bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Incremental Emplacement of the Late Jurassic Midcrustal, Lopolith‐Like Qitianling Pluton, South China, Revealed by AMS and Bouguer Gravity Data
Authors: Liu Hongsheng , Martelet Guillaume , Wang Bo , Erdmann Saskia , Chen Yan , Faure Michel , Huang Fangfang , Scaillet Bruno , le‐Breton Nicole , Shu Liangshu , Wang Rucheng , Zhu Jinchu
Published: October 2018

Modes of magma emplacement may provide key information on geodynamic‐tectonic settings of magmatism, when the threshold of magma volume and duration of emplacement process is crossed, brittle/ductile crustal deformation behavior, and volumes and rates of magma transfer in the crust. The majority of upper‐crustal granitic intrusions are incrementally emplaced as laccoliths or sills, while midcrustal or deeper‐level granitic intrusions appear to be predominantly emplaced as sills or lopoliths, but relatively few examples have been studied. We present a case study on the Jurassic Qitianling pluton from South China, which was constructed in the upper part of the middle crust (at a depth of ~10–15 km). To characterize its emplacement mechanism and evolution, we have combined field and microscopic observations, Anisotropy of Magnetic Susceptibility measurements and Bouguer gravity anomaly modeling. The main findings are (1) the generally undeformed granite‐country rock contacts with a narrow thermal aureole, (2) irregularly wavy and gradational contacts between the main granite facies, (3) dominant subhorizontal magnetic fabrics in the granites with a scattered magnetic foliation, (4) rare occurrence of dykes, and (5) a subcircular surface and lopolith‐like pluton geometry. Accordingly, we suggest that the Qitianling pluton forms an ~25‐km wide and ~5‐km thick lopolith that was incrementally emplaced during a period of tectonic quiescence, most likely by under‐accretion of multiple magma sheets deflected from magma pulses that ascended through pipe‐like channels. The mineralogical and compositional variation of the pluton may be the result of in situ fractionation, fractionation at deeper crustal level, or variation in source‐derived melt compositions.
Stochastic Inversion of P‐to‐S Converted Waves for Mantle Composition and Thermal Structure: Methodology and Application
Authors: Munch F. D. , Khan A. , Tauzin B. , Zunino A. , Giardini D.
Published: October 2018

We present a new methodology for inverting P‐to‐S receiver function (RF) waveforms directly for mantle temperature and composition. This is achieved by interfacing the geophysical inversion with self‐consistent mineral phase equilibria calculations from which rock mineralogy and its elastic properties are predicted as a function of pressure, temperature, and bulk composition. This approach anchors temperatures, composition, seismic properties, and discontinuities that are in mineral physics data, while permitting the simultaneous use of geophysical inverse methods to optimize models of seismic properties to match RF waveforms. Resultant estimates of transition zone (TZ) topography and volumetric seismic velocities are independent of tomographic models usually required for correcting for upper mantle structure. We considered two end‐member compositional models: the equilibrated equilibrium assemblage (EA) and the disequilibrated mechanical mixture (MM) models. Thermal variations were found to influence arrival times of computed RF waveforms, whereas compositional variations affected amplitudes of waves converted at the TZ discontinuities. The robustness of the inversion strategy was tested by performing a set of synthetic inversions in which crustal structure was assumed both fixed and variable. These tests indicate that unaccounted‐for crustal structure strongly affects the retrieval of mantle properties, calling for a two‐step strategy presented herein to simultaneously recover both crustal and mantle parameters. As a proof of concept, the methodology is applied to data from two stations located in the Siberian and East European continental platforms.
S Velocity Model of East Asia From a Cluster Analysis of Localized Dispersion
Authors: Witek M. , van der Lee S. , Kang T.‐S. , Chang S.‐J. , Ning J. , Ning S.
Published: October 2018

We measured Rayleigh wave group velocity dispersion curves from station pair cross correlations of continuous broadband data from 1,082 seismic stations in regional networks across China, Korea, and Japan. The dispersion curves are localized in the period range 6–40 s to produce group velocity maps, which we then combine with group velocity data in the period range 50–133 s from the global dispersion model of Ma et al. (2014, https://doi.org/10.1093/gji/ggu246). Cluster analysis performed on the local dispersion curves reveals distinct tectonic regions and provides a new way of estimating the number of regions needed to describe a surface wave dispersion data set. We inverted the centroid dispersion curves corresponding to each cluster for a new set of reference models. We used a combination of teleseismic receiver functions and Moho depths from the LITHO1.0 model to create a 3‐D Moho depth reference model and then constructed a 3‐D S velocity model by jointly inverting group velocities with localized phase velocities in the period range 28.57–200 s, also from Ma et al. (2014, https://doi.org/10.1093/gji/ggu246). The cluster analysis and comparisons with other regional models provide evidence for a broad region of deformed lithosphere in East Asia. We image high velocities in the Yangtze and Ordos cratons and low velocities underneath the East Sea (Sea of Japan), and we find that a low‐velocity zone in the midcrust is appropriate for Tibet. The model we present is intended as an alternative reference model that fits a broader range of periods to be used for further studies of regional geophysical phenomena.
Anticyclonic Eddies Connecting the Western Boundaries of Indian and Atlantic Oceans
Authors: Laxenaire R. , Speich S. , Blanke B. , Chaigneau A. , Pegliasco C. , Stegner A.
Published: October 2018

The Indo‐Atlantic interocean exchanges achieved by Agulhas Rings are tightly linked to global ocean circulation and climate. Yet they are still poorly understood because they are difficult to identify and follow. We propose here an original assessment on Agulhas Rings, achieved by TOEddies, a new eddy identification and tracking algorithm that we applied over 24 years of satellite altimetry. Its main novelty lies in the detection of eddy splitting and merging events. These are particularly abundant and significantly impact the concept of a trajectory associated with a single eddy, which becomes less obvious than previously admitted. To overcome this complication, we have defined a network of segments that group together in relatively complex trajectories. Such a network provides an original assessment of the routes and the history of Agulhas Rings. It links 730,481 eddies into 6,363 segments that cluster into Agulhas Ring trajectories of different orders. Such an order depends on the affiliation of the eddies and segments, in a similar way as a tree of life. Among them, we have identified 122 order 0 trajectories that can be considered as the major trajectories associated to a single eddy, albeit it has undergone itself splitting and merging events. Despite the disappearance of many eddies in the altimeter signal in the Cape Basin, a significant fraction can be followed from the Indian Ocean to the South Brazil Current with, on average, 3.5 years to cross the entire South Atlantic.
The Role of Secondary Ice Processes in Midlatitude Continental Clouds
Authors: Zipori Assaf , Reicher Naama , Erel Yigal , Rosenfeld Daniel , Sandler Amir , Knopf Daniel A. , Rudich Yinon
Published: October 2018

Clouds contribute very large uncertainties to our understanding of Earth's climate system. This is partly attributed to the insufficient predictive abilities of ice formation processes in clouds and the ramifications for the hydrological cycle and climate. To improve predictions of ice particle concentrations in clouds, a better understanding of the relative contributions of ice nucleating particles and secondary ice processes (SIPs) is needed. To address this challenging question, we combine ice nucleation measurements via immersion freezing of particles filtered from rainwater, with satellite‐retrieved cloud top glaciation temperatures (Tg) of the same clouds, while considering the chemical composition of the rainwater, the particles, and the particles' mass loads. In addition, laboratory‐derived ice nucleation parameterization of K‐feldspar was implemented in an ice nucleation model in order to reconstruct Tg considering primary ice nucleation only. We show that the observed Tg does not correlate with the median freezing temperature of the drops from the laboratory measurements froze (T50), and are significantly warmer than the model prediction. This suggests that SIP play a major role in glaciating the investigated clouds system. Furthermore, we show that the difference between Tg and T50 best correlates with the size of the cloud droplets at −5 °C, indicating that SIP is controlled by cloud droplet sizes. Hence, our results suggest that the effect of SIP on Tg, and therefore on Earth's radiation budget, may be significant.
Decision-making of the benthic diatom Seminavis robusta searching for inorganic nutrients and pheromones
Authors: Bondoc Karen Grace V , Lembke Christine , Lang Stefan N , Germerodt Sebastian , Schuster Stefan , Vyverman Wim , Pohnert Georg
Published: October 2018

Microorganisms encounter a diversity of chemical stimuli that trigger individual responses and influence population dynamics. However, microbial behavior under the influence of different incentives and microbial decision-making is poorly understood. Benthic marine diatoms that react to sexual attractants as well as to nutrient gradients face such multiple constraints. Here, we document and model behavioral complexity and context-sensitive responses of these motile unicellular algae to sex pheromones and the nutrient silicate. Throughout the life cycle of the model diatom Seminavis robusta nutrient-starved cells localize sources of silicate by combined chemokinetic and chemotactic motility. However, with an increasing need for sex to restore the initial cell size, a change in behavior favoring the attraction-pheromone-guided search for a mating partner takes place. When sex becomes inevitable to prevent cell death, safeguard mechanisms are abandoned, and cells prioritize the search for mating partners. Such selection processes help to explain biofilm organization and to understand species interactions in complex communities.
Ischemic postconditioning confers cerebroprotection by stabilizing VDACs after brain ischemia
Authors: Yao Gui-Ying , Zhu Qian , Xia Jing , Chen Feng-Jiao , Huang Ming , Liu Jing , Zhou Ting-Ting , Wei Jian-Feng , Cui Gui-Yun , Zheng Kui-Yang , Hou Xiao-Yu
Published: October 2018

Ischemic postconditioning provides robust neuroprotection, therefore, determining the molecular events may provide promising targets for stroke treatment. Here, we showed that the expression of functional mitochondrial voltage-dependent anion channel proteins (VDAC1, VDAC2, and VDAC3) reduced in rat vulnerable hippocampal CA1 subfield after global ischemia. Ischemic postconditioning restored VDACs to physiological levels. Stabilized VDACs contributed to the benefits of postconditioning. VDAC1 was required for maintaining neuronal Ca2+ buffering capacity. We found that microRNA-7 (miR-7) was responsible for postischemic decline of VDAC1 and VDAC3. Notably, miR-7 was more highly expressed in the peripheral blood of patients with acute ischemic stroke compared to healthy controls. Inhibition of miR-7 attenuated neuronal loss and ATP decline after global ischemia, but also diminished the infarct volume with improved neurological functions after focal ischemia. Thus, ischemic postconditioning protects against mitochondrial damage by stabilizing VDACs. MiR-7 may be a potential therapeutic target for ischemic stroke.
Tracing the transitions from pluripotency to germ cell fate with CRISPR screening
Authors: Hackett Jamie A. , Huang Yun , Günesdogan Ufuk , Gretarsson Kristjan A. , Kobayashi Toshihiro , Surani M. Azim
Published: October 2018

Early mammalian development entails transit through naive pluripotency towards post-implantation epiblast, which subsequently gives rise to primordial germ cells (PGC), the founding germline population. To investigate these cell fate transitions, we developed a compound-reporter to track cellular identity in a model of PGC specification (PGC-like cells; PGCLC), and coupled it with genome-wide CRISPR screening. We identify key genes both for exit from pluripotency and for acquisition of PGC fate, and characterise a central role for the transcription regulators Nr5a2 and Zfp296 in germline ontogeny. Abrogation of these genes results in widespread activation (Nr5a2−/−) or inhibition (Zfp296−/−) of WNT pathway factors in PGCLC. This leads to aberrant upregulation of the somatic programme or failure to activate germline genes, respectively, and consequently loss of germ cell identity. Our study places Zfp296 and Nr5a2 as key components of an expanded PGC gene regulatory network, and outlines a transferable strategy for identifying critical regulators of complex cell fate decisions.
Multi-stage bioengineering of a layered oesophagus with in vitro expanded muscle and epithelial adult progenitors
Authors: Urbani Luca , Camilli Carlotta , Phylactopoulos Demetra-Ellie , Crowley Claire , Natarajan Dipa , Scottoni Federico , Maghsoudlou Panayiotis , McCann Conor J. , Pellegata Alessandro Filippo , Urciuolo Anna , Deguchi Koichi , Khalaf Sahira , Aruta Salvatore Ferdinando , Signorelli Maria Cristina , Kiely David , Hannon Edward , Trevisan Matteo , Wong Rui Rachel , Baradez Marc Olivier , Moulding Dale , Virasami Alex , Gjinovci Asllan , Loukogeorgakis Stavros , Mantero Sara , Thapar Nikhil , Sebire Neil , Eaton Simon , Lowdell Mark , Cossu Giulio , Bonfanti Paola , De Coppi Paolo
Published: October 2018

A tissue engineered oesophagus could overcome limitations associated with oesophageal substitution. Combining decellularized scaffolds with patient-derived cells shows promise for regeneration of tissue defects. In this proof-of-principle study, a two-stage approach for generation of a bio-artificial oesophageal graft addresses some major challenges in organ engineering, namely: (i) development of multi-strata tubular structures, (ii) appropriate re-population/maturation of constructs before transplantation, (iii) cryopreservation of bio-engineered organs and (iv) in vivo pre-vascularization. The graft comprises decellularized rat oesophagus homogeneously re-populated with mesoangioblasts and fibroblasts for the muscle layer. The oesophageal muscle reaches organised maturation after dynamic culture in a bioreactor and functional integration with neural crest stem cells. Grafts are pre-vascularised in vivo in the omentum prior to mucosa reconstitution with expanded epithelial progenitors. Overall, our optimised two-stage approach produces a fully re-populated, structurally organized and pre-vascularized oesophageal substitute, which could become an alternative to current oesophageal substitutes.
Single Particle Automated Raman Trapping Analysis
Authors: Penders Jelle , Pence Isaac J. , Horgan Conor C. , Bergholt Mads S. , Wood Christopher S. , Najer Adrian , Kauscher Ulrike , Nagelkerke Anika , Stevens Molly M.
Published: October 2018

Enabling concurrent, high throughput analysis of single nanoparticles would greatly increase the capacity to study size, composition and inter and intra particle population variance with applications in a wide range of fields from polymer science to drug delivery. Here, we present a comprehensive platform for Single Particle Automated Raman Trapping Analysis (SPARTA) able to integrally analyse nanoparticles ranging from synthetic polymer particles to liposomes without any modification. With the developed highly controlled automated trapping process, single nanoparticles are analysed with high throughput and sensitivity to resolve particle mixtures, obtain detailed compositional spectra of complex particles, track sequential functionalisations, derive particle sizes and monitor the dynamics of click reactions occurring on the nanoparticle surface. The SPARTA platform opens up a wide range of new avenues for nanoparticle research through label-free integral high-throughput single particle analysis, overcoming key limitations in sensitivity and specificity of existing bulk analysis methods.
Phenome-wide association studies across large population cohorts support drug target validation
Authors: Diogo Dorothée , Tian Chao , Franklin Christopher S. , Alanne-Kinnunen Mervi , March Michael , Spencer Chris C. A. , Vangjeli Ciara , Weale Michael E. , Mattsson Hannele , Kilpeläinen Elina , Sleiman Patrick M. A. , Reilly Dermot F. , McElwee Joshua , Maranville Joseph C. , Chatterjee Arnaub K. , Bhandari Aman , Nguyen Khanh-Dung H. , Estrada Karol , Reeve Mary-Pat , Hutz Janna , Bing Nan , John Sally , MacArthur Daniel G. , Salomaa Veikko , Ripatti Samuli , Hakonarson Hakon , Daly Mark J. , Palotie Aarno , Hinds David A. , Donnelly Peter , Fox Caroline S. , Day-Williams Aaron G. , Plenge Robert M. , Runz Heiko
Published: October 2018

Phenome-wide association studies (PheWAS) have been proposed as a possible aid in drug development through elucidating mechanisms of action, identifying alternative indications, or predicting adverse drug events (ADEs). Here, we select 25 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) linked through genome-wide association studies (GWAS) to 19 candidate drug targets for common disease indications. We interrogate these SNPs by PheWAS in four large cohorts with extensive health information (23andMe, UK Biobank, FINRISK, CHOP) for association with 1683 binary endpoints in up to 697,815 individuals and conduct meta-analyses for 145 mapped disease endpoints. Our analyses replicate 75% of known GWAS associations (P < 0.05) and identify nine study-wide significant novel associations (of 71 with FDR < 0.1). We describe associations that may predict ADEs, e.g., acne, high cholesterol, gout, and gallstones with rs738409 (p.I148M) in PNPLA3 and asthma with rs1990760 (p.T946A) in IFIH1. Our results demonstrate PheWAS as a powerful addition to the toolkit for drug discovery.
PWWP2A binds distinct chromatin moieties and interacts with an MTA1-specific core NuRD complex
Authors: Link Stephanie , Spitzer Ramona M. M. , Sana Maryam , Torrado Mario , Völker-Albert Moritz C. , Keilhauer Eva C. , Burgold Thomas , Pünzeler Sebastian , Low Jason K. K. , Lindström Ida , Nist Andrea , Regnard Catherine , Stiewe Thorsten , Hendrich Brian , Imhof Axel , Mann Matthias , Mackay Joel P. , Bartkuhn Marek , Hake Sandra B.
Published: October 2018

Chromatin structure and function is regulated by reader proteins recognizing histone modifications and/or histone variants. We recently identified that PWWP2A tightly binds to H2A.Z-containing nucleosomes and is involved in mitotic progression and cranial–facial development. Here, using in vitro assays, we show that distinct domains of PWWP2A mediate binding to free linker DNA as well as H3K36me3 nucleosomes. In vivo, PWWP2A strongly recognizes H2A.Z-containing regulatory regions and weakly binds H3K36me3-containing gene bodies. Further, PWWP2A binds to an MTA1-specific subcomplex of the NuRD complex (M1HR), which consists solely of MTA1, HDAC1, and RBBP4/7, and excludes CHD, GATAD2 and MBD proteins. Depletion of PWWP2A leads to an increase of acetylation levels on H3K27 as well as H2A.Z, presumably by impaired chromatin recruitment of M1HR. Thus, this study identifies PWWP2A as a complex chromatin-binding protein that serves to direct the deacetylase complex M1HR to H2A.Z-containing chromatin, thereby promoting changes in histone acetylation levels.
Fuelling conditions at staging sites can mitigate Arctic warming effects in a migratory bird
Authors: Rakhimberdiev Eldar , Duijns Sjoerd , Karagicheva Julia , Camphuysen Cornelis J. ,   VRS Castricum, van Loon Andre , Wijker Arnold , Keijl Guido , Levering Henk , Jan Visser  , Heemskerk Leo , Knijnsberg Luc , van Roomen Marc , Ruiters Paul , Admiraal Piet , Veldt Piet , Reijnders Richard , Beentjes Walter , Dekinga Anne , Dekker Rob , Gavrilov Anatoly , ten Horn Job , Jukema Joop , Saveliev Anatoly , Soloviev Mikhail , Tibbitts T. Lee , van Gils Jan A. , Piersma Theunis
Published: October 2018

Under climate warming, migratory birds should align reproduction dates with advancing plant and arthropod phenology. To arrive on the breeding grounds earlier, migrants may speed up spring migration by curtailing the time spent en route, possibly at the cost of decreased survival rates. Based on a decades-long series of observations along an entire flyway, we show that when refuelling time is limited, variation in food abundance in the spring staging area affects fitness. Bar-tailed godwits migrating from West Africa to the Siberian Arctic reduce refuelling time at their European staging site and thus maintain a close match between breeding and tundra phenology. Annual survival probability decreases with shorter refuelling times, but correlates positively with refuelling rate, which in turn is correlated with food abundance in the staging area. This chain of effects implies that conditions in the temperate zone determine the ability of godwits to cope with climate-related changes in the Arctic.
Structural basis for arginine glycosylation of host substrates by bacterial effector proteins
Authors: Park Jun Bae , Kim Young Hun , Yoo Youngki , Kim Juyeon , Jun Sung-Hoon , Cho Jin Won , El Qaidi Samir , Walpole Samuel , Monaco Serena , García-García Ana A. , Wu Miaomiao , Hays Michael P. , Hurtado-Guerrero Ramon , Angulo Jesus , Hardwidge Philip R. , Shin Jeon-Soo , Cho Hyun-Soo
Published: October 2018

The bacterial effector proteins SseK and NleB glycosylate host proteins on arginine residues, leading to reduced NF-κB-dependent responses to infection. Salmonella SseK1 and SseK2 are E. coli NleB1 orthologs that behave as NleB1-like GTs, although they differ in protein substrate specificity. Here we report that these enzymes are retaining glycosyltransferases composed of a helix-loop-helix (HLH) domain, a lid domain, and a catalytic domain. A conserved HEN motif (His-Glu-Asn) in the active site is important for enzyme catalysis and bacterial virulence. We observe differences between SseK1 and SseK2 in interactions with substrates and identify substrate residues that are critical for enzyme recognition. Long Molecular Dynamics simulations suggest that the HLH domain determines substrate specificity and the lid-domain regulates the opening of the active site. Overall, our data suggest a front-face SNi mechanism, explain differences in activities among these effectors, and have implications for future drug development against enteric pathogens.
Definite photon deflections of topological defects in metasurfaces and symmetry-breaking phase transitions with material loss
Authors: Sheng Chong , Liu Hui , Chen Huanyang , Zhu Shining
Published: October 2018

Combination of topology and general relativity can lead to some profound and farsighted predictions. It is well known that symmetry breaking of the Higgs vacuum field in the early universe possibly induced topological defects in space-time, whose nontrivial effects can provide some clues about the universe’s origin. Here, by using an artificial waveguide bounded with rotational metasurface, the nontrivial effects of a topological defect of spacetime are experimentally emulated. The photon deflection in the topological waveguide has a robust definite angle that does not depend on the location and momentum of incident photons. This is remarkably different from the random optical scattering in trivial space. By including material loss such a topological effect can be well understood from the symmetry breaking of photonic modes. Our technique provides a platform to investigate topological gravity in optical systems. This method can also be extended to obtain many other novel topological photonic devices.
DNA engineered micromotors powered by metal nanoparticles for motion based cellphone diagnostics
Authors: Draz Mohamed Shehata , Kochehbyoki Kamyar Mehrabi , Vasan Anish , Battalapalli Dheerendranath , Sreeram Aparna , Kanakasabapathy Manoj Kumar , Kallakuri Shantanu , Tsibris Athe , Kuritzkes Daniel R. , Shafiee Hadi
Published: October 2018

HIV-1 infection is a major health threat in both developed and developing countries. The integration of mobile health approaches and bioengineered catalytic motors can allow the development of sensitive and portable technologies for HIV-1 management. Here, we report a platform that integrates cellphone-based optical sensing, loop-mediated isothermal DNA amplification and micromotor motion for molecular detection of HIV-1. The presence of HIV-1 RNA in a sample results in the formation of large-sized amplicons that reduce the motion of motors. The change in the motors motion can be accurately measured using a cellphone system as the biomarker for target nucleic acid detection. The presented platform allows the qualitative detection of HIV-1 (n = 54) with 99.1% specificity and 94.6% sensitivity at a clinically relevant threshold value of 1000 virus particles/ml. The cellphone system has the potential to enable the development of rapid and low-cost diagnostics for viruses and other infectious diseases.
Hidden hearing loss selectively impairs neural adaptation to loud sound environments
Authors: Bakay Warren Michael Henry , Anderson Lucy Anne , Garcia-Lazaro Jose Alberto , McAlpine David , Schaette Roland
Published: October 2018

Exposure to even a single episode of loud noise can damage synapses between cochlear hair cells and auditory nerve fibres, causing hidden hearing loss (HHL) that is not detected by audiometry. Here we investigate the effects of noise-induced HHL on functional hearing by measuring the ability of neurons in the auditory midbrain of mice to adapt to sound environments containing quiet and loud periods. Neurons from noise-exposed mice show less capacity for adaptation to loud environments, convey less information about sound intensity in those environments, and adaptation to the longer-term statistical structure of fluctuating sound environments is impaired. Adaptation comprises a cascade of both threshold and gain adaptation. Although noise exposure only impairs threshold adaptation directly, the preserved function of gain adaptation surprisingly aggravates coding deficits for loud environments. These deficits might help to understand why many individuals with seemingly normal hearing struggle to follow a conversation in background noise.
Biomechanics show stem cell necessity for effective treatment of volumetric muscle loss using bioengineered constructs
Authors: Quarta Marco , Cromie Lear Melinda J. , Blonigan Justin , Paine Patrick , Chacon Robert , Rando Thomas A.
Published: October 2018

Despite the regenerative capacity of muscle, tissue volume is not restored after volumetric muscle loss (VML), perhaps due to a loss-of-structural extracellular matrix. We recently demonstrated the structural and functional restoration of muscle tissue in a mouse model of VML using an engineered “bioconstruct,” comprising an extracellular matrix scaffold (decellularized muscle), muscle stem cells (MuSCs), and muscle-resident cells (MRCs). To test the ability of the cell-based bioconstruct to restore whole-muscle biomechanics, we measured biomechanical parameters in uninjured muscles, muscles injured to produce VML lesions, and in muscles that were injured and then treated by implanting either the scaffolds alone or with bioconstructs containing the scaffolds, MuSCs, and MRCs. We measured the active and passive forces over a range of lengths, viscoelastic force relaxation, optimal length, and twitch dynamics. Injured muscles showed a narrowed length-tension curve or lower force over a narrower range of muscle lengths, and increased passive force. When treated with bioconstructs, but not with scaffolds alone, injured muscles showed active and passive length-tension relationships that were not different from uninjured muscles. Moreover, injured muscles treated with bioconstructs exhibited reduced fibrosis compared to injured muscles either untreated or treated with scaffolds alone. The cell-based bioconstruct is a promising treatment approach for future translational efforts to restore whole-muscle biomechanics in muscles with VML lesions.
Dynamic refractive index distribution measurement of dynamic process by combining dual-channel simultaneous phase-shifting interferometry and total internal reflection
Authors: Zhou Yunfei , Zou Haoren , Zhong Liyun , Li Jiaosheng , Li Bingbo , Tian Jindong , Lu Xiaoxu
Published: October 2018

We propose and demonstrate a novel method to measure dynamic refractive index distributions using a combination of total internal reflection (TIR) and dual-channel simultaneous phase-shifting interferometry (DCSPSI). First, a right-angle prism is introduced into the DCSPSI system, the reflection phase variation induced by TIR, which contains the refractive index information of tested sample, can be achieved by the spatial carrier-frequency phase-shifting algorithm from a pair of interferograms with the phase shifts of π/2 captured by DCSPSI system. Second, based on the relationship between the reflection phase variation and the refractive index, the 2D refractive index distribution can be calculated easily. Importantly, the proposed TIR-DCSPSI method will supply a useful tool for dynamic refractive index distribution measurement of dynamic process, such as the droplet evaporation, mutual solubilization and diffusion of different droplets, cell culture, colloid curing, etc.
Microglia induces Gas1 expression in human brain tumor-initiating cells to reduce tumorigenecity
Authors: Sarkar Susobhan , Poon Candice C. , Mirzaei Reza , Rawji Khalil S. , Hader Walter , Bose Pinaki , Kelly John , Dunn Jeffrey F. , Yong V. Wee
Published: October 2018

We reported previously that microglia decreased the growth of human brain tumor-initiating cells (BTICs). Through microarray analyses of BTICs exposed in vitro to microglia, we found the induction of several genes ascribed to have roles in cell cycle arrest, reduced cell proliferation and differentiation. Herein, we tested the hypothesis that one of these genes, growth arrest specific 1 (Gas1), is a novel growth reduction factor that is induced in BTICs by microglia. We found that microglia increased the expression of Gas1 transcript and protein in glioblastoma patient-derived BTIC lines. Using neurosphere assay we show that RNAi-induced reduction of Gas1 expression in BTICs blunted the microglia-mediated BTIC growth reduction. The role of Gas1 in mediating BTIC growth arrest was further validated using orthotopic brain xenografts in mice. When microglia-induced Gas1-expressing BTIC cells (mGas1-BTICs) were implanted intra-cranially in mice, tumor growth was markedly decreased; this was mirrored in the remarkable increase in survival of mGas1-BT025 and mGas1-BT048 implanted mice, compared to mice implanted with non-microglia-exposed BTIC cells. In conclusion, this study has identified Gas1 as a novel factor and mechanism through which microglia arrest the growth of BTICs for anti-tumor property.
Angle-insensitive narrowband optical absorption based on high-Q localized resonance
Authors: Zhu Xiya , Fu Jichao , Ding Fei , Jin Yi , Wu Aimin
Published: October 2018

Strong optical absorption can be achieved easily based on an array of subwavelength localized resonators. The absorption bandwidth is typically wide since subwavelength metallic resonators are limited by a low quality factor (Q) due to their large material loss and so do dielectric counterparts owing to their weak photon binding. Here, an angle-insensitive narrowband optical absorber is suggested, which consists of subwavelength dielectric cavities buried inside a metal. Within each cavity, a special resonant mode of high Q can be supported, which is absorbed slowly by the metal walls as the electric field is concentrated at the cavity center and leaks slowly into the free space due to the blocking of the top metal film covering the cavities. Such a mode is excited to trap the incident wave in the optical absorption. When low-loss silver is used, one can obtain ultra-narrowband absorption with Q up to 487. At lower optical frequencies, the metal film needs to be punctured so that the incident wave can couple into the cavities effectively. The suggested absorption method may find its promising prospect in thermal radiation, photonic detection, optical sensing, and so on.
p-Toluenesulfonic acid catalysed fluorination of α-branched ketones for the construction of fluorinated quaternary carbon centres
Authors: Tang Shi-Zhong , Bian Hong-Li , Zhan Zong-Song , Chen Meng-En , Lv Jian-Wei , Xie Shaolei , Zhang Fu-Min
Published: October 2018

A catalytic and concise fluorination of α-branched ketones for the construction of the challenging quaternary C–F bond could be achieved.
Amphiphilic spherical nanoparticles with a nitrogen-enriched carbon-like surface by using β-lactoglobulin as a template
Authors: Khan M. Nuruzzaman , Orimoto Yoshifumi , Ihara Hirotaka
Published: October 2018

A new class of nitrogen-enriched carbon-like nanoparticles and their facile preparation method using size controlled protein aggregates as nano-templates.
A density functional theory study of propylene epoxidation mechanism on Ag2O(001) surface
Authors: Tezsevin I. , van Santen R. A. , Onal I.
Published: October 2018

Propylene oxide is the most probable outcome of propylene–silver oxide interaction; however, it further reacts to give an allyl radical.
Anomalous description of the anharmonicity of bending motions of carbon–carbon double bonded molecules with the MP2 method: ethylene as a case study
Authors: Ravichandran Lalitha , Banik Subrata
Published: October 2018

In this work, we report anomalous descriptions of bending modes of the smallest carbon–carbon double bonded molecule ethylene with the MP2 method.
Interfacial structural crossover and hydration thermodynamics of charged C60in water
Authors: Sarhangi Setare Mostajabi , Waskasi Morteza M. , Hashemianzadeh Seyed Majid , Matyushov Dmitry V.
Published: October 2018

A structural crossover in the interface of charged fullerenes leads to the breakdown of the hydrogen-bond network and the release of dangling OH bonds. Water dynamics and electrostatic solvation are mostly insensitive to the crossover.
Barium-promoted hydrothermal stability of monolithic Cu/BEA catalyst for NH3-SCR
Authors: Lin Qingjin , Liu Jingying , Liu Shuang , Xu Shuhao , Lin Chenlu , Feng Xi , Wang Yun , Xu Haidi , Chen Yaoqiang
Published: October 2018

The addition of Ba on the improvement of hydrothermal stability over Cu/BEA: (i) stabilize the dispersion of Cu species and suppress the formation of CuO clusters; (ii) the higher redox property. These two factors decide the higher hydrothermal stability over CuBa/BEA-HT rather than Cu/BEA-HT.
Photoinduced electron transfer and remarkable enhancement of magnetic susceptibility in bridging pyrazine complexes
Authors: Xia Bin , Zhou Yu , Wang Qing-Lun , Xu Xiu-Fang , Tong Yu-Zhang , Bu Xian-He , Li Jian-Rong
Published: October 2018

Three bridging pyrazine complexes that exhibit both photochromism and photomagnetism were prepared. Photoinduced electron transfer can be realized by constructing a donor–metal–accepter system.
Synthesis, structure and magnetic properties of two mixed-valence icosanuclear nanocages
Authors: Wang Hui , Xu Xiaoling , Jiang Yimin , Yao Pengfei , Li Bo , Zou Huahong , Zhou Jinglin , Chen Zilu
Published: October 2018

We report here a new type of mixed-valence icosanuclear nanocages featuring cubic cage cores with sulphate anions over the cage windows.
Two-dimensional materials in semiconductor photoelectrocatalytic systems for water splitting
Authors: Faraji Monireh , Yousefi Mahdieh , Yousefzadeh Samira , Zirak Mohammad , Naseri Naimeh , Jeon Tae Hwa , Choi Wonyong , Moshfegh Alireza Z.
Published: October 2018

Hydrogen production via solar water splitting can be enhanced by combining semiconductors with various 2-dimensional materials.
In vitrofermentation of raffinose by the human gut bacteria
Authors: Mao Bingyong , Tang Hongyu , Gu Jiayu , Li Dongyao , Cui Shumao , Zhao Jianxin , Zhang Hao , Chen Wei
Published: October 2018

Raffinose has become a major focus of research interest and recent studies have shown that besides beneficial bifidobacteria and lactobacilli,Escherichia coli,Enterococcus faeciumandStreptococcus pneumoniaecan also utilize raffinose and raffinose might lead to flatulence in some hosts.
Exploring the effectiveness of novel benzimidazoles as CB2 ligands: synthesis, biological evaluation, molecular docking studies and ADMET prediction
Authors: Tonelli Michele , Cichero Elena , Mahmoud Alì Mokhtar , Rabbito Alessandro , Tasso Bruno , Fossa Paola , Ligresti Alessia
Published: October 2018

Herein we continued our previous work on the development of CB2 ligands, reporting the design and synthesis of a series of benzimidazole-containing derivatives that were explored as selective CB2 ligands.
Handling of nutrient copper in the bacterial envelope
Authors: Stewart Louisa J. , Thaqi Denis , Kobe Bostjan , McEwan Alastair G. , Waldron Kevin J. , Djoko Karrera Y.
Published: October 2018

The insertion of copper into bacterial cuproenzymesin vivodoes not always require a copper-binding metallochaperone – why?
Pneumococcal histidine triads – involved not only in Zn2+, but also Ni2+ binding?
Authors: Miller Adriana , Dudek Dorota , Potocki Sławomir , Czapor-Irzabek Hanna , Kozłowski Henryk , Rowińska-Żyrek Magdalena
Published: October 2018

Polyhistidine triad proteins (with multiple copies of the HxxHxH sequence), which participate in Zn2+ uptake in Streptococcus pneumoniae, are also efficient Ni2+ binders.
Characterization of aqueous cellulose nanofiber dispersions from microscopy movie data of Brownian particles by trajectory analysis
Authors: Motohashi Reiji , Hanasaki Itsuo
Published: October 2018

Cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) are not directly visible by microscopes when dispersed in water, but the dynamical characteristics of suspended colloidal particles tells us the texture as well as the rheological properties of CNF dispersions beyond the viscosity.
Photonic cancer nanomedicine using the near infrared-II biowindow enabled by biocompatible titanium nitride nanoplatforms
Authors: Wang Chunmei , Dai Chen , Hu Zhongqian , Li Hongqiang , Yu Luodan , Lin Han , Bai Jianwen , Chen Yu
Published: October 2018

Titanium nitride nanoparticles with high photothermal-conversion efficiency and desirable biocompatibility have been constructed as an alternative theranostic agent for NIR-II laser-excited photoacoustic imaging-guided photothermal tumor hyperthermia.
Copper-based hydrogels with dicarboxylate spacer ligands for selective carbon dioxide separation applications
Authors: Al-Dossary Mona , Padhy Harihara , Xu Feng , Behzad Ali R. , el Tall Omar , Rothenberger Alexander
Published: October 2018

Dicarboxylate spacer ligands enhanced the rigidity, porosity, surface area, and CO2/N2 and CO2/CH4 selectivity of Cu2+-based poly(methyl vinyl ether-alt-maleic anhydride) hydrogels.
Enhancing exciton binding energy and photoluminescence of formamidinium lead bromide by reducing its dimensions to 2D nanoplates for producing efficient light emitting diodes
Authors: Li Feiming , Yang Lan , Cai Zhixiong , Wei Ke , Lin Fangyuan , You Jie , Jiang Tian , Wang Yiru , Chen Xi
Published: October 2018

Fabricating of FAPbBr3nanoplates for producing efficient light emitting diodes.
Single-molecule rectifiers based on voltage-dependent deformation of molecular orbitals in carbazole oligomers
Authors: Yamada Ryo , Albrecht Ken , Ohto Tatsuhiko , Minode Keigo , Yamamoto Kimihisa , Tada Hirokazu
Published: October 2018

A new rectification mechanism due to voltage-dependent deformation of molecular orbitals in single-molecule junctions is demonstrated with carbazole oligomer single-molecule junctions.
Controllable 2H-to-1T′ phase transition in few-layer MoTe2
Authors: Tan Yuan , Luo Fang , Zhu Mengjian , Xu Xiaolong , Ye Yu , Li Bing , Wang Guang , Luo Wei , Zheng Xiaoming , Wu Nannan , Yu Yayun , Qin Shiqiao , Zhang Xue-Ao
Published: October 2018

Here, we demonstrated systematic experiments to understand the microscopic origin of laser irradiation induced controllable 2H-to-1T’ phase transition in few-layer MoTe2.
Bone remodeling-inspired dual delivery electrospun nanofibers for promoting bone regeneration
Authors: Wang Yi , Cui Wenguo , Zhao Xin , Wen Shizhu , Sun Yulong , Han Jianmin , Zhang Hongyu
Published: October 2018

We accelerated bone regeneration by 3-fold through bone remodeling-inspired electrospun nanofibers with dual delivery of ALN and silicate.
Syntheses and anti-cancer activity of CO-releasing molecules with targeting galactose receptors
Authors: Li Jili , Zhang Jinlong , Zhang Qiuping , Bai Zhongjie , Zhao Quanyi , He Dian , Wang Zhen , Chen Yonglin , Liu Bin
Published: October 2018

A series of CORMs based on carbohydrates were evaluated for their anti-tumor activities and the antitumor mechanism.
Continuous hydrothermal flow synthesis of graphene quantum dots
Authors: Kellici Suela , Acord John , Moore Katherine E. , Power Nicholas P. , Middelkoop Vesna , Morgan David J. , Heil Tobias , Coppo Paolo , Baragau Ioan-Alexandru , Raston Colin L.
Published: October 2018

A rapid, continuous hydrothermal flow synthesis route and life cycle assessment was employed for the synthesis of graphene quantum dots in the presence of calixarene.
Luminescent ruffled iridium(iii) porphyrin complexes containing N-heterocyclic carbene ligands: structures, spectroscopies and potent antitumor activities under dark and light irradiation conditions
Authors: Lam Tsz-Lung , Tong Ka-Chung , Yang Chen , Kwong Wai-Lun , Guan Xiangguo , Li Ming-De , Kar-Yan Lo Vanessa , Lai-Fung Chan Sharon , Lee Phillips David , Lok Chun-Nam , Che Chi-Ming
Published: October 2018

Luminescent iridium(iii) porphyrin NHC complexes are efficient singlet oxygen generators and antitumor agents.
The biosynthetic implications of late-stage condensation domain selectivity during glycopeptide antibiotic biosynthesis
Authors: Schoppet Melanie , Peschke Madeleine , Kirchberg Anja , Wiebach Vincent , Süssmuth Roderich D. , Stegmann Evi , Cryle Max J.
Published: October 2018

The condensation domain synthesising the last peptide bond in glycopeptide antibiotic biosynthesis has a preference for linear peptide substrates, with effective peptide formation linked to the rate of amino acid activation by the preceding adenylation domain.
Origin of the low-temperature endotherm of acid-doped ice VI: new hydrogen-ordered phase of ice or deep glassy states?
Authors: Rosu-Finsen Alexander , Salzmann Christoph G.
Published: October 2018

The discovery of deep glassy states of ice reveals a fascinating new facet of ice research.
Investigation on the effect of γ-irradiation on the dielectric and piezoelectric properties of stretchable PVDF/Fe–ZnO nanocomposites for self-powering devices
Authors: Parangusan Hemalatha , Ponnamma Deepalekshmi , AlMaadeed Mariam Al Ali
Published: October 2018

Stretchable films of PVDF nanocomposites containing iron doped ZnO (Fe–ZnO) nanostars are fabricated following simple solution mixing and γ-irradiation treatment.
Chiari Type I Malformation Associated With Verbal Fluency Impairment
Authors: Lázaro Esther , García Maitane , Ibarrola Ane , Amayra Imanol , López-Paz Juan Francisco , Martínez Oscar , Pérez Manuel , Berrocoso Sarah , Al-Rashaida Mohammad , Rodríguez Alicia Aurora , Fernández Paula , Luna Paula María
Published: October 2018

Purpose

Chiari malformation (CM) Type I is a rare disorder that implies an anomaly in the craniocervical junction, where one or both cerebellar tonsils are displaced below the foramen magnum into the cervical spinal channel. Research carried out regarding cognitive symptoms such as verbal fluency is scarce. The aim of this study was to investigate whether verbal fluency is impaired in a CM clinical group compared to a group of healthy control individuals while controlling for depression and anxiety symptomatology.

Method

For this purpose, 101 individuals were enrolled to take part in the study (51 CM, 50 healthy controls). The Controlled Oral Word Association Test (Benton, de Hamsher, & Sivan, 1983) and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (Zigmond & Snaith, 1983) were administered.

Results

Results showed significantly lower scores for the CM group in verbal fluency compared to the control group (
p
< .005). After performing an analysis of covariance to eliminate depression and anxiety symptomatology tendencies, it was observed that verbal fluency could not be predicted by this variable (
p
> .005).

Conclusions

From the results of this study, it can be concluded that people suffering from CM exhibit less verbal fluency than healthy control individuals and that this difference is not caused by depression or anxiety.
Iterative RToF‐based localisation and time synchronisation in WLAN‐like systems
Authors: Van Eeckhaute M. , Gottlob E. , De Doncker P. , Horlin F.
Published: October 2018

Iterative localisation is currently arising as a solution to localise a mobile station in a cellular network. It is shown recently that iterating between the conventional delay estimation and multi‐lateration steps allows one to approach the performance of direct localisation algorithms. Until now, the method has only been applied to the case of networks where the access points (APs) are perfectly synchronised with each other. A localisation and time synchronisation iterative algorithm suitable for networks is presented, where APs are not synchronised. It is shown numerically that iterating between the two conventional steps brings a significant performance gain.
Energy‐efficient power allocation in underlay and overlay cognitive device‐to‐device communications
Authors: Sultana Ajmery , Zhao Lian , Fernando Xavier
Published: October 2018

Device‐to‐device (D2D) communication can effectively use cognitive radio network approach to coexist with cellular users. For such a cognitive D2D system, two approaches (underlay and overlay) are considered to manage the spectrum sharing among the cellular (primary) users and the D2D (secondary) users. Energy efficiency (EE) is crucial in both these cases due to limited battery capacity and quality of service requirements of the D2D users. This study effectively models the power allocation problem of such a cognitive D2D system by maximising the EE of the D2D users subject to a minimum rate requirement for both the D2D users and the cellular users. This leads to a non‐linear fractional optimisation problem which is more complicated and computationally intractable. Alternatively, geometric water‐filling approach have been utilised for power allocation to solve this optimisation problem which results in an ‘exact’ and ‘low complexity’ solution. Simulation results reveal the benefits of the proposed algorithm.