bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
No effects of transcranial DLPFC stimulation on implicit task sequence learning and consolidation
Authors: Savic Branislav , Cazzoli Dario , Müri René , Meier Beat
Published: August 2017

Neurostimulation of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) can modulate performance in cognitive tasks. In a recent study, however, transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) of the DLPFC did not affect implicit task sequence learning and consolidation in a paradigm that involved bimanual responses. Because bimanual performance increases the coupling between homologous cortical areas of the hemispheres and left and right DLPFC were stimulated separately the null findings may have been due to the bimanual setup. The aim of the present study was to test the effect of neuro-stimulation on sequence learning in a uni-manual setup. For this purpose two experiments were conducted. In Experiment 1, the DLPFC was stimulated with tDCS. In Experiment 2 the DLPFC was stimulated with transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). In both experiments, consolidation was measured 24 hours later. The results showed that sequence learning was present in all conditions and sessions, but it was not influenced by stimulation. Likewise, consolidation of sequence learning was robust across sessions, but it was not influenced by stimulation. These results replicate and extend previous findings. They indicate that established tDCS and TMS protocols on the DLPFC do not influence implicit task sequence learning and consolidation.
Sex-specific eNOS activity and function in human endothelial cells
Authors: Cattaneo Maria Grazia , Vanetti Claudia , Decimo Ilaria , Di Chio Marzia , Martano Giuseppe , Garrone Giulia , Bifari Francesco , Vicentini Lucia Maria
Published: August 2017

Clinical and epidemiological data show that biological sex is one of the major determinants for the development and progression of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Impaired endothelial function, characterized by an imbalance in endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase (eNOS) activity, precedes and accelerates the development of CVD. However, whether there is any sexual dimorphism in eNOS activity and function in endothelial cells (ECs) is still unknown. Here, by independently studying human male and female ECs, we found that female ECs expressed higher eNOS mRNA and protein levels both in vitro and ex vivo. The increased eNOS expression was associated to higher enzymatic activity and nitric oxide production. Pharmacological and genetic inhibition of eNOS affected migratory properties only in female ECs. In vitro angiogenesis experiments confirmed that sprouting mostly relied on eNOS-dependent migration in female ECs. At variance, capillary outgrowth from male ECs was independent of eNOS activity but required cell proliferation. In this study, we found sex-specific differences in the EC expression, activity, and function of eNOS. This intrinsic sexual dimorphism of ECs should be further evaluated to achieve more effective and precise strategies for the prevention and therapy of diseases associated to an impaired endothelial function such as CVD and pathological angiogenesis.
Printable Fluorescent Hydrogels Based on Self-Assembling Peptides
Authors: Xia Yifan , Xue Bin , Qin Meng , Cao Yi , Li Ying , Wang Wei
Published: August 2017

Fluorescent hydrogels (FH) have a variety of potential applications in the field of soft electronics. However, fabrication of mechanically stable and printable fluorescent hydrogels remains challenging. Here, we report a kind of fluorescent hydrogel based on the co-assembly of peptide motif and transition metal ions. The metal ions are captured in the hydrogel network at specific positions through covalently linked ligands on the peptide hydrogelators. This efficiently prevents the aggregation and self-quenching of organometallic chromophores. In addition, the formation of metal-ligand complexes introduces additional interactions to stabilize the hydrogel network, making the FH even more stable after the incorporation of metal ions. The FH is optically transparent but highly fluorescent. By using three different metal ions, the white light fluorescent supramolecular hydrogel has been achieved. As a proof-of-principle, we demonstrate the printability of the hydrogels to various patterns. We anticipate that with the improved fluorescent performance and stability, this kind of FH can find broad applications in extrusion-based 3D printing for the construction of soft electronics.
Radio frequency surface plasma oscillations: electrical excitation and detection by Ar/Ag(111)
Authors: Serrano Giulia , Tebi Stefano , Wiespointner-Baumgarthuber Stefan , Müllegger Stefan , Koch Reinhold
Published: August 2017

We electrically excite surface plasma oscillations on a Ag(111) single crystal by alternating electric charging at radio frequency. The radio frequency signal energy of 2.2 μeV, used to induce surface plasma oscillations, is about 5 to 6 orders of magnitude lower than the plasmon energies reachable by optical excitation or electron impact. The detection of the surface plasma oscillations is achieved by nano-fabricated 2D single-crystal sensor-islands of Ar atoms, which are shown by imaging with a scanning tunneling microscope to restructure in response to the radio frequency surface plasma oscillations, providing nanometer spatial resolution and a characteristic decay time of ≈150 ns.
Reproductive benefits of no-take marine reserves vary with region for an exploited coral reef fish
Authors: Carter A. B. , Davies C. R. , Emslie M. J. , Mapstone B. D. , Russ G. R. , Tobin A. J. , Williams A. J.
Published: August 2017

No-take marine reserves (NTMRs) are expected to benefit fisheries via the net export of eggs and larvae (recruitment subsidy) from reserves to adjacent fished areas. Quantifying egg production is the first step in evaluating recruitment subsidy potential. We calculated annual egg production per unit area (EPUA) from 2004 to 2013 for the commercially important common coral trout, Plectropomus leopardus, on fished and NTMR reefs throughout the Great Barrier Reef (GBR), Australia. Geographic region, NTMR status, fish size, and population density were all found to affect EPUA. The interactions among these factors were such that, EPUA on NTMR reefs compared to reefs open to fishing was 21% greater in the southern GBR, 152% greater in the central GBR, but 56% less in the northern GBR. The results show that while NTMRs can potentially provide a substantial recruitment subsidy (central GBR reefs), they may provide a far smaller subsidy (southern GBR), or serve as recruitment sinks (northern GBR) for the same species in nearby locations where demographic rates differ. This study highlights the importance of considering spatial variation in EPUA when assessing locations of NTMRs if recruitment subsidy is expected from them.
Templated Assembly of Collagen Fibers Directs Cell Growth in 2D and 3D
Authors: Liu G. Y. , Agarwal R. , Ko K. R , Ruthven M. , Sarhan H. T. , Frampton J. P.
Published: August 2017

Collagen is widely used in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, with many examples of collagen-based biomaterials emerging in recent years. While there are numerous methods available for forming collagen scaffolds from isolated collagen, existing biomaterial processing techniques are unable to efficiently align collagen at the microstructural level, which is important for providing appropriate cell recognition and mechanical properties. Although some attention has shifted to development of fiber-based collagen biomaterials, existing techniques for producing and aligning collagen fibers are not appropriate for large-scale fiber manufacturing. Here, we report a novel biomaterial fabrication approach capable of efficiently generating collagen fibers of appropriate sizes using a viscous solution of dextran as a dissolvable template. We demonstrate that myoblasts readily attach and align along 2D collagen fiber networks created by this process. Furthermore, encapsulation of collagen fibers with myoblasts into non-cell-adherent hydrogels promotes aligned growth of cells and supports their differentiation. The ease-of-production and versatility of this technique will support future development of advanced in vitro tissue models and materials for regenerative medicine.
Localization and Orientation of Xanthophylls in a Lipid Bilayer
Authors: Grudzinski Wojciech , Nierzwicki Lukasz , Welc Renata , Reszczynska Emilia , Luchowski Rafal , Czub Jacek , Gruszecki Wieslaw I.
Published: August 2017

Xanthophylls (polar carotenoids) play diverse biological roles, among which are modulation of the physical properties of lipid membranes and protection of biomembranes against oxidative damage. Molecular mechanisms underlying these functions are intimately related to the localization and orientation of xanthophyll molecules in lipid membranes. In the present work, we address the problem of localization and orientation of two xanthophylls present in the photosynthetic apparatus of plants and in the retina of the human eye, zeaxanthin and lutein, in a single lipid bilayer membrane formed with dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine. By using fluorescence microscopic analysis and Raman imaging of giant unilamellar vesicles, as well as molecular dynamics simulations, we show that lutein and zeaxanthin adopt a very similar transmembrane orientation within a lipid membrane. In experimental and computational approach, the average tilt angle of xanthophylls relative to the membrane normal is independently found to be ~40 deg, and results from hydrophobic mismatch between the membrane thickness and the distance between the terminal hydroxyl groups of the xanthophylls. Consequences of such a localization and orientation for biological activity of xanthophylls are discussed.
Perturbation of formate pathway and NADH pathway acting on the biohydrogen production
Authors: Liu Dong , Sun Yunze , Li Yuhao , Lu Yuan
Published: August 2017

The formate pathway and NADH pathway as two common hydrogen-producing metabolic pathways have been well characterized to understand and improve biohydrogen production. These two pathways have been thought to be separate and have been independently investigated. However, in this study, perturbation of genes (hycA,fdhF,fhlA,ldhA,nuoB,hybO,fdh1,narP, andppk) inEnterobacter aerogenesrelated to the formate pathway or NADH pathway revealed that these two pathways affected each other. Further metabolic analysis suggested that a linear relationship existed between the relative change of hydrogen yield in the formate pathway or NADH pathway and the relative change of NADH yield or ATP yield. Thus, this finding provides new insight into the role of cellular reducing power and energy level in the hydrogen metabolism. It also establishes a rationale for improving hydrogen production from a global perspective.
Key glycolytic branch influences mesocarp oil content in oil palm
Authors: Ruzlan Nurliyana , Low Yoke Sum Jaime , Win Wilonita , Azizah Musa Noor , Ong Ai-Ling , Chew Fook-Tim , Appleton David , Mohd Yusof Hirzun , Kulaveerasingam Harikrishna
Published: August 2017

The fructose-1,6-bisphosphate aldolase catalyzed glycolysis branch that forms dihydroxyacetone phosphate and glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate was identified as a key driver of increased oil synthesis in oil palm and was validated in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Reduction in triose phosphate isomerase (TPI) activity in a yeast knockdown mutant resulted in 19% increase in lipid content, while yeast strains overexpressing oil palm fructose-1,6-bisphosphate aldolase (EgFBA) and glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (EgG3PDH) showed increased lipid content by 16% and 21%, respectively. Genetic association analysis on oil palm SNPs of EgTPI SD_SNP_000035801 and EgGAPDH SD_SNP_000041011 showed that palms harboring homozygous GG in EgTPI and heterozygous AG in EgGAPDH exhibited higher mesocarp oil content based on dry weight. In addition, AG genotype of the SNP of EgG3PDH SD_SNP_000008411 was associated with higher mean mesocarp oil content, whereas GG genotype of the EgFBA SNP SD_SNP_000007765 was favourable. Additive effects were observed with a combination of favourable alleles in TPI and FBA in Nigerian x AVROS population (family F7) with highest allele frequency GG.GG being associated with a mean increase of 3.77% (p value = 2.3E−16) oil content over the Family 1. An analogous effect was observed in yeast, where overexpressed EgFBA in TPI
-
resulted in a 30% oil increment. These results provide insights into flux balances in glycolysis leading to higher yield in mesocarp oil-producing fruit.
Light-induced Conductance Switching in Photomechanically Active Carbon Nanotube-Polymer Composites
Authors: Schneider V. , Polonskyi O. , Strunskus T. , Elbahri M. , Faupel F.
Published: August 2017

Novel, optically responsive devices with a host of potential applications have been demonstrated by coupling carbon nanomaterials with photochromic molecules. For light-induced conductance switching in particular, we have recently shown that carbon nanotube-polymer nanocomposites containing azobenzene are very attractive and provide stable and non-degradable changes in conductivity over time at standard laboratory conditions. In these composites, the photoswitching mechanisms are based on light-induced changes in electronic properties and related to the Pool-Frenkel conduction mechanism. However, no link between conductivity switching and the molecular motion of azobenzene chromophores could be found due to application of high elastic modulus polymer matrices. Here we report on single wall carbon nanotube-polymer nanocomposites with a soft polycaprolactone polymer host. Such a system clearly shows the transfer of light-induced, nano-sized molecular motion to macroscopic thickness changes of the composite matrix. We demonstrate that these photomechanical effects can indeed overshadow the electronic effects in conductivity switching behavior and lead to a reversion of the conductivity switching direction near the percolation threshold.
Cryoconite as a temporary sink for anthropogenic species stored in glaciers
Authors: Baccolo Giovanni , Di Mauro Biagio , Massabò Dario , Clemenza Massimiliano , Nastasi Massimiliano , Delmonte Barbara , Prata Michele , Prati Paolo , Previtali Ezio , Maggi Valter
Published: August 2017

Cryoconite, the typical sediment found on the surface of glaciers, is mainly known in relation to its role in glacial microbiology and in altering the glacier albedo. But if these aspects are relatively well addressed, the same cannot be said about the geochemical properties of cryoconite and the possible interactions with glacial and peri-glacial environment. Current glacier retreat is responsible for the secondary emission of species deposited in high-altitude regions in the last decades. The role played by cryoconite in relation to such novel geochemical fluxes is largely unknown. Few and scarce observations suggest that it could interact with these processes, accumulating specific substances, but why, how and to what extent remain open questions. Through a multi-disciplinary approach we tried to shed lights. Results reveal that the peculiar composition of cryoconite is responsible for an extreme accumulation capability of this sediment, in particular for some, specific, anthropogenic substances.
Functional and effective whole brain connectivity using magnetoencephalography to identify monozygotic twin pairs
Authors: Demuru M. , Gouw A. A. , Hillebrand A. , Stam C. J. , van Dijk B. W. , Scheltens P. , Tijms B. M. , Konijnenberg E. , ten Kate M. , den Braber A. , Smit D. J. A. , Boomsma D. I. , Visser P. J.
Published: August 2017

Resting-state functional connectivity patterns are highly stable over time within subjects. This suggests that such ‘functional fingerprints’ may have strong genetic component. We investigated whether the functional (FC) or effective (EC) connectivity patterns of one monozygotic twin could be used to identify the co-twin among a larger sample and determined the overlap in functional fingerprints within monozygotic (MZ) twin pairs using resting state magnetoencephalography (MEG). We included 32 cognitively normal MZ twin pairs from the Netherlands Twin Register who participate in the EMIF-AD preclinAD study (average age 68 years). Combining EC information across multiple frequency bands we obtained an identification rate over 75%. Since MZ twin pairs are genetically identical these results suggest a high genetic contribution to MEG-based EC patterns, leading to large similarities in brain connectivity patterns between two individuals even after 60 years of life or more.
Graphene Klein tunnel transistors for high speed analog RF applications
Authors: Tan Yaohua , Elahi Mirza M. , Tsao Han-Yu , Habib K. M. Masum , Barker N. Scott , Ghosh Avik W.
Published: August 2017

We propose Graphene Klein tunnel transistors (GKTFET) as a way to enforce current saturation while maintaining large mobility for high speed radio frequency (RF) applications. The GKTFET consists of a sequence of angled graphene p-n junctions (GPNJs). Klein tunneling creates a collimation of electrons across each GPNJ, so that the lack of substantial overlap between transmission lobes across successive junctions creates a gate-tunable transport gap without significantly compromising the on-current. Electron scattering at the device edge tends to bleed parasitic states into the gap, but the resulting pseudogap is still sufficient to create a saturated output (I
D
–V
D
) characteristic and a high output resistance. The modulated density of states generates a higher transconductance (g
m
) and unity current gain cut-off frequency (f
T
) than GFETs. More significantly the high output resistance makes the unity power gain cut-off frequency (f
max
) of GKTFETs considerably larger than GFETs, making analog GKTFET potentially useful for RF electronics. Our estimation shows the f
T
/f
max
of a GKTFET with 1 μm channel reaches 33 GHz/17 GHz, and scale up to 350 GHz/53 GHz for 100 nm channel (assuming a single, scalable trapezoidal gate). The f
max
of a GKTFET is 10 times higher than a GFET with the same channel length.
Investigation of a Canine Parvovirus Outbreak using Next Generation Sequencing
Authors: Parker Jayme , Murphy Molly , Hueffer Karsten , Chen Jack
Published: August 2017

Canine parvovirus (CPV) outbreaks can have a devastating effect in communities with dense dog populations. The interior region of Alaska experienced a CPV outbreak in the winter of 2016 leading to the further investigation of the virus due to reports of increased morbidity and mortality occurring at dog mushing kennels in the area. Twelve rectal-swab specimens from dogs displaying clinical signs consistent with parvoviral-associated disease were processed using next-generation sequencing (NGS) methodologies by targeting RNA transcripts, and therefore detecting only replicating virus. All twelve specimens demonstrated the presence of the CPV transcriptome, with read depths ranging from 2.2X – 12,381X, genome coverage ranging from 44.8–96.5%, and representation of CPV sequencing reads to those of the metagenome background ranging from 0.0015–6.7%. Using the data generated by NGS, the presence of newly evolved, yet known, strains of both CPV-2a and CPV-2b were identified and grouped geographically. Deep-sequencing data provided additional diagnostic information in terms of investigating novel CPV in this outbreak. NGS data in addition to limited serological data provided strong diagnostic evidence that this outbreak most likely arose from unvaccinated or under-vaccinated canines, not from a novel CPV strain incapable of being neutralized by current vaccination efforts.
Activation of invariant natural killer T cells stimulated with microbial α-mannosyl glycolipids
Authors: Shimamura Michio , Yamamura Masaki , Nabeshima Tatsuya , Kitano Naoki , van den Elzen Peter , Yesilkaya Hasan , Andrew Peter , Illarionov Petr
Published: August 2017

Some synthetic and bacterial glycolipids presented by CD1d specifically activate invariant NKT (iNKT) cells bearing an invariant Vα14-Jα18 (mouse) or Vα24-Jα18 (human) TCR. The antigenic glycolipids identified to date consist of two hydrophobic chains and an α-glycoside in which the 2′-OH group is in thecisorientation toward the anomeric group, namely, either an α-galactoside or an α-glucoside. Several microbial α-mannosyl glycolipids, in which the 2′-OH group is in thetransorientation, were herein examined to establish whether they have potential to activate iNKT cells. We found that α-mannnosyl1-3 (6′-O-acyl α-mannosyl)-1-1 monoacylglycerol and cholesteryl 6′-O-acyl α-mannoside, found inSaccharopolysporaandCandida albicans, respectively, induced the activation of iNKT cells, dependent on CD1d. In contrast, α-mannosyldiacylglycerol found inStreptococcus suisor α-mannosylceramide demonstrated markedly less antigenicity for iNKT cells. The potentially antigenic α-mannosyl glycolipids contributed to the protection of mice against infection withS.pneumoniaein which iNKT cells have previously been found to participate. Furthermore, these glycolipids induced the production of proinflammatory cytokines by macrophages, thereby suggesting their recognition by specific pattern recognition receptors (PRRs). Collectively, these results suggest that these microbial α-mannosyl glycolipids are capable of being recognized by both the invariant TCR and PRRs and inducing immune responses.
Chitin-deacetylase activity induces appressorium differentiation in the rice blast fungus Magnaporthe oryzae
Authors: Kuroki Misa , Okauchi Kana , Yoshida Sho , Ohno Yuko , Murata Sayaka , Nakajima Yuichi , Nozaka Akihito , Tanaka Nobukiyo , Nakajima Masahiro , Taguchi Hayao , Saitoh Ken-ichiro , Teraoka Tohru , Narukawa Megumi , Kamakura Takashi
Published: August 2017

The rice blast fungus Magnaporthe oryzae differentiates a specialized infection structure called an appressorium to invade rice cells. In this report, we show that CBP1, which encodes a chitin-deacetylase, is involved in the induction phase of appressorium differentiation. We demonstrate that the enzymatic activity of Cbp1 is critical for appressorium formation. M. oryzae has six CDA homologues in addition to Cbp1, but none of these are indispensable for appressorium formation. We observed chitosan localization at the fungal cell wall using OGA488. This observation suggests that Cbp1-catalysed conversion of chitin into chitosan occurs at the cell wall of germ tubes during appressorium differentiation by M. oryzae. Taken together, our results provide evidence that the chitin deacetylase activity of Cbp1 is necessary for appressorium formation.
Molecular hydrogen increases resilience to stress in mice
Authors: Gao Qiang , Song Han , Wang Xiao-ting , Liang Ying , Xi Yan-jie , Gao Yuan , Guo Qing-jun , LeBaron Tyler , Luo Yi-xiao , Li Shuang-cheng , Yin Xi , Shi Hai-shui , Ma Yu-xia
Published: August 2017

The inability to successfully adapt to stress produces pathological changes that can lead to depression. Molecular hydrogen has anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory activities and neuroprotective effects. However, the potential role of molecular hydrogen in stress-related disorders is still poorly understood. The present study aims to investigate the effects of hydrogen gas on resilience to stress in mice. The results showed that repeated inhalation of hydrogen-oxygen mixed gas [67%:33% (V/V)] significantly decreased both the acute and chronic stress-induced depressive- and anxiety-like behaviors of mice, assessed by tail suspension test (TST), forced swimming test (FST), novelty suppressed feeding (NSF) test, and open field test (OFT). ELISA analyses showed that inhalation of hydrogen-oxygen mixed gas blocked CMS-induced increase in the serum levels of corticosterone, adrenocorticotropic hormone, interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α in mice exposed to chronic mild stress. Finally, inhalation of hydrogen gas in adolescence significantly increased the resilience to acute stress in early adulthood, which illustrates the long-lasting effects of hydrogen on stress resilience in mice. This was likely mediated by inhibiting the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and inflammatory responses to stress. These results warrant further exploration for developing molecular hydrogen as a novel strategy to prevent the occurrence of stress-related disorders.
Insight into the metabolic mechanism of Diterpene Ginkgolides on antidepressant effects for attenuating behavioural deficits compared with venlafaxine
Authors: Bai Shunjie , Zhang Xiaodong , Chen Zhi , Wang Wei , Hu Qingchuan , Liang Zihong , Shen Peng , Gui Siwen , Zeng Li , Liu Zhao , Chen Jianjun , Xie Xiongfei , Huang Hua , Han Yu , Wang Haiyang , Xie Peng
Published: August 2017

Depression is a severe and chronic mental disorder, affecting about 322 million individuals worldwide. A recent study showed that diterpene ginkgolides (DG) have antidepressant-like effects on baseline behaviours in mice. Here, we examined the effects of DG and venlafaxine (VLX) in a chronic social defeat stress model of depression. Both DG and VLX attenuated stress-induced social deficits, despair behaviour and exploratory behaviour. To elucidate the metabolic changes underlying the antidepressive effects of DG and VLX, we investigated candidate functional pathways in the prefrontal cortex using a GC-MS-based metabolomics approach. Metabolic functions and pathways analysis revealed that DG and VLX affect protein biosynthesis and nucleotide metabolism to enhance cell proliferation, with DG having a weaker impact than VLX. Glutamate and aspartate metabolism played important roles in the antidepressant effects of DG and VLX. Tyrosine degradation and cell-to-cell signaling and interaction helped discriminate the two antidepressants. L-glutamic acid was negatively correlated, while hypoxanthine was positively correlated, with the social interaction ratio. Understanding the metabolic changes produced by DG and VLX should provide insight into the mechanisms of action of these drugs and aid in the development of novel therapies for depression.
Mutational heterogeneity in non-serous ovarian cancers
Authors: Teer Jamie K. , Yoder Sean , Gjyshi Anxhela , Nicosia Santo V. , Zhang Chaomei , Monteiro Alvaro N. A.
Published: August 2017

Epithelial ovarian cancer is a leading cause of death in gynecological cancers. While several systematic studies have revealed the mutation landscape of serous epithelial ovarian cancer, other non-serous subtypes of the disease have not been explored as extensively. Here we conduct exome sequencing of nine non-serous epithelial ovarian tumors (six endometrioid and three mucinous) and their corresponding normal DNA as well as a tumor-only granulosa cell sample. We integrated the exome data with targeted gene sequencing for 1,321 genes selected for their involvement in cancer from additional 28 non-serous ovarian tumors and compared our results to TCGA ovarian serous cystadenocarcinoma and uterine corpus endometrial carcinomas. Prevalence of TP53 mutations in non-serous was much lower than in serous epithelial OC, whereas the prevalence of PIK3CA, PIK3R1, PTEN, CTNNB1, ARID1A, and KRAS was higher. We confirmed the high prevalence of FOXL2 and KRAS mutations in granulosa cell tumors and in mucinous tumors, respectively. We also identified POLE proofreading domain mutations in three endometrioid ovarian tumors. These results highlight mutational differences between serous and non-serous ovarian cancers, and further distinguish different non-serous subtypes.
ADAM12-L confers acquired 5-fluorouracil resistance in breast cancer cells
Authors: Wang Xuedong , Wang Yueping , Gu Juan , Zhou Daoping , He Zhimin , Wang Xinhui , Ferrone Soldano
Published: August 2017

5-FU-based combinatory chemotherapeutic regimens have been routinely used for many years for the treatment of breast cancer patients. Recurrence and chemotherapeutic drug resistance are two of the most prominent factors that underpin the high mortality rates associated with most breast cancers (BC). Increasing evidence indicates that overexpression of ADAMs could correlate with cancer progression. However, the role of ADAMs in the chemoresistance of cancer cells has rarely been reported. In this study, we observed that 5-FU induces expression of the ADAM12 isoform ADAM12-L but not ADAM12-S in BC cells and in recurrent BC tissues. The overexpression of ADAM12-L in BC cells following 5-FU treatment results in the acquisition of resistance to 5-FU. ADAM12-L overexoression also resulted in increased levels of p-Akt but not p-ERK. These alterations enhanced BC cell growth and invasive abilities. Conversely, ADAM12 knockdown attenuated the levels of p-Akt and restored 5-FU sensitivity in 5-FU-resistant BC cells. ADAM12 knockdown also reduced BC cell survival and invasive abilities. These findings suggest that ADAM12-L mediates chemoresistance to 5-FU and 5-FU-induced recurrence of BC by enhancing PI3K/Akt signaling. The results of this study suggest that specific ADAM12-L inhibition could optimize 5-FU-based chemotherapy of BC, thereby preventing BC recurrence in patients.
Toward new gas-analytical multisensor chips based on titanium oxide nanotube array
Authors: Fedorov Fedor , Vasilkov Michail , Lashkov Andrey , Varezhnikov Alexey , Fuchs Dirk , Kübel Christian , Bruns Michael , Sommer Martin , Sysoev Victor
Published: August 2017

Reliable environmental monitoring requires cost effective but highly sensitive and selective gas sensors. While the sensitivity of the sensors is improved by reducing the characteristic dimensions of the gas-sensing material, the selectivity is often approached by combining the sensors into multisensor arrays. The development of scalable methods to manufacture such arrays based on low-dimensional structures offers new perspectives for gas sensing applications. Here we examine an approach to produce multisensor array chips based on the TiOxnanotube layers segmented by multiple Pt strip electrodes. We study the sensitivity and selectivity of the developed chip at operating temperatures up to 400 °C towards organic vapors in the ppm range. The results indicate that the titania nanotubes are a promising material platform for novel cost-effective and powerful gas-analytical multisensor units.
The neural mechanism underpinning balance calibration between action inhibition and activation initiated by reward motivation
Authors: Lee Hsin-Ju , Lin Fa-Hsuan , Kuo Wen-Jui
Published: August 2017

In everyday life, it is often the case that in some situations we are motivated and want not only to speed up our actions but also to avoid mistakes—for example, ballgames. How our brain works at that moment to resolve the situations and react properly has created an active research field. Previous findings indicated that maintaining a balance between withholding and executing an action are highly dynamic and involve many executive control processes. This fMRI study was set up to investigate how motivation affects these balancing processes. With manipulation of prospective rewards in a stop-signal task where both the proactive and reactive control were equally emphasized, our behavioral results replicated previous findings. The fMRI findings backed up the behavioral results. We found motivation effects in the anterior caudate and pre-SMA for action inhibition. The former works to register motivation status, the latter works to transform motivation into action inhibition control. Together with the results of connectivity analysis, our study also suggests a hierarchical relationship between functional roles of pre-SMA and right inferior frontal gyrus during action inhibition. While the pre-SMA acts to accommodate higher-order factors, such as motivation, for action control, the right inferior frontal cortex acts to participate in the execution of action inhibition. This study pinned down a neural mechanism that integrates reward motivation into action inhibition control.
Genome-wide DNA methylation and transcriptome analyses reveal genes involved in immune responses of pig peripheral blood mononuclear cells to poly I:C
Authors: Wang Haifei , Wang Jiying , Ning Chao , Zheng Xianrui , Fu Jinlian , Wang Aiguo , Zhang Qin , Liu Jian-Feng
Published: August 2017

DNA methylation changes play essential roles in regulating the activities of genes involved in immune responses. Understanding of variable DNA methylation linked to immune responses may contribute to identifying biologically promising epigenetic markers for pathogenesis of diseases. Here, we generated genome-wide DNA methylation and transcriptomic profiles of six pairs of polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid-treated pig peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) samples and corresponding controls using methylated DNA immunoprecipitation sequencing and RNA sequencing. Comparative methylome analyses identified 5,827 differentially methylated regions and 615 genes showing differential expression between the two groups. Integrative analyses revealed inverse associations between DNA methylation around transcriptional start site and gene expression levels. Furthermore, 70 differentially methylated and expressed genes were identified such as TNFRSF9, IDO1 and EBI3. Functional annotation revealed the enriched categories including positive regulation of immune system process and regulation of leukocyte activation. These findings demonstrated DNA methylation changes occurring in immune responses of PBMCs to poly I:C stimulation and a subset of genes potentially regulated by DNA methylation in the immune responses. The PBMC DNA methylome provides an epigenetic overview of this physiological system in response to viral infection, and we expect it to constitute a valuable resource for future epigenetic epidemiology studies in pigs.
A gene expression atlas of adult Schistosoma mansoni and their gonads
Authors: Lu Zhigang , Sessler Florian , Holroyd Nancy , Hahnel Steffen , Quack Thomas , Berriman Matthew , Grevelding Christoph G.
Published: August 2017

RNA-Seq has proven excellence in providing information about the regulation and transcript levels of genes. We used this method for profiling genes in the flatworm Schistosoma mansoni. This parasite causes schistosomiasis, an infectious disease of global importance for human and animals. The pathology of schistosomiasis is associated with the eggs, which are synthesized as a final consequence of male and female adults pairing. The male induces processes in the female that lead to the full development of its gonads as a prerequisite for egg production. Unpaired females remain sexually immature. Based on an organ-isolation method we obtained gonad tissue for RNA extraction from paired and unpaired schistosomes, with whole adults included as controls. From a total of 23 samples, we used high-throughput cDNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) on the Illumina platform to profile gene expression between genders and tissues, with and without pairing influence. The data obtained provide a wealth of information on the reproduction biology of schistosomes and a rich resource for exploitation through basic and applied research activities.
Reduction of plasma glutathione in psychosis associated with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder in translational psychiatry
Authors: Nucifora L G , Tanaka T , Hayes L N , Kim M , Lee B J , Matsuda T , Nucifora Jr F C , Sedlak T , Mojtabai R , Eaton W , Sawa A
Published: August 2017

The establishment of mechanism-driven peripheral markers is important for translational psychiatry. Many groups, including ours, have addressed molecular alterations in peripheral tissues in association with symptomatic changes in major illnesses. Oxidative stress is implicated in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia (SZ) and bipolar disorder (BP) through studies of patient peripheral tissues and animal models. Although the relationship between peripheral changes and brain pathology remain elusive, oxidative stress may bridge such translational efforts. Nonetheless, the molecular substrates of oxidative stress are not well defined in mental conditions. Glutathione (GSH) is a non-enzymatic antioxidant that eliminates free radicals, and has been suggested to have a role in SZ. We performed a cross-sectional study of 48 healthy controls (CON), 52 SZ patients and 62 BP patients to compare the levels of peripheral GSH by a biochemical enzyme assay. We show a significant reduction of plasma GSH in both SZ and BP patients compared with CON. We evaluated possible influences of clinical characteristics on the level of GSH in SZ and BP. A decrease in GSH level correlated with Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) total and positive scores for SZ and correlated with the PANSS general for BP. Taken together, we provide evidence that SZ and BP display a common molecular signature in the reduction of peripheral GSH in the psychosis dimension.
Anti-hyperlipidemic effect of rice bran polysaccharide and its potential mechanism in high-fat diet mice
Authors: Nie Ying , Luo Feijun , Wang Long , Yang Tao , Shi Limin , Li Xinhua , Shen Junjun , Xu Wei , Guo Ting , Lin Qinlu
Published: August 2017

The evaluation of the lipid-lowering effect of rice bran polysaccharides (RBP) and identification of the related genes of lipid metabolism. RBP, rice bran polysaccharide; HFD, high fat diet.
Selective antitumoural action of pressurized mango leaf extracts against minimally and highly invasive breast cancer
Authors: Fernández-Ponce M. T. , López-Biedma A. , Sánchez-Quesada C. , Casas L. , Mantell C. , Gaforio J. J. , Martínez de la Ossa E. J.
Published: August 2017

Mango leaves, traditionally used to reduce inflammation, have been proved to possess antitumoral action against different types of breast cancer (hormone receptor-positive or negative).
Kiwifruit actinidin digests salivary amylase but not gastric lipase
Authors: Martin Harry , Cordiner Sarah B. , McGhie Tony K.
Published: August 2017

Kiwifruit actinidin rapidly digests human salivary amylase: will this lower the glycaemic index when starch and kiwifruit are consumed together?
Au6S2monolayer sheets: metallic and semiconducting polymorphs
Authors: Wu Qisheng , Xu Wen Wu , Qu Bingyan , Ma Liang , Niu Xianghong , Wang Jinlan , Zeng Xiao Cheng
Published: August 2017

Predicted Au6S2monolayer sheets: metallic and semiconducting polymorphs.
From direct to indirect lithium targets: a comprehensive review of omics data
Authors: Roux Magali , Dosseto Anthony
Published: August 2017

Metal ions are critical to a wide range of biological processes.
Key role of surface oxidation and reduction processes in the coarsening of Pt nanoparticles
Authors: Solano Eduardo , Dendooven Jolien , Ramachandran Ranjith K. , Van de Kerckhove Kevin , Dobbelaere Thomas , Hermida-Merino Daniel , Detavernier Christophe
Published: August 2017

In situGISAXS during thermal annealing for unraveling the factors and mechanism governing the coarsening of supported Pt nanoparticles.
Improved catalytic activity of Mo1−xWxSe2 alloy nanoflowers promotes efficient hydrogen evolution reaction in both acidic and alkaline aqueous solutions
Authors: Meiron Oren E. , Kuraganti Vasu , Hod Idan , Bar-Ziv Ronen , Bar-Sadan Maya
Published: August 2017

The electrocatalytic properties of 2D MoWSe2 nanoflower alloys showed a synergistic effect towards hydrogen evolution. Se deficiency was also found to significantly change the electrocatalytic activity of the materials.
Amphiphilic carbosilane dendrons as a novel synthetic platform toward micelle formation
Authors: Gutierrez-Ulloa Carlos E. , Buyanova Marina Yu. , Apartsin Evgeny K. , Venyaminova Alya G. , de la Mata F. Javier , Valiente Mercedes , Gómez Rafael
Published: August 2017

A novel family of amphiphilic ionic carbosilane dendrons with fatty acids at the focal point spontaneously self-assemble in aqueous solution into spherical micelles. Their potential use as nanocarriers for therapeutics have been demonstrated.
Chiral phosphoric acid catalyzed enantioselective annulation of acyclic enecarbamates to in situ-generated ortho-quinone methides
Authors: Gharui Chandan , Singh Shreya , Pan Subhas Chandra
Published: August 2017

The first organocatalytic asymmetric [4 + 2]-cycloaddition reaction between acyclic enecarbamates with in situ generated ortho-quinone methides has been developed using chiral phosphoric acids as catalysts.
Monomer-induced switching of stereoselectivity and limitation of chain growth in the polymerization of amine-containing para-substituted phenylacetylenes by [Rh(norbornadiene)Cl]2
Authors: Tian Yong , Li Xiaofang , Shi Jianbing , Tong Bin , Dong Yuping
Published: August 2017

In the presence of [Rh(nbd)Cl]2 alone, amine-containing phenylacetylenes can serve as both a monomer and cocatalyst in the polymerization. Moreover, the stereo-selectivity of the products was controlled by pendant groups.
Pure hydrophilic block copolymer vesicles with redox- and pH-cleavable crosslinks
Authors: Willersinn Jochen , Schmidt Bernhard V. K. J.
Published: August 2017

The formation and stimuli cleavable crosslinking of completely water drained double hydrophilic block copolymer vesicles is presented.
Detection of tumor marker miRNA21 based on phosphorescent resonance energy transfer of Mn–ZnS QDs
Authors: Lv Jinzhi , Miao Yanming , Yan Guiqin
Published: August 2017

Since miRNA21 is a marker of many human tumors, trace detection of miRNA21 contributes to early tumor diagnosis.
Modulating band gap of C4NP-h2D crystal nanoribbons and nanotubes under elastic strain
Authors: Ma Shengqian , Ma Weishun , Li Feng , Zhu Mei , Geng Jiguo , Li Min
Published: August 2017

Using Density Functional Theory (DFT), band-gap modulation of C4NP-h2D nanoribbons and nanotubes under elastic strain is investigated in detail in this paper.
Effects of Cu addition on the corrosion behavior of NiCoCrMo alloys in neutral chloride solution
Authors: Yang Biaobiao , Li Jiaxiang , Gong Xiaojuan , Nie Yan , Li Yunping
Published: August 2017

The influence of Cu addition (0–4 mass%) on the corrosion behavior of Ni–30Co–16Cr–15Mo alloy in neutral chloride solution is investigated by electrochemical measurements. Some essential surface analysis are also conducted to explain the corrosion mechanism.
Synthesis of triphenylamines via ligand-free selective ring-opening of benzoxazoles or benzothiazoles under superparamagnetic nanoparticle catalysis
Authors: Nguyen Oanh T. K. , Nguyen Long T. , Truong Nhu K. , Nguyen Viet D. , Nguyen Anh T. , Le Nhan T. H. , Le Dung T. , Phan Nam T. S.
Published: August 2017

Synthesis of triphenylamines via ligand-free selective ring-opening of benzoxazoles or benzothiazoles with aryl halides under CuFe2O4 superparamagnetic nanoparticle catalysis.
Acid-assisted hydrothermal synthesis of red fluorescent carbon dots for sensitive detection of Fe(iii)
Authors: Tan Chunlin , Su Xiuya , Zhou Chao , Wang Baoju , Zhan Qiuqiang , He Sailing
Published: August 2017

Red-emitting carbon dots (C-dots) were synthesized from p-phenylenediamine (p-PD) aqueous solution with nitric acid (HNO3) assistance by hydrothermal reaction at 200 °C for 2 h.
Synthesis and characterization of amide linked triazolyl glycolipids as molecular hydrogelators and organogelators
Authors: Wang Guijun , Chen Anji , Mangunuru Hari P. R. , Yerabolu Jayasudhan Reddy
Published: August 2017

Eighteen new glycolipids were synthesized and characterized. All eighteen are effective molecular gelators for at least one solvent and eleven are hydrogelators at concentrations of 0.15–1.0 wt%. The hydrogels are suitable carriers for sustained release of chloramphenicol.
A novel cellulose–silicalite-1 membrane with excellent gas separation property
Authors: Fu Xin-ling , Zeng Ming , Zhou Jian-bo , Xu Chao
Published: August 2017

A novel strategy for synthesizing silicalite-1 membrane by hydrothermal synthesis without organic template after coating the support with a mixture of modified cellulose and seeds was successfully proposed.
Preparation, characterization and the adsorption characteristics of lignin/silica nanocomposites from cellulosic ethanol residue
Authors: Tian Weizhen , Li Haiming , Zhou Jinghui , Guo Yanzhu
Published: August 2017

The synthesis lignin/silica nanocomposites by in situ co-precipitation method.
One-dimensional Cr-doped NiO nanostructures serving as a highly sensitive gas sensor for trace xylene detection
Authors: Feng Changhao , Kou Xueying , Liao Xiaofeng , Sun Yanfeng , Lu Geyu
Published: August 2017

A highly sensitive xylene sensor based on Cr-doped NiO nanotubes was presented, which was prepared using an electrospinning process.
Improved mechanical and fatigue properties of graphene oxide/silica/SBR composites
Authors: Zhang Songbo , Zheng Long , Liu Donghai , Xu Zongchao , Zhang Liqun , Liu Li , Wen Shipeng
Published: August 2017

The fatigue lifetimes of the GO/SiO2/SBR composites increased with the increase in GO content.
High-power current and fatigue sustainable circuits prepared using low-temperature spray pyrolyzed submicron silver particles
Authors: Cheng Chi-Nan , Liou Rong-Ting , Song Jenn-Ming , Shih Shao-Ju
Published: August 2017

Low-temperature spray pyrolyzed submicron silver particles can form high-power current and bending fatigue sustainable circuits subjected to sintering at 100 °C for 10 minutes.
Occurrence and attenuation of pharmaceuticals and their transformation products in rivers impacted by sewage treatment plants
Authors: Zha Daoping , Li Ying , Wang Li , Yang Cunman , Lu Guanghua
Published: August 2017

Pharmaceuticals and transformation products were attenuated in the wastewater-impacted river, and environment conditions influenced the attenuation process.
Oxygen reduction on zirconium-stabilized-PdO surfaces: a first-principles study
Authors: Yang Xiaofeng , Li Zongbao , Li Xinyu , Wang Ao , Jia Lichao , Chi Bo , Pu Jian , Li Jian
Published: August 2017

The oxygen reduction reaction properties on PdO and Zr-doped PdO surfaces, and the relative stability of the concerned surfaces, have been studied by first-principles calculations.
Excellent stability of thicker shell CdSe@ZnS/ZnS quantum dots
Authors: Fu Yan , Kim Daekyoung , Jiang Wei , Yin Wenping , Ahn Tae Kyu , Chae Heeyeop
Published: August 2017

Evolution of the long-term (400 h) thermal stability of green CdSe@ZnS alloyed core/shell QDs (A-QDs) and CdSe@ZnS/ZnS (alloyed core/shell)/thick shell QDs (AS-QDs) under 85 °C, 85% relative humidity conditions in air.
Thermal-sensitive magnetic nanoparticles for dual-modal tumor imaging and therapy
Authors: Xu Yan , Niu Chengcheng , An Senbo , Tang Shixiong , Xiao Ping , Peng Qinghai , Wang Long
Published: August 2017

“Nanotheranostics” has attracted much attention due to the development of nanomaterials with integrated diagnostic and therapeutic functions.
Variable self-assembly and in situ host–guest reaction of beta-cyclodextrin-modified graphene oxide composite Langmuir films with azobenzene compounds
Authors: Gao Yagui , Jiao Tifeng , Ma Kai , Xing Ruirui , Zhang Lexin , Zhou Jingxin , Peng Qiuming
Published: August 2017

Different composite Langmuir films (GO–CD/N-Azo and GO–CD/PAA-Azo) are preparedviasimple interfacial self-assembly process and host–guest reaction, demonstrating variable self-assembly for wide applications.
Probing the inhomogeneity and intermediates in the photosensitized degradation of rhodamine B by Ag3PO4 nanoparticles from an ensemble to a single molecule approach
Authors: Xu Beibei , Wang Xiaojuan , Zhu Chaofeng , Ran Xia , Li Tianfeng , Guo Lijun
Published: August 2017

This work reports the single-molecule observations of the photosensitized process and intermediates generation in the photodegradation of RhB by Ag3PO4 nanoparticles.
Self-assembled star-shaped chiroplasmonic gold nanoparticles for an ultrasensitive chiro-immunosensor for viruses
Authors: Ahmed Syed Rahin , Nagy Éva , Neethirajan Suresh
Published: August 2017

Nanoengineered chiral gold nanoparticles and quantum dots for ultrasensitive chiroptical sensing of viruses in blood samples.
Solvent-free and melt aerobic oxidation of benzyl alcohols using Pd/Cu2(BDC)2DABCO–MOF prepared by one-step and through reduction by dimethylformamide
Authors: Akbari Sara , Mokhtari Javad , Mirjafari Zohreh
Published: August 2017

In this paper we report an efficient method for the aerobic oxidation of benzyl alcohols to aldehydes by supported palladium nanoparticles in nanoporous metal–organic framework Cu2(BDC)2(DABCO) that Pd(ii) in MOF reduced without using any external reducing agent.