , Ferrara Rosalba , Caprio Emilio , Pennacchio Francesco , Capparelli Rosanna
Published: October 2017

Clothianidin is a widely used neonicotinoid insecticide, which is a potent agonist of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor in insects. This neurotoxic compound has a negative impact on insect immunity, as it down-regulates the activation of the transcription factor NF-κB. Given the evolutionary conserved role of NF-κB in the modulation of the immune response in the animal kingdom, here we want to assess any effect of Clothianidin on vertebrate defense barriers. In presence of this neonicotinoid insecticide, a pro-inflammatory challenge with LPS on the human monocytic cell line THP-1 results both in a reduced production of the cytokine TNF-α and in a down-regulation of a reporter gene under control of NF-κB promoter. This finding is corroborated by a significant impact of Clothianidin on the transcription levels of different immune genes, characterized by a core disruption of TRAF4 and TRAF6 that negatively influences NF-κB signaling. Moreover, exposure to Clothianidin concurrently induces a remarkable up-regulation of NGFR, which supports the occurrence of functional ties between the immune and nervous systems. These results suggest a potential risk of immunotoxicity that neonicotinoids may have on vertebrates, which needs to be carefully assessed at the organism level.
Effects of water availability on a forestry pathosystem: fungal strain-specific variation in disease severity
Authors: Linnakoski Riikka , Sugano Junko , Junttila Samuli , Pulkkinen Pertti , Asiegbu Fred O. , Forbes Kristian M.
Published: October 2017

Norway spruce is one of the most important commercial forestry species in Europe, and is commonly infected by the bark beetle-vectored necrotrophic fungus, Endoconidiophora polonica. Spruce trees display a restricted capacity to respond to environmental perturbations, and we hypothesized that water limitation will increase disease severity in this pathosystem. To test this prediction, 737 seedlings were randomized to high (W+) or low (W−) water availability treatment groups, and experimentally inoculated with one of three E. polonica strains or mock-inoculated. Seedling mortality was monitored throughout an annual growing season, and total seedling growth and lesion length indices were measured at the experiment conclusion. Seedling growth was greater in the W+ than W− treatment group, demonstrating limitation due to water availability. For seedlings infected with two of the fungal strains, no differences in disease severity occurred in response to water availability. For the third fungal strain, however, greater disease severity (mortality and lesion lengths) occurred in W− than W+ seedlings. While the co-circulation in nature of multiple E. polonica strains of varying virulence is known, this is the first experimental evidence that water availability can alter strain-specific disease severity.
Laboratory cryo x-ray microscopy for 3D cell imaging
Authors: Fogelqvist Emelie , Kördel Mikael , Carannante Valentina , Önfelt Björn , Hertz Hans M.
Published: October 2017

Water-window x-ray microscopy allows two- and three-dimensional (2D and 3D) imaging of intact unstained cells in their cryofixed near-native state with unique contrast and high resolution. Present operational biological water-window microscopes are based at synchrotron facilities, which limits their accessibility and integration with complementary methods. Laboratory-source microscopes have had difficulty addressing relevant biological tasks with proper resolution and contrast due to long exposure times and limited up-time. Here we report on laboratory cryo x-ray microscopy with the exposure time, contrast, and reliability to allow for routine high-spatial resolution 3D imaging of intact cells and cell-cell interactions. Stabilization of the laser-plasma source combined with new optics and sample preparation provide high-resolution cell imaging, both in 2D with ten-second exposures and in 3D with twenty-minute tomography. Examples include monitoring of the distribution of carbon-dense vesicles in starving HEK293T cells and imaging the interaction between natural killer cells and target cells.
Gem-diol and Ketone Crystal-to-crystal Transition Phenomena
Authors: Bo Zhang , Sitong Chen , Weiming Guo , Weijing Zhang , Lin Wang , Li Yang , Jianguo Zhang
Published: October 2017

The generally thought unstable diol compound tetrazyl gem-diol (1, H2DTMdiol·2H2O), was firstly obtained in crystalline form by culturing the filtrate for ten days after acidification and filtration of aqueous solution of potassium salt of ketone (2, [K(HDTMone)·2H2O]n). The stability of this novel gem-diol compound is found owning to the hydrogen bonds with lattice water molecules and electrophilic tetrazolyl groups. Meanwhile, the undissolved ketone (3, H2DTMone) was separated during the filtration in the process of gem-diol compound production. Surprisingly, the crystal-to-crystal perfect transition phenomena from gem-diol (1) to ketone (3) were firstly observed after heating up to 120 °C as evidenced by X-ray single crystal diffraction and powder X-ray diffraction. These results found here might open new revenues for methylene oxidation and alkanediol chemistry.
Cryo-EM Visualization of Lipid and Polymer-Stabilized Perfluorocarbon Gas Nanobubbles - A Step Towards Nanobubble Mediated Drug Delivery
Authors: Hernandez Christopher , Gulati Sahil , Fioravanti Gabriella , Stewart Phoebe L. , Exner Agata A.
Published: October 2017

Gas microbubbles stabilized with lipids, surfactants, proteins and/or polymers are widely used clinically as ultrasound contrast agents. Because of their large 1–10 µm size, applications of microbubbles are confined to the blood vessels. Accordingly, there is much interest in generating nanoscale echogenic bubbles (nanobubbles), which can enable new uses of ultrasound contrast agents in molecular imaging and drug delivery, particularly for cancer applications. While the interactions of microbubbles with ultrasound have been widely investigated, little is known about the activity of nanobubbles under ultrasound exposure. In this work, we demonstrate that cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) can be used to image nanoscale lipid and polymer-stabilized perfluorocarbon gas bubbles before and after their destruction with high intensity ultrasound. In addition, cryo-EM can be used to observe electron-beam induced dissipation of nanobubble encapsulated perfluorocarbon gas.
Calmodulin confers calcium sensitivity to the stability of the distal intracellular assembly domain of Kv7.2 channels
Authors: Alaimo Alessandro , Nuñez Eider , Aivar Paloma , Fernández-Orth Juncal , Gomis-Perez Carolina , Bernardo-Seisdedos Ganeko , Malo Covadonga , Villarroel Alvaro
Published: October 2017

Tetrameric coiled-coil structures are present in many ion channels, often adjacent to a calmodulin (CaM) binding site, although the relationship between the two is not completely understood. Here we examine the dynamic properties of the ABCD domain located in the intracellular C-terminus of tetrameric, voltage-dependent, potassium selective Kv7.2 channels. This domain encompasses the CaM binding site formed by helices A and B, followed by helix C, which is linked to the helix D coiled-coil. The data reveals that helix D stabilizes CaM binding, promoting trans-binding (CaM embracing neighboring subunits), and they suggest that the ABCD domain can be exchanged between subunits of the tetramer. Exchange is faster when mutations in AB weaken the CaM interaction. The exchange of ABCD domains is slower in the presence of Ca2+, indicating that CaM stabilization of the tetrameric assembly is enhanced when loaded with this cation. Our observations are consistent with a model that involves a dynamic mechanism of helix D assembly, which supports reciprocal allosteric coupling between the A-B module and the coiled-coil formed by the helix D. Thus, formation of the distal helix D tetramer influences CaM binding and CaM-dependent Kv7.2 properties, whereas reciprocally, CaM and Ca2+ influence the dynamic behavior of the helix D coiled-coil.
Evaluating phenotype-driven approaches for genetic diagnoses from exomes in a clinical setting
Authors: Pengelly Reuben J. , Alom Thahmina , Zhang Zijian , Hunt David , Ennis Sarah , Collins Andrew
Published: October 2017

Next generation sequencing is transforming clinical medicine and genome research, providing a powerful route to establishing molecular diagnoses for genetic conditions; however, challenges remain given the volume and complexity of genetic variation. A number of methods integrate patient phenotype and genotypic data to prioritise variants as potentially causal. Some methods have a clinical focus while others are more research-oriented. With clinical applications in mind we compare results from alternative methods using 21 exomes for which the disease causal variant has been previously established through traditional clinical evaluation. In this case series we find that the PhenIX program is the most effective, ranking the true causal variant at between 1 and 10 in 85% of these cases. This is a significantly higher proportion than the combined results from five alternative methods tested (p = 0.003). The next best method is Exomiser (hiPHIVE), in which the causal variant is ranked 1–10 in 25% of cases. The widely different targets of these methods (more clinical focus, considering known Mendelian genes, in PhenIX, versus gene discovery in Exomiser) is perhaps not fully appreciated but may impact strongly on their utility for molecular diagnosis using clinical exome data.
Identification of novel mazEF/pemIK family toxin-antitoxin loci and their distribution in the Staphylococcus genus
Authors: Bukowski Michal , Hyz Karolina , Janczak Monika , Hydzik Marcin , Dubin Grzegorz , Wladyka Benedykt
Published: October 2017

The versatile roles of toxin-antitoxin (TA) systems in bacterial physiology and pathogenesis have been investigated for more than three decades. Diverse TA loci in Bacteria and Archaea have been identified in genome-wide studies. The advent of massive parallel sequencing has substantially expanded the number of known bacterial genomic sequences over the last 5 years. In staphylococci, this has translated into an impressive increase from a few tens to a several thousands of available genomes, which has allowed us for the re-evalution of prior conclusions. In this study, we analysed the distribution of mazEF/pemIK family TA system operons in available staphylococcal genomes and their prevalence in mobile genetic elements. 10 novel mazEF/pemIK homologues were identified, each with a corresponding toxin that plays a potentially different and undetermined physiological role. A detailed characterisation of these TA systems would be exceptionally useful. Of particular interest are those associated with an SCCmec mobile genetic element (responsible for multidrug resistance transmission) or representing the joint horizontal transfer of TA systems and determinants of vancomycin resistance from enterococci. The involvement of TA systems in maintaining mobile genetic elements and the associations between novel mazEF/pemIK loci and those which carry drug resistance genes highlight their potential medical importance.
Phosphorylation regulates the subcellular localization of Cucumber Mosaic Virus 2b protein
Authors: Nemes Katalin , Gellért Ákos , Almási Asztéria , Vági Pál , Sáray Réka , Kádár Katalin , Salánki Katalin
Published: October 2017

The 2b protein of Cucumber mosaic virus has a role in nearly all steps of the viral cycle including cell-to-cell movement, symptom induction and suppression of antiviral RNA silencing. Previous studies demonstrated the presence of 2b protein in the nucleus and in cytoplasm as well. Phosphorylation site of 2b protein is conserved in all CMV isolates, including proposed constitute motifs for casein kinase II and cyclin-dependent kinase 2. To discern the impact of 2b protein phosphorylation, we created eight different mutants to mimic the non-phosporylated (serine to alanine) as well as the phosphorylated state (serine to aspartic acid) of the protein. We compared these mutants to the wild-type (Rs-CMV) virus in terms of symptom induction, gene silencing suppressor activity as well as in cellular localization. Here, in this study we confirmed the phosphorylation of 2b protein in vivo, both in infected N. benthamiana and in infiltrated patches. Mutants containing aspartic acid in the phosphorylation site accumulated only in the cytoplasm indicating that phosphorylated 2b protein could not enter the nucleus. We identified a conserved dual phosphorylation switch in CMV 2b protein, which equilibrates the shuttling of the 2b protein between the nucleus and the cytoplasm, and regulates the suppressor activity of the 2b protein.
A Novel β-adaptin/c-Myc Complex Formation Modulated by Oxidative Stress in the Control of the Cell Cycle in Macrophages and its Implication in Atherogenesis
Authors: García-González Victor , Mas-Oliva Jaime
Published: October 2017

Our study tested the proposal that c-Myc activation in macrophages is differentially carried out dependent on the intracellular oxidative state of cells and potentially associated to the process of atherogenesis. Under our experimental conditions, the generation of reactive oxygen species carried out by the presence of oxidized low density lipoproteins (oxLDL) or Gram negative bacterial lipopolysaccharides (LPS) modifies the expression of cellular adhesion molecules such as c-Abl, calcium transport proteins such as the plasma membrane Ca2+-ATPase (PMCA), CD47, procaspase-7, CASP7, CHOP, transcriptional activators such as c-Jun and c-Myc and molecules that participate in the process of endocytosis like α- and β-adaptin. We present the first evidence showing that a state of oxidative stress alters c-Myc-dependent activity pathways in macrophages through binding to molecules such as β-adaptin promoting the reversible formation of a complex that presents the ability to regulate the development of the cell cycle. We propose that the subtle regulation carried out through the formation of this c-Myc/β-adaptin complex when cells change from a normal physiological condition to a state of oxidative stress, represents a defense mechanism against the deleterious effects caused by the loss of cell homeostasis.
Direct Production of Furfural in One-pot Fashion from Raw Biomass Using Brønsted Acidic Ionic Liquids
Authors: Matsagar Babasaheb M. , Hossain Shahriar A. , Islam Tofazzal , Alamri Hatem R. , Alothman Zeid A. , Yamauchi Yusuke , Dhepe Paresh L. , Wu Kevin C.-W.
Published: October 2017

The conversion of raw biomass into C5-sugars and furfural was demonstrated with the one-pot method using Brønsted acidic ionic liquids (BAILs) without any mineral acids or metal halides. Various BAILs were synthesized and characterized using NMR, FT-IR, TGA, and CHNS microanalysis and were used as the catalyst for raw biomass conversion. The remarkably high yield (i.e. 88%) of C5 sugars from bagasse can be obtained using 1-methyl-3(3-sulfopropyl)-imidazolium hydrogen sulfate ([C3SO3HMIM][HSO4]) BAIL catalyst in a water medium. Similarly, the [C3SO3HMIM][HSO4] BAIL also converts the bagasse into furfural with very high yield (73%) in one-pot method using a water/toluene biphasic solvent system.
Long-term Intake of Pasta Containing Barley (1–3)Beta-D-Glucan Increases Neovascularization-mediated Cardioprotection through Endothelial Upregulation of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor and Parkin
Authors: Casieri Valentina , Matteucci Marco , Cavallini Claudia , Torti Milena , Torelli Michele , Lionetti Vincenzo
Published: October 2017

Barley (1–3)β-D-Glucan (BBG) enhances angiogenesis. Since pasta is very effective in providing a BBG-enriched diet, we hypothesized that the intake of pasta containing 3% BBG (P-BBG) induces neovascularization-mediated cardioprotection. Healthy adult male C57BL/6 mice fed P-BBG (n = 15) or wheat pasta (Control, n = 15) for five-weeks showed normal glucose tolerance and cardiac function. With a food intake similar to the Control, P-BBG mice showed a 109% survival rate (P < 0.01 vs. Control) after cardiac ischemia (30 min)/reperfusion (60 min) injury. Left ventricular (LV) anion superoxide production and infarct size in P-BBG mice were reduced by 62 and 35% (P < 0.0001 vs. Control), respectively. The capillary and arteriolar density of P-BBG hearts were respectively increased by 12 and 18% (P < 0.05 vs. Control). Compared to the Control group, the VEGF expression in P-BBG hearts was increased by 87.7% (P < 0.05); while, the p53 and Parkin expression was significantly increased by 125% and cleaved caspase-3 levels were reduced by 33% in P-BBG mice.In vitro, BBG was required to induce VEGF, p53 and Parkin expression in human umbelical vascular endothelial cells. Moreover, the BBG-induced Parkin expression was not affected by pifithrin-α (10 uM/7days), a p53 inhibitor. In conclusion, long-term dietary supplementation with P-BBG confers post-ischemic cardioprotection through endothelial upregulation of VEGF and Parkin.
Pharmacological sensitivity of reflexive and nonreflexive outcomes as a correlate of the sensory and affective responses to visceral pain in mice
Authors: de la Puente Beatriz , Zamanillo Daniel , Romero Luz , Vela José M. , Merlos Manuel , Portillo-Salido Enrique
Published: October 2017

Pain encompasses both sensory and affective dimensions which can be differentially modulated by drugs. Here, we compare the pharmacological sensitivity of the sensory and affective responses using acetic acid-induced abdominal writhings (sensory-reflexive outcome) and acetic acid-induced depression of reward seeking behaviour (RSB, affective-nonreflexive outcome) to a highly palatable food in mice. We found that the expression of RSB critically depends on factors such as sex and previous knowledge and type of the food stimulus. Intraperitoneal administration of acetic acid (iAA) produced a long-lasting (beyond the resolution of writhing behaviour) and concentration-dependent decrease on both appetitive-approach and consummatory dimensions of RSB. Ibuprofen and diclofenac were much more potent in reversing AA-induced changes in RSB: latency to eat (ED50 = 2 and 0.005 mg/kg, intraperinoneally, respectively) and amount consumed (ED50 = 11 and 0.1 mg/kg) than in AA-induced writhing (ED50 = 123 and 60 mg/kg). Morphine and duloxetine inhibited the writhing response (ED50 = 0.8 and 6 mg/kg, respectively) but not the AA-induced changes in RSB. Caffeine was ineffective in both AA-induced writhing and RSB changes. Overall, this study characterized a preclinical mouse model of hedonic deficits induced by pain that can be used to assess affective responses as well as complementary classic reflexive approaches in the evaluation of candidate analgesics.
Task demands, tDCS intensity, and the COMT val158met polymorphism impact tDCS-linked working memory training gains
Authors: Stephens Jaclyn A. , Jones Kevin T. , Berryhill Marian E.
Published: October 2017

Working memory (WM) training paired with transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) can improve executive function in older adults. The unclear mechanism of tDCS likely depends on tDCS intensity, and task relevant genetic factors (e.g., for WM: COMT val158met, DAT, BDNF val66met). Higher tDCS intensity does not always lead to greater cognitive gains, and genetic polymorphisms may modulate tDCS-linked WM improvements. To evaluate these factors, 137 healthy older adults provided DNA samples and received Visual and Spatial WM training paired with tDCS (sham, 1, 1.5, 2 mA). After one session of tDCS, significant group differences in WM performance were predicted by COMT val158met status. One month after training, there was a significant interaction of tDCS intensity, COMT genotype, and WM task. Specifically, val/val homozygotes benefited most from 1.5 mA tDCS on Visual WM and from 1 mA tDCS on Spatial WM. For met/met homozygotes, 2 mA resulted in significantly poorer performance compared to 1.5 mA on Spatial WM. While this pattern was observed with relatively small sample sizes, these data indicate that variations in COMT val158met may predict the nature of WM improvement after initial and longitudinal tDCS. This contributes to our understanding of the underlying mechanism by which tDCS affects behaviour.
Use of PIXE/PIGE for sequential Ca and F measurements in root carious model
Authors: Yagi K. , Yamamoto H. , Uemura R. , Matsuda Y. , Okuyama K. , Ishimoto T. , Nakano T. , Hayashi M.
Published: October 2017

The progress of caries has conventionally been evaluated by checking changes in mineral density using transverse microradiography (TMR). Recent advances have seen development of a new measurement system, using in-air micro proton induced X-ray/gamma-ray emission (PIXE/PIGE). PIXE/PIGE enables analysis of distributions and concentrations of multiple mineral elements in a carious lesion. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of PIXE/PIGE for investigating the development of root caries. In summary, we successfully established a multi-elemental sequential measuring method using in-air micro-PIXE/PIGE to identify the dynamic distributions and concentrations of Ca and F in human root dentin. The PIXE/PIGE potentially offers a useful advantageous technique for studying carious development by using as a combination with conventional techniques such as TMR and Micro-computed tomography (µCT).
Exercise and high-fat feeding remodel transcript-metabolite interactive networks in mouse skeletal muscle
Authors: Pérez-Schindler Joaquín , Kanhere Aditi , Edwards Lindsay , Allwood J. William , Dunn Warwick B. , Schenk Simon , Philp Andrew
Published: October 2017

Enhanced coverage and sensitivity of next-generation ‘omic’ platforms has allowed the characterization of gene, metabolite and protein responses in highly metabolic tissues, such as, skeletal muscle. A limitation, however, is the capability to determine interaction between dynamic biological networks. To address this limitation, we applied Weighted Analyte Correlation Network Analysis (WACNA) to RNA-seq and metabolomic datasets to identify correlated subnetworks of transcripts and metabolites in response to a high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity and/or exercise. HFD altered skeletal muscle lipid profiles and up-regulated genes involved in lipid catabolism, while decreasing 241 exercise-responsive genes related to skeletal muscle plasticity. WACNA identified the interplay between transcript and metabolite subnetworks linked to lipid metabolism, inflammation and glycerophospholipid metabolism that were associated with IL6, AMPK and PPAR signal pathways. Collectively, this novel experimental approach provides an integrative resource to study transcriptional and metabolic networks in skeletal muscle in the context of health and disease.
Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) modified polydopamine as a temperature-responsive surface for cultivation and harvest of mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Zhang Jun , Peng Ching-An
Published: October 2017

A facile approach for the production of PNIPAAm-g-polydopamine films for cultivation and harvest of mesenchymal stem cells through LCST transition.
Defective graphene anchored iron–cobalt nanoparticles for efficient electrocatalytic oxygen reduction
Authors: Yan Xuecheng , Jia Yi , Zhang Longzhou , Teng Soo Mun , Yao Xiangdong
Published: October 2017

Defective graphene is a promising material to anchor, disperse and interact with metal nanoparticles for synthesizing highly efficient ORR catalysts.
Supramolecular assembly of fluorogenic glyco-dots from perylenediimide-based glycoclusters for targeted imaging of cancer cells
Authors: Liu Ying , Ji Ding-Kun , Dong Lei , Galanos Nicolas , Zang Yi , Li Jia , Vidal Sébastien , He Xiao-Peng
Published: October 2017

Supramolecular self-assembly between perylenediimide-based glycoclusters and a red-emitting fluorophore produces structurally uniform and stable glyco-dots amenable to targeted fluorogenic imaging of liver and triple-negative breast cancer cells.
Controlled synthesis of one-dimensional BiOBr with exposed (110) facets and enhanced photocatalytic activity
Authors: Peng Yin , Xu Jian , Liu Ting , Mao Yan-ge
Published: October 2017

One-dimensional (1D) rod-like BiOBr with exposed (110) facets was synthesized using glucose as a capping agent and structure-directing agent. The BiOBr with exposed (110) facets exhibits outstanding photocatalytic activity for degrading MO dyes at high concentrations under solar light irradiation.
The structure of coronene cluster ions inferred from H2 uptake in the gas phase
Authors: Goulart Marcelo , Kuhn Martin , Rasul Bilal , Postler Johannes , Gatchell Michael , Zettergren Henning , Scheier Paul , Echt Olof
Published: October 2017

The parallel-displaced coronene dimer; the number of strongly adsorbed H2 (red spheres) measures the extent of the displacement.
Versatile design and synthesis of nano-barcodes
Authors: Shikha Swati , Salafi Thoriq , Cheng Jinting , Zhang Yong
Published: October 2017

This review provides a critical discussion on the versatile designing and usage of nano-barcodes for various existing and emerging applications.
The synergistic effect of oxygen and water on the stability of the isostructural family of metal–organic frameworks [Cr3(BTC)2] and [Cu3(BTC)2]
Authors: Zhang Zhuoming , Wang Yong , Jia Xiaoxia , Yang Jiangfeng , Li Jinping
Published: October 2017

The synergistic effect of water molecules and oxygen molecules makes MOFs more unstable in a mixed water–oxygen environment than in a water-only (Ar as carrier gas) environment.
A new {Fe4Co4} soluble switchable nanomagnet encapsulating Cs+: enhancing the stability and redox flexibility and tuning the photomagnetic effect.
Authors: Jiménez J.-R. , Tricoire M. , Garnier D. , Chamoreau L.-M. , von Bardeleben J. , Journaux Yves , Li Yanling , Lescouëzec R.
Published: October 2017

Cs⊂{Fe4Co4} box: a robust model of photomagnetic Prussian blue analogues (PBAs), showing slow magnetic relaxation and exhibiting eight accessible redox states.
Enhancement of charge separation in ferroelectric heterogeneous photocatalyst Bi4(SiO4)3/Bi2SiO5 nanostructures
Authors: Al-Keisy Amar , Ren Long , Zheng Tian , Xu Xun , Higgins Michael , Hao Weichang , Du Yi
Published: October 2017

Excellent photocatalytic activity is given rise to enhanced charge separation in ferroelectric heterogeneous Bi4(SiO4)3/Bi2SiO5 photocatalyst.
La–Ce isotope measurements by multicollector-ICPMS
Authors: Schnabel Christiane , Münker Carsten , Strub Erik
Published: October 2017

Introduction of a new analytical protocol for Ce isotope and La–Ce isotope dilution measurements by MC-ICPMS and initiation of a new Ce reference material (Cologne-AMES).
Fully chip-embedded automation of a multi-step lab-on-a-chip process using a modularized timer circuit
Authors: Kang Junsu , Lee Donghyeon , Heo Young Jin , Chung Wan Kyun
Published: October 2017

Design, characterization and demonstration of a modularized timer circuit to realize fully chip-embedded scheduling of a multi-step LoC assay.
Microfluidic diafiltration-on-chip using an integrated magnetic peristaltic micropump
Authors: Liu Jessica F. , Yadavali Sagar , Tsourkas Andrew , Issadore David
Published: October 2017

A novel magnetically-driven peristaltic pump can be used to drive cyclic on-chip flow for small volume (50 μL) diafiltration.
Cobalt and nickel impair DNA metabolism by the oxidative stress independent pathway
Authors: Kumar Vineet , Mishra Rajesh Kumar , Kaur Gursharan , Dutta Dipak
Published: October 2017

Cobalt and nickel exposure leads to DNA double-strand breaks, decelerating replication fork progression. In parallel, the metal ions inhibit RecBCD function to block SOS-mediated repair of the damaged DNA.
Construction of tetrahydropyranoquinoline derivativesviaan asymmetric organocatalytic aza-Michael-IED/HAD cascade reaction
Authors: Dai Lu , Hou Yuxuan , Zhang Lvye , Chen Zhangtao , Zeng Xiaofei , Zhong Guofu
Published: October 2017

A highly efficient organocatalytic asymmetric aza-Michael-IED/HAD cascade reaction of (E)-ethyl 4-(2-(4-methylphenylsulfonamido)phenyl)-2-oxobut-3-enoate and enals is reported.
Near-infrared emitting CdTeSe alloyed quantum dots: Raman scattering, photoluminescence and single-emitter optical properties
Authors: Hung Le Xuan , Bassène Pascal D. , Thang Pham Nam , Loan Nguyễn Thu , Daney de Marcillac Willy , Dhawan Amit Raj , Feng Fu , Esparza-Villa Juan U. , Thuc Hien Nguyen Thi , Liem Nguyen Quang , Coolen Laurent , Nga Pham Thu
Published: October 2017

The synthesis of ternary core/shell zinc-blende CdTeSe/ZnSe quantum dots with optimal synthesis parameters is analyzed.
A new two-mode fluorescence signal amplification strategy for protease activity assay based on graphene oxide
Authors: Wang Fangfang , Gao Jie , Zhao Jianwei , Zhang Wenyue , Bai Jie , Jia Hongxia , Wang Yucong
Published: October 2017

A new graphene oxide-based two-mode fluorescence signal amplification strategy for the detection of protease activity has been established.
Amyloid β-peptides 1–40 and 1–42 form oligomers with mixed β-sheets
Authors: Baldassarre Maurizio , Baronio Cesare M. , Morozova-Roche Ludmilla A. , Barth Andreas
Published: October 2017

Aβ40 and Aβ42 co-aggregate and form oligomers with mixed β-sheets as revealed by isotope-edited infrared spectroscopy.
Bifenthrin-induced neurotoxicity in rats: involvement of oxidative stress
Authors: Syed Farah , Awasthi Kumud K. , Chandravanshi Lalit P. , Verma Rajbala , Rajawat Neelu K. , Khanna Vinay K. , John P. J. , Soni Inderpal
Published: October 2017

Extensive use of synthetic pyrethroids has resulted in serious human health issues.
Communication emitter identification based on distribution of bispectrum amplitude and phase
Authors: Han Jie , Zhang Tao , Ren Dongfang , Zheng Xiaoyu
Published: October 2017

This paper develops a novel method for feature extraction of steady communication signals based on the distribution of bispectrum amplitude and phase (BAP) to solve the identification problem of the same type of emitters. First, a propagation model of communication signals is modeled by analyzing the mechanism of emitter fingerprint, and the irrelevance between bispectrum amplitude and phase is demonstrated. Then, onthe basis of estimating the signal bispectrum, bispectrum symmetry is used to adopt different methods to extract features according to their own characteristics of amplitude and phase spectrum. Finally, the simulated and actual communication signals from the same type of emitters are used for the experiment. The identification performance of BAP method is compared with another three methods in terms of antinoise performance, influence of the numberof training samples, and feature distribution. Theoretical analysis and experimental results show that the BAP method overcomes the shortcomings of SIB and SB methods, and the extracted features have good clustering and interclass separability, solvingthe identification problem of the same type of emitters under low SNR and small number of training samples.
Time–frequency analysis of PD‐induced UHF signal in GIS and feature extraction using invariant moments
Authors: Li Xi , Wang Xiaohua , Xie Dingli , Wang Xinqiao , Yang Aijun , Rong Mingzhe
Published: October 2017

The ultra‐high‐frequency (UHF) method is efficient in partial discharges (PDs) detection in gas‐insulated switchgear (GIS). The features extraction of UHF signals is significant for propagation characteristics analysis and PD pattern classification. The PD‐induced UHF signals are acquired by the internal UHF sensors in an actual 252 kV L‐shaped GIS. The short‐time Fourier transform method is applied to process UHF signals and describe the propagation characteristics in L‐shaped GIS. Hu's invariant moments of energy density distribution are extracted as features in time–frequency plane. The features are utilised to discriminate different PD defect patterns in actual GIS model by the support vector machine classifier and achieve good results. Finally, a novel system of features extraction and classification of UHF signals is summarised.
Alternative framework of the Gaussian filter for non‐linear systems with randomly delayed measurements and correlated noises
Authors: Zhao Kai , Song Shen‐Min
Published: October 2017

Compared with the normal Gaussian filter that measurements are acquired in real‐time and process and measurement noises are independent, the authors study a class of non‐linear state estimation problems with one‐step randomly delayed measurements and correlated noises. Using a novel alternative framework, where the process and measurement noises are as the augment of the state vector, the author can deduce the related formula and get a novel filtering algorithm. In order to explain the feasibility of the proposed algorithm, this study demonstrates that the relevant recursive formula satisfies the Gaussian distribution. In order to explain the rationality of the proposed algorithm, the relevant union estimation form is given in Section 1. For the sake of facilitating computer simulation, the sub‐optimal realisation of the proposed algorithm on the basis of the spherical‐radial rule is given, which is alternative framework Gaussian filter with the correlated noise and delayed measurements. The superiority of the algorithm presented, compared with the other algorithm, is shown in the end of this study.
The chromosphere above a δ-sunspot in the presence of fan-shaped jets
Authors: Robustini Carolina , Leenaarts Jorrit , de la Cruz Rodríguez Jaime
Published: October 2017

Context. Delta-sunspots are known to be favourable locations for fast and energetic events like flares and coronal mass ejections. The photosphere of this sunspot type has been thoroughly investigated in the past three decades. The atmospheric conditions in the chromosphere are not as well known, however.

Aims. This study is focused on the chromosphere of a δ-sunspot that harbours a series of fan-shaped jets in its penumbra. The aim of this study is to establish the magnetic field topology and the temperature distribution in the presence of jets in the photosphere and the chromosphere.

Methods. We use data from the Swedish 1m Solar Telescope (SST) and the Solar Dynamics Observatory. We invert the spectropolarimetric Fe i 6302 Å and Ca ii 8542 Å data from the SST using the non-LTE inversion code NICOLE to estimate the magnetic field configuration, temperature, and velocity structure in the chromosphere.

Results. A loop-like magnetic structure is observed to emerge in the penumbra of the sunspot. The jets are launched from this structure. Magnetic reconnection between this emerging field and the pre-existing vertical field is suggested by hot plasma patches on the interface between the two fields. The height at which the reconnection takes place is located between log τ500 = −2 and log τ500 = −3. The magnetic field vector and the atmospheric temperature maps show a stationary configuration during the whole observation.
Palladium-Catalyzed One-Pot Synthesis of N-Sulfonyl, N-Phosphoryl, and N-Acyl Guanidines
Authors: Zhang Zhenhua , Qiao Guanyu , Zhang Zhen , Huang Baoliang , Zhu Liu , Xiao Fan
Published: October 2017

An efficient palladium-catalyzed cascade reaction of azides with isonitrile and amines is presented; it offers an alternative facile approach toward N-sulfonyl-, N-phosphoryl-, and N-acyl-functionalized guanidines in excellent yield. These series of substituted guanidines exhibit potential biological and pharmacological activities. In addition, the less reactive intermediate benzoyl carbodiimide could be isolated by silica gel column flash chromatography in moderate yield.
Study of the Cross-Metathesis Reaction of α-Hydroxy β,γ-Unsaturated Amides towards a Rapid and Flexible Total ­Synthesis of Symbioramide and its Isomer
Authors: Gratais Alexandre , Bouzbouz Samir
Published: October 2017

The reactivity of novel α-hydroxy β,γ-unsaturated amides in cross-metathesis reactions was extensively studied and used to perform a short total synthesis of symbioramide and its isomer from ­l-serine methyl ester.
Fatal Basilar Aneurysm Rupture 6 Months Following Pipeline Flow Diversion Treatment
Authors: Pikis Stylianos , Petrosyan Tigran , Archontakis Eftychios , Arealis Georgios
Published: October 2017

Background Very delayed aneurysmal rupture represents a rare, poorly understood, catastrophic complication of intracranial aneurysm flow diversion (FD) treatment.

Case Description A 48-year-old woman presented to the neurosurgical clinic for an elective admission 6-month post-FD treatment with a single pipeline embolization device (PED) treatment of a fusiform, large, midbasilar artery aneurysm. During her admission, the patient suffered a tonic-clonic seizure and collapsed. She was intubated and transferred for an urgent computed tomographic scan of the brain, which revealed subarachnoid hemorrhage and hydrocephalus. She was subsequently transferred to the operating room where an external ventricular drain was placed. Urgent diagnostic cerebral angiography revealed rupture of the previously treated aneurysm which was managed with deployment of a second PED and coil embolization of the right vertebral artery. Unfortunately, the patient succumbed to the disease 15 days later.

Conclusion The pathophysiologic mechanism responsible for delayed aneurysmal rupture post-FD treatment remains to be defined and may involve an acute rise in intra-aneurysmal pressures in a partially thrombosed aneurysm, continued hemodynamic stress on the aneurysmal wall due to persistent blood inflow, and thrombus-induced inflammation-mediated degradation the aneurysmal wall. Further clinical and anatomical studies are necessary to define the mechanisms responsible for delayed aneurysm ruptures and identify appropriate preventive measures.
Die Empfehlungen der S2k-Leitlinie zur Diagnostik, Therapie und Metaphylaxe der Urolithiasis bilden einen sicheren Handlungskorridor für die ureterorenoskopische Steintherapie – Ergebnisse der BUSTER-Studie
Authors: Lebentrau Steffen , May Matthias , Ziegler Heiko , Werthemann Peter , Enzmann Thomas , Schostak Martin , Porsch Markus ,   BUSTER-Studiengruppe
Published: October 2017

Hintergrund Angesichts der hohen Inzidenz, Prävalenz und Rezidivrate der Urolithiasis sollte die Steintherapie bei hoher Steinfreiheitsrate komplikationsarm sein. Die deutsche S2k-Leitlinie zur Diagnostik, Therapie und Metaphylaxe der Urolithiasis (DS2k-LL) gibt abhängig von Steinlage und -größe Empfehlungen der ersten und zweiten Wahl für die Steintherapie. Als Therapie der ersten Wahl kommt für die meisten Steine die Ureterorenoskopie (URS) in Betracht, nur bei Nierensteinen > 20 mm und proximalen Harnleitersteinen ≤ 10 mm ist die URS Option der zweiten Wahl. Studienziel war, den Einfluss des Einsatzes der URS als Therapie der ersten bzw. zweiten Wahl auf die Endpunkte Steinfreiheit und Komplikationsschwere zu prüfen.

Material und Methoden Die multizentrische prospektive Beobachtungsstudie „Bewertung der ureterorenoskopischen Steintherapie – Ergebnisse hinsichtlich Komplikationen, Lebensqualität und Steinfreiheitsrate“ (BUSTER) erfasste von Januar bis April 2015 an 14 deutschen urologischen Kliniken standardisiert perioperative Daten von 307 Patienten mit Steintherapie durch URS. Therapieentscheidungen wurden durch das Studienprotokoll nicht beeinflusst.

Ergebnisse Univariat betrachtet wurde bei Uretersteinen signifikant häufiger Steinfreiheit erreicht, wenn die URS Therapie der ersten Wahl war (OR 2,21; 95 %-KI 1,11 – 4,40; p = 0,027). Adjustiert um Alter, BMI, ASA-Score, präoperative Harnleiterschienung, Steinlage und -größe, Vorhandensein multipler Steine, Erfahrung des Operateurs, akute bzw. elektive URS sowie OP-Zeit hatte die Anwendung der URS als Therapie der ersten Wahl keinen signifikanten Einfluss auf die Steinfreiheitsrate (OR 2,048; 95 %-KI 0,890 – 4,710; p = 0,092). Adjustiert um Steinlage und -größe sowie Harnleiterschienung nach URS hatte die Anwendung der URS als Therapie der ersten Wahl keinen signifikanten Einfluss auf die Komplikationsschwere (OR 1,019; 95 %-KI 0,347 – 2,993; p = 0,973).

Schlussfolgerung Die URS erwies sich anhand unserer Daten unabhängig vom Grad der Leitlinienkonformität als sicheres und effektives Steintherapieverfahren. Wenngleich bei URS als Therapie der ersten Wahl häufiger Steinfreiheit erreicht wurde, waren die Ergebnisse bei URS als Therapie der zweiten Wahl nicht signifikant schlechter. Die Empfehlungen der DS2k-LL bilden somit einen sicheren Handlungskorridor für die ureterorenoskopische Steintherapie. Die Tendenz zu höheren Steinfreiheitsraten bei URS als Therapie der ersten Wahl sollte durch weitere Studien geprüft werden.
Nonlinear wave chaos: statistics of second harmonic fields
Authors: Zhou Min , Ott Edward , Antonsen Thomas M. , Anlage Steven M.
Published: October 2017

Concepts from the field of wave chaos have been shown to successfully predict the statistical properties of linear electromagnetic fields in electrically large enclosures. The Random Coupling Model (RCM) describes these properties by incorporating both universal features described by Random Matrix Theory and the system-specific features of particular system realizations. In an effort to extend this approach to the nonlinear domain, we add an active nonlinear frequency-doubling circuit to an otherwise linear wave chaotic system, and we measure the statistical properties of the resulting second harmonic fields. We develop an RCM-based model of this system as two linear chaotic cavities coupled by means of a nonlinear transfer function. The harmonic field strengths are predicted to be the product of two statistical quantities and the nonlinearity characteristics. Statistical results from measurement-based calculation, RCM-based simulation, and direct experimental measurements are compared and show good agreement over many decades of power.