bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trepanation in Italy: A Review
Authors: Giuffra V. , Fornaciari G.
Published: March 2017

This paper reviews and discusses cases of skull trepanation in ancient Italy on the basis of information provided by the literature. A total of 54 individuals from 43 different Italian archaeological sites were found to have evidence of trepanation. The analysis of evidences of trepanation in Italy has demonstrated that no differences can generally be perceived between the trepanned individual and the social context of the burial, leading to exclude a special role of the former within the group. Trepanation in Italy covers a time span of approximately 7000 years, the most ancient cases dating back to the fifth millennium bc and the most recent to the 18th–19th centuries ad. The geographic distribution appears quite homogeneous, with a prevalence of cases in Central Italy and abundant evidence from prehistoric Sardinia. The majority of individuals show a single trepanation, whereas others present skulls with multiple holes. Trepanation in Italy was reserved to adult individuals, except for some rare cases, and shows a relevant preponderance for the male sex. The most diffused technique is scraping; cutting and drilling are less attested, especially as unique techniques for trepanation, but they were used more frequently in combination with scraping. Trepanation could in some cases be hypothesised as therapeutic intervention for the treatment of a traumatic wound or of other pathologies, whereas in other cases, a number of evidences are attested of trepanation performed as probable ritual intervention or as experimental surgery; in the remaining cases, the reasons for trepanation are unclear or not determinable. A high percentage of long‐term healing associated with trepanation has been evidenced. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Extremely enhanced hydrolytic stability of poly(ethylene terephthalate) films
Authors: Shi Zemin , Fujita Akihide
Published: March 2017

Poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) films possessing extremely enhanced hydrolytic stability were developed by combining the improved processes of polymerization, melt extrusion, and biaxial stretching. The PET films obtained from the combined process were better than commercially available PET films with highest hydrolytic stability at present. An accelerated test (at 120°C and 100% relative humidity) was performed to learn the key parameters governing elongation‐based hydrolytic durability of PET films. The results suggested that ultimate hydrolytic stability was because of the combined effects of significant decrease in the content of carboxylic acid terminal groups and enhanced crystallinity. Another reason for this was an increase in ground‐state dimer sites due to intermolecular stacking between terephthalate units. These dimer sites were probably located in the densely packed amorphous regions, as suggested from the intrinsic fluorescence spectrum of PET films. The PET films developed in this study are very useful in outdoor applications such as backsheet materials in solar cell modules. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 58:261–271, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Analysis of hydroxyl radical formation in a gas‐liquid electrical discharge plasma reactor utilizing liquid and gaseous radical scavengers
Authors: Hsieh Kevin C. , Wandell Robert J. , Bresch Stefan , Locke Bruce R.
Published: March 2017

Production rates of hydroxyl radical (•OH) formation in a gas‐liquid plasma discharge reactor with pure water and argon were quantified using gas (carbon monoxide: CO) and liquid (ethanol) radical scavengers. The major oxidation products were acetaldehyde from ethanol and carbon dioxide (CO2) from CO. Total •OH production rates were estimated from the •OH required to form these products and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Ethanol completely depleted H2O2 suggesting that it is formed in or near the plasma‐liquid interface. •OH production rates were higher with CO, and CO had a smaller effect on H2O2 suggesting additional •OH is available for other reactions at the plasma‐gas interface. The best case total •OH production was approximately 25% of the thermodynamic limit for water dissociation based upon measured CO2 from CO.
Fast in situ X‐ray analysis of Ni silicide formation
Authors: Zaumseil Peter , Wolansky Dirk
Published: March 2017

Metal silicides are the preferred contact materials for metal‐oxide semiconductor (MOS) structures. With further technology development, the materials changed within the last decades toward lower resistivity and lower thermal budget. Currently NiSi partly further stabilized with Pt or Pd is the material of choice. The understanding of phase transformation processes and structural features is of great importance for production process optimization. Here we present a fast laboratory‐based in situ X‐ray diffraction method with two different experimental arrangements (Bragg–Brentano and grazing incidence) optimized concerning the materials texture. Its application is demonstrated for the transformation of Ni to different Ni silicide phases starting with a 46 nm thick Ni layer sputtered on a Si(001) substrate and covered with TiN. Activation energies for the Ni to Ni2Si (1.55 ± 0.13) eV and the Ni2Si to NiSi transition (1.30 ± 0.15) eV are measured by repeating fast diffraction scans over a limited angular range under isothermal conditions and analyzing the diffraction peak height versus time.
Identifying Crisis Characteristics: Cross‐Case Relevant Crisis Character Variables for Public Administrations
Authors: Kalbassi Christian , Kauf Peter
Published: March 2017

In the crisis management literature, only few approaches exist that focus on cross‐case relevant crisis character variables for public administrations. In order to overcome this shortage, this paper identifies and operationalizes cross‐case relevant crisis character variables derived from crisis management literature. A quantitative analysis (clustering) of past crises in Switzerland makes the relevance of the identified variables for the characterization of crises plausible. With the determination of a range of cross‐case relevant crisis character variables and the analysis of a number of crises by quantitative methods, we chose rather unfamiliar approaches in crisis management research. Therefore, the presented research aims to stimulate a discussion among crisis management scholars about both relevant variables and suitable methods for the identification of crisis characteristics.
Biohybrid Microtube Swimmers Driven by Single Captured Bacteria
Authors: Stanton Morgan M. , Park Byung‐Wook , Miguel‐López Albert , Ma Xing , Sitti Metin , Sánchez Samuel
Published: March 2017

Bacteria biohybrids employ the motility and power of swimming bacteria to carry and maneuver microscale particles. They have the potential to perform microdrug and cargo delivery in vivo, but have been limited by poor design, reduced swimming capabilities, and impeded functionality. To address these challenge, motile Escherichia coli are captured inside electropolymerized microtubes, exhibiting the first report of a bacteria microswimmer that does not utilize a spherical particle chassis. Single bacterium becomes partially trapped within the tube and becomes a bioengine to push the microtube though biological media. Microtubes are modified with “smart” material properties for motion control, including a bacteria‐attractant polydopamine inner layer, addition of magnetic components for external guidance, and a biochemical kill trigger to cease bacterium swimming on demand. Swimming dynamics of the bacteria biohybrid are quantified by comparing “length of protrusion” of bacteria from the microtubes with respect to changes in angular autocorrelation and swimmer mean squared displacement. The multifunctional microtubular swimmers present a new generation of biocompatible micromotors toward future microbiorobots and minimally invasive medical applications.
Multifunctional nanoparticle composites: progress in the use of soft and hard nanoparticles for drug delivery and imaging
Authors: Sangtani Ajmeeta , Nag Okhil K. , Field Lauren D. , Breger Joyce C. , Delehanty James B.
Published: March 2017

With continued advancements in nanoparticle (NP) synthesis and in the interfacing of NPs with biological systems has come the exponential growth in the use of NPs for therapeutic drug delivery and imaging applications. In recent years, the advent of NP multifunctionality—the ability to perform multiple, disparate functions on a single NP platform—has garnered much excitement for the potential realization of highly functional NP‐mediated drug delivery for use in the clinical setting. This Overview will survey the current state of the art (reports published within the last 5 years) of multifunctional NPs for therapeutic drug delivery, imaging or a combination thereof. We provide extensive examples of both soft (micelles, liposomes, polymeric NPs) and hard (noble metals, quantum dots, metal oxides) NP formulations that have been used for multimodal drug delivery and imaging. The criteria for inclusion, herein, is that there must be at least two therapeutic drug cargos or imaging agents or a combination of the two. We next offer an assessment of the cytotoxicity of therapeutic NP constructs in biological systems. We then conclude with a forward‐looking perspective on how we expect this field to develop in the coming years. WIREs Nanomed Nanobiotechnol 2017, 9:e1466. doi: 10.1002/wnan.1466

This article is categorized under:

Diagnostic Tools > Diagnostic Nanodevices

Diagnostic Tools > In Vitro Nanoparticle-Based Sensing

Diagnostic Tools > In Vivo Nanodiagnostics and Imaging
Redirecting carbon flux throughpgi-deficient and heterologous transhydrogenase toward efficient succinate production inCorynebacterium glutamicum
Authors: Wang Chen , Zhou Zhihui , Cai Heng , Chen Zhongjun , Xu Hongtao
Published: March 2017

Corynebacterium glutamicum is particularly known for its potentiality in succinate production. We engineered C. glutamicum for the production of succinate. To enhance C3–C4 carboxylation efficiency, chromosomal integration of the pyruvate carboxylase gene pyc resulted in strain NC-4. To increase intracellular NADH pools, the pntAB gene from Escherichia coli, encoding for transhydrogenase, was chromosomally integrated into NC-4, leading to strain NC-5. Furthermore, we deleted pgi gene in strain NC-5 to redirect carbon flux to the pentose phosphate pathway (PPP). To solve the drastic reduction of PTS-mediated glucose uptake, the ptsG gene from C. glutamicum, encoding for the glucose-specific transporter, was chromosomally integrated into pgi-deficient strain resulted in strain NC-6. In anaerobic batch fermentation, the production of succinate in pntAB-overexpressing strain NC-5 increased by 14% and a product yield of 1.22 mol/mol was obtained. In anaerobic fed-batch process, succinic acid concentration reached 856 mM by NC-6. The yields of succinate from glucose were 1.37 mol/mol accompanied by a very low level of by-products. Activating PPP and transhydrogenase in combination led to a succinate yield of 1.37 mol/mol, suggesting that they exhibited a synergistic effect for improving succinate yield.
Post-Dural Puncture Headache is Uncommon in Young Ambulatory Surgery Patients
Authors: DelPizzo Kathryn , Cheng Jennifer , Dong Naomi , Edmonds Chris R. , Kahn Richard L. , Fields Kara G. , Curren Jodie , Rotundo Valeria , Zayas Victor M.
Published: March 2017

Background

The incidence of post-dural puncture headache (PDPH) arising from spinal anesthesia in the general population is low. However, patients under 45 years have been shown to exhibit a higher incidence of PDPH, even with small needles.

Questions/Purposes

This study aimed to estimate the incidence of PDPH from a 27G pencil-point needle in ambulatory surgery patients between the ages of 15–45 years and compare incidence of PDPH by age group, sex, and history of headache.

Methods

In this prospective cohort study, 300 patients (15–45 years old) who underwent simple knee arthroscopy under spinal anesthesia with a 27G pencil-point needle were enrolled. Verbal consent was obtained during the initial phone conversation between post-operative days (PODs) 2–5. A PDPH questionnaire was administered during this conversation and between PODs 7–10. Patients who reported a positional headache were contacted by a physician co-investigator, who determined PDPH diagnosis.

Results

Five patients were excluded from analysis due to complicated operative procedures or spinal needle size. The overall PDPH incidence was 2.0% (95% CI 0.9–4.4; 6/295). PDPH incidence in 15–19-year-old patients was 16.7% (95% CI 4.7–44.8; 2/12). The crude relative risk of PDPH was 15.4 (95% CI 2.8–114.4) for patients with and without history of headache and 2.5 (95% CI 0.5–14.8) for females vs. males. Overall, 16.3% (95% CI 12.5–20.9) of patients reported post-operative, non-positional headaches.

Conclusions

There was a low overall incidence of PDPH among patients aged 15–45. Pre-planned subgroup analyses of PDPH incidence by age group revealed a high risk of PDPH among a small sample of 15–19-year-olds.
Massive Formation of Equiaxed Crystals by Avalanches of Mushy Zone Segments
Authors: Ludwig A. , Stefan-Kharicha M. , Kharicha A. , Wu M.
Published: March 2017

It is well known that the growth and motion of equiaxed crystals govern important microstructural features, especially in larger castings such as heavy ingots. To determine the origin of the equiaxed crystals, heterogeneous nucleation, and/or fragmentation of dendrite arms from columnar regions are often discussed. In the present study, we demonstrate that under certain conditions relatively large areas of mushy regions slide downward and form spectacular crystal avalanches. These avalanches crumble into thousands of dendritic fragments, whereby the larger fragments immediately sediment and the smaller proceed to behave as equiaxed crystals. Traces of such crystal avalanches can be seen by conspicuous equiaxed layers in the lower part of the casting. From the arguments in the discussion, it is believed that such a phenomenon may occur in alloys which reveal an upward solutal buoyancy in the interdendritic mush. This would include certain steels and other alloys such as Cu-Al, Pb-Sn, or Ni-Al-alloys. Moreover, the occurrence of crystal avalanches contribute to the formation of V-segregations.
Evaluation of Olive Preservation Methods on Bioactive Constituents and Antioxidant Properties of Olive Oils
Authors: Irmak Şahnur , Kadiroğlu Pınar , Ötleş Semih
Published: March 2017

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of preservation methods on less salty natural black table olives by evaluating the extracted olive oils. For this purpose, olives of the Gemlik variety obtained in two harvest years were brined and dry salted with 2 and 4% levels of salt and packaged with vacuum and modified atmosphere (60% N2 and 40% CO2) and treated with gamma irradiation (0, 1, 3, 5 kGy). The olive oil extraction process was applied to raw olives, olives after fermentation and olives at 4th and 8th months of storage time. Bioactive component analyses including total carotenoid, total chlorophyll, α‐tocopherol analyses and antioxidant properties were performed along with determination of free fatty acids content (FFA) and peroxide values (PV). FFA and PV increased while α‐tocopherol (TO), total chlorophyll (TCH), total carotenoids (TC) and antioxidant activity (DPPH· radical scavenging assay) values decreased with storage and increment of irradiation dosage. Principal components analyses (PCA) showed that olive oils were discriminated clearly according to harvest year, salt content and processing type (dry‐salting and brining). Overall, this study revealed that chemical parameters of olive oils as the main component of the olives were affected by the harvest year, processing and preservation conditions along with fermentation and storage period of olives.
The wise Homer and his erudite commentator: Eustathios’ imagery in the proem of theParekbolai on the Iliad
Authors: van den Berg Baukje
Published: March 2017

In this paper it is argued that the proem of theParekbolai on the Iliadby Eustathios of Thessalonike gives a practical example of the use to which the lessons in his work are to be put. It explores how Eustathios advertises himself as a skilful rhetorician and how he perceives the relationship between poet, commentator, and readers by examining four images that embellish the proem: Homeric poetry as the song of the Sirens, Homer as the Ocean and as a host, and the commentator as a cook.
Nektarios Terpos and the iconographic programme of Ardenica Monastery
Authors: Giakoumis Konstantinos
Published: March 2017

This article demonstrates the link between Nektarios Terpos and the decorative programme of Ardenica Monastery, Myzeqe, central Albania. An early eighteenth-century preacher against Islam and conversion to Islam, Terpos emphasized the importance of undergoing suffering, and even death by martyrdom, in the conviction that suffering leads to salvation and glorification, while conversion to Islam to damnation. Terpos was abbot of Ardenica Monastery. The analysis of its decorative programme, which emphasizes salvation and glorification through suffering and passion, in conjunction with the writings of Nektarios Terpos, concludes that he must have been the mastermind behind the inception of the decorative programme of thekatholikon.
FINDING ‘ARATUS’: PHAENOMENA 367–85 AND LEONIDAS, ANTH. PAL. 9.25
Authors: Campbell Charles S. , Ryan John J.
Published: March 2017

Aratus’ Phaenomena calls upon its reader to scrutinize the letters of the text as carefully as the stars and constellations that form its subject matter. The poem abounds with clever letter-play and wordplay, and its reception too is characterized by verbal cleverness, as later authors vie with Aratus and one another to create ingenious textual effects. Among the best-known examples is the word ἄρρητον (‘unspoken’) at Phaen. 2, a witty hidden sphragis for Aratus, who nowhere in his work directly names himself. Later poets picked up on this pun: Callimachus speaks of the λεπταὶ ῥήσιες Ἀρήτου (Anth. Pal. 9.507.3-4 = 27 Pf.), repeating the verbal root of ἄρρητον in ῥήσιες and its sound in Ἀρήτου. Leonidas of Tarentum meanwhile rates Aratus ‘second after Zeus’ (Διὸς … δεύτερος, Anth. Pal. 9.25.5-6), acknowledging the hidden sphragis, which follows directly after the invocation of Zeus in line 1 of the Phaenomena.
Initial–boundary-value problems for one-dimensional compressible Navier–Stokes equations with degenerate transport coefficients
Authors: Chen Qing , Zhao Huijiang , Zou Qingyang
Published: March 2017

This paper is concerned with the construction of global, non-vacuum, strong, large amplitude solutions to initial–boundary-value problems for the one-dimensional compressible Navier–Stokes equations with degenerate transport coefficients. Our analysis derives the positive lower and upper bounds on the specific volume and the absolute temperature.
Only death and taxes
Authors: Ames David
Published: March 2017

Most people who work in aged care have a fair idea of what is meant by cognitive impairment or decline, and we have some moderately robust instruments for detecting it and measuring change over time. Frailty is much more difficult to define, but like hard core pornography (Stewart, 1964), many of us “know it when we see it.”
Atom Probe Tomographic Characterization of Nanoscale Cu-Rich Precipitates in 17-4 Precipitate Hardened Stainless Steel Tempered at Different Temperatures
Authors: Wang Zemin , Fang Xulei , Li Hui , Liu Wenqing
Published: March 2017

The formation of copper-rich precipitates of 17-4 precipitate hardened stainless steel has been investigated, after tempering at 350–570°C for 4 h, by atom probe tomography (APT). The results reveal that the clusters, enriched only with Cu, were observed after tempering at 420°C. Segregation of Ni, Mn to the Cu-rich clusters took place at 450°C, contributing to the increased hardening. After tempering at 510°C, Ni and Mn were rejected from Cu-rich precipitates and accumulated at the precipitate/matrix interfaces. Al and Si were present and uniformly distributed in the precipitates that were <1.5 nm in radius, but Ni, Mn, Al, and Si were enriched at the interfaces of larger precipitates/matrix. The proxigram profiles of the Cu-rich precipitates formed at 570°C indicated that Ni, Mn, Al, and Si segregated to the precipitate/matrix interfaces to form a Ni(Fe, Mn, Si, Al) shell, which significantly reduced the interfacial energy as the precipitates grew into an elongated shape. In addition, the number density of Cu-rich precipitates was increased with the temperature elevated from 350 up to 450°C and subsequently decreased at higher temperatures. Also, the composition of the matrix and the precipitates were measured and found to vary with temperature.
Cystatin SN inhibits auranofin-induced cell death by autophagic induction and ROS regulation via glutathione reductase activity in colorectal cancer
Authors: Oh Byung Moo , Lee Seon-Jin , Cho Hee Jun , Park Yun Sun , Kim Jong-Tae , Yoon Suk Ran , Lee Sang Chul , Lim Jong-Seok , Kim Bo-Yeon , Choe Yong-Kyung , Lee Hee Gu
Published: March 2017

Cystatin SN (CST1) is a specific inhibitor belonging to the cystatin superfamily that controls the proteolytic activities of cysteine proteases such as cathepsins. Our previous study showed that high CST1 expression enhances tumor metastasis and invasiveness in colorectal cancer. Recently, auranofin (AF), a gold(I)-containing thioredoxin reductase 1 (TrxR1) inhibitor, has been used clinically to treat rheumatoid arthritis. AF is a proteasome-associated deubiquitinase inhibitor and can act as an anti-tumor agent. In this study, we investigated whether CST1 expression induces autophagy and tumor cell survival. We also investigated the therapeutic effects of AF as an anti-tumor agent in colorectal cancer (CRC) cells. We found that CRC cells expressing high levels of CST1 undergo increased autophagy and exhibit chemotherapeutic resistance to AF-induced cell death, while those expressing low levels of CST1 are sensitive to AF. We also observed that knockdown of CST1 in high-CST1 CRC cells using CST1-specific small interfering RNAs attenuated autophagic activation and restored AF-induced cell mortality. Conversely, the overexpression of CST1 increased autophagy and viability in cells expressing low levels of CST1. Interestingly, high expression of CST1 attenuates AF-induced cell death by inhibiting intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, as demonstrated by the fact that the blockage of ROS production reversed AF-induced cell death in CRC cells. In addition, upregulation of CST1 expression increased cellular glutathione reductase (GR) activity, reducing the cellular redox state and inducing autophagy in AF-treated CRC cells. These results suggest that high CST1 expression may be involved in autophagic induction and protects from AF-induced cell death by inhibition of ROS generation through the regulation of GR activity.
Astrocyte hepcidin is a key factor in LPS-induced neuronal apoptosis
Authors: You Lin-Hao , Yan Cai-Zhen , Zheng Bing-Jie , Ci Yun-Zhe , Chang Shi-Yang , Yu Peng , Gao Guo-Fen , Li Hai-Yan , Dong Tian-Yu , Chang Yan-Zhong
Published: March 2017

Inflammatory responses involving microglia and astrocytes contribute to the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases (NDs). In addition, inflammation is tightly linked to iron metabolism dysregulation. However, it is not clear whether the brain inflammation-induced iron metabolism dysregulation contributes to the NDs pathogenesis. Herein, we demonstrate that the expression of the systemic iron regulatory hormone, hepcidin, is induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) through the IL-6/STAT3 pathway in the cortex and hippocampus. In this paradigm, activated glial cells are the source of IL-6, which was essential in the iron overload-activated apoptosis of neurons. Disrupting astrocyte hepcidin expression prevented the apoptosis of neurons, which were able to maintain levels of FPN1 adequate to avoid iron accumulation. Together, our data are consistent with a model whereby inflammation initiates an intercellular signaling cascade in which activated microglia, through IL-6 signaling, stimulate astrocytes to release hepcidin which, in turn, signals to neurons, via hepcidin, to prevent their iron release. Such a pathway is relevant to NDs in that it links inflammation, microglia and astrocytes to neuronal damage.
A high-salt diet enhances leukocyte adhesion in association with kidney injury in young dahl salt-sensitive rats
Authors: Takahashi Hidenori , Nakagawa Suguru , Wu Yaqiong , Kawabata Yukari , Numabe Atsushi , Yanagi Yasuo , Tamaki Yasuhiro , Uehara Yoshio , Araie Makoto
Published: March 2017

Salt-sensitive hypertension is associated with severe organ damage. Generating oxygen radicals is an integral component of salt-induced kidney damage, and activated leukocytes are important in oxygen radical biosynthesis. We hypothesized that a high-salt diet causes the upregulation of immune-related mechanisms, thereby contributing to the susceptibility of Dahl salt-sensitive rats to hypertensive kidney damage. For verifying the hypothesis, we investigated leukocytes adhering to retinal vessels when Dahl salt-sensitive rats were challenged with a high-salt (8% NaCl) diet using acridine orange fluoroscopy and a scanning laser ophthalmoscope. The high-salt diet increased leukocyte adhesion after 3 days and was associated with a significant increase in mRNA biosynthesis of monocyte chemotactic protein-1 and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) -related molecules in the kidney. Losartan treatment did not affect increased leukocyte adhesion during the early, pre-hypertensive phase of high salt loading; however, losartan attenuated the adhesion of leukocytes during the hypertensive stage. Moreover, the inhibition of leukocyte adhesion in the pre-hypertensive stage by anti-CD18 antibodies decreased tethering of leukocytes and was associated with the attenuation of functional and morphological kidney damage without affecting blood pressure elevation. In conclusion, a high-salt challenge rapidly increased leukocyte adhesion through the over-expression of ICAM-1. Increased leukocyte adhesion in the pre-hypertensive stage is responsible for subsequent kidney damage in Dahl salt-sensitive rats. Immune system involvement may be a key component that initiates kidney damage in a genetic model of salt-induced hypertension.
A human antibody against Zika virus crosslinks the E protein to prevent infection
Authors: Hasan S. Saif , Miller Andrew , Sapparapu Gopal , Fernandez Estefania , Klose Thomas , Long Feng , Fokine Andrei , Porta Jason C. , Jiang Wen , Diamond Michael S. , Crowe James E. , Kuhn Richard J. , Rossmann Michael G.
Published: March 2017

The recent Zika virus (ZIKV) epidemic has been linked to unusual and severe clinical manifestations including microcephaly in fetuses of infected pregnant women and Guillian-Barré syndrome in adults. Neutralizing antibodies present a possible therapeutic approach to prevent and control ZIKV infection. Here we present a 6.2 Å resolution three-dimensional cryo-electron microscopy (cryoEM) structure of an infectious ZIKV (strain H/PF/2013, French Polynesia) in complex with the Fab fragment of a highly therapeutic and neutralizing human monoclonal antibody, ZIKV-117. The antibody had been shown to prevent fetal infection and demise in mice. The structure shows that ZIKV-117 Fabs cross-link the monomers within the surface E glycoprotein dimers as well as between neighbouring dimers, thus preventing the reorganization of E protein monomers into fusogenic trimers in the acidic environment of endosomes.
Altered expression of maize PLASTOCHRON1 enhances biomass and seed yield by extending cell division duration
Authors: Sun Xiaohuan , Cahill James , Van Hautegem Tom , Feys Kim , Whipple Clinton , Novák Ondrej , Delbare Sofie , Versteele Charlot , Demuynck Kirin , De Block Jolien , Storme Veronique , Claeys Hannes , Van Lijsebettens Mieke , Coussens Griet , Ljung Karin , De Vliegher Alex , Muszynski Michael , Inzé Dirk , Nelissen Hilde
Published: March 2017

Maize is the highest yielding cereal crop grown worldwide for grain or silage. Here, we show that modulating the expression of the maizePLASTOCHRON1(ZmPLA1) gene, encoding a cytochrome P450 (CYP78A1), results in increased organ growth, seedling vigour, stover biomass and seed yield. The engineered trait is robust as it improves yield in an inbred as well as in a panel of hybrids, at several locations and over multiple seasons in the field. Transcriptome studies, hormone measurements and the expression of the auxin responsive DR5rev:mRFPer marker suggest that PLA1 may function through an increase in auxin. Detailed analysis of growth over time demonstrates that PLA1 stimulates the duration of leaf elongation by maintaining dividing cells in a proliferative, undifferentiated state for a longer period of time. The prolonged duration of growth also compensates for growth rate reduction caused by abiotic stresses.
Superfast assembly and synthesis of gold nanostructures using nanosecond low-temperature compression via magnetic pulsed power
Authors: Li Binsong , Bian Kaifu , Lane J. Matthew D. , Salerno K. Michael , Grest Gary S. , Ao Tommy , Hickman Randy , Wise Jack , Wang Zhongwu , Fan Hongyou
Published: March 2017

Gold nanostructured materials exhibit important size- and shape-dependent properties that enable a wide variety of applications in photocatalysis, nanoelectronics and phototherapy. Here we show the use of superfast dynamic compression to synthesize extended gold nanostructures, such as nanorods, nanowires and nanosheets, with nanosecond coalescence times. Using a pulsed power generator, we ramp compress spherical gold nanoparticle arrays to pressures of tens of GPa, demonstrating pressure-driven assembly beyond the quasi-static regime of the diamond anvil cell. Our dynamic magnetic ramp compression approach produces smooth, shockless (that is, isentropic) one-dimensional loading with low-temperature states suitable for nanostructure synthesis. Transmission electron microscopy clearly establishes that various gold architectures are formed through compressive mesoscale coalescences of spherical gold nanoparticles, which is further confirmed by in-situ synchrotron X-ray studies and large-scale simulation. This nanofabrication approach applies magnetically driven uniaxial ramp compression to mimic established embossing and imprinting processes, but at ultra-short (nanosecond) timescales.
The scaffold protein p140Cap limits ERBB2-mediated breast cancer progression interfering with Rac GTPase-controlled circuitries
Authors: Grasso Silvia , Chapelle Jennifer , Salemme Vincenzo , Aramu Simona , Russo Isabella , Vitale Nicoletta , Verdun di Cantogno Ludovica , Dallaglio Katiuscia , Castellano Isabella , Amici Augusto , Centonze Giorgia , Sharma Nanaocha , Lunardi Serena , Cabodi Sara , Cavallo Federica , Lamolinara Alessia , Stramucci Lorenzo , Moiso Enrico , Provero Paolo , Albini Adriana , Sapino Anna , Staaf Johan , Di Fiore Pier Paolo , Bertalot Giovanni , Pece Salvatore , Tosoni Daniela , Confalonieri Stefano , Iezzi Manuela , Di Stefano Paola , Turco Emilia , Defilippi Paola
Published: March 2017

The docking protein p140Cap negatively regulates tumour cell features. Its relevance on breast cancer patient survival, as well as its ability to counteract relevant cancer signalling pathways, are not fully understood. Here we report that in patients with ERBB2-amplified breast cancer, a p140Cap-positive status associates with a significantly lower probability of developing a distant event, and a clear difference in survival. p140Cap dampens ERBB2-positive tumour cell progression, impairing tumour onset and growth in the NeuT mouse model, and counteracting epithelial mesenchymal transition, resulting in decreased metastasis formation. One major mechanism is the ability of p140Cap to interfere with ERBB2-dependent activation of Rac GTPase-controlled circuitries. Our findings point to a specific role of p140Cap in curbing the aggressiveness of ERBB2-amplified breast cancers and suggest that, due to its ability to impinge on specific molecular pathways, p140Cap may represent a predictive biomarker of response to targeted anti-ERBB2 therapies.
Evaluation of the safety and immunomodulatory effects of sargramostim in a randomized, double-blind phase 1 clinical Parkinson’s disease trial
Authors: Gendelman Howard E. , Zhang Yuning , Santamaria Pamela , Olson Katherine E. , Schutt Charles R. , Bhatti Danish , Shetty Bhagya Laxmi Dyavar , Lu Yaman , Estes Katherine A. , Standaert David G. , Heinrichs-Graham Elizabeth , Larson LuAnn , Meza Jane L. , Follett Matthew , Forsberg Erica , Siuzdak Gary , Wilson Tony W. , Peterson Carolyn , Mosley R. Lee
Published: March 2017

A potential therapeutic role for immune transformation in Parkinson’s disease evolves from more than a decade of animal investigations demonstrating regulatory T cell (Treg) nigrostriatal neuroprotection. To bridge these results to human disease, we conducted a randomized, placebo-controlled double-blind phase 1 trial with a well-studied immune modulator, sargramostim (granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor). We enrolled 17 age-matched non-Parkinsonian subjects as non-treated controls and 20 Parkinson’s disease patients. Both Parkinson’s disease patients and controls were monitored for 2 months for baseline profiling. Parkinson’s disease patients were then randomized into two equal groups to self-administer placebo (saline) or sargramostim subcutaneously at 6 μg/kg/day for 56 days. Adverse events for the sargramostim and placebo groups were 100% (10/10) and 80% (8/10), respectively. These included injection site reactions, increased total white cell counts, and upper extremity bone pain. One urticarial and one vasculitis reaction were found to be drug and benzyl alcohol related, respectively. An additional patient with a history of cerebrovascular disease suffered a stroke on study. Unified Parkinson’s disease rating scale, Part III scores in the sargramostim group showed modest improvement after 6 and 8 weeks of treatment when compared with placebo. This paralleled improved magnetoencephalography-recorded cortical motor activities and Treg numbers and function compared with pretreated Parkinson’s disease patients and non-Parkinsonian controls. Peripheral Treg transformation was linked to serum tryptophan metabolites, including L-kynurenine, quinolinic acid, and serotonin. These data offer a potential paradigm shift in modulating immune responses for potential therapeutic gain for Parkinson’s disease. Confirmation of these early study results requires larger numbers of enrolled patients and further clinical investigation.
Seven LncRNA-mRNA based risk score predicts the survival of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Zhi-Li , Zhao Li-jing , Chai Liang , Zhou Shui-Hong , Wang Feng , Wei Yan , Xu Ya-Ping , Zhao Peng
Published: March 2017

Dysregulation of mRNAs and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) is one of the most important features of carcinogenesis and cancer development. However, studies integrating the expression of mRNAs and lncRNAs to predict the survival of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSC) are still limited, hitherto. In current work, we identified survival related mRNAs and lncRNAs in three datasets (TCGA dataset, E-TABM-302, GSE41613). By random forest, seven gene signatures (six mRNAs and lncRNA) were further selected to develop the risk score model. The risk score was significantly associated with survival in both training and testing datasets (E-TABM-302, GSE41613, and E-MTAB-1324). Furthermore, correlation analyses showed that the risk score is independent from clinicopathological features. According to Cox multivariable hazard model and nomogram, the risk score contributes the most to survival than the other clinical information, including gender, age, histologic grade, and alcohol taking. The Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) indicates that the risk score is associated with cancer related pathways. In summary, the lncRNA-mRNA based risk score model we developed successfully predicts the survival of 755 HNSC samples in five datasets and two platforms. It is independent from clinical information and performs better than clinical information for prognosis.
Cross-beta nanostructures based on dinaphthylalanine Gd-conjugates loaded with doxorubicin
Authors: Diaferia Carlo , Gianolio Eliana , Sibillano Teresa , Mercurio Flavia Anna , Leone Marilisa , Giannini Cinzia , Balasco Nicole , Vitagliano Luigi , Morelli Giancarlo , Accardo Antonella
Published: March 2017

Very recently we proposed novel di- and tetra-phenylalanine peptides derivatized with gadolinium complexes as potentials supramolecular diagnostic agents for applications in MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging). It was observed that in very short FF dipeptide building blocks, the propensity to aggregate decreases significantly after modification with bulky moiety such as Gd-complexes, thus limiting their potential as CAs. We hypothesized that the replacement of the Phe side chain with more extended aromatic groups could improve the self-assembling. Here we describe the synthesis, structural and relaxometric behavior of a novel water soluble self-assembled peptide CA based on 2-naphthylalanine (2Nal). The peptide conjugate Gd-DOTA-L6-(2Nal)2 is able to self-assemble in long fibrillary nanostructures in water solution (up to 1.0 mg/mL). CD and FTIR spectroscopies indicate a β sheet secondary structure with an antiparallel orientation of single strands. All data are in good agreement with WAXS and SAXS characterizations that show the typical “cross-β pattern” for fibrils at the solid state. Molecular modeling indicates the three-dimensional structure of the peptide spine of aggregates is essentially constituted by extended β-sheet motifs stabilized by hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions. The high relaxivity of nanoaggregates (12.3 mM−1 s−1 at 20 MHz) and their capability to encapsulate doxorubicin suggest their potential application as supramolecular theranostic agents.
The role of axonal Kv1 channels in CA3 pyramidal cell excitability
Authors: Rama Sylvain , Zbili Mickael , Fékété Aurélie , Tapia Mónica , Benitez Maria José , Boumedine Norah , Garrido Juan José , Debanne Dominique
Published: March 2017

Axonal ion channels control spike initiation and propagation along the axon and determine action potential waveform. We show here that functional suppression of axonal Kv1 channels with local puff of dendrotoxin (DTx), laser or mechanical axotomy significantly increased excitability measured in the cell body. Importantly, the functional effect of DTx puffing or axotomy was not limited to the axon initial segment but was also seen on axon collaterals. In contrast, no effects were observed when DTx was puffed on single apical dendrites or after single dendrotomy. A simple model with Kv1 located in the axon reproduced the experimental observations and showed that the distance at which the effects of axon collateral cuts are seen depends on the axon space constant. In conclusion, Kv1 channels located in the axon proper greatly participate in intrinsic excitability of CA3 pyramidal neurons. This finding stresses the importance of the axonal compartment in the regulation of intrinsic neuronal excitability.
Evaluation of reference genes at different developmental stages for quantitative real-time PCR in Aedes aegypti
Authors: Dzaki Najat , Ramli Karima N. , Azlan Azali , Ishak Intan H. , Azzam Ghows
Published: March 2017

The mosquitoAedes aegypti (Ae. aegypti) is the most notorious vector of illness-causing viruses such as Dengue, Chikugunya, and Zika. Although numerous genetic expression studies utilizing quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) have been conducted with regards toAe. aegypti, a panel of genes to be used suitably as references for the purpose of expression-level normalization within this epidemiologically important insect is presently lacking. Here, the usability of seven widely-utilized reference genes i.e. actin (ACT), eukaryotic elongation factor 1 alpha (eEF1α), alpha tubulin (α-tubulin), ribosomal proteins L8, L32 and S17 (RPL8, RPL32andRPS17), and glyceraldeyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) were investigated. Expression patterns of the reference genes were observed in sixteen pre-determined developmental stages and in cell culture. Gene stability was inferred from qPCR data through three freely available algorithms i.e. BestKeeper, geNorm, and NormFinder. The consensus rankings generated from stability values provided by these programs suggest a combination of at least two genes for normalization.ACTandRPS17are the most dependably expressed reference genes and therefore, we propose anACT/RPS17combination for normalization in allAe. aegyptiderived samples.GAPDHperformed least desirably, and is thus not a recommended reference gene. This study emphasizes the importance of validating reference genes inAe. aegyptifor qPCR based research.
Correction: Corrigendum: Comparative Transcriptome Analysis of Raccoon Dog Skin to Determine Melanin Content in Hair and Melanin Distribution in Skin
Authors: Du Zhanyu , Huang Kai , Zhao Jiaping , Song Xingchao , Xing Xiumei , Wu Qiong , Zhang Linbo , Xu Chao
Published: March 2017

Scientific Reports 7: Article number: 40903; published online: 18 January 2017; updated: 16 March 2017 This Article contains errors in Figure 1 where Figure 1C and Figure 1D were inadvertently duplicated, and Figure 1E and Figure 1F were omitted. The correct Figure 1 appears below as Figure 1.
Late assembly of the Vibrio cholerae cell division machinery postpones septation to the last 10% of the cell cycle
Authors: Galli Elisa , Paly Evelyne , Barre François-Xavier
Published: March 2017

Bacterial cell division is a highly regulated process, which involves the formation of a complex apparatus, the divisome, by over a dozen proteins. In the few model bacteria in which the division process was detailed, divisome assembly occurs in two distinct steps: a few proteins, including the FtsZ tubulin-like protein, form a membrane associated contractile ring, the Z-ring, at ~30% of the cell cycle. The Z-ring serves as a scaffold for the recruitment of a second series of proteins, including integral membrane and periplasmic cell wall remodelling enzymes, at ~50% of the cell cycle. Actual septation occupies most of the remaining half of the cell cycle. In contrast, we present evidence suggesting that early pre-divisional Z-rings form between 40 and 50% of the cell cycle and mature into fully assembled divisome at about 80% of the cell cycle in Vibrio cholerae. Thus, actual septation is restricted to a very short amount of time. Our results further suggest that late assembly of the divisome probably helps maintain the asymmetric polar organisation of V. cholerae cells by limiting the accumulation of a cell pole marker, HubP, at the nascent cell poles.
Estimating the abundance of airborne pollen and fungal spores at variable elevations using an aircraft: how high can they fly?
Authors: Damialis Athanasios , Kaimakamis Evangelos , Konoglou Maria , Akritidis Ioannis , Traidl-Hoffmann Claudia , Gioulekas Dimitrios
Published: March 2017

Airborne pollen and fungal spores are monitored mainly in highly populated, urban environments, for allergy prevention purposes. However, their sources can frequently be located outside cities’ fringes with more vegetation. So as to shed light to this paradox, we investigated the diversity and abundance of airborne pollen and fungal spores at various environmental regimes. We monitored pollen and spores using an aircraft and a car, at elevations from sea level to 2,000 m above ground, in the region of Thesssaloniki, Greece. We found a total of 24 pollen types and more than 15 spore types. Pollen and spores were detected throughout the elevational transect. Lower elevations exhibited higher pollen concentrations in only half of plant taxa and higher fungal spore concentrations in onlyUstilago. Pinaceae andQuercuspollen were the most abundant recorded by airplane (>54% of the total). Poaceae pollen were the most abundant via car measurements (>77% of the total).CladosporiumandAlternariaspores were the most abundant in all cases (aircraft: >69% and >17%, car: >45% and >27%, respectively). We conclude that pollen and fungal spores can be diverse and abundant even outside the main source area, evidently because of long-distance transport incidents.
A single residue controls electron transfer gating in photosynthetic reaction centers
Authors: Shlyk Oksana , Samish Ilan , Matěnová Martina , Dulebo Alexander , Poláková Helena , Kaftan David , Scherz Avigdor
Published: March 2017

Interquinone QA− → QB electron-transfer (ET) in isolated photosystem II reaction centers (PSII-RC) is protein-gated. The temperature-dependent gating frequency “k” is described by the Eyring equation till levelling off at T ≥ 240 °K. Although central to photosynthesis, the gating mechanism has not been resolved and due to experimental limitations, could not be explored in vivo. Here we mimic the temperature dependency of “k” by enlarging VD1-208, the volume of a single residue at the crossing point of the D1 and D2 PSII-RC subunits in Synechocystis 6803 whole cells. By controlling the interactions of the D1/D2 subunits, VD1-208 (or 1/T) determines the frequency of attaining an ET-active conformation. Decelerated ET, impaired photosynthesis, D1 repair rate and overall cell physiology upon increasing VD1-208 to above 130 Å3, rationalize the >99% conservation of small residues at D1-208 and its homologous motif in non-oxygenic bacteria. The experimental means and resolved mechanism are relevant for numerous transmembrane protein-gated reactions.
Exonuclease processivity of archaeal replicative DNA polymerase in association with PCNA is expedited by mismatches in DNA
Authors: Yoda Takuya , Tanabe Maiko , Tsuji Toshiyuki , Yoda Takao , Ishino Sonoko , Shirai Tsuyoshi , Ishino Yoshizumi , Takeyama Haruko , Nishida Hirokazu
Published: March 2017

Family B DNA polymerases comprise polymerase and 3′ −>5′ exonuclease domains, and detect a mismatch in a newly synthesized strand to remove it in cooperation with Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), which encircles the DNA to provide a molecular platform for efficient protein–protein and protein–DNA interactions during DNA replication and repair. Once the repair is completed, the enzyme must stop the exonucleolytic process and switch to the polymerase mode. However, the cue to stop the degradation is unclear. We constructed several PCNA mutants and found that the exonuclease reaction was enhanced in the mutants lacking the conserved basic patch, located on the inside surface of PCNA. These mutants may mimic the Pol/PCNA complex processing the mismatched DNA, in which PCNA cannot interact rigidly with the irregularly distributed phosphate groups outside the dsDNA. Indeed, the exonuclease reaction with the wild type PCNA was facilitated by mismatched DNA substrates. PCNA may suppress the exonuclease reaction after the removal of the mismatched nucleotide. PCNA seems to act as a “brake” that stops the exonuclease mode of the DNA polymerase after the removal of a mismatched nucleotide from the substrate DNA, for the prompt switch to the DNA polymerase mode.