bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In vitroscreening of neuroprotective activity of Indian medicinal plantWithania somnifera
Authors: Singh Manjeet , Ramassamy Charles
Published: October 2017

Canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD) is an age-dependent neurodegenerative condition characterised by changes in decline in learning and memory patterns. The neurodegenerative features of CCD in ageing dogs and cats are similar to human ageing and Alzheimer's disease (AD). Discovering neuroprotective disease-modifying therapies against CCD and AD is a major challenge. Strong evidence supports the role of amyloid β peptide deposition and oxidative stress in the pathophysiology of CCD and AD. In both the human and canine brain, oxidative damage progressively increases with age. Dietary antioxidants from natural sources hold a great promise in halting the progression of CCD and AD.Withania somnifera(WS), an Ayurvedic tonic medicine, also known as ‘Indian ginseng’ orashwagandhahas a long history of use in memory-enhancing therapy but there is a dearth of studies on its neuroprotective effects. The objective of this study was to investigate whetherWSextract can protect against Aβ peptide- and acrolein-induced toxicity. We demonstrated that treatment withWSextract significantly protected the human neuroblastoma cell line SK-N-SH against Aβ peptide and acrolein in various cell survival assays. Furthermore, treatment withWSextract significantly reduced the generation of reactive oxygen species in SK-N-SH cells. Finally, our results showed thatWSextract is also a potent inhibitor of acetylcholinesterase activity. Thus, our initial findings indicate thatWSextract may act as an antioxidant and cholinergic modulator and may have beneficial effects in CCD and AD therapy.
CAN GOOD AGRICULTURAL PRACTICES SUSTAIN OIL PALM YIELDS FOR BIOENERGY PRODUCTION IN NORTHEAST THAILAND?
Authors: SOMNUEK SIRILUK , SLINGERLAND MAJA
Published: October 2017

The government of Thailand aims for sustainability of palm oil production in the Northeast for bioenergy and farmers’ income. This study investigated whether producers in Northeast Thailand managed their oil palm according to good agricultural practices (GAP) and if not, what effects this has on yield. A survey was conducted amongst 108 randomly selected farmers. For 25 selected plots, management and yields were monitored twice a month for two full years. Compliance to GAP was high for weeding, harvesting, pruning and pest and disease control but not for irrigation (40%) and fertiliser application (20–40%). GAP adoption scores per households positively correlated with income from other crops, tree age and degree of training. We showed that rainfall was insufficient for good oil palm growth between October and April. In the monitored group, use of irrigation and amounts of N, P, K and Mg applied were strongly correlated. The yield was significantly greater with irrigation and fertiliser, reaching similar levels as in the South of Thailand (up to 25–30 Mg Fresh Fruit Bunches: FFB ha−1), but did not differ with soil texture. This allows us to conclude that better application of GAP, especially including a combination of irrigation and fertilisers overcame the unsuitable soil and rainfall conditions in the Northeast of Thailand. However, the costs of fertilisers compared to the price of FFB affected the profitability of FFB production, which may affect farmers’ motivation to apply GAP, especially on unsuitable soils. When the government aims for sustainable palm oil production in the Northeast it needs to invest in frequent technical support, irrigation infrastructure and affordable fertilisers. Otherwise, farmers may not apply GAP because of low returns on investments and yields will remain very modest.
K-THEORY FOR THE C*-ALGEBRAS OF THE SOLVABLE BAUMSLAG–SOLITAR GROUPS
Authors: POOYA SANAZ , VALETTE ALAIN
Published: October 2017

We provide a new computation of the K-theory of the group C*-algebra of the solvable Baumslag–Solitar group BS(1, n) (n ≠ 1); our computation is based on the Pimsner–Voiculescu 6-terms exact sequence, by viewing BS(1, n) as a semi-direct product ℤ[1/n] ⋊ ℤ. We deduce from it a new proof of the Baum–Connes conjecture with trivial coefficients for BS(1, n).
The Concept ofjadhband the Image ofmajdhūbin Sufi Teachings and Life in the Period between the Fourth/Tenth and the Tenth/Sixteenth Centuries
Authors: SALAMAH-QUDSI ARIN
Published: October 2017

This paper discusses the theoretical basis of the Sufi termjadhb(the effortless attraction of man by God), and examines the different approaches towards the figure ofmajdhūbas developed and presented in Sufi compendia and both Sufi and non-Sufi biographies of the period between the fourth/tenth and the tenth/sixteenth centuries. It suggests that there are three major phases in the development of the theoretical basis ofjadhb. The first stage covers the period between the fourth/tenth century and the first half of the sixth/twelfth century.Jadhbduring this stage was not discussed as a separate technical term, and its early foundations were embedded particularly in the early discussions oftawba(repentance) beside other expressions such asghaybaandfanā’. The period that began with the late part of the sixth/twelfth century and reached the early part of the seventh/thirteenth century was distinguished by attempts of later Sufi authors to moderate the problematic aspects ofjadhband to integrate it with the detailed discussions ofmashyakha(sheikhstatus). In light of the increasing antinomian appearances of themajdhūbs and the anarchisticqalandariyyain Muslim landscapes, the period following the early part of the seventh/thirteenth century up to the tenth/sixteenth century witnessed the popularity ofmajdhūbSufis whose antinomian approach towards social codes and religious rituals came to be freely presented in the sources.Jadhbbecame separated from the institutionalised doctrinal system ofmashyakha, although some attempts were made to integratejadhbwithsulūkand, thus, to maintain themajdhūb’s ability to act as a spiritual guide.
When commerce, science, and leisure collaborated: the nineteenth-century global trade boom in natural history collections
Authors: Coote Anne , Haynes Alison , Philp Jude , Ville Simon
Published: October 2017

Natural history products formed an important, but little studied, component of the globalization of trade in the mid nineteenth century. The trade, specifically in zoology, occurred in the face of considerable challenges. It penetrated some of the more remote areas of the globe; its products were heterogeneous and difficult to price; and exchange occurred among scientists, commercial traders, and collectors, each of whom had their own particular practices and mores. This article charts the dimensions of this trade and offers explanations about the ways in which its complexities were addressed through major developments in taxidermy, taxonomy, transport and business logistics, alternative forms of exchange, and trust-based networks. More broadly, our work speaks to current developments in global history, imperial networks, and the history of scientific collecting.
The category of ‘family workers’ in International Labour Organization statistics (1930s–1980s): a contribution to the study of globalized gendered boundaries between household and market
Authors: Wobbe Theresa , Renard Léa
Published: October 2017

This article discusses the role that statistical classifications play in creating gendered boundaries in the world of work. The term ‘family worker’ first became a statistical category in various Western national statistics around 1900. After 1945, it was established as a category of the International Labour Organization (ILO) labour force concept, and since then it has been extended to the wider world by way of the UN System of National Accounts. By investigating the term ‘family worker’ from the perspective of internationally comparable statistical classification, this article offers an empirical insight into how and why particular concepts of work become ‘globalized’. We argue that the statistical term ‘economically active people’ was extended to unpaid family workers, whereas the distinction between family work and housework was increasingly based on scientific evidence. This reclassification of work is an indication of its growing comparability within an economic observation scheme. The ILO generated and authorized that global discourse, and, as such, attested to an increasingly global form of knowledge and communication about the status of gender and work.
Zones of reterritorialization: India’s free trade zones in comparative perspective, 1947 to the 1980s
Authors: Maruschke Megan
Published: October 2017

During the period of decolonization and the Cold War, the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and US development agencies promoted free trade zones to developing countries. However, other zones emerged prior to and apart from these policy models, some of which, including India’s early zones, took on features of this model only by the 1980s. To make sense of zones within and beyond a UNIDO model, this article understands them through their connection to the rise of nation-state territoriality around the world. The zone is thereby a spatial strategy used in processes of state (re)territorialization to rearticulate state spatiality under the global condition. This article explores such a perspective by situating the history of India’s early free trade zones comparatively.
Grundriss einer sozialpsychologischen Respekttheorie
Authors: Simon Bernd
Published: October 2017

Zusammenfassung. In diesem Beitrag entwickele ich den Grundriss einer sozialpsychologischen Respekttheorie. Mein Augenmerk richtet sich insbesondere auf die Bedeutung von Respekt für das Zusammenleben in der pluralistischen Gesellschaft. Im Rahmen eines Brückenschlags zu anerkennungstheoretischen Überlegungen sozialphilosophischer Provenienz erarbeite ich zunächst eine Konzeption von Respekt als Gleichheitsanerkennung. Anschließend diskutiere ich empirische Befunde aus eigenen Forschungsarbeiten, die zum einen die grundlegende Respektkonzeption validieren und zum anderen wichtige soziale Auswirkungen von Respekt (sowie von mangelndem Respekt) beleuchten. Der Beitrag schließt mit Überlegungen zur Dynamik von Respekt und einem Ausblick auf politisierte Anerkennungskämpfe in pluralistischen Gesellschaften.
Conceptualization and Assessment of Adolescents’ Engagement	and Disengagement in School
Authors: Wang Ming-Te , Fredricks Jennifer , Ye Feifei , Hofkens Tara , Linn Jacqueline Schall
Published: October 2017

Abstract. Increasing school engagement is critical for improving academic achievement and reducing dropout rates. In order to increase student engagement and identify those students who are most disengaged from school, we need to conceptualize and measure student engagement appropriately. This study used a mixed method sequential exploratory design to develop and validate a student survey measure of school engagement that reflects a multidimensional conceptualization of engagement. Psychometric tests were conducted with a large racially and socioeconomically diverse sample of 5th–12th graders in the United States ( N = 3,632). Findings demonstrated that a bifactor multidimensional model fit the data appropriately and provided evidence of measurement invariance, construct, and predictive validity. Results provided a psychometrically sound foundation for capturing the behavioral, emotional, cognitive, and social aspects of student engagement and disengagement in school.
How Earth’s Outer Radiation Belts Lose Their Electrons
Authors: Underwood Emily
Published: October 2017

A new analysis of three space storms reveals the mechanisms of particle loss from the Van Allen belts.
RANKL-induced M1 macrophages are involved in bone formation
Authors: Huang Rong , Wang Xin , Zhou Yinghong , Xiao Yin
Published: October 2017

The activation of M1 macrophages can be achieved by stimulating them with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and interferon-γ (IFN-γ). However, M1 can be found under physiological conditions without any pathological stimuli. This study aimed to understand the involvement of RANKL-induced M1 macrophages in bone formation compared with pathologically induced macrophages. Fischer rats were used to investigate macrophage distribution in normal and injured femoral condyles in vivo. Bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) were activated with LPS+IFN-γ and RANKL to achieve M1 activation in vitro. Gene expression related to inflammation, osteoclastogenesis, angiogenesis, and migration was determined by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS). Tissue macrophages showed distinct expression patterns at different bone regions. RANKL was found in close proximity to inducible nitric oxide synthase-positive (iNOS+) cells in vivo, suggesting an association between RANKL expression and iNOS+ cells, especially in trabecular bone. RANKL-induced macrophages showed a different cytokine secretion profile compared with pathologically induced macrophages. Both osteoclasts and M1 macrophages peaked on day 7 during bone healing. RANKL could trigger M1-like macrophages with properties that were different from those of LPS+IFN-γ-induced macrophages. These RANKL-activated M1 macrophages were actively involved in bone formation.
Spatial constraints govern competition of mutant clones in human epidermis
Authors: Lynch M. D. , Lynch C. N. S. , Craythorne E. , Liakath-Ali K. , Mallipeddi R. , Barker J. N. , Watt F. M.
Published: October 2017

Deep sequencing can detect somatic DNA mutations in tissues permitting inference of clonal relationships. This has been applied to human epidermis, where sun exposure leads to the accumulation of mutations and an increased risk of skin cancer. However, previous studies have yielded conflicting conclusions about the relative importance of positive selection and neutral drift in clonal evolution. Here, we sequenced larger areas of skin than previously, focusing on cancer-prone skin spanning five decades of life. The mutant clones identified were too large to be accounted for solely by neutral drift. Rather, using mathematical modelling and computational lattice-based simulations, we show that observed clone size distributions can be explained by a combination of neutral drift and stochastic nucleation of mutations at the boundary of expanding mutant clones that have a competitive advantage. These findings demonstrate that spatial context and cell competition cooperate to determine the fate of a mutant stem cell.
Sparse synaptic connectivity is required for decorrelation and pattern separation in feedforward networks
Authors: Cayco-Gajic N. Alex , Clopath Claudia , Silver R. Angus
Published: October 2017

Pattern separation is a fundamental function of the brain. The divergent feedforward networks thought to underlie this computation are widespread, yet exhibit remarkably similar sparse synaptic connectivity. Marr-Albus theory postulates that such networks separate overlapping activity patterns by mapping them onto larger numbers of sparsely active neurons. But spatial correlations in synaptic input and those introduced by network connectivity are likely to compromise performance. To investigate the structural and functional determinants of pattern separation we built models of the cerebellar input layer with spatially correlated input patterns, and systematically varied their synaptic connectivity. Performance was quantified by the learning speed of a classifier trained on either the input or output patterns. Our results show that sparse synaptic connectivity is essential for separating spatially correlated input patterns over a wide range of network activity, and that expansion and correlations, rather than sparse activity, are the major determinants of pattern separation.
Hierarchical control of enzymatic actuators using DNA-based switchable memories
Authors: Meijer Lenny H. H. , Joesaar Alex , Steur Erik , Engelen Wouter , van Santen Rutger A. , Merkx Maarten , de Greef Tom F. A.
Published: October 2017

Inspired by signaling networks in living cells, DNA-based programming aims for the engineering of biochemical networks capable of advanced regulatory and computational functions under controlled cell-free conditions. While regulatory circuits in cells control downstream processes through hierarchical layers of signal processing, coupling of enzymatically driven DNA-based networks to downstream processes has rarely been reported. Here, we expand the scope of molecular programming by engineering hierarchical control of enzymatic actuators using feedback-controlled DNA-circuits capable of advanced regulatory dynamics. We developed a translator module that converts signaling molecules from the upstream network to unique DNA strands driving downstream actuators with minimal retroactivity and support these findings with a detailed computational analysis. We show our modular approach by coupling of a previously engineered switchable memories circuit to downstream actuators based on β-lactamase and luciferase. To the best of our knowledge, our work demonstrates one of the most advanced DNA-based circuits regarding complexity and versatility.
Irisin is a pro-myogenic factor that induces skeletal muscle hypertrophy and rescues denervation-induced atrophy
Authors: Reza Musarrat Maisha , Subramaniyam Nathiya , Sim Chu Ming , Ge Xiaojia , Sathiakumar Durgalakshmi , McFarlane Craig , Sharma Mridula , Kambadur Ravi
Published: October 2017

Exercise induces expression of the myokine irisin, which is known to promote browning of white adipose tissue and has been shown to mediate beneficial effects following exercise. Here we show that irisin induces expression of a number of pro-myogenic and exercise response genes in myotubes. Irisin increases myogenic differentiation and myoblast fusion via activation of IL6 signaling. Injection of irisin in mice induces significant hypertrophy and enhances grip strength of uninjured muscle. Following skeletal muscle injury, irisin injection improves regeneration and induces hypertrophy. The effects of irisin on hypertrophy are due to activation of satellite cells and enhanced protein synthesis. In addition, irisin injection rescues loss of skeletal muscle mass following denervation by enhancing satellite cell activation and reducing protein degradation. These data suggest that irisin functions as a pro-myogenic factor in mice.
Gene isoforms as expression-based biomarkers predictive of drug response in vitro
Authors: Safikhani Zhaleh , Smirnov Petr , Thu Kelsie L. , Silvester Jennifer , El-Hachem Nehme , Quevedo Rene , Lupien Mathieu , Mak Tak W. , Cescon David , Haibe-Kains Benjamin
Published: October 2017

Next-generation sequencing technologies have recently been used in pharmacogenomic studies to characterize large panels of cancer cell lines at the genomic and transcriptomic levels. Among these technologies, RNA-sequencing enable profiling of alternatively spliced transcripts. Given the high frequency of mRNA splicing in cancers, linking this feature to drug response will open new avenues of research in biomarker discovery. To identify robust transcriptomic biomarkers for drug response across studies, we develop a meta-analytical framework combining the pharmacological data from two large-scale drug screening datasets. We use an independent pan-cancer pharmacogenomic dataset to test the robustness of our candidate biomarkers across multiple cancer types. We further analyze two independent breast cancer datasets and find that specific isoforms of IGF2BP2, NECTIN4, ITGB6, and KLHDC9 are significantly associated with AZD6244, lapatinib, erlotinib, and paclitaxel, respectively. Our results support isoform expressions as a rich resource for biomarkers predictive of drug response.
A short linear motif in scaffold Nup145C connects Y-complex with pre-assembled outer ring Nup82 complex
Authors: Teimer Roman , Kosinski Jan , von Appen Alexander , Beck Martin , Hurt Ed
Published: October 2017

Nucleocytoplasmic transport occurs through nuclear pore complexes (NPCs), which are formed from multiple copies of ~30 different nucleoporins (Nups) and inserted into the double nuclear membrane. Many of these Nups are organized into subcomplexes, of which the Y-shaped Nup84 complex is the major constituent of the nuclear and cytoplasmic rings. The Nup82–Nup159–Nsp1 complex is another module that, however, is only assembled into the cytoplasmic ring. By means of crosslinking mass spectrometry, biochemical reconstitution, and molecular modeling, we identified a short linear motif in the unstructured N-terminal region of Chaetomium thermophilum Nup145C, a subunit of the Y-complex, that is sufficient to recruit the Nup82 complex, but only in its assembled state. This finding points to a more general mechanism that short linear motifs in structural Nups can act as sensors to cooperatively connect pre-assembled NPC modules, thereby facilitating the formation and regulation of the higher-order NPC assembly.
Hyperlipidemia-induced cholesterol crystal production by endothelial cells promotes atherogenesis
Authors: Baumer Yvonne , McCurdy Sara , Weatherby Tina M. , Mehta Nehal N. , Halbherr Stefan , Halbherr Pascal , Yamazaki Noboru , Boisvert William A.
Published: October 2017

Endothelial cells (EC) play a key role in atherosclerosis. Although EC are in constant contact with low density lipoproteins (LDL), how EC process LDL and whether this influences atherogenesis, is unclear. Here we show that EC take up and metabolize LDL, and when overburdened with intracellular cholesterol, generate cholesterol crystals (CC). The CC are deposited on the basolateral side, and compromise endothelial function. When hyperlipidemic mice are given a high fat diet, CC appear in aortic sinus within 1 week. Treatment with cAMP-enhancing agents, forskolin/rolipram (F/R), mitigates effects of CC on endothelial function by not only improving barrier function, but also inhibiting CC formation both in vitro and in vivo. A proof of principle study using F/R incorporated into liposomes, designed to target inflamed endothelium, shows reduced atherosclerosis and CC formation in ApoE
−/−
mice. Our findings highlight an important mechanism by which EC contribute to atherogenesis under hyperlipidemic conditions.
Sensing and responding to allergic response cytokines through a genetically encoded circuit
Authors: Chassin Hélène , Geering Barbara , Schukur Lina , Ausländer David , Lang Brian , Fussenegger Martin
Published: October 2017

While constantly rising, the prevalence of allergies is globally one of the highest among chronic diseases. Current treatments of allergic diseases include the application of anti-histamines, immunotherapy, steroids, and anti-immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies. Here we report mammalian cells engineered with a synthetic signaling cascade able to monitor extracellular pathophysiological levels of interleukin 4 and interleukin 13, two main cytokines orchestrating allergic inflammation. Upon activation of transgenic cells by these cytokines, designed ankyrin repeat protein (DARPin) E2_79, a non-immunogenic protein binding human IgE, is secreted in a precisely controlled and reversible manner. Using human whole blood cell culturing, we demonstrate that the mammalian dual T helper 2 cytokine sensor produces sufficient levels of DARPin E2_79 to dampen histamine release in allergic subjects exposed to allergens. Hence, therapeutic gene networks monitoring disease-associated cytokines coupled with in situ production, secretion and systemic delivery of immunomodulatory biologics may foster advances in the treatment of allergies.
Structure of human lysosomal acid α-glucosidase–a guide for the treatment of Pompe disease
Authors: Roig-Zamboni Véronique , Cobucci-Ponzano Beatrice , Iacono Roberta , Ferrara Maria Carmina , Germany Stanley , Bourne Yves , Parenti Giancarlo , Moracci Marco , Sulzenbacher Gerlind
Published: October 2017

Pompe disease, a rare lysosomal storage disease caused by deficiency of the lysosomal acid α-glucosidase (GAA), is characterized by glycogen accumulation, triggering severe secondary cellular damage and resulting in progressive motor handicap and premature death. Numerous disease-causing mutations in the gaa gene have been reported, but the structural effects of the pathological variants were unknown. Here we present the high-resolution crystal structures of recombinant human GAA (rhGAA), the standard care of Pompe disease. These structures portray the unbound form of rhGAA and complexes thereof with active site-directed inhibitors, providing insight into substrate recognition and the molecular framework for the rationalization of the deleterious effects of disease-causing mutations. Furthermore, we report the structure of rhGAA in complex with the allosteric pharmacological chaperone N-acetylcysteine, which reveals the stabilizing function of this chaperone at the structural level.
Piezo-generated charge mapping revealed through direct piezoelectric force microscopy
Authors: Gomez A. , Gich M. , Carretero-Genevrier A. , Puig T. , Obradors X.
Published: October 2017

While piezoelectric and ferroelectric materials play a key role in many everyday applications, there are still a number of open questions related to their physics. To enhance our understanding of piezoelectrics and ferroelectrics, nanoscale characterization is essential. Here, we develop an atomic force microscopy based mode that obtains a direct quantitative analysis of the piezoelectric coefficient d33. We report nanoscale images of piezogenerated charge in a thick single crystal of periodically poled lithium niobate (PPLN), a bismuth ferrite (BiFO3) thin film, and lead zirconate titanate (PZT) by applying a force and recording the current produced by these materials. The quantification of d33 coefficients for PPLN (14 ± 3 pC per N) and BFO (43 ± 6 pC per N) is in agreement with the values reported in the literature. Even stronger evidence of the reliability of the method is provided by an equally accurate measurement of the significantly larger d33 of PZT.
TRPC3 Is Dispensable for β-Alanine Triggered Acute Itch
Authors: Dong Peter , Guo Changxiong , Huang Shengxiang , Ma Minghong , Liu Qin , Luo Wenqin
Published: October 2017

The detection of pruritic (itchy) stimuli is mediated by a variety of receptors and channels expressed by primary sensory neurons. The G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) MRGPRD is selectively expressed by a subset of mouse non-peptidergic nociceptors and functions as the molecular receptor for the itch-inducing chemical β-alanine. However, the channels responsible for generating electrical signals downstream of MRGPRD remain unclear. Here, we found that a member of the canonical TRP channel family, TRPC3, is highly expressed in MRGPRD+ non-peptidergic nociceptors, raising the possibility of whether TRPC3 functions as a downstream channel in the MRGPRD signaling pathway. We tested TrpC3 null mice for β-alanine induced itch, and found that these mice exhibit normal responses to β-alanine. At the cellular level, calcium influx triggered by β-alanine is also unchanged in cultured DRG neurons from TrpC3 null mice compared to wild type. Together, our results demonstrate that mouse TrpC3 is dispensable for β-alanine-induced acute itch.
Response of basal metabolic rate to complete submergence of riparian species Salix variegata in the Three Gorges reservoir region
Authors: Lei Shutong , Zeng Bo , Xu Shaojun , Zhang Xiaoping
Published: October 2017

One-year old seedlings ofSalix variegata(submergence-tolerant) andCinnamomum camphora(submergence-intolerant) were selected and subjected to complete submergence (2 m) for 1, 5, 10, and 20 days, to elucidate the submergence- tolerance mechanism ofS.variegatain the Three Gorges reservoir region. The basal CO2emission ratios (BCERs) and O2consumption rates (OCRs) of leaf, stem, and root were determined. The basal O2consumption rates (BOCRs) were calculated from the OCRs of different parts and their biomass allocations and used for evaluating the basal metabolic rate (BMR) of species with BCERs. The results showed that: (1) The BCERs of both species responded to flooding similarly, and no significant differences occurred between the submergedS.variegata(SS) and the submergedC.camphora(SC) seedlings, and between the controlS.variegata(CS) and the controlC.camphora(CC) seedlings. (2) The BOCRs of SS were significantly lower than those of SC on days 1 and 20, while no significant differences occurred between CS and CC for every duration. Therefore, the BMRs, evaluated from BOCRs rather than from BCERs, were related to submergence-tolerance of species, and the response of BMR to submergence would contribute to the survival ofS. variegataseedlings under flooding.
Multiscale modelling the effects of CI genetic evolution in mosquito population on the control of dengue fever
Authors: He Sha , Zhang Xianghong , Liang Juhua , Tang Sanyi
Published: October 2017

Endosymbiotic Wolbachia bacteria are widely applied for the control of dengue fever by manipulating the reproductive mechanism of mosquitoes, including maternal inheritance and cytoplasmic incompatibility (CI). CI means that the offsprings from the matings between Wolbachia infected males and uninfected females can not be hatched. At present, CI effect is assumed as a constant in most of dynamic systems for the spread of Wolbachia. However, their spread may arouse the evolution of mosquitoes to resist CI. Thus, a multiscale model combining a birth-pulse model with a gene-induced discrete model for the frequencies of alleles is proposed to describe the spread of Wolbachia in mosquito population with resistance allele of CI. The main results indicate that the strategy of population eradication can not be realized, while the strategy of population replacement may be realized with the success of sensitive or resistance allele. If appropriate Wolbachia strains can not be selected, then there is a high probability of the failure of population replacement. Moreover, Wolbachia-induced parameters may arouse the catastrophic shifts among stable states of the model. In addition, the demographic parameters and Wolbachia-induced parameters may affect the level and the speed of population replacement and the density of uninfected mosquitoes.
Cellular hormetic response to 27-hydroxycholesterol promotes neuroprotection through AICD induction of MAST4 abundance and kinase activity
Authors: Gongol Brendan , Marin Traci L. , Jeppson John D. , Mayagoitia Karina , Shin Samuel , Sanchez Nicholas , Kirsch Wolff M. , Vinters Harry V. , Wilson Christopher G. , Ghribi Othman , Soriano Salvador
Published: October 2017

The function of the amyloid precursor protein (APP) in brain health remains unclear. This study elucidated a novel cytoprotective signaling pathway initiated by the APP transcriptionally active intracellular domain (AICD) in response to 27-hydroxycholesterol (27OHC), an oxidized cholesterol metabolite associated with neurodegeneration. The cellular response to 27OHC was hormetic, such that low, but not high, doses promoted AICD transactivation of microtubule associated serine/threonine kinase family member 4 (MAST4). MAST4 in turn phosphorylated and inhibited FOXO1-dependent transcriptional repression of rhotekin 2 (RTKN2), an oxysterol stress responder, to optimize cell survival. A palmitate-rich diet, which increases serum 27OHC, or APP ablation, abrogated this response in vivo. Further, this pathway was downregulated in human Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) brains but not in frontotemporal dementia brains. These results unveil MAST4 as functional kinase of FOXO1 in a 27OHC AICD-driven, hormetic pathway providing insight for therapeutic approaches against cholesterol associated neuronal disorders.
Cytocompatibility and antibacterial activity of nanostructured H2Ti5O11·H2O outlayered Zn-doped TiO2 coatings on Ti for percutaneous implants
Authors: Zhang Lan , Zhang Juan , Dai Fang , Han Yong
Published: October 2017

To improve skin-integration and antibacterial activity of percutaneous implants, the coatings comprising an outer layer of H2Ti5O11·H2O (HTO) nanoarrays and an inner layer of microporous Zn-doped TiO2were fabricated on Ti by micro-arc oxidation (MAO) followed with hydrothermal treatment (HT). During HT process, a large proportion of Zn2+migrated out from TiO2layer. TiO2reacted with OH−and H2O, resulting in the nucleation of HTO. The nuclei grew to nanoplates, nanorods and nanofibres with HT process prolonged. Simultaneously, the orientation of nanoarrays changed from quasi-vertical to parallel to substrate. Compared to Ti, adhesion and proliferation of fibroblasts were enhanced on as-MAOed TiO2and HTed coatings. The phenotype, differentiation and extracellular collagen secretion were obviously accelerated on vertical nanorods with proper interspace (e.g. 63 nm). HTed coatings showed enhanced antibacterial activity, which should be ascribed to the nano-topography of HTO.
Revealing the gut bacteriome of Dendroctonus bark beetles (Curculionidae: Scolytinae): diversity, core members and co-evolutionary patterns
Authors: Hernández-García Juan Alfredo , Briones-Roblero Carlos Iván , Rivera-Orduña Flor N. , Zúñiga Gerardo
Published: October 2017

Dendroctonus bark beetles comprise 20 taxonomically recognized species, which are one of the most destructive pine forest pests in North and Central America, and Eurasia. The aims of this study were to characterize the gut bacterial diversity, to determine the core bacteriome and to explore the ecological association between these bacteria and bark beetles. A total of five bacterial phyla were identified in the gut of 13 Dendroctonus species; Proteobacteria was the most abundant, followed by Firmicutes, Fusobacteria, Actinobacteria and Deinococcus-Thermus. The α-diversity was low as demonstrated in previous studies and significant differences in β-diversity were observed. The core bacteriome was composed of Enterobacter, Pantoea, Pseudomonas, Rahnella, Raoultella, and Serratia. The tanglegram between bacteria and bark beetles suggests that members of bacterial community are acquired from the environment, possibly from the host tree. These findings improve the knowledge about the bacterial community composition, and provide the bases to study the metabolic functions of these bacteria, as well as their interaction with these bark beetles.
Altered physiochemical properties in industrially synthesized ZnO nanoparticles regulate oxidative stress; induce in vivo cytotoxicity in embryonic zebrafish by apoptosis
Authors: Verma Suresh K. , Panda Pritam Kumar , Jha Ealisha , Suar Mrutyunjay , Parashar S. K. S.
Published: October 2017

This study investigates thein vivocytotoxicity of ZnO nanoparticles synthesized at industrial scale with embryonic Zebrafish. Industrial synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles was mimicked at lab scale by high energy ball milling technique by milling bulk ZnO particles for 15 h. Synthesized 7 h and 10 h ZnO nanoparticles showed significant alteration of size, zeta potential and optical properties in comparison to Bulk ZnO. Mortality and hatching rate in Zebrafish embryos were influenced by these alterations. Size and charge dependent effect of ZnO nanoparticles exposure on physiology and development of Zebrafish embryos were evident by malfunctioned organ development and abnormal heartbeat rate. Similar dependency on quenching of ROS due to influential hydrogen bond interaction with glycine residue of Sod1 oxidative stress protein and increased apoptosis were observed in cells. The study revealed the mechanism of cytotoxicity in exposed embryonic Zebrafish as an effect of accumulation and internalization inside cells instigating to generation of hypoxic condition and interference with the normal adaptive stress regulation signaling pathways leading towards enhanced apoptosis. The study revealed hidden size and charge dependentin vivocytotoxicity mechanism of ZnO nanoparticles in Zebrafish embryos insight of the environmental and clinical importance of attention on industrially synthesized ZnO nanoparticles.
Investigation of causes of sex-related differences in ocular blood flow in healthy eyes determined by laser speckle flowgraphy
Authors: Iwase Takeshi , Yamamoto Kentaro , Yanagida Kosei , Ra Eimei , Ito Yasuki , Murotani Kenta , Terasaki Hiroko
Published: October 2017

Sex-related differences are present in the systemic and ocular blood flow. However, the cause of the sex-related differences has not been determined. We investigated the ocular blood flow, represented by the mean blur rate (MBR), on the optic nerve head (ONH) determined by laser speckle flowgraphy in 138 males (63.9 ± 8.9 years) and 194 females (63.5 ± 9.4 years). The correlations between the MBR on the ONH and the clinical data were determined. The overall ONH-MBR was significantly higher in females than males (P < 0.001). In addition, the levels of the hemoglobin and hematocrit were significantly lower in females than in males (P < 0.001). The ONH-MBR was negatively and significantly correlated with the levels of the hemoglobin and hematocrit (both, P < 0.001). Multiple regression analyses showed that the sex (β = 0.248, P < 0.001) was an independent factor correlated with the ONH-MBR when the clinical examination data were not included in the analyses. However, when the clinical examination data were included, the hemoglobin level (β = −0.295, P < 0.001) was an independent factor that contributed to the ONH-MBR but the sex was not. We conclude that the sex-related differences in the hemoglobin level and the negative correlation between hemoglobin and the ONH-MBR are the causes of the sex-related differences in the ONH-MBR.
Deficit irrigation and planting patterns strategies to improve maize yield and water productivity at different plant densities in semi-arid regions
Authors: Jia Qianmin , Sun Lefeng , Ali Shahzad , Liu Donghua , Zhang Yan , Ren Xiaolong , Zhang Peng , Jia Zhikuan
Published: October 2017

Field research was done in two consecutive years to optimize deficit irrigation under different crop densities (low, medium, and high) using the ridge and furrow rainfall harvesting (RFRH) system. We demonstrate that applying deficit irrigation (375 m3 ha−1) at the flowering stage of maize grown at medium density (M: 75000 plant ha−1) under the RFRH system (MIF) can improve soil water storage (0–200 cm) at the bell, filling and flowering stages. MIF increased biomass by 10% and grain yield by 21%, thereby achieving a 17% increase in water use efficiency (WUE) and a 22% increase in precipitation use efficiency (PUE) compared with conventional flat planting (CKM). MIF also improved irrigation water use efficiency (IWUE) (9%) and irrigation water productivity (IWP) (46%) compared with no-irrigation under the RFRH system (MI0). We observed that applying deficit irrigation (750 m3 ha−1) at the bell and flowering stage (IBF) had positive effects on dry matter, leaf area, and evapotranspiration, but there were no significant increases in IWUE, IWP, WUE, biomass and grain yield compared with maize grown under IF at low, medium and high plant densities. The average net profit over the two years was 34% higher for MIF compared with the CKM treatment.
Complex furrows in a 2D epithelial sheet code the 3D structure of a beetle horn
Authors: Matsuda Keisuke , Gotoh Hiroki , Tajika Yuki , Sushida Takamichi , Aonuma Hitoshi , Niimi Teruyuki , Akiyama Masakazu , Inoue Yasuhiro , Kondo Shigeru
Published: October 2017

The external organs of holometabolous insects are generated through two consecutive processes: the development of imaginal primordia and their subsequent transformation into the adult structures. During the latter process, many different phenomena at the cellular level (e.g. cell shape changes, cell migration, folding and unfolding of epithelial sheets) contribute to the drastic changes observed in size and shape. Because of this complexity, the logic behind the formation of the 3D structure of adult external organs remains largely unknown. In this report, we investigated the metamorphosis of the horn in the Japanese rhinoceros beetle Trypoxylus dichotomus. The horn primordia is essentially a 2D epithelial cell sheet with dense furrows. We experimentally unfolded these furrows using three different methods and found that the furrow pattern solely determines the 3D horn structure, indicating that horn formation in beetles occurs by two distinct processes: formation of the furrows and subsequently unfolding them. We postulate that this developmental simplicity offers an inherent advantage to understanding the principles that guide 3D morphogenesis in insects.
Rewinding the waves: tracking underwater signals to their source
Authors: Kadri Usama , Crivelli Davide , Parsons Wade , Colbourne Bruce , Ryan Amanda
Published: October 2017

Analysis of data, recorded on March 8th 2014 at the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organisation’s hydroacoustic stations off Cape Leeuwin Western Australia, and at Diego Garcia, reveal unique pressure signatures that could be associated with objects impacting at the sea surface, such as falling meteorites, or the missing Malaysian Aeroplane MH370. To examine the recorded signatures, we carried out experiments with spheres impacting at the surface of a water tank, where we observed almost identical pressure signature structures. While the pressure structure is unique to impacting objects, the evolution of the radiated acoustic waves carries information on the source. Employing acoustic–gravity wave theory we present an analytical inverse method to retrieve the impact time and location. The solution was validated using field observations of recent earthquakes, where we were able to calculate the eruption time and location to a satisfactory degree of accuracy. Moreover, numerical validations confirm an error below 0.02% for events at relatively large distances of over 1000 km. The method can be developed to calculate other essential properties such as impact duration and geometry. Besides impacting objects and earthquakes, the method could help in identifying the location of underwater explosions and landslides.
Automatic recognition of therapy progress among children with autism
Authors: Kołakowska Agata , Landowska Agnieszka , Anzulewicz Anna , Sobota Krzysztof
Published: October 2017

The article presents a research study on recognizing therapy progress among children with autism spectrum disorder. The progress is recognized on the basis of behavioural data gathered via five specially designed tablet games. Over 180 distinct parameters are calculated on the basis of raw data delivered via the game flow and tablet sensors - i.e. touch screen, accelerometer and gyroscope. The results obtained confirm the possibility of recognizing progress in particular areas of development. The recognition accuracy exceeds 80%. Moreover, the study identifies a subset of parameters which appear to be better predictors of therapy progress than others. The proposed method - consisting of data recording, parameter calculation formulas and prediction models - might be implemented in a tool to support both therapists and parents of autistic children. Such a tool might be used to monitor the course of the therapy, modify it and report its results.
Non-invasive quantitative imaging of hepatocellular carcinoma growth in mice by micro-CT using liver-targeted iodinated nano-emulsions
Authors: Anton Nicolas , Parlog Alexandru , Bou About Ghina , Attia Mohamed F. , Wattenhofer-Donzé Marie , Jacobs Hugues , Goncalves Isabelle , Robinet Eric , Sorg Tania , Vandamme Thierry F.
Published: October 2017

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the only cancer for which non-invasive diagnosis is recognized by international guidelines. Contrast agent free ultrasound imaging, computed tomography (CT) and/or magnetic resonance imaging are techniques used for early detection and confirmation. Clinical evidence depicts that CT is 30% less precise as compared to MRI for detection of small tumors. In our work, we have reported some novel tools that can enhance the sensitivity and precision of CT applied to preclinical research (micro-CT). Our system, containing non-toxic nano-droplets loaded with iodine has high contrasting properties, liver and hepatocyte specificity and strong liver persistence. Micro-CT was performed on HCC model implanted in nude mice by intrahepatic injection. Contrast agent was administrated intravenously. This method allows an unprecedented high precision of detection, quantitative measurement of tumor volume and quantitative follow-up of the tumor development.
Large reversible magnetocaloric effect in antiferromagnetic Ho2O3 powders
Authors: Boutahar A. , Moubah R. , Hlil E. K. , Lassri H. , Lorenzo E.
Published: October 2017

Giant magnetocaloric materials are highly promising for technological applications in magnetic refrigeration. Although giant magnetocaloric effects were discovered in first-order magnetic transition materials, it is accompanied by some non-desirable drawbacks, such as important hysteretic phenomena, irreversibility of the effect, or poor mechanical stability, which limits their use in applications. Here, we report the discovery of a giant magnetocaloric effect in commercialized Ho2O3 oxide at low temperature (around 2 K) without hysteresis losses. Ho2O3 is found to exhibit a second-order antiferromagnetic transition with a Néel temperature of 2 K. At an applied magnetic field change of 5 T and below 3.5 K, the maximum value of magnetic entropy change $$(-\Delta {{\rm{S}}}_{M}^{max})$$

(

-
Δ

S

M

max

)

, the refrigerant capacity (RC) were found to be 31.9 J.K−1.kg−1 and 180 J.K−1, respectively.
Optimization Strategies for Bruch’s Membrane Opening Minimum Rim Area Calculation: Sequential versus Simultaneous Minimization
Authors: Enders Philip , Adler Werner , Schaub Friederike , Hermann Manuel M. , Diestelhorst Michael , Dietlein Thomas , Cursiefen Claus , Heindl Ludwig M.
Published: October 2017

To compare a simultaneously optimized continuous minimum rim surface parameter between Bruch’s membrane opening (BMO) and the internal limiting membrane to the standard sequential minimization used for calculating the BMO minimum rim area in spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). In this case-control, cross-sectional study, 704 eyes of 445 participants underwent SD-OCT of the optic nerve head (ONH), visual field testing, and clinical examination. Globally and clock-hour sector-wise optimized BMO-based minimum rim area was calculated independently. Outcome parameters included BMO-globally optimized minimum rim area (BMO-gMRA) and sector-wise optimized BMO-minimum rim area (BMO-MRA). BMO area was 1.89 ± 0.05 mm2. Mean global BMO-MRA was 0.97 ± 0.34 mm2, mean global BMO-gMRA was 1.01 ± 0.36 mm2. Both parameters correlated with r = 0.995 (P < 0.001); mean difference was 0.04 mm2 (P < 0.001). In all sectors, parameters differed by 3.0–4.2%. In receiver operating characteristics, the calculated area under the curve (AUC) to differentiate glaucoma was 0.873 for BMO-MRA, compared to 0.866 for BMO-gMRA (P = 0.004). Among ONH sectors, the temporal inferior location showed the highest AUC. Optimization strategies to calculate BMO-based minimum rim area led to significantly different results. Imposing an additional adjacency constraint within calculation of BMO-MRA does not improve diagnostic power. Global and temporal inferior BMO-MRA performed best in differentiating glaucoma patients.