bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bacterial viruses enable their host to acquire antibiotic resistance genes from neighbouring cells
Authors: Haaber Jakob , Leisner Jørgen J. , Cohn Marianne T. , Catalan-Moreno Arancha , Nielsen Jesper B. , Westh Henrik , Penadés José R. , Ingmer Hanne
Published: November 2016

Prophages are quiescent viruses located in the chromosomes of bacteria. In the human pathogen, Staphylococcus aureus, prophages are omnipresent and are believed to be responsible for the spread of some antibiotic resistance genes. Here we demonstrate that release of phages from a subpopulation of S. aureus cells enables the intact, prophage-containing population to acquire beneficial genes from competing, phage-susceptible strains present in the same environment. Phage infection kills competitor cells and bits of their DNA are occasionally captured in viral transducing particles. Return of such particles to the prophage-containing population can drive the transfer of genes encoding potentially useful traits such as antibiotic resistance. This process, which can be viewed as ‘auto-transduction’, allows S. aureus to efficiently acquire antibiotic resistance both in vitro and in an in vivo virulence model (wax moth larvae) and enables it to proliferate under strong antibiotic selection pressure. Our results may help to explain the rapid exchange of antibiotic resistance genes observed in S. aureus.
Successful weight reduction and maintenance by using a smartphone application in those with overweight and obesity
Authors: Chin Sang Ouk , Keum Changwon , Woo Junghoon , Park Jehwan , Choi Hyung Jin , Woo Jeong-taek , Rhee Sang Youl
Published: November 2016

A discrepancy exists with regard to the effect of smartphone applications (apps) on weight reduction due to the several limitations of previous studies. This is a retrospective cohort study, aimed to investigate the effectiveness of a smartphone app on weight reduction in obese or overweight individuals, based on the complete enumeration study that utilized the clinical and logging data entered by Noom Coach app users between October 2012 and April 2014. A total of 35,921 participants were included in the analysis, of whom 77.9% reported a decrease in body weight while they were using the app (median 267 days; interquartile range = 182). Dinner input frequency was the most important factor for successful weight loss (OR = 10.69; 95% CI = 6.20–19.53; p < 0.001), and more frequent input of weight significantly decreased the possibility of experiencing the yo-yo effect (OR = 0.59, 95% CI = 0.39–0.89; p < 0.001). This study demonstrated the clinical utility of an app for successful weight reduction in the majority of the app users; the effects were more significant for individuals who monitored their weight and diet more frequently.
Evaluation of the Association Between Retinal Vein Occlusion and the Risk of Atrial Fibrillation Development: A 12-Year, Retrospective Nationwide Cohort Study
Authors: Rim Tyler Hyungtaek , Oh Jaewon , Lee Christopher Seungkyu , Lee Sung Chul , Kang Seok-Min , Kim Sung Soo
Published: November 2016

We aimed to evaluate the risk of atrial fibrillation (AF) development following retinal vein occlusion (RVO). We performed a nationwide propensity score-matched cohort study by retrospectively reviewing a database from the Korean National Health Insurance Service, comprising approximately 1 million random subjects. RVO and AF were diagnosed based on the Korean Classification of Disease codes. The RVO group was composed of patients with an initial diagnosis of RVO made between 2003 and 2007 (n = 1,801), excluding those who were diagnosed in 2002. The comparison group was composed of randomly selected patients (5 for each patient with RVO, n = 8,930) who were matched to the RVO group according to sociodemographic factors and the year of enrollment. Each sampled patient was tracked until 2013. The predictive value of RVO for AF was analyzed using Cox regression analysis with a hazard ratio (HR) and confidence interval (CI). AF developed in 6.5% of patients in the RVO group and 4.0% of those in the comparison group (p < 0.001). RVO was associated with a greater risk of AF development after adjusting for possible confounders (HR, 1.35; 95% CI, 1.09–1.67). An association between RVO and subsequent AF development was found after adjusting for possible confounding factors.
Optical metrics of the extracellular matrix predict compositional and mechanical changes after myocardial infarction
Authors: Quinn Kyle P. , Sullivan Kelly E. , Liu Zhiyi , Ballard Zachary , Siokatas Christos , Georgakoudi Irene , Black Lauren D.
Published: November 2016

Understanding the organization and mechanical function of the extracellular matrix (ECM) is critical for the development of therapeutic strategies that regulate wound healing following disease or injury. However, these relationships are challenging to elucidate during remodeling following myocardial infarction (MI) due to rapid changes in cellularity and an inability to characterize both ECM microstructure and function non-destructively. In this study, we overcome those challenges through whole organ decellularization and non-linear optical microscopy to directly relate the microstructure and mechanical properties of myocardial ECM. We non-destructively quantify collagen organization, content, and cross-linking within decellularized healthy and infarcted myocardium using second harmonic generation (SHG) and two photon excited autofluorescence. Tensile mechanical testing and compositional analysis reveal that the cumulative SHG intensity within each image volume and the average collagen autofluorescence are significantly correlated with collagen content and elastic modulus of the ECM, respectively. Compared to healthy ECM, infarcted tissues demonstrate a significant increase in collagen content and fiber alignment, and a decrease in cross-linking and elastic modulus. These findings indicate that cross-linking plays a key role in stiffness at the collagen fiber level following infarction, and highlight how this non-destructive approach to assessing remodeling can be used to understand ECM structure-function relationships.
mTOR Overactivation in Mesenchymal cells Aggravates CCl4− Induced liver Fibrosis
Authors: Shan Lanlan , Ding Yan , Fu You , Zhou Ling , Dong Xiaoying , Chen Shunzhi , Wu Hongyuan , Nai Wenqing , Zheng Hang , Xu Wanfu , Bai Xiaochun , Jia Chunhong , Dai Meng
Published: November 2016

Hepatic stellate cells are of mesenchymal cell type located in the space of Disse. Upon liver injury, HSCs transactivate into myofibroblasts with increase in expression of fibrillar collagen, especially collagen I and III, leading to liver fibrosis. Previous studies have shown mTOR signaling is activated during liver fibrosis. However, there is no direct evidence in vivo. The aim of this study is to examine the effects of conditional deletion of TSC1 in mesenchymal on pathogenesis of liver fibrosis. Crossing mice bearing the floxed TSC1 gene with mice harboring Col1α2-Cre-ER(T) successfully generated progeny with a conditional knockout of TSC1 (TSC1 CKO) in collagen I expressing mesenchymal cells. TSC1 CKO and WT mice were subjected to CCl4, oil or CCl4+ rapamycin treatment for 8 weeks. TSC1 CKO mice developed pronounced liver fibrosis relative to WT mice, as examined by ALT, hydroxyproline, histopathology, and profibrogenic gene. Absence of TSC1 in mesenchymal cells induced proliferation and prevented apoptosis in activated HSCs. However, there were no significant differences in oil-treated TSC1 CKO and WT mice. Rapamycin, restored these phenotypic changes by preventing myofibroblasts proliferation and enhancing their apoptosis. These findings revealed mTOR overactivation in mesenchymal cells aggravates CCl4− induced liver fibrosis and the rapamycin prevent its occurance.
Epidemiology of hepatitis B virus infection: results from a community-based study of 0.15 million residents in South China
Authors: Zeng Fangfang , Guo Pi , Huang Yun , Xin Wei , Du Zhicheng , Zhu Shuming , Deng Yu , Zhang Dingmei , Hao Yuantao
Published: November 2016

Limited information is available about the current epidemic status of hepatitis B virus (HBV) in Guangdong province in South China, where hepatitis B is endemic. We sought to provide an up-to-date assessment of hepatitis B prevalence in a large population through a community-based study. A total of 169,211 local residents were recruited using the stratified cluster random sampling method from 2014 to 2015, and each participant’s information was collected using an interviewer-administered questionnaire. Accordingly, the prevalence of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) in the total population was 8.76%. HBsAg prevalence was lowest (0.29%) among children aged 0–12 years and highest (12.71%) among those aged 23–59 years. Moreover, the prevalence (8.82%) in males approximately equalled that (8.65%) in females (P > 0.05). Overall, vaccination was effective in preventing HBV infection, regardless of age. Among adults aged 23–59 years, male sex tended to keep the HBsAg persistence. However, reduced persistence for participants with occasional physical exercise and drinking was observed. For participants older than 59 years, a history of prior surgery placed people at high risk for infection. Although Guangdong has successfully decreased the HBsAg prevalence among children, it is urgent to expand vaccination to adults, and employ interventions to reduce the infection risk.
MTHFR c.677C>T Inhibits Cell Proliferation and Decreases Prostate Cancer Susceptibility in the Han Chinese Population in Shanghai
Authors: Wu Jun-Long , Zhou Shu-Xian , Zhao Rui , Zhang Xuan , Chang Kun , Gu Cheng-Yuan , Gan Hua-Lei , Dai Bo , Zhu Yao , Zhang Hai-Liang , Shi Guo-Hai , Qu Yuan-Yuan , Zhao Jian-Yuan , Ye Ding-Wei
Published: November 2016

Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) c.677C>T and c.1298A>C variants were known to be associated with prostate cancer (PCa) risk with conflicting results, because of MTHFR and nutrient status interaction in the prostate development. In this large-scale, hospital-based, case-control study of 1817 PCa cases and 2026 cancer-free controls, we aimed to clarify the association between these two MTHFR variants and PCa risk in Shanghai and to explore the underlying molecular mechanisms. We found that both the heterozygous CT (adjusted OR = 0.78, 95% CI: 0.67–0.92) and the homozygous TT genotypes (adjusted OR = 0.68, 95% CI: 0.55–0.83) of c.677C>T were associated with a significantly decreased risk of PCa compared with homozygous wild-type CC genotype, respectively, using multivariate logistic regression. Furthermore, we confirmed that MTHFR c.677T allele was related to an increased serum homocysteine level in the Han Chinese population in Shanghai. In the cultured PCa cell lines, we observed that MTHFR c.677T could elevate the cellular homocysteine level and cause DNA damage, thus increasing cell apoptosis and finally inhibiting cell proliferation. In conclusion, MTHFR c.677T was a protective factor of PCa risk in ethnic Han Chinese males by inducing DNA damage and cell apoptosis.
Donor and recipient genetic variants in NLRP3 associate with early acute rejection following kidney transplantation
Authors: Dessing Mark C. , Kers Jesper , Damman Jeffrey , Navis Gerjan J. , Florquin Sandrine , Leemans Jaklien C.
Published: November 2016

NLRP3 (NOD-like receptor family, pyrin domain containing 3) is a member of the inflammasome family and is of special interest in renal disease. Experimental studies have shown that Nlrp3 plays a significant role in the induction of renal damage and dysfunction in acute and chronic renal injury. However, the role of NLRP3 in human renal disease is completely unknown. From a retrospective cohort study, we determined in 1271 matching donor and recipient samples if several NLRP3 single nucelotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were associated with primary non-function (PNF), delayed graft function (DGF), biopsy-proven acute rejection (BPAR) and death-censored graft and patient survival. NLRP3 gain-of-function SNP (rs35829419) in donors was associated with an increased risk of BPAR while NLRP3 loss-of-function SNP (rs6672995) in the recipient was associated with a decreased risk of BPAR in the first year following renal transplantation (HR 1.91, 95% CI 1.38–2.64, P < 0.001 and HR 0.73, 95% CI 0.55–0.97, P = 0.03 resp.). NLRP3 SNPs in both donor and recipient were not associated with PNF, DGF, graft survival or patient survival. We conclude that genetic variants in the NLRP3 gene affect the risk of acute rejection following kidney transplantation.
Cyanobacteria in lakes on Yungui Plateau, China are assembled via niche processes driven by water physicochemical property, lake morphology and watershed land-use
Authors: Liao Jingqiu , Zhao Lei , Cao Xiaofeng , Sun Jinhua , Gao Zhe , Wang Jie , Jiang Dalin , Fan Hao , Huang Yi
Published: November 2016

Plateau lakes are important ecosystems with diverse ecological functions. Cyanobacteria play a key role in plateau lakes as primary producers. However, they are threatening when dense blooms occur. Identifying cyanobacteiral biogeography and the mechanism of assembly processes shaping the distribution of cyanobacteria in plateau lakes is critical for understanding cyanobacterial ecology and applying it to lake management. In the present study, the biogeographic pattern and importance of neutral and niche processes in assembly of cyanobacteria in 21 lakes on Yungui Plateau, China were examined. Results showed that cyanobacteria exhibit unique biogeographic pattern, and most of them have a narrow habitat preference in plateau lakes. They were assembled via niche processes driven by water physicochemical property, lake morphology and watershed land-use, which explained 62.4% of the biological variation. Neutral processes were not at play. Water physicochemical property (key variables - dissolved oxygen, salinity, trophic status and pH) was the most dominant driver shaping its unique biogeographic pattern. Watershed land-use especially urban land, water body and agricultural land also exhibited a strong impact on cyanobacterial distribution, followed by lake morphology. As most of the cyanobacteiral genus detected in these plateau lakes were potential toxin-producers, this study indicated that in order to protect waters from toxic-bloom in the future, reducing nutrient loading and land-use practices are two practical approaches in plateau lake management.
Diversity of bacteriome associated with Phlebotomus chinensis (Diptera: Psychodidae) sand flies in two wild populations from China
Authors: Li Kaili , Chen Huiying , Jiang Jinjin , Li Xiangyu , Xu Jiannong , Ma Yajun
Published: November 2016

Sand fly Phlebotomus chinensis is a primary vector of transmission of visceral leishmaniasis in China. The sand flies have adapted to various ecological niches in distinct ecosystems. Characterization of the microbial structure and function will greatly facilitate the understanding of the sand fly ecology, which would provide critical information for developing intervention strategy for sand fly control. In this study we compared the bacterial composition between two populations of Ph. chinensis from Henan and Sichuan, China. The phylotypes were taxonomically assigned to 29 genera of 19 families in 9 classes of 5 phyla. The core bacteria include Pseudomonas and enterobacteria, both are shared in the sand flies in the two regions. Interestingly, the endosymbionts Wolbachia and Rickettsia were detected only in Henan, while the Rickettsiella and Diplorickettsia only in Sichuan. The intracellular bacteria Rickettsia, Rickettsiella and Diplorickettsia were reported for the first time in sand flies. The influence of sex and feeding status on the microbial structure was also detected in the two populations. The findings suggest that the ecological diversity of sand fly in Sichuan and Henan may contribute to shaping the structure of associated microbiota. The structural classification paves the way to function characterization of the sand fly associated microbiome.
The prion protein family member Shadoo induces spontaneous ionic currents in cultured cells
Authors: Nyeste Antal , Stincardini Claudia , Bencsura Petra , Cerovic Milica , Biasini Emiliano , Welker Ervin
Published: November 2016

Some mutant forms of the cellular prion protein (PrPC) carrying artificial deletions or point mutations associated with familial human prion diseases are capable of inducing spontaneous ionic currents across the cell membrane, conferring hypersensitivity to certain antibiotics to a wide range of cultured cells and primary cerebellar granular neurons (CGNs). These effects are abrogated when the wild type (WT) form is co-expressed, suggesting that they might be related to a physiological activity of PrPC. Interestingly, the prion protein family member Shadoo (Sho) makes cells hypersensitive to the same antibiotics as mutant PrP-s, an effect that is diminished by the co-expression of WT-PrP. Here, we report that Sho engages in another mutant PrP-like activity: it spontaneously induces large ionic currents in cultured SH-SY5Y cells, as detected by whole-cell patch clamping. These currents are also decreased by the co-expression of WT-PrP. Furthermore, deletion of the N-terminal (RXXX)8 motif of Sho, mutation of the eight arginine residues of this motif to glutamines, or replacement of the hydrophobic domain by that of PrP, also diminish Sho-induced ionic currents. Our results suggest that the channel activity that is also characteristic to some pathogenic PrP mutants may be linked to a physiological function of Sho.
Combination of OipA, BabA, and SabA as candidate biomarkers for predicting Helicobacter pylori-related gastric cancer
Authors: Su Yu-Lin , Huang Hsiang-Ling , Huang Bo-Shih , Chen Po-Chung , Chen Chien-Sheng , Wang Hong-Long , Lin Pin-Hsin , Chieh Meng-Shu , Wu Jiunn-Jong , Yang Jyh-Chin , Chow Lu-Ping
Published: November 2016

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori ) infection is a major cause of chronic gastritis and is highly related to duodenal ulcer (DU) and gastric cancer (GC). To identify H. pylori-related GC biomarkers with high seropositivity in GC patients, differences in levels of protein expression between H. pylori from GC and DU patients were analyzed by isobaric tag for relative and absolute quantitation (iTRAQ). In total, 99 proteins showed increased expression (>1.5-fold) in GC patients compared to DU patients, and 40 of these proteins were categorized by KEGG pathway. The four human disease-related adhesin identified, AlpA, OipA, BabA, and SabA, were potential GC-related antigens, with a higher seropositivity in GC patients (n = 76) than in non-GC patients (n = 100). Discrimination between GC and non-GC patients was improved using multiple antigens, with an odds ratio of 9.16 (95% CI, 2.99–28.07; p < 0.0001) for three antigens recognized. The optimized combination of OipA, BabA, and SabA gave a 77.3% correct prediction rate. A GC-related protein microarray was further developed using these antigens. The combination of OipA, BabA, and SabA showed significant improvement in the diagnostic accuracy and the protein microarray containing above antigens should provide a rapid and convenient diagnosis of H. pylori-associated GC.
Functional screening of mammalian mechanosensitive genes using Drosophila RNAi library– Smarcd3/Bap60 is a mechanosensitive pro-inflammatory gene
Authors: Kumar Sandeep , Jang In-hwan , Kim Chan Woo , Kang Dong-Won , Lee Won Jae , Jo Hanjoong
Published: November 2016

Disturbed blood flow (d-flow) induces atherosclerosis by altering the expression of mechanosensitive genes in the arterial endothelium. Previously, we identified >580 mechanosensitive genes in the mouse arterial endothelium, but their role in endothelial inflammation is incompletely understood. From this set, we obtained 84 Drosophila RNAi lines that silences the target gene under the control of upstream activation sequence (UAS) promoter. These lines were crossed with C564-GAL4 flies expressing GFP under the control of drosomycin promoter, an NF-κB target gene and a marker of pathogen-induced inflammation. Silencing of psmd12 or ERN1 decreased infection-induced drosomycin expression, while Bap60 silencing significantly increased the drosomycin expression. Interestingly, knockdown of Bap60 in adult flies using temperature-inducible Bap60 RNAi (C564ts-GAL4-Bap60-RNAi) enhanced drosomycin expression upon Gram-positive bacterial challenge but the basal drosomycin expression remained unchanged compared to the control. In the mammalian system, smarcd3 (mammalian ortholog of Bap60) expression was reduced in the human- and mouse aortic endothelial cells exposed to oscillatory shear in vitro as well as in the d-flow regions of mouse arterial endothelium in vivo. Moreover, siRNA-mediated knockdown of smarcd3 induced endothelial inflammation. In summary, we developed an in vivo Drosophila RNAi screening method to identify flow-sensitive genes that regulate endothelial inflammation.
EEG Spectral Dynamics of Video Commercials: Impact of the Narrative on the Branding Product Preference
Authors: Wang Regina W. Y. , Chang Yu-Ching , Chuang Shang-Wen
Published: November 2016

Neuromarketing has become popular and received a lot of attention. The quality of video commercials and the product information they convey to consumers is a hotly debated topic among advertising agencies and product advertisers. This study explored the impact of advertising narrative and the frequency of branding product exposures on the preference for the commercial and the branding product. We performed electroencephalography (EEG) experiments on 30 subjects while they watched video commercials. The behavioral data indicated that commercials with a structured narrative and containing multiple exposures of the branding products had a positive impact on the preference for the commercial and the branding product. The EEG spectral dynamics showed that the narratives of video commercials resulted in higher theta power of the left frontal, bilateral occipital region, and higher gamma power of the limbic system. The narratives also induced significant cognitive integration-related beta and gamma power of the bilateral temporal regions and the parietal region. It is worth noting that the video commercials with a single exposure of the branding products would be indicators of attention. These new findings suggest that the presence of a narrative structure in video commercials has a critical impact on the preference for branding products.
ISL1-based LIM complexes control Slit2 transcription in developing cranial motor neurons
Authors: Kim Kyung-Tai , Kim Namhee , Kim Hwan-Ki , Lee Hojae , Gruner Hannah N. , Gergics Peter , Park Chungoo , Mastick Grant S. , Park Hae-Chul , Song Mi-Ryoung
Published: November 2016

LIM-homeodomain (HD) transcription factors form a multimeric complex and assign neuronal subtype identities, as demonstrated by the hexameric ISL1-LHX3 complex which gives rise to somatic motor (SM) neurons. However, the roles of combinatorial LIM code in motor neuron diversification and their subsequent differentiation is much less well understood. In the present study, we demonstrate that the ISL1 controls postmitotic cranial branchiomotor (BM) neurons including the positioning of the cell bodies and peripheral axon pathfinding. Unlike SM neurons, which transform into interneurons, BM neurons are normal in number and in marker expression in Isl1 mutant mice. Nevertheless, the movement of trigeminal and facial BM somata is stalled, and their peripheral axons are fewer or misrouted, with ectopic branches. Among genes whose expression level changes in previous ChIP-seq and microarray analyses in Isl1-deficient cell lines, we found that Slit2 transcript was almost absent from BM neurons of Isl1 mutants. Both ISL1-LHX3 and ISL1-LHX4 bound to the Slit2 enhancer and drove endogenous Slit2 expression in SM and BM neurons. Our findings suggest that combinations of ISL1 and LHX factors establish cell-type specificity and functional diversity in terms of motor neuron identities and/or axon development.
Silver nanoparticles-containing dual-function hydrogels based on a guar gum-sodium borohydride system
Authors: Dai Lei , Nadeau Ben , An Xingye , Cheng Dong , Long Zhu , Ni Yonghao
Published: November 2016

Dual-function hydrogels, possessing both stimuli-responsive and self-healing properties, have recently attracted attention of both chemists and materials scientists. Here we report a new paradigm using natural polymer (guar gum, GG) and sodium borohydride (NaBH4), for the preparation of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs)-containing smart hydrogels in a simple, fast and economical way. NaBH4 performs as a reducing agent for AgNPs synthesis using silver nitrate (AgNO3) as the precursor. Meanwhile, sodium metaborate (NaBO2) (from NaBH4) behaves as a cross-linking agent between GG molecular chains. The AgNPs/GG hydrogels with excellent viscoelastic properties can be obtained within 3 min at room temperature without the addition of other cross-linkers. The resultant AgNPs/GG hydrogels are flowable and injectable, and they possess excellent pH/thermal responsive properties. Additionally, they exhibit rapid self-healing capacity. This work introduces a facile and scale-up way to prepare a class of hydrogels that can have great potential to biomedical and other industrial applications.
Cationic bactericidal peptide 1018 does not specifically target the stringent response alarmone (p)ppGpp
Authors: Andresen Liis , Tenson Tanel , Hauryliuk Vasili
Published: November 2016

The bacterial stringent response is a key regulator of bacterial virulence, biofilm formation and antibiotic tolerance, and is a promising target for the development of new antibacterial compounds. The intracellular nucleotide (p)ppGpp acts as a messenger orchestrating the stringent response. A synthetic peptide 1018 was recently proposed to specifically disrupt biofilms by inhibiting the stringent response via direct interaction with (p)ppGpp (de la Fuente-Núñez et al. (2014) PLoS Pathogens). We have interrogated the specificity of the proposed molecular mechanism. When inhibition of Pseudomonas aeruginosa planktonic and biofilm growth is tested simultaneously in the same assay, peptides 1018 and the control peptide 8101 generated by an inversion of the amino acid sequence of 1018 are equally potent, and, importantly, do not display a preferential activity against biofilm. 1018 inhibits planktonic growth of Escherichia coli equally efficiently either when the alleged target, (p)ppGpp, is essential (MOPS media lacking amino acid L-valine), or dispensable for growth (MOPS media supplemented with L-valine). Genetic disruption of the genes relA and spoT responsible for (p)ppGpp synthesis moderately sensitizes – rather than protects – E. coli to 1018. We suggest that the antimicrobial activity of 1018 does not rely on specific recognition of the stringent response messenger (p)ppGpp.
IL-17 Promotes Angiogenic Factors IL-6, IL-8, and Vegf Production via Stat1 in Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Huang Qi , Duan limin , Qian Xin , Fan Jinshuo , Lv Zhilei , Zhang Xiuxiu , Han Jieli , Wu Feng , Guo Mengfei , Hu Guorong , Du Jiao , Chen Caiyun , Jin Yang
Published: November 2016

Inflammation and angiogenesis are two hallmarks of carcinoma. The proinflammatory cytokine interleukin-17 (IL-17) facilitates angiogenesis in lung cancer; however, the underlying mechanism is not fully understood. In this study, tumour microvessel density (MVD) was positively associated with IL-17, interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-8 (IL-8), and vascular endothelial cell growth factor (VEGF) expression in human lung adenocarcinoma tissues, and it was increased in tumour tissues of A549-IL-17 cell-bearing nude mice. Importantly, positive correlations were also detected between IL-17 expression and IL-6, IL-8 and VEGF expression in human lung adenocarcinoma tissues. Furthermore, IL-6, IL-8 and VEGF production, as well as STAT1 phosphorylation, were increased in tumour tissues of A549-IL-17 cell-bearing nude mice in vivo and in A549 and H292 cells following IL-17 stimulation in vitro. In addition, STAT1 knockdown using an inhibitor and siRNA attenuated the IL-17-mediated increases in IL-6, IL-8 and VEGF expression in A549 and H292 cells. In conclusion, IL-17 may promote the production of the angiogenic inducers IL-6, IL-8 and VEGF via STAT1 signalling in lung adenocarcinoma.
Superimposing Status Epilepticus on Neuron Subset-Specific PTEN Haploinsufficient and Wild Type Mice Results in Long-term Changes in Behavior
Authors: Smith Gregory D. , White Jessika , Lugo Joaquin N.
Published: November 2016

We evaluated the effects of superimposing seizures on a genetic mutation with known involvement in both Autism Spectrum Disorder and in epilepsy. Neuron-subset specific (NS)-Pten heterozygous (HT) and wildtype (WT) adult mice received either intraperitoneal injections of kainic acid (20 mg/kg) to induce status epilepticus or the vehicle (saline). Animals then received a battery of behavioral tasks in order to evaluate activity levels, anxiety, repetitive-stereotyped behavior, social behavior, learning and memory. In the open field task, we found that HT mice after seizures showed a significant increase in total activity and total distance in the surround region of the open field. In the elevated plus maze task, we found that HT mice after seizures displayed increased total distance and velocity as compared to HT mice that did not undergo seizures and WT controls. In the social chamber test, we found the HT mice after seizures displayed an impairment in social behavior. These findings demonstrate that superimposing seizures on a genetic mutation can result in long-term alterations in activity and social behavior in mice.
Characterization of T follicular helper cells in allogeneic normal pregnancy and PDL1 blockage-induced abortion
Authors: Zeng Weihong , Liu Zhicui , Zhang Siming , Ren Jiabin , Ma Xiaoling , Qin Chuanmei , Tian Fuju , Zhang Yan , Lin Yi
Published: November 2016

A deeper understanding of the immunological events during pregnancy will provide novel insights into the pathogenesis of pregnancy complications. The fundamental function of T follicular helper (Tfh) cells is to provide cognate help to B cells. Dysregulations of Tfh-cell function and/or development can result in various immunological diseases. However, the role and characteristics of Tfh cells during pregnancy remain unknown. Herein, an allogeneic-normal-pregnant mouse model was used, and we found that the CD4+ T cells residing at the uterus and placenta (UP) displayed a Tfh-like phenotype; and the UP-derived CD4+CXCR5hiPD-1hi and CD4+CXCR5hiICOShi Tfh cells, which showed a memory/activation phenotype, reached their peak at mid-pregnancy. These Tfh cells were located abundantly in the uterus at mid-pregnancy, but greatly increased in the placenta at late-pregnancy. Furthermore, increased foetal resorption by PDL1 blockade correlated with enhanced accumulation of Tfh cells and upregulated expressions of ICOS and PD-1 on these cells. Collectively, our findings are the first to indicate that an adequate and balanced accumulation of Tfh cells during gestation is likely to help maintaining a successful pregnancy, whereas an excessively high level of these cells could lead to abortion.
Ovule positions within linear fruit are correlated with nonrandom mating in Robinia pseudoacacia
Authors: Yuan Cunquan , Sun Yuhan , Sun Peng , Li Yunfei , Hu Ruiyang , Zhao Keqi , Wang Jinxing , Li Yun
Published: November 2016

Post-pollination processes can lead to nonrandom mating among compatible pollen donors. Moreover, morphological patterns of ovule development within linear fruits are reportedly nonrandom and depend on ovule position. However, little is known about the relationship between nonrandom mating and ovule position within linear fruit. Here, we combined controlled pollen competition experiments and paternity analyses on R. pseudoacacia to better understand nonrandom mating and its connection with ovule position. Molecular determination of siring success showed a significant departure from the expected ratio based on each kind of pollen mixture, suggesting a nonrandom mating. Outcrossed pollen grains, which were strongly favored, produced significantly more progeny than other pollen grains. Paternity analyses further revealed that the distribution of offspring produced by one specific pollen source was also nonrandom within linear fruit. The stylar end, which has a higher probability of maturation, produced a significantly higher number of outcrossed offspring than other offspring, suggesting a correlation between pollen source and ovule position. Our results suggested that a superior ovule position exists within the linear fruit in R. pseudoacacia, and the pollen that was strongly favored often preferentially occupies the ovules that were situated in a superior position, which ensured siring success and facilitated nonrandom mating.
A Comprehensive Model for Real Gas Transport in Shale Formations with Complex Non-planar Fracture Networks
Authors: Yang Ruiyue , Huang Zhongwei , Yu Wei , Li Gensheng , Ren Wenxi , Zuo Lihua , Tan Xiaosi , Sepehrnoori Kamy , Tian Shouceng , Sheng Mao
Published: November 2016

A complex fracture network is generally generated during the hydraulic fracturing treatment in shale gas reservoirs. Numerous efforts have been made to model the flow behavior of such fracture networks. However, it is still challenging to predict the impacts of various gas transport mechanisms on well performance with arbitrary fracture geometry in a computationally efficient manner. We develop a robust and comprehensive model for real gas transport in shales with complex non-planar fracture network. Contributions of gas transport mechanisms and fracture complexity to well productivity and rate transient behavior are systematically analyzed. The major findings are: simple planar fracture can overestimate gas production than non-planar fracture due to less fracture interference. A “hump” that occurs in the transition period and formation linear flow with a slope less than 1/2 can infer the appearance of natural fractures. The sharpness of the “hump” can indicate the complexity and irregularity of the fracture networks. Gas flow mechanisms can extend the transition flow period. The gas desorption could make the “hump” more profound. The Knudsen diffusion and slippage effect play a dominant role in the later production time. Maximizing the fracture complexity through generating large connected networks is an effective way to increase shale gas production.
Stable isotopes measurements reveal dual carbon pools contributing to organic matter enrichment in marine aerosol
Authors: Ceburnis Darius , Masalaite Agne , Ovadnevaite Jurgita , Garbaras Andrius , Remeikis Vidmantas , Maenhaut Willy , Claeys Magda , Sciare Jean , Baisnée Dominique , O’Dowd Colin D.
Published: November 2016

Stable carbon isotope ratios in marine aerosol collected over the Southern Indian Ocean revealed δ13C values ranging from −20.0‰ to −28.2‰. The isotope ratios exhibited a strong correlation with the fractional organic matter (OM) enrichment in sea spray aerosol. The base-level isotope ratio of −20.0‰ is characteristic of an aged Dissolved Organic Matter (DOM) pool contributing a relatively homogeneous background level of DOM to oceanic waters. The range of isotope ratios, extending down to −28.2‰, is characteristic of more variable, stronger, and fresher Particulate Organic Matter (POM) pool driven by trophic level interactions. We present a conceptual dual-pool POM-DOM model which comprises a ‘young’ and variable POM pool which dominates enrichment in sea-spray and an ‘aged’ but invariant DOM pool which is, ultimately, an aged end-product of processed ‘fresh’ POM. This model is harmonious with the preferential enrichment of fresh colloidal and nano-gel lipid-like particulate matter in sea spray particles and the observed depleted δ13C ratio resulting from isotope equilibrium fractionation coupled with enhanced plankton photosynthesis in cold water (−2 °C to +8 °C). These results re-assert the hypothesis that OM enrichment in sea-spray is directly linked to primary production and, consequently, can have implications for climate-aerosol-cloud feedback systems.
The Dependency of Nematic and Twist-bend Mesophase Formation on Bend Angle
Authors: Mandle Richard J. , Archbold Craig T. , Sarju Julia P. , Andrews Jessica L. , Goodby John W.
Published: November 2016

We have prepared and studied a family of cyanobiphenyl dimers with varying linking groups with a view to exploring how molecular structure dictates the stability of the nematic and twist-bend nematic mesophases. Using molecular modelling and 1D1H NOESY NMR spectroscopy, we determine the angle between the two aromatic core units for each dimer and find a strong dependency of the stability of both the nematic and twist-bend mesophases upon this angle, thereby satisfying earlier theoretical models.
Hyperglycaemia-induced reciprocal changes in miR-30c and PAI-1 expression in platelets
Authors: Luo Mao , Li Rong , Ren Meiping , Chen Ni , Deng Xin , Tan Xiaoyong , Li Yongjie , Zeng Min , Yang Yan , Wan Qin , Wu Jianbo
Published: November 2016

Type 2 diabetic mellitus (DM2) is associated with accelerated thrombotic complications and is characterized by high levels of plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1). Recent studies show that human platelets have high levels of miR-30c and synthesize considerable active PAI-1. The underlying mechanism of how PAI-1 expression is upregulated in DM2 is poorly understood. We now report that hyperglycaemia-induced repression of miR-30c increases PAI-1 expression and thrombus formation in DM2. Bioinformatic analysis and identification of miRNA targets were assessed using luciferase assays, quantitative real-time PCR and western blots invitro and in vivo. The changes in miR-30c and PAI-1 levels were identified in platelets from healthy and diabetic individuals. We found that miR-30c directly targeted the 3′ UTR of PAI-1 and negatively regulated its expression. miR-30c was negatively correlated with glucose and HbA1c levels in DM2. In HFD-fed diabetic mice, increasing miR-30c expression by lenti-miR-30c significantly decreased the PAI-1 expression and prolonged the time to occlusion in an arterial thrombosis model. Platelet depletion/reinfusion experiments generating mice with selective ablation of PAI-1 demonstrate a major contribution by platelet-derived PAI-1 in the treatment of lenti-miR-30c to thrombus formation. These results provide important implications regarding the regulation of fibrinolysis by platelet miRNA under diabetic mellitus.
Blu-ray-sensitive localized surface plasmon resonance for high-density optical memory
Authors: Fu Shencheng , Zhang Xintong , Han Qiang , Liu Shuangyan , Han Xiuxiu , Liu Yichun
Published: November 2016

Tunable spectrum-response is desired for efficient photo-energy transformation. Blu-ray (~405 nm) and polarization sensitive Ag/TiO2 nanocomposite films are thus fascinating in application of fast-response and high-density optical memory device. The Ag/TiO2 film has the ability of replicating hologram based on optical coherence by laser-stimulated dissolution of Ag nanoparticles (NPs). The rate and efficiency of the dissolution are supposed to be enhanced by introducing uniform and small-sized Ag NPs in TiO2 nanoporous films. However, no effective methods have been proposed to resolve this issue by now. Here, we develop a simple method of thermal-reduction to obtain high-density, space-dispersed and extremely small-sized Ag NPs in TiO2 nanoporous films pretreated with tannic acid. The film shows both high and narrow absorbance band centered at ~405 nm. Diffraction efficiency of the blu-ray holographic storage in the Ag/TiO2 film is improved by one order of magnitude compared to the traditional UV-reduced sample. Based on such properties, polarization-multiplexing holograms are able to be written at 405 nm and readout with little crosstalk. This work provides effective solutions for sensitizing localized surface plasmon resonance at near-UV region, extending the growth range of Ag NPs in the volume of TiO2, and resultantly, realizing high-density optical memory.
Nuclear import of dimerized ribosomal protein Rps3 in complex with its chaperone Yar1
Authors: Mitterer Valentin , Gantenbein Nadine , Birner-Gruenberger Ruth , Murat Guillaume , Bergler Helmut , Kressler Dieter , Pertschy Brigitte
Published: November 2016

After their cytoplasmic synthesis, ribosomal proteins need to be transported into the nucleus, where they assemble with ribosomal RNA into pre-ribosomal particles. Due to their physicochemical properties, they need protection from aggregation on this path. Newly synthesized ribosomal protein Rps3 forms a dimer that is associated with one molecule of its specific chaperone Yar1. Here we report that redundant pathways contribute to the nuclear import of Rps3, with the classical importin α/β pathway (Kap60/Kap95 in yeast) constituting a main import route. The Kap60/Kap95 heterodimer mediates efficient nuclear import of Rps3 by recognition of an N-terminal monopartite nuclear localization signal (NLS). This Rps3-NLS is located directly adjacent to the Yar1-binding site and, upon binding of Kap60 to Rps3, Yar1 is displaced from the ribosomal protein in vitro. While Yar1 does not directly interact with Kap60 in vitro, affinity purifications of Yar1 and Rps3, however, revealed that Kap60 is present in the Rps3/Yar1 complex in vivo. Indeed we could reconstitute such a protein complex containing Rps3 and both Yar1 and Kap60 in vitro. Our data suggest that binding of Yar1 to one N-domain and binding of Kap60 to the second N-domain of dimerized Rps3 orchestrates import and protection of the ribosomal protein.
IL-21 signaling is essential for optimal host resistance against Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection
Authors: Booty Matthew G. , Barreira-Silva Palmira , Carpenter Stephen M. , Nunes-Alves Cláudio , Jacques Miye K. , Stowell Britni L. , Jayaraman Pushpa , Beamer Gillian , Behar Samuel M.
Published: November 2016

IL-21 is produced predominantly by activated CD4+ T cells and has pleiotropic effects on immunity via the IL-21 receptor (IL-21R), a member of the common gamma chain (γc) cytokine receptor family. We show that IL-21 signaling plays a crucial role in T cell responses during Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection by augmenting CD8+ T cell priming, promoting T cell accumulation in the lungs, and enhancing T cell cytokine production. In the absence of IL-21 signaling, more CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in chronically infected mice express the T cell inhibitory molecules PD-1 and TIM-3. We correlate these immune alterations with increased susceptibility of IL-21R−/− mice, which have increased lung bacterial burden and earlier mortality compared to WT mice. Finally, to causally link the immune defects with host susceptibility, we use an adoptive transfer model to show that IL-21R−/− T cells transfer less protection than WT T cells. These results prove that IL-21 signaling has an intrinsic role in promoting the protective capacity of T cells. Thus, the net effect of IL-21 signaling is to enhance host resistance to M. tuberculosis. These data position IL-21 as a candidate biomarker of resistance to tuberculosis.
Exfoliated sheets of MoS2 trigger formation of aqueous gels with acute NIR light responsiveness
Authors: Singh Ashmeet , Kapil Nidhi , Yenuganti Mahesh , Das Dibyendu
Published: November 2016

We have developed a unique class of MoS2 entrapped aqueous gels where the exfoliated sheets trigger physical cross-linking of nanofibers of peptide amphiphiles.
Ag(i)-catalyzed intramolecular transannulation of enynone tethered donor–acceptor cyclopropanes: a new synthesis of 2,3-dihydronaphtho[1,2-b]furans
Authors: Dawande Sudam Ganpat , Harode Mandeep , Kalepu Jagadeesh , Katukojvala Sreenivas
Published: November 2016

An efficient AgOTf catalyzed tandem intramolecular transannulation of ((2-alkynyl)aryl)cyclopropyl ketones leading to the 2,3-dihydronaphtho[1,2-b]furans has been developed.
Properties and emerging applications of mechanically interlocked ligands
Authors: Lewis James E. M. , Galli Marzia , Goldup Stephen M.
Published: November 2016

We discuss the properties and potential future applications in catalysis, sensing and materials of ligands based on mechanically interlocked molecules.
Copper-catalyzed cascade annulation between α-bromocarbonyls and biaryl or (Z)-arylvinylacetylenes enabling a direct synthesis of dibenzocycloheptanes and related compounds
Authors: Lu Danyang , Wan Yimei , Kong Lichun , Zhu Gangguo
Published: November 2016

Copper-catalyzed cascade annulation of γ,δ-unsaturated α-bromocarbonyls with biaryl or (Z)-arylvinylacetylenes is presented, giving an expeditious access to dibenzocycloheptanes and related compounds in moderate to high yields.
Mirror symmetry breaking in cubic phases and isotropic liquids driven by hydrogen bonding
Authors: Alaasar Mohamed , Poppe Silvio , Dong Qingshu , Liu Feng , Tschierske Carsten
Published: November 2016

Achiral hydrogen bonded rod-like complexes with four nonequally distributed terminal alkyl chains form a chirality synchronized isotropic liquid conglomerate as well as a conglomerate type chiral cubic phase.
Mechanism of excited state deactivation of indan-1-ylidene and fluoren-9-ylidene malononitriles
Authors: Estrada Leandro A. , Francés-Monerris Antonio , Schapiro Igor , Olivucci Massimo , Roca-Sanjuán Daniel
Published: November 2016

A joint experimental and computational study on the non-radiative double bond isomerisation decay channel of indan-1-ylidene malononitrile and fluoren-9-ylidene malononitrile is presented in this work.
Gradient doping – a case study with Ti-Fe2O3 towards an improved photoelectrochemical response
Authors: Srivastav Anupam , Verma Anuradha , Banerjee Anamika , Khan Saif A. , Gupta Mukul , Satsangi Vibha Rani , Shrivastav Rohit , Dass Sahab
Published: November 2016

The effect of gradient doping on modifying the photoelectrochemical response of Ti-doped Fe2O3 photoanodes for their use in sunlight based water splitting for hydrogen evolution is investigated.
Dirac fermions induced in strained zigzag phosphorus nanotubes and their applications in field effect transistors
Authors: Yu Sheng , Zhu Hao , Eshun Kwesi , Shi Chen , Zeng Min , Jiang Kai , Li Qiliang
Published: November 2016

In this work, Dirac fermions have been obtained and engineered in one-dimensional (1D) zigzag phosphorus nanotubes (ZPNTs).
Radiation-induced transformations of methanol molecules in low-temperature solids: a matrix isolation study
Authors: Saenko Elizaveta V. , Feldman Vladimir I.
Published: November 2016

Radiation-induced transformations of methanol in inert solids at 6 K reveal remarkable matrix effects, and mechanisms and astrochemical implications are discussed.
Trapped in the coordination sphere: nitrate ion transfer driven by the cerium(iii/iv) redox couple
Authors: Ellis Ross J. , Bera Mrinal K. , Reinhart Benjamin , Antonio Mark R.
Published: November 2016

The electrochemical transfer of nitrate anions between oil and water phases—driven by the reduction and oxidation of cerium coordination complexes in oil phases—provides a new entry into chemical separations where an electrode potential tunes solute transfer between phases by ‘trapping’ the migrating anion on the cerium cation.
Oxidative etching of MoS2/WS2 nanosheets to their QDs by facile UV irradiation
Authors: Lu Xiaolong , Wang Rongguo , Hao Lifeng , Yang Fan , Jiao Weicheng , Peng Ping , Yuan Feng , Liu Wenbo
Published: November 2016

˙OH radicals produced under UV irradiation in aqueous solution induce the oxidative etching of MoS2/WS2 nanosheets to QDs.
Rotational dynamics of Li+ ions encapsulated in C60 cages at low temperatures
Authors: Suzuki Hal , Ishida Misaki , Yamashita Masatsugu , Otani Chiko , Kawachi Kazuhiko , Kasama Yasuhiko , Kwon Eunsang
Published: November 2016

Rotational motions of Li+ ions encapsulated in C60 cages gradually change into librational ones below 120 K.
Pb2Bi2GaB3O11, a new congruent-melting galloborate containing two types of asymmetric cations with a moderate birefringence
Authors: Liu Lili , Yang Yun , Li Linping , Yang Zhihua , Pan Shilie
Published: November 2016

Pb2Bi2GaB3O11possesses a moderate birefringence of 0.07 at 589 nm originating from two stereoactive lone-pair cations and π-conjugated BO3groups.