bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differential co-expression analysis reveals a novel prognostic gene module in ovarian cancer
Authors: Gov Esra , Arga Kazim Yalcin
Published: July 2017

Ovarian cancer is one of the most significant disease among gynecological disorders that women suffered from over the centuries. However, disease-specific and effective biomarkers were still not available, since studies have focused on individual genes associated with ovarian cancer, ignoring the interactions and associations among the gene products. Here, ovarian cancer differential co-expression networks were reconstructed via meta-analysis of gene expression data and co-expressed gene modules were identified in epithelial cells from ovarian tumor and healthy ovarian surface epithelial samples to propose ovarian cancer associated genes and their interactions. We propose a novel, highly interconnected, differentially co-expressed, and co-regulated gene module in ovarian cancer consisting of 84 prognostic genes. Furthermore, the specificity of the module to ovarian cancer was shown through analyses of datasets in nine other cancers. These observations underscore the importance of transcriptome based systems biomarkers research in deciphering the elusive pathophysiology of ovarian cancer, and here, we present reciprocal interplay between candidate ovarian cancer genes and their transcriptional regulatory dynamics. The corresponding gene module might provide new insights on ovarian cancer prognosis and treatment strategies that continue to place a significant burden on global health.
Evidence for rapid weathering response to climatic warming during the Toarcian Oceanic Anoxic Event
Authors: Them Theodore R. , Gill Benjamin C. , Selby David , Gröcke Darren R. , Friedman Richard M. , Owens Jeremy D.
Published: July 2017

Chemical weathering consumes atmospheric carbon dioxide through the breakdown of silicate minerals and is thought to stabilize Earth’s long-term climate. However, the potential influence of silicate weathering on atmospheric pCO2 levels on geologically short timescales (103–105 years) remains poorly constrained. Here we focus on the record of a transient interval of severe climatic warming across the Toarcian Oceanic Anoxic Event or T-OAE from an open ocean sedimentary succession from western North America. Paired osmium isotope data and numerical modelling results suggest that weathering rates may have increased by 215% and potentially up to 530% compared to the pre-event baseline, which would have resulted in the sequestration of significant amounts of atmospheric CO2. This process would have also led to increased delivery of nutrients to the oceans and lakes stimulating bioproductivity and leading to the subsequent development of shallow-water anoxia, the hallmark of the T-OAE. This enhanced bioproductivity and anoxia would have resulted in elevated rates of organic matter burial that would have acted as an additional negative feedback on atmospheric pCO2 levels. Therefore, the enhanced weathering modulated by initially increased pCO2 levels would have operated as both a direct and indirect negative feedback to end the T-OAE.
Hybrid perovskite solar cells fabricated from guanidine hydroiodide and tin iodide
Authors: Ishibashi Hironobu , Katayama Mikimasa , Tanaka Senku , Kaji Toshihiko
Published: July 2017

For the search of new metal-halide perovskite solar cell materials, tolerance factors are calculated from the ionic radius of each site and are often utilized as the critical factors to expect the materials forming perovskite structure. As one of such amine hydrohalides, guanidine hydroiodide (GI) is reported not to react with PbI2. However, in this paper, we report the product of GI and SnI2 reaction, its visible light absorption, X-ray diffraction, and its solar cell operation, in spite of the more disadvantageous tolerance factor of SnI2 than PbI2. We also report the thermal stability of GI, enabling precise control of vacuum deposition, and utilization of co-evaporant induced crystallization method during the vacuum evaporation of the SnI2 film, which resulted in enlarging the SnI2 crystals and improving the short circuit current density of the solar cell.
Within-host Evolution of Segments Ratio for the Tripartite Genome of Alfalfa Mosaic Virus
Authors: Wu Beilei , Zwart Mark P. , Sánchez-Navarro Jesús A. , Elena Santiago F.
Published: July 2017

The existence of multipartite viruses is an intriguing mystery in evolutionary virology. Several hypotheses suggest benefits that should outweigh the costs of a reduced transmission efficiency and of segregation of coadapted genes associated with encapsidating each segment into a different particle. Advantages range from increasing genome size despite high mutation rates, faster replication, more efficient selection resulting from reassortment during mixed infections, better regulation of gene expression, or enhanced virion stability and cell-to-cell movement. However, support for these hypotheses is scarce. Here we report experiments testing whether an evolutionary stable equilibrium exists for the three genomic RNAs of Alfalfa mosaic virus (AMV). Starting infections with different segment combinations, we found that the relative abundance of each segment evolves towards a constant ratio. Population genetic analyses show that the segment ratio at this equilibrium is determined by frequency-dependent selection. Replication of RNAs 1 and 2 was coupled and collaborative, whereas the replication of RNA 3 interfered with the replication of the other two. We found that the equilibrium solution is slightly different for the total amounts of RNA produced and encapsidated, suggesting that competition exists between all RNAs during encapsidation. Finally, we found that the observed equilibrium appears to be host-species dependent.
Membrane Association Landscape of Myelin Basic Protein Portrays Formation of the Myelin Major Dense Line
Authors: Raasakka Arne , Ruskamo Salla , Kowal Julia , Barker Robert , Baumann Anne , Martel Anne , Tuusa Jussi , Myllykoski Matti , Bürck Jochen , Ulrich Anne S. , Stahlberg Henning , Kursula Petri
Published: July 2017

Compact myelin comprises most of the dry weight of myelin, and its insulative nature is the basis for saltatory conduction of nerve impulses. The major dense line (MDL) is a 3-nm compartment between two cytoplasmic leaflets of stacked myelin membranes, mostly occupied by a myelin basic protein (MBP) phase. MBP is an abundant myelin protein involved in demyelinating diseases, such as multiple sclerosis. The association of MBP with lipid membranes has been studied for decades, but the MBP-driven formation of the MDL remains elusive at the biomolecular level. We employed complementary biophysical methods, including atomic force microscopy, cryo-electron microscopy, and neutron scattering, to investigate the formation of membrane stacks all the way from MBP binding onto a single membrane leaflet to the organisation of a stable MDL. Our results support the formation of an amorphous protein phase of MBP between two membrane bilayers and provide a molecular model for MDL formation during myelination, which is of importance when understanding myelin assembly and demyelinating conditions.
Asymptomatic Meibomian Gland Dysfunction and Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors in a Middle-Aged Population in Taiwan - A Cross-sectional Analysis
Authors: Chen Alexander , Chen Hung-Ta , Chen Hung-Chi , Chen Yi-Tsun , Hwang Yih-Hsiou , Sun Chi-Chin , Hsiao Ching-Hsi , Ma David Hui-Kang , Wu Wei-Chi , Lai Chi-Chun
Published: July 2017

Managing cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors is the key to prevent CVD. This study aimed to prevent CVD by introducing asymptomatic meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), a condition associated with various CVD risk factors, as an early indicator for CVD in middle-aged population. Participants with and without asymptomatic MGD underwent standardized questionnaires, physical examinations, and laboratory investigations. One ophthalmologist completed the identification and grading of MGD by using slit-lamp biomicroscopy examination on the eyelid margins, meibomian gland orifices, and meibomian gland secretions. Standardized techniques were used to measure the CVD risk factor parameters. After adjusted for age and gender, CVD risk factors including elevated uric acid (P = 0.01), total cholesterol (Total-C, P < 0.001), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C, P < 0.001), fasting triglyceride (Fasting TG, P < 0.001), decreased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C, P = 0.04), and presence of hepatic steatosis (P = 0.008) were significantly associated with asymptomatic MGD. Stepwise logistic regression analysis revealed that LDL-C (OR: 1.03, 95% CI: 1.02–1.04) and Fasting TG (OR: 1.01; 95% CI: 1.00–1.01) levels were risk factors for having asymptomatic MGD (P < 0.001). Together, the results suggest that asymptomatic MGD may serve as an indicator for CVD.
Strong magnetic field effect on the nucleation of a highly undercooled Co-Sn melt
Authors: Wang Jun , He Yixuan , Li Jinshan , Kou Hongchao , Beaugnon Eric
Published: July 2017

High magnetic field is a powerful tool to tune the microstructure and improve the properties of materials. In this report, the nucleation behavior of undercooled Co76Sn24 near eutectic alloy under strong homogeneous and gradient magnetic fields have been investigated using glass slag fluxing method in a 12 T superconducting magnet. The mean undercooling of the undercooled melt is not altered by homogeneous magnetic field but depressed by gradient magnetic field. The highest temperature during recalescence is strongly altered by magnetic field, where an enhancement effect is observed under gradient magnetic field and an opposite effect in homogeneous magnetic field. The reason is interpreted by discussion about the magnetic field on the thermodynamics of nucleation and also the purifying effect of the glass slag, the magnetic properties and the magnetic force exerted on the undercooled melt.
Endothelial Hey2 deletion reduces endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition and mitigates radiation proctitis in mice
Authors: Mintet Elodie , Lavigne Jérémy , Paget Vincent , Tarlet Georges , Buard Valérie , Guipaud Olivier , Sabourin Jean-Christophe , Iruela-Arispe Maria-Luisa , Milliat Fabien , François Agnès
Published: July 2017

The current study evaluated the role of Hey2 transcription factor in radiation-induced endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndoMT) and its impact on radiation-induced tissue damage in mice. Phenotypic modifications of irradiated, Hey2 siRNA- and Hey2 vector plasmid-transfected human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) resembling EndoMT were monitored by qPCR, immunocytochemistry and western blots. Subsequently, in mice, a Cre-LoxP strategy for inactivation of Hey2 specifically in the endothelium was used to study the biological consequences. Total body irradiation and radiation proctitis were monitored to investigate the impact of conditional Hey2 deletion on intestinal stem cells and microvascular compartment radiosensitivity, EndoMT and rectal damage severity. We found that EndoMT occurs in irradiated HUVECs with concomitant Hey2 mRNA and protein increase. While Hey2 silencing has no effect on radiation-induced EndoMT in vitro, Hey2 overexpression is sufficient to induce phenotypic conversion of endothelial cells. In mice, the conditional deletion of Hey2 reduces EndoMT frequency and the severity of rectal tissue damage. Our data indicate that the reduction in mucosal damage occurs through decline in stem/clonogenic epithelial cell loss mediated by microvascular protection. EndoMT is involved in radiation proctitis and this study demonstrates that a strategy based on the reduction of EndoMT mitigates intestinal tissue damage.
Plasma biomarkers are associated with agitation and regional brain atrophy in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Hsu Jung-Lung , Lee Wei-Ju , Liao Yi-Chu , Lirng Jiing-Feng , Wang Shuu-Jiun , Fuh Jong-Ling
Published: July 2017

This study investigated the relationships among plasma biomarkers, regional brain atrophy, and clinical symptoms in patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD; n = 177), mild cognitive impairment (MCI; N = 60) and controls (n = 108). The Mini-Mental Status Examination (MMSE), Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR), and Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI) subscales were administered to subjects. Magnetic resonance imaging was performed and medial temporal atrophy (MTA) and posterior atrophy (PA) were assessed visually. We examined associations among cognition, NPI score, plasma β-amyloid (Aβ) and clusterin levels, and regional brain atrophy in patients with AD by regression analysis. The mean MTA score was associated with the plasma Aβ1-42/Aβ1-40 ratio (r = 0.38, p = 0.01) and with MMSE scores (r = 0.43, p < 0.01). The plasma clusterin level was correlated with CDR sum of box and right-side PA scores (r = 0.28, p = 0.01 and r = 0.30, p = 0.03, respectively). Right-side PA scores were correlated significantly with NPI agitation/aggression (r = 0.30, p = 0.03) subscale scores. In conclusion, the plasma ratio of Aβ1-42/Aβ1-40 and clusterin level may be associated with different patterns of regional brain atrophy, which in turn may account for the clinical symptoms in patients with AD.
High throughput sequencing of RNA transcriptomes in Ruditapes philippinarum identifies genes involved in osmotic stress response
Authors: Nie Hongtao , Jiang Liwen , Chen Peng , Huo Zhongming , Yang Feng , Yan Xiwu
Published: July 2017

Ruditapes philippinarum, is an economically important marine bivalve species. The ability to cope with low salinity stress is quite important for the survival of aquatic species under natural conditions. In this study, the transcriptional response of the Manila clam to low salinity stress was characterized using RNA sequencing. The transcriptomes of a low salinity-treatment group (FRp1, FRp2), which survived under low salinity stress, and control group (SRp1, SRp2), which was not subjected to low salinity stress, were sequenced with the Illumina HiSeq platform. A total of 196,578 unigenes were generated. GO and KEGG analyses revealed that signal transduction, immune response, cellular component organization or biogenesis, and energy production processes were the most highly enriched pathways among the genes that were differentially expressed under low salinity stress. All these pathways could be assigned to the following biological functions in the low salinity tolerant Manila clam: signal response to low salinity stress, antioxidant response, intracellular free amino acid transport and metabolism, energy production and conversion, cell signaling pathways, and regulation of ionic content and cell volume. In summary, this is the first study using high-throughput sequencing to identify gene targets that could explain osmotic regulation mechanisms under salinity stress in R. philippinarum.
Electrospun poly(N-isopropyl acrylamide)/poly(caprolactone) fibers for the generation of anisotropic cell sheets
Authors: Allen Alicia C. B. , Barone Elissa , Crosby Cody O′Keefe , Suggs Laura J. , Zoldan Janet
Published: July 2017

Cell alignment in muscle, nervous tissue, and cartilage is requisite for proper tissue function; however, cell sheeting techniques using the thermosensitive polymer poly(N-isopropyl acrylamide) can only produce anisotropic cell sheets with resource-intensive modifications.
Band alignment investigations of heterostructure NiO/TiO2 nanomaterials used as efficient heterojunction earth-abundant metal oxide photocatalysts for hydrogen production
Authors: Uddin Md. T. , Nicolas Y. , Olivier C. , Jaegermann W. , Rockstroh N. , Junge H. , Toupance T.
Published: July 2017

Earth-abundant NiO/TiO2 heterostructures lead to enhanced H2 production by methanol photoreforming due to favorable band bending at the interface of the NiO/anatase TiO2 p–n heterojunction.
Direct examination of the relevance for folding, binding and electron transfer of a conserved protein folding intermediate
Authors: Lamazares Emilio , Vega Sonia , Ferreira Patricia , Medina Milagros , Galano-Frutos Juan J. , Martínez-Júlvez Marta , Velázquez-Campoy Adrián , Sancho Javier
Published: July 2017

Protein engineering allows testing the role of conserved folding intermediates at the native basins of proteins.
Using a chitosan nanolayer as an efficient pH buffer to protect pH-sensitive supramolecular assemblies
Authors: Andreeva D. V. , Kollath A. , Brezhneva N. , Sviridov D. V. , Cafferty B. J. , Möhwald H. , Skorb E. V.
Published: July 2017

We propose that chitosan can be used as an efficient pH-responsive protective layer for pH sensitive soft materials.
Binding modes and pathway of RHPS4 to human telomeric G-quadruplex and duplex DNA probed by all-atom molecular dynamics simulations with explicit solvent
Authors: Mulholland Kelly , Siddiquei Farzana , Wu Chun
Published: July 2017

Binding modes ofRHPS4to DNA duplex and human teloemeric G-quadruplexes from MD simulations.
The role of O(1D) in the oxidation mechanism of ethylene by iodosobenzene and other hypervalent molecules
Authors: Khan Shahriar N. , Miliordos Evangelos
Published: July 2017

Terminal iodine–oxygen bonds are described as PhI → O(1D) dative bonds explaining the oxidation properties of iodosobenzene or other “hypervalent” species.
Synthesis and interconversions of reduced, alkali–metal supported iron–sulfur–carbonyl complexes
Authors: Shupp J. Patrick , Rose Amber R. , Rose Michael J.
Published: July 2017

We report the synthesis, interconversions and X-ray structures of a set of [mFe–nS]-type carbonyl clusters (where S = S2−, S22− or RS−; m = 2–3; n = 1–2).
Zinc binding sites in Pra1, a zincophore from Candida albicans
Authors: Łoboda Dorota , Rowińska-Żyrek Magdalena
Published: July 2017

The Pra1 zincophore fromCandida albicansbinds Zn(ii)via4 histidines from the C-terminal region.
One-step synthesis of novel Cu@polymer nanocomposites through a self-activated route and their application as nonenzymatic glucose sensors
Authors: Tong Yinlin , Xu Jiaying , Jiang Hong , Gao Feng , Lu Qingyi
Published: July 2017

Novel core–shell Cu@polymer nanocomposites were synthesized through a one-step self-activated route and developed as nonenzymatic glucose sensor.
Antimicrobial activity of organometallic isonicotinyl and pyrazinyl ferrocenyl-derived complexes
Authors: Stringer Tameryn , Seldon Ronnett , Liu Nicole , Warner Digby F. , Tam Christina , Cheng Luisa W. , Land Kirkwood M. , Smith Peter J. , Chibale Kelly , Smith Gregory S.
Published: July 2017

Isonicotinyl and pyrazinyl ferrocenyl-derived complexes were evaluatedin vitrofor antimycobacterial and antiparasitic activity.
Mn4+,Li+ co-doped SrMgAl10O17 phosphor-in-glass: application in high-power warm w-LEDs
Authors: Zhong Jiasong , Xu Wei , Chen Qingli , Yuan Shuo , Ji Zhengguo , Chen Daqin
Published: July 2017

Li+, Mn4+ co-doped SrMgAl10O17 phosphor-in-glass for high-power phosphor-converted warm w-LEDs has been constructed, and the related optical performance has also been investigated.
In silico genotoxicity of coumarins: application of the Phenol-Explorer food database to functional food science
Authors: Guardado Yordi E. , Matos M. J. , Pérez Martínez A. , Tornes A. C. , Santana L. , Molina E. , Uriarte E.
Published: July 2017

Coumarins are a group of phytochemicals that may be beneficial or not to health depending on the type, dose and the matrix that contains them.
Effects of addition of hydrocolloids on the textural and structural properties of high-protein intermediate moisture food model systems containing sodium caseinate
Authors: Li J. , Wu Y. , Ma Y. , Lu N. , Regenstein J. M. , Zhou P.
Published: July 2017

High-protein intermediate moisture food (HPIMF) containing sodium caseinate (NaCN) often gave a harder texture compared with that made from whey proteins or soy proteins, due to the aggregation of protein particles.
Superlubricity of a graphene/MoS2 heterostructure: a combined experimental and DFT study
Authors: Wang Linfeng , Zhou Xiang , Ma Tianbao , Liu Dameng , Gao Lei , Li Xin , Zhang Jun , Hu Yuanzhong , Wang Hui , Dai Yadong , Luo Jianbin
Published: July 2017

The relationship between a low interlayer lateral force constant and ultrasmall potential energy corrugation in a graphene/MoS2 heterostructure provides another viewpoint to the origin of superlubricity.
From the metal to the channel: a study of carrier injection through the metal/2D MoS2interface
Authors: Arutchelvan Goutham , Lockhart de la Rosa César J. , Matagne Philippe , Sutar Surajit , Radu Iuliana , Huyghebaert Cedric , De Gendt Stefan , Heyns Marc
Published: July 2017

Carrier injection trajectories – vertical and lateral – determined by spatial modulation of the contact depletion region in 2D semiconductors.
Fabrication of nanoporous graphene/polymer composite membranes
Authors: Madauß Lukas , Schumacher Jens , Ghosh Mandakranta , Ochedowski Oliver , Meyer Jens , Lebius Henning , Ban-d'Etat Brigitte , Toimil-Molares Maria Eugenia , Trautmann Christina , Lammertink Rob G. H. , Ulbricht Mathias , Schleberger Marika
Published: July 2017

Self-aligned graphene nanopores and polymer macropores can be fabricated by combining ion irradiation and track-etching for high-permeability filtering membranes.
Liposomes loading sodium chloride as effective thermo-seeds for microwave ablation of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Zhou Qunfang , Wu Songsong , Gong Ningqiang , Li Xin , Dou Jianping , Mu Mengjuan , Yu Xiaoling , Yu Jie , Liang Ping
Published: July 2017

Microwave ablation (MWA) is a promising minimally invasive therapy that has been widely used to treat hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).
Recent advances in functional mesoporous graphitic carbon nitride (mpg-C3N4) polymers
Authors: Sun Shaodong , Liang Shuhua
Published: July 2017

In this review, we selectively summarize the recent advances in mesoporous g-C3N4(mpg-C3N4), including synthesis strategies, characterization techniques, fundamental properties, functional modifications and potential applications. Several difficulties and emerging issues are also proposed.
Full-spectrum volumetric solar thermal conversion via photonic nanofluids
Authors: Liu Xianglei , Xuan Yimin
Published: July 2017

Full-spectrum volumetric solar thermal conversion is reported based on the proposed photonic nanofluids made of specially designed nanoparticles with broken symmetry.
Synthesis and biological evaluation of the ascidian blood-pigment halocyamine A
Authors: Fong Hugo K. H. , Brunel Jean Michel , Longeon Arlette , Bourguet-Kondracki Marie-Lise , Barker David , Copp Brent R.
Published: July 2017

The first synthesis of the (Z)-indolic enamide-containing antibacterial marine natural product halocyamine A is reported.
Selective synthesis of nitrogen bi-heteroarenes by a hydrogen transfer-mediated direct α,β-coupling reaction
Authors: Chen Xiu-Wen , Zhao He , Xiong Biao , Jiang Huan-Feng , Dixneuf Pierre. H. , Zhang Min
Published: July 2017

By an external hydrogen transfer-mediated activation mode, a new palladium-catalyzed α,β-coupling of different types of N-heteroarenes, enabling direct access to nitrogen bi-heteroarenes, has been demonstrated.
Highly stable Au nanoparticles with double hydrophilic block copolymer templates: correlation between structure and stability
Authors: Seo Eunyong , Lee Sang-Ho , Lee Sangho , Choi Soo-Hyung , Hawker Craig J. , Kim Byeong-Su
Published: July 2017

We herein report a facile synthetic method for preparing gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) with superior colloidal stability using a series of double hydrophilic block copolymers (DHBC), poly(ethylene oxide)-block-poly(acrylic acid) (PEO-b-PAA), as a template (Au@DHBC NPs).
Multi-hierarchical responsive polymers: stepwise oxidation of a selenium- and tellurium-containing block copolymer with sensitivity to both chemical and electrochemical stimuli
Authors: Wang Lu , Wang Wencong , Cao Wei , Xu Huaping
Published: July 2017

A multi-hierarchical responsive selenium- and tellurium-containing block copolymer that can be stepwise oxidized by both chemical methods and electrochemical methods.
A probe of steric ligand substituent effects on the spin crossover of Fe(ii) complexes
Authors: Bartual-Murgui C. , Vela S. , Darawsheh M. , Diego R. , Teat S. J. , Roubeau O. , Aromí G.
Published: July 2017

Ligand substituents modulate the SCO temperature of Fe(ii) complexes through intramolecular non-covalent interactions.
Spreading-induced dewetting for monolayer colloidosomes with responsive permeability
Authors: Lei Leyan , Tang Xin , Zhu Pingan , Kang Zhanxiao , Kong Tiantian , Wang Liqiu
Published: July 2017

We present a spreading-induced dewetting approach of Pickering emulsion droplets for fabricating monolayer colloidosomes.
Directly writing 2D organic semiconducting crystals for high-performance field-effect transistors
Authors: Zhang Yujia , Guo Yu , Song Lei , Qian Jun , Jiang Sai , Wang Qijing , Wang Xinran , Shi Yi , Wang Xiaomu , Li Yun
Published: July 2017

2D organic semiconducting crystals written by a rollerball pen for high-performance transistors with a carrier mobility of up to 5.9 cm2V−1s−1.
Predicted energy–structure–function maps for the evaluation of small molecule organic semiconductors
Authors: Campbell Josh E. , Yang Jack , Day Graeme M.
Published: July 2017

Crystal structure prediction is used to calculate energy–structure–function maps of the charge mobilities in molecular organic semiconductors.
Potential mechanisms linking SIRT activity and hypoxic 2-hydroxyglutarate generation: no role for direct enzyme (de)acetylation
Authors: Nadtochiy Sergiy M. , Wang Yves T. , Zhang Jimmy , Nehrke Keith , Schafer Xenia , Welle Kevin , Ghaemmaghami Sina , Munger Josh , Brookes Paul S.
Published: July 2017

2-Hydroxyglutarate (2-HG) is a hypoxic metabolite with potentially important epigenetic signaling roles. The mechanisms underlying 2-HG generation are poorly understood, but evidence suggests a potential regulatory role for the sirtuin family of lysine deacetylases. Thus, we hypothesized that the acetylation status of the major 2-HG-generating enzymes [lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) and malate dehydrogenase (MDH)] may govern their 2-HG-generating activity. In vitro acetylation of these enzymes, with confirmation by western blotting, mass spectrometry, reversibility by recombinant sirtuins and an assay for global lysine occupancy, yielded no effect on 2-HG-generating activity. In addition, while elevated 2-HG in hypoxia is associated with the activation of lysine deacetylases, we found that mice lacking mitochondrial SIRT3 exhibited hyperacetylation and elevated 2-HG. These data suggest that there is no direct link between enzyme acetylation and 2-HG production. Furthermore, our observed effects of in vitro acetylation on the canonical activities of IDH, MDH and LDH appeared to contrast with previous findings wherein acetyl-mimetic lysine mutations resulted in the inhibition of these enzymes. Overall, these data suggest that a causal relationship should not be assumed between acetylation of metabolic enzymes and their activities, canonical or otherwise.
The sweet tooth of the circadian clock
Authors: Fu Minnie , Yang Xiaoyong
Published: July 2017

The endogenous circadian clock is a key regulator of daily metabolic processes. On the other hand, circadian clocks in a broad range of tissues can be tuned by extrinsic and intrinsic metabolic cues. The bidirectional interaction between circadian clocks and metabolism involves both transcriptional and post-translational mechanisms. Nuclear receptors exemplify the transcriptional programs that couple molecular clocks to metabolism. The post-translational modifications of the core clock machinery are known to play a key role in metabolic entrainment of circadian clocks. O-linked N-acetylglucosamine modification (O-GlcNAcylation) of intracellular proteins is a key mediator of metabolic response to nutrient availability. This review highlights our current understanding of the role of protein O-GlcNAcylation in mediating metabolic input and output of the circadian clock.
Design starch: stochastic modeling of starch granule biogenesis
Authors: Raguin Adélaïde , Ebenhöh Oliver
Published: July 2017

Starch is the most widespread and abundant storage carbohydrate in plants and the main source of carbohydrate in the human diet. Owing to its remarkable properties and commercial applications, starch is still of growing interest. Its unique granular structure made of intercalated layers of amylopectin and amylose has been unraveled thanks to recent progress in microscopic imaging, but the origin of such periodicity is still under debate. Both amylose and amylopectin are made of linear chains of α-1,4-bound glucose residues, with branch points formed by α-1,6 linkages. The net difference in the distribution of chain lengths and the branching pattern of amylose (mainly linear), compared with amylopectin (racemose structure), leads to different physico-chemical properties. Amylose is an amorphous and soluble polysaccharide, whereas amylopectin is insoluble and exhibits a highly organized structure of densely packed double helices formed between neighboring linear chains. Contrarily to starch degradation that has been investigated since the early 20th century, starch production is still poorly understood. Most enzymes involved in starch growth (elongation, branching, debranching, and partial hydrolysis) are now identified. However, their specific action, their interplay (cooperative or competitive), and their kinetic properties are still largely unknown. After reviewing recent results on starch structure and starch growth and degradation enzymatic activity, we discuss recent results and current challenges for growing polysaccharides on granular surface. Finally, we highlight the importance of novel stochastic models to support the analysis of recent and complex experimental results, and to address how macroscopic properties emerge from enzymatic activity and structural rearrangements.
Functions of long non-coding RNAs in human disease and their conservation in Drosophila development
Authors: Rogoyski Oliver M. , Pueyo Jose Ignacio , Couso Juan Pablo , Newbury Sarah F.
Published: July 2017

Genomic analysis has found that the transcriptome in both humans and Drosophila melanogaster features large numbers of long non-coding RNA transcripts (lncRNAs). This recently discovered class of RNAs regulates gene expression in diverse ways and has been involved in a large variety of important biological functions. Importantly, an increasing number of lncRNAs have also been associated with a range of human diseases, including cancer. Comparative analyses of their functions among these organisms suggest that some of their modes of action appear to be conserved. This highlights the importance of model organisms such as Drosophila, which shares many gene regulatory networks with humans, in understanding lncRNA function and its possible impact in human health. This review discusses some known functions and mechanisms of action of lncRNAs and their implication in human diseases, together with their functional conservation and relevance in Drosophila development.
Exercise protects from cancer through regulation of immune function and inflammation
Authors: Hojman Pernille
Published: July 2017

Exercise training has been extensively studied in cancer settings as part of prevention or rehabilitation strategies, yet emerging evidence suggests that exercise training can also directly affect tumor-specific outcomes. The underlying mechanisms for this exercise-dependent cancer protection are just starting to be elucidated. To this end, evasion of immune surveillance and tumor-associated inflammation are established as hallmarks of cancer, and exercise may target cancer incidence and progression through regulation of these mechanisms. Here, I review the role of exercise in protection from cancer through mobilization and activation of cytotoxic immune cells, restriction of inflammatory signaling pathways in myeloid immune cells, and regulation of acute and chronic systemic inflammatory responses. In conclusion, I propose that exercise has the potential to target tumor growth through regulation of immune and inflammatory functions, and exercise may be pursued as anticancer treatment through incorporation into standard oncological therapy to the benefit of the cancer patients.
First detection of a THz water maser in NGC 7538-IRS1 with SOFIA and new 22 GHz e-MERLIN maps
Authors: Herpin F. , Baudry A. , Richards A. M. S. , Gray M. D. , Schneider N. , Menten K. M. , Wyrowski F. , Bontemps S. , Simon R. , Wiesemeyer H.
Published: July 2017

Context. The formation of massive stars (M> 10M⊙, L > 103L⊙) is still not well understood. Accumulating a large amount of mass infalling within a single entity in spite of radiation pressure is possible if, in addition to several other conditions, enough thermal energy is released. Despite numerous water line observations over a broad range of energies obtained with the Herschel Space Observatory, observations were not able to trace the emission from the hot core around the newly forming protostellar object in most of the sources.

Aims. We wish to probe the physical conditions and water abundance in the inner layers of the host protostellar object NGC 7538-IRS1 using a highly excited H2O line. Water maser models predict that several THz water masers should be detectable in these objects. We therefore aim to detect the o-H2O 82,7−73,4 line in a star forming region for the first time. Model calculations have predicted this line to show maser action.

Methods. We present SOFIA observations of the o-H2O 82,7−73,4 line at 1296.41106 GHz and a 616−523 22 GHz e-MERLIN map of the region (the very first 22 GHz images made after the e-MERLIN upgrade). In order to be able to constrain the nature of the emission – thermal or maser – we used near-simultaneous observations of the 22 GHz water maser performed with the Effelsberg radiotelescope and e-MERLIN. A thermal water model using the RATRAN radiative transfer code is presented based on HIFI pointed observations. Molecular water abundances are derived for the hot core.

Results. The o-H2O 82,7−73,4 line is detected toward NGC 7538-IRS1 with one feature at the source velocity (–57.7 kms-1) and another one at –48.4 kms-1. We propose that the emission at the source velocity is consistent with thermal excitation and is excited in the innermost part of the IRS1a, in the closest circumstellar environment of the massive protostellar object. The other emission is very likely the first detection of a water THz maser line, pumped by shocks due to the IRS1b outflow, in a star-forming region. Assuming thermal excitation of the THz line, the water abundance in the hot core of NGC 7538-IRS1 is estimated to be 5.2 × 10-5 with respect to H2.
Primary Pyomyositis as Unusual Cause of Limp: Three Cases in Immunocompetent Children and Literature Review
Authors: Trapani Sandra , Richichi Simona , Lasagni Donatella , Resti Massimo , Drovandi Livia
Published: July 2017

Pyomyositis (PM) is an uncommon primary skeletal muscle infection caused mainly by Staphylococcus aureus that is characterized by single or multiple intramuscular abscess formation. In our ward, between 2013 and 2015, three children (two females and one male) aged from 2 to 12 years were diagnosed and treated for PM. Patients' medical records and imaging studies were examined retrospectively. All patients, otherwise healthy, complained of limp, fever, and severe lower limb pain. Skin scratch lesions were detected in two cases; one of them showed an edematous appearance of the affected area. Multifocal bilateral abscesses of gemini and gastrocnemius were detected in the youngest patient; right obturator and iliac muscles were affected in the second patient; and right gluteus and pyriform muscles were involved in the third patient. All patients showed elevated acute phase reactants and had normal serum creatinine kinase levels. Blood cultures and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) investigations were negative in all cases. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings included muscle enlargement, deep fascia, high signal in subcutaneous tissues, and postgadolinium abscess formation. No patient required surgical or percutaneous drainage. All three were treated conservatively with intravenous oxacillin, associated with ceftriaxone in the first patient and ceftazidime in the other two, followed by oral antibiotic therapy for a period ranging from 5 to 6 weeks. Pyomyositis must be considered as an unusual cause of limp in children of all ages. When promptly diagnosed and adequately treated, it has a favorable outcome without relapses or sequelae as occurred in all our patients.
Influence of Long-Term Benzodiazepine use on Neurocognitive Skills Related to Driving Performance in Patient Populations: A Review
Authors: van der Sluiszen Nick , Vermeeren Annemiek , Jongen Stefan , Vinckenbosch Frederick , Ramaekers Johannes
Published: July 2017

Acute benzodiazepine intoxication produces severe impairment of neurocognitive skills related to driving. It is less clear whether such impairments also occur in patients who use benzodiazepines chronically. The current review evaluated neurocognitive skills of long-term benzodiazepine users and addressed 2 major questions: do long-term users develop tolerance for the impairing effects of benzodiazepines on neurocognitive performance, and if so, does tolerance warrant a change in driver fitness classification systems that currently deem users of benzodiazepines unfit to drive? Neurocognitive impairments were reported in patients who on average used benzodiazepines for 5–15 years. In addition, sensitivity to acute benzodiazepine impairment decreased in long-term users, suggesting (partial) tolerance. Definitions of clinical relevance of neurocognitive impairments in long-term users and how these were affected by duration of benzodiazepine use were generally lacking. Also, sensitivity of neurocognitive tasks to drug effects and their validity to predict fitness to drive were generally unknown. Because of these limitations, no firm conclusion can be drawn regarding a re-classification of long-term benzodiazepine effects on driver fitness.
The impairment test for football players: the missing link between sports and financial performance?
Authors: Maglio Roberto , Rey Andrea
Published: July 2017

The academic literature on financial reporting and accounting is limited in the football industry compared with other sectors of the economy. The purpose of this paper is to critically analyze the financial communications of football clubs with reference to the impairment test for football players. According to the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), an impairment test measures whether a balance sheet item is actually worth the amount stated on the balance sheet. The balance sheet amount should be reduced if the impairment test indicates a lower value. At the end of each reporting period, a football club is required to assess whether there is any indication that a footballer may be impaired. The paper aims to show that the financial communications and reporting disclosed by football clubs about the impairment test procedure is poor and inadequate. It is argued that the UEFA regulations have gaps that ought to be filled and that IFRS are not perfectly suitable for companies operating in specific business sectors such as the football industry. The study is based on an extensive literature review and an analysis of previous academic studies. In addition, this study investigates the best practices reported in the footnotes of the financial statements of several football clubs in Italy, England and Scotland. These clubs operate and play in different jurisdictions and so also adopt different accounting standards. The research study reveals that only a few of the clubs studied give information about the impairment test in the footnotes to financial statements. This confirms that the financial communications of football clubs are limited. Secondly, only one club studied (Rangers F.C.) acknowledges that a possible external indication for performing an impairment test might be the failure to achieve the sporting goals fixed at the beginning of the sporting season. Our findings suggest that UEFA, FIFA and local football associations should promote new regulations aimed to improve the accuracy of the financial disclosure of football clubs. They should also introduce as an important external indicator to perform the impairment. This kind of failure has a negative impact on football clubs’ revenues. These findings may also have interesting implications for other sporting organisations. This article is published as part of a collection on corporate governance, the sports industry and intellectual capital.
The interiorscape: amalgams and composites
Authors: Brooker Graeme
Published: July 2017

This essay will explore the implications of the reuse of existing buildings with which to make new interior space. It will advance the idea of the interiorscape: a fluid and dynamic landscape created by a series of particular activities, produced by agents in the field. I suggest that the interiorscape can be considered to be a spatial amalgam: a composite construct of historical, cultural and spatial formations. Interiorscapes are environments that are often devised for the realization of particular spatial identities for various forms of inhabitation, and are the result of a composite compound of both new and old material. In order to fully comprehend the interiorscape, this essay designates methods of reuse as progressions of integrative activities. These are processes that select, edit, reform, transform, and recontextualise existing objects, spaces and buildings. For clarity, Hegewald’s and Mitra’s description of reuse is employed. Based on their understanding of integrative processes, advancing the Interiorscape through the lens of reuse, leads to the origination and construction of what will be described as spaces that can be considered to be amalgams and composites. These are environments that, because they are constructed from many different elements, originated from numerous diverse timescales, they are what we term compounds: combinations of several distinctive physical and immaterial entities. All of which are amalgamated together, to forge new spatial meanings. This is the fundamental principle of the interiorscape. To conclude this essay, a critical underpinning of the interiorscape with the processes of reuse is drawn together, using various spatial exemplars with which to typify how scapes and amalgamated matter, produce unique compositely constructed interior environments. Entities, it is concluded, contain the fundamental principles of the conditions of interior space. This article is published as part of a collection on interiority.
European integration, social democratic Europeanism and the competitiveness discourse: a neo-Poulantzian approach to discursive policy analysis
Authors: Miró Joan
Published: July 2017

This article addresses the so-called institutional deficit in poststructuralist discourse theory by articulating a recent development of such a theory, the so-called discursive policy analysis as mainly elaborated by David Howarth and Jason Glynos, with neo-Poulantzian state theory, especially as re-worked by Bob Jessop. It then employs the resulting framework for analysing the internal socio-political logic of the European integration process, and asks why this process has not been challenged by any robust counter-hegemonic alternative despite the regressive consequences that its neo-liberal design has triggered. The argument developed in the article is that the increasing support of European social democracy, once Euro-critical, to the European project played a crucial role in this development. Nevertheless, such a thesis raises the following research question: how the forces leading the European integration process were able to gain and maintain the active support of European social democracy to that process despite the lack of opportunities for social democratic policies at the EU level? To address this question, the article engages with the main policy proposals developed by the European social democratic parties between the mid-1980s and early 2000s, paying special attention to the impacts of these proposals on EU’s institutional architecture. The textual analysis of both the social democratic and EU policy discourses reveals that the widespread appeal of a narrative structured around the “empty signifier” of “competitiveness” served to integrate the social democratic identity within the neo-liberal integration project, organizing a range of discursive logics that successfully marginalized critical worries about European integration. Nevertheless, the article ends by hypothesizing that the technocratic mode of European integration that this historical development has instituted, constitutes the main condition of possibility for the current emergence of Eurosceptic populist forces throughout the EU, so that in the medium term the neo-liberal-oriented European construction might lead to the destablization of the very foundations of the European order.
Cinema and the embodied mind: metaphor and simulation in understanding meaning in films
Authors: Coëgnarts Maarten
Published: July 2017

Only recently, the broad research program of embodied cognition has fuelled a substantial and ongoing body of research at the crossroads of cognitive science and film studies. Two influential theories of embodiment that have received considerable attention among film scholars are: Conceptual Metaphor Theory (originated in the field of cognitive linguistics) and Embodied Simulation Theory (originated in the field of neuroscience). Despite their intimate relationship, both theories have been rarely addressed together in the context of film studies. This article takes on the challenge of combining both perspectives into a unified embodied model for understanding conceptual meaning in cinema. The study is driven by two key assumptions, namely: (1) that meaning in film is metaphorically mapped within our sensory-motor system and (2) that embodied simulation processes in the brain allow for the viewer to infer this meaning from the evidence provided by the film. To clarify both assumptions, the article will present a discussion of the theme of embodiment at three levels of analysis: the conceptual level (how is meaning embodied in the human mind?), the formal level (how is this meaning structured in the visual mode of expression?) and the receptive level (how is the viewer able to infer this meaning on the basis of the evidence provided by the form?). The grounding problem of fictional subjectivity in cinema (that is, how are viewers able to attribute mental states to fictional characters in films?) will be used to test the validity of both claims.