bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exercise – induced changes in cerebrospinal fluid miRNAs in Gulf War Illness, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and sedentary control subjects
Authors: Baraniuk James N. , Shivapurkar Narayan
Published: November 2017

Gulf War Illness (GWI) and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) have similar profiles of pain, fatigue, cognitive dysfunction and exertional exhaustion. Post-exertional malaise suggests exercise alters central nervous system functions. Lumbar punctures were performed in GWI, CFS and control subjects after (i) overnight rest (nonexercise) or (ii) submaximal bicycle exercise. Exercise induced postural tachycardia in one third of GWI subjects (Stress Test Activated Reversible Tachycardia, START). The remainder were Stress Test Originated Phantom Perception (STOPP) subjects. MicroRNAs (miRNA) in cerebrospinal fluid were amplified by quantitative PCR. Levels were equivalent between nonexercise GWI (n = 22), CFS (n = 43) and control (n = 22) groups. After exercise, START (n = 22) had significantly lower miR-22-3p than control (n = 15) and STOPP (n = 42), but higher miR-9-3p than STOPP. All post-exercise groups had significantly reduced miR-328 and miR-608 compared to nonexercise groups; these may be markers of exercise effects on the brain. Six miRNAs were significantly elevated and 12 diminished in post-exercise START, STOPP and control compared to nonexercise groups. CFS had 12 diminished miRNAs after exercise. Despite symptom overlap of CFS, GWI and other illnesses in their differential diagnosis, exercise-induced miRNA patterns in cerebrospinal fluid indicated distinct mechanisms for post-exertional malaise in CFS and START and STOPP phenotypes of GWI.
Stress-induced long-range ordering in spider silk
Authors: Wagner Johannes A. , Patil Sandeep P. , Greving Imke , Lämmel Marc , Gkagkas Konstantinos , Seydel Tilo , Müller Martin , Markert Bernd , Gräter Frauke
Published: November 2017

The emergence of order from disorder is a topic of vital interest. We here propose that long-range order can arise from a randomly arranged two-phase material under mechanical load. Using Small-Angle Neutron Scattering (SANS) experiments and Molecular Dynamics based finite element (FE) models we show evidence for stress-induced ordering in spider dragline silk. Both methods show striking quantitative agreement of the position, shift and intensity increase of the long period upon stretching. We demonstrate that mesoscopic ordering does not originate from silk-specific processes such as strain-induced crystallization on the atomistic scale or the alignment of tilted crystallites. It instead is a general phenomenon arising from a non-affine deformation that enhances density fluctuations of the stiff and soft phases along the direction of stress. Our results suggest long-range ordering, analogously to the coalescence of defects in materials, as a wide-spread phenomenon to be exploited for tuning the mechanical properties of many hybrid stiff and soft materials.
Modulation of transcriptional mineralocorticoid receptor activity by casein kinase 2
Authors: Ruhs Stefanie , Strätz Nicole , Quarch Katja , Masch Antonia , Schutkowski Mike , Gekle Michael , Grossmann Claudia
Published: November 2017

The pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases is a multifunctional process in which the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR), a ligand-dependent transcription factor, is involved as proven by numerous clinical studies. The development of pathophysiological MR actions depends on the existence of additional factors e.g. inflammatory cytokines and seems to involve posttranslational MR modifications e.g. phosphorylation. Casein kinase 2 (CK2) is a ubiquitously expressed multifunctional serine/threonine kinase that can be activated under inflammatory conditions as the MR. Sequence analysis and inhibitor experiments revealed that CK2 acts as a positive modulator of MR activity by facilitating MR-DNA interaction with subsequent rapid MR degradation. Peptide microarrays and site-directed mutagenesis experiments identified the highly conserved S459 as a functionally relevant CK2 phosphorylation site of the MR. Moreover, MR-CK2 protein-protein interaction mediated by HSP90 was shown by co-immunoprecipitation. During inflammation, cytokine stimulation led to a CK2-dependent increased expression of proinflammatory genes. The additional MR activation by aldosterone during cytokine stimulation augmented CK2-dependent NFκB signaling which enhanced the expression of proinflammatory genes further. Overall, in an inflammatory environment the bidirectional CK2-MR interaction aggravate the existing pathophysiological cellular situation.
Performance of Solid-state Hybrid Energy-storage Device using Reduced Graphene-oxide Anchored Sol-gel Derived Ni/NiO Nanocomposite
Authors: Das Himadri Tanaya , Mahendraprabhu Kamaraj , Maiyalagan Thandavarayan , Elumalai Perumal
Published: November 2017

The influence of (nickel nitrate/citric acid) mole ratio on the formation of sol-gel end products was examined. The formed Ni/NiO nanoparticle was anchored on to reduced graphene-oxide (rGO) by means of probe sonication. It was found that the sample obtained from the (1:1) nickel ion: citric acid (Ni2+: CA) mole ratio resulted in a high specific capacity of 158 C/g among all (Ni2+: CA) ratios examined. By anchoring Ni/NiO on to the rGO resulted in enhanced specific capacity of as high as 335 C/g along with improved cycling stability, high rate capability and Coulombic efficiency. The high conductivity and increased surface area seemed responsible for enhanced electrochemical performances of the Ni/NiO@rGO nanocomposite. A solid-state hybrid energy-storage device consisting of the Ni/NiO@rGO (NR2) as a positive electrode and the rGO as negative electrode exhibited enhanced energy and power densities. Lighting of LED was demonstrated by using three proto-type (NR2(+)|| rGO(−)) hybrid devices connected in series.
Targeting c-KIT (CD117) by dasatinib and radotinib promotes acute myeloid leukemia cell death
Authors: Heo Sook-Kyoung , Noh Eui-Kyu , Kim Jeong Yi , Jeong Yoo Kyung , Jo Jae-Cheol , Choi Yunsuk , Koh SuJin , Baek Jin Ho , Min Young Joo , Kim Hawk
Published: November 2017

Dasatinib and radotinib are oral BCR-ABL tyrosine kinase inhibitors that were developed as drugs for the treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia. We report here that the c-KIT (CD117) targeting with dasatinib and radotinib promotes acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cell death, and c-KIT endocytosis is essential for triggering c-KIT-positive AML cell death by dasatinib and radotinib during the early stages. In addition, dasatinib and radotinib reduce heat shock protein 90β (HSP90β) expression and release Apaf-1 in c-KIT-positive AML cells. Finally, this activates a caspase-dependent apoptotic pathway in c-KIT-positive AML cells. Moreover, the inhibition of c-KIT endocytosis by dynamin inhibitor (DY) reversed cell viability and c-KIT expression by dasatinib and radotinib. HSP90β expression was recovered by DY in c-KIT-positive AML cells as well. Furthermore, the effect of radotinib on c-KIT and HSP90β showed the same pattern in a xenograft animal model using HEL92.1.7 cells. Therefore, dasatinib and radotinib promote AML cell death by targeting c-KIT. Taken together, these results indicate that dasatinib and radotinib treatment have a potential role in anti-leukemic therapy on c-KIT-positive AML cells.
Tumor suppressor NPRL2 induces ROS production and DNA damage response
Authors: Ma Yinxing , Silveri Licia , LaCava John , Dokudovskaya Svetlana
Published: November 2017

The SEA/GATOR complex is an essential regulator of the mTORC1 pathway. In mammals the GATOR1 complex is composed of the proteins DEPDC5, NPRL2 and NPRL3. GATOR1 serves as an mTORC1 inhibitor and activates the mTORC1-modulating RagA GTPase. However, several GATOR members have mTORC1 independent functions. Here we characterize mammalian cells overexpressing the GATOR1 component NPRL2. We demonstrate that, in the cells with active p53, ectopic expression of NPRL2 induces NOX2-dependent production of reactive oxygen species and DNA damage. Overexpressed NPRL2 accumulates in the nucleus, together with apoptosis-inducing factor (AIF). These events are accompanied by phosphorylation of p53, activation of a DNA-damage response and cell cycle arrest in G1 phase, followed by apoptosis. In the cells negative for active p53, NPRL2 ectopic expression leads to activation of CHK1 or CHK2 kinases and cell cycle arrest in S or G2/M phases. Combined, these results demonstrate a new role for the NPRL2, distinct from its function in mTORC1 regulation.
Urban Seismology: on the origin of earth vibrations within a city
Authors: Díaz Jordi , Ruiz Mario , Sánchez-Pastor Pilar S. , Romero Paula
Published: November 2017

Urban seismology has become an active research field in the recent years, both with seismological objectives, as obtaining better microzonation maps in highly populated areas, and with engineering objectives, as the monitoring of traffic or the surveying of historical buildings. We analyze here the seismic records obtained by a broad-band seismic station installed in the ICTJA-CSIC institute, located near the center of Barcelona city. Although this station was installed to introduce visitors to earth science during science fairs and other dissemination events, the analysis of the data has allowed to infer results of interest for the scientific community. The main results include the evidence that urban seismometers can be used as a easy-to-use, robust monitoring tool for road traffic and subway activity inside the city. Seismic signals generated by different cultural activities, including rock concerts, fireworks or football games, can be detected and discriminated from its seismic properties. Beside the interest to understand the propagation of seismic waves generated by those rather particular sources, those earth shaking records provide a powerful tool to gain visibility in the mass media and hence have the opportunity to present earth sciences to a wider audience.
Mechanisms of the decrease in low-temperature electrochemical performance of Li4Ti5O12-based anode materials
Authors: Huang Qian , Yang Zhen , Mao Jian
Published: November 2017

The electrochemical performances of Li4Ti5O12 (LTO) and Li4Ti5O12-rutile TiO2 (LTO–RTO) composite electrodes at low temperatures were evaluated. The electrochemical performance of both electrodes decreased at low temperatures; regardless, the LTO–RTO electrode performed better than the LTO electrode. First, high viscosity and low ion conductivity of liquid electrolytes at low temperatures significantly reduce electrochemical performance. Second, cycling at low temperatures changes the crystal structure of LTO–based electrodes, impeding lithium ion diffusion and even causing the diffusion path to change from easy to difficult. However, changes in the crystal structure of the LTO–RTO electrode were not sufficient to change this path; thus, diffusion continued along the 8a-16c-8a pathway. Finally, from the perspective of dynamics, aggravation of a side reaction, increase in charge transfer resistance and polarization, and decrease in lithium ion diffusion at low temperatures reduce the electrochemical performance of LTO–based anode materials. However, the activation energy based on lithium ion diffusion is lower in the LTO–RTO electrode than the LTO electrode. The results confirmed that the electrochemical performance of the LTO–RTO electrode was better than that of the LTO electrode at low temperatures.
Ectoine protects DNA from damage by ionizing radiation
Authors: Schröter M.- A. , Meyer S. , Hahn M. B. , Solomun T. , Sturm H. , Kunte H. J.
Published: November 2017

Ectoine plays an important role in protecting biomolecules and entire cells against environmental stressors such as salinity, freezing, drying and high temperatures. Recent studies revealed that ectoine also provides effective protection for human skin cells from damage caused by UV-A radiation. These protective properties make ectoine a valuable compound and it is applied as an active ingredient in numerous pharmaceutical devices and cosmetics. Interestingly, the underlying mechanism resulting in protecting cells from radiation is not yet fully understood. Here we present a study on ectoine and its protective influence on DNA during electron irradiation. Applying gel electrophoresis and atomic force microscopy, we demonstrate for the first time that ectoine prevents DNA strand breaks caused by ionizing electron radiation. The results presented here point to future applications of ectoine for instance in cancer radiation therapy.
Folded fabric tunes rock deformation and failure mode in the upper crust
Authors: Agliardi F. , Dobbs M. R. , Zanchetta S. , Vinciguerra S.
Published: November 2017

The micro-mechanisms of brittle failure affect the bulk mechanical behaviour and permeability of crustal rocks. In low-porosity crystalline rocks, these mechanisms are related to mineralogy and fabric anisotropy, while confining pressure, temperature and strain rates regulate the transition from brittle to ductile behaviour. However, the effects of folded anisotropic fabrics, widespread in orogenic settings, on the mechanical behaviour of crustal rocks are largely unknown. Here we explore the deformation and failure behaviour of a representative folded gneiss, by combining the results of triaxial deformation experiments carried out while monitoring microseismicity with microstructural and damage proxies analyses. We show that folded crystalline rocks in upper crustal conditions exhibit dramatic strength heterogeneity and contrasting failure modes at identical confining pressure and room temperature, depending on the geometrical relationships between stress and two different anisotropies associated to the folded rock fabric. These anisotropies modulate the competition among quartz- and mica-dominated microscopic damage processes, resulting in transitional brittle to semi-brittle modes under P and T much lower than expected. This has significant implications on scales relevant to seismicity, energy resources, engineering applications and geohazards.
Memory Regulatory T cells Increase Only In Inflammatory Phase of Chronic Hepatitis B Infection and Related to Galectin-9/Tim-3 interaction
Authors: Hu Ching-Chih , Jeng Wen-Juei , Chen Yi-Cheng , Fang Jian-He , Huang Chien-Hao , Teng Wei , Hsieh Yi-Chung , Lin Yung-Chang , Chien Rong-Nan , Sheen I-Shyan , Lin Chun-Yen
Published: November 2017

CD4+Foxp3+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) are the main immune suppressors with subpopulation of inflamed-tissue related memory Tregs (mTregs) and non-related resting Treg (rTregs). Previously, Treg was proposed to be the cause of chronicity of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection but with controversies. We then investigated the role of mTregs in distinct immune phases of chronic HBV infection, especially the non-inflammatory versus inflammatory phases. It was found mTregs but not rTregs increased only in the inflammatory phase and correlated with serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) level. These mTregs accumulated in the inflamed liver, expressed significantly higher Tim-3, CCR4, CCR5 and fewer CCR7, and possessed potent suppressive function. These mTregs mainly originated from natural Tregs because of high Helios expression. Hierarchical clustering analysis showed higher frequency of mTreg was concordant with higher serum ALT and galectin-9 levels. Furthermore, galectin-9 could expand mTregs through galectin-9/Tim-3 interaction. In conclusion, increased mTregs are found only in inflammatory phase of chronic HBV infection. Galectin-9, associated with liver inflammation, contributes to the expansion of mTregs through galectin-9/Tim-3 interaction. Therefore, this expansion of mTregs only reflects as an immune regulatory mechanism to limit the on-going liver damages rather than the cause of chronicity of HBV infection.
Global phylogenetic analysis of Escherichia coli and plasmids carrying the mcr-1 gene indicates bacterial diversity but plasmid restriction
Authors: Matamoros Sébastien , van Hattem Jarne M. , Arcilla Maris S. , Willemse Niels , Melles Damian C. , Penders John , Vinh Trung Nguyen , Thi Hoa Ngo , Bootsma Martin C. J. , van Genderen Perry J. , Goorhuis Abraham , Grobusch Martin , Molhoek Nicky , Oude Lashof Astrid M. L. , Stobberingh Ellen E. , Verbrugh Henri A. , de Jong Menno D. , Schultsz Constance
Published: November 2017

To understand the dynamics behind the worldwide spread of the mcr-1 gene, we determined the population structure of Escherichia coli and of mobile genetic elements (MGEs) carrying the mcr-1 gene. After a systematic review of the literature we included 65 E. coli whole genome sequences (WGS), adding 6 recently sequenced travel related isolates, and 312 MLST profiles. We included 219 MGEs described in 7 Enterobacteriaceae species isolated from human, animal and environmental samples. Despite a high overall diversity, 2 lineages were observed in the E. coli population that may function as reservoirs of the mcr-1 gene, the largest of which was linked to ST10, a sequence type known for its ubiquity in human faecal samples and in food samples. No genotypic clustering by geographical origin or isolation source was observed. Amongst a total of 13 plasmid incompatibility types, the IncI2, IncX4 and IncHI2 plasmids accounted for more than 90% of MGEs carrying the mcr-1 gene. We observed significant geographical clustering with regional spread of IncHI2 plasmids in Europe and IncI2 in Asia. These findings point towards promiscuous spread of the mcr-1 gene by efficient horizontal gene transfer dominated by a limited number of plasmid incompatibility types.
Extra-territorial movements differ between territory holders and subordinates in a large, monogamous rodent
Authors: Mayer Martin , Zedrosser Andreas , Rosell Frank
Published: November 2017

Territorial animals carry out extra-territorial movements (forays) to obtain pre-dispersal information or to increase reproductive success via extra-pair copulation. However, little is known about other purposes and spatial movement patterns of forays. In this study, we GPS-tagged 54 Eurasian beavers (Castor fiber), a year-round territorial, monogamous mammal, during the non-mating season. We investigated forays in territory-holding breeders (dominants) and non-breeding (subordinate) family members. Twenty of 46 dominant individuals (44%), and 6 of 10 subordinates (60%) conducted forays. Generally, beavers spent between 0 and 11% of their active time on forays, travelled faster and spend more time in water when on forays compared to intra-territorial movements, suggesting that forays are energetically costly. Further, beavers in smaller territories conducted more forays. Possibly, smaller territories might not have sufficient resources and thus dominant individuals might conduct forays to assess possibilities for territory expansion, and potentially for foraging. Generally, besides territory advertisement (e.g. via scent-marking), forays might serve as an additional mechanism for territory owners to assess neighbours. Subordinates spent more time on forays, moved greater distances and intruded into more territories than dominant individuals did, suggesting that they prospected to gain information on the population density and available mates before dispersal.
Chemical Analysis of Morphological Changes in Lysophosphatidic Acid-Treated Ovarian Cancer Cells
Authors: Bailey Karen A. , Klymenko Yuliya , Feist Peter E. , Hummon Amanda B. , Stack M. Sharon , Schultz Zachary D.
Published: November 2017

Ovarian cancer (OvCa) cells are reported to undergo biochemical changes at the cell surface in response to treatment with lysophosphatidic acid (LPA). Here we use scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and multiplex coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (CARS) imaging via supercontinuum excitation to probe morphological changes that result from LPA treatment. SEM images show distinct shedding of microvilli-like features upon treatment with LPA. Analysis of multiplex CARS images can distinguish between molecular components, such as lipids and proteins. Our results indicate that OvCa429 and SKOV3ip epithelial ovarian cancer cells undergo similar morphological and chemical responses to treatment with LPA. The microvilli-like structures on the surface of multicellular aggregates (MCAs) are removed by treatment with LPA. The CARS analysis shows a distinct decrease in protein and increase in lipid composition on the surface of LPA-treated cells. Importantly, the CARS signals from cellular sheddings from MCAs with LPA treatment are consistent with cleavage of proteins originally present. Mass spectrometry on the cellular sheddings show that a large number of proteins, both membrane and intracellular, are present. An increased number of peptides are detected for the mesenchymal cell line relative to the epithelial cell indicating a differential response to LPA treatment with cancer progression.
SnO2 hollow nanotubes: a novel and efficient support matrix for enzyme immobilization
Authors: Anwar Muhammad Zahid , Kim Dong Jun , Kumar Ashok , Patel Sanjay K. S. , Otari Sachin , Mardina Primata , Jeong Jae-Hoon , Sohn Jung-Hoon , Kim Jong Hak , Park Jung Tae , Lee Jung-Kul
Published: November 2017

A major challenge in the industrial use of enzymes is maintaining their stability at elevated temperatures and in harsh organic solvents. In order to address this issue, we investigated the use of nanotubes as a support material for the immobilization and stabilization of enzymes in this work. SnO2 hollow nanotubes with a high surface area were synthesized by electrospinning the SnCl2 precursor and polyvinylpyrrolidone (dissolved in dimethyl formamide and ethanol). The electrospun product was used for the covalent immobilization of enzymes such as lipase, horseradish peroxidase, and glucose oxidase. The use of SnO2 hollow nanotubes as a support was promising for all immobilized enzymes, with lipase having the highest protein loading value of 217 mg/g, immobilization yield of 93%, and immobilization efficiency of 89%. The immobilized enzymes were fully characterized by various analytical methods. The covalently bonded lipase showed a half-life value of 4.5 h at 70 °C and retained ~91% of its original activity even after 10 repetitive cycles of use. Thus, the SnO2 hollow nanotubes with their high surface area are promising as a support material for the immobilization of enzymes, leading to improved thermal stability and a higher residual activity of the immobilized enzyme under harsh solvent conditions, as compared to the free enzyme.
Intermediate Levels of Network Heterogeneity Provide the Best Evolutionary Outcomes
Authors: Pinheiro Flávio L. , Hartmann Dominik
Published: November 2017

Complex networks impact the diffusion of ideas and innovations, the formation of opinions, and the evolution of cooperative behavior. In this context, heterogeneous structures have been shown to generate a coordination-like dynamics that drives a population towards a monomorphic state. In contrast, homogeneous networks tend to result in a stable co-existence of multiple traits in the population. These conclusions have been reached through the analysis of networks with either very high or very low levels of degree heterogeneity. In this paper, we use methods from Evolutionary Game Theory to explore how different levels of degree heterogeneity impact the fate of cooperation in structured populations whose individuals face the Prisoner’s Dilemma. Our results suggest that in large networks a minimum level of heterogeneity is necessary for a society to become evolutionary viable. Moreover, there is an optimal range of heterogeneity levels that maximize the resilience of the society facing an increasing number of social dilemmas. Finally, as the level of degree heterogeneity increases, the evolutionary dominance of either cooperators or defectors in a society increasingly depends on the initial state of a few influential individuals. Our findings imply that neither very unequal nor very equal societies offer the best evolutionary outcome.
Thermodynamics of lipid multi-lamellar vesicles in presence of sterols at high hydrostatic pressure
Authors: Peters J. , Marion J. , Becher F. J. , Trapp M. , Gutberlet T. , Bicout D. J. , Heimburg T.
Published: November 2017

We compared the effect of cholesterol at different concentration on the phase behaviour of DMPC (1,2-dimyristoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine) multilamellar vesicles. We used pressure perturbation differential scanning calorimetry (PPC) that studies a system on the whole by giving access to relevant thermodynamic quantities, and elastic incoherent neutron scattering (EINS) that probes local motions of a system at the atomic level by allowing extraction of dynamical parameters. PPC revealed that the volume expansion coefficient of DMPC and DMPC/Cholesterol samples with 13 and 25 mol% cholesterol is a linear function of the heat capacity measured by differential scanning calorimetry. Neutron backscattering spectroscopy showed that the mean square displacements of H atoms do exhibit an increase with temperature and a decrease under increasing pressure. Cholesterol added at concentrations of 25 and 50 mol% led to suppression of the main phase transition. Taking advantage of these results, the present study aims (i) to show that calorimetry and EINS using the Bicout and Zaccai model equally permit to get access to thermodynamic quantities characterizing pure DMPC and DMPC/cholesterol mixtures, thus directly confirming the theoretical method, and (ii) to validate our approach as function of temperature and of pressure, as both are equally important and complementary thermodynamic variables.
Early diverging lineages within Cryptomycota and Chytridiomycota dominate the fungal communities in ice-covered lakes of the McMurdo Dry Valleys, Antarctica
Authors: Rojas-Jimenez Keilor , Wurzbacher Christian , Bourne Elizabeth Charlotte , Chiuchiolo Amy , Priscu John C. , Grossart Hans-Peter
Published: November 2017

Antarctic ice-covered lakes are exceptional sites for studying the ecology of aquatic fungi under conditions of minimal human disturbance. In this study, we explored the diversity and community composition of fungi in five permanently covered lake basins located in the Taylor and Miers Valleys of Antarctica. Based on analysis of the 18S rRNA sequences, we showed that fungal taxa represented between 0.93% and 60.32% of the eukaryotic sequences. Cryptomycota and Chytridiomycota dominated the fungal communities in all lakes; however, members of Ascomycota, Basidiomycota, Zygomycota, and Blastocladiomycota were also present. Of the 1313 fungal OTUs identified, the two most abundant, belonging to LKM11 and Chytridiaceae, comprised 74% of the sequences. Significant differences in the community structure were determined among lakes, water depths, habitat features (i.e., brackish vs. freshwaters), and nucleic acids (DNA vs. RNA), suggesting niche differentiation. Network analysis suggested the existence of strong relationships among specific fungal phylotypes as well as between fungi and other eukaryotes. This study sheds light on the biology and ecology of basal fungi in aquatic systems. To our knowledge, this is the first report showing the predominance of early diverging lineages of fungi in pristine limnetic ecosystems, particularly of the enigmatic phylum Cryptomycota.
Systematic population spike delays across cortical layers within and between primary sensory areas
Authors: Plomp Gijs , Michel Christoph M. , Quairiaux Charles
Published: November 2017

The coordinated propagation of activity across cortical layers enables simultaneous local computation and inter-areal interactions. A pattern of upward propagation from deeper to more superficial layers, which has been repeatedly demonstrated in spontaneous activity, would allow these functions to occur in parallel. But it remains unclear whether upward propagation also occurs for stimulus evoked activity, and how it relates to activity in other cortical areas. Here we used a new method to analyze relative delays between spikes obtained from simultaneous laminar recordings in primary sensory cortex (S1) of both hemispheres. The results identified systematic spike delays across cortical layers that showed a general upward propagation of activity in evoked and spontaneous activity. Systematic spike delays were also observed between hemispheres. After spikes in one S1 the delays in the other S1 were shortest at infragranular layers and increased in the upward direction. Model comparisons furthermore showed that upward propagation was better explained as a step-wise progression over cortical layers than as a traveling wave. The results are in line with the notion that upward propagation functionally integrates activity into local processing at superficial layers, while efficiently allowing for simultaneous inter-areal interactions.
Infrared single photon detector based on optical up-converter at 1550 nm
Authors: Bai Peng , Zhang Y. H. , Shen W. Z.
Published: November 2017

High performance single photon detector at the wavelength of 1550 nm has drawn wide attention and achieved vast improvement due to its significant application in quantum information, quantum key distribution, as well as cosmology. A novel infrared up-conversion single photon detector (USPD) at 1550 nm was proposed to work in free-running regime based on the InGaAs/ InP photodetector (PD)- GaAs/AlGaAs LED up-converter and Si single photon avalanche diode (SPAD). In contrast to conventional In0.53Ga0.47As SPAD, the USPD can suppress dark count rate and afterpulsing efficiently without sacrificing the photon detection efficiency (PDE). A high PDE of ~45% can be achieved by optical adhesive coupling between up-converter and Si SPAD. Using a developed analytical model we gave a noise equivalent power of 1.39 × 10−18 WHz1/2 at 200 K for the USPD, which is better than that of InGaAs SPAD. This work provides a new single photon detection scheme for telecom band.
sPAGM: inferring subpathway activity by integrating gene and miRNA expression-robust functional signature identification for melanoma prognoses
Authors: Zhang Chun-Long , Xu Yan-Jun , Yang Hai-Xiu , Xu Ying-Qi , Shang De-Si , Wu Tan , Zhang Yun-Peng , Li Xia
Published: November 2017

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate biological pathways by inhibiting gene expression. However, most current analytical methods fail to consider miRNAs, when inferring functional or pathway activities. In this study, we developed a model called sPAGM to infer subpathway activities by integrating gene and miRNA expressions. In this model, we reconstructed subpathway graphs by embedding miRNA components, and characterized subpathway activity (sPA) scores by simultaneously considering the expression levels of miRNAs and genes. The results showed that the sPA scores could distinguish different samples across tumor types, as well as samples between tumor and normal conditions. Moreover, the sPAGM model displayed more specificities than the entire pathway-based analyses. This model was applied to melanoma tumors to perform a prognosis analysis, which identified a robust 55-subpathway signature. By using The Cancer Genome Atlas and independently verified data sets, the subpathway-based signature significantly predicted the patients’ prognoses, which were independent of clinical variables. In the prognostic performance comparison, the sPAGM model was superior to the gene-only and miRNA-only methods. Finally, we dissected the functional roles and interactions of components within the subpathway signature. Taken together, the sPAGM model provided a framework for inferring subpathway activities and identifying functional signatures for clinical applications.
Prediction of human prenatal exposure to bisphenol A and bisphenol A glucuronide from an ovine semi-physiological toxicokinetic model
Authors: Gauderat Glenn , Picard-Hagen Nicole , Toutain Pierre-Louis , Servien Rémi , Viguié Catherine , Puel Sylvie , Lacroix Marlène Z. , Corbel Tanguy , Bousquet-Melou Alain , Gayrard Véronique
Published: November 2017

Bisphenol A (BPA) risk assessment is hampered by the difficulty of determining the extent of internal exposure in the human fetus and uncertainties regarding BPA toxicokinetics (TK) in the maternal-fetal unit. A feto-maternal TK model describing BPA and BPA glucuronide (BPAG) disposition in sheep was humanized, using human TK data obtained after d6-BPA administration on a cookie, to predict BPA and BPAG kinetics in the human mother-fetus unit. Validation of the model predictions included the assessed dose proportionality of BPA and BPAG disposition and the similarity between the simulated and measured time courses of BPA and BPAG in fetal rhesus monkeys after BPA maternal dosing. The model predicted fluctuations in fetal BPA concentrations associated with typical maternal exposure to BPA through the diet, with similar trough (0.011 ng/L vs 0.014 ng/L) and lower peak BPA concentrations (0.023 ng/L vs 0.14 ng/L) in fetal than in maternal plasma. BPAG concentrations in fetal plasma were predicted to increase over time to reach a steady value (29 ng/L) reflecting the cumulative BPA dose received by the fetus. Model-predicted BPAG concentrations in fetal plasma are consistent with reported levels in human cord blood that may be considered as relevant markers of the BPA dose entering blood throughout fetal life.
The primary cilium is necessary for the differentiation and the maintenance of human adipose progenitors into myofibroblasts
Authors: Arrighi N. , Lypovetska K. , Moratal C. , Giorgetti-Peraldi S. , Dechesne C. A. , Dani C. , Peraldi P.
Published: November 2017

The primary cilium is an organelle, present at the cell surface, with various biological functions. We, and others, have shown that it plays a role in the differentiation of adipose progenitors (APs) into adipocytes. APs can also differentiate into myofibroblasts when treated with TGF-β1. Several components of the TGF-β1 pathway are located within the cilium suggesting a function for this organelle in AP myofibrogenesis. We studied differentiation of APs into myofibroblasts in two human models: APs of the adipose tissue (aAPs) and APs resident in the skeletal muscles (mAPs). We showed that, in vivo, myofibroblasts within muscles of patients with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy were ciliated. In vitro, myofibroblasts derived from APs maintained a functional primary cilium. Using HPI4, a small molecule that inhibits ciliogenesis, and siRNA against Kif-3A, we provide evidence that the primary cilium is necessary both for the differentiation of APs into myofibroblasts and the maintenance of the phenotype. Disruption of the primary cilium inhibited TGF-β1-signalisation providing a molecular mechanism by which the cilium controls myofibroblast differentiation. These data suggest that myofibroblasts from various origins are controlled differently by their primary cilium.
Stable Isotopes Reveal Rapid Enamel Elongation (Amelogenesis) Rates for the Early Cretaceous Iguanodontian Dinosaur Lanzhousaurus magnidens
Authors: Suarez Celina A. , You Hai-Lu , Suarez Marina B. , Li Da-Qing , Trieschmann J. B.
Published: November 2017

Lanzhousaurus magnidens, a large non-hadrosauriform iguanodontian dinosaur from the Lower Cretaceous Hekou Group of Gansu Province, China has the largest known herbivorous dinosaur teeth. Unlike its hadrosauriform relatives possessing tooth batteries of many small teeth, Lanzhousaurus utilized a small number (14) of very large teeth (~10 cm long) to create a large, continuous surface for mastication. Here we investigate the significance of Lanzhousaurus in the evolutionary history of iguanodontian-hadrosauriform transition by using a combination of stable isotope analysis and CT imagery. We infer that Lanzhousaurus had a rapid rate of tooth enamel elongation or amelogenesis at 0.24 mm/day with dental tissues common to other Iguanodontian dinosaurs. Among ornithopods, high rates of amelogenesis have been previously observed in hadrosaurids, where they have been associated with a sophisticated masticatory apparatus. These data suggest rapid amelogenesis evolved among non-hadrosauriform iguanodontians such as Lanzhousaurus, representing a crucial step that was exapted for the evolution of the hadrosaurian feeding mechanism.
Critical switching current density induced by spin Hall effect in magnetic structures with first- and second-order perpendicular magnetic anisotropy
Authors: Yun Seok Jin , Lee Kyung-Jin , Lim Sang Ho
Published: November 2017

In this study, we derive analytical expressions for the critical switching current density induced by spin Hall effect in magnetic structures with the first- and second-order perpendicular magnetic anisotropy. We confirm the validity of the expressions by comparing the analytical results with those obtained from a macrospin simulation. Moreover, we find that for a particular thermal stability parameter, the switching current density can be minimized for a slightly positive second-order perpendicular magnetic anisotropy and the minimum switching current density can further be tuned using an external magnetic field. The analytical expressions are of considerable value in designing high-density magnetic random access memory and cryogenic memory.
Objective quantification of nanoscale protein distributions
Authors: Szoboszlay Miklos , Kirizs Tekla , Nusser Zoltan
Published: November 2017

Nanoscale distribution of molecules within small subcellular compartments of neurons critically influences their functional roles. Although, numerous ways of analyzing the spatial arrangement of proteins have been described, a thorough comparison of their effectiveness is missing. Here we present an open source software, GoldExt, with a plethora of measures for quantification of the nanoscale distribution of proteins in subcellular compartments (e.g. synapses) of nerve cells. First, we compared the ability of five different measures to distinguish artificial uniform and clustered patterns from random point patterns. Then, the performance of a set of clustering algorithms was evaluated on simulated datasets with predefined number of clusters. Finally, we applied the best performing methods to experimental data, and analyzed the nanoscale distribution of different pre- and postsynaptic proteins, revealing random, uniform and clustered sub-synaptic distribution patterns. Our results reveal that application of a single measure is sufficient to distinguish between different distributions.
Effects of elevated CO2 on fine root biomass are reduced by aridity but enhanced by soil nitrogen: A global assessment
Authors: Piñeiro Juan , Ochoa-Hueso Raúl , Delgado-Baquerizo Manuel , Dobrick Silvan , Reich Peter B. , Pendall Elise , Power Sally A.
Published: November 2017

Plant roots play a crucial role in regulating key ecosystem processes such as carbon (C) sequestration and nutrient solubilisation. Elevated (e)CO2 is expected to alter the biomass of fine, coarse and total roots to meet increased demand for other resources such as water and nitrogen (N), however, the magnitude and direction of observed changes vary considerably between ecosystems. Here, we assessed how climate and soil properties mediate root responses to eCO2 by comparing 24 field-based CO2 experiments across the globe including a wide range of ecosystem types. We calculated response ratios (i.e. effect size) and used structural equation modelling (SEM) to achieve a system-level understanding of how aridity, mean annual temperature and total soil nitrogen simultaneously drive the response of total, coarse and fine root biomass to eCO2. Models indicated that increasing aridity limits the positive response of fine and total root biomass to eCO2, and that fine (but not coarse or total) root responses to eCO2 are positively related to soil total N. Our results provide evidence that consideration of factors such as aridity and soil N status is crucial for predicting plant and ecosystem-scale responses to future changes in atmospheric CO2 concentrations, and thus feedbacks to climate change.
SaccharomycesIDentifier, SID: strain-level analysis of Saccharomyces cerevisiae populations by using microsatellite meta-patterns
Authors: Stefanini Irene , Albanese Davide , Sordo Maddalena , Legras Jean-Luc , De Filippo Carlotta , Cavalieri Duccio , Donati Claudio
Published: November 2017

Saccharomyces cerevisiaeis a common yeast with several applications, among which the most ancient is winemaking. Because individuals belonging to this species show a wide genetic and phenotypic variability, the possibility to identify the strains driving fermentation is pivotal when aiming at stable and palatable products. Metagenomic sequencing is increasingly used to decipher the fungal populations present in complex samples such as musts. However, it does not provide information at the strain level. Microsatellites are commonly used to describe the genotype of single strains. Here we developed a population-level microsatellite profiling approach,SID (Saccharomyces cerevisiaeIDentifier), to identify the strains present in complex environmental samples. We optimized and assessed the performances of the analytical procedure on patterns generatedin silicoby computationally poolingSaccharomyces cerevisiaemicrosatellite profiles, and on samples obtained by pooling DNA of different strains, proving its ability to characterize real samples of grape wine fermentations.SID showed clear differences amongS.cerevisiaepopulations in grape fermentation samples, identifying strains that are likely composing the populations and highlighting the impact of the inoculation of selected exogenous strains on natural strains. This tool can be successfully exploited to identifyS.cerevisiaestrains in any kind of complex samples.
Investigation of novel metabolites potentially involved in the pathogenesis of coronary heart disease using a UHPLC-QTOF/MS-based metabolomics approach
Authors: Li Yiping , Zhang Dong , He Yuan , Chen Changzhe , Song Chenxi , Zhao Yanyan , Bai Yinxiao , Wang Yang , Pu Jielin , Chen Jingzhou , Yang Yuejin , Dou Kefei
Published: November 2017

Coronary heart disease (CHD) is associated with complex metabolic disorders, but its molecular aetiology remains unclear. Using a novel nontargeted metabolomics approach, we explored the global metabolic perturbation profile for CHD. Blood samples from 150 patients with severe obstructive CHD and 150 angiographically normal controls were collected. Metabolic fingerprinting was performed by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled to quadruple time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-QTOF/MS) technique. After adjusting for CHD traditional risk factors and metabolic batch, a comprehensive list of 105 metabolites was found to be significantly altered in CHD patients. Among the metabolites identified, six metabolites were discovered to have the strongest correlation with CHD after adjusting for multiple testing: palmitic acid (β = 0.205; p < 0.0001), linoleic acid (β = 0.133; p < 0.0001), 4-pyridoxic acid (β = 0.142; p < 0.0001), phosphatidylglycerol (20:3/2:0) (β = 0.287; p < 0.0001), carnitine (14:1) (β = 0.332; p < 0.0001) and lithocholic acid (β = 0.224; p < 0.0001); of these, 4-pyridoxic acid, lithocholic acid and phosphatidylglycerol (20:3/2:0) were, to the best of our knowledge, first reported in this study. A logistic regression model further quantified their positive independent correlations with CHD. In conclusion, this study surveyed a broad panel of nontargeted metabolites in Chinese CHD populations and identified novel metabolites that are potentially involved in CHD pathogenesis.
Superconducting Properties in Arrays of Nanostructured β-Gallium
Authors: Moura K. O. , Pirota K. R. , Béron F. , Jesus C. B. R. , Rosa P. F. S. , Tobia D. , Pagliuso P. G. , Lima O. F. de
Published: November 2017

Samples of nanostructured β-Ga wires were synthesized by a novel method of metallic-flux nanonucleation. Several superconducting properties were observed, revealing the stabilization of a weak-coupling type-II-like superconductor ($${T}_{c}$$

T

c

$$\approx $$
≈
6.2 K) with a Ginzburg-Landau parameter $${\kappa }_{GL}$$

κ

G
L

 = 1.18. This contrasts the type-I superconductivity observed for the majority of Ga phases, including small spheres of β-Ga with diameters near 15 μm. Remarkably, our magnetization curves reveal a crossover field $${H}_{D}$$

H

D

, where we propose that the Abrikosov vortices are exactly touching their neighbors inside the Ga nanowires. A phenomenological model is proposed to explain this result by assuming that only a single row of vortices is allowed inside a nanowire under perpendicular applied field, with an appreciable depletion of Cooper pair density at the nanowire edges. These results are expected to shed light on the growing area of superconductivity in nanostructured materials.
Diagnostic value of blood-derived microRNAs for schizophrenia: results of a meta-analysis and validation
Authors: Liu Sha , Zhang Fuquan , Wang Xijin , Shugart Yin Yao , Zhao Yingying , Li Xinrong , Liu Zhifen , Sun Ning , Yang Chunxia , Zhang Kerang , Yue Weihua , Yu Xin , Xu Yong
Published: November 2017

There is an increasing interest in searching biomarkers for schizophrenia (SZ) diagnosis, which overcomes the drawbacks inherent with the subjective diagnostic methods. MicroRNA (miRNA) fingerprints have been explored for disease diagnosis. We performed a meta-analysis to examine miRNA diagnostic value for SZ and further validated the meta-analysis results. Using following terms: schizophrenia/SZ, microRNA/miRNA, diagnosis, sensitivity and specificity, we searched databases restricted to English language and reviewed all articles published from January 1990 to October 2016. All extracted data were statistically analyzed and the results were further validated with peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMNCs) isolated from patients and healthy controls using RT-qPCR and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. A total of 6 studies involving 330 patients and 202 healthy controls were included for meta-analysis. The pooled sensitivity, specificity and diagnostic odds ratio were 0.81 (95% CI: 0.75-0.86), 0.81 (95% CI: 0.72-0.88) and 18 (95% CI: 9-34), respectively; the positive and negative likelihood ratio was 4.3 and 0.24 respectively; the area under the curve in summary ROC was 0.87 (95% CI: 0.84-0.90). Validation revealed that miR-181b-5p, miR-21-5p, miR-195-5p, miR-137, miR-346 and miR-34a-5p in PBMNCs had high diagnostic sensitivity and specificity in the context of schizophrenia. In conclusion, blood-derived miRNAs might be promising biomarkers for SZ diagnosis.
Carbon nanofibres-supported KCoMo catalysts for syngas conversion into higher alcohols
Authors: Luk Ho Ting , Forster Tim , Mondelli Cecilia , Siol Sebastian , Curulla-Ferré Daniel , Stewart Joseph A. , Pérez-Ramírez Javier
Published: November 2017

Atomic intermixing, high dispersion and primarily reduced state are prerequisites of supported Co and Mo for an effective higher alcohol synthesis.
Sub-nano MgF2 embedded in carbon nanofibers and electrospun MgF2 nanofibers by one-step electrospinning as highly efficient catalysts for 1,1,1-trifluoroethane dehydrofluorination
Authors: Han Wenfeng , Zhang Chunpeng , Wang Haili , Zhou Shenglan , Tang Haodong , Yang Luteng , Wang Zhikun
Published: November 2017

MgF2 embedded in carbon fibers and electrospun MgF2 fibers prevent sintering and are reactive.
The lone-pair-electron-driven phase transition and order–disorder processes in thermochromic (2-MIm)SbI4organic–inorganic hybrid
Authors: Gągor A. , Banach G. , Węcławik M. , Piecha-Bisiorek A. , Jakubas R.
Published: November 2017

Thermochromic (2-MIm)SbI4hybrid crystals undergo normal to modulated phase transition at 295 K which affects mainly the anionic substructure. Pronounced color changes correlate to modifications of the intra chain Sb–I and Sb⋯Sb connections.
Amine assisted top-down delamination of the two-dimensional metal–organic framework Cu2(bdc)2
Authors: Kutzscher Christel , Gelbert André , Ehrling Sebastian , Schenk Claudia , Senkovska Irena , Kaskel Stefan
Published: November 2017

Two different strategies of amine assisted delamination of 2D MOFs were developed.