bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hundreds of dual-stage antimalarial molecules discovered by a functional gametocyte screen
Authors: Miguel-Blanco Celia , Molina Irene , Bardera Ana I. , Díaz Beatriz , de las Heras Laura , Lozano Sonia , González Carolina , Rodrigues Janneth , Delves Michael J. , Ruecker Andrea , Colmenarejo Gonzalo , Viera Sara , Martínez-Martínez María S. , Fernández Esther , Baum Jake , Sinden Robert E. , Herreros Esperanza
Published: May 2017

Plasmodium falciparum stage V gametocytes are responsible for parasite transmission, and drugs targeting this stage are needed to support malaria elimination. We here screen the Tres Cantos Antimalarial Set (TCAMS) using the previously developed P. falciparum female gametocyte activation assay (Pf FGAA), which assesses stage V female gametocyte viability and functionality using Pfs25 expression. We identify over 400 compounds with activities <2 μM, chemically classified into 57 clusters and 33 singletons. Up to 68% of the hits are chemotypes described for the first time as late-stage gametocyte-targeting molecules. In addition, the biological profile of 90 compounds representing the chemical diversity is assessed. We confirm in vitro transmission-blocking activity of four of the six selected molecules belonging to three distinct scaffold clusters. Overall, this TCAMS gametocyte screen provides 276 promising antimalarial molecules with dual asexual/sexual activity, representing starting points for target identification and candidate selection.
YAP/TAZ link cell mechanics to Notch signalling to control epidermal stem cell fate
Authors: Totaro Antonio , Castellan Martina , Battilana Giusy , Zanconato Francesca , Azzolin Luca , Giulitti Stefano , Cordenonsi Michelangelo , Piccolo Stefano
Published: May 2017

How the behaviour of somatic stem cells (SCs) is influenced by mechanical signals remains a black-box in cell biology. Here we show that YAP/TAZ regulation by cell shape and rigidity of the extracellular matrix (ECM) dictates a pivotal SC decision: to remain undifferentiated and grow, or to activate a terminal differentiation programme. Notably, mechano-activation of YAP/TAZ promotes epidermal stemness by inhibition of Notch signalling, a key factor for epidermal differentiation. Conversely, YAP/TAZ inhibition by low mechanical forces induces Notch signalling and loss of SC traits. As such, mechano-dependent regulation of YAP/TAZ reflects into mechano-dependent regulation of Notch signalling. Mechanistically, at least in part, this is mediated by YAP/TAZ binding to distant enhancers activating the expression of Delta-like ligands, serving as ‘in cis’ inhibitors of Notch. Thus YAP/TAZ mechanotransduction integrates with cell–cell communication pathways for fine-grained orchestration of SC decisions.
Giant tunnelling electroresistance in metal/ferroelectric/semiconductor tunnel junctions by engineering the Schottky barrier
Authors: Xi Zhongnan , Ruan Jieji , Li Chen , Zheng Chunyan , Wen Zheng , Dai Jiyan , Li Aidong , Wu Di
Published: May 2017

Recently, ferroelectric tunnel junctions have attracted much attention due to their potential applications in non-destructive readout non-volatile memories. Using a semiconductor electrode has been proven effective to enhance the tunnelling electroresistance in ferroelectric tunnel junctions. Here we report a systematic investigation on electroresistance of Pt/BaTiO3/Nb:SrTiO3 metal/ferroelectric/semiconductor tunnel junctions by engineering the Schottky barrier on Nb:SrTiO3 surface via varying BaTiO3 thickness and Nb doping concentration. The optimum ON/OFF ratio as great as 6.0 × 106, comparable to that of commercial Flash memories, is achieved in a device with 0.1 wt% Nb concentration and a 4-unit-cell-thick BaTiO3 barrier. With this thinnest BaTiO3 barrier, which shows a negligible resistance to the tunnelling current but is still ferroelectric, the device is reduced to a polarization-modulated metal/semiconductor Schottky junction that exhibits a more efficient control on the tunnelling resistance to produce the giant electroresistance observed. These results may facilitate the design of high performance non-volatile resistive memories.
Kinesin-5-independent mitotic spindle assembly requires the antiparallel microtubule crosslinker Ase1 in fission yeast
Authors: Rincon Sergio A. , Lamson Adam , Blackwell Robert , Syrovatkina Viktoriya , Fraisier Vincent , Paoletti Anne , Betterton Meredith D. , Tran Phong T.
Published: May 2017

Bipolar spindle assembly requires a balance of forces where kinesin-5 produces outward pushing forces to antagonize the inward pulling forces from kinesin-14 or dynein. Accordingly, Kinesin-5 inactivation results in force imbalance leading to monopolar spindle and chromosome segregation failure. In fission yeast, force balance is restored when both kinesin-5 Cut7 and kinesin-14 Pkl1 are deleted, restoring spindle bipolarity. Here we show that the cut7Δpkl1Δ spindle is fully competent for chromosome segregation independently of motor activity, except for kinesin-6 Klp9, which is required for anaphase spindle elongation. We demonstrate that cut7Δpkl1Δ spindle bipolarity requires the microtubule antiparallel bundler PRC1/Ase1 to recruit CLASP/Cls1 to stabilize microtubules. Brownian dynamics-kinetic Monte Carlo simulations show that Ase1 and Cls1 activity are sufficient for initial bipolar spindle formation. We conclude that pushing forces generated by microtubule polymerization are sufficient to promote spindle pole separation and the assembly of bipolar spindle in the absence of molecular motors.
Experimental quantum compressed sensing for a seven-qubit system
Authors: Riofrío C. A. , Gross D. , Flammia S. T. , Monz T. , Nigg D. , Blatt R. , Eisert J.
Published: May 2017

Well-controlled quantum devices with their increasing system size face a new roadblock hindering further development of quantum technologies. The effort of quantum tomography—the reconstruction of states and processes of a quantum device—scales unfavourably: state-of-the-art systems can no longer be characterized. Quantum compressed sensing mitigates this problem by reconstructing states from incomplete data. Here we present an experimental implementation of compressed tomography of a seven-qubit system—a topological colour code prepared in a trapped ion architecture. We are in the highly incomplete—127 Pauli basis measurement settings—and highly noisy—100 repetitions each—regime. Originally, compressed sensing was advocated for states with few non-zero eigenvalues. We argue that low-rank estimates are appropriate in general since statistical noise enables reliable reconstruction of only the leading eigenvectors. The remaining eigenvectors behave consistently with a random-matrix model that carries no information about the true state.
Thermophoretic migration of vesicles depends on mean temperature and head group chemistry
Authors: Talbot Emma L. , Kotar Jurij , Parolini Lucia , Di Michele Lorenzo , Cicuta Pietro
Published: May 2017

A number of colloidal systems, including polymers, proteins, micelles and hard spheres, have been studied in thermal gradients to observe and characterize their driven motion. Here we show experimentally the thermophoretic behaviour of unilamellar lipid vesicles, finding that mobility depends on the mean local temperature of the suspension and on the structure of the exposed polar lipid head groups. By tuning the temperature, vesicles can be directed towards hot or cold, forming a highly concentrated region. Binary mixtures of vesicles composed of different lipids can be segregated using thermophoresis, according to their head group. Our results demonstrate that thermophoresis enables robust and chemically specific directed motion of liposomes, which can be exploited in driven processes.
Crystal structure of a multi-domain human smoothened receptor in complex with a super stabilizing ligand
Authors: Zhang Xianjun , Zhao Fei , Wu Yiran , Yang Jun , Han Gye Won , Zhao Suwen , Ishchenko Andrii , Ye Lintao , Lin Xi , Ding Kang , Dharmarajan Venkatasubramanian , Griffin Patrick R. , Gati Cornelius , Nelson Garrett , Hunter Mark S. , Hanson Michael A. , Cherezov Vadim , Stevens Raymond C. , Tan Wenfu , Tao Houchao , Xu Fei
Published: May 2017

The Smoothened receptor (SMO) belongs to the Class Frizzled of the G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) superfamily, constituting a key component of the Hedgehog signalling pathway. Here we report the crystal structure of the multi-domain human SMO, bound and stabilized by a designed tool ligand TC114, using an X-ray free-electron laser source at 2.9 Å. The structure reveals a precise arrangement of three distinct domains: a seven-transmembrane helices domain (TMD), a hinge domain (HD) and an intact extracellular cysteine-rich domain (CRD). This architecture enables allosteric interactions between the domains that are important for ligand recognition and receptor activation. By combining the structural data, molecular dynamics simulation, and hydrogen-deuterium-exchange analysis, we demonstrate that transmembrane helix VI, extracellular loop 3 and the HD play a central role in transmitting the signal employing a unique GPCR activation mechanism, distinct from other multi-domain GPCRs.
Decoding material-specific memory reprocessing during sleep in humans
Authors: Schönauer M. , Alizadeh S. , Jamalabadi H. , Abraham A. , Pawlizki A. , Gais S.
Published: May 2017

Neuronal learning activity is reactivated during sleep but the dynamics of this reactivation in humans are still poorly understood. Here we use multivariate pattern classification to decode electrical brain activity during sleep and determine what type of images participants had viewed in a preceding learning session. We find significant patterns of learning-related processing during rapid eye movement (REM) and non-REM (NREM) sleep, which are generalizable across subjects. This processing occurs in a cyclic fashion during time windows congruous to critical periods of synaptic plasticity. Its spatial distribution over the scalp and relevant frequencies differ between NREM and REM sleep. Moreover, only the strength of reprocessing in slow-wave sleep influenced later memory performance, speaking for at least two distinct underlying mechanisms between these states. We thus show that memory reprocessing occurs in both NREM and REM sleep in humans and that it pertains to different aspects of the consolidation process.
Electricity from methane by reversing methanogenesis
Authors: McAnulty Michael J. , G. Poosarla Venkata , Kim Kyoung-Yeol , Jasso-Chávez Ricardo , Logan Bruce E. , Wood Thomas K.
Published: May 2017

Given our vast methane reserves and the difficulty in transporting methane without substantial leaks, the conversion of methane directly into electricity would be beneficial. Microbial fuel cells harness electrical power from a wide variety of substrates through biological means; however, the greenhouse gas methane has not been used with much success previously as a substrate in microbial fuel cells to generate electrical current. Here we construct a synthetic consortium consisting of: (i) an engineered archaeal strain to produce methyl-coenzyme M reductase from unculturable anaerobic methanotrophs for capturing methane and secreting acetate; (ii) micro-organisms from methane-acclimated sludge (including Paracoccus denitrificans) to facilitate electron transfer by providing electron shuttles (confirmed by replacing the sludge with humic acids), and (iii) Geobacter sulfurreducens to produce electrons from acetate, to create a microbial fuel cell that converts methane directly into significant electrical current. Notably, this methane microbial fuel cell operates at high Coulombic efficiency.
Neuromorphic device architectures with global connectivity through electrolyte gating
Authors: Gkoupidenis Paschalis , Koutsouras Dimitrios A. , Malliaras George G.
Published: May 2017

Information processing in the brain takes place in a network of neurons that are connected with each other by an immense number of synapses. At the same time, neurons are immersed in a common electrochemical environment, and global parameters such as concentrations of various hormones regulate the overall network function. This computational paradigm of global regulation, also known as homeoplasticity, has important implications in the overall behaviour of large neural ensembles and is barely addressed in neuromorphic device architectures. Here, we demonstrate the global control of an array of organic devices based on poly(3,4ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulf) that are immersed in an electrolyte, a behaviour that resembles homeoplasticity phenomena of the neural environment. We use this effect to produce behaviour that is reminiscent of the coupling between local activity and global oscillations in the biological neural networks. We further show that the electrolyte establishes complex connections between individual devices, and leverage these connections to implement coincidence detection. These results demonstrate that electrolyte gating offers significant advantages for the realization of networks of neuromorphic devices of higher complexity and with minimal hardwired connectivity.
An integrated model for detecting significant chromatin interactions from high-resolution Hi-C data
Authors: Carty Mark , Zamparo Lee , Sahin Merve , González Alvaro , Pelossof Raphael , Elemento Olivier , Leslie Christina S.
Published: May 2017

Here we present HiC-DC, a principled method to estimate the statistical significance (P values) of chromatin interactions from Hi-C experiments. HiC-DC uses hurdle negative binomial regression account for systematic sources of variation in Hi-C read counts—for example, distance-dependent random polymer ligation and GC content and mappability bias—and model zero inflation and overdispersion. Applied to high-resolution Hi-C data in a lymphoblastoid cell line, HiC-DC detects significant interactions at the sub-topologically associating domain level, identifying potential structural and regulatory interactions supported by CTCF binding sites, DNase accessibility, and/or active histone marks. CTCF-associated interactions are most strongly enriched in the middle genomic distance range (∼700 kb–1.5 Mb), while interactions involving actively marked DNase accessible elements are enriched both at short (<500 kb) and longer (>1.5 Mb) genomic distances. There is a striking enrichment of longer-range interactions connecting replication-dependent histone genes on chromosome 6, potentially representing the chromatin architecture at the histone locus body.
The adaptation of Escherichia coli cells grown in simulated microgravity for an extended period is both phenotypic and genomic
Authors: Tirumalai Madhan R. , Karouia Fathi , Tran Quyen , Stepanov Victor G. , Bruce Rebekah J. , Ott C. Mark , Pierson Duane L. , Fox George E.
Published: May 2017

Microorganisms impact spaceflight in a variety of ways. They play a positive role in biological systems, such as waste water treatment but can be problematic through buildups of biofilms that can affect advanced life support. Of special concern is the possibility that during extended missions, the microgravity environment will provide positive selection for undesirable genomic changes. Such changes could affect microbial antibiotic sensitivity and possibly pathogenicity. To evaluate this possibility, Escherichia coli (lac plus) cells were grown for over 1000 generations on Luria Broth medium under low-shear modeled microgravity conditions in a high aspect rotating vessel. This is the first study of its kind to grow bacteria for multiple generations over an extended period under low-shear modeled microgravity. Comparisons were made to a non-adaptive control strain using growth competitions. After 1000 generations, the final low-shear modeled microgravity-adapted strain readily outcompeted the unadapted lac minus strain. A portion of this advantage was maintained when the low-shear modeled microgravity strain was first grown in a shake flask environment for 10, 20, or 30 generations of growth. Genomic sequencing of the 1000 generation strain revealed 16 mutations. Of the five changes affecting codons, none were neutral. It is not clear how significant these mutations are as individual changes or as a group. It is concluded that part of the long-term adaptation to low-shear modeled microgravity is likely genomic. The strain was monitored for acquisition of antibiotic resistance by VITEK analysis throughout the adaptation period. Despite the evidence of genomic adaptation, resistance to a variety of antibiotics was never observed.
Diagnostic Accuracy of Ultrasound Scanning for Prenatal Microcephaly in the context of Zika Virus Infection: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Chibueze Ezinne C. , Parsons Alex J. Q. , Lopes Katharina da Silva , Yo Takemoto , Swa Toshiyuki , Nagata Chie , Horita Nobuyuki , Morisaki Naho , Balogun Olukunmi O. , Dagvadorj Amarjargal , Ota Erika , Mori Rintaro , Oladapo Olufemi T.
Published: May 2017

To assess the accuracy of ultrasound measurements of fetal biometric parameters for prenatal diagnosis of microcephaly in the context of Zika virus (ZIKV) infection, we searched bibliographic databases for studies published until March 3rd, 2016. We extracted the numbers of true positives, false positives, true negatives, and false negatives and performed a meta-analysis to estimate group sensitivity and specificity. Predictive values for ZIKV-infected pregnancies were extrapolated from those obtained for pregnancies unrelated to ZIKV. Of 111 eligible full texts, nine studies met our inclusion criteria. Pooled estimates from two studies showed that at 3, 4 and 5 standard deviations (SDs) <mean, sensitivities were 84%, 68% and 58% for head circumference (HC); 76%, 58% and 58% for occipitofrontal diameter (OFD); and 94%, 85% and 59% for biparietal diameter (BPD). Specificities at 3, 4 and 5 SDs below the mean were 70%, 91% and 97% for HC; 84%, 97% and 97% for OFD; and 16%, 46% and 80% for BPD. No study including ZIKV-infected pregnant women was identified. OFD and HC were more consistent in specificity and sensitivity at lower thresholds compared to higher thresholds. Therefore, prenatal ultrasound appears more accurate in detecting the absence of microcephaly than its presence.
Role of FoxO1 and apoptosis in pulmonary vascular remolding in a rat model of chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Deng Chaosheng , Zhong Zhanghua , Wu Dawen , Chen Yunfei , Lian Ningfang , Ding Haibo , Zhang Qiaoxian , Lin Qichang , Wu Shuang
Published: May 2017

To explore the role of FoxO1 and apoptosis in a rat model of chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH). Rats were randomly divided into a sham group (n = 45) and an experimental group (n = 45). Autologous blood clots were injected into rats three times to induce CTEPH. Rats were further divided into three subgroups: a 1-week subgroup (n = 15), a 2-week subgroup (n = 15), and a 4-week subgroup (n = 15). Mean pulmonary arterial pressure (mPAP) and histopathology were evaluated at each time point. FoxO1, Bad, and Bcl-2 levels were examined at each time point using reverse transcription PCR and western blotting. The mPAP and vessel wall area/total area (WA/TA) ratio in the experimental group gradually increased in a time-dependent manner (P < 0.05). Both the mRNA and protein levels of FoxO1 decreased in the CTEPH rats compared to in the sham group. In addition, embolization led to the up-regulation of Bad and the down-regulation of Bcl-2 (P < 0.05). FoxO1 and apoptosis play an important role in the pathogenesis of CTEPH. Apoptosis-resistant pulmonary artery endothelial cells may play an important role in remodeling of the rat pulmonary artery.
Fractional Transport of Photons in Deterministic Aperiodic Structures
Authors: Dal Negro Luca , Inampudi Sandeep
Published: May 2017

The propagation of optical pulses through primary types of deterministic aperiodic structures is numerically studied in time domain using the rigorous transfer matrix method in combination with analytical fractional transport models. We demonstrate tunable anomalous photon transport, including the elusive logarithmic Sinai sub-diffusion in photonic systems for the first time. Our results are in excellent agreement with the scaling theory of transport in aperiodic media with fractal spectra, and additionally demonstrate logarithmic sub-diffusion in the presence of multifractality. Moreover, we establish a fruitful connection between tunable photon diffusion and fractional dynamics, which provides analytical insights into the asymptotic transport regime of optical media with deterministic aperiodic order. The demonstration of tunable sub-diffusion and logarithmic photon transport in deterministic aperiodic structures can open novel and fascinating scenarios for the engineering of wave propagation and light-matter interaction phenomena beyond the conventional diffusive regime.
Effect of experimental soil disturbance and recovery on structure and function of soil community: a metagenomic and metagenetic approach
Authors: Choi Soobeom , Song Hokyung , Tripathi Binu M. , Kerfahi Dorsaf , Kim Hyoki , Adams Jonathan M.
Published: May 2017

There has been little study of effects of disturbance on soil biota combining closely controlled experimental conditions and DNA-based methods. We sampled pots of soil at varying times following an initial simulated mass mortality event. Soil DNA was extracted at intervals up to 24 weeks after the event, and shotgun metagenomes sequenced using NextSeq. Compared to initial conditions, we found: consistent, sequential changes in functional metagenome and community structure over time, indicating successional niche differentiation amongst soil biota. As predicted, early successional systems had greater abundance of genes associated with motility, but fewer genes relating to DNA/RNA/protein metabolism, cell division and cell cycle. Contrary to predictions, there were no significant differences in cell signaling, virulence and defense-related genes. Also, stress related genes were less abundant in later succession. The early successional system had lower taxonomic diversity but higher functional gene diversity. Over time, community characteristics changed progressively, but by the end of the experiment had not returned to the ‘original’ state of the system before disturbance. Results indicated a predictable sequence of gene functions and taxa following disturbance, analogous to ecosystem succession for large organisms. It is unclear if and when the system would return to its pre-disturbance state.
Consumption of diets with low advanced glycation end products improves cardiometabolic parameters: meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials
Authors: Baye Estifanos , Kiriakova Velislava , Uribarri Jaime , Moran Lisa J , de Courten Barbora
Published: May 2017

Studies examining the effects of consumption of diets low in advanced glycation end products (AGEs) on cardiometabolic parameters are conflicting. Hence, we performed a meta-analysis to determine the effect of low AGE diets in reducing cardiometabolic risk factors. Seventeen randomised controlled trials comprising 560 participants were included. Meta-analyses using random effects models were used to analyse the data. Low AGE diets decreased insulin resistance (mean difference [MD] −1.3, 95% CI −2.3, −0.2), total cholesterol (MD −8.5 mg/dl, 95% CI −9.5, −7.4) and low-density lipoprotein (MD −2.4 mg/dl, 95% CI −3.4, −1.3). There were no changes in weight, fasting glucose, 2-h glucose and insulin, haemoglobin A1c, high-density lipoprotein or blood pressure. In a subgroup of patients with type 2 diabetes, a decrease in fasting insulin (MD −7 µU/ml, 95% CI −11.5, −2.5) was observed. Tumour necrosis factor α, vascular cell adhesion molecule-1, 8-isoprostane, leptin, circulating AGEs and receptor for AGEs were reduced after consumption of low AGE diets with increased adiponectin and sirtuin-1. Our findings suggest that diets low in AGEs may be an effective strategy ﻿for﻿ improving cardiometabolic profiles in individuals with and without type 2 diabetes.
NAD+ loss, a new player in AhR biology: prevention of thymus atrophy and hepatosteatosis by NAD+ repletion
Authors: Diani-Moore Silvia , Shoots Jenny , Singh Rubi , Zuk Joshua B. , Rifkind Arleen B.
Published: May 2017

Dioxin (2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin, TCDD) is a carcinogenic and highly toxic industrial byproduct that persists in the environment and produces a pleiotropic toxicity syndrome across vertebrate species that includes wasting, hepatosteatosis, and thymus atrophy. Dioxin toxicities require binding and activation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), a ligand activated transcription factor. However, after nearly 50 years of study, it remains unknown how AhR activation by dioxin produces toxic effects. Here, using the chick embryo close to hatching, a well-accepted model for dioxin toxicity, we identify NAD+ loss through PARP activation as a novel unifying mechanism for diverse effects of dioxin in vivo. We show that NAD+ loss is attributable to increased PARP activity in thymus and liver, as cotreatment with dioxin and the PARP inhibitor PJ34 increased NAD+ levels and prevented both thymus atrophy and hepatosteatosis. Our findings additionally support a role for decreased NAD+ dependent Sirt6 activity in mediating dioxin toxicity following PARP activation. Strikingly, treatment in vivo with the NAD+ repleting agent nicotinamide, a form of vitamin B3, prevented thymus atrophy and hepatosteatosis by dioxin and increased sirtuin activity, providing a therapeutic approach for preventing dioxin toxicities in vivo.
Genetic variants in the transcription regulatory region of MEGF10 are associated with autism in Chinese Han population
Authors: Wu Zhiliu , Qin Jian , You Yang , Ma Yuanlin , Jia Meixiang , Wang Linyan , Lu Tianlan , Yue Weihua , Ruan Yanyan , Zhang Dai , Li Jun , Wang Lifang
Published: May 2017

Multiple epidermal growth factor-like-domains 10 (MEGF10), a critical member of the apoptotic engulfment pathway, mediates axon pruning and synapse elimination during brain development. Previous studies indicated that synaptic pruning deficit was associated with autism-related phenotypes. However, the relationship between MEGF10 and autism remains poorly understood. Disease-associated variants are significantly enriched in the transcription regulatory regions. These include the transcription start site (TSS) and its cis-regulatory elements. To investigate the role of MEGF10 variants with putative transcription regulatory function in the etiology of autism, we performed a family-based association study in 410 Chinese Han trios. Our results indicate that three single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), rs4836316, rs2194079 and rs4836317 near the TSS are significantly associated with autism following Bonferroni correction (p = 0.0011, p = 0.0088, and p = 0.0023, respectively). Haplotype T-A-G (rs4836316-rs2194079-rs4836317) was preferentially transmitted from parents to affected offspring (ppermutation = 0.0055). Consistently, functional exploration further verified that the risk allele and haplotype might influence its binding with transcription factors, resulting in decreased transcriptional activity of MEGF10. Our findings indicated that the risk alleles and haplotype near the MEGF10 TSS might modulate transcriptional activity and increase the susceptibility to autism.
Lead adsorption by biochar under the elevated competition of cadmium and aluminum
Authors: Han Lu , Qian Linbo , Liu Rongqin , Chen Mengfang , Yan Jingchun , Hu Qinhong
Published: May 2017

Competitive adsorption studies are important to accurately estimate the lead adsorption capacity on biochar in soil. The structure of biochars was evaluated by Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy and X-ray Diffraction, and the competitive of Cadmium (Cd) and Aluminum (Al) with Lead (Pb) adsorption were determined by kinetic experiments and pH effects. Adsorption kinetics indicated that the adsorption amount (mg g−1) of Pb by biochar was in the decreasing order of CM400 (90.9) > BB600 (56.5) > CM100 (29.2), the presence of the oxygen-containing functional groups, Si-containing mineral, PO43− and CO32− significantly contributed to Pb adsorption by biochars. With the presence of Cd, Pb adsorption amount was reduced by 42.6%, 23.7% and 19.3% for CM100, CM400 and BB600, respectively. The Si-containing mineral, PO43− and CO32− that were rich in CM400 and BB600 has led to less competition by Cd. In addition, Al showed a strong competition with Pb leading to the adsorption being reduced by 95.8%, 82.3% and 80.6%, respectively for CM100, CM400 and BB600. This was mainly attributed to the additional acidification effect by Al resulting in a counteractive of biochar’s liming effect. Results from this study are important for accurately estimating the heavy metal adsorption by biochar in soil.
Characterization of Juvenile Hormone Related Genes Regulating Cantharidin Biosynthesis in Epicauta chinensis
Authors: Jiang Ming , Lü Shumin , Zhang Yalin
Published: May 2017

Cantharidin is a defensive toxin biosynthesized by blister beetles. It is well known for medical applications and toxicity. However, the biosynthesis process of cantharidin is still not well understood. In the present study, three genes (methyl farnesoate epoxidase (EcMFE), juvenile hormone acid O-methyltransferase (EcJHAMT) and juvenile hormone epoxide hydrolase (EcJHEH)) were identified from Epicauta chinensis. The temporal and spatial expression patterns of these three genes revealed that the expression levels of EcMFE and EcJHEH were high in the first instar larval stage of E. chinensis with EcJHEH transcripts highest in the fifth larval instar. The expression level of EcJHAMT was significantly higher in the 2nd and 3rd larval instars. The transcripts of EcMFE, EcJHEH and EcJHAMT showed a similar tendency with the cantharidin production in male blister beetles after mating. We verified the functions of these three genes in cantharidin biosynthesis using the RNA interference method. Interference of EcMFE and EcJHEH significantly inhibited the biosynthesis of cantharidin in male E. chinensis after mating, but interference of EcJHAMT has no apparent influence on cantharidin biosynthesis. We propose that EcMFE and EcJHEH may be involved in the biosynthesis of cantharidin, but JH III might not be the direct precursor of cantharidin.
A Simple Silver Nanowire Patterning Method Based on Poly(Ethylene Glycol) Photolithography and Its Application for Soft Electronics
Authors: Ko Youngsang , Kim Jeonghun , Kim Dabum , Yamauchi Yusuke , Kim Jung Ho , You Jungmok
Published: May 2017

Hydrogel-based flexible microelectrodes have garnered considerable attention recently for soft bioelectronic applications. We constructed silver nanowire (AgNW) micropatterns on various substrates, via a simple, cost-effective, and eco-friendly method without aggressive etching or lift-off processes. Polyethylene glycol (PEG) photolithography was employed to construct AgNW patterns with various shapes and sizes on the glass substrate. Based on a second hydrogel gelation process, AgNW patterns on glass substrate were directly transferred to the synthetic/natural hydrogel substrates. The resultant AgNW micropatterns on the hydrogel exhibited high conductivity (ca. 8.40 × 103 S cm−1) with low sheet resistance (7.51 ± 1.11 Ω/sq), excellent bending durability (increases in resistance of only ~3 and ~13% after 40 and 160 bending cycles, respectively), and good stability in wet conditions (an increase in resistance of only ~6% after 4 h). Considering both biocompatibility of hydrogel and high conductivity of AgNWs, we anticipate that the AgNW micropatterned hydrogels described here will be particularly valuable as highly efficient and mechanically stable microelectrodes for the development of next-generation bioelectronic devices, especially for implantable biomedical devices.
Controlling quantum interference in phase space with amplitude
Authors: Xue Yinghong , Li Tingyu , Kasai Katsuyuki , Okada-Shudo Yoshiko , Watanabe Masayoshi , Zhang Yun
Published: May 2017

We experimentally show a quantum interference in phase space by interrogating photon number probabilities (n = 2, 3, and 4) of a displaced squeezed state, which is generated by an optical parametric amplifier and whose displacement is controlled by amplitude of injected coherent light. It is found that the probabilities exhibit oscillations of interference effect depending upon the amplitude of the controlling light field. This phenomenon is attributed to quantum interference in phase space and indicates the capability of controlling quantum interference using amplitude. This remarkably contrasts with the oscillations of interference effects being usually controlled by relative phase in classical optics.
Angiotensin (1-7) ameliorates the structural and biochemical alterations of ovariectomy-induced osteoporosis in rats via activation of ACE-2/Mas receptor axis
Authors: Abuohashish Hatem M. , Ahmed Mohammed M. , Sabry Dina , Khattab Mahmoud M. , Al-Rejaie Salim S.
Published: May 2017

The local and systemic renin angiotensin system (RAS) influences the skeletal system micro-structure and metabolism. Studies suggested angiotensin 1-7 (Ang(1-7)) as the beneficial RAS molecule via Mas receptor activation. This study examines the function of Ang(1-7) in bone micro-architecture and metabolism in an ovariectomized (OVX) rodent model of osteoporosis. OVX rats showed structural and bone metabolic degeneration in parallel with suppressed expressions of the angiotensin converting enzyme-2 (ACE-2)/Ang(1-7)/Mas components. The infusion of Ang(1-7) markedly alleviated the altered bone metabolism and significantly enhanced both trabecular (metaphyseal) and cortical (metaphyseal-diaphyseal) morphometry. Urinary and bones minerals were also improved in OVX rats by Ang(1-7). The infusion of the heptapeptide enhanced ACE-2/Mas receptor expressions, while down-regulated AngII, ACE, and AngII type-1 receptor (AT1R) in OVX animals. Moreover, Ang(1-7) markedly improved osteoprotegerin (OPG) and lowered receptor activator NF-κB ligand (RANKL) expressions. The defensive properties of Ang(1-7) on bone metabolism, structure and minerals were considerably eradicated after blockage of Mas receptor with A-779. Ang(1-7)-induced up-regulated ACE-2/Ang(1-7)/Mas cascade and OPG expressions were abolished and the expressions of ACE/AngII/AT1R and RANKL were provoked by A-779. These findings shows for the first time the novel valuable therapeutic role of Ang(1-7) on bone health and metabolism through the ACE-2/Mas cascade.
Generation and Characterization of Acid Tolerant Fibrobacter succinogenes S85
Authors: Wu Chia-wei , Spike Thomas , Klingeman Dawn M. , Rodriguez Miguel , Bremer Virgil R. , Brown Steven D.
Published: May 2017

Microorganisms are key components for plant biomass breakdown within rumen environments.Fibrobacter succinogeneshave been identified as being active and dominant cellulolytic members of the rumen. In this study,F.succinogenestype strain S85 was adapted for steady state growth in continuous culture at pH 5.75 and confirmed to grow in the range of pH 5.60–5.65, which is lower than has been reported previously. Wild type and acid tolerant strains digested corn stover with equal efficiency in batch culture at low pH. RNA-seq analysis revealed 268 and 829 genes were differentially expressed at pH 6.10 and 5.65 compared to pH 6.70, respectively. Resequencing analysis identified seven single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in thesufD,yidE,xylE,rlmM,mscLanddosCgenes of acid tolerant strains. Due to the absence of aF.succinogenesgenetic system, homologues inEscherichia coliwere mutated and complemented and the resulting strains were assayed for acid survival. Complementation with wild-type or acid tolerantF.succinogenes sufDrestoredE.coliwild-type levels of acid tolerance, suggesting a possible role in acid homeostasis. Recent genetic engineering developments need to be adapted and applied inF.succinogenesto further our understanding of this bacterium.
Mid-Arm Circumference and All-Cause, Cardiovascular, and Cancer Mortality among Obese and Non-Obese US Adults: the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey III
Authors: Wu Li-Wei , Lin Yuan-Yung , Kao Tung-Wei , Lin Chien-Ming , Wang Chung-Ching , Wang Gia-Chi , Peng Tao-Chun , Chen Wei-Liang
Published: May 2017

Epidemiological studies have shown that mid-arm circumference (MAC) can be used to predict death risk and malnutrition. We performed a retrospective observational study involving 11,958 US participants aged 20–90 years from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey III, 1988–1994, to determine the correlation between MAC and all-cause, cardiovascular, and cancer mortality risk in the obese and non-obese population. Death certificate data were obtained up to 2006. The participants were divided into three groups on the basis of body mass index: 19 ≤ BMI < 25 kg/m2 (normal weight group), 25 ≤ BMI < 30 kg/m2 (overweight group) and BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2 (obesity group); each group was then divided into three subgroups depending on their MAC level. In the non-obese population, MAC was inversely associated with all-cause mortality; specifically, in the normal weight group, the multivariate-adjusted hazard ratio of the T3 (29.6–42.0) cm subgroup was 0.72 (95% confidence interval: 0.58–0.90) when compared with the T1 (18.0–27.2) cm, while the multivariate-adjusted hazard ratio of the T2 (27.3–29.5) cm subgroup was 0.76 (95% confidence interval: 0.64–0.91) when compared with the T1 (18.0–27.2) cm subgroup. The results indicate that MAC is inversely associated with all-cause mortality in non-obese individuals in the United States.
The geography and timing of genetic divergence in the lizard Phrynocephalus theobaldi on the Qinghai-Tibetan plateau
Authors: Jin Yuanting , Liu Naifa , Brown Richard P.
Published: May 2017

The Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau (QTP) represents one of the earth’s most significant physical features and there is increasing interest in the historical generation of biodiversity within this region. We hypothesized that there should be clear geographically coherent genetic structuring within one of the world’s highest altitude lizards, Phrynocephalus theobaldi, due to considerable historical population fragmentation in this environment. This was tested using a major mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) survey and sequencing of two nuclear markers (AME and RAG-1) from P. theobaldi, from across the southern QTP. A Bayesian method (BPEC) was used to detect four geographically structured mtDNA clusters. A Bayesian phylogenetic tree, together with associated dating analyses, supported four corresponding evolutionary lineages with a timing of 3.74–7.03 Ma for the most basal P. theobaldi split and Pliocene splits of 2.97–5.79 Ma and 2.40–5.39 Ma in the two daughter lineages. Himalayan uplift and changes in the Jilong basin may have contributed to these divergences, but uplift of the Gangdese mountains is rejected due to its timing. The nuclear markers appeared to be sorted between the four mtDNA groups, and species delimitation analyses supported the four phylogeographical groups as candidate species. The study contributes to our understanding of biodiversity on the QTP.
Age Increases Monocyte Adhesion on Collagen
Authors: Khalaji Samira , Zondler Lisa , KleinJan Fenneke , Nolte Ulla , Mulaw Medhanie A. , Danzer Karin M. , Weishaupt Jochen H. , Gottschalk Kay-E.
Published: May 2017

Adhesion of monocytes to micro-injuries on arterial walls is an important early step in the occurrence and development of degenerative atherosclerotic lesions. At these injuries, collagen is exposed to the blood stream. We are interested whether age influences monocyte adhesion to collagen under flow, and hence influences the susceptibility to arteriosclerotic lesions. Therefore, we studied adhesion and rolling of human peripheral blood monocytes from old and young individuals on collagen type I coated surface under shear flow. We find that firm adhesion of monocytes to collagen type I is elevated in old individuals. Pre-stimulation by lipopolysaccharide increases the firm adhesion of monocytes homogeneously in older individuals, but heterogeneously in young individuals. Blocking integrin αx showed that adhesion of monocytes to collagen type I is specific to the main collagen binding integrin αxβ2. Surprisingly, we find no significant age-dependent difference in gene expression of integrin αx or integrin β2. However, if all integrins are activated from the outside, no differences exist between the age groups. Altered integrin activation therefore causes the increased adhesion. Our results show that the basal increase in integrin activation in monocytes from old individuals increases monocyte adhesion to collagen and therefore the risk for arteriosclerotic plaques.
Engineered Nanoparticles and Food: Exposure, Toxicokinetics, Hazards and Risks
Authors: de Jong Wim H. , Oomen Agnes G. , Tran Lang , Chaudhry Qasim , Lefebvre David E.
Published: May 2017

With the increasing use of nanomaterials in food, we need to ask whether this poses a risk to the workers manufacturing the nanomaterials and/or consumers. Society expects safe ingredients to be used, especially for applications in food. This chapter considers the use of nanomaterials in food and what information can be used to evaluate the safety aspects of engineered nanoparticles. Any risk assessment starts with a characterization of the (nano)materials to be evaluated. This is especially important for nanomaterials because a large number of variations in their physicochemical properties are possible, which can modify their functionality and behaviour. Current basic risk assessment procedures for classical chemical substances can also be applied to the safety evaluation of nanomaterials. This approach is based on exposure assessment, hazard identification (what causes the hazard or toxic effect), hazard characterization (what is the toxic effect and the dose–response relation) and risk characterization, which describes the relationship between human exposure and the dose that induces a toxic effect in experimental studies. Aspects specific to nanoparticles have to be taken into account. Recent insights into the tissue distribution of engineered nanoparticles and modelling of the exposure of internal organs are suggested as alternative approaches to the risk assessment of engineered nanoparticles.
Conversion of methanol to hydrocarbons over zeolite ZSM-23 (MTT): exceptional effects of particle size on catalyst lifetime
Authors: Molino A. , Łukaszuk K. A. , Rojo-Gama D. , Lillerud K. P. , Olsbye U. , Bordiga S. , Svelle S. , Beato P.
Published: May 2017

A variety of synthetic procedures have been used to obtain zeolite ZSM-23 (MTT) catalysts with crystallite sizes ranging from the micrometer to nanometer scale.
Protective effect of Lycium barbarum polysaccharides against cadmium-induced testicular toxicity in male mice
Authors: Zhang Lili , Li Qin , Zheng Gaoli , Chen Yunxiang , Huang Mincong , Zhang Lijiang , Lin Xiaoyan
Published: May 2017

The present study was performed to determine whetherLycium barbarumpolysaccharides (LBPs) would protect mice against cadmium (Cd)-induced testicular toxicity.
Inhibition of ADAM17/TACE activity by zinc-chelating rye secalin-derived tripeptides and analogues
Authors: Udechukwu M. Chinonye , Tsopmo Apollinaire , Mawhinney Hannah , He Rong , Kienesberger Petra C. , Udenigwe Chibuike C.
Published: May 2017

Rye secalin-derived cysteine-containing tripeptides and analogues inhibited ADAM17 activity via active site zinc coordination, hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions.
Silicon hydrogensulfates: solid acids with exceptional 25 °C conductivities and possible electrochemical device applications
Authors: Klein I. S. , Davidowski S. K. , Yarger J. L. , Angell C. A.
Published: May 2017

Novel anhydrous solid acids of remarkably high proton conductivity and their short-term fuel cell applications are presented.
Online measurement of photoisomerisation efficiency in solution using ion mobility mass spectrometry
Authors: Bull James N. , Carrascosa Eduardo , Scholz Michael S. , Coughlan Neville J. A. , Bieske Evan J.
Published: May 2017

A new method for probing the photoisomerisation of molecules in solution using ion mobility mass spectrometry is described and demonstrated with a azoheteroarene photoswitch.
Enzymatically activated reduction-caged SERS reporters for versatile bioassays
Authors: Guo Wenjing , Hu Yihui , Wei Hui
Published: May 2017

Here we report a facile strategy for activating reduction caged Raman reporters for surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) with peroxidases.
Sorting zamak alloys via chemometric analysis of their LIBS spectra
Authors: Messaoud Aberkane S. , Abdelhamid M. , Mokdad F. , Yahiaoui K. , Abdelli-Messaci S. , Harith M. A.
Published: May 2017

Laser induced breakdown spectroscopy with chemometric methods has been employed for sorting zamak alloy (zinc based alloy) samples.
Photocatalyzed cascade oxidative annulation of propargylamines and phosphine oxides
Authors: Wu Zheng-Guang , Liang Xiao , Zhou Jie , Yu Lei , Wang Yi , Zheng You-Xuan , Li Yu-Feng , Zuo Jing-Lin , Pan Yi
Published: May 2017

A novel photocatalyzed radical cascade reaction was developed for the synthesis of phosphorylated heterocycles. One of the phosphorylated quinolines was employed as an electron-transporting material for fabricating organic light-emitting diodes displaying excellent performances with a maximum external quantum efficiency of 21.9%.
Iptycenes with an acridinone motif developed through [4+2] cycloaddition of tethered naphthalene and iminoquinone via a radical reaction
Authors: Raju Selvam , Annamalai Pratheepkumar , Chen Pei-Ling , Liu Yi-Hung , Chuang Shih-Ching
Published: May 2017

A new class of iptycenes was developed by combining 2-(naphthalen-1-yl)anilines and p-benzoquinones through copper(ii)-mediated radical cyclisation.
Susceptibility contrast by echo shifting in spatially encoded single-scan MRI
Authors: Marhabaie Sina , Bodenhausen Geoffrey , Pelupessy Philippe
Published: May 2017

By modifying an established hybrid imaging sequence called Rapid Acquisition by Sequential Excitation and Refocusing (RASER) so as to obtain Echo-Shifted RASER sequences, we show how one can tune the contrast due to inhomogeneous Tinh2 decay.
A theoretical study on anion sensing mechanism of multi-phosphonium triarylboranes: intramolecular charge transfer and configurational changes
Authors: Bhat Haamid R. , Jha Prakash C.
Published: May 2017

A theoretical study of the fluorescence quenching of multiphosphonium TABs in anion sensing involving intramolecular charge transfer and developing a new density functional level of theory for their absorption and emission studies.
cis,cis-Muconic acid isomerization and catalytic conversion to biobased cyclic-C6-1,4-diacid monomers
Authors: Carraher Jack M. , Pfennig Toni , Rao Radhika G. , Shanks Brent H. , Tessonnier Jean-Philippe
Published: May 2017

Renewable monomers from biologically-produced intermediates: unlocking the isomerization of cis,trans- to trans,trans-muconic acid for the production of renewable 1,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylic acid and terephthalic acid.
Structure based in silico identification of potentially non-steroidal brassinosteroids mimics
Authors: Lei Beilei , Heng Ningjuan , Dang Xiaoxue , Liu Jiyuan , Yao Xiaojun , Zhang Cunli
Published: May 2017

The identification of non-steroidal BRs-like molecules via structure-based pharmacophore virtual screening, molecular docking and bioassay.
Pyrene–fluorescein-based colour-tunable AIE-active hybrid fluorophore material for potential live cell imaging applications
Authors: Singh Vikas Kumar , Prasad Ritika , Koch Biplob , Hasan Syed Hadi , Dubey Mrigendra
Published: May 2017

A novel hybrid fluorophore (FHPY) has been synthesized based on two standard fluorescent hydrophobic–hydrophilic molecules, viz. pyrene and fluorescein, with an objective to tune the AIE along with the morphology and live cell imaging.
Life cycle assessment in wastewater treatment: influence of site-oriented normalization factors, life cycle impact assessment methods, and weighting methods
Authors: Bai Shunwen , Wang Xiuheng , Zhang Xuedong , Zhao Xinyue , Ren Nanqi
Published: May 2017

This present study aims to analyze the differences in results of different site-directional life cycle assessment (LCA) methods applied in the field of wastewater treatment.