bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biophysical feedbacks mediate carbonate chemistry in coastal ecosystems across spatiotemporal gradients
Authors: Silbiger Nyssa J. , Sorte Cascade J. B.
Published: January 2018

Ocean acidification (OA) projections are primarily based on open ocean environments, despite the ecological importance of coastal systems in which carbonate dynamics are fundamentally different. Using temperate tide pools as a natural laboratory, we quantified the relative contribution of community composition, ecosystem metabolism, and physical attributes to spatiotemporal variability in carbonate chemistry. We found that biological processes were the primary drivers of local pH conditions. Specifically, non-encrusting producer-dominated systems had the highest and most variable pH environments and the highest production rates, patterns that were consistent across sites spanning 11° of latitude and encompassing multiple gradients of natural variability. Furthermore, we demonstrated a biophysical feedback loop in which net community production increased pH, leading to higher net ecosystem calcification. Extreme spatiotemporal variability in pH is, thus, both impacting and driven by biological processes, indicating that shifts in community composition and ecosystem metabolism are poised to locally buffer or intensify the effects of OA.
Highly conserved molecular pathways, including Wnt signaling, promote functional recovery from spinal cord injury in lampreys
Authors: Herman Paige E. , Papatheodorou Angelos , Bryant Stephanie A. , Waterbury Courtney K. M. , Herdy Joseph R. , Arcese Anthony A. , Buxbaum Joseph D. , Smith Jeramiah J. , Morgan Jennifer R. , Bloom Ona
Published: January 2018

In mammals, spinal cord injury (SCI) leads to dramatic losses in neurons and synaptic connections, and consequently function. Unlike mammals, lampreys are vertebrates that undergo spontaneous regeneration and achieve functional recovery after SCI. Therefore our goal was to determine the complete transcriptional responses that occur after SCI in lampreys and to identify deeply conserved pathways that promote regeneration. We performed RNA-Seq on lamprey spinal cord and brain throughout the course of functional recovery. We describe complex transcriptional responses in the injured spinal cord, and somewhat surprisingly, also in the brain. Transcriptional responses to SCI in lampreys included transcription factor networks that promote peripheral nerve regeneration in mammals such as Atf3 and Jun. Furthermore, a number of highly conserved axon guidance, extracellular matrix, and proliferation genes were also differentially expressed after SCI in lampreys. Strikingly, ~3% of differentially expressed transcripts belonged to the Wnt pathways. These included members of the Wnt and Frizzled gene families, and genes involved in downstream signaling. Pharmacological inhibition of Wnt signaling inhibited functional recovery, confirming a critical role for this pathway. These data indicate that molecular signals present in mammals are also involved in regeneration in lampreys, supporting translational relevance of the model.
Speed-related activation in the mesolimbic dopamine system during the observation of driver-view videos
Authors: Sakai Hiroyuki , Ando Takafumi , Sadato Norihiro , Uchiyama Yuji
Published: January 2018

Despite the ubiquity and importance of speeding offenses, there has been little neuroscience research regarding the propensity for speeding among vehicle drivers. In the current study, as a first attempt, we examined the hypothesis that visual inputs during high-speed driving would activate the mesolimbic dopaminergic system that plays an important role in mediating motivational craving. To this end, we used functional magnetic resonance imaging to identify speed-related activation changes in mesolimbic dopaminergic regions during the observation of driver-view videos in two groups that differed in self-reported speeding propensity. Results revealed, as we expected, greater activation in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) in response to driver-view videos with higher speed. Contrary to our expectation, however, we found no significant between-group difference in speed-related activation changes in mesolimbic dopaminergic regions. Instead, an exploratory psychophysiological interaction analysis found that self-reported speeding propensity was associated with speed-related functional coupling between the VTA and the right intraparietal sulcus. Further validation of our hypothesis will require future studies examining associations between speed-related activation in the mesolimbic dopaminergic system and individual differences in speeding propensity, using a more reliable measure of actual speeding propensity in real traffic.
Interference induced enhancement of magneto-optical Kerr effect in ultrathin magnetic films
Authors: Sumi Satoshi , Awano Hiroyuki , Hayashi Masamitsu
Published: January 2018

We have studied the magneto-optical spectra of ultrathin magnetic films deposited on Si substrates coated with an oxide layer (SiOx). We find that the Kerr rotation angle and the ellipticity of ~1 nm thick CoFeB thin films, almost transparent to visible light, show a strong dependence on the thickness of the SiOx layer. The Kerr signal from the 1 nm CoFeB thin film can be larger than that of ~100 nm thick CoFeB films for a given SiOx thickness and light wavelength. The enhancement of the Kerr signal occurs when optical interference takes place within the SiOx layer. Interestingly, under such resonance condition, the measured Kerr signal is in some cases larger than the estimation despite the good agreement of the measured and calculated reflection amplitude. We infer the discrepancy originates from interface states that are distinct from the bulk characteristics. These results show that optical interference effect can be utilized to study the magneto-optical properties of ultrathin films.
Controlled dynamic screening of excitonic complexes in 2D semiconductors
Authors: Klots Andrey R. , Weintrub Benjamin , Prasai Dhiraj , Kidd Daniel , Varga Kalman , Velizhanin Kirill A. , Bolotin Kirill I.
Published: January 2018

We report a combined theoretical/experimental study of dynamic screening of excitons in media with frequency-dependent dielectric functions. We develop an analytical model showing that interparticle interactions in an exciton are screened in the range of frequencies from zero to the characteristic binding energy depending on the symmetries and transition energies of that exciton. The problem of the dynamic screening is then reduced to simply solving the Schrodinger equation with an effectively frequency-independent potential. Quantitative predictions of the model are experimentally verified using a test system: neutral, charged and defect-bound excitons in two-dimensional monolayer WS2, screened by metallic, liquid, and semiconducting environments. The screening-induced shifts of the excitonic peaks in photoluminescence spectra are in good agreement with our model.
Localization and function of neurosecretory protein GM, a novel small secretory protein, in the chicken hypothalamus
Authors: Shikano Kenshiro , Bessho Yuki , Kato Masaki , Iwakoshi-Ukena Eiko , Taniuchi Shusuke , Furumitsu Megumi , Tachibana Tetsuya , Bentley George E. , Kriegsfeld Lance J. , Ukena Kazuyoshi
Published: January 2018

Recently, we discovered a novel cDNA encoding the precursor of a small secretory protein, neurosecretory protein GL (NPGL), in the hypothalamic infundibulum of chickens. NPGL plays an important role in the regulation of growth and feeding. A database search indicated that the NPGL gene has a paralogous gene: neurosecretory protein GM (NPGM), also in chickens. We identified cDNA encoding the NPGM precursor in chickens. Morphological analysis showed that NPGM-containing cells are specifically localized in the medial mammillary nucleus (MM) and infundibular nucleus (IN) in the hypothalamus. In addition, we found that NPGM and NPGL are co-localized, especially in the MM. The expression levels of NPGM mRNA gradually decreased during post-hatch development, in contrast to those of NPGL mRNA. Moreover, we investigated the relationship between NPGM and other known factors. NPGM was found to be produced in histaminergic neurons in the MM. NPGM and histidine decarboxylase, a histamine-producing enzyme, displayed similar expression patterns during post-hatch development. Acute intracerebroventricular injection of NPGM decreased food intake, similar to the effect of histamine. To our knowledge, this is the first report of the localization and function of NPGM in the brain of vertebrates. These results will further advance the understanding mechanisms underlying energy homeostasis.
Transcriptome profile of NO-induced Arabidopsis transcription factor genes suggests their putative regulatory role in multiple biological processes
Authors: Imran Qari Muhammad , Hussain Adil , Lee Sang-Uk , Mun Bong-Gyu , Falak Noreen , Loake Gary J. , Yun Byung-Wook
Published: January 2018

TFs are important proteins regulating plant responses during environmental stresses. These insults typically induce changes in cellular redox tone driven in part by promoting the production of reactive nitrogen species (RNS). The main source of these RNS is nitric oxide (NO), which serves as a signalling molecule, eliciting defence and resistance responses. To understand how these signalling molecules regulate key biological processes, we performed a large scale S-nitrosocysteine (CySNO)-mediated RNA-seq analysis. The DEGs were analysed to identify potential regulatory TFs. We found a total of 673 (up- and down-regulated) TFs representing a broad range of TF families. GO-enrichment and MapMan analysis suggests that more than 98% of TFs were mapped to the Arabidopsis thaliana genome and classified into pathways like hormone signalling, protein degradation, development, biotic and abiotic stress, etc. A functional analysis of three randomly selected TFs, DDF1, RAP2.6, and AtMYB48 identified a regulatory role in plant growth and immunity. Loss-of-function mutations within DDF1 and RAP2.6 showed compromised basal defence and effector triggered immunity, suggesting their positive role in two major plant defence systems. Together, these results imply an important data representing NO-responsive TFs that will help in exploring the core mechanisms involved in biological processes in plants.
The effects of Antibody Engineering CH and CL in Trastuzumab and Pertuzumab recombinant models: Impact on antibody production and antigen-binding
Authors: Lua Wai-Heng , Ling Wei-Li , Yeo Joshua Yi , Poh Jun-Jie , Lane David Philip , Gan Samuel Ken-En
Published: January 2018

Current therapeutic antibodies such as Trastuzumab, are typically of the blood circulatory IgG1 class (Cκ/ CHγ1). Due to the binding to Her2 also present on normal cell surfaces, side effects such as cardiac failure can sometimes be associated with such targeted therapy. Using antibody isotype swapping, it may be possible to reduce systemic circulation through increased tissue localization, thereby minimising unwanted side effects. However, the effects of such modifications have yet to be fully characterized, particularly with regards to their biophysical properties in antigen binding. To do this, we produced all light and heavy chain human isotypes/subtypes recombinant versions of Trastuzumab and Pertuzumab, and studied them with respect to recombinant production and Her2 binding. Our findings show that while the light chain constant region changes have no major effects on production or Her2 binding, some heavy chain isotypes, in particularly, IgM and IgD isotypes, can modulate antigen binding. This study thus provides the groundwork for such isotype modifications to be performed in the future to yield therapeutics of higher efficacy and efficiency.
Synaptic localisation of SRF coactivators, MKL1 and MKL2, and their role in dendritic spine morphology
Authors: Kaneda Marisa , Sakagami Hiroyuki , Hida Yamato , Ohtsuka Toshihisa , Satou Natsumi , Ishibashi Yuta , Fukuchi Mamoru , Krysiak Anna , Ishikawa Mitsuru , Ihara Daisuke , Kalita Katarzyna , Tabuchi Akiko
Published: January 2018

The megakaryoblastic leukaemia (MKL) family are serum response factor (SRF) coactivators, which are highly expressed in the brain. Accordingly, MKL plays important roles in dendritic morphology, neuronal migration, and brain development. Further, nucleotide substitutions in the MKL1 and MKL2 genes are found in patients with schizophrenia and autism spectrum disorder, respectively. Thus, studies on the precise synaptic localisation and function of MKL in neurons are warranted. In this study, we generated and tested new antibodies that specifically recognise endogenously expressed MKL1 and MKL2 proteins in neurons. Using these reagents, we biochemically and immunocytochemically show that MKL1 and MKL2 are localised at synapses. Furthermore, shRNA experiments revealed that postsynaptic deletion of MKL1 or MKL2 reduced the percentage of mushroom- or stubby-type spines in cultured neurons. Taken together, our findings suggest that MKL1 and MKL2 are present at synapses and involved in dendritic spine maturation. This study may, at least in part, contribute to better understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying MKL-mediated synaptic plasticity and neurological disorders.
The relationship of dietary fish intake to diabetic retinopathy and retinal vascular caliber in patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Chua Jacqueline , Chia Ai-Ru , Chee Miao Li , Man Ryan Eyn Kidd , Tan Gavin Siew Wei , Lamoureux Ecosse L. , Wong Tien Yin , Chong Mary Foong-Fong , Schmetterer Leopold
Published: January 2018

In this cross-sectional study, we evaluated the association of dietary fish intake with varying severity of diabetic retinopathy (DR) and retinal vascular caliber in Asians with type 2 diabetes mellitus. 357 Asians (median age: 58 years; 31% women; 78% Chinese) were recruited from a tertiary eye care institution in Singapore. Fish consumption was evaluated using a validated food frequency questionnaire. Digital retinal photographs assessed for DR severity and retinal vascular caliber. Ordered logistic and linear regression models were used to investigate the association of fish intake with DR severity and vascular caliber. Increasing frequency of fish consumption was significantly associated with lower odds of having severe DR (odds ratio [OR] = 0.91, 95% CI: 0.84–0.99 per 1-unit increase of fish intake; P = 0.038). Among those with no retinopathy, persons in quartile 4 fish intake had a wider retinal vascular caliber for arteriolar (β = 22.27 µm, 95% CI: 12.64–31.90; P-trend < 0.001) and venular (β = 32.00 µm, 95% CI: 17.56–46.43; P-trend < 0.001), than those in quartile 1 fish intake. Persons with higher fish intake had a decreased likelihood of having severe DR. In diabetics without retinopathy, higher fish intake was associated with wider retinal vascular caliber. Future research is needed to reinforce the direction of the casualty.
Bioimpedimetric analysis in conjunction with growth dynamics to differentiate aggressiveness of cancer cells
Authors: Parekh Aditya , Das Debanjan , Das Subhayan , Dhara Santanu , Biswas Karabi , Mandal Mahitosh , Das Soumen
Published: January 2018

Determination of cancer aggressiveness is mainly assessed in tissues by looking at the grade of cancer. There is a lack of specific method to determine aggressiveness of cancer cells in vitro. In our present work, we have proposed a bio-impedance based non-invasive method to differentiate aggressive property of two breast cancer cell lines. Real-time impedance analysis of MCF-7 (less aggressive) and MDA-MB-231 cells (more aggressive) demonstrated unique growth pattern. Detailed slope-analysis of impedance curves at different growth phases showed that MDA-MB-231 had higher proliferation rate and intrinsic resistance to cell death, when allowed to grow in nutrient and space limiting conditions. This intrinsic nature of death resistance of MDA-MB-231 was due to modulation and elongation of filopodia, which was also observed during scanning electron microscopy. Results were also similar when validated by cell cycle analysis. Additionally, wavelet based analysis was used to demonstrate that MCF-7 had lesser micromotion based cellular activity, when compared with MDA-MB-231. Combined together, we hypothesize that analysis of growth rate, death resistance and cellular energy, through bioimpedance based analysis can be used to determine and compare aggressiveness of multiple cancer cell lines. This further opens avenues for extrapolation of present work to human tumor tissue samples.
Interfacial Coupling Effect on Electron Transport in MoS2/SrTiO3 Heterostructure: An Ab-initio Study
Authors: Bano Amreen , Gaur N. K.
Published: January 2018

A variety of theoretical and experimental works have reported several potential applications of MoS2 monolayer based heterostructures (HSs) such as light emitting diodes, photodetectors and field effect transistors etc. In the present work, we have theoretically performed as a model case study, MoS2 monolayer deposited over insulating SrTiO3 (001) to study the band alignment at TiO2 termination. The interfacial characteristics are found to be highly dependent on the interface termination. With an insulating oxide material, a significant band gap (0.85eV) is found in MoS2/TiO2 interface heterostructure (HS). A unique electronic band profile with an indirect band gap (0.67eV) is observed in MoS2 monolayer when confined in a cubic environment of SrTiO3 (STO). Adsorption analysis showed the chemisorption of MoS2 on the surface of STO substrate with TiO2 termination which is justified by the charge density calculations that shows the existence of covalent bonding at the interface. The fabrication of HS of such materials paves the path for developing the unprecedented 2D materials with exciting properties such as semiconducting devices, thermoelectric and optoelectronic applications.
Recurrence patterns after maximal surgical resection and postoperative radiotherapy in anaplastic gliomas according to the new 2016 WHO classification
Authors: Im Jung Ho , Hong Je Beom , Kim Se Hoon , Choi Junjeong , Chang Jong Hee , Cho Jaeho , Suh Chang-Ok
Published: January 2018

We assessed the appropriateness of current radiotherapy volume for WHO grade III gliomas. The records of 73 patients with WHO grade III gliomas who received postoperative radiotherapy between 2001 and 2013 were retrospectively reviewed. Based on the 2016 WHO classification, 25/73 (34.2%) patients had anaplastic oligodendroglioma (AO), IDH-mutant and 1p/19q-codeleted; 11/73 (15.1%) patients had anaplastic astrocytoma, IDH-mutant; and 37/73 (50.7%) patients had anaplastic astrocytoma, IDH-wildtype. The extent of resection (EOR) was total in 43 patients (58.9%). The median follow-up time was 84 months. The 5-year overall survival was 65.4%. Of 31 patients with documented recurrences, 20 (64.5%) had infield gross tumor volume (GTV) failure, six (19.4%) had clinical target volume (CTV)/marginal failure, and five (16.1%) had outfield failure/seeding. In 13 recurrences among 43 patients who underwent gross total resection (GTR), six (46.2%) had infield CTV/marginal failure. However, among 30 patients for whom GTR was not conducted, infield GTV failure was dominant (77.8%). Seventeen patients with AO, IDH-mutant and 1p/19q-codeleted who underwent GTR experienced no recurrence. In conclusion, maximal surgical resection and postoperative radiotherapy resulted in a favorable prognosis, especially in patients with GTR, IDH mutation, and 1p/19q codeletion. Patterns of failure differed by EOR.
The space charge limited current and huge linear magnetoresistance in silicon
Authors: Liu Y. , Wang H. , Jin X. , Zhang M.
Published: January 2018

Huge magnetoresistance in space charge regime attracts broad interest on non-equilibrium carrier transport under high electric field. However, the accurate fitting for the current-voltage curves from Ohmic to space charge regime under magnetic fields has not been achieved quantitatively. We conjecture that the localized intensive charge dynamic should be taken into consideration. Here, by introducing a field-dependent dielectric constant, for the first time, we successfully simulate the current-voltage curves of covalent crystal silicon wafers under different magnetic fields (0–1 Tesla). The simulation reveals that the optical phonon, instead of the acoustic phonon, plays a major role for the carriers transport under magnetic fields in space charge regime.
An evaluation of the effect of pulse-shape on grey and white matter stimulation in the rat brain
Authors: Deprez Marjolijn , Luyck Kelly , Luyten Laura , Tambuyzer Tim , Nuttin Bart , Mc Laughlin Myles
Published: January 2018

Despite the current success of neuromodulation, standard biphasic, rectangular pulse shapes may not be optimal to achieve symptom alleviation. Here, we compared stimulation efficiency (in terms of charge) between complex and standard pulses in two areas of the rat brain. In motor cortex, Gaussian and interphase gap stimulation (IPG) increased stimulation efficiency in terms of charge per phase compared with a standard pulse. Moreover, IPG stimulation of the deep mesencephalic reticular formation in freely moving rats was more efficient compared to a standard pulse. We therefore conclude that complex pulses are superior to standard stimulation, as less charge is required to achieve the same behavioral effects in a motor paradigm. These results have important implications for the understanding of electrical stimulation of the nervous system and open new perspectives for the design of the next generation of safe and efficient neural implants.
Evidence of a cubic iron sub-lattice in t-CuFe2O4 demonstrated by X-ray Absorption Fine Structure
Authors: Caddeo Francesco , Loche Danilo , Casula Maria F. , Corrias Anna
Published: January 2018

Copper ferrite, belonging to the wide and technologically relevant class of spinel ferrites, was grown in the form of t-CuFe2O4 nanocrystals within a porous matrix of silica in the form of either an aerogel or a xerogel, and compared to a bulk sample. Extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) spectroscopy revealed the presence of two different sub-lattices within the crystal structure of t-CuFe2O4, one tetragonal and one cubic, defined by the Cu2+ and Fe3+ ions respectively. Our investigation provides evidence that the Jahn-Teller distortion, which occurs on the Cu2+ ions located in octahedral sites, does not affect the coordination geometry of the Fe3+ ions, regardless of their location in octahedral or tetrahedral sites.
Loss of CD14 leads to disturbed epithelial-B cell crosstalk and impairment of the intestinal barrier after E. coli Nissle monoassociation
Authors: Basic Marijana , Buettner Manuela , Keubler Lydia M. , Smoczek Anna , Bruesch Inga , Buchheister Stephanie , Bleich André
Published: January 2018

The TLR4 co-receptor CD14 was identified as an IBD candidate gene. Here, its influence on the intestinal barrier was addressed utilizingE. coliNissle (EcN), which induces severe inflammation in germfree TLR4−/−mice. After monoassociation, EcN was detected in spleens and livers of TLR4−/−and CD14−/−but not wildtype mice. Barrier impairment was characterized by increased apoptosis and decreased epithelial junction (EJ) expression and was reversed by TLR2 stimulation in CD14−/−mice. Bone marrow (BM) transplantation revealed contribution of hematopoietic and non-hematopoietic cells towards intestinal homeostasis. EcN inoculated WT mice showed B cell activation, CD14−/−and TLR4−/−mice cytotoxic T cell and impaired B cell responses. The latter was characterized by absence of B cells in TLR4−/−mice, decreased levels of EcN induced immunoglobulins and downregulation of their transporter pIgR. EcN colonization of mice with genetically or antibody induced impaired B cell response resulted in dissemination of EcN and downregulation of EJ. BM chimeras indicated that CD14 originating from radiation resistant cells is sufficient to restore EJ-function. Overall, CD14/TLR4 signalling seems to be critical for intestinal barrier function and for the crosstalk between B cells and the epithelium, underlining that CD14 serves as a protective modulator of intestinal homeostasis.
Engineered nonlinear materials using gold nanoantenna array
Authors: Drachev Vladimir P. , Kildishev Alexander V. , Borneman Joshua D. , Chen Kuo-Ping , Shalaev Vladimir M. , Yamnitskiy Konstantin , Norwood Robert A. , Peyghambarian Nasser , Marder Seth R. , Padilha Lazaro A. , Webster Scott , Ensley Trenton R. , Hagan David J. , Van Stryland Eric W.
Published: January 2018

Gold dipole nanoantennas embedded in an organic molecular film provide strong local electromagnetic fields to enhance both the nonlinear refractive index (n2) and two-photon absorption (2PA) of the molecules. An enhancement of 53× for 2PA and 140× for nonlinear refraction is observed for BDPAS (4,4′-bis(diphenylamino)stilbene) at 600 nm with only 3.7% of gold volume fraction. The complex value of the third-order susceptibility enhancement results in a sign change of n2 for the effective composite material relative to the pure BDPAS film. This complex nature of the enhancement and the tunability of the nanoantenna resonance allow for engineering the effective nonlinear response of the composite film.
Widespread bone-based fluorescence in chameleons
Authors: Prötzel David , Heß Martin , Scherz Mark D. , Schwager Martina , Padje Anouk van’t , Glaw Frank
Published: January 2018

Fluorescence is widespread in marine organisms but uncommon in terrestrial tetrapods. We here show that many chameleon species have bony tubercles protruding from the skull that are visible through their scales, and fluoresce under UV light. Tubercles arising from bones of the skull displace all dermal layers other than a thin, transparent layer of epidermis, creating a ‘window’ onto the bone. In the genusCalumma, the number of these tubercles is sexually dimorphic in most species, suggesting a signalling role, and also strongly reflects species groups, indicating systematic value of these features. Co-option of the known fluorescent properties of bone has never before been shown, yet it is widespread in the chameleons of Madagascar and some African chameleon genera, particularly in those genera living in forested, humid habitats known to have a higher relative component of ambient UV light. The fluorescence emits with a maximum at around 430 nm in blue colour which contrasts well to the green and brown background reflectance of forest habitats. This discovery opens new avenues in the study of signalling among chameleons and sexual selection factors driving ornamentation.
A multi-omics study of the grapevine-downy mildew (Plasmopara viticola) pathosystem unveils a complex protein coding- and noncoding-based arms race during infection
Authors: Brilli Matteo , Asquini Elisa , Moser Mirko , Bianchedi Pier Luigi , Perazzolli Michele , Si-Ammour Azeddine
Published: January 2018

Fungicides are applied intensively to prevent downy mildew infections of grapevines (Vitis vinifera) with high impact on the environment. In order to develop alternative strategies we sequenced the genome of the oomycete pathogen Plasmopara viticola causing this disease. We show that it derives from a Phytophthora-like ancestor that switched to obligate biotrophy by losing genes involved in nitrogen metabolism and γ-Aminobutyric acid catabolism. By combining multiple omics approaches we characterized the pathosystem and identified a RxLR effector that trigger an immune response in the wild species V. riparia. This effector is an ideal marker to screen novel grape resistant varieties. Our study reveals an unprecedented bidirectional noncoding RNA-based mechanism that, in one direction might be fundamental for P. viticola to proficiently infect its host, and in the other might reduce the effects of the infection on the plant.
TiO2 Nanoribbons/Carbon Nanotubes Composite with Enhanced Photocatalytic Activity; Fabrication, Characterization, and Application
Authors: Shaban Mohamed , Ashraf Abdallah M. , Abukhadra Mostafa R.
Published: January 2018

TiO2 nanoribbons (TiO2 NRs) loaded with FeCo-Al2O3 catalyst were synthesized and used as a precursor in the synthesis of TiO2 nanoribbons/carbon nanotubes (TiO2 NRs/CNTs) composite by a chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method. TiO2 NRs and TiO2 NRs/CNTs composite were characterized by XRD, FT-IR, TEM, SEM, EDX and UV-Vis spectrophotometer. The results revealed the formation of TiO2-B and hydrogen titanate nanoribbon like structures by the hydrothermal treatment. After loading TiO2 NRs by FeCo-Al2O3 catalyst and the CVD growth of carbon nanotubes, the synthetic TiO2 nanoribbons converted entirely to TiO2-B nanoribbons with nanopits structure. The composite composed of tube-like nanostructures forming an interlocked network from CNTs and TiO2-B NRs. The composite shows a relatively red-shifted band gap (3.09 eV), broader and stronger UV absorption band relative to TiO2 NRs. The photocatalytic properties of TiO2 NRs and TiO2 NRs/CNTs composite were studied under sunlight irradiation. The photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue (MB) dye was investigated as a function of contact time, dye concentration, and catalyst dose. The kinetics and mechanisms of degradation were discussed. TiO2 NRs/CNTs composite showed higher stability after six runs and 50% shorter irradiation time than TiO2 NRs photocatalyst.
Decoding Musical Training from Dynamic Processing of Musical Features in the Brain
Authors: Saari Pasi , Burunat Iballa , Brattico Elvira , Toiviainen Petri
Published: January 2018

Pattern recognition on neural activations from naturalistic music listening has been successful at predicting neural responses of listeners from musical features, and vice versa. Inter-subject differences in the decoding accuracies have arisen partly from musical training that has widely recognized structural and functional effects on the brain. We propose and evaluate a decoding approach aimed at predicting the musicianship class of an individual listener from dynamic neural processing of musical features. Whole brain functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data was acquired from musicians and nonmusicians during listening of three musical pieces from different genres. Six musical features, representing low-level (timbre) and high-level (rhythm and tonality) aspects of music perception, were computed from the acoustic signals, and classification into musicians and nonmusicians was performed on the musical feature and parcellated fMRI time series. Cross-validated classification accuracy reached 77% with nine regions, comprising frontal and temporal cortical regions, caudate nucleus, and cingulate gyrus. The processing of high-level musical features at right superior temporal gyrus was most influenced by listeners’ musical training. The study demonstrates the feasibility to decode musicianship from how individual brains listen to music, attaining accuracy comparable to current results from automated clinical diagnosis of neurological and psychological disorders.
Optimal ranges of variables for an effective adsorption of lead(II) by the agricultural waste pomelo (Citrus grandis) peels using Doehlert designs
Authors: Yu Xiao-Lan , He Yong
Published: January 2018

The capacity of pomelo peels’ adsorption on lead(II) from aqueous solutions without modifications was investigated and confirmed. Four variables in this study, pH, temperature, time and initial concentration of lead(II), significantly affected the adsorption rate of pomelo peels. The prediction model and optimal ranges of optimized variables were given by Doehlert designs, which made the selection of variables rapid, flexible and effortless to obtain an adsorption rate reaching 99.9% and 20 mg/L for initial lead(II) concentration, 3 for pH, 50 °C for temperature and 210 min for time was a choice. The higher correlation coefficient as well as the more consistent value of experimental equilibrium adsorption capacity of the pseudo-first-order model suggested it bore a better prediction of the adsorption kinetics than the pseudo-second-order model. Langmuir model indicated the adsorption mechanism of pomelo peels was monolayer sorption with the help of both physical adsorption and chemical bonding, which were demonstrated by scanning electron microscopy and Fourier transform-infrared, respectively. The ability of pomelo peels to adsorb lead(II) from aqueous solutions was not interfered with the presence of calcium(II), magnesium(II), copper(II) and zinc(II). Pomelo peels had the potential to be utilized in the simultaneous adsorption of toxic heavy metal ions.
Exercise Protects Against Olanzapine-Induced Hyperglycemia in Male C57BL/6J Mice
Authors: Castellani Laura N. , Peppler Willem T. , Miotto Paula M. , Bush Natasha , Wright David C.
Published: January 2018

Olanzapine is a widely prescribed antipsychotic drug. While effective in reducing psychoses, treatment with olanzapine causes rapid increases in blood glucose. We wanted to determine if a single bout of exercise, immediately prior to treatment, would attenuate the olanzapine-induced rise in blood glucose and if this occurred in an IL-6 dependent manner. We found that exhaustive, but not moderate exercise, immediately prior to treatment, prevented olanzapine-induced hyperglycemia and this occurred in parallel with increases in serum IL-6. To determine if IL-6 was involved in the mechanisms through which exhaustive exercise protected against olanzapine-induced hyperglycemia several additional experiments were completed. Treatment with IL-6 (3 ng/g bw, IP) alone did not protect against olanzapine-induced increases in blood glucose. The protective effects of exhaustive exercise against olanzapine-induced increases in blood glucose were intact in whole body IL-6 knockout mice. Similarly, treating mice with an IL-6 neutralizing antibody prior to exhaustive exercise did not negate the protective effect of exercise against olanzapine-induced hyperglycemia. Our findings provide evidence that a single bout of exhaustive exercise protects against acute olanzapine-induced hyperglycemia and that IL-6 is neither sufficient, nor required for exercise to protect against increases in blood glucose with olanzapine treatment.
Actin-related proteins regulate the RSC chromatin remodeler by weakening intramolecular interactions of the Sth1 ATPase
Authors: Turegun Bengi , Baker Richard W. , Leschziner Andres E. , Dominguez Roberto
Published: January 2018

The catalytic subunits of SWI/SNF-family and INO80-family chromatin remodelers bind actin and actin-related proteins (Arps) through an N-terminal helicase/SANT-associated (HSA) domain. Between the HSA and ATPase domains lies a conserved post-HSA (pHSA) domain. The HSA domain of Sth1, the catalytic subunit of the yeast SWI/SNF-family remodeler RSC, recruits the Rtt102-Arp7/9 heterotrimer. Rtt102-Arp7/9 regulates RSC function, but the mechanism is unclear. We show that the pHSA domain interacts directly with another conserved region of the catalytic subunit, protrusion-1. Rtt102-Arp7/9 binding to the HSA domain weakens this interaction and promotes the formation of stable, monodisperse complexes with DNA and nucleosomes. A crystal structure of Rtt102-Arp7/9 shows that ATP binds to Arp7 but not Arp9. However, Arp7 does not hydrolyze ATP. Together, the results suggest that Rtt102 and ATP stabilize a conformation of Arp7/9 that potentiates binding to the HSA domain, which releases intramolecular interactions within Sth1 and controls DNA and nucleosome binding.
Label-free mesenchymal stem cell enrichment from bone marrow samples by inertial microfluidics
Authors: Lee Lap Man , Rosano Jenna M. , Wang Yi , Klarmann George J. , Garson Charles J. , Prabhakarpandian Balabhaskar , Pant Kapil , Alvarez Luis M. , Lai Eva
Published: January 2018

Isolation of pure populations of mesenchymal stem cells from bone marrow aspirate is a critical need in regenerative medicine such as orthopedic and cartilage reconstruction with important clinical and therapeutic implications.
Evaluation of RGD functionalization in hybrid hydrogels as 3D neural stem cell culture systems
Authors: Mauri Emanuele , Sacchetti Alessandro , Vicario Nunzio , Peruzzotti-Jametti Luca , Rossi Filippo , Pluchino Stefano
Published: January 2018

The use of neural stem cells (NSCs) in cell therapy has become a powerful tool used for the treatment of central nervous system diseases and the design of a three-dimensional cell culture system to improve NSCs viability is a challenge.
Effects of carotenoids on lipid bilayers
Authors: Johnson Quentin R. , Mostofian Barmak , Fuente Gomez Gabriel , Smith Jeremy C. , Cheng Xiaolin
Published: January 2018

Carotenoids have been found to be important in improving the integrity of biomembranes in eukaryotes.
Photodissociation dynamics of acetone studied by time-resolved ion imaging and photofragment excitation spectroscopy
Authors: Toulson Benjamin W. , Fishman Dmitry A. , Murray Craig
Published: January 2018

The photodissociation dynamics of acetone has been investigated using velocity-map ion imaging and photofragment excitation (PHOFEX) spectroscopy across a range of wavelengths spanning the first absorption band (236–308 nm).
Photochromism in oxalatoniobates
Authors: Shmakova Alexandra A. , Glebov Eugeniy M. , Korolev Valeri V. , Stass Dmitri V. , Benassi Enrico , Abramov Pavel A. , Sokolov Maxim N.
Published: January 2018

Tris-oxalate complexes (bpyH2)(bpyH)[NbO(C2O4)3]·2H2O, (phenH)3[NbO(C2O4)3]·3H2O, and (2-NH2-pyH)3[NbO(C2O4)3]·2H2O have been isolated and fully characterised. The bipyridinium salt demonstrates remarkable photoactivity even under irradiation by daylight. The mechanism of the photoactivity was studied by diffuse reflectance spectra, EPR and quantum-chemical calculations.
A utility for organoleads: selective alkyl and aryl group transfer to tin
Authors: Arias-Ugarte Renzo N. , Pannell Keith H.
Published: January 2018

Me4Pb and Ph4Pb readily transfer methyl or phenyl groups to an equivalent molar ratio of tin(iv) chlorides in the order SnCl4 > MeSnCl3 > Me2SnCl2 > Me3SnCl, often in a selective manner.
Could new U(ii) complexes be accessible via tuning hybrid heterocalix[4]arene? A theoretical study of redox and structural properties
Authors: Zhao Hong-Bo , Zheng Ming , Schreckenbach Georg , Pan Qing-Jiang
Published: January 2018

A relativistic DFT study unravels the possible accessibility of several intriguing divalent uranium complexes by tuning building blocks of hybrid heterocalix[4]arene, which are stabilized by δ(U–Ar) bonds and corroborated by computed UIII/II reduction potentials.
A metal-calixarene coordination nanotube with 5-(pyrimidin-5-yl)isophthalic acid
Authors: Hang Xinxin , Liu Bing , Wang Shentang , Liu Yunling , Liao Wuping
Published: January 2018

A coordination nanotube with truncated metal-calixarene octahedra exhibited a good ability to separate CH4 from C2H6 and from C3H8.
Electrode–electrolyte interfaces in lithium-based batteries
Authors: Yu Xingwen , Manthiram Arumugam
Published: January 2018

This review presents the research progress and future perspectives for understanding/manipulating the electrode–electrolyte interfaces in Li-based batteries.
Thermal and photocatalytic oxidation of organic substrates by dioxygen with water as an electron source
Authors: Fukuzumi Shunichi , Lee Yong-Min , Jung Jieun , Nam Wonwoo
Published: January 2018

This critical review discusses the thermal and photocatalytic mechanisms of the oxidation of organic substrates by transition metal catalysts and O2, which is the greenest oxidant.
Correction: Visible-light-induced regioselective sulfenylation of imidazopyridines with thiols under transition metal-free conditions
Authors: Rahaman Rajjakfur , Das Shivasish , Barman Pranjit
Published: January 2018

Correction for ‘Visible-light-induced regioselective sulfenylation of imidazopyridines with thiols under transition metal-free conditions’ by Rajjakfur Rahaman et al., Green Chem., 2018, 20, 141–147.
Determination of Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd and Pb in seawater using offline extraction and triple quadrupole ICP-MS/MS
Authors: Jackson S. L. , Spence J. , Janssen D. J. , Ross A. R. S. , Cullen J. T.
Published: January 2018

Highly resolved temporal and spatial distributions of trace elements in ocean water can provide insight into ocean processes but carry a significant analytical demand which requires methods that combine accuracy and precision with high sample throughput.
Multiple single cell screening and DNA MDA amplification chip for oncogenic mutation profiling
Authors: Li Ren , Zhou Mingxing , Yue Chunyan , Zhang Weikai , Ma Yan , Peng Hailin , Hu Zhiyuan , Wei Zewen
Published: January 2018

To determine EGFR multi-mutations, a microfluidic chip was developed to perform single cell trapping/identification/lysis andin situMDA amplification for the subsequent off-chip PCR and Sanger's sequencing.
A novel allosteric inhibitor that prevents IKKβ activation
Authors: Liu Hongbo , Liang Hao , Meng Hu , Deng Xiaobing , Zhang Xiaoling , Lai Luhua
Published: January 2018

A novel compound binding with inactive IKKβ and allosterically blocking its activation.
Fluctuating potentials in GaAs:Si nanowires: critical reduction of the influence of polytypism on the electronic structure
Authors: Ben Sedrine N. , Ribeiro-Andrade R. , Gustafsson A. , Soares M. R. , Bourgard J. , Teixeira J. P. , Salomé P. M. P. , Correia M. R. , Moreira M. V. B. , De Oliveira A. G. , González J. C. , Leitão J. P.
Published: January 2018

The electronic structure of highly Si-doped GaAs NWs is ruled by fluctuating potentials: luminescence intensity increase and polytypism influence reduction.
Specific labeling of mitochondria of Chlamydomonas with cationic helicene fluorophores
Authors: Bauer Christoph , Duwald Romain , Labrador Geraldine Maria , Pascal Simon , Moneva Lorente Pau , Bosson Johann , Lacour Jérôme , Rochaix Jean-David
Published: January 2018

Twelve cationic helicenes and one triangulene were tested for the specific labeling of mitochondria from algal cells.
Orange is the new white: rapid curing of an ethylene-glycidyl methacrylate copolymer with a Ti-bisphenolate type catalyst
Authors: Mauri Massimiliano , Svenningsson Leo , Hjertberg Thomas , Nordstierna Lars , Prieto Oscar , Müller Christian
Published: January 2018

The here established crosslinking chemistry opens up a by-product free method for rapid curing of epoxy-functionalised polyethylenes.
Fabrication of 3D heteroatom-doped porous carbons from self-assembly of chelate foamsviaa solid state method
Authors: Wang Yu , Pan Ying , Zhu Liangkui , Guo Ningning , Wang Runwei , Zhang Zongtao , Qiu Shilun
Published: January 2018

Gas blowing and coordination assembly were integrated to construct chelate foams and nitrogen-doped porous carbons with high oxygen reduction activity.
Activation of peroxymonosulfate by metal (Fe, Mn, Cu and Ni) doping ordered mesoporous Co3O4 for the degradation of enrofloxacin
Authors: Deng Jing , Ya Chen , Ge Yongjian , Cheng Yongqing , Chen Yijing , Xu Mengyuan , Wang Hongyu
Published: January 2018

Various transition metals (Fe, Mn, Cu and Ni) were doped into ordered mesoporous Co3O4 to synthesize Co3O4-composite spinels.
Highly selective non-enzymatic electrochemical sensor based on a titanium dioxide nanowire–poly(3-aminophenyl boronic acid)–gold nanoparticle ternary nanocomposite
Authors: Muthuchamy N. , Gopalan A. , Lee Kwang-Pill
Published: January 2018

A highly selective and sensitive enzymeless electrochemical glucose sensor was fabricated based on a novel ternary nanocomposite composed of titanium dioxide nanowire, poly(3-aminophenyl boronic acid) and gold nanoparticles.
Self-supporting S@GO–FWCNTs composite films as positive electrodes for high-performance lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Cui Lifeng , Xue Yanan , Noda Suguru , Chen Zhongming
Published: January 2018

We report a synthesis of a self-supporting composite cathode film, wherein aluminum foil current collector is replaced by FWCNTs and sulfur particles are uniformly wrapped by graphene oxide along with FWCNTs.
Preferential CD8 rather than CD4 T-cell response to wear particles of polyether-ether-ketone and highly cross-linked polyethylene
Authors: Du Zhe , Wang Shujun , Wang You
Published: January 2018

Enriching the understanding of the effects of the particles on the adaptive immune response.
Biological properties of calcium phosphate biomaterials for bone repair: a review
Authors: Lu Jingyi , Yu Huijun , Chen Chuanzhong
Published: January 2018

This article reviews the recent advances and various factors affecting the improvement of the biological properties of calcium phosphate for bone repair.
Crystallographic orientation control and optical properties of GaN nanowires
Authors: Wu Shaoteng , Wang Liancheng , Yi Xiaoyan , Liu Zhiqiang , Yan Jianchang , Yuan Guodong , Wei Tongbo , Wang Junxi , Li Jinmin
Published: January 2018

We employ a versatile strategy to manipulate the crystallographic orientation of GaN NWs in a VLS-HVPE process.
Interaction between functionalized graphene and sulfur compounds in a lithium–sulfur battery – a density functional theory investigation
Authors: Wasalathilake Kimal Chandula , Roknuzzaman Md , Ostrikov Kostya (Ken) , Ayoko Godwin A. , Yan Cheng
Published: January 2018

Functionalized graphene can successfully anchor sulfur compoundsviamoderate interactions, leading to improved conductivity and charge transfer in the cathode of Li–S batteries.
Gsprotein peptidomimetics as allosteric modulators of the β2-adrenergic receptor
Authors: Boyhus Lotte-Emilie , Danielsen Mia , Bengtson Nina Smidt , Ben Achim Kunze Micha , Kubiak Xavier , Sminia Tjerk J. , Løper Jacob Hartvig , Tran Phuong Thu , Lindorff-Larsen Kresten , Rasmussen Søren G. F. , Mathiesen Jesper Mosolff , Pedersen Daniel Sejer
Published: January 2018

A series of Gsprotein peptidomimetics were designed and synthesised based on the published X-ray crystal structure of the active state β2-adrenergic receptor (β2AR) in complex with the Gsprotein (PDB 3SN6).
Synthesis and characterisation of brannerite compositions (U0.9Ce0.1)1−xMxTi2O6(M = Gd3+, Ca2+) for the immobilisation of MOX residues
Authors: Bailey D. J. , Stennett M. C. , Ravel B. , Grolimund D. , Hyatt N. C.
Published: January 2018

This work presents the synthesis and characterisation of novel brannerite ceramics designed for the disposal of mixed oxide fuel residues.
Defect-concentration dependence of electrical transport mechanisms in CuO nanowires
Authors: Lin Zufang , Zhan Runze , Li Luying , Liu Huihui , Jia Shuangfeng , Chen Huanjun , Tang Shuai , She Juncong , Deng Shaozhi , Xu Ningsheng , Chen Jun
Published: January 2018

Defect concentration is pinpointed to be the main parameter that determine the transportation in CuO nanowire by statistical results.
Atypical antioxidant activity of non-phenolic amino-coumarins
Authors: Zúñiga-Núñez Daniel , Barrias Pablo , Cárdenas-Jirón Gloria , Ureta-Zañartu M. Soledad , Lopez-Alarcón Camilo , Morán Vieyra F. Eduardo , Borsarelli Claudio D. , Alarcon Emilio I. , Aspée Alexis
Published: January 2018

Relevant antioxidant properties of non-phenolic 7-dialkyl-aminocoumarins against free radicals derived from 2,2′-azobis(2-amidinopropane) dihydrochloride under aerobic conditions have been experimentally and theoretically demonstrated.
Facile construction of the aerogel/geopolymer composite with ultra-low thermal conductivity and high mechanical performance
Authors: Huang Yajun , Gong Lunlun , Pan Yuelei , Li Congcong , Zhou Ting , Cheng Xudong
Published: January 2018

In this work, we have successfully prepared a lightweight, highly hydrophobic and superb thermal insulating aerogel/geopolymer composite by a sol–gel immersion method.
Synthesis and properties of a POM-based trinuclear copper(ii) triazole framework
Authors: Xu Li , Lu Ying , Huang Liping , Li Xiaohui , Wang Shuang , Zhang Zhong , Liu Shuxia
Published: January 2018

A novel POMs-based trinuclear copper(ii) triazole framework, namely, {[H2Cu6(trz)6(μ3-OH)2]} [Mo5O18]·3H2O (1) was isolated by hydrothermal method, which displays remarkable Lewis acid catalytic activity and photocatalytic activity.