bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel selective, potent naphthyl TRPM8 antagonists identified through a combined ligand- and structure-based virtual screening approach
Authors: Beccari Andrea R. , Gemei Marica , Lo Monte Matteo , Menegatti Nazareno , Fanton Marco , Pedretti Alessandro , Bovolenta Silvia , Nucci Cinzia , Molteni Angela , Rossignoli Andrea , Brandolini Laura , Taddei Alessandro , Za Lorena , Liberati Chiara , Vistoli Giulio
Published: September 2017

Transient receptor potential melastatin 8 (TRPM8), a nonselective cation channel, is the predominant mammalian cold temperature thermosensor and it is activated by cold temperatures and cooling compounds, such as menthol and icilin. Because of its role in cold allodynia, cold hyperalgesia and painful syndromes TRPM8 antagonists are currently being pursued as potential therapeutic agents for the treatment of pain hypersensitivity. Recently TRPM8 has been found in subsets of bladder sensory nerve fibres, providing an opportunity to understand and treat chronic hypersensitivity. However, most of the known TRPM8 inhibitors lack selectivity, and only three selective compounds have reached clinical trials to date. Here, we applied two virtual screening strategies to find new, clinics suitable, TRPM8 inhibitors. This strategy enabled us to identify naphthyl derivatives as a novel class of potent and selective TRPM8 inhibitors. Further characterization of the pharmacologic properties of the most potent compound identified, compound 1, confirmed that it is a selective, competitive antagonist inhibitor of TRPM8. Compound 1 also proved itself active in a overreactive bladder model in vivo. Thus, the novel naphthyl derivative compound identified here could be optimized for clinical treatment of pain hypersensitivity in bladder disorders but also in different other pathologies.
The Arabidopsis MTP8 transporter determines the localization of manganese and iron in seeds
Authors: Chu Heng-Hsuan , Car Suzana , Socha Amanda L. , Hindt Maria N. , Punshon Tracy , Guerinot Mary Lou
Published: September 2017

Understanding how seeds obtain and store nutrients is key to developing crops with higher agronomic and nutritional value. We have uncovered unique patterns of micronutrient localization in seeds using synchrotron X-ray fluorescence (SXRF). Although all four members of the Arabidopsis thaliana Mn-CDF family can transport Mn, here we show that only mtp8-2 has an altered Mn distribution pattern in seeds. In an mtp8-2 mutant, Mn no longer accumulates in hypocotyl cortex cells and sub-epidermal cells of the embryonic cotyledons, but rather accumulates with Fe in the cells surrounding the vasculature, a pattern previously shown to be determined by the vacuolar transporter VIT1. We also show that MTP8, unlike the other three Mn-CDF family members, can transport Fe and is responsible for localization of Fe to the same cells that store Mn. When both the VIT1 and MTP8 transporters are non-functional, there is no accumulation of Fe or Mn in specific cell types; rather these elements are distributed amongst all cell types in the seed. Disruption of the putative Fe binding sites in MTP8 resulted in loss of ability to transport Fe but did not affect the ability to transport Mn.
Uncovering the effect of low-frequency static magnetic field on tendon-derived cells: from mechanosensing to tenogenesis
Authors: Pesqueira Tamagno , Costa-Almeida Raquel , Gomes Manuela E.
Published: September 2017

Magnetotherapy has been receiving increased attention as an attractive strategy for modulating cell physiology directly at the site of injury, thereby providing the medical community with a safe and non-invasive therapy. Yet, how magnetic field influences tendon cells both at the cellular and molecular levels remains unclear. Thus, the influence of a low-frequency static magnetic field (2 Hz, 350 mT) on human tendon-derived cells was studied using different exposure times (4 and 8 h; short-term studies) and different regimens of exposure to an 8h-period of magnetic stimulation (continuous, every 24 h or every 48 h; long-term studies). Herein, 8 h stimulation in short-term studies significantly upregulated the expression of tendon-associated genes SCX, COL1A1, TNC and DCN (p < 0.05) and altered intracellular Ca2+ levels (p < 0.05). Additionally, every 24 h regimen of stimulation significantly upregulated COL1A1, COL3A1 and TNC at day 14 in comparison to control (p < 0.05), whereas continuous exposure differentially regulated the release of the immunomodulatory cytokines IL-1β and IL-10 (p < 0.001) but only at day 7 in comparison to controls. Altogether, these results provide new insights on how low-frequency static magnetic field fine-tune the behaviour of tendon cells according to the magnetic settings used, which we foresee to represent an interesting candidate to guide tendon regeneration.
Deep Neural Network Probabilistic Decoder for Stabilizer Codes
Authors: Krastanov Stefan , Jiang Liang
Published: September 2017

Neural networks can efficiently encode the probability distribution of errors in an error correcting code. Moreover, these distributions can be conditioned on the syndromes of the corresponding errors. This paves a path forward for a decoder that employs a neural network to calculate the conditional distribution, then sample from the distribution - the sample will be the predicted error for the given syndrome. We present an implementation of such an algorithm that can be applied to any stabilizer code. Testing it on the toric code, it has higher threshold than a number of known decoders thanks to naturally finding the most probable error and accounting for correlations between errors.
Identification of immunity-related genes in Plutella xylostella in response to fungal peptide destruxin A: RNA-Seq and DGE analysis
Authors: Shakeel Muhammad , Xu Xiaoxia , Xu Jin , Zhu Xun , Li Shuzhong , Zhou Xianqiang , Yu Jialin , Xu Xiaojing , Hu Qiongbo , Yu Xiaoqiang , Jin Fengliang
Published: September 2017

Plutella xylostellahas become the major lepidopteran pest ofBrassicaowing to its strong ability of resistance development to a wide range of insecticides. Destruxin A, a mycotoxin of entomopathogenic fungus,Metarhizium anisopliae, has broad-spectrum insecticidal effects. However, the interaction mechanism of destruxin A with the immune system ofP. xylostellaat genomic level is still not well understood. Here, we identified 129 immunity-related genes, including pattern recognition receptors, signal modulators, few members of main immune pathways (Toll, Imd, and JAK/STAT), and immune effectors inP. xylostellain response to destruxin A at three different time courses (2 h, 4 h, and 6 h). It is worthy to mention that the immunity-related differentially expressed genes (DEGs) analysis exhibited 30, 78, and 72 up-regulated and 17, 13, and 6 down-regulated genes inP. xylostellaafter destruxin A injection at 2 h, 4 h, and 6 h, respectively, compared to control. Interestingly, our results revealed that the expression of antimicrobial peptides that play a vital role in insect immune system was up-regulated after the injection of destruxin A. Our findings provide a detailed information on immunity-related DEGs and reveal the potential ofP. xylostellato limit the infection of fungal peptide destruxin A by increasing the activity of antimicrobial peptides.
MiRNA-target network analysis identifies potential biomarkers for Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) syndrome development evaluation in hepatitis B caused liver cirrhosis
Authors: Liu Yamin , Wang Mei , luo Yunquan , Chen Jian , lu Yiyu , Shi Yulin , Tang Chenchen , Zhou Qianmei , Zhang Hui , Hu Yuanjia , Su Shibing , Chen Qilong
Published: September 2017

Hepatitis B is one of most etiologies of Liver cirrhosis in China, and clinically lacks the effective strategy for Hepatitis B caused cirrhosis (HBC) therapy. As a complementary and alternative medicine, Chinese Traditional Medicine (TCM) has special therapeutic effects for HBC. Here, we focus on the evolution process of HBC TCM syndromes, which was from Excessive (Liver-Gallbladder Dampness-Heat Syndrome, LGDHS) to Deficient (Liver-Kidney Deficiency Syndrome, LKYDS) via Excessive-Deficient syndrome (Liver-Depression and Spleen-Deficiency Syndrome, LDSDS). Using R package, 16 miRNAs in LGDHS/Normal, 48 miRNAs in LDSDS/LGDHS, and 16 miRNAs in LKYDS/LDSDS were identified, respectively. The miRNA-target networks show that the LDSDS was most stability and complicated. Subsequently, 4 kernel miRNAs with LGDHS-LDSDS process, and 5 kernel miRNAs with LDSDS-LKYDS process were screened. Using RT-qPCR data, p1 (hsa-miR-17-3p, -377-3p, -410-3p and -495) and p2 miRNA panel (hsa-miR-377-3p, -410-3p, -27a-3p, 149-5p and 940) were identified by Logistic Regression Model, which clearly improve the accuracy of TCM syndrome classification. The rebuilt miRNA-target network shows that the LDSDS is a critical point and might determine the evolution directions of HBC TCM syndrome. This study suggests that the identified kernel miRNAs act as potential biomarkers and benefit to evaluate the evolution tendency of HBC TCM syndromes.
Molecular characterization of cell-free eccDNAs in human plasma
Authors: Zhu Jing , Zhang Fan , Du Meijun , Zhang Peng , Fu Songbin , Wang Liang
Published: September 2017

Extrachromosomal circular DNAs (eccDNAs) have been reported in most eukaryotes. However, little is known about the cell-free eccDNA profiles in circulating system such as blood. To characterize plasma cell-free eccDNAs, we performed sequencing analysis in 26 libraries from three blood donors and negative controls. We identified thousands of unique plasma eccDNAs in the three subjects. We observed proportional eccDNA increase with initial DNA input. The detected eccDNAs were also associated with circular DNA enrichment efficiency. Increasing the sequencing depth in an additional sample identified many more eccDNAs with highly heterogenous molecular structure. Size distribution of eccDNAs varied significantly from 31 bp to 19,989 bp. We found significantly higher GC content in smaller eccDNAs (<500 bp) than the larger ones (>500 bp) (p < 0.01). We also found an enrichment of eccDNAs at exons and 3′UTR (enrichment folds from 1.36 to 3.1) as well as the DNase hypersensitive sites (1.58–2.42 fold), H3K4Me1 (1.23–1.42 fold) and H3K27Ac (1.33–1.62 fold) marks. Junction sequence analysis suggested fundamental role of nonhomologous end joining mechanism during eccDNA formation. Further characterization of the extracellular eccDNAs in peripheral blood will facilitate understanding of their molecular mechanisms and potential clinical utilities.
MIER3 suppresses colorectal cancer progression by down-regulating Sp1, inhibiting epithelial-mesenchymal transition
Authors: Peng Man , Hu Yukun , Song Wen , Duan Shiyu , Xu Qiong , Ding Yanqing , Geng Jian , Zhou Jun
Published: September 2017

Mesoderm induction early response 1, family member 3 (MIER3) has recently been identified as a potential cancer susceptibility gene. However, the expression pattern and the role of MIER3 in the progression of colorectal cancer (CRC) have not yet been well characterized. Here, we reported that MIER3 was significantly reduced in human primary colorectal cancer and was associated with CRC metastasis and poor prognosis. Moreover, the up-regulation of MIER3 expression significantly inhibited CRC cell proliferation, migration and invasion in vitro and repressed tumor growth and metastasis in vivo. In contrast, down-regulation of MIER3 could promote the aggressive behaviors of CRC cells. Furthermore, our study showed that MIER3 inhibited cell proliferation and invasion partially via reduction of Sp1 and subsequent suppression of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). In conclusion, our data suggested that MIER3 plays a potential tumor suppressor role in CRC progression and may be a potentially valuable clinical prognostic marker of this disease.
Production of high-resolution forest-ecosite maps based on model predictions of soil moisture and nutrient regimes over a large forested area
Authors: Yang Qi , Meng Fan-Rui , Bourque Charles P.-A. , Zhao Zhengyong
Published: September 2017

Forest ecosite reflects the local site conditions that are meaningful to forest productivity as well as basic ecological functions. Field assessments of vegetation and soil types are often used to identify forest ecosites. However, the production of high-resolution ecosite maps for large areas from interpolating field data is difficult because of high spatial variation and associated costs and time requirements. Indices of soil moisture and nutrient regimes (i.e., SMR and SNR) introduced in this study reflect the combined effects of biogeochemical and topographic factors on forest growth. The objective of this research is to present a method for creating high-resolution forest ecosite maps based on computer-generated predictions of SMR and SNR for an area in Atlantic Canada covering about 4.3 × 106 hectares (ha) of forestland. Field data from 1,507 forest ecosystem classification plots were used to assess the accuracy of the ecosite maps produced. Using model predictions of SMR and SNR alone, ecosite maps were 61 and 59% correct in identifying 10 Acadian- and Maritime-Boreal-region ecosite types, respectively. This method provides an operational framework for the production of high-resolution maps of forest ecosites over large areas without the need for data from expensive, supplementary field surveys.
Field-Effect Transistor Biosensor for Rapid Detection of Ebola Antigen
Authors: Chen Yantao , Ren Ren , Pu Haihui , Guo Xiaoru , Chang Jingbo , Zhou Guihua , Mao Shun , Kron Michael , Chen Junhong
Published: September 2017

The Ebola virus transmits a highly contagious, frequently fatal human disease for which there is no specific antiviral treatment. Therefore, rapid, accurate, and early diagnosis of Ebola virus disease (EVD) is critical to public health containment efforts, particularly in developing countries where resources are few and EVD is endemic. We have developed a reduced graphene oxide-based field-effect transistor method for real-time detection of the Ebola virus antigen. This method uses the attractive semiconductor characteristics of graphene-based material, and instantaneously yields highly sensitive and specific detection of Ebola glycoprotein. The feasibility of this method for clinical application in point-of-care technology is evaluated using Ebola glycoprotein suspended in diluted PBS buffer, human serum, and plasma. These results demonstrate the successful fabrication of a promising field-effect transistor biosensor for EVD diagnosis.
Differential gene expression profiling linked to tumor progression of splenic marginal zone lymphoma
Authors: Higuchi Tomonori , Hashida Yumiko , Taniguchi Ayuko , Kamioka Mikio , Daibata Masanori
Published: September 2017

The genetic events that lead to aggressive transformation of cases of splenic marginal zone lymphoma (SMZL) after the chronic clinical stage have not been well understood. We aimed to find candidate genes associated with aggressive features of SMZL. We have successfully established two SMZL cell lines, designated SL-15 and SL-22, derived from the same patient’s tumor clone in chronic and aggressive phases, respectively. Microarray analysis identified cell cycle-associated genes—specifically PLK1—as the most significantly upregulated in primary aggressive SMZL cells compared with cells from chronic phase. EPHA4 and MS4A1 (CD20) were found to be downregulated dramatically. These gene expression patterns were reproduced in both cell lines. Genetic knockdown of PLK1 resulted in inhibition of cell proliferation and induction of apoptosis in SL-22 cells, which expressed higher levels of PLK1 than SL-15 cells. SL-22 cells needed higher concentrations of chemical PLK1 inhibitors to achieve greater effects. In addition, we found homozygous deletion of the MS4A1 gene as a newly identified molecular mechanism of CD20-negative conversion. Our findings are expected to stimulate further studies on whether PLK1 could be a potential therapeutic target for this tumor. Furthermore, cases with CD20-negatively converted lymphomas should be screened for the genomic loss of MS4A1.
The life-span trajectory of visual perception of 3D objects
Authors: Freud Erez , Behrmann Marlene
Published: September 2017

Deriving a 3D structural representation of an object from its 2D input is one of the great challenges for the visual system and yet, this type of representation is critical for the successful recognition of and interaction with objects. Perhaps reflecting the importance of this computation, infants have some sensitivity to 3D structural information, and this sensitivity is, at least, partially preserved in the elderly population. To map precisely the life-span trajectory of this key visual computation, in a series of experiments, we compared the performance of observers from ages 4 to 86 years on displays of objects that either obey or violate possible 3D structure. The major findings indicate that the ability to derive fine-grained 3D object representations emerges after a prolonged developmental trajectory and is contingent on the explicit processing of depth information even in late childhood. In contrast, the sensitivity to object 3D structure remains stable even through late adulthood despite the overall reduction in perceptual competence. Together, these results uncover the developmental process of an important perceptual skill, revealing that the initial, coarse sensitivity to 3D information is refined, automatized and retained over the lifespan.
Synergies between Urban Heat Island and Heat Waves in Athens (Greece), during an extremely hot summer (2012)
Authors: Founda Dimitra , Santamouris Mattheos
Published: September 2017

Heat waves (HWs) are recognized as a serious threat for human health worldwide, with urban areas being more vulnerable due to the urban heat island (UHI) effect and population density. Yet, in the climate change context, HWs are becoming more frequent, stronger and longer, which, coupled with intensifying urbanization exacerbates thermal risk for urban residents. Despite the profound impact of this global phenomenon there is no clear consensus so far on possible synergies between UHIs and HWs. The study sheds light on the complex synergies between UHIs and HWs focusing on coastal sites. A quite challenging period comprising five HW episodes during summer 2012 in Athens (Greece) was selected for analysis. A positive feedback between UHIs and HWs was found, with intensification of the average UHI magnitude by up to 3.5 °C during HWs, compared to summer background conditions. Our results contribute significantly to understanding synergies between UHIs and HWs that may strongly increase thermal risk in cities and vulnerability of urban population.
Carnosic acid prevents dextran sulfate sodium-induced acute colitis associated with the regulation of the Keap1/Nrf2 pathway
Authors: Yang Neng , Xia Zongling , Shao Naiyuan , Li Bowen , Xue Lian , Peng Ya , Zhi Feng , Yang Yilin
Published: September 2017

Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) with high prevalence in humans. Carnosic acid (CA) has been reported to possess antioxidative properties; however, its role in IBDs has not been determined. In the present study, we found that CA significantly prevented the loss of body weight and shortening of colon length in acute colitis induced by dextran sodium sulfate (DSS). Pronounced infiltration of immune cells and a loss of crypt architecture and goblet cells were ameliorated by CA. CA significantly decreased the activity of MPO and infiltration of F4/80+macrophages in the colon. DSS-induced pro-inflammatory cytokine mRNA and protein levels in the colon were also attenuated by CA. CA decreased the activation of p65 and c-Jun signalling. CA inhibited DSS-induced NLRP3 inflammasome activation by reducing caspase 1 activity. In addition, CA increased the level of Nrf2 and prevented the degradation of Nrf2 via ubiquitination by blocking the interaction between Cullin3 and Keap1, which resulted in the decrease of Nrf2 target genes. Finally, GSH levels and SOD activity were increased after CA treatment, while MDA and iNOS levels were significantly reduced. Taken together, our data showed that CA may be useful as a potential therapeutic candidate for IBDs.
Spatial features of synaptic adaptation affecting learning performance
Authors: Berger Damian L. , de Arcangelis Lucilla , Herrmann Hans J.
Published: September 2017

Recent studies have proposed that the diffusion of messenger molecules, such as monoamines, can mediate the plastic adaptation of synapses in supervised learning of neural networks. Based on these findings we developed a model for neural learning, where the signal for plastic adaptation is assumed to propagate through the extracellular space. We investigate the conditions allowing learning of Boolean rules in a neural network. Even fully excitatory networks show very good learning performances. Moreover, the investigation of the plastic adaptation features optimizing the performance suggests that learning is very sensitive to the extent of the plastic adaptation and the spatial range of synaptic connections.
The salivary microbiome is consistent between subjects and resistant to impacts of short-term hospitalization
Authors: Cabral Damien J. , Wurster Jenna I. , Flokas Myrto E. , Alevizakos Michail , Zabat Michelle , Korry Benjamin J. , Rowan Aislinn D. , Sano William H. , Andreatos Nikolaos , Ducharme R. Bobby , Chan Philip A. , Mylonakis Eleftherios , Fuchs Beth Burgwyn , Belenky Peter
Published: September 2017

In recent years, a growing amount of research has begun to focus on the oral microbiome due to its links with health and systemic disease. The oral microbiome has numerous advantages that make it particularly useful for clinical studies, including non-invasive collection, temporal stability, and lower complexity relative to other niches, such as the gut. Despite recent discoveries made in this area, it is unknown how the oral microbiome responds to short-term hospitalization. Previous studies have demonstrated that the gut microbiome is extremely sensitive to short-term hospitalization and that these changes are associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Here, we present a comprehensive pipeline for reliable bedside collection, sequencing, and analysis of the human salivary microbiome. We also develop a novel oral-specific mock community for pipeline validation. Using our methodology, we analyzed the salivary microbiomes of patients before and during hospitalization or azithromycin treatment to profile impacts on this community. Our findings indicate that azithromycin alters the diversity and taxonomic composition of the salivary microbiome; however, we also found that short-term hospitalization does not impact the richness or structure of this community, suggesting that the oral cavity may be less susceptible to dysbiosis during short-term hospitalization.
Sex differences in the C57BL/6 model of Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection
Authors: Dibbern Jannike , Eggers Lars , Schneider Bianca E.
Published: September 2017

Globally, tuberculosis (Tb) notification data show a male-to-female ratio of 1.7 and higher, but the underlying reasons for the male bias remain elusive. Despite the well-known gender bias in human pulmonary Tb, a majority of experimental animal studies either do not separate and analyze data by sex or do not report the sex of their subjects at all. In the present study, we report increased male susceptibility in one of the most commonly used mouse models for Tb, C57BL/6 mice. Our study revealed that disease progression upon aerosol infection withMycobacterium tuberculosis(Mtb) was accelerated in males resulting in increased morbidity and mortality compared to females. ElevatedMtbloads in males were associated with an early exaggerated pulmonary inflammatory response which likely was detrimental to the host, as reflected by exacerbated pathology and increased mortality. Our data emphasis the urgent need to include and separately analyze both sexes in future animal studies of Tb in order to appreciate the differences in immune responses and disease pathogenesis between males and females.
Introduced ascidians harbor highly diverse and host-specific symbiotic microbial assemblages
Authors: Evans James S. , Erwin Patrick M. , Shenkar Noa , López-Legentil Susanna
Published: September 2017

Many ascidian species have experienced worldwide introductions, exhibiting remarkable success in crossing geographic borders and adapting to local environmental conditions. To investigate the potential role of microbial symbionts in these introductions, we examined the microbial communities of three ascidian species common in North Carolina harbors. Replicate samples of the globally introduced speciesDistaplia bermudensis,Polyandrocarpa anguinea, andP. zorritensis(n = 5), and ambient seawater (n = 4), were collected in Wrightsville Beach, NC. Microbial communities were characterized by next-generation (Illumina) sequencing of partial (V4) 16S rRNA gene sequences. Ascidians hosted diverse symbiont communities, consisting of 5,696 unique microbial OTUs (at 97% sequenced identity) from 44 bacterial and three archaeal phyla. Permutational multivariate analyses of variance revealed clear differentiation of ascidian symbionts compared to seawater bacterioplankton, and distinct microbial communities inhabiting each ascidian species. 103 universal core OTUs (present in all ascidian replicates) were identified, including taxa previously described in marine invertebrate microbiomes with possible links to ammonia-oxidization, denitrification, pathogenesis, and heavy-metal processing. These results suggest ascidian microbial symbionts exhibit a high degree of host-specificity, forming intimate associations that may contribute to host adaptation to new environments via expanded tolerance thresholds and enhanced holobiont function.
Evaluation of single-cell genomics to address evolutionary questions using three SAGs of the choanoflagellate Monosiga brevicollis
Authors: López-Escardó David , Grau-Bové Xavier , Guillaumet-Adkins Amy , Gut Marta , Sieracki Michael E. , Ruiz-Trillo Iñaki
Published: September 2017

Single-cell genomics (SCG) appeared as a powerful technique to get genomic information from uncultured organisms. However, SCG techniques suffer from biases at the whole genome amplification step that can lead to extremely variable numbers of genome recovery (5–100%). Thus, it is unclear how useful can SCG be to address evolutionary questions on uncultured microbial eukaryotes. To provide some insights into this, we here analysed 3 single-cell amplified genomes (SAGs) of the choanoflagellate Monosiga brevicollis, whose genome is known. Our results show that each SAG has a different, independent bias, yielding different levels of genome recovery for each cell (6–36%). Genes often appear fragmented and are split into more genes during annotation. Thus, analyses of gene gain and losses, gene architectures, synteny and other genomic features can not be addressed with a single SAG. However, the recovery of phylogenetically-informative protein domains can be up to 55%. This means SAG data can be used to perform accurate phylogenomic analyses. Finally, we also confirm that the co-assembly of several SAGs improves the general genomic recovery. Overall, our data show that, besides important current limitations, SAGs can still provide interesting and novel insights from poorly-known, uncultured organisms.
Dormant 5-lipoxygenase in inflammatory macrophages is triggered by exogenous arachidonic acid
Authors: Sorgi Carlos A. , Zarini Simona , Martin Sarah A. , Sanchez Raphael L. , Scandiuzzi Rodrigo F. , Gijón Miguel A. , Guijas Carlos , Flamand Nicolas , Murphy Robert C. , Faccioli Lucia H.
Published: September 2017

The differentiation of resident tissue macrophages from embryonic precursors and that of inflammatory macrophages from bone marrow cells leads to macrophage heterogeneity. Further plasticity is displayed through their ability to be polarized as subtypes M1 and M2 in a cell culture microenvironment. However, the detailed regulation of eicosanoid production and its involvement in macrophage biology remains unclear. Using a lipidomics approach, we demonstrated that eicosanoid production profiles between bone marrow-derived (BMDM) and peritoneal macrophages differed drastically. In polarized BMDMs, M1 and M2 phenotypes were distinguished by thromboxane B2, prostaglandin (PG) E2, and PGD2production, in addition to lysophospholipid acyltransferase activity. AlthoughAlox5expression and the presence of 5-lipoxygenase (5-LO) protein in BMDMs was observed, the absence of leukotrienes production reflected an impairment in 5-LO activity, which could be triggered by addition of exogenous arachidonic acid (AA). The BMDM 5-LO regulatory mechanism was not responsive to PGE2/cAMP pathway modulation; however, treatment to reduce glutathione peroxidase activity increased 5-LO metabolite production after AA stimulation. Understanding the relationship between the eicosanoids pathway and macrophage biology may offer novel strategies for macrophage-associated disease therapy.
Neurogenetic plasticity and sex influence the link between corticolimbic structural connectivity and trait anxiety
Authors: Kim M. Justin , Avinun Reut , Knodt Annchen R. , Radtke Spenser R. , Hariri Ahmad R.
Published: September 2017

Corticolimbic pathways connecting the amygdala and ventral prefrontal cortex (vPFC) are linked with trait anxiety, but it remains unclear what potential genetic moderators contribute to this association. We sought to address this by examining the inter-individual variability in neuroplasticity as modeled by a functional polymorphism (rs6265) in the human gene for brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Amygdala-vPFC pathway fractional anisotropy (FA) from 669 diffusion magnetic resonance images was used to examine associations with trait anxiety as a function of rs6265 genotype. We first replicated the inverse correlation between trait anxiety and amygdala-vPFC pathway FA in women. Furthermore, we found a moderating influence of rs6265 genotype such that the association between trait anxiety and right amygdala-vPFC pathway FA was strongest in women carrying the Met allele, which is linked with decreased activity-dependent neuroplasticity. Results indicate that the microstructural integrity of pathways supporting communication between the amygdala and vPFC help shape the expression of trait anxiety in women, and that this association is further modulated by genetically driven variability in neuroplasticity.
LNGFR targets the Wnt/β-catenin pathway and promotes the osteogenic differentiation in rat ectomesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Li Gang , Liu Junyu , Wang Yingying , Yang Kun , Zhao Manzhu , Xiao Yong , Wen Xiujie , Liu Luchuan
Published: September 2017

Considerable evidence has shown that the Wnt/β-catenin pathway is involved in osteogenic differentiation in various stem cells. However, the role of Wnt/β-catenin pathway in regulating the osteogenic differentiation of rat ectomesenchymal stem cells (EMSCs), which are considered to be the progenitors of dental mesenchymal stem cells, remains unknown. In this study, we demonstrated that nuclear β-catenin was upregulated during EMSC osteogenic differentiation. The Wnt signalling inhibitor IWR-1-endo inhibited EMSC osteogenic differentiation, while the Wnt signalling agonist SKL2001 promoted it. Moreover, nuclear β-catenin was further upregulated by the overexpression of low-affinity nerve growth factor receptor (LNGFR) during EMSC osteogenic differentiation. Further experiments demonstrated that LNGFR overexpression enhanced EMSC osteogenic differentiation, while LNGFR silencing decreased it. Additionally, IWR-1-endo attenuated LNGFR-enhanced EMSC osteogenic differentiation. Collectively, our data reveal that LNGFR targets the Wnt/β-catenin pathway and positively regulates EMSC osteogenic differentiation, suggesting that Wnt/β-catenin pathway may be involved in the development of teeth and that the targeting Wnt/β-catenin pathway may have great potential for applications in dental tissue engineering regeneration.
Analysis of bacterial and fungal communities in Marcha and Thiat, traditionally prepared amylolytic starters of India
Authors: Sha Shankar Prasad , Jani Kunal , Sharma Avinash , Anupma Anu , Pradhan Pooja , Shouche Yogesh , Tamang Jyoti Prakash
Published: September 2017

Marcha and thiat are traditionally prepared amylolytic starters use for production of various ethnic alcoholic beverages in Sikkim and Meghalaya states in India. In the present study we have tried to investigate the bacterial and fungal community composition of marcha and thiat by using high throughput sequencing. Characterization of bacterial community depicts phylum Proteobacteria is the most dominant in both marcha (91.4%) and thiat (53.8%), followed by Firmicutes, and Actinobacteria. Estimates of fungal community composition showed Ascomycota as the dominant phylum. Presence of Zygomycota in marcha distinguishes it from the thiat. The results of NGS analysis revealed dominance of yeasts in marcha whereas molds out numbers in case of thiat. This is the first report on microbial communities of traditionally prepared amylolytic starters of India using high throughput sequencing.
An extremely simple macroscale electronic skin realized by deep machine learning
Authors: Sohn Kee-Sun , Chung Jiyong , Cho Min-Young , Timilsina Suman , Park Woon Bae , Pyo Myungho , Shin Namsoo , Sohn Keemin , Kim Ji Sik
Published: September 2017

Complicated structures consisting of multi-layers with a multi-modal array of device components, i.e., so-called patterned multi-layers, and their corresponding circuit designs for signal readout and addressing are used to achieve a macroscale electronic skin (e-skin). In contrast to this common approach, we realized an extremely simple macroscale e-skin only by employing a single-layered piezoresistive MWCNT-PDMS composite film with neither nano-, micro-, nor macro-patterns. It is the deep machine learning that made it possible to let such a simple bulky material play the role of a smart sensory device. A deep neural network (DNN) enabled us to process electrical resistance change induced by applied pressure and thereby to instantaneously evaluate the pressure level and the exact position under pressure. The great potential of this revolutionary concept for the attainment of pressure-distribution sensing on a macroscale area could expand its use to not only e-skin applications but to other high-end applications such as touch panels, portable flexible keyboard, sign language interpreting globes, safety diagnosis of social infrastructures, and the diagnosis of motility and peristalsis disorders in the gastrointestinal tract.
Decoding the Morphological Differences between Himalayan Glacial and Fluvial Landscapes Using Multifractal Analysis
Authors: Dutta Srimonti
Published: September 2017

Himalayas is the home to nearly 10,000 glaciers which are mostly located at high and inaccessible region. Digital Elevation Model (DEM) can be effective in the study of these glaciers. This paper aims at providing an automated distinction of glacial and fluvial morphologies using multifractal technique. We have studied the variation of elevation profile of Glacial and Fluvial landscapes using Multifractal Detrended Fluctuation Analysis (MFDFA). Glacial landscapes reveal more complex structure compared to the fluvial landscapes as indicated by fractal parameters degree of multifractality, asymmetry index.
Measurement of pH-dependent surface-enhanced hyper-Raman scattering at desired positions on yeast cells via optical trapping
Authors: Kitahama Yasutaka , Hayashi Hiroaki , Itoh Tamitake , Ozaki Yukihiro
Published: September 2017

At desired positions on yeast, pH-dependent surface-enhanced hyper-Raman scattering (SEHRS) spectra were recorded by focusing a near-infrared laser beam while silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) with 4-mercaptobenzoic acid (p-MBA) were simultaneously optically trapped.
Is measurement uncertainty from sampling related to analyte concentration?
Authors: Ellison Stephen L. R. , Ramsey Michael H. , Lawrance Paul , Stuart Brian , Minguez Jesus , Walker Michael J.
Published: September 2017

The contribution of sampling to the combined uncertainty of measurement is assessed using a combination of literature review and experimental determination of sampling variability in a range of foodstuffs in order to determine whether there is a consistent relationship between analyte level and proportion of variation attributable to sampling.
On the role of the mode as a location parameter for the results of proficiency tests in chemical measurement
Authors: Thompson Michael
Published: September 2017

Results from a round of a proficiency test in chemical measurement quite often deviate noticeably from a symmetrical distribution, throwing into doubt the worth of the mean (or a robust mean) as an apt location estimator and basis for further inferences such as attributing scores to the participants.
Magnetic tweezers for the mechanical research of DNA at the single molecule level
Authors: Xin Qi , Li Peng , He Yuning , Shi Cuiping , Qiao Yiqun , Bian Xiaojun , Su Jing , Qiao Ruirui , Zhou Xinbo , Zhong Jian
Published: September 2017

This review summarizes the application of magnetic tweezers for the mechanical research of DNA at the single molecule level.
Fluorescent sensors for sodium ions
Authors: Gao Ge , Cao Yingli , Liu Wei , Li Dai , Zhou Wenhu , Liu Juewen
Published: September 2017

Sodium is a highly important metal in biological systems. Na+sensing can be achieved using small molecule probes, proteins and more recently DNA, and the design of these sensors are summarized.
pH and redox dual-sensitive polysaccharide nanoparticles for the efficient delivery of doxorubicin
Authors: Yang Shengcai , Tang Zhaohui , Zhang Dawei , Deng Mingxiao , Chen Xuesi
Published: September 2017

A pH and redox dual-sensitive smart nano-vehicle was designed for doxorubicin hydrochloride loading and delivery.
A transition-metal-free fast track to flavones and 3-arylcoumarins
Authors: Golshani Mostafa , Khoobi Mehdi , Jalalimanesh Nafiseh , Jafarpour Farnaz , Ariafard Alireza
Published: September 2017

A first general transition-metal free line for the construction of versatile chromenone based drug candidates is devised.
Evidence for the spontaneous formation of N-heterocyclic carbenes in imidazolium based ionic liquids
Authors: Daud N. M. A. N. , Bakis E. , Hallett J. P. , Weber C. C. , Welton T.
Published: September 2017

Evidence is presented for the spontaneous formation of N-heterocyclic carbenes in ionic liquids based on 1,3-dialkyl substituted imidazolium cations.
Triazolium cyclodextrin click cluster–resin conjugate: an enrichment material for phosphatidylinositol (3,4,5)-triphosphate
Authors: Le H. T. , Lee J. W. , Park S. C. , Jeong J. W. , Jung W. , Lim C. W. , Kim K. P. , Kim T. W.
Published: September 2017

UltraLink was functionalized with a triazolium cyclodextrin click cluster (CCC) which provides a well-oriented, multivalent, positively charged binding site for PtdIns(3,4,5)P3.
Self-assembly, structures, magnetic properties and solution behaviors of six mixed-valence cobalt clusters
Authors: Li Yun-Wu , Guo Ling-Yu , Feng Lei , Jagličić Zvonko , Zeng Su-Yuan , Sun Di
Published: September 2017

Six novel mixed-valence cobalt clusters with flexible {CoIIxCoIIIy} cores have been constructed via in situ synthesis and stepwise synthesis routes. Their solution behaviors and possible assembly evolutions were detected by HRESI-MS. All of them also show interesting magnetic behaviours.
Capture of Xe and Ar atoms by quantized vortices in4He nanodroplets
Authors: Coppens François , Ancilotto Francesco , Barranco Manuel , Halberstadt Nadine , Pi Martí
Published: September 2017

We present a computational study, based on time-dependent Density Functional theory, of the real-time interaction and trapping of Ar and Xe atoms in superfluid4He nanodroplets either pure or hosting quantized vortex lines.
Changes in dynamics of α-chymotrypsin due to covalent inhibitors investigated by elastic incoherent neutron scattering
Authors: Andersson C. D. , Martinez N. , Zeller D. , Rondahl S. H. , Koza M. M. , Frick B. , Ekström F. , Peters J. , Linusson A.
Published: September 2017

The dynamics of chymotrypsin increases when bound to two different covalent inhibitors. These effects were analyzed by univariate and multivariate methods.
Stepwise microhydration of aromatic amide cations: water solvation networks revealed by the infrared spectra of acetanilide+–(H2O)n clusters (n ≤ 3)
Authors: Klyne Johanna , Schmies Matthias , Miyazaki Mitsuhiko , Fujii Masaaki , Dopfer Otto
Published: September 2017

The structure of the microhydration network around a prototypical aromatic amide cation was determined by infrared spectroscopy of cold cluster ions and dispersion-corrected DFT calculations.
Probing the solvation structure and dynamics in ionic liquids by time-resolved infrared spectroscopy of 4-(dimethylamino)benzonitrile
Authors: Ando Rômulo A. , Brown-Xu Samantha E. , Nguyen Lisa N. Q. , Gustafson Terry L.
Published: September 2017

In this work we demonstrate the use of the push–pull model system 4-(dimethylamino)benzonitrile (DMABN) as a convenient molecular probe to investigate the local solvation structure and dynamics by means of time-resolved infrared spectroscopy (TRIR).
Wormlike micelles versus water-soluble polymers as rheology-modifiers: similarities and differences
Authors: Wang Ji , Feng Yujun , Agrawal Niti R. , Raghavan Srinivasa R.
Published: September 2017

Rheological behaviors and aqueous solution microstructures of wormlike micelles and a water-soluble polymer are compared.
Synergistic enhancement in the drug sequestration power and reduction in the cytotoxicity of surfactants
Authors: Kalel Rahul , Mora Aruna K. , Patro Birija S. , Palit Dipak K. , Nath Sukhendu
Published: September 2017

Surfactants in supramolecular assemblies show a significant increase in their drug sequestration power with a remarkably reduced cytotoxicity.
Small gold clusters catalyzing the conversion of glycerol to epichlorohydrin
Authors: Pembere Anthony M. , Yang Mengzhou , Luo Zhixun
Published: September 2017

The conversion of glycerol to epichlorohydrin (GTE) is of great interest because the product is widely used in plastics, rubbers and adhesives, and also contributes to the disposal of the reactant glycerol, a major by-product in biodiesel production.
Latest advances in supercapacitors: from new electrode materials to novel device designs
Authors: Wang Faxing , Wu Xiongwei , Yuan Xinhai , Liu Zaichun , Zhang Yi , Fu Lijun , Zhu Yusong , Zhou Qingming , Wu Yuping , Huang Wei
Published: September 2017

A comprehensive overview of the state-of-the-art progress toward mechanisms, new materials, and novel device designs for supercapacitors is provided. Further directions are also pointed out.
Progress in bio-inspired sacrificial bonds in artificial polymeric materials
Authors: Zhou Xinxin , Guo Baochun , Zhang Liqun , Hu Guo-Hua
Published: September 2017

This review focuses on the mechanisms, designs, and applications of bio-inspired sacrificial bonds in artificial polymeric materials.
Two-dimensional flow of driven particles: a microfluidic pathway to the non-equilibrium frontier
Authors: Beatus Tsevi , Shani Itamar , Bar-Ziv Roy H. , Tlusty Tsvi
Published: September 2017

We discuss the basic physics of the flow of micron-scale droplets in 2D geometry.
Axial substitution of a precursor resulted in two high-energy copper(ii) complexes with superior detonation performances
Authors: Li Xin , Yang Qi , Wei Qing , Xie Gang , Chen Sanping , Gao Shengli
Published: September 2017

Axial substitution of a precursor resulted in two high-energy copper(ii) complexes with high thermal stabilities, insensitivities to impact and friction, and superior theoretical detonation performances.
A convenient access to N-phosphonio-substituted NHC metal complexes [M = Ag(i), Rh(i), Pd(ii)]
Authors: Benaissa Idir , Taakili Rachid , Lugan Noël , Canac Yves
Published: September 2017

NHC Pd(ii) complexes featuring a propyl bridge were ionized by the introduction of a phosphonium moiety, which may coordinate to the metal center or remain pendant.
Correction: Enhancements in catalytic reactivity and selectivity of homobimetallic complexes containing heteroditopic ligands
Authors: Gatus Mark R. D. , McBurney Roy T. , Bhadbhade Mohan , Messerle Barbara A.
Published: September 2017

Correction for ‘Enhancements in catalytic reactivity and selectivity of homobimetallic complexes containing heteroditopic ligands’ by Mark R. D. Gatus et al., Dalton Trans., 2017, 46, 7457–7466.
Production of drop-in fuels from biomass at high selectivity by combined microbial and electrochemical conversion
Authors: Urban Carolin , Xu Jiajie , Sträuber Heike , dos Santos Dantas Tatiane R. , Mühlenberg Jana , Härtig Claus , Angenent Largus T. , Harnisch Falk
Published: September 2017

Joining the forces of reactor microbiomes and electrochemistry: production of drop-in fuels from complex biomass and electrical energy.
Charge-transfer-energy-dependent oxygen evolution reaction mechanisms for perovskite oxides
Authors: Hong Wesley T. , Stoerzinger Kelsey A. , Lee Yueh-Lin , Giordano Livia , Grimaud Alexis , Johnson Alyssa M. , Hwang Jonathan , Crumlin Ethan J. , Yang Wanli , Shao-Horn Yang
Published: September 2017

This work experimentally identifies the charge-transfer energy as a key factor governing the catalytic oxygen evolution reaction (OER) activity and mechanism across a wide range of perovskite chemistries.
Sheared edible oils studied using dissipative particle dynamics and ultra small angle X-ray scattering: TAGwood orientation aggregation and disaggregation
Authors: Pink D. A. , Townsend B. , Peyronel F. , Co E. D. , Marangoni A. G.
Published: September 2017

The following work examines the aggregation of supramolecular triglyceride crystalline structures under a shear regime using Dissipative Particle Dynamics and Ultra-Small Angle X-Ray Scattering.
A high concentration of fatty acids induces TNF-α as well as NO release mediated by the P2X4 receptor, and the protective effects of puerarin in RAW264.7 cells
Authors: Tu Yun-ming , Gong Cheng-xin , Ding Lu , Liu Xing-zi , Li Tao , Hu Fang-fang , Wang Shuo , Xiong Chao-peng , Liang Shang-dong , Xu Hong
Published: September 2017

Puerarin exerts its protective effects on high concentration fatty acid-induced TNF-α and NO release in RAW264.7 cells.
Transcriptomic analysis of Bama pig's liver in various nutritional states reveals a metabolic difference of fatty acids
Authors: Li Yixing , Chu Yi , Yu Lin , Kang Huifang , Zhou Lei
Published: September 2017

Both fasting and treatment with a high-fat diet (HFD) can dramatically change fat metabolism in the liver.
[Ru(triphos)(CH3CN)3](OTf)2 as a homogeneous catalyst for the hydrogenation of biomass derived 2,5-hexanedione and 2,5-dimethyl-furan in aqueous acidic medium
Authors: Latifi Elnaz , Marchese Austin D. , Hulls Margaret C. W. , Soldatov Dmitriy V. , Schlaf Marcel
Published: September 2017

In aqueous acidic medium a direct hydrogenation of 2,5-dimethylfuran does not take place with the homogeneous [Ru(triphos)]-system opening a pathway to the more valuable 2,5-hexanediol.
Low molecular weight gelators (LMWGs) for ionic liquids: the role of hydrogen bonding and sterics in the formation of stable low molecular weight ionic liquid gels
Authors: McNeice Peter , Zhao Yingying , Wang Jianxun , Donnelly Gerald F. , Marr Patricia C.
Published: September 2017

3 sugar based low molecular weight gelators are shown to form ionic liquid gels with a diverse range of ionic liquids.
Quantitative detection of harmful elements in alloy steel by LIBS technique and sequential backward selection-random forest (SBS-RF)
Authors: Ruan Fangqi , Qi Juan , Yan Chunhua , Tang Hongsheng , Zhang Tianlong , Li Hua
Published: September 2017

LIBS technique coupled with SBS-RF was proposed to perform quantitative analysis of S and P in alloy steel samples.