bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distribution of Herbivorous Fish Is Frozen by Low Temperature
Authors: Vejříková Ivana , Vejřík Lukáš , Syväranta Jari , Kiljunen Mikko , Čech Martin , Blabolil Petr , Vašek Mojmír , Sajdlová Zuzana , Chung Son Hoang The , Šmejkal Marek , Frouzová Jaroslava , Peterka Jiří
Published: December 2016

The number of herbivores in populations of ectothermic vertebrates decreases with increasing latitude. At higher latitudes, fish consuming plant matter are exclusively omnivorous. We assess whether omnivorous fish readily shift to herbivory or whether animal prey is typically preferred. We address temperature as the key factor causing their absence at higher latitudes and discuss the potential poleward dispersion caused by climate changes. A controlled experiment illustrates that rudd (Scardinius erythrophthalmus) readily utilize plant matter at water temperatures above 20 °C and avoid its consumption below 20 °C. Field data support these results, showing that plant matter dominates rudd diets during the summer and is absent during the spring. Utilizing cellulose requires the enzyme cellulase, which is produced by microorganisms growing at temperatures of 15–42 °C. Water temperatures at higher latitudes do not reach 15 °C year-round; at our latitude of 50°N~150 days/year. Hence, the species richness of omnivorous fish decreases dramatically above 55° latitude. Our results provide support for the hypothesis that strict herbivorous specialists have developed only in the tropics. Temperatures below 15 °C, even for a short time period, inactivate cellulase and cause diet limitations for omnivorous fish. However, we may expect increases in herbivory at higher latitudes caused by climate change.
Formation of amorphous calcium carbonate in caves and its implications for speleothem research
Authors: Demény Attila , Németh Péter , Czuppon György , Leél-Őssy Szabolcs , Szabó Máté , Judik Katalin , Németh Tibor , Stieber József
Published: December 2016

Speleothem deposits are among the most valuable continental formations in paleoclimate research, as they can be dated using absolute dating methods, and they also provide valuable climate proxies. However, alteration processes such as post-depositional mineralogical transformations can significantly influence the paleoclimatic application of their geochemical data. An innovative sampling and measurement protocol combined with scanning and transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy is presented, demonstrating that carbonate precipitating from drip water in caves at ~10 °C contains amorphous calcium carbonate (ACC) that later transforms to nanocrystalline calcite. Stable oxygen isotope fractionations among calcite, ACC and water were also determined, proving that ACC is 18O-depleted (by >2.4 ± 0.8‰) relative to calcite. This, in turn, has serious consequences for speleothem-based fluid inclusion research as closed system transformation of ACC to calcite may induce a negative oxygen isotope shift in fluid inclusion water, resulting in deterioration of the original compositions. ACC formation increases the speleothems’ sensitivity to alteration as its interaction with external solutions may result in the partial loss of original proxy signals. Mineralogical analysis of freshly precipitating carbonate at the studied speleothem site is suggested in order to determine the potential influence of ACC formation.
Reduced host-specificity in a parasite infecting non-littoral Lake Tanganyika cichlids evidenced by intraspecific morphological and genetic diversity
Authors: Kmentová Nikol , Gelnar Milan , Mendlová Monika , Van Steenberge Maarten , Koblmüller Stephan , Vanhove Maarten P. M.
Published: December 2016

Lake Tanganyika is well-known for its high species-richness and rapid radiation processes. Its assemblage of cichlid fishes recently gained momentum as a framework to study parasite ecology and evolution. It offers a rare chance to investigate the influence of a deepwater lifestyle in a freshwater fish-parasite system. Our study represents the first investigation of parasite intraspecific genetic structure related to host specificity in the lake. It focused on the monogenean flatworm Cichlidogyrus casuarinus infecting deepwater cichlids belonging to Bathybates and Hemibates. Morphological examination of C. casuarinus had previously suggested a broad host range, while the lake’s other Cichlidogyrus species are usually host specific. However, ongoing speciation or cryptic diversity could not be excluded. To distinguish between these hypotheses, we analysed intraspecific diversity of C. casuarinus. Monogeneans from nearly all representatives of the host genera were examined using morphometrics, geomorphometrics and genetics. We confirmed the low host-specificity of C. casuarinus based on morphology and nuclear DNA. Yet, intraspecific variation of sclerotized structures was observed. Nevertheless, the highly variable mitochondrial DNA indicated recent population expansion, but no ongoing parasite speciation, confirming, for the first time in freshwater, reduced parasite host specificity in the deepwater realm, probably an adaptation to low host availability.
Passive immunization with anti-ActA and anti-listeriolysin O antibodies protects against Listeria monocytogenes infection in mice
Authors: Asano Krisana , Sashinami Hiroshi , Osanai Arihiro , Hirose Shouhei , Ono Hisaya K. , Narita Kouji , Hu Dong-Liang , Nakane Akio
Published: December 2016

Listeria monocytogenes is an intracellular pathogen that causes listeriosis. Due to its intracellular niche, L. monocytogenes has evolved to limit immune recognition and response to infection. Antibodies that are slightly induced by listerial infection are completely unable to protect re-infection of L. monocytogenes. Thus, a role of antibody on the protective effect against L. monocytogenes infection has been neglected for a long time. In the present study, we reported that passive immunization with an excessive amount of antibodies against ActA and listeriolysin O (LLO) attenuates severity of L. monocytogenes infection. Combination of these antibodies improved survival of L. monocytogenes infected mice. Bacterial load in spleen and liver of listerial infected mice and infected RAW264.7 cells were significantly reduced by administration of anti-ActA and anti-LLO antibodies. In addition, anti-LLO antibody neutralized LLO activity and inhibited the bacterial escape from the lysosomal compartments. Moreover, anti-ActA antibody neutralized ActA activity and suppressed actin tail formation and cell-to-cell spread. Thus, our studies reveal that passive immunization with the excessive amount of anti-ActA and -LLO antibodies has potential to provide the protective effect against listerial infection.
The identity of belowground herbivores, not herbivore diversity, mediates impacts on plant productivity
Authors: Milosavljević Ivan , Esser Aaron D. , Bosque-Pérez Nilsa A. , Crowder David W.
Published: December 2016

Across many ecosystems, increases in species biodiversity generally results in greater resource acquisition by consumers. Few studies examining the impacts of consumer diversity on resource capture have focused on terrestrial herbivores, however, especially taxa that feed belowground. Here we conducted field mesocosm experiments to examine the effects of variation in species richness and composition within a community of wireworm herbivores on wheat plant productivity. Our experiments involved wireworm communities consisting of between one and three species, with all possible combinations of species represented. We found that the presence of wireworms reduced plant biomass and seed viability, but wireworm species richness did not impact these plant metrics. Species identity effects were strong, as two species, Limonius californicus and Selatosomus pruininus, had significantly stronger impacts on plants compared to L. infuscatus. Communities with either of the two most impactful species consistently had the greatest impact on wheat plants. The effects of wireworms were thus strongly dependent on the particular species present rather than the overall diversity of the wireworm community. More broadly, our study supports the general finding that the identity of particular consumer species within communities often has greater impacts on ecosystem functioning than species richness.
A simple and rapid method for optical visualization and quantification of bacteria on textiles
Authors: Stiefel Philipp , Schneider Jana , Amberg Caroline , Maniura-Weber Katharina , Ren Qun
Published: December 2016

To prevent bacterial contamination on textiles and the associated undesired effects different biocidal coatings have been investigated and applied. However, due to health and environmental concerns anti-adhesive coatings preventing the binding of bacteria would be favored. To develop such anti-adhesive coatings simple assays for reliable and fast screening are beneficial. Here an easy-to-handle, robust and rapid assay to assess bacteria on textiles utilizing a tetrazolium salt was reported. The assay allowed direct eye visualization of the color change of the textiles containing bacteria, facilitating fast screening. Quantification of the adhered bacteria could be done by generating standard curves which correlate the staining intensity to cell numbers. An additional advantage of the described assay is that with the same detection method anti-adhesive and biocidal effects can be investigated. The method was applied to different coatings, using Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus as model organisms. The detection limit was found to be between 2.5 * 106 and 9.4 * 108 for P. aeruginosa and between 1 * 106 and 3.3 * 108 for S. aureus. The anti-adhesive coating PLUMA was demonstrated to reduce bacterial adhesion without killing them, whereas the biocidal coating TH22-27 caused a clear reduction in the number of viable cells.
Ultrahigh Oxidation Resistance and High Electrical Conductivity in Copper-Silver Powder
Authors: Li Jiaxiang , Li Yunping , Wang Zhongchang , Bian Huakang , Hou Yuhang , Wang Fenglin , Xu Guofu , Liu Bin , Liu Yong
Published: December 2016

The electrical conductivity of pure Cu powder is typically deteriorated at elevated temperatures due to the oxidation by forming non-conducting oxides on surface, while enhancing oxidation resistance via alloying is often accompanied by a drastic decline of electrical conductivity. Obtaining Cu powder with both a high electrical conductivity and a high oxidation resistance represents one of the key challenges in developing next-generation electrical transferring powder. Here, we fabricate a Cu-Ag powder with a continuous Ag network along grain boundaries of Cu particles and demonstrate that this new structure can inhibit the preferential oxidation in grain boundaries at elevated temperatures. As a result, the Cu-Ag powder displays considerably high electrical conductivity and high oxidation resistance up to approximately 300 °C, which are markedly higher than that of pure Cu powder. This study paves a new pathway for developing novel Cu powders with much enhanced electrical conductivity and oxidation resistance in service.
Cross-protective efficacy of dendritic cells targeting conserved influenza virus antigen expressed by Lactobacillus plantarum
Authors: Yang Wen-Tao , Shi Shao-Hua , Yang Gui-Lian , Jiang Yan-Long , Zhao Liang , Li Yu , Wang Chun-Feng
Published: December 2016

Avian influenza virus (AIV) can infect birds and mammals, including humans, and are thus a serious threat to public health. Vaccination is vital for controlling AIV circulation. In this study, we generated a recombinant lactobacillus expressing the NP-M1-DCpep of H9N2 avian influenza virus and evaluated the activation effect of NC8-pSIP409-NP-M1-DCpep on dendritic cells (DCs) in a mouse model. The specific mucosal antibody responses and B and T cell responses in lymphoid tissues were also characterized. Importantly, we confirmed that specific CD8 T cells presented in vitro and antigen-specific cytotoxicity (activated the expression of CD107a) and in vivo antigen-specific cytotoxicity after vaccination. The adoptive transfer of NC8-pSIP409-NP-M1-DCpep-primed CD8+ T cells into NOD-SCID mice resulted in effective protection against mouse-adapted AIV infection. In addition, we observed protection in immunized mice challenged with mouse-adapted H9N2 AIV and H1N1 influenza virus, as evidenced by reductions in the lung virus titers, improvements in lung pathology, and weight loss and complete survival. Our data are promising for the generation of effective, non-traditional influenza vaccines against AIVs.
Glycosides from edible sea cucumbers stimulate macrophages via purinergic receptors
Authors: Aminin Dmitry , Pislyagin Evgeny , Astashev Maxim , Es’kov Andrey , Kozhemyako Valery , Avilov Sergei , Zelepuga Elena , Yurchenko Ekaterina , Kaluzhskiy Leonid , Kozlovskaya Emma , Ivanov Alexis , Stonik Valentin
Published: December 2016

Since ancient times, edible sea cucumbers have been considered a jewel of the seabed and used in Asian folk medicine for stimulation of resistance against different diseases. However, the power of this sea food has not been established on a molecular level. A particular group of triterpene glycosides was found to be characteristic metabolites of the animals, responsible for this biological action. Using one of them, cucumarioside A2-2 (CA2-2) from the edible Cucumaria japonica species as an example as well as inhibitory analysis, patch-clamp on single macrophages, small interfering RNA technique, immunoblotting, SPR analysis, computer modeling and other methods, we demonstrate low doses of CA2-2 specifically to interact with P2X receptors (predominantly P2X4) on membranes of mature macrophages, enhancing the reversible ATP-dependent Ca2+ intake and recovering Ca2+ transport at inactivation of these receptors. As result, interaction of glycosides of this type with P2X receptors leads to activation of cellular immunity.
Hydrogen sulfide - cysteine cycle system enhances cadmium tolerance through alleviating cadmium-induced oxidative stress and ion toxicity in Arabidopsis roots
Authors: Jia Honglei , Wang Xiaofeng , Dou Yanhua , Liu Dan , Si Wantong , Fang Hao , Zhao Chen , Chen Shaolin , Xi Jiejun , Li Jisheng
Published: December 2016

Cadmium (Cd2+) is a common toxic heavy metal ion. We investigated the roles of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and cysteine (Cys) in plant responses to Cd2+ stress. The expression of H2S synthetic genes LCD and DES1 were induced by Cd2+ within 3 h, and endogenous H2S was then rapidly released. H2S promoted the expression of Cys synthesis-related genes SAT1 and OASA1, which led to endogenous Cys accumulation. The H2S and Cys cycle system was stimulated by Cd2+ stress, and it maintained high levels in plant cells. H2S inhibited the ROS burst by inducing alternative respiration capacity (AP) and antioxidase activity. H2S weakened Cd2+ toxicity by inducing the metallothionein (MTs) genes expression. Cys promoted GSH accumulation and inhibited the ROS burst, and GSH induced the expression of phytochelatin (PCs) genes, counteracting Cd2+ toxicity. In summary, the H2S and Cys cycle system played a key role in plant responses to Cd2+ stress. The Cd2+ tolerance was weakened when the cycle system was blocked in lcddes1-1 and oasa1 mutants. This paper is the first to describe the role of the H2S and Cys cycle system in Cd2+ stress and to explore the relevant and specificity mechanisms of H2S and Cys in mediating Cd2+ stress.
Kink pair production and dislocation motion
Authors: Fitzgerald S. P.
Published: December 2016

The motion of extended defects called dislocations controls the mechanical properties of crystalline materials such as strength and ductility. Under moderate applied loads, this motion proceeds via the thermal nucleation of kink pairs. The nucleation rate is known to be a highly nonlinear function of the applied load, and its calculation has long been a theoretical challenge. In this article, a stochastic path integral approach is used to derive a simple, general, and exact formula for the rate. The predictions are in excellent agreement with experimental and computational investigations, and unambiguously explain the origin of the observed extreme nonlinearity. The results can also be applied to other systems modelled by an elastic string interacting with a periodic potential, such as Josephson junctions in superconductors.
Genomes of coral dinoflagellate symbionts highlight evolutionary adaptations conducive to a symbiotic lifestyle
Authors: Aranda M. , Li Y. , Liew Y. J. , Baumgarten S. , Simakov O. , Wilson M. C. , Piel J. , Ashoor H. , Bougouffa S. , Bajic V. B. , Ryu T. , Ravasi T. , Bayer T. , Micklem G. , Kim H. , Bhak J. , LaJeunesse T. C. , Voolstra C. R.
Published: December 2016

Despite half a century of research, the biology of dinoflagellates remains enigmatic: they defy many functional and genetic traits attributed to typical eukaryotic cells. Genomic approaches to study dinoflagellates are often stymied due to their large, multi-gigabase genomes. Members of the genusSymbiodiniumare photosynthetic endosymbionts of stony corals that provide the foundation of coral reef ecosystems. Their smaller genome sizes provide an opportunity to interrogate evolution and functionality of dinoflagellate genomes and endosymbiosis. We sequenced the genome of the ancestralSymbiodinium microadriaticumand compared it to the genomes of the more derivedSymbiodinium minutumandSymbiodinium kawagutiiand eukaryote model systems as well as transcriptomes from other dinoflagellates. Comparative analyses of genome and transcriptome protein sets show that all dinoflagellates, not onlySymbiodinium, possess significantly more transmembrane transporters involved in the exchange of amino acids, lipids, and glycerol than other eukaryotes. Importantly, we find that onlySymbiodiniumharbor an extensive transporter repertoire associated with the provisioning of carbon and nitrogen. Analyses of these transporters show species-specific expansions, which provides a genomic basis to explain differential compatibilities to an array of hosts and environments, and highlights the putative importance of gene duplications as an evolutionary mechanism in dinoflagellates andSymbiodinium.
The citrus flavonoid naringenin confers protection in a murine endotoxaemia model through AMPK-ATF3-dependent negative regulation of the TLR4 signalling pathway
Authors: Liu Xin , Wang Ning , Fan Shijun , Zheng Xinchuan , Yang Yongjun , Zhu Yuanfeng , Lu Yongling , Chen Qian , Zhou Hong , Zheng Jiang
Published: December 2016

Excessive activation of the TLR4 signalling pathway is critical for inflammation-associated disorders, while negative regulators play key roles in restraining TLR4 from over-activation. Naringenin is a citrus flavonoid with remarkable anti-inflammatory activity, but the mechanisms underlying its inhibition of LPS/TLR4 signalling are less clear. This study investigated the molecular targets and therapeutic effects of naringenin in vitro and in vivo. In LPS-stimulated murine macrophages, naringenin suppressed the expression of TNF-α, IL-6, TLR4, inducible NO synthase (iNOS), cyclo-oxygenase-2 (COX2) and NADPH oxidase-2 (NOX2). Naringenin also inhibited NF-κB and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) activation. However, it did not affect the IRF3 signalling pathway or interferon production, which upregulate activating transcription factor 3 (ATF3), an inducible negative regulator of TLR4 signalling. Naringenin was demonstrated to directly increase ATF3 expression. Inhibition of AMPK and its upstream calcium-dependent signalling reduced ATF3 expression and dampened the anti-inflammatory activity of naringenin. In murine endotoxaemia models, naringenin ameliorated pro-inflammatory reactions and improved survival. Furthermore, it induced AMPK activation in lung tissues, which was required for ATF3 upregulation and the enhanced anti-inflammatory activity. Overall, this study reveals a novel mechanism of naringenin through AMPK-ATF3-dependent negative regulation of the LPS/TLR4 signalling pathway, which thereby confers protection against murine endotoxaemia.
An expressed, endogenous Nodavirus-like element captured by a retrotransposon in the genome of the plant parasitic nematode Bursaphelenchus xylophilus
Authors: Cotton James A. , Steinbiss Sascha , Yokoi Toshiro , Tsai Isheng J. , Kikuchi Taisei
Published: December 2016

Recently, nematode viruses infecting Caenorhabditis elegans have been reported from the family Nodaviridae, the first nematode viruses described. Here, we report the observation of a novel endogenous viral element (EVE) in the genome of Bursaphelenchus xylophilus, a plant parasitic nematode unrelated to other nematodes from which viruses have been characterised. This element derives from a different clade of nodaviruses to the previously reported nematode viruses. This represents the first endogenous nodavirus sequence, the first nematode endogenous viral element, and significantly extends our knowledge of the potential diversity of the Nodaviridae. A search for endogenous elements related to the Nodaviridae did not reveal any elements in other available nematode genomes. Further surveillance for endogenous viral elements is warranted as our knowledge of nematode genome diversity, and in particular of free-living nematodes, expands.
Assessment of turbulent viscous stress using ICOSA 4D Flow MRI for prediction of hemodynamic blood damage
Authors: Ha Hojin , Lantz Jonas , Haraldsson Henrik , Casas Belen , Ziegler Magnus , Karlsson Matts , Saloner David , Dyverfeldt Petter , Ebbers Tino
Published: December 2016

Flow-induced blood damage plays an important role in determining the hemodynamic impact of abnormal blood flow, but quantifying of these effects, which are dominated by shear stresses in highly fluctuating turbulent flow, has not been feasible. This study evaluated the novel application of turbulence tensor measurements using simulated 4D Flow MRI data with six-directional velocity encoding for assessing hemodynamic stresses and corresponding blood damage index (BDI) in stenotic turbulent blood flow. The results showed that 4D Flow MRI underestimates the maximum principal shear stress of laminar viscous stress (PLVS), and overestimates the maximum principal shear stress of Reynolds stress (PRSS) with increasing voxel size. PLVS and PRSS were also overestimated by about 1.2 and 4.6 times at medium signal to noise ratio (SNR) = 20. In contrast, the square sum of the turbulent viscous shear stress (TVSS), which is used for blood damage index (BDI) estimation, was not severely affected by SNR and voxel size. The square sum of TVSS and the BDI at SNR >20 were underestimated by less than 1% and 10%, respectively. In conclusion, this study demonstrated the feasibility of 4D Flow MRI based quantification of TVSS and BDI which are closely linked to blood damage.
A20 Curtails Primary but Augments Secondary CD8+ T Cell Responses in Intracellular Bacterial Infection
Authors: Just Sissy , Nishanth Gopala , Buchbinder Jörn H. , Wang Xu , Naumann Michael , Lavrik Inna , Schlüter Dirk
Published: December 2016

The ubiquitin-modifying enzyme A20, an important negative feedback regulator of NF-κB, impairs the expansion of tumor-specific CD8+ T cells but augments the proliferation of autoimmune CD4+ T cells. To study the T cell-specific function of A20 in bacterial infection, we infected T cell-specific A20 knockout (CD4-Cre A20fl/fl) and control mice with Listeria monocytogenes. A20-deficient pathogen-specific CD8+ T cells expanded stronger resulting in improved pathogen control at day 7 p.i. Imaging flow cytometry revealed that A20-deficient Listeria-specific CD8+ T cells underwent increased apoptosis and necroptosis resulting in reduced numbers of memory CD8+ T cells. In contrast, the primary CD4+ T cell response was A20-independent. Upon secondary infection, the increase and function of pathogen-specific CD8+ T cells, as well as pathogen control were significantly impaired in CD4-Cre A20fl/fl mice. In vitro, apoptosis and necroptosis of Listeria-specific A20-deficient CD8+ T cells were strongly induced as demonstrated by increased caspase-3/7 activity, RIPK1/RIPK3 complex formation and more morphologically apoptotic and necroptotic CD8+ T cells. In vitro, A20 limited CD95L and TNF-induced caspase3/7 activation. In conclusion, T cell-specific A20 limited the expansion but reduced apoptosis and necroptosis of Listeria-specific CD8+ T cells, resulting in an impaired pathogen control in primary but improved clearance in secondary infection.
Estimation of the toxicity of sulfadiazine to Daphnia magna using negligible depletion hollow-fiber liquid-phase microextraction independent of ambient pH
Authors: Liu Kailin , Xu Shiji , Zhang Minghuan , Kou Yahong , Zhou Xiaomao , Luo Kun , Hu Lifeng , Liu Xiangying , Liu Min , Bai Lianyang
Published: December 2016

The toxicity of ionizable organic compounds to organisms depends on the pH, which therefore affects risk assessments of these compounds. However, there is not a direct chemical method to predict the toxicity of ionizable organic compounds. To determine whether hollow-fiber liquid-phase microextraction (HF-LPME) is applicable for this purpose, a three-phase HF-LPME was used to measure sulfadiazine and estimate its toxicity to Daphnia magna in solutions of different pH. The result indicated that the sulfadiazine concentrations measured by HF-LPME decreased with increasing pH, which is consistent with the decreased toxicity. The concentration immobilize 50% of the daphnids (EC50) in 48 h calculated from nominal concentrations increased from 11.93 to 273.5 mg L−1 as the pH increased from 6.0 to 8.5, and the coefficient of variation (CV) of the EC50 values reached 104.6%. When calculated from the concentrations measured by HF-LPME (pH 12 acceptor phase), the EC50 ranged from 223.4 to 394.6 mg L−1, and the CV decreased to 27.60%, suggesting that the concentrations measured by HF-LPME can be used to estimate the toxicity of sulfadiazine irrespective of the solution pH.
New Formyl Phloroglucinol Meroterpenoids from the Leaves of Eucalyptus robusta
Authors: Shang Zhi-Chun , Yang Ming-Hua , Liu Rui-Huan , Wang Xiao-Bing , Kong Ling-Yi
Published: December 2016

Seven new formyl phloroglucinol meroterpenoids (FPMs), namely eucalrobusones J-P (1–7), as well as three known ones (8–10) were isolated from the leaves of Eucalyptus robusta. Their structures were elucidated by spectroscopic data analysis, and their absolute configurations were determined by applications of the Snatzke’s helicity rule and the electron circular dichroism (ECD) calculation. These FPMs are diverse in coupling patterns between phloroglucinol and sesquiterpenoid units, forming novel polycyclic ring systems. Compound 1 possesses a new carbon skeleton that a 1-oxaspiro[5.6]dodecane core is formed through C-14 rather than C-4 of the aromadendrane moiety. Compound 2 features a novel 6/7/5 ring-fused 6-oxabicyclo[3.2.2]nonane skeleton. Compounds 3–5 are rare aristolane-based FPMs. By forming different oxo bridges, compound 3 is the first sample of FPM with benzo-dihydrofuran structure, and compound 4 possesses a novel 6/6/6/6/3-fused pentacyclic skeleton. Compounds 1, 6, and 8 exhibited significant antifungal activities against Candida glabrata with MIC50 values of 2.57, 1.95, and 2.49 μg/mL, respectively.
Tauroursodeoxycholic acid reduces ER stress by regulating of Akt-dependent cellular prion protein
Authors: Yoon Yeo Min , Lee Jun Hee , Yun Seung Pil , Han Yong-Seok , Yun Chul Won , Lee Hyun Jik , Noh Hyunjin , Lee Sei-Jung , Han Ho Jae , Lee Sang Hun
Published: December 2016

Although mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are a promising cell source for regenerative medicine, ischemia-induced endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress induces low MSC engraftment and limits their therapeutic efficacy. To overcome this, we investigated the protective effect of tauroursodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA), a bile acid, on ER stress in MSCs in vitro and in vivo. In ER stress conditions, TUDCA treatment of MSCs reduced the activation of ER stress-associated proteins, including GRP78, PERK, eIF2α, ATF4, IRE1α, JNK, p38, and CHOP. In particular, TUDCA inhibited the dissociation between GRP78 and PERK, resulting in reduced ER stress-mediated cell death. Next, to explore the ER stress protective mechanism induced by TUDCA treatment, TUDCA-mediated cellular prion protein (PrPC) activation was assessed. TUDCA treatment increased PrPC expression, which was regulated by Akt phosphorylation. Manganese-dependent superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) expression also increased significantly in response to signaling through the TUDCA-Akt axis. In a murine hindlimb ischemia model, TUDCA-treated MSC transplantation augmented the blood perfusion ratio, vessel formation, and transplanted cell survival more than untreated MSC transplantation did. Augmented functional recovery following MSC transplantation was blocked by PrPC downregulation. This study is the first to demonstrate that TUDCA protects MSCs against ER stress via Akt-dependent PrPC and Akt-MnSOD pathway.
Regio-selective synthesis of diversely substituted benzo[a]carbazoles through Rh(iii)-catalyzed annulation of 2-arylindoles with α-diazo carbonyl compounds
Authors: Li Bin , Zhang Beibei , Zhang Xinying , Fan Xuesen
Published: December 2016

A novel synthetic approach toward benzo[a]carbazoles and 6-aminobenzo[a]carbazoles containing an unprotected NH unit through Rh(iii)-catalyzed cascade reactions of 2-arylindoles or 2-arylindole-3-carbonitriles with α-diazo carbonyl compounds is presented.
A far-red emitting fluorescent marker protein, mGarnet2, for microscopy and STED nanoscopy
Authors: Matela Gabriela , Gao Peng , Guigas Gernot , Eckert Antonia F. , Nienhaus Karin , Ulrich Nienhaus G.
Published: December 2016

We report an advanced monomeric far-red fluorescent marker protein, mGarnet2, which shows excellent performance as a live-cell fusion marker for microscopy as well as STED nanoscopy with 640 nm excitation and 780 nm depletion wavelengths.
Assessing the electrochemical properties of polypyridine and polythiophene for prospective applications in sustainable organic batteries
Authors: Araujo Rafael B. , Banerjee Amitava , Panigrahi Puspamitra , Yang Li , Sjödin Martin , Strømme Maria , Araujo C. Moyses , Ahuja Rajeev
Published: December 2016

In this work, a theoretical protocol has been developed to calculate redox potentials in solution within the framework of the density functional theory and using continuous solvation model.
Anilinopyridinate-supported Ru2x+ (x = 5 or 6) paddlewheel complexes with labile axial ligands
Authors: Corcos Amanda R. , Berry John F.
Published: December 2016

Five new metal–metal bonded Ru2 amidinate compounds with labile axial ligands are presented and discussed.
Developing the family of picolinate ligands for Mn2+ complexation
Authors: Forgács Attila , Pujales-Paradela Rosa , Regueiro-Figueroa Martín , Valencia Laura , Esteban-Gómez David , Botta Mauro , Platas-Iglesias Carlos
Published: December 2016

The relaxivities of Mn2+-based contrast agents can be increased by introducing lipophilic chains that promote the formation of micelles.
A base-free synthetic route to anti-bimetallic lanthanide pentalene complexes
Authors: Kilpatrick Alexander F. R. , Cloke F. Geoffrey N.
Published: December 2016

Homobimetallic complexes of Yb, Eu and Sm bridged by a silylated pentalene ligand have been prepared and intermetallic communication studied by magnetic measurements and cyclic voltammetry.
Correction: Preparation of Pt–Tl clusters showing new geometries. X-ray, NMR and luminescence studies
Authors: Belío Úrsula , Fuertes Sara , Martín Antonio
Published: December 2016

Correction for ‘Preparation of Pt–Tl clusters showing new geometries. X-ray, NMR and luminescence studies by Úrsula Belío et al., Dalton Trans., 2014, 43, 10828–10843.
Solar hydrogen production using epitaxial SrTiO3 on a GaAs photovoltaic
Authors: Kornblum L. , Fenning D. P. , Faucher J. , Hwang J. , Boni A. , Han M. G. , Morales-Acosta M. D. , Zhu Y. , Altman E. I. , Lee M. L. , Ahn C. H. , Walker F. J. , Shao-Horn Y.
Published: December 2016

We demonstrate an oxide-stabilized III–V photoelectrode architecture for solar fuel production from water in neutral pH.
Predicting the solubility of mixtures of sugars and their replacers using the Flory–Huggins theory
Authors: van der Sman R. G. M.
Published: December 2016

In this paper we investigate whether the Flory–Huggins theory can describe the thermodynamics of solutions of simple carbohydrates, like sugars and polyols.
Development and validation of a new method for the precise and accurate determination of trace elements in silicon by ICP-OES in high silicon matrices
Authors: Rietig A. , Acker J.
Published: December 2016

A ready-to-use method for the precise and fast determination of impurities in silicon is presented.
Deceleration of thermal ring closure in a glass-forming mexylaminotriazine-substituted merocyanine (MC) linked to intramolecular hydrogen bonding
Authors: Piskorz Konrad , Dust Julian M. , Buncel Erwin , Lebel Olivier , Nunzi Jean-Michel
Published: December 2016

A new glass-forming photochromic spiropyran dye is reported, and its ring closure reaction is hindered by intramolecular hydrogen bonding.
Whole cell-SELEX of aptamers with a tyrosine-like side chain against live bacteria
Authors: Renders Marleen , Miller Emily , Lam Curtis H. , Perrin David M.
Published: December 2016

A dUTP analog modified with a phenol that mimicks tyrosine was used in the selection of DNA aptamers against live bacteria, thereby expanding the binding and recognition capabilities of aptamers.
A novel 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid-based bis(cyclic carbonate) for the synthesis of biobased non-isocyanate polyurethanes
Authors: Zhang Lu , Luo Xiaolan , Qin Yusheng , Li Yebo
Published: December 2016

A novel route was introduced for the production of non-isocyanate polyurethanes from biobased 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid with the incorporation of CO2.
Three-dimensional highly conductive silver nanowires sponges based on cotton-templated porous structures for stretchable conductors
Authors: Zhu Chun-Hua , Li Li-Ming , Wang Jian-Hua , Wu Ye-Ping , Liu Yu
Published: December 2016

A stretchable conductor was explored by embedding a binary structure fabricated from an interconnected porous structure of cotton as skeleton along with supported 2D AgNWs network into PDMS, which showed excellent electrical and mechanical properties.
The 3D mechanical environment and chemical milieu influence the hMSC fibrogenesis and fibroblast-to-myofibroblast transition
Authors: Xu Ruodan , Besenbacher Flemming , Chen Menglin
Published: December 2016

A fibrinogen based hydrogel scaffold provided 3D microenvironment for enhanced human mesenchymal stem cell proliferation, embedded connective tissue growth factor for directed fibrogenesis, and compliant substrate for alleviated myofibrogenesis.
Identification and analysis of promiscuity cliffs formed by bioactive compounds and experimental implications
Authors: Dimova Dilyana , Gilberg Erik , Bajorath Jürgen
Published: December 2016

For three promiscuity cliffs (enclosed), cliff compounds, their promiscuity degrees (PDs), and color-coded substitution sites are shown. Comparison of these cliffs suggests the design of a new analog to further explore promiscuity.
Retracted Article: Multifunctional fluorescent chalcogenide hybrid nanodots (MoSe2:CdS and WSe2:CdS) as electro catalyst (for oxygen reduction/oxygen evolution reactions) and sensing probe for lead
Authors: Karfa Paramita , Madhuri Rashmi , Sharma Prashant K.
Published: December 2016

We present the multi-functional application of transition metal chalcogenides nanohybrid dots as bifunctional electrocatalyst for OER/ORR and fluorescent probes for Pb2+.
Correction: Local heterojunctions of atomic Pt clusters boost the oxygen reduction activity of Rucore@Pdshell nanocrystallites
Authors: Wang Jeng Han , Wang Kuan-Wen , Chen Tian-Lin , Wang Chia-Hsin , Huang Yu-Ming , Hsu Yang-Yang , Chen Tsan-Yao
Published: December 2016

Correction for ‘Local heterojunctions of atomic Pt clusters boost the oxygen reduction activity of Rucore@Pdshell nanocrystallites’ by Jeng Han Wang et al., J. Mater. Chem. A, 2016, 4, 17848–17856.
Scaling it down: new in vitro tools to get the balance right
Authors: Biggs Emma K. , Gribble Fiona M. , Reimann Frank
Published: December 2016

Treatments for diabetes and obesity based on enteroendocrine hormones are a focus of research interest, partly due to the successes of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) mimetic peptides in the treatment of diabetes and the correlation of altered enteroendocrine profiles with the positive metabolic outcomes of gastric bypass surgery. It is thought that simultaneous stimulation of more than one receptor might mimic the superior efficacy of the latter and dual or triple-agonist peptides are under investigation. An important step in developing multiple agonists is to establish the relative pharmacological potency and efficacy of new molecules at its different target receptors, and to optimise the balance of activities to achieve the desired treatment outcome. In a recent issue of the Biochemical Journal, Naylor et al. described how they used CRISPR technology to modulate endogenous receptor density in insulinoma cells to get the balance right for a dual incretin peptide engaging both GLP-1- and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide-receptors.
Wavelet‐based cognitive SCMA system for mmWave 5G communication networks
Authors: Hosseini Haleh , Anpalagan Alagan , Raahemifar Kaamran , Erkucuk Serhat
Published: December 2016

Fifth generation (5G) communication networks can achieve high spectral efficiency using sparse code multiple access (SCMA) scheme when large number of users are trying to transmit their data simultaneously. The sparsity of SCMA codewords offers the possibility of applying a low‐complexity message passing algorithm as an alternative to maximum likelihood detector. However, the requirement of densely deployed 5G users is to opportunistically explore new frequencies via cognitive features to overcome spectrum scarcity challenges. In this study, spectrum sensing enables cognitive radio capabilities for the SCMA system applied in millimetre wave (mmWave) 5G communications. Proposed cognitive SCMA system can sense the spectrum holes and adapt the transmission in order to utilise the available subcarriers. Besides, wavelet packet transform based techniques are used instead of conventional Fourier‐based spectrum sensing (FSS) and orthogonal frequency‐division multiple access (OFDMA). Wavelet packet spectrum sensing offers more accurate estimation of frequency and power compared with FSS. On the other hand, wavelet packet multiple access is more flexible and robust against interference compared with OFDMA. The simulation results verify that the proposed method can significantly improve the performance of SCMA system in terms of probabilities of false alarm and detection, and symbol error rate.
Unipolar PWM predictive current‐mode control of a variable‐speed low inductance BLDC motor drive
Authors: Valle Rodolfo L. , de Almeida Pedro M. , Ferreira Andre A. , Barbosa Pedro G.
Published: December 2016

This study presents the design and implementation steps of a digital predictive controller to regulate a low‐inductance, three‐phase, three‐wire permanent magnet brushless DC motor currents. These types of motors are usually driven by multi‐stage converters, switched at high frequencies, or use additional inductances to limit the current ripple. The motor's trapezoidal back electromotive force and rectangular currents waveforms make the design and the tuning process of linear controllers difficult. This task complexity increases when a wide speed range is considered. Digital predictive controllers are easily implemented in digital signal processors (DSPs), being successfully used to regulate currents of different types of power electronic converters. A unipolar pulse width modulation predictive controller is proposed here to regulate the rectangular currents of a brushless DC motor, without the need for any additional filter or converter. Experimental and simulation results using a 5 kW/48 V three‐phase brushless DC (BLDC) motor are presented to demonstrate the feasibility of this proposal. It will be presented a methodology to compensate the conditioning and sampling circuits delays as well as the inverter's semiconductors voltage drop. The control algorithm was implemented in a TMS320F28335 DSP.
Evaluation of polarisability tensors of arbitrarily shaped highly conducting bodies
Authors: Jelinek Lukas , Kratky Ondrej , Capek Miloslav
Published: December 2016

A full‐wave numerical scheme of polarisability (polarisability) tensors evaluation is presented. The method accepts highly conducting bodies of arbitrary shape and explicitly accounts for the radiation as well as ohmic losses. The method is verified on canonical bodies with known polarisability tensors, such as a sphere and a cube, as well as on realistic scatterers. The theoretical developments are followed by a freely available code whose sole user input is the triangular mesh covering the surface of the body under consideration.
Type of active impulse noise suppressing method based on double‐loop antennas in very low frequency/ultra‐low frequency coupling communications
Authors: Liu Yajun , Liu Feng , Yang Debin , Xu Jinwu , Zhang Zhijun
Published: December 2016

Very low frequency/ultra‐low frequency coupling communication systems suffer from severe disturbance from non‐Gaussian impulsive noises which producing significant long tails. Considering the significant in‐band parts of the impulse, traditional noise‐suppression methods are not adequate in improving the signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR), and the performance of existing dipole–loop double antennas active noise suppression systems are limited to a low level due to the different directionality of the antennas. A new double‐loop antennas active noise suppressing system was proposed, in which one multi‐turn loop antenna was employed to receive the useful signals, and one single‐turn loop was employed as the noise reference antenna. A mathematical morphology processor and a time‐switch filter were employed to extract the impulsive noise, and the digital equivalent model of the multi‐turn loop antenna was established filtering the extracted impulsive noise to obtain a duplicate transient, which is highly correlated with the transients received from the multi‐turn loop antenna. The system SNR was improved by subtracting the transient duplicate from the received signals. Simulations were carried out with Monte Carlo method, showing that the SNR can be improved with the gain of about 18dB with communication error rate extremely reduced by orders of magnitude. Experiment system was also designed and established to verify the feasibility and efficiency, and a 50 m communication experiment in an industrial environment showed that the error rate can be decreased from 0.2 to 0.06% while employing the proposed noise suppression method.
On‐resistance reduction in vertical double diffusion metal oxide semiconductor devices using stress applied by thin film
Authors: Wang GuiLian , Ding Guifu , Miao Xiaodan
Published: December 2016

This work presents a novel method of reducing on‐resistance (Ron) in vertical double diffusion metal oxide semiconductor (VDMOS) devices using external stress. By electrodepositing a layer of nickel (Ni) film onto the surface of drain pad, intrinsic film stress is applied on the VDMOS chip. The experiment results show that Ron was reduced by 1.7, 2.4, 4.5, 8.3 and 10.5% when the film stresses were 39.2, 49.3, 61.7, 71.6 and 80.3 MPa, respectively. Moreover, thermal stress between Ni film and VDMOS chip can further reduce Ron when the temperature increases. Compared with conventional methods for Ron reduction, this method is independent of fabrication process of VDMOS devices and capable of controlling accurately the applied stress.
Pasture and the theory of diversification
Authors: Lewis C. D. , Ho C. K. M. , Cullen B. R. , Malcolm B.
Published: December 2016

Diversifying farm activities can reduce the business risk of agricultural production. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of diversifying the types of dairy pastures sown on (1) the average seasonal growth rate (kg DM/ha/day) of pasture and (2) the variability of seasonal growth rate of pasture over time by diversifying the types of pastures grown on a dairy farm. This approach is similar to the approach used to assess the diversification of annual cropping activities, although repeated harvest of pasture by grazing animals and the seasonality of pasture DM production complicates the question. The question investigated was ‘How does substituting chicory (Cichorium intybus L.) or tall fescue (Festuca arundinaceae Schreb.) monocultures for a perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.)–white clover (Trifolium repens L.) pasture in increasing proportions affect (1) the average growth rate (kg DM/ha.day) of pasture and (2) the variability of growth rate of pasture in each season?’. The biophysical model DairyMod was used to simulate 30 years growth of a mixed sward of perennial ryegrass and white clover and monocultures of chicory and tall fescue for two rain-fed locations in the high-rainfall zone of southern Australia. Including chicory in the pasture base had the potential to increase pasture growth rate during the summer–early autumn period compared with growing perennial ryegrass–white clover alone. This increase in pasture growth rate increased variability, and reduced growth rates in late autumn–winter and spring. The simulated growth rates of tall fescue and perennial ryegrass were strongly correlated in all seasons; hence, tall fescue did not reduce the variability of total DM. Further analysis would include price correlations and variability and consider the whole-farm implications. The analysis presented here for the high-rainfall zone showed that introducing alternative forages may have benefits in terms of increasing pasture growth rates at critical times of the production year, but the variability of the growth rate was not reduced.
Establishing a sustainable childhood obesity monitoring system in regional Victoria
Authors: Crooks Nicholas , Strugnell Claudia , Bell Colin , Allender Steve
Published: December 2016

Issue addressed

Childhood obesity poses a significant immediate and long‐term burden to individuals, societies and health systems. Infrequent and inadequate monitoring has led to uncertainty about trends in childhood obesity prevalence in many countries. High‐quality data, collected at regular intervals, over extended timeframes, with high response rates and timely feedback are essential to support prevention efforts. Our aim was to establish a sustainable childhood obesity monitoring system in regional Australia to collect accurate anthropometric and behavioural data, provide timely feedback to communities and build community engagement and capacity.

Methods

All schools from six government regions of South‐West Victoria were invited to participate. Passive (opt‐out) consent was used to collect measured anthropometric and self‐reported behavioural data from children in years 2, 4, and 6, aged 7–12 years.

Results

We achieved a 70% school participation rate (n = 46) and a 93% student response rate (n = 2198) among government and independent schools. Results were reported within 10 weeks post data collection. Harnessing high levels of community engagement throughout the planning, data collection and reporting phases increased community capacity and data utility.

Conclusions

The monitoring system achieved high response rates, community engagement and community capacity building, and delivered results back to the community in a timely manner.

So what?

This system has the potential to provide sustainable monitoring of childhood obesity that is not dependent on external funding. The results of this monitoring will likely inform health promotion efforts in communities across the region.