bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Beyond the Basel problem: Euler’s derivation of the general formula for ζ (2n)
Authors: Lord Nick
Published: June 2016

The problem of finding a closed-form evaluation ofbaffled the pioneers of calculus such as Leibniz and James Bernoulli and, following the latter’s promulgation of the problem, it became known as the Basel problem after his home town (which was also Euler’s birthplace). Euler’s early sensational success in solving the Basel problem by identifyingis extremely well-documented. In this paper, we give the full details of his subsequent derivation of the general formula

(1)

where (Bn) is a sequence of ‘strange constants’. Euler’s polished account of his discovery, in which he popularised the designation of the strange constants as ‘Bernoulli numbers’, appears in Chapter 5 of Volume 2 of his great textbookInstitutiones calculi differentialis[1; E212]: see [2] for an online English translation. Here, we will focus on his initial step-by-step account which appeared in his paper with Eneström number E130, written c1739, carrying the rather nondescript titleDe seriebus quibusdam considerationes, ‘Considerations about certain series’. (For convenience, we will just use ‘Eneström numbers’ when referencing Euler’s work: all are readily available on-line at [1].) Euler’s proof is notable for its early, sophisticated and incisive use of generating functions and for his brilliant insight that the sequence (Bn) occurring in the coefficients of the general ζ(2n) formula (1) also occurs in the Euler-Maclaurin summation formula and in the Maclaurin expansion of. By retracing Euler’s original path, we shall not only be able to admire the master in full creative flow, but also appreciate the role played by recurrence relations such as

(2)

which, as our ample list of references (which will be reviewed later) suggests, have been rediscovered over and over again in the literature. Moreover, our historical approach makes it clear that, while deriving (2) is relatively straightforward (and may be used to calculate ζ(2n) recursively as a rational multiple of π2n), it is establishing the connection between ζ(2n) and the Bernoulli numbers that was for Euler the more difficult step. Even today, this step presents pedagogical challenges depending on one’s starting definition for the Bernoulli numbers and what identities satisfied by them one is prepared to assume or derive.
Minimal pair word learning and vocabulary size: Links with later language skills
Authors: KEMP NENAGH , SCOTT JULIANNE , BERNHARDT B. MAY , JOHNSON CAROLYN E. , SIEGEL LINDA S. , WERKER JANET F.
Published: July 2016

There is increasing interest in the link between early linguistic skills and later language development. In a longitudinal study, we investigated infants’ (a) ability to use speech sound categories to guide word learning in the habituation-based minimal pair switch task, and (b) early productive vocabulary, related to their concurrent and later language task performance. The participants at Phase 1 were 64 infants aged 16–24 months (25 with familial risk of language/speech impairment), followed up at 27 months (Phase 2) and at 3 years (Phase 3). Phase 1 productive vocabulary was correlated with Phase 2 productive vocabulary, and with concurrent and later (Phase 3) tests of language production and comprehension scores (standardized tool), and phonology. Phase 1 switch task performance was correlated with concurrent productive vocabulary and language production scores, but not by Phase 3. However, a combination of early low vocabulary score and a preference for looking at an already-habituated word–object combination in the switch task may show some promise as an identifier for early speech–language intervention. We discuss how these relations can help us better understand the foundations of word learning.
Surface plasma waves induced electron acceleration in a static magnetic field
Authors: Goel D. , Chauhan P. , Varshney A. , Sajal V.
Published: July 2016

The acceleration of an electron beam by surface plasma waves (SPW), in the presence of external magnetic field parallel to surface and perpendicular to direction of propagation of SPW has been studied. This wave propagating along the$\hat z$-axis is excited using Kretschmann geometry, having maximum amplitude at the metal–vacuum interface. Equations of motion have been solved for electron energy and trajectory. The electron gains and retains energy in the form of cyclotron oscillations due to the combined effect of the static magnetic field and SPW field. The energy gained by the beam increases with the strength of magnetic field and laser intensity. In the present scheme, electron beams can achieve ~15 KeV energy for the SPW amplitudeA1= 1.6 × 1011V/m, plasma frequency ωp= 1.3 × 1016rad/s and cyclotron frequency ωc/ωp= 0.003.
Electron diffraction on a traveling wave: “Inelastic Kapitza–Dirac effect”
Authors: Avetissian H. K.
Published: July 2016

In this paper, conceptual points regarding electron elastic (Kapitza–Dirac effect) and inelastic diffraction effects on the slowed electromagnetic wave-structures/light-gratings are considered. From the unified point of view it is analyzed the main works on this subject for last four decades in chronological order, pointing out the essential peculiarity inherent in induced Cherenkov, Compton, and undulator/wiggler processes too. This review paper has also purpose to resolve confusion in scientific literature connected with the recently appeared paper Hayrapetyan et al. in 2015 regarding electron diffraction effect on a traveling wave in a dielectric medium.
The Craiova Shakespeare Festival 2016 and a Valediction for Yukio Ninagawa
Authors: Shevtsova Maria
Published: June 2016

A report by Maria Shevtsova on the 2016 edition of the biennial Craiova International Shake speare Festival, continuing her coverage of the event in NTQ 112. She pays special attention here to the pièce de résistance of the latest festival – Richard II with the Saitama Arts Theatre, directed by Yukio Ninagawa, whose death occurred barely a month later: this article is also a tribute to a world-renowned man of the theatre. Maria Shevtsova is co-editor of New Theatre Quarterly and Professor of Drama and Theatre Arts in the Department of Theatre and Performance, Goldsmiths, University of London.
Rash Speculation or Sheer Misfortune? Insolvency and Bankruptcy in the Victorian and Edwardian Theatre
Authors: Ince Bernard
Published: June 2016

Bernard Ince here surveys insolvency and bankruptcy in the theatres of England and Wales during the period 1830 to 1913. His methodology analyzes failures in absolute and relative terms, using aggregate and disaggregated data. The annual pattern of failure shows a marked volatility in the aggregate, with the absolute number of failures tending to increase towards the 1880s before declining thereafter. When the data are expressed as a rate relative to annual theatre population change, the trend is, however, reversed, failures being much higher in the 1830s and 40s than in the later decades. When annual failures are analyzed alternatively in terms of the number of theatres actually managed or owned by bankrupts, and the data disaggregated between the London and provincial theatres, different patterns of failure emerge, London theatres experiencing higher risk during those early decades, while the provincial Theatres Royal on the other hand are especially vulnerable during the 1830s, 40s, and 50s, and other theatres in the provinces are exposed more during the 1860s. From an analysis of over 200 cases it is clear that factors contributing to theatrical failure are diverse and often complex. Rarely is failure the result of a single catastrophic event but is more often caused by a combination of events, or from the cumulative impact of insolvencies carried over from previous years. While a correlation between annual fluctuations in theatrical failures and cycles in the general economy cannot be firmly established, anecdotal evidence suggests that regional or local conditions play a more important role. It is concluded that while the financial situation of many theatres operated on the limits of financial viability, bankruptcy on a significant scale was uncommon, indicative of remarkable resilience in the face of profound economic, social, political, and legislative change. The author is an independent theatre historian.
When to eat? The influence of circadian rhythms on metabolic health: are animal studies providing the evidence?
Authors: Moran-Ramos Sofía , Baez-Ruiz Adrian , Buijs Ruud M. , Escobar Carolina
Published: July 2016

As obesity and metabolic diseases rise, there is need to investigate physiological and behavioural aspects associated with their development. Circadian rhythms have a profound influence on metabolic processes, as they prepare the body to optimise energy use and storage. Moreover, food-related signals confer temporal order to organs involved in metabolic regulation. Therefore food intake should be synchronised with the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) to elaborate efficient responses to environmental challenges. Human studies suggest that a loss of synchrony between mealtime and the SCN promotes obesity and metabolic disturbances. Animal research using different paradigms has been performed to characterise the effects of timing of food intake on metabolic profiles. Therefore the purpose of the present review is to critically examine the evidence of animal studies, to provide a state of the art on metabolic findings and to assess whether the paradigms used in rodent models give the evidence to support a ‘best time’ for food intake. First we analyse and compare the current findings of studies where mealtime has been shifted out of phase from the light–dark cycle. Then, we analyse studies restricting meal times to different moments within the active period. So far animal studies correlate well with human studies, demonstrating that restricting food intake to the active phase limits metabolic disturbances produced by high-energy diets and that eating during the inactive/sleep phase leads to a worse metabolic outcome. Based on the latter we discuss the missing elements and possible mechanisms leading to the metabolic consequences, as these are still lacking.
Fostering a Post-Digital Avant-Garde: Research-led teaching of music technology
Authors: Ferguson John R. , Brown Andrew R.
Published: June 2016

In this article we discuss how contemporary computational and electronic music-making practices might be characterised as a post-digital avant-garde. We also discuss how practitioners within the higher education sector can play a role in leading the development of these practices through their research and teaching. A brief overview of twentieth-century avant-garde practices is provided to set the scene before a case for defining a post-digital avant-garde is made. By way of illustration, the authors describe their own post-digital creative practices and then discuss how these integrate into their academic duties. We reflect on themes that run through avant-garde practices and continue into the post-digital. Finally, we describe how these themes inform an undergraduate music technology programme such that it might be shaped to reflect these developments and prepare students for a post-digital future.
Prävention von Lese-Rechtschreibstörungen: Kurz- und mittelfristige Effekte einer Förderung der phonologischen Bewusstheit und der Buchstaben-Laut-Verknüpfung bei Risikokindern im Vorschulalter
Authors: Höse Anna , Wyschkon Anne , Moraske Svenja , Eggeling Marie , Quandte Sabine , Kohn Juliane , Poltz Nadine , von Aster Michael , Esser Günter
Published: June 2016

Zusammenfassung. Fragestellung: Ziel der vorliegenden Arbeit ist die Überprüfung der kurz- und mittelfristigen Wirksamkeit einer vorschulischen Förderung der phonologischen Bewusstheit und der Buchstaben-Laut-Verknüpfung bei Kindern mit einem Risiko für die Entwicklung einer Lese-Rechtschreibstörung (LRS). Es soll die Frage geklärt werden, ob durch das Training spätere Defizite im Lesen und Rechtschreiben vermindert werden können. Methodik: 25 Risikokinder für die Entwicklung einer LRS wurden mit den Programmen Hören, Lauschen, Lernen 1 und 2 ( Küspert & Schneider, 2008 ; Plume & Schneider, 2004 ) von Erziehern in den Kindergärten gefördert und 60 ungeförderten Risikokindern gegenübergestellt. Ergebnisse: Hinsichtlich der kurzfristigen Wirksamkeit konnte ein deutlicher Zuwachs bei den trainierten gegenüber den untrainierten Risikokindern in den Leistungen der phonologischen Bewusstheit verzeichnet werden. Es zeigte sich jedoch keine Überlegenheit der Trainingsgruppe in Bezug auf phonologische Bewusstheit, Lesen und Schreiben im ersten Schuljahr. Nur im Hinblick auf die Leseschwächen der Erstklässler war eine Verringerung in der Trainingsgruppe relativ zur Kontrollgruppe erkennbar. Schlussfolgerungen: Für eine bessere Identifikation von gefährdeten Kindern für die Entwicklung einer LRS sollten zukünftig neben der phonologischen Bewusstheit zusätzliche Prädiktoren aufgenommen werden. Um einer LRS vorzubeugen, müssten über die phonologische Bewusstheit hinaus zusätzlich als bedeutsam erkannte Defizite der Kinder diagnostiziert, trainiert und die entsprechenden Effekte evaluiert werden.
Citizen Scientists Train a Thousand Eyes on the North Pole
Authors: Farmer Lauren , Cowan Alex , Hutchings Jennifer , Perovich Don
Published: July 2016

During expedition cruises, tourists participate in collecting scientific data and contribute to ongoing observations of sea ice conditions in the Arctic.
Model Predicts Heights of Rogue Waves
Authors: Coombs Amy
Published: June 2016

Rogue waves form without warning and can tower more than 25 meters high. A new mathematical approach shows promise at simulating how high these waves can be.
Antarctica’s Ozone Hole Is Healing, Scientists Say
Authors: Wendel JoAnna
Published: July 2016

The ozone hole over Antarctica has shrunk by 16% since its peak in 2000, and some suspect it may disappear entirely by midcentury.
The contribution of arachidonate 15-lipoxygenase in tissue macrophages to adipose tissue remodeling
Authors: Kwon H-J , Kim S-N , Kim Y-A , Lee Y-H
Published: June 2016

Cellular plasticity in adipose tissue involves adipocyte death, its clearance, and de novo adipogenesis, enabling homeostatic turnover and adaptation to metabolic challenges; however, mechanisms regulating these serial events are not fully understood. The present study investigated the roles of arachidonate 15-lipoxygenase (Alox15) in the clearance of dying adipocytes by adipose tissue macrophages. First, upregulation of Alox15 expression and apoptotic adipocyte death in gonadal white adipose tissue (gWAT) were characterized during adipose tissue remodeling induced by β3-adrenergic receptor stimulation. Next, an in vitro reconstruction of adipose tissue macrophages and apoptotic adipocytes recapitulated adipocyte clearance by macrophages and demonstrated that macrophages co-cultured with apoptotic adipocytes increased the expression of efferocytosis-related genes. Genetic deletion and pharmacological inhibition of Alox15 diminished the levels of adipocyte clearance by macrophages in a co-culture system. Gene expression profiling of macrophages isolated from gWAT of Alox15 knockout (KO) mice demonstrated distinct phenotypes, especially downregulation of genes involved in lipid uptake and metabolism compared to wild-type mice. Finally, in vivoβ3-adrenergic stimulation in Alox15 KO mice failed to recruit crown-like structures, a macrophage network clearing dying adipocytes in gWAT. Consequently, in Alox15 KO mice, proliferation/differentiation of adipocyte progenitors and β3-adrenergic remodeling of gWAT were impaired compared to wild-type control mice. Collectively, our data established a pivotal role of Alox15 in the resolution of adipocyte death and in adipose tissue remodeling.
Neutrophils mediate Salmonella Typhimurium clearance through the GBP4 inflammasome-dependent production of prostaglandins
Authors: Tyrkalska Sylwia D. , Candel Sergio , Angosto Diego , Gómez-Abellán Victoria , Martín-Sánchez Fátima , García-Moreno Diana , Zapata-Pérez Rubén , Sánchez-Ferrer Álvaro , Sepulcre María P. , Pelegrín Pablo , Mulero Victoriano
Published: July 2016

Inflammasomes are cytosolic molecular platforms that alert the immune system about the presence of infection. Here we report that zebrafish guanylate-binding protein 4 (Gbp4), an IFNγ-inducible GTPase protein harbouring a C-terminal CARD domain, is required for the inflammasome-dependent clearance of Salmonella Typhimurium (ST) by neutrophils in vivo. Despite the presence of the CARD domain, Gbp4 requires the universal inflammasome adaptor Asc for mediating its antibacterial function. In addition, the GTPase activity of Gbp4 is indispensable for inflammasome activation and ST clearance. Mechanistically, neutrophils are recruited to the infection site through the inflammasome-independent production of the chemokine (CXC motif) ligand 8 and leukotriene B4, and then mediate bacterial clearance through the Gbp4 inflammasome-dependent biosynthesis of prostaglandin D2. Our results point to GBPs as key inflammasome adaptors required for prostaglandin biosynthesis and bacterial clearance by neutrophils and suggest that transient activation of the inflammasome may be used to treat bacterial infections.
Decadal drought deaccelerated the increasing trend of annual net primary production in tropical or subtropical forests in southern China
Authors: Wang Wantong , Wang Jinxia , Liu Xingzhao , Zhou Guoyi , Yan Junhua
Published: June 2016

Previous investigations have identified that the effects of climate change on net primary production (NPP) of global forests have varied both spatially and temporally, and that warming has increased the NPP for many forests. However, other factors, such as available soil water for plant growth, could limit these incremental responses to warming. In our investigation we have quantified the responses of NPP of tropical or subtropical forests in southern China to warming and drought stress over the past three decades (1981 to 2012) using data from five forest research stations and satellite measurements. NPP, mean annual temperature (MAT) and annual days without rainfall showed an increase of 0.076 g C m−2 a−2 (standardized), 0.057 °C a−1 (standardized) and 0.067 d a−1 (standardized) during the study period, respectively. However, incremental NPP was deaccelerated at a rate of approximately 20.8% per decade. This deacceleration was primarily caused by a decrease in available soil water which resulted from warming (mainly occurring in winter and autumn) and the changes in rainfall pattern. The result indicates that intensifying drought stress would limit future increases of forest NPP in southern China.
Piezoelectricity and rotostriction through polar and non-polar coupled instabilities in bismuth-based piezoceramics
Authors: Acosta Matias , Schmitt Ljubomira A. , Cazorla Claudio , Studer Andrew , Zintler Alexander , Glaum Julia , Kleebe Hans-Joachim , Donner Wolfgang , Hoffman Mark , Rödel Jürgen , Hinterstein Manuel
Published: July 2016

Coupling of order parameters provides a means to tune functionality in advanced materials including multiferroics, superconductors and ionic conductors. We demonstrate that the response of a frustrated ferroelectric state leads to coupling between order parameters under electric field depending on grain orientation. The strain of grains oriented along a specific crystallographic direction, 〈h00〉, is caused by converse piezoelectricity originating from a ferrodistortive tetragonal phase. For 〈hhh〉 oriented grains, the strain results from converse piezoelectricity and rotostriction, as indicated by an antiferrodistortive instability that promotes octahedral tilting in a rhombohedral phase. Both strain mechanisms combined lead to a colossal local strain of (2.4 ± 0.1) % and indicate coupling between oxygen octahedral tilting and polarization, here termed “rotopolarization”. These findings were confirmed with electromechanical experiments, in situ neutron diffraction and in situ transmission electron microscopy in 0.75Bi1/2Na1/2TiO3-0.25SrTiO3. This work demonstrates that polar and non-polar instabilities can cooperate to provide colossal functional responses.
Interleukin-34 as a fibroblast-derived marker of liver fibrosis in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Shoji Hirotaka , Yoshio Sachiyo , Mano Yohei , Kumagai Erina , Sugiyama Masaya , Korenaga Masaaki , Arai Taeang , Itokawa Norio , Atsukawa Masanori , Aikata Hiroshi , Hyogo Hideyuki , Chayama Kazuaki , Ohashi Tomohiko , Ito Kiyoaki , Yoneda Masashi , Nozaki Yuichi , Kawaguchi Takumi , Torimura Takuji , Abe Masanori , Hiasa Yoichi , Fukai Moto , Kamiyama Toshiya , Taketomi Akinobu , Mizokami Masashi , Kanto Tatsuya
Published: July 2016

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common cause of chronic non-viral liver disease. Activation of macrophages and hepatic stellate cells is a critical step that promotes liver fibrosis. We aimed to explore the feasibility of interleukin-34 (IL-34), a key regulator of macrophages, as a fibrosis marker in patients with NAFLD. We enrolled 197 liver biopsy-proven NAFLD patients. We evaluated the serum levels of IL-34, macrophage-colony stimulating factor (M-CSF), soluble CD163 (sCD163), 40 cytokines/chemokines, hyaluronic acid, type IV collagen 7s, and clinically-approved fibrosis scores. IL-34 increased with the progression of fibrosis and was an independent marker for liver fibrosis. Immunostaining experiments, using resected liver specimens from NAFLD patients, revealed that IL-34 was mainly expressed on liver fibroblasts. IL-34 based fibrosis score (0.0387*IL-34 (pg/ml) + 0.3623*type IV collagen 7s (ng/ml) + 0.0184*age (year)–1.1850) was a practical predictive model of liver fibrosis. Using receiver-operating characteristic analyses, the area under the curve, sensitivity, and specificity of IL-34 based fibrosis score were superior or comparable to the other fibrosis biomarkers and scores. In conclusion, the IL-34 based fibrosis score, including serum IL-34, type IV collagen 7s and age, is a feasible diagnostic marker of liver fibrosis in NAFLD patients.
Soil bacterial endemism and potential functional redundancy in natural broadleaf forest along a latitudinal gradient
Authors: Zhang Yuguang , Cong Jing , Lu Hui , Deng Ye , Liu Xiao , Zhou Jizhong , Li Diqiang
Published: June 2016

Microorganisms play key roles in ecosystem processes and biogeochemical cycling, however, the relationship between soil microbial taxa diversity and their function in natural ecosystems is largely unknown. To determine how soil bacteria community and function are linked from the local to regional scale, we studied soil bacteria community composition, potential function and environmental conditions in natural and mature broadleaf forests along a latitudinal gradient in China, using the Illumina 16S rRNA sequencing and GeoChip technologies. The results showed strong biogeographic endemism pattern in soil bacteria were existed, and the spatial distance and climatic variables were the key controlling factors for this pattern. Therefore, dispersal limitation and environmental selection may represent two key processes in generating and maintaining the soil bacterial biogeographic pattern. By contrast, the soil bacterial potential function is highly convergent along the latitudinal gradient and there were highly differing bacterial community compositions, and the soil chemistry may include the main factors active in shaping the soil bacterial potential function. Therefore, the soil bacterial potential function may be affected by local gradients in resource availability, and predicting soil bacterial potential function requires knowledge of abiotic and biotic environmental factors.
A clinically authentic mouse model of enterovirus 71 (EV-A71)-induced neurogenic pulmonary oedema
Authors: Victorio Carla Bianca Luena , Xu Yishi , Ng Qimei , Chua Beng Hooi , Alonso Sylvie , Chow Vincent T. K. , Chua Kaw Bing
Published: June 2016

Enterovirus 71 (EV-A71) is a neurotropic virus that sporadically causes fatal neurologic illness among infected children. Animal models of EV-A71 infection exist, but they do not recapitulate in animals the spectrum of disease and pathology observed in fatal human cases. Specifically, neurogenic pulmonary oedema (NPE)—the main cause of EV-A71 infection-related mortality—is not observed in any of these models. This limits their utility in understanding viral pathogenesis of neurologic infections. We report the development of a mouse model of EV-A71 infection displaying NPE in severely affected animals. We inoculated one-week-old BALB/c mice with an adapted EV-A71 strain and identified clinical signs consistent with observations in human cases and other animal models. We also observed respiratory distress in some mice. At necropsy, we found their lungs to be heavier and incompletely collapsed compared to other mice. Serum levels of catecholamines and histopathology of lung and brain tissues of these mice strongly indicated onset of NPE. The localization of virally-induced brain lesions also suggested a potential pathogenic mechanism for EV-A71-induced NPE. This novel mouse model of virally-induced NPE represents a valuable resource for studying viral mechanisms of neuro-pathogenesis and pre-clinical testing of potential therapeutics and prophylactics against EV-A71-related neurologic complications.
The synchronization of neuronal oscillators determined by the directed network structure of the suprachiasmatic nucleus under different photoperiods
Authors: Gu Changgui , Tang Ming , Yang Huijie
Published: June 2016

The main function of the principal clock located in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) of mammals is synchronizing the body rhythms to the 24 h light-dark cycle. Additionally, the SCN is able to adapt to the photoperiod of the cycle which varies among seasons. Under the long photoperiod (LP), the synchronization degree of the SCN neurons is lower than that under the photoperiod (SP). In the present study, a potential explanation is given for this phenomenon. We propose that the asymmetrical coupling between the light-signal-sensitive part (the ventralateral part, abbreviation: VL) and the light-signal-insensitive part (the dorsalmedial part, abbreviation: DM) of the SCN plays a role in the synchronization degree, which is reflected by the ratio of the number of the directed links from the VL neurons to the DM neurons to the total links of both directions between the VL and the DM. The ratio is assumed to characterize the directed network structure under different photoperiods, which is larger under the SP and smaller under the LP. We found that with the larger ratio in the situation of the SP, the synchronization degree is higher. Our finding may shed new light on the asymmetrical coupling between the VL and the DM and the network structure of the SCN.
Wheat CBL-interacting protein kinase 25 negatively regulates salt tolerance in transgenic wheat
Authors: Jin Xia , Sun Tao , Wang Xiatian , Su Peipei , Ma Jingfei , He Guangyuan , Yang Guangxiao
Published: June 2016

CBL-interacting protein kinases are involved in plant responses to abiotic stresses, including salt stress. However, the negative regulating mechanism of this gene family in response to salinity is less reported. In this study, we evaluated the role of TaCIPK25 in regulating salt response in wheat. Under conditions of high salinity, TaCIPK25 expression was markedly down-regulated in roots. Overexpression of TaCIPK25 resulted in hypersensitivity to Na+ and superfluous accumulation of Na+ in transgenic wheat lines. TaCIPK25 expression did not decline in transgenic wheat and remained at an even higher level than that in wild-type wheat controls under high-salinity treatment. Furthermore, transmembrane Na+/H+ exchange was impaired in the root cells of transgenic wheat. These results suggested that TaCIPK25 negatively regulated salt response in wheat. Additionally, yeast-one-hybrid, β-glucuronidase activity and DNA-protein-interaction-enzyme-linked-immunosorbent assays showed that the transcription factor TaWRKY9 bound W-box in the TaCIPK25 promoter region. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction assays showed concomitantly inverted expression patterns of TaCIPK25 and TaWRKY9 in wheat roots under salt treatment, ABA application and inhibition of endogenous ABA condition. Overall, based on our results, in a salt stress condition, the negative salt response in wheat involved TaCIPK25 with the expression regulated by TaWRKY9.
A fast and easy strategy for protein purification using “teabags”
Authors: Castaldo M. , Barlind L. , Mauritzson F. , Wan P. T. , Snijder H. J.
Published: June 2016

Protein purification often involves affinity capture of proteins on stationary resin, alternatively proteins are captured on free flowing resin for subsequent separation from bulk fluid. Both methods require labour and time intensive separation of particulate matter from fluid. We present a method where affinity resin is contained within porous-walled containers, supporting clarification, product recovery and concentration in a single step with minimal hands-on processing time, without significant investments in equipment.
Enhanced excitability and suppression of A-type K+ currents in joint sensory neurons in a murine model of antigen-induced arthritis
Authors: Qu Lintao , Caterina Michael J.
Published: July 2016

Pain is a dominant symptom of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and its adequate treatment represents a major unmet need. However, the cellular mechanisms that drive arthritis pain are largely unexplored. Here, we examined the changes in the activity of joint sensory neurons and the associated ionic mechanisms using an animal model of antigen-induced arthritis (AIA). Methylated-bovine serum albumin (mBSA), but not vehicle challenge, in the ankle of previously immunized mice produced time-dependent symptoms of arthritis, including joint inflammation, primary mechanical hyperalgesia in the ipsilateral ankle and secondary mechanical and heat hyperalgesia in the ipsilateral hindpaw. In vivo electrophysiological recordings revealed that Dil-labeled joint sensory neurons in AIA mice exhibited a greater incidence of spontaneous activity, mechanically evoked after-discharges, and/or increased responses to mechanical stimulation of their receptive fields, compared to control animals. Whole-cell recordings in vitro showed that AIA enhanced the excitability of joint sensory neurons. These signs of neuronal hyperexcitability were associated with a significant reduction in the density of A-type K+ currents. Thus, our data suggest that neuronal hyperexcitability, brought about in part by reduced A-type K+ currents, may contribute to pain-related behaviors that accompany antigen-induced arthritis and/or other antigen-mediated diseases.
Indefinite Plasmonic Beam Engineering by In-plane Holography
Authors: Chen J. , Li L. , Li T. , Zhu S. N.
Published: June 2016

Recent advances in controlling the optical phase at the sub-wavelength scale by meta-structures offer unprecedented possibilities in the beam engineering, holograms, and even invisible cloaks. In despite of developments of plasmonic beam engineering for definite beams, here, we proposed a new holographic strategy by in-plane diffraction process to access indefinite plasmonic beams, where a counterintuitive oscillating beam was achieved at a free metal surface that is against the common recognition of light traveling. Beyond the conventional hologram, our approach emphasizes on the phase correlation on the target, and casts an in-depth insight into the beam formation as a kind of long depth-of-field object. Moreover, in contrast to previous plasmonic holography with space light as references, our approach is totally fulfilled in a planar dimension that offers a thoroughly compact manipulation of the plasmonic near-field and suggests new possibilities in nanophotonic designs.
Development and application of loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) for detection of Plasmopara viticola
Authors: Kong Xiangjiu , Qin Wentao , Huang Xiaoqing , Kong Fanfang , Schoen Cor D. , Feng Jie , Wang Zhongyue , Zhang Hao
Published: July 2016

A rapid LAMP (loop-mediated isothermal amplification) detection method was developed on the basis of the ITS sequence of P. viticola, the major causal agent of grape downy mildew. Among the 38 fungal and oomycete species tested, DNA isolated exclusively from P. viticola resulted in a specific product after LAMP amplification. This assay had high sensitivity and was able to detect the presence of less than 33 fg of genomic DNA per 25-μL reaction within 30 min. The infected leaves may produce sporangia that serve as a secondary inoculum. The developed LAMP assay is efficient for estimating the latent infection of grape leaves by P. viticola. When combined with the rapid and simple DNA extraction method, this assay’s total detection time is shortened to approximately one hour; therefore it is suitable for on-site detection of latent infection in the field. The sporangia levels in the air are strongly associated with disease severity. The LAMP method was also demonstrated to be able to estimate the level of sporangia released in the air in a certain period. This assay should make disease forecasting more accurate and rapid and should be helpful in decision-making regarding the control of grape downy mildew.
Methylmercury, an environmental electrophile capable of activation and disruption of the Akt/CREB/Bcl-2 signal transduction pathway in SH-SY5Y cells
Authors: Unoki Takamitsu , Abiko Yumi , Toyama Takashi , Uehara Takashi , Tsuboi Koji , Nishida Motohiro , Kaji Toshiyuki , Kumagai Yoshito
Published: June 2016

Methylmercury (MeHg) modifies cellular proteins via their thiol groups in a process referred to as “S-mercuration”, potentially resulting in modulation of the cellular signal transduction pathway. We examined whether low-dose MeHg could affect Akt signaling involved in cell survival. Exposure of human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells of up to 2 μM MeHg phosphorylated Akt and its downstream signal molecule CREB, presumably due to inactivation of PTEN through S-mercuration. As a result, the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2 was up-regulated by MeHg. The activation of Akt/CREB/Bcl-2 signaling mediated by MeHg was, at least in part, linked to cellular defence because either pretreatment with wortmannin to block PI3K/Akt signaling or knockdown of Bcl-2 enhanced MeHg-mediated cytotoxicity. In contrast, increasing concentrations of MeHg disrupted Akt/CREB/Bcl-2 signaling. This phenomenon was attributed to S-mercuration of CREB through Cys286 rather than Akt. These results suggest that although MeHg is an apoptosis-inducing toxicant, this environmental electrophile is able to activate the cell survival signal transduction pathway at lower concentrations prior to apoptotic cell death.
Transcriptome comparison reveals a genetic network regulating the lower temperature limit in fish
Authors: Hu Peng , Liu Mingli , Liu Yimeng , Wang Jinfeng , Zhang Dong , Niu Hongbo , Jiang Shouwen , Wang Jian , Zhang Dongsheng , Han Bingshe , Xu Qianghua , Chen Liangbiao
Published: June 2016

Transcriptional plasticity is a major driver of phenotypic differences between species. The lower temperature limit (LTL), namely the lower end of survival temperature, is an important trait delimiting the geographical distribution of a species, however, the genetic mechanisms are poorly understood. We investigated the inter-species transcriptional diversification in cold responses between zebrafish Danio rerio and tilapia Oreochromis niloticus, which were reared at a common temperature (28 °C) but have distinct LTLs. We identified significant expressional divergence between the two species in the orthologous genes from gills when the temperature cooled to the LTL of tilapia (8 °C). Five KEGG pathways were found sequentially over-represented in the zebrafish/tilapia divergently expressed genes in the duration (12 hour) of 8 °C exposure, forming a signaling cascade from metabolic regulation to apoptosis via FoxO signaling. Consistently, we found differential progression of apoptosis in the gills of the two species in which zebrafish manifested a delayed and milder apoptotic phenotype than tilapia, corresponding with a lower LTL of zebrafish. We identified diverged expression in 25 apoptosis-related transcription factors between the two species which forms an interacting network with diverged factors involving the FoxO signaling and metabolic regulation. We propose a genetic network which regulates LTL in fishes.
Integration scheme of nanoscale resistive switching memory using bottom-up processes at room temperature for high-density memory applications
Authors: Han Un-Bin , Lee Jang-Sik
Published: July 2016

A facile and versatile scheme is demonstrated to fabricate nanoscale resistive switching memory devices that exhibit reliable bipolar switching behavior. A solution process is used to synthesize the copper oxide layer into 250-nm via-holes that had been patterned in Si wafers. Direct bottom-up filling of copper oxide can facilitate fabrication of nanoscale memory devices without using vacuum deposition and etching processes. In addition, all materials and processes are CMOS compatible, and especially, the devices can be fabricated at room temperature. Nanoscale memory devices synthesized on wafers having 250-nm via-holes showed reproducible resistive switching programmable memory characteristics with reasonable endurance and data retention properties. This integration strategy provides a solution to overcome the scaling limit of current memory device fabrication methods.
Alignment-free microbial phylogenomics under scenarios of sequence divergence, genome rearrangement and lateral genetic transfer
Authors: Bernard Guillaume , Chan Cheong Xin , Ragan Mark A.
Published: July 2016

Alignment-free (AF) approaches have recently been highlighted as alternatives to methods based on multiple sequence alignment in phylogenetic inference. However, the sensitivity of AF methods to genome-scale evolutionary scenarios is little known. Here, using simulated microbial genome data we systematically assess the sensitivity of nine AF methods to three important evolutionary scenarios: sequence divergence, lateral genetic transfer (LGT) and genome rearrangement. Among these, AF methods are most sensitive to the extent of sequence divergence, less sensitive to low and moderate frequencies of LGT and most robust against genome rearrangement. We describe the application of AF methods to three well-studied empirical genome datasets and introduce a new application of the jackknife to assess node support. Our results demonstrate that AF phylogenomics is computationally scalable to multi-genome data and can generate biologically meaningful phylogenies and insights into microbial evolution.
Psgl-1 Deficiency is Protective against Stroke in a Murine Model of Lupus
Authors: Wang Hui , Knight Jason S. , Hodgin Jeffrey B. , Wang Jintao , Guo Chiao , Kleiman Kyle , Eitzman Daniel T.
Published: June 2016

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is associated with an elevated risk of vascular complications, including premature stroke. Therapies targeting leukocyte recruitment may be beneficial in reducing vascular complications associated with SLE. Lupus was induced in female wild-type (WT) and P-selectin glycoprotein ligand-1 deficient (Psgl-1−/−) mice with pristane. Stroke was induced following photochemical injury to the middle cerebral artery (MCA). Stroke size was increased in pristane-treated WT mice compared to non-pristane-treated WT controls. However, stroke size was not increased in pristane-treated Psgl-1−/− mice compared to controls, despite evidence of increased nephritis in Psgl-1−/− mice. Pristane-treated WT mice showed elevated anti-dsDNA, anti-snRNP, CXCL1 and MCP-1 levels compared to untreated mice; however levels of anti-snRNP, MCP-1 and CXCL1 were reduced in pristane-treated Psgl-1−/− mice compared to pristane-treated WT mice. Infiltration of neutrophils and macrophages at the cerebral infarction site were reduced in pristane-treated Psgl-1−/− mice compared to pristane-treated WT mice. In conclusion, the increase in stroke size associated with lupus is prevented by Psgl-1 deficiency while nephritis is exacerbated. Therapies targeting Psgl-1 may be useful in the management of SLE patients at high risk of acute vascular complications although elucidation of downstream pathways will be necessary to identify targets that do not promote nephritis.
Phosphoproteomic analysis of Methanohalophilus portucalensis FDF1T identified the role of protein phosphorylation in methanogenesis and osmoregulation
Authors: Wu Wan-Ling , Lai Shu-Jung , Yang Jhih-Tian , Chern Jeffy , Liang Suh-Yuen , Chou Chi-Chi , Kuo Chih-Horng , Lai Mei-Chin , Wu Shih-Hsiung
Published: June 2016

Methanogens have gained much attention for their metabolic product, methane, which could be an energy substitute but also contributes to the greenhouse effect. One factor that controls methane emission, reversible protein phosphorylation, is a crucial signaling switch and phosphoproteomics has become a powerful tool for large-scale surveying. Here, we conducted the first phosphorylation-mediated regulation study in halophilic Methanohalophilus portucalensis FDF1T, a model strain for studying stress response mechanisms in osmoadaptation. A shotgun approach and MS-based analysis identified 149 unique phosphoproteins. Among them, 26% participated in methanogenesis and osmolytes biosynthesis pathways. Of note, we uncovered that protein phosphorylation might be a crucial factor to modulate the pyrrolysine (Pyl) incorporation and Pyl-mediated methylotrophic methanogenesis. Furthermore, heterologous expression of glycine sarcosine N-methyltransferase (GSMT) mutant derivatives in the osmosensitive Escherichia coli MKH13 revealed that the nonphosphorylated T68A mutant resulted in increased salt tolerance. In contrast, mimic phosphorylated mutant T68D proved defective in both enzymatic activity and salinity tolerance for growth. Our study provides new insights into phosphorylation modification as a crucial role of both methanogenesis and osmoadaptation in methanoarchaea, promoting biogas production or reducing future methane emission in response to global warming and climate change.
Anti-cancer efficacy of nonthermal plasma dissolved in a liquid, liquid plasma in heterogeneous cancer cells
Authors: Nguyen Ngoc Hoan , Park Hyung Jun , Yang Sang Sik , Choi Kyeong Sook , Lee Jong-Soo
Published: July 2016

The therapeutic potential of nonthermal plasma for cancer treatment has been reported recently. The heterogeneity of cancer cells need to be addressed to design effective anticancer treatments. Here, we show that treatment with nonthermal atmospheric-pressure plasma dissolved in a liquid (liquid plasma) induces oxidative stress in heterogeneous populations of cancer cells and ultimately kills these cells via apoptosis, regardless of genetic status, e.g., mutations in p53 and other DNA-damage-response genes. We found that liquid plasma markedly increased the concentration of intracellular and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS), reflecting an influx from the extracellular milieu. Liquid plasma contributed to mitochondrial accumulation of ROS and depolarization of mitochondrial membrane potential with consequent cell death. Healthy normal cells, however, were hardly affected by the liquid-plasma treatment. The antioxidant N-acetylcysteine blocked liquid-plasma-induced cell death. A knockdown of CuZn-superoxide dismutase or Mn-SOD enhanced the plasma-induced cell death, whereas expression of exogenous CuZn-SOD, Mn-SOD, or catalase blocked the cell death. These results suggest that the mitochondrial dysfunction mediated by ROS production is a key contributor to liquid-plasma-induced apoptotic cell death, regardless of genetic variation. Thus, liquid plasma may have clinical applications, e.g., the development of therapeutic strategies and prevention of disease progression despite tumor heterogeneity.
A novel AhR ligand, 2AI, protects the retina from environmental stress
Authors: Gutierrez Mark A. , Davis Sonnet S. , Rosko Andrew , Nguyen Steven M. , Mitchell Kylie P. , Mateen Samiha , Neves Joana , Garcia Thelma Y. , Mooney Shaun , Perdew Gary H. , Hubbard Troy D. , Lamba Deepak A. , Ramanathan Arvind
Published: July 2016

Various retinal degenerative diseases including dry and neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD), retinitis pigmentosa, and diabetic retinopathy are associated with the degeneration of the retinal pigmented epithelial (RPE) layer of the retina. This consequently results in the death of rod and cone photoreceptors that they support, structurally and functionally leading to legal or complete blindness. Therefore, developing therapeutic strategies to preserve cellular homeostasis in the RPE would be a favorable asset in the clinic. The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a conserved, environmental ligand-dependent, per ARNT-sim (PAS) domain containing bHLH transcription factor that mediates adaptive response to stress via its downstream transcriptional targets. Using in silico, in vitro and in vivo assays, we identified 2,2′-aminophenyl indole (2AI) as a potent synthetic ligand of AhR that protects RPE cells in vitro from lipid peroxidation cytotoxicity mediated by 4-hydroxynonenal (4HNE) as well as the retina in vivo from light-damage. Additionally, metabolic characterization of this molecule by LC-MS suggests that 2AI alters the lipid metabolism of RPE cells, enhancing the intracellular levels of palmitoleic acid. Finally, we show that, as a downstream effector of 2AI-mediated AhR activation, palmitoleic acid protects RPE cells from 4HNE-mediated stress, and light mediated retinal degeneration in mice.
Realized niche shift associated with the Eurasian charophyte Nitellopsis obtusa becoming invasive in North America
Authors: Escobar Luis E. , Qiao Huijie , Phelps Nicholas B. D. , Wagner Carli K. , Larkin Daniel J.
Published: July 2016

Nitellopsis obtusa(starry stonewort) is a dioecious green alga native to Europe and Asia that has emerged as an aquatic invasive species in North America.Nitellopsis obtusais rare across large portions of its native range, but has spread rapidly in northern-tier lakes in the United States, where it can interfere with recreation and may displace native species. Little is known about the invasion ecology ofN. obtusa, making it difficult to forecast future expansion. Using ecological niche modeling we investigated environmental variables associated with invasion risk. We used species records, climate data, and remotely sensed environmental variables to characterize the species’ multidimensional distribution. We found thatN. obtusais exploiting novel ecological niche space in its introduced range, which may help explain its invasiveness. While the fundamental niche ofN. obtusamay be stable, there appears to have been a shift in its realized niche associated with invasion in North America. Large portions of the United States are predicted to constitute highly suitable habitat forN. obtusa. Our results can inform early detection and rapid response efforts targetingN. obtusaand provide testable estimates of the physiological tolerances of this species as a baseline for future empirical research.