bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MUC1 induces acquired chemoresistance by upregulating ABCB1 in EGFR-dependent manner
Authors: Jin Wei , Liao Xiaodong , Lv Yaping , Pang Zhi , Wang Yuming , Li Quanfu , Liao Yahui , Ye Qing , Chen Guoqiang , Zhao Kewen , Huang Lei
Published: August 2017

Chemoresistance contributes to cancer relapse and increased mortality in a variety of cancer types, raising a pressing need to better understand the underlying mechanism. MUC1 is abnormally overexpressed in numerous carcinomas and associated with poor prognosis. However, the functional significance of MUC1 in chemoresistance has not been fully elucidated. Here, we showed that MUC1 expression was considerably induced in cells that had acquired chemoresistance at both transcriptional and post-translational levels. Using gain- and loss-of function approaches, we demonstrated a critical role of MUC1 in induction of drug resistance. Through stimulation of EGFR activation and nuclear translocation, MUC1 increased the expression of ATP-binding cassette transporter B1 (ABCB1). Remarkably, targeted suppression of EGFR or ABCB1 by both shRNAs and inhibitors effectively reversed chemoresistance. Moreover, co-administration of the inhibitors of MUC1–EGFR–ABCB1 with paclitaxel significantly blocked not only tumor growth but also relapse in xenograft mouse model. Our data collectively support a model in which MUC1 induces acquired chemotherapy resistance by upregulating ABCB1 in an EGFR-dependent manner, providing a novel molecular basis of using the EGFR inhibitor in MUC1-positive cancers to prevent chemotherapy resistance.
Upregulation of DACT2 suppresses proliferation and enhances apoptosis of glioma cell via inactivation of YAP signaling pathway
Authors: Tan Ying , Li Qiu-Meng , Huang Ning , Cheng Si , Zhao Guan-Jian , Chen Hong , Chen Song , Tang Zhao-Hua , Zhang Wen-Qian , Huang Qin , Cheng Yuan
Published: August 2017

DACT2, one of the Dact gene family members, was shown to function as a tumor suppressor. However, its function in gliomas remains largely unknown. In this study, we investigated the role of DACT2, underlying molecular mechanisms and its clinical significance in glioma patients. Downexpression of DACT2 in gliomas compared with adjacent normal brain tissues was correlated with glioma grade and poor survival. Cox regression analysis revealed that the DACT2 is an independent prognostic indicator for glioma patients. Overexpression of DACT2 in glioma cells inhibited proliferation, cell cycle and enhanced apoptosis, sensitivity to temozolomide in vitro and suppressed tumor growth in vivo. Whereas knockdown of DACT2 induce opposite reaction. Mechanistically, overexpression of DACT2 resulted in upregulation of important signaling molecules such as p-YAP and p-β-catenin, and prevent YAP translocating into nucleus and sequestering in the cytoplasm to degrade. The study further proved that DACT2 can suppress YAP through Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Collectively, these data indicate that DACT2 has a tumor suppressor function via inactivation of YAP pathway, providing a promising target for the treatment of gliomas.
Long-term consistency in chimpanzee consolation behaviour reflects empathetic personalities
Authors: Webb Christine E. , Romero Teresa , Franks Becca , de Waal Frans B. M.
Published: August 2017

In contrast to a wealth of human studies, little is known about the ontogeny and consistency of empathy-related capacities in other species. Consolation—post-conflict affiliation from uninvolved bystanders to distressed others—is a suggested marker of empathetic concern in non-human animals. Using longitudinal data comprising nearly a decade of observations on over 3000 conflict interactions in 44 chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes), we provide evidence for relatively stable individual differences in consolation behaviour. Across development, individuals consistently differ from one another in this trait, with higher consolatory tendencies predicting better social integration, a sign of social competence. Further, similar to recent results in other ape species, but in contrast to many human self-reported findings, older chimpanzees are less likely to console than are younger individuals. Overall, given the link between consolation and empathy, these findings help elucidate the development of individual socio-cognitive and -emotional abilities in one of our closest relatives.
Tracing heavy metals in ‘swine manure - maggot - chicken’ production chain
Authors: Wang Wanqiang , Zhang Wenjuan , Wang Xiaoping , Lei Chaoliang , Tang Rui , Zhang Feng , Yang Qizhi , Zhu Fen
Published: August 2017

With the development of large-scale livestock farming, manure pollution has drawn much attention. Conversion by insects is a rapid and cost-effective new method for manure management. Swine manure conversion with maggots (Musca domestica larvae) has developed, and the harvested maggots are often used as animal feed. However, the flow of heavy metals from manure to downstream processes cannot be ignored, and therefore, heavy metal content was measured in untreated raw manure, maggot-treated manure, harvested maggots and maggot-eating chickens (chest muscle and liver) to evaluate potential heavy metal risks. The levels of zinc, copper, chromium, selenium, cadmium and lead had significant differences between untreated raw manure and maggot-treated manure. The concentrations of all detected heavy metals, except for cadmium and selenium, in maggots met the limits established by the feed or feed additive standards of many countries. The bioaccumulation factor (BAF) of heavy metals decreased with the increase of the maggot instar, indicating that heavy metals were discharged from the bodies of maggots with the growth of maggots. Also, the contents of overall heavy metals in chickens fed harvested maggots met the standards for food. In conclusion, regarding heavy metals, it is eco-safe to use maggots in manure management.
Direct observation of multiple rotational stacking faults coexisting in freestanding bilayer MoS2
Authors: Li Zuocheng , Yan Xingxu , Tang Zhenkun , Huo Ziyang , Li Guoliang , Jiao Liying , Liu Li-Min , Zhang Miao , Luo Jun , Zhu Jing
Published: August 2017

Electronic properties of two-dimensional (2D) MoS2 semiconductors can be modulated by introducing specific defects. One important type of defect in 2D layered materials is known as rotational stacking fault (RSF), but the coexistence of multiple RSFs with different rotational angles was not directly observed in freestanding 2D MoS2 before. In this report, we demonstrate the coexistence of three RSFs with three different rotational angles in a freestanding bilayer MoS2 sheet as directly observed using an aberration-corrected transmission electron microscope (TEM). Our analyses show that these RSFs originate from cracks and dislocations within the bilayer MoS2. First-principles calculations indicate that RSFs with different rotational angles change the electronic structures of bilayer MoS2 and produce two new symmetries in their bandgaps and offset crystal momentums. Therefore, employing RSFs and their coexistence is a promising route in defect engineering of MoS2 to fabricate suitable devices for electronics, optoelectronics, and energy conversion.
Secondary compound hypothesis revisited: Selected plant secondary metabolites promote bacterial degradation of cis-1,2-dichloroethylene (cDCE)
Authors: Fraraccio Serena , Strejcek Michal , Dolinova Iva , Macek Tomas , Uhlik Ondrej
Published: August 2017

Cis-1,2-dichloroethylene (cDCE), which is a common hazardous compound, often accumulates during incomplete reductive dechlorination of higher chlorinated ethenes (CEs) at contaminated sites. Simple monoaromatics, such as toluene and phenol, have been proven to induce biotransformation of cDCE in microbial communities incapable of cDCE degradation in the absence of other carbon sources. The goal of this microcosm-based laboratory study was to discover non-toxic natural monoaromatic secondary plant metabolites (SPMEs) that could enhance cDCE degradation in a similar manner to toluene and phenol. Eight SPMEs were selected on the basis of their monoaromatic molecular structure and widespread occurrence in nature. The suitability of the SPMEs chosen to support bacterial growth and to promote cDCE degradation was evaluated in aerobic microbial cultures enriched from cDCE-contaminated soil in the presence of each SPME tested and cDCE. Significant cDCE depletions were achieved in cultures enriched on acetophenone, phenethyl alcohol, p-hydroxybenzoic acid and trans-cinnamic acid. 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis of each microbial community revealed ubiquitous enrichment of bacteria affiliated with the genera Cupriavidus, Rhodococcus, Burkholderia, Acinetobacter and Pseudomonas. Our results provide further confirmation of the previously stated secondary compound hypothesis that plant metabolites released into the rhizosphere can trigger biodegradation of environmental pollutants, including cDCE.
The [PSI
+] yeast prion does not wildly affect proteome composition whereas selective pressure exerted on [PSI
+] cells can promote aneuploidy
Authors: Chan Patrick H. W. , Lee Lisa , Kim Erin , Hui Tony , Stoynov Nikolay , Nassar Roy , Moksa Michelle , Cameron Dale M. , Hirst Martin , Gsponer Joerg , Mayor Thibault
Published: August 2017

The yeast Sup35 protein is a subunit of the translation termination factor, and its conversion to the [PSI+] prion state leads to more translational read-through. Although extensive studies have been done on [PSI+], changes at the proteomic level have not been performed exhaustively. We therefore used a SILAC-based quantitative mass spectrometry approach and identified 4187 proteins from both [psi−] and [PSI+] strains. Surprisingly, there was very little difference between the two proteomes under standard growth conditions. We found however that several [PSI+] strains harbored an additional chromosome, such as chromosome I. Albeit, we found no evidence to support that [PSI+] induces chromosomal instability (CIN). Instead we hypothesized that the selective pressure applied during the establishment of [PSI+]-containing strains could lead to a supernumerary chromosome due to the presence of the ade1-14 selective marker for translational read-through. We therefore verified that there was no prevalence of disomy among newly generated [PSI+] strains in absence of strong selection pressure. We also noticed that low amounts of adenine in media could lead to higher levels of mitochondrial DNA in [PSI+] in ade1-14 cells. Our study has important significance for the establishment and manipulation of yeast strains with the Sup35 prion.
Evidence of a reduction in cloud condensation nuclei activity of water-soluble aerosols caused by biogenic emissions in a cool-temperate forest
Authors: Müller Astrid , Miyazaki Yuzo , Tachibana Eri , Kawamura Kimitaka , Hiura Tsutom
Published: August 2017

Biogenic organic aerosols can affect cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) properties, and subsequently impact climate change. Large uncertainties exist in how the difference in the types of terrestrial biogenic sources and the abundance of organics relative to sulfate affect CCN properties. For the submicron water-soluble aerosols collected for two years in a cool-temperate forest in northern Japan, we show that the hygroscopicity parameter κCCN (0.44 ± 0.07) exhibited a distinct seasonal trend with a minimum in autumn (κCCN = 0.32–0.37); these κCCN values were generally larger than that of ambient particles, including water-insoluble fractions. The temporal variability of κCCN was controlled by the water-soluble organic matter (WSOM)-to-sulfate ratio (R2 > 0.60), where the significant reduction of κCCN in autumn was linked to the increased WSOM/sulfate ratio. Positive matrix factorization analysis indicates that α-pinene-derived secondary organic aerosol (SOA) substantially contributed to the WSOM mass (~75%) in autumn, the majority of which was attributable to emissions from litter/soil microbial activity near the forest floor. These findings suggest that WSOM, most likely α-pinene SOA, originated from the forest floor can significantly suppress the aerosol CCN activity in cool-temperate forests, which have implications for predicting climate effects by changes in biogenic emissions in future.
Evaluation of thermodynamics, formation energetics and electronic properties of vacancy defects in CaZrO3
Authors: Alay-e-Abbas Syed Muhammad , Nazir Safdar , Cottenier Stefaan , Shaukat Ali
Published: August 2017

Using first-principles total energy calculations we have evaluated the thermodynamics and the electronic properties of intrinsic vacancy defects in orthorhombic CaZrO3. Charge density calculations and the atoms-in-molecules concept are used to elucidate the changes in electronic properties of CaZrO3 upon the introduction of vacancy defects. We explore the chemical stability and defect formation energies of charge-neutral as well as of charged intrinsic vacancies under various synthesis conditions and also present full and partial Schottky reaction energies. The calculated electronic properties indicate that hole-doped state can be achieved in charge neutral Ca vacancy containing CaZrO3 under oxidation condition, while reduction condition allows to control the electrical conductivity of CaZrO3 depending on the charge state and concentration of oxygen vacancies. The clustering of neutral oxygen vacancies in CaZrO3 is examined as well. This provides useful information for tailoring the electronic properties of this material. We show that intentional incorporation of various forms of intrinsic vacancy defects in CaZrO3 allows to considerably modify its electronic properties, making this material suitable for a wide range of applications.
Acceleration of osteoblast differentiation by a novel osteogenic compound, DMP-PYT, through activation of both the BMP and Wnt pathways
Authors: Bae Su Jung , Kim Hye Joo , Won Hee Yeon , Min Yong Ki , Hwang Eun Sook
Published: August 2017

Osteoblast differentiation is regulated through the successive activation of signaling molecules by a complex interplay of extracellular signals such as bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) and Wnt ligands. Numerous studies have identified natural as well as synthetic compounds with osteogenic activity through the regulation of either BMP/SMADs or the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Here, we attempted to isolate small molecules that concurrently activated both SMADs and β-catenin, which led to the discovery of a novel potent osteogenic compound, DMP-PYT. Upon BMP2 stimulation, DMP-PYT substantially increased osteoblast differentiation featured by enhanced expression of osteoblast-specific genes and accelerated calcification through activation of BMPs expression. DMP-PYT promoted BMP2-induced SMAD1/5/8 phosphorylation and β-catenin expression, the latter in a BMP2-independent manner. DMP-PYT alone enhanced nuclear localization of β-catenin to promote the DNA-binding and transcriptional activity of T-cell factor, thereby resulting in increased osteoblast differentiation in the absence of BMP2. Most importantly, DMP-PYT advanced skeletal development and bone calcification in zebrafish larvae. Conclusively, DMP-PYT strongly stimulated osteoblast differentiation and bone formation in vitro and in vivo by potentiating BMP2-induced activation of SMADs and β-catenin. These results suggest that DMP-PYT may have beneficial effects for preventing and for treating osteoporosis.
Selection of nanobodies with broad neutralizing potential against primary HIV-1 strains using soluble subtype C gp140 envelope trimers
Authors: Koch Kathrin , Kalusche Sarah , Torres Jonathan L. , Stanfield Robyn L. , Danquah Welbeck , Khazanehdari Kamal , von Briesen Hagen , Geertsma Eric R. , Wilson Ian A. , Wernery Ulrich , Koch-Nolte Friedrich , Ward Andrew B. , Dietrich Ursula
Published: August 2017

Broadly neutralizing antibodies (bnAbs) against HIV-1 protect from infection and reduce viral load upon therapeutic applications. However no vaccine was able so far to induce bnAbs demanding their expensive biotechnological production. For clinical applications, nanobodies (VHH) derived from heavy chain only antibodies from Camelidae, may be better suited due to their small size, high solubility/stability and extensive homology to human VH3 genes. Here we selected broadly neutralizing nanobodies by phage display after immunization of dromedaries with different soluble trimeric envelope proteins derived from HIV-1 subtype C. We identified 25 distinct VHH families binding trimeric Env, of which 6 neutralized heterologous primary isolates of various HIV-1 subtypes in a standardized in vitro neutralization assay. The complementary neutralization pattern of two selected VHHs in combination covers 19 out of 21 HIV-1 strains from a standardized panel of epidemiologically relevant HIV-1 subtypes. The CD4 binding site was preferentially targeted by the broadly neutralizing VHHs as determined by competition ELISAs and 3D models of VHH-Env complexes derived from negative stain electron microscopy. The nanobodies identified here are excellent candidates for further preclinical/clinical development for prophylactic and therapeutic applications due to their potency and their complementary neutralization patterns covering the majority of epidemiologically relevant HIV-1 subtypes.
Self-assembly of ternary hollow microspheres with strong wideband microwave absorption and controllable microwave absorption properties
Authors: Zeng Qiang , Chen Ping , Yu Qi , Chu Hai-rong , Xiong Xu-hai , Xu Dong-wei , Wang Qi
Published: August 2017

In this study, we report a simple and efficient two-step method consisting of water-in-oil (W/O) emulsion technique and subsequent annealing process for synthesizing the hollow reduced graphene oxide microspheres embedded with Co nanoparticles (Air@rGO€Co). The microspheres showed good electromagnetic properties because of the coexistence of magnetic loss and dielectric loss to microwaves. The minimum reflection loss (RLmin) value of S1.5 reaches −68.1 dB at 13.8 GHz with a thickness of 2.2 mm, and the absorption bandwidth (lower than −10 dB) is 7.1 GHz covering from 10.9 GHz to 18.0 GHz. More interestingly, we can easily controll the microwave absorbing properties of the microspheres by changing the ratio of the two components in the composites. The excellent electromagnetic match at the corresponding resonance peaks for dielectric and magnetic loss play an important role in improving microwave absorption property. Our study provides a good potential method for preparation of lightweight microwave absorbing materials.
Re-characterization of the Glomerulopathy in CD2AP Deficient Mice by High-Resolution Helium Ion Scanning Microscopy
Authors: Tsuji Kenji , Păunescu Teodor G. , Suleiman Hani , Xie Dongping , Mamuya Fahmy A. , Miner Jeffrey H. , Lu Hua A. Jenny
Published: August 2017

Helium ion scanning microscopy (HIM) is a novel technology that directly visualizes the cell surface ultrastructure without surface coating. Despite its very high resolution, it has not been applied extensively to study biological or pathology samples. Here we report the application of this powerful technology to examine the three-dimensional ultrastructural characteristics of proteinuric glomerulopathy in mice with CD2-associated protein (CD2AP) deficiency. HIM revealed the serial alteration of glomerular features including effacement and disorganization of the slit diaphragm, followed by foot process disappearance, flattening and fusion of major processes, and eventual transformation into a podocyte sheet as the disease progressed. The number and size of the filtration slit pores decreased. Strikingly, numerous “bleb” shaped microprojections were observed extending from podocyte processes and cell body, indicating significant membrane dynamics accompanying CD2AP deficiency. Visualizing the glomerular endothelium and podocyte-endothelium interface revealed the presence of endothelial damage, and disrupted podocyte and endothelial integrity in 6 week-old Cd2ap-KO mice. We used the HIM technology to investigate at nanometer scale resolution the ultrastructural alterations of the glomerular filtration apparatus in mice lacking the critical slit diaphragm-associated protein CD2AP, highlighting the great potential of HIM to provide new insights into the biology and (patho)physiology of glomerular diseases.
Novel approach to determination of sorption in pervaporation process: a case study of isopropanol dehydration by polyamidoimideurea membranes
Authors: Pulyalina A. , Polotskaya G. , Goikhman M. , Podeshvo I. , Chernitsa B. , Kocherbitov V. , Toikka A.
Published: August 2017

Development of novel membranes with optimal performance, selectivity, and stability is a key research area in membrane technology. In the present work aromatic polyamidoimideurea (PAIU) is synthesized and tested as promising membrane material for separation of water and alcohol mixtures. The PAIU membrane structure, density, and transport properties are studied. Mass transfer of water and isopropanol through the membrane is estimated by sorption and pervaporation tests to determine equilibrium sorption degree, diffusion coefficients, flux through the membrane, and separation factor. Two techniques of sorption study from liquid and from vapor phases are used as novel approach to experimental study of mass transfer. The vapor sorption calorimetry permits to analyze the behavior of the polymer material in sorption process. In pervaporation of water–isopropanol mixture, almost pure water mainly permeates through PAIU membrane. To improve the performance, a double layer membrane containing a thin PAIU layer on the surface of porous poly(phenylene oxide) support is developed. The double layer membrane is extremely effective in dehydration of isopropanol.
On mechanism behind UV-A light enhanced antibacterial activity of gallic acid and propyl gallate against Escherichia coli O157:H7
Authors: Wang Qingyang , de Oliveira Erick Falcao , Alborzi Solmaz , Bastarrachea Luis J. , Tikekar Rohan V.
Published: August 2017

Possible mechanisms behind the enhanced antimicrobial activity of gallic acid (GA) and its ester propyl gallate (PG) in the presence of UV-A light against Escherichia coli O157:H7 were investigated. GA by itself is a mild antimicrobial and has a pro-oxidant ability. We found that the presence of UV-A light increases the uptake of GA by the bacteria. Once GA is internalized, the interaction between GA and UV-A induces intracellular ROS formation, leading to oxidative damage. Concurrently, GA + UV-A also inhibits the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), magnifying the imbalance of redox status of E. coli O157:H7. In addition to ROS induced damage, UV-A light and GA also cause injury to the cell membrane of E. coli O157:H7. UV-A exposed PG caused oxidative damage to the cell and significantly higher damage to the cell membrane than GA + UV-A treatment, explaining its higher effectiveness than GA + UV-A treatment. The findings presented here may be useful in developing new antimicrobial sanitation technologies for food and pharmaceutical industries.
Field-based species identification of closely-related plants using real-time nanopore sequencing
Authors: Parker Joe , Helmstetter Andrew J. , Devey Dion , Wilkinson Tim , Papadopulos Alexander S. T.
Published: August 2017

Advances in DNA sequencing and informatics have revolutionised biology over the past four decades, but technological limitations have left many applications unexplored. Recently, portable, real-time, nanopore sequencing (RTnS) has become available. This offers opportunities to rapidly collect and analyse genomic data anywhere. However, generation of datasets from large, complex genomes has been constrained to laboratories. The portability and long DNA sequences of RTnS offer great potential for field-based species identification, but the feasibility and accuracy of these technologies for this purpose have not been assessed. Here, we show that a field-based RTnS analysis of closely-related plant species (Arabidopsisspp.) has many advantages over laboratory-based high-throughput sequencing (HTS) methods for species level identification and phylogenomics. Samples were collected and sequenced in a single day by RTnS using a portable, “al fresco” laboratory. Our analyses demonstrate that correctly identifying unknown reads from matches to a reference database with RTnS reads enables rapid and confident species identification. Individually annotated RTnS reads can be used to infer the evolutionary relationships ofA.thaliana. Furthermore, hybrid genome assembly with RTnS and HTS reads substantially improved upon a genome assembled from HTS reads alone. Field-based RTnS makes real-time, rapid specimen identification and genome wide analyses possible.
Formation of side discharges in dielectric barrier discharge
Authors: Fan Weili , Sheng Zhengming , Dong Lifang , Liu Fucheng , Zhong Xiaoxia , Cui Yiqian , Hao Fang , Du Tian
Published: August 2017

Pattern formation and self-organization are fascinating phenomena found widely in nature and in laboratory environment such as dielectric barrier discharge (DBD). Significant efforts have been made to explain the dynamic pattern formation. In DBD, the formation of side discharges is generally supposed to be a key factor responsible for diversity and spatial-temporal symmetry breaking of pattern formation. However, it is still not clear how such discharges are induced. Here, we present the observations of side discharges in a filamentary dielectric barrier discharge from both numerical simulations and experiments. Two-dimensional particle-in-cell simulations with Monte Carlo collisions included have revealed formation dynamics of side discharges, suggesting that transverse plasma diffusion and ion induced secondary electron emission play critical roles. Moreover, a novel honeycomb superlattice pattern is observed in experiment, where the side discharges associated with honeycomb superlattice are verified by utilizing a high speed camera. Experimental observations and numerical simulation are in good agreement.
Influence of film mulching on soil microbial community in a rainfed region of northeastern China
Authors: Dong Wenyi , Si Pengfei , Liu Enke , Yan Changrong , Zhang Zhe , Zhang Yanqing
Published: August 2017

Information about the effect of plastic film mulching (PFM) on the soil microbial communities of rainfed regions remains scarce. In the present study, Illumina Hiseq sequencer was employed to compare the soil bacterial and fungal communities under three treatments: no mulching (NM), spring mulching (SM) and autumn mulching (AM) in two layers (0–10 and, 10–20 cm). Our results demonstrated that the plastic film mulching (PFM) application had positive effects on soil physicochemical properties as compared to no-mulching (NM): higher soil temperature (ST), greater soil moisture content (SMC) and better soil nutrients. Moreover, mulching application (especially AM) caused a significant increase of bacterial and fungal richness and diversity and played important roles in shaping microbial community composition. These effects were mainly explained by the ST and SMC induced by the PFM application. The positive effects of AM and SM on species abundances were very similar, while the AM harbored relatively more beneficial microbial taxa than the SM, e.g., taxa related to higher degrading capacity and nutrient cycling. According to the overall effects of AM application on ST, SMC, soil nutrients and microbial diversity, AM is recommended during maize cultivation in rain-fed region of northeast China.
Tactical tuning of the surface and interfacial properties of graphene: A Versatile and rational electrochemical approach
Authors: Vusa Chiranjeevi Srinivasa Rao , Venkatesan Manju , K Aneesh , Berchmans Sheela , Arumugam Palaniappan
Published: August 2017

Designing a versatile and rational method for the tactical tuning of the surface and interfacial properties of graphene is an essential yet challenging task of many scientific areas including health care, sensors, energy, and the environment. A method was designed herein to tackle the challenge and tune the surface and interfacial properties of graphene using a simple electrochemical tethering of arylamines that provides diverse reactive end groups to graphene. This method resulted in the preparation of graphenes with thiol, hydroxy, amine, carboxyl, and sulfonate surface functionalities respectively. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and cyclic voltammetry were used to study the chemical, morphological, and electrochemical properties of the modified graphenes. The results show the promising scope of the reported method towards the tactical tuning of the surface and interfacial properties of graphene. Also, this method can give fundamental insights of the surface tuning of graphene and its structurally similar materials. Hence, this approach can be used to advantageously tune the surface properties of the other structurally similar nanocarbons and their hybrid materials to make them potential candidates for many applications.
Self-sorted Oligophenylvinylene and Perylene Bisimide Hydrogels
Authors: Castilla Ana M. , Draper Emily R. , Nolan Michael C. , Brasnett Christopher , Seddon Annela , Mears Laura L. E. , Cowieson Nathan , Adams Dave J.
Published: August 2017

We describe two component hydrogels with networks composed of self-sorted fibres. The component gelators are based on 1,4-distyrylbenzene (OPV3) and perylene bisimide (PBI) units. Self-sorted gels can be formed by a slow decrease in pH, which leads to sequential assembly. We demonstrate self-sorting by NMR, rheology and small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS). Photoconductive xerogels can be prepared by drying these gels. The wavelength response of the xerogel is different to that of the PBI alone.
Genomic Characteristics of Gender Dysphoria Patients and Identification of Rare Mutations in RYR3 Gene
Authors: Yang Fu , Zhu Xiao-hai , Zhang Qing , Sun Ning-xia , Ji Yi-xuan , Ma Jin-zhao , Xiao Bang , Ding Hai-xia , Sun Shu-han , Li Wen
Published: August 2017

Gender dysphoria (GD) is characterized by an incongruence between the gender assigned at birth and the gender with which one identifies. The biological mechanisms of GD are unclear. While common genetic variants are associated with GD, positive findings have not always been replicated. To explore the role of rare variants in GD susceptibility within the Han Chinese population, whole-genome sequencing of 9 Han female-to-male transsexuals (FtMs) and whole-exome sequencing of 4 Han male-to-female transsexuals (MtFs) were analyzed using a pathway burden analysis in which variants are first collapsed at the gene level and then by Gene Ontology terms. Novel nonsynonymous variants in ion transport genes were significantly enriched in FtMs (P- value, 2.41E-10; Fold enrichment, 2.8) and MtFs (P- value, 1.04E-04; Fold enrichment, 2.3). Gene burden analysis comparing 13 GD cases and 100 controls implicated RYR3, with three heterozygous damaging mutations in unrelated FtMs and zero in controls (P = 0.001). Importantly, protein structure modeling of the RYR3 mutations indicated that the R1518H mutation made a large structural change in the RYR3 protein. Overall, our results provide information about the genetic basis of GD.
Water sub-diffusion in membranes for fuel cells
Authors: Berrod Quentin , Hanot Samuel , Guillermo Armel , Mossa Stefano , Lyonnard Sandrine
Published: August 2017

We investigate the dynamics of water confined in soft ionic nano-assemblies, an issue critical for a general understanding of the multi-scale structure-function interplay in advanced materials. We focus in particular on hydrated perfluoro-sulfonic acid compounds employed as electrolytes in fuel cells. These materials form phase-separated morphologies that show outstanding proton-conducting properties, directly related to the state and dynamics of the absorbed water. We have quantified water motion and ion transport by combining Quasi Elastic Neutron Scattering, Pulsed Field Gradient Nuclear Magnetic Resonance, and Molecular Dynamics computer simulation. Effective water and ion diffusion coefficients have been determined together with their variation upon hydration at the relevant atomic, nanoscopic and macroscopic scales, providing a complete picture of transport. We demonstrate that confinement at the nanoscale and direct interaction with the charged interfaces produce anomalous sub-diffusion, due to a heterogeneous space-dependent dynamics within the ionic nanochannels. This is irrespective of the details of the chemistry of the hydrophobic confining matrix, confirming the statistical significance of our conclusions. Our findings turn out to indicate interesting connections and possibilities of cross-fertilization with other domains, including biophysics. They also establish fruitful correspondences with advanced topics in statistical mechanics, resulting in new possibilities for the analysis of Neutron scattering data.
Functional characterization of PBP1 gene in Helicoverpa armigera (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) by using the CRISPR/Cas9 system
Authors: Ye Zhan-Feng , Liu Xiao-Long , Han Qi , Liao Hui , Dong Xiao-Tong , Zhu Guan-Heng , Dong Shuang-Lin
Published: August 2017

Pheromone binding proteins (PBPs) are thought to play crucial roles in perception of the sex pheromones particularly in noctuid moths, but this is rarely in vivo evidenced due to lacking an effective technique. Here, we reported an in vivo functional study of PBP1 in the important lepidopteran pest Helicoverpa armigera (HarmPBP1), by using the CRISPR/Cas9 system. Efficient and heritable mutagenesis was achieved by egg injection of mixture of Cas9-mRNA and HarmPBP1-sgRNA. The TA cloning and sequencing revealed various insertion and/or deletion (indel) mutations at the target site. Among those, one mutation resulted in a premature stop codon at the target site, which led to a highly truncated protein with only 10 amino acids. The HarmPBP1 with this mutation would completely loss its function, and thus was used to select the homozygous mutant insects for functional analysis. The electroantennogram recording showed that the mutant male adults displayed severely impaired responses to all three sex pheromone components (Z11-16:Ald, Z9-16:Ald and Z9-14:Ald). Our study provides the first in vivo evidence that HarmPBP1 plays important role in perception of female sex pheromones, and also an effective methodology for using CRISPR/Cas9 system in functional genetic study in H. armigera as well as other insects.
Diethylstilbestrol administration inhibits theca cell androgen and granulosa cell estrogen production in immature rat ovary
Authors: Imamichi Yoshitaka , Sekiguchi Toshio , Kitano Takeshi , Kajitani Takashi , Okada Reiko , Inaoka Yoshihiko , Miyamoto Kaoru , Uwada Junsuke , Takahashi Satoru , Nemoto Takahiro , Mano Asuka , Khan Md Rafiqul Islam , Islam Md Tariqul , Yuhki Koh-ichi , Kashiwagi Hitoshi , Ushikubi Fumitaka , Suzuki Nobuo , Taniguchi Takanobu , Yazawa Takashi
Published: August 2017

Diethylstilbestrol (DES), a strong estrogenic compound, is well-known to affect the reproductive system. In this study, we investigated the effects of DES administration on gonadotropin levels and ovarian steroidogenesis in prepubertal rats. DES treatment acutely reduced serum LH levels, followed by a reduction in the expression of various steroidogenesis-related genes in theca cells. Serum FSH levels were almost unaffected by DES-treatment, even though Cyp19a1 expression was markedly reduced. Serum progesterone, testosterone and estradiol levels were also declined at this time. LH levels recovered from 12 h after DES-treatment and gradually increased until 96 h with a reduction of ERα expression observed in the pituitary. Steroidogenesis-related genes were also up-regulated during this time, except for Cyp17a1 and Cyp19a1. Consistent with observed gene expression pattern, serum testosterone and estradiol concentrations were maintained at lower levels, even though progesterone levels recovered. DES-treatment induced the inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in granulosa cells, and a nitric oxide generator markedly repressed Cyp19a1 expression in cultured granulosa cells. These results indicate that DES inhibits thecal androgen production via suppression of pituitary LH secretion and ovarian Cyp17a1 expression. In addition, DES represses Cyp19a1 expression by inducing iNOS gene expression for continuous inhibition of estrogen production in granulosa cells.
Direct comparison of PET/CT and MRI to predict the pathological response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy in breast cancer: a meta-analysis
Authors: Chen Lihua , Yang Qifang , Bao Jing , Liu Daihong , Huang Xuequan , Wang Jian
Published: August 2017

Both PET/CT and breast MRI are used to assess pathological complete response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) in patients with breast cancer. The aim is to compare the utility of PET/CT and breast MRI by using head-to-head comparative studies. Literature databases were searched prior to July 2016. Eleven studies with a total of 527 patients were included. For PET/CT, the pooled SEN was 0.87 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.71–0.95) and SPE was 0.85 (95% CI: 0.70–0.93). For MRI, the pooled SEN was 0.79 (95% CI: 0.68–0.87) and SPE was 0.82 (95% CI: 0.72–0.89). In the conventional contrast enhanced (CE)-MRI subgroup, PET/CT outperformed conventional CE-MRI with a higher pooled sensitivity (0.88 (95% CI: 0.71, 0.95) vs. 0.74 (95% CI: 0.60, 0.85), P = 0.018). In the early evaluation subgroup, PET/CT was superior to MRI with a notable higher pooled specificity (0.94 (95% CI: 0.78, 0.98) vs. 0.83 (95% CI: 0.81, 0.87), P = 0.015). The diagnostic performance of MRI is similar to that of PET/CT for the assessment of breast cancer response to NAC. However, PET/CT is more sensitive than conventional CE-MRI and more specific if the second imaging scan is performed before 3 cycles of NAC.
Development of an SSR-based genetic map in sesame and identification of quantitative trait loci associated with charcoal rot resistance
Authors: Wang Linhai , Zhang Yanxin , Zhu Xiaodong , Zhu Xiaofeng , Li Donghua , Zhang Xianmei , Gao Yuan , Xiao Guobin , Wei Xin , zhang Xiurong
Published: August 2017

Sesame is prized for its oil. Genetic improvement of sesame can be enhanced through marker-assisted breeding. However, few simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers and SSR-based genetic maps were available in sesame. In this study, 7,357 SSR markers were developed from the sesame genome and transcriptomes, and a genetic map was constructed by generating 424 novel polymorphic markers and using a cross population with 548 recombinant inbred lines (RIL). The genetic map had 13 linkage groups, equalling the number of sesame chromosomes. The linkage groups ranged in size from 113.6 to 179.9 centimorgans (cM), with a mean value of 143.8 cM over a total length of 1869.8 cM. Fourteen quantitative trait loci (QTL) for sesame charcoal rot disease resistance were detected, with contribution rates of 3–14.16% in four field environments; ~60% of the QTL were located within 5 cM at 95% confidence interval. The QTL with the highest phenotype contribution rate (qCRR12.2) and those detected in different environments (qCRR8.2 and qCRR8.3) were used to predict candidate disease response genes. The new SSR-based genetic map and 14 novel QTLs for charcoal rot disease resistance will facilitate the mapping of agronomic traits and marker-assisted selection breeding in sesame.
Mycoplasma pneumoniae–Associated Bronchiolitis Obliterans Following Acute Bronchiolitis
Authors: Zhao Chengsong , Liu Jinrong , Yang Haiming , Xiang Li , Zhao Shunying
Published: August 2017

The characteristics of Mycoplasma pneumonia (M. pneumoniae)-associated bronchiolitis obliterans (BO) are not well known. We retrospectively reviewed 17 patients with M. pneumoniae–associated BO. All patients had M. pneumoniae–associated acute bronchiolitis prior to the development of BO. In the acute bronchiolitis stage, all patients had fever and cough; six patients also had wheezing and dyspnoea. BO was diagnosed approximately 1.5–8 months later based on clinical manifestations and chest high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) findings. All patients presented with wheezing and/or dyspnoea at the time of diagnosis of BO. HRCT findings included mosaic attenuation, pronounced air trapping, central bronchiectasis and emphysema, according to disease severity. Lung function tests revealed mild to severe airway obstruction. Fourteen of 17 patients had a greater than 12% increase in forced expiratory volume in 1 second values after taking salbutamol. All patients had positive allergy test results and family or personal history of atopic disease. Four patients had a history of asthma before M. pneumonia bronchiolitis. Asthma was diagnosed before, at the time of or after the diagnosis of BO in 11 cases. M. pneumoniae–associated BO may therefore develop following M. pneumonia bronchiolitis and overlap with asthma.
Compulsive methamphetamine taking in the presence of punishment is associated with increased oxytocin expression in the nucleus accumbens of rats
Authors: Krasnova Irina N. , Gerra Maria Carla , Walther Donna , Jayanthi Subramaniam , Ladenheim Bruce , McCoy Michael T. , Brannock Christie , Cadet Jean Lud
Published: August 2017

Methamphetamine addiction is mimicked in rats that self-administer the drug. However, these self-administration (SA) models do not include adverse consequences that are necessary to reach a diagnosis of addiction in humans. Herein, we measured genome-wide transcriptional consequences of methamphetamine SA and footshocks in the rat brain. We trained rats to self-administer methamphetamine for 20 days. Thereafter, lever-presses for methamphetamine were punished by mild footshocks for 5 days. Response-contingent punishment significantly reduced methamphetamine taking in some rats (shock-sensitive, SS) but not in others (shock-resistant, SR). Rats also underwent extinction test at one day and 30 days after the last shock session. Rats were euthanized one day after the second extinction test and the nucleus accumbens (NAc) and dorsal striatum were collected to measure gene expression with microarray analysis. In the NAc, there were changes in the expression of 13 genes in the SRvsControl and 9 genes in the SRvsSS comparison. In the striatum, there were 9 (6 up, 3 down) affected genes in the SRvsSS comparison. Among the upregulated genes was oxytocin in the NAc and CARTpt in the striatum of SR rats. These observations support a regional role of neuropeptides in the brain after a long withdrawal interval when animals show incubation of methamphetamine craving.
One-Pot in Situ Hydrothermal Growth of BiVO4/Ag/rGO Hybrid Architectures for Solar Water Splitting and Environmental Remediation
Authors: Patil Santosh S. , Mali Mukund G. , Hassan Mostafa Afifi , Patil Deepak R. , Kolekar Sanjay S. , Ryu Sang-Wan
Published: August 2017

BiVO4 is ubiquitously known for its potential use as photoanode for PEC-WS due to its well-suited band structure; nevertheless, it suffers from the major drawback of a slow electron hole separation and transportation. We have demonstrated the one-pot synthesis of BiVO4/Ag/rGO hybrid photoanodes on a fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO)-coated glass substrate using a facile and cost-effective hydrothermal method. The structural, morphological, and optical properties were extensively examined, confirming the formation of hybrid heterostructures. Ternary BiVO4/Ag/rGO hybrid photoanode electrode showed enhanced PEC performance with photocurrent densities (J
ph
) of ~2.25 and 5 mA/cm2 for the water and sulfate oxidation, respectively. In addition, the BiVO4/Ag/rGO hybrid photoanode can convert up to 3.5% of the illuminating light into photocurrent, and exhibits a 0.9% solar-to-hydrogen conversion efficiency. Similarly, the photocatalytic methylene blue (MB) degradation afforded the highest degradation rate constant value (k = 1.03 × 10−2 min−1) for the BiVO4/Ag/rGO hybrid sample. It is noteworthy that the PEC/photocatalytic performance of BiVO4/Ag/rGO hybrid architectures is markedly more significant than that of the pristine BiVO4 sample. The enhanced PEC/photocatalytic performance of the synthesized BiVO4/Ag/rGO hybrid sample can be attributed to the combined effects of strong visible light absorption, improved charge separation-transportation and excellent surface properties.
Cardiac injury of the newborn mammalian heart accelerates cardiomyocyte terminal differentiation
Authors: Zebrowski David C. , Jensen Charlotte H. , Becker Robert , Ferrazzi Fulvia , Baun Christina , Hvidsten Svend , Sheikh Søren P. , Polizzotti Brian D. , Andersen Ditte C. , Engel Felix B.
Published: August 2017

After birth cardiomyocytes undergo terminal differentiation, characterized by binucleation and centrosome disassembly, rendering the heart unable to regenerate. Yet, it has been suggested that newborn mammals regenerate their hearts after apical resection by cardiomyocyte proliferation. Thus, we tested the hypothesis that apical resection either inhibits, delays, or reverses cardiomyocyte centrosome disassembly and binucleation. Our data show that apical resection rather transiently accelerates centrosome disassembly as well as the rate of binucleation. Consistent with the nearly 2-fold increased rate of binucleation there was a nearly 2-fold increase in the number of cardiomyocytes in mitosis indicating that the majority of injury-induced cardiomyocyte cell cycle activity results in binucleation, not proliferation. Concurrently, cardiomyocytes undergoing cytokinesis from embryonic hearts exhibited midbody formation consistent with successful abscission, whereas those from 3 day-old cardiomyocytes after apical resection exhibited midbody formation consistent with abscission failure. Lastly, injured hearts failed to fully regenerate as evidenced by persistent scarring and reduced wall motion. Collectively, these data suggest that should a regenerative program exist in the newborn mammalian heart, it is quickly curtailed by developmental mechanisms that render cardiomyocytes post-mitotic.
Suppression of GRK2 expression reduces endothelial dysfunction by restoring glucose homeostasis
Authors: Taguchi Kumiko , Hida Mari , Hasegawa Mami , Narimatsu Haruka , Matsumoto Takayuki , Kobayashi Tsuneo
Published: August 2017

Despite the associations between diabetic complications and vascular endothelial dysfunction, a direct therapeutic method targeting endothelial dysfunction remains poorly characterized. We have previously shown that chemical inhibition of G-protein-coupled receptor kinase 2 (GRK2) slightly enhances insulin sensitivity and reduces endothelial dysfunction in type 2 diabetic mice. In this study, we identified GRK2 as a novel therapeutic target of diabetic endothelial dysfunction and investigated the effect on diabetic endothelial dysfunction through the systemic administration of GRK2 siRNA using a hydrodynamic-based procedure, resulting in suppression of increased GRK2 protein levels in the liver. Suppressed GRK2 levels in the liver markedly improved glucose homeostasis, as well as improved the impaired endothelial Akt/eNOS-dependent signal activation (insulin-stimulated phosphorylation of Akt and eNOS) and vascular responses (clonidine-induced and insulin-induced endothelial-dependent relaxation response and phenylephrine-induced contractile response) in type 2 diabetic aortas. Interestingly, insulin-stimulated Akt/eNOS signaling was increased only by normalizing the glucose concentration in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) with GRK2 overexpression, suggesting of an important role of hepatic GRK2. Our results clarified the relationship among hepatic GRK2, glucose homeostasis, and vascular endothelial function. Liver-targeting GRK2 siRNA delivery represents a novel therapeutic tool to restore glucose homeostasis and reduce endothelial dysfunction.