bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural basis for Epstein–Barr virus host cell tropism mediated by gp42 and gHgL entry glycoproteins
Authors: Sathiyamoorthy Karthik , Hu Yao Xiong , Möhl Britta S. , Chen Jia , Longnecker Richard , Jardetzky Theodore S.
Published: December 2016

Herpesvirus entry into host cells is mediated by multiple virally encoded receptor binding and membrane fusion glycoproteins. Despite their importance in host cell tropism and associated disease pathology, the underlying and essential interactions between these viral glycoproteins remain poorly understood. For Epstein–Barr virus (EBV), gHgL/gp42 complexes bind HLA class II to activate membrane fusion with B cells, but gp42 inhibits fusion and entry into epithelial cells. To clarify the mechanism by which gp42 controls the cell specificity of EBV infection, here we determined the structure of gHgL/gp42 complex bound to an anti-gHgL antibody (E1D1). The critical regulator of EBV tropism is the gp42 N-terminal domain, which tethers the HLA-binding domain to gHgL by wrapping around the exterior of three gH domains. Both the gp42 N-terminal domain and E1D1 selectively inhibit epithelial-cell fusion; however, they engage distinct surfaces of gHgL. These observations clarify key determinants of EBV host cell tropism.
Tectal-derived interneurons contribute to phasic and tonic inhibition in the visual thalamus
Authors: Jager Polona , Ye Zhiwen , Yu Xiao , Zagoraiou Laskaro , Prekop Hong-Ting , Partanen Juha , Jessell Thomas M. , Wisden William , Brickley Stephen G. , Delogu Alessio
Published: December 2016

The release of GABA from local interneurons in the dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus (dLGN-INs) provides inhibitory control during visual processing within the thalamus. It is commonly assumed that this important class of interneurons originates from within the thalamic complex, but we now show that during early postnatal development Sox14/Otx2-expressing precursor cells migrate from the dorsal midbrain to generate dLGN-INs. The unexpected extra-diencephalic origin of dLGN-INs sets them apart from GABAergic neurons of the reticular thalamic nucleus. Using optogenetics we show that at increased firing rates tectal-derived dLGN-INs generate a powerful form of tonic inhibition that regulates the gain of thalamic relay neurons through recruitment of extrasynaptic high-affinity GABAA receptors. Therefore, by revising the conventional view of thalamic interneuron ontogeny we demonstrate how a previously unappreciated mesencephalic population controls thalamic relay neuron excitability.
An oxygen-sensitive toxin–antitoxin system
Authors: Marimon Oriol , Teixeira João M. C. , Cordeiro Tiago N. , Soo Valerie W. C. , Wood Thammajun L. , Mayzel Maxim , Amata Irene , García Jesús , Morera Ainara , Gay Marina , Vilaseca Marta , Orekhov Vladislav Yu , Wood Thomas K. , Pons Miquel
Published: December 2016

The Hha and TomB proteins from Escherichia coli form an oxygen-dependent toxin–antitoxin (TA) system. Here we show that YmoB, the Yersinia orthologue of TomB, and its single cysteine variant [C117S]YmoB can replace TomB as antitoxins in E. coli. In contrast to other TA systems, [C117S]YmoB transiently interacts with Hha (rather than forming a stable complex) and enhances the spontaneous oxidation of the Hha conserved cysteine residue to a -SOxH-containing species (sulfenic, sulfinic or sulfonic acid), which destabilizes the toxin. The nuclear magnetic resonance structure of [C117S]YmoB and the homology model of TomB show that the two proteins form a four-helix bundle with a conserved buried cysteine connected to the exterior by a channel with a diameter comparable to that of an oxygen molecule. The Hha interaction site is located on the opposite side of the helix bundle.
Thioredoxin-interacting protein regulates haematopoietic stem cell ageing and rejuvenation by inhibiting p38 kinase activity
Authors: Jung Haiyoung , Kim Dong Oh , Byun Jae-Eun , Kim Won Sam , Kim Mi Jeong , Song Hae Young , Kim Young Kwan , Kang Du-Kyeong , Park Young-Jun , Kim Tae-Don , Yoon Suk Ran , Lee Hee Gu , Choi Eun-Ji , Min Sang-Hyun , Choi Inpyo
Published: December 2016

Ageing is a natural process in living organisms throughout their lifetime, and most elderly people suffer from ageing-associated diseases. One suggested way to tackle such diseases is to rejuvenate stem cells, which also undergo ageing. Here we report that the thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP)-p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38) axis regulates the ageing of haematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), by causing a higher frequency of long-term HSCs, lineage skewing, a decrease in engraftment, an increase in reactive oxygen species and loss of Cdc42 polarity. TXNIP inhibits p38 activity via direct interaction in HSCs. Furthermore, cell-penetrating peptide (CPP)-conjugated peptide derived from the TXNIP-p38 interaction motif inhibits p38 activity via this docking interaction. This peptide dramatically rejuvenates aged HSCs in vitro and in vivo. Our findings suggest that the TXNIP-p38 axis acts as a regulatory mechanism in HSC ageing and indicate the potent therapeutic potential of using CPP-conjugated peptide to rejuvenate aged HSCs.
The STIM1-binding site nexus remotely controls Orai1 channel gating
Authors: Zhou Yandong , Cai Xiangyu , Loktionova Natalia A. , Wang Xianming , Nwokonko Robert M. , Wang Xizhuo , Wang Youjun , Rothberg Brad S. , Trebak Mohamed , Gill Donald L.
Published: December 2016

The ubiquitously expressed Orai Ca2+ channels are gated through a unique process of intermembrane coupling with the Ca2+-sensing STIM proteins. Despite the significance of Orai1-mediated Ca2+ signals, how gating of Orai1 is triggered by STIM1 remains unknown. A widely held gating model invokes STIM1 binding directly to Orai1 pore-forming helix. Here we report that an Orai1 C-terminal STIM1-binding site, situated far from the N-terminal pore helix, alone provides the trigger that is necessary and sufficient for channel gating. We identify a critical ‘nexus’ within Orai1 connecting the peripheral C-terminal STIM1-binding site to the Orai1 core helices. Mutation of the nexus transforms Orai1 into a persistently open state exactly mimicking the action of STIM1. We suggest that the Orai1 nexus transduces the STIM1-binding signal through a conformational change in the inner core helices, and that STIM1 remotely gates the Orai1 channel without the necessity for direct STIM1 contact with the pore-forming helix.
Tracking the coherent generation of polaron pairs in conjugated polymers
Authors: De Sio Antonietta , Troiani Filippo , Maiuri Margherita , Réhault Julien , Sommer Ephraim , Lim James , Huelga Susana F. , Plenio Martin B. , Rozzi Carlo Andrea , Cerullo Giulio , Molinari Elisa , Lienau Christoph
Published: December 2016

The optical excitation of organic semiconductors not only generates charge-neutral electron-hole pairs (excitons), but also charge-separated polaron pairs with high yield. The microscopic mechanisms underlying this charge separation have been debated for many years. Here we use ultrafast two-dimensional electronic spectroscopy to study the dynamics of polaron pair formation in a prototypical polymer thin film on a sub-20-fs time scale. We observe multi-period peak oscillations persisting for up to about 1 ps as distinct signatures of vibronic quantum coherence at room temperature. The measured two-dimensional spectra show pronounced peak splittings revealing that the elementary optical excitations of this polymer are hybridized exciton-polaron-pairs, strongly coupled to a dominant underdamped vibrational mode. Coherent vibronic coupling induces ultrafast polaron pair formation, accelerates the charge separation dynamics and makes it insensitive to disorder. These findings open up new perspectives for tailoring light-to-current conversion in organic materials.
Chromatin-remodelling factor Brg1 regulates myocardial proliferation and regeneration in zebrafish
Authors: Xiao Chenglu , Gao Lu , Hou Yu , Xu Congfei , Chang Nannan , Wang Fang , Hu Keping , He Aibin , Luo Ying , Wang Jun , Peng Jinrong , Tang Fuchou , Zhu Xiaojun , Xiong Jing-Wei
Published: December 2016

The zebrafish possesses a remarkable capacity of adult heart regeneration, but the underlying mechanisms are not well understood. Here we report that chromatin remodelling factor Brg1 is essential for adult heart regeneration. Brg1 mRNA and protein are induced during heart regeneration. Transgenic over-expression of dominant-negative Xenopus Brg1 inhibits the formation of BrdU+/Mef2C+ and Tg(gata4:EGFP) cardiomyocytes, leading to severe cardiac fibrosis and compromised myocardial regeneration. RNA-seq and RNAscope analyses reveal that inhibition of Brg1 increases the expression of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors such as cdkn1a and cdkn1c in the myocardium after ventricular resection; and accordingly, myocardial-specific expression of dn-xBrg1 blunts myocardial proliferation and regeneration. Mechanistically, injury-induced Brg1, via its interaction with Dnmt3ab, suppresses the expression of cdkn1c by increasing the methylation level of CpG sites at the cdkn1c promoter. Taken together, our results suggest that Brg1 promotes heart regeneration by repressing cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors partly through Dnmt3ab-dependent DNA methylation.
A diverse intrinsic antibiotic resistome from a cave bacterium
Authors: Pawlowski Andrew C. , Wang Wenliang , Koteva Kalinka , Barton Hazel A. , McArthur Andrew G. , Wright Gerard D.
Published: December 2016

Antibiotic resistance is ancient and widespread in environmental bacteria. These are therefore reservoirs of resistance elements and reflective of the natural history of antibiotics and resistance. In a previous study, we discovered that multi-drug resistance is common in bacteria isolated from Lechuguilla Cave, an underground ecosystem that has been isolated from the surface for over 4 Myr. Here we use whole-genome sequencing, functional genomics and biochemical assays to reveal the intrinsic resistome of Paenibacillus sp. LC231, a cave bacterial isolate that is resistant to most clinically used antibiotics. We systematically link resistance phenotype to genotype and in doing so, identify 18 chromosomal resistance elements, including five determinants without characterized homologues and three mechanisms not previously shown to be involved in antibiotic resistance. A resistome comparison across related surface Paenibacillus affirms the conservation of resistance over millions of years and establishes the longevity of these genes in this genus.
CCT complex restricts neuropathogenic protein aggregation via autophagy
Authors: Pavel Mariana , Imarisio Sara , Menzies Fiona M. , Jimenez-Sanchez Maria , Siddiqi Farah H. , Wu Xiaoting , Renna Maurizio , O’Kane Cahir J. , Crowther Damian C. , Rubinsztein David C.
Published: December 2016

Aberrant protein aggregation is controlled by various chaperones, including CCT (chaperonin containing TCP-1)/TCP-1/TRiC. Mutated CCT4/5 subunits cause sensory neuropathy and CCT5 expression is decreased in Alzheimer’s disease. Here, we show that CCT integrity is essential for autophagosome degradation in cells or Drosophila and this phenomenon is orchestrated by the actin cytoskeleton. When autophagic flux is reduced by compromise of individual CCT subunits, various disease-relevant autophagy substrates accumulate and aggregate. The aggregation of proteins like mutant huntingtin, ATXN3 or p62 after CCT2/5/7 depletion is predominantly autophagy dependent, and does not further increase with CCT knockdown in autophagy-defective cells/organisms, implying surprisingly that the effect of loss-of-CCT activity on mutant ATXN3 or huntingtin oligomerization/aggregation is primarily a consequence of autophagy inhibition rather than loss of physiological anti-aggregation activity for these proteins. Thus, our findings reveal an essential partnership between two key components of the proteostasis network and implicate autophagy defects in diseases with compromised CCT complex activity.
Oxylipins produced by Pseudomonas aeruginosa promote biofilm formation and virulence
Authors: Martínez Eriel , Campos-Gómez Javier
Published: December 2016

The oxygenation of unsaturated fatty acids by dioxygenases occurs in all kingdoms of life and produces physiologically important lipids called oxylipins. The biological roles of oxylipins have been extensively studied in animals, plants, algae and fungi, but remain largely unidentified in prokaryotes. The bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa displays a diol synthase activity that transforms several monounsaturated fatty acids into mono- and di-hydroxylated derivatives. Here we show that oxylipins derived from this activity inhibit flagellum-driven motility and upregulate type IV pilus-dependent twitching motility of P. aeruginosa. Consequently, these oxylipins promote bacterial organization in microcolonies, increasing the ability of P. aeruginosa to form biofilms in vitro and in vivo (in Drosophila flies). We also demonstrate that oxylipins produced by P. aeruginosa promote virulence in Drosophila flies and lettuce. Our study thus uncovers a role for prokaryotic oxylipins in the physiology and pathogenicity of bacteria.
Dependency of Tunneling-Magnetoresistance Ratio on Nanoscale Spacer Thickness and Material for Double MgO Based Perpendicular-Magnetic-Tunneling-Junction
Authors: Lee Du-Yeong , Hong Song-Hwa , Lee Seung-Eun , Park Jea-Gun
Published: December 2016

It was found that in double MgO based perpendicular magnetic tunneling junction spin-valves ex-situ annealed at 400 °C, the tunneling magnetoresistance ratio was extremely sensitive to the material and thickness of the nanoscale spacer: it peaked at a specific thickness (0.40~0.53 nm), and the TMR ratio for W spacers (~134%) was higher than that for Ta spacers (~98%). This dependency on the spacer material and thickness was associated with the (100) body-centered-cubic crystallinity of the MgO layers: the strain enhanced diffusion length in the MgO layers of W atoms (~1.40 nm) was much shorter than that of Ta atoms (~2.85 nm) and the shorter diffusion length led to the MgO layers having better (100) body-centered-cubic crystallinity.
STAT1 is essential for the inhibition of hepatitis C virus replication by interferon-λ but not by interferon-α
Authors: Yamauchi Shota , Takeuchi Kenji , Chihara Kazuyasu , Honjoh Chisato , Kato Yuji , Yoshiki Hatsumi , Hotta Hak , Sada Kiyonao
Published: December 2016

Interferon-α (IFN-α) and IFN-λ are structurally distinct cytokines that bind to different receptors, but induce expression of similar sets of genes through Janus kinase (JAK)-signal transducers and activators of transcription (STAT) pathways. The difference between IFN-α and IFN-λ signaling remains poorly understood. Here, using the CRISPR/Cas9 system, we examine the role of STAT1 and STAT2 in the inhibition of hepatitis C virus (HCV) replication by IFN-α and IFN-λ. Treatment with IFN-α increases expression of IFN-stimulated genes (ISGs) such as double-stranded RNA-activated protein kinase (PKR) and decreases viral RNA and protein levels in HCV-infected Huh-7.5 human hepatoma cells. These responses are only partially attenuated by knockout of STAT1 but are abolished by knockout of STAT2. In contrast, the inhibition of HCV replication by IFN-λ is abolished by knockout of STAT1 or STAT2. Microarray analysis reveals that IFN-α but not IFN-λ can induce expression of the majority of ISGs in STAT1 knockout cells. These findings suggest that IFN-α can inhibit HCV replication through a STAT2-dependent but STAT1-independent pathway, whereas IFN-λ induces ISG expression and inhibits HCV replication exclusively through a STAT1- and STAT2-dependent pathway.
Th1 cells downregulate connexin 43 gap junctions in astrocytes via microglial activation
Authors: Watanabe Mitsuru , Masaki Katsuhisa , Yamasaki Ryo , Kawanokuchi Jun , Takeuchi Hideyuki , Matsushita Takuya , Suzumura Akio , Kira Jun-ichi
Published: December 2016

We previously reported early and extensive loss of astrocytic connexin 43 (Cx43) in acute demyelinating lesions of multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. Because it is widely accepted that autoimmune T cells initiate MS lesions, we hypothesized that infiltrating T cells affect Cx43 expression in astrocytes, which contributes to MS lesion formation. Primary mixed glial cell cultures were prepared from newborn mouse brains, and microglia were isolated by anti-CD11b antibody-conjugated magnetic beads. Next, we prepared astrocyte-rich cultures and astrocyte/microglia-mixed cultures. Treatment of primary mixed glial cell cultures with interferon (IFN) γ, interleukin (IL)-4, or IL-17 showed that only IFNγ or IL-17 at high concentrations reduced Cx43 protein levels. Upon treatment of astrocyte-rich cultures and astrocyte/microglia-mixed cultures with IFNγ, Cx43 mRNA/protein levels and the function of gap junctions were reduced only in astrocyte/microglia-mixed cultures. IFNγ-treated microglia-conditioned media and IL-1β, which was markedly increased in IFNγ-treated microglia-conditioned media, reduced Cx43 protein levels in astrocyte-rich cultures. Finally, we confirmed that Th1 cell-conditioned medium decreased Cx43 protein levels in mixed glial cell cultures. These findings suggest that Th1 cell-derived IFNγ activates microglia to release IL-1β that reduces Cx43 gap junctions in astrocytes. Thus, Th1-dominant inflammatory states disrupt astrocytic intercellular communication and may exacerbate MS.
Functional connectivity changes resemble patterns of pTDP-43 pathology in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Schulthess Ines , Gorges Martin , Müller Hans-Peter , Lulé Dorothée , Del Tredici Kelly , Ludolph Albert C. , Kassubek Jan
Published: December 2016

‘Resting-state’ fMRI allows investigation of alterations in functional brain organization that are associated with an underlying pathological process. We determine whether abnormal connectivity in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) ina priori-defined intrinsic functional connectivity networks, according to a neuropathological staging scheme and its DTI-based tract correlates, permits recognition of a sequential involvement of functional networks. ‘Resting-state’ fMRI data from 135 ALS patients and 56 matched healthy controls were investigated for the motor network (corresponding to neuropathological stage 1), brainstem (stage 2), ventral attention (stage 3), default mode/hippocampal network (stage 4), and primary visual network (as the control network) in a cross-sectional analysis and longitudinally in a subgroup of 27 patients after 6 months. Group comparison from cross-sectional and longitudinal data revealed significantly increased functional connectivity (p < 0.05, corrected) in all four investigated networks (but not in the control network), presenting as a network expansion that was correlated with physical disability. Increased connectivity of functional networks, as investigated in a hypothesis-driven approach, is characterized by network expansions and resembled the pattern of pTDP-43 pathology in ALS. However, our data did not allow for the recognition of a sequential involvement of functional connectivity networks at the individual level.
Long-latency modulation of motor cortex excitability by ipsilateral posterior inferior frontal gyrus and pre-supplementary motor area
Authors: Fiori Francesca , Chiappini Emilio , Soriano Marco , Paracampo Riccardo , Romei Vincenzo , Borgomaneri Sara , Avenanti Alessio
Published: December 2016

The primary motor cortex (M1) is strongly influenced by several frontal regions. Dual-site transcranial magnetic stimulation (dsTMS) has highlighted the timing of early (<40 ms) prefrontal/premotor influences over M1. Here we used dsTMS to investigate, for the first time, longer-latency causal interactions of the posterior inferior frontal gyrus (pIFG) and pre-supplementary motor area (pre-SMA) with M1 at rest. A suprathreshold test stimulus (TS) was applied over M1 producing a motor-evoked potential (MEP) in the relaxed hand. Either a subthreshold or a suprathreshold conditioning stimulus (CS) was administered over ipsilateral pIFG/pre-SMA sites before the TS at different CS-TS inter-stimulus intervals (ISIs: 40–150 ms). Independently of intensity, CS over pIFG and pre-SMA (but not over a control site) inhibited MEPs at an ISI of 40 ms. The CS over pIFG produced a second peak of inhibition at an ISI of 150 ms. Additionally, facilitatory modulations were found at an ISI of 60 ms, with supra- but not subthreshold CS intensities. These findings suggest differential modulatory roles of pIFG and pre-SMA in M1 excitability. In particular, the pIFG –but not the pre-SMA– exerts intensity-dependent modulatory influences over M1 within the explored time window of 40-150 ms, evidencing fine-tuned control of M1 output.
All-dielectric ultrathin conformal metasurfaces: lensing and cloaking applications at 532 nm wavelength
Authors: Cheng Jierong , Jafar-Zanjani Samad , Mosallaei Hossein
Published: December 2016

Metasurfaces are ideal candidates for conformal wave manipulation on curved objects due to their low profiles and rich functionalities. Here we design and analyze conformal metasurfaces for practical optical applications at 532 nm visible band for the first time. The inclusions are silicon disk nanoantennas embedded in a flexible supporting layer of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). They behave as local phase controllers in subwavelength dimensions for successful modification of electromagnetic responses point by point, with merits of high efficiency, at visible regime, ultrathin films, good tolerance to the incidence angle and the grid stretching due to the curvy substrate. An efficient modeling technique based on field equivalence principle is systematically proposed for characterizing metasurfaces with huge arrays of nanoantennas oriented in a conformal manner. Utilizing the robust nanoantenna inclusions and benefiting from the powerful analyzing tool, we successfully demonstrate the superior performances of the conformal metasurfaces in two specific areas, with one for lensing and compensation of spherical aberration, and the other carpet cloak, both at 532 nm visible spectrum.
RNAi-mediated mortality of the whitefly through transgenic expression of double-stranded RNA homologous to acetylcholinesterase and ecdysone receptor in tobacco plants
Authors: Malik Hassan Jamil , Raza Amir , Amin Imran , Scheffler Jodi A. , Scheffler Brian E. , Brown Judith K. , Mansoor Shahid
Published: December 2016

The whitefly Bemisia tabaci (Genn.) is a pest and vector of plant viruses to crop and ornamental plants worldwide. Using RNA interference (RNAi) to down regulate whitefly genes by expressing their homologous double stranded RNAs in plants has great potential for management of whiteflies to reduce plant virus disease spread. Using a Tobacco rattle virus-derived plasmid for in planta transient expression of double stranded RNA (dsRNA) homologous to the acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and ecdysone receptor (EcR) genes of B. tabaci, resulted in significant adult whitefly mortality. Nicotiana tabacum L. plants expressing dsRNA homologous to B. tabaci AChE and EcR were constructed by fusing sequences derived from both genes. Mortality of adult whiteflies exposed to dsRNA by feeding on N. tabacum plants, compared to non-dsRNA expressing plants, recorded at 24-hr intervals post-ingestion for three days, was >90% and 10%, respectively. Analysis of gene expression by real time quantitative PCR indicated that whitefly mortality was attributable to the down-regulation of both target genes by RNAi. Results indicated that knock down of whitefly genes involved in neuronal transmission and transcriptional activation of developmental genes, has potential as a bio-pesticide to reduce whitefly population size and thereby decrease virus spread.
Bifidobacterium breve UCC2003 metabolises the human milk oligosaccharides lacto-N-tetraose and lacto-N-neo-tetraose through overlapping, yet distinct pathways
Authors: James Kieran , Motherway Mary O’Connell , Bottacini Francesca , van Sinderen Douwe
Published: December 2016

In this study, we demonstrate that the prototypeB. brevestrain UCC2003 possesses specific metabolic pathways for the utilisation of lacto-N-tetraose (LNT) and lacto-N-neotetraose (LNnT), which represent the central moieties of Type I and Type II human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs), respectively. Using a combination of experimental approaches, the enzymatic machinery involved in the metabolism of LNT and LNnT was identified and characterised. Homologs of the key genetic loci involved in the utilisation of these HMO substrates were identified inB. breve, B. bifidum, B. longumsubsp.infantisandB. longumsubsp.longumusing bioinformatic analyses, and were shown to be variably present among other members of theBifidobacteriumgenus, with a distinct pattern of conservation among human-associated bifidobacterial species.
Gut microbiota from metabolic disease-resistant, macrophage-specific RIP140 knockdown mice improves metabolic phenotype and gastrointestinal integrity
Authors: Lin Yi-Wei , Montassier Emmanuel , Knights Dan , Wei Li-Na
Published: December 2016

While fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) presents an attractive therapeutic strategy, it remains unclear how to choose the microbiota repertoire that most effectively transfers benefit to recipients. We identified a beneficial taxonomic repertoire in a transgenic mouse model (RIP140mϕKD) which resists the development of high fat diet (HFD)-induced metabolic diseases due to enhanced anti-inflammation engineered by lowering receptor interacting protein (RIP140) expression in macrophage. We confirmed using FMT from HFD-fed RIP140mϕKD to wild type (WT) mice that recipient mice acquired the microbiota repertoire of donor mice. Importantly, FMT from RIP140mϕKD to WT not only effectively transferred the beneficial taxonomic repertoire to WT recipients, but also enabled recipient animals acquiring the anti-inflammatory status of RIP140mϕKD donor animals and avoid HFD-induced insulin resistance, which is associated with significantly improved intestinal integrity. We conclude that FMT can transfer not only microbiota but also the donors’ intestinal innate immune status and improved intestinal integrity.
Applicability of drinking water treatment residue for lake restoration in relation to metal/metalloid risk assessment
Authors: Yuan Nannan , Wang Changhui , Pei Yuansheng , Jiang Helong
Published: December 2016

Drinking water treatment residue (DWTR), a byproduct generated during potable water production, exhibits a high potential for recycling to control eutrophication. However, this beneficial recycling is hampered by unclear metal/metalloid pollution risks related to DWTR. In this study, the pollution risks of Al, As, Ba, Be, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Mo, Ni, Pb, and Zn due to DWTR application were first evaluated for lake water based on human health risk assessment models and comparison of regulatory standards. The risks of DWTR were also evaluated for sediments on the basis of toxicity characteristics leaching procedure and fractionation in relation to risk assessment code. Variations in the biological behaviors of metal/metalloid in sediments caused by DWTR were assessed using Chironomus plumosus larvae and Hydrilla verticillata. Kinetic luminescent bacteria test (using Aliivibrio fischeri) was conducted to analyze the possibility of acute and chronic detrimental effects of sediment with DWTR application. According to the obtained results, we identify a potential undesirable effect of DWTR related to Fe and Mn (typically under anaerobic conditions); roughly present a dosage threshold calculation model; and recommend a procedure for DWTR prescreening to ensure safe application. Overall, managed DWTR application is necessary for successful eutrophication control.
Silencing of the SlNAP7 gene influences plastid development and lycopene accumulation in tomato
Authors: Fu Da-Qi , Meng Lan-Huan , Zhu Ben-Zhong , Zhu Hong-Liang , Yan Hua-Xue , Luo Yun-Bo
Published: December 2016

Ripening is an important stage of fruit development. To screen the genes associated with pigment formation in tomato fruit, a suppression subtractive hybridization (SSH) cDNA library was constructed by using tomato fruit in the green ripe and break ripe stages, and 129 differential genes were obtained. Using redness as a screening marker, virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) of the differential genes was performed with a sprout vacuum-infiltration system (SVI). The results showed that silencing theSlNAP7gene affected the chloroplast development of tomato leaves, manifesting as a photo-bleaching phenotype, and silenced fruit significantly affected the accumulation of lycopene, manifested as a yellow phenotype. In our study, we found that silencing theSlNAP7gene downregulates the expression of thePORandPORAgenes and destroys the normal development of the chloroplast. The expression of related genes included in the lycopene biosynthesis pathway was not significantly changed, but lycopene accumulation was significantly reduced in tomato fruit. Perhaps it was caused by the destruction of the chromoplast, which leads to the oxidation of lycopene. The results show that theSlNAP7gene influences chloroplast development and lycopene accumulation in tomato.
Early life vaccination: Generation of adult-quality memory CD8+ T cells in infant mice using non-replicating adenoviral vectors
Authors: Nazerai Loulieta , Bassi Maria R. , Uddback Ida E. M. , Holst Peter J. , Christensen Jan P. , Thomsen Allan R.
Published: December 2016

Intracellular pathogens represent a serious threat during early life. Importantly, even though the immune system of newborns may be characterized as developmentally immature, with a propensity to develop Th2 immunity, significant CD8+ T-cell responses may still be elicited in the context of optimal priming. Replication deficient adenoviral vectors have been demonstrated to induce potent CD8+ T-cell response in mice, primates and humans. The aim of the present study was therefore to assess whether replication-deficient adenovectors could overcome the risk of overwhelming antigen stimulation during the first period of life and provide a pertinent alternative in infant vaccinology. To address this, infant mice were vaccinated with three different adenoviral vectors and the CD8+ T-cell response after early life vaccination was explored. We assessed the frequency, polyfunctionality and in vivo cytotoxicity of the elicited memory CD8+ T cells, as well as the potential of these cells to respond to secondary infections and confer protection. We further tested the impact of maternal immunity against our replication-deficient adenoviral vector during early life vaccination. Overall, our results indicate that memory CD8+ T cells induced by adenoviral vectors in infant mice are of good quality and match those elicited in the adult host.
Serum Amyloid A3 Gene Expression in Adipocytes is an Indicator of the Interaction with Macrophages
Authors: Sanada Yohei , Yamamoto Takafumi , Satake Rika , Yamashita Akiko , Kanai Sumire , Kato Norihisa , van de Loo Fons AJ , Nishimura Fusanori , Scherer Philipp E. , Yanaka Noriyuki
Published: December 2016

The infiltration of macrophages into adipose tissue and their interaction with adipocytes are essential for the chronic low-grade inflammation of obese adipose tissue. In this study, we identified the serum amyloid A3 (Saa3) gene as a key adipocyte-derived factor that is affected by interaction with macrophages. We showed that the Saa3 promoter in adipocytes actually responds to activated macrophages in a co-culture system. Decreasing C/EBPβ abundance in 3T3-L1 adipocytes or point mutation of C/EBPβ elements suppressed the increased promoter activity in response to activated macrophages, suggesting an essential role of C/EBPβ in Saa3 promoter activation. Bioluminescence based on Saa3 promoter activity in Saa3-luc mice was promoted in obese adipose tissue, showing that Saa3 promoter activity is most likely related to macrophage infiltration. This study suggests that the level of expression of the Saa3 gene could be utilized for the number of infiltrated macrophages in obese adipose tissue.
A piezoelectric micro generator worked at low frequency and high acceleration based on PZT and phosphor bronze bonding
Authors: Tang Gang , Yang Bin , Hou Cheng , Li Guimiao , Liu Jingquan , Chen Xiang , Yang Chunsheng
Published: December 2016

Recently, piezoelectric energy harvesters (PEHs) have been paid a lot of attention by many researchers to convert mechanical energy into electrical and low level vibration. Currently, most of PEHs worked under high frequency and low level vibration. In this paper, we propose a micro cantilever generator based on the bonding of bulk PZT wafer and phosphor bronze, which is fabricated by MEMS technology, such as mechanical chemical thinning and etching. The experimental results show that the open-circuit output voltage, output power and power density of this fabricated prototype are 35 V, 321 μW and 8664 μW cm−3 at the resonant frequency of 100.8 Hz, respectively, when it matches an optimal loading resistance of 140 kΩ under the excitation of 3.0 g acceleration. The fabricated micro generator can obtain the open-circuit stable output voltage of 61.2 V when the vibration acceleration arrives at 7.0 g. Meanwhile, when this device is pasted on the vibrating vacuum pump, the output voltage is about 11 V. It demonstrates that this novel proposed device can scavenge high vibration level energy at low frequency for powering the inertial sensors in internet of things application.
An Experimental Investigation of the Risk of Triggering Geological Disasters by Injection under Shear Stress
Authors: Liu Yixin , Xu Jiang , Peng Shoujian
Published: December 2016

Fluid injection has been applied in many fields, such as hazardous waste deep well injection, forced circulation in geothermal fields, hydraulic fracturing, and CO2 geological storage. However, current research mainly focuses on geological data statistics and the dominating effects of pore pressure. There are only a few laboratory-conditioned studies on the role of drilling boreholes and the effect of injection pressure on the borehole wall. Through experimental phenomenology, this study examines the risk of triggering geological disasters by fluid injection under shear stress. We developed a new direct shear test apparatus, coupled Hydro-Mechanical (HM), to investigate mechanical property variations when an intact rock experienced step drilling borehole, fluid injection, and fluid pressure acting on the borehole and fracture wall. We tested the peak shear stress of sandstone under different experimental conditions, which showed that drilling borehole, water injection, and increased pore pressure led to the decrease in peak shear stress. Furthermore, as pore pressure increased, peak shear stress dispersion increased due to crack propagation irregularity. Because the peak shear stress changed during the fluid injection steps, we suggest that the risk of triggering geological disaster with injection under shear stress, pore, borehole, and fluid pressure should be considered.
Acfs: accurate circRNA identification and quantification from RNA-Seq data
Authors: You Xintian , Conrad Tim OF
Published: December 2016

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a group of single-stranded RNAs in closed circular form. They are splicing-generated, widely expressed in various tissues and have functional implications in development and diseases. To facilitate genome-wide characterization of circRNAs using RNA-Seq data, we present a freely available software package named acfs. Acfs allows de novo, accurate and fast identification and abundance quantification of circRNAs from single- and paired-ended RNA-Seq data. On simulated datasets, acfs achieved the highest F1 accuracy and lowest false discovery rate among current state-of-the-art tools. On real-world datasets, acfs efficiently identified more bona fide circRNAs. Furthermore, we demonstrated the power of circRNA analysis on two leukemia datasets. We identified a set of circRNAs that are differentially expressed between AML and APL samples, which might shed light on the potential molecular classification of complex diseases using circRNA profiles. Moreover, chromosomal translocation, as manifested in numerous diseases, could produce not only fusion transcripts but also fusion circRNAs of clinical relevance. Featured with high accuracy, low FDR and the ability to identify fusion circRNAs, we believe that acfs is well suited for a wide spectrum of applications in characterizing the landscape of circRNAs from non-model organisms to cancer biology.
Ultra-filtration of human serum for improved quantitative analysis of low molecular weight biomarkers using ATR-IR spectroscopy
Authors: Bonnier Franck , Blasco Hélène , Wasselet Clément , Brachet Guillaume , Respaud Renaud , Carvalho Luis Felipe C. S. , Bertrand Dominique , Baker Matthew J. , Byrne Hugh J. , Chourpa Igor
Published: December 2016

Monitoring of changes in the concentrations of the low molecular weight constituents enhanced by abundant proteins depletion.
Near infrared spectroscopic assessment of developing engineered tissues: correlations with compositional and mechanical properties
Authors: Hanifi Arash , Palukuru Uday , McGoverin Cushla , Shockley Michael , Frank Eliot , Grodzinsky Alan , Spencer Richard G. , Pleshko Nancy
Published: December 2016

Non-destructive near infrared spectroscopic data can be utilized for assessment of compositional and mechanical properties of engineered cartilage.
Correlation ion mobility spectrometry
Authors: Davis Austen L. , Liu Wenjie , Siems William F. , Clowers Brian H.
Published: December 2016

Using a linearly swept chirp function to modulate a Bradbury–Nielsen (BN) ion gate and application of a common signal processing technique (cross-correlation), we outline a method for obtaining high resolution IMS–MS spectra with ion gate duty cycles approaching 50%.
An electrochemical sensor for highly sensitive detection of copper ions based on a new molecular probe Pi-A decorated on graphene
Authors: Yang Liuqing , Huang Na , Huang Liyan , Liu Meiling , Li Haitao , Zhang Youyu , Yao Shouzhuo
Published: December 2016

In this paper, a new electrochemical sensor based on a new fluorescent probe N-(2-(1-(p-tolyl)-1H-phenanthro[9,10-d]imidazol-2-yl)phenyl)picolinamide (Pi-A) decorated reduced graphene oxide (RGO) modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE) was developed for highly selective detection of copper ions using the electrochemical method.
Inorganically coated colloidal quantum dots in polar solvents using a microemulsion-assisted method
Authors: Acebrón María , Herrera Facundo C. , Mizrahi Martín , Navío Cristina , Bernardo-Gavito Ramón , Granados Daniel , Requejo Félix G. , Juarez Beatriz H.
Published: December 2016

A coverage procedure in microemulsion over hot-injection CdSe seeds improves the optical properties and increases their solubility in polar solvents.
Radical recombination in interstellar ices, a not so simple mechanism
Authors: Butscher Teddy , Duvernay Fabrice , Rimola Albert , Segado-Centellas Mireia , Chiavassa Thierry
Published: December 2016

Formyl radical reactivity has been studied under astrophysical-like conditions, showing that its dimerization does not lead to glyoxal formation. It has also been shown that its reactivity could form glyceraldehyde and formaldehyde oligomers.
Adsorbate interactions on the GaN(0001) surface and their effect on diffusion barriers and growth morphology
Authors: Chugh Manjusha , Ranganathan Madhav
Published: December 2016

Reduced diffusion barriers of N adatoms around Ga adatoms lead to better surface morphology during epitaxial GaN(0001) growth.
Functional polyoxometalates from solvothermal reactions of VOSO4 with tripodal alkoxides – a study on the reactivity of different “tris” derivatives
Authors: Nachtigall Olaf , Hagenbach Adelheid , Wiecko Jelena , Lentz Dieter , Abram Ulrich , Spandl Johann
Published: December 2016

A facile synthetic procedure for functional polyoxovanadates is reported. Furthermore, this study shows different possible binding modes of amino functionalised tris(hydroxymethyl)methane derivatives on polyoxovanadates.
Replacement of quinolines with isoquinolines affords target metal ion switching from Zn2+ to Cd2+ in the fluorescent sensor TQLN (N,N,N′,N′-tetrakis(2-quinolylmethyl)-2,6-bis(aminomethyl)pyridine)
Authors: Mikata Yuji , Takekoshi Ayaka , Kaneda Minori , Konno Hideo , Yasuda Keiko , Aoyama Masato , Tamotsu Satoshi
Published: December 2016

TQLN exhibits Zn2+-specific excimer fluorescence, whereas 1-isoTQLN exhibits Cd2+-specific monomer emission.
Spontaneous Si–C bond cleavage in (TriphosSi)-nickel complexes
Authors: Petuker Anette , Mebs Stefan , Schuth Nils , Gerschel Philipp , Reback Matthew L. , Mallick Bert , van Gastel Maurice , Haumann Michael , Apfel Ulf-Peter
Published: December 2016

A series of TriphosC/Si-derived nickel(ii) complexes revealed high structural flexibility and unexpected reactivities.
Synthetic investigation, structural analysis and photocatalytic study of a carboxylate–phosphonate bridged Ti18-oxo cluster
Authors: Fang Wei-Hui , Zhang Lei , Zhang Jian
Published: December 2016

A carboxylate–phosphonate bridging Ti18-oxo cluster consisting of various Ti6-subunits has been prepared and characterized.
Protic ionic liquid [Bim][NTf2] with strong hydrogen bond donating ability for highly efficient ammonia absorption
Authors: Shang Dawei , Zhang Xiangping , Zeng Shaojuan , Jiang Kun , Gao Hongshuai , Dong Haifeng , Yang Qingyuan , Zhang Suojiang
Published: December 2016

The capacity of NH3 in PIL [Bim][NTf2] was up to 2.69 mol NH3 per mol IL under ambient conditions.
Going beyond the barriers of aza-Michael reactions: controlling the selectivity of acrylates towards primary amino-PDMS
Authors: Genest Aymeric , Binauld Sandra , Pouget Emmanuel , Ganachaud François , Fleury Etienne , Portinha Daniel
Published: December 2016

End-group modification of 1° amino-PDMS through metal-catalyst-free aza-Michael addition is controlled by monitoring the operation conditions.
Syntheses and properties of selenido mercurates with [HgSe2]2−anions in diverse chemical environments
Authors: Donsbach C. , Dehnen S.
Published: December 2016

Four new cesium selenido mercurates, synthesized aminothermally in 1,2-diaminoethane (en), show a diversity of complex crystal structures and a close relationship of the latter with their optical band gap.
The synthesis of a gold nanodisk–molecular layer–gold film vertical structure: a molecular layer as the spacer for SERS hot spot investigations
Authors: Chang Yu-Hsu , Hsu Wen-Hsin , Wu Song-Lun , Ding Yung-Chin
Published: December 2016

3D structures of Au nanodisk–molecules–Au film are synthesized for a systematic measurement of SERS hot spots.
Encapsulation of 8-HQ as a corrosion inhibitor in PF and UF shells for enhanced anticorrosive properties of renewable source based smart PU coatings
Authors: Marathe R. J. , Gite V. V.
Published: December 2016

Encapsulation of 8-HQ into PF and UF microcapsules was carried out to enhance the anticorrosive properties of renewable source based PU coatings.
Theoretical studies of hydrogen bonding interactions between novolac resin and DMP-30
Authors: Jian Zhang , Yang Xiaomeng , Chen Dong , Qian Yang
Published: December 2016

Hydrogen bonding complexes of novolac resin and DMP-30 were investigated with dispersion-corrected density functional theory at the B3LYP-D3/6-31G** level. The results show that the complexes can be used as a latent curing agent for epoxy resin.
Coevolution and ratiometric behaviour in metal cation-driven dynamic covalent systems
Authors: Dhers Sébastien , Holub Jan , Lehn Jean-Marie
Published: December 2016

Coevolution can be defined as the correlated changes of structurally and/or functionally connected entities. Dynamic Covalent Libraries (DCLs) have been used to demonstrate coevolution and ratiometric behaviour on a molecular level using dynamic covalent molecules such as imines and hydrazones.
Towards improved explosives with a high performance: N-(3,5-dinitro-1H-pyrazol-4-yl)-1H-tetrazol-5-amine and its salts
Authors: Zhang Man , Gao Huiqi , Li Chuan , Fu Wei , Tang Liwei , Zhou Zhiming
Published: December 2016

To reach the long-term, strongly desired goal of high energy density materials (HEDM), a novelN-bridged structure ofN-(3,5-dinitro-1H-pyrazol-4-yl)-1H-tetrazol-5-amine, and its selected nitrogen-rich energetic salts are designed and synthesized.
Uniform nitrogen and sulphur co-doped hollow carbon nanospheres as efficient metal-free electrocatalysts for oxygen reduction
Authors: You Chenghang , Jiang Xiaowei , Han Leiyun , Wang Xianghui , Lin Qiang , Hua Yingjie , Wang Chongtai , Liu Xilong , Liao Shijun
Published: December 2016

Nitrogen and sulphur co-doped, uniform hollow-structured carbon nanospheres as an efficient metal-free electrocatalyst for oxygen reduction.
Generation of three dimensional pore-controlled nitrogen-doped graphene hydrogels for high-performance supercapacitors by employing formamide as the modulator
Authors: Wang Yao , Wei Zidong , Nie Yao , Zhang Yun
Published: December 2016

An excellent supercapacitor performance of nitrogen-doped graphene hydrogels was achieved by inventively employing formamide as a modulator of their pore structure and surface properties.
Nitrified coke wastewater sludge flocs: an attractive precursor for N,S dual-doped graphene-like carbon with ultrahigh capacitance and oxygen reduction performance
Authors: Lei Zhenchao , Feng Weiming , Feng Chunhua , Zhou Weijia , Wei Chaohai , Wang Xin
Published: December 2016

N,S dual-doped graphene-like carbons synthesized from coke wastewater sludge flocs exhibit ultrahigh capacitance and outstanding oxygen reduction performance.
Rational construction of a metal core for smart combination with Li4Ti5O12 as integrated arrays with superior high-rate Li-ion storage performance
Authors: Zhou Cheng-ao , Xia Xinhui , Wang Yadong , Zhong Yu , Yao Zhujun , Wang Xiuli , Tu Jiangping
Published: December 2016

Co/Li4Ti5O12 arrays with a bamboo joint-like core and hollow tube shell are prepared via ALD-lithiation and they demonstrated excellent high-rate performance.
Strain-mediated type-I/type-II transition in MXene/Blue phosphorene van der Waals heterostructures for flexible optical/electronic devices
Authors: Guo Zhonglu , Miao Naihua , Zhou Jian , Sa Baisheng , Sun Zhimei
Published: December 2016

Development of novel van der Waals (vdW) heterostructures from various two-dimensional (2D) materials shows unprecedented possibilities by combining the advantageous properties of their building layers.
Room temperature stable helical blue phase enabled by a photo-polymerizable bent-shaped material
Authors: Yang Wei-Qiang , Cai Guo-Qing , Liu Zhen , Wang Xiao-Qian , Feng Wei , Feng Yiyu , Shen Dong , Zheng Zhi-gang
Published: December 2016

A designed polymerizable achiral bent-shaped material was synthesized and mixed with a chiral nematic liquid crystal to form a stable and hysteresis-free blue phase.
One-pot controllable synthesis of the missing uniform icosidodecahedral gold nanocrystals with high-index facets and their plasmonic properties
Authors: Zhang Haibin , Lu Yonggang , Guan Chunlin , Song Ning , Zhang Yuanyuan , Liu Hong , Fang Jingzhong
Published: December 2016

A one-pot polyol route for the controllable synthesis of icosidodecahedral gold nanocrystals with 8 low-index facets and 24 high-index facets.