bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fuzzy Union to Assess Climate Suitability of Annual Ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum), Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) and Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor)
Authors: Kim Hyunae , Hyun Shin Woo , Hoogenboom Gerrit , Porter Cheryl H. , Kim Kwang Soo
Published: June 2018

The Law of the Minimum is often implemented using t-norm or fuzzy intersection. We propose the use of t-conorm or fuzzy union for climate suitability assessment of a grass species using annual ryegrass (Lolium multiflorumLam.) as an example and evaluate the performance for alfalfa (Medicago sativaL.) and sorghum (Sorghum bicolorL.). The ORFand ANDFmodels, which are fuzzy logic systems based on t-conorm and t-norm between temperature and moisture conditions, respectively, were developed to assess the quality of climate conditions for crops. The parameter values for both models were obtained from existing knowledge, e.g., the EcoCrop database. These models were then compared with the EcoCrop model, which is based on the t-norm. The ORFmodel explained greater variation (54%) in the yield of annual ryegrass at 84 site-years than the ANDFmodel (43%) and the EcoCrop model (5%). The climate suitability index of the ORFmodel had the greatest likelihood of occurrence of annual ryegrass compared to the other models. The ORFmodel also had similar results for alfalfa and sorghum. We emphasize that the fuzzy logic system for climate suitability assessment can be developed using knowledge rather than presence-only data, which can facilitate more complex approaches such as the incorporation of biotic interaction into species distribution modeling.
Male rutting calls synchronize reproduction in Serengeti wildebeest
Authors: Calabrese Justin M. , Moss Clay Allison , Estes Richard D. , Thompson Katerina V. , Monfort Steven L.
Published: June 2018

Tightly synchronized reproduction in vast wildebeest herds underpins the keystone role this iconic species plays in the Serengeti. However, despite decades of study, the proximate synchronizing mechanism remains unknown. Combining a season-long field experiment with simple stochastic process models, we show that females exposed to playback of male rutting vocalizations are over three times more synchronous in their expected time to mating than a control group isolated from all male stimuli. Additionally, predictions of both mating and calving synchrony based on the playback group were highly consistent with independent data on wildebeest mating and calving synchrony, while control-based predictions were inconsistent with the data. Taken together, our results provide the first experimental evidence that male rutting vocalizations alone could account for the highly synchronized reproduction observed in Serengeti wildebeest. Given anthropogenically driven losses in many areas, a mechanistic understanding of synchrony can highlight additional risks declining wildebeest populations may face.
Preventive treatment with liraglutide protects against development of glucose intolerance in a rat model of Wolfram syndrome
Authors: Toots Maarja , Seppa Kadri , Jagomäe Toomas , Koppel Tuuliki , Pallase Maia , Heinla Indrek , Terasmaa Anton , Plaas Mario , Vasar Eero
Published: June 2018

Wolfram syndrome (WS) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder caused by mutations in the WFS1 (Wolframin1) gene. The syndrome first manifests as diabetes mellitus, followed by optic nerve atrophy, deafness, and neurodegeneration. The underlying mechanism is believed to be a dysregulation of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress response, which ultimately leads to cellular death. Treatment with glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists has been shown to normalize ER stress response in several in vitro and in vivo models. Early chronic intervention with the GLP-1 receptor agonist liraglutide starting before the onset of metabolic symptoms prevented the development of glucose intolerance, improved insulin and glucagon secretion control, reduced ER stress and inflammation in Langerhans islets in Wfs1 mutant rats. Thus, treatment with GLP-1 receptor agonists might be a promising strategy as a preventive treatment for human WS patients.
Attentional state and brain processes: state-dependent lateralization of EEG profiles in horses
Authors: Rochais C. , Sébilleau M. , Menoret M. , Oger M. , Henry S. , Hausberger M. , Cousillas H.
Published: June 2018

Lateralization of brain functions has been suggested to provide individuals with advantages, such as an increase of neural efficiency. The right hemisphere is likely to be specialized for processing attention for details and the left hemisphere for categorization of stimuli. Thus attentional processes actually may underlie lateralization. In the present study, we hypothesized that the attentional state of horses could be reflected in the lateralization of brain responses. We used i) a recently developed attention test to measure horses’ visual attentional responses towards a standardized stimulus and ii) a recently developed portable EEG telemetric tool to measure brain responses. A particular emphasis was given to the types of waves (EEG power profile) and their side of production when horses were either attentive towards a visual stimulus or quiet standing. The results confirmed that a higher attentional state is associated with a higher proportion of gamma waves. There was moreover an interaction between the attentional state, the hemisphere and the EEG profile: attention towards the visual stimulus was associated with a significant increase of gamma wave proportion in the right hemisphere while “inattention” was associated with more alpha and beta waves in the left hemisphere. These first results are highly promising and contribute to the large debate on functional lateralization.
Paleosecular variation recorded by Quaternary lava flows from Guadeloupe Island
Authors: Ricci Julia , Carlut Julie , Valet Jean-Pierre
Published: June 2018

Paleomagnetic directional data were obtained from fourteen 0 to 2 Ma old lava flows at Basse-Terre Island (Guadeloupe, French West Indies). Five reversed polarity flows are consistent with their Matuyama age between 1.6–1.5 Ma and 875–790 ka while the ages of the other nine normal polarity units tie them to the Olduvai subchron and the Brunhes Chron. These directions have been combined with previous results obtained from Basse-Terre Island. The overall mean direction (D = −1.2°, I = 31.4°, α95 = 3.3°) obtained from the 39 non-transitional flows from Basse-Terre Island is indistinguishable from the expected geocentric axial dipole value (D = 0°, I = 29.8°). The dispersion measured from the angular standard deviation of the Virtual Geomagnetic Poles (VGPs) was found to be close to, but smaller than the predictions of geomagnetic models. Together with further directions from the nearby Martinique Island, the 45 directions obtained within the Brunhes chron provide the most robust estimate of the statistical distribution of paleosecular variation (PSV) at this latitude. The sequence of directions shows episodes of high amplitude secular variation that are coeval with several geomagnetic events including the last reversal documented by five transitional directions. Finally, three lava flows have recorded a transitional behavior which could be link to two excursions, the Laguna del Sello (at ~340 ka) and the Pringle Falls (at ~210 ka) events.
Novel biomineralization strategy in calcareous foraminifera
Authors: Borrelli C. , Panieri G. , Dahl T. M. , Neufeld K.
Published: June 2018

This work shows that calcareous benthic foraminifera are capable of agglutinating sedimentary particles also. In particular, we focus on Melonis barleeanus. Traditionally considered a calcareous species, our data revealed the presence of minute (~3 μm) sedimentary particles (silicate grains) inside the chamber walls of the examined shells. These particles were arranged in a definitive and systematic pattern, and the similar grain chemical characterization and size suggested a relatively high degree of selectivity in both modern and fossil specimens. Based on these results, we propose that M. barleeanus is capable of agglutinating sedimentary particles during the formation of a new chamber. The analysis of other calcareous foraminiferal species (e.g., Cassidulina neoteretis, Lobatula lobatula, Nonionella stella) did not reveal the presence of silicate grains in the shell of the specimens analyzed confirming this to be a characteristic of M. barleeanus. Considering that the isotopic and chemical composition of this species is widely used in paleoclimatic and paleoceanographic reconstructions, we used a mixing model to better constrain the influence of sedimentary particles on M. barleeanus δ18O data. Our model showed that the calcite δ18O would increase by ~0.9–2‰ if 10 wt% of feldspars (i.e., anorthite, albite, orthoclase) and quartz, respectively, were included in the analyzed shell. Based on these results, we emphasize that it is of paramount importance to consider M. barleeanus unusual biomineralization strategy during the interpretation of geological records and to investigate the presence of similar processes in other calcareous foraminiferal species.
Improving of hydrolases biosythesis by solid-state fermentation of Penicillium camemberti on rapeseed cake
Authors: Boratyński Filip , Szczepańska Ewa , Grudniewska Aleksandra , Gniłka Radosław , Olejniczak Teresa
Published: June 2018

The study show usefulness of rapeseed cake, rich in fats and proteins byproduct generated after oil production, which may be used as a microbial medium for lipase and protease biosynthesis. Of 26 different filamentous fungi screened by solid-state fermentation, Penicillium camemberti AM83 was found to abundantly produce lipase and protease. Various process parameters were then optimized to maximize lipase and protease secretion, including carbon and nitrogen source, C/N ratio, metal ions, temperature, moisture content, initial pH, and inoculum size. Lipase production increased approximately 11.2-fold in solid-state cultures on rapeseed cake supplemented with lactose and calcium chloride, alkalinized to pH 8, hydrated to 80%, and inoculated with 1.2 × 106 spores/mL. Similarly, protease production increased approximately 8.4-fold in optimized cultures inoculated with 3.2 × 108 spores/mL, and grown on rapeseed cake with lactose and ammonium sulfate at pH 9 and moisture content 60%. The results highlight the potential economic value of solid-state fermentation on rapeseed cake to produce industrial hydrolases.
Glacial Inception in Marine Isotope Stage 19: An Orbital Analog for a Natural Holocene Climate
Authors: Vavrus Stephen J. , He Feng , Kutzbach John E. , Ruddiman William F. , Tzedakis Polychronis C.
Published: June 2018

The Marine Isotope Stage 19c (MIS19c) interglaciation is regarded as the best orbital analog to the Holocene. The close of MIS19c (~777,000 years ago) thus serves as a proxy for a contemporary climate system unaffected by humans. Our global climate model simulation driven by orbital parameters and observed greenhouse gas concentrations at the end of MIS19c is 1.3 K colder than the reference pre-industrial climate of the late Holocene (year 1850). Much stronger cooling occurs in the Arctic, where sea ice and year-round snow cover expand considerably. Inferred regions of glaciation develop across northeastern Siberia, northwestern North America, and the Canadian Archipelago. These locations are consistent with evidence from past glacial inceptions and are favored by atmospheric circulation changes that reduce ablation of snow cover and increase accumulation of snowfall. Particularly large buildups of snow depth coincide with presumed glacial nucleation sites, including Baffin Island and the northeast Canadian Archipelago. These findings suggest that present-day climate would be susceptible to glacial inception if greenhouse gas concentrations were as low as they were at the end of MIS 19c.
Rbpj direct regulation of Atoh7 transcription in the embryonic mouse retina
Authors: Miesfeld Joel B. , Moon Myung-soon , Riesenberg Amy N. , Contreras Ashley N. , Kovall Rhett A. , Brown Nadean L.
Published: June 2018

In vertebrate retinal progenitor cells, the proneural factor Atoh7 exhibits a dynamic tissue and cellular expression pattern. Although the resulting Atoh7 retinal lineage contains all seven major cell types, only retinal ganglion cells require Atoh7 for proper differentiation. Such specificity necessitates complex regulation of Atoh7 transcription during retina development. The Notch signaling pathway is an evolutionarily conserved suppressor of proneural bHLH factor expression. Previous in vivo mouse genetic studies established the cell autonomous suppression of Atoh7 transcription by Notch1, Rbpj and Hes1. Here we identify four CSL binding sites within the Atoh7 proximal regulatory region and demonstrate Rbpj protein interaction at these sequences by in vitro electromobility shift, calorimetry and luciferase assays and, in vivo via colocalization and chromatin immunoprecipitation. We found that Rbpj simultaneously represses Atoh7 transcription using both Notch-dependent and –independent pathways.
Cellular dissection of malaria parasite invasion of human erythrocytes using viable Plasmodium knowlesi merozoites
Authors: Lyth Oliver , Vizcay-Barrena Gema , Wright Katherine E. , Haase Silvia , Mohring Franziska , Najer Adrian , Henshall Isabelle G. , Ashdown George W. , Bannister Lawrence H. , Drew Damien R. , Beeson James G. , Fleck Roland A. , Moon Robert W. , Wilson Danny W. , Baum Jake
Published: June 2018

Plasmodium knowlesi, a zoonotic parasite causing severe-to-lethal malaria disease in humans, has only recently been adapted to continuous culture with human red blood cells (RBCs). In comparison with the most virulent human malaria, Plasmodium falciparum, there are, however, few cellular tools available to study its biology, in particular direct investigation of RBC invasion by blood-stage P. knowlesi merozoites. This leaves our current understanding of biological differences across pathogenic Plasmodium spp. incomplete. Here, we report a robust method for isolating viable and invasive P. knowlesi merozoites to high purity and yield. Using this approach, we present detailed comparative dissection of merozoite invasion (using a variety of microscopy platforms) and direct assessment of kinetic differences between knowlesi and falciparum merozoites. We go on to assess the inhibitory potential of molecules targeting discrete steps of invasion in either species via a quantitative invasion inhibition assay, identifying a class of polysulfonate polymer able to efficiently inhibit invasion in both, providing a foundation for pan-Plasmodium merozoite inhibitor development. Given the close evolutionary relationship between P. knowlesi and P. vivax, the second leading cause of malaria-related morbidity, this study paves the way for inter-specific dissection of invasion by all three major pathogenic malaria species.
Large-scale production of megakaryocytes in microcarrier-supported stirred suspension bioreactors
Authors: Eicke Dorothee , Baigger Anja , Schulze Kai , Latham Sharissa L. , Halloin Caroline , Zweigerdt Robert , Guzman Carlos A. , Blasczyk Rainer , Figueiredo Constança
Published: June 2018

Megakaryocytes (MKs) are the precursors of platelets (PLTs) and may be used for PLT production in vivo or in vitro, as well as a source for PLT-derived growth factors. Induced pluripotent stem cells represent an unlimited cell source for the in vitro production of MKs. This study aimed at developing an effective, xeno-free and scalable system to produce high numbers of MKs. In particular, microcarrier beads-assisted stirred bioreactors were evaluated as a means of improving MK yields. This method resulted in the production of 18.7 × 107 MKs per 50 ml medium. Laminin-coated microcarriers increased MK production per iPSC by up to 10-fold. MKs obtained in this system showed typical features of mature MKs and were able to produce PLTs in vitro and in vivo. To increase safety, MKs produced in the bioreactors were irradiated; a procedure that did not affect their capability to form proPLTs and PTLs after transfusion. In vitro generated MKs represent a promising alternative to donor PLTs and open the possibility for the development of innovative MK-based cell therapies.
Modeling the distributions of tegu lizards in native and potential invasive ranges
Authors: Jarnevich Catherine S. , Hayes Mark A. , Fitzgerald Lee A. , Yackel Adams Amy A. , Falk Bryan G. , Collier Michelle A. M. , Bonewell Lea’ R. , Klug Page E. , Naretto Sergio , Reed Robert N.
Published: June 2018

Invasive reptilian predators can have substantial impacts on native species and ecosystems. Tegu lizards are widely distributed in South America east of the Andes, and are popular in the international live animal trade. Two species are established in Florida (U.S.A.) - Salvator merianae (Argentine black and white tegu) and Tupinambis teguixin sensu lato (gold tegu) – and a third has been recorded there— S. rufescens (red tegu). We built species distribution models (SDMs) using 5 approaches (logistic regression, multivariate adaptive regression splines, boosted regression trees, random forest, and maximum entropy) based on data from the native ranges. We then projected these models to North America to develop hypotheses for potential tegu distributions. Our results suggest that much of the southern United States and northern México probably contains suitable habitat for one or more of these tegu species. Salvator rufescens had higher habitat suitability in semi-arid areas, whereas S. merianae and T. teguixin had higher habitat suitability in more mesic areas. We propose that Florida is not the only state where these taxa could become established, and that early detection and rapid response programs targeting tegu lizards in potentially suitable habitat elsewhere in North America could help prevent establishment and abate negative impacts on native ecosystems.
The frontal skull Hounsfield unit value can predict ventricular enlargement in patients with subarachnoid haemorrhage
Authors: Won Yu Deok , Na Min Kyun , Kim Choong Hyun , Kim Jae Min , Cheong Jin Hwan , Ryu Je Il , Han Myung-Hoon
Published: June 2018

Hydrocephalus is a common complication following subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) arising from spontaneous aneurysm rupture. The Hounsfield unit (HU) value from computed tomography scans may reflect bone mineral density, which correlates with body mass index, which in turn is related to post-SAH ventricle size changes. We herein investigated potential associations between frontal skull HU values and ventricle size changes after SAH. HU values from four different areas in the frontal bone were averaged to minimize measurement errors. The bicaudate index and Evans ratio were measured using both baseline and follow-up CT images. CT images with bicaudate index >0.2 and Evans ratio >0.3 simultaneously were defined as indicating ventriculomegaly. We included 232 consecutive patients with SAH due to primary spontaneous aneurysm rupture, who underwent clipping over almost a 9-year period at a single institution. The first tertile of frontal skull HU values in older patients (≥55 years) was an independent predictor of ventriculomegaly after SAH, as compared to the third tertile in younger patients (hazard ratio, 4.01; 95% confidence interval 1.21–13.30; p = 0.023). The lower frontal skull HU value independently predicted ventricular enlargement post-SAH, due to the potential weak integrity of subarachnoid trabecular structures in younger patients.
Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation reveals a causal role of the human precuneus in spatial updating
Authors: Müller Notger G. , Riemer Martin , Brandt Lisa , Wolbers Thomas
Published: June 2018

As we move through an environment, the positions of surrounding objects relative to our body constantly change, with some objects even leaving our field of view. As a consequence, maintaining orientation requires spatial updating, the continuous monitoring of self-motion cues to update external locations within an egocentric frame of reference. While previous research using functional magnetic resonance imaging has implicated the precuneus in spatial updating, direct evidence for this claim is missing. To address this important question, we applied theta burst repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) over the precuneus to induce a “virtual lesion”. Following stimulation, participants were tested in a large-scale virtual environment in which they had to use visual self-motion information to keep track of the position of virtual objects. Compared to sham stimulation, rTMS affected working memory traces for object locations. Critically, rTMS further impaired the ability to update these locations whenever participants experienced simulated movement. As this effect could not be explained by working memory deficits alone, we conclude that visual spatial updating relies on the construction of updated representations of egocentric object locations within the precuneus. Together, these findings establish the precuneus as performing key computations for the formation of cognitive maps.
The small molecule drug diminazene aceturate inhibits liver injury and biliary fibrosis in mice
Authors: Rajapaksha Indu G. , Mak Kai Y. , Huang Ping , Burrell Louise M. , Angus Peter W. , Herath Chandana B.
Published: June 2018

There is no established medical therapy to treat biliary fibrosis resulting from chronic inflammation in the biliary tree. We have recently shown that liver-specific over-expression of angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) of the renin angiotensin system (RAS) ameliorated liver fibrosis in mice. Diminazene aceturate (DIZE), a small molecule drug approved by the US Food and Drug Administration, which is used to treat human trypanosomiasis, has been shown to have antifibrotic properties by enhancing ACE2 activity. In this study we sought to determine the therapeutic potential of DIZE in biliary fibrosis using bile duct ligated and multiple drug resistant gene-2 knockout mice. Additionally, human hepatic stellate (LX-2) and mouse Kupffer (KUP5) cell lines were used to delineate intracellular pathways. DIZE treatment, both in vivo and in vitro, markedly inhibited the activation of fibroblastic stellate cells which was associated with a reduced activation of Kupffer cells. Moreover, DIZE-inhibited NOX enzyme assembly and ROS generation, activation of profibrotic transcription factors including p38, Erk1/2 and Smad2/3 proteins and proinflammatory and profibrotic cytokine release. These changes led to a major reduction in biliary fibrosis in both models without affecting liver ACE2 activity. We conclude that DIZE has a potential to treat biliary fibrosis.
Tissue and exosomal miRNA editing in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Nigita Giovanni , Distefano Rosario , Veneziano Dario , Romano Giulia , Rahman Mohammad , Wang Kai , Pass Harvey , Croce Carlo M. , Acunzo Mario , Nana-Sinkam Patrick
Published: June 2018

RNA editing in microRNAs has been recently proposed as a novel biomarker in cancer. Here, we investigated RNA editing by leveraging small-RNA sequencing data from 87 NSCLC (Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer) samples paired with normal lung tissues from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) combined with 26 plasma-derived exosome samples from an independent cohort. Using both the editing levels and microRNA editing expression, we detected deregulated microRNA editing events between NSCLC tumor and normal tissues. Interestingly, and for the first time, we also detected editing sites in the microRNA cargo of circulating exosomes, providing the potential to non-invasively discriminate between normal and tumor samples. Of note, miR-411-5p edited in position 5 was significantly dysregulated in tissues as well as in exosomes of NSCLC patients, suggesting a potential targetome shift relevant to lung cancer biology.
Dietary methionine deficiency affects oxidative status, mitochondrial integrity and mitophagy in the liver of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)
Authors: Séité Sarah , Mourier Arnaud , Camougrand Nadine , Salin Bénédicte , Figueiredo-Silva A. Cláudia , Fontagné-Dicharry Stéphanie , Panserat Stéphane , Seiliez Iban
Published: June 2018

The low levels of methionine in vegetable raw materials represent a limit to their use in aquafeed. Methionine is considered as an important factor in the control of oxidative status. However, restriction of dietary methionine has been shown to reduce generation of mitochondrial oxygen radicals and thus oxidative damage in liver. Here, we aim to evaluate the effect of dietary methionine deficiency in hepatic oxidative status in rainbow trout and identify the underlying mechanisms. Fish were fed for 6 weeks diets containing two different methionine concentrations: deficient (MD, Methionine Deficient diet) or adequate (CTL, control diet). At the end of the experiment, fish fed the MD diet showed a significantly lower body weight and feed efficiency compared to fish fed the CTL diet. Growth reduction of the MD group was associated to a general mitochondrial defect and a concomitant decrease of the oxidative status in the liver. The obtained results also revealed a sharp increase of mitochondrial degradation through mitophagy in these conditions and emphasized the involvement of the PINK1/PARKIN axis in this event. Collectively, these results provide a broader understanding of the mechanisms at play in the reduction of oxidant status upon dietary methionine deficiency.
Low-Frequency Raman Spectroscopy of Few-Layer 2H-SnS2
Authors: Sriv Tharith , Kim Kangwon , Cheong Hyeonsik
Published: June 2018

We investigated interlayer phonon modes of mechanically exfoliated few-layer 2H-SnS2 samples by using room temperature low-frequency micro-Raman spectroscopy. Raman measurements were performed using laser wavelengths of 441.6, 514.4, 532 and 632.8 nm with power below 100 μW and inside a vacuum chamber to avoid photo-oxidation. The intralayer Eg and A1g modes are observed at ~206 cm−1 and 314 cm−1, respectively, but the Eg mode is much weaker for all excitation energies. The A1g mode exhibits strong resonant enhancement for the 532 nm (2.33 eV) laser. In the low-frequency region, interlayer vibrational modes of shear and breathing modes are observed. These modes show characteristic dependence on the number of layers. The strengths of the interlayer interactions are estimated by fitting the interlayer mode frequencies using the linear chain model and are found to be 1.64 × 1019 N · m−3 and 5.03 × 1019 N · m−3 for the shear and breathing modes, respectively.
Fluidically Switchable Metasurface for Wide Spectrum Absorption
Authors: Ghosh Saptarshi , Lim Sungjoon
Published: June 2018

Metasurfaces, owing to their attractive features, provide a wide range of potential applications. Electromagnetic absorbers based on metasurfaces have significantly improved responses compared to the earlier absorbers made from composite materials. Active metasurfaces, in contrast to the passive designs, can exhibit multifunctional characteristics without repeated fabrication. This paper presents a fluidically-reconfigurable active metasurface that provides switchable wide spectrum absorption. The proposed design is comprised of liquid-metal-encased dielectric substrates, sandwiched between the top resistive pattern and bottom ground plane. With precise control of the liquid metal flow, the structure can exhibit wide absorption bandwidth switching between two frequency regimes. Further, the proposed metasurface has a significant advantage of displaying polarization-insensitive behaviour, unlike the previous fluidically-reconfigured structures. The design has been investigated by illustrating surface current distributions and several parametric variations. Finally, the proposed structure was fabricated using laser etching, and experimentally validated. This work has paved the way towards the realization of reconfigurable metasurfaces with multifunctional characteristics, thus showing great potential in microfluidic technology for diverse applications.
Cultural engagement predicts changes in cognitive function in older adults over a 10 year period: findings from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing
Authors: Fancourt Daisy , Steptoe Andrew
Published: June 2018

There is increasing evidence that leading an active, socially engaged lifestyle might protect against cognitive decline. The arts have been proposed as potentially beneficial activities due to their combination of cognitive complexity and mental creativity. Yet it remains uncertain which types of arts engagement and what level of engagement is required for potential benefits to accrue. This study therefore explored the association between three types of cultural engagement (visiting museums/galleries/exhibitions, going to the theatre/concert/opera and going to the cinema) and change in cognitive function over 10 years amongst adults aged over 52. Our participants (n = 3,445), drawn from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing, were assessed in 2004/5 and 2014/15. We measured memory and semantic fluency at baseline and follow-up, analysing results using ordinary least squares regression models. Independent of demographic, health and social confounders, visiting museums/galleries/exhibitions and going to the theatre/concert/opera were associated with a lesser decline in cognitive function. Sensitivity analyses confirmed effects were unaffected by considerations of mobility or dementia diagnoses. However, going to the cinema was found to hold little effect for cognitive preservation. Overall, our results suggest that more frequent cultural engagement is associated with more marked effects, but even annual engagement may be protective.
CAP modifies the structure of a model protein from thermophilic bacteria: mechanisms of CAP-mediated inactivation
Authors: Attri Pankaj , Han Jeongmin , Choi Sooho , Choi Eun Ha , Bogaerts Annemie , Lee Weontae
Published: June 2018

Cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) has great potential for sterilization in the food industry, by deactivation of thermophilic bacteria, but the underlying mechanisms are largely unknown. Therefore, we investigate here whether CAP is able to denature/modify protein from thermophilic bacteria. We focus on MTH1880 (MTH) from Methanobacterium thermoautotrophicum as model protein, which we treated with dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma operating in air for 10, 15 and 20 mins. We analysed the structural changes of MTH using circular dichroism, fluorescence and NMR spectroscopy, as well as the thermal and chemical denaturation, upon CAP treatment. Additionally, we performed molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to determine the stability, flexibility and solvent accessible surface area (SASA) of both the native and oxidised protein.
Ecological influence of sediment bypass tunnels on macroinvertebrates in dam-fragmented rivers by DNA metabarcoding
Authors: Serrana Joeselle M. , Yaegashi Sakiko , Kondoh Shunsuke , Li Bin , Robinson Christopher T. , Watanabe Kozo
Published: June 2018

Sediment bypass tunnels (SBTs) are guiding structures used to reduce sediment accumulation in reservoirs during high flows by transporting sediments to downstream reaches during operation. Previous studies monitoring the ecological effects of SBT operations on downstream reaches suggest a positive influence of SBTs on riverbed sediment conditions and macroinvertebrate communities based on traditional morphology-based surveys. Morphology-based macroinvertebrate assessments are costly and time-consuming, and the large number of morphologically cryptic, small-sized and undescribed species usually results in coarse taxonomic identification. Here, we used DNA metabarcoding analysis to assess the influence of SBT operations on macroinvertebrates downstream of SBT outlets by estimating species diversity and pairwise community dissimilarity between upstream and downstream locations in dam-fragmented rivers with operational SBTs in comparison to dam-fragmented (i.e., no SBTs) and free-flowing rivers (i.e., no dam). We found that macroinvertebrate community dissimilarity decreases with increasing operation time and frequency of SBTs. These factors of SBT operation influence changes in riverbed features, e.g. sediment relations, that subsequently effect the recovery of downstream macroinvertebrate communities to their respective upstream communities. Macroinvertebrate abundance using morphologically-identified specimens was positively correlated to read abundance using metabarcoding. This supports and reinforces the use of quantitative estimates for diversity analysis with metabarcoding data.
Hypoxia promotes breast cancer cell invasion through HIF-1α-mediated up-regulation of the invadopodial actin bundling protein CSRP2
Authors: Hoffmann Céline , Mao Xianqing , Brown-Clay Joshua , Moreau Flora , Al Absi Antoun , Wurzer Hannah , Sousa Barbara , Schmitt Fernando , Berchem Guy , Janji Bassam , Thomas Clément
Published: June 2018

Hypoxia is a common feature of solid tumours that promotes invasion and metastatic dissemination. Invadopodia are actin-rich membrane protrusions that direct extracellular matrix proteolysis and facilitate tumour cell invasion. Here, we show that CSRP2, an invadopodial actin bundling protein, is upregulated by hypoxia in various breast cancer cell lines, as well as in pre-clinical and clinical breast tumour specimens. We functionally characterized two hypoxia responsive elements within the proximal promoter of CSRP2 gene which are targeted by hypoxia-inducible factor-1 (HIF-1) and required for promoter transactivation in response to hypoxia. Remarkably, CSRP2 knockdown significantly inhibits hypoxia-stimulated invadopodium formation, ECM degradation and invasion in MDA-MB-231 cells, while CSRP2 forced expression was sufficient to enhance the invasive capacity of HIF-1α-depleted cells under hypoxia. In MCF-7 cells, CSRP2 upregulation was required for hypoxia-induced formation of invadopodium precursors that were unable to promote ECM degradation. Collectively, our data support that CSRP2 is a novel and direct cytoskeletal target of HIF-1 which facilitates hypoxia-induced breast cancer cell invasion by promoting invadopodia formation.
A new analytical method for lead determination in atmospheric particulate matter by a combination of ultrasound-assisted extraction and supramolecular solvent preconcentration
Authors: Beal Alexandra , Garcia de Almeida Fernanda , Moreira Camila A. B. , Santos Isis M. , Curti Suzana M. M. , Martins Leila D. , Tarley Cesar R. T.
Published: June 2018

Air pollution by lead, even in small concentrations, can cause serious health effects.
Tubular J-aggregates of a new thiacarbocyanine Cy5 dye for the far-red spectral region – a spectroscopic and cryo-transmission electron microscopy study
Authors: Berlepsch Hans v. , Böttcher Christoph
Published: June 2018

A new phenol-substituted Cy5 dye forms tubular J-aggregates that are active in the far-red spectral region.
Electrochemical properties and C–H bond oxidation activity of [Ru(tpy)(pyalk)Cl]+ and [Ru(tpy)(pyalk)(OH)]+
Authors: Nilles Christian K. , Herath Hashini N. K. , Fanous Hanna , Ugrinov Angel , Parent Alexander R.
Published: June 2018

An O-donor ligand leads to low Ru(ii/iii) potentials.
Sustainable approach to recycling of multilayer flexible packaging using switchable hydrophilicity solvents
Authors: Mumladze Tamari , Yousef Samy , Tatariants Maksym , Kriūkienė Rita , Makarevicius Vidas , Lukošiūtė Stasė-Irena , Bendikiene Regita , Denafas Gintaras
Published: June 2018

Multilayer Flexible Packaging Waste (MFPW) represents the largest fraction of packaging waste and is mainly composed of multiple plastic films laminated with Al foil.
Hydrogel electrodeposition based on bipolar electrochemistry
Authors: Ino Kosuke , Matsumoto Tomoaki , Taira Noriko , Kumagai Tatsuki , Nashimoto Yuji , Shiku Hitoshi
Published: June 2018

Electrodeposition of the hydrogel on the bipolar electrode in the absence of a direct ohmic contact, and cell culture in the hydrogel.
High-temperature driven inter-valley carrier transfer and significant fluorescence enhancement in multilayer WS2
Authors: Chen Heyu , Li Yuanzheng , Liu Weizhen , Xu Haiyang , Yang Guochun , Shi Jia , Feng Qiushi , Yu Tong , Liu Xinfeng , Liu Yichun
Published: June 2018

A high-temperature driven carrier transfer process of multilayer WS2 is proposed and demonstrated for significant fluorescence emission enhancement.
Metal–azole fungistatic drug complexes as anti-Sporothrixspp. agents
Authors: Gagini Thalita , Colina-Vegas Legna , Villarreal Wilmer , Borba-Santos Luana Pereira , de Souza Pereira Caroline , Batista Alzir Azevedo , Kneip Fleury Marcos , de Souza Wanderley , Rozental Sonia , Costa Luiz Antônio S. , Navarro Maribel
Published: June 2018

Metal–antifungal drug complexes were investigated against fungus causing of sporotrichosis. They were more active against fungal cells than to mammalian cells.
The development of an ICT-based formaldehyde-responsive fluorescence turn-on probe with a high signal-to-noise ratio
Authors: Yang Xueling , He Longwei , Xu Kaixin , Yang Yunzhen , Lin Weiying
Published: June 2018

An ICT-based formaldehyde fluorescence turn-on probe (PBD-FA) with a high signal-to-noise ratio was judiciously constructed for bio-applications.
A synthetic biological quantum optical system
Authors: Lishchuk Anna , Kodali Goutham , Mancini Joshua A. , Broadbent Matthew , Darroch Brice , Mass Olga A. , Nabok Alexei , Dutton P. Leslie , Hunter C. Neil , Törmä Päivi , Leggett Graham J.
Published: June 2018

Strong coupling between plasmon modes and chlorins in synthetic light-harvesting maquette proteins yields hybrid light–matter states (plexcitons) whose energies are controlled by design of protein structure, enabling the creation of new states not seen under weak coupling.
Total synthesis of the proposed structure of talarolide A
Authors: Zhang Shengping , De Leon Rodriguez Luis M. , Huang Renjie , Leung Ivanhoe K. H. , Harris Paul W. R. , Brimble Margaret A.
Published: June 2018

The proposed structure of talarolide A, a cycloheptapeptide featuring a hydroxamate moiety within the peptide backbone, was successfully synthesized.
A high-performance sodium anode composed of few-layer MoSe2 and N, P doped reduced graphene oxide composites
Authors: Roy Amlan , Ghosh Arnab , Kumar Ajit , Mitra Sagar
Published: June 2018

Capacity and stability enhancement has been observed for MoSe2 covered with N, P-doped rGO sheets. The sodiation behaviour was also investigated through different ex situ studies.
Enhanced hydrogen evolution of MoS2/RGO: vanadium, nitrogen dopants triggered new active sites and expanded interlayer
Authors: Guo Jinxue , Zhang Ke , Sun Yanfang , Zong Yingxia , Guo Ziyang , Liu Qingyun , Zhang Xiao , Xia Yongyao
Published: June 2018

A vanadium and nitrogen co-doping technique has been demonstrated as a “killing two birds with one stone” solution for simultaneously increasing active sites, improving catalysis kinetics, and modulating electric structure to improve its HER performance.
Polydopamine-wrapped carbon nanotubes to improve the corrosion barrier of polyurethane coating
Authors: Cai Guangyi , Hou Jian , Jiang Dan , Dong Zehua
Published: June 2018

Nanocomposite reinforced polyurethane (PU) coatings have been prepared by an ultrasonication method with polydopamine-wrapped carbon nanotubes (PDA@CNTs) as the nanofiller.
Multicolor carbon nanodots from food waste and their heavy metal ion detection application
Authors: Zhou Ying , Liu Yao , Li Yeqing , He Ziying , Xu Quan , Chen Yusheng , Street Jason , Guo Hao , Nelles Michael
Published: June 2018

Multicolor carbon dots produced from green carbonaceous materials by disposing of food waste through the HTC process could be used as fluorescent probes to detect iron ions.
Synthesis of different glutathione–sulfur mustard adducts of verified and potential biomarkers
Authors: Bielmann Andreas , Sambiagio Nicolas , Wehr Nathalie , Gerber-Lemaire Sandrine , Bochet Christian G. , Curty Christophe
Published: June 2018

Recently, several adducts between the chemical agent sulfur mustard (SM) and glutathione (GSH) were observed in vitro. We report the synthesis of different observed and potential GSH–SM bioadducts as reference materials for analytical investigation.
Biocompatible surface modification of nano-scale zeolitic imidazolate frameworks for enhanced drug delivery
Authors: Li Yuqing , Zheng Yongtai , Lai Xinyi , Chu Yuehuan , Chen Yongming
Published: June 2018

In this study, we present a general approach for harnessing the surface of ZIF-8 with hyaluronic acid (HA) for enhanced anti-cancer treatment by efficient curcumin (CCM) delivery.
Hydroprocessing of low-temperature coal tar to produce jet fuel
Authors: Gang Yong , Zhang Xu , Lei Xiong , Guo Hongyao , Li Wenhong , Li Dong
Published: June 2018

Jet fuel was prepared from low-temperature coal tar (LTCT) via two-stage fixed beds that were filled with two commercial catalysts.
Development and dissemination of a teaching learning sequence on nanoscience and nanotechnology in a context of communities of learners
Authors: Stavrou Dimitris , Michailidi Emily , Sgouros Giannis
Published: June 2018

Introducing Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (NST) topics into school science curricula is considered useful for an in-depth understanding of the content, processes and nature of science and technology, and also for negotiating the social aspects of science. This study examines (a) the development of an inquiry-based Teaching–Learning Sequence (TLS) on NST topics, which incorporates socio-scientific issues and out-of-school learning environments and (b) the dissemination of the developed TLS through the training of further teachers. In both cases, a participatory design, in particular Communities of Learners (CoLs), was established, consisting of teachers, science researchers, science education researchers and science museum experts. As a theoretical framework for the TLS development, the Model of Educational Reconstruction is used. The qualitative analysis of the obtained data highlights that teachers’ interactions with colleagues in the CoL on issues regarding the educational reconstruction of the different aspects of the TLS impact the process of its development. Regarding the dissemination of the TLS, the findings indicate that teachers modified several elements of the TLS and particularly the included activities, influenced by their mentors’ prior experience and their own rich contextual knowledge. Finally, guidelines for the development and dissemination of a TLS are discussed.
Size-dependent rate acceleration in the silylation of secondary alcohols: the bigger the faster
Authors: Marin-Luna Marta , Pölloth Benjamin , Zott Fabian , Zipse Hendrik
Published: June 2018

Relative rates for the reaction of secondary alcohols carrying large aromatic moieties with silyl chlorides carrying equally large substituents have been determined in organic solvents.
A fuel cell catalyst support based on doped titanium suboxides with enhanced conductivity, durability and fuel cell performance
Authors: Alipour Moghadam Esfahani Reza , Ebralidze Iraklii I. , Specchia Stefania , Easton E. Bradley
Published: June 2018

A low-band gap metal-oxide based fuel cell catalyst support with enhanced durability and fuel cell performance.
Synthesis of amine-functionalized ZIF-8 with 3-amino-1,2,4-triazole by postsynthetic modification for efficient CO2-selective adsorbents and beyond
Authors: Cho Kie Yong , An Heseong , Do Xuan Huy , Choi Keunsu , Yoon Ho Gyu , Jeong Hae-Kwon , Lee Jong Suk , Baek Kyung-Youl
Published: June 2018

The facile tuning of the gate size and the chemical functionalization of zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 (ZIF-8) were achieved by the postsynthetic modification with 3-amino-1,2,4-triazole. The resulting amine functionalized ZIF-8 particles enabled CO2 selective adsorption and further chemical modifications.
Hollow nanoporous red phosphorus as an advanced anode for sodium-ion batteries
Authors: Liu Shuai , Xu Hui , Bian Xiufang , Feng Jinkui , Liu Jie , Yang Yinghui , Yuan Chao , An Yongling , Fan Runhua , Ci Lijie
Published: June 2018

We have demonstrated a novel hollow nanoporous red phosphorus as a high-performance anode for SIBs via a boiling process.
A new oxygen reduction electrocatalyst of barium lanthanide cobaltate for composite cathodes of proton-conducting ceramic fuel cells
Authors: Matsui Toshiaki , Manriki Kohei , Miyazaki Kazunari , Muroyama Hiroki , Eguchi Koichi
Published: June 2018

A new oxygen reduction electrocatalyst of barium lanthanide cobaltate of Ba4Sr2Sm2Co4O15 (BSSC) for composite cathodes of proton-conducting ceramic fuel cells.
Engineering an effective noble-metal-free photocatalyst for hydrogen evolution: hollow hexagonal porous micro-rods assembled from In2O3@carbon core–shell nanoparticles
Authors: Li Rong , Sun Liming , Zhan Wenwen , Li Yan-An , Wang Xiaojun , Han Xiguang
Published: June 2018

It is desirable but challenging to design noble-metal-free photocatalysts with improved activity for hydrogen (H2) evolution.
Comparative study of the growth characteristics and electrical properties of atomic-layer-deposited HfO2 films obtained from metal halide and amide precursors
Authors: Oh Il-Kwon , Park Bo-Eun , Seo Seunggi , Yeo Byung Chul , Tanskanen Jukka , Lee Han-Bo-Ram , Kim Woo-Hee , Kim Hyungjun
Published: June 2018

Theoretical and experimental studies were performed on surface reactions during film growth and electrical properties of HfO2 using two different Hf precursors, HfCl4 and Hf(N(CH3)2)4.
Rewritable and highly stable photonic patterns for optical storage and display enabled by direct-pressure-programmed shape memory photonic crystals
Authors: Niu Wenbin , Zhao Kai , Qu Lingcheng , Zhang Shufen
Published: June 2018

The fabrication of rewritable and stable photonic patterns is reported, based on direct pressure-programmed shape memory photonic crystals.
Dynamics and grain orientation dependence of the electric field induced phase transformation in Sm modified BiFeO3 ceramics
Authors: Ormstrup Jeppe , Makarovic Maja , Majkut Marta , Rojac Tadej , Walker Julian , Simons Hugh
Published: June 2018

Sm-Modified BiFeO3 multiferroic ceramics experience two simultaneous electric field induced phase transformations, both of which have strong grain orientation dependences and slow transformation kinetics in the order of several minutes.
Mechanochemical synthesis of one-dimensional (1D) hybrid perovskites incorporating polycyclic aromatic spacers: highly fluorescent cation-based materials
Authors: García-Espejo Gonzalo , Rodríguez-Padrón Daily , Pérez-Morales Marta , Luque Rafael , de Miguel Gustavo , Camacho Luis
Published: June 2018

Three polycyclic aromatic cations are successfully assembled with inorganic PbBr6 octahedra to synthesize one-dimensional (1D) hybrid perovskites.
Modulating the grain size, phase and optoelectronic quality of perovskite films with cesium iodide for high-performance solar cells
Authors: Sidhik Siraj , Pasarán Andrea Cerdán , Rosiles Pérez Christopher , López-Luke Tzarara , De la Rosa Elder
Published: June 2018

The role of cesium in retarding perovskite crystallization for enhanced grain size and ultra-smooth surface giving an efficiency of ∼19%.