bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ORBIFOLD POINTS ON PRYM–TEICHMÜLLER CURVES IN GENUS
Authors: Torres-Teigell David , Zachhuber Jonathan
Published: May 2017

For each discriminant$D>1$, McMullen constructed the Prym–Teichmüller curves$W_{D}(4)$and$W_{D}(6)$in${\mathcal{M}}_{3}$and${\mathcal{M}}_{4}$, which constitute one of the few known infinite families of geometrically primitive Teichmüller curves. In the present paper, we determine for each$D$the number and type of orbifold points on$W_{D}(6)$. These results, together with a previous result of the two authors in the genus$3$case and with results of Lanneau–Nguyen and Möller, complete the topological characterisation of all Prym–Teichmüller curves and determine their genus. The study of orbifold points relies on the analysis of intersections of$W_{D}(6)$with certain families of genus$4$curves with extra automorphisms. As a side product of this study, we give an explicit construction of such families and describe their Prym–Torelli images, which turn out to be isomorphic to certain products of elliptic curves. We also give a geometric description of the flat surfaces associated to these families and describe the asymptotics of the genus of$W_{D}(6)$for large$D$.
Agronomic and physiological aspects of nitrogen use efficiency in conventional and organic cereal-based production systems
Authors: Kubota Hiroshi , Iqbal Muhammad , Quideau Sylvie , Dyck Miles , Spaner Dean
Published: May 2017

Better management of synthetic nitrogen (N) fertilizers in conventional agricultural systems laid the foundation for feeding the increasing world's population since the Green Revolution. However, excessive reliance on inorganic fertilizer has resulted in environmental degradation issues. Difficulties in soil nutrition management in organic cropping systems often results in lower and variable yields, also raising questions of sustainability. Improving nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) is thus of key importance to overcome environmental concerns in conventional systems and production limitations in organic systems. The differences in the two farming systems have impacts on crop traits and N cycles, making it difficult to enhance NUE with a single strategy. Different approaches need to be adopted to improve NUE in each system. Extensive efforts have been made to better understand mechanisms to potentially improve NUE in cereal crops under both systems. This review suggests that NUE may be improved through a combination of management practices and breeding strategies specific to the management system. Diversified crop rotations with legumes are effective practices to optimize the N cycle in both conventional and organic systems. Best Management Practices coupled with nitrification inhibitors, controlled release products and split-application practices can reduce N loss in conventional systems. In organic systems, we need to take advantage of available N sources and adapt practices such as no-tillage, cover crops, and catch crops. Utilization of beneficial soil microorganisms is fundamental to optimizing availability of soil N. Estimation of soil organic matter mineralization using prediction models may be useful to enhance NUE if models are calibrated for target environments. Cereal crops are often bred under optimum N conditions and may not perform well under low N conditions. Thus, breeders can integrate genetic and phenotypic information to develop cultivars adapted to specific environments and cultivation practices. The proper choice and integration of strategies can synchronize N demand and supply within a system, resulting in reduced risk of N loss while improving NUE in both conventional and organic systems.
Controlling Herbicide-Resistant Annual Bluegrass (Poa annua) Phenotypes with Methiozolin
Authors: Brosnan James T. , Vargas Jose J. , Breeden Gregory K. , Boggess Sarah L. , Staton Margaret A. , Wadl Phillip A. , Trigiano Robert N.
Published: May 2017

Methiozolin is an isoxazoline herbicide being investigated for selective POST annual bluegrass control in managed turfgrass. Research was conducted to evaluate methiozolin efficacy for controlling two annual bluegrass phenotypes with target-site resistance to photosystem II (PSII) or enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase (EPSPS)-inhibiting herbicides (i.e., glyphosate), as well as phenotypes with multiple resistance to microtubule and EPSPS or PSII and acetolactate synthase (ALS)-inhibiting herbicides. All resistant phenotypes were established in glasshouse culture along with a known herbicide-susceptible control and treated with methiozolin at 0, 125, 250, 500, 1000, 2000, 4000, or 8000 g ai ha−1. Methiozolin effectively controlled annual bluegrass with target-site resistance to inhibitors of EPSPS, PSII, as well as multiple resistance to EPSPS and microtubule inhibitors. Methiozolin rates required to reduce aboveground biomass of these resistant phenotypes 50% (GR50 values) were not significantly different from the susceptible control, ranging from 159 to 421 g ha−1. A phenotype with target-site resistance to PSII and ALS inhibitors was less sensitive to methiozolin (GR50=862 g ha−1) than a susceptible phenotype (GR50=423 g ha−1). Our findings indicate that methiozolin is an effective option for controlling select annual bluegrass phenotypes with target-site resistance to several herbicides.
Why Is There So Much Carbon Dioxide in Rivers?
Authors: Witman Sarah
Published: May 2017

Observations of carbon dioxide oversaturation in the freshwater of the world led scientists to study its underlying causes at more than 100 field locations across the nation.
Effects of concomitant inactivation of p53 and pRb on response to doxorubicin treatment in breast cancer cell lines
Authors: Huun Johanna , Lønning Per Eystein , Knappskog Stian
Published: May 2017

Loss of TP53 and RB1 function have both been linked to poor response to DNA damaging drugs in breast cancer patients. We inactivated TP53 and/or RB1 by siRNA mediated knockdown in breast cancer cell lines varying with respect to ER/PgR and Her-2 status as well as TP53 and RB1 mutation status (MCF-7, T47D, HTB-122 and CRL2324) and determined effects on cell cycle arrest, apoptosis and senescence with or without concomitant treatment with doxorubicin. In T47D cells, we found the cell cycle phase distribution to be altered when inactivating TP53 (P=0.0003) or TP53 and RB1 concomitantly (P≤0.001). No similar changes were observed in MCF-7, HTB-122 or CRL2324 cells. While no significant change was observed for the CRL2324 cells upon doxorubicin treatment, MCF-7, T47D as well as HTB-122 cells responded to knockdown of TP53 and RB1 in concert, with a decrease in the fraction of cells in G1/G0-phase (P=0.042, 0.021 and 0.027, respectively). Inactivation of TP53 and/or RB1 caused no change in induction of apoptosis. Upon doxorubicin treatment, inactivation of TP53 or RB1 separately caused no induction of apoptosis in MCF-7 and HTB-122 cells; however, concomitant inactivation leads to a slightly reduced activation of apoptosis. Interestingly, upon doxorubicin treatment, concomitant inactivation of TP53 and RB1 caused a decrease in senescence in MCF-7 cells (P=0.027). Comparing the effects of concomitant knockdown on apoptosis and senescence, we observed a strong interaction (P=0.001). We found concomitant inactivation of TP53 and RB1 to affect various routes of response to doxorubicin treatment in breast cancer cells.
Thermogenetic neurostimulation with single-cell resolution
Authors: Ermakova Yulia G. , Lanin Aleksandr A. , Fedotov Ilya V. , Roshchin Matvey , Kelmanson Ilya V. , Kulik Dmitry , Bogdanova Yulia A. , Shokhina Arina G. , Bilan Dmitry S. , Staroverov Dmitry B. , Balaban Pavel M. , Fedotov Andrei B. , Sidorov-Biryukov Dmitry A. , Nikitin Evgeny S. , Zheltikov Aleksei M. , Belousov Vsevolod V.
Published: May 2017

Thermogenetics is a promising innovative neurostimulation technique, which enables robust activation of neurons using thermosensitive transient receptor potential (TRP) cation channels. Broader application of this approach in neuroscience is, however, hindered by a limited variety of suitable ion channels, and by low spatial and temporal resolution of neuronal activation when TRP channels are activated by ambient temperature variations or chemical agonists. Here, we demonstrate rapid, robust and reproducible repeated activation of snake TRPA1 channels heterologously expressed in non-neuronal cells, mouse neurons and zebrafish neurons in vivo by infrared (IR) laser radiation. A fibre-optic probe that integrates a nitrogen−vacancy (NV) diamond quantum sensor with optical and microwave waveguide delivery enables thermometry with single-cell resolution, allowing neurons to be activated by exceptionally mild heating, thus preventing the damaging effects of excessive heat. The neuronal responses to the activation by IR laser radiation are fully characterized using Ca2+ imaging and electrophysiology, providing, for the first time, a complete framework for a thermogenetic manipulation of individual neurons using IR light.
Constraining climate sensitivity and continental versus seafloor weathering using an inverse geological carbon cycle model
Authors: Krissansen-Totton Joshua , Catling David C.
Published: May 2017

The relative influences of tectonics, continental weathering and seafloor weathering in controlling the geological carbon cycle are unknown. Here we develop a new carbon cycle model that explicitly captures the kinetics of seafloor weathering to investigate carbon fluxes and the evolution of atmospheric CO2 and ocean pH since 100 Myr ago. We compare model outputs to proxy data, and rigorously constrain model parameters using Bayesian inverse methods. Assuming our forward model is an accurate representation of the carbon cycle, to fit proxies the temperature dependence of continental weathering must be weaker than commonly assumed. We find that 15–31 °C (1σ) surface warming is required to double the continental weathering flux, versus 3–10 °C in previous work. In addition, continental weatherability has increased 1.7–3.3 times since 100 Myr ago, demanding explanation by uplift and sea-level changes. The average Earth system climate sensitivity is "Equation missing" K (1σ) per CO2 doubling, which is notably higher than fast-feedback estimates. These conclusions are robust to assumptions about outgassing, modern fluxes and seafloor weathering kinetics.
Upregulation of CYP17A1 by Sp1-mediated DNA demethylation confers temozolomide resistance through DHEA-mediated protection in glioma
Authors: Chuang J-Y , Lo W-L , Ko C-Y , Chou S-Y , Chen R-M , Chang K-Y , Hung J-J , Su W-C , Chang W-C , Hsu T-I
Published: May 2017

Steroidogenesis-mediated production of neurosteroids is important for brain homeostasis. Cytochrome P450 17A1 (CYP17A1), which converts pregnenolone to dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) in endocrine organs and the brain, is required for prostate cancer progression and acquired chemotherapeutic resistance. However, whether CYP17A1-mediated DHEA synthesis is involved in brain tumor malignancy, especially in glioma, the most prevalent brain tumor, is unknown. To investigate the role of CYP17A1 in glioma, we determined that CYP17A1 expression is significantly increased in gliomas, which secrete more DHEA than normal astrocytes. We found that as gliomas became more malignant, both CYP17A1 and DHEA were significantly upregulated in temozolomide (TMZ)-resistant cells and highly invasive cells. In particular, the increase of CYP17A1 was caused by Sp1-mediated DNA demethylation, whereby Sp1 competed with DNMT3a for binding to the CYP17A1 promoter in TMZ-resistant glioma cells. CYP17A1 was required for the development of glioma cell invasiveness and resistance to TMZ-induced cytotoxicity. In addition, DHEA markedly attenuated TMZ-induced DNA damage and apoptosis. Together, our results suggest that components of the Sp1–CYP17A1–DHEA axis, which promotes the development of TMZ resistance, may serve as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets in recurrent glioma.
Genome sequencing as a platform for pharmacogenetic genotyping: a pediatric cohort study
Authors: Cohn Iris , Paton Tara A. , Marshall Christian R. , Basran Raveen , Stavropoulos Dimitri J. , Ray Peter N. , Monfared Nasim , Hayeems Robin Z. , Meyn M. Stephen , Bowdin Sarah , Scherer Stephen W. , Cohn Ronald D. , Ito Shinya
Published: May 2017

Whole-genome sequencing and whole-exome sequencing have proven valuable for diagnosing inherited diseases, particularly in children. However, usage of sequencing data as a pharmacogenetic screening tool to ensure medication safety and effectiveness remains to be explored. Sixty-seven variants in 19 genes with known effects on drug response were compared between genome sequencing and targeted genotyping data for coverage and concordance in 98 pediatric patients. We used targeted genotyping data as a benchmark to assess accuracy of variant calling, and to identify copy number variations of the CYP2D6 gene. We then predicted clinical impact of these variants on drug therapy. We find genotype concordance across those panels to be > 97%. Concordance of CYP2D6 predicted phenotype between estimates of whole-genome sequencing and targeted genotyping panel were 90%; a result from a lower coverage depth or variant calling difficulties in our whole-genome sequencing data when copy number variation and/or the CYP2D6*4 haplotype were present. Importantly, 95 children had at least one clinically actionable pharmacogenetic variant. Diagnostic genomic sequencing data can be used for pre-emptive pharmacogenetic screening. However, concordance between genome-wide sequencing and target genotyping needs to be characterized for each of the pharmacologically important genes.
A multifactorial study on nutritional status, binge eating and physical activity as main factors directly influencing body weight in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Bril Andrea , Perez-Lloret Santiago , Rossi Malco , Fariña Sofía , Morisset Pierre , Sorrentino Laura , Iglesias Micaela , Medina Escobar Alex , Millar Vernetti Patricio , Cerquetti Daniel , Merello Marcelo
Published: May 2017

Weight lossisa multifactorial disorder commonly affecting Parkinson’s disease patients. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between body weight, nutritional status, physical activity, and Parkinson’s disease-related factors. A total of 114 consecutive Parkinson’s disease patients without dietary restrictions were evaluated prospectively with respect to: nutritional status (Mini Nutritional Assessment), physical activity level (Yale Physical Activity Survey), MDS-UPDRS score, olfactory function, depression, cognitive functionand impulse-control disorders, among other variables. Structural equation modeling was used to build multivariate models and to calculate standardized regression weights (srw) for pairs of variables, which are homologous to correlation coefficients, taking into account the effects of all other variables in the model. Sixty (53%) patients were males. Mean age was 66.1 ± 9.8 years and mean disease duration was 8.3 ± 5.6 years. Longer disease duration was negatively related to nutritional status (srw = −0.25; p = 0.01). UPDRS II + III score was associated with reduced cognitive function (srw = −0.39; p = 0.01), which was positivelyrelated to nutritional status (srw = 0.23; p = 0.01). Finally, nutritional status was positively related to body weight (srw = 0.22, p < 0.01). Binge eating and physical activity were also directly and positively related to body weight (srw = 0.32; p = 0.001 and srw = 0.23; p = 0.001). Nutritional status, binge eating and physical activity were directly and independently related to body weight in our sample of Parkinson’s disease patients. Therefore, physicians should actively explore nutritional status and binge eating in Parkinson’s disease patients to avoid alterations in body weight regulation. Effects of physical activity should be further explored.
A-to-I editing in human miRNAs is enriched in seed sequence, influenced by sequence contexts and significantly hypoedited in glioblastoma multiforme
Authors: Paul Deepanjan , Sinha Ashis Narayan , Ray Arjun , Lal Megha , Nayak Subhashree , Sharma Anchal , Mehani Bharati , Mukherjee Debasish , Laddha Saurabh V. , Suri Ashish , Sarkar Chitra , Mukhopadhyay Arijit
Published: May 2017

Editing in microRNAs, particularly in seed can significantly alter the choice of their target genes. We show that out of 13 different human tissues, different regions of brain showed higher adenosine to inosine (A-to-I) editing in mature miRNAs. These events were enriched in seed sequence (73.33%), which was not observed for cytosine to uracil (17.86%) editing. More than half of the edited miRNAs showed increased stability, 72.7% of which had ΔΔG values less than −6.0 Kcal/mole and for all of them the edited adenosines mis-paired with cytosines on the pre-miRNA structure. A seed-editing event in hsa-miR-411 (with A – C mismatch) lead to increased expression of the mature form compared to the unedited version in cell culture experiments. Further, small RNA sequencing of GBM patients identified significant miRNA hypoediting which correlated with downregulation of ADAR2 both in metadata and qRT-PCR based validation. Twenty-two significant (11 novel) A-to-I hypoediting events were identified in GBM samples. This study highlights the importance of specific sequence and structural requirements of pre-miRNA for editing along with a suggestive crucial role for ADAR2. Enrichment of A-to-I editing in seed sequence highlights this as an important layer for genomic regulation in health and disease, especially in human brain.
Atomic layer etching of graphene through controlled ion beam for graphene-based electronics
Authors: Kim Ki Seok , Ji You Jin , Nam Yeonsig , Kim Ki Hyun , Singh Eric , Lee Jin Yong , Yeom Geun Young
Published: May 2017

The electronic and optical properties of graphene are greatly dependent on the the number of layers. For the precise control of the graphene layers, atomic layer etching (ALE), a cyclic etching method achieved through chemical adsorption and physical desorption, can be the most powerful technique due to barely no damage and no contamination. In this study, we demonstrated the ALE process of graphene layers without noticeably damaging the graphene by using a controlled low energy oxygen (O2+/O+)-ion for chemical adsorption and a low energy Ar+-ion (11.2 eV) for physical desorption. In addition, using a trilayer graphene, mono- and bi-layer graphene could be successfully fabricated after one- and two-cycle ALE of the trilayer graphene, respectively. We believe that the ALE technique presented herein can be applicable to all layered materials such as graphene, black phosphorous and transition metal dichalcogenides which are important for next generation electronic devices.
Anti-proliferative Effects of Nucleotides on Gastric Cancer via a Novel P2Y6/SOCE/Ca2+/β-catenin Pathway
Authors: Wan Hanxing , Xie Rui , Xu Jiangyu , He Jialin , Tang Bo , Liu Qingqing , Wang Sumin , Guo Yanjun , Yang Xin , Dong Tobias Xiao , Carethers John M. , Yang Shiming , Dong Hui
Published: May 2017

Although purinegic signaling is important in regulating gastric physiological functions, it is currently unknown for its role in gastric cancer (GC). We demonstrate for the first time that the expression of P2Y6 receptors was markedly down-regulated in human GC cells and primary GC tissues compared to normal tissues, while the expression of P2Y2 and P2Y4 receptors was up-regulated in GC cells. Moreover, the expression levels of P2Y6 receptors in GC tissues were correlated to tumor size, differentiation, metastasis to lymph nodes, and the survival rate of the patients with GC. Ncleotides activated P2Y6 receptors to raise cytosolic Ca2+ concentrations in GC cells through store-operated calcium entry (SOCE), and then mediated Ca2+-dependent inhibition of β-catenin and proliferation, eventually leading to GC suppression. Furthermore, UTP particularly blocked the G1/S transition of GC cells but did not induce apoptosis. Collectively, we conclude that nucleotides activate P2Y6 receptors to suppress GC growth through a novel SOCE/Ca2+/β-catenin-mediated anti-proliferation of GC cells, which is different from the canonical SOCE/Ca2+-induced apoptosis in other tumors.
Differences in selectivity to natural images in early visual areas (V1–V3)
Authors: Coggan David D. , Allen Luke A. , Farrar Oliver R. H. , Gouws Andre D. , Morland Antony B. , Baker Daniel H. , Andrews Timothy J.
Published: May 2017

High-level regions of the ventral visual pathway respond more to intact objects compared to scrambled objects. The aim of this study was to determine if this selectivity for objects emerges at an earlier stage of processing. Visual areas (V1–V3) were defined for each participant using retinotopic mapping. Participants then viewed intact and scrambled images from different object categories (bottle, chair, face, house, shoe) while neural responses were measured using fMRI. Our rationale for using scrambled images is that they contain the same low-level properties as the intact objects, but lack the higher-order combinations of features that are characteristic of natural images. Neural responses were higher for scrambled than intact images in all regions. However, the difference between intact and scrambled images was smaller in V3 compared to V1 and V2. Next, we measured the spatial patterns of response to intact and scrambled images from different object categories. We found higher within-category compared to between category correlations for both intact and scrambled images demonstrating distinct patterns of response. Spatial patterns of response were more distinct for intact compared to scrambled images in V3, but not in V1 or V2. These findings demonstrate the emergence of selectivity to natural images in V3.
Effects of Protein Corona on IAPP Amyloid Aggregation, Fibril Remodelling, and Cytotoxicity
Authors: Pilkington Emily H. , Xing Yanting , Wang Bo , Kakinen Aleksandr , Wang Miaoyi , Davis Thomas P. , Ding Feng , Ke Pu Chun
Published: May 2017

Aggregation of islet amyloid polypeptide (IAPP), a peptide hormone co-synthesized and co-stored with insulin in pancreatic cells and also co-secreted to the circulation, is associated with beta-cell death in type-2 diabetes (T2D). In T2D patients IAPP is found aggregating in the extracellular space of the islets of Langerhans. Although the physiological environments of these intra- and extra-cellular compartments and vascular systems significantly differ, the presence of proteins is ubiquitous but the effects of protein binding on IAPP aggregation are largely unknown. Here we examined the binding of freshly-dissolved IAPP as well as pre-formed fibrils with two homologous proteins, namely cationic lysozyme (Lys) and anionic alpha-lactalbumin (aLac), both of which can be found in the circulation. Biophysical characterizations and a cell viability assay revealed distinct effects of Lys and aLac on IAPP amyloid aggregation, fibril remodelling and cytotoxicity, pointing to the role of protein “corona” in conferring the biological impact of amyloidogenic peptides. Systematic molecular dynamics simulations further provided molecular and structural details for the observed differential effects of proteins on IAPP amyloidosis. This study facilitates our understanding of the fate and transformation of IAPP in vivo, which are expected to have consequential bearings on IAPP glycemic control and T2D pathology.
Doping of metal–organic frameworks towards resistive sensing
Authors: Shiozawa Hidetsugu , Bayer Bernhard C. , Peterlik Herwig , Meyer Jannik C. , Lang Wolfgang , Pichler Thomas
Published: May 2017

Coordination polymerization leads to various metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) with unique physical properties and chemical functionalities. One of the challenges towards their applications as porous materials is to make MOFs optimally conductive to be used as electronic components. Here, it is demonstrated that Co-MOF-74, a honeycomb nano–framework with one–dimensionally arranged cobalt atoms, advances its physical properties by accommodating tetracyanochinodimethan (TCNQ), an acceptor molecule. Strong intermolecular charge transfer reduces the optical band gap down to 1.5 eV of divalent TCNQ and enhances the electrical conduction, which allows the MOF to be utilized for resistive gas- and photo-sensing. The results provide insight into the electronic interactions in doped MOFs and pave the way for their electronic applications.
High-resolution bioelectrical imaging of Aβ-induced network dysfunction on CMOS-MEAs for neurotoxicity and rescue studies
Authors: Amin Hayder , Nieus Thierry , Lonardoni Davide , Maccione Alessandro , Berdondini Luca
Published: May 2017

Neurotoxicity and the accumulation of extracellular amyloid-beta1–42 (Aβ) peptides are associated with the development of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and correlate with neuronal activity and network dysfunctions, ultimately leading to cellular death. However, research on neurodegenerative diseases is hampered by the paucity of reliable readouts and experimental models to study such functional decline from an early onset and to test rescue strategies within networks at cellular resolution. To overcome this important obstacle, we demonstrate a simple yet powerful in vitro AD model based on a rat hippocampal cell culture system that exploits large-scale neuronal recordings from 4096-electrodes on CMOS-chips for electrophysiological quantifications. This model allows us to monitor network activity changes at the cellular level and to uniquely uncover the early activity-dependent deterioration induced by Aβ-neurotoxicity. We also demonstrate the potential of this in vitro model to test a plausible hypothesis underlying the Aβ-neurotoxicity and to assay potential therapeutic approaches. Specifically, by quantifying N-methyl D-aspartate (NMDA) concentration-dependent effects in comparison with low-concentration allogenic-Aβ, we confirm the role of extrasynaptic-NMDA receptors activation that may contribute to Aβ-neurotoxicity. Finally, we assess the potential rescue of neural stem cells (NSCs) and of two pharmacotherapies, memantine and saffron, for reversing Aβ-neurotoxicity and rescuing network-wide firing.
A novel, somatic, transforming mutation in the extracellular domain of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor identified in myeloproliferative neoplasm
Authors: Casolari D. A. , Nguyen T. , Butcher C. M. , Iarossi D. G. , Hahn C. N. , Bray S. C. , Neufing P. , Parker W. T. , Feng J. , Maung K. Z. Y. , Wee A. , Vidovic L. , Kok C. H. , Bardy P. G. , Branford S. , Lewis I. D. , Lane S. W. , Scott H. S. , Ross D. M. , D’Andrea R. J.
Published: May 2017

We describe a novel ERBB1/EGFR somatic mutation (p. C329R; c.985 T > C) identified in a patient with JAK2V617F Polycythaemia Vera (PV). This substitution affects a conserved cysteine residue in EGFR domain 2 and leads to the formation of a ligand-independent covalent receptor dimer, associated with increased transforming potential. Aberrant signalling from the EGFRC329R receptor is cell type-dependent and in the TF1.8 erythroid cell line expression of this mutant suppresses EPO-induced differentiation. Clonal analysis shows that the dominant JAK2V617F-positive clone in this PV patient harbors EGFRC329R, thus this mutation may contribute to clonal expansion. Somatic mutations affecting other ERBB and related receptor tyrosine kinases are observed in myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN), and we show elevated EGFR levels in MPN samples, consistent with previous reports. Thus activation of this group of receptors, via multiple mechanisms, may contribute to clonal growth and survival of the JAK2V617F disease clone in MPN.
Artefact-free Evaluation of Metal Enhanced Fluorescence in Silica Coated Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Ribeiro Tânia , Baleizão Carlos , Farinha José Paulo S.
Published: May 2017

Metal nanoparticles can either quench or enhance the emission of dyes in their vicinity, but the precise measurement and understanding of this effect is still hindered by experimental artifacts, especially for particles in colloidal dispersion. Here, we introduce a new methodology to correct the inner filter effect of the metal on the dye emission. To test the method, we developed new hybrid nanoparticles with a gold core and a silica shell of precise thickness (tuned from 7 to 13 nm), with a high quantum yield perylenediimide dye on the surface. This novel approach effectively avoids fluorescence quenching, allowing us to measure emission enhancements of 5 to 30 times, with no change on the dye fluorescence lifetime. Being able to measure the emission enhancement in dye-metal hybrid nanoparticles in dispersion, free from inner filter and quenching artifacts, offers excellent prospects to guide the development of more efficient fluorescent probes, sensors and photonic devices.
Seasonally lagged effects of climatic factors on malaria incidence in South Africa
Authors: Ikeda Takayoshi , Behera Swadhin K. , Morioka Yushi , Minakawa Noboru , Hashizume Masahiro , Tsuzuki Ataru , Maharaj Rajendra , Kruger Philip
Published: May 2017

Globally, malaria cases have drastically dropped in recent years. However, a high incidence of malaria remains in some sub-Saharan African countries. South Africa is mostly malaria-free, but northeastern provinces continue to experience seasonal outbreaks. Here we investigate the association between malaria incidence and spatio-temporal climate variations in Limpopo. First, dominant spatial patterns in malaria incidence anomalies were identified using self-organizing maps. Composite analysis found significant associations among incidence anomalies and climate patterns. A high incidence of malaria during the pre-peak season (Sep-Nov) was associated with the climate phenomenon La Niña and cool air temperatures over southern Africa. There was also high precipitation over neighbouring countries two to six months prior to malaria incidence. During the peak season (Dec-Feb), high incidence was associated with positive phase of Indian Ocean Subtropical Dipole. Warm temperatures and high precipitation in neighbouring countries were also observed two months prior to increased malaria incidence. This lagged association between regional climate and malaria incidence suggests that in areas at high risk for malaria, such as Limpopo, management plans should consider not only local climate patterns but those of neighbouring countries as well. These findings highlight the need to strengthen cross-border control of malaria to minimize its spread.
Opposite polarities of ENSO drive distinct patterns of coral bleaching potentials in the southeast Indian Ocean
Authors: Zhang Ningning , Feng Ming , Hendon Harry H. , Hobday Alistair J. , Zinke Jens
Published: May 2017

Episodic anomalously warm sea surface temperature (SST) extremes, or marine heatwaves (MHWs), amplify ocean warming effects and may lead to severe impacts on marine ecosystems. MHW-induced coral bleaching events have been observed frequently in recent decades in the southeast Indian Ocean (SEIO), a region traditionally regarded to have resilience to global warming. In this study, we assess the contribution of El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) to MHWs across the mostly understudied reefs in the SEIO. We find that in extended summer months, the MHWs at tropical and subtropical reefs (divided at ~20°S) are driven by opposite ENSO polarities: MHWs are more likely to occur at the tropical reefs during eastern Pacific El Niño, driven by enhanced solar radiation and weaker Australian Monsoon, some likely alleviated by positive Indian Ocean Dipole events, and at the subtropical reefs during central Pacific La Niña, mainly caused by increased horizontal heat transport, and in some cases reinforced by local air-sea interactions. Madden-Julian Oscillations (MJO) also modulate the MHW occurrences. Projected future increases in ENSO and MJO intensity with greenhouse warming will enhance thermal stress across the SEIO. Implementing forecasting systems of MHWs can be used to anticipate future coral bleaching patterns and prepare management responses.
Hydrologic Evaluation of TRMM Multisatellite Precipitation Analysis for Nanliu River Basin in Humid Southwestern China
Authors: Zhao Yinjun , Xie Qiongying , Lu Yuan , Hu Baoqing
Published: May 2017

The accuracy of Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) multi-satellite precipitation analysis (TMPA) daily accumulated precipitation products (3B42RTV7 and 3B42V7) was evaluated for a small basin (the Nanliu river basin). A direct comparison was performed against gauge observations from a period of 9 years (2000–2009) at temporal and spatial scales. The results show that the temporal-spatial precipitation characteristics of the Nanliu river basin are highly consistent with 3B42V7 relative to 3B42RTV7, with higher correlation coefficient (CC) approximately 0.9 at all temporal scales except for the daily scale and a lower relative bias percentage. 3B42V7 slightly overestimates precipitation at all temporal scales except the yearly scale; it slightly underestimates the precipitation at the daily spatial scale. The results also reveal that the precision of TMPA products increases with longer time-aggregated data, and the detection capability of daily TMPA precipitation products are enhanced by augmentation with daily precipitation rates. In addition, daily TMPA products were input into the Xin’anjiang hydrologic model; the results show that 3B42V7-based simulated outputs were well in line with actual stream flow observations, with a high CC (0.90) and Nash-Sutcliffe efficiency coefficient (NSE, 0.79), and the results adequately captured the pattern of the observed flow curve.
Antigenicity of Bovine Pericardium Determined by a Novel Immunoproteomic Approach
Authors: Gates Katherine V. , Dalgliesh Ailsa J. , Griffiths Leigh G.
Published: May 2017

Despite bovine pericardium (BP) being the primary biomaterial used in heart valve bioprostheses, recipient graft-specific immune responses remain a significant cause of graft failure. Consequently, tissue antigenicity remains the principal barrier for expanding use of such biomaterials in clinical practice. We hypothesize that our understanding of BP antigenicity can be improved by application of a combined affinity chromatography shotgun immunoproteomic approach to identify antigens that have previously been overlooked. Liquid Chromatography Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analysis of affinity chromatography purified antigens resulted in identification of 133 antigens. Most importantly, antigens were identified from all subcellular locations, including 18 integral membrane protein antigens. Critically, isoforms of several protein families were found to be antigenic suggesting the possibility that shared epitope domains may exist. Furthermore, proteins associated with immune, coagulation, and inflammatory pathways were over-represented, suggesting that these biological processes play a key role in antigenicity. This study brings to light important determinants of antigenicity in a clinically relevant xenogeneic biomaterial (i.e. BP) and further validates a rapid, high-throughput method for immunoproteomic antigen identification.
Differential methylation is associated with non-syndromic cleft lip and palate and contributes to penetrance effects
Authors: Alvizi Lucas , Ke Xiayi , Brito Luciano Abreu , Seselgyte Rimante , Moore Gudrun E. , Stanier Philip , Passos-Bueno Maria Rita
Published: May 2017

Non-syndromic cleft lip and/or palate (NSCLP) is a common congenital malformation with a multifactorial model of inheritance. Although several at-risk alleles have been identified, they do not completely explain the high heritability. We postulate that epigenetic factors as DNA methylation might contribute to this missing heritability. Using a Methylome-wide association study in a Brazilian cohort (67 NSCLP, 59 controls), we found 578 methylation variable positions (MVPs) that were significantly associated with NSCLP. MVPs were enriched in regulatory and active regions of the genome and in pathways already implicated in craniofacial development. In an independent UK cohort (171 NSCLP, 177 controls), we replicated 4 out of 11 tested MVPs. We demonstrated a significant positive correlation between blood and lip tissue DNA methylation, indicating blood as a suitable tissue for NSCLP methylation studies. Next, we quantified CDH1 promoter methylation levels in CDH1 mutation-positive families, including penetrants, non-penetrants or non-carriers for NSCLP. We found methylation levels to be significantly higher in the penetrant individuals. Taken together, our results demonstrated the association of methylation at specific genomic locations as contributing factors to both non-familial and familial NSCLP and altered DNA methylation may be a second hit contributing to penetrance.
Density-controlled quantum Hall ferromagnetic transition in a two-dimensional hole system
Authors: Lu T. M. , Tracy L. A. , Laroche D. , Huang S.-H. , Chuang Y. , Su Y.-H. , Li J.-Y. , Liu C. W.
Published: May 2017

Quantum Hall ferromagnetic transitions are typically achieved by increasing the Zeeman energy through in-situ sample rotation, while transitions in systems with pseudo-spin indices can be induced by gate control. We report here a gate-controlled quantum Hall ferromagnetic transition between two real spin states in a conventional two-dimensional system without any in-plane magnetic field. We show that the ratio of the Zeeman splitting to the cyclotron gap in a Ge two-dimensional hole system increases with decreasing density owing to inter-carrier interactions. Below a critical density of ~2.4 × 1010 cm−2, this ratio grows greater than 1, resulting in a ferromagnetic ground state at filling factor ν = 2. At the critical density, a resistance peak due to the formation of microscopic domains of opposite spin orientations is observed. Such gate-controlled spin-polarizations in the quantum Hall regime opens the door to realizing Majorana modes using two-dimensional systems in conventional, low-spin-orbit-coupling semiconductors.
Comparison of peptide retention prediction algorithm in reversed-phase chromatography. Comment on “Predictive chromatography of peptides and proteins as a complementary tool for proteomics”, by I. A. Tarasova, C. D. Masselon, A. V. Gorshkov and M. V. Gorshkov, Analyst, 2016, 141, 4816
Authors: Krokhin Oleg V.
Published: May 2017

In applied proteomics, correct use of peptide retention prediction models is vital.
Reply to ‘Comparison of peptide retention prediction algorithm in reversed-phase chromatography. Comment on “Predictive chromatography of peptides and proteins as a complementary tool for proteomics”’, by O. V. Krokhin, Analyst, 2017, 142, DOI: 10.1039/c6an02510b
Authors: Tarasova I. A. , Masselon C. D. , Gorshkov A. V. , Gorshkov M. V.
Published: May 2017

On the applicability of peptide retention time prediction software for data acquired using different LC conditions.
pH-Driven self-sorting in a four component host–guest system
Authors: Basílio Nuno , Mendoza Johan , Gago Sandra , Parola A. Jorge
Published: May 2017

A four component host–guest system was found to self-sort only under equimolar and acidic conditions.
Single-component white-light emission via intramolecular electronic conjugation-truncation with perylenemonoimide
Authors: Pal Kaushik , Sharma Vikas , Koner Apurba Lal
Published: May 2017

Solvent specific intramolecular electronic communication truncated optical behaviour, and white light emission with a CIE chromaticity index of (0.33, 0.33) using only single component via non-covalent nano-assembly of alkyne–phenanthrene conjugated perylenemonoimide (PMIAP) are demonstrated.
Two-photon imaging of formaldehyde in live cells and animals utilizing a lysosome-targetable and acidic pH-activatable fluorescent probe
Authors: Xie Xilei , Tang Fuyan , Shangguan Xiaoyan , Che Shiyi , Niu Jinye , Xiao Yongsheng , Wang Xu , Tang Bo
Published: May 2017

A two-photon fluorescent probe presented lysosomal targetability and an acidic pH-activatable response toward formaldehyde, and was applied to visualize formaldehyde in living systems.
Encapsulation and solid state sequestration of gases by calix[6]arene-based molecular containers
Authors: Lavendomme Roy , Ajami Daniela , Moerkerke Steven , Wouters Johan , Rissanen Kari , Luhmer Michel , Jabin Ivan
Published: May 2017

Calix[6]arene-based molecular containers can encapsulate small guests through a unique “rotating door” complexation process. The sequestration in the solid state of greenhouse gases is demonstrated.
Halofunctionalization of alkenes by vanadium chloroperoxidase from Curvularia inaequalis
Authors: Dong Jia Jia , Fernández-Fueyo Elena , Li Jingbo , Guo Zheng , Renirie Rokus , Wever Ron , Hollmann Frank
Published: May 2017

The vanadium-dependent chloroperoxidase fromCurvularia inaequalisis a stable and efficient biocatalyst for the hydroxyhalogenation of a broad range of alkenes into halohydrins.
Pore wall fluorescence labeling of covalent organic frameworks
Authors: Rager Sabrina , Dogru Mirjam , Werner Veronika , Gavryushin Andreij , Götz Maria , Engelke Hanna , Medina Dana D. , Knochel Paul , Bein Thomas
Published: May 2017

A novel covalent organic framework (COF) based on terphenyldiboronic acid exhibiting open pores of about 4.1 nm is presented. The pore walls of the COF could be functionalized with a fluorescent dye.
Ultrathin CoOx-modified hematite with low onset potential for solar water oxidation
Authors: Du Chun , Wang Jun , Liu Xiao , Yang Jie , Cao Kun , Wen Yanwei , Chen Rong , Shan Bin
Published: May 2017

Photoelectrochemical water splitting holds great potential for solar energy conversion and storage with zero greenhouse gas emission.
The relevance of structural features of cellulose and its interactions to dissolution, regeneration, gelation and plasticization phenomena
Authors: Lindman Björn , Medronho Bruno , Alves Luis , Costa Carolina , Edlund Håkan , Norgren Magnus
Published: May 2017

The interactions and structural properties of cellulose influence different phenomena.
Self-thermophoretic motion of controlled assembled micro-/nanomotors
Authors: Lin Xiankun , Si Tieyan , Wu Zhiguang , He Qiang
Published: May 2017

Controlled assembled micro-/nanomotors are driven in fluid by near infrared light. The behaviour and mechanism of self-thermophoretic motion are reviewed.
Topotactic conversion of layered silicate RUB-15 to silica sodalite through interlayer condensation in N-methylformamide
Authors: Koike Masakazu , Asakura Yusuke , Sugihara Megumi , Kuroda Yoshiyuki , Tsuzura Hidehiro , Wada Hiroaki , Shimojima Atsushi , Kuroda Kazuyuki
Published: May 2017

Layered silicate RUB-15 was topotactically converted to silica sodalite through interlayer condensation by refluxing in N-methylformamide.
The synergy effect of rare earth cations on local structure and PL emission in a Ce3+:REPO4(RE = La, Gd, Lu, Y) system
Authors: Sun Congting , Xue Dongfeng
Published: May 2017

The activation of P−O bonding that promotes the phase transition and enhances the PL emission of REPO4under the synergy effect of rare earth cations is studied. Anion groups with lower site symmetry coordinated with rare earth cations favor 5d → 4f emission of Ce3+.
Synthesis, characterization and oxygen atom transfer reactivity of a pair of Mo(iv)O- and Mo(vi)O2-enedithiolate complexes – a look at both ends of the catalytic transformation
Authors: Ghosh Ashta C. , Samuel Prinson P. , Schulzke Carola
Published: May 2017

A novel pair of mono-oxo and di-oxo bis-dithiolene molybdenum complexes were synthesized, characterized and catalytically investigated as models for a molybdenum dependent oxidoreductase.
Phosphine-functionalized NHC Ni(ii) and Ni(0) complexes: synthesis, characterization and catalytic properties
Authors: Rull S. G. , Rama R. J. , Álvarez E. , Fructos M. R. , Belderrain T. R. , Nicasio M. C.
Published: May 2017

Ni(ii) and Ni(0) complexes bearing chelating diphenylphosphine-functionalized NHC ligands have been prepared and characterized. Their catalytic behavior in various cross-coupling reactions has also been examined.
Highly effective C–C bond cleavage of lignin model compounds
Authors: Wang Yinling , Wang Qianyi , He Jianghua , Zhang Yuetao
Published: May 2017

Baeyer–Villiger oxidation is employed to effectively cleave the C–C bonds in lignin model compounds, affording multifunctional esters and phenols in excellent yields.
Fatty acid based biocarbonates: Al-mediated stereoselective preparation of mono-, di- and tricarbonates under mild and solvent-less conditions
Authors: Peña Carrodeguas L. , Cristòfol À. , Fraile J. M. , Mayoral J. A. , Dorado V. , Herrerías C. I. , Kleij A. W.
Published: May 2017

Various epoxidised fatty acids are conveniently converted into biocarbonates under mild and solvent-less conditions with unprecedented high levels of diastereoselectivity.
Universal signal generator for dynamic cell stimulation
Authors: Piehler Andreas , Ghorashian Navid , Zhang Ce , Tay Savaş
Published: May 2017

Dynamic cell stimulation is a powerful technique for probing gene networks and for applications in stem cell differentiation, immunomodulation and signaling.
Remarkable catalytic activity of a sulfonated mesoporous polymer (MP-SO3H) for the synthesis of solketal at room temperature
Authors: Churipard Sathyapal R. , Manjunathan Pandian , Chandra Prakash , Shanbhag Ganapati V. , Ravishankar Raman , Rao Peddy V. C. , Sri Ganesh Gandham , Halgeri A. B. , Maradur Sanjeev P.
Published: May 2017

A sulfonic acid-functionalized mesoporous polymer (MP-SO3H) catalyst was prepared via post-synthetic modification of mesoporous polydivinylbenzene.
N,N′-Di-carboxymethyl perylene diimide functionalized magnetic nanocomposites with enhanced peroxidase-like activity for colorimetric sensing of H2O2and glucose
Authors: Chen Miaomiao , Sun Lifang , Ding Yanan , Shi Zhiqiang , Liu Qingyun
Published: May 2017

Perylene diimides functionalized Fe3O4nanoparticles are demonstrated to possess a higher intrinsic peroxidase-like activity than that of pure Fe3O4nanoparticles.
Phosphorus–nitrogen compounds. Part 37. Syntheses and structural characterizations, biological activities of mono and bis(4-fluorobenzyl)spirocyclotetraphosphazenes
Authors: Elmas Gamze , Okumuş Aytuğ , Sevinç Pelin , Kılıç Zeynel , Açık Leyla , Atalan Mustafa , Türk Mustafa , Deniz Gökberk , Hökelek Tuncer
Published: May 2017

The syntheses, spectroscopic and crystallographic properties,in vitrocytotoxic and antimicrobial activities of the cyclotetraphosphazenes were investigated.
Efficient DNA condensation by ruthenium(ii) polypyridyl complexes containing triptycenyl functionalized 1,10-phenanthroline
Authors: Bhat Satish S. , Revankar Vidyanand K. , Pinjari Rahul V. , S Naveen , Bogar Chetana , Bhat Kishor , Kawade Vitthal A.
Published: May 2017

A series of luminescent ruthenium(ii) polypyridyl complexes containing an extended aromatic moiety derived from triptycene and 1,10-phenanthroline were synthesized and their photophysical, theoretical, and biological properties were investigated.
Synthesis of ZnS/CuS nanospheres loaded on reduced graphene oxide as high-performance photocatalysts under simulated sunlight irradiation
Authors: Yang Liu , Guan Xin , Wang Guang-Sheng , Guan Xiao-Hui , Jia Bo
Published: May 2017

Schematic descriptions for the formation of ZnS/CuS–rGO nanocomposites and their excellent photocatalytic performance.
N-(4-Hydroxyphenyl)acetamide against diiodine towards polyiodide dianion
Authors: Banti Christina N. , Kourkoumelis Nikolaos , Raptopoulou Catherine P. , Psycharis Vassilis , Hadjikakou Sotiris K.
Published: May 2017

N-(4-Hydroxyphenyl)acetamide decreases the total amount of diiodine which is available for the iodination of tyrosil residues of thyroglobulin, while it inhibits the activity of thyroid peroxidase.
Dynamic fluorescence quenching by 2,4,6-trinitrophenol in the voids of an aggregation induced emission based fluorescent probe
Authors: Tripathi Neetu , Singh Prabhpreet , Kumar Subodh
Published: May 2017

PY-DNSfollows dynamic fluorescence quenching with TNP to elicit a linear change in fluorescence quenching over eight orders of concentration of TNP (10−13–10−5M).