bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Silicon microcavity arrays with open access and a finesse of half a million
Authors: Wachter Georg , Kuhn Stefan , Minniberger Stefan , Salter Cameron , Asenbaum Peter , Millen James , Schneider Michael , Schalko Johannes , Schmid Ulrich , Felgner André , Hüser Dorothee , Arndt Markus , Trupke Michael
Published: April 2019

Optical resonators are essential for fundamental science, applications in sensing and metrology, particle cooling, and quantum information processing. Cavities can significantly enhance interactions between light and matter. For many applications they perform this task best if the mode confinement is tight and the photon lifetime is long. Free access to the mode center is important in the design to admit atoms, molecules, nanoparticles, or solids into the light field. Here, we demonstrate how to machine microcavity arrays of extremely high quality in pristine silicon. Etched to an almost perfect parabolic shape with a surface roughness on the level of 2 Å and coated to a finesse exceeding F = 500,000, these new devices can have lengths below 17 µm, confining the photons to 5 µm waists in a mode volume of 88λ3. Extending the cavity length to 150 µm, on the order of the radius of curvature, in a symmetric mirror configuration yields a waist smaller than 7 µm, with photon lifetimes exceeding 64 ns. Parallelized cleanroom fabrication delivers an entire microcavity array in a single process. Photolithographic precision furthermore yields alignment structures that result in mechanically robust, pre-aligned, symmetric microcavity arrays, representing a light-matter interface with unprecedented performance.
Neutrophil extracellular traps in the central nervous system hinder bacterial clearance during pneumococcal meningitis
Authors: Mohanty Tirthankar , Fisher Jane , Bakochi Anahita , Neumann Ariane , Cardoso José Francisco Pereira , Karlsson Christofer A. Q. , Pavan Chiara , Lundgaard Iben , Nilson Bo , Reinstrup Peter , Bonnevier Johan , Cederberg David , Malmström Johan , Bentzer Peter , Linder Adam
Published: April 2019

Neutrophils are crucial mediators of host defense that are recruited to the central nervous system (CNS) in large numbers during acute bacterial meningitis caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae. Neutrophils release neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) during infections to trap and kill bacteria. Intact NETs are fibrous structures composed of decondensed DNA and neutrophil-derived antimicrobial proteins. Here we show NETs in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of patients with pneumococcal meningitis, and their absence in other forms of meningitis with neutrophil influx into the CSF caused by viruses, Borrelia and subarachnoid hemorrhage. In a rat model of meningitis, a clinical strain of pneumococci induced NET formation in the CSF. Disrupting NETs using DNase I significantly reduces bacterial load, demonstrating that NETs contribute to pneumococcal meningitis pathogenesis in vivo. We conclude that NETs in the CNS reduce bacterial clearance and degrading NETs using DNase I may have significant therapeutic implications.
Multicolor multiscale brain imaging with chromatic multiphoton serial microscopy
Authors: Abdeladim Lamiae , Matho Katherine S. , Clavreul Solène , Mahou Pierre , Sintes Jean-Marc , Solinas Xavier , Arganda-Carreras Ignacio , Turney Stephen G. , Lichtman Jeff W. , Chessel Anatole , Bemelmans Alexis-Pierre , Loulier Karine , Supatto Willy , Livet Jean , Beaurepaire Emmanuel
Published: April 2019

Large-scale microscopy approaches are transforming brain imaging, but currently lack efficient multicolor contrast modalities. We introduce chromatic multiphoton serial (ChroMS) microscopy, a method integrating one‐shot multicolor multiphoton excitation through wavelength mixing and serial block-face image acquisition. This approach provides organ-scale micrometric imaging of spectrally distinct fluorescent proteins and label-free nonlinear signals with constant micrometer-scale resolution and sub-micron channel registration over the entire imaged volume. We demonstrate tridimensional (3D) multicolor imaging over several cubic millimeters as well as brain-wide serial 2D multichannel imaging. We illustrate the strengths of this method through color-based 3D analysis of astrocyte morphology and contacts in the mouse cerebral cortex, tracing of individual pyramidal neurons within densely Brainbow-labeled tissue, and multiplexed whole-brain mapping of axonal projections labeled with spectrally distinct tracers. ChroMS will be an asset for multiscale and system-level studies in neuroscience and beyond.
Age-specific differences in the dynamics of protective immunity to influenza
Authors: Ranjeva Sylvia , Subramanian Rahul , Fang Vicky J. , Leung Gabriel M. , Ip Dennis K. M. , Perera Ranawaka A. P. M. , Peiris J. S. Malik , Cowling Benjamin J. , Cobey Sarah
Published: April 2019

Influenza A viruses evolve rapidly to escape host immunity, causing reinfection. The form and duration of protection after each influenza virus infection are poorly understood. We quantify the dynamics of protective immunity by fitting individual-level mechanistic models to longitudinal serology from children and adults. We find that most protection in children but not adults correlates with antibody titers to the hemagglutinin surface protein. Protection against circulating strains wanes to half of peak levels 3.5–7 years after infection in both age groups, and wanes faster against influenza A(H3N2) than A(H1N1)pdm09. Protection against H3N2 lasts longer in adults than in children. Our results suggest that influenza antibody responses shift focus with age from the mutable hemagglutinin head to other epitopes, consistent with the theory of original antigenic sin, and might affect protection. Imprinting, or primary infection with a subtype, has modest to no effect on the risk of non-medically attended infections in adults.
Staufen2-mediated RNA recognition and localization requires combinatorial action of multiple domains
Authors: Heber Simone , Gáspár Imre , Tants Jan-Niklas , Günther Johannes , Moya Sandra M. Fernandez , Janowski Robert , Ephrussi Anne , Sattler Michael , Niessing Dierk
Published: April 2019

Throughout metazoans, Staufen (Stau) proteins are core factors of mRNA localization particles. They consist of three to four double-stranded RNA binding domains (dsRBDs) and a C-terminal dsRBD-like domain. Mouse Staufen2 (mStau2)-like Drosophila Stau (dmStau) contains four dsRBDs. Existing data suggest that only dsRBDs 3–4 are necessary and sufficient for mRNA binding. Here, we show that dsRBDs 1 and 2 of mStau2 bind RNA with similar affinities and kinetics as dsRBDs 3 and 4. While RNA binding by these tandem domains is transient, all four dsRBDs recognize their target RNAs with high stability. Rescue experiments in Drosophila oocytes demonstrate that mStau2 partially rescues dmStau-dependent mRNA localization. In contrast, a rescue with mStau2 bearing RNA-binding mutations in dsRBD1–2 fails, confirming the physiological relevance of our findings. In summary, our data show that the dsRBDs 1–2 play essential roles in the mRNA recognition and function of Stau-family proteins of different species.
Origin of band gaps in 3d perovskite oxides
Authors: Varignon Julien , Bibes Manuel , Zunger Alex
Published: April 2019

With their broad range of properties, ABO3 transition metal perovskite oxides have long served as a platform for device applications and as a testing bed for different condensed matter theories. Their insulating character and structural distortions are often ascribed to dynamical electronic correlations within a universal, symmetry-conserving paradigm. This view restricts predictive theory to complex computational schemes, going beyond density functional theory (DFT). Here, we show that, if one allows symmetry-breaking energy-lowering crystal symmetry reductions and electronic instabilities within DFT, one successfully and systematically recovers the trends in the observed band gaps, magnetic moments, type of magnetic and crystallographic ground state, bond disproportionation and ligand hole effects, Mott vs. charge transfer insulator behaviors, and the amplitude of structural deformation modes including Jahn-Teller in low temperature spin-ordered and high temperature disordered paramagnetic phases. We then provide a classification of the four mechanisms of gap formation and establish DFT as a reliable base platform to study the ground state properties in complex oxides.
Author Correction: Essential oils sensory quality and their bioactivity against the mosquito Aedes albopictus
Authors: Bedini S. , Flamini G. , Ascrizzi R. , Venturi F. , Ferroni G. , Bader A. , Girardi J. , Conti B.
Published: April 2019

A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML and PDF versions of this paper. The error has not been fixed in the paper.
Author Correction: Quantifying uncertainties of sandy shoreline change projections as sea level rises
Authors: Le Cozannet Gonéri , Bulteau Thomas , Castelle Bruno , Ranasinghe Roshanka , Wöppelmann Guy , Rohmer Jeremy , Bernon Nicolas , Idier Déborah , Louisor Jessie , Salas-y-Mélia David
Published: April 2019

A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML and PDF versions of this paper. The error has not been fixed in the paper.
Publisher Correction: Maximizing Electrokinetic Energy Conversion via the Intersecting Asymptotes Method
Authors: Mansouri Abraham , Kostiuk Larry
Published: April 2019

A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML and PDF versions of this paper. The error has not been fixed in the paper.
High quality reference genomes for toxigenic and non-toxigenic Vibrio cholerae serogroup O139
Authors: Dorman Matthew J. , Domman Daryl , Uddin Muhammad Ikhtear , Sharmin Salma , Afrad Mokibul Hassan , Begum Yasmin Ara , Qadri Firdausi , Thomson Nicholas R.
Published: April 2019

Toxigenic Vibrio cholerae of the O139 serogroup have been responsible for several large cholera epidemics in South Asia, and continue to be of clinical and historical significance today. This serogroup was initially feared to represent a new, emerging V. cholerae clone that would lead to an eighth cholera pandemic. However, these concerns were ultimately unfounded. The majority of clinically relevant V. cholerae O139 isolates are closely related to serogroup O1, biotype El Tor V. cholerae, and comprise a single sublineage of the seventh pandemic El Tor lineage. Although related, these V. cholerae serogroups differ in several fundamental ways, in terms of their O-antigen, capsulation phenotype, and the genomic islands found on their chromosomes. Here, we present four complete, high-quality genomes for V. cholerae O139, obtained using long-read sequencing. Three of these sequences are from toxigenic V. cholerae, and one is from a bacterium which, although classified serologically as V. cholerae O139, lacks the CTXφ bacteriophage and the ability to produce cholera toxin. We highlight fundamental genomic differences between these isolates, the V. cholerae O1 reference strain N16961, and the prototypical O139 strain MO10. These sequences are an important resource for the scientific community, and will improve greatly our ability to perform genomic analyses of non-O1 V. cholerae in the future. These genomes also offer new insights into the biology of a V. cholerae serogroup that, from a genomic perspective, is poorly understood.
Myocardin ablation in a cardiac-renal rat model
Authors: Mittal Anupam , Rana Santanu , Sharma Rajni , Kumar Akhilesh , Prasad Rishikesh , Raut Satish K. , Sarkar Sagartirtha , Saikia Uma Nahar , Bahl Ajay , Dhandapany Perundurai S. , Khullar Madhu
Published: April 2019

Cardiorenal syndrome is defined by primary heart failure conditions influencing or leading to renal injury or dysfunction. Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a major co-existing form of heart failure (HF) with renal diseases. Myocardin (MYOCD), a cardiac-specific co-activator of serum response factor (SRF), is increased in DCM porcine and patient cardiac tissues and plays a crucial role in the pathophysiology of DCM. Inhibiting the increased MYOCD has shown to be partially rescuing the DCM phenotype in porcine model. However, expression levels of MYOCD in the cardiac tissues of the cardiorenal syndromic patients and the effect of inhibiting MYOCD in a cardiorenal syndrome model remains to be explored. Here, we analyzed the expression levels of MYOCD in the DCM patients with and without renal diseases. We also explored, whether cardiac specific silencing of MYOCD expression could ameliorate the cardiac remodeling and improve cardiac function in a renal artery ligated rat model (RAL). We observed an increase in MYOCD levels in the endomyocardial biopsies of DCM patients associated with renal failure compared to DCM alone. Silencing of MYOCD in RAL rats by a cardiac homing peptide conjugated MYOCD siRNA resulted in attenuation of cardiac hypertrophy, fibrosis and restoration of the left ventricular functions. Our data suggest hyper-activation of MYOCD in the pathogenesis of the cardiorenal failure cases. Also, MYOCD silencing showed beneficial effects by rescuing cardiac hypertrophy, fibrosis, size and function in a cardiorenal rat model.
Extracellular Vesicles from Apoptotic Cells Promote TGFβ Production in Macrophages and Suppress Experimental Colitis
Authors: Chen Hua , Kasagi Shimpei , Chia Cheryl , Zhang Dunfang , Tu Eric , Wu Ruiqing , Zanvit Peter , Goldberg Nathan , Jin Wenwen , Chen WanJun
Published: April 2019

The clearance of apoptotic cells is an essential process to maintain homeostasis of immune system, which is regulated by immunoregulatory cytokines such as TGFβ. We show here that Extracellular Vesicles (EVs) were highly released from apoptotic cells, and contributed to macrophage production of TGFβ in vitro and in vivo. We further elucidated mechanistically that phosphatidylserine in EVs was a key triggering-factor, and transcription factor FOXO3 was a critical mediator for apoptotic EV-induced TGFβ in macrophages. Importantly, we found that macrophages pre-exposed to EVs exhibited an anti-inflammatory phenotype. More strikingly, administration of EVs in vivo promotes Tregs differentiation and suppresses Th1 cell response, and ameliorates experimental colitis. Thus, apoptotic-EV-based treatment might be a promising therapeutic approach for human autoimmune disease.
Dex-CSDH randomised, placebo-controlled trial of dexamethasone for chronic subdural haematoma: report of the internal pilot phase
Authors: Edlmann Ellie , Thelin Eric P. , Caldwell Karen , Turner Carole , Whitfield Peter , Bulters Diederik , Holton Patrick , Suttner Nigel , Owusu-Agyemang Kevin , Al-Tamimi Yahia Z. , Gatt Daniel , Thomson Simon , Anderson Ian A. , Richards Oliver , Gherle Monica , Toman Emma , Nandi Dipankar , Kane Phillip , Pantaleo Beatrice , Davis-Wilkie Carol , Tarantino Silvia , Barton Garry , Marcus Hani J. , Chari Aswin , Belli Antonio , Bond Simon , Gafoor Rafael , Dawson Sarah , Whitehead Lynne , Brennan Paul , Wilkinson Ian , Kolias Angelos G , Hutchinson Peter J. A. ,   Dex-CSDH trial collaborative and BNTRC collaborative., Badran Khaled , Coulter Ian , Gallagher Mathew J. , Hogg Florence R. A. , Pringle Catherine , Razak Adam , Soleiman Hamzah , Piper Rory , Vintu Marian , Wahba Adam , Wiggins Anthony , Yakoub Kamal Makram , Zaben Malik , Zolnourian Ardalan , Bodkin Peter , Cirstea Emanuel , Critchley Giles , Eglinton Charlotte , Finlay Louise , Georgieva Daniela , Gurusinghe Nihal , Haliasos Nikolaos , Holliman Damian , Hossain-Ibrahim Kismet , Hussain Masood , Kandasamy Jothy , Kambafwile Mary , Nannapaneni Ravindra , Ortiz-Ruiz de Gordoa Laura , Papadopoulos Marios C , Paraskevopoulos Dimitris , Patel Jash , Manjunath Prasad Kuskoor Seetharam , Tzerakis Nikolaos
Published: April 2019

The Dex-CSDH trial is a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of dexamethasone for patients with a symptomatic chronic subdural haematoma. The trial commenced with an internal pilot, whose primary objective was to assess the feasibility of multi-centre recruitment. Primary outcome data collection and safety were also assessed, whilst maintaining blinding. We aimed to recruit 100 patients from United Kingdom Neurosurgical Units within 12 months. Trial participants were randomised to a 2-week course of dexamethasone or placebo in addition to receiving standard care (which could include surgery). The primary outcome measure of the trial is the modified Rankin Scale at 6 months. This pilot recruited ahead of target; 100 patients were recruited within nine months of commencement. 47% of screened patients consented to recruitment. The primary outcome measure was collected in 98% of patients. No safety concerns were raised by the independent data monitoring and ethics committee and only five patients were withdrawn from drug treatment. Pilot trial data can inform on the design and resource provision for substantive trials. This internal pilot was successful in determining recruitment feasibility. Excellent follow-up rates were achieved and exploratory outcome measures were added to increase the scientific value of the trial.
Impact of Nanoparticle Uptake on the Biophysical Properties of Cell for Biomedical Engineering Applications
Authors: Rasel Md Alim Iftekhar , Singh Sanjleena , Nguyen Trung Dung , Afara Isaac O. , Gu Yuantong
Published: April 2019

Nanomaterials are currently the state-of-the-art in the development of advanced biomedical devices and applications where classical approaches have failed. To date, majority of the literature on nanomaterial interaction with cells have largely focused on the biological responses of cells obtained via assays, with little interest on their biophysical responses. However, recent studies have shown that the biophysical responses of cells, such as stiffness and adhesive properties, play a significant role in their physiological function. In this paper, we investigate cell biophysical responses after uptake of nanoparticles. Atomic force microscopy was used to study changes in cell stiffness and adhesion upon boron nitride (BN) and hydroxyapatite (HAP) nanoparticle uptake. Results show increase in cell stiffness with varying nanoparticle (BN and HAP) concentration, while a decrease in cell adhesion trigger by uptake of HAP. In addition, changes in the biochemical response of the cell membrane were observed via Raman spectroscopy of nanoparticle treated cells. These findings have significant implications in biomedical applications of nanoparticles, e.g. in drug delivery, advanced prosthesis and surgical implants.
Genome sequence analysis of the fairy ring-forming fungus Lepista sordida and gene candidates for interaction with plants
Authors: Takano Tomoyuki , Yamamoto Naoki , Suzuki Tomohiro , Dohra Hideo , Choi Jae-Hoon , Terashima Yurika , Yokoyama Koji , Kawagishi Hirokazu , Yano Kentaro
Published: April 2019

Circular patterns called “fairy rings” in fields are a natural phenomenon that arises through the interaction between basidiomycete fungi and plants. Acceleration or inhibition of plant vegetative growth and the formation of mushroom fruiting bodies are both commonly observed when fairy rings form. The gene of an enzyme involved in the biosynthesis of these regulators was recently isolated in the fairy ring-forming fungus, Lepista sordida. To identify other genes involved in L. sordida fairy ring formation, we used previously generated sequence data to produce a more complete draft genome sequence for this species. Finally, we predicted the metabolic pathways of the plant growth regulators and 29 candidate enzyme-coding genes involved in fairy-ring formation based on gene annotations. Comparisons of protein coding genes among basidiomycete fungi revealed two nitric oxide synthase gene candidates that were uniquely encoded in genomes of fairy ring-forming fungi. These results provide a basis for the discovery of genes involved in fairy ring formation and for understanding the mechanisms involved in the interaction between fungi and plants. We also constructed a new web database F-RINGS (http://bioinf.mind.meiji.ac.jp/f-rings/) to provide the comprehensive genomic information for L. sordida.
Long noncoding RNAs in vascular smooth muscle cells regulate vascular calcification
Authors: Jeong Geon , Kwon Duk-Hwa , Shin Sera , Choe Nakwon , Ryu Juhee , Lim Yeong-Hwan , Kim Jaetaek , Park Woo Jin , Kook Hyun , Kim Young-Kook
Published: April 2019

Vascular calcification is characterized by the accumulation of hydroxyapatite crystals, which is a result of aberrant mineral metabolism. Although many clinical studies have reported its adverse effects on cardiovascular morbidity, the molecular mechanism of vascular calcification, especially the involvement of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), is not yet reported. From the transcriptomic analysis, we discovered hundreds of lncRNAs differentially expressed in rat vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) treated with inorganic phosphate, which mimics vascular calcification. We focused on Lrrc75a-as1 and elucidated its transcript structure and confirmed its cytoplasmic localization. Our results showed that calcium deposition was elevated after knockdown of Lrrc75a-as1, while its overexpression inhibited calcium accumulation in A10 cells. In addition, Lrrc75a-as1 attenuated VSMCs calcification by decreasing the expression of osteoblast-related factors. These findings suggest that Lrrc75a-as1 acts as a negative regulator of vascular calcification, and may serve as a possible therapeutic target in vascular calcification.
Engineering of Shallow Layers of Nitrogen Vacancy Colour Centres in Diamond Using Plasma Immersion Ion Implantation
Authors: Alghannam Fahad , Hemmer Philip
Published: April 2019

Sensing nano-scale magnetic field sources is at the heart of many applications in nano-science and biology. Given its very small size and high magnetic sensitivity, the nitrogen vacancy (NV) colour centre in diamond is one of the leading candidates for such applications. However, issues regarding the stability and performance of the NV centre near the diamond’s surface are the major obstacle in the practical realization of theses sensors. So far, conventional implantation and growth techniques did not produce practical and/or repeatable solutions to this problem. In this report, we show first results of shallow layers of NVs created using plasma immersion ion implantation (PIII). We show, using Forster Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET), that most NVs are within 3.6 nm from the diamond’s surface. Despite the relatively low quality of the diamond substrates used and the simplicity of our PIII system, we have an estimated magnetic sensitivity of around 2.29 μT/$$\sqrt{Hz\cdot \mu {m}^{-2}}$$

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The loss of succinate dehydrogenase B expression is frequently identified in hemangioblastoma of the central nervous system
Authors: Roh Tae Hoon , Yim Hyunee , Roh Jin , Lee Kyi Beom , Park So Hyun , Jeong Seon-Yong , Kim Se-Hyuk , Kim Jang-Hee
Published: April 2019

Succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) is a mitochondrial enzyme that plays an important role in both the Krebs cycle and the electron transport chain. SDH inactivation is associated with tumorigenesis in certain types of tumor. SDH consists of subunits A, B, C and D (SDHA, SDHB, SDHC, and SDHD, respectively). Immunohistochemistry for SDHB is a reliable method for detecting the inactivation of SDH by mutations in SDHA, SDHB, SDHC, SDHD and SDH complex assembly factor 2 (SDHAF2) genes with high sensitivity and specificity. SDHB immunohistochemistry has been used to examine the inactivation of SDH in various types of tumors. However, data on central nervous system (CNS) tumors are very limited. In the present study, we investigated the loss of SDHB immunoexpression in 90 cases of CNS tumors. Among the 90 cases of CNS tumors, only three cases of hemangioblastoma showed loss of SDHB immunoexpression. We further investigated SDHB immunoexpression in 35 cases of hemangioblastoma and found that 28 (80%) showed either negative or weak-diffuse pattern of SDHB immunoexpression, which suggests the inactivation of SDH. Our results suggest that SDH inactivation may represent an alternative pathway in the tumorigenesis of hemangioblastoma.
Aspergillus fumigatus phosphoethanolamine transferase gene gpi7 is required for proper transportation of the cell wall GPI-anchored proteins and polarized growth
Authors: Ouyang Haomiao , Du Ting , Zhou Hui , Wilson Iain B. H. , Yang Jinghua , Latgé Jean-Paul , Jin Cheng
Published: April 2019

In fungi many proteins, which play important roles in maintaining the function of the cell wall and participating in pathogenic processes, are anchored to the cell surface by a glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) anchor. It has been known that modification and removal of phosphoethanolamine (EtN-P) on the second mannose residue in GPI anchors is important for maturation and sorting of GPI anchored proteins in yeast and mammalian cells, but is a step absent from some protist parasites. In Aspergillus fumigatus, an opportunistic fungal pathogen causing invasive aspergillosis in humans, GPI-anchored proteins are known to be involved in cell wall synthesis and virulence. In this report the gene encoding A. fumigatus EtN-P transferase GPI7 was investigated. By deletion of the gpi7 gene, we evaluated the effects of EtN-P modification on the morphogenesis of A. fumigatus and localization of GPI proteins. Our results showed that deletion of the gpi7 gene led to reduced cell membrane GPI anchored proteins, the mis-localization of the cell wall GPI anchored protein Mp1, abnormal polarity, and autophagy in A. fumigatus. Our results suggest that addition of EtN-P of the second mannose on the GPI anchor is essential for transportation and localization of the cell wall GPI-anchored proteins.
Field and Current Controlled Domain Wall Propagation in Twisted Glass-Coated Magnetic Microwires
Authors: Corodeanu S. , Chiriac H. , Damian A. , Lupu N. , Óvári T.-A.
Published: April 2019

The torsion effect on the field and current driven magnetization reversal and the associated domain wall velocity in cylindrical amorphous and nanocrystalline glass-coated microwires is reported. Samples from three representative compositions have been investigated: (1) amorphous Fe77.5Si7.5B15 with positive magnetostriction, λ ≅ 25 × 10−6, (2) amorphous Co68.18Fe4.32Si12.5B15 with nearly zero negative magnetostriction, λ ≅ −1 × 10−7, and (3) nanocrystalline Fe73.5Si13.5B9Cu1Nb3 (FINEMET) with small positive magnetostriction, λ ≅ 2.1 × 10−6, all having the diameter of the metallic nucleus, d, of 20 µm and the glass coating thickness, tg, of 11 µm. The results are explained through a phenomenological interpretation of the effects of applied torque on the anisotropy axes within the microwires with different characteristics. Among all the complex mechanical deformations caused by the application of torque on magnetic microwire samples, the most important are the axial compression – for axial field-driven domain wall motion, and the circumferential tension – for electrical current/circumferential field-driven domain wall motion. The Co68.18Fe4.32Si12.5B15 microwire, annealed at 300 °C for 1 hour and twisted at 168 Rad/m exhibits the optimum characteristics, e.g. the lowest switching current (down to 9 mA~2.9 × 10−3 A/cm2) and the largest domain wall velocity (up to 2300 m/s).
Metformin prevention of doxorubicin resistance in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 involves oxidative stress generation and modulation of cell adaptation genes
Authors: Marinello Poliana Camila , Panis Carolina , Silva Thamara Nishida Xavier , Binato Renata , Abdelhay Eliana , Rodrigues Juliana Alves , Mencalha André Luiz , Lopes Natália Medeiros Dias , Luiz Rodrigo Cabral , Cecchini Rubens , Cecchini Alessandra Lourenço
Published: April 2019

Metformin was shown to sensitize multidrug resistant breast cancer cells; however, the mechanisms involved in this capacity need to be clarified. We investigated oxidative stress and inflammatory-related pathways during the induction of doxorubicin resistance in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 human breast cancer cells (DOX-res group), and evaluated metformin-induced cellular responses that resulted in the prevention of doxorubicin resistance (Met-DOX group). Microarray analysis demonstrated that DOX-res changed the expression of genes involved in oxidative stress (OS) and the TGF- β1 pathway. The DOX-res group presented increased thiols and reduced lipoperoxidation, increased levels of nitric oxide, nuclear NF-kB and Nrf2, and reduced nuclear p53 labelling. Analysis of the TGF-β1 signaling pathway by RT-PCR array showed that DOX-res developed adaptive responses, such as resistance against apoptosis and OS. Metformin treatment modified gene expression related to OS and the IFN-α signaling pathway. The Met-DOX group was more sensitive to DOX-induced OS, presented lower levels of nitric oxide, nuclear NF-kB and Nrf2, and increased nuclear p53. Analysis of the IFN-α signaling pathway showed that Met-DOX presented more sensitivity to apoptosis and OS. Our findings indicate that metformin is a promising tool in the prevention of chemoresistance in patients with breast cancer submitted to doxorubicin-based treatments.
An Invertible Mathematical Model of Cortical Bone’s Adaptation to Mechanical Loading
Authors: Prasad Jitendra , Goyal Ajay
Published: April 2019

Determination of mechanical loading regimen that would induce a prescribed new bone formation rate and its site-specific distribution, may be desirable to treat some orthopaedic conditions such as bone loss due to muscle disuse, e.g. because of space flight, bed-rest, osteopenia etc. Site-specific new bone formation has been determined earlier experimentally and numerically for a given loading regimen; however these models are mostly non-invertible, which means that they cannot be easily inverted to predict loading parameters for a desired new bone formation. The present work proposes an invertible model of bone remodeling, which can predict loading parameters such as peak strain, or magnitude and direction of periodic forces for a desired or prescribed site-specific mineral apposition rate (MAR), and vice versa. This fast, mathematical model has a potential to be developed into an important aid for orthopaedic surgeons for prescribing exercise or exogenous loading of bone to treat bone-loss due to muscle disuse.
Satellitome landscape analysis of Megaleporinus macrocephalus (Teleostei, Anostomidae) reveals intense accumulation of satellite sequences on the heteromorphic sex chromosome
Authors: Utsunomia Ricardo , Silva Duílio Mazzoni Zerbinato de Andrade , Ruiz-Ruano Francisco J. , Goes Caio Augusto Gomes , Melo Silvana , Ramos Lucas Peres , Oliveira Claudio , Porto-Foresti Fábio , Foresti Fausto , Hashimoto Diogo Teruo
Published: April 2019

The accumulation of repetitive DNA sequences on the sex-limited W or Y chromosomes is a well-known process that is likely triggered by the suppression of recombination between the sex chromosomes, which leads to major differences in their sizes and genetic content. Here, we report an analysis conducted on the satellitome ofMegaleporinus macrocephalusthat focuses specifically on the satDNAs that have been shown to have higher abundances in females and are putatively located on the W chromosome in this species. We characterized 164 satellite families inM.macrocephalus, which is, by far, the most satellite-rich species discovered to date. Subsequently, we mapped 30 satellites, 22 of which were located on the W chromosome, and 14 were shown to exist only on the W chromosome. Finally, we report two simple, quick and reliable methods that can be used for sex identification inM.macrocephalusindividuals using fin clips or scales, which could be applicable to future studies conducted in the field of aquaculture.
Multi-layer adaptation of group coordination in musical ensembles
Authors: Hilt Pauline M. , Badino Leonardo , D’Ausilio Alessandro , Volpe Gualtiero , Tokay Serâ , Fadiga Luciano , Camurri Antonio
Published: April 2019

Group coordination passes through an efficient integration of multimodal sources of information. This study examines complex non-verbal communication by recording movement kinematics from conductors and two sections of violinists of an orchestra adapting to a perturbation affecting their normal pattern of sensorimotor communication (rotation of half a turn of the first violinists’ section). We show that different coordination signals are channeled through ancillary (head kinematics) and instrumental movements (bow kinematics). Each one of them affect coordination either at the inter-group or intra-group levels, therefore tapping into different modes of cooperation: complementary versus imitative coordination. Our study suggests that the co-regulation of group behavior is based on the exchange of information across several layers, each one of them tuned to carry specific coordinative signals. Multi-layer sensorimotor communication may be the key musicians and, more generally humans, use to flexibly communicate between each other in interactive sensorimotor tasks.
Growth kinetics of Chlamydia trachomatis in primary human Sertoli cells
Authors: Filardo Simone , Skilton Rachel J. , O’Neill Colette E. , Di Pietro Marisa , Sessa Rosa , Clarke Ian N.
Published: April 2019

Chlamydia trachomatis (Ct) is the leading cause of bacterial sexually transmitted infections worldwide and has been associated with male infertility. Recently, it was hypothesized that Ct may infect the epithelium of the seminiferous tubule, formed by Sertoli cells, thus leading to impaired spermatogenesis. To date, there is a lack of data on Ct infection of the seminiferous epithelium; therefore, we aimed to characterize, for the first time, an in vitro infection model of primary human Sertoli cells. We compared Ct inclusion size, morphology and growth kinetics with those in McCoy cells and we studied F-actin fibres, Vimentin-based intermediate filaments and α-tubulin microtubules in Sertoli and McCoy cells. Our main finding highlighted the ability of Ct to infect Sertoli cells, although with a unique growth profile and the inability to exit host cells. Furthermore, we observed alterations in the cytoskeletal fibres of infected Sertoli cells. Our results suggest that Ct struggles to generate a productive infection in Sertoli cells, limiting its dissemination in the host. Nevertheless, the adverse effect on the cytoskeleton supports the notion that Ct may compromise the blood-testis barrier, impairing spermatogenesis.
Effects of exogenous melatonin on clinical and pathological features of a human thyroglobulin-induced experimental autoimmune thyroiditis mouse model
Authors: Lin Jiunn-Diann , Fang Wen-Fang , Tang Kam-Tsun , Cheng Chao-Wen
Published: April 2019

Melatonin (MLT) plays a significant role in both innate and adaptive immunity, and dysregulation of the MLT signature can modify autoimmune disease phenotypes. In this study, the influence of exogenous MLT administration on regulating autoimmune thyroiditis animal models was evaluated. An experimental autoimmune thyroiditis model was established in MLT-synthesizing (CBA) and MLT-deficient (C57BL/6) mice by immunization with human thyroidglobulin (TG), which features thyrotoxicosis, thyrocyte damage, and CD3+T cell infiltration. In TG-immunized CBA mice, exogenous MLT administration in drinking water (6 μg/ml) enhanced thyroiditis and increased TG-specific splenocyte proliferation but not the anti-thyroglobulin antibody (ATA) titer, while MLT alone caused no significant alteration in thyroid function or histopathology. Meanwhile, MLT administration did not modify thyroid function, the ATA titer, or the thyroid histopathology, but results showed an increase in the splenocyte proliferative capacity in TG-immunized C57BL/6 mice. Collectively, our data showed that early exogenous MLT modified the progression of autoimmune thyroiditis through T cell-driven immunity, and excess MLT worsened the clinical and pathological features.
Deep learning in estimating prevalence and systemic risk factors for diabetic retinopathy: a multi-ethnic study
Authors: Ting Daniel S. W. , Cheung Carol Y. , Nguyen Quang , Sabanayagam Charumathi , Lim Gilbert , Lim Zhan Wei , Tan Gavin S. W. , Soh Yu Qiang , Schmetterer Leopold , Wang Ya Xing , Jonas Jost B. , Varma Rohit , Lee Mong Li , Hsu Wynne , Lamoureux Ecosse , Cheng Ching-Yu , Wong Tien Yin
Published: April 2019

In any community, the key to understanding the burden of a specific condition is to conduct an epidemiological study. The deep learning system (DLS) recently showed promising diagnostic performance for diabetic retinopathy (DR). This study aims to use DLS as the grading tool, instead of human assessors, to determine the prevalence and the systemic cardiovascular risk factors for DR on fundus photographs, in patients with diabetes. This is a multi-ethnic (5 races), multi-site (8 datasets from Singapore, USA, Hong Kong, China and Australia), cross-sectional study involving 18,912 patients (n = 93,293 images). We compared these results and the time taken for DR assessment by DLS versus 17 human assessors – 10 retinal specialists/ophthalmologists and 7 professional graders). The estimation of DR prevalence between DLS and human assessors is comparable for any DR, referable DR and vision–threatening DR (VTDR) (Human assessors: 15.9, 6.5% and 4.1%; DLS: 16.1%, 6.4%, 3.7%). Both assessment methods identified similar risk factors (with comparable AUCs), including younger age, longer diabetes duration, increased HbA1c and systolic blood pressure, for any DR, referable DR and VTDR (p > 0.05). The total time taken for DLS to evaluate DR from 93,293 fundus photographs was ~1 month compared to 2 years for human assessors. In conclusion, the prevalence and systemic risk factors for DR in multi-ethnic population could be determined accurately using a DLS, in significantly less time than human assessors. This study highlights the potential use of AI for future epidemiology or clinical trials for DR grading in the global communities.
Flexible plasmonic graphene oxide/heterostructures for dual-channel detection
Authors: Prakash Varnika , Rodriguez Raul D. , Al-Hamry Ammar , Lipovka Anna , Dorozhko Elena , Selyshchev Oleksandr , Ma Bing , Sharma Shweta , Mehta Surinder K. , Dzhagan Volodymyr , Mukherjee Ashutosh , Zahn Dietrich R. T. , Kanoun Olfa , Sheremet Evgeniya
Published: April 2019

Schematic representation of the flexible plasmonic graphene oxide (GO)/heterostructure-based device with dual functionality for electrochemical and SERS detection.
Fiber-optic evanescent wave spectroscopy (FEWS) of crystals from a urine sample as a tool for evaluating the chemical composition of kidney stones
Authors: Minnes Refael , Brider Tamara , Goryachev Andrey , Grushchenko Anna , Tor Ruth , Nevo Amichai , Lifshitz David , Katzir Abraham , Raichlin Yosef
Published: April 2019

One in every 20 people develops kidney stones at some point in their life.
Workflow for fast lipid tissue screening using LESA-FT-ICR-MS
Authors: Haler Jean R. N. , Sisley Emma K. , Cintron-Diaz Yarixa L. , Meitei Sanjib N. , Cooper Helen J. , Fernandez-Lima Francisco
Published: April 2019

Lipid screening of biological substrates is an important step during biomarker detection and identification.
Mechanistic study of the reaction of CH2F2 with Cl atoms in the absence and presence of CH4 or C2H6: decomposition of CHF2OH and fate of the CHF2O radical
Authors: Østerstrøm Freja F. , Andersen Christina , da Silva Gabriel
Published: April 2019

First experimental and theoretical study determining the atmospheric fates of CHF2OH and CHF2O; products from degradation of a chlorofluorocarbon replacement.
Development & characterization of fluorescently tagged nanocellulose for nanotoxicological studies
Authors: Salari Maryam , Bitounis Dimitrios , Bhattacharya Kunal , Pyrgiotakis Georgios , Zhang Zhenyuan , Purington Emilia , Gramlich William , Grondin Yohann , Rogers Rick , Bousfield Douglas , Demokritou Philip
Published: April 2019

Cellulose-based nano-fibrils and nano-crystals tagged with a fluorescent probe can be used to study their interactions with biological and environmental systems.
Zinc intoxication induces ferroptosis in A549 human lung cells
Authors: Palmer Lauren D , Jordan Ashley T , Maloney K Nichole , Farrow Melissa A , Gutierrez Danielle B , Gant-Branum Randi , Burns William J , Romer Carrie E , Tsui Tina , Allen Jamie L , Beavers William N , Nei Yuan-Wei , Sherrod Stacy D , Lacy D Borden , Norris Jeremy L , McLean John A , Caprioli Richard M , Skaar Eric P
Published: April 2019

Zinc (Zn) is an essential trace metal required for all forms of life, but is toxic at high concentrations. While the toxic effects of high levels of Zn are well documented, the mechanism of cell death appears to vary based on the study and concentration of Zn. Zn has been proposed as an anti-cancer treatment against non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The goal of this analysis was to determine the effects of Zn on metabolism and cell death in A549 cells. Here, high throughput multi-omics analysis identified the molecular effects of Zn intoxication on the proteome, metabolome, and transcriptome of A549 human NSCLC cells after 5 min to 24 h of Zn exposure. Multi-omics analysis combined with additional experimental evidence suggests Zn intoxication induces ferroptosis, an iron and lipid peroxidation-dependent programmed cell death, demonstrating the utility of multi-omics analysis to identify cellular response to intoxicants.
Electrospun sandwich polysulfonamide/polyacrylonitrile/polysulfonamide composite nanofibrous membranes for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Tian Xu , Xin Binjie , Lu Zan , Gao Weihong , Zhang Fuli
Published: April 2019

The demands for novel approaches that ensure stability in lithium-ion batteries are increasing and have led to the development of new materials and fabrication strategies.
A novel pH-responsive hollow mesoporous silica nanoparticle (HMSN) system encapsulating doxorubicin (DOX) and glucose oxidase (GOX) for potential cancer treatment
Authors: Cheng Kaiwu , Zhang Yu , Li Yaojia , Gao Zhiguo , Chen Fanghui , Sun Kai , An Peijing , Sun Chen , Jiang Yong , Sun Baiwang
Published: April 2019

The multi-therapy modality is based on the combination and synergy of multiple single treatment modalities and materials chemistry.
Preparation of efficient quantum dot light-emitting diodes by balancing charge injection and sensitizing emitting layer with phosphorescent dye
Authors: Lan Luhua , Liu Benchang , Tao Hong , Zou Jianhua , Jiang Congbiao , Xu Miao , Wang Lei , Peng Junbiao , Cao Yong
Published: April 2019

The balance between electron and hole injection is critical for obtaining high efficiency in quantum dot light-emitting diodes (QLEDs).
Application of response surface methodology for silver nanoparticle stir bar sorptive extraction of heavy metals from drinking water samples: a Box–Behnken design
Authors: Hashemi Sayyed Hossein , Kaykhaii Massoud , Jamali Keikha Ahmad , Sajjadi Zahra , Mirmoghaddam Majid
Published: April 2019

Silver nanoparticles were coated on a glass stir bar and used for the extraction of heavy metals from water samples after their complexation with ligand PAN, followed by their HPLC determination.
Fluorescent S1 nuclease assay utilizing exponential strand displacement amplification
Authors: Lee Chang Yeol , Kim Hansol , Kim Hyo Yong , Park Ki Soo , Park Hyun Gyu
Published: April 2019

We devise a simple, label-free S1 nuclease activity assay by exploiting target-induced inhibition of exponential strand displacement amplification (eSDA).
A highly selective and sensitive red-emitting fluorescent probe for visualization of endogenous peroxynitrite in living cells and zebrafish
Authors: Li Zilu , Liu Caiyun , Yu Chen , Chen Yanan , Jia Pan , Zhu Hanchuang , Zhang Xue , Yu Yamin , Zhu Baocun , Sheng Wenlong
Published: April 2019

A highly selective and sensitive red-emitting fluorescent probe was constructed to visualize endogenous peroxynitrite in living cells and zebrafish.
Enhancing the effects of transcranial magnetic stimulation with intravenously injected magnetic nanoparticles
Authors: Li Rongrong , Wang Jun , Yu Xiaoya , Xu Pengfei , Zhang Shuai , Xu Jinhua , Bai Yongjie , Dai Zhengze , Sun Yuxiang , Ye Ruidong , Liu Xinfeng , Ruan Gang , Xu Gelin
Published: April 2019

Magnetic nanoparticles SPIONs are non-invasively introduced into the brain to enhance the effects of a non-invasive clinical brain stimulation method for treating neurological disorders.
Iodine-doped sulfurized polyacrylonitrile with enhanced electrochemical performance for room-temperature sodium/potassium sulfur batteries
Authors: Ma Shaobo , Zuo Pengjian , Zhang Han , Yu Zhenjiang , Cui Can , He Mengxue , Yin Geping
Published: April 2019

Iodine-doped sulfurized polyacrylonitrile with high conductivity displays an unprecedented capacity for RT-Na/S and RT-K/S batteries operated in ester-based electrolytes.
Hydrogen atom transfer from 1,2- and 1,3-diols to the cumyloxyl radical. The role of structural effects on metal-ion induced C–H bond deactivation
Authors: Martin Teo , Salamone Michela , Bietti Massimo
Published: April 2019

Strong C–H bond deactivation toward HAT has been observed in the reactions of the cumyloxyl radical with 1,2- and 1,3-diols, following addition of Li+ and Ca2+. Weaker effects have been observed with Mg2+. The role of substrate structure and of the metal ion is discussed.
Supramolecular switching of the self-assembly of cyclic peptide–polymer conjugates via host–guest chemistry
Authors: Song Qiao , Yang Jie , Rho Julia Y. , Perrier Sébastien
Published: April 2019

A supramolecular strategy of switching the self-assembly of cyclic peptide–polymer conjugates using host–guest chemistry is proposed.
Multiple functional groups in UiO-66 improve chemical warfare agent simulant degradation
Authors: Kalaj Mark , Palomba Joseph M. , Bentz Kyle C. , Cohen Seth M.
Published: April 2019

A library of 26 mixed ligand UiO-66 analogs were synthesized, characterized, and screened for catalytic degradation of the chemical warfare agent (CWA) simulant dimethyl 4-nitrophenylphosphate (DMNP).
One-step synthesis of single crystalline wedge-shaped Ta3N5 nanoflakes with ultrathin top ends
Authors: Shi Zhan , Wu Deyu , Huang Huiting , Li Taozhu , Xu Zhe , Feng Jianyong , Yan Shicheng , Zou Zhigang
Published: April 2019

Wedge-shaped Ta3N5 nanoflakes with {010} preferentially exposed facets were fabricated with a one-step flux synthetic method.
Ferrocenes with simple chiral substituents: an in-depth theoretical and experimental VCD and ECD study
Authors: Patti Angela , Pedotti Sonia , Mazzeo Giuseppe , Longhi Giovanna , Abbate Sergio , Paoloni Lorenzo , Bloino Julien , Rampino Sergio , Barone Vincenzo
Published: April 2019

Ferrocenes bearing chiral pendants are investigated through VCD and ECD. The VCD spectra are best interpreted by GVPT2-anharmonic DFT calculations. Diagnostic bands related to the absolute configuration of the title compounds are found in both kinds of spectra.
Energy conversion efficiency in low- and atmospheric-pressure plasma polymerization processes with hydrocarbons
Authors: Hegemann Dirk , Nisol Bernard , Gaiser Sandra , Watson Sean , Wertheimer Michael R.
Published: April 2019

Revealing threshold energies in plasma polymerization processes with hydrocarbons by measuring the specific energy input (per monomer molecule) in low- and atmospheric-pressure plasmas.
Heterobimetallic aluminate derivatives with bulky phenoxide ligands: a catalyst for selective vinyl polymerization
Authors: Palenzuela Miguel , Muñoz Mª Teresa , Vega Juan F. , Gutiérrez-Rodríguez Ángel , Cuenca Tomás , Mosquera Marta E. G.
Published: April 2019

New aluminates as active catalysts for vinyl polymerization are described, as well as a strategy to crosslinked polymers from GMA in a controlled fashion.
Ultrahigh phase transition temperature in a metal–halide perovskite-type material containing unprecedented hydrogen bonding interactions
Authors: Hua Xiu-Ni , Gao Ji-Xing , Chen Xiao-Gang , Li Peng-Fei , Mei Guang-Quan , Liao Wei-Qiang
Published: April 2019

An ABX3 perovskite-type compound (N,N-dimethylethanolammonium)CdCl3 with hydrogen bonding interactions between organic ammonium cations undergoes a phase transition at super-high temperatures.