bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Complex Upper-Limb Movements Are Generated by Combining Motor Primitives that Scale with the Movement Size
Authors: Miranda Jose Garcia Vivas , Daneault Jean-François , Vergara-Diaz Gloria , Torres Ângelo Frederico Souza de Oliveira , Quixadá Ana Paula , Fonseca Marcus de Lemos , Vieira João Paulo Bomfim Cruz , dos Santos Vitor Sotero , da Figueiredo Thiago Cruz , Pinto Elen Beatriz , Peña Norberto , Bonato Paolo
Published: August 2018

The hand trajectory of motion during the performance of one-dimensional point-to-point movements has been shown to be marked by motor primitives with a bell-shaped velocity profile. Researchers have investigated if motor primitives with the same shape mark also complex upper-limb movements. They have done so by analyzing the magnitude of the hand trajectory velocity vector. This approach has failed to identify motor primitives with a bell-shaped velocity profile as the basic elements underlying the generation of complex upper-limb movements. In this study, we examined upper-limb movements by analyzing instead the movement components defined according to a Cartesian coordinate system with axes oriented in the medio-lateral, antero-posterior, and vertical directions. To our surprise, we found out that a broad set of complex upper-limb movements can be modeled as a combination of motor primitives with a bell-shaped velocity profile defined according to the axes of the above-defined coordinate system. Most notably, we discovered that these motor primitives scale with the size of movement according to a power law. These results provide a novel key to the interpretation of brain and muscle synergy studies suggesting that human subjects use a scale-invariant encoding of movement patterns when performing upper-limb movements.
Effect of Tobacco Smoking Cessation on C-Reactive Protein Levels in A Cohort of Low-Dose Computed Tomography Screening Participants
Authors: Gallus Silvano , Lugo Alessandra , Suatoni Paola , Taverna Francesca , Bertocchi Elena , Boffi Roberto , Marchiano Alfonso , Morelli Daniele , Pastorino Ugo
Published: August 2018

Smokers have higher levels of C-Reactive Protein (CRP) compared to never smokers. The role of smoking cessation on CRP is still under debate. Using data from two screening studies conducted in Italy in 2000–2010 on 3050 heavy smokers (including 777 ex-smokers), we estimated multivariate odds ratios (OR) for high CRP (i.e. ≥2 mg/L) according to smoking status. Moreover, in a longitudinal analysis based on 975 current smokers, with a second measurement of CRP after an average study period of 3.4 years, we estimated the changes in CRP according to smoking cessation. Prevalence of high CRP at baseline was 35.8% among ex-smokers and 41.1% among current smokers (significant OR for ex- vs. current smokers: 0.79). After four years since smoking cessation, CRP levels significantly decreased with increasing years of cessation (significant OR for ex-smokers since more than 8 years: 0.55). In the longitudinal analysis, no significant reduction in CRP was found for time since smoking cessation (ORs: 1.21, 1.04, and 0.91 for ex-smokers since 1 year, 2–3 years, and ≥4 years, respectively). In the largest prospective study available so far, we found that smoking cessation has a favourable effect on CRP, but this benefit is not evident in the short-term.
Super Ultra-High Resolution Liquid-Crystal-Display Using Perovskite Quantum-Dot Functional Color-Filters
Authors: Ko Yun-Hyuk , Jalalah Mohammed , Lee Seung-Jae , Park Jea-Gun
Published: August 2018

Quantum dot enhancement film (QDEF) working in tandem with a blue light-emitting-diode (LED) back-light-unit (BLU) has been recently used in liquid crystal display (LCD) to minimize the cross talks between the polarized emitting B-, G-, and R-light. However, they still exhibit a fundamental and considerable emitting-light-power loss from QDEF because of the light absorption loss in resin and transparent films of QDEF. In this work, we propose and demonstrate the superiority of the LCD using blue-(B-), green-(G-), and red-(R-) perovskite-quantum-dot (PrQD) functional CFs coupled with a blue LED BLU. This LCD using PrQD functional CFs and a blue LED BLU features cross-talk free spectra of polarized emitting B-, G-, and R-light, maximizing the LCD color gamut and exhibiting a world record performance of over 102.7% (137%) of Rec.2020 standard (NTSC standard). Theoretically, such an improvement in color gamut would facilitate unlimited scaling-down of the pixel leading to super ultra-high resolution LCD.
Global long-term observations of coastal erosion and accretion
Authors: Mentaschi Lorenzo , Vousdoukas Michalis I. , Pekel Jean-Francois , Voukouvalas Evangelos , Feyen Luc
Published: August 2018

Changes in coastal morphology have broad consequences for the sustainability of coastal communities, structures and ecosystems. Although coasts are monitored locally in many places, understanding long-term changes at a global scale remains a challenge. Here we present a global and consistent evaluation of coastal morphodynamics over 32 years (1984–2015) based on satellite observations. Land losses and gains were estimated from the changes in water presence along more than 2 million virtual transects. We find that the overall surface of eroded land is about 28,000 km2, twice the surface of gained land, and that often the extent of erosion and accretion is in the order of km. Anthropogenic factors clearly emerge as the dominant driver of change, both as planned exploitation of coastal resources, such as building coastal structures, and as unforeseen side effects of human activities, for example the installment of dams, irrigation systems and structures that modify the flux of sediments, or the clearing of coastal ecosystems, such as mangrove forests. Another important driver is the occurrence of natural disasters such as tsunamis and extreme storms. The observed global trend in coastal erosion could be enhanced by Sea Level Rise and more frequent extreme events under a changing climate.
Ethanol and C2 ceramide activate fatty acid oxidation in human hepatoma cells
Authors: Correnti Jason M. , Gottshall Lauren , Lin Annie , Williams Bianca , Oranu Amanke , Beck James , Chen Jie , Bennett Michael J. , Carr Rotonya M.
Published: August 2018

Obesogenic lipids and the sphingolipid ceramide have been implicated as potential cofactors in alcoholic liver disease (ALD) patients. However, the mechanisms by which these lipids modulate lipid trafficking in ethanol-treated human liver cells to promote steatosis, an early stage of ALD, are poorly understood. We measured fatty acid (FA) uptake, triglyceride export, FA synthesis and FA oxidation in human hepatoma (VL-17A) cells in response to ethanol and the exogenous lipids oleate, palmitate and C2 ceramide. We found that in combination with ethanol, both oleate and palmitate promote lipid droplet accumulation while C2 ceramide inhibits lipid droplet accumulation by enhancing FA oxidation. Further, using both a pharmacologic and siRNA approach to reduce peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors α (PPARα) gene expression, we demonstrate that C2 ceramide abrogates ethanol-mediated suppression of FA oxidation through an indirect PPARα mechanism. Together, these data suggest that lipids interact differentially with ethanol to modulate hepatocellular lipid droplet accumulation and may provide novel targets for preventing the earliest stage of alcoholic liver disease, alcoholic steatosis.
Relationships between alpha oscillations during speech preparation and the listener N400 ERP to the produced speech
Authors: Bridwell David A. , Henderson Sarah , Sorge Marieke , Plis Sergey , Calhoun Vince D.
Published: August 2018

While previous studies separately demonstrate EEG spectral modulations during speech preparation and ERP responses to the listened speech, it is unclear whether these responses are related on a trial-by-trial basis between a speaker and listener. In order to determine whether these responses are related in real-time, Electroencephalography (EEG) responses were measured simultaneously within a speaker and listener using a 24 electrode Mobile EEG system (18 participants; 9 pairs) during a sentence completion task. Each trial consisted of a sentence prompt with an incomplete ending (e.g. “I took my dog for a ____”). The speaker was instructed to fill in the ending with something expected (e.g. “walk”) (40 trials) or unexpected (e.g. “drink”) (40 trials). The other participant listened to the speaker throughout the block. We found that lower alpha band activity was reduced when individuals prepared unexpected sentence endings compared to expected sentence endings. Greater reductions in the speaker’s lower alpha activity during response preparation were correlated with a more negative N400 response in the listener to the unexpected word. These findings demonstrate that alpha suppression and the N400 ERP effect are present within a hyperscanning context and they are correlated between the speaker and listener during sentence completion.
Photofabrication of Highly Transparent Platinum Counter Electrodes at Ambient Temperature for Bifacial Dye Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Popoola Idris K. , Gondal Mohammed A. , AlGhamdi Jwaher M. , Qahtan Talal F.
Published: August 2018

Platinum (Pt) counter electrodes (CEs) have consistently shown excellent electrocatalytic performance and holds the record of the highest power conversion efficiency (PCE) for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). However, its use for large-scale production is limited either by high temperature required for thermal decomposition of its precursor or by wastage of the material leading to high cost or sophisticated equipment. Here, we report a novel photofabrication technique to fabricate highly transparent platinum counter electrodes by ultraviolet (UV) irradiation of platinic acid (H2PtCl6.6H2O) on rigid fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) and flexible indium-doped tin oxide (ITO) on polyethylene terephthalate (PET) substrates. The photofabrication technique is a facile and versatile method for the fabrication of Pt CEs for dye sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). The photofabricated Pt CEs were used to fabricate bifacial DSSCs with power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) attaining 7.29% for front illumination and 5.85% for rear illumination. The highest percentage ratio of the rear illumination efficiency to the front illumination efficiency (ηR) of 85.92% was recorded while the least ηRis 77.91%.
Focused Ultrasound-Induced Blood-Brain Barrier Opening Enhances GSK-3 Inhibitor Delivery for Amyloid-Beta Plaque Reduction
Authors: Hsu Po-Hung , Lin Ya-Tin , Chung Yi-Hsiu , Lin Kun-Ju , Yang Liang-Yo , Yen Tzu-Chen , Liu Hao-Li
Published: August 2018

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease that is the leading cause of age-related dementia. Currently, therapeutic agent delivery to the CNS is a valued approach for AD therapy. Unfortunately, the CNS penetration is greatly hampered by the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Focused-ultrasound (FUS) has been demonstrated to temporally open the BBB, thus promoting therapeutic agent delivery to the CNS. Recently, the BBB opening procedure was further reported to clear the deposited Aβ plaque due to microglia activation. In this study, we aimed to evaluate whether the use of FUS-induced BBB opening to enhance GSK-3 inhibitor delivery, which would bring additive effect of Aβ plaque clearance by FUS with the reduction of Aβ plaque synthesis by GSK-3 inhibitor in an AD mice model. FUS-induced BBB opening on APPswe/PSEN1-dE9 transgenic mice was performed unilaterally, with the contralateral hemisphere serving as a reference. GSK-3 level was confirmed by immunohistochemistry (IHC) and autoradiography (ARG) was also conducted to quantitatively confirm the Aβ plaque reduction. Results from IHC showed GSK-3 inhibitor effectively reduced GSK-3 activity up to 61.3% with the addition of FUS-BBB opening and confirming the proposed therapeutic route. ARG also showed significant Aβ-plaque reduction up to 31.5%. This study reveals the therapeutic potentials of ultrasound to AD treatment, and may provide a useful strategy for neurodegenerative disease treatment.
S100A9-Driven Amyloid-Neuroinflammatory Cascade in Traumatic Brain Injury as a Precursor State for Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Wang Chao , Iashchishyn Igor A. , Pansieri Jonathan , Nyström Sofie , Klementieva Oxana , Kara John , Horvath Istvan , Moskalenko Roman , Rofougaran Reza , Gouras Gunnar , Kovacs Gabor G. , Shankar S. K. , Morozova-Roche Ludmilla A.
Published: August 2018

Pro-inflammatory and amyloidogenic S100A9 protein is an important contributor to Alzheimer’s disease (AD) pathology. Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is viewed as a precursor state for AD. Here we have shown that S100A9-driven amyloid-neuroinflammatory cascade was initiated in TBI and may serve as a mechanistic link between TBI and AD. By analyzing the TBI and AD human brain tissues, we demonstrated that in post-TBI tissues S100A9, produced by neurons and microglia, becomes drastically abundant compared to Aβ and contributes to both precursor-plaque formation and intracellular amyloid oligomerization. Conditions implicated in TBI, such as elevated S100A9 concentration, acidification and fever, provide strong positive feedback for S100A9 nucleation-dependent amyloid formation and delay in its proteinase clearance. Consequently, both intracellular and extracellular S100A9 oligomerization correlated with TBI secondary neuronal loss. Common morphology of TBI and AD plaques indicated their similar initiation around multiple aggregation centers. Importantly, in AD and TBI we found S100A9 plaques without Aβ. S100A9 and Aβ plaque pathology was significantly advanced in AD cases with TBI history at earlier age, signifying TBI as a risk factor. These new findings highlight the detrimental consequences of prolonged post-TBI neuroinflammation, which can sustain S100A9-driven amyloid-neurodegenerative cascade as a specific mechanism leading to AD development.
A screening assay for Selective Dimerizing Glucocorticoid Receptor Agonists and Modulators (SEDIGRAM) that are effective against acute inflammation
Authors: Souffriau Jolien , Eggermont Melanie , Van Ryckeghem Sara , Van Looveren Kelly , Van Wyngene Lise , Van Hamme Evelien , Vuylsteke Marnik , Beyaert Rudi , De Bosscher Karolien , Libert Claude
Published: August 2018

It has been suggested that glucocorticoid receptor (GR) agonists that promote GR homodimerization more than standard glucocorticoids such as Dexamethasone could be more effective anti-inflammatory molecules against acute and life-threatening inflammatory conditions. To test this hypothesis, we set up a screening pipeline aimed at discovering such Selective Dimerizing GR Agonists and Modulators (SEDIGRAM). The pipeline consists of a reporter gene assay based on a palindromic glucocorticoid responsive element (GRE). This assay represents GR dimerization in human A549 lung epithelial cells. In the pipeline, this is followed by analysis of endogenous GRE-driven gene expression, a FRET assay confirming dimerization, and monitoring of in vitro and in vivo anti-inflammatory activity. In a proof of principle experiment, starting from seven candidate compounds, we identified two potentially interesting compounds (Cortivazol and AZD2906) that confer strong protection in a mouse model of aggressive TNF-induced lethal inflammation. A screening pipeline for SEDIGRAM may assist the search for compounds that promote GR dimerization and limit overwhelming acute inflammatory responses.
Different Behaviors of a Substrate in P450 Decarboxylase and Hydroxylase Reveal Reactivity-Enabling Actors
Authors: Bharadwaj Vivek S. , Kim Seonah , Guarnieri Michael T. , Crowley Michael F.
Published: August 2018

Biological routes to the production of fuels from renewable feedstocks hold significant promise in our efforts towards a sustainable future. The fatty acid decarboxylase enzyme (OleTJE) is a cytochrome P450 enzyme that converts long and medium chain fatty acids to terminal alkenes and shares significant similarities in terms of structure, substrate scope and mechanism with the hydroxylase cytochrome P450 (P450BSβ). Recent reports have demonstrated that catalytic pathways in these enzymes bifurcate when the heme is in its iron-hydroxo (compound II) state. In spite of significant similarities, the fundamental underpinnings of their different characteristic wild-type reactivities remain ambiguous. Here, we develop point charges, modified parameters and report molecular simulations of this crucial intermediate step. Water occupancies and substrate mobility at the active site are observed to be vital differentiating aspects between the two enzymes in the compound II state and corroborate recent experimental hypotheses. Apart from increased substrate mobility in the hydroxylase, which could have implications for enabling the rebound mechanism for hydroxylation, OleTJE is characterized by much stronger binding of the substrate carboxylate group to the active site arginine, implicating it as an important enabling actor for decarboxylation.
Oleoylethanolamide treatment reduces neurobehavioral deficits and brain pathology in a mouse model of Gulf War Illness
Authors: Joshi Utsav , Evans James E. , Joseph Ross , Emmerich Tanja , Saltiel Nicole , Lungmus Carlyn , Oberlin Sarah , Langlois Heather , Ojo Joseph , Mouzon Benoit , Paris Daniel , Mullan Michael , Jin Chao , Klimas Nancy , Sullivan Kimberly , Crawford Fiona , Abdullah Laila
Published: August 2018

There are nearly 250,000 Gulf War (GW) veterans who suffer from Gulf War Illness (GWI), a multi-symptom condition that remains untreatable. The main objective was to determine if targeting peroxisomal function could be of therapeutic value in GWI. We performed a pilot study that showed accumulation of very long chain fatty acids (VLCFA), which are metabolized in peroxisomes, in plasma from veterans with GWI. We then examined if targeting peroxisomal β-oxidation with oleoylethanolamide (OEA) restores these lipids to the normal levels and mitigates neuroinflammation and neurobehavioral deficits in a well-established mouse model of GWI. In GWI mice, treatment with OEA corresponded with cognitive benefits and reduced fatigue and disinhibition-like behavior in GWI mice. Biochemical and molecular analysis of the brain tissue showed reduced astroglia and microglia staining, decreased levels of chemokines and cytokines, and decreased NFκB phosphorylation. Treatment with OEA reduced accumulation of peroxisome specific VLCFA in the brains of GWI mice. These studies further support the translational value of targeting peroxisomes. We expect that OEA may be a potential therapy for treating neurobehavioral symptoms and the underlying lipid dysfunction and neuroinflammation associated with GWI. Oleoylethanolamide is available as a dietary supplement, making it appealing for human translational studies.
Vitamin D receptor FokI polymorphism and the risks of colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, and colorectal adenoma
Authors: Cho Young Ae , Lee Jeonghee , Oh Jae Hwan , Chang Hee Jin , Sohn Dae Kyung , Shin Aesun , Kim Jeongseon
Published: August 2018

Based on an inverse association between vitamin D levels and the risks of colorectal diseases, a functional start codon polymorphism in the vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene is speculated to affect the risks for these diseases. To validate this hypothesis, we first conducted a case-control study of 695 colorectal cancer patients and 1,397 controls. The association of VDR FokI polymorphism with colorectal cancer risk was analyzed using a logistic regression model. In the present case-control study, compared to the F allele, the f allele seemed to be associated with lower risks of colon cancer and advanced colorectal cancer. Additionally, a meta-analysis of 27 studies was conducted to combine findings from previous studies investigating the association of FokI polymorphism with colorectal disease using a random effects model. In the present meta-analysis, the f allele was positively associated with the risk of inflammatory bowel disease, including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. However, this allele was inversely associated with colon cancer and was not associated with the risk of rectal cancer or colorectal adenoma. In conclusion, the findings from this study imply that the role of VDR FokI polymorphism may differ based on the type and severity of colorectal disease.
Underwater hyperspectral imaging as an in situ taxonomic tool for deep-sea megafauna
Authors: Dumke Ines , Purser Autun , Marcon Yann , Nornes Stein M. , Johnsen Geir , Ludvigsen Martin , Søreide Fredrik
Published: August 2018

Identification of benthic megafauna is commonly based on analysis of physical samples or imagery acquired by cameras mounted on underwater platforms. Physical collection of samples is difficult, particularly from the deep sea, and identification of taxonomic morphotypes from imagery depends on resolution and investigator experience. Here, we show how an Underwater Hyperspectral Imager (UHI) can be used as an alternative in situ taxonomic tool for benthic megafauna. A UHI provides a much higher spectral resolution than standard RGB imagery, allowing marine organisms to be identified based on specific optical fingerprints. A set of reference spectra from identified organisms is established and supervised classification performed to identify benthic megafauna semi-autonomously. The UHI data provide an increased detection rate for small megafauna difficult to resolve in standard RGB imagery. In addition, seafloor anomalies with distinct spectral signatures are also detectable. In the region investigated, sediment anomalies (spectral reflectance minimum at ~675 nm) unclear in RGB imagery were indicative of chlorophyll a on the seafloor. Underwater hyperspectral imaging therefore has a great potential in seafloor habitat mapping and monitoring, with areas of application ranging from shallow coastal areas to the deep sea.
Linking host morphology and symbiont performance in octocorals
Authors: Rossi Sergio , Schubert Nadine , Brown Darren , Soares Marcelo de Oliveira , Grosso Victoria , Rangel-Huerta Emma , Maldonado Ernesto
Published: August 2018

Octocorals represent an important group in reef communities throughout the tropical seas and, like scleractinian corals, they can be found in symbiosis with the dinoflagellate Symbiodinium. However, while there is extensive research on this symbiosis and its benefits in scleractinians, research on octocorals has focused so far mainly on the host without addressing their symbiosis. Here, we characterized and compared the photophysiological features of nine Caribbean octocoral species with different colony morphologies (sea fan, plumes, whips and rods) and related key morphological features with their respective symbiont photobiology. Colony features (branch shape and thickness), as well as micromorphological features (polyp size, density), were found to be significantly correlated with symbiont performance. Sea fans and plumes, with thinner branches and smaller polyps, favor higher metabolic rates, compared to sea rods with thicker branches and larger polyps. Daily integrated photosynthesis to respiration ratios > 1 indicated that the autotrophic contribution to organisms’ energy demands was important in all species, but especially in sea whips. This information represents an important step towards a better understanding of octocoral physiology and its relationship to host morphology, and might also explain to some extent species distribution and susceptibility to environmental stress.
Oxidative Stress is a Convincing Contributor to Idiopathic Chronic Fatigue
Authors: Lee Jin-Seok , Kim Hyeong-Geug , Lee Dong-Soo , Son Chang-Gue
Published: August 2018

The linkage between oxidative stress and idiopathic chronic fatigue (ICF) has not been explored in detail. This study thoroughly compared the serum levels of biomarkers for oxidative stress and antioxidants from 103 subjects with ICF (20 men and 83 women) to those of 82 healthy volunteers (27 men and 55 women). Oxidative parameters, which included reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA) and F2-isoprotan, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) were significantly elevated, while antioxidant parameters, which included total antioxidant activity (TAC), catalase, superoxide dismutase, SOD and GSH activity, were decreased compared to those of healthy subjects (by approximately 1.2- to 2.3-fold, p < 0.05 or 0.01). Our results confirmed that oxidative stress is a key contributor in the pathophysiology of ICF, and firstly explored the features of oxidative stress parameters in ICF subjects compared to a healthy population.
A catalogue of somatic NRF2 gain-of-function mutations in cancer
Authors: Kerins Michael John , Ooi Aikseng
Published: August 2018

Identification and characterization of somatic mutations in cancer have important prognostication and treatment implications. Genes encoding the Nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (NRF2) transcription factor and its negative regulator, Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (KEAP1), are frequently mutated in cancer. These mutations drive constitutive NRF2 activation and correlate with poor prognosis. Despite its apparent significance, a comprehensive catalogue of somatic NRF2 mutations across different tumor types is still lacking. Here, we catalogue NRF2 mutations in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. 226 unique NRF2-mutant tumors were identified from 10,364 cases. NRF2 mutations were found in 21 out of the 33 tumor types. A total of 11 hotspots were identified. Of these, mutation to the R34 position was most frequent. Notably, R34 and D29 mutations were overrepresented in bladder, lung, and uterine cancers. Analyses of corresponding RNA sequencing data using a de novo derived gene expression classifier showed that the R34 mutations drive constitutive NRF2 activation with a selection pressure biased against the formation of R34L. Of all R34 mutants, R34L conferred the least degree of protein stabilization, suggesting a pro-tumor NRF2 half-life threshold. Our findings offer a comprehensive catalogue of NRF2 mutations in cancer that can help prognostication and NRF2 research.
Fullerol C60(OH)24 nanoparticles modulate aflatoxin B1 biosynthesis in Aspergillus flavus
Authors: Kovač Tihomir , Borišev Ivana , Crevar Biljana , Čačić Kenjerić Frane , Kovač Marija , Strelec Ivica , Ezekiel Chibundu N. , Sulyok Michael , Krska Rudolf , Šarkanj Bojan
Published: August 2018

The water soluble fullerene C60 daughter product - fullerols C60(OH)24 (FNP) possesses a great potential of modifying secondary metabolites biosynthesis. In order to clarify the extent of interaction, the impact of FNP (10, 100 and 1000 ng mL−1) on aflatoxin production and the available precursors of biosynthesis pathway from Aspergillus flavus NRRL 3251 was determined, in both the mycelia and yeast extract sucrose (YES) medium, during a 168-hour growth period at 29 °C in the dark. The FNP of 8 nm in diameter, and with a zeta potential of −33 mV affected mycelial growth at 1000 ng mL−1 while conidia production was slightly affected at 10 ng mL−1. The FNP effect on aflatoxin and it biosynthetic precursors was concentration dependent and alteration of the sterigmatocystin (ST) export from the cell was observed. Most of the monitored aflatoxin precursors, except norsolorinic acid, were detected in both mycelia and YES medium. However, observed precursor concentrations were much higher in mycelia, with exception of ST. The study shows the loss of FNP antioxidative effect after 120 hours of growth, and strong concentration dependent aflatoxigenic effect after that time. Thus, this data is relevant to guide future considerations on FNP-fungal interactions in the environments and on risk assessment.
One-step process for production of N-methylated amino acids from sugars and methylamine using recombinant Corynebacterium glutamicum as biocatalyst
Authors: Mindt Melanie , Risse Joe Max , Gruß Hendrik , Sewald Norbert , Eikmanns Bernhard J. , Wendisch Volker F.
Published: August 2018

N-methylated amino acids are found in Nature in various biological compounds. N-methylation of amino acids has been shown to improve pharmacokinetic properties of peptide drugs due to conformational changes, improved proteolytic stability and/or higher lipophilicity. Due to these characteristics N-methylated amino acids received increasing interest by the pharmaceutical industry. Syntheses of N-methylated amino acids by chemical and biocatalytic approaches are known, but often show incomplete stereoselectivity, low yields or expensive co-factor regeneration. So far a one-step fermentative process from sugars has not yet been described. Here, a one-step conversion of sugars and methylamine to the N-methylated amino acid N-methyl-l-alanine was developed. A whole-cell biocatalyst was derived from a pyruvate overproducing C. glutamicum strain by heterologous expression of the N-methyl-l-amino acid dehydrogenase gene from Pseudomonas putida. As proof-of-concept, N-methyl-l-alanine titers of 31.7 g L−1 with a yield of 0.71 g per g glucose were achieved in fed-batch cultivation. The C. glutamicum strain producing this imine reductase enzyme was engineered further to extend this green chemistry route to production of N-methyl-l-alanine from alternative feed stocks such as starch or the lignocellulosic sugars xylose and arabinose.
Effect of acceleration of auditory inputs on the primary somatosensory cortex in humans
Authors: Sugiyama Shunsuke , Takeuchi Nobuyuki , Inui Koji , Nishihara Makoto , Shioiri Toshiki
Published: August 2018

Cross-modal interaction occurs during the early stages of processing in the sensory cortex; however, its effect on neuronal activity speed remains unclear. We used magnetoencephalography to investigate whether auditory stimulation influences the initial cortical activity in the primary somatosensory cortex. A 25-ms pure tone was randomly presented to the left or right side of healthy volunteers at 1000 ms when electrical pulses were applied to the left or right median nerve at 20 Hz for 1500 ms because we did not observe any cross-modal effect elicited by a single pulse. The latency of N20 m originating from Brodmann’s area 3b was measured for each pulse. The auditory stimulation significantly shortened the N20 m latency at 1050 and 1100 ms. This reduction in N20 m latency was identical for the ipsilateral and contralateral sounds for both latency points. Therefore, somatosensory–auditory interaction, such as input to the area 3b from the thalamus, occurred during the early stages of synaptic transmission. Auditory information that converged on the somatosensory system was considered to have arisen from the early stages of the feedforward pathway. Acceleration of information processing through the cross-modal interaction seemed to be partly due to faster processing in the sensory cortex.
Number of syllables in cuckoo Cuculus canorus calls: A test using a citizen science project
Authors: Benedetti Yanina , Slezak Karolina , Møller Anders Pape , Morelli Federico , Tryjanowski Piotr
Published: August 2018

Recent studies revealed that the call of the common cuckooCuculus canorushas more inter-individual than intra-individual variation and that the number of syllables depends on environmental conditions, but also the presence of male and female conspecifics. However, still very little is known about how song varies at a global scale, especially considering the wide distribution of this species across most of Europe and Asia. Xeno-canto.org is a vocalization repository for birdsong. We used xeno-canto.org as a data source for investigating the variables that affect the number of syllables in cuckoo calls at a large spatial scale. At a very broad geographical scale, the number of syllables in cuckoo calls predicted bird species richness. Additionally, female calls were associated with shorter males calls, and there was a positive correlation between the interaction between female calls and the number of host races parasitized by the cuckoo. These findings confirm that intraspecific and interspecific interactions significantly affect the number of syllables in cuckoo calls, and both environmental variables and biotic interactions should be considered in future studies of vocalizations in cuckoos. Last but not least, we demonstrated that a citizen science project is a useful source for ecological studies at large spatial scales.
An Orangutan Hangs Up a Tool for Future Use
Authors: Mulcahy Nicholas J.
Published: August 2018

Observational reports suggest that great apes perform tool-orientated actions in preparation for a tool’s future use. Some of these observations suggest remarkable planning skills because the target for the tool’s intended use was not present during the tool-orientated actions. Although these observational reports are intriguing, such planning ability has yet to be studied experimentally. To address this issue, I conducted two experiments that were inspired by an orangutan’s innovative behaviour during a novel enrichment task: the orangutan spontaneously secured a tool he was using to rake-in rewards by hanging it up when it was not in use but would be required a short time later. Experiment 1 showed that securing the tool predominately occurred when the orangutan could anticipate the tool’s future use, but rarely occurred when he could anticipate no further use for it. Experiment 2 indicated that the tool’s atypical size and/or weight were possible factors that prompted the orangutan to hang up the tool. Overall, the findings suggest that an orangutan not only innovated a novel way of securing a tool, but did so in anticipation of its future use.
Multilayered Cultures of NSCLC cells grown at the Air-Liquid Interface allow the efficacy testing of inhaled anti-cancer drugs
Authors: Movia Dania , Bazou Despina , Volkov Yuri , Prina-Mello Adriele
Published: August 2018

Evidence supports the advantages of inhalation over other drug-administration routes in the treatment of lung diseases, including cancer. Although data obtained from animal models and conventional in vitro cultures are informative, testing the efficacy of inhaled chemotherapeutic agents requires human-relevant preclinical tools. Such tools are currently unavailable. Here, we developed and characterized in vitro models for the efficacy testing of inhaled chemotherapeutic agents against non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). These models recapitulated key elements of both the lung epithelium and the tumour tissue, namely the direct contact with the gas phase and the three-dimensional (3D) architecture. Our in vitro models were formed by growing, for the first time, human adenocarcinoma (A549) cells as multilayered mono-cultures at the Air-Liquid Interface (ALI). The in vitro models were tested for their response to four benchmarking chemotherapeutics, currently in use in clinics, demonstrating an increased resistance to these drugs as compared to sub-confluent monolayered 2D cell cultures. Chemoresistance was comparable to that detected in 3D hypoxic tumour spheroids. Being cultured in ALI conditions, the multilayered monocultures demonstrated to be compatible with testing drugs administered as a liquid aerosol by a clinical nebulizer, offering an advantage over 3D tumour spheroids. In conclusion, we demonstrated that our in vitro models provide new human-relevant tools allowing for the efficacy screening of inhaled anti-cancer drugs.
Residential wearable RSSI and accelerometer measurements with detailed location annotations
Authors: Byrne Dallan , Kozlowski Michal , Santos-Rodriguez Raul , Piechocki Robert , Craddock Ian
Published: August 2018

This repository offers smart-home wearable accelerometer and Radio Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) data acquired : 1) with low-cost hardware; 2) with high-resolution location annotations; 3) from four UK homes. The data are intended to evaluate RSSI-based indoor localisation methods with activity measurements provided from a user-worn wearable device. A wrist worn accelerometer records activity signatures which are relayed to a number of receiving Access Points (AP) placed throughout the building. Upon reception of a packet, each AP measures the RSSI of the received radio signal and timestamps the accelerometer measurements. Location labels are recorded automatically using a small camera which registers fiducial floor tags as the participant carries out their normal routines in a natural way. Approximately 14 h of annotated wearable measurements are provided. A scripted fingerprint measurement is provided along with several unscripted natural living recordings, where the participant carried out a number of daily household activities which are annotated, where possible, throughout. Codes are provided to access the data and to replicate the ground-truthing procedure.
Transcriptomic analyses of murine ventricular cardiomyocytes
Authors: Chevalier Morgan , Vermij Sarah H. , Wyler Kurt , Gillet Ludovic , Keller Irene , Abriel Hugues
Published: August 2018

Mice are used universally as model organisms for studying heart physiology, and a plethora of genetically modified mouse models exist to study cardiac disease. Transcriptomic data for whole-heart tissue are available, but not yet for isolated ventricular cardiomyocytes. Our lab therefore collected comprehensive RNA-seq data from wildtype murine ventricular cardiomyocytes as well as from knockout models of the ion channel regulators CASK, dystrophin, and SAP97. We also elucidate ion channel expression from wild-type cells to help forward the debate about which ion channels are expressed in cardiomyocytes. Researchers studying the heart, and especially cardiac arrhythmias, may benefit from these cardiomyocyte-specific transcriptomic data to assess expression of genes of interest.
microRNA profile datasets of murine macrophages infected with different strains of Leptospira spp
Authors: Garcia Leandro E. , Junior Erivelto C. A. , Bragato Jaqueline P. , Melo Larissa M. , Lima Valéria F. M. , Peiró Juliana R. , Arnold Daniel R. , Marinho Márcia , Lopes Flavia L.
Published: August 2018

MicroRNAs play an important role in the regulation of immune responses. The influence of epigenetic mechanisms, particularly RNA-mediated post-transcriptional regulation of host immune responses has been proven vital following infections by different pathogens, and bacteria can modulated host miRNAs. Global miRNA expression analysis from macrophages infected in vitro with different strains of Leptospira spp was performed using miRNA 4.1 microarray strips. Leptospirosis is a bacterial zoonosis of global importance, responsible for significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. Despite considerable advances, much is yet to be discovered about disease pathogenicity, particularly in regards to host-pathogen interactions. We present here a high-quality dataset examining the microtranscriptome of murine macrophages J774A.1 following 8h of infection with virulent, attenuated and saprophyte strains of Leptospira. Metadata files were submitted to the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) repository.
Alkaline Ceramics-based High-temperature CO2 Sorbents
Authors: Vera Elizabeth , Lara-García Hugo A. , Pfeiffer Heriberto
Published: August 2018

This chapter contains a complete review of the CO2 capture performed on different alkaline-ceramic-based sorbents (lithium- and sodium-containing ceramics). Initially, the text presents a general explanation about the capture process. Then, a complete review about the CO2 capture of lithium- and sodium-containing ceramics is described, including a theoretical CO2 capacity comparison and experimental temperature carbonation. Finally, some possible CO2 conversion applications are described including carbon monoxide oxidation and subsequent carbon dioxide chemisorption as well as steam enhanced methane reforming processes.
Effects of large dimensional deformation of a porous structure on stem cell fate activated by poly(l-glutamic acid)-based shape memory scaffolds
Authors: Zhang Weijun , Zhang Kunxi , Li Guifei , Yan Shifeng , Cui Lei , Yin Jingbo
Published: August 2018

The effects of mechanostructural stimuli on stem cell fate in 3D structures have been investigated in a poly(l-glutamic acid)-based shape memory porous scaffold; the results indicate the scaffold a potential cell carrier.
Modelling uranyl chemistry in liquid ammonia from density functional theory
Authors: Sieffert Nicolas , Thakkar Amol , Bühl Michael
Published: August 2018

We developed a computationally-efficient protocol based on Density Functional Theory (DFT) and a continuum solvation model (CSM) to predict reaction free energies of complexation reactions of uranyl in liquid ammonia.
Hairpin-fuelled catalytic nanobeacons for amplified microRNA imaging in live cells
Authors: Wang Jiaoli , Huang Jin , Quan Ke , Li Jing , Wu Yanan , Wei Qiaomei , Yang Xiaohai , Wang Kemin
Published: August 2018

Here, we introduce hairpin-fuelled catalytic nanobeacons for microRNA (miRNA) imaging in live cells with signal amplification capacity.
The coulombic σ-hole model describes bonding in CX3I⋯Y− complexes completely
Authors: Clark Timothy , Heßelmann Andreas
Published: August 2018

Contrary to recent reports, the σ-hole interaction energies of complexes between the carbon tetrahalides CX3I (X = F, Cl, Br, I) and halide anions Y− (Y = F, Cl, Br, I) are described very well by the simple Coulombic σ-hole concept if it is applied properly.
Light-activated Ullmann homocoupling of aryl halides catalyzed using gold nanoparticle-functionalized potassium niobium oxides
Authors: Crabbe Bry W. , Kuehm Oliver P. , Bennett J. Craig , Hallett-Tapley Geniece L.
Published: August 2018

Lamellar, or layered, potassium niobium oxide perovskites are a class of underdeveloped semiconductors in organic photocatalysis that offer the inherent advantages of larger particle size and ease of recoverability as compared to traditional semiconductor materials.
A new series of Cd(ii) metal–organic architectures driven by soft ether-bridged tricarboxylate spacers: synthesis, structural and topological versatility, and photocatalytic properties
Authors: Gu Jin-Zhong , Cai Yan , Wen Min , Shi Zi-Fa , Kirillov Alexander M.
Published: August 2018

Two multifunctional, ether-bridged tricarboxylic acids were used as unexplored and highly versatile building blocks for the hydrothermal generation of eight new cadmium(ii) metal–organic architectures.
Anti-obesity effects of Spirulina maxima in high fat diet induced obese rats via the activation of AMPK pathway and SIRT1
Authors: Heo Myeong-Gang , Choung Se-Young
Published: August 2018

Spirulina maxima improved the obese phenotype in high fat diet induced rats by activating AMPK and SIRT1.
The photochemical generation of superoxide Rh(iii) complexes
Authors: Nadolinny Vladimir , Belyaev Anatoliy , Komarovskikh Andrey , Tkachev Sergey , Yushina Irina
Published: August 2018

Photolysis of aqueous solutions of [Rh(NH3)5(NO2)](NO3)2 in air results in the formation of complexes with dissolved oxygen, [Rh(NH3)5O2]2+ and [(NH3)5Rh μ-O2 Rh(NH3)4NO2]4+.
Hydrothermal synthesis of Sn-Beta zeolites in F−-free medium
Authors: Xu Hao , Wang Xudong , Ji Peng , Wu Haihong , Guan Yejun , Wu Peng
Published: August 2018

Sn-Beta zeolites, with high Sn content and smaller crystal size, hydrothermally synthesized in F−-free medium using N-cyclohexyl-N,N-dimethylcyclohexanaminium hydroxide as the structure-directing agent with the assistance of Na+ and seed, are highly active as Lewis acid catalysts.
Facile microwave-assisted synthesis of In2O3 nanocubes and their application in photocatalytic degradation of tetracycline
Authors: Zhang Gehong , Lv Pinghai , Zhao Pingge , Yang Xuefu , Ma Donghua , Huang Yi
Published: August 2018

Novel In2O3 nanocube photocatalysts were successfully prepared by a facile microwave-assisted synthesis method.
Rapid fluorescence immunoassay of benzo[a]pyrene in mainstream cigarette smoke based on a dual-functional antibody–DNA conjugate
Authors: Fan Ziyan , Li Zhonghao , Liu Shanshan , Yang Fei , Bian Zhaoyang , Wang Ying , Tang Gangling , Zhao Qinxiao , Deng Huimin , Liu Shili
Published: August 2018

Benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) is considered as one of the most carcinogenic pollutants in cigarette smoke.
Band offset and an ultra-fast response UV-VIS photodetector in γ-In2Se3/p-Si heterojunction heterostructures
Authors: Fang Y. X. , Zhang H. , Azad F. , Wang S. P. , Ling F. C. C. , Su S. C.
Published: August 2018

High-quality γ-In2Se3 thin films and a γ-In2Se3/p-Si heterojunction were prepared using pulse laser deposition (PLD).
Rational design of red AIEgens with a new core structure from non-emissive heteroaromatics
Authors: Chen Ming , Hu Xianglong , Liu Junkai , Li Baixue , Leung Nelson L. C. , Viglianti Lucia , Cheung Tsz Shing , Sung Herman H. Y. , Kwok Ryan T. K. , Williams Ian D. , Qin Anjun , Lam Jacky W. Y. , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: August 2018

This work provides a new strategy to design heterocycle-containing AIEgens from non-emissive heteroaromatics and promotes their applications for long-term lysosome imaging.
An azine-linked covalent organic framework ACOF-1 membrane for highly selective CO2/CH4 separation
Authors: Fan Hongwei , Mundstock Alexander , Gu Jiahui , Meng Hong , Caro Jürgen
Published: August 2018

A defect-free and continuous 2D azine-linked ACOF-1 membrane on a porous alumina support is developed for highly selective CO2/CH4 separation.
First-principles and experimental studies of [ZrO(OH)]+ or ZrO(OH)2 for enhancing CO2 desorption kinetics – imperative for significant reduction of CO2 capture energy consumption
Authors: Wu Ye , Cai Tianyi , Zhao Wenwen , Chen Xiaoping , Liu Hongyan , Wang Yujun , Russell Armistead G. , Fan Maohong , Liu Dong
Published: August 2018

[ZrO(OH)]+ or ZrO(OH)2 formation during CO2 desorption process enhances the reaction kinetics thus significantly reducing CO2 capture energy consumption.
Deciphering the potentiometric properties of (porphinato)zinc(ii)-derived supramolecular polymers and related superstructures
Authors: Liu Chuan , Liu Kaixuan , Klutke Jared , Ashcraft Adam , Steefel Samantha , Olivier Jean-Hubert
Published: August 2018

Using electrochemical measurement methods, potentiometric properties of porphyrin-based supramolecular polymers have been investigated. Structure-function relationships of these self-assembled materials have been elucidated.
Manoeuvring target detection based on keystone transforms and conjugates time reversing transform
Authors: Wang Hui , Yi Jianxin , Wan Xianrong
Published: August 2018

This letter investigates the coherent integration problem for the manoeuvring target with a constant acceleration. A fast coherent integration algorithm based on the keystone transform (KT) and the conjugate time reversing transform (CTRT) is proposed to mitigate the range migration (RM) and the Doppler frequency migration (DFM). Firstly, the proposed algorithm employs the KT to remove the RM efficiently. Subsequently, the CTRT is adopted to remove the DFM. Finally, the Fourier transform is conducted to achieve the coherent integration. The computation of the proposed algorithm is in the same order with the KT. Real data processing results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
Line‐laser‐based visual measurement for pavement 3D rut depth in driving state
Authors: Hong Ziming , Ai Qingsong , Chen Kun
Published: August 2018

This Letter develops a line‐laser‐based real‐time visual measurement method to inspect pavement rut depths. The detection vehicle equipped with line‐laser projector continuously sends, in its normal driving state, laser light onto the pavement, which is captured by a high‐resolution camera on the vehicle, thus a sequence of pavement rut laser line images are created. The pavement rut laser line image is transformed to the convexity index image, in which the peak points of the pavement rut laser line are rapidly sought to obtain the rut laser curve with a single‐pixel width. The relationship between pavement rut depth and the visual deformation value of measurement points on the rut laser curve is determined by the calibration blocks, and then the pavement three‐dimensional (3D) rut depths can be automatically measured, 3D rut depth curves and 3D rut surface can be reconstructed. Some experimental results verify the effectiveness of the proposed method.