bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advanced biofuels production by upgrading of pyrolysis bio‐oil
Authors: Fermoso Javier , Pizarro Patricia , Coronado Juan M. , Serrano David P.
Published: February 2017

The present work is a review on the production of bio‐oils from biomass pyrolysis, with special emphasis on the different catalytic methods developed so far for the upgrading of this liquid fraction in order to significantly improve its properties, so it can be used as advanced biofuel. After a discussion of the main variables and factors affecting biomass pyrolysis, a number of processes are described here for bio‐oil upgrading, including catalytic pyrolysis, esterification, aldol condensation, ketonization, and hydrodeoxygenation (HDO). All of them are featured by the use of tailored catalysts that may play different roles, such as completing depolymerization of biomass, promoting deoxygenation reactions, and favoring CC bonds formation in order to increase the proportion of components present in the final bio‐oil within the range of liquid fuels.The review highlights the challenges that must still be faced for biomass pyrolysis/bio‐oil upgrading to become a commercial process. Among them, catalyst deactivation is a general issue to be considered as bio‐oil has a strong tendency to polymerize, forming carbonaceous deposits on the catalysts, and contains a large share of water with acidic pH that may damage the catalyst components in liquid‐phase upgrading treatments. Likewise, process integration of bio‐oil upgrading treatments, through more or less complex schemes, is an aspect that should be deeply analyzed in the future as it may be a key element determining the commercial feasibility of the overall process. WIREs Energy Environ 2017, 6:e245. doi: 10.1002/wene.245

This article is categorized under:

Bioenergy > Science and Materials

Bioenergy > Systems and Infrastructure
Gamma Coherences in the Default Mode Resting State as a Measure of Consciousness Level
Authors: Jombik Peter , Drobny Michal , Saniova Beata , Fischer Martin , Kaderjakova Petra
Published: February 2017

Recent findings indicate that the default mode resting state network (DMRSN) is closely associated with conscious awareness. Thus changes in consciousness level could be reflected in turn in the DMRSN functional state. One of the most important requirements for proper network function is connectivity within the network structural constituents. One of the measures of functional connectivity is analysis of the EEG coherences. In this study we have examined changes in the mean coherences in the gamma spectral band 30–45 Hz in the DMRSN during general anaesthesia (GA) in the open thorax surgery were investigated in twenty patients. They were compared with physiologic EEG findings in twenty alert subjects and the mathematical model of brain death. Results of this study indicate that the decrease in coherences in the physiologic EEG and the patients with one lung ventilation (OLV) groups was roughly proportional to the increasing distance between the electrodes. This created some kind of a structure in the DMRSN. In the OLV group the main finding was a decrease in the coherences in the gamma band. Ten of the anaesthetized subjects showed a clear burst suppression pattern. During this condition the coherences in the pairs connecting the posterior parts of the network decreased. Moreover, the differences between the connections of the anterior to posterior parts of the DMRSN and connections between the posterior parts of the DMRSN were almost lost. However, they showed still highly significant differences in all items when compared with the mathematical model of brain death. In summary the results suggest that the functional connectivity in the DMRSN assessed by mean coherences could be a reliable method for assessing the depth of GA and may be useful for understanding disorders of consciousness in general.
Brain Substratum Of Pathogenic Neurotic Belief In Panic Disorder: A Single Case Study
Authors: Kukleta Miloslav
Published: February 2017

The aim of the study was to demonstrate how recent research achievements in the neuroscience of emotions can influence practical management of anxiety disorders. Using the data obtained from analysis of psychophysiological mechanisms in one case of panic disorder, the type of threat, key threat stimuli, and the structure of the pathogenic neurotic belief were ascertained and, on this basis, an individually tailored therapeutic procedure was designed. Its application resulted in almost complete dissipation of the neurotic belief, which represented the key p athogenic mechanism in the case studied. The study called attention especially to the importance of detailed diagnostics of memory mechanisms underlying the formation of neurotic belief in the psychotherapy of anxiety disorders.
Large-Scale Synchronization Related to Structures Manifesting Simultaneous EEG Baseline Shifts in the Pre-Movement Period
Authors: Kukleta Miloslav , Bob Petr , Turak Baris , Louvel Jacques
Published: February 2017

Several current data indicate that intracranial records of the Bereitschaftspotential from some brain loci manifest baseline shifts (EBS) in the early pre-movement period that are separated from the movement components by a distinct plateau. In this context, main purpose of this study was to assess whether structures generating the EBSs that are simultaneously widespread in various structures of the brain will be specifically linked to higher levels of large-scale integration in comparison to structures that were not involved in EBS generation. In this study were included 21 epilepsy surgery candidates (12 men, 9 women; aged from 18 to 49 years), who were measured during self-paced clenching movements of the hand. Brain activities during the task were recorded using intracerebral electrodes and were evaluated in pairs. Eighty two percent of the EBSs started in various distant brain structures at the same time, eighteen percent at different time. Approximately half of the EBSs of the first group started in the prefrontal regions; the second half was obtained from pairs located in parietal and temporal regions. The first, the second, and the third groups exhibited a special degree of activity synchronization. The simultaneous EBS onsets associated synchronization strongly suggests significantly higher functional coupling of these brain areas which is supposed to be a basic mechanism of integration of various areas of the brain participating in cognitive and intentional functions.
Developments in the Neuroscience of Dreams
Authors: Shaw Bryony
Published: February 2017

Dreams and the act of dreaming have been subjects dismissed and discussed by great philosophers and psychologists for centuries. This paper explores developments in neuroscience as they relate to dreams, and how these developments help people in general understand better the role of dreams. The role of dreams and sleep are explored as they relate to mental health and affect regulation. Developments in neuroscience also help us understand the value of dream interpretation.
A Portrait of Intimate Apparel Female Shoppers: A Segmentation Study
Authors: Tsarenko Yelena , Lo Carolyn J.
Published: February 2017

This research expands dialogue on the dynamic consumer–product relationship within the under-researched, albeit sensitive, context of intimate wear. Drawing on involvement theory alongside specific product and service attributes, this study delineates and profiles segments within the highly engendered consumption of the bra. Data gathered from 221 Australian females unveiled three distinct segments of female bra shoppers: Enthusiasts who derive significant hedonic value in purchasing bras, Dilettantes who portray high interest in lingerie but exhibit the lowest levels of competency in bra-shopping, and Pragmatists who hold the lowest score in terms of hedonic value but perceive themselves as highly competent bra shoppers. Demographic and attribute profiling further captures differences between segments on factors including age, brand importance, lingerie servicescape ambience, and professional fitting advice. Findings provide relevant insights for lingerie retailers and suggestions for future research.
Clinical epidemiological survey of gallbladder carcinoma in northwestern China, 2009–2013: 2379 cases in 17 centers
Authors: Shen Hao‐Xin , Song Hu‐Wei , Xu Xin‐Jian , Jiao Zuo‐Yi , Ti Zhen‐Yu , Li Zhao‐Yu , Ren Bin , Chen Chen , Ma Li , Zhao Ya‐Ling , Zhang Guan‐Jun , Ma Jian‐Cang , Geng Xi‐Lin , Zhang Xiao‐Di , Shi Jing‐Sen , Wang Lin , Geng Zhi‐Min
Published: February 2017

Objective

To analyze the clinical epidemiological characteristics of patients with gallbladder carcinoma recruited from 17 hospitals in five northwestern provinces of China (Shaanxi Province, Gansu Province, Qinghai Province, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, and Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region) from 2009 to 2013, and to summarize the clinical diagnosis and treatment data of gallbladder carcinoma.

Methods

Clinical information of 2379 patients with gallbladder carcinoma from 17 hospitals in five northwestern provinces of China was retrospectively collected and analyzed using the “Questionnaire for Gallbladder Carcinoma Patients in Northwestern Area of China.” All information was verified with EpiData software and analyzed with SPSS 13.0 software.

Results

(1) Gallbladder carcinoma accounted for 2.7% (2379/86,609) of all biliary tract diseases during the study period, which was significantly higher than that from 1986 to 1998 (P < 0.001). (2) Gallbladder carcinoma was more prone to occur in elderly women. The male:female incidence ratio was 1.0:2.1, the average age of onset of disease was 63.7 ± 11.3 years, and the incidence was higher in farmers than in other occupational groups. (3) A total of 57.2% (1360/2379) of patients with gallbladder carcinoma also had gallstones. (4) Abdominal pain (1796/2379, 75.5%) and jaundice (727/2379, 30.6%) were the most common clinical manifestations, 81.2% (1527/1881) were positive in those receiving B ultrasound examinations and 90.7% (1567/1727) were positive in those undergoing computed tomography, and 64.5% (1124/1742) of patients with gallbladder carcinoma were positive for carbohydrate antigen (CA) 19‐9. (5) The pathological type of gallbladder carcinoma was mainly moderately and poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma with a high degree of malignancy. At admission, 55.1% (1091/1981) of patients had stage IV cancer among patients with TNM staging information; 55.9% (1331/2379) had lymphatic metastasis, 29.7% (706/2379) had bile duct metastasis, and 53.1% (1263/2379) had liver metastasis. (6) A total of 283 patients (283/2379, 11.9%) had incidentally detected gallbladder carcinoma. (7) The rate of radical surgical resection was 30.4% (723/2379).

Conclusion

The proportion of gallbladder carcinoma in biliary tract diseases in the northwestern area of China was significantly higher from 2009 to 2013 than from 1986 to 1998. Gallbladder carcinoma was common in older women and mainly diagnosed at an advanced stage. Compared with other surveys in different regions, the rate of metastasis in this survey was high, leading to a low resection rate. Populations at high risk should undergo B‐ultrasound examinations at regular follow‐up intervals to increase the rate of early diagnosis of gallbladder carcinoma.
The lipidome in major depressive disorder: Shared genetic influence for ether-phosphatidylcholines, a plasma-based phenotype related to inflammation, and disease risk
Authors: Knowles E.E.M. , Huynh K. , Meikle P.J. , Göring H.H.H. , Olvera R.L. , Mathias S.R. , Duggirala R. , Almasy L. , Blangero J. , Curran J.E. , Glahn D.C.
Published: February 2017

Background:

The lipidome is rapidly garnering interest in the field of psychiatry. Recent studies have implicated lipidomic changes across numerous psychiatric disorders. In particular, there is growing evidence that the concentrations of several classes of lipids are altered in those diagnosed with MDD. However, for lipidomic abnormalities to be considered potential treatment targets for MDD (rather than secondary manifestations of the disease), a shared etiology between lipid concentrations and MDD should be demonstrated.

Methods:

In a sample of 567 individuals from 37 extended pedigrees (average size 13.57 people, range = 3–80), we used mass spectrometry lipidomic measures to evaluate the genetic overlap between twenty-three biologically distinct lipid classes and a dimensional scale of MDD.

Results:

We found that the lipid class with the largest endophenotype ranking value (ERV, a standardized parametric measure of pleiotropy) were ether-phosphodatidylcholines (alkylphosphatidylcholine, PC(O) and alkenylphosphatidylcholine, PC(P) subclasses). Furthermore, we examined the cluster structure of the twenty-five species within the top-ranked lipid class, and the relationship of those clusters with MDD. This analysis revealed that species containing arachidonic acid generally exhibited the greatest degree of genetic overlap with MDD.

Conclusions:

This study is the first to demonstrate a shared genetic etiology between MDD and ether-phosphatidylcholine species containing arachidonic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid that is a precursor to inflammatory mediators, such as prostaglandins. The study highlights the potential utility of the well-characterized linoleic/arachidonic acid inflammation pathway as a diagnostic marker and/or treatment target for MDD.
Tokens of Power
Authors: Hironaka Ann
Published: February 2017

War presents a curious paradox. Interstate war is arguably the most carefully planned endeavor by states, yet military history is filled with disasters and blunders of monumental proportions. These anomalies happen because most military history presumes that states are pursuing optimal strategies in a competitive environment. This book offers an alternative narrative in which the pillars of military planning - evaluations of power, strategy, and interests - are theorized as social constructions rather than simple material realities. States may be fighting wars primarily to gain or maintain power, yet in any given historical era such pursuits serve only to propel competition; they do not ensure military success in subsequent generations. Allowing states to embark on hapless military ventures is fraught with risks, while the rewards are few.
Music education: Why bother?
Authors: FAUTLEY MARTIN
Published: February 2017

One of the common questions asked of music educators is some sort of variation on ‘music education – why bother?’
Early Schooling: What Matters?
Authors: Ashby Gerald , Boulton-Lewis Gillian M.
Published: February 2017

Too often debate about the pros and cons of early schooling, including preschooling, focuses on age. But is age the most significant variable? How does the focus on age of entry align with current perspectives on development in early childhood? TO what extent does the debate take account of recent advances in teaching strategies and curriculum in early childhood? Too often it would appear that decisions concerning school programs are based on considerations which do not give attention to psychological and other evidence. To this extent the paper argues that the links between psychology and social change are tenuous. The paper undertakes a review of the issues from both developmental and educational viewpoints. In addition consideration is also given to the impact of social and cultural factors upon the movement; of children both from home to school and within school. Specifically the paper advances the view that a central concern in early education is the extent to which curriculum and strategies are able to meet individual needs.
School and Disability: A Review of the Integration Debate
Authors: Jenkinson Jo
Published: February 2017

Integration of students with disabilities into regular schools has come to be one of the most pervasive and controversial issues in special education. The so-called “efficacy” research is beset with methodological problems and offers no clear answer to the debate. This paper reviews influences underlying integration, presents models for its implementation, and discusses their implications for both school organization and disabled students. Some alternative approaches to research are discussed.

This paper is based on Jenkinson, J.C. School and Disability: Research and Practice in Integration. Australian Education Review No. 26 Hawthorn, Vic. Australian Council for Educational Research, 1987, and is reproduced with the permission of ACER.
Avoidance in Anxiety and Depression: Adaptation of the Cognitive-Behavioral Avoidance Scale in a Spanish Sample
Authors: Barajas Santiago , Garra Luis , Ros Laura
Published: February 2017

This study examines how cognitive, behavioral and experiential avoidance differs between clinical patients (N = 100), the general population (N = 100), and undergraduate students (N = 54). For this purpose, a Spanish adaptation of the Cognitive-Behavioral Avoidance Scale (CBAS; Ottenbreit & Dobson, 2004) was made. Confirmatory factor analysis supports the four factors structure similar to the original one, yet question the value of three of the items (CFI = .929, RMSEA = .057, SRMR = .051, χ2(333) = 603.28, p < .001, χ2/df = 1.81). Effect sizes calculated using Cohen’s ƒ2 were between 0.30 and 2.57 in all cases, and only one item showed value < 0.35. The internal consistency for the total scale was .95, and adequate alpha values for the four subscales were found (α between .74 and .93). Statistical differences were found between the clinical and non-clinical groups, and also between the clinical and undergraduate groups (GLM, p < .001). The validity was verified using correlations with AAQ-II, MAAS, BDI-II and BAI. There is a correlation between cognitive-behavioral avoidance and experiential avoidance in both the clinical and control groups (rho = .382, rho = .361, p < .01). Patients with higher levels of cognitive-behavioral avoidance have higher levels of depression (rho = .36, p < .01). A score of 53 is suggested as the optimum cut-off point, because at this point, sensitivity and specificity are both 86%. The results suggest that cognitive-behavioral avoidance represents a significant factor in psychopathology. Recommendations for future studies are discussed.
Synthesizing Our Understanding of Earth's Deep Carbon
Authors: Edmonds Marie , Manning Craig
Published: February 2017

The Deep Carbon Observatory is entering a new phase, in which it will integrate 10 years of discoveries into an overarching model to benefit the scientific community and a wider public.
Genome-wide analyses of non-syndromic cleft lip with palate identify 14 novel loci and genetic heterogeneity
Authors: Yu Yanqin , Zuo Xianbo , He Miao , Gao Jinping , Fu Yuchuan , Qin Chuanqi , Meng Liuyan , Wang Wenjun , Song Yaling , Cheng Yong , Zhou Fusheng , Chen Gang , Zheng Xiaodong , Wang Xinhuan , Liang Bo , Zhu Zhengwei , Fu Xiazhou , Sheng Yujun , Hao Jiebing , Liu Zhongyin , Yan Hansong , Mangold Elisabeth , Ruczinski Ingo , Liu Jianjun , Marazita Mary L. , Ludwig Kerstin U. , Beaty Terri H. , Zhang Xuejun , Sun Liangdan , Bian Zhuan
Published: February 2017

Non-syndromic cleft lip with palate (NSCLP) is the most serious sub-phenotype of non-syndromic orofacial clefts (NSOFC), which are the most common craniofacial birth defects in humans. Here we conduct a GWAS of NSCLP with multiple independent replications, totalling 7,404 NSOFC cases and 16,059 controls from several ethnicities, to identify new NSCLP risk loci, and explore the genetic heterogeneity between sub-phenotypes of NSOFC. We identify 41 SNPs within 26 loci that achieve genome-wide significance, 14 of which are novel (RAD54B, TMEM19, KRT18, WNT9B, GSC/DICER1, PTCH1, RPS26, OFCC1/TFAP2A, TAF1B, FGF10, MSX1, LINC00640, FGFR1 and SPRY1). These 26 loci collectively account for 10.94% of the heritability for NSCLP in Chinese population. We find evidence of genetic heterogeneity between the sub-phenotypes of NSOFC and among different populations. This study substantially increases the number of genetic susceptibility loci for NSCLP and provides important insights into the genetic aetiology of this common craniofacial malformation.
Rapid and tunable method to temporally control gene editing based on conditional Cas9 stabilization
Authors: Senturk Serif , Shirole Nitin H. , Nowak Dawid G. , Corbo Vincenzo , Pal Debjani , Vaughan Alexander , Tuveson David A. , Trotman Lloyd C. , Kinney Justin B. , Sordella Raffaella
Published: February 2017

The CRISPR/Cas9 system is a powerful tool for studying gene function. Here, we describe a method that allows temporal control of CRISPR/Cas9 activity based on conditional Cas9 destabilization. We demonstrate that fusing an FKBP12-derived destabilizing domain to Cas9 (DD-Cas9) enables conditional Cas9 expression and temporal control of gene editing in the presence of an FKBP12 synthetic ligand. This system can be easily adapted to co-express, from the same promoter, DD-Cas9 with any other gene of interest without co-modulation of the latter. In particular, when co-expressed with inducible Cre-ERT2, our system enables parallel, independent manipulation of alleles targeted by Cas9 and traditional recombinase with single-cell specificity. We anticipate this platform will be used for the systematic characterization and identification of essential genes, as well as the investigation of the interactions between functional genes.
GFORCE-PD still going strong in 2016
Authors: Parmar Malin , Takahashi Jun , Studer Lorenz , Barker Roger A
Published: February 2017

In 2014, a new initiative was undertaken by groups working on plans for the transplantation of stem-cell-based derived dopaminergic neurons for treating Parkinson’s disease patients. This GForce-PD group held its annual meeting on 18–19 April 2016 in Chicago at Rush University to discuss their progress and the challenges that the translation of this experimental therapy still faces. Over 2 days, the key issues were discussed around the cell lines that will be used, the differentiation protocols, preclinical testing, GMP-adaptation, and cell manufacturing to allow first in human clinical trials, which are anticipated to start in 2017–2018. GForce-PD members also discussed how they can improve outreach and be of better service to the Parkinson's disease (PD) community and help them to make the best possible decisions when pursuing stem cell treatments.
Gait improvement via rhythmic stimulation in Parkinson’s disease is linked to rhythmic skills
Authors: Bella Simone Dalla , Benoit Charles-Etienne , Farrugia Nicolas , Keller Peter E. , Obrig Hellmuth , Mainka Stefan , Kotz Sonja A.
Published: February 2017

Training based on rhythmic auditory stimulation (RAS) can improve gait in patients with idiopathic Parkinson’s disease (IPD). Patients typically walk faster and exhibit greater stride length after RAS. However, this effect is highly variable among patients, with some exhibiting little or no response to the intervention. These individual differences may depend on patients’ ability to synchronize their movements to a beat. To test this possibility, 14 IPD patients were submitted to RAS for four weeks, in which they walked to music with an embedded metronome. Before and after the training, patients’ synchronization was assessed with auditory paced hand tapping and walking to auditory cues. Patients increased gait speed and stride length in non-cued gait after training. However, individual differences were apparent as some patients showed a positive response to RAS and others, either no response, or a negative response. A positive response to RAS was predicted by the synchronization performance in hand tapping and gait tasks. More severe gait impairment, low synchronization variability, and a prompt response to a stimulation change foster a positive response to RAS training. Thus, sensorimotor timing skills underpinning the synchronization of steps to an auditory cue may allow predicting the success of RAS in IPD.
Choline ameliorates cardiovascular damage by improving vagal activity and inhibiting the inflammatory response in spontaneously hypertensive rats
Authors: Liu Longzhu , Lu Yi , Bi Xueyuan , Xu Man , Yu Xiaojiang , Xue Runqing , He Xi , Zang Weijin
Published: February 2017

Autonomic dysfunction and abnormal immunity lead to systemic inflammatory responses, which result in cardiovascular damage in hypertension. The aim of this report was to investigate the effects of choline on cardiovascular damage in hypertension. Eight-week-old male spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) and Wistar-Kyoto rats were intraperitoneally injected with choline or vehicle (8 mg/kg/day). After 8 weeks, choline restored the cardiac function of the SHRs, as evidenced by decreased heart rate, systolic blood pressure, left ventricle systolic pressure, and ±dp/dtmax and increased ejection fraction and fractional shortening. Choline also ameliorated the cardiac hypertrophy of the SHRs, as indicated by reduced left ventricle internal dimensions and decreased cardiomyocyte cross-sectional area. Moreover, choline improved mesenteric arterial function and preserved endothelial ultrastructure in the SHRs. Notably, the protective effect of choline may be due to its anti-inflammatory effect. Choline downregulated expression of interleukin (IL)-6 and tumour necrosis factor-α and upregulated IL-10 in the mesenteric arteries of SHRs, possibly because of the inhibition of Toll-like receptor 4. Furthermore, choline restored baroreflex sensitivity and serum acetylcholine level in SHRs, thus indicating that choline improved vagal activity. This study suggests that choline elicits cardiovascular protective effects and may be useful as a potential adjunct therapeutic approach for hypertension.
Correction: Corrigendum: Microbial Nanoculture as an Artificial Microniche
Authors: Niepa Tagbo H. R. , Hou Likai , Jiang Hongyuan , Goulian Mark , Koo Hyun , Stebe Kathleen J. , Lee Daeyeon
Published: February 2017

Scientific Reports 6 Article number: 30578; published online: 01 August 2016; updated on: 22 February 2017 The Acknowledgements section in this Article is incomplete. “This work was supported by NSF Grant No. DMR-1120901 (Penn MRSEC) and PIRE-1545884. T.H.R.N. was supported by the Postdoctoral Fellowship for Academic Diversity Program (University of Pennsylvania) and the Consortium for Ocean Leadership, Inc.
Alpha-synuclein prevents the formation of spherical mitochondria and apoptosis under oxidative stress
Authors: Menges Stefanie , Minakaki Georgia , Schaefer Patrick M. , Meixner Holger , Prots Iryna , Schlötzer-Schrehardt Ursula , Friedland Kristina , Winner Beate , Outeiro Tiago F. , Winklhofer Konstanze F. , von Arnim Christine A. F. , Xiang Wei , Winkler Jürgen , Klucken Jochen
Published: February 2017

Oxidative stress (OS), mitochondrial dysfunction, and dysregulation of alpha-synuclein (aSyn) homeostasis are key pathogenic factors in Parkinson’s disease. Nevertheless, the role of aSyn in mitochondrial physiology remains elusive. Thus, we addressed the impact of aSyn specifically on mitochondrial response to OS in neural cells. We characterize a distinct type of mitochondrial fragmentation, following H2O2or 6-OHDA-induced OS, defined by spherically-shaped and hyperpolarized mitochondria, termed “mitospheres”. Mitosphere formation mechanistically depended on the fission factor Drp1, and was paralleled by reduced mitochondrial fusion. Furthermore, mitospheres were linked to a decrease in mitochondrial activity, and preceded Caspase3 activation. Even though fragmentation of dysfunctional mitochondria is considered to be a prerequisite for mitochondrial degradation, mitospheres were not degraded via Parkin-mediated mitophagy. Importantly, we provide compelling evidence that aSyn prevents mitosphere formation and reduces apoptosis under OS. In contrast, aSyn did not protect against Rotenone, which led to a different, previously described donut-shaped mitochondrial morphology. Our findings reveal a dichotomic role of aSyn in mitochondrial biology, which is linked to distinct types of stress-induced mitochondrial fragmentation. Specifically, aSyn may be part of a cellular defense mechanism preserving neural mitochondrial homeostasis in the presence of increased OS levels, while not protecting against stressors directly affecting mitochondrial function.
Dendritic cells derived exosomes migration to spleen and induction of inflammation are regulated by CCR7
Authors: Wei Gao , Jie Yuan , Haibo Liu , Chaoneng Wu , Dong Huang , Jianbing Zhu , Junjie Guo , Leilei Ma , Hongtao Shi , Yunzeng Zou , Junbo Ge
Published: February 2017

Mature dendritic cells (DCs) home to secondary lymphoid organs through CC chemokine receptor 7 (CCR7). Exosomes derived from DCs (DC-exos) are reported to migrate to spleen and induce inflammationin vivo. In this study, we demonstrated that mature bone marrow DC-exos can activate immature DC and T cellsin vitro. Then we intravenously injected DC-exos into C57BL/6 mice, observing that mature DC-exos accumulated more in spleen than immature DC-exos. These DC-exos in spleen could be uptaken by splenetic DCs and T cells and induce an inflammatory response. We further showed that the increased accumulation of mature DC-exos in spleen was regulated by CCR7, whose reduction led to a decrease of accumulation in spleen and attenuated inflammatory response in serum. These data provide us a new perspective to comprehensively understand exosomes, which might inherit some special functions from their parent cells and exert these functionsin vivo.
Finger posture modulates structural body representations
Authors: Tamè Luigi , Dransfield Elanah , Quettier Thomas , Longo Matthew R.
Published: February 2017

Patients with lesions of the left posterior parietal cortex commonly fail in identifying their fingers, a condition known as finger agnosia, yet are relatively unimpaired in sensation and skilled action. Such dissociations have traditionally been interpreted as evidence that structural body representations (BSR), such as the body structural description, are distinct from sensorimotor representations, such as the body schema. We investigated whether performance on tasks commonly used to assess finger agnosia is modulated by changes in hand posture. We used the ‘in between’ test in which participants estimate the number of unstimulated fingers between two touched fingers or a localization task in which participants judge which two fingers were stimulated. Across blocks, the fingers were placed in three levels of splay. Judged finger numerosity was analysed, in Exp. 1 by direct report and in Exp. 2 as the actual number of fingers between the fingers named. In both experiments, judgments were greater when non-adjacent stimulated fingers were positioned far apart compared to when they were close together or touching, whereas judgements were unaltered when adjacent fingers were stimulated. This demonstrates that BSRs are not fixed, but are modulated by the real-time physical distances between body parts.
Superstatistical model of bacterial DNA architecture
Authors: Bogachev Mikhail I. , Markelov Oleg A. , Kayumov Airat R. , Bunde Armin
Published: February 2017

Understanding the physical principles that govern the complex DNA structural organization as well as its mechanical and thermodynamical properties is essential for the advancement in both life sciences and genetic engineering. Recently we have discovered that the complex DNA organization is explicitly reflected in the arrangement of nucleotides depicted by the universal power law tailed internucleotide interval distribution that is valid for complete genomes of various prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms. Here we suggest a superstatistical model that represents a long DNA molecule by a series of consecutive ~150 bp DNA segments with the alternation of the local nucleotide composition between segments exhibiting long-range correlations. We show that the superstatistical model and the corresponding DNA generation algorithm explicitly reproduce the laws governing the empirical nucleotide arrangement properties of the DNA sequences for various global GC contents and optimal living temperatures. Finally, we discuss the relevance of our model in terms of the DNA mechanical properties. As an outlook, we focus on finding the DNA sequences that encode a given protein while simultaneously reproducing the nucleotide arrangement laws observed from empirical genomes, that may be of interest in the optimization of genetic engineering of long DNA molecules.
Cationic Polymethacrylate-Modified Liposomes Significantly Enhanced Doxorubicin Delivery and Antitumor Activity
Authors: Wang Wenxi , Shao Anna , Zhang Nan , Fang Jinzhang , Ruan Jennifer Jin , Ruan Benfang Helen
Published: February 2017

Liposome (LP) encapsulation of doxorubicin (DOX) is a clinically validated method for cancer drug delivery, but its cellular uptake is actually lower than the free DOX. Therefore, we modified DOX-LP with a cationic polymer (Eudragit RL100; ER) to improve its cellular uptake and antitumor activity. The resulting DOX-ERLP was a 190 nm nanoparticle that was absorbed efficiently and caused cancer cell death in 5 hrs. Growth as measured by the MTT assay or microscopic imaging demonstrated that DOX-ERLP has at least a two-fold greater potency than the free DOX in inhibiting the growth of a DOX resistant (MCF7/adr) cell and an aggressive liver cancer H22 cell. Further, its in vivo efficacy was tested in H22-bearing mice, where four injections of DOX-ERLP reduced the tumor growth by more than 60% and caused an average of 60% tumor necrosis, which was significantly better than the DOX and DOX-LP treated groups. Our work represents the first use of polymethacrylate derivatives for DOX liposomal delivery, demonstrating the great potential of cationic polymethacrylate modified liposomes for improving cancer drug delivery.
Mussel-inspired Fluoro-Polydopamine Functionalization of Titanium Dioxide Nanowires for Polymer Nanocomposites with Significantly Enhanced Energy Storage Capability
Authors: Wang Guanyao , Huang Xingyi , Jiang Pingkai
Published: February 2017

High-dielectric-constant polymer nanocomposites are demonstrated to show great promise as energy storage materials. However, the large electrical mismatch and incompatibility between nanofillers and polymer matrix usually give rise to significantly reduced breakdown strength and weak energy storage capability. Therefore, rational selection and elaborate functionalization of nanofillers to optimize the performance of polymer nanocomposites are vital. Herein, inspired by adhesive proteins in mussels, a facile modification by fluoro-polydopamine is employed to reinforce the compatibility of TiO2 nanowires in the fluoropolymer matrix. The loading of 2.5 vol % f-DOPA@TiO2 NWs leads to an ultrahigh discharged energy density of 11.48 J cm−3 at 530 MV m−1, more than three times of commercial biaxial-oriented polypropylene (BOPP, 3.56 J cm−3 at 600 MV m−1). A gratifying high energy density of 9.12 J cm−3 has also been obtained with nanofiller loading as high as 15 vol % at 360 MV m−1, which is nearly double to that of pure P(VDF-HFP) (4.76 J cm−3 at 360 MV m−1). This splendid energy storage capability seems to rival or exceed most of previously reported nano-TiO2 based nanocomposites. The methods presented here provide deep insights into the design of polymer nanocomposites for energy storage applications.
Ubiquitin-specific peptidase 48 regulates Mdm2 protein levels independent of its deubiquitinase activity
Authors: Cetkovská Kateřina , Šustová Hana , Uldrijan Stjepan
Published: February 2017

The overexpression of Mdm2 has been linked to the loss of p53 tumour suppressor activity in several human cancers. Here, we present results suggesting that ubiquitin-specific peptidase 48 (USP48), a deubiquitinase that has been linked in previous reports to the NF-κB signaling pathway, is a novel Mdm2 binding partner that promotes Mdm2 stability and enhances Mdm2-mediated p53 ubiquitination and degradation. In contrast to other deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs) that have been previously implicated in the regulation of Mdm2 protein stability, USP48 did not induce Mdm2 stabilization by significantly reducing Mdm2 ubiquitination levels. Moreover, two previously characterized USP48 mutants lacking deubiquitinase activity were also capable of efficiently stabilizing Mdm2, indicating that USP48 utilizes a non-canonical, deubiquitination-independent mechanism to promote Mdm2 oncoprotein stability. This study represents, to the best of our knowledge, the first report suggesting DUB-mediated target protein stabilization that is independent of its deubiquitinase activity. In addition, our results suggest that USP48 might represent a new mechanism of crosstalk between the NF-κB and p53 stress response pathways.
A reliable and flexible gene manipulation strategy in posthatch zebra finch brain
Authors: Ahmadiantehrani Somayeh , London Sarah E.
Published: February 2017

Songbird models meaningfully contribute to many fields including learned vocal communication, the neurobiology of social interactions, brain development, and ecology. The value of investigating gene-brain-behavior relationships in songbirds is therefore high. Viral infections typically used in other lab animals to deliver gene editing constructs have been less effective in songbirds, likely due to immune system properties. We therefore leveraged the in vivo electroporation strategy used in utero in rodents and in ovo in poultry, and apply it to posthatch zebra finch songbird chicks. We present a series of experiments with a combination of promoters, fluorescent protein genes, and piggyBac transposase vectors to demonstrate that this can be a reliable, efficient, and flexible strategy for genome manipulation. We discuss options for gene delivery experiments to test circuit and behavioral hypotheses using a variety of manipulations, including gene overexpression, CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, inducible technologies, optogenetic or DREADD cellular control, and cell type-specific expression.
A Comprehensive Analysis of Metabolomics and Transcriptomics in Cervical Cancer
Authors: Yang Kai , Xia Bairong , Wang Wenjie , Cheng Jinlong , Yin Mingzhu , Xie Hongyu , Li Junnan , Ma Libing , Yang Chunyan , Li Ang , Fan Xin , Dhillon Harman S. , Hou Yan , Lou Ge , Li Kang
Published: February 2017

Cervical cancer (CC) still remains a common and deadly malignancy among females in developing countries. More accurate and reliable diagnostic methods/biomarkers should be discovered. In this study, we performed a comprehensive analysis of metabolomics (285 samples) and transcriptomics (52 samples) on the potential diagnostic implication and metabolic characteristic description in cervical cancer. Sixty-two metabolites were different between CC and normal controls (NOR), in which 5 metabolites (bilirubin, LysoPC(17:0), n-oleoyl threonine, 12-hydroxydodecanoic acid and tetracosahexaenoic acid) were selected as candidate biomarkers for CC. The AUC value, sensitivity (SE), and specificity (SP) of these 5 biomarkers were 0.99, 0.98 and 0.99, respectively. We further analysed the genes in 7 significantly enriched pathways, of which 117 genes, that were expressed differentially, were mainly involved in catalytic activity. Finally, a fully connected network of metabolites and genes in these pathways was built, which can increase the credibility of our selected metabolites. In conclusion, our biomarkers from metabolomics could set a path for CC diagnosis and screening. Our results also showed that variables of both transcriptomics and metabolomics were associated with CC.
The promotion of cooperation by the poor in dynamic chicken games
Authors: Ito Hiromu , Katsumata Yuki , Hasegawa Eisuke , Yoshimura Jin
Published: February 2017

The evolution of cooperative behavior is one of the most important issues in game theory. Previous studies have shown that cooperation can evolve only under highly limited conditions, and various modifications have been introduced to games to explain the evolution of cooperation. Recently, a utility function basic to game theory was shown to be dependent on current wealth as a conditional (state) variable in a dynamic version of utility theory. Here, we introduce this dynamic utility function to several games. Under certain conditions, poor players exhibit cooperative behavior in two types of chicken games (the hawk-dove game and the snowdrift game) but not in the prisoner’s dilemma game and the stag hunt game. This result indicates that cooperation can be exhibited by the poor in some chicken games. Thus, the evolution of cooperation may not be as limited as has been suggested in previous studies.
Catch and Release: rare cell analysis from a functionalised medical wire
Authors: Chen Shukun , El-Heliebi Amin , Tauber Gerlinde , Langsenlehner Tanja , Pötscher Michaela , Kashofer Karl , Czyż Zbigniew T. , Polzer Bernhard , Riethdorf Sabine , Kuske Andra , Leitinger Gerd , Pantel Klaus , Kroneis Thomas , Sedlmayr Peter
Published: February 2017

Enumeration and especially molecular characterization of circulating tumour cells (CTCs) holds great promise for cancer management. We tested a modified type of an in vivo enrichment device (Catch&Release) for its ability to bind and detach cancer cells for the purpose of single-cell molecular downstream analysis in vitro. The evaluation showed that single–cell analysis using array comparative genome hybridization (array-CGH) and next generation sequencing (NGS) is feasible. We found array-CGH to be less noisy when whole genome amplification (WGA) was performed with Ampli1 as compared to GenomePlex (DLRS values 0.65 vs. 1.39). Moreover, Ampli1-processed cells allowed detection of smaller aberrations (median 14.0 vs. 49.9 Mb). Single-cell NGS data obtained from Ampli1-processed samples showed the expected non-synonymous mutations (deletion/SNP) according to bulk DNA. We conclude that clinical application of this refined in vivo enrichment device allows CTC enumeration and characterization, thus, representing a promising tool for personalized medicine.
Superwetting comonomers reduce adhesion of E. coli BL21
Authors: Khan Madiha F. , Luong Nicholas , Kurian Jerry , Brook Michael A.
Published: February 2017

The adhesion ofEscherichia colito copolymers of methacrylates and a trisiloxane-polyether acrylate surfactant was found to be at a minimum with copolymers containing a low (20%) fraction of the surfactant monomer.
Complex rovibrational dynamics of the Ar·NO+ complex
Authors: Papp Dóra , Sarka János , Szidarovszky Tamás , Császár Attila G. , Mátyus Edit , Hochlaf Majdi , Stoecklin Thierry
Published: February 2017

Rotational–vibrational states of the Ar·NO+ cationic complex are computed, below, above, and well above the complex's first dissociation energy, using variational nuclear motion and close-coupling scattering computations.
From single atoms to self-assembled quantum single-atomic nanowires: noble metal atoms on black phosphorene monolayers
Authors: Zhao X. J. , Shan Wen-Wen , He Hao , Xue Xinlian , Guo Z. X. , Li S. F.
Published: February 2017

Self-assembly growth of Pd(Pt)n single atomic wires on black phosphorene due to the anisotropic potential energy surface of the substrate.
Metal diffusion barriers for GaAs solar cells
Authors: van Leest R. H. , Mulder P. , Bauhuis G. J. , Cheun H. , Lee H. , Yoon W. , van der Heijden R. , Bongers E. , Vlieg E. , Schermer J. J.
Published: February 2017

Accelerated Ageing Testing (AAT) was used to assess the barrier potential of Ti, Ni, Pd and Pt. At a test temperature of 250 °C Ni offers the largest barrier potential. Based on TEM images and phase diagrams a barrier mechanism is proposed.
Modelling metaldehyde in catchments: a River Thames case-study
Authors: Lu Q. , Whitehead P. G. , Bussi G. , Futter M. N. , Nizzetto L.
Published: February 2017

The application of metaldehyde to agricultural catchment areas to control slugs and snails has caused severe problems for drinking water supply in recent years.
High-throughput transcriptomics reveals uniquely affected pathways: AgNPs, PVP-coated AgNPs and Ag NM300K case studies
Authors: Gomes Susana I. L. , Roca Carlos P. , Scott-Fordsmand Janeck J. , Amorim Mónica J. B.
Published: February 2017

Understanding the mode of action of nanomaterials (NMs) aids in improving predictions and environmental risk assessment.
An embedded barcode for “connected” malaria rapid diagnostic tests
Authors: Scherr Thomas F. , Gupta Sparsh , Wright David W. , Haselton Frederick R.
Published: February 2017

Barcode embedded rapid diagnostic tests are presented as a tool for improved communication in malaria elimination campaigns.
Bioethanol selective oxidation to acetaldehyde over Ag–CeO2: role of metal–support interactions
Authors: Rana Paresh H. , Parikh Parimal A.
Published: February 2017

Inserted Ag creates oxygen vacancy on the surface of CeO2, leading to enhanced catalytic activity.
Experimental studies of hydrocarbon separation on zeolites, activated carbons and MOFs for applications in natural gas processing
Authors: Yang Yunxia , Burke Nick , Ali Suhaib , Huang Stanley , Lim Seng , Zhu Yonggang
Published: February 2017

Separation of minor hydrocarbon components in natural gas is necessary prior to liquefaction to avoid operational (plugging of equipment) and product specification issues.
Heteroatom facilitated preparation of electrodes for sodium ion batteries
Authors: Bhosale Manik E. , Banerjee Abhik , Krishnamoorthy Kothandam
Published: February 2017

A conjugated polymer comprising heterocycles was prepared and carbonized to obtain carbon with interlayer spacings between 0.42 and 0.37 nm. A maximum specific capacity of 250 mA h g−1was obtained.
Comparison of dry and wet milling pre-treatment methods for improving the anaerobic digestion performance of the Pennisetum hybrid
Authors: Pengyu Dong , Lianhua Li , Feng Zhen , Xiaoying Kong , Yongming Sun , Yi Zhang
Published: February 2017

A planetary ball mill increased the specific methane yield of thePennisetumhybrid by 42%.
Two new porous UiO-66-type zirconium frameworks; open aromatic N-donor sites and their post-synthetic methylation and metallation
Authors: Barkhordarian Arnold A. , Kepert Cameron J.
Published: February 2017

Free pyridyl functionality is incorporated into two new MOFs through an unusual high acidity route, and exploited through post-synthetic modification.
Reversible conformational changes in the parallel type G-quadruplex structure inside a thermoresponsive hydrogel
Authors: Hasuike Erika , Akimoto Aya Mizutani , Kuroda Reiko , Matsukawa Ko , Hiruta Yuki , Kanazawa Hideko , Yoshida Ryo
Published: February 2017

We report the novel property of reversible regulation of parallel type G-quadruplexes with moderate temperature changes in thermoresponsive poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) hydrogels.
Shape transformation of {hk0}-faceted Pt nanocrystals from a tetrahexahedron into a truncated ditetragonal prism
Authors: Du Jia-Huan , Sheng Tian , Xiao Chi , Tian Na , Xiao Jing , Xie Ai-Yun , Liu Shuo , Zhou Zhi-You , Sun Shi-Gang
Published: February 2017

Shape transformation of {hk0}-faceted Pt nanocrystals from a tetrahexahedron into a truncated ditetragonal prism was achieved.
DFT investigation of capacious, ultrafast and highly conductive hexagonal Cr2C and V2C monolayers as anode materials for high-performance lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Xu Zhenming , Lv Xiaojun , Chen Jiangan , Jiang Liangxing , Lai Yanqing , Li Jie
Published: February 2017

To assess the potential of hexagonal Cr2C and V2C monolayers as anode materials in lithium-ion batteries, first-principles calculations and AIMD simulations were carried out.
Interfacial water effect on cooperativity and signal communication in Scapharca dimeric hemoglobin
Authors: Sheu Sheh-Yi , Liu Yu-Cheng , Yang Dah-Yen
Published: February 2017

Cooperativity is important in controlling the biological functions of allosteric proteins.
Gas-phase vs. material-kinetic limits on the redox response of nonstoichiometric oxides
Authors: Ji Ho-Il , Davenport Timothy C. , Ignatowich Michael J. , Haile Sossina M.
Published: February 2017

The rate of response of CeO2−δ to changes in gas composition can be systematically manipulated via changes to gas flow rate or material specific surface area.