bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Discovery Rights and the Arctic
Authors: Schwartz Daniel
Published: October 2019

This article examines whether discovery could, contrary to common philosophical opinion, be taken seriously as a ground of territorial rights. I focus on the discovery of uninhabitable lands such as found in the Arctic. After surveying the role of discovery in Roman private law and modern international law, I turn to Locke's well-known theory or original acquisition. I argue that many of the justifications that do the work in Locke's theory also apply to discovery. I then discuss some of the many reasons why discovery may seem unpromising as a ground of original acquisition. I close by arguing that if there is a bridge mechanism by which property can legitimately transform into territory and if, at least in some circumstances, discovery can produce property rights, then it would follow that in some circumstances discovery could also produce territorial rights.
Riboflavin deficiency alters cholesterol homeostasis partly by	reducing apolipoprotein B100 synthesis in HepG2 cells
Authors: Xin Zhonghao , Bian Xiangyu , Gao Weina , Wang Yawen , Yao Zhanxin , Shi Tala , Guo Changjiang
Published: October 2019

Abstract. Riboflavin deficiency led to lower blood cholesterol level and higher content of hepatic cholesterol in rats and the mechanisms are not clarified yet. We hypothesized that riboflavin deficiency might alter cholesterol homeostasis via apolipoprotein B100, one of the important proteins in cholesterol transport. To test this hypothesis, HepG2 cells were cultured in riboflavin-deficient media for 4 days to develop riboflavin deficiency. Compared to riboflavin-sufficient cells, the mRNA (0. 37 ± 0.04 vs 1.03 ± 0.29 relative expression level, n = 3) and protein expressions of apolipoprotein B100 (intracellular: 173.7 ± 14.4 vs 254.8 ± 47.2 μg/mg protein; extracellular: 93.8 ± 31.1 vs 161.6 ± 23.9 μg/mg protein; n = 3) were significantly reduced in riboflavin-deficient cells ( P < 0.05). Endoplasmic reticulum oxidoreductin 1 and protein disulfide isomerase, two enzymes involved in the oxidative folding of apolipoprotein B100, were also lower remarkably in expression at both mRNA and protein levels. Meanwhile, intracellular cholesterol was increased (256.3 ± 17.1 μM/g protein vs 181.4 ± 23.9 μM/g protein, n = 4) and extracellular cholesterol decreased (110.0 ± 23.2 μM/g protein vs 166.2 ± 34.6 μM/g protein, n = 4) significantly in riboflavin-deficient cells ( P < 0.05). Very low-density lipoprotein was also diminished (29.0 ± 6.1 μM/g protein vs 67.0 ± 11.0 μM/g protein, n = 4) in the culture media ( P < 0.05). These findings suggest that riboflavin deficiency alters cholesterol homeostasis partly by reducing apolipoprotein B100 synthesis in HepG2 cells.
Wo sind die Männer im Fachgebiet Kinder- und Jugendpsychiatrie und Psychotherapie?
Authors: Süß Moritz , Benson Sven , Herbstreit Stephanie , Dudda Marcel , Knobe Matthias , Hebebrand Johannes , Gradl-Dietsch Gertraud
Published: October 2019

Zusammenfassung. Fragestellung: Ziel der Studie ist die Erfassung von Faktoren, die die Wahl des Faches Kinder- und Jugendpsychiatrie und Psychotherapie (KJP) bzw. Orthopädie/Unfallchirurgie (OR/UC) bedingen. Methodik: Mithilfe eines internetbasierten Fragebogens wurden Assistenzärztinnen und Ärzte retrospektiv zu Faktoren, die die Wahl des Weiterbildungsfaches bedingen, befragt sowie soziodemografische, studiengangs- und berufsbezogene Angaben erfasst. Ergebnisse: Insgesamt lagen 101 vollständige Fragebögen vor (KJP: 49 Frauen, 10 Männer; OR/UC: jeweils 21 Männer und Frauen). Teilnehmende der KJP waren signifikant älter, häufiger verheiratet und hatten Kinder. Vorerfahrung mit dem Fach aus dem Studium bestand signifikant häufiger in der OR/UC. Im Fächervergleich bewerteten Teilnehmende aus der KJP die Faktoren „ausreichend Zeit für Pausen“, „gut strukturierter Arbeitsalltag“, „geregelte Arbeitszeiten“, „Vereinbarkeit von Familie und Beruf“, „viel Zeit für die individuelle Patient_in“ und „Arbeitsbelastung“ als signifikant wichtiger. In der OR/UC wurden „spektakuläre Fälle“, „Notwendigkeit, schnelle Entscheidungen zu treffen“, „Reputation“, „technischer Anspruch“ und „positive Vorerfahrung mit dem Fachgebiet aus dem Studium“ als signifikant empfunden. Für Frauen in der KJP war ein familienfreundlicher Arbeitsplatz signifikant bedeutsamer als für Kolleginnen der OR/UC. Schlussfolgerungen: Eine Verbesserung der Außenwirkung des Faches KJP unter Herausstellung der vielfältigen Möglichkeiten in Klinik, Praxis und Wissenschaft und eine stärkere Einbindung in die Curricula könnte Interesse auch bei männlichen Studierenden generieren.
Sexual and Gender Minorities' Readiness and Interest in Supporting Peers Experiencing Suicide-Related Behaviors
Authors: Ferlatte Olivier , Salway Travis , Oliffe John L. , Kia Hannah , Rice Simon , Morgan Jeffrey , Lowik A. J. , Knight Rod
Published: October 2019

Abstract. Background: Gatekeeper training is a widely recommended suicide prevention intervention that encourages the development of knowledge and the identification and support of those at risk of suicide. Yet, this strategy has not been implemented among sexual and gender minorities (SGM), a group at high risk of suicide. Aim: The aim of this study was to describe the readiness and interest of SGM in supporting peers experiencing suicide-related behaviors. Method: We analyzed data from an online cross-sectional survey of Canadian SGM ( n = 2778). Results: In total, 90% of participants had ≥1 SGM peer with depression, and 73% had ≥1 SGM peer who had previously attempted suicide; 74% said they knew what to do to support a peer experiencing suicide risk, and 77% indicated they knew where to refer them. Furthermore, 94% were interested in learning how to recognize signs of suicidality, while 95% were interested in learning skills to support a peer struggling with suicidality and 81% of those indicated a preference to learn these skills online. Limitations: The study used a nonprobability sample and cross-sectional design. Conclusion: SGM are largely interested in learning suicide prevention skills and, as such, more resources are needed to implement and scale up evidence-based approaches for gatekeeper training among SGM.
Earthquake Statistics Vary with Fault Size
Authors: Sidder Aaron
Published: October 2019

A theoretical study explores why small earthquake sources can produce quasiperiodic sequences of identical events, whereas earthquakes on large faults are intrinsically more variable.
Reassessing Southern Ocean Air‐Sea CO2 Flux Estimates With the Addition of Biogeochemical Float Observations
Authors: Bushinsky Seth M. , Landschützer Peter , Rödenbeck Christian , Gray Alison R. , Baker David , Mazloff Matthew R. , Resplandy Laure , Johnson Kenneth S. , Sarmiento Jorge L.
Published: October 2019

New estimates of pCO2 from profiling floats deployed by the Southern Ocean Carbon and Climate Observations and Modeling (SOCCOM) project have demonstrated the importance of wintertime outgassing south of the Polar Front, challenging the accepted magnitude of Southern Ocean carbon uptake (Gray et al., 2018, https://doi:10.1029/2018GL078013). Here, we put 3.5 years of SOCCOM observations into broader context with the global surface carbon dioxide database (Surface Ocean CO2 Atlas, SOCAT) by using the two interpolation methods currently used to assess the ocean models in the Global Carbon Budget (Le Quéré et al., 2018, https://doi:10.5194/essd‐10‐2141‐2018) to create a ship‐only, a float‐weighted, and a combined estimate of Southern Ocean carbon fluxes (<35°S). In our ship‐only estimate, we calculate a mean uptake of −1.14 ± 0.19 Pg C/yr for 2015–2017, consistent with prior studies. The float‐weighted estimate yields a significantly lower Southern Ocean uptake of −0.35 ± 0.19 Pg C/yr. Subsampling of high‐resolution ocean biogeochemical process models indicates that some of the differences between float and ship‐only estimates of the Southern Ocean carbon flux can be explained by spatial and temporal sampling differences. The combined ship and float estimate minimizes the root‐mean‐square pCO2 difference between the mapped product and both data sets, giving a new Southern Ocean uptake of −0.75 ± 0.22 Pg C/yr, though with uncertainties that overlap the ship‐only estimate. An atmospheric inversion reveals that a shift of this magnitude in the contemporary Southern Ocean carbon flux must be compensated for by ocean or land sinks within the Southern Hemisphere.
Satellite Data‐Based 3‐D Simulation of Kelvin‐Helmholtz Instability and Induced Magnetic Reconnection at the Earth's Magnetopause
Authors: Sisti M. , Faganello M. , Califano F. , Lavraud B.
Published: October 2019

We present a 3‐D two‐fluid simulation using plasma parameters as measured by MMS on 8 September 2015 concerning the nonlinear development of the Kelvin‐Helmholtz instability at the Earth's magnetopause. We observe an extremely rich nonlinear dynamics including the development of a complex magnetic topology, vortex merging, and secondary Kelvin‐Helmholtz instability driven by large‐scale vortices distributed asymmetrically in latitude. Vortex induced and midlatitude magnetic reconnection coexist and produce an asymmetric distribution of magnetic reconnection events. These results are in good agreement with MMS observations on the same day, in particular for the presence of both equatorial and off‐equator reconnection. Regarding the latter only, we note a predominance of reconnection in the Southern Hemisphere during the early nonlinear phase. The estimated effective diffusion coefficient associated with the dynamics is found to be large enough to account for the observed mass transport at the Earth's magnetospheric flanks.
Vortex‐Wide Detection of Large Aspherical NAT Particles in the Arctic Winter 2011/12 Stratosphere
Authors: Woiwode W. , Höpfner M. , Bi L. , Khosrawi F. , Santee M. L.
Published: October 2019

Micron‐sized HNO3‐containing particles in polar stratospheric clouds are known to denitrify the polar winter stratosphere and support chemical ozone loss. We show that populations of nitric acid trihydrate (NAT) particles with volume‐equivalent median radii of 3–7 μm can be detected vortex‐wide by means of infrared limb sounding. Key for detection are the applied optical characteristics of highly aspherical particles consisting of the β‐NAT phase. Spectroscopic signatures and ambient conditions of detected populations show that these particles play a key role in denitrification of the Arctic winter stratosphere. Complementary gas‐phase HNO3 observations indicate collocated highly efficient HNO3 sequestration within days and are consistent with measured spectral signals of populations of large NAT particles. High amounts of condensed gas‐phase equivalent HNO3 exceeding 10 ppbv and long persistence of detected populations, despite expected gravitational settling, imply that our understanding of the particles is incomplete.
High‐Resolution 3‐D P Wave Velocity Structures Under NE Taiwan and Their Tectonic Implications
Authors: Su Po‐Li , Chen Po‐Fei , Wang Chien‐Ying
Published: October 2019

First P wave arrival‐time data from local earthquakes recorded by a dense geophone array deployed on the Ilan Plain and by existing permanent stations were combined to invert for high‐resolution P wave velocity structures under northeast Taiwan. With relatively high resolution, we were able to examine the structures in more detail and to investigate their significance and tectonic implications. We introduce two distinct groups of proposals for mechanisms of subduction polarity flipping in Taiwan, referred to as the “tear model” and “breakoff model.” While the predicted Philippine Sea Plate boundaries differ between the two models, those of the breakoff model and the related subducting indenter model are geodynamically similar. The surface junction and the west edge of the imaged high Vp anomalous Philippine Sea Plate comply with those predicted by the subducting indenter model and thus favor the breakoff model over the tear model. While the observed high Vp anomalous region in the mantle wedge can be explained as eclogitization of previously subducted crust, eclogitization of the overriding continental crustal roots cannot be ruled out. Those beneath the Taipei Basin and the Tatun Volcano Group exhibit a pattern potentially connected to the low Vp anomalies in the mantle wedge, suggesting the involvement of the Philippine Sea slab, either by asthenospheric upwelling due to extensional collapse or by fluid migration due to slab dehydration. Those beneath the Ilan Plain exhibit a low Vp pattern extending to deeper origins in the eastern offshore region, suggesting a connection with the opening of the Okinawa Trough.
Diagnostic kit for rice blight resistance
Authors: Eom Joon-Seob , Luo Dangping , Atienza-Grande Genelou , Yang Jungil , Ji Chonghui , Thi Luu Van , Huguet-Tapia José C. , Char Si Nian , Liu Bo , Nguyen Hanna , Schmidt Sarah Maria , Szurek Boris , Vera Cruz Casiana , White Frank F. , Oliva Ricardo , Yang Bing , Frommer Wolf B.
Published: October 2019

Blight-resistant rice lines are the most effective solution for bacterial blight, caused byXanthomonas oryzaepv.oryzae(Xoo). Key resistance mechanisms involveSWEETgenes as susceptibility factors. Bacterial transcription activator-like (TAL) effectors bind to effector-binding elements (EBEs) inSWEETgene promoters and induceSWEETgenes. EBE variants that cannot be recognized by TAL effectors abrogate induction, causing resistance. Here we describe a diagnostic kit to enable analysis of bacterial blight in the field and identification of suitable resistant lines. Specifically, we include aSWEETpromoter database, RT–PCR primers for detectingSWEETinduction, engineered reporter rice lines to visualize SWEET protein accumulation and knock-out rice lines to identify virulence mechanisms in bacterial isolates. We also developed CRISPR–Cas9 genome-edited Kitaake rice to evaluate the efficacy of EBE mutations in resistance, software to predict the optimal resistance gene set for a specific geographic region, and two resistant ‘mega’ rice lines that will empower farmers to plant lines that are most likely to resist rice blight.
Roadkill and space use data predict vehicle-strike hotspots and mortality rates in a recovering bobcat (Lynx rufus) population
Authors: Bencin Heidi L. , Prange Suzanne , Rose Christa , Popescu Viorel D.
Published: October 2019

Roadways pose challenges for conserving wide-ranging animal species. As bobcat (Lynx rufus) populations recover in Ohio, an accurate evaluation of population metrics is critical to understanding future population trajectories. In this study, we integrated multiple datasets to examine overall road mortality rates in Ohio. First, we utilized a long-term vehicle-strike dataset (1978–2017) to determine landscape and local predictors of road mortality. We found that bobcats were killed at higher rates on interstates regardless of surrounding landscape composition, but that landscape variables were useful at predicting mortality on lower-traffic roads. To explore road avoidance behaviors, we used GPS telemetry data from 18 individuals to compare road crossings along trajectory paths with random road crossings simulated using Correlated Random Walks. Bobcats exhibited avoidance of certain route types (county, municipal, and US routes). Finally, by integrating traffic volume data, road crossing behavior, and accounting for the proportion of each route type present in the study area, we estimated that a minimum of 6% and up to 18% of the bobcat population in Ohio is lost to vehicle-strikes annually. To fully understand the population level impacts of this mortality, we recommend further monitoring of age structure and sex of roadkill animals. Our results identify potential areas for mitigation of vehicle-strikes and emphasize the importance of accounting for road mortality when making management decisions for Ohio’s recovering bobcat population.
A quick test of cognitive speed can predict development of dementia in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Jalakas Mattis , Palmqvist Sebastian , Hall Sara , Svärd Daniel , Lindberg Olof , Pereira Joana B. , van Westen Danielle , Hansson Oskar
Published: October 2019

Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients frequently develop cognitive impairment. There is a need for brief clinical assessments identifying PD patients at high risk of progressing to dementia. In this study, we look into predicting dementia in PD and underlying structural and functional correlates to cognitive decline in PD. We included 175 patients with PD, 30 with PD dementia, 51 neurologically healthy controls and 121 patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) from Skane University Hospital, BIOFINDER cohorts. All underwent cognitive tests, including MMSE, 10-word list delayed recall (ADAS-cog), A Quick Test of cognitive speed (AQT), Letter S fluency, Clock Drawing Test (CDT) and pentagon copying. In non-demented patients with PD, abnormal AQT and CDT results predicted an increased risk of subsequent development of dementia (hazard ratio 2.2 for both). When comparing the cognitive profile between PD and AD, decreased performance on AQT, which measures attention and processing speed, was more typical in PD. Lastly, we investigated the underlying structural and functional correlates for the PD-specific test AQT with magnetic resonance imaging. In PD patients, decreased performance on AQT was associated with i) cortical thinning in temporoparietal regions, ii) changes in diffusion MRI, especially in the cingulum tract, and iii) decreased functional connectivity in posterior brain networks.
Clonal expansion of a virulent Streptococcus suis serotype 9 lineage distinguishable from carriage subpopulations
Authors: Willemse Niels , van der Ark Kees C. H. , Stockhofe-Zurwieden Norbert , Smith Hilde , Picavet Daisy I. , van Solt-Smits Conny , Wisselink Henk J. , Schultsz Constance , de Greeff Astrid
Published: October 2019

Streptococcus suis is a porcine pathogen, causing severe invasive infections. S. suis serotype 9 is increasingly causing disease in Dutch and Chinese pig herds, but it is unknown whether all serotype 9 isolates are equally virulent and markers that can identify virulent strains are not available. Therefore, discrimination between virulent isolates and carriage isolates typically not associated with disease, is currently not possible. We collected tonsillar S. suis isolates from 6 herds not previously diagnosed with S. suis infections, and clinical S. suis isolates of previously diseased pigs. We confirmed the virulence of a virulent type strain and one representative clinical isolate, and the lack of virulence of two carriage isolates, in a pig infection model. Phylogenetic analysis of whole genome sequences of 124 isolates resulted in 10 groups, of which two were almost uniquely populated by clinical isolates. The population structure of S. suis serotype 9 appears highly diverse. However, analysis of the capsule loci sequences showed variation in a single region which fully correlated with a virulent genotype. Transmission electron microscopy suggested differences in capsule thickness between carriage and clinical genotypes. In conclusion, we found that that the S. suis serotype 9 population in the Netherlands is diverse. A distinct virulence-associated lineage was identified and could be discriminated based on the capsule locus sequence. Whilst the difference in virulence cannot be directly attributed to the DNA sequence, the correlation of capsule locus sequence with virulence could be used in the development of diagnostic tests to identify potential virulent S. suis serotype 9 in pigs.
S-nitrosoglutathione inhibits adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes by S-nitrosation of CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein β
Authors: Mussbacher Marion , Stessel Heike , Pirker Teresa , Gorren Antonius C. F. , Mayer Bernd , Schrammel Astrid
Published: October 2019

Murine 3T3-L1 adipocytes share many similarities with primary fat cells and represent a reliable in vitro model of adipogenesis. The aim of this study was to probe the effect of S-nitrosoglutathione (GSNO) on adipocyte differentiation. Adipogenesis was induced with a mixture of insulin, dexamethasone, and 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine in the absence and presence of increasing GSNO concentrations. Biochemical analysis after 7 days of differentiation showed a prominent anti-adipogenic effect of GSNO which was evident as reduced cellular triglycerides and total protein content as well as decreased mRNA and protein expression of late transcription factors (e.g. peroxisome proliferator activated receptor γ) and markers of terminal differentiation (e.g. leptin). By contrast, the nitrosothiol did not affect mRNA and protein expression of CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein β (C/EBPβ), which represents a pivotal early transcription factor of the adipogenic cascade. Differentiation was also inhibited by the NO donor (Z)-1-[2-(2-aminoethyl)-N-(2-ammonioethyl)amino]diazen-1-ium-1,2-diolate. Biotin switch experiments showed significantly increased S-nitrosation of C/EBPβ variants indicating that posttranslational S-nitrosative modification of this transcription factor accounts for the observed anti-adipogenic effect of NO. Our results suggest that S-nitrosation might represent an important physiological regulatory mechanism of fat cell maturation.
Artificial spinning of natural silk threads
Authors: Frydrych Martin , Greenhalgh Alexander , Vollrath Fritz
Published: October 2019

Silk producing arthropods spin solid fibres from an aqueous protein feedstock apparently relying on the complex structure of the silk protein and its controlled aggregation by shear forces, alongside biochemical changes. This flow-induced phase-transition of the stored native silk molecules is irreversible, environmentally sound and remarkably energy efficient. The process seemingly relies on a self-assembling, fibrillation process. Here we test this hypothesis by biomimetically spinning a native-based silk feedstock, extracted by custom processes, into silk fibres that equal their natural models’ mechanical properties. Importantly, these filaments, which featured cross-section morphologies ranged from large crescent-like to small ribbon-like shapes, also had the slender cross-sectional areas of native fibres and their hierarchical nanofibrillar structures. The modulation of the post-draw conditions directly affected mechanical properties, correlated with the extent of fibre crystallinity, i.e. degree of molecular order. We believe our study contributes significantly to the understanding and development of artificial silks by demonstrating successful biomimetic spinning relies on appropriately designed feedstock properties. In addition, our study provides inspiration for low-energy routes to novel synthetic polymers.
Preventative effects of the partial RANKL peptide MHP1-AcN in a mouse model of imiquimod-induced psoriasis
Authors: Ju Nan , Shimamura Munehisa , Hayashi Hiroki , Ikeda Yuka , Yoshida Shota , Nakamura Ayumi , Morishita Ryuichi , Rakugi Hiromi , Nakagami Hironori
Published: October 2019

We recently developed a partial peptide of receptor activator of nuclear factor-кB ligand (RANKL) known as microglial healing peptide 1 (MHP1-AcN), that inhibits Toll-like receptor (TLR)-related inflammation through RANKL/RANK signaling in microglia and macrophages without promoting osteoclast activation. The abnormal activation of TLRs contributes to the initiation and maintenance of psoriasis, which is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that involves the aberrant expression of proinflammatory cytokines and the subsequent dermal γδ T cell and T helper 17 (Th17) cell responses. The inhibition of TLR-mediated inflammation provides an important strategy to treat psoriasis. Here, we examined the preventative effects of MHP1-AcN in a mouse model of imiquimod (a TLR 7/8 agonist)-induced psoriasis. Topical imiquimod application induced psoriasis-like skin lesions on the ear and dorsal skin. Systemic administration of MHP1-AcN by daily subcutaneous injection significantly prevented the development of skin lesions, including erythema, scaling and thickening. Mice treated with MHP1-AcN showed reduced levels of skin Il6 mRNA at 32 h and reduced levels of Il23 and Il17a mRNA at d9. Serum levels of IL-6 and IL-23 were reduced at 32 h, and IL-17A was reduced at d9. These results indicated that MHP1-AcN could decrease imiquimod-induced IL-6, IL-23 and IL-17A production. MHP1-AcN is potentially an alternative treatment for psoriasis.
Multiplexed in-gel microfluidic immunoassays: characterizing protein target loss during reprobing of benzophenone-modified hydrogels
Authors: Gopal Anjali , Herr Amy E.
Published: October 2019

From whole tissues to single-cell lysate, heterogeneous immunoassays are widely utilized for analysis of protein targets in complex biospecimens. Recently, benzophenone-functionalized hydrogel scaffolds have been used to immobilize target protein for immunoassay detection with fluorescent antibody probes. In benzophenone-functionalized hydrogels, multiplex target detection occurs via serial rounds of chemical stripping (incubation with sodium-dodecyl-sulfate (SDS) and β-mercaptoethanol at 50–60 °C for ≥1 h), followed by reprobing (interrogation with additional antibody probes). Although benzophenone facilitates covalent immobilization of proteins to the hydrogel, we observe 50% immunoassay signal loss of immobilized protein targets during stripping rounds. Here, we identify and characterize signal loss mechanisms during stripping and reprobing. We posit that loss of immobilized target is responsible for ≥50% of immunoassay signal loss, and that target loss is attributable to disruption of protein immobilization by denaturing detergents (SDS) and incubation at elevated temperatures. Furthermore, our study suggests that protein losses under non-denaturing conditions are more sensitive to protein structure (i.e., hydrodynamic radius), than to molecular mass (size). We formulate design guidance for multiplexed in-gel immunoassays, including that low-abundance proteins be immunoprobed first, even when targets are covalently immobilized to the gel. We also recommend careful scrutiny of the order of proteins targets detected via multiple immunoprobing cycles, based on the protein immobilization buffer composition.
Modeling Snyder-Robinson Syndrome in multipotent stromal cells reveals impaired mitochondrial function as a potential cause for deficient osteogenesis
Authors: Ramsay Ashley L. , Alonso-Garcia Vivian , Chaboya Cutter , Radut Brian , Le Bryan , Florez Jose , Schumacher Cameron , Fierro Fernando A.
Published: October 2019

Patients with Snyder-Robinson Syndrome (SRS) exhibit deficient Spermine Synthase (SMS) gene expression, which causes neurodevelopmental defects and osteoporosis, often leading to extremely fragile bones. To determine the underlying mechanism for impaired bone formation, we modelled the disease by silencing SMS in human bone marrow - derived multipotent stromal cells (MSCs) derived from healthy donors. We found that silencing SMS in MSCs led to reduced cell proliferation and deficient bone formation in vitro, as evidenced by reduced mineralization and decreased bone sialoprotein expression. Furthermore, transplantation of MSCs in osteoconductive scaffolds into immune deficient mice shows that silencing SMS also reduces ectopic bone formation in vivo. Tag-Seq Gene Expression Profiling shows that deficient SMS expression causes strong transcriptome changes, especially in genes related to cell proliferation and metabolic functions. Similarly, metabolome analysis by mass spectrometry, shows that silencing SMS strongly impacts glucose metabolism. This was consistent with observations using electron microscopy, where SMS deficient MSCs show high levels of mitochondrial fusion. In line with these findings, SMS deficiency causes a reduction in glucose consumption and increase in lactate secretion. Our data also suggests that SMS deficiency affects iron metabolism in the cells, which we hypothesize is linked to deficient mitochondrial function. Altogether, our studies suggest that SMS deficiency causes strong transcriptomic and metabolic changes in MSCs, which are likely associated with the observed impaired osteogenesis both in vitro and in vivo.
Mutation of two key aspartate residues alters stoichiometry of the NhaB Na+/H+ exchanger from Klebsiella pneumoniae
Authors: Patiño-Ruiz Miyer , Fendler Klaus , Călinescu Octavian
Published: October 2019

Bacterial NhaB Na+/H+ exchangers belonging to the Ion Transporter superfamily are poorly characterized in contrast to Na+/H+ exchangers of the Cation Proton Antiporter superfamily which have NhaA from Escherichia coli as a prominent member. For a more detailed understanding of the intricacies of the exchanger’s transport mechanism, mutational studies are essential. Therefore, we mutated two protonatable residues present in the putative transmembrane region of NhaB from Klebsiella pneumoniae (KpNhaB), which could serve as substrate binding sites, Asp146 and Asp404, to either glutamate or alanine and analyzed transport function and stability of the mutants using electrophysiological and fluorimetric techniques. While mutation of either Asp residue to Glu only had slight to moderate effects on the transport activity of the exchanger, the mutations D404A and D146A, in particular, had more profound effects on the transport function. Furthermore, a double mutant, D146A/D404A, exhibited a remarkable behavior at alkaline pH, where recorded electrical currents changed polarity, showing steady-state transport with a stoichiometry of H+:Na+ < 1, as opposed to the H+:Na+ > 1 stoichiometry of the WT. Thus, we showed that Asp146 and Asp404 are part of the substrate binding site(s) of KpNhaB and engineered a Na+/H+ exchanger with a variable stoichiometry.
Metabolism of the predominant human milk oligosaccharide fucosyllactose by an infant gut commensal
Authors: James Kieran , Bottacini Francesca , Contreras Jose Ivan Serrano , Vigoureux Mariane , Egan Muireann , Motherway Mary O’connell , Holmes Elaine , van Sinderen Douwe
Published: October 2019

A number of bifidobacterial species are found at a particularly high prevalence and abundance in faecal samples of healthy breastfed infants, a phenomenon that is believed to be, at least partially, due to the ability of bifidobacteria to metabolize Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs). In the current study, we isolated a novel strain of Bifidobacterium kashiwanohense, named APCKJ1, from the faeces of a four-week old breastfed infant, based on the ability of the strain to utilise the HMO component fucosyllactose. We then determined the full genome sequence of this strain, and employed the generated data to analyze fucosyllactose metabolism in B. kashiwanohense APCKJ1. Transcriptomic and growth analyses, combined with metabolite analysis, in vitro hydrolysis assays and heterologous expression, allowed us to elucidate the pathway for fucosyllactose metabolism in B. kashiwanohense APCKJ1. Homologs of the key genes for this metabolic pathway were identified in particular in infant-derived members of the Bifdobacterium genus, revealing the apparent niche-specific nature of this pathway, and allowing a broad perspective on bifidobacterial fucosyllactose and L-fucose metabolism.
Projecting Suitability and Climate Vulnerability of Bhutanitis thaidina (Blanchard) (Lepidoptera: Papilionidae) with Conservation Implications
Authors: Hu Shao-Ji , Xing Dong-Hui , Gong Zhi-Xian , Hu Jin-Ming
Published: October 2019

Bhutanitis thaidina is an endemic, rare, and protected swallowtail in China. Deforestation, habitat fragmentation, illegal commercialised capture, and exploitation of larval food plants are believed to be the four major causes of population decline of B. thaidina in the recent decade. However, little attention was paid to the impact of climate change. This study used ecological niche factor analysis and species distribution model to analyse the current suitable areas for B. thaidina with BioClim variables as well as its future suitable areas under four future climate scenarios (represented by four Representative Concentration Pathways: RCP2.6, RCP4.5, RCP6.0, and RCP8.5). Statistical analysis was carried out to compare the possible area and altitude changes to the distribution of B. thaidina under changing climate. Our analyses showed that the suitable areas for B. thaidina are fragmented under the current climate, with four suitable centres in northwestern Yunnan, northeastern Yunnan and northwestern Guizhou, the western margin of Sichuan Basin, and Qinling mountains. Apart from further habitat fragmentation under climate change, slight range expansion (average 6.0–8.9%) was detected under the RCP2.6 and RCP4.5 scenarios, while more range contraction (average 1.3–26.9%) was detected under the RCP6.0 and RCP8.5 scenarios, with the two southern suitable centres suffering most. Also, a tendency of contraction (2,500–3,500 m) and upslope shift (~600 m) in suitable altitude range were detected. The findings of this study supported the climate-vulnerable hypothesis of B. thaidina, especially under future climate like the RCP6.0 and RCP8.5 scenarios, in terms of contraction in suitable areas and altitude ranges. Conservation priority should be given to northwestern Yunnan, northeastern Yunnan, and northwestern Guizhou to alleviate the stress of massive habitat loss and extinction. Refugial areas should be established in all four suitable centres to maintain genetic diversity of B. thaidina in China.
Ultrasensitive electrochemical DNA biosensor based on a tetrahedral structure and proximity-dependent surface hybridization
Authors: Wang Xuejiao , Niu Shuyan , Wei Manman , Liu Shuai , Liu Rui , Shi Chao , Ma Cuiping
Published: October 2019

The DNA tetrahedron has developed a broad spectrum of applications in biosensor construction thanks to its excellent mechanical rigidity and structural stability.
Amphiphilic ligand modified gold nanocarriers to amplify lanthanide loading for ultrasensitive DELFIA detection ofCronobacter
Authors: Fang Hao , Li Xiangmin , Leng Yuankui , Huang Xiaolin , Xiong Yonghua
Published: October 2019

Thiolated ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid and thiolated acylhydrazine-terminated ligands modified gold nanoflowers as amplified nanocarriers to increase the Ln3+labeling ratio for improving the sensitivity of traditional DELFIA.
Green synthesis of up- and down-conversion photoluminescent carbon dots from coffee beans for Fe3+ detection and cell imaging
Authors: Zhang Wanyu , Jia Lihua , Guo Xiangfeng , Yang Rui , Zhang Yu , Zhao Zhenlong
Published: October 2019

CDs with up- and down-conversion photoluminescence have been synthesized by one-step hydrothermal and used for bioimaging and intracellular Fe3+ detection.
Stepwise preparation of Ti-doped functionalized carbon nitride nanoparticles and hybrid TiO2/graphitic-C3N4 for detection of free residual chlorine and visible-light photocatalysis
Authors: Guo Hantao , Huang Hao , Li Yan , Lu Shikong , Xue Meihua , Weng Wen , Zheng Tao
Published: October 2019

Ti-doped functionalized carbon nitride nanoparticles and hybrid TiO2/graphitic-C3N4 were prepared stepwise and applied to the detection of free residual chlorine and visible-light photocatalysis.
A novel storage design for ultrahigh-cell-voltage Al-ion batteries utilizing cation–π interactions
Authors: Liu Xing , Shi Guosheng
Published: October 2019

We propose a novel storage design for ultrahigh-cell-voltage Al-ion battery by utilizing cation–π interactions by means of density functional theory (DFT) computations.
Bidentate auxiliary-directed alkenyl C–H allylation via exo-palladacycles: synthesis of branched 1,4-dienes
Authors: Shen Cong , Lu Xiunan , Zhang Jian , Ding Liyuan , Sun Yaling , Zhong Guofu
Published: October 2019

An alkenyl C–H allylation by exo-palladacycle is demonstrated to produce branched skipped dienes, employing alkenyl amides and allyl carbonates.
HPO32− as a building unit for sodium-ion battery cathodes: 3.1 V operation of Na2−xFe(HPO3)2 (0 < x < 1)
Authors: Ma Zihan , Lander Laura , Nishimura Shin-ichi , Okubo Masashi , Yamada Atsuo
Published: October 2019

We report Na2Fe(HPO3)2 as the first HPO32−-based iron(ii) cathode material for sodium-ion batteries, which delivers a reversible capacity of approximately 100 mA h g−1 at an average reaction voltage of 3.1 V.
Synthesis of novel mesoporous sulfated zirconia nanosheets derived from Zr-based metal–organic frameworks
Authors: Lu Ningyue , Zhang Xuelian , Yan Xiaoliang , Pan Dahai , Fan Binbin , Li Ruifeng
Published: October 2019

Flower-like mesoporous sulfated zirconia nanosheets (SZNs) were developed by pyrolysis of in situ sulfated Zr-MOFs for the first time.
Chemistry of iron nitrate-based precursor solutions for spray-flame synthesis
Authors: Stodt Malte F. B. , Gonchikzhapov Munko , Kasper Tina , Fritsching Udo , Kiefer Johannes
Published: October 2019

Understanding the chemistry of precursor solutions for spray-flame synthesis is a key step to developing inexpensive and large scale applications for tailored nanoparticles.
Metadynamics for automatic sampling of quantum property manifolds: exploration of molecular biradicality landscapes
Authors: Lindner Joachim O. , Röhr Merle I. S.
Published: October 2019

We present a general extension of the metadynamics allowing for an automatic sampling of quantum property manifolds (ASQPM) giving rise to functional landscapes. We illustrate our method on the example of biradical character in molecular systems.
Correction: Limestone calcination under calcium-looping conditions for CO2 capture and thermochemical energy storage in the presence of H2O: an in situ XRD analysis
Authors: Valverde Jose Manuel , Medina Santiago
Published: October 2019

Correction for ‘Limestone calcination under calcium-looping conditions for CO2 capture and thermochemical energy storage in the presence of H2O: an in situ XRD analysis’ by Jose Manuel Valverde et al., Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys., 2017, 19, 7587–7596.
Correction: Determining the role of redox-active materials during laser-induced water decomposition
Authors: Kalus Mark-Robert , Lanyumba Riskyanti , Lorenzo-Parodi Nerea , Jochmann Maik A. , Kerpen Klaus , Hagemann Ulrich , Schmidt Torsten C. , Barcikowski Stephan , Gökce Bilal
Published: October 2019

Correction for ‘Determining the role of redox-active materials during laser-induced water decomposition’ by Mark-Robert Kalus et al., Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys., 2019, 21, 18636–18651.
Catalytic activation of ethylene C–H bonds on uniform d8 Ir(i) and Ni(ii) cations in zeolites: toward molecular level understanding of ethylene polymerization on heterogeneous catalysts
Authors: Jaegers Nicholas R. , Khivantsev Konstantin , Kovarik Libor , Klas Daniel W. , Hu Jian Zhi , Wang Yong , Szanyi János
Published: October 2019

The long-debated intermediates of ethylene polymerization are revealed using uniform d8 metal ions in zeolites.
Toxicity of zinc oxide and iron oxide engineered nanoparticles to Bacillus subtilis in river water systems
Authors: Leareng Samuel K. , Ubomba-Jaswa Eunice , Musee Ndeke
Published: October 2019

Zinc oxide (nZnO) and iron oxide (nFeOx) engineered nanoparticles (ENPs) are widely used in consumer products and industrial applications, and consequently, are continuously being released into the environment.
Cellulose conversion into lactic acid over supported HPA catalysts
Authors: Marianou Asimina A. , Michailof Chrysoula C. , Ipsakis Dimitrios , Triantafyllidis Konstantinos , Lappas Angelos A.
Published: October 2019

One-pot hydrothermal conversion of biomass into lactic acid over a green heterogeneous bifunctional catalyst.
Highly regio- and stereoselective synthesis of cyclic carbonates from biomass-derived polyolsviaorganocatalytic cascade reaction
Authors: Zhou Hui , Zhang Hui , Mu Sen , Zhang Wen-Zhen , Ren Wei-Min , Lu Xiao-Bing
Published: October 2019

Dual Lewis base–CO2adduct/MTBD organocatalytic system was developed for the cascade reaction of CO2, propargylic alcohol, and polyhydroxy compounds to afford various functionalized cyclic carbonates in high regio- and stereoselectivity.
Structural, thermodynamic and kinetic factors in the desorption/absorption of a hydrogen molecule in the M3AlH10−xNa (M = Be or Mg; x = 0 or 2) hydrides
Authors: Giraldo Carolina , Ferraro Franklin , Hadad C. Z. , García-Beltrán Olimpo , Osorio Edison
Published: October 2019

In the context of the design and study of new materials for hydrogen storage, the thermodynamic and kinetic-mechanistic factors for the desorption/absorption of a hydrogen molecule in the M3AlH10−xNa (M = Be or Mg; x = 0 or 2) hydrides are evaluated.
Tuning the interactions of decavanadate with thaumatin, lysozyme, proteinase K and human serum proteins by its coordination to a pentaaquacobalt(ii) complex cation
Authors: Krivosudský Lukáš , Roller Alexander , Rompel Annette
Published: October 2019

Inorganic functionalization of the decavanadate anion promotes a different type of interaction with model proteins thaumatin, lysozyme, proteinase K, human serum albumin and transferrin.
Metal-free catalysis for the Markovnikov hydrosilylation of styrene
Authors: Zhang Ming-Xia , Zhong Rong-Lin , Xu Hong-Liang , Su Zhong-Min
Published: October 2019

Both the directions of the external electric field oriented along the “bond axis” (FX) and the “reaction axis” (FY) influenced the Markovnikov hydrosilylation of styrene, where the negative FY direction induced the largest effect.
Orbital design of topological insulators from two-dimensional semiconductors
Authors: Gao Lei , Sun Jia-Tao , Sethi Gurjyot , Zhang Yu-Yang , Du Shixuan , Liu Feng
Published: October 2019

An orbital design approach to convert two-dimensional semiconductors to topological insulators via selective atomic adsorption or strain is proposed.
An analysis on the electrophoretic mobility of cellulose nanocrystals as thin cylinders: relaxation and end effect
Authors: Lin Kuan-Hsuan , Hu Donghao , Sugimoto Takuya , Chang Feng-Cheng , Kobayashi Motoyoshi , Enomae Toshiharu
Published: October 2019

Cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) are extracted from cellulosic fibers via sulfuric acid hydrolysis and found to exhibit unique properties due to their nanoscale, ordered structure, and surface morphology.
Graphene chemiresistors modified with functionalized triphenylene for highly sensitive and selective detection of dimethyl methylphosphonate
Authors: Kim Yun-Tae , Lee Seongwoo , Park Sanghwan , Lee Chang Young
Published: October 2019

Graphene gas sensors functionalized with substituted triphenylene selectively detect DMMP, a simulant of nerve agent, at low ppm level.
Hydrogenation of alkyl-anthraquinone over hydrophobically functionalized Pd/SBA-15 catalysts
Authors: Wang Li , Zhang Yue , Ma Qingqing , Pan Zhiyong , Zong Baoning
Published: October 2019

Enhanced AQ hydrogenation activity by hydrophobic functionalization of Pd/SBA-15 catalyst.
Bioactive compounds from the seeds of Amomum tsaoko Crevost et Lemaire, a Chinese spice as inhibitors of sphingosine kinases, SPHK1/2
Authors: Lee Seulah , Lee Joo Chan , Subedi Lalita , Cho Kyo Hee , Kim Sun Yeou , Park Hyun-Ju , Kim Ki Hyun
Published: October 2019

New bioactive compounds were identified from the seeds of Amomum tsaoko Crevost et Lemaire, a Chinese spice as inhibitors of sphingosine kinases, SPHK1/2.
Insights into the electrochemical processes of rechargeable magnesium–sulfur batteries with a new cathode design
Authors: Vinayan Bhaghavathi P. , Euchner Holger , Zhao-Karger Zhirong , Cambaz Musa Ali , Li Zhenyou , Diemant Thomas , Behm R. Jürgen , Gross Axel , Fichtner Maximilian
Published: October 2019

This work investigates the electrochemical processes in Magnesium/Sulfur rechargeable batteries with a new cathode design by operando Raman and impedance spectroscopy.
2D transition metal dichalcogenide nanomaterials: advances, opportunities, and challenges in multi-functional polymer nanocomposites
Authors: Ahmadi Mojtaba , Zabihi Omid , Jeon Seokwoo , Yoonessi Mitra , Dasari Aravind , Ramakrishna Seeram , Naebe Minoo
Published: October 2019

The functionalized TMD nanolayers have the potential to introduce multi-functionalities into polymer matrices, thus leading to the development of high-performance multi-functional composites/nanocomposites.
Luminescent silver–lithium-zeolite phosphors for near-ultraviolet LED applications
Authors: Baekelant Wouter , Aghakhani Saleh , Fron Eduard , Martin Cristina , Woong-Kim Cheol , Steele Julian A. , De Baerdemaeker Trees , d’Acapito Francesco , Chernysov Dmitry , van der Auweraer Mark , Lievens Peter , Grandjean Didier , Roeffaers Maarten , Hofkens Johan , Coutino-Gonzalez Eduardo
Published: October 2019

The applicability of Ag-exchanged zeolites as efficient phosphors for the development of near ultra-violet primary LEDs is described.
The signalling role of ROS in the regulation of seed germination and dormancy
Authors: Bailly Christophe
Published: October 2019

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are versatile compounds which can have toxic or signalling effects in a wide range living organisms, including seeds. They have been reported to play a pivotal role in the regulation of seed germination and dormancy but their mechanisms of action are still far from being fully understood. In this review, we sum-up the major findings that have been carried out this last decade in this field of research and which altogether shed a new light on the signalling roles of ROS in seed physiology. ROS participate in dormancy release during seed dry storage through the direct oxidation of a subset of biomolecules. During seed imbibition, the controlled generation of ROS is involved in the perception and transduction of environmental conditions that control germination. When these conditions are permissive for germination, ROS levels are maintained at a level which triggers cellular events associated with germination, such as hormone signalling. Here we propose that the spatiotemporal regulation of ROS production acts in concert with hormone signalling to regulate the cellular events involved in cell expansion associated with germination.
The role of ligand-gated conformational changes in enzyme catalysis
Authors: Moreira Cátia , Calixto Ana Rita , Richard John P. , Kamerlin Shina Caroline Lynn
Published: October 2019

Structural and biochemical studies on diverse enzymes have highlighted the importance of ligand-gated conformational changes in enzyme catalysis, where the intrinsic binding energy of the common phosphoryl group of their substrates is used to drive energetically unfavorable conformational changes in catalytic loops, from inactive open to catalytically competent closed conformations. However, computational studies have historically been unable to capture the activating role of these conformational changes. Here, we discuss recent experimental and computational studies, which can remarkably pinpoint the role of ligand-gated conformational changes in enzyme catalysis, even when not modeling the loop dynamics explicitly. Finally, through our joint analyses of these data, we demonstrate how the synergy between theory and experiment is crucial for furthering our understanding of enzyme catalysis.
Adipocyte dedifferentiation in health and diseases
Authors: Song Tongxing , Kuang Shihuan
Published: October 2019

Adipose tissues collectively as an endocrine organ and energy storage are crucial for systemic metabolic homeostasis. The major cell type in the adipose tissue, the adipocytes or fat cells, are remarkably plastic and can increase or decrease their size and number to adapt to changes in systemic or local metabolism. Changes in adipocyte size occur through hypertrophy or atrophy, and changes in cell numbers mainly involve de novo generation of new cells or death of existing cells. Recently, dedifferentiation, whereby a mature adipocyte is reverted to an undifferentiated progenitor-like status, has been reported as a mechanism underlying adipocyte plasticity. Dedifferentiation of mature adipocytes has been observed under both physiological and pathological conditions. This review covers several aspects of adipocyte dedifferentiation, its relevance to adipose tissue function, molecular pathways that drive dedifferentiation, and the potential of therapeutic targeting adipocyte dedifferentiation in human health and metabolic diseases.