bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epithelial-Myeloid cell crosstalk regulates acinar cell plasticity and pancreatic remodeling in mice
Authors: Zhang Yaqing , Yan Wei , Mathew Esha , Kane Kevin T , Brannon Arthur , Adoumie Maeva , Vinta Alekya , Crawford Howard C , Pasca di Magliano Marina
Published: October 2017

Dedifferentiation of acini to duct-like cells occurs during the physiologic damage response in the pancreas, but this process can be co-opted by oncogenic Kras to drive carcinogenesis. Myeloid cells infiltrate the pancreas during the onset of pancreatic cancer, and promote carcinogenesis. Here, we show that the function of infiltrating myeloid cells is regulated by oncogenic Kras expressed in epithelial cells. In the presence of oncogenic Kras, myeloid cells promote acinar dedifferentiation and carcinogenesis. Upon inactivation of oncogenic Kras, myeloid cells promote re-differentiation of acinar cells, remodeling of the fibrotic stroma and tissue repair. Intriguingly, both aspects of myeloid cell activity depend, at least in part, on activation of EGFR/MAPK signaling, with different subsets of ligands and receptors in different target cells promoting carcinogenesis or repair, respectively. Thus, the cross-talk between epithelial cells and infiltrating myeloid cells determines the balance between tissue repair and carcinogenesis in the pancreas.
The large-scale organization of shape processing in the ventral and dorsal pathways
Authors: Freud Erez , Culham Jody C , Plaut David C , Behrmann Marlene
Published: October 2017

Although shape perception is considered a function of the ventral visual pathway, evidence suggests that the dorsal pathway also derives shape-based representations. In two psychophysics and neuroimaging experiments, we characterized the response properties, topographical organization and perceptual relevance of these representations. In both pathways, shape sensitivity increased from early visual cortex to extrastriate cortex but then decreased in anterior regions. Moreover, the lateral aspect of the ventral pathway and posterior regions of the dorsal pathway were sensitive to the availability of fundamental shape properties, even for unrecognizable images. This apparent representational similarity between the posterior-dorsal and lateral-ventral regions was corroborated by a multivariate analysis. Finally, as with ventral pathway, the activation profile of posterior dorsal regions was correlated with recognition performance, suggesting a possible contribution to perception. These findings challenge a strict functional dichotomy between the pathways and suggest a more distributed model of shape processing.
The ESRP1-GPR137 axis contributes to intestinal pathogenesis
Authors: Mager Lukas Franz , Koelzer Viktor Hendrik , Stuber Regula , Thoo Lester , Keller Irene , Koeck Ivonne , Langenegger Maya , Simillion Cedric , Pfister Simona P , Faderl Martin , Genitsch Vera , Tcymbarevich Irina , Juillerat Pascal , Li Xiaohong , Xia Yu , Karamitopoulou Eva , Lyck Ruth , Zlobec Inti , Hapfelmeier Siegfried , Bruggmann Rémy , McCoy Kathy D , Macpherson Andrew J , Müller Christoph , Beutler Bruce , Krebs Philippe
Published: October 2017

Aberrant alternative pre-mRNA splicing (AS) events have been associated with several disorders. However, it is unclear whether deregulated AS directly contributes to disease. Here, we reveal a critical role of the AS regulator epithelial splicing regulator protein 1 (ESRP1) for intestinal homeostasis and pathogenesis. In mice, reduced ESRP1 function leads to impaired intestinal barrier integrity, increased susceptibility to colitis and altered colorectal cancer (CRC) development. Mechanistically, these defects are produced in part by modified expression of ESRP1-specific Gpr137 isoforms differently activating the Wnt pathway. In humans, ESRP1 is downregulated in inflamed biopsies from inflammatory bowel disease patients. ESRP1 loss is an adverse prognostic factor in CRC. Furthermore, generation of ESRP1-dependent GPR137 isoforms is altered in CRC and expression of a specific GPR137 isoform predicts CRC patient survival. These findings indicate a central role of ESRP1-regulated AS for intestinal barrier integrity. Alterations in ESRP1 function or expression contribute to intestinal pathology.
Astrocytes release prostaglandin E2 to modify respiratory network activity
Authors: Forsberg David , Ringstedt Thomas , Herlenius Eric
Published: October 2017

Previously (Forsberg et al., 2016), we revealed that prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), released during hypercapnic challenge, increases calcium oscillations in the chemosensitive parafacial respiratory group (pFRG/RTN). Here, we demonstrate that pFRG/RTN astrocytes are the PGE2 source. Two distinct astrocyte subtypes were found using transgenic mice expressing GFP and MrgA1 receptors in astrocytes. Although most astrocytes appeared dormant during time-lapse calcium imaging, a subgroup displayed persistent, rhythmic oscillating calcium activity. These active astrocytes formed a subnetwork within the respiratory network distinct from the neuronal network. Activation of exogenous MrgA1Rs expressed in astrocytes tripled astrocytic calcium oscillation frequency in both the preBötzinger complex and pFRG/RTN. However, neurons in the preBötC were unaffected, whereas neuronal calcium oscillatory frequency in pFRG/RTN doubled. Notably, astrocyte activation in pFRG/RTN triggered local PGE2 release and blunted the hypercapnic response. Thus, astrocytes play an active role in respiratory rhythm modulation, modifying respiratory-related behavior through PGE2 release in the pFRG/RTN.
Clone wars: asexual reproduction dominates in the invasive range ofTubastraeaspp. (Anthozoa: Scleractinia) in the South-Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Capel Katia Cristina Cruz , Toonen Robert J. , Rachid Caio T.C.C. , Creed Joel C. , Kitahara Marcelo V. , Forsman Zac , Zilberberg Carla
Published: October 2017

Although the invasive azooxanthellate coralsTubastraea coccineaandT. tagusensisare spreading quickly and outcompeting native species in the Atlantic Ocean, there is little information regarding the genetic structure and path of introduction for these species. Here we present the first data on genetic diversity and clonal structure from these two species using a new set of microsatellite markers. High proportions of clones were observed, indicating that asexual reproduction has a major role in the local population dynamics and, therefore, represents one of the main reasons for the invasion success. Although no significant population structure was found, results suggest the occurrence of multiple invasions forT. coccineaand also that both species are being transported along the coast by vectors such as oil platforms and monobouys, spreading these invasive species. In addition to the description of novel microsatellite markers, this study sheds new light into the invasive process ofTubastraea.
Exploring perceptions of alcohol use in two Indian states: A qualitative study from Delhi and Haryana, India
Authors: Arora Monika , Tewari Abha , Bassi Shalini , Chauhan Kavita , Bhasin Shikha , Bakshi Ann-Sofie , Andréasson Sven
Published: October 2017

Arora, M., Tewari, A., Bassi, S., Chauhan, K., Bhasin, S., Bakshi, A., & Andréasson, S. (2017). Exploring perceptions of alcohol use in two Indian states: A qualitative study from Delhi and Haryana, India. The International Journal Of Alcohol And Drug Research, 6(1), 1-6. doi:http://dx.doi.org/10.7895/ijadr.v6i1.238Aims: To explore perceptions and determinants influencing alcohol consumption, with a view to inform development of suitable policies to control alcohol consumption.Methodology: Focus group discussions (FGDs) (n=24) were conducted in two Indian states among the rural Haryana (n=8 FGDs; 58 participants) and urban Delhi (n=16 FGDs; 113 participants) populations. Purposive sampling was used to recruit the participants, who were from high and low socioeconomic status (SES) groups and in the age group of 18–58 years.Results: Different factors influence alcohol consumption in high and low SES groups. The age of initiation is now as low as 10–12 years, attributable to the recent trend of increased accessibility. The participants agreed that alcohol consumption has now become a more acceptable part of daily living, whereas earlier it was limited to special occasions and festivals. This has contributed to an increase in drinking. Drinking among women was earlier a taboo, but now women (mainly of high SES), are often seen drinking at social gatherings. The respondents mentioned weak enforcement of regulatory policies related to alcohol consumption and sales.Conclusions: A shift in attitudes was observed towards drinking. Drinking is increasingly seen as a part of daily life. The availability of alcohol is perceived to be increasing and restrictions on sale are not effectively enforced. There is an urgent need to re-evaluate the alcohol policy from a public health perspective in India.
The DRINC (Drinking Reasons Inter-National Collaboration) project: Rationale and protocol for a cross-national study of drinking motives in undergraduates
Authors: Couture Marie-Eve , Stewart Sherry H , Cooper M. Lynne , Kuntsche Emmanuel , O’Connor Roisin M. , Mackinnon Sean P. , DRINC Team The
Published: October 2017

Couture, M., Stewart, S., Cooper, M., Kuntsche, E., O’Connor, R., Mackinnon, S., & DRINC Team, t. (2017). The DRINC (Drinking Reasons Inter-National Collaboration) project: Rationale and protocol for a cross-national study of drinking motives in undergraduates. The International Journal Of Alcohol And Drug Research, 6(1), 7-18. doi:http://dx.doi.org/10.7895/ijadr.v6i1.239Drinking motives are a proximal predictor of alcohol use and misuse through which the effects of more distal influences (e.g., personality) on alcohol-related outcomes are mediated. Although Cooper’s (1994) four-factor drinking-motives model has been well validated in North America, few studies have validated this model in other countries. The aim of the present paper is to describe the rationale, protocol, and methods of a project designed to evaluate the cross-national validity and generalizability of Cooper’s (1994) measure, as modified by Kuntsche and Kuntsche’s Drinking Motives Questionnaire Revised Short Form (DMQ–R SF, 2009), and of the theoretical model (Cooper, Frone, Russell, & Mudar, 1995) linking drinking motives to specific personality risks and alcohol consequences. The project uses data from undergraduates representing 10 nations (Brazil, United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland, Canada, Hungary, Mexico, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, Switzerland, and the United States; total N = 8,478). Findings from this collaboration can be used to guide international researchers in determining the suitability of the DMQ–R SF as a measure of drinking motives in countries outside of North America and may have implications for the development of preventive and therapeutic interventions for alcohol misuse among young adults globally.
Treatment challenges for alcohol service users in Kampala, Uganda
Authors: Kalema David , Vanderplasschen Wouter , Vindevogel Sofie , Baguma Peter K , Derluyn Ilse
Published: October 2017

Kalema, D., Vanderplasschen, W., Vindevogel, S., Baguma, P., & Derluyn, I. (2017). Treatment challenges for alcohol service users in Kampala, Uganda. The International Journal Of Alcohol And Drug Research, 6(1), 27-35. doi:http://dx.doi.org/10.7895/ijadr.v6i1.240Background and Aims: Enhancing treatment participation of persons with substance use disorders is a challenge worldwide. Obstacles keeping people from entering or continuing treatment are well documented in Western countries, but such knowledge is scarce in majority countries that face particular challenges when implementing alcohol policies. This study aimed at identifying factors challenging treatment participation in Uganda, a Sub-Saharan country with a considerable alcohol problem.Methods: Data were collected during 30 in-depth, qualitative interviews on treatment challenges with 20 service providers and 10 male service users, who were recruited at one public and one private alcohol treatment center in the Ugandan capital city, Kampala. Men comprise about 90% of the total number of service users in these centers. Interview data were analyzed thematically, using Nvivo software, and were categorized around three levels of treatment challenges: societal, institutional, and personal challenges.Findings: Interview findings showed several treatment challenges relating to institutional aspects like inadequate human resources, overall insufficiency of services, and the treatment philosophy of available services. Respondents identified stigma and cultural interference as important challenges at the societal level, while limited awareness about addiction and denial of problems can be situated at the individual level.Conclusions: Institutional, societal, and personal challenges keep persons with AUD from participating in alcohol treatment in public and private services in Uganda. Alcohol regulation, sensitization, and prevention are needed to raise awareness at the societal and individual level, while appropriate training and additional financial resources may help to overcome institutional challenges.
Tectonic and Climatic Controls on the Spatial Distribution of Denudation Rates in Northern Chile (18°S to 23°S) Determined From Cosmogenic Nuclides
Authors: Starke J. , Ehlers T. A. , Schaller M.
Published: October 2017

In the arid region of northern Chile the environmental conditions are favorable for measuring tectonic and climatic influences on catchment denudation rates in the absence of vegetation. Previous studies of denudation rates from cosmogenic 10Be and 26Al concentrations are limited to single drainages. In this study, we examine catchment‐ to orogen‐scale spatial variation in denudation rates between 18 and 23°S in the Coastal and Western Cordilleras of northern Chile. 10Be and 26Al data were obtained from 33 catchments to examine the relative roles of tectonics and climate on catchment‐averaged denudation rates. At broader scales, we examine whether denudation rates and orogen topography reflect the 3‐D plate geometry of the region. Cosmogenic nuclide‐derived denudation rates range from 0.4 ± 0.5 to 20.6 ± 1.5 m/Myr in the Coastal Cordillera and from 1.4 ± 0.7 to 168.0 ± 19.8 m/Myr in the Western Cordillera. The controls on the denudation rates are evaluated using a statistical factor analysis of 10 selected catchment parameters. Denudation rates indicate a strong linear relationship with channel steepness indices but insignificant correlations and covariation with mean annual precipitation rates, drainage area, stream order, mean elevation, mean local relief, mean basin slope, and grain size of the sampled sediments. Moreover, denudation rates are better correlated with tectonic controls at catchment scale than orogen‐scale plate tectonics in the Western and Coastal Cordillera.
Near‐Channel Versus Watershed Controls on Sediment Rating Curves
Authors: Vaughan Angus A. , Belmont Patrick , Hawkins Charles P. , Wilcock Peter
Published: October 2017

Predicting riverine suspended sediment flux is a fundamental problem in geomorphology, with important implications for water quality, land and water resource management, and aquatic ecosystem health. To advance understanding, we evaluated environmental and landscape factors that influence sediment rating curves (SRCs). We generated SRCs with recent total suspended solids (TSSs) and discharge data from 45 gages on 36 rivers throughout the state of Minnesota, USA. Watersheds range from 32 to 14,600 km2 and represent distinct settings regarding topography, land cover, and geologic history. Rivers exhibited three distinct SRC shapes: simple power functions, threshold power functions, and peaked or negative‐slope functions. We computed SRC exponents and coefficients (describing the steepness of the relation and the TSS concentration at median flows, respectively). In addition to quantifying watershed topography, climate/hydrology, geology, soil type, and land cover, we used lidar topography to characterize the near‐channel environment upstream of gages. We used random forest models to analyze relations between SRC parameters and attributes of the watershed and the near‐channel environment. The models correctly classify 78% of SRC shapes and explain 37%–60% of variance in SRC parameters. We find that SRC steepness (exponent) is strongly related to near‐channel morphological characteristics including near‐channel relief, channel gradient, and presence of lakes along the local channel network, but not to land use. In contrast, land use influences TSS concentrations at moderate and low flow. These findings suggest that the near‐channel environment controls changes in TSS as flows increase, whereas land use drives median and low flow TSS conditions.
Photon Pressure Force on Space Debris TOPEX/Poseidon Measured by Satellite Laser Ranging
Authors: Kucharski D. , Kirchner G. , Bennett J. C. , Lachut M. , Sośnica K. , Koshkin N. , Shakun L. , Koidl F. , Steindorfer M. , Wang P. , Fan C. , Han X. , Grunwaldt L. , Wilkinson M. , Rodríguez J. , Bianco G. , Vespe F. , Catalán M. , Salmins K. , del Pino J. R. , Lim H.‐C. , Park E. , Moore C. , Lejba P. , Suchodolski T.
Published: October 2017

The (TOPography EXperiment) TOPEX/Poseidon (T/P) altimetry mission operated for 13 years before the satellite was decommissioned in January 2006, becoming a large space debris object at an altitude of 1,340 km. Since the end of the mission, the interaction of T/P with the space environment has driven the satellite's spin dynamics. Satellite laser ranging (SLR) measurements collected from June 2014 to October 2016 allow for the satellite spin axis orientation to be determined with an accuracy of 1.7°. The spin axis coincides with the platform yaw axis (formerly pointing in the nadir direction) about which the body rotates in a counterclockwise direction. The combined photometric and SLR data collected over the 11 year time span indicates that T/P has continuously gained rotational energy at an average rate of 2.87 J/d and spins with a period of 10.73 s as of 19 October 2016. The satellite attitude model shows a variation of the cross‐sectional area in the Sun direction between 8.2 m2 and 34 m2. The direct solar radiation pressure is the main factor responsible for the spin‐up of the body, and the exerted photon force varies from 65 μN to 228 μN around the mean value of 138.6 μN. Including realistic surface force modeling in orbit propagation algorithms will improve the prediction accuracy, giving better conjunction warnings for scenarios like the recent close approach reported by the ILRS Space Debris Study Group—an approximate 400 m flyby between T/P and Jason‐2 on 20 June 2017.
Active Flexural‐Slip Faulting: Controls Exerted by Stratigraphy, Geometry, and Fold Kinematics
Authors: Li Tao , Chen Jie , Thompson Jobe Jessica A. , Burbank Douglas W.
Published: October 2017

Flexural slip plays an important role in accommodating fold growth, and its topographic expression, flexural‐slip fault (FSF) scarps, may be one of the most commonly occurring secondary structures in areas dominated by active thrusts and folds. Where FSF scarps are present and what factors control their occurrence, however, are typically poorly known. Through an investigation of clearly expressed FSF scarps, well‐preserved fluvial terraces, and well‐exposed bedrock at eight sites in the Pamir‐Tian Shan convergent zone and Kuche fold belt, NW China, we summarize the most favorable conditions for active flexural‐slip faulting. Our study yields six key results. First, flexural slip operates commonly in well‐layered beds, although uncommonly can occur in massive, poorly layered beds as well. Second, in well‐layered beds, the slip surface is commonly located either (a) close to the contact of competent and incompetent beds or (b) within thin incompetent beds. Third, FSF scarps are always found overlying steep beds with dips of ~30–100°. Fourth, slip surfaces are typically spaced between ~10 and 440 m but can reach up to ~600 m. Fifth, FSF scarps at most sites can be observed far away from the hinge‐migrated fold scarps, suggesting that compared to hinge migration, limb rotation is generally required to accumulate flexural slip and produce associated topographic scarps. Finally, a higher regional convergent rate seems to facilitate the creation of FSF scarps more often than lower rates, whereas well‐preserved, old terraces capped by thin deposits are more likely to record FSF scarps than unevenly preserved, young terraces with thick sedimentary caps.
Constraining the Magmatic System at Mount St. Helens (2004–2008) Using Bayesian Inversion With Physics‐Based Models Including Gas Escape and Crystallization
Authors: Wong Ying‐Qi , Segall Paul , Bradley Andrew , Anderson Kyle
Published: October 2017

Physics‐based models of volcanic eruptions track conduit processes as functions of depth and time. When used in inversions, these models permit integration of diverse geological and geophysical data sets to constrain important parameters of magmatic systems. We develop a 1‐D steady state conduit model for effusive eruptions including equilibrium crystallization and gas transport through the conduit and compare with the quasi‐steady dome growth phase of Mount St. Helens in 2005. Viscosity increase resulting from pressure‐dependent crystallization leads to a natural transition from viscous flow to frictional sliding on the conduit margin. Erupted mass flux depends strongly on wall rock and magma permeabilities due to their impact on magma density. Including both lateral and vertical gas transport reveals competing effects that produce nonmonotonic behavior in the mass flux when increasing magma permeability. Using this physics‐based model in a Bayesian inversion, we link data sets from Mount St. Helens such as extrusion flux and earthquake depths with petrological data to estimate unknown model parameters, including magma chamber pressure and water content, magma permeability constants, conduit radius, and friction along the conduit walls. Even with this relatively simple model and limited data, we obtain improved constraints on important model parameters. We find that the magma chamber had low (<5 wt %) total volatiles and that the magma permeability scale is well constrained at ∼10−11.4m2 to reproduce observed dome rock porosities. Compared with previous results, higher magma overpressure and lower wall friction are required to compensate for increased viscous resistance while keeping extrusion rate at the observed value.
Abnormally Strong Daily‐Cycle S1 Strain Tide: Observation and Physical Mechanism
Authors: Lu Zhou , Wen Lianxing
Published: October 2017

Tidal signals are analyzed in the Plate Boundary Observatory borehole strainmeters in western North America. While the extracted diurnal strain tidal constituents (except daily‐cycle S1) respond to the tidal forces in similar proportion, the S1 strain tide exhibits an abnormally strong amplitude, reaching tens to hundreds times larger than theoretical prediction. The S1 strain tide exhibits phase lags and little amplitude correlations with the corresponding S1 barometric pressure tide, while no phase lags are observed at the other frequencies between these two observations. Several mechanisms are examined and are excluded for explaining the strong S1 strain tides, including integral effect of barometric pressure loading, viscoelastic response to barometric pressure, elastic loading of ocean water and hydrological water variation, and thermal leakage from the surface to the strainmeter instruments. The strong S1 strain tides can be attributed to the results of two physical mechanisms: (1) elastic loading of surface barometric pressure and (2) thermoelastic deformation induced by temporally and spatially varying surface temperature. The barometric pressure produces a component of elastic strain in phase with the pressure, while the surface temperature induces thermoelastic strain exhibiting comparable amplitude with the pressure‐induced component but with various phase lags. As a result, the superposition of these two S1 strain tides exhibits a phase difference with respect to the corresponding S1 tides of both barometric pressure and temperature and explains the large S1 strain tides observed in the strainmeter data. Our results indicate the importance of thermoelastic deformation being a near‐surface physical process.
Earthquake Nucleation on Faults With Heterogeneous Frictional Properties, Normal Stress
Authors: Ray Sohom , Viesca Robert C.
Published: October 2017

We examine the development of an instability of fault slip rate. We consider a slip rate and state dependence of fault frictional strength, in which frictional properties and normal stress are functions of position. We pose the problem for a slip rate distribution that diverges quasi‐statically within finite time in a self‐similar fashion. Scenarios of property variations are considered and the corresponding self‐similar solutions found. We focus on variations of coefficients, a and b, respectively, controlling the magnitude of a direct effect on strength due to instantaneous changes in slip rate and of strength evolution due to changes in a state variable. These results readily extend to variations in fault‐normal stress, σ, or the characteristic slip distance for state evolution, Dc. We find that heterogeneous properties lead to a finite number of self‐similar solutions, located about critical points of the distributions: maxima, minima, and between them. We examine the stability of these solutions and find that only a subset is asymptotically stable, occurring at just one of the critical point types. Such stability implies that during instability development, slip rate and state evolution can be attracted to develop in the manner of the self‐similar solution, which is also confirmed by solutions to initial value problems for slip rate and state. A quasi‐static slip rate divergence is ultimately limited by inertia, leading to the nucleation of an outward expanding dynamic rupture: asymptotic stability of self‐similar solutions then implies preferential sites for earthquake nucleation, which are determined by distribution of frictional properties.
Multisource Data‐Based Integrated Agricultural Drought Monitoring in the Huai River Basin, China
Authors: Sun Peng , Zhang Qiang , Wen Qingzhi , Singh Vijay P. , Shi Peijun
Published: October 2017

Drought monitoring is critical for early warning of drought hazard. This study attempted to develop an integrated remote sensing drought monitoring index (IRSDI), based on meteorological data for 2003–2013 from 40 meteorological stations and soil moisture data from 16 observatory stations, as well as Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer data using a linear trend detection method, and standardized precipitation evapotranspiration index. The objective was to investigate drought conditions across the Huai River basin in both space and time. Results indicate that (1) the proposed IRSDI monitors and describes drought conditions across the Huai River basin reasonably well in both space and time; (2) frequency of drought and severe drought are observed during April–May and July–September. The northeastern and eastern parts of Huai River basin are dominated by frequent droughts and intensified drought events. These regions are dominated by dry croplands, grasslands, and highly dense population and are hence more sensitive to drought hazards; (3) intensified droughts are detected during almost all months except January, August, October, and December. Besides, significant intensification of droughts is discerned mainly in eastern and western Huai River basin. The duration and regions dominated by intensified drought events would be a challenge for water resources management in view of agricultural and other activities in these regions in a changing climate.
A Revised Subduction Inception Model to Explain the Late Cretaceous, Double‐Vergent Orogen in the Precollisional Western Tethys: Evidence From the Northern Apennines
Authors: Marroni Michele , Meneghini Francesca , Pandolfi Luca
Published: October 2017

The Meso‐Cenozoic alpine belts of the Mediterranean area are characterized by complex architectures, result of a complex subduction and collision evolution that preserve also a legacy of the rifting‐related configuration of the continental margins. The Northern Apennines is a segment of these belts originated during closure of the Ligure‐Piemontese ocean and collision between the Europe and Adria plates. The different configuration of the Adria and Europe margins, inherited from asymmetric rifting, is recorded in the Ligurian Units that preserve incorporation into the subduction factory of fragments of the oceanic domain (Internal Ligurian Units) and portions of the Ocean‐Continent Transition Zone (OCTZ) toward Adria (External Ligurian Units). We provide here unpublished data on the stratigraphy and sedimentology of these units, together with a review of what is already established in literature. Both data sets combined testify that at 80 Ma, an accretionary prism was growing between the deposition basins of the two groups of units and fed both basins with clasts from the ocean realm, the continental crust, and the subcontinental mantle. We propose that closure of the Ligure‐Piemontese ocean occurred through subduction that nucleated at the transition from the oceanic plate and the thinned Adria margin and developed a double‐vergent prism by accreting oceanic material and continental extensional allochthons from the OCTZ. We believe the revised site of subduction initiation, and the precollisional architecture, inherited from the rifting and spreading phases, allows reconciling most of the discrepancies between the various interpretations proposed in literature for the precollisional evolution of the Apennines.
FRET analysis of HIV‐1 Gag and GagPol interactions
Authors: Takagi Shimon , Momose Fumitaka , Morikawa Yuko
Published: October 2017

The Gag protein of HIV multimerizes to form viral particles. The GagPol protein encoding virus‐specific enzymes, such as protease, reverse transcriptase, and integrase, is incorporated into HIV particles via interactions with Gag. The catalytically active forms of these enzymes are dimeric or tetrameric. We employed Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) assays to evaluate Gag–Gag, Gag–GagPol, and GagPol–GagPol interactions and investigated Gag and Pol interdomains tolerant to fluorescent protein insertion for FRET assays. Our data indicated that the matrix (MA)–capsid (CA) domain junction in the Gag region and the Gag C terminus were equally available for Gag–Gag and Gag–GagPol interaction assays. For GagPol dimerization assays, insertion at the MA–CA domain junction was most favorable.
Electrically Driven Reversible Phase Changes in Layered In2Se3 Crystalline Film
Authors: Choi Min Sup , Cheong Byung‐ki , Ra Chang Ho , Lee Suyoun , Bae Jee‐Hwan , Lee Sungwoo , Lee Gun‐Do , Yang Cheol‐Woong , Hone James , Yoo Won Jong
Published: October 2017

An unconventional phase‐change memory (PCM) made of In2Se3, which utilizes reversible phase changes between a low‐resistance crystalline β phase and a high‐resistance crystalline γ phase is reported for the first time. Using a PCM with a layered crystalline film exfoliated from In2Se3 crystals on a graphene bottom electrode, it is shown that SET/RESET programmed states form via the formation/annihilation of periodic van der Waals' (vdW) gaps (i.e., virtual vacancy layers) in the stack of atomic layers and the concurrent reconfiguration of In and Se atoms across the layers. From density functional theory calculations, β and γ phases, characterized by octahedral bonding with vdW gaps and tetrahedral bonding without vdW gaps, respectively, are shown to have energy bandgap value of 0.78 and 1.86 eV, consistent with a metal‐to‐insulator transition accompanying the β‐to‐γ phase change. The monolithic In2Se3 layered film reported here provides a novel means to achieving a PCM based on melting‐free, low‐entropy phase changes in contrast with the GeTe–Sb2Te3 superlattice film adopted in interfacial phase‐change memory.
Surfactant‐Enhanced Adsorption of Graphene Oxide for Improved Emulsification of Oil in Water
Authors: McCoy Thomas M. , Holt Stephen A. , Rozario Ashley M. , Bell Toby D. M. , Tabor Rico F.
Published: October 2017

Graphene oxide (GO) can be enriched at the air–water interface by the adsorption of surfactant molecules to the surfaces of the GO sheets. The synergism between the surfactant and GO is shown to be responsible for the improved interfacial performance of the composite through a subtle balance of surface charge and surface activity. The use of a photoaddressable surfactant provides a unique probe for investigating the fundamental mechanisms that control adsorption, by inducing spatiotemporal modulation of the surfactant properties by irradiation with light of certain wavelengths. Tensiometry measurements uncover the interfacial activity of the materials, whereas X‐ray reflectivity serves to independently determine the interfacial structure and composition. The ratio between the surfactant and GO appears to be the key factor controlling adsorption, with pH and salt offering additional finer control of interfacial properties. This synergism between GO sheets and a surface active small molecule surfactant is utilized to stabilize oil‐in‐water emulsions with unprecedented effectiveness.
Photothermal Surface Plasmon Resonance and Interband Transition‐Enhanced Nanocomposite Hydrogel Actuators with Hand‐Like Dynamic Manipulation
Authors: Shi Qing , Xia Hong , Li Pu , Wang Ying‐Shuai , Wang Lei , Li Shun‐Xin , Wang Gong , Lv Chao , Niu Li‐Gang , Sun Hong‐Bo
Published: October 2017

Hydrogel actuators represent a powerful tool due to their ability to capture, move, and be manipulated, which has applications in diverse fields. The development of hydrogel actuators capable of localized movement, where only a part of the whole system moves, wireless remote control, and flexible shape‐changing is critical and challenging to fulfill their potential. Here, photothermal hydrogel actuators are designed and fabricated to accomplish a precise hand‐like manipulation of encapsulating and finger‐like one‐by‐one bending by light. A thermoresponsive poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAm) active layer and a non‐thermoresponsive poly(acrylamide) passive layer are combined to generate a thermal‐expansion coefficient mismatch among the interface and this energy eventually transforms into a bending motion. As an energy transformation agent, the gold nanoparticles doped in the PNIPAm hydrogel absorb the light energy and transform it into thermalenergy effectively as a result of a surface plasmon resonance electron–phonon process and intrinsic interband transitions. The resulting nanocomposite actuators exhibit flexible, reversible motions and local hand‐like finger flexion driven by either flood illumination or local irradiation. The developed programmable actuators are expected to be an attractive candidate for the next generation of “smart” soft robots.
Phosphonium Salts in Asymmetric Catalysis: A Journey in a Decade's Extensive Research Work
Authors: Golandaj Ajij , Ahmad Akil , Ramjugernath Deresh
Published: October 2017

The first report on a phosphonium salt as an asymmetric catalyst was published in 1997, and thereafter this area of research remained fairly dormant for almost a decade. However, the second decade (2007–2017) has recorded a significant growth in the published literature and it has now emerged as a hot topic of research. The use of phosphonium salts as a phase‐transfer catalyst has gained momentum in recent years due to their ease of availability and simple preparation technique. Most of these asymmetric phosphonium salts are derived from readily available starting materials like chiral amino acids and binaphthyl rings. With a simple modification in the basic core of these moieties, they can be used to execute a number of enantioselective organic transformations. This review presents a comprehensive overview of the historical development of catalyst design, with its necessary modification and applications in selective organic transformations.

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Antimony (V) Complex Halides: Lead‐Free Perovskite‐Like Materials for Hybrid Solar Cells
Authors: Adonin Sergey A. , Frolova Lyubov A. , Sokolov Maxim N. , Shilov Gennady V. , Korchagin Denis V. , Fedin Vladimir P. , Aldoshin Sergey M. , Stevenson Keith J. , Troshin Pavel A.
Published: October 2017

Using bromoantimonate (V) (N‐EtPy)[SbBr6] as an example, it is demonstrated that ABX6 compounds can form perovskite‐like 3D crystalline frameworks with short interhalide contacts, enabling advanced optoelectronic characteristics of these materials. The designed compound shows an impressive performance in planar junction solar cells delivering external quantum efficiency of ≈80% and power conversion efficiency of ≈4%, thus being comparable with the conventional perovskite material MAPbBr3. The discovery of the first perovskite‐like compound ABX6 exhibiting good photovoltaic performance opens wide opportunities for rational design of novel perovskite‐like semiconductor materials for advanced electronic and photovoltaic applications.
Phase Boundary Derived Pseudocapacitance Enhanced Nickel‐Based Composites for Electrochemical Energy Storage Devices
Authors: Long Bei , Balogun Muhammad‐Sadeeq , Luo Lei , Qiu Weitao , Luo Yang , Song Shuqin , Tong Yexiang
Published: October 2017

Several strategies have been employed to improve the performance of energy storage devices through the development of new electrode materials. The construction of transition metal compound composite electrodes plays an important role in promoting the performance of energy storage devices. However, understandings of and insight into how to enhance the composites properties are rarely reported. Taking nickel‐based compounds as an example, Ni3N@Ni3S2 hybrid nanosheets are reported as a high‐performance anode material for lithium‐ion batteries that delivers higher lithium storage properties than the pristine Ni3N and Ni3S2 electrodes. This demonstrates that the phase boundaries between the Ni3N and Ni3S2 may contribute additional lithium storage, which leads to a synergistic effect via the high pseudocapacitance contribution from the outstanding conductivity of Ni3N and enhanced diffusion‐controlled capacity of Ni3S2. The use of composites prepared through sulfuration of hydrothermally annealed nickel hydroxide‐based precursor provides an enhancement of the energy storage properties. These results provide an important approach for increasing the electrochemical activity of composites by the combined effect of interfacial mismatch and pseudocapacitance, as well as understandings of the mechanism of the enhancement of the composite electrode properties.
Polyion Covalency: Exotic Species from the Unexplored World of Electrostatically Shielded Molecular Ion Chemistry
Authors: Weinhold Frank
Published: October 2017

Standard quantum chemical methods have been employed to describe a variety of kinetically stable polyionic molecular species that are trapped in appreciable potential wells by chemical bonding forces, despite powerful electrostatic opposition that challenges conventional chemical detection and characterization. The studied species are covalent or dative analogs of “anti‐electrostatic” hydrogen‐bonded (AEHB) species, all illustrating how short‐range quantum covalency can overcome the powerful “shielding” opposition of long‐range electrostatic forces to form highly charged molecular species, analogous to known neutral or singly ionic counterparts. Computational predictions of representative structural, spectroscopic, and NBO‐based electronic signatures of multiply charged analogs of common neutral species (CH3CH3, CO2, FeCO) are provided to suggest the unique material properties characteristic of this shielded domain of polyionic chemical phenomena.
Synthesis of Octaaryl Naphthalenes and Anthracenes with Different Substituents
Authors: Suzuki Shin , Itami Kenichiro , Yamaguchi Junichiro
Published: October 2017

A synthesis of multiply arylated naphthalenes and anthracenes with eight different substituents has been accomplished. The key intermediates are tetraarylthiophene S‐oxides, which are synthesized through a method involving sequential C−H arylation and cross‐coupling from 3‐methoxythiophene, followed by oxidation of the sulfur atom. The resulting tetraarylthiophene S‐oxides can be converted into a tetraaryl benzynes or naphthalynes and then merged through [4+2] cycloaddition reaction with another tetraarylthiophene S‐oxide, thereby resulting in the programmed synthesis of octaarylnaphthalenes and octaarylanthracenes.
Discovery of a Highly Selective Cell‐Active Inhibitor of the Histone Lysine Demethylases KDM2/7
Authors: Gerken Philip A. , Wolstenhulme Jamie R. , Tumber Anthony , Hatch Stephanie B. , Zhang Yijia , Müller Susanne , Chandler Shane A. , Mair Barbara , Li Fengling , Nijman Sebastian M. B. , Konietzny Rebecca , Szommer Tamas , Yapp Clarence , Fedorov Oleg , Benesch Justin L. P. , Vedadi Masoud , Kessler Benedikt M. , Kawamura Akane , Brennan Paul E. , Smith Martin D.
Published: October 2017

Histone lysine demethylases (KDMs) are of critical importance in the epigenetic regulation of gene expression, yet there are few selective, cell‐permeable inhibitors or suitable tool compounds for these enzymes. We describe the discovery of a new class of inhibitor that is highly potent towards the histone lysine demethylases KDM2A/7A. A modular synthetic approach was used to explore the chemical space and accelerate the investigation of key structure–activity relationships, leading to the development of a small molecule with around 75‐fold selectivity towards KDM2A/7A versus other KDMs, as well as cellular activity at low micromolar concentrations.
Colloidal Quantum Nanostructures: Emerging Materials for Display Applications
Authors: Panfil Yossef E. , Oded Meirav , Banin Uri
Published: October 2017

Colloidal semiconductor nanocrystals (SCNCs) or, more broadly, colloidal quantum nanostructures constitute outstanding model systems for investigating size and dimensionality effects. Their nanoscale dimensions lead to quantum confinement effects that enable tuning of their optical and electronic properties. Thus, emission color control with narrow photoluminescence spectra, wide absorbance spectra, and outstanding photostability, combined with their chemical processability through control of their surface chemistry leads to the emergence of SCNCs as outstanding materials for present and next‐generation displays. In this Review, we present the fundamental chemical and physical properties of SCNCs, followed by a description of the advantages of different colloidal quantum nanostructures for display applications. The open challenges with respect to their optical activity are addressed. Both photoluminescent and electroluminescent display scenarios utilizing SCNCs are described.
Synthesis, characterization and application of graphene palladium porphyrin as a nanocatalyst for the coupling reactions such as: Suzuki‐Miyaura and Mizoroki‐Heck
Authors: Bahrami Kiumars , Kamrani Soheila Nakhjiri
Published: October 2017

The palladium(II)‐coordinated 5,10,15,20‐tetrakis‐(4‐hexyloxyphenyl)‐porphyrin as a macrocyclic palladium complex was covalently grafted to the surface of graphene oxide (denoted as GO‐CPTMS@Pd‐TKHPP). GO‐CPTMS@Pd‐TKHPP was characterized using microscopic and spectroscopic techniques for confirmation of functionalization. The synthesized catalyst was checked in the Suzuki‐Miyaura and the Mizoroki‐Heck coupling reactions. The catalyst is very easy to handle, environmentally safe and economical. Also, this catalytic system shows high catalytic activity and the yields of the products are excellent. Moreover, the suggested catalyst was reusable for five runs with no significant decrease in catalytic activity.
The Genes of Life and Death: A Potential Role for Placental‐Specific Genes in Cancer
Authors: Macaulay Erin C. , Chatterjee Aniruddha , Cheng Xi , Baguley Bruce C. , Eccles Michael R. , Morison Ian M.
Published: October 2017

The placenta invades the adjacent uterus and controls the maternal immune system, like a cancer invades surrounding organs and suppresses the local immune response. Intriguingly, placental and cancer cells are globally hypomethylated and share an epigenetic phenomenon that is not well understood – they fail to silence repetitive DNA sequences (retrotransposons) that are silenced (methylated) in healthy somatic cells. In the placenta, hypomethylation of retrotransposons has facilitated the evolution of new genes essential for placental function. In cancer, hypomethylation is thought to contribute to activation of oncogenes, genomic instability, and retrotransposon unsilencing; the latter, we postulate, is possibly the most important consequence. Activation of placental retrotransposon‐derived genes in cancer underpins our hypothesis that hypomethylation of these genes drives cancer cell invasion. This alludes to an interesting paradox, that while placental retrotransposon‐derived genes are essential for promoting early hominid life, the same genes promote disease‐susceptibility and death through cancer.
Synthetic Biology and the Gut Microbiome
Authors: Dou Jennifer , Bennett Matthew R.
Published: October 2017

The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in maintaining human health. Functions performed by gastrointestinal microbes range from regulating metabolism to modulating immune and nervous system development. Scientists have attempted to exploit this importance through the development of engineered probiotics that are capable of producing and delivering small molecule therapeutics within the gut. However, existing synthetic probiotics are simplistic and fail to replicate the complexity and adaptability of native homeostatic mechanisms. In this review, the ways in which the tools and approaches of synthetic biology have been applied to improve the efficacy of therapeutic probiotics, and the ways in which they might be applied in the future is discussed. Simple devices, such as a bistable switches and integrase memory arrays, have been successfully implemented in the mammalian gut, and models for targeted delivery in this environment have also been developed. In the future, it will be necessary to introduce concepts such as logic‐gating and biocontainment mechanisms into synthetic probiotics, as well as to expand the collection of relevant biosensors. Ideally, this will bring us closer to a reality in which engineered therapeutic microbes will be able to accurately diagnose and effectively respond to a variety of disease states.
Simultaneous LC–MS/MS analysis of eicosanoids and related metabolites in human serum, sputum and BALF
Authors: Thakare Rhishikesh , Chhonker Yashpal S. , Gautam Nagsen , Nelson Amy , Casaburi Richard , Criner Gerard , Dransfield Mark T. , Make Barry , Schmid Kendra K. , Rennard Stephen I. , Alnouti Yazen
Published: October 2017

The differences among individual eicosanoids in eliciting different physiological and pathological responses are largely unknown because of the lack of valid and simple analytical methods for the quantification of individual eicosanoids and their metabolites in serum, sputum and bronchial alveolar lavage fluid (BALF). Therefore, a simple and sensitive LC–MS/MS method for the simultaneous quantification of 34 eicosanoids in human serum, sputum and BALF was developed and validated. This method is valid and sensitive with a limit of quantification ranging from 0.2 to 3 ng/mL for the various analytes, and has a large dynamic range (500 ng/mL) and a short run time (25 min). The intra‐ and inter‐day accuracy and precision values met the acceptance criteria according to US Food and Drug Administration guidelines. Using this method, detailed eicosanoid profiles were quantified in serum, sputum and BALF from a pilot human study. In summary, a reliable and simple LC–MS/MS method to quantify major eicosanoids and their metabolites was developed and applied to quantify eicosanoids in human various fluids, demonstrating its suitability to assess eicosanoid biomarkers in human clinical trials.