bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrical performance of lightweight CNT-Cu composite wires impacted by surface and internal Cu spatial distribution
Authors: Sundaram Rajyashree , Yamada Takeo , Hata Kenji , Sekiguchi Atsuko
Published: August 2017

We report ultralong conducting lightweight multiwall carbon nanotube (MWCNT)-Cu composite wires with MWCNTs uniformly distributed in a continuous Cu matrix throughout. With a high MWCNT vol% (40–45%), the MWCNT-Cu wire density was 2/3rd that of Cu. Our composite wires show manufacturing potential because we used industrially compatible Cu electrodeposition protocols on commercial CNT wires. Further, we systematically varied Cu spatial distribution on the composite wire surface and bulk and measured the associated electrical performance, including resistivity (ρ), temperature dependence of resistance, and stability to current (measured as current carrying capacity, CCC in vacuum). We find that a continuous Cu matrix with homogeneous MWCNT distribution, i.e., maximum internal Cu filling within MWCNT wires, is critical to high overall electrical performances. Wires with maximum internal Cu filling exhibit (i) low room temperature ρ, 1/100th of the starting MWCNT wires, (ii) suppressed resistance-rise with temperature-increase and temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR) ½ that of Cu, and (iii) vacuum-CCC 28% higher than Cu. Further, the wires showed real-world applicability and were easily soldered into practical circuits. Hence, our MWCNT-Cu wires are promising lightweight alternatives to Cu wiring for weight-reducing applications. The low TCR is specifically advantageous for stable high-temperature operation, e.g., in motor windings.
Effects of short indels on protein structure and function in human genomes
Authors: Lin Maoxuan , Whitmire Sarah , Chen Jing , Farrel Alvin , Shi Xinghua , Guo Jun-tao
Published: August 2017

Insertions and deletions (indels) represent the second most common type of genetic variations in human genomes. Indels can be deleterious and contribute to disease susceptibility as recent genome sequencing projects revealed a large number of indels in various cancer types. In this study, we investigated the possible effects of small coding indels on protein structure and function, and the baseline characteristics of indels in 2504 individuals of 26 populations from the 1000 Genomes Project. We found that each population has a distinct pattern in genes with small indels. Frameshift (FS) indels are enriched in olfactory receptor activity while non-frameshift (NFS) indels are enriched in transcription-related proteins. Structural analysis of NFS indels revealed that they predominantly adopt coil or disordered conformations, especially in proteins with transcription-related NFS indels. These results suggest that the annotated coding indels from the 1000 Genomes Project, while contributing to genetic variations and phenotypic diversity, generally do not affect the core protein structures and have no deleterious effect on essential biological processes. In addition, we found that a number of reference genome annotations might need to be updated due to the high prevalence of annotated homozygous indels in the general population.
Self-propelled ion gel at air-water interface
Authors: Furukawa Kazuaki , Teshima Tetsuhiko , Ueno Yuko
Published: August 2017

We report on a self-propelled gel using ionic liquid as a new type of self-propellant that generates a powerful and durable motion at an air-water interface. The gel is composed of 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium-bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide (EMIM-TFSI) and poly(vinylidene fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene) (P(VDF-co-HFP)). A long rectangular ion gel piece placed on the interface shows rapid rotation motion with maximum frequency close to 10 Hz, corresponding to the velocity over 300 mms−1 at an outmost end of the piece. The rotation continues for ca. 102 s, followed by a reciprocating motion (<~103 s) and a nonlinear motion in long-time observations (>~103 s). The behaviours can be explained by the model considering elution of EMIM-TFSI to the air-water interface, rapid dissolution into water, and slow diffusion in an inhomogeneous polymer gel network. Because the self-propellants are promptly removed from the interface by dissolution, durable self-propelled motions are observed also at limited interface areas close in size to the gel pieces. A variety of motions are induced in such systems where the degree of freedom in motion is limited. As the ion gel possesses formability and processability, it is also advantageous for practical applications. We demonstrate that the gel does work as an engine.
Cerium oxide nanoparticles inhibit differentiation of neural stem cells
Authors: Gliga Anda R. , Edoff Karin , Caputo Fanny , Källman Thomas , Blom Hans , Karlsson Hanna L. , Ghibelli Lina , Traversa Enrico , Ceccatelli Sandra , Fadeel Bengt
Published: August 2017

Cerium oxide nanoparticles (nanoceria) display antioxidant properties and have shown cytoprotective effects both in vitro and in vivo. Here, we explored the effects of nanoceria on neural progenitor cells using the C17.2 murine cell line as a model. First, we assessed the effects of nanoceria versus samarium (Sm) doped nanoceria on cell viability in the presence of the prooxidant, DMNQ. Both particles were taken up by cells and nanoceria, but not Sm-doped nanoceria, elicited a temporary cytoprotective effect upon exposure to DMNQ. Next, we employed RNA sequencing to explore the transcriptional responses induced by nanoceria or Sm-doped nanoceria during neuronal differentiation. Detailed computational analyses showed that nanoceria altered pathways and networks relevant for neuronal development, leading us to hypothesize that nanoceria inhibits neuronal differentiation, and that nanoceria and Sm-doped nanoceria both interfere with cytoskeletal organization. We confirmed that nanoceria reduced neuron specific β3-tubulin expression, a marker of neuronal differentiation, and GFAP, a neuroglial marker. Furthermore, using super-resolution microscopy approaches, we could show that both particles interfered with cytoskeletal organization and altered the structure of neural growth cones. Taken together, these results reveal that nanoceria may impact on neuronal differentiation, suggesting that nanoceria could pose a developmental neurotoxicity hazard.
A novel mechanism of ERK1/2 regulation in smooth muscle involving acetylation of the ERK1/2 scaffold IQGAP1
Authors: Vetterkind Susanne , Lin Qian Qian , Morgan Kathleen G.
Published: August 2017

Ceramide, a bioactive lipid and signaling molecule associated with cardiovascular disease, is known to activate extracellular signal regulated kinases 1 and 2 (ERK1/2). Here, we determined that the effect of ceramide on ERK1/2 is mediated by ceramide signaling on an ERK scaffold protein, IQ motif containing GTPase activating protein 1 (IQGAP1). Experiments were performed with aortic smooth muscle cells using inhibitor screening, small interfering RNA (siRNA), immunoprecipitation (IP), immunoblots and bioinformatics. We report here that C6 ceramide increases serum-stimulated ERK1/2 activation in a manner dependent on the ERK1/2 scaffold IQGAP1. C6 ceramide increases IQGAP1 protein levels by preventing its cleavage. Bioinformatic analysis of the IQGAP1 amino acid sequence revealed potential cleavage sites for proteases of the proprotein convertase family that match the cleavage products. These potential cleavage sites overlap with known motifs for lysine acetylation. Deacetylase inhibitor treatment increased IQGAP1 acetylation and reduced IQGAP1 cleavage. These data are consistent with a model in which IQGAP1 cleavage is regulated by acetylation of the cleavage sites. Activation of ERK1/2 by ceramide, known to increase lysine acetylation, appears to be mediated by acetylation-dependent stabilization of IQGAP1. This novel mechanism could open new possibilities for therapeutic intervention in cardiovascular diseases.
Development of an ensemble Kalman filter data assimilation system for the Venusian atmosphere
Authors: Sugimoto Norihiko , Yamazaki Akira , Kouyama Toru , Kashimura Hiroki , Enomoto Takeshi , Takagi Masahiro
Published: August 2017

The size and mass of Venus is similar to those of the Earth; however, its atmospheric dynamics are considerably different and they are poorly understood due to limited observations and computational difficulties. Here, we developed a data assimilation system based on the local ensemble transform Kalman filter (LETKF) for a Venusian Atmospheric GCM for the Earth Simulator (VAFES), to make full use of the observational data. To examine the validity of the system, two datasets were assimilated separately into the VAFES forecasts forced with solar heating that excludes the diurnal component Qz; one was created from a VAFES run forced with solar heating that includes the diurnal component Qt, whereas the other was based on observations made by the Venus Monitoring Camera (VMC) onboard the Venus Express. The VAFES-LETKF system rapidly reduced the errors between the analysis and forecasts. In addition, the VAFES-LETKF system successfully reproduced the thermal tide excited by the diurnal component of solar heating, even though the second datasets only included horizontal winds at a single altitude on the dayside with a long interval of approximately one Earth day. This advanced system could be useful in the analysis of future datasets from the Venus Climate Orbiter ‘Akatsuki’.
Evolution of rubisco complex small subunit transit peptides from algae to plants
Authors: Razzak Md. Abdur , Lee Dong Wook , Yoo Yun-Joo , Hwang Inhwan
Published: August 2017

Chloroplasts evolved from a free-living cyanobacterium acquired by the ancestor of all photosynthetic eukaryotes, including algae and plants, through a single endosymbiotic event. During endosymbiotic conversion, the majority of genes in the endosymbiont were transferred to the host nucleus and many of the proteins encoded by these genes must therefore be transported into the chloroplast after translation in the cytosol. Chloroplast-targeted proteins contain a targeting signal, named the transit peptide (TP), at the N-terminus. However, the evolution of TPs is not well understood. In this study, TPs from RbcS (rubisco small subunit) were compared between lower and higher eukaryotes. Chlamydomonas reinhardtii RbcS (CrRbcS) TP was non-functional in Arabidopsis. However, inclusion of a critical sequence motif, FP-RK, from Arabidopsis thaliana RbcS (AtRbcS) TP allowed CrRbcS TP to deliver proteins into plant chloroplasts. The position of the FP-RK motif in CrRbcS TP was critical for function. The QMMVW sequence motif in CrRbcS TP was crucial for its transport activity in plants. CrRbcS TPs containing additional plant motifs remained functional in C. reinhardtii. These results suggest that TPs evolved by acquiring additional sequence motifs to support protein targeting to chloroplasts during evolution of land plants from algae.
A systematic analysis of the RNA-targeting potential of secreted bacterial effector proteins
Authors: Tawk Caroline , Sharan Malvika , Eulalio Ana , Vogel Jörg
Published: August 2017

Many pathogenic bacteria utilize specialized secretion systems to deliver proteins called effectors into eukaryotic cells for manipulation of host pathways. The vast majority of known effector targets are host proteins, whereas a potential targeting of host nucleic acids remains little explored. There is only one family of effectors known to target DNA directly, and effectors binding host RNA are unknown. Here, we take a two-pronged approach to search for RNA-binding effectors, combining biocomputational prediction of RNA-binding domains (RBDs) in a newly assembled comprehensive dataset of bacterial secreted proteins, and experimental screening for RNA binding in mammalian cells. Only a small subset of effectors were predicted to carry an RBD, indicating that if RNA targeting was common, it would likely involve new types of RBDs. Our experimental evaluation of effectors with predicted RBDs further argues for a general paucity of RNA binding activities amongst bacterial effectors. We obtained evidence that PipB2 and Lpg2844, effector proteins of Salmonella and Legionella species, respectively, may harbor novel biochemical activities. Our study presenting the first systematic evaluation of the RNA-targeting potential of bacterial effectors offers a basis for discussion of whether or not host RNA is a prominent target of secreted bacterial proteins.
Mesohepatectomy Versus Extended Hemihepatectomies for Centrally Located Liver Tumors: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Li Jianbo , Wang Chengdi , Song Jiulin , Chen Nan , Jiang Li , Yang Jiayin , Yan Lunan
Published: August 2017

The comparison of Mesohepatectomy (MH) with conventional extended hemihepatectomies (EH) for patients with centrally located liver tumors (CLLTs) were inconsistent. Our aims were to systemically compare MH with EH and to determine whether MH can achieve a similar clinical outcome as EH through this meta-analysis. PubMed/Medline, EMBASE, Web of Knowledge and Cochrane Library were searched updated to June 11, 2016. Blood loss and operation time favored MH in elder patients (mean difference [MD] for blood loss: −692.82 ml, 95% CI: −976.72 to −408.92 ml, P < 0.001; MD for operation time: −78.75 min, 95% CI: −107.66 to −49.81, P < 0.001). Morbidity rate (29.2%, 95% CI: 24.1 to 34.8%), mortality rate (2.0%, 95% CI: 1.2 to 3.3%) and overall survival (median OS 38.2 m, 95% CI: 34.0 to 42.8 m) of MH were comparable with those of EH. The low liver failure rate favored MH (odds ratio [OR]: 0.29, 95% CI: 0.09 to 0.88, P = 0.03). For MH, bile leakage was the most common surgical complication (MH vs. EH: 13.5% vs. 6.7%, P = 0.016), while for EH, it was wound infection (MH vs. EH: 6.9% vs. 15.7%, P < 0.001). Thus MH might be in general safe and feasible for treating CLLTs with a similar clinical outcome as EH.
Personalized Monitoring and Advance Warning System for Cardiac Arrhythmias
Authors: Kiranyaz Serkan , Ince Turker , Gabbouj Moncef
Published: August 2017

Each year more than 7 million people die from cardiac arrhythmias. Yet no robust solution exists today to detect such heart anomalies right at the moment they occur. The purpose of this study was to design a personalized health monitoring system that can detect early occurrences of arrhythmias from an individual’s electrocardiogram (ECG) signal. We first modelled the common causes of arrhythmias in the signal domain as a degradation of normal ECG beats to abnormal beats. Using the degradation models, we performed abnormal beat synthesis which created potential abnormal beats from the average normal beat of the individual. Finally, a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) was trained using real normal and synthesized abnormal beats. As a personalized classifier, the trained CNN can monitor ECG beats in real time for arrhythmia detection. Over 34 patients’ ECG records with a total of 63,341 ECG beats from the MIT-BIH arrhythmia benchmark database, we have shown that the probability of detecting one or more abnormal ECG beats among the first three occurrences is higher than 99.4% with a very low false-alarm rate.
A comparative study of the mechanical and thermal properties of defective ZrC, TiC and SiC
Authors: Jiang M. , Zheng J. W. , Xiao H. Y. , Liu Z. J. , Zu X. T.
Published: August 2017

ZrC and TiC have been proposed to be alternatives to SiC as fuel-cladding and structural materials in nuclear reactors due to their strong radiation tolerance and high thermal conductivity at high temperatures. To unravel how the presence of defects affects the thermo-physical properties under irradiation, first-principles calculations based on density function theory were carried out to investigate the mechanical and thermal properties of defective ZrC, TiC and SiC. As compared with the defective SiC, the ZrC and TiC always exhibit larger bulk modulus, smaller changes in the Young’s and shear moduli, as well as better ductility. The total thermal conductivity of ZrC and TiC are much larger than that of SiC, implying that under radiation environment the ZrC and TiC will exhibit superior heat conduction ability than the SiC. One disadvantage for ZrC and TiC is that their Debye temperatures are generally lower than that of SiC. These results suggest that further improving the Debye temperature of ZrC and TiC will be more beneficial for their applications as fuel-cladding and structural materials in nuclear reactors.
Intrinsic Resistance Switching in Amorphous Silicon Suboxides: The Role of Columnar Microstructure
Authors: Munde M. S. , Mehonic A. , Ng W. H. , Buckwell M. , Montesi L. , Bosman M. , Shluger A. L. , Kenyon A. J.
Published: August 2017

We studied intrinsic resistance switching behaviour in sputter-deposited amorphous silicon suboxide (a-SiO
x
) films with varying degrees of roughness at the oxide-electrode interface. By combining electrical probing measurements, atomic force microscopy (AFM), and scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), we observe that devices with rougher oxide-electrode interfaces exhibit lower electroforming voltages and more reliable switching behaviour. We show that rougher interfaces are consistent with enhanced columnar microstructure in the oxide layer. Our results suggest that columnar microstructure in the oxide will be a key factor to consider for the optimization of future SiOx-based resistance random access memory.
Provision of somatosensory inputs during motor imagery enhances learning-induced plasticity in human motor cortex
Authors: Bonassi Gaia , Biggio Monica , Bisio Ambra , Ruggeri Piero , Bove Marco , Avanzino Laura
Published: August 2017

Motor learning via physical practice leads to long-term potentiation (LTP)-like plasticity in motor cortex (M1) and temporary occlusion of additional LTP-like plasticity. Motor learning can be achieved through simulation of movement, namely motor imagery (MI). When combined with electrical stimulation, MI influenced M1 excitability to a larger extent than MI itself. We explored whether a training based on the combination of MI and peripheral nerve stimulation (ESMI) modulates M1 LTP-like plasticity inducing retention of a new acquired skill. Twelve subjects mentally performed thumb-index movements, with synchronous electrical nerve stimulation, following an acoustic cue, in order to increase movement speed. Two control groups physically performed or imagined the same number of finger movements following the acoustic cue. After each training session, M1 LTP-like plasticity was assessed by using PAS25 (paired associative stimulation) technique. Performance was tested before and after training and 24 hours after training. Results showed that physical practice and ESMI training similarly increased movement speed, prevented the subsequent PAS25-induced LTP-like plasticity, and induced retention of motor skill the following day. Training with MI had significant, but minor effects. These findings suggest that a training combining MI with somatosensory input influences motor performance through M1 plasticity similarly to motor execution.
Indole-based perenosins as highly potent HCl transporters and potential anti-cancer agents
Authors: Jowett Laura A. , Howe Ethan N. W. , Soto-Cerrato Vanessa , Van Rossom Wim , Pérez-Tomás Ricardo , Gale Philip A.
Published: August 2017

Prodigiosin is one of the most potent anion transporters in lipid bilayer membranes reported to date. Inspired by the structure of this natural product, we have recently designed and synthesised a new class of H+/Cl− cotransporters named ‘perenosins’. Here we report a new library of indole-based perenosins and their anion transport properties. The new transporters demonstrated superior transmembrane transport efficiency when compared to other indole-based transporters, due to favourable encapsulating effects from the substituents on the perenosin backbone. Anion transport assays were used to determine the mechanism of chloride transport revealing that the compounds function as ‘strict’ HCl cotransporters. Cell viability studies showed that some compounds specifically trigger late-onset cell death after 72 h with a unique correlation to the position of alkyl chains on the perenosins. Further investigations of cell death mechanism showed a mixture of cell cycle arrest and apoptosis was responsible for the observed decrease in cell viability.
An automated compound screening for anti-aging effects on the function of C. elegans sensory neurons
Authors: Bazopoulou Daphne , Chaudhury Amrita R. , Pantazis Alexandros , Chronis Nikos
Published: August 2017

Discovery of molecular targets or compounds that alter neuronal function can lead to therapeutic advances that ameliorate age-related neurodegenerative pathologies. Currently, there is a lack of in vivo screening technologies for the discovery of compounds that affect the age-dependent neuronal physiology. Here, we present a high-throughput, microfluidic-based assay for automated manipulation and on-chip monitoring and analysis of stimulus-evoked calcium responses of intact C. elegans at various life stages. First, we successfully applied our technology to quantify the effects of aging and age-related genetic and chemical factors in the calcium transients of the ASH sensory neuron. We then performed a large-scale screen of a library of 107 FDA-approved compounds to identify hits that prevented the age-dependent functional deterioration of ASH. The robust performance of our assay makes it a valuable tool for future high-throughput applications based on in vivo functional imaging.
Polymyxin B containing polyion complex (PIC) nanoparticles: Improving the antimicrobial activity by tailoring the degree of polymerisation of the inert component
Authors: Insua Ignacio , Zizmare Laimdota , Peacock Anna F. A. , Krachler Anne Marie , Fernandez-Trillo Francisco
Published: August 2017

Here, we describe the preparation and characterisation of polyion complex (PIC) nanoparticles containing last resort antimicrobial polymyxin B (Pol-B). PIC nanoparticles were prepared with poly(styrene sulphonate) (PSS) as an inert component, across a range of degrees of polymerisation to evaluate the effect that multivalency of this electrolyte has on the stability and antimicrobial activity of these nanoparticles. Our results demonstrate that while nanoparticles prepared with longer polyelectrolytes are more stable under simulated physiological conditions, those prepared with shorter polyelectrolytes have a higher antimicrobial activity. Tailoring the degree of polymerisation and the ratio of the components we have been able to identify a formulation that shows a sustained inhibitory effect on the growth of P. aeruginosa and can reduce the number of viable colonies of this pathogen over 10,000 times more effectively than our previously reported formulation.
Quercetin prevents hepatic fibrosis by inhibiting hepatic stellate cell activation and reducing autophagy via the TGF-β1/Smads and PI3K/Akt pathways
Authors: Wu Liwei , Zhang Qinghui , Mo Wenhui , Feng Jiao , Li Sainan , Li Jingjing , Liu Tong , Xu Shizan , Wang Wenwen , Lu Xiya , Yu Qiang , Chen Kan , Xia Yujing , Lu Jie , Xu Ling , Zhou Yingqun , Fan Xiaoming , Guo Chuanyong
Published: August 2017

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of quercetin on hepatic fibrosis, a characteristic response to acute or chronic liver injury. Mice were randomized to bile duct ligation (BDL) or carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) cirrhosis models. Quercetin (100 mg/kg or 200 mg/kg daily) was administered by gavage for 2 or 4 weeks. Liver tissue and blood samples were collected for histological and molecular analysis. The results of our experiments showed that quercetin reduced BDL or CCl4 liver fibrosis, inhibited extracellular matrix formation, and regulated matrix metallopeptidase (MMP)-9 and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP)-1. Quercetin attenuated liver damage by suppressing the TGF-β1/Smads signaling pathway and activating the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway to inhibit autophagy in BDL- or CCl4- induced liver fibrosis. Quercetin prevented hepatic fibrosis by attenuating hepatic stellate cell activation and reducing autophagy through regulating crosstalk between the TGF-β1/Smads and PI3K/Akt pathways.
Grape-seed Polyphenols Play a Protective Role in Elastase-induced Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm in Mice
Authors: Wang Chao , Wang Yunxia , Yu Maomao , Chen Cong , Xu Lu , Cao Yini , Qi Rong
Published: August 2017

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a kind of disease characterized by aortic dilation, whose pathogenesis is linked to inflammation. This study aimed to determine whether grape-seed polyphenols (GSP) has anti-AAA effects and what mechanism is involved, thus to find a way to prevent occurrence and inhibit expansion of small AAA. In our study, AAA was induced by incubating the abdominal aorta of the mice with elastase, and GSP was administrated to the mice by gavage at different doses beginning on the day of the AAA inducement. In in vivo experiments, 800 mg/kg GSP could significantly reduce the incidence of AAA, the dilatation of aorta and elastin degradation in media, and dramatically decrease macrophage infiltration and activation and expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) −2 and MMP-9 in the aorta, compared to the AAA model group. Meanwhile, 400 mg/kg GSP could also but not completely inhibit the occurrence and development of AAA. In in vitro experiments, GSP dose-dependently inhibited mRNA expression of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6 and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), and significantly inhibited expression and activity of MMP-2 and MMP-9, thus prevented elastin from degradation. In conclusion, GSP showed great anti-AAA effects and its mechanisms were related to inhibition of inflammation.
Re-stepping into the same river: competition problem rather than a reconsolidation failure in an established motor skill
Authors: Gabitov Ella , Boutin Arnaud , Pinsard Basile , Censor Nitzan , Fogel Stuart M. , Albouy Geneviève , King Bradley R. , Benali Habib , Carrier Julie , Cohen Leonardo G. , Karni Avi , Doyon Julien
Published: August 2017

Animal models suggest that consolidated memories return to their labile state when reactivated and need to be restabilized through reconsolidation processes to persist. Consistent with this notion, post-reactivation pharmacological protein synthesis blockage results in mnemonic failure in hippocampus-dependent memories. It has been proposed that, in humans, post-reactivation experience with a competitive task can also interfere with memory restabilization. However, several studies failed to induce performance deficit implementing this approach. Moreover, even upon effective post-reactivation interference, hindered performance may rapidly recover, raising the possibility of a retrieval rather than a storage deficit. Here, to address these issues in procedural memory domain, we used new learning to interfere with restabilization of motor memory acquired through training on a sequence of finger movements. Only immediate post-reactivation interference was associated with the loss of post-training delayed gains in performance, a hallmark of motor sequence memory consolidation. We also demonstrate that such performance deficit more likely indicates a genuine memory impairment rather than a retrieval failure. However, the reconsolidation view on a reactivation-induced plasticity is not supported. Instead, our results are in line with the integration model according to which new knowledge acquired during the interfering experience, is integrated through its consolidation creating memory competition.
Sensory mutations in Drosophila melanogaster influence associational effects between resources during oviposition
Authors: Verschut Thomas A. , Carlsson Mikael A. , Anderson Peter , Hambäck Peter A.
Published: August 2017

Neighboring resources can affect insect oviposition behavior when the complexity of sensory information obscures information about host resource availability in heterogeneous resource patches. These effects are referred to as associational effects and are hypothesized to occur through constraints in the sensory processing of the insect during host search, resulting into suboptimal resource use. Because the possibilities to study these constraints on naturally occurring animals are limited, we instead used sensory mutants of Drosophila melanogaster to determine the importance of sensory information in the occurrence of associational effects. We found that oviposition was mainly governed by non-volatile chemical cues and less by volatile cues. Moreover, the loss of gustatory sensilla resulted in random resource selection and eliminated associational effects. In conclusion, our study shows that associational effects do not necessarily depend on constraints in the sensory evaluation of resource quality, but may instead be a direct consequence of distinctive selection behavior between different resources at small scales.
A global analysis of alternative tillage and crop establishment practices for economically and environmentally efficient rice production
Authors: Chakraborty Debashis , Ladha Jagdish Kumar , Rana Dharamvir Singh , Jat Mangi Lal , Gathala Mahesh Kumar , Yadav Sudhir , Rao Adusumilli Narayana , Ramesha Mugadoli S. , Raman Anitha
Published: August 2017

Alternative tillage and rice establishment options should aim at less water and labor to produce similar or improved yields compared with traditional puddled-transplanted rice cultivation. The relative performance of these practices in terms of yield, water input, and economics varies across rice-growing regions. A global meta and mixed model analysis was performed, using a dataset involving 323 on-station and 9 on-farm studies (a total of 3878 paired data), to evaluate the yield, water input, greenhouse gas emissions, and cost and net return with five major tillage/crop establishment options. Shifting from transplanting to direct-seeding was advantageous but the change from conventional to zero or reduced tillage reduced yields. Direct-seeded rice under wet tillage was the best alternative with yield advantages of 1.3–4.7% (p < 0.05) and higher net economic return of 13% (p < 0.05), accompanied by savings of water by 15% (p < 0.05) and a reduction in cost by 2.4–8.8%. Direct-seeding under zero tillage was another potential alternative with high savings in water input and cost of cultivation, with no yield penalty. The alternative practices reduced methane emissions but increased nitrous oxide emissions. Soil texture plays a key role in relative yield advantages, and therefore refinement of the practice to suit a specific agro-ecosystem is needed.
rs1760944 Polymorphism in the APE1 Region is Associated with Risk and Prognosis of Osteosarcoma in the Chinese Han Population
Authors: Xiao Xing , Yang Yun , Ren Yanjun , Zou Debo , Zhang Kaining , Wu Yingguang
Published: August 2017

The effects of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) at APE1 have been investigated in several types of cancer. However, no reports of the association of APE1 polymorphisms with osteosarcoma (OS) have been published. The present study was designed to determine whether APE1 polymorphisms (rs1130409, rs1760944, rs1760941, rs2275008, rs17111750) are associated with OS. A 2-stage case-control study was performed in a total of 378 OS patients and 616 normal controls. Individuals carrying TG and GG genotypes had significantly lower risk of developing OS than those with the WT genotype TT at rs1760944 (OR = 0.65, 95%CI 0.49–0.86; OR = 0.50, 95%CI 0.34–0.74, respectively). OS patients with allele G at rs1760944 were less susceptible to low differentiation tumor and metastasis (OR = 0.73, 95%CI 0.54–0.98; OR = 0.63, 95%CI 0.43–0.92, respectively). Kaplan-Meier curves and log-rank results revealed that OS patients harboring genotype GG and G allele at rs1760944 had better survival (P < 0.001 for both). In addition, the APE1 protein was underexpressed in individuals who carried G allele at rs1760944. This study suggested that APE1 rs1760944 polymorphism is associated with decreased risk of developing OS and better survival of OS patients.
Combinatorial bioactive botanicals re-sensitize tamoxifen treatment in ER-negative breast cancer via epigenetic reactivation of ERα expression
Authors: Li Yuanyuan , Meeran Syed M. , Tollefsbol Trygve O.
Published: August 2017

Conventional cancer prevention has primarily focused on single chemopreventive compounds that may not be sufficiently efficacious. We sought to investigate potential combinatorial effects of epigenetic bioactive botanicals including epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) in green tea polyphenols (GTPs) and sulforaphane (SFN) in broccoli sprouts (BSp) on neutralizing epigenetic aberrations in estrogen receptor-α (ERα) leading to enhanced anti-hormone therapeutic efficacy in ERα-negative breast cancer. Our results showed that this combinatorial treatment re-sensitized ERα-dependent cellular inhibitory responses to an estrogen antagonist, tamoxifen (TAM), via at least in part, epigenetic reactivation of ERα expression in ERα-negative breast cancer cells. Further in vivo studies revealed the combinatorial diets of GTPs and BSp significantly inhibited breast tumor growth in ERα-negative mouse xenografts, especially when combined with TAM treatment. This novel treatment regimen can lead to remodeling of the chromatin structure by histone modifications and recruitment changes of transcriptional factor complex in the ERα promoter thereby contributing to ERα reactivation and re-sensitized chemotherapeutic efficacy of anti-hormone therapy. Our studies indicate that combinatorial bioactive botanicals from GTPs and BSp are highly effective in inhibiting ERα-negative breast cancer due at least in part to epigenetic reactivation of ERα, which in turn increases TAM-dependent anti-estrogen chemosensitivity in vitro and in vivo.
Evolutionary divergence of the ABO and GBGT1 genes specifying the ABO and FORS blood group systems through chromosomal rearrangements
Authors: Yamamoto Fumiichiro
Published: August 2017

Human alleles at theABOandGBGT1genetic loci specify glycosylation polymorphism of ABO and FORS blood group systems, respectively, and their allelic basis has been elucidated. These genes are also present in other species, but presence/absence, as well as functionality/non-functionality are species-dependent. Molecular mechanisms and forces that created this species divergence were unknown. Utilizing genomic information available from GenBank and Ensembl databases, gene order maps were constructed of a chromosomal region surrounding theABOandGBGT1genes from a variety of vertebrate species. Both similarities and differences were observed in their chromosomal organization. Interestingly, theABOandGBGT1genes were found located at the boundaries of chromosomal fragments that seem to have been inverted/translocated during species evolution. Genetic alterations, such as deletions and duplications, are prevalent at the ends of rearranged chromosomal fragments, which may partially explain the species-dependent divergence of those clinically important glycosyltransferase genes.
Alien plant invasions of protected areas in Java, Indonesia
Authors: Padmanaba Michael , Tomlinson Kyle W. , Hughes Alice C. , Corlett Richard T.
Published: August 2017

Alien plants are invading protected areas worldwide, but there is little information from tropical Asia. Java has the longest record of human occupation in Asia and today supports 145 m people. Remnants of natural ecosystems survive in 12 small National Parks surrounded by dense human populations, making them highly vulnerable to invasions. We surveyed eight of these, along a rainfall gradient from lowland rainforest with >3000 mm annual rainfall to savanna with <1500 mm, and a 0–3158 m altitudinal gradient, using 403 10 × 5 m plots along trails. We found 67 invasive alien plant species, of which 33 occurred in only one park and two (Chromolaena odorataandLantana camara) in all. Historical factors relating to plant introduction appeared to be as important as environmental factors in determining which species occurred in which park, while within parks canopy cover and altitude were generally most influential. Spread away from trails was only evident in open habitats, including natural savannas in Baluran National Park, threatened by invasion ofAcacia nilotica. Existing control attempts for invasive aliens are reactive, localized, and intermittent, and insufficient resources are currently available for the early detection, prompt action, and continued monitoring that are needed.
Pharmacological profile and efficiency in vivo of diflapolin, the first dual inhibitor of 5-lipoxygenase-activating protein and soluble epoxide hydrolase
Authors: Garscha Ulrike , Romp Erik , Pace Simona , Rossi Antonietta , Temml Veronika , Schuster Daniela , König Stefanie , Gerstmeier Jana , Liening Stefanie , Werner Markus , Atze Heiner , Wittmann Sandra , Weinigel Christina , Rummler Silke , Scriba Gerhard K. , Sautebin Lidia , Werz Oliver
Published: August 2017

Arachidonic acid (AA) is metabolized to diverse bioactive lipid mediators. Whereas the 5-lipoxygenase-activating protein (FLAP) facilitates AA conversion by 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX) to pro-inflammatory leukotrienes (LTs), the soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH) degrades anti-inflammatory epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs). Accordingly, dual FLAP/sEH inhibition might be advantageous drugs for intervention of inflammation. We present the in vivo pharmacological profile and efficiency of N-[4-(benzothiazol-2-ylmethoxy)-2-methylphenyl]-N′-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)urea (diflapolin) that dually targets FLAP and sEH. Diflapolin inhibited 5-LOX product formation in intact human monocytes and neutrophils with IC50 = 30 and 170 nM, respectively, and suppressed the activity of isolated sEH (IC50 = 20 nM). Characteristic for FLAP inhibitors, diflapolin (I) failed to inhibit isolated 5-LOX, (II) blocked 5-LOX product formation in HEK cells only when 5-LOX/FLAP was co-expressed, (III) lost potency in intact cells when exogenous AA was supplied, and (IV) prevented 5-LOX/FLAP complex assembly in leukocytes. Diflapolin showed target specificity, as other enzymes related to AA metabolism (i.e., COX1/2, 12/15-LOX, LTA4H, LTC4S, mPGES1, and cPLA2) were not inhibited. In the zymosan-induced mouse peritonitis model, diflapolin impaired vascular permeability, inhibited cysteinyl-LTs and LTB4 formation, and suppressed neutrophil infiltration. Diflapolin is a highly active dual FLAP/sEH inhibitor in vitro and in vivo with target specificity to treat inflammation-related diseases.
Ocean dominated expansion and contraction of the late Quaternary tropical rainbelt
Authors: Singarayer Joy S. , Valdes Paul J. , Roberts William H. G.
Published: August 2017

The latitude of the tropical rainbelt oscillates seasonally but has also varied on millennial time-scales in response to changes in the seasonal distribution of insolation due to Earth’s orbital configuration, as well as climate change initiated at high latitudes. Interpretations of palaeoclimate proxy archives often suggest hemispherically coherent variations, some proposing meridional shifts in global rainbelt position and the ‘global monsoon’, while others propose interhemispherically symmetric expansion and contraction. Here, we use a unique set of climate model simulations of the last glacial cycle (120 kyr), that compares well against a compilation of precipitation proxy data, to demonstrate that while asymmetric extratropical forcings (icesheets, freshwater hosing) generally produce meridional shifts in the zonal mean rainbelt, orbital variations produce expansion/contractions in terms of the global zonal mean. This is primarily a dynamic response of the rainbelt over the oceans to regional interhemispheric temperature gradients, which is opposite to the largely local thermodynamic terrestrial response to insolation. The mode of rainbelt variation is regionally variable, depending on surface type (land or ocean) and surrounding continental configuration. This makes interpretation of precipitation-proxy records as large-scale rainbelt movement challenging, requiring regional or global data syntheses.
Quantitative visualization of pectin distribution maps of peach fruits
Authors: Zhu Nan , Huang Weinan , Wu Di , Chen Kunsong , He Yong
Published: August 2017

Pectin content is an important quality index of fruits, as pectin content undergoes significant changes during the peach ripening process. The commonly used carbazole colorimetry method measures only the total content value of each kind of pectin for each pulp sample and cannot provide distribution maps of the pectin contents for the whole fruit pulp. This work used the hyperspectral imaging technique to quantitatively visualize the distribution maps of pectin contents inside peach pulp at the pixel level. The protopectin contents were well predicted, with the best residual predictive deviation of 2.264, whereas the predictions of the water-soluble pectin and the total pectin contents were not satisfied. On the basis of the best predictive model, the distribution maps of the protopectin contents were quantitatively visualized. A histogram of an example protopectin distribution revealed the existence of a wide range of protopectin contents in peach pulp. Our results show that hyperspectral imaging holds promise as a powerful alternative to the carbazole colorimetry method for measuring the spatial variations in the protopectin distribution inside peach pulp. The distribution maps could be used as a maturity indicator to understand and evaluate the ripening process of peach fruit in depth.
Mapping the key residues of SufB and SufD essential for biosynthesis of iron-sulfur clusters
Authors: Yuda Eiki , Tanaka Naoyuki , Fujishiro Takashi , Yokoyama Nao , Hirabayashi Kei , Fukuyama Keiichi , Wada Kei , Takahashi Yasuhiro
Published: August 2017

Biogenesis of iron-sulfur (Fe-S) clusters is an indispensable process in living cells. In Escherichia coli, the SUF biosynthetic system consists of six proteins among which SufB, SufC and SufD form the SufBCD complex, which serves as a scaffold for the assembly of nascent Fe-S cluster. Despite recent progress in biochemical and structural studies, little is known about the specific regions providing the scaffold. Here we present a systematic mutational analysis of SufB and SufD and map their critical residues in two distinct regions. One region is located on the N-terminal side of the β-helix core domain of SufB, where biochemical studies revealed that Cys254 of SufB (SufBC254) is essential for sulfur-transfer from SufE. Another functional region resides at an interface between SufB and SufD, where three residues (SufBC405, SufBE434, and SufDH360) appear to comprise the site for de novo cluster formation. Furthermore, we demonstrate a plausible tunnel in the β-helix core domain of SufB through which the sulfur species may be transferred from SufBC254 to SufBC405. In contrast, a canonical Fe-S cluster binding motif (CxxCxxxC) of SufB is dispensable. These findings provide new insights into the mechanism of Fe-S cluster assembly by the SufBCD complex.
Epigallocatechin Gallate-Loaded Gelatin-g-Poly(N-Isopropylacrylamide) as a New Ophthalmic Pharmaceutical Formulation for Topical Use in the Treatment of Dry Eye Syndrome
Authors: Luo Li-Jyuan , Lai Jui-Yang
Published: August 2017

Given that biodegradable in situ gelling delivery systems may have potential applications in the design of ophthalmic pharmaceutical formulations, this study, for the first time, aims to develop gelatin-g-poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (GN) carriers for topical epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) administration in the treatment of dry eye disease (DED). By temperature triggered sol-gel phase transition of copolymers, EGCG-loaded GN was prepared at 32 °C and characterized by FTIR, NMR, and HPLC analyses. Results of WST-1 and live/dead assays showed that GN materials have good compatibility with corneal epithelial cells. Gradual biodegradation of delivery carriers allowed sustained release of EGCG without drug toxicity. Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity studies also indicated effective therapeutic drug levels at each time point within 3 days of release. In a rabbit dry eye model, corneal epithelial defects was ameliorated by treatment with single-dose administration of EGCG-containing GN. Furthermore, drug molecules released from carrier materials could prevent further tear evaporation and loss of mucin-secreting goblet cells in diseased animals. Our findings suggest that GN carrier is responsible for enhanced pharmacological efficacy of topically instilled EGCG, thereby demonstrating the benefits of using biodegradable in situ gelling delivery system to overcome the drawbacks of limited dry eye relief associated with eye drop dosage form.
Microbiome Dynamics in a Shrimp Grow-out Pond with Possible Outbreak of Acute Hepatopancreatic Necrosis Disease
Authors: Chen Wei-Yu , Ng Tze Hann , Wu Jer-Horng , Chen Jiung-Wen , Wang Han-Ching
Published: August 2017

Acute hepatopancreatic necrosis disease (AHPND) (formerly, early mortality syndrome) is a high-mortality-rate shrimp disease prevalent in shrimp farming areas. Although AHPND is known to be caused by pathogenic Vibrio parahaemolyticus hosting the plasmid-related PirABvp toxin gene, the effects of disturbances in microbiome have not yet been studied. We took 62 samples from a grow-out pond during an AHPND developing period from Days 23 to 37 after stocking white postlarvae shrimp and sequenced the 16S rRNA genes with Illumina sequencing technology. The microbiomes of pond seawater and shrimp stomachs underwent varied dynamic succession during the period. Despite copies of PirABvp, principal co-ordinates analysis revealed two distinctive stages of change in stomach microbiomes associated with AHPND. AHPND markedly changed the bacterial diversity in the stomachs; it decreased the Shannon index by 53.6% within approximately 7 days, shifted the microbiome with Vibrio and Candidatus Bacilloplasma as predominant populations, and altered the species-to-species connectivity and complexity of the interaction network. The AHPND-causing Vibrio species were predicted to develop a co-occurrence pattern with several resident and transit members within Candidatus Bacilloplasma and Cyanobacteria. This study’s insights into microbiome dynamics during AHPND infection can be valuable for minimising this disease in shrimp farming ponds.
Spatiotemporal changes in regularity of gamma oscillations contribute to focal ictogenesis
Authors: Sato Yosuke , Wong Simeon M. , Iimura Yasushi , Ochi Ayako , Doesburg Sam M. , Otsubo Hiroshi
Published: August 2017

In focal ictogenesis, gamma oscillations (30–70 Hz) recorded by electroencephalography (EEG) are related to the epileptiform synchronization of interneurons that links the seizure onset zone (SOZ) to the surrounding epileptogenic zone. We hypothesized that the synchronization of interneurons could be detected as changes in the regularity of gamma oscillation rhythmicity. We used multiscale entropy (MSE) analysis, which can quantify the regularity of EEG rhythmicity, to investigate how the regularity of gamma oscillations changes over the course of a seizure event. We analyzed intracranial EEG data from 13 pediatric patients with focal cortical dysplasia. The MSE analysis revealed the following characteristic changes of MSE score (gamma oscillations): (1) during the interictal periods, the lowest MSE score (the most regular gamma oscillations) was always found in the SOZ; (2) during the preictal periods, the SOZ became more similar to the epileptogenic zone as the MSE score increased in the SOZ (gamma oscillations became less regular in the SOZ); and (3) during the ictal periods, a decreasing MSE score (highly regular gamma oscillations) propagated over the epileptogenic zone. These spatiotemporal changes in regularity of gamma oscillations constitute an important demonstration that focal ictogenesis is caused by dynamic changes in interneuron synchronization.