bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
UVR8 disrupts stabilisation of PIF5 by COP1 to inhibit plant stem elongation in sunlight
Authors: Sharma Ashutosh , Sharma Bhavana , Hayes Scott , Kerner Konstantin , Hoecker Ute , Jenkins Gareth I. , Franklin Keara A.
Published: September 2019

Alterations in light quality significantly affect plant growth and development. In canopy shade, phytochrome photoreceptors perceive reduced ratios of red to far-red light (R:FR) and initiate stem elongation to enable plants to overtop competitors. This shade avoidance response is achieved via the stabilisation and activation of PHYTOCHROME INTERACTING FACTORs (PIFs) which elevate auxin biosynthesis. UV-B inhibits shade avoidance by reducing the abundance and activity of PIFs, yet the molecular mechanisms controlling PIF abundance in UV-B are unknown. Here we show that the UV-B photoreceptor UVR8 promotes rapid PIF5 degradation via the ubiquitin-proteasome system in a response requiring the N terminus of PIF5. In planta interactions between UVR8 and PIF5 are not observed. We further demonstrate that PIF5 interacts with the E3 ligase COP1, promoting PIF5 stabilisation in light-grown plants. Binding of UVR8 to COP1 in UV-B disrupts this stabilisation, providing a mechanism to rapidly lower PIF5 abundance in sunlight.
FIERY1 promotes microRNA accumulation by suppressing rRNA-derived small interfering RNAs in Arabidopsis
Authors: You Chenjiang , He Wenrong , Hang Runlai , Zhang Cuiju , Cao Xiaofeng , Guo Hongwei , Chen Xuemei , Cui Jie , Mo Beixin
Published: September 2019

Plant microRNAs (miRNAs) associate with ARGONAUTE1 (AGO1) to direct post-transcriptional gene silencing and regulate numerous biological processes. Although AGO1 predominantly binds miRNAs in vivo, it also associates with endogenous small interfering RNAs (siRNAs). It is unclear whether the miRNA/siRNA balance affects miRNA activities. Here we report that FIERY1 (FRY1), which is involved in 5′−3′ RNA degradation, regulates miRNA abundance and function by suppressing the biogenesis of ribosomal RNA-derived siRNAs (risiRNAs). In mutants of FRY1 and the nuclear 5′−3′ exonuclease genes XRN2 and XRN3, we find that a large number of 21-nt risiRNAs are generated through an endogenous siRNA biogenesis pathway. The production of risiRNAs correlates with pre-rRNA processing defects in these mutants. We also show that these risiRNAs are loaded into AGO1, causing reduced loading of miRNAs. This study reveals a previously unknown link between rRNA processing and miRNA accumulation.
Photocatalytic water splitting by N-TiO2 on MgO (111) with exceptional quantum efficiencies at elevated temperatures
Authors: Li Yiyang , Peng Yung-Kang , Hu Liangsheng , Zheng Jianwei , Prabhakaran Dharmalingam , Wu Simson , Puchtler Timothy J. , Li Mo , Wong Kwok-Yin , Taylor Robert A. , Tsang Shik Chi Edman
Published: September 2019

Photocatalytic water splitting is attracting enormous interest for the storage of solar energy but no practical method has yet been identified. In the past decades, various systems have been developed but most of them suffer from low activities, a narrow range of absorption and poor quantum efficiencies (Q.E.) due to fast recombination of charge carriers. Here we report a dramatic suppression of electron-hole pair recombination on the surface of N-doped TiO2 based nanocatalysts under enhanced concentrations of H+ and OH−, and local electric field polarization of a MgO (111) support during photolysis of water at elevated temperatures. Thus, a broad optical absorption is seen, producing O2 and H2 in a 1:2 molar ratio with a H2 evolution rate of over 11,000 μmol g−1 h−1 without any sacrificial reagents at 270 °C. An exceptional range of Q.E. from 81.8% at 437 nm to 3.2% at 1000 nm is also reported.
Ecological changes over 90 years at Low Isles on the Great Barrier Reef
Authors: Fine Maoz , Hoegh-Guldberg Ove , Meroz-Fine Efrat , Dove Sophie
Published: September 2019

Coral reefs are under increasing stress from local and global factors. Long-term perspectives are becoming increasingly important for understanding ecosystem responses. Here, we provide insights from a 91-year study of the Low Isles on the northern Great Barrier Reef (GBR) that begins with the pioneering Great Barrier Reef Expedition (1928-29). We show that intertidal communities have experienced major phase-shifts since 1928, with few signs of a return to the initial state. Coral communities demolished by cyclones 50 years ago and exposed to multiple stressors have yet to recover. Richness and diversity of these communities systematically declined for corals and other invertebrates. Specifically, massive corals have replaced branching corals, and soft corals have become much more numerous. The long-term perspective of this study illustrates the importance of considering multiple factors in reef decline, and potential recovery, of coral reefs, and the importance of tracking changes in community structure as well as coral abundance over long periods.
CXCR5+PD-1+ follicular helper CD8 T cells control B cell tolerance
Authors: Chen Yuhong , Yu Mei , Zheng Yongwei , Fu Guoping , Xin Gang , Zhu Wen , Luo Lan , Burns Robert , Li Quan-Zhen , Dent Alexander L. , Zhu Nan , Cui Weiguo , Malherbe Laurent , Wen Renren , Wang Demin
Published: September 2019

Many autoimmune diseases are characterized by the production of autoantibodies. The current view is that CD4+ T follicular helper (Tfh) cells are the main subset regulating autoreactive B cells. Here we report a CXCR5+PD1+ Tfh subset of CD8+ T cells whose development and function are negatively modulated by Stat5. These CD8+ Tfh cells regulate the germinal center B cell response and control autoantibody production, as deficiency of Stat5 in CD8 T cells leads to an increase of CD8+ Tfh cells, resulting in the breakdown of B cell tolerance and concomitant autoantibody production. CD8+ Tfh cells share similar gene signatures with CD4+ Tfh, and require CD40L/CD40 and TCR/MHCI interactions to deliver help to B cells. Our study thus highlights the diversity of follicular T cell subsets that contribute to the breakdown of B-cell tolerance.
Author Correction: Room-temperature valley coherence in a polaritonic system
Authors: Qiu L. , Chakraborty C. , Dhara S. , Vamivakas A. N.
Published: September 2019

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
A universal standardized method for output capability assessment of nanogenerators
Authors: Xia Xin , Fu Jingjing , Zi Yunlong
Published: September 2019

To quantitatively evaluate the output performance of triboelectric nanogenerators, figures of merit have been developed. However, the current figures of merit, without considering the breakdown effect that seriously affects the effective maximized energy output, are limited for application. Meanwhile, a method to evaluate output capability of nanogenerators is needed. Here, a standardized method that considers the breakdown effect is proposed for output capability assessment of nanogenerators. Contact separation and contact freestanding-triboelectric-layer modes triboelectric nanogenerators are used to demonstrate this method, and the effective maximized energy output and revised figures of merit are calculated based on the experimental results. These results are consistent with those theoretically calculated based on Paschen’s law. This method is also conducted to evaluate a film-based piezoelectric nanogenerator, demonstrating its universal applicability for nanogenerators. This study proposes a standardized method for evaluating the effective output capability of nanogenerators, which is crucial for standardized evaluation and application of nanogenerator technologies.
Author Correction: A lake data set for the Tibetan Plateau from the 1960s, 2005, and 2014
Authors: Wan Wei , Long Di , Hong Yang , Ma Yingzhao , Yuan Yuan , Xiao Pengfeng , Duan Hongtao , Han Zhongying , Gu Xingfa
Published: September 2019

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
De novo transcriptomes of 14 gammarid individuals for proteogenomic analysis of seven taxonomic groups
Authors: Cogne Yannick , Degli-Esposti Davide , Pible Olivier , Gouveia Duarte , François Adeline , Bouchez Olivier , Eché Camille , Ford Alex , Geffard Olivier , Armengaud Jean , Chaumot Arnaud , Almunia Christine
Published: September 2019

Gammarids are amphipods found worldwide distributed in fresh and marine waters. They play an important role in aquatic ecosystems and are well established sentinel species in ecotoxicology. In this study, we sequenced the transcriptomes of a male individual and a female individual for seven different taxonomic groups belonging to the two genera Gammarus and Echinogammarus: Gammarus fossarum A, G. fossarum B, G. fossarum C, Gammarus wautieri, Gammarus pulex, Echinogammarus berilloni, and Echinogammarus marinus. These taxa were chosen to explore the molecular diversity of transcribed genes of genotyped individuals from these groups. Transcriptomes were de novo assembled and annotated. High-quality assembly was confirmed by BUSCO comparison against the Arthropod dataset. The 14 RNA-Seq-derived protein sequence databases proposed here will be a significant resource for proteogenomics studies of these ecotoxicologically relevant non-model organisms. These transcriptomes represent reliable reference sequences for whole-transcriptome and proteome studies on other gammarids, for primer design to clone specific genes or monitor their specific expression, and for analyses of molecular differences between gammarid species.
Distinct classes and subclasses of antibodies to hemolysin co-regulated protein 1 and O-polysaccharide and correlation with clinical characteristics of melioidosis patients
Authors: Pumpuang Apinya , Phunpang Rungnapa , Ekchariyawat Peeraya , Dulsuk Adul , Loupha Siriorn , Kwawong Kochnipa , Charoensawat Yaowaree , Thiansukhon Ekkachai , Day Nicholas P. J. , Burtnick Mary N. , Brett Paul J. , West T. Eoin , Chantratita Narisara
Published: September 2019

Melioidosis is a tropical infectious disease caused byBurkholderia pseudomalleithat results in high mortality. Hemolysin co-regulated protein 1 (Hcp1) and O-polysaccharide (OPS) are vaccine candidates and potential diagnostic antigens. The correlation of classes/subclasses of antibodies against these antigens with clinical characteristics of melioidosis patients is unknown. Antibodies in plasma samples from melioidosis patients and healthy donors were quantified by ELISA and compared with clinical features. In melioidosis patients, Hcp1 induced high IgG levels. OPS induced high IgG and IgA levels. The area under receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROCC) to discriminate melioidosis cases from healthy donors was highest for anti-Hcp1 IgG (0.92) compared to anti-Hcp1 IgA or IgM. In contrast, AUROCC for anti-OPS for IgG (0.91) and IgA (0.92) were comparable. Anti-Hcp1 IgG1 and anti-OPS IgG2 had the greatest AUROCCs (0.87 and 0.95, respectively) compared to other IgG subclasses for each antigen. Survivors had significantly higher anti-Hcp1 IgG3 levels than non-survivors. Male melioidosis patients with diabetes had higher anti-OPS IgA levels than males without diabetes. Thus, diverse and specific antibody responses are associated with distinct clinical characteristics in melioidosis, confirming the diagnostic utility of these responses and providing new insights into immune mechanisms.
Identification of reference genes for RT-qPCR data normalisation in aging studies
Authors: González-Bermúdez Lourdes , Anglada Teresa , Genescà Anna , Martín Marta , Terradas Mariona
Published: September 2019

Aging is associated with changes in gene expression levels that affect cellular functions and predispose to age-related diseases. The use of candidate genes whose expression remains stable during aging is required to correctly address the age-associated variations in expression levels. Reverse transcription quantitative-polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) has become a powerful approach for sensitive gene expression analysis. Reliable RT-qPCR assays rely on the normalisation of the results to stable reference genes. Taken these data together, here we evaluated the expression stability of eight frequently used reference genes in three aging models: oncogene-induced senescence (OIS), in vitro and in vivo aging. Using NormFinder and geNorm algorithms, we identified that the most stable reference gene pairs were PUM1 and TBP in OIS, GUSB and PUM1 for in vitro aging and GUSB and OAZ1 for in vivo aging. To validate these candidates, we used them to normalise the expression data of CDKN1A, APOD and TFRC genes, whose expression is known to be affected during OIS, in vitro and in vivo aging. This study demonstrates that accurate normalisation of RT-qPCR data is crucial in aging research and provides a specific subset of stable reference genes for future aging studies.
Tissue-specific mouse mRNA isoform networks
Authors: Kandoi Gaurav , Dickerson Julie A.
Published: September 2019

Alternative Splicing produces multiple mRNA isoforms of genes which have important diverse roles such as regulation of gene expression, human heritable diseases, and response to environmental stresses. However, little has been done to assign functions at the mRNA isoform level. Functional networks, where the interactions are quantified by their probability of being involved in the same biological process are typically generated at the gene level. We use a diverse array of tissue-specific RNA-seq datasets and sequence information to train random forest models that predict the functional networks. Since there is no mRNA isoform-level gold standard, we use single isoform genes co-annotated to Gene Ontology biological process annotations, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathways, BioCyc pathways and protein-protein interactions as functionally related (positive pair). To generate the non-functional pairs (negative pair), we use the Gene Ontology annotations tagged with “NOT” qualifier. We describe 17 Tissue-spEcific mrNa iSoform functIOnal Networks (TENSION) following a leave-one-tissue-out strategy in addition to an organism level reference functional network for mouse. We validate our predictions by comparing its performance with previous methods, randomized positive and negative class labels, updated Gene Ontology annotations, and by literature evidence. We demonstrate the ability of our networks to reveal tissue-specific functional differences of the isoforms of the same genes. All scripts and data from TENSION are available at:https://doi.org/10.25380/iastate.c.4275191.
Additive effects of connectivity provided by different habitat types drive plant assembly
Authors: Uroy Léa , Mony Cendrine , Ernoult Aude
Published: September 2019

How connectivity affects plant assemblages is a central issue in landscape ecology. So far, empirical studies have produced contradictory results, possibly because studies: (1) inaccurately assess connectivity by prioritizing the respective effect of the type of habitat on plant assemblages and (2) omit the range of possible plant responses to connectivity depending on dispersal vectors. We focused on three dominant habitat types in agricultural landscapes (woodland, grassland and cropland), and analysed the effect of connectivity on herbaceous plant assemblage similarity for three primary dispersal modes (animal-dispersed, wind-dispersed and unassisted). Using circuit theory, we measured connectivity provided by woodland, grassland and cropland habitats independently. The similarity of plant assemblages was evaluated relative to the random expectation based on the regional pool. Overall, plant assemblage similarity in woodlands and temporary grasslands was dependent on connectivity, but not in wheat croplands. Only animal-dispersed species responded to connectivity. The similarity of animal-dispersed assemblages in woodlands was increased by the connectivity provided by woodland habitats, but was reduced by cropland habitats, whereas in temporary grasslands, similarity was increased by the connectivity provided by cropland habitats. Our results suggest that animal-dispersed species supplement their dispersal pathways, thus improving our knowledge of plant assembly rules in fragmented landscapes.
Design and manufacture of 3D cell culture plate for mass production of cell-spheroids
Authors: Lee Dongkyoung , Pathak Shiva , Jeong Jee-Heon
Published: September 2019

A 3D cell culture is preferred to 2D cell culture since it allows cells to grow in all directionsin vitro, similar to how they wouldin vivo. 3D cell culture plates currently used in tissue engineering research have limited access to control the geometry. Furthermore, 3D cell culture plate manufacturing methods are relatively complex, time-consuming, labor-intensive, and expensive. Therefore, a design and manufacturing method, which has relatively low cost, high throughput, and high size flexibility, is proposed. Cell culture plate was fabricated by computer aided design and manufacturing software using polydimethylsiloxane as a plate constituent. With the successfully-developed 3D cell culture plate, the morphology and viability of the cultured mesenchymal stem cells were tested.The mesenchymal stem cells seeded on the newly-fabricated 3D cell culture plate aggregated to form 3D spheroids within 24 h of incubation and well-maintained their viability. Thus, due to the capacity of mass production of the cell spheroids with a desired cell viability, the newly-fabricated plate has a great promise to prepare 3D cell spheroids for experimental as well as clinical applications.
Tissue-engineered blood-brain barrier models via directed differentiation of human induced pluripotent stem cells
Authors: Grifno Gabrielle N. , Farrell Alanna M. , Linville Raleigh M. , Arevalo Diego , Kim Joo Ho , Gu Luo , Searson Peter C.
Published: September 2019

Three-dimensional (3D) tissue-engineered models of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) recapitulate in vivo shear stress, cylindrical geometry, and cell-ECM interactions. Here we address four issues associated with BBB models: cell source, barrier function, cryopreservation, and matrix stiffness. We reproduce a directed differentiation of brain microvascular endothelial cells (dhBMECs) from two fluorescently labeled human induced pluripotent stem cell lines (hiPSCs) and demonstrate physiological permeability of Lucifer yellow over six days. Microvessels formed from cryopreserved dhBMECs show expression of BBB markers and maintain physiological barrier function comparable to non-cryopreserved cells. Microvessels displaying physiological barrier function are formed in collagen I hydrogels with stiffness matching that of human brain. The dilation response of microvessels was linear with increasing transmural pressure and was dependent on matrix stiffness. Together these results advance capabilities for tissue-engineered BBB models.
Molecular phenotyping using networks, diffusion, and topology: soft tissue sarcoma
Authors: Mathews James C. , Pouryahya Maryam , Moosmüller Caroline , Kevrekidis Yannis G. , Deasy Joseph O. , Tannenbaum Allen
Published: September 2019

Many biological datasets are high-dimensional yet manifest an underlying order. In this paper, we describe an unsupervised data analysis methodology that operates in the setting of a multivariate dataset and a network which expresses influence between the variables of the given set. The technique involves network geometry employing the Wasserstein distance, global spectral analysis in the form of diffusion maps, and topological data analysis using the Mapper algorithm. The prototypical application is to gene expression profiles obtained from RNA-Seq experiments on a collection of tissue samples, considering only genes whose protein products participate in a known pathway or network of interest. Employing the technique, we discern several coherent states or signatures displayed by the gene expression profiles of the sarcomas in the Cancer Genome Atlas along the TP53 (p53) signaling network. The signatures substantially recover the leiomyosarcoma, dedifferentiated liposarcoma (DDLPS), and synovial sarcoma histological subtype diagnoses, and they also include a new signature defined by activation and inactivation of about a dozen genes, including activation of serine endopeptidase inhibitor SERPINE1 and inactivation of TP53-family tumor suppressor gene TP73.
Spinal arthritis in invasive cane toads is linked to rate of dispersal as well as to latitude
Authors: Brown Gregory P. , Schwarzkopf Lin , Alford Ross A. , Bower Deborah , Shine Richard
Published: September 2019

Initial research on the spread of cane toads (Rhinella marina) through tropical Australia reported a high incidence of spinal arthritis (spondylosis) in toads at the invasion front (where toads disperse rapidly), but not in areas colonized earlier (where toads are more sedentary). The idea that spondylosis was a cost of rapid dispersal was challenged by wider spatial sampling which linked rates of spondylosis to hot (tropical) climates rather than to dispersal rates. Here, the authors of these competing interpretations collaborate to reinterpret the data. Our reanalysis supports both previous hypotheses; rates of spondylosis are higher in populations established by fast-dispersing toads, and are higher in tropical than in temperate environments; they are also higher in larger toads. The functional reason for climatic effects is unclear, but might involve effects on the soil-living bacteria involved in the induction of spondylosis; and/or may reflect higher movement (as opposed to dispersal) or more pronounced dry-season aggregation rates of toads in tropical conditions.
Multiplexed ultrasound beam summation for side lobe reduction
Authors: Ilovitsh Asaf , Ilovitsh Tali , Ferrara Katherine W.
Published: September 2019

Two-way focusing, which relies on sweeping a focused beam across a field of view, is the conventional method for performing high-quality ultrasound imaging. Side lobes resulting from diffraction reduce the image contrast, thus degrade the image quality. In this paper, we present a new method for beam shaping the transmitted ultrasound waveform in order to reduce side lobes and improve image quality. The beam shaping is achieved by transmitting two different waveforms that are interlaced between the odd and even elements. One waveform generates a standard diffraction-limited single focus, and the second waveform generates two foci at the same focal depth as the single focus. The distance between the two foci is selected such that they will destructively interfere with the first order side lobes of the single focus, effectively eliminating these side lobes. A 7.5 dB side lobe reduction was measured experimentally at a depth of 60 mm, using a phased array transducer with a center frequency of 3 MHz. This real-time method utilizes standard receive beamforming, identical to traditional two-way focusing, and does not require post-processing. The method can be implemented with conventional ultrasound systems, without the need for additional components. The proposed method is described analytically, optimized via numerical simulation, and validated by experiments using wire targets, tissue-mimicking phantoms, and in vivo imaging of the rat bladder.
Energy balance model of mass balance and its sensitivity to meteorological variability on Urumqi River Glacier No.1 in the Chinese Tien Shan
Authors: Che Yanjun , Zhang Mingjun , Li Zhongqin , Wei Yanqiang , Nan Zhuotong , Li Huilin , Wang Shengjie , Su Bo
Published: September 2019

Energy exchanges between atmosphere and glacier surface control the net energy available for snow and ice melt. Based on the meteorological records in Urumqi River Glacier No.1 (URGN1) in the Chinese Tien Shan during the period of 2012–2015, an energy-mass balance model was run to assess the sensitivity of glacier mass balance to air temperature (T), precipitation (P), incoming shortwave radiation (Sin), relative humidity (RH), and wind speed (u) in the URGN1, respectively. The results showed that the glacier melting was mainly controlled by the net shortwave radiation. The glacier mass balance was very sensitivity to albedo for snow and the time scale determining how long the snow albedo approaches the albedo for firn after a snowfall. The net annual mass balance of URGN1 was decreased by 0.44 m w.e. when increased by 1 K in air temperature, while it was increased 0.30 m w.e. when decreased by 1 K. The net total mass balance increased by 0.55 m w.e. when increased precipitation by 10%, while it was decreased by 0.61 m w.e. when decreased precipitation by 10%. We also found that the change in glacier mass balance was non-linear when increased or decreased input condition of climate change. The sensitivity of mass balance to increase in Sin, u, and RH were at −0.015 m w.e.%−1, −0.020 m w.e.%−1, and −0.018 m w.e.%−1, respectively, while they were at 0.012 m w.e.%−1, 0.027 m w.e.%−1, and 0.017 m w.e.%−1 when decreasing in those conditions, respectively. In addition, the simulations of coupled perturbation for temperature and precipitation indicated that the precipitation needed to increase by 23% could justly compensate to the additional mass loss due to increase by 1 K in air temperature. We also found that the sensitivities of glacier mass balance in response to climate change were different in different mountain ranges, which were mainly resulted from the discrepancies in the ratio of snowfall to precipitation during the ablation season, the amount of melt energy during the ablation season, and precipitation seasonality in the different local regions.
PKN1 kinase-negative knock-in mice develop splenomegaly and leukopenia at advanced age without obvious autoimmune-like phenotypes
Authors: Siddique Salman Mahmud , Kubouchi Koji , Shinmichi Yuka , Sawada Nana , Sugiura Reiko , Itoh Yasushi , Uehara Shunsuke , Nishimura Kanae , Okamura Shunsuke , Ohsaki Hiroyuki , Kamoshida Shingo , Yamashita Yusuke , Tamura Shinobu , Sonoki Takashi , Matsuoka Hiroshi , Itoh Tomoo , Mukai Hideyuki
Published: September 2019

Protein kinase N1 (PKN1) knockout (KO) mice spontaneously form germinal centers (GCs) and develop an autoimmune-like disease with age. Here, we investigated the function of PKN1 kinase activity in vivo using aged mice deficient in kinase activity resulting from the introduction of a point mutation (T778A) in the activation loop of the enzyme. PKN1[T778A] mice reached adulthood without external abnormalities; however, the average spleen size and weight of aged PKN1[T778A] mice increased significantly compared to aged wild type (WT) mice. Histologic examination and Southern blot analyses of spleens showed extramedullary hematopoiesis and/or lymphomagenesis in some cases, although without significantly different incidences between PKN1[T778A] and WT mice. Additionally, flow cytometry revealed increased numbers in B220+, CD3+, Gr1+ and CD193+ leukocytes in the spleen of aged PKN1[T778A] mice, whereas the number of lymphocytes, neutrophils, eosinophils, and monocytes was reduced in the peripheral blood, suggesting an advanced impairment of leukocyte trafficking with age. Moreover, aged PKN1[T778A] mice showed no obvious GC formation nor autoimmune-like phenotypes, such as glomerulonephritis or increased anti-dsDNA antibody titer, in peripheral blood. Our results showing phenotypic differences between aged Pkn1-KO and PKN1[T778A] mice may provide insight into the importance of PKN1-specific kinase-independent functions in vivo.
New insights into prime Southern Ocean forage grounds for thriving Western Australian humpback whales
Authors: Bestley Sophie , Andrews-Goff Virginia , van Wijk Esmee , Rintoul Stephen R. , Double Michael C. , How Jason
Published: September 2019

Humpback whale populations migrate extensively between winter breeding grounds and summer feeding grounds, however known links to remote Antarctic feeding grounds remain limited in many cases. New satellite tracks detail humpback whale migration pathways from Western Australia into the Southern Ocean. These highlight a focal feeding area during austral spring and early summer at the southern Kerguelen plateau, in a western boundary current where a sharp northward turn and retroflection of ocean fronts occurs along the eastern plateau edge. The topographic steering of oceanographic features here likely supports a predictable, productive and persistent forage ground. The spatial distribution of whaling catches and Discovery era mark-recaptures confirms the importance of this region to Western Australian humpback whales since at least historical times. Movement modelling discriminates sex-related behaviours, with females moving faster during both transit and resident periods, which may be a consequence of size or indicate differential energetic requirements. Relatively short and directed migratory pathways overall, together with high-quality, reliable forage resources may provide a partial explanation for the ongoing strong recovery demonstrated by this population. The combination of new oceanographic information and movement data provides enhanced understanding of important biological processes, which are relevant within the context of the current spatial management and conservation efforts in the Southern Ocean.
Intestinal inflammation increases convulsant activity and reduces antiepileptic drug efficacy in a mouse model of epilepsy
Authors: De Caro Carmen , Leo Antonio , Nesci Valentina , Ghelardini Carla , di Cesare Mannelli Lorenzo , Striano Pasquale , Avagliano Carmen , Calignano Antonio , Mainardi Paolo , Constanti Andrew , Citraro Rita , De Sarro Giovambattista , Russo Emilio
Published: September 2019

We studied the effects of intestinal inflammation on pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)-induced seizures in mice and the effects thereon of some antiepileptic and anti-inflammatory treatments to establish if a link may exist. The agents tested were: alpha-lactoalbumin (ALAC), a whey protein rich in tryptophan, effective in some animal models of epilepsy and on colon/intestine inflammation, valproic acid (VPA), an effective antiepileptic drug in this seizure model, mesalazine (MSZ) an effective aminosalicylate anti-inflammatory treatment against ulcerative colitis and sodium butyrate (NaB), a short chain fatty acid (SCFA) normally produced in the intestine by gut microbiota, important in maintaining gut health and reducing gut inflammation and oxidative stress. Intestinal inflammation was induced by dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) administration for 6 days. Drug treatment was started on day 3 and lasted 11 days, when seizure susceptibility to PTZ was measured along with intestinal inflammatory markers (i.e. NF-κB, Iκ-Bα, COX-2, iNOS), histological damage, disease activity index (DAI) and SCFA concentration in stools. DSS-induced colitis increased seizure susceptibility and while all treatments were able to reduce intestinal inflammation, only ALAC and NaB exhibited significant antiepileptic properties in mice with induced colitis, while they were ineffective as antiepileptics at the same doses in control mice without colitis. Interestingly, in DSS-treated mice, VPA lost part of its antiepileptic efficacy in comparison to preventing seizures in non-DSS-treated mice while MSZ remained ineffective in both groups. Our study demonstrates that reducing intestinal inflammation through ALAC or NaB administration has specific anticonvulsant effects in PTZ-treated mice. Furthermore, it appears that intestinal inflammation may reduce the antiepileptic effects of VPA, although we confirm that it decreases seizure threshold in this group. Therefore, we suggest that intestinal inflammation may represent a valid antiepileptic target which should also be considered as a participating factor to seizure incidence in susceptible patients and also could be relevant in reducing standard antiepileptic drug efficacy.
Retraction Note: Sepsis-induced elevation in plasma serotonin facilitates endothelial hyperpermeability
Authors: Li Yicong , Hadden Coedy , Cooper Anthonya , Ahmed Asli , Wu Hong , Lupashin Vladimir V. , Mayeux Philip R. , Kilic Fusun
Published: September 2019

This article has been retracted.
Risk of second primary malignancies in head and neck cancer patients treated with definitive radiotherapy
Authors: Ng Sweet Ping , Pollard Courtney , Kamal Mona , Ayoub Zeina , Garden Adam S. , Bahig Houda , Gunn G. Brandon , Frank Steven J. , Skinner Heath D. , Phan Jack , Berends Joel , Morrison William H. , Johnson Jason M. , Ferrarotto Renata , Sturgis Erich M. , Mohamed Abdallah S. R. , Lai Stephen Y. , Fuller Clifton D. , Rosenthal David I.
Published: September 2019

Second primary malignancy (SPM) may occur after index head and neck cancer (HNC) treatment. This study evaluated the prevalence and outcome of SPM in patients with HNC treated with definitive radiotherapy. Eligible patients include those with index mucosal HNC treated with definitive radiotherapy between 2000 and 2010. SPM was defined as an invasive cancer at a noncontiguous site diagnosed at least 6 months after completion of radiotherapy. Clinical data were collected, and the Kaplan–Meier method was used to estimate overall survival. In total, 1512 patients were studied. The majority of patients had index oropharyngeal cancer (86%). In all, 130 (9%) patients developed a SPM. The risk of SPM increased exponentially with time with 5-, 10-, and 15-year rates of 4, 10, and 25%. Half of SPMs were within the head and neck or thoracic regions. SPM rates were significantly higher (p < 0.0001) in current smokers and former smokers than never smokers with 5-, 10-, and 15-year risk being: never smoker (2, 4, 14%), former smokers with <10-pack year (5, 10, 23%), former smokers with ≥10-pack year (5, 14, 35%), and current smokers (6, 18, 32%). In total, 102 (78%) had subsequent curative-intent therapy. The 5-year overall survival from SPM was 44%. The majority of SPMs were in those with significant smoking history reflecting the same risk factor as for the index mucosal HNC. Nearly one in two patients with SPMs were salvaged underscoring the importance of regular surveillance for SPMs.
Engineering medium-range order and polyamorphism in a nanostructured amorphous alloy
Authors: Lan Si , Guo Chunyu , Zhou Wenzhao , Ren Yang , Almer Jon , Pei Chaoqun , Hahn Horst , Liu Chain-Tsuan , Feng Tao , Wang Xun-Li , Gleiter Herbert
Published: September 2019

Like crystalline materials, the properties of amorphous materials can be tailored by tuning the local atomic-to-nanoscale structural configurations. Polyamorphism is evident by the coexistence of kinetically stabilized amorphous structures with tailorable short-to-medium-range orders, providing a viable means to engineer the degree of local order and heterogeneity. Here, we report experimental evidence of the coexistence of liquid-like and solid-like amorphous phases in a Ni82P18 amorphous alloy with enhanced thermal stability and plasticity prepared by pulsed electrodeposition. The two amorphous phases, of comparable volume fraction of ~50% each, have similar short-range order but are distinguished by packing at the medium-range length scale (>6 Å). Upon heating, a structure crossover at ~450 K was observed, where the liquid-like structure transforms to the solid-like structure, as evidenced by the enthalpy release and an anomalous contraction of atomic structure over the medium-range length scale, due to the metastable nature of the liquid-like structure.
Evaluation of two extraction approaches for pesticide residue determination in biobeds using GC-MS/MS
Authors: Vareli Catiucia S. , Pizzutti Ionara R. , Gebler Luciano , Cardoso Carmem D. , Fontana Marlos E. Z. , Reichert Bárbara , Jänisch Bárbara D.
Published: September 2019

An optimized version of the Dutch mini-Luke method has been validated for determination of chlorothalonil, chlorpyrifos-ethyl, fenitrothion, methidathion, phosmet, tebuconazole and tetrahydrophthalimide in biobeds.
Length effects of cylindrical polymer brushes on their in vitro and in vivo properties
Authors: Zhang Zhengkui , Zhang Ling'e , Zhao Jiaojiao , Li Cheng , Wu Wei , Jiang Xiqun
Published: September 2019

Cylindrical polymer brushes with different lengths were synthesized and length effects on their biological properties were obtained.
A multimeric MRI contrast agent based on a closo-borane scaffold bearing modified AAZTA chelates on the periphery
Authors: Chakravarty Shatadru , Sarma Saurav J. , Goswami Lalit N. , Cai Quan-Yu , Shapiro Erik M. , Hawthorne M. Frederick , Ma Lixin
Published: September 2019

A high relaxivity closomer MRI contrast agent is achieved based on a unique icosahedral closo-borane scaffold bearing twelve radial Gd3+-AAZTA chelate arms in close proximity.
Bio-compatible fluorescent nano TiO materials prepared from titanium-oxo-cluster precursors
Authors: Liu Pei-Yi , Cui Li-Na , Yang Lei , Shu Xian-Ping , Zhu Qin-Yu , Dai Jie
Published: September 2019

Using a fluorescent dye pre-coordinated titanium-oxo-cluster (TOC) as a molecular precursor, a biocompatible and fluorescent nano TiO material was prepared, which opens the door for most non-water-soluble TOCs for the applications in biosystems.
Current mapping of lead phthalocyanine thin films in the presence of gaseous dopants
Authors: Madhuri K. Priya , Santra Pralay K. , Bertram F. , John Neena S.
Published: September 2019

Iodine doping in nonplanar Pb(ii)phthalocyanine causes significant structural reorganization and enhanced conductance with nanoscale conducting pathways and improved sensitivity towards other gaseous adsorbates.
Electronic engineering of a tetrathiafulvalene charge-transfer salt via reduced symmetry induced by combined substituents
Authors: Kiyota Yasuhiro , Jeon Ie-Rang , Jeannin Olivier , Beau Maxime , Kawamoto Tadashi , Alemany Pere , Canadell Enric , Mori Takehiko , Fourmigué Marc
Published: September 2019

A 1 : 1 metallic charge-transfer salt is obtained by cosublimation of (Z,E)-(SMe)2Me2TTF and TCNQ.
A green-by-design bioprocess forl-carnosine production integrating enzymatic synthesis with membrane separation
Authors: Yin Dong-Ya , Pan Jiang , Zhu Jie , Liu You-Yan , Xu Jian-He
Published: September 2019

This simple and clean bioprocess enables the economically attractive and environmentally benign production of the bioactive dipeptidel-Car.
Natural constituents from food sources: potential therapeutic agents against muscle wasting
Authors: Shen Shengnan , Yu Hua , Gan Lishe , Ye Yang , Lin Ligen
Published: September 2019

Extracts and compounds from food sources could be developed as potential therapeutic agents for treating muscle wasting.
Structural characterization andin vitro–in vivoevaluation of effect of a polysaccharide fromSanguisorba officinalison acute kidney injury
Authors: Zhao Wenwen , Zeng Xi , Meng Fancheng , Bi Xiaolin , Xu Dahai , Chen Xiuping , Li Qiu , Han Yantao
Published: September 2019

We report here an acidic polysaccharide, namely RSP-3, which ameliorates acute kidney injury and is obtained fromSanguisorba officinalis.
Effects of aGanoderma atrumpolysaccharide against pancreatic damage in streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice
Authors: Li Lu , Li Rui-Cheng , Song Ye-Hao , Wu Wen-Ying , Yin Shu-Hua , Fu Wang-Wei , Wu Rui-Ting , Li Wenjuan
Published: September 2019

This study aimed at exploring the role of aGanoderma atrumpolysaccharide (PSG-1) in pancreatic damage in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) mice.
Supraparticles with silica protection for redispersible, calcined nanoparticles
Authors: Wintzheimer Susanne , Miller Franziska , Prieschl Johannes , Retter Marion , Mandel Karl
Published: September 2019

The herein presented straight forward and upscalable silica-protected calcination route, using supraparticles as intermediary structures, is applicable to almost any kind of metal oxide NPs and prevents their hard-agglomeration to bulk lumps.
DNA binding, cytotoxic effects and probable targets of an oxindolimine–vanadyl complex as an antitumor agent
Authors: Dario Bruno Soares , Fernandes Neto Francisco , Portes Marcelo Cecconi , Boni Fazzi Rodrigo , Rodrigues da Silva Daniel , Peterson Erica J. , Farrell Nicholas Patrick , Castelli Silvia , Desideri Alessandro , Petersen Philippe Alexandre Divina , Petrilli Helena Maria , Da Costa Ferreira Ana Maria
Published: September 2019

The vanadyl–oxindolimine complex as an antitumor agent.
Single molecule analysis of structural fluctuations in DNA nanostructures
Authors: Jepsen Mette D. E. , Sørensen Rasmus Schøler , Maffeo Christopher , Aksimentiev Aleksei , Kjems Jørgen , Birkedal Victoria
Published: September 2019

The local structure of DNA origami boxes shows fluctuations, visualized through single molecule FRET and coarse grain Brownian dynamics.
Solution synthesis of helical gold nanowire bundles
Authors: Tao Xiaolin , Li Hongyan , Yu Beibei , Wu Xuesong , Lu Yan , Wang Yawen , Chen Hongyu
Published: September 2019

Helical bundles that contain hundreds of ultrathin Au nanowires were synthesized in the solution phase via an unusual strain-induced curvature process.
Scanning tunneling microscopy and Raman spectroscopy of polymeric sp–sp2 carbon atomic wires synthesized on the Au(111) surface
Authors: Rabia Andi , Tumino Francesco , Milani Alberto , Russo Valeria , Li Bassi Andrea , Achilli Simona , Fratesi Guido , Onida Giovanni , Manini Nicola , Sun Qiang , Xu Wei , Casari Carlo S.
Published: September 2019

The structure and electronic and vibrational properties of sp–sp2 carbon atomic wires have been investigated by combined STM/STS and Raman spectroscopy.
On the role of the metal oxide/reactive electrode interface during the forming procedure of valence change ReRAM devices
Authors: Kindsmüller Andreas , Meledin Alexander , Mayer Joachim , Waser Rainer , Wouters Dirk J.
Published: September 2019

This work investigates the oxygen exchange at the oxide/electrode interface in ReRAM devices and its influence on the forming behaviour.
Role of pendant side-chain length in determining polymer 3D printability
Authors: Jain Tanmay , Clay William , Tseng Yen-Ming , Vishwakarma Apoorva , Narayanan Amal , Ortiz Deliris , Liu Qianhui , Joy Abraham
Published: September 2019

The effect of polymer side chain on extrusion-based direct-write 3D printing and rheology is examined. Longer side chain length improves printability at ambient temperatures.
Synthesis of modifiable photo-responsive polypeptides bearing allyloxyazobenzene side-chains
Authors: Xiong Wei , Zhang Chong , Lyu Xiaolin , Zhou Hantao , Chang Wenying , Bo Yu , Chen Erqiang , Shen Zhihao , Lu Hua
Published: September 2019

A photo-responsive and modifiable polypeptide with stable helical conformation was synthesized. The self-assembly and liquid crystalline phase structure were subsequently studied.
Identification of proteins in housefly (Musca domestica) larvae powder by LC-MS/MS and their potential medical relevance
Authors: Jiao Mengya , Chen Lei , He Yinru , Wu Lirong , Mei Hanfang
Published: September 2019

Housefly larvae (HL) powder was used to cure wounds centuries ago for its good nutritional and pharmacological values.
Unwanted hydrolysis or α/β-peptide bond formation: how long should the rate-limiting coupling step take?
Authors: Goldschmidt Gőz Viktória , Nagy Adrienn , Farkas Viktor , Keszei Ernő , Perczel András
Published: September 2019

Parallel to the amide bond formation, the hydrolysis of the active esters of α/β-amino acids, as an unwanted side reaction limiting coupling efficacy, is studied.
Dual-functional SiOC ceramics coating modified carbon fibers with enhanced microwave absorption performance
Authors: Zeng Sifan , Feng Wanlin , Peng Shuyuan , Teng Zhen , Chen Chen , Zhang Haibin , Peng Shuming
Published: September 2019

The SiOC ceramics coating modified carbon fibers improved anti-oxidation and refine microwave absorption properties.
Nanopipette-assisted single cell metabolic glycan labeling
Authors: Zhou Ze-Rui , Wang Xiao-Yuan , Lv Jian , Chen Bin-Bin , Tang Yi-Bin , Qian Ruo-Can
Published: September 2019

This work reports a single cell glycan labeling strategy based on nanopipettes, which provides a convenient, fast labeling method for bridging the gap between single cell manipulation and metabolic labeling.
Transition metal-free one-pot synthesis of substituted pyrroles by employing aza-Wittig reaction
Authors: Jadala Chetna , Prasad Budaganaboyina , Prasanthi A. V. G. , Shankaraiah Nagula , Kamal Ahmed
Published: September 2019

A mild and metal-free one-pot synthetic strategy has been developed for the construction of substituted pyrroles by employing aza-Wittig reaction from a unique and unexplored combination of chromones and phenacyl azides.
Low-voltage self-assembled indium tin oxide thin-film transistors gated by microporous SiO2 treated by H3PO4
Authors: Dou Wei , Tan Yuanyuan
Published: September 2019

Ultralow-voltage (0.8 V) thin-film transistors (TFTs) using self-assembled indium-tin-oxide (ITO) as the semiconducting layer and microporous SiO2 immersed in 5% H3PO4 for 30 minutes with huge electric-double-layer (EDL) capacitance as the gate dielectric are fabricated at room temperature.
The molecular mechanisms of light adaption in light-harvesting complexes of purple bacteria revealed by a multiscale modeling
Authors: Cardoso Ramos Felipe , Nottoli Michele , Cupellini Lorenzo , Mennucci Benedetta
Published: September 2019

The spectral tuning of LH2 antenna complexes arises from H-bonding, acetyl torsion, and inter-chromophore couplings.
How to properly evaluate and compare the thermochromic performance of VO2-based smart coatings
Authors: Chang Tianci , Cao Xun , Long Yi , Luo Hongjie , Jin Ping
Published: September 2019

Vanadium dioxide (VO2)-based thermochromic coatings have been widely studied and many studies have been reported to improve their performance. This paper means to develop an accurate and universal standard of VO2-based smart coatings.
In situ formation of a 2D/3D heterostructure for efficient and stable CsPbI2Br solar cells
Authors: Tai Meiqian , Zhou Yu , Yin Xuewen , Han Jianhua , Zhang Qi , Zhou Yangying , Lin Hong
Published: September 2019

A 2D/3D heterostructure was formed based on inorganic CsPbI2Br perovskite, contributing to a high efficiency device with enhanced stability.
A LiPF6-electrolyte-solvothermal route for the synthesis of LiF/LixPFyOz-coated Li-rich cathode materials with enhanced cycling stability
Authors: Fu Chaochao , Wang Jiayun , Wang Jinfeng , Meng Linglong , Zhang Wenming , Li Xiaoting , Li Liping
Published: September 2019

A stable corrosion resistant protective layer of LiF/LixPFyOz was in situ coated on the surface of Li-rich cathode materials to inhibit surface side reactions and thus to obtain superior cycling performance.
Microscale and nanoscale pinning centres in single-domain REBCO superconductors
Authors: Bartůněk Vilém , Luxa Jan , Sedmidubský David , Hlásek Tomáš , Jankovský Ondřej
Published: September 2019

We describe the use of various pinning centres and possible methods of their application. The main focus is given on nanosized pinning centres composed of chemically inert materials and on the bulk type of YBCO/REBCO superconductors.
Novel calamitic liquid crystalline organic semiconductors based on electron-deficient dibenzo[c,h][2,6]naphthyridine: synthesis, mesophase, and charge transport properties by the time-of-flight technique
Authors: Yang Ming-Cong , Hanna Jun-ichi , Iino Hiroaki
Published: September 2019

Mobility shows Poole–Frenkel like behaviour in the low order mesophase of liquid crystalline organic semiconductors based on an electron-deficient dibenzo[c,h][2,6]naphthyridine (DBN) derivative.
Liquid crystalline blue phase materials with three-dimensional nanostructures
Authors: Yang Jiajia , Zhao Weidong , He Wanli , Yang Zhou , Wang Dong , Cao Hui
Published: September 2019

This review presents up-to-date important progress in the field of liquid crystalline blue phase (BP) materials.
Coffee ring elimination and crystalline control of electrohydrodynamically printed high-viscosity perovskites
Authors: Li Hegeng , Liu Nian , Shao Zhilong , Li Huayang , Xiao Lin , Bian Jing , Li Jinghui , Tan Zhifang , Zhu Menghua , Duan Yongqing , Gao Liang , Niu Guangda , Tang Jiang , Huang YongAn , Yin Zhouping
Published: September 2019

This work combined a high-viscosity perovskite precursor with PVP and EHD printing to fabricate high-resolution microarrays with perfect morphologies.