bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rotating robots move collectively and self-organize
Authors: Scholz Christian , Engel Michael , Pöschel Thorsten
Published: February 2018

Biological organisms and artificial active particles self-organize into swarms and patterns. Open questions concern the design of emergent phenomena by choosing appropriate forms of activity and particle interactions. A particularly simple and versatile system are 3D-printed robots on a vibrating table that can perform self-propelled and self-spinning motion. Here we study a mixture of minimalistic clockwise and counter-clockwise rotating robots, called rotors. Our experiments show that rotors move collectively and exhibit super-diffusive interfacial motion and phase separate via spinodal decomposition. On long time scales, confinement favors symmetric demixing patterns. By mapping rotor motion on a Langevin equation with a constant driving torque and by comparison with computer simulations, we demonstrate that our macroscopic system is a form of active soft matter.
The effects of currents and potentials on the selectivities of copper toward carbon dioxide electroreduction
Authors: Ren Dan , Fong Jinhuan , Yeo Boon Siang
Published: February 2018

Copper electrodes have been shown to be selective toward the electroreduction of carbon dioxide to ethylene, carbon monoxide, or formate. However, the underlying causes of their activities, which have been attributed to a rise in local pH near the surface of the electrode, presence of atomic-scale defects, and/or residual oxygen atoms in the catalysts, etc., have not been generally agreed on. Here, we perform a study of carbon dioxide reduction on four copper catalysts from −0.45 to −1.30 V vs. reversible hydrogen electrode. The selectivities exhibited by 20 previously reported copper catalysts are also analyzed. We demonstrate that the selectivity of carbon dioxide reduction is greatly affected by the applied potentials and currents, regardless of the starting condition of copper catalysts. This study shows that optimization of the current densities at the appropriate potential windows is critical for designing highly selective copper catalysts.
Wing bone geometry reveals active flight in Archaeopteryx
Authors: Voeten Dennis F. A. E. , Cubo Jorge , de Margerie Emmanuel , Röper Martin , Beyrand Vincent , Bureš Stanislav , Tafforeau Paul , Sanchez Sophie
Published: February 2018

Archaeopteryxis an iconic fossil taxon with feathered wings from the Late Jurassic of Germany that occupies a crucial position for understanding the early evolution of avian flight. After over 150 years of study, its mosaic anatomy unifying characters of both non-flying dinosaurs and flying birds has remained challenging to interpret in a locomotory context. Here, we compare new data from threeArchaeopteryxspecimens obtained through phase-contrast synchrotron microtomography to a representative sample of archosaurs employing a diverse array of locomotory strategies. Our analyses reveal that the architecture ofArchaeopteryx’s wing bones consistently exhibits a combination of cross-sectional geometric properties uniquely shared with volant birds, particularly those occasionally utilising short-distance flapping. We therefore interpret thatArchaeopteryxactively employed wing flapping to take to the air through a more anterodorsally posteroventrally oriented flight stroke than used by modern birds. This unexpected outcome implies that avian powered flight must have originated before the latest Jurassic.
DNA origami scaffold for studying intrinsically disordered proteins of the nuclear pore complex
Authors: Ketterer Philip , Ananth Adithya N. , Laman Trip Diederik S. , Mishra Ankur , Bertosin Eva , Ganji Mahipal , van der Torre Jaco , Onck Patrick , Dietz Hendrik , Dekker Cees
Published: February 2018

The nuclear pore complex (NPC) is the gatekeeper for nuclear transport in eukaryotic cells. A key component of the NPC is the central shaft lined with intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) known as FG-Nups, which control the selective molecular traffic. Here, we present an approach to realize artificial NPC mimics that allows controlling the type and copy number of FG-Nups. We constructed 34 nm-wide 3D DNA origami rings and attached different numbers of NSP1, a model yeast FG-Nup, or NSP1-S, a hydrophilic mutant. Using (cryo) electron microscopy, we find that NSP1 forms denser cohesive networks inside the ring compared to NSP1-S. Consistent with this, the measured ionic conductance is lower for NSP1 than for NSP1-S. Molecular dynamics simulations reveal spatially varying protein densities and conductances in good agreement with the experiments. Our technique provides an experimental platform for deciphering the collective behavior of IDPs with full control of their type and position.
Atomic visualization of a non-equilibrium sodiation pathway in copper sulfide
Authors: Park Jae Yeol , Kim Sung Joo , Chang Joon Ha , Seo Hyeon Kook , Lee Jeong Yong , Yuk Jong Min
Published: February 2018

Sodium ion batteries have been considered a promising alternative to lithium ion batteries for large-scale energy storage owing to their low cost and high natural abundance. However, the commercialization of this device is hindered by the lack of suitable anodes with an optimized morphology that ensure high capacity and cycling stability of a battery. Here, we not only demonstrate that copper sulfide nanoplates exhibit close-to-theoretical capacity (~560 mAh g–1) and long-term cyclability, but also reveal that their sodiation follows a non-equilibrium reaction route, which involves successive crystallographic tuning. By employing in situ transmission electron microscopy, we examine the atomic structures of four distinct sodiation phases of copper sulfide nanoplates including a metastable phase and discover that the discharge profile of copper sulfide directly reflects the observed phase evolutions. Our work provides detailed insight into the sodiation process of the high-performance intercalation–conversion anode material.
Far-field probing of leaky topological states in all-dielectric metasurfaces
Authors: Gorlach Maxim A. , Ni Xiang , Smirnova Daria A. , Korobkin Dmitry , Zhirihin Dmitry , Slobozhanyuk Alexey P. , Belov Pavel A. , Alù Andrea , Khanikaev Alexander B.
Published: February 2018

Topological phase transitions in condensed matter systems give rise to exotic states of matter such as topological insulators, superconductors, and superfluids. Photonic topological systems open a whole new realm of research and technological opportunities, exhibiting a number of important distinctions from their condensed matter counterparts. Photonic modes can leak into free space, which makes it possible to probe topological photonic phases by spectroscopic means via Fano resonances. Based on this idea, we develop a technique to retrieve the topological properties of all-dielectric metasurfaces from the measured far-field scattering characteristics. Collected angle-resolved spectra provide the momentum-dependent frequencies and lifetimes of the photonic modes that enable the retrieval of the effective Hamiltonian and extraction of the topological invariant. Our results demonstrate how the topological states of open non-Hermitian systems can be explored via far-field measurements, thus paving a way to the design of metasurfaces with unique scattering characteristics controlled via topological effects.
Nfat/calcineurin signaling promotes oligodendrocyte differentiation and myelination by transcription factor network tuning
Authors: Weider Matthias , Starost Laura Julia , Groll Katharina , Küspert Melanie , Sock Elisabeth , Wedel Miriam , Fröb Franziska , Schmitt Christian , Baroti Tina , Hartwig Anna C. , Hillgärtner Simone , Piefke Sandra , Fadler Tanja , Ehrlich Marc , Ehlert Corinna , Stehling Martin , Albrecht Stefanie , Jabali Ammar , Schöler Hans R. , Winkler Jürgen , Kuhlmann Tanja , Wegner Michael
Published: February 2018

Oligodendrocytes produce myelin for rapid transmission and saltatory conduction of action potentials in the vertebrate central nervous system. Activation of the myelination program requires several transcription factors including Sox10, Olig2, and Nkx2.2. Functional interactions among them are poorly understood and important components of the regulatory network are still unknown. Here, we identify Nfat proteins as Sox10 targets and regulators of oligodendroglial differentiation in rodents and humans. Overall levels and nuclear fraction increase during differentiation. Inhibition of Nfat activity impedes oligodendrocyte differentiation in vitro and in vivo. On a molecular level, Nfat proteins cooperate with Sox10 to relieve reciprocal repression of Olig2 and Nkx2.2 as precondition for oligodendroglial differentiation and myelination. As Nfat activity depends on calcium-dependent activation of calcineurin signaling, regulatory network and oligodendroglial differentiation become sensitive to calcium signals. NFAT proteins are also detected in human oligodendrocytes, downregulated in active multiple sclerosis lesions and thus likely relevant in demyelinating disease.
MT4-MMP deficiency increases patrolling monocyte recruitment to early lesions and accelerates atherosclerosis
Authors: Clemente Cristina , Rius Cristina , Alonso-Herranz Laura , Martín-Alonso Mara , Pollán Ángela , Camafeita Emilio , Martínez Fernando , Mota Rubén A. , Núñez Vanessa , Rodríguez Cristina , Seiki Motoharu , Martínez-González José , Andrés Vicente , Ricote Mercedes , Arroyo Alicia G.
Published: February 2018

Matrix metalloproteinases are involved in vascular remodeling. Little is known about their immune regulatory role in atherosclerosis. Here we show that mice deficient for MT4-MMP have increased adherence of macrophages to inflamed peritonea, and larger lipid deposits and macrophage burden in atherosclerotic plaques. We also demonstrate that MT4-MMP deficiency results in higher numbers of patrolling monocytes crawling and adhered to inflamed endothelia, and the accumulation of Mafb+ apoptosis inhibitor of macrophage (AIM)+ macrophages at incipient atherosclerotic lesions in mice. Functionally, MT4-MMP-null Mafb+AIM+ peritoneal macrophages express higher AIM and scavenger receptor CD36, are more resistant to apoptosis, and bind acLDL avidly, all of which contribute to atherosclerosis. CCR5 inhibition alleviates these effects by hindering the enhanced recruitment of MT4-MMP-null patrolling monocytes to early atherosclerotic lesions, thus blocking Mafb+AIM+ macrophage accumulation and atherosclerosis acceleration. Our results suggest that MT4-MMP targeting may constitute a novel strategy to boost patrolling monocyte activity in early inflammation.
Thickness-modulated metal-to-semiconductor transformation in a transition metal dichalcogenide
Authors: Ciarrocchi Alberto , Avsar Ahmet , Ovchinnikov Dmitry , Kis Andras
Published: February 2018

The possibility of tailoring physical properties by changing the number of layers in van der Waals crystals is one of the driving forces behind the emergence of two-dimensional materials. One example is bulk MoS2, which changes from an indirect gap semiconductor to a direct bandgap semiconductor in the monolayer form. Here, we show a much bigger tuning range with a complete switching from a metal to a semiconductor in atomically thin PtSe2 as its thickness is reduced. Crystals with a thickness of ~13 nm show metallic behavior with a contact resistance as low as 70 Ω·µm. As they are thinned down to 2.5 nm and below, we observe semiconducting behavior. In such thin crystals, we demonstrate ambipolar transport with a bandgap smaller than 2.2 eV and an on/off ratio of ~105. Our results demonstrate that PtSe2 possesses an unusual behavior among 2D materials, enabling novel applications in nano and optoelectronics.
Net growth rate of continuum heterogeneous biofilms with inhibition kinetics
Authors: Gonzo Elio Emilio , Wuertz Stefan , Rajal Veronica B.
Published: February 2018

Biofilm systems can be modeled using a variety of analytical and numerical approaches, usually by making simplifying assumptions regarding biofilm heterogeneity and activity as well as effective diffusivity. Inhibition kinetics, albeit common in experimental systems, are rarely considered and analytical approaches are either lacking or consider effective diffusivity of the substrate and the biofilm density to remain constant. To address this obvious knowledge gap an analytical procedure to estimate the effectiveness factor (dimensionless substrate mass flux at the biofilm-fluid interface) was developed for a continuum heterogeneous biofilm with multiple limiting-substrate Monod kinetics to different types of inhibition kinetics. The simple perturbation technique, previously validated to quantify biofilm activity, was applied to systems where either the substrate or the inhibitor is the limiting component, and cases where the inhibitor is a reaction product or the substrate also acts as the inhibitor. Explicit analytical equations are presented for the effectiveness factor estimation and, therefore, the calculation of biomass growth rate or limiting substrate/inhibitor consumption rate, for a given biofilm thickness. The robustness of the new biofilm model was tested using kinetic parameters experimentally determined for the growth of Pseudomonas putida CCRC 14365 on phenol. Several additional cases have been analyzed, including examples where the effectiveness factor can reach values greater than unity, characteristic of systems with inhibition kinetics. Criteria to establish when the effectiveness factor can reach values greater than unity in each of the cases studied are also presented.
Next generation sequencing reveals changes of the γδ T cell receptor repertoires in patients with pulmonary tuberculosis
Authors: Cheng Chaofei , Wang Bei , Gao Lei , Liu Jianmin , Chen Xinchun , Huang He , Zhao Zhendong
Published: February 2018

Tuberculosis (TB) is a severe global threat to human health. The immune protection initiated by γδ T cells play an important role in mycobacterial infection. Vaccines forMycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) based on γδ T cells provide a novel approach for TB control. In our previous studies, we found a preponderant complementarity-determining region 3 (CDR3) sequence of the γδ T cell receptor (TCR) in TB patients, and successfully identified a tuberculosis antigen that can effectively activate γδ T cells with a reverse genetic strategy. However, due to the throughput limitation of the method we used, the information we obtained about the γδ TCR repertoire and preponderant CDR3 sequences was limited. In this study, we introduced next generation sequencing (NGS) to study the γδ TCR CDR3 repertoires in TB patients. We found that the CDR3δ tended to be more polyclonal and CDR3γ tended to be longer in TB patients; the γδ T cells expressing CDR3 sequences using a Vγ9-JγP rearrangement expanded significantly duringMtbinfection. We also identified new preponderant CDR3 sequences duringMtbinfection. This study comprehensively characterized the γδ T cell receptor repertoire changes, and provides useful information for the development of new vaccines and adjuvants against TB.
Historical domestication-driven population expansion of the dung beetle Gymnopleurus mopsus (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) from its last refuge in Mongolia
Authors: Kang Ji Hyoun , Lim Chang Seob , Park Sung Hwan , Seok Sang Woo , Yoon Tae Joong , Bayartogtokh Badamdorj , Bae Yeon Jae
Published: February 2018

Populations ofGymnopleurus mopsus(family Scarabaeidae), a dung beetle that displays dung-rolling behavior (i.e., a telecoprid), have recently experienced sharp declines, and many populations are now at high risk of local extinction. However, Mongolia, which constitutes a major portion of the species’ distribution, still sustains a relatively large population. Here, we used mitochondrialCOIsequences to investigate the within-population genetic diversity and both the genetic and phylogeographic structures of 24 G.mopsuspopulations across the species’ main distribution in Mongolia. Several lines of evidence indicated that the phylogeographic structure ofG.mopsushad been influenced by a recent and sudden demographic expansion. Interestingly, the expansion of Mongolia’sG.mopsuspopulation corresponded to the advent of livestock domestication in the region, and the species’ genetic structure coincided with road networks, which presumably serve as migration routes for livestock that might mediate the beetle’s dispersal. In addition, we also found thatG.mopsuspossesses high levels of haplotype diversity, which is generally indicative of large effective population sizes (Ne). Overall, the present study contributes to the current understanding ofG.mopsus’ demographic history and dispersal patterns and also provides valuable information for the species’ conservation and management.
Assessing the Heterogeneity of the Fc-Glycan of a Therapeutic Antibody Using an engineered FcγReceptor IIIa-Immobilized Column
Authors: Kiyoshi Masato , Caaveiro Jose M. M. , Tada Minoru , Tamura Hiroko , Tanaka Toru , Terao Yosuke , Morante Koldo , Harazono Akira , Hashii Noritaka , Shibata Hiroko , Kuroda Daisuke , Nagatoishi Satoru , Oe Seigo , Ide Teruhiko , Tsumoto Kouhei , Ishii-Watabe Akiko
Published: February 2018

The N-glycan moiety of IgG-Fc has a significant impact on multifaceted properties of antibodies such as in their effector function, structure, and stability. Numerous studies have been devoted to understanding its biological effect since the exact composition of the Fc N-glycan modulates the magnitude of effector functions such as the antibody-dependent cell mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC), and the complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC). To date, systematic analyses of the properties and influence of glycan variants have been of great interest. Understanding the principles on how N-glycosylation modulates those properties is important for the molecular design, manufacturing, process optimization, and quality control of therapeutic antibodies. In this study, we have separated a model therapeutic antibody into three fractions according to the composition of the N-glycan by using a novel FcγRIIIa chromatography column. Notably, Fc galactosylation was a major factor influencing the affinity of IgG-Fc to the FcγRIIIa immobilized on the column. Each antibody fraction was employed for structural, biological, and physicochemical analysis, illustrating the mechanism by which galactose modulates the affinity to FcγRIIIa. In addition, we discuss the benefits of the FcγRIIIa chromatography column to assess the heterogeneity of the N-glycan.
Detailed Visualization of Phase Evolution during Rapid Formation of Cu(InGa)Se2 Photovoltaic Absorber from Mo/CuGa/In/Se Precursors
Authors: Koo Jaseok , Kim Sammi , Cheon Taehoon , Kim Soo-Hyun , Kim Woo Kyoung
Published: February 2018

Amongst several processes which have been developed for the production of reliable chalcopyrite Cu(InGa)Se2 photovoltaic absorbers, the 2–step metallization–selenization process is widely accepted as being suitable for industrial–scale application. Here we visualize the detailed thermal behavior and reaction pathways of constituent elements during commercially attractive rapid thermal processing of glass/Mo/CuGa/In/Se precursors on the basis of the results of systematic characterization of samples obtained from a series of quenching experiments with set-temperatures between 25 and 550 °C. It was confirmed that the Se layer crystallized and then melted between 250 and 350 °C, completely disappearing at 500 °C. The formation of CuInSe2 and Cu(InGa)Se2 was initiated at around 450 °C and 550 °C, respectively. It is suggested that pre-heat treatment to control crystallization of Se layer should be designed at 250–350 °C and Cu(InGa)Se2 formation from CuGa/In/Se precursors can be completed within a timeframe of 6 min.
Common variants of ARID1A and KAT2B are associated with obesity in Indian adolescents
Authors: Giri Anil K. , Parekatt Vaisak , Dwivedi Om Prakash , Banerjee Priyanka , Bandesh Khushdeep , Prasad Gauri , Tandon Nikhil , Bharadwaj Dwaipayan
Published: February 2018

Obesity involves alterations in transcriptional programs that can change in response to genetic and environmental signals through chromatin modifications. Since chromatin modifications involve different biochemical, neurological and molecular signaling pathways related to energy homeostasis, we hypothesize that genetic variations in chromatin modifier genes can predispose to obesity. Here, we assessed the associations between 179 variants in 35 chromatin modifier genes and overweight/obesity in 1283 adolescents (830 normal weight and 453 overweight/obese). This was followed up by the replication analysis of associated signals (18 variants in 8 genes) in 2247 adolescents (1709 normal weight and 538 overweight/obese). Our study revealed significant associations of two variants rs6598860 (OR = 1.27, P = 1.58 × 10–4) and rs4589135 (OR = 1.22, P = 3.72 × 10–4) in ARID1A with overweight/obesity. We also identified association of rs3804562 (β = 0.11, P = 1.35 × 10–4) in KAT2B gene with BMI. In conclusion, our study suggests a potential role of ARID1A and KAT2B genes in the development of obesity in adolescents and provides leads for further investigations.
miR-27b regulates myogenic proliferation and differentiation by targeting Pax3 in goat
Authors: Ling Ying-Hui , Sui Meng-Hua , Zheng Qi , Wang Kang-Yan , Wu Hao , Li Wen-Yong , Liu Yong , Chu Ming-Xing , Fang Fu-Gui , Xu Li-Na
Published: February 2018

This study found that miR-27 is expressed in muscle and regulates muscle proliferation and differentiation. We explored the function and regulatory mechanism of miR-27b in goat muscle proliferation and differentiation. Compared with the Boer goat, higher expression of miR-27b was observed in all of the collected muscle tissues of Anhuai goat, excluding the kidney, whereas the opposite expression pattern was observed for Pax3, which showed lower expression in Anhuai goat. Expression of miR-27b decreased gradually during the proliferation of skeletal muscle satellite cells in Anhuai goat and increased during differentiation; however, the expression pattern of Pax3 was opposite. The regulatory activity of miR-27b demonstrated that miR-27b inhibited the proliferation of skeletal muscle satellite cells, but promoted their differentiation. Moreover, function research demonstrated that Pax3 negatively regulated myogenic differentiation of goat skeletal muscle satellite cells, but accelerated their proliferation. The results of a dual-luciferase reporter analysis showed that miR-27b directly targeted the 3’-untranslated regions of Pax3 mRNA, and western blot and immunofluorescence staining analyses showed that miR-27b inhibited expression of the Pax3 protein. In goats, miR-27b can regulate myogenic proliferation and differentiation by targeting Pax3.
Graphene Electrode Enabling Electrochromic Approaches for Daylight-Dimming Applications
Authors: Kim Joo Yeon , Cho Nam Sung , Cho Seungmin , Kim Kisoo , Cheon Sanghoon , Kim Kyuwon , Kang Seung-Youl , Cho Seong M. , Lee Jeong-Ik , Oh Ji-Young , Kim Yong-Hae , Ryu Hojun , Hwang Chi-Sun , Kim Sujung , Ah Chil Seong , Kim Tae-Youb
Published: February 2018

For environmental reason, buildings increasingly install smart windows, which can dim incoming daylight based on active electrochromic devices (ECDs). In this work, multi-layered graphene (MLG) was investigated as an ECD window electrode, to minimize carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by decreasing the electricity consumption for building space cooling and heating and as an alternative to the transparent conductor tin-doped indium oxide (ITO) in order to decrease dependence on it. Various MLG electrodes with different numbers of graphene layers were prepared with environmentally friendly poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene-sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) to produce ECD cells. Tests demonstrated the reproducibility and uniformity in optical performance, as well as the flexibility of the ECD fabrication. With the optimized MLG electrode, the ECD cells exhibited a very fast switching response for optical changes from transparent to dark states of a few hundred msec.
Sophora flavescens protects against mycobacterial Trehalose Dimycolate-induced lung granuloma by inhibiting inflammation and infiltration of macrophages
Authors: Liu Dehua , Chan Ben Chung-Lap , Cheng Ling , Tsang Miranda Sin-Man , Zhu Jing , Wong Chun-Wai , Jiao Delong , Chan Helen Yau-Tsz , Leung Ping Chung , Lam Christopher Wai-Kei , Wong Chun Kwok
Published: February 2018

The immune system responds to Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) infection by forming granulomas to quarantine the bacteria from spreading. Granuloma-mediated inflammation is a cause of lung destruction and disease transmission. Sophora flavescens (SF) has been demonstrated to exhibit bactericidal activities against MTB. However, its immune modulatory activities on MTB-mediated granulomatous inflammation have not been reported. In the present study, we found that flavonoids from Sophora flavescens (FSF) significantly suppressed the pro-inflammatory mediators released from mouse lung alveolar macrophages (MH-S) upon stimulation by trehalose dimycolate (TDM), the most abundant lipoglycan on MTB surface. Moreover, FSF reduced adhesion molecule (LFA-1) expression on MH-S cells after TDM stimulation. Furthermore, FSF treatment on TDM-activated lung epithelial (MLE-12) cells significantly downregulated macrophage chemoattractant protein (MCP-1/CCL2) expression, which in turn reduced the in vitro migration of MH-S to MLE-12 cells. In addition, FSF increased the clearance of mycobacterium bacteria (Mycobacterium aurum) in macrophages. FSF mainly affected the Mincle-Syk-Erk signaling pathway in TDM-activated MH-S cells. In TDM-induced mouse granulomas model, oral administration with FSF significantly suppressed lung granulomas formation and inflammation. These findings collectively implicated an anti-inflammatory role of FSF on MTB-mediated granulomatous inflammation, thereby providing evidence of FSF as an efficacious adjunct treatment during mycobacterial infection.
Loss of PTEN-assisted G2/M checkpoint impedes homologous recombination repair and enhances radio-curability and PARP inhibitor treatment response in prostate cancer
Authors: Mansour W. Y. , Tennstedt P. , Volquardsen J. , Oing C. , Kluth M. , Hube-Magg C. , Borgmann K. , Simon R. , Petersen C. , Dikomey E. , Rothkamm K.
Published: February 2018

Here we report that PTEN contributes to DNA double-strand break (DSB) repair via homologous recombination (HR), as evidenced by (i) inhibition of HR in a reporter plasmid assay, (ii) enhanced sensitivity to mitomycin-C or olaparib and (iii) reduced RAD51 loading at IR-induced DSBs upon PTEN knockdown. No association was observed between PTEN-status and RAD51 expression either in-vitro or in-vivo in a tissue microarray of 1500 PTEN-deficient prostate cancer (PC) samples. PTEN depletion and sustained activation of AKT sequestered CHK1 in the cytoplasm, thus impairing the G2/M-checkpoint after irradiation. Consistently, AKT inhibition recovered the G2/M-checkpoint and restored HR efficiency in PTEN-depleted cells. We show that, although PTEN loss correlates with a worse prognosis, it may predict for improved response of PC patients to radiotherapy. Further, we provide evidence for the use of PTEN as a biomarker for predicting the response to PARP inhibitors as radiosensitizing agents in prostate cancer. Collectively, these data implicate PTEN in maintaining genomic stability by delaying G2/M-phase progression of damaged cells, thus allowing time for DSB repair by HR. Furthermore, we identify PTEN-status in PC as a putative predictor of (i) radiotherapy response and (ii) response to treatment with PARP inhibitor alone or combined with radiotherapy.
Identification of genomic differences among peripheral arterial beds in atherosclerotic and healthy arteries
Authors: Steenman Marja , Espitia Olivier , Maurel Blandine , Guyomarch Beatrice , Heymann Marie-Françoise , Pistorius Marc-Antoine , Ory Benjamin , Heymann Dominique , Houlgatte Rémi , Gouëffic Yann , Quillard Thibaut
Published: February 2018

Calcification is independently associated with cardiovascular events and morbidity. The calcification burden in atherosclerotic lesions quantitatively and qualitatively differs between arterial beds. Cardiovascular risk factors (CVRF) differentially affect plaque development between arterial beds. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of CVRF on atherosclerotic plaque calcification and to further study the molecular arterial heterogeneity that could account for these differences. Histological analysis was performed on atherosclerotic plaques from 153 carotid, 97 femoral and 28 infrapopliteal arteries. CVRF showed minor associations with plaque calcification: age and hypertension affected only the overall presence of calcification but not the type of the calcification, which significantly differed between arterial beds. Transcriptome analysis revealed distinct gene expression profiles associated with each territory in atherosclerotic and healthy arteries. Canonical pathway analysis showed the preferential involvement of immune system-related processes in both atherosclerotic and healthy carotid arteries. Bone development-related genes were among those mostly enriched in atherosclerotic and healthy femoral arteries, which are more prone to developing endochondral calcification. This study highlights the heterogeneous nature of arteries from different peripheral vascular beds and contributes to a better understanding of atherosclerosis formation and evolution.
Multi-modal survey of Adélie penguin mega-colonies reveals the Danger Islands as a seabird hotspot
Authors: Borowicz Alex , McDowall Philip , Youngflesh Casey , Sayre-McCord Thomas , Clucas Gemma , Herman Rachael , Forrest Steven , Rider Melissa , Schwaller Mathew , Hart Tom , Jenouvrier Stéphanie , Polito Michael J. , Singh Hanumant , Lynch Heather J.
Published: February 2018

Despite concerted international effort to track and interpret shifts in the abundance and distribution of Adélie penguins, large populations continue to be identified. Here we report on a major hotspot of Adélie penguin abundance identified in the Danger Islands off the northern tip of the Antarctic Peninsula (AP). We present the first complete census of Pygoscelis spp. penguins in the Danger Islands, estimated from a multi-modal survey consisting of direct ground counts and computer-automated counts of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) imagery. Our survey reveals that the Danger Islands host 751,527 pairs of Adélie penguins, more than the rest of AP region combined, and include the third and fourth largest Adélie penguin colonies in the world. Our results validate the use of Landsat medium-resolution satellite imagery for the detection of new or unknown penguin colonies and highlight the utility of combining satellite imagery with ground and UAV surveys. The Danger Islands appear to have avoided recent declines documented on the Western AP and, because they are large and likely to remain an important hotspot for avian abundance under projected climate change, deserve special consideration in the negotiation and design of Marine Protected Areas in the region.
Metabolic Reprogramming in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Szelechowski M. , Amoedo N. , Obre E. , Léger C. , Allard L. , Bonneu M. , Claverol S. , Lacombe D. , Oliet S. , Chevallier S. , Le Masson G. , Rossignol R.
Published: February 2018

Mitochondrial dysfunction in the spinal cord is a hallmark of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), but the neurometabolic alterations during early stages of the disease remain unknown. Here, we investigated the bioenergetic and proteomic changes in ALS mouse motor neurons and patients’ skin fibroblasts. We first observed that SODG93A mice presymptomatic motor neurons display alterations in the coupling efficiency of oxidative phosphorylation, along with fragmentation of the mitochondrial network. The proteome of presymptomatic ALS mice motor neurons also revealed a peculiar metabolic signature with upregulation of most energy-transducing enzymes, including the fatty acid oxidation (FAO) and the ketogenic components HADHA and ACAT2, respectively. Accordingly, FAO inhibition altered cell viability specifically in ALS mice motor neurons, while uncoupling protein 2 (UCP2) inhibition recovered cellular ATP levels and mitochondrial network morphology. These findings suggest a novel hypothesis of ALS bioenergetics linking FAO and UCP2. Lastly, we provide a unique set of data comparing the molecular alterations found in human ALS patients’ skin fibroblasts and SODG93A mouse motor neurons, revealing conserved changes in protein translation, folding and assembly, tRNA aminoacylation and cell adhesion processes.
Increased Spatial Variability and Intensification of Extreme Monsoon Rainfall due to Urbanization
Authors: Paul Supantha , Ghosh Subimal , Mathew Micky , Devanand Anjana , Karmakar Subhankar , Niyogi Dev
Published: February 2018

While satellite data provides a strong robust signature of urban feedback on extreme precipitation; urbanization signal is often not so prominent with station level data. To investigate this, we select the case study of Mumbai, India and perform a high resolution (1 km) numerical study with Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model for eight extreme rainfall days during 2014–2015. The WRF model is coupled with two different urban schemes, the Single Layer Urban Canopy Model (WRF-SUCM), Multi-Layer Urban Canopy Model (WRF-MUCM). The differences between the WRF-MUCM and WRF-SUCM indicate the importance of the structure and characteristics of urban canopy on modifications in precipitation. The WRF-MUCM simulations resemble the observed distributed rainfall. WRF-MUCM also produces intensified rainfall as compared to the WRF-SUCM and WRF-NoUCM (without UCM). The intensification in rainfall is however prominent at few pockets of urban regions, that is seen in increased spatial variability. We find that the correlation of precipitation across stations within the city falls below statistical significance at a distance greater than 10 km. Urban signature on extreme precipitation will be reflected on station rainfall only when the stations are located inside the urban pockets having intensified precipitation, which needs to be considered in future analysis.
Global phenotypic characterisation of human platelet lysate expanded MSCs by high-throughput flow cytometry
Authors: Reis Monica , McDonald David , Nicholson Lindsay , Godthardt Kathrin , Knobel Sebastian , Dickinson Anne M. , Filby Andrew , Wang Xiao-nong
Published: February 2018

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are a promising cell source to develop cell therapy for many diseases. Human platelet lysate (PLT) is increasingly used as an alternative to foetal calf serum (FCS) for clinical-scale MSC production. To date, the global surface protein expression of PLT-expended MSCs (MSC-PLT) is not known. To investigate this, paired MSC-PLT and MSC-FCS were analysed in parallel using high-throughput flow cytometry for the expression of 356 cell surface proteins. MSC-PLT showed differential surface protein expression compared to their MSC-FCS counterpart. Higher percentage of positive cells was observed in MSC-PLT for 48 surface proteins, of which 13 were significantly enriched on MSC-PLT. This finding was validated using multiparameter flow cytometry and further confirmed by quantitative staining intensity analysis. The enriched surface proteins are relevant to increased proliferation and migration capacity, as well as enhanced chondrogenic and osteogenic differentiation properties. In silico network analysis revealed that these enriched surface proteins are involved in three distinct networks that are associated with inflammatory responses, carbohydrate metabolism and cellular motility. This is the first study reporting differential cell surface protein expression between MSC-PLT and MSC-FSC. Further studies are required to uncover the impact of those enriched proteins on biological functions of MSC-PLT.
Comparison of the diagnostic accuracy of cone beam computed tomography and radiography for scaphoid fractures
Authors: Neubauer Jakob , Benndorf Matthias , Ehritt-Braun Claudia , Reising Kilian , Yilmaz Tayfun , Klein Christopher , Zajonc Horst , Kotter Elmar , Langer Mathias , Goerke Sebastian Moritz
Published: February 2018

The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the diagnostic accuracy, the inter-rater agreement and raters’ certainty of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and radiography for the detection of scaphoid fractures. Our hypothesis is that the CBCT has a higher diagnostic accuracy for scaphoid fractures than radiography. We retrospectively analysed patients who underwent both radiography and CBCT examinations within 4 days to rule out a scaphoid fracture over a 2-year period in our institution. 4 blinded radiologists and orthopaedic surgeons independently rated the images regarding the presence of a scaphoid fracture. The reference standard was evaluated by two radiologists in a consensus reading. Inter-rater correlation was evaluated, pooled sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values were calculated and compared. 102 patients met the inclusion criteria. 52% of them had a scaphoid fracture. The inter-rater correlation was higher in the CBCT compared to radiography (P < 0.001). Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values were higher for CBCT than for radiography (P < 0.019). Observers’ fracture classifications showed a higher correlation with the reference standard in the CBCT. Observers’ certainty for fracture detection and classification were higher in the CBCT. CBCT shows a higher diagnostic accuracy for scaphoid fractures than radiography.
Retinal microvascular parameters are not associated with reduced renal function in a study of individuals with type 2 diabetes
Authors: McKay Gareth J. , Paterson Euan N. , Maxwell Alexander P. , Cardwell Christopher C. , Wang Ruixuan , Hogg Stephen , MacGillivray Thomas J. , Trucco Emanuele , Doney Alexander S.
Published: February 2018

The eye provides an opportunistic “window” to view the microcirculation. There is published evidence of an association between retinal microvascular calibre and renal function measured by estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) in individuals with diabetes mellitus. Beyond vascular calibre, few studies have considered other microvascular geometrical features. Here we report novel null findings for measures of vascular spread (vessel fractal dimension), tortuosity, and branching patterns and their relationship with renal function in type 2 diabetes over a mean of 3 years. We performed a nested case-control comparison of multiple retinal vascular parameters between individuals with type 2 diabetes and stable (non-progressors) versus declining (progressors) eGFR across two time points within a subset of 1072 participants from the GoDARTS study cohort. Retinal microvascular were measured using VAMPIRE 3.1 software. In unadjusted analyses and following adjustment for age, gender, systolic blood pressure, HbA1C, and diabetic retinopathy, no associations between baseline retinal vascular parameters and risk of eGFR progression were observed. Cross-sectional analysis of follow-up data showed a significant association between retinal arteriolar diameter and eGFR, but this was not maintained following adjustment. These findings are consistent with a lack of predictive capacity for progressive loss of renal function in type 2 diabetes.
An ultrasensitive fluorescence aptasensor for carcino-embryonic antigen detection based on fluorescence resonance energy transfer from upconversion phosphors to Au nanoparticles
Authors: Li Xiang-Hui , Sun Wei-Ming , Wu Juan , Gao Yao , Chen Jing-Hua , Chen Min , Ou Qi-Shui
Published: February 2018

A FRET-based aptasensor for CEA detection was constructed by using upconversion nanoparticles as the energy donor and Au nanoparticles as the energy acceptor.
New tricks for old dogs: improving the accuracy of biomolecular force fields by pair-specific corrections to non-bonded interactions
Authors: Yoo Jejoong , Aksimentiev Aleksei
Published: February 2018

Recent advances in parallel computing have pushed all-atom molecular dynamics simulations into an untested territory. This article reviews the applications of the NBFIX approach for testing and improving molecular dynamics force fields and discuses the implications of the NBFIX corrections for simulations of various biomolecular systems.
An antibody-free assay for simultaneous capture and detection of glycoproteins by surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Xie D. , Zhu W. F. , Cheng H. , Yao Z. Y. , Li M. , Zhao Y. L.
Published: February 2018

A single-step reaction, antibody-free assay for simultaneous capture and detection of glycoproteins by SERS spectroscopy.
Hydrogen transfer reactions relevant to Guerbet coupling of alcohols over hydroxyapatite and magnesium oxide catalysts
Authors: Young Zachary D. , Davis Robert J.
Published: February 2018

The rates of double bond hydrogenation, deuterium exchange, and benzyl alcohol dehydrogenation were compared to those of ethanol coupling.
Defect-rich Ni–Ti layered double hydroxide as a highly efficient support for Au nanoparticles in base-free and solvent-free selective oxidation of benzyl alcohol
Authors: Liu Mengran , Fan Guoli , Yu Jiaying , Yang Lan , Li Feng
Published: February 2018

Defect-rich Ni–Ti layered double hydroxide supported Au nanoparticles exhibited greatly enhanced activity in the oxidation of benzyl alcohol.
Improved hydrogen storage properties of MgH2by the addition of FeS2micro-spheres
Authors: Zhang Wei , Xu Guang , Cheng Ying , Chen Lingjuan , Huo Quan , Liu Suyan
Published: February 2018

FeS2micro-spheres were synthesized and their superior catalytic effects on the hydrogen storage properties of MgH2were investigated.
Ag@Nb2O5 plasmonic blocking layer for higher efficiency dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Suresh S. , Unni Gautam E. , Satyanarayana M. , Nair A. Sreekumaran , Pillai V. P. Mahadevan
Published: February 2018

Plasmonic blocking layer, as a light harvester and an electron blocking layer for dye-sensitized solar cells.
Combining covalent bonding and electrostatic attraction to achieve highly viable species with ultrashort beryllium–beryllium distances: a computational design
Authors: Qin Zhen-Zhen , Wang Qiang , Yuan Caixia , Yang Yun-Tao , Zhao Xue-Feng , Li Debao , Liu Ping , Wu Yan-Bo
Published: February 2018

A stabilization strategy was applied to species with ultrashort Be–Be distances by modifying their high energy π-orbital(s).
The effect of probiotics and polysaccharides on the gut microbiota composition and function of weaned rats
Authors: Wang Mengxia , Chen Yongxiong , Wang Yuanyuan , Li Yuan , Zheng Haihui , Ma Fangli , Ma ChungWah , Zhang Xiaojun , Lu Biyu , Xie Zhiyong , Liao Qiongfeng
Published: February 2018

A combination of probiotics and polysaccharides may be used as a functional food to modulate the composition and function of gut microbiota.
Effect of adding oat bran to instant oatmeal on glycaemic response in humans – a study to establish the minimum effective dose of oat β-glucan
Authors: Wolever Thomas M. S. , Jenkins Alexandra L. , Prudence Kevin , Johnson Jodee , Duss Ruedi , Chu YiFang , Steinert Robert E.
Published: February 2018

The slope of the present dose–response curve for low-dose oat β-glucan (g/g available-carbohydrate) is equivalent to that for high doses.
Focusing manipulation of microalgae in a microfluidic device using self-produced macromolecules
Authors: Kim Min Jung , Youn Jae Ryoun , Song Young Seok
Published: February 2018

We developed a ‘self-ordering’ behavior of a cell in a microchannel due to the outstanding elasto-inertial effect of ‘self-produced’ biosynthetic macromolecules.
Synthesis and evaluation of nuciferine and roemerine enantiomers as 5-HT2and α1receptor antagonists
Authors: Heng Hui Li , Chee Chin Fei , Chin Sek Peng , Ouyang Yifan , Wang Hao , Buckle Michael J. C. , Herr Deron R. , Paterson Ian C. , Doughty Stephen W. , Abd. Rahman Noorsaadah , Chung Lip Yong
Published: February 2018

(R)-roemerine was found to be a potent 5-HT2A/Creceptor antagonist with good selectivity compared to 5-HT2Band α1receptor subtypes.
Engineered contrast agents in a single structure forT1–T2dual magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Cabrera-García Alejandro , Checa-Chavarria Elisa , Pacheco-Torres Jesús , Bernabeu-Sanz Ángela , Vidal-Moya Alejandro , Rivero-Buceta Eva , Sastre Germán , Fernández Eduardo , Botella Pablo
Published: February 2018

Gd and Fe centers closely packed in a Gd(H2O)4[Fe(CN)6]@SiO2network promote a magnetic synergistic effect, which improves longitudinal relaxivity.
Swollen hexagonal liquid crystals as smart nanoreactors: implementation in materials chemistry for energy applications
Authors: Ghosh Srabanti , Ramos Laurence , Remita Hynd
Published: February 2018

Swollen hexagonal liquid crystals are versatile temples to synthesize nanomaterials for energy harvesting applications.
Configuration of the magnetosome chain: a natural magnetic nanoarchitecture
Authors: Orue I. , Marcano L. , Bender P. , García-Prieto A. , Valencia S. , Mawass M. A. , Gil-Cartón D. , Alba Venero D. , Honecker D. , García-Arribas A. , Fernández Barquín L. , Muela A. , Fdez-Gubieda M. L.
Published: February 2018

Magnetospirillum gryphiswaldense is a microorganism with the ability to biomineralize magnetite nanoparticles, called magnetosomes, and arrange them into a chain that behaves like a magnetic compass.
Multilamellar nanovesicles show distinct mechanical properties depending on their degree of lamellarity
Authors: Vorselen Daan , Marchetti Margherita , López-Iglesias Carmen , Peters Peter J. , Roos Wouter H. , Wuite Gijs J. L.
Published: February 2018

Nanoindentation on adherent small multilamellar vesicles (SMVs) reveals the dependence of both sphericity and stiffness on lamellarity.
Optically active plasmonic resonance in self-assembled nanostructures
Authors: Cheng Jiaji , Hill Eric H. , Zheng Yuebing , He Tingchao , Liu Yanjun
Published: February 2018

The raising of induced plasmonic chirality is approaching as assembled nanostructures are evolving.
Screening of bacteria-binding peptides and one-pot ZnO surface modification for bacterial cell entrapment
Authors: Tanaka Masayoshi , Harlisa Ilva Hanun , Takahashi Yuta , Ikhsan Natasha Agustin , Okochi Mina
Published: February 2018

Linking the screened bacteria-binding peptide with the ZnO-binding peptide HKVAPR, created a bifunctional peptide capable of one-step simple ZnO surface modification and of bacterial cell entrapment.
Fe–Mn bimetallic oxides-catalyzed oxygen reduction reaction in alkaline direct methanol fuel cells
Authors: Fang Yuan , Wang Yonghui , Wang Fen , Shu Chengyong , Zhu Jianfeng , Wu Wenling
Published: February 2018

Heterojunction interfaces and synergistic effect between Fe2O3 and Mn2O3 play a key role in Fe2O3/Mn2O3-catalyzed ORR.
A polymer inclusion membrane composed of the binary carrier PC-88A and Versatic 10 for the selective separation and recovery of Sc
Authors: Sharaf Maha , Yoshida Wataru , Kubota Fukiko , Kolev Spas D. , Goto Masahiro
Published: February 2018

This study reports on the selective separation of scandium (Sc) from other rare earth metals (REMs) using a polymer inclusion membrane (PIM).
Study on the optimization of silicone copolymer synthesis and the evaluation of its thickening performance
Authors: Li Qiang , Wang Yanling , Li Qingchao , Foster Gomado , Lei Chuang
Published: February 2018

The synthesis process of the silicone ternary copolymer.
Discovery of the novel autophagy inhibitor aumitin that targets mitochondrial complex I
Authors: Robke Lucas , Futamura Yushi , Konstantinidis Georgios , Wilke Julian , Aono Harumi , Mahmoud Zhwan , Watanabe Nobumoto , Wu Yao-Wen , Osada Hiroyuki , Laraia Luca , Waldmann Herbert
Published: February 2018

Phenotypic screening for autophagy inhibitors followed by target identification resulted in the discovery of aumitin, a new autophagy inhibitor that inhibits mitochondrial respiration by targeting complex I.