bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolutionary convergence in experimental Pseudomonas populations
Authors: Lind Peter A , Farr Andrew D , Rainey Paul B
Published: December 2016

Model microbial systems provide opportunity to understand the genetic bases of ecological traits, their evolution, regulation and fitness contributions. Experimental populations of Pseudomonas fluorescens rapidly diverge in spatially structured microcosms producing a range of surface-colonising forms. Despite divergent molecular routes, wrinkly spreader (WS) niche specialist types overproduce a cellulosic polymer allowing mat formation at the air–liquid interface and access to oxygen. Given the range of ways by which cells can form mats, such phenotypic parallelism is unexpected. We deleted the cellulose-encoding genes from the ancestral genotype and asked whether this mutant could converge on an alternate phenotypic solution. Two new traits were discovered. The first involved an exopolysaccharide encoded by pgaABCD that functions as cell–cell glue similar to cellulose. The second involved an activator of an amidase (nlpD) that when defective causes cell chaining. Both types form mats, but were less fit in competition with cellulose-based WS types. Surprisingly, diguanylate cyclases linked to cellulose overexpression underpinned evolution of poly-beta-1,6-N-acetyl-d-glucosamine (PGA)-based mats. This prompted genetic analyses of the relationships between the diguanylate cyclases WspR, AwsR and MwsR, and both cellulose and PGA. Our results suggest that c-di-GMP regulatory networks may have been shaped by evolution to accommodate loss and gain of exopolysaccharide modules facilitating adaptation to new environments.
Functional optoacoustic neuro-tomography for scalable whole-brain monitoring of calcium indicators
Authors: Deán-Ben X Luís , Sela Gali , Lauri Antonella , Kneipp Moritz , Ntziachristos Vasilis , Westmeyer Gil G , Shoham Shy , Razansky Daniel
Published: December 2016

Non-invasive observation of spatiotemporal activity of large neural populations distributed over entire brains is a longstanding goal of neuroscience. We developed a volumetric multispectral optoacoustic tomography platform for imaging neural activation deep in scattering brains. It can record 100 volumetric frames per second across scalable fields of view ranging between 50 and 1000 mm3 with respective spatial resolution of 35–200 μm. Experiments performed in immobilized and freely swimming larvae and in adult zebrafish brains expressing the genetically encoded calcium indicator GCaMP5G demonstrate, for the first time, the fundamental ability to directly track neural dynamics using optoacoustics while overcoming the longstanding penetration barrier of optical imaging in scattering brains. The newly developed platform thus offers unprecedented capabilities for functional whole-brain observations of fast calcium dynamics; in combination with optoacoustics' well-established capacity for resolving vascular hemodynamics, it could open new vistas in the study of neural activity and neurovascular coupling in health and disease.
L-type calcium channels regulate filopodia stability and cancer cell invasion downstream of integrin signalling
Authors: Jacquemet Guillaume , Baghirov Habib , Georgiadou Maria , Sihto Harri , Peuhu Emilia , Cettour-Janet Pierre , He Tao , Perälä Merja , Kronqvist Pauliina , Joensuu Heikki , Ivaska Johanna
Published: December 2016

Mounting in vitro, in vivo and clinical evidence suggest an important role for filopodia in driving cancer cell invasion. Using a high-throughput microscopic-based drug screen, we identify FDA-approved calcium channel blockers (CCBs) as potent inhibitors of filopodia formation in cancer cells. Unexpectedly, we discover that L-type calcium channels are functional and frequently expressed in cancer cells suggesting a previously unappreciated role for these channels during tumorigenesis. We further demonstrate that, at filopodia, L-type calcium channels are activated by integrin inside-out signalling, integrin activation and Src. Moreover, L-type calcium channels promote filopodia stability and maturation into talin-rich adhesions through the spatially restricted regulation of calcium entry and subsequent activation of the protease calpain-1. Altogether we uncover a novel and clinically relevant signalling pathway that regulates filopodia formation in cancer cells and propose that cycles of filopodia stabilization, followed by maturation into focal adhesions, directs cancer cell migration and invasion.
A grand unified model for liganded gold clusters
Authors: Xu Wen Wu , Zhu Beien , Zeng Xiao Cheng , Gao Yi
Published: December 2016

A grand unified model (GUM) is developed to achieve fundamental understanding of rich structures of all 71 liganded gold clusters reported to date. Inspired by the quark model by which composite particles (for example, protons and neutrons) are formed by combining three quarks (or flavours), here gold atoms are assigned three ‘flavours’ (namely, bottom, middle and top) to represent three possible valence states. The ‘composite particles’ in GUM are categorized into two groups: variants of triangular elementary block Au3(2e) and tetrahedral elementary block Au4(2e), all satisfying the duet rule (2e) of the valence shell, akin to the octet rule in general chemistry. The elementary blocks, when packed together, form the cores of liganded gold clusters. With the GUM, structures of 71 liganded gold clusters and their growth mechanism can be deciphered altogether. Although GUM is a predictive heuristic and may not be necessarily reflective of the actual electronic structure, several highly stable liganded gold clusters are predicted, thereby offering GUM-guided synthesis of liganded gold clusters by design.
Human antibody 3E1 targets the HA stem region of H1N1 and H5N6 influenza A viruses
Authors: Wang Wenshuai , Sun Xiaoyu , Li Yanbing , Su Jinpeng , Ling Zhiyang , Zhang Tianlong , Wang Fang , Zhang Hong , Chen Hualan , Ding Jianping , Sun Bing
Published: December 2016

As influenza A viruses remain a major threat to human health worldwide, the discovery of broadly neutralizing monoclonal antibodies that recognize conserved epitopes would facilitate the development of antibody-based therapeutic strategies. Here we report that a VH4-4-encoded human mAb named 3E1 could neutralize H1 and H5 subtype viruses in vitro and protect mice against the H1N1 and H5N6 viruses by inhibiting the low pH-induced conformational rearrangement of haemagglutinin (HA), hence blocking membrane fusion. The crystal structures of 3E1 Fab in complex with HA of two H1N1 strains reveal that 3E1, with both heavy and light chains, binds to a conserved epitope of the HA stem region, comprising parts of the fusion peptide, the F subdomain and the outermost β-strand preceding helix A. Altogether, these data suggest the potential of 3E1 as a therapeutic drug against H1 and H5 subtype viruses.
Ecological networking of cystic fibrosis lung infections
Authors: Quinn Robert A , Whiteson Katrine , Lim Yan Wei , Zhao Jiangchao , Conrad Douglas , LiPuma John J , Rohwer Forest , Widder Stefanie
Published: December 2016

In the context of a polymicrobial infection, treating a specific pathogen poses challenges because of unknown consequences on other members of the community. The presence of ecological interactions between microbes can change their physiology and response to treatment. For example, in the cystic fibrosis lung polymicrobial infection, antimicrobial susceptibility testing on clinical isolates is often not predictive of antibiotic efficacy. Novel approaches are needed to identify the interrelationships within the microbial community to better predict treatment outcomes. Here we used an ecological networking approach on the cystic fibrosis lung microbiome characterized using 16S rRNA gene sequencing and metagenomics. This analysis showed that the community is separated into three interaction groups: Gram-positive anaerobes,Pseudomonas aeruginosa,andStaphylococcus aureus. TheP. aeruginosaandS. aureusgroups both anti-correlate with the anaerobic group, indicating a functional antagonism. When patients are clinically stable, these major groupings were also stable, however, during exacerbation, these communities fragment. Co-occurrence networking of functional modules annotated from metagenomics data supports that the underlying taxonomic structure is driven by differences in the core metabolism of the groups. Topological analysis of the functional network identified the non-mevalonate pathway of isoprenoid biosynthesis as a keystone for the microbial community, which can be targeted with the antibiotic fosmidomycin. This study uses ecological theory to identify novel treatment approaches against a polymicrobial disease with more predictable outcomes.
Glyoxalase 1-knockdown in human aortic endothelial cells – effect on the proteome and endothelial function estimates
Authors: Stratmann Bernd , Engelbrecht Britta , Espelage Britta C. , Klusmeier Nadine , Tiemann Janina , Gawlowski Thomas , Mattern Yvonne , Eisenacher Martin , Meyer Helmut E. , Rabbani Naila , Thornalley Paul J. , Tschoepe Diethelm , Poschmann Gereon , Stühler Kai
Published: November 2016

Methylglyoxal (MG), an arginine-directed glycating agent, is implicated in diabetic late complications. MG is detoxified by glyoxalase 1 (GLO1) of the cytosolic glyoxalase system. The aim was to investigate the effects of MG accumulation by GLO1-knockdown under hyperglycaemic conditions in human aortic endothelial cells (HAECs) hypothesizing that the accumulation of MG accounts for the deleterious effects on vascular function. SiRNA-mediated knockdown of GLO1 was performed and MG concentrations were determined. The impact of MG on the cell proteome and targets of MG glycation was analysed, and confirmed by Western blotting. Markers of endothelial function and apoptosis were assessed. Collagen content was assayed in cell culture supernatant. GLO1-knockdown increased MG concentration in cells and culture medium. This was associated with a differential abundance of cytoskeleton stabilisation proteins, intermediate filaments and proteins involved in posttranslational modification of collagen. An increase in fibrillar collagens 1 and 5 was detected. The extracellular concentration of endothelin-1 was increased following GLO1-knockdown, whereas the phosphorylation and amount of eNOS was not influenced by GLO1-knockdown. The expression of ICAM-1, VCAM-1 and of MCP-1 was elevated and apoptosis was increased. MG accumulation by GLO1-knockdown provoked collagen expression, endothelial inflammation and dysfunction and apoptosis which might contribute to vascular damage.
Effects of annual influenza vaccination on morbidity and mortality in patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Nationwide Cohort Study
Authors: Chang Chi-Ching , Chang Yu-Sheng , Chen Wei-Sheng , Chen Yi-Hsuan , Chen Jin-Hua
Published: December 2016

Studies on the clinical efficacy of influenza vaccination on patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) are scant. The present study compared the incidence of hospitalization, morbidity, and mortality in patients with SLE between cohorts with and without influenza vaccination. We used the Taiwan’s insurance claims data between 2001 and 2012 for identifying annual adult patients with SLE with (N = 1765) and without (N = 8360) influenza vaccination. The incidence rate ratio and hazard ratio (HR) for morbidities and mortality were measured for the vaccine and nonvaccine cohorts. The vaccine cohort had a lower hospitalization rate than did the nonvaccine cohort, with an adjusted HR of 0.82 (95% CI 0.73–0.92). Furthermore, the vaccine cohort was less likely to be admitted to the intensive care unit [adjusted HR 0.55 (95% CI 0.39–0.79)], to be hospitalized for septicemia, bacteremia, or viremia [adjusted HR 0.48 (95% CI 0.32–0.73)], to undergo in-hospital dialysis [adjusted HR 0.40 (95% CI 0.20–0.81)], and were less predisposed to death [adjusted HR 0.41 (95% CI 0.27–0.61)]. In conclusion, influenza vaccination in patients with SLE is associated with a reduced risk of morbidity and mortality.
Long intergenic non-coding RNA expression signature in human breast cancer
Authors: Zhang Yanfeng , Wagner Erin K. , Guo Xingyi , May Isaac , Cai Qiuyin , Zheng Wei , He Chunyan , Long Jirong
Published: November 2016

Breast cancer is a complex disease, characterized by gene deregulation. There is less systematic investigation of the capacity of long intergenic non-coding RNAs (lincRNAs) as biomarkers associated with breast cancer pathogenesis or several clinicopathological variables including receptor status and patient survival. We designed a two-stage study, including 1,000 breast tumor RNA-seq data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) as the discovery stage, and RNA-seq data of matched tumor and adjacent normal tissue from 50 breast cancer patients as well as 23 normal breast tissue from healthy women as the replication stage. We identified 83 lincRNAs showing the significant expression changes in breast tumors with a false discovery rate (FDR) < 1% in the discovery dataset. Thirty-seven out of the 83 were validated in the replication dataset. Integrative genomic analyses suggested that the aberrant expression of these 37 lincRNAs was probably related with the expression alteration of several transcription factors (TFs). We observed a differential co-expression pattern between lincRNAs and their neighboring genes. We found that the expression levels of one lincRNA (RP5-1198O20 with Ensembl ID ENSG00000230615) were associated with breast cancer survival with P < 0.05. Our study identifies a set of aberrantly expressed lincRNAs in breast cancer.
Super-Resolution Imaging at Mid-Infrared Waveband in Graphene-nanocavity formed on meta-surface
Authors: Yang Jingzhong , Wang Taisheng , Chen Zuolong , Hu Bingliang , Yu Weixing
Published: November 2016

Plasmonic structured illumination microscopy (PSIM) is one of the promising wide filed optical imaging methods, which takes advantage of the surface plasmons to break the optical diffraction limit and thus to achieve a super-resolution optical image. To further improve the imaging resolution of PSIM, we propose in this work a so called graphene nanocavity on meta-surface structure (GNMS) to excite graphene surface plasmons with a deep sub-wavelength at mid-infrared waveband. It is found that surface plasmonic interference pattern with a period of around 52 nm can be achieved in graphene nanocavity formed on structured meta-surface for a 7 μm wavelength incident light. Moreover, the periodic plasmonic interference pattern can be tuned by simply changing the nanostructures fabricated on meta-surface for different application purposes. At last, the proposed GNMS structure is applied for super-resolution imaging in PSIM and it is found that an imaging resolution of 26 nm can be achieved, which is nearly 100 folds higher than that can be achieved by conventional epi-fluorescence microscopy. In comparison with visible waveband, mid-infrared is more gently and safe to biological cells and thus this work opens the new possibility for optical super-resolution imaging at mid-infrared waveband for biological research field.
Global gene regulation during activation of immunoglobulin class switching in human B cells
Authors: Zhang Youming , Fear David J. , Willis-Owen Saffron A. G. , Cookson William O. , Moffatt Miriam F.
Published: November 2016

Immunoglobulin class switch recombination (CSR) to IgE is a tightly regulated process central to atopic disease. To profile the B-cell transcriptional responses underlying the activation of the germinal centre activities leading to the generation of IgE, naïve human B-cells were stimulated with IL-4 and anti-CD40. Gene expression and alternative splicing were profiled over 12 days using the Affymetrix Human Exon 1.0 ST Array. A total of 1,399 genes, forming 13 temporal profiles were differentially expressed. CCL22 and CCL17 were dramatically induced but followed a temporal trajectory distinct from classical mediators of isotype switching. AICDA, NFIL3, IRF4, XBP1 and BATF3 shared a profile with several genes involved in innate immunity, but with no recognised role in CSR. A transcription factor BHLHE40 was identified at the core of this profile. B-cell activation was also accompanied by variation in exon retention affecting >200 genes including CCL17. The data indicate a circadian component and central roles for the Th2 chemokines CCL22 and CCL17 in the activation of CSR.
Insights into the Phosphoryl Transfer Mechanism of Human Ubiquitous Mitochondrial Creatine Kinase
Authors: Li Quanjie , Fan Shuai , Li Xiaoyu , Jin Yuanyuan , He Weiqing , Zhou Jinming , Cen Shan , Yang ZhaoYong
Published: December 2016

Human ubiquitous mitochondrial creatine kinase (uMtCK) is responsible for the regulation of cellular energy metabolism. To investigate the phosphoryl-transfer mechanism catalyzed by human uMtCK, in this work, molecular dynamic simulations of uMtCK∙ATP-Mg2+∙creatine complex and quantum mechanism calculations were performed to make clear the puzzle. The theoretical studies hereof revealed that human uMtCK utilizes a two-step dissociative mechanism, in which the E227 residue of uMtCK acts as the catalytic base to accept the creatine guanidinium proton. This catalytic role of E227 was further confirmed by our assay on the phosphatase activity. Moreover, the roles of active site residues in phosphoryl transfer reaction were also identified by site directed mutagenesis. This study reveals the structural basis of biochemical activity of uMtCK and gets insights into its phosphoryl transfer mechanism.
Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) emission control by aerobic sulfate reduction in landfill
Authors: Long Yuyang , Fang Yuan , Shen Dongsheng , Feng Huajun , Chen Ting
Published: December 2016

H2S emissions from landfill sites resulting from sulfate reduction has become a serious human health and ecological safety issue. This study investigated H2S emission behavior and sulfate metabolism occurring in simulated landfills under different operating conditions. Under aerobic conditions, great attenuation of the original sulfate content (from around 6000 mg kg−1 dropped to below 800 mg kg−1) with corresponding accumulation of sulfides and elemental sulfur were observed, indicating that sulfate reduction processes were intense under such conditions. Analysis of the bacterial community in these landfills showed great abundance (1.10%) and diversity of sulfur reducing types, confirming their active involvement in this process. In particular, the total abundance of sulfate-reducing bacteria increased nearly 30 times under aerobic conditions, leading to the transformation of sulfate to sulfide and other reduced sulfur species. Although exposure to air promoted the accumulation of sulfide, it did not lead to an increase in H2S release in these landfills.
Undiluted Serum Eye Drops for the Treatment of Persistent Corneal Epitheilal Defects
Authors: Lekhanont Kaevalin , Jongkhajornpong Passara , Anothaisintawee Thunyarat , Chuckpaiwong Varintorn
Published: December 2016

Several studies found that 50–100% serum eye drops provided greater benefits without inducing detrimental effects on the corneal epithelial healing. This study assessed the efficacy of undiluted serum eye drops for the treatment of persistent corneal epithelial defects (PED). A total of 109 eyes received 100% serum eye drops for PED were recruited into this study. The data were compared with an historical control group of 79 eyes with PED who received conventional treatments from 2006–2011 at the same institution. Main outcome measures were complete healing of PED and incidence of adverse events. No significant difference in demographics between the 2 groups was noted. The success rate of the treatment and control groups were 87.16% (95% CI 0.79–0.93) and 69.62% (95% CI 0.59–0.80) (P = 0.001), respectively. The median time to complete epithelialization was 14 days (95% CI 12–21) in the treatment group and 28 days (95% CI 21–59) in the control group (P = 0.001). Serum treatment, primary diagnosis of non-limbal stem cell deficiency etiology, and prior contact lens wear significantly correlated with the corneal re-epithelialization. There were no serious side effects encountered during the study period. In conclusion, undiluted serum therapy is effective and safe for treating PED.
Nanoscale self-templating for oxide epitaxy with large symmetry mismatch
Authors: Gao Xiang , Lee Shinbuhm , Nichols John , Meyer Tricia L. , Ward Thomas Z. , Chisholm Matthew F. , Lee Ho Nyung
Published: December 2016

Direct observations using scanning transmission electron microscopy unveil an intriguing interfacial bi-layer that enables epitaxial growth of a strain-free, monoclinic, bronze-phase VO2(B) thin film on a perovskite SrTiO3 (STO) substrate. We observe an ultrathin (2–3 unit cells) interlayer best described as highly strained VO2(B) nanodomains combined with an extra (Ti,V)O2 layer on the TiO2 terminated STO (001) surface. By forming a fully coherent interface with the STO substrate and a semi-coherent interface with the strain-free epitaxial VO2(B) film above, the interfacial bi-layer enables the epitaxial connection of the two materials despite their large symmetry and lattice mismatch.
Paper-based CRP Monitoring Devices
Authors: Lin Shang-Chi , Tseng Chung-Yuh , Lai Po-Liang , Hsu Min-Yen , Chu Shueh-Yao , Tseng Fan-Gang , Cheng Chao-Min
Published: December 2016

Here, we discuss the development of a paper-based diagnostic device that is inexpensive, portable, easy-to-use, robust, and capable of running simultaneous tests to monitor a relevant inflammatory protein for clinical diagnoses i.e. C-reactive protein (CRP). In this study, we first attempted to make a paper-based diagnostic device via the wax printing method, a process that was used in previous studies. This device has two distinct advantages: 1) reduced manufacturing and assay costs and operation duration via using wax printing method to define hydrophobic boundaries (for fluidic devices or general POC devices); and, 2) the hydrophilicity of filter paper, which is used to purify and chromatographically correct interference caused by whole blood components with a tiny amount of blood sample (only 5 μL). Diagnosis was based on serum stain length retained inside the paper channels of our device. This is a balanced function between surface tension and chromatographic force following immune reactions (CRP assays) with a paper-embedded biomarker.
Bonobo personality traits are heritable and associated with vasopressin receptor gene 1a variation
Authors: Staes Nicky , Weiss Alexander , Helsen Philippe , Korody Marisa , Eens Marcel , Stevens Jeroen M.G.
Published: December 2016

Despite being closely related, bonobos and chimpanzees show remarkable behavioral differences, the proximate origins of which remain unknown. This study examined the link between behavioral variation and variation in the vasopressin 1a receptor gene (Avpr1a) in bonobos. Chimpanzees are polymorphic for a ~360 bp deletion (DupB), which includes a microsatellite (RS3) in the 5′ promoter region of Avpr1a. In chimpanzees, the DupB deletion has been linked to lower sociability, lower social sensitivity, and higher anxiety. Chimpanzees and bonobos differ on these traits, leading some to believe that the absence of the DupB deletion in bonobos may be partly responsible for these differences, and to the prediction that similar associations between Avpr1a genotypes and personality traits should be present in bonobos. We identified bonobo personality dimensions using behavioral measures (SociabilityB, BoldnessB, OpennessB, ActivityB) and trait ratings (AssertivenessR, ConscientiousnessR, OpennessR, AgreeablenessR, AttentivenessR, ExtraversionR). In the present study we found that all 10 dimensions have nonzero heritabilities, indicating there is a genetic basis to personality, and that bonobos homozygous for shorter RS3 alleles were lower in AttentivenessR and higher in OpennessB. These results suggest that variations in Avpr1a genotypes explain both within and between species differences in personality traits of bonobos and chimpanzees.
Identification of absolute geometries of cis and trans molecular isomers by Coulomb Explosion Imaging
Authors: Ablikim Utuq , Bomme Cédric , Xiong Hui , Savelyev Evgeny , Obaid Razib , Kaderiya Balram , Augustin Sven , Schnorr Kirsten , Dumitriu Ileana , Osipov Timur , Bilodeau René , Kilcoyne David , Kumarappan Vinod , Rudenko Artem , Berrah Nora , Rolles Daniel
Published: December 2016

An experimental route to identify and separate geometric isomers by means of coincident Coulomb explosion imaging is presented, allowing isomer-resolved photoionization studies on isomerically mixed samples. We demonstrate the technique on cis/trans 1,2-dibromoethene (C2H2Br2). The momentum correlation between the bromine ions in a three-body fragmentation process induced by bromine 3d inner-shell photoionization is used to identify the cis and trans structures of the isomers. The experimentally determined momentum correlations and the isomer-resolved fragment-ion kinetic energies are matched closely by a classical Coulomb explosion model.
Effective information spreading based on local information in correlated networks
Authors: Gao Lei , Wang Wei , Pan Liming , Tang Ming , Zhang Hai-Feng
Published: December 2016

Using network-based information to facilitate information spreading is an essential task for spreading dynamics in complex networks. Focusing on degree correlated networks, we propose a preferential contact strategy based on the local network structure and local informed density to promote the information spreading. During the spreading process, an informed node will preferentially select a contact target among its neighbors, basing on their degrees or local informed densities. By extensively implementing numerical simulations in synthetic and empirical networks, we find that when only consider the local structure information, the convergence time of information spreading will be remarkably reduced if low-degree neighbors are favored as contact targets. Meanwhile, the minimum convergence time depends non-monotonically on degree-degree correlation, and a moderate correlation coefficient results in the most efficient information spreading. Incorporating the local informed density information into contact strategy, the convergence time of information spreading can be further reduced, and be minimized by an moderately preferential selection.
Larval diet affects mosquito development and permissiveness to Plasmodium infection
Authors: Linenberg Inbar , Christophides George K. , Gendrin Mathilde
Published: December 2016

The larval stages of malaria vector mosquitoes develop in water pools, feeding mostly on microorganisms and environmental detritus. Richness in the nutrient supply to larvae influences the development and metabolism of larvae and adults. Here, we investigated the effects of larval diet on the development, microbiota content and permissiveness to Plasmodium of Anopheles coluzzii. We tested three fish diets often used to rear mosquitoes in the laboratory, including two pelleted diets, Dr. Clarke’s Pool Pellets and Nishikoi Fish Pellets, and one flaked diet, Tetramin Fish-Flakes. Larvae grow and develop faster and produce bigger adults when feeding on both types of pellets compared with flakes. This correlates with a higher microbiota load in pellet-fed larvae, in agreement with the known positive effect of the microbiota on mosquito development. Larval diet also significantly influences the prevalence and intensity of Plasmodium berghei infection in adults, whereby Nishikoi Fish Pellets-fed larvae develop into adults that are highly permissive to parasites and survive longer after infection. This correlates with a lower amount of Enterobacteriaceae in the midgut microbiota. Together, our results shed light on the influence of larval feeding on mosquito development, microbiota and vector competence; they also provide useful data for mosquito rearing.
Prior Knowledge Facilitates Mutual Gaze Convergence and Head Nodding Synchrony in Face-to-face Communication
Authors: Thepsoonthorn C. , Yokozuka T. , Miura S. , Ogawa K. , Miyake Y.
Published: December 2016

As prior knowledge is claimed to be an essential key to achieve effective education, we are interested in exploring whether prior knowledge enhances communication effectiveness. To demonstrate the effects of prior knowledge, mutual gaze convergence and head nodding synchrony are observed as indicators of communication effectiveness. We conducted an experiment on lecture task between lecturer and student under 2 conditions: prior knowledge and non-prior knowledge. The students in prior knowledge condition were provided the basic information about the lecture content and were assessed their understanding by the experimenter before starting the lecture while the students in non-prior knowledge had none. The result shows that the interaction in prior knowledge condition establishes significantly higher mutual gaze convergence (t(15.03) = 6.72, p < 0.0001; α = 0.05, n = 20) and head nodding synchrony (t(16.67) = 1.83, p = 0.04; α = 0.05, n = 19) compared to non-prior knowledge condition. This study reveals that prior knowledge facilitates mutual gaze convergence and head nodding synchrony. Furthermore, the interaction with and without prior knowledge can be evaluated by measuring or observing mutual gaze convergence and head nodding synchrony.
Magnitude and pattern of Arctic warming governed by the seasonality of radiative forcing
Authors: Bintanja R. , Krikken F.
Published: December 2016

Observed and projected climate warming is strongest in the Arctic regions, peaking in autumn/winter. Attempts to explain this feature have focused primarily on identifying the associated climate feedbacks, particularly the ice-albedo and lapse-rate feedbacks. Here we use a state-of-the-art global climate model in idealized seasonal forcing simulations to show that Arctic warming (especially in winter) and sea ice decline are particularly sensitive to radiative forcing in spring, during which the energy is effectively ‘absorbed’ by the ocean (through sea ice melt and ocean warming, amplified by the ice-albedo feedback) and consequently released to the lower atmosphere in autumn and winter, mainly along the sea ice periphery. In contrast, winter radiative forcing causes a more uniform response centered over the Arctic Ocean. This finding suggests that intermodel differences in simulated Arctic (winter) warming can to a considerable degree be attributed to model uncertainties in Arctic radiative fluxes, which peak in summer.
The influence of laser scribing on magnetic domain formation in grain oriented electrical steel visualized by directional neutron dark-field imaging
Authors: Rauscher P. , Betz B. , Hauptmann J. , Wetzig A. , Beyer E. , Grünzweig C.
Published: December 2016

The performance and degree of efficiency of transformers are directly determined by the bulk magnetic properties of grain oriented electrical steel laminations. The core losses can be improved by post manufacturing methods, so-called domain refinement techniques. All these methods induce mechanical or thermal stress that refines the domain structure. The most commonly used technique is laser scribing due to the no-contact nature and the ease of integration in existing production systems. Here we show how directional neutron dark-field imaging allows visualizing the impact of laser scribing on the bulk and supplementary domain structure. In particular, we investigate the domain formation during magnetization of samples depending on laser treatment parameters such as laser energy and line distances. The directional dark-field imaging findings were quantitatively interpreted in the context with global magnetic hysteresis measurements. Especially we exploit the orientation sensitivity in the dark-field images to distinguish between different domain structures alignment and their relation to the laser scribing process.
The dose-dependent efficiency of radial shock wave therapy for patients with carpal tunnel syndrome: a prospective, randomized, single-blind, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Ke Ming-Jen , Chen Liang-Cheng , Chou Yu-Ching , Li Tsung-Ying , Chu Heng-Yi , Tsai Chia-Kuang , Wu Yung-Tsan
Published: December 2016

Recently, extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) has been shown to be a novel therapy for carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). However, previous studies did not examine the diverse effects of different-session ESWT for different-grades CTS. Thus, we conducted a randomized, single-blind, placebo-controlled study. Sixty-nine patients (90 wrists) with mild to moderate CTS were randomized into 3 groups. Group A and C patients received one session of radial ESWT (rESWT) and sham eESWT per week for 3 consecutive weeks, respectively; Group B patients received a single session of rESWT. The night splint was also used in all patients. The primary outcome was Boston Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Questionnaire (BCTQ) points, whereas secondary outcomes included the sensory nerve conduction velocity and cross-sectional area of the median nerve. Evaluations were performed at 4, 10, and 14 weeks after the first session of rESWT. Compared to the control group, the three-session rESWT group demonstrated significant BCTQ point reductions at least 14 weeks, and the effect was much longer lasting in patients with moderate CTS than mild CTS. In contrast, the effect of single-session rESWT showed insignificant comparison. rESWT is a valuable strategy for treating CTS and multiple-session rESWT has a clinically cumulative effect.
Measuring the Coefficient of Friction of a Small Floating Liquid Marble
Authors: Ooi Chin Hong , Nguyen Anh Van , Evans Geoffrey M. , Dao Dzung Viet , Nguyen Nam-Trung
Published: December 2016

This paper investigates the friction coefficient of a moving liquid marble, a small liquid droplet coated with hydrophobic powder and floating on another liquid surface. A floating marble can easily move across water surface due to the low friction, allowing for the transport of aqueous solutions with minimal energy input. However, the motion of a floating marble has yet to be systematically characterised due to the lack of insight into key parameters such as the coefficient of friction between the floating marble and the carrier liquid. We measured the coefficient of friction of a small floating marble using a novel experimental setup that exploits the non-wetting properties of a liquid marble. A floating liquid marble pair containing a minute amount magnetite particles were immobilised and then released in a controlled manner using permanent magnets. The capillarity-driven motion was analysed to determine the coefficient of friction of the liquid marbles. The “capillary charge” model was used to fit the experimental results. We varied the marble content and carrier liquid to establish a relationship between the friction correction factor and the meniscus angle.
Crescent shaped Fabry-Perot fiber cavity for ultra-sensitive strain measurement
Authors: Liu Ye , Wang D. N. , Chen W. P.
Published: December 2016

Optical Fabry-Perot interferometer sensors based on inner air-cavity is featured with compact size, good robustness and high strain sensitivity, especially when an ultra-thin air-cavity is adopted. The typical shape of Fabry-Perot inner air-cavity with reflection mode of operation is elliptic, with minor axis along with and major axis perpendicular to the fiber length. The first reflection surface is diverging whereas the second one is converging. To increase the visibility of the output interference pattern, the length of major axis should be large for a given cavity length. However, the largest value of the major axis is limited by the optical fiber diameter. If the major axis length reaches the fiber diameter, the robustness of the Fabry-Perot cavity device would be decreased. Here we demonstrate an ultra-thin crescent shaped Fabry-Perot cavity for strain sensing with ultra-high sensitivity and low temperature cross-sensitivity. The crescent-shape cavity consists of two converging reflection surfaces, which provide the advantages of enhanced strain sensitivity when compared with elliptic or D-shaped FP cavity. The device is fabricated by fusion splicing an etched multimode fiber with a single mode fiber, and hence is simple in structure and economic in cost.
Biohydrogen production from enzymatic hydrolysis of food waste in batch and continuous systems
Authors: Han Wei , Yan Yingting , Shi Yiwen , Gu Jingjing , Tang Junhong , Zhao Hongting
Published: December 2016

In this study, the feasibility of biohydrogen production from enzymatic hydrolysis of food waste was investigated. Food waste (solid-to-liquid ratio of 10%, w/v) was first hydrolyzed by commercial glucoamylase to release glucose (24.35 g/L) in the food waste hydrolysate. Then, the obtained food waste hydrolysate was used as substrate for biohydrogen production in the batch and continuous (continuous stirred tank reactor, CSTR) systems. It was observed that the maximum cumulative hydrogen production of 5850 mL was achieved with a yield of 245.7 mL hydrogen/g glucose (1.97 mol hydrogen/mol glucose) in the batch system. In the continuous system, the effect of hydraulic retention time (HRT) on biohydrogen production from food waste hydrolysate was investigated. The optimal HRT obtained from this study was 6 h with the highest hydrogen production rate of 8.02 mmol/(h·L). Ethanol and acetate were the major soluble microbial products with low propionate production at all HRTs. Enzymatic hydrolysis of food waste could effectively accelerate hydrolysis speed, improve substrate utilization rate and increase hydrogen yield.
Group benefit associated with polymorphic trichromacy in a Malagasy primate (Propithecus verreauxi)
Authors: Veilleux Carrie C. , Scarry Clara J. , Di Fiore Anthony , Kirk E. Christopher , Bolnick Deborah A. , Lewis Rebecca J.
Published: December 2016

In some primate lineages, polymorphisms in the X-linkedM/LWSopsin gene have produced intraspecific variation in color vision. In these species, heterozygous females exhibit trichromacy, while males and homozygous females exhibit dichromacy. The evolutionary persistence of these polymorphisms suggests that balancing selection maintains color vision variation, possibly through a ‘trichromat advantage’ in detecting yellow/orange/red foods against foliage. We identified genetic evidence of polymorphic trichromacy in a population of Verreaux’s sifaka (Propithecus verreauxi) at Kirindy Mitea National Park in Madagascar, and explored effects of color vision on reproductive success and feeding behavior using nine years of morphological, demographic, and feeding data. We found that trichromats and dichromats residing in social groups with trichromats exhibit higher body mass indices than individuals in dichromat-only groups. Additionally, individuals in a trichromat social group devoted significantly more time to fruit feeding and had longer fruit feeding bouts than individuals in dichromat-only groups. We hypothesize that, due to small, cohesive sifaka social groups, a trichromat advantage in detecting productive fruit patches during the energetically stressful dry season also benefits dichromats in a trichromat’s group. Our results offer the first support for the ‘mutual benefit of association’ hypothesis regarding the maintenance of polymorphic trichromacy in primates.
Learning by Association in Plants
Authors: Gagliano Monica , Vyazovskiy Vladyslav V. , Borbély Alexander A. , Grimonprez Mavra , Depczynski Martial
Published: December 2016

In complex and ever-changing environments, resources such as food are often scarce and unevenly distributed in space and time. Therefore, utilizing external cues to locate and remember high-quality sources allows more efficient foraging, thus increasing chances for survival. Associations between environmental cues and food are readily formed because of the tangible benefits they confer. While examples of the key role they play in shaping foraging behaviours are widespread in the animal world, the possibility that plants are also able to acquire learned associations to guide their foraging behaviour has never been demonstrated. Here we show that this type of learning occurs in the garden pea, Pisum sativum. By using a Y-maze task, we show that the position of a neutral cue, predicting the location of a light source, affected the direction of plant growth. This learned behaviour prevailed over innate phototropism. Notably, learning was successful only when it occurred during the subjective day, suggesting that behavioural performance is regulated by metabolic demands. Our results show that associative learning is an essential component of plant behaviour. We conclude that associative learning represents a universal adaptive mechanism shared by both animals and plants.
A balance-in-a-box: an integrated paper-based weighing balance for infant birth weight determination
Authors: Liana Devi D. , Raguse Burkhard , Gooding J. Justin , Chow Edith
Published: November 2016

An electrochromic paper-based readout system and piezoresistive pressure sensor is developed within a mailing box for infant birth weight classification.
In vitro study of the host responses to model biomaterials via a fibroblast/macrophage co-culture system
Authors: Zhou Guoying , Liedmann Andrea , Chatterjee Chandralekha , Groth Thomas
Published: December 2016

Macrophages promote wound healing/fibrotic responses by up-regulation of fibroblast outgrowth and α-SMA expression to different levels on different model biomaterials.
Fluorescence detection of endogenous bisulfite in liver cancer cells using an effective ESIPT enhanced FRET platform
Authors: Li Dong-Peng , Wang Zhao-Yang , Su Hao , Miao Jun-Ying , Zhao Bao-Xiang
Published: December 2016

Probe L-HF1, which featured large (pseudo) Stokes shifts and high FRET efficiency, was designed on a new ESIPT enhanced FRET platform for the detection of HSO3−/SO32−.
Synthesis, crystal structure and phase transition of a Xe–N2 compound at high pressure: experimental indication of orbital interaction between xenon and nitrogen
Authors: Niwa K. , Matsuzaki F. , Hasegawa M.
Published: December 2016

Synthesis, crystal structure, phase transition and pressure-enhanced orbital interaction of a Xe–N2 compound at high pressure.
Luminophores of tunable colors from ternary Ag–In–S and quaternary Ag–In–Zn–S nanocrystals covering the visible to near-infrared spectral range
Authors: Gabka Grzegorz , Bujak Piotr , Kotwica Kamil , Ostrowski Andrzej , Lisowski Wojciech , Sobczak Janusz W. , Pron Adam
Published: December 2016

We report an efficient synthesis of Ag–In–S and Ag–In–Zn–S nanocrystals with strong photoluminescence (QY = 59%) in the visible to near-infrared range.
Highly efficient visible light induced photocatalytic activity of a novel in situ synthesized conjugated microporous poly(benzothiadiazole)–C3N4 composite
Authors: Wang Shengyao , Yang Xianglong , Hou Huijie , Ding Xing , Li Shenhui , Deng Feng , Xiang Yonggang , Chen Hao
Published: December 2016

Highly efficient visible light-driven heterojunction BBT–C3N4 exhibits superior redox ability for sulfathiazole and Cr(vi) removal.
Mechanism and kinetics of tyrosinase inhibition by glycolic acid: a study using conventional spectroscopy methods and hydrogen/deuterium exchange coupling with mass spectrometry
Authors: Ma Da , Tu Zong-Cai , Wang Hui , Zhang Lu , He Na , McClements David Julian
Published: December 2016

Tyrosinase is an enzyme that promotes enzymatic browning of fruits and vegetables, thereby reducing product quality.
Discovery and hit-to-lead evaluation of piperazine amides as selective, state-dependent NaV1.7 inhibitors
Authors: Sparling Brian A. , Yi S. , Able J. , Bregman H. , DiMauro Erin F. , Foti R. S. , Gao H. , Guzman-Perez A. , Huang H. , Jarosh M. , Kornecook T. , Ligutti J. , Milgram B. C. , Moyer B. D. , Youngblood B. , Yu V. L. , Weiss M. M.
Published: December 2016

Optimization of a screening hit led to the identification of NaV1.7 inhibitors with a desirable balance of properties.
Exploiting the interplay of quantum interference and backbone rigidity on electronic transport in peptides: a step towards bio-inspired quantum interferometers
Authors: Yu Jingxian , Horsley John R. , Abell Andrew D.
Published: November 2016

An interplay between quantum interference and vibrational fluctuations in peptides has been established, offering a new approach to design quantum interferometers by fine tuning these two dynamic phenomena.
Controllable one-pot synthesis of FeSe2nanooctahedra embedded microtubes by a sacrificial self-template method
Authors: Yang Sheng , You Wenbin , Song Yuanzhe , Yang Shijun , Che Renchao
Published: November 2016

A controllable solvothermal method was used to fabricate FeSe2alloys with special microtube and nanosheet morphology.
Oxidations of chromene-annulated chlorins
Authors: Hewage Nisansala , Zeller Matthias , Brückner Christian
Published: November 2016

A number of oxidants convert chromene-annulated porphyrins into porpholactones, monomeric or dimeric β-modified chromene-annulated chlorins.
A practical synthesis of benzothiophenes via visible-light-promoted cyclization of disulfides and alkynes
Authors: Ye Lin-Miao , Qian Lu , Chen Yan-Yan , Zhang Xue-Jing , Yan Ming
Published: December 2016

Visible-light-promoted radical cyclization of disulfides and alkynes provided benzothiophenes in good yields.
Indium-catalysed amide allylation of α-iminoamide: highly enantioselective synthesis of amide functionalised α-methylene-γ-butyrolactams
Authors: Sengoku Tetsuya , Kokubo Kana , Sakamoto Masami , Takahashi Masaki , Yoda Hidemi
Published: November 2016

A highly enantioselective amide allylation of α-iminoamides has been achieved using catalytic amounts of InCl3, ZnCl2 and a BINOL derivative.
β-Amyrin synthase from Euphorbia tirucalli L. functional analyses of the highly conserved aromatic residues Phe413, Tyr259 and Trp257 disclose the importance of the appropriate steric bulk, and cation–π and CH–π interactions for the efficient catalytic action of the polyolefin cyclization cascade
Authors: Ito Ryousuke , Nakada Chika , Hoshino Tsutomu
Published: December 2016

Investigation of functions of aromatic amino acids: steric bulk, cation–π and CH–π interactions.
MoC ultrafine nanoparticles confined in porous graphitic carbon as extremely stable anode materials for lithium- and sodium-ion batteries
Authors: Li Minchan , Yu Sicen , Chen Zhenhua , Wang Zhenyu , Lv Fucong , Nan Bo , Zhu Yinggang , Shi Yang , Wang Wenxi , Wu Shaofei , Liu Hongtao , Tang Yougen , Lu Zhouguang
Published: December 2016

An environmentally friendly method was utilized to prepare ultrafine MoC nanoparticles, displaying good electrochemical performance as both lithium- and sodium-ion batteries.
Observation of the effects of Bi-deficiency on ferroelectric and electrical properties in Bi(1+x)FeO3/La0.65Sr0.35MnO3 heterostructures via atomic force microscopy
Authors: Liu Qing , Zhang Jieling , Wei Ling , Zhang Weifeng
Published: December 2016

Bi(1+x)FeO3 thin films with different Bi contents (x = 0%, 5%, and 10%) were grown on (001) SrTiO3 substrates with La0.65Sr0.35MnO3 (LSMO) buffered layers via pulsed laser deposition.
Spectroscopic study on spontaneously grown silver@ultra-thin cerium oxide nanostructures
Authors: Tsai Chi-Hang , Chen Shih-Yun , Song Jenn-Ming , Gloter Alexandre
Published: December 2016

Ag@CeO2 nanowires and nanoparticles with a spontaneously-grown ultra-thin ceria shell (~0.5 nm) were synthesized on CeO2 substrate without using oxide precursors. The valence of Ce ions in the oxide layer was between Ce3+ and Ce4+.
Effect of epoxy matrix architecture on the self-healing ability of thermo-reversible interfaces based on Diels–Alder reactions: demonstration on a carbon fiber/epoxy microcomposite
Authors: Zhang W. , Duchet J. , Gérard J. F.
Published: November 2016

Thermally reversible Diels–Alder adducts formed between furan and maleimide groups have been introduced into the interphase of a carbon fiber-reinforced composite material to design a self-healable composite material.
The effects of Ge doping on the thermoelectric performance of p-type polycrystalline SnSe
Authors: Wubieneh Tessera Alemneh , Chen Cheng-Lung , Wei Pai Chun , Chen Szu-Yuan , Chen Yang-Yuan
Published: December 2016

Ge doping enables to enhance the thermoelectric figure of merit of SnSe..