bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
De novo adipocyte differentiation from Pdgfrβ+ preadipocytes protects against pathologic visceral adipose expansion in obesity
Authors: Shao Mengle , Vishvanath Lavanya , Busbuso Napoleon C. , Hepler Chelsea , Shan Bo , Sharma Ankit X. , Chen Shiuhwei , Yu Xinxin , An Yu A. , Zhu Yi , Holland William L. , Gupta Rana K.
Published: February 2018

Pathologic expansion of white adipose tissue (WAT) in obesity is characterized by adipocyte hypertrophy, inflammation, and fibrosis; however, factors triggering this maladaptive remodeling are largely unknown. Here, we test the hypothesis that the potential to recruit new adipocytes from Pdgfrβ+ preadipocytes determines visceral WAT health in obesity. We manipulate levels of Pparg, the master regulator of adipogenesis, in Pdgfrβ+ precursors of adult mice. Increasing the adipogenic capacity of Pdgfrβ+ precursors through Pparg overexpression results in healthy visceral WAT expansion in obesity and adiponectin-dependent improvements in glucose homeostasis. Loss of mural cell Pparg triggers pathologic visceral WAT expansion upon high-fat diet feeding. Moreover, the ability of the TZD class of anti-diabetic drugs to promote healthy visceral WAT remodeling is dependent on mural cell Pparg. These data highlight the protective effects of de novo visceral adipocyte differentiation in these settings, and suggest Pdgfrβ+ adipocyte precursors as targets for therapeutic intervention in diabetes.
Novel and Haplotype Specific MicroRNAs Encoded by the Major Histocompatibility Complex
Authors: Clark P. M. , Chitnis N. , Shieh M. , Kamoun M. , Johnson F. B. , Monos D.
Published: February 2018

The MHC is recognized for its importance in human health and disease. However, many disease-associated variants throughout the region remain of unknown significance, residing predominantly within non-coding regions of the MHC. The characterization of non-coding RNA transcripts throughout the MHC is thus central to understanding the genetic contribution of these variants. Therefore, we characterize novel miRNA transcripts throughout the MHC by performing deep RNA sequencing of two B lymphoblastoid cell lines with completely characterized MHC haplotypes. Our analysis identifies 89 novel miRNA transcripts, 48 of which undergo Dicer-dependent biogenesis and are loaded onto the Argonaute silencing complex. Several of the identified mature miRNA and pre-miRNA transcripts are unique to specific MHC haplotypes and overlap common SNPs. Furthermore, 43 of the 89 identified novel miRNA transcripts lie within linkage disequilibrium blocks that contain a disease-associated SNP. These disease associated SNPs are associated with 65 unique disease phenotypes, suggesting that these transcripts may play a role in the etiology of numerous diseases associated with the MHC. Additional in silico analysis reveals the potential for thousands of putative pre-miRNA encoding loci within the MHC that may be expressed by different cell types and at different developmental stages.
Adenovirus-prime and baculovirus-boost heterologous immunization achieves sterile protection against malaria sporozoite challenge in a murine model
Authors: Yoshida Kunitaka , Iyori Mitsuhiro , Blagborough Andrew M. , Salman Ahmed M. , Dulal Pawan , Sala Katarzyna A. , Yamamoto Daisuke S. , Khan Shahid M. , Janse Chris J. , Biswas Sumi , Yoshii Tatsuya , Yusuf Yenni , Tokoro Masaharu , Hill Adrian V. S. , Yoshida Shigeto
Published: February 2018

With the increasing prevalence of artemisinin-resistant malaria parasites, a highly efficacious and durable vaccine for malaria is urgently required. We have developed an experimental virus-vectored vaccine platform based on an envelope-modified baculovirus dual-expression system (emBDES). Here, we show a conceptually new vaccine platform based on an adenovirus-prime/emBDES-boost heterologous immunization regimen expressing the Plasmodium falciparum circumsporozoite protein (PfCSP). A human adenovirus 5-prime/emBDES-boost heterologous immunization regimen consistently achieved higher sterile protection against transgenic P. berghei sporozoites expressing PfCSP after a mosquito-bite challenge than reverse-ordered or homologous immunization. This high protective efficacy was also achieved with a chimpanzee adenovirus 63-prime/emBDES-boost heterologous immunization regimen against an intravenous sporozoite challenge. Thus, we show that the adenovirus-prime/emBDES-boost heterologous immunization regimen confers sterile protection against sporozoite challenge by two individual routes, providing a promising new malaria vaccine platform for future clinical use.
Mapping the refractive index with single plasmonic nanoantenna
Authors: Gurbatov S. , Vitrik O. , Kulchin Yu. , Kuchmizhak A.
Published: February 2018

As the size of the state-of-the-art optical devices shrinks to nanoscale, the need for tools allowing mapping the local optical properties at deep sub-diffraction resolution increases. Here we demonstrate successful mapping the variations of the refractive index of a smooth dielectric surface by detecting spectral response of a single spherical-shape Ag nanoparticle optically aligned with a supporting optical fiber axicon microlens. We propose and examine various excitation schemes of the plasmonic nanoantenna to provide efficient interaction of its dipolar and quadrupolar modes with the underlying sample surface and to optimize the mapping resolution and sensitivity. Moreover, we demonstrate an lithography-free approach for fabrication of the scanning probe combining the high-quality fiber microaxicon with the Ag spherical nanoparticle atop. Supporting finite-difference time-domain calculations are undertaken to tailor the interaction of the plasmonic nanoantenna and the underlying dielectric substrate upon various excitation conditions demonstrating good agreement with our experimental findings and explaining the obtained results.
Spatial summation across the visual field in strabismic and anisometropic amblyopia
Authors: Je Shindy , Ennis Fergal A. , Woodhouse J. Margaret , Sengpiel Frank , Redmond Tony
Published: February 2018

Ricco’s area (the largest area of visual space in which stimulus area and intensity are inversely proportional at threshold) has previously been hypothesised to be a result of centre/surround antagonism in retinal ganglion cell receptive fields, but recent evidence suggests a sizeable cortical contribution. Here, Ricco’s area was measured in amblyopia, a condition in which retinal receptive fields are normal, to better understand its physiological basis. Spatial summation functions were determined at 12 visual field locations in both eyes of 14 amblyopic adults and 15 normal-sighted controls. Ricco’s area was significantly larger in amblyopic eyes than in fellow non-amblyopic eyes. Compared to the size of Ricco’s area in control eyes, Ricco’s area measured significantly larger in amblyopic eyes. Additionally, Ricco’s area in the fellow, non-amblyopic eye of amblyopic participants measured significantly smaller than in control eyes. Compared to controls, Ricco’s area was larger in amblyopic eyes and smaller in fellow non-amblyopic eyes. Amblyopia type, binocularity, and inter-ocular difference in visual acuity were significantly associated with inter-ocular differences in Ricco’s area in amblyopes. The physiological basis for Ricco’s area is unlikely to be confined to the retina, but more likely representative of spatial summation at multiple sites along the visual pathway.
Lack of effects of simvastatin on smoking cessation in humans: A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical study
Authors: Ingrand Isabelle , Solinas Marcello , Ingrand Pierre , Dugast Emilie , Saulnier Pierre-Jean , Pérault-Pochat Marie-Christine , Lafay-Chebassier Claire
Published: February 2018

A recent pre-clinical study has shown that brain-penetrating statins can reduce risks of relapse to cocaine and nicotine addiction in rats. Based on this information, we conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, proof-of-concept trial to assess the efficacy of simvastatin in smoking cessation. After informed consent, 118 participants received behavioral cessation support and were randomly assigned to a 3-month treatment with simvastatin or placebo. The primary outcome was biochemically verified abstinence or smoking reduction at 3-month post-target quit date (TQD). Secondary outcomes were abstinence during weeks 9–12 post-TQD, prolonged abstinence or reduction at months 6 and 12 post-TQD, safety and craving assessed at each visit during the 3-month period of treatment. Simvastatin treatment was not associated with higher 3-month abstinence or smoking reduction compared to placebo. There was no significant difference in any of the secondary outcomes. Simvastatin was well tolerated. Over 3 and 9 months follow-up period, 78% simvastatin and 69% placebo participants were retained in the study. At 6 and 12 months, smoking remained significantly reduced from baseline in both groups. Our results demonstrate that a 3-month simvastatin treatment (40 mg/day), added to individual behavioral cessation support, does not improve significantly smoking cessation compared to placebo in humans.
A multiscale model of the effect of Ir thickness on the static and dynamic properties of Fe/Ir/Fe films
Authors: Cuadrado Ramón , Oroszlány László , Szunyogh László , Hrkac Gino , Chantrell Roy W. , Ostler Thomas A.
Published: February 2018

The complex magnetic properties of Fe/Ir/Fe sandwiches are studied using a hierarchical multi-scale model. The approach uses first principles calculations and thermodynamic models to reveal the equilibrium spinwave, magnetization and dynamic demagnetisation properties. Finite temperature calculations show a complex spinwave dispersion and an initially counter-intuitive, increasing exchange stiffness with temperature (a key quantity for device applications) due to the effects of frustration at the interface, which then decreases due to magnon softening. Finally, the demagnetisation process in these structures is shown to be much slower at the interface as compared with the bulk, a key insight to interpret ultrafast laser-induced demagnetization processes in layered or interface materials.
The use of SWATH to analyse the dynamic changes of bacterial proteome of carbapanemase-producing Escherichia coli under antibiotic pressure
Authors: Sidjabat Hanna E. , Gien Jolene , Kvaskoff David , Ashman Keith , Vaswani Kanchan , Reed Sarah , McGeary Ross P. , Paterson David L. , Bordin Amanda , Schenk Gerhard
Published: February 2018

Antibiotic resistance associated with the clinically significant carbapenemases KPC, NDM and OXA-48 in Enterobacteriaceae is emerging as worldwide. In Australia, IMP-producing Enterobacteriaceae are the most prevalent carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (CPE). Genomic characteristics of such CPE are well described, but the corresponding proteome is poorly characterised. We have thus developed a method to analyse dynamic changes in the proteome of CPE under antibiotic pressure. Specifically, we have investigated the effect of meropenem at sub-lethal concentrations to develop a better understanding of how antibiotic pressure leads to resistance. Escherichia coli strains producing either NDM-, IMP- or KPC-type carbapenemases were included in this study, and their proteomes were analysed in growth conditions with or without meropenem. The most significant difference in the bacterial proteomes upon the addition of meropenem was triggered amongst NDM-producers and to a lower extent amongst KPC-producers. In particular, HU DNA-binding proteins, the GroEL/GroES chaperonin complex and GrpE proteins were overexpressed. These proteins may thus contribute to the better adaptability of NDM- and KPC-producers to meropenem. A significant meropenem-induced increase in the expression of the outer membrane protein A was only observed in IMP-producers, thus demonstrating that carbapenemase-mediated resistance relies on far more complex mechanisms than simple inactivation of the antibiotic.
Individualistic values are related to an increase in the outbreaks of infectious diseases and zoonotic diseases
Authors: Morand Serge , Walther Bruno A.
Published: February 2018

Collectivist versus individualistic values are important attributes of intercultural variation. Collectivist values favour in-group members over out-group members and may have evolved to protect in-group members against pathogen transmission. As predicted by the pathogen stress theory of cultural values, more collectivist countries are associated with a higher historical pathogen burden. However, if lifestyles of collectivist countries indeed function as a social defence which decreases pathogen transmission, then these countries should also have experienced fewer disease outbreaks in recent times. We tested this novel hypothesis by correlating the values of collectivism-individualism for 66 countries against their historical pathogen burden, recent number of infectious disease outbreaks and zoonotic disease outbreaks and emerging infectious disease events, and four potentially confounding variables. We confirmed the previously established negative relationship between individualism and historical pathogen burden with new data. While we did not find a correlation for emerging infectious disease events, we found significant positive correlations between individualism and the number of infectious disease outbreaks and zoonotic disease outbreaks. Therefore, one possible cost for individualistic cultures may be their higher susceptibility to disease outbreaks. We support further studies into the exact protective behaviours and mechanisms of collectivist societies which may inhibit disease outbreaks.
Human milk oligosaccharides protect against the development of autoimmune diabetes in NOD-mice
Authors: Xiao Ling , van’t Land Belinda , Engen Phillip A. , Naqib Ankur , Green Stefan J. , Nato Angie , Leusink-Muis Thea , Garssen Johan , Keshavarzian Ali , Stahl Bernd , Folkerts Gert
Published: February 2018

Development of Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is influenced by non-genetic factors, such as optimal microbiome development during early life that “programs” the immune system. Exclusive and prolonged breastfeeding is an independent protective factor against the development of T1D, likely via bioactive components. Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOS) are microbiota modulators, known to regulate immune responses directly. Here we show that early life provision (only for a period of six weeks) of 1% authentic HMOS (consisting of both long-chain, as well as short-chain structures), delayed and suppressed T1D development in non-obese diabetic mice and reduced development of severe pancreatic insulitis in later life. These protective effects were associated with i) beneficial alterations in fecal microbiota composition, ii) anti-inflammatory microbiota-generating metabolite (i.e. short chain fatty acids (SCFAs)) changes in fecal, as well as cecum content, and iii) induction of anti-diabetogenic cytokine profiles. Moreover, in vitro HMOS combined with SCFAs induced development of tolerogenic dendritic cells (tDCs), priming of functional regulatory T cells, which support the protective effects detected in vivo. In conclusion, HMOS present in human milk are therefore thought to be vital in the protection of children at risk for T1D, supporting immune and gut microbiota development in early life.
Hypoxia-induced exosome secretion promotes survival of African-American and Caucasian prostate cancer cells
Authors: Panigrahi Gati K. , Praharaj Prakash P. , Peak Taylor C. , Long Jessica , Singh Ravi , Rhim Johng S. , Abd Elmageed Zakaria Y. , Deep Gagan
Published: February 2018

African American men in the United States have higher mortality due to prostate cancer (PCa) compared to other races. One reason for this disparity is the lack of in-depth understanding of the PCa biology in African Americans. For example, hypoxia in prostate tumor microenvironment is associated with adverse prognosis; still, no hypoxia-related studies have been reported in African Americans. Here, we compared African-American and Caucasian PCa cells for exosome secretion under normoxic (21% O2) and hypoxic (1% O2) conditions. All cell lines showed higher exosome secretion under hypoxia but it was clearly more prominent in African-American PCa cells. Further, under hypoxia, Rab5 (a biomarker for early endosome) was clustered in perinuclear region; and CD63 (a biomarker for exosomes and multivesicular endosomes) showed greater co-localization with actin cytoskeleton especially in African American PCa cells. Importantly, exosome biogenesis inhibitors GW4869 (10–20 µM) or DMA (10–20 µg/ml) significantly decreased cell viability and clonogenicity in PCa cells. Interestingly, we also observed higher level of lactic acid loaded in exosomes secreted under hypoxia. Overall, under chronic hypoxia, PCa cells secrete more exosomes as a survival mechanism to remove metabolic waste.
Landscape of the spliced leader trans-splicing mechanism in Schistosoma mansoni
Authors: Boroni Mariana , Sammeth Michael , Gava Sandra Grossi , Jorge Natasha Andressa Nogueira , Macedo Andréa Mara , Machado Carlos Renato , Mourão Marina Moraes , Franco Glória Regina
Published: February 2018

Spliced leader dependent trans-splicing (SLTS) has been described as an important RNA regulatory process that occurs in different organisms, including the trematode Schistosoma mansoni. We identified more than seven thousand putative SLTS sites in the parasite, comprising genes with a wide spectrum of functional classes, which underlines the SLTS as a ubiquitous mechanism in the parasite. Also, SLTS gene expression levels span several orders of magnitude, showing that SLTS frequency is not determined by the expression level of the target gene, but by the presence of particular gene features facilitating or hindering the trans-splicing mechanism. Our in-depth investigation of SLTS events demonstrates widespread alternative trans-splicing (ATS) acceptor sites occurring in different regions along the entire gene body, highlighting another important role of SLTS generating alternative RNA isoforms in the parasite, besides the polycistron resolution. Particularly for introns where SLTS directly competes for the same acceptor substrate with cis-splicing, we identified for the first time additional and important features that might determine the type of splicing. Our study substantially extends the current knowledge of RNA processing by SLTS in S. mansoni, and provide basis for future studies on the trans-splicing mechanism in other eukaryotes.
Boat noise impacts risk assessment in a coral reef fish but effects depend on engine type
Authors: McCormick Mark I. , Allan Bridie J. M. , Harding Harry , Simpson Stephen D.
Published: February 2018

Human noise pollution has increased markedly since the start of industrialization and there is international concern about how this may impact wildlife. Here we determined whether real motorboat noise affected the behavior, space use and escape response of a juvenile damselfish (Pomacentrus wardi) in the wild, and explored whether fish respond effectively to chemical and visual threats in the presence of two common types of motorboat noise. Noise from 30 hp 2-stroke outboard motors reduced boldness and activity of fish on habitat patches compared to ambient reef-sound controls. Fish also no longer responded to alarm odours with an antipredator response, instead increasing activity and space use, and fewer fish responded appropriately to a looming threat. In contrast, while there was a minor influence of noise from a 30 hp 4-stroke outboard on space use, there was no influence on their ability to respond to alarm odours, and no impact on their escape response. Evidence suggests that anthropogenic noise impacts the way juvenile fish assess risk, which will reduce individual fitness and survival, however, not all engine types cause major effects. This finding may give managers options by which they can reduce the impact of motorboat noise on inshore fish communities.
The DREADD agonist clozapine N-oxide (CNO) is reverse-metabolized to clozapine and produces clozapine-like interoceptive stimulus effects in rats and mice
Authors: Manvich Daniel F. , Webster Kevin A. , Foster Stephanie L. , Farrell Martilias S. , Ritchie James C. , Porter Joseph H. , Weinshenker David
Published: February 2018

Clozapine-N-oxide (CNO) has long been the ligand of choice for selectively activating Designer Receptors Exclusively Activated by Designer Drugs (DREADDs). However, recent studies have challenged the long-held assertion that CNO is otherwise pharmacologically inert. The present study aimed to 1) determine whether CNO is reverse-metabolized to its parent compound clozapine in mice (as has recently been reported in rats), and 2) determine whether CNO exerts clozapine-like interoceptive stimulus effects in rats and/or mice. Following administration of 10.0 mg/kg CNO, pharmacokinetic analyses replicated recent reports of back-conversion to clozapine in rats and revealed that this phenomenon also occurs in mice. In rats and mice trained to discriminate 1.25 mg/kg clozapine from vehicle, CNO (1.0–20.0 mg/kg) produced partial substitution for the clozapine stimulus on average, with full substitution being detected in some individual animals of both species at doses frequently used to activate DREADDs. The present demonstration that CNO is converted to clozapine and exerts clozapine-like behavioral effects in both mice and rats further emphasizes the need for appropriate control groups in studies employing DREADDs, and highlights the utility of the drug discrimination procedure as a tool with which to screen the off-target effects of novel DREADD agonists.
Depressive symptoms and their association with social determinants and chronic diseases in middle-aged and elderly Chinese people
Authors: Liu Qiaolan , Cai Hui , Yang Lawrence H. , Xiang Yong-Bing , Yang Gong , Li Honglan , Gao Yu-Tang , Zheng Wei , Susser Ezra , Shu Xiao-Ou
Published: February 2018

Depression is one of the most prevalent mental disorders worldwide. Little information is available regarding association of depressive symptoms (DS) with cancer and chronic diseases among middle-aged and elderly Chinese in a population-based setting. In this study we evaluated the prevalence and examined correlates of DS in two population-based cohort studies. Included in the analyses were 103,595 people with a mean age of 61.8 years at the DS assessment. The prevalence of DS was 2.4% in men and 5.6% in women. We found elderly participants, those with lower BMI, or chronic diseases were more likely to experience DS. Having a history of stroke (odds ratio (OR) = 2.2 in men and 1.8 in women), cancer (OR = 3.3 in men and 1.9 in women), or Parkinson’s disease (OR = 3.1 in men and 2.7 in women) was associated with high DS. In women, high income and high education levels were inversely related to DS. Being a single woman, long-term or heavy female smoker was associated with high prevalence of DS. High BMI was correlated with low prevalence of depression in men. Our data suggests a low prevalence of DS among middle-aged and elderly people in Shanghai, China. Age, education, income, marital status, smoking, BMI, and certain health conditions were associated with DS.
Loss of mRNA surveillance pathways results in widespread protein aggregation
Authors: Jamar Nur Hidayah , Kritsiligkou Paraskevi , Grant Chris M.
Published: February 2018

Eukaryotic cells contain translation-associated mRNA surveillance pathways which prevent the production of potentially toxic proteins from aberrant mRNA translation events. We found that loss of mRNA surveillance pathways in mutants deficient in nonsense-mediated decay (NMD), no-go decay (NGD) and nonstop decay (NSD) results in increased protein aggregation. We have isolated and identified the proteins that aggregate and our bioinformatic analyses indicates that increased aggregation of aggregation-prone proteins is a general occurrence in mRNA surveillance mutants, rather than being attributable to specific pathways. The proteins that aggregate in mRNA surveillance mutants tend to be more highly expressed, more abundant and more stable proteins compared with the wider proteome. There is also a strong correlation with the proteins that aggregate in response to nascent protein misfolding and an enrichment for proteins that are substrates of ribosome-associated Hsp70 chaperones, consistent with susceptibility for aggregation primarily occurring during translation/folding. We also identified a significant overlap between the aggregated proteins in mRNA surveillance mutants and ageing yeast cells suggesting that translation-dependent protein aggregation may be a feature of the loss of proteostasis that occurs in aged cell populations.
The combined influence of body size and density on cohesive sediment resuspension by bioturbators
Authors: Cozzoli Francesco , Bouma Tjeerd J. , Ottolander Pauline , Lluch Maria Salvador , Ysebaert Tom , Herman Peter M. J.
Published: February 2018

We propose an empirical framework to scale the effects of bioturbation on sediment resuspension to population bioturbation activity, approximated as population metabolic rate. Individual metabolic rates have been estimated as functions of body size and extrapolated to population level. We used experimental flumes to test this approach across different types of marine, soft-sediment bioturbators. We observed that a large part of the variance in biota-mediated sediment resuspension can be explained by a positive relationship with population metabolic rate. Other mechanisms can strongly influence the outcome, such as bioturbation of deep sediment strata, biotic interactions with hydrodynamic stress and overlapping areas of influence must be further investigated. By relating the biota-mediated changes in resuspended sediment to metabolism, we can place our observations within the broader context of the metabolic theory of ecology and to formulate general expectations about changes in biota-mediated sediment resuspension in response to changes in population structure and climate change.
Phase transitions of ordered ice in graphene nanocapillaries and carbon nanotubes
Authors: Raju Muralikrishna , van Duin Adri , Ihme Matthias
Published: February 2018

New phase diagrams for water confined in graphene nanocapillaries and single-walled carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are proposed, identifying ice structures, their melting points and revealing the presence of a solid-liquid critical point. For quasi-2D water in nanocapillaries, we show through molecular-dynamics simulations that AA stacking in multilayer quasi-2D ice arises from interlayer hydrogen-bonding and is stable up to three layers, thereby explaining recent experimental observations. Detailed structural and energetic analyses show that quasi-2D water can freeze discontinuously through a first-order phase transition or continuously with a critical point. The first-order transition line extends to a continuous transition line, defined by a sharp transition in diffusivity between solid-like and liquid-like regimes. For quasi-1D water, confined in CNTs, we observe the existence of a similar critical point at intermediate densities. In addition, an end point is identified on the continuous-transition line, above which the solid and liquid phases deform continuously. The solid-liquid phase transition temperatures in CNTs are shown to be substantially higher than 273 K, confirming recent Raman spectroscopy measurements. We observe ultrafast proton and hydroxyl transport in quasi-1D and -2D ice at 300 K, exceeding those of bulk water up to a factor of five, thereby providing possible applications to fuel-cells and electrolyzers.
Disturbance Regimes Drive The Diversity of Regional Floristic Pools Across Guianan Rainforest Landscapes
Authors: Guitet Stéphane , Sabatier Daniel , Brunaux Olivier , Couteron Pierre , Denis Thomas , Freycon Vincent , Gonzalez Sophie , Hérault Bruno , Jaouen Gaëlle , Molino Jean-François , Pélissier Raphaël , Richard-Hansen Cécile , Vincent Grégoire
Published: February 2018

Disturbances control rainforest dynamics, and, according to the intermediate disturbance hypothesis (IDH), disturbance regime is a key driver of local diversity. Variations in disturbance regimes and their consequences on regional diversity at broad spatiotemporal scales are still poorly understood. Using multidisciplinary large-scale inventories and LiDAR acquisitions, we developed a robust indicator of disturbance regimes based on the frequency of a few early successional and widely distributed pioneer species. We demonstrate at the landscape scale that tree-species diversity and disturbance regimes vary with climate and relief. Significant relationships between the disturbance indicator, tree-species diversity and soil phosphorus content agree with the hypothesis that rainforest diversity is controlled both by disturbance regimes and long-term ecosystem stability. These effects explain the broad-scale patterns of floristic diversity observed between landscapes. In fact, species-rich forests in highlands, which have benefited from long-term stability combined with a moderate and regular regime of local disturbances, contrast with less diversified forests on recently shaped lowlands, which have undergone more recent changes and irregular dynamics. These results suggest that taking the current disturbance regime into account and including geomorphological stratifications in climate-vegetation models may be an effective way to improve the prediction of changes in species diversity under climate change.
Long-term nutrient addition increased CH4 emission from a bog through direct and indirect effects
Authors: Juutinen Sari , Moore Tim R. , Bubier Jill L. , Arnkil Sini , Humphreys Elyn , Marincak Brenden , Roy Cameron , Larmola Tuula
Published: February 2018

Peatlands are globally significant sources of atmospheric methane (CH4). While several studies have examined the effects of nutrient addition on CH4 dynamics, there are few long-term peatland fertilization experiments, which are needed to understand the aggregated effects of nutrient deposition on ecosystem functioning. We investigated responses of CH4 flux and production to long-term field treatments with three levels of N (1.6–6.4 g m−2 yr−1 as NH4NO3), potassium and phosphorus (PK, 5.0 g P and 6.3 g K m−2 yr−1 as KH2PO4), and NPK in a temperate bog. Methane fluxes were measured in the field from May to August in 2005 and 2015. In 2015 CH4 flux was higher in the NPK treatment with 16 years of 6.4 g N m−2 yr−1 than in the control (50.5 vs. 8.6 mg CH4 m−2 d−1). The increase in CH4 flux was associated with wetter conditions derived from peat subsidence. Incubation of peat samples, with and without short-term PK amendment, showed that potential CH4 production was enhanced in the PK treatments, both from field application and by amending the incubation. We suggest that changes in this bog ecosystem originate from long-term vegetation change, increased decomposition and direct nutrient effects on microbial dynamics.
Conditional knockout of NaV1.6 in adult mice ameliorates neuropathic pain
Authors: Chen Lubin , Huang Jianying , Zhao Peng , Persson Anna-Karin , Dib-Hajj Fadia B. , Cheng Xiaoyang , Tan Andrew , Waxman Stephen G. , Dib-Hajj Sulayman D.
Published: February 2018

Voltage-gated sodium channels NaV1.7, NaV1.8 and NaV1.9 have been the focus for pain studies because their mutations are associated with human pain disorders, but the role of NaV1.6 in pain is less understood. In this study, we selectively knocked out NaV1.6 in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons, using NaV1.8-Cre directed or adeno-associated virus (AAV)-Cre mediated approaches, and examined the specific contribution of NaV1.6 to the tetrodotoxin-sensitive (TTX-S) current in these neurons and its role in neuropathic pain. We report here that NaV1.6 contributes up to 60% of the TTX-S current in large, and 34% in small DRG neurons. We also show NaV1.6 accumulates at nodes of Ranvier within the neuroma following spared nerve injury (SNI). Although NaV1.8-Cre driven NaV1.6 knockout does not alter acute, inflammatory or neuropathic pain behaviors, AAV-Cre mediated NaV1.6 knockout in adult mice partially attenuates SNI-induced mechanical allodynia. Additionally, AAV-Cre mediated NaV1.6 knockout, mostly in large DRG neurons, significantly attenuates excitability of these neurons after SNI and reduces NaV1.6 accumulation at nodes of Ranvier at the neuroma. Together, NaV1.6 in NaV1.8-positive neurons does not influence pain thresholds under normal or pathological conditions, but NaV1.6 in large NaV1.8-negative DRG neurons plays an important role in neuropathic pain.
Support for viral persistence in bats from age-specific serology and models of maternal immunity
Authors: Peel Alison J. , Baker Kate S. , Hayman David T. S. , Broder Christopher C. , Cunningham Andrew A. , Fooks Anthony R. , Garnier Romain , Wood James L. N. , Restif Olivier
Published: February 2018

Spatiotemporally-localised prediction of virus emergence from wildlife requires focused studies on the ecology and immunology of reservoir hosts in their native habitat. Reliable predictions from mathematical models remain difficult in most systems due to a dearth of appropriate empirical data. Our goal was to study the circulation and immune dynamics of zoonotic viruses in bat populations and investigate the effects of maternally-derived and acquired immunity on viral persistence. Using rare age-specific serological data from wild-caught Eidolon helvum fruit bats as a case study, we estimated viral transmission parameters for a stochastic infection model. We estimated mean durations of around 6 months for maternally-derived immunity to Lagos bat virus and African henipavirus, whereas acquired immunity was long-lasting (Lagos bat virus: mean 12 years, henipavirus: mean 4 years). In the presence of a seasonal birth pulse, the effect of maternally-derived immunity on virus persistence within modelled bat populations was highly dependent on transmission characteristics. To explain previous reports of viral persistence within small natural and captive E. helvum populations, we hypothesise that some bats must experience prolonged infectious periods or within-host latency. By further elucidating plausible mechanisms of virus persistence in bat populations, we contribute to guidance of future field studies.
Experimental Study of Key Effect Factors and Simulation on Oil Displacement Efficiency for a Novel Modified Polymer BD-HMHEC
Authors: Wang Chao , Liu Pengcheng , Wang Yanling , Yuan Zhe , Xu Zhenhua
Published: February 2018

A novel synthetic hydrophobically modified hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC) using bromododecane (BD) was developed in our previous paper, which we denote as BD-HMHEC. A series of one dimensional core displacement experiments were continually conducted to evaluate the key effect factors on the resistance factor (FR) and residual resistance factor (FRR) of BD-HMHEC solution, including polymer concentration, core permeability and injection rate. Results have shown that BD-HMHEC has higher FR and FRR and has much better oil displacement performance than HEC during oil displacement process. Meanwhile, compared with HEC flooding, the key effects on oil displacement efficiency of BD-HMHEC flooding were investigated, including polymer concentration, injection slug and injection rate. A numerical simulation study has been developed by the Computer Modelling Group (CMG) simulator. Results have shown that BD-HMHEC flooding could cause better oil displacement efficiency than HEC flooding at the same condition. As indicated by one dimensional core displacement experimental results, the further incremental oil recovery of switching to BD-HMHEC flooding could increase by 7.0~8.0% after hydrolyzed polyacryamide (HPAM) flooding. The studies indicate that BD-HMHEC has great potential application during enhanced oil recovery (EOR) processes in oilfields.
Antimicrobial mechanisms due to hyperpolarisation induced by nanoporous Au
Authors: Miyazawa Naoki , Hakamada Masataka , Mabuchi Mamoru
Published: February 2018

Nanomaterials such as nanoparticles exhibit remarkable antimicrobial activities. Nanoparticles directly disturb the cell membrane or cytoplasmic proteins because they pass through the cell wall. Nanoporous Au (NPG) is another antimicrobial nanomaterial, which cannot pass through the cell wall of bacteria but can still kill bacteria, utilising interactions between the surface of NPG and cell wall of bacteria. The origins of antimicrobial activities without direct interactions are unknown. It is necessary to elucidate these mechanisms to ensure safe usage. Here we show that the antimicrobial mechanism of NPG consists of two interactions: between the surface of NPG and cell wall, and between the cell wall and cell membrane. Fluorescent experiments showed that the cell wall was negatively hyperpolarised by NPG, and molecular dynamics simulations and first-principles calculations suggested that the hyperpolarisation of the cell wall leads to delicate structural changes in the membrane proteins, rendering them bactericidal. Thus, the hyperpolarisation induced by NPG plays a critical role in both interactions. The combination of molecular dynamics simulations and first-principles calculations allows a deeper understanding of the interactions between metallic surfaces and biomolecules, because charge transfer and exchange interactions are calculated exactly.
Photo-induced surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy from a diphenylalanine peptide nanotube-metal nanoparticle template
Authors: Almohammed Sawsan , Zhang Fengyuan , Rodriguez Brian J. , Rice James H.
Published: February 2018

UV irradiation of aligned diphenylalanine peptide nanotubes (FF-PNTs) decorated with plasmonic silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) enables photo-induced surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy. UV-induced charge transfer facilitates a chemical enhancement that provides up to a 10-fold increase in surface-enhanced Raman intensity and allows the detection of a wide range of small molecules and low Raman cross-section molecules at concentrations as low as 10–13 M. The aligned FF-PNT/Ag NP template further prevents photodegradation of the molecules under investigation. Our results demonstrate that FF-PNTs can be used as an alternative material to semiconductors such as titanium dioxide for photo-induced surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy applications.
Evaluation of three methods for biomass estimation in small invertebrates, using three large disparate parasite species as model organisms
Authors: Llopis-Belenguer Cristina , Blasco-Costa Isabel , Balbuena Juan Antonio
Published: February 2018

Invertebrate biomass is considered one of the main factors driving processes in ecosystems. It can be measured directly, primarily by weighing individuals, but more often indirect estimators are used. We developed two indirect and non-destructive approaches to estimate biomass of small invertebrates in a simple manner. The first one was based on clay modelling and the second one was based on image analysis implemented with open-source software. Furthermore, we tested the accuracy of the widely used geometric approximation method (third method). We applied these three different methods to three morphologically disparate model species, an acanthocephalan worm, a crustacean and a flatworm. To validate our indirect estimations and to test their accuracy, we weighed specimens of the three species and calculated their tissue densities. Additionally, we propose an uncomplicated technique to estimate thickness of individuals under a microscope, a required measurement for two of the three indirect methods tested. The indirect methods proposed in this paper provided the best approximation to direct measurements. Despite its wide use, the geometric approximation method showed the lowest accuracy. The approaches developed herein are timely because the recently increasing number of studies requiring reliable biomass estimates for small invertebrates to explain crucial processes in ecosystems.
Interaction of testosterone-based compounds with dodecyl sulphate monolayers at the air–water interface
Authors: Allen Daniel T. , Damestani Nikou , Saaka Yussif , Lawrence M. Jayne , Lorenz Christian D.
Published: February 2018

The encapsulation of testosterone enanthate into a sodium dodecyl sulphate monolayer.
Theoretical characterization of sulfur-to-selenium substitution in an emissive RNA alphabet: impact on H-bonding potential and photophysical properties
Authors: Chawla Mohit , Poater Albert , Besalú-Sala Pau , Kalra Kanav , Oliva Romina , Cavallo Luigi
Published: February 2018

Quantum mechanics calculations have been performed to investigate the structural, energetic and optical properties of a novel computationally designed RNA alphabet containing selenium.
A quantitative study of enhanced drying flux from a narrow liquid–air interface of colloidal suspensions during directional drying
Authors: Abe Kohei , Inasawa Susumu
Published: February 2018

Drying flux changes by the drying interfacial area of a colloidal suspension that affects the formation kinetics of particulate films.
Structural diversity and photo-physical and magnetic properties of dimeric to 1D polymeric coordination polymers of lighter lanthanide(iii) dinitrobenzoates
Authors: Jassal Amanpreet Kaur , Sran Balkaran Singh , Suffren Yan , Bernot Kevin , Pointillart Fabrice , Cador Olivier , Hundal Geeta
Published: February 2018

The one-dimensional assembly of luminescent Nd(iii) mononuclear single-molecule magnets is reported.
Effects of molecular weight-fractionated natural organic matter on the phytoavailability of silver nanoparticles
Authors: Li Min , Dang Fei , Fu Qing-Long , Zhou Dong-Mei , Yin Bin
Published: February 2018

The key role of NOM heterogeneity in inhibiting the dissolution and consequently the uptake of total Ag.
Application of microsecond pulsed glow discharge to modern commercially available optical emission spectrometers for bulk elemental analysis
Authors: Voronov M. , Hoffmann V.
Published: February 2018

Microsecond Pulsed Glow Discharge (μs-PGD) was applied to commercially available spectrometers specified for OES elemental analysis with Grimm type sources, in order to have a look at the benefits which PGD can bring for practical bulk analysis.
Protein-mediated mineralization of edaravone into injectable, pH-sensitive microspheres used for potential minimally invasive treatment of osteomyelitis
Authors: Zhang Jie , Zhao Mengen , Tian Xiaohan , Lv Xinyan , Chen Zhenhua , Zhou Kang , Ren Xiuli , Zhang Peng , Mei Xifan
Published: February 2018

Osteomyelitis, an infection within bone, is difficult to treat.
Photochemical property of a Ru(ii) compound based on 3-(2-pyridyl)pyrazole and 2,2′-bipyridine for ablation of cancer cells
Authors: Yang Gao Wen , Zhang Xin , Li Guang Ming , Yang Jie , Shen Lei , Chen Dian Yu , Li Qiao Yun , Zou Deng Feng
Published: February 2018

Ru(ii) compounds are potential candidates for photodynamic therapy (PDT).
A novel IrNi@PdIr/C core–shell electrocatalyst with enhanced activity and durability for the hydrogen oxidation reaction in alkaline anion exchange membrane fuel cells
Authors: Qin Bowen , Yu Hongmei , Jia Jia , Jun Chi , Gao Xueqiang , Yao Dewei , Sun Xinye , Song Wei , Yi Baolian , Shao Zhigang
Published: February 2018

Herein, a novel non-platinum IrNi@PdIr/C exhibits enhanced hydrogen oxidation activity and excellent stability under alkaline conditions.
Recent advances in the chemistry of 2-chloroquinoline-3-carbaldehyde and related analogs
Authors: Hamama Wafaa S. , Ibrahim Mona E. , Gooda Ayaa A. , Zoorob Hanafi H.
Published: February 2018

This review describes the recent publications reported on the chemistry of 2-chloroquinoline-3-carbaldehydes. Heterocyclic quinoline ring systems are binary and fused cycles.
Electrochemical oxidation of As(iii) on Pd immobilized Pt surface: kinetics and sensing performance
Authors: Alam Md. Mahbubul , Rashed Md. A. , Rahman Md. Musfiqur , Rahman Mohammed M. , Nagao Yuki , Hasnat Mohammad A.
Published: February 2018

Amplification of true surface area can be improved when Pd particles are deposited on a substrate in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) surfactant. In acidic medium, As(iii) undergoes a two-step oxidation process.
Cytosolic β-glucosidase inhibition and renal blood flow suppression are leading causes for the enhanced systemic exposure of salidroside in hypoxic rats
Authors: Qi Te , Ge Bei-kang , Zhao Liang , Ma Yi , Li Xiao-rong , Xu Ping-xiang , Xue Ming
Published: February 2018

CBG inhibition and renal blood flow suppression are leading causes for the enhanced systemic exposure of SAL in hypoxic rats.
Access to benzo-fused nine-membered heterocyclic alkenes with a trifluoromethyl carbinol moiety via a double decarboxylative formal ring-expansion process under palladium catalysis
Authors: Das Pulakesh , Gondo Satoshi , Nagender Punna , Uno Hiroto , Tokunaga Etsuko , Shibata Norio
Published: February 2018

Direct access to benzo-fused nine-membered heterocyclic alkenes with a trifluoromethyl carbinol moiety was achieved via a palladium-catalysis.
Crystal structure and compositional effects on the electrical and electrochemical properties of GdBaCo2−xMnxO5+δ (0 ≤ x ≤ 2) oxides for use as air electrodes in solid oxide fuel cells
Authors: Muñoz-Gil Daniel , Urones-Garrote Esteban , Pérez-Coll Domingo , Amador Ulises , García-Martín Susana
Published: February 2018

GdBaCo2−xMnxO5+δ is a new system of layered perovskites displaying better electrochemical properties when a layered-type ordering of Gd and Ba cations is adopted.
Selenide-containing organic resonance molecules as turn-on fluorescent probes for the selective detection of hypochlorous acid
Authors: Jiang He , Jia Linlin , Li Yuanyuan , Liu Sirui , Chen Runfeng , Jin Lu , Jin Jibiao , Zheng Chao , Fan Quli , Huang Wei
Published: February 2018

A new strategy for designing turn-on fluorescent probes in N–PSe resonance architectures for the selective and sensitive detection of HClO is developed.
Discrimination and quantification of sulfathiazole polytypes using low-frequency Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Iwata Kentaro , Karashima Masatoshi , Ikeda Yukihiro , Inoue Motoki , Fukami Toshiro
Published: February 2018

Low-frequency Raman spectroscopy has advantage to discriminate and quantify polymorphs where common 2D superstructures are piled up with different mode.
Platinized spherical supramolecular nanoassemblies of a porphyrin: facile synthesis and excellent catalytic recyclability
Authors: Geng Guangwei , Wang Zhongju , Chen Penglei , Guan Bo , Yang Changchun , Liu Minghua
Published: February 2018

Spherical TPPNH2 porphyrin nanostructures of excellent self-platinization capability are facilely assembled. The nanocomposites display excellent catalytic recyclability and stability.
Improved fill factor in inverted planar perovskite solar cells with zirconium acetate as the hole-and-ion-blocking layer
Authors: Zhang Xuewen , Liang Chunjun , Sun Mengjie , Zhang Huimin , Ji Chao , Guo Zebang , Xu Yajun , Sun Fulin , Song Qi , He Zhiqun
Published: February 2018

The fill factor of inverted planar perovskite solar cells was increased when using zirconium acetate as the buffer layer due to its hole-and-ion blocking ability.
A Michael addition–cyclization-based switch-on fluorescent chemodosimeter for cysteine and its application in live cell imaging
Authors: Manna Srimanta , Karmakar Parthasarathi , Ali Syed Samim , Guria Uday Narayan , Sarkar Ripon , Datta Pallab , Mandal Debasish , Mahapatra Ajit Kumar
Published: February 2018

We designed and synthesized a fast response fluorescent probe, BTAC (benzothiazol-azacoumarin), for detection of cysteine (Cys).
Visible-light-mediated iodine-catalyzed α-hydroxylation of α-methylene ketones under aerobic conditions
Authors: Yang Jingya , Xie Dongtai , Zhou Hongyan , Chen Shuwen , Huo Congde , Li Zheng
Published: February 2018

A visible-light-mediated α-hydroxylation of α-methylene ketones using atmospheric oxygen as a green oxidant has been developed with novel substrate selectivity.