bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Global and hepatocyte-specific ablation of Bmal1 induces hyperlipidaemia and enhances atherosclerosis
Authors: Pan Xiaoyue , Bradfield Christopher A. , Hussain M. Mahmood
Published: October 2016

Circadian rhythms controlled by clock genes affect plasma lipids. Here we show that global ablation of Bmal1 in Apoe−/− and Ldlr−/− mice and its liver-specific ablation in Apoe−/− (L-Bmal1−/−Apoe−/−) mice increases, whereas overexpression of BMAL1 in L-Bmal1−/−Apoe−/− and Apoe−/−mice decreases hyperlipidaemia and atherosclerosis. Bmal1 deficiency augments hepatic lipoprotein secretion and diminishes cholesterol excretion to the bile. Further, Bmal1 deficiency reduces expression of Shp and Gata4. Reductions in Shp increase Mtp expression and lipoprotein production, whereas reductions in Gata4 diminish Abcg5/Abcg8 expression and biliary cholesterol excretion. Forced SHP expression normalizes lipoprotein secretion with no effect on biliary cholesterol excretion, while forced GATA4 expression increases cholesterol excretion to the bile and reduces plasma lipids in L-Bmal1−/−Apoe−/− and Apoe−/− mice. Thus, our data indicate that Bmal1 modulates lipoprotein production and biliary cholesterol excretion by regulating the expression of Mtp and Abcg5/Abcg8 via Shp and Gata4.
Separating mitochondrial protein assembly and endoplasmic reticulum tethering by selective coupling of Mdm10
Authors: Ellenrieder Lars , Opaliński Łukasz , Becker Lars , Krüger Vivien , Mirus Oliver , Straub Sebastian P. , Ebell Katharina , Flinner Nadine , Stiller Sebastian B. , Guiard Bernard , Meisinger Chris , Wiedemann Nils , Schleiff Enrico , Wagner Richard , Pfanner Nikolaus , Becker Thomas
Published: October 2016

The endoplasmic reticulum–mitochondria encounter structure (ERMES) connects the mitochondrial outer membrane with the ER. Multiple functions have been linked to ERMES, including maintenance of mitochondrial morphology, protein assembly and phospholipid homeostasis. Since the mitochondrial distribution and morphology protein Mdm10 is present in both ERMES and the mitochondrial sorting and assembly machinery (SAM), it is unknown how the ERMES functions are connected on a molecular level. Here we report that conserved surface areas on opposite sides of the Mdm10 β-barrel interact with SAM and ERMES, respectively. We generated point mutants to separate protein assembly (SAM) from morphology and phospholipid homeostasis (ERMES). Our study reveals that the β-barrel channel of Mdm10 serves different functions. Mdm10 promotes the biogenesis of α-helical and β-barrel proteins at SAM and functions as integral membrane anchor of ERMES, demonstrating that SAM-mediated protein assembly is distinct from ER-mitochondria contact sites.
Exploiting endogenous fibrocartilage stem cells to regenerate cartilage and repair joint injury
Authors: Embree Mildred C. , Chen Mo , Pylawka Serhiy , Kong Danielle , Iwaoka George M. , Kalajzic Ivo , Yao Hai , Shi Chancheng , Sun Dongming , Sheu Tzong-Jen , Koslovsky David A. , Koch Alia , Mao Jeremy J.
Published: October 2016

Tissue regeneration using stem cell-based transplantation faces many hurdles. Alternatively, therapeutically exploiting endogenous stem cells to regenerate injured or diseased tissue may circumvent these challenges. Here we show resident fibrocartilage stem cells (FCSCs) can be used to regenerate and repair cartilage. We identify FCSCs residing within the superficial zone niche in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) condyle. A single FCSC spontaneously generates a cartilage anlage, remodels into bone and organizes a haematopoietic microenvironment. Wnt signals deplete the reservoir of FCSCs and cause cartilage degeneration. We also show that intra-articular treatment with the Wnt inhibitor sclerostin sustains the FCSC pool and regenerates cartilage in a TMJ injury model. We demonstrate the promise of exploiting resident FCSCs as a regenerative therapeutic strategy to substitute cell transplantation that could be beneficial for patients suffering from fibrocartilage injury and disease. These data prompt the examination of utilizing this strategy for other musculoskeletal tissues.
Inhibition of TRPV1 channels by a naturally occurring omega-9 fatty acid reduces pain and itch
Authors: Morales-Lázaro Sara L. , Llorente Itzel , Sierra-Ramírez Félix , López-Romero Ana E. , Ortíz-Rentería Miguel , Serrano-Flores Barbara , Simon Sidney A. , Islas León D. , Rosenbaum Tamara
Published: October 2016

The transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) ion channel is mainly found in primary nociceptive afferents whose activity has been linked to pathophysiological conditions including pain, itch and inflammation. Consequently, it is important to identify naturally occurring antagonists of this channel. Here we show that a naturally occurring monounsaturated fatty acid, oleic acid, inhibits TRPV1 activity, and also pain and itch responses in mice by interacting with the vanilloid (capsaicin)-binding pocket and promoting the stabilization of a closed state conformation. Moreover, we report an itch-inducing molecule, cyclic phosphatidic acid, that activates TRPV1 and whose pruritic activity, as well as that of histamine, occurs through the activation of this ion channel. These findings provide insights into the molecular basis of oleic acid inhibition of TRPV1 and also into a way of reducing the pathophysiological effects resulting from its activation.
Actomyosin-dependent dynamic spatial patterns of cytoskeletal components drive mesoscale podosome organization
Authors: Meddens Marjolein B. M. , Pandzic Elvis , Slotman Johan A. , Guillet Dominique , Joosten Ben , Mennens Svenja , Paardekooper Laurent M. , Houtsmuller Adriaan B. , van den Dries Koen , Wiseman Paul W. , Cambi Alessandra
Published: October 2016

Podosomes are cytoskeletal structures crucial for cell protrusion and matrix remodelling in osteoclasts, activated endothelial cells, macrophages and dendritic cells. In these cells, hundreds of podosomes are spatially organized in diversely shaped clusters. Although we and others established individual podosomes as micron-sized mechanosensing protrusive units, the exact scope and spatiotemporal organization of podosome clustering remain elusive. By integrating a newly developed extension of Spatiotemporal Image Correlation Spectroscopy with novel image analysis, we demonstrate that F-actin, vinculin and talin exhibit directional and correlated flow patterns throughout podosome clusters. Pattern formation and magnitude depend on the cluster actomyosin machinery. Indeed, nanoscopy reveals myosin IIA-decorated actin filaments interconnecting multiple proximal podosomes. Extending well-beyond podosome nearest neighbours, the actomyosin-dependent dynamic spatial patterns reveal a previously unappreciated mesoscale connectivity throughout the podosome clusters. This directional transport and continuous redistribution of podosome components provides a mechanistic explanation of how podosome clusters function as coordinated mechanosensory area.
Timely antiretroviral prophylaxis during pregnancy effectively reduces HIV mother-to-child transmission in eight counties in China: a prospective study during 2004–2011
Authors: Wang Qian , Wang Linhong , Fang Liwen , Wang Ailing , Jin Xi , Wang Fang , Wang Xiaoyan , Qiao Yaping , Sullivan Sheena G. , Rutherford Shannon , Zhang Lei
Published: October 2016

This study investigates the improvement of the prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) in China during 2004–2011. A clinic-based prospective study was conducted among HIV-positive pregnant women and their children in eight counties across China. Associated factors of mother-to-child transmission were analyzed using regression analysis. A total of 1,387 HIV+ pregnant women and 1,377 HIV-exposed infants were enrolled. The proportion of pregnant women who received HIV testing increased significantly from 45.1% to 98.9% during 2004–2011. Among whom, the proportion that received antiretroviral (ARV) prophylaxis increased from 61% to 96%, and the corresponding coverage in children increased from 85% to 97% during the same period. In contrast, single-dose nevirapine treatment during delivery declined substantially from 97.9% to 12.7%. Vertical transmission of HIV declined from 11.1% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 5.7–23.3%) in 2004 to 1.2% (95% CI: 0.1–5.8%) in 2011. Women who had a vaginal delivery (compared to emergency caesarian section (odds ratio [OR] = 0.46; 0.23–0.96)) and mothers on multi-ARVs (OR = 0.11; 0.04–0.29) were less likely to transmit HIV to their newborns. Increasing HIV screening enabled timely HIV care and prophylaxis to reduce vertical transmission of HIV. Early and consistent treatment with multi-ARVs during pregnancy is vital for PMTCT.
p21Cip1 plays a critical role in the physiological adaptation to fasting through activation of PPARα
Authors: Lopez-Guadamillas Elena , Fernandez-Marcos Pablo J. , Pantoja Cristina , Muñoz-Martin Maribel , Martínez Dolores , Gómez-López Gonzalo , Campos-Olivas Ramón , Valverde Angela M. , Serrano Manuel
Published: October 2016

Fasting is a physiological stress that elicits well-known metabolic adaptations, however, little is known about the role of stress-responsive tumor suppressors in fasting. Here, we have examined the expression of several tumor suppressors upon fasting in mice. Interestingly, p21 mRNA is uniquely induced in all the tissues tested, particularly in liver and muscle (>10 fold) and this upregulation is independent of p53. Remarkably, in contrast to wild-type mice, p21-null mice become severely morbid after prolonged fasting. The defective adaptation to fasting of p21-null mice is associated to elevated energy expenditure, accelerated depletion of fat stores and premature activation of protein catabolism in the muscle. Analysis of the liver transcriptome and cell-based assays revealed that the absence of p21 partially impairs the transcriptional program of PPARα, a key regulator of fasting metabolism. Finally, treatment of p21-null mice with a PPARα agonist substantially protects them from their accelerated loss of fat upon fasting. We conclude that p21 plays a relevant role in fasting adaptation through the positive regulation of PPARα.
The chemokine CXCL16 modulates neurotransmitter release in hippocampal CA1 area
Authors: Di Castro Maria Amalia , Trettel Flavia , Milior Giampaolo , Maggi Laura , Ragozzino Davide , Limatola Cristina
Published: October 2016

Chemokines have several physio-pathological roles in the brain. Among them, the modulation of synaptic contacts and neurotransmission recently emerged as crucial activities during brain development, in adulthood, upon neuroinflammation and neurodegenerative diseases. CXCL16 is a chemokine normally expressed in the brain, where it exerts neuroprotective activity against glutamate-induced damages through cross communication with astrocytes and the involvement of the adenosine receptor type 3 (A3R) and the chemokine CCL2. Here we demonstrated for the first time that CXCL16 exerts a modulatory activity on inhibitory and excitatory synaptic transmission in CA1 area. We found that CXCL16 increases the frequency of the miniature inhibitory synaptic currents (mIPSCs) and the paired-pulse ratio (PPR) of evoked IPSCs (eIPSCs), suggesting a presynaptic modulation of the probability of GABA release. In addition, CXCL16 increases the frequency of the miniature excitatory synaptic currents (mEPSCs) and reduces the PPR of evoked excitatory transmission, indicating that the chemokine also modulates and enhances the release of glutamate. These effects were not present in the A3RKO mice and in WT slices treated with minocycline, confirming the involvement of A3 receptors and introducing microglial cells as key mediators of the modulatory activity of CXCL16 on neurons.
Correction: Corrigendum: Identification of Altered Metabolomic Profiles Following a Panchakarma-based Ayurvedic Intervention in Healthy Subjects: The Self-Directed Biological Transformation Initiative (SBTI)
Authors: Peterson Christine Tara , Lucas Joseph , John-Williams Lisa St. , Thompson J. Will , Moseley M. Arthur , Patel Sheila , Peterson Scott N. , Porter Valencia , Schadt Eric E. , Mills Paul J. , Tanzi Rudolph E. , Doraiswamy P. Murali , Chopra Deepak
Published: October 2016

Scientific Reports 6: Article number: 32609; published online: 09 September 2016; updated: 10 October 2016.
Detection of Cronobacter sakazakii in powdered infant formula using an immunoliposome-based immunomagnetic concentration and separation assay
Authors: Shukla Shruti , Lee Gibaek , Song Xinjie , Park Jung Hyun , Cho Hyunjeong , Lee Eun Ju , Kim Myunghee
Published: October 2016

This study aimed to optimize the applicability of an immunoliposome-based immunomagnetic concentration and separation assay to facilitate rapid detection of Cronobacter sakazakii in powdered infant formula (PIF). To determine the detection limit, specificity, and pre-enrichment incubation time (0, 4, 6, and 8 h), assay tests were performed with different cell numbers of C. sakazakii (2 × 100 and 2 × 101 CFU/ml) inoculated in 10 g of PIF. The assay was able to detect as few as 2 cells of C. sakazakii/10 g of PIF sample after 6 h of pre-enrichment incubation with an assay time of 2 h 30 min. The assay was assessed for cross-reactivity with other bacterial strains and exhibited strong specificity to C. sakazakii. Moreover, the assay method was applied to the detection of C. sakazakii in PIF without pre-enrichment steps, and the results were compared with INC-ELISA and RT-PCR. The developed method was able to detect C. sakazakii in spiked PIF without pre-enrichment, whereas INC-ELISA failed to detect C. sakazakii. In addition, when compared with the results obtained with RT-PCR, our developed assay required lesser detection time. The developed assay was also not susceptible to any effect of the food matrix or background contaminant microflora.
Hexokinase I N-terminal based peptide prevents the VDAC1-SOD1 G93A interaction and re-establishes ALS cell viability
Authors: Magrì Andrea , Belfiore Ramona , Reina Simona , Tomasello Marianna Flora , Di Rosa Maria Carmela , Guarino Francesca , Leggio Loredana , De Pinto Vito , Messina Angela
Published: October 2016

Superoxide Dismutase 1 mutants associate with 20–25% of familial Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) cases, producing toxic aggregates on mitochondria, notably in spinal cord. The Voltage Dependent Anion Channel isoform 1 (VDAC1) in the outer mitochondrial membrane is a docking site for SOD1 G93A mutant in ALS mice and the physiological receptor of Hexokinase I (HK1), which is poorly expressed in mouse spinal cord. Our results demonstrate that HK1 competes with SOD1 G93A for binding VDAC1, suggesting that in ALS spinal cord the available HK1-binding sites could be used by SOD1 mutants for docking mitochondria, producing thus organelle dysfunction. We tested this model by studying the action of a HK1-N-terminal based peptide (NHK1). This NHK1 peptide specifically interacts with VDAC1, inhibits the SOD1 G93A binding to mitochondria and restores the viability of ALS model NSC34 cells. Altogether, our results suggest that NHK1 peptide could be developed as a therapeutic tool in ALS, predicting an effective role also in other proteinopathies.
Navigable rivers facilitated the spread and recurrence of plague in pre-industrial Europe
Authors: Yue Ricci P. H. , Lee Harry F. , Wu Connor Y. H.
Published: October 2016

Infectious diseases have become a rising challenge to mankind in a globalizing world. Yet, little is known about the inland transmission of infectious diseases in history. In this study, we based on the spatio-temporal information of 5559 plague (Yersinia pestis) outbreaks in Europe and its neighboring regions in AD1347–1760 to statistically examine the connection between navigable rivers and plague outbreak. Our results showed that 95.5% of plague happened within 10 km proximity of navigable rivers. Besides, the count of plague outbreak was positively correlated with the width of river and negatively correlated with the distance between city and river. This association remained robust in different regression model specifications. An increase of 100 m in the width of river and a shortening of 1 km distance between city and river resulted in 9 and 0.96 more plague outbreaks in our study period, respectively. Such relationship shows a declining trend over our study period due to the expansion of city and technological advancement in overland transportation. This study elucidates the key role of navigable river in the dissemination of plague in historical Europe.
Molecular dynamics simulations and docking enable to explore the biophysical factors controlling the yields of engineered nanobodies
Authors: Soler Miguel A. , de Marco Ario , Fortuna Sara
Published: October 2016

Nanobodies (VHHs) have proved to be valuable substitutes of conventional antibodies for molecular recognition. Their small size represents a precious advantage for rational mutagenesis based on modelling. Here we address the problem of predicting how Camelidae nanobody sequences can tolerate mutations by developing a simulation protocol based on all-atom molecular dynamics and whole-molecule docking. The method was tested on two sets of nanobodies characterized experimentally for their biophysical features. One set contained point mutations introduced to humanize a wild type sequence, in the second the CDRs were swapped between single-domain frameworks with Camelidae and human hallmarks. The method resulted in accurate scoring approaches to predict experimental yields and enabled to identify the structural modifications induced by mutations. This work is a promising tool for the in silico development of single-domain antibodies and opens the opportunity to customize single functional domains of larger macromolecules.
Plasmonic/Magnetic Multifunctional nanoplatform for Cancer Theranostics
Authors: Ravichandran M. , Oza Goldie , Velumani S. , Ramirez Jose Tapia , Garcia-Sierra Francisco , Andrade Norma Barragan , Vera A. , Leija L. , Garza-Navarro Marco A.
Published: October 2016

A multifunctional magneto-plasmonic CoFe2O4@Au core-shell nanoparticle was developed by iterative-seeding based method. This nanocargo consists of a cobalt ferrite kernel as a core (Nk) and multiple layers of gold as a functionalizable active stratum, (named as Nk@A after fifth iteration). Nk@A helps in augmenting the physiological stability and enhancing surface plasmon resonance (SPR) property. The targeted delivery of Doxorubicin using Nk@A as a nanopayload is demonstrated in this report. The drug release profile followed first order rate kinetics optimally at pH 5.4, which is considered as an endosomal pH of cells. The cellular MR imaging showed that Nk@A is an efficient T2 contrast agent for both L6 (r2-118.08 mM−1s−1) and Hep2 (r2-217.24 mM−1s−1) cells. Microwave based magnetic hyperthermia studies exhibited an augmentation in the temperature due to the transformation of radiation energy into heat at 2.45 GHz. There was an enhancement in cancer cell cytotoxicity when hyperthermia combined with chemotherapy. Hence, this single nanoplatform can deliver 3-pronged theranostic applications viz., targeted drug-delivery, T2 MR imaging and hyperthermia.
Instability Analysis and Free Volume Simulations of Shear Band Directions and Arrangements in Notched Metallic Glasses
Authors: Li Weidong , Gao Yanfei , Bei Hongbin
Published: October 2016

As a commonly used method to enhance the ductility in bulk metallic glasses (BMGs), the introduction of geometric constraints blocks and confines the propagation of the shear bands, reduces the degree of plastic strain on each shear band so that the catastrophic failure is prevented or delayed, and promotes the formation of multiple shear bands. The clustering of multiple shear bands near notches is often interpreted as the reason for improved ductility. Experimental works on the shear band arrangements in notched metallic glasses have been extensively carried out, but a systematic theoretical study is lacking. Using instability theory that predicts the onset of strain localization and the free-volume-based finite element simulations that predict the evolution of shear bands, this work reveals various categories of shear band arrangements in double edge notched BMGs with respect to the mode mixity of the applied stress fields. A mechanistic explanation is thus provided to a number of related experiments and especially the correlation between various types of shear bands and the stress state.
Dirac semimetal thin films in in-plane magnetic fields
Authors: Siu Zhuo Bin , Jalil Mansoor B. A. , Tan Seng Ghee
Published: October 2016

In this work we study the effects of in-plane magnetic fields on thin films of the Dirac Semimetal (DSM) Na3Bi where one of the in-plane directions is perpendicular to the k-separation between the two Weyl nodes that exist for each spin orientation. We show numerically that the states localized near the surfaces of these thin films are related to the Fermi arc states in semi-infinite slabs. Due to the anisotropy between the two in-plane directions, the application of a magnetic field along these directions have differing effects. A field parallel to the k space separation between the Weyl nodes leads to a broadening of the surface state band and the formation of an energy plateau, while a perpendicular field shifts the energy where the hole and particle bands meet upwards, and sharpens the tips of the bands. We illustrate the effects of these changes to the dispersion relation by studying the transmission from a source segment without a magnetic field to a drain segment with a field, with the field and interface at various in-plane directions.
Correlated activity of cortical neurons survives extensive removal of feedforward sensory input
Authors: Shapcott Katharine A. , Schmiedt Joscha T. , Saunders Richard C. , Maier Alexander , Leopold David A. , Schmid Michael C.
Published: October 2016

A fundamental property of brain function is that the spiking activity of cortical neurons is variable and that some of this variability is correlated between neurons. Correlated activity not due to the stimulus arises from shared input but the neuronal circuit mechanisms that result in these noise correlations are not fully understood. Here we tested in the visual system if correlated variability in mid-level area V4 of visual cortex is altered following extensive lesions of primary visual cortex (V1). To this end we recorded longitudinally the neuronal correlations in area V4 of two behaving macaque monkeys before and after a V1 lesion while the monkeys fixated a grey screen. We found that the correlations of neuronal activity survived the lesions in both monkeys. In one monkey, the correlation of multi-unit spiking signals was strongly increased in the first week post-lesion, while in the second monkey, correlated activity was slightly increased, but not greater than some week-by-week fluctuations observed. The typical drop-off of inter-neuronal correlations with cortical distance was preserved after the lesion. Therefore, as V4 noise correlations remain without feedforward input from V1, these results suggest instead that local and/or feedback input seem to be necessary for correlated activity.
Correction: Corrigendum: Expression of GhNAC2 from G. herbaceum, improves root growth and imparts tolerance to drought in transgenic cotton and Arabidopsis
Authors: Gunapati Samatha , Naresh Ram , Ranjan Sanjay , Nigam Deepti , Hans Aradhana , Verma Praveen C. , Gadre Rekha , Pathre Uday V. , Sane Aniruddha P. , Sane Vidhu A.
Published: October 2016

Scientific Reports 6: Article number: 24978; published online: 26 April 2016; updated: 10 October 2016.
Correction: Corrigendum: A subpopulation of high IL-21-producing CD4+ T cells in Peyer’s Patches is induced by the microbiota and regulates germinal centers
Authors: Jones Leigh , Ho Wen Qi , Ying Sze , Ramakrishna Lakshmi , Srinivasan Kandhadayar G. , Yurieva Marina , Ng Wan Pei , Subramaniam Sharrada , Hamadee Nur H. , Joseph Sabrina , Dolpady Jayashree , Atarashi Koji , Honda Kenya , Zolezzi Francesca , Poidinger Michael , Lafaille Juan J. , Curotto de Lafaille Maria A.
Published: October 2016

Scientific Reports 6: Article number: 30784; published online: 08 August 2016; updated: 10 October 2016.
Genomics-assisted characterization of a breeding collection of Apios americana, an edible tuberous legume
Authors: Belamkar Vikas , Farmer Andrew D. , Weeks Nathan T. , Kalberer Scott R. , Blackmon William J. , Cannon Steven B.
Published: October 2016

For species with potential as new crops, rapid improvement may be facilitated by new genomic methods. Apios (Apios americana Medik.), once a staple food source of Native American Indians, produces protein-rich tubers, tolerates a wide range of soils, and symbiotically fixes nitrogen. We report the first high-quality de novo transcriptome assembly, an expression atlas, and a set of 58,154 SNP and 39,609 gene expression markers (GEMs) for characterization of a breeding collection. Both SNPs and GEMs identify six genotypic clusters in the collection. Transcripts mapped to the Phaseolus vulgaris genome–another phaseoloid legume with the same chromosome number–provide provisional genetic locations for 46,852 SNPs. Linkage disequilibrium decays within 10 kb (based on the provisional genetic locations), consistent with outcrossing reproduction. SNPs and GEMs identify more than 21 marker-trait associations for at least 11 traits. This study demonstrates a holistic approach for mining plant collections to accelerate crop improvement.
Effects of contrast-enhancement, reconstruction slice thickness and convolution kernel on the diagnostic performance of radiomics signature in solitary pulmonary nodule
Authors: He Lan , Huang Yanqi , Ma Zelan , Liang Cuishan , Liang Changhong , Liu Zaiyi
Published: October 2016

The Effects of contrast-enhancement, reconstruction slice thickness and convolution kernel on the diagnostic performance of radiomics signature in solitary pulmonary nodule (SPN) remains unclear. 240 patients with SPNs (malignant, n = 180; benign, n = 60) underwent non-contrast CT (NECT) and contrast-enhanced CT (CECT) which were reconstructed with different slice thickness and convolution kernel. 150 radiomics features were extracted separately from each set of CT and diagnostic performance of each feature were assessed. After feature selection and radiomics signature construction, diagnostic performance of radiomics signature for discriminating benign and malignant SPN was also assessed with respect to the discrimination and classification and compared with net reclassification improvement (NRI). Our results showed NECT-based radiomics signature demonstrated better discrimination and classification capability than CECT in both primary (AUC: 0.862 vs. 0.829, p = 0.032; NRI = 0.578) and validation cohort (AUC: 0.750 vs. 0.735, p = 0.014; NRI = 0.023). Thin-slice (1.25 mm) CT-based radiomics signature had better diagnostic performance than thick-slice CT (5 mm) in both primary (AUC: 0.862 vs. 0.785, p = 0.015; NRI = 0.867) and validation cohort (AUC: 0.750 vs. 0.725, p = 0.025; NRI = 0.467). Standard convolution kernel-based radiomics signature had better diagnostic performance than lung convolution kernel-based CT in both primary (AUC: 0.785 vs. 0.770, p = 0.015; NRI = 0.156) and validation cohort (AUC: 0.725 vs.0.686, p = 0.039; NRI = 0.467). Therefore, this study indicates that the contrast-enhancement, reconstruction slice thickness and convolution kernel can affect the diagnostic performance of radiomics signature in SPN, of which non-contrast, thin-slice and standard convolution kernel-based CT is more informative.
Simultaneous effects on parvalbumin-positive interneuron and dopaminergic system development in a transgenic rat model for sporadic schizophrenia
Authors: Hamburg Hannah , Trossbach Svenja V. , Bader Verian , Chwiesko Caroline , Kipar Anja , Sauvage Magdalena , Crum William R. , Vernon Anthony C. , Bidmon Hans J. , Korth Carsten
Published: October 2016

To date, unequivocal neuroanatomical features have been demonstrated neither for sporadic nor for familial schizophrenia. Here, we investigated the neuroanatomical changes in a transgenic rat model for a subset of sporadic chronic mental illness (CMI), which modestly overexpresses human full-length, non-mutant Disrupted-in-Schizophrenia 1 (DISC1), and for which aberrant dopamine homeostasis consistent with some schizophrenia phenotypes has previously been reported. Neuroanatomical analysis revealed a reduced density of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra and reduced dopaminergic fibres in the striatum. Parvalbumin-positive interneuron occurrence in the somatosensory cortex was shifted from layers II/III to V/VI, and the number of calbindin-positive interneurons was slightly decreased. Reduced corpus callosum thickness confirmed trend-level observations from in vivo MRI and voxel-wise tensor based morphometry. These neuroanatomical changes help explain functional phenotypes of this animal model, some of which resemble changes observed in human schizophrenia post mortem brain tissues. Our findings also demonstrate how a single molecular factor, DISC1 overexpression or misassembly, can account for a variety of seemingly unrelated morphological phenotypes and thus provides a possible unifying explanation for similar findings observed in sporadic schizophrenia patients. Our anatomical investigation of a defined model for sporadic mental illness enables a clearer definition of neuroanatomical changes associated with subsets of human sporadic schizophrenia.
Elective amputation and bionic substitution restore functional hand use after critical soft tissue injuries
Authors: Aszmann Oskar C. , Vujaklija Ivan , Roche Aidan D. , Salminger Stefan , Herceg Malvina , Sturma Agnes , Hruby Laura A. , Pittermann Anna , Hofer Christian , Amsuess Sebastian , Farina Dario
Published: October 2016

Critical soft tissue injuries may lead to a non-functional and insensate limb. In these cases standard reconstructive techniques will not suffice to provide a useful outcome, and solutions outside the biological arena must be considered and offered to these patients. We propose a concept which, after all reconstructive options have been exhausted, involves an elective amputation along with a bionic substitution, implementing an actuated prosthetic hand via a structured tech-neuro-rehabilitation program. Here, three patients are presented in whom this concept has been successfully applied after mutilating hand injuries. Clinical tests conducted before, during and after the procedure, evaluating both functional and psychometric parameters, document the benefits of this approach. Additionally, in one of the patients, we show the possibility of implementing a highly functional and natural control of an advanced prosthesis providing both proportional and simultaneous movements of the wrist and hand for completing tasks of daily living with substantially less compensatory movements compared to the traditional systems. It is concluded that the proposed procedure is a viable solution for re-gaining highly functional hand use following critical soft tissue injuries when existing surgical measures fail. Our results are clinically applicable and can be extended to institutions with similar resources.
On the early and developed stages of surface condensation: competition mechanism between interfacial and condensate bulk thermal resistances
Authors: Sun Jie , Wang Hua Sheng
Published: October 2016

We use molecular dynamics simulation to investigate the early and developed stages of surface condensation. We find that the liquid-vapor and solid-liquid interfacial thermal resistances depend on the properties of solid and fluid, which are time-independent, while the condensate bulk thermal resistance depends on the condensate thickness, which is time-dependent. There exists intrinsic competition between the interfacial and condensate bulk thermal resistances in timeline and the resultant total thermal resistance determines the condensation intensity for a given vapor-solid temperature difference. We reveal the competition mechanism that the interfacial thermal resistance dominates at the onset of condensation and holds afterwards while the condensate bulk thermal resistance gradually takes over with condensate thickness growing. The weaker the solid-liquid bonding, the later the takeover occurs. This competition mechanism suggests that only when the condensate bulk thermal resistance is reduced after it takes over the domination can the condensation be effectively intensified. We propose a unified theoretical model for the thermal resistance analysis by making dropwise condensation equivalent to filmwise condensation. We further find that near a critical point (contact angle being ca. 153°) the bulk thermal resistance has the least opportunity to take over the domination while away from it the probability increases.
Correlation of social cognition and neurocognition on psychotic outcome: a naturalistic follow-up study of subjects with attenuated psychosis syndrome
Authors: Zhang TianHong , Cui HuiRu , Tang YingYing , Xu LiHua , Li HuiJun , Wei YanYan , Liu XiaoHua , Chow Annabelle , Li ChunBo , Jiang KaiDa , Xiao ZePing , Wang JiJun
Published: October 2016

Neurocognitive decline has been observed in patients with psychosis as well as attenuated psychosis syndrome (APS). We tested the hypothesis that APS increases dependence on neurocognition during the interpretation of others’ mental states and that a combination index of Theory of Mind (ToM) and neurocognition improves the predictive accuracy of psychosis conversion. A sample of 83 APS individuals and 90 healthy controls (HC) were assessed by comprehensive cognitive tests. The cohort also completed a one-year follow-up. In the APS group, ToM was associated with an apparent increase in neurocognition, but this trend was not evident in the HC group. Using the new index of combined neurocognition and ToM scores, the sensitivity for predicting psychosis-proneness was 75% and the specificity was 69%. Our data suggest that the correlations between ToM function and neurocognition in APS subjects were stronger than those in healthy controls. A composite index of neurocognition and ToM could improve the predictive validity of a future conversion to psychosis.
Sub-Diffraction Limited Writing based on Laser Induced Periodic Surface Structures (LIPSS)
Authors: He Xiaolong , Datta Anurup , Nam Woongsik , Traverso Luis M. , Xu Xianfan
Published: October 2016

Controlled fabrication of single and multiple nanostructures far below the diffraction limit using a method based on laser induced periodic surface structure (LIPSS) is presented. In typical LIPSS, multiple lines with a certain spatial periodicity, but often not well-aligned, were produced. In this work, well-controlled and aligned nanowires and nanogrooves with widths as small as 40 nm and 60 nm with desired orientation and length are fabricated. Moreover, single nanowire and nanogroove were fabricated based on the same mechanism for forming multiple, periodic structures. Combining numerical modeling and AFM/SEM analyses, it was found these nanostructures were formed through the interference between the incident laser radiation and the surface plasmons, the mechanism for forming LIPSS on a dielectric surface using a high power femtosecond laser. We expect that our method, in particular, the fabrication of single nanowires and nanogrooves could be a promising alternative for fabrication of nanoscale devices due to its simplicity, flexibility, and versatility.
Comprehensive Plasma Metabolomic Analyses of Atherosclerotic Progression Reveal Alterations in Glycerophospholipid and Sphingolipid Metabolism in Apolipoprotein E-deficient Mice
Authors: Dang Vi T. , Huang Aric , Zhong Lexy H. , Shi Yuanyuan , Werstuck Geoff H.
Published: October 2016

Atherosclerosis is the major underlying cause of most cardiovascular diseases. Despite recent advances, the molecular mechanisms underlying the pathophysiology of atherogenesis are not clear. In this study, comprehensive plasma metabolomics were used to investigate early-stage atherosclerotic development and progression in chow-fed apolipoprotein E-deficient mice at 5, 10 and 15 weeks of age. Comprehensive plasma metabolomic profiles, based on 4365 detected metabolite features, differentiate atherosclerosis-prone from atherosclerosis-resistant models. Metabolites in the sphingomyelin pathway were significantly altered prior to detectable lesion formation and at all subsequent time-points. The cytidine diphosphate-diacylglycerol pathway was up-regulated during stage I of atherosclerosis, while metabolites in the phosphatidylethanolamine and glycosphingolipid pathways were augmented in mice with stage II lesions. These pathways, involving glycerophospholipid and sphingolipid metabolism, were also significantly affected during the course of atherosclerotic progression. Our findings suggest that distinct plasma metabolomic profiles can differentiate the different stages of atherosclerotic progression. This study reveals that alteration of specific, previously unreported pathways of glycerophospholipid and sphingolipid metabolism are associated with atherosclerosis. The clear difference in the level of several metabolites supports the use of plasma lipid profiling as a diagnostic tool of atherogenesis.
DNA methylation landscape of fat deposits and fatty acid composition in obese and lean pigs
Authors: Zhang Shunhua , Shen Linyuan , Xia Yudong , Yang Qiong , Li Xuewei , Tang Guoqing , Jiang Yanzhi , Wang Jinyong , Li Mingzhou , Zhu Li
Published: October 2016

Obese and lean type pig breeds exhibit differences in their fat deposits and fatty acid composition. Here, we compared the effect of genome-wide DNA methylation on fatty acid metabolism between Landrace pigs (LP, leaner) and Rongchang pigs (RP, fatty). We found that LP backfat (LBF) had a higher polyunsaturated fatty acid content but a lower adipocyte volume than RP backfat (RBF). LBF exhibited higher global DNA methylation levels at the genome level than RBF. A total of 483 differentially methylated regions (DMRs) were located in promoter regions, mainly affecting olfactory and sensory activity and lipid metabolism. In LBF, the promoters of genes related to ATPase activity had significantly stronger methylation. This fact may suggest lower energy metabolism levels, which may result in less efficient lipid synthesis in LBF. Furthermore, we identified a DMR in the miR-4335 and miR-378 promoters and validated their methylation status by bisulfite sequencing PCR. The hypermethylation of the promoters of miR-4335 and miR-378 in LBF and the resulting silencing of the target genes may result in LBF’s low content in saturated fatty acids and fat deposition capacity. This study provides a solid basis for exploring the epigenetic mechanisms affecting fat deposition and fatty acid composition.
Differential Coexpression Analysis Reveals Extensive Rewiring of Arabidopsis Gene Coexpression in Response to Pseudomonas syringae Infection
Authors: Jiang Zhenhong , Dong Xiaobao , Li Zhi-Gang , He Fei , Zhang Ziding
Published: October 2016

Plant defense responses to pathogens involve massive transcriptional reprogramming. Recently, differential coexpression analysis has been developed to study the rewiring of gene networks through microarray data, which is becoming an important complement to traditional differential expression analysis. Using time-series microarray data of Arabidopsis thaliana infected with Pseudomonas syringae, we analyzed Arabidopsis defense responses to P. syringae through differential coexpression analysis. Overall, we found that differential coexpression was a common phenomenon of plant immunity. Genes that were frequently involved in differential coexpression tend to be related to plant immune responses. Importantly, many of those genes have similar average expression levels between normal plant growth and pathogen infection but have different coexpression partners. By integrating the Arabidopsis regulatory network into our analysis, we identified several transcription factors that may be regulators of differential coexpression during plant immune responses. We also observed extensive differential coexpression between genes within the same metabolic pathways. Several metabolic pathways, such as photosynthesis light reactions, exhibited significant changes in expression correlation between normal growth and pathogen infection. Taken together, differential coexpression analysis provides a new strategy for analyzing transcriptional data related to plant defense responses and new insights into the understanding of plant-pathogen interactions.
Bioparticles coated with an ionic liquid for the pre-concentration of rare earth elements from microwave-digested tea samples and the subsequent quantification by ETV-ICP-OES
Authors: Hosseinzadegan Sara , Nischkauer Winfried , Bica Katharina , Limbeck Andreas
Published: October 2016

An analytical procedure for straight-forward quantification of rare earth elements (REEs) in tea was developed.
Development of a controlled-release drug delivery system by encapsulating oxaliplatin into SPIO/MWNT nanoparticles for effective colon cancer therapy and magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Lee Pei-Chi , Lin Chien-Yu , Peng Cheng-Liang , Shieh Ming-Jium
Published: October 2016

The development of a controlled-release drug delivery system has been an important objective for cancer therapy.
A facile one-step synthesis of ZnO quantum dots modified poly(triazine imide) nanosheets for enhanced hydrogen evolution under visible light
Authors: Zhang Hui , Liu Feng , Mou Zhigang , Liu Xiaofeng , Sun Jianhua , Lei Weiwei
Published: October 2016

PTI/ZnO-QDs, a novel heterostructured photocatalyst, has been synthesized via a “one-pot” protocol, and exhibits significantly enhanced photocatalytic activity.
An N-(acetoxy)phthalimide motif as a visible-light pro-photosensitizer in photoredox decarboxylative arylthiation
Authors: Jin Yunhe , Yang Haijun , Fu Hua
Published: October 2016

An efficient visible-light photoredox decarboxylative coupling of N-(acetoxy)phthalimides with aryl thiols has been developed. The reaction was performed well at room temperature with good tolerance of functional groups. Importantly, the visible-light photoredox decarboxylative arylthiation did not need an added photocatalyst.
Near infrared photoluminescence modulation of single-walled carbon nanotubes based on a molecular recognition approach
Authors: Shiraki Tomohiro , Onitsuka Hisashi , Shiraishi Tomonari , Nakashima Naotoshi
Published: October 2016

The molecular recognition approach has achieved near infrared photoluminescence modulation on locally-functionalized single-walled carbon nanotubes.
Pd-Catalyzed C(sp2)–H carbonylation of 2-benzylpyridines for the synthesis of pyridoisoquinolinones
Authors: Xie Zeqiang , Luo Shuang , Zhu Qiang
Published: October 2016

An efficient synthesis of pyridoisoquinolinones, through Pd-catalyzed carbonylative annulation of 2-benzylpyridines, has been developed.
CNTs grown on nanoporous carbon from zeolitic imidazolate frameworks for supercapacitors
Authors: Kim Jeonghun , Young Christine , Lee Jaewoo , Park Min-Sik , Shahabuddin Mohammed , Yamauchi Yusuke , Kim Jung Ho
Published: October 2016

Nanoporous carbon with CNTs have successfully fabricated from hybrid ZIF at scalable synthesis and showed enhanced performances in supercapacitor application.
Insight into the effects of modifying π-bridges on the performance of dye-sensitized solar cells containing triphenylamine dyes
Authors: Chen Shuguang , Jia Hailang , Zheng Mengxi , Shen Kang , Zheng Hegen
Published: October 2016

The photovoltaic performances of four novel dyes (ZHG1, ZHG2, ZHG3 and ZHG4) indicate that it is very important to find a balance point between the electron injection ability, intermolecular π–π aggregation and the expansion of the light absorption range.
Energetics of native defects in anatase TiO2: a hybrid density functional study
Authors: Boonchun Adisak , Reunchan Pakpoom , Umezawa Naoto
Published: October 2016

The energetics and electronic structures of native defects in anatase TiO2 are comprehensively studied using hybrid density functional calculations.
Kekulenes, cycloarenes, and heterocycloarenes: addressing electronic structure and aromaticity through experiments and calculations
Authors: Buttrick Jonathan C. , King Benjamin T.
Published: October 2016

A tutorial review describing kekulene and other cycloarenes, their synthesis, and the fundamental concepts of aromaticity they taught.
Self-assembled monolayers in organic electronics
Authors: Casalini Stefano , Bortolotti Carlo Augusto , Leonardi Francesca , Biscarini Fabio
Published: October 2016

SAMs on electrodes, dielectrics, and semiconductors enhance the stability and the response of organic electronic devices and enable the design of new experiments and device layouts.
Dual resistance to alkali metals and SO2: vanadium and cerium supported on sulfated zirconia as an efficient catalyst for NH3-SCR
Authors: Gao Shan , Wang Penglu , Yu Feixiang , Wang Haiqiang , Wu Zhongbiao
Published: October 2016

Vanadium and cerium supported on sulfated zirconia is an efficient SCR catalyst with dual resistance toward both potassium and SO2 poisoning.
White luminescence achieved by a multiple thermochromic emission in a hybrid organic–inorganic compound based on 3-picolylamine and copper(i) iodide
Authors: Farinella F. , Maini L. , Mazzeo P. P. , Fattori V. , Monti F. , Braga D.
Published: October 2016

The structures of three luminescent compounds based on CuI are determined by XRPD data. The hybrid organic–inorganic [Cu2I2(3pica)]∞ shows a concomitant triple emission at room temperature.
Heteroleptic ruthenium(ii) chromophores based on tunable polytopic 4′-(benzamidinato)-2,2′:6′,2′′-terpyridines
Authors: Cooke Michael W. , Santoni Marie-Pierre , Hasenknopf Bernold , Hanan Garry S.
Published: October 2016

A modulable approach for heteroleptic Ru(ii)-polypyridine complexes based on amidines allows the tuning of properties for larger multi-functional arrays.
Temperature dependent charge transport across tunnel junctions of single-molecules and self-assembled monolayers: a comparative study
Authors: Garrigues Alvar R. , Yuan Li , Wang Lejia , Singh Simranjeet , del Barco Enrique , Nijhuis Christian A.
Published: October 2016

In this work we present a comparative study of the temperature behavior of charge current in both single-molecule transistors and self-assembled monolayer-based tunnel junctions with ferrocene molecules.
Synthesis, reactivity, structures, and dynamic properties of gyroscope like iron complexes with dibridgehead diphosphine cages: pre- vs. post-metathesis substitutions as routes to adducts with neutral dipolar Fe(CO)(NO)(X) rotors
Authors: Lang Georgette M. , Skaper Dirk , Hampel Frank , Gladysz John A.
Published: October 2016

Substitution reactions of 4c+ BF4− afford the title complexes 9c-X, the Fe(CO)(NO)(X) moieties of which rapidly rotate within the diphosphine cage. Trends are interpreted in terms of horizontal/vertical van der Waals clearance.
Copper(i) 5-phenylpyrimidine-2-thiolate complexes showing unique optical properties and high visible light-directed catalytic performance
Authors: Zhang Meng-Juan , Li Hong-Xi , Li Hai-Yan , Lang Jian-Ping
Published: October 2016

Copper(i) 5-phenylpyrimidine-2-thiolate complexes exhibit intriguing luminescence properties and excellent visible light-directed catalytic activity towards aerobic oxidative hydroxylation of arylboronic acids.
A solid-phase synthetic approach to pH-independent rhodamine-type fluorophores
Authors: Brulikova L. , Okorochenkova Y. , Hlavac J.
Published: October 2016

An efficient methodology using the Fukuyama–Mitsunobu reaction was successfully applied to prepare various Rhodamine B-based amides with the locked possibility to form a lactam ring.
Synthesis of novel boronic acid-decorated poly(2-oxazoline)s showing triple-stimuli responsive behavior
Authors: Vancoillie Gertjan , Brooks William L. A. , Mees Maarten A. , Sumerlin Brent S. , Hoogenboom Richard
Published: October 2016

The synthesis of novel boronic-acid decorated poly(2-oxazoline)s showing a glucose- and pH dependent thermal transition is reported.