bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Observation of a topologically non-trivial surface state in half-Heusler PtLuSb (001) thin films
Authors: Logan J. A. , Patel S. J. , Harrington S. D. , Polley C. M. , Schultz B. D. , Balasubramanian T. , Janotti A. , Mikkelsen A. , Palmstrøm C. J.
Published: June 2016

The discovery of topological insulators, materials with bulk band gaps and protected cross-gap surface states in compounds such as Bi2Se3, has generated much interest in identifying topological surface states (TSSs) in other classes of materials. In particular, recent theoretical calculations suggest that TSSs may be found in half-Heusler ternary compounds. If experimentally realizable, this would provide a materials platform for entirely new heterostructure spintronic devices that make use of the structurally identical but electronically varied nature of Heusler compounds. Here we show the presence of a TSS in epitaxially grown thin films of the half-Heusler compound PtLuSb. Spin- and angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy, complemented by theoretical calculations, reveals a surface state with linear dispersion and a helical tangential spin texture consistent with previous predictions. This experimental verification of topological behaviour is a significant step forward in establishing half-Heusler compounds as a viable material system for future spintronic devices.
Characterization of the targeting signal in mitochondrial β-barrel proteins
Authors: Jores Tobias , Klinger Anna , Groß Lucia E. , Kawano Shin , Flinner Nadine , Duchardt-Ferner Elke , Wöhnert Jens , Kalbacher Hubert , Endo Toshiya , Schleiff Enrico , Rapaport Doron
Published: June 2016

Mitochondrial β-barrel proteins are synthesized on cytosolic ribosomes and must be specifically targeted to the organelle before their integration into the mitochondrial outer membrane. The signal that assures such precise targeting and its recognition by the organelle remained obscure. In the present study we show that a specialized β-hairpin motif is this long searched for signal. We demonstrate that a synthetic β-hairpin peptide competes with the import of mitochondrial β-barrel proteins and that proteins harbouring a β-hairpin peptide fused to passenger domains are targeted to mitochondria. Furthermore, a β-hairpin motif from mitochondrial proteins targets chloroplast β-barrel proteins to mitochondria. The mitochondrial targeting depends on the hydrophobicity of the β-hairpin motif. Finally, this motif interacts with the mitochondrial import receptor Tom20. Collectively, we reveal that β-barrel proteins are targeted to mitochondria by a dedicated β-hairpin element, and this motif is recognized at the organelle surface by the outer membrane translocase.
Associations of anthropometric markers with serum metabolites using a targeted metabolomics approach: results of the EPIC-potsdam study
Authors: Bachlechner U , Floegel A , Steffen A , Prehn C , Adamski J , Pischon T , Boeing H
Published: June 2016

Background/Objectives:

The metabolic consequences of type of body shape need further exploration. Whereas accumulation of body mass in the abdominal area is a well-established metabolic risk factor, accumulation in the gluteofemoral area is controversially debated. We evaluated the associations of anthropometric markers of overall body mass and body shape with 127 serum metabolites within a sub-sample of the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC)-Potsdam cohort.

Subjects/Methods:

The cross-sectional analysis was conducted in 2270 participants, randomly drawn from the EPIC-Potsdam cohort. Metabolites were measured by targeted metabolomics. To select metabolites related with both waist circumference (WC) (abdominal subcutaneous and visceral fat) and hip circumference (HC) (gluteofemoral fat, muscles and bone structure) correlations (r) with body mass index (BMI) as aggregating marker of body mass (lean and fat mass) were calculated. Relations with body shape were assessed by median metabolite concentrations across tertiles of WC and HC, mutually adjusted to each other.

Results:

Correlations revealed 23 metabolites related to BMI (r⩾I0.20 I). Metabolites showing relations with BMI were showing similar relations with HC adjusted WC (WCHC). In contrast, relations with WC adjusted HC (HCWC) were less concordant with relations of BMI and WCHC. In both sexes, metabolites with concordant relations regarding WCHC and HCWC included tyrosine, diacyl-phosphatidylcholine C38:3, C38:4, lyso-phosphatidylcholine C18:1, C18:2 and sphingomyelin C18:1; metabolites with opposite relations included isoleucine, diacyl-phosphatidylcholine C42:0, acyl–alkyl-phosphatidylcholine C34:3, C42:4, C42:5, C44:4 and C44:6. Metabolites specifically related to HCWC included acyl–alkyl-phosphatidylcholine C34:2, C36:2, C38:2 and C40:4, and were solely observed in men. Other metabolites were related to WCHC only.

Conclusions:

The study revealed specific metabolic profiles for HCWC as marker of gluteofemoral body mass differing from those for BMI and WCHC as markers of overall body mass and abdominal fat, respectively. Thus, the study suggests that gluteofemoral mass may have less-adverse metabolic implications than abdominal fat.
Ras-association domain family 10 acts as a novel tumor suppressor through modulating MMP2 in hepatocarcinoma
Authors: Liu W , Wang J , Wang L , Qian C , Qian Y , Xuan H , Zhuo W , Li X , Yu J , Si J
Published: June 2016

Ras-Association Domain Family 10 (RASSF10) is the last identified member of the RASSF family. The functional characteristics of this new gene in human cancers remain largely unclear. Here, we examined RASSF10 for the biological functions and related molecular mechanisms in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We found that RASSF10 is expressed in normal human liver tissue, but is silenced or down-regulated in 62.5% (5/8) of HCC cell lines. The mean expression level of RASSF10 was significantly lower in primary HCCs compared with their adjacent normal tissues (P<0.005, n=52). The promoter methylation contributes to the inactivation of RASSF10 as demonstrated by bisulfite genomic sequencing and demethylation treatment analyses. Transgenic expression of RASSF10 in silenced HCC cell lines suppressed cell viability, colony formation and inhibited tumor growth in nude mice (QGY7703, P<0.01; HepG2, P<0.05). Furthermore, RASSF10 was shown to induce the cell accumulation in G1 phase with the increase of p27, as well as the decrease of cyclinD1 and CDK2/CDK4. Over-expression of RASSF10 also inhibited HCC cells migration (P<0.01) or invasion (P<0.05). Adhesion genes array revealed that Matrix Metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2) was a downstream effector of RASSF10. RASSF10 acting as a tumor suppressor to inhibit HCC invasion partially mediated by Focal Adhesion Kinase or p38 MAPK to decrease the accumulation of MMP2. Our study suggests that RASSF10 acts as a tumor suppressor for HCC.
Erratum: Theory of Thomson scattering in inhomogeneous media
Authors: Kozlowski P. M. , Crowley B. J. B. , Gericke D. O. , Regan S. P. , Gregori G.
Published: June 2016

Scientific Reports 6: Article number: 24283; published online: 12 April 2016; updated: 27 June 2016. This Article contains errors in the order of the References. The correct Reference list appears below. Froula, D., Glenzer, S. H., Luhmann, N. C. & Sheffield, J. In Plasma scattering of electro-magnetic radiation 2nd edn, Ch.
Hypoxia-inducible factor 3A gene expression and methylation in adipose tissue is related to adipose tissue dysfunction
Authors: Pfeiffer Susanne , Krüger Jacqueline , Maierhofer Anna , Böttcher Yvonne , Klöting Nora , El Hajj Nady , Schleinitz Dorit , Schön Michael R. , Dietrich Arne , Fasshauer Mathias , Lohmann Tobias , Dreßler Miriam , Stumvoll Michael , Haaf Thomas , Blüher Matthias , Kovacs Peter
Published: June 2016

Recently, a genome-wide analysis identified DNA methylation of the HIF3A (hypoxia-inducible factor 3A) as strongest correlate of BMI. Here we tested the hypothesis that HIF3A mRNA expression and CpG-sites methylation in adipose tissue (AT) and genetic variants in HIF3A are related to parameters of AT distribution and function. In paired samples of subcutaneous AT (SAT) and visceral AT (VAT) from 603 individuals, we measured HIF3A mRNA expression and analyzed its correlation with obesity and related traits. In subgroups of individuals, we investigated the effects on HIF3A genetic variants on its AT expression (N = 603) and methylation of CpG-sites (N = 87). HIF3A expression was significantly higher in SAT compared to VAT and correlated with obesity and parameters of AT dysfunction (including CRP and leucocytes count). HIF3A methylation at cg22891070 was significantly higher in VAT compared to SAT and correlated with BMI, abdominal SAT and VAT area. Rs8102595 showed a nominal significant association with AT HIF3A methylation levels as well as with obesity and fat distribution. HIF3A expression and methylation in AT are fat depot specific, related to obesity and AT dysfunction. Our data support the hypothesis that HIF pathways may play an important role in the development of AT dysfunction in obesity.
CTCF contributes in a critical way to spermatogenesis and male fertility
Authors: Hernández-Hernández Abrahan , Lilienthal Ingrid , Fukuda Nanaho , Galjart Niels , Höög Christer
Published: June 2016

The CCCTC-binding factor (CTCF) is an architectural protein that governs chromatin organization and gene expression in somatic cells. Here, we show that CTCF regulates chromatin compaction necessary for packaging of the paternal genome into mature sperm. Inactivation of Ctcf in male germ cells in mice (Ctcf-cKO mice) resulted in impaired spermiogenesis and infertility. Residual spermatozoa in Ctcf-cKO mice displayed abnormal head morphology, aberrant chromatin compaction, impaired protamine 1 incorporation into chromatin and accelerated histone depletion. Thus, CTCF regulates chromatin organization during spermiogenesis, contributing to the functional organization of mature sperm.
Correction: Corrigendum: Solar cycles or random processes? Evaluating solar variability in Holocene climate records
Authors: Turner T. Edward , Swindles Graeme T. , Charman Dan J. , Langdon Peter G. , Morris Paul J. , Booth Robert K. , Parry Lauren E. , Nichols Jonathan E.
Published: June 2016

Scientific Reports 6: Article number: 23961 published online: 05 April 2016; updated: 27 June 2016. A coding error in the Monte Carlo procedure for the determination of critical values in running correlation analysis (presented in Supplementary Data S8) has been brought to the attention of the authors.
A panel of free fatty acid ratios to predict the development of metabolic abnormalities in healthy obese individuals
Authors: Zhao Linjing , Ni Yan , Ma Xiaojing , Zhao Aihua , Bao Yuqian , Liu Jiajian , Chen Tianlu , Xie Guoxiang , Panee Jun , Su Mingming , Yu Herbert , Wang Congrong , Hu Cheng , Jia Weiping , Jia Wei
Published: June 2016

Increasing evidences support that metabolically healthy obese (MHO) is a transient state. However, little is known about the early markers associated with the development of metabolic abnormalities in MHO individuals. Serum free fatty acids (FFAs) profile is highlighted in its association with obesity-related insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and cardiovascular diseases (CVD). To examine the association of endogenous fatty acid metabolism with future development of metabolic abnormalities in MHO individuals, we retrospectively analyzed 24 [product FFA]/[precursor FFA] ratios in fasting sera and clinical data from 481 individuals who participated in three independent studies, including 131 metabolic healthy subjects who completed the 10-year longitudinal Shanghai Diabetes Study (SHDS), 312 subjects cross-sectionally sampled from the Shanghai Obesity Study (SHOS) and 38 subjects who completed an 8-week very low carbohydrate diet (VLCD) intervention study. Results showed that higher baseline level of oleic acid/stearic acid (OA/SA) and lower levels of stearic acid/palmitic acid (SA/PA) and arachidonic acid/dihomo-γ-linolenic acid (AA/DGLA) ratios were associated with higher rate of MHO to MUO conversion in the longitudinal SHDS. Further, the finding was validated in the cross-sectional and interventional studies. This panel of FFA ratios could be used for identification and early intervention of at-risk obese individuals.
A previously unrecognized role of C3a in proteinuric progressive nephropathy
Authors: Morigi Marina , Locatelli Monica , Rota Cinzia , Buelli Simona , Corna Daniela , Rizzo Paola , Abbate Mauro , Conti Debora , Perico Luca , Longaretti Lorena , Benigni Ariela , Zoja Carlamaria , Remuzzi Giuseppe
Published: June 2016

Podocyte loss is the initial event in the development of glomerulosclerosis, the structural hallmark of progressive proteinuric nephropathies. Understanding mechanisms underlying glomerular injury is the key challenge for identifying novel therapeutic targets. In mice with protein-overload induced by bovine serum albumin (BSA), we evaluated whether the alternative pathway (AP) of complement mediated podocyte depletion and podocyte-dependent parietal epithelial cell (PEC) activation causing glomerulosclerosis. Factor H (Cfh−/−) or factor B-deficient mice were studied in comparison with wild-type (WT) littermates. WT+BSA mice showed podocyte depletion accompanied by glomerular complement C3 and C3a deposits, PEC migration to capillary tuft, proliferation and glomerulosclerosis. These changes were more prominent in Cfh−/− +BSA mice. The pathogenic role of AP was documented by data that factor B deficiency preserved glomerular integrity. In protein-overload mice, PEC dysregulation was associated with upregulation of CXCR4 and GDNF/c-Ret axis. In vitro studies provided additional evidence of a direct action of C3a on proliferation and CXCR4-related migration of PECs. These effects were enhanced by podocyte-derived GDNF. In patients with proteinuric nephropathy, glomerular C3/C3a paralleled PEC activation, CXCR4 and GDNF upregulation. These results indicate that mechanistically uncontrolled AP complement activation is not dispensable for podocyte-dependent PEC activation resulting in glomerulosclerosis.
Layer-specific potentiation of network GABAergic inhibition in the CA1 area of the hippocampus
Authors: Colavita Michelangelo , Terral Geoffrey , Lemercier Clement E. , Drago Filippo , Marsicano Giovanni , Massa Federico
Published: June 2016

One of the most important functions of GABAergic inhibition in cortical regions is the tight control of spatiotemporal activity of principal neuronal ensembles. However, electrophysiological recordings do not provide sufficient spatial information to determine the spatiotemporal properties of inhibitory plasticity. Using Voltage Sensitive Dye Imaging (VSDI) in mouse hippocampal slices, we demonstrate that GABAA-mediated field inhibitory postsynaptic potentials undergo layer-specific potentiation upon activation of metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGlu). VSDI recordings allowed detection of pharmacologically isolated GABAA-dependent hyperpolarization signals. Bath-application of the selective group-I mGlu receptor agonist, (S)-3,5-Dihydroxyphenylglycine (DHPG), induces an enhancement of the GABAergic VSDI-recorded signal, which is more or less pronounced in different hippocampal layers. This potentiation is mediated by mGlu5and downstream activation of IP3receptors. Our results depict network GABAergic activity in the hippocampal CA1 region and its sub-layers, showing also a novel form of inhibitory synaptic plasticity tightly coupled to glutamatergic activity.
Single photon triggered dianion formation in TCNQ and F4TCNQ crystals
Authors: Ma Lin , Hu Peng , Jiang Hui , Kloc Christian , Sun Handong , Soci Cesare , Voityuk Alexander A. , Michel-Beyerle Maria E. , Gurzadyan Gagik G.
Published: June 2016

Excited state dynamics in two strong organic electron acceptor systems, TCNQ and F4TCNQ single crystals, was studied. After absorption of a single photon, dianions are formed in both crystals on ultrashort timescale: TCNQ τ < 50 fs, F4TCNQ τ = 4 ps. By use of transient absorption spectroscopy, we demonstrate that the dianion formation in F4TCNQ is mediated by the radical anion precursor which is described by a two-step model. Our measurements show the phenomenon that in this quinoid acceptor crystals in the absence of additional donor molecule, it is possible to resolve the two step formation of a doubly charged anion upon absorption of a single low energy photon (2.6 eV).
Two types of soybean diacylglycerol acyltransferases are differentially involved in triacylglycerol biosynthesis and response to environmental stresses and hormones
Authors: Chen BeiBei , Wang Junejie , Zhang Gaoyang , Liu Jiaqi , Manan Sehrish , Hu Honghong , Zhao Jian
Published: June 2016

Diacylglycerol acyltransferases (DGATs) play a key role in plant triacylglycerol (TAG) biosynthesis. Two type 1 and 2 DGATs from soybean were characterized for their functions in TAG biosynthesis and physiological roles. GmDGAT1A is highly expressed in seeds while GmDGAT2D is mainly expressed in flower tissues. They showed different expression patterns in response to biotic and abiotic stresses. GmDGAT2D was up-regulated by cold and heat stress and ABA signaling and repressed by insect biting and jasmonate, whereas GmDGAT1A show fewer responses. Both GmDGAT1A and GmDGAT2D were localized to the endoplasmic reticulum and complemented the TAG deficiency of a yeast mutant H1246. GmDGAT2D-transgenic hairy roots synthesized more 18:2- or 18:1-TAG, whereas GmDGAT1A prefers to use 18:3-acyl CoA for TAG synthesis. Overexpression of both GmDGATs in Arabidopsis seeds enhanced the TAG production; GmDGAT2D promoted 18:2-TAG in wild-type but enhanced 18:1-TAG production in rod1 mutant seeds, with a decreased 18:3-TAG. However, GmDGAT1A enhanced 18:3-TAG and reduced 20:1-TAG contents. The different substrate preferences of two DGATs may confer diverse fatty acid profiles in soybean oils. While GmDGAT1A may play a role in usual seed TAG production and GmDGAT2D is also involved in usual TAG biosynthesis in other tissues in responses to environmental and hormonal cues.
Stochastic Evolution Dynamic of the Rock–Scissors–Paper Game Based on a Quasi Birth and Death Process
Authors: Yu Qian , Fang Debin , Zhang Xiaoling , Jin Chen , Ren Qiyu
Published: June 2016

Stochasticity plays an important role in the evolutionary dynamic of cyclic dominance within a finite population. To investigate the stochastic evolution process of the behaviour of bounded rational individuals, we model the Rock-Scissors-Paper (RSP) game as a finite, state dependent Quasi Birth and Death (QBD) process. We assume that bounded rational players can adjust their strategies by imitating the successful strategy according to the payoffs of the last round of the game and then analyse the limiting distribution of the QBD process for the game stochastic evolutionary dynamic. The numerical experiments results are exhibited as pseudo colour ternary heat maps. Comparisons of these diagrams shows that the convergence property of long run equilibrium of the RSP game in populations depends on population size and the parameter of the payoff matrix and noise factor. The long run equilibrium is asymptotically stable, neutrally stable and unstable respectively according to the normalised parameters in the payoff matrix. Moreover, the results show that the distribution probability becomes more concentrated with a larger population size. This indicates that increasing the population size also increases the convergence speed of the stochastic evolution process while simultaneously reducing the influence of the noise factor.
Let-7i-5p represses brite adipocyte function in mice and humans
Authors: Giroud Maude , Karbiener Michael , Pisani Didier F. , Ghandour Rayane A. , Beranger Guillaume E. , Niemi Tarja , Taittonen Markku , Nuutila Pirjo , Virtanen Kirsi A. , Langin Dominique , Scheideler Marcel , Amri Ez-Zoubir
Published: June 2016

In response to cold or β3-adrenoreceptor stimulation brown adipose tissue (BAT) promotes non-shivering thermogenesis, leading to energy dissipation. BAT has long been thought to be absent or scarce in adult humans. The recent discovery of thermogenic brite/beige adipocytes has opened the way to development of novel innovative strategies to combat overweight/obesity and associated diseases. Thus it is of great interest to identify regulatory factors that govern the brite adipogenic program. Here, we carried out global microRNA (miRNA) expression profiling on human adipocytes to identify miRNAs that are regulated upon the conversion from white to brite adipocytes. Among the miRNAs that were differentially expressed, we found that Let-7i-5p was down regulated in brite adipocytes. A detailed analysis of the Let-7i-5p levels showed an inverse expression of UCP1 in murine and human brite adipocytes both in vivo and in vitro. Functional studies with Let-7i-5p mimic in human brite adipocytes in vitro revealed a decrease in the expression of UCP1 and in the oxygen consumption rate. Moreover, the Let-7i-5p mimic when injected into murine sub-cutaneous white adipose tissue inhibited partially β3-adrenergic activation of the browning process. These results suggest that the miRNAs Let-7i-5p participates in the recruitment and the function of brite adipocytes.
A Non-Invasive Phase Sensor for Permittivity and Moisture Estimation Based on Anomalous Dispersion
Authors: Siddiqui Omar , Ramzan Rashad , Amin Muhammad , Ramahi Omar M.
Published: June 2016

The traditional microwave resonance sensors are based on the measurement of the frequency shift and bandwidth of a resonator’s amplitude spectrum. Here we propose a novel sensing scheme in which the material properties are estimated by determining the changes in the phase spectrum of an anomalous-phase resonator. In the proposed phase sensing, we exploit the unique double phase reversal which takes place on the edges of the anomalous dispersion region as a signature to detect the resonance. We show that with the phase sensing, a significant reduction in detection errors compared to the traditional sensing can be obtained because of the noise immunity offered by the phase detection and also due to the strong dispersive phase response that reduces the sensor’s dependence on the external environment. We also show that the bandwidth determination procedure of the resonance which is needed to characterize the sample losses is significantly simplified. The concept of phase sensing is shown by devising an experimental microstrip open stub resonator whose frequency response lies in the anomalous dispersion region. The dielectric characteristics of the samples placed on the stub are extracted from the resonant frequency and the slope of the phase response. We also demonstrate that the changes in moisture levels can also be detected by utilizing the phase sensing method.
In vivo 3D analysis of systemic effects after local heavy-ion beam irradiation in an animal model
Authors: Nagata Kento , Hashimoto Chika , Watanabe-Asaka Tomomi , Itoh Kazusa , Yasuda Takako , Ohta Kousaku , Oonishi Hisako , Igarashi Kento , Suzuki Michiyo , Funayama Tomoo , Kobayashi Yasuhiko , Nishimaki Toshiyuki , Katsumura Takafumi , Oota Hiroki , Ogawa Motoyuki , Oga Atsunori , Ikemoto Kenzo , Itoh Hiroshi , Kutsuna Natsumaro , Oda Shoji , Mitani Hiroshi
Published: June 2016

Radiotherapy is widely used in cancer treatment. In addition to inducing effects in the irradiated area, irradiation may induce effects on tissues close to and distant from the irradiated area. Japanese medaka, Oryzias latipes, is a small teleost fish and a model organism for evaluating the environmental effects of radiation. In this study, we applied low-energy carbon-ion (26.7 MeV/u) irradiation to adult medaka to a depth of approximately 2.2 mm from the body surface using an irradiation system at the National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology. We histologically evaluated the systemic alterations induced by irradiation using serial sections of the whole body and conducted a heart rate analysis. Tissues from the irradiated side showed signs of serious injury that corresponded with the radiation dose. A 3D reconstruction analysis of the kidney sections showed reductions in the kidney volume and blood cell mass along the irradiated area, reflecting the precise localization of the injuries caused by carbon-beam irradiation. Capillary aneurysms were observed in the gill in both ventrally and dorsally irradiated fish, suggesting systemic irradiation effects. The present study provides an in vivo model for further investigation of the effects of irradiation beyond the locally irradiated area.
Global transcriptome changes in perennial ryegrass during early infection by pink snow mould
Authors: Kovi Mallikarjuna Rao , Abdelhalim Mohamed , Kunapareddy Anil , Ergon Åshild , Tronsmo Anne Marte , Brurberg May Bente , Hofgaard Ingerd Skow , Asp Torben , Rognli Odd Arne
Published: June 2016

Lack of resistance to pink snow mould (Microdochium nivale) is a major constraint for adaptation of perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenneL.) to continental regions with long-lasting snow cover at higher latitudes. Almost all investigations of genetic variation in resistance have been performed using cold acclimated plants. However, there may be variation in resistance mechanisms that are functioning independently of cold acclimation. In this study our aim was to identify candidate genes involved in such resistance mechanisms. We first characterized variation in resistance toM. nivaleamong non-acclimated genotypes from the Norwegian cultivar ‘Fagerlin’ based on relative regrowth and fungal quantification by real-time qPCR. One resistant and one susceptible genotype were selected for transcriptome analysis using paired-end sequencing by Illumina Hiseq 2000. Transcriptome profiles, GO enrichment and KEGG pathway analysis indicate that defense response related genes are differentially expressed between the resistant and the susceptible genotype. A significant up-regulation of defense related genes, as well as genes involved in cell wall cellulose metabolic processes and aryl-alcohol dehydrogenase (NADP+) activity, was observed in the resistant genotype. The candidate genes identified in this study might be potential molecular marker resources for breeding perennial ryegrass cultivars with improved resistance to pink snow mould.
Dispersal similarly shapes both population genetics and community patterns in the marine realm
Authors: Chust Guillem , Villarino Ernesto , Chenuil Anne , Irigoien Xabier , Bizsel Nihayet , Bode Antonio , Broms Cecilie , Claus Simon , Fernández de Puelles María L. , Fonda-Umani Serena , Hoarau Galice , Mazzocchi Maria G. , Mozetič Patricija , Vandepitte Leen , Veríssimo Helena , Zervoudaki Soultana , Borja Angel
Published: June 2016

Dispersal plays a key role to connect populations and, if limited, is one of the main processes to maintain and generate regional biodiversity. According to neutral theories of molecular evolution and biodiversity, dispersal limitation of propagules and population stochasticity are integral to shaping both genetic and community structure. We conducted a parallel analysis of biological connectivity at genetic and community levels in marine groups with different dispersal traits. We compiled large data sets of population genetic structure (98 benthic macroinvertebrate and 35 planktonic species) and biogeographic data (2193 benthic macroinvertebrate and 734 planktonic species). We estimated dispersal distances from population genetic data (i.e., FST vs. geographic distance) and from β-diversity at the community level. Dispersal distances ranked the biological groups in the same order at both genetic and community levels, as predicted by organism dispersal ability and seascape connectivity: macrozoobenthic species without dispersing larvae, followed by macrozoobenthic species with dispersing larvae and plankton (phyto- and zooplankton). This ranking order is associated with constraints to the movement of macrozoobenthos within the seabed compared with the pelagic habitat. We showed that dispersal limitation similarly determines the connectivity degree of communities and populations, supporting the predictions of neutral theories in marine biodiversity patterns.
3D coaxial out-of-plane metallic antennas for filtering and multi-spectral imaging in the infrared range
Authors: Jacassi Andrea , Bozzola Angelo , Zilio Pierfrancesco , Tantussi Francesco , De Angelis Francesco
Published: June 2016

We fabricated and investigated a new configuration of 3D coaxial metallic antennas working in the infrared which combines the strong lateral light scattering of vertical plasmonic structures with the selective spectral transmission of 2D arrays of coaxial apertures. The coaxial structures are fabricated with a top-down method based on a template of hollow 3D antennas. Each antenna has a multilayer radial structure consisting of dielectric and metallic materials not achievable in a 2D configuration. A planar metallic layer is inserted normally to the antennas. The outer dielectric shell of the antenna defines a nanometric gap between the horizontal plane and the vertical walls. Thanks to this aperture, light can tunnel to the other side of the plane, and be transmitted to the far field in a set of resonances. These are investigated with finite-elements electromagnetic calculations and with Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy measurements. The spectral position of the resonances can be tuned by changing the lattice period and/or the antenna length. Thanks to the strong scattering provided by the 3D geometry, the transmission peaks possess a high signal-to-noise ratio even when the illuminated area is less than 2 × 2 times the operation wavelength. This opens new possibilities for multispectral imaging in the IR with wavelength-scale spatial resolution.
Netrin-G1 regulates fear-like and anxiety-like behaviors in dissociable neural circuits
Authors: Zhang Qi , Sano Chie , Masuda Akira , Ando Reiko , Tanaka Mika , Itohara Shigeyoshi
Published: June 2016

In vertebrate mammals, distributed neural circuits in the brain are involved in emotion-related behavior. Netrin-G1 is a glycosyl-phosphatidylinositol-anchored synaptic adhesion molecule whose deficiency results in impaired fear-like and anxiety-like behaviors under specific circumstances. To understand the cell type and circuit specificity of these responses, we generated netrin-G1 conditional knockout mice with loss of expression in cortical excitatory neurons, inhibitory neurons, or thalamic neurons. Genetic deletion of netrin-G1 in cortical excitatory neurons resulted in altered anxiety-like behavior, but intact fear-like behavior, whereas loss of netrin-G1 in inhibitory neurons resulted in attenuated fear-like behavior, but intact anxiety-like behavior. These data indicate a remarkable double dissociation of fear-like and anxiety-like behaviors involving netrin-G1 in excitatory and inhibitory neurons, respectively. Our findings support a crucial role for netrin-G1 in dissociable neural circuits for the modulation of emotion-related behaviors, and provide genetic models for investigating the mechanisms underlying the dissociation. The results also suggest the involvement of glycosyl-phosphatidylinositol-anchored synaptic adhesion molecules in the development and pathogenesis of emotion-related behavior.
3,6-dihydroxyflavone suppresses the epithelial-mesenchymal transition in breast cancer cells by inhibiting the Notch signaling pathway
Authors: Chen Junli , Chang Hui , Peng Xiaoli , Gu Yeyun , Yi Long , Zhang Qianyong , Zhu Jundong , Mi Mantian
Published: June 2016

The epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a critical developmental program in cancer stem cell (CSC) maintenance and in cancer metastasis. Here, our study found that 3,6-DHF could effectively inhibit EMT in BC cells in vitro and in vivo. 3,6-DHF effectively inhibits the formation and proliferation of BCSCs, and consequently reduces the tumor-initiating capacity of tumor cells in NOD/SCID mice. Optical in vivo imaging of cancer metastasis showed that 3,6-DHF administration suppresses the lung metastasis of BC cells in vivo. Further studies indicated that 3,6-DHF down-regulates Notch1, NICD, Hes-1 and c-Myc, consequently decreasing the formation of the functional transcriptional unit of NICD-CSL-MAML, causing Notch signaling inactivation in BC cells. Over-expression of Notch1 or inhibition of miR-34a significantly reduced the inhibitory effects of 3,6-DHF on EMT, CSCs, as well as cells migration and invasion in BC cells. These data indicated that 3,6-DHF effectively inhibits EMT and CSCs, as well as cells migration and invasion in BC cells, in which miR-34a-mediated Notch1 down-regulation plays a crucial role.
Oral bioaccessibility tests to measure potentially toxic elements in inhalable particulate matter collected during routine air quality monitoring
Authors: Hussein Alpofead Jawad Ali , Davidson Christine M. , Littlejohn David
Published: June 2016

The simplified bioaccessibility extraction test (SBET) and the stomach phase of the unified bioaccessibility method (UBM) have been modified for use in assessing the bioaccessibility of potentially toxic elements in samples of PM10 collected during routine air quality monitoring.
Gold-catalysed facile access to indene scaffolds via sequential C–H functionalization and 5-endo-dig carbocyclization
Authors: Ma Ben , Wu Ziang , Huang Ben , Liu Lu , Zhang Junliang
Published: June 2016

The concise synthesis of functionalized indene derivatives via the gold(i)-catalysed cascade C–H functionalization/conia-ene type reaction of electron-rich aromatics with o-alkynylaryl α-diazoesters has been developed.
A hierarchical Zn2Mo3O8 nanodots–porous carbon composite as a superior anode for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Zhu Yanping , Zhong Yijun , Chen Gao , Deng Xiang , Cai Rui , Li Li , Shao Zongping
Published: June 2016

A hierarchical Zn2Mo3O8 nanodots–porous carbon composite has been successfully synthesized via the ingenious combination of ion-exchange and molten salt strategies, and the composite exhibits remarkable performance as an anode material for lithium-ion batteries.
Double deuterated acetylacetone in neon matrices: infrared spectroscopy, photoreactivity and the tunneling process
Authors: Gutiérrez-Quintanilla Alejandro , Chevalier Michèle , Crépin Claudine
Published: June 2016

Open enol conformers of double deuterated acetylacetone are produced by UV and IR irradiation, allowing the analysis of the tunnelling effect between them.
Density functional theory with modified dispersion correction for metals applied to molecular adsorption on Pt(111)
Authors: Andersson M. P.
Published: June 2016

We have performed density functional theory calculations using our modified DFT-D2 dispersion correction for metals to investigate adsorption of a range of molecules on Pt(111).
Copper nanoparticles supported on diamond nanoparticles as a cost-effective and efficient catalyst for natural sunlight assisted Fenton reaction
Authors: Espinosa Juan C. , Navalón Sergio , Álvaro Mercedes , García Hermenegildo
Published: June 2016

A series of catalysts consisting of Cu nanoparticles (NPs) supported on diamond nanoparticles (D) were obtained by polyol reduction of Cu(NO3)2 in the presence of D.
A three-coordinate iron–silylene complex stabilized by ligand–ligand dispersion forces
Authors: Hänninen Mikko M. , Pal Kuntal , Day Benjamin M. , Pugh Thomas , Layfield Richard A.
Published: June 2016

The structural and bonding properties of a three-coordinate N-heterocyclic silyene (NHSi) complex of the iron(ii) amide [Fe{N(SiMe3)2}2] are reported.
Directed alkynylation of unactivated C(sp3)–H bonds with ethynylbenziodoxolones mediated by DTBP
Authors: Cheng Zhi-Fei , Feng Yi-Si , Rong Chun , Xu Tao , Wang Peng-Fei , Xu Jun , Dai Jian-Jun , Xu Hua-Jian
Published: June 2016

A general and efficient alkynylation of unactivated C(sp3)–H bonds under metal-free conditions was developed herein.
Highly efficient adenoviral transduction of pancreatic islets using a microfluidic device
Authors: Silva Pamuditha N. , Atto Zaid , Regeenes Romario , Tufa Uilki , Chen Yih Yang , Chan Warren C. W. , Volchuk Allen , Kilkenny Dawn M. , Rocheleau Jonathan V.
Published: June 2016

A method to improve the genetic engineering of microtissues by increasing viral particle penetration using a microfluidic device.
Synthesis of triazole-dendronized polyacetylenes by metathesis cyclopolymerization and their conductivity
Authors: Wang Junfang , Li Hongfei , Liao Xiaojuan , Xie Meiran , Sun Ruyi
Published: June 2016

Dendronized polyacetylenes with triazole-alkyl and triazole-oligo(ethylene glycol) pendants were synthesized, which had a higher ionic conductivity after doping with different ratios of LiTFSI than their intrinsic ones did.
Novel biotin-functionalized lipidic nanocarriers for encapsulating BpT and Bp4eT iron chelators: evaluation of potential anti-tumour efficacy by in vitro, in vivo and pharmacokinetic studies in A549 mice models
Authors: Dumoga Shweta , Dey Namit , Kaur Anivind , Singh Surendra , Mishra Anil K. , Kakkar Dipti
Published: June 2016

This work proposes a novel strategy for delivery of iron chelators to the tumour cells which is exemplified in A549 mice models by using lipidic nanocarriers and introducing biotin based targeting.
Flame-retardant properties of ethylene-vinyl acetate/oil sludge/ fumed silica composites
Authors: Qian Yi , Zhu Xiaoyan , Li Shanshan , Chen Xilei
Published: June 2016

Ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA)/oil sludge (OS)/fumed silica (SiO2) composites were synthesized using OS containing CaCO3as raw material.
Synthesis, thermal characterization and local structure studies of Gd doped Th0.7U0.3O2 using X-ray absorption spectroscopy
Authors: Pai Rajesh V. , Bamankar Y. R. , Yadav A. K. , Bhattacharyya D. , Jha S. N. , Kasar U. M. , Krishnan K. , Sali S. K. , Radhakrishna J.
Published: June 2016

(Th0.7−xU0.3Gdx)O2+y microspheres where x = 0, 0.05, 0.10 and 0.15 were prepared by internal gelation method.
Catalytic role of solid acid catalysts in glycerol acetylation for the production of bio-additives: a review
Authors: Kong Pei San , Aroua Mohamed Kheireddine , Daud Wan Mohd Ashri Wan , Lee Hwei Voon , Cognet Patrick , Pérès Yolande
Published: June 2016

The influencing factors of Brønsted acid and Lewis acid in glycerol acetylation to potential bioadditives (mono-, di- and triacetin) are detailed. The important catalytic role and operating conditions toward conversion and selectivity are suggested.
A 2-mercaptobenzothiazole-functionalized ionic liquid for selective extraction of Pd(ii) from a hydrochloric acid medium
Authors: Zhang Hong , Wang Chen , Zheng Yan , Wang Shubin , Liu Zhaohui , Yang Yanzhao
Published: June 2016

A novel 2-mercaptobenzothiazole-functionalized ionic liquid (1,10-bis(3-methylimidazolium-1-yl)decane bis(triflic)imide two 2-mercaptobenzothiazolate, {[C10(mim)2]2+ 2 [MBT]−}) with excellent selectivity for Pd(ii) extraction was fabricated.
Principal component analysis‐based blind wideband spectrum sensing for cognitive radio
Authors: Lei Kejun , Yang Xi , Tan Yanghong , Peng Shengliang , Cao Xiuying
Published: June 2016

A principal component analysis‐based blind wideband spectrum sensing (WSS) algorithm is presented, in which the WSS issue is transformed into a sequential binary hypothesis test under the framework of the general likelihood ratio test. The proposed method operates simultaneously over all the subbands rather than one single subband each time. Furthermore, the new method overcomes the noise uncertainty problem, and can also perform well without information about the channel, the primary signal, and the noise power. Most importantly, unlike the existing classical blind wideband detectors based on the information theoretic criterion, the decision threshold for the proposed detector can be flexibly determined according to the target false‐alarm probability. Simulation results verify its effectiveness and superiority to the existing sensing algorithms.
Iterative readback‐aided detection for holographic data storage systems
Authors: Nguyen C.D. , Lee J.
Published: June 2016

Retrieving original user data from holographic data storage systems is mainly affected by two‐dimensional (2D) intersymbol interference; the minimisation of this interference not only improves the system performance, but it also increases the storage density for page‐oriented storage systems. An iterative detection that is supported by the readback signal is proposed. The decoded symbols are passed through a 2D partial response target before they are combined with the output of the equaliser, leading to the generation of a refined information source that improves the channel‐detection performance. The simulation results show that the proposed structure provides a gain of ∼1–2 dB; furthermore, the combinative quality of the proposed model and a page‐based search scheme were analysed as well.
Design of narrowband evanescent‐mode waveguide bandpass filters with closely spaced resonators
Authors: Fathelbab Wael M.
Published: June 2016

This study presents the design of a novel class of narrowband evanescent‐mode waveguide (EWG) bandpass filters accommodating closely spaced resonators relative to the realised fractional bandwidth. The proposed filters comprise a new type of resonator structure whose electrical characteristics are carefully investigated in this work. The resonator structure is both capacitively‐ and inductively‐loaded, which enables the new filters to be significantly shorter in the overall length in comparison to their conventional counterparts. The presented circuit concepts are validated through several filter models that were created utilising high frequency structure simulator (HFSS). The HFSS filter models realise a passband centred at 1000 MHz utilising the new type of resonator structure to achieve an absolute bandwidth of 150 MHz (15%), but with smaller overall length when compared to traditional EWG design. This is by virtue of closely spacing the resonators in the proposed filters. Finally, a traditional EWG filter is also modelled utilising HFSS and its electrical and physical dimensions are compared with those of the new filters.
Cobalt-Catalyzed Oxidative Homocoupling of Arylzinc Species
Authors: Bourne-Branchu Yann , Moncomble Aurélien , Corpet Martin , Danoun Gregory , Gosmini Corinne
Published: June 2016

A novel procedure for the synthesis of functionalized symmetrical biaryl compounds is described. The reaction proceeds via the oxidative homocoupling of arylzinc species formed by cobalt catalysis in the presence of air or p-benzoquinone depending on the nature of the functional group.
Travelling waves in arrays of delay-coupled phase oscillators
Authors: Laing Carlo R.
Published: June 2016

We consider the effects of several forms of delays on the existence and stability of travelling waves in non-locally coupled networks of Kuramoto-type phase oscillators and theta neurons. By passing to the continuum limit and using the Ott/Antonsen ansatz, we derive evolution equations for a spatially dependent order parameter. For phase oscillator networks, the travelling waves take the form of uniformly twisted waves, and these can often be characterised analytically. For networks of theta neurons, the waves are studied numerically.
Rigid patterns of synchrony for equilibria and periodic cycles in network dynamics
Authors: Golubitsky Martin , Stewart Ian
Published: June 2016

We survey general results relating patterns of synchrony to network topology, applying the formalism of coupled cell systems. We also discuss patterns of phase-locking for periodic states, where cells have identical waveforms but regularly spaced phases. We focus on rigid patterns, which are not changed by small perturbations of the differential equation. Symmetry is one mechanism that creates patterns of synchrony and phase-locking. In general networks, there is another: balanced colorings of the cells. A symmetric network may have anomalous patterns of synchrony and phase-locking that are not consequences of symmetry. We introduce basic notions on coupled cell networks and their associated systems of admissible differential equations. Periodic states also possess spatio-temporal symmetries, leading to phase relations; these are classified by the H/K theorem and its analog for general networks. Systematic general methods for computing the stability of synchronous states exist for symmetric networks, but stability in general networks requires methods adapted to special classes of model equations.
Frequency spirals
Authors: Ottino-Löffler Bertrand , Strogatz Steven H.
Published: June 2016

We study the dynamics of coupled phase oscillators on a two-dimensional Kuramoto lattice with periodic boundary conditions. For coupling strengths just below the transition to global phase-locking, we find localized spatiotemporal patterns that we call “frequency spirals.” These patterns cannot be seen under time averaging; they become visible only when we examine the spatial variation of the oscillators' instantaneous frequencies, where they manifest themselves as two-armed rotating spirals. In the more familiar phase representation, they appear as wobbly periodic patterns surrounding a phase vortex. Unlike the stationary phase vortices seen in magnetic spin systems, or the rotating spiral waves seen in reaction-diffusion systems, frequency spirals librate: the phases of the oscillators surrounding the central vortex move forward and then backward, executing a periodic motion with zero winding number. We construct the simplest frequency spiral and characterize its properties using analytical and numerical methods. Simulations show that frequency spirals in large lattices behave much like this simple prototype.
Optimal synchronization of directed complex networks
Authors: Skardal Per Sebastian , Taylor Dane , Sun Jie
Published: June 2016

We study optimal synchronization of networks of coupled phase oscillators. We extend previous theory for optimizing the synchronization properties of undirected networks to the important case of directed networks. We derive a generalized synchrony alignment function that encodes the interplay between the network structure and the oscillators' natural frequencies and serves as an objective measure for the network's degree of synchronization. Using the generalized synchrony alignment function, we show that a network's synchronization properties can be systematically optimized. This framework also allows us to study the properties of synchrony-optimized networks, and in particular, investigate the role of directed network properties such as nodal in- and out-degrees. For instance, we find that in optimally rewired networks, the heterogeneity of the in-degree distribution roughly matches the heterogeneity of the natural frequency distribution, but no such relationship emerges for out-degrees. We also observe that a network's synchronization properties are promoted by a strong correlation between the nodal in-degrees and the natural frequencies of oscillators, whereas the relationship between the nodal out-degrees and the natural frequencies has comparatively little effect. This result is supported by our theory, which indicates that synchronization is promoted by a strong alignment of the natural frequencies with the left singular vectors corresponding to the largest singular values of the Laplacian matrix.