bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Two-dimensional porous γ-AlOOH and γ-Al2O3 nanosheets: hydrothermal synthesis, formation mechanism and catalytic performance
Authors: Liu Suli , Chen Changyun , Liu Qinpu , Zhuo Yiwei , Yuan Dan , Dai Zhihui , Bao Jianchun
Published: August 2015

2D porous γ-AlOOH and γ-Al2O3 nanosheets: hydrothermal synthesis, formation mechanism, and catalytic activity for the hydrogenation of nitroaromatic compounds.
Inorganic dye-sensitized solar cell employing In-enriched Cu–In–S ternary colloids prepared in water media
Authors: Higashimoto S. , Inui S. , Nakase T. , Azuma M. , Yamamoto M. , Takahashi M.
Published: August 2015

Inorganic dye-sensitized solar cells employing In-enriched Cu–In–S ternary colloids prepared in water exhibit high PCE at 3.54%.
Morphologically controllable synthesis of core–shell structured Au@Cu2O with enhanced photocatalytic activity
Authors: Yuan Guotao , Lu Mengna , Fei Jiuhui , Guo Jun , Wang Zuoshan
Published: August 2015

Core–shell structured Au@Cu2O nanocomposites with different morphologies were prepared by a facile solution route.
Synergistic effect of PLA–PBAT–PLA tri-block copolymers with two molecular weights as compatibilizers on the mechanical and rheological properties of PLA/PBAT blends
Authors: Sun Zhiqiang , Zhang Bao , Bian Xinchao , Feng Lidong , Zhang Han , Duan Ranlong , Sun Jingru , Pang Xuan , Chen Wenqi , Chen Xuesi
Published: August 2015

Systematic study on the synergistic effects of different molecular-weight PLA–PBAT–PLA tri-block copolymers on the mechanical and rheological properties of PLA/PBAT blends.
Copper–cobalt synergy in Cu1−xCoxFe2O4spinel ferrite as a highly efficient and regioselective nanocatalyst for the synthesis of 2,4-dinitrotoluene
Authors: Fareghi-Alamdari Reza , Zandi Farzad , Keshavarz Mohammad Hossein
Published: August 2015

Highly regioselective dinitration of toluene with nitric acid as nitrating agent in the presence of Cu1−xCoxFe2O4(0 ≤x≤ 1) as nanocatalysts is described.
Plasmon enhanced fluorescence of a bisphthalonitrile-based dye via a dopamine mediated interfacial crosslinking reaction on silver nanoparticles
Authors: Jia Kun , Zhou Xuefei , Pan Lin , Yuan Liting , Wang Pan , Wu Chunhui , Huang Yumin , Liu Xiaobo
Published: August 2015

Dopamine modified silver nanoparticles have been employed to enhance the fluorescence of a bisphthalonitrile end-capping phenolphthalein dye in solution via plasmon enhanced fluorescence methodology.
Fabrication of AgBr nanomaterials as excellent antibacterial agents
Authors: Liu Zhouzhou , Guo Wei , Guo Chongshen , Liu Shaoqin
Published: August 2015

The excellent disinfection properties of AgBr nanocubes are due to the “dual-punch” of Ag ions induced disturbance to bio-function and AgBr nanocube-induced damage to cellular structure.
nBu4NI-catalyzed intermolecular C–O cross-coupling reactions: synthesis of alkyloxyamines
Authors: Lv Yunhe , Sun Kai , Wang Tingting , Li Gang , Pu Weiya , Chai Nannan , Shen Huihui , Wu Yingtao
Published: August 2015

nBu4NI-catalyzed cross-coupling of benzyl and allylic compounds with N-hydroxyphthalimide for the synthesis of alkyloxyamines were realized for the first time.
Thermal deoxygenation causes photoluminescence shift from UV to blue region in lyophilized graphene oxide
Authors: Kumar Veeresh , Kumar Vivek , Reddy G. B. , Pasricha Renu
Published: August 2015

Lyophilized graphene oxide (GO) was thermally exfoliated in stages at predefined temperatures up to 400 °C and the photoluminescence (PL) study of GO and thermally reduced GO (TGO) was carried out at each step.
Influence of hyperbranched copper phthalocyanine grafted carbon nanotubes on the dielectric and rheological properties of polyarylene ether nitriles
Authors: Pu Zejun , Tong Lifen , Feng Mengna , Jia Kun , Liu Xiaobo
Published: August 2015

Novel hyperbranched copper phthalocyanine covalently grafted carbon nanotube/polyarylene ether nitrile (HBCuPc-CNT/PAEN) flexile composite films were prepared via solution casting.
Real time imaging of the growth of silver ribbons by evanescent wave microscopy
Authors: Pal Angshuman , Khajornrungruang Panart , Babu S. V.
Published: August 2015

Real time visualization of the in situ growth of ∼40 μm long silver ribbons, synthesized by template-free galvanic displacement using ∼100 nm Cu particles and Ag ions in aqueous conditions, is demonstrated using evanescent wave microscopy.
Efficiency enhancement of organic photovoltaic devices by embedding uncapped Al nanoparticles in the hole transport layer
Authors: Krassas M. , Kakavelakis G. , Stylianakis M. M. , Vaenas N. , Stratakis E. , Kymakis E.
Published: August 2015

The effects of incorporating uncapped aluminum nanoparticles, fabricated by laser ablation in liquid, in the hole transport layer of organic photovoltaic devices were systematically investigated. Resulting in about 9% enhancement in the power conversion efficiency.
H3PW12O40 synergized with MCM-41 for the catalytic nitration of benzene with NO2 to nitrobenzene
Authors: You Kuiyi , Deng Renjie , Jian Jian , Liu Pingle , Ai Qiuhong , Luo He’an
Published: August 2015

In this work, NO2 as a nitration agent and the supported HPW/MCM-41 as a synergistic catalyst to replace traditional nitric acid and sulfuric acids were employed to catalyze benzene nitration to nitrobenzene.
Towards lignin valorisation: comparing homogeneous catalysts for the aerobic oxidation and depolymerisation of organosolv lignin
Authors: Díaz-Urrutia Christian , Chen Wei-Ching , Crites Charles-Oneil , Daccache Jennifer , Korobkov Ilia , Baker R. Tom
Published: August 2015

Lignin is a unique potential source of aromatic chemicals derived from renewable resources.
Correction: Enhanced actuated strain of titanium dioxide/nitrile-butadiene rubber composite by the biomimetic method
Authors: Yang Dan , Huang Shuo , Wu Yibo , Ruan Mengnan , Li Shuxin , Shang Yuwei , Cui Xiuguo , Wang Yang , Guo Wenli
Published: August 2015

Correction for ‘Enhanced actuated strain of titanium dioxide/nitrile-butadiene rubber composite by the biomimetic method’ by Dan Yang et al., RSC Adv., 2015, 5, 65385–65394.
A series of tetraazalene radical-bridged M2(M = CrIII, MnII, FeII, CoII) complexes with strong magnetic exchange coupling
Authors: DeGayner Jordan A. , Jeon Ie-Rang , Harris T. David
Published: August 2015

The ability of tetraazalene radical bridging ligands to mediate exceptionally strong magnetic exchange coupling across a range of transition metal complexes is demonstrated.
Schottky contact of an artificial polymer semiconductor composed of poly(dimethylsiloxane) and multiwall carbon nanotubes
Authors: Zhou Yi , Liu Changhong , Fan Shoushan
Published: August 2015

The Coulomb band gap and Schottky barrier height of the MWNT–PDMS composite can be tuned by the MWNT loading, leading to performance variation on flexible electronics.
Self-template synthesis of hollow shell-controlled Li3VO4as a high-performance anode for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Li Qidong , Wei Qiulong , Wang Qinqin , Luo Wen , An Qinyou , Xu Yanan , Niu Chaojiang , Tang Chunjuan , Mai Liqiang
Published: August 2015

A novel hollow shell-controlled Li3VO4is fabricatedviaa facile self-template method which exhibits excellent electrochemical performance.
Binary metal sulfides and polypyrrole on vertically aligned carbon nanotube arrays/carbon fiber paper as high-performance electrodes
Authors: Cai Xiaoyi , Hansen Reinack V. , Zhang Lili , Li Baosheng , Poh Chee Kok , Lim San Hua , Chen Luwei , Yang Jinglei , Lai Linfei , Lin Jianyi , Shen Zexiang
Published: August 2015

Rationally designed and coaxially grown Ni–Co–S and polypyrrole on vertically aligned carbon nanotube (VA-CNT) arrays/3D carbon fiber paper (CFP) are presented as novel freestanding electrodes for energy storage devices.
Highly efficient, coking-resistant SOFCs for energy conversion using biogas fuels
Authors: Ma Jianjun , Jiang Cairong , Connor Paul A. , Cassidy Mark , Irvine John T. S.
Published: August 2015

A well-designed cell structure and selected components makes it possible to obtain excellent performance combined good durability using biogas fuel.
275–285 GHz balanced frequency quadrupler chain in 45 nm SOI CMOS
Authors: Abbasi M. , Ricketts D.S.
Published: August 2015

A 280 GHz broadband balanced frequency quadrupler chain is presented. The quadrupler can be used to generate as high as 200 μW over a −3 dB bandwidth of 275–285 GHz, which enables emerging applications in sub‐millimetre‐wave communications and remote sensing. The circuit is designed and fabricated in a 45 nm silicon on insulator (SOI) CMOS technology and occupies an area of 0.21 mm2 including the pads. The chip consumes 85 mA dc current from a 1.1 V supply.
Using disturbance records to automate the diagnosis of faults and operational procedures in power generators
Authors: Moreto Miguel , Rolim Jacqueline G.
Published: August 2015

Nowadays, it is a common practice in power generation utilities to monitor the generation units using digital fault recorders. As the disturbance records are generally analysed and stored at a central office or control centre, it has become difficult for engineers to analyse all this data. Some of the main steps in developing automated diagnosis tools to help in this task are the segmentation and feature extraction of the recorded signals and decision making. This study presents a methodology to extract meaningful information from each segment of a disturbance signal. In the approach described in this study, the segmentation is performed by an extended complex Kalman filter. The main features extracted from each segment are symmetrical components at fundamental frequency of voltage and current signals. Feature extraction uses root‐mean‐square values to obtain the symmetrical components of the three phase quantities. This methodology focuses on offline analysis of fault recorder data of power generators and it is developed not only to fault analysis, but also to verify normal operational procedures, from which result most of the disturbance records. This study also describes an expert system that can be used to automatically classify each record into known categories, focusing the engineer's attention to the most relevant occurrences.
Investigating the impact of unanticipated market and construction delays on the development of a meshed HVDC grid using dynamic transmission planning
Authors: Shariat Torbaghan Shahab , Gibescu Madeleine , Rawn Barry G. , Müller Hannah , Roggenkamp Martha , van der Meijden Mart
Published: August 2015

This study presents a market‐based dynamic transmission planning framework for the construction of a meshed offshore voltage source converter‐high voltage direct current (VSC‐HVDC) grid. Such a grid is foreseen for integrating offshore wind and electricity trade functions among the North Sea countries. The proposed model seeks to maximise the social welfare of all zones and to minimise the investment capital of transmission infrastructure subject to technical and economic constraints. It determines the optimal grid design, including grid topology and transmission capacities for each development stage. The transmission capacities are set in such a way that congestion revenues collected throughout the lifetime of the infrastructure project pay off the investment cost of building the grid. The model is used to investigate the impact of unanticipated delay constraints due to technical (e.g. unavailability of DC breakers), economic (e.g. supply chain shortages) and legal obstacles (e.g. heterogeneous permitting criteria). It is quantified how (i) longer delays result in larger social welfare losses; (ii) different countries will be affected differently by the delays and so have unequal incentives for solving them; (iii) the length of the delay affects the capacity of cross‐border connections. Numerical results are interpreted in economic terms and allow appraisal of the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
Research on low carbon electricity under the probabilistic reliability evaluation
Authors: Ge Shaoyun , Li Teng , Liu Hong
Published: August 2015

The access of distributed energy to traditional distribution grid can enhance the reliability and provide important support for the construction of low‐carbon electricity. However, the current reliability evaluation methods do not correlate with the notion of low‐carbon power grid. To fully reflect the stochastic fluctuation of the sources and loads, taking the Monte Carlo simulation method as a framework method, the probabilistic reliability evaluation method based on point estimation is proposed to evaluate the probabilistic reliability of isolating part combining with a new shedding strategy. Then analyse the low‐carbon benefit on the result of reliability evaluation. Finally, make a simulation based on the case of actual areas in China. From the case, the low‐carbon benefit promotes 20%. Therefore, the validity and accuracy of the method can be verified.
Symbol error rate analysis for colour‐shift keying modulation in visible light communication system with RGB light‐emitting diodes
Authors: Jia Linqiong , Wang Jin‐Yuan , Zhang Wence , Chen Ming , Wang Jun‐Bo
Published: August 2015

The symbol error rate (SER) is investigated for colour‐shift keying (CSK) modulation in visible light communication system with red/green/blue LEDs. A new concept of pseudo signal‐to‐noise ratio is proposed to illustrate the relationship between the signal power and the noise power since the traditional electrical signal‐to‐noise ratio fails to capture the properties of CSK signals. The authors map the three‐dimensional (3D) signal space of CSK signals to a 2D plane because the decision region of constellations in 2D space is easy to analyse and is proved to be equivalent to that of 3D signal space. The symbol error probability for a certain constellation is calculated as the summation of the probabilities of the received signals lying outside the decision region. As the SER is formulated as the weighted sum of error probabilities for all constellations, an analytical expression for SER is derived for certain constellation distribution. Moreover, a general formula for 22n ‐CSK modulation is derived by exploiting the distribution regularity of 4CSK and 16CSK. The SER expression for CSK modulation is evaluated approximately using the numerical Gaussian formula. Simulation results show that the analytical expression can predict SER performance accurately.
Condylar Fracture in a Child with Entrapment of the Inferior Alveolar Nerve
Authors: Politis Constantinus , Sun Yi , Agbaje Jimoh , Lambrichts Ivo , Piagkou Maria , Jacobs Reinhilde
Published: August 2015

The aim of this article is to report the clinical case of a right subcondylar fracture in a 4-year-old boy. The displaced and medial angulated fragmented mandibular condyle in coexistence with an enlarged lateral pterygoid process was compressing the inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) during its course in the area of the infratemporal fossa. This was expressed by exhibiting a rubbing behavior with resulting superficial ulceration at the right lower lip. Hypoesthesia of the lower lip may be a sign of the IAN entrapment after a subcondylar fracture in a child. In contrast to the adults where an open reduction is necessary to relieve the symptoms of hypoesthesia, in pediatric population, a conservative approach seems sufficient.
Lutein esterification in wheat endosperm is controlled by the homoeologous group 7, and is increased by the simultaneous presence of chromosomes 7D and 7Hch from Hordeum chilense
Authors: Mattera M. G. , Cabrera A. , Hornero-Méndez D. , Atienza S. G.
Published: August 2015

The high carotenoid content in tritordeum (×Tritordeum Ascherson et Graebner) grains is derived from its wild parent, Hordeum chilense Roem. et Schulz. Phytoene synthase 1 (Psy1) is located on chromosome 7HchS and plays a major role in this trait. This study investigates the impact of the introgression of chromosome 7Hch into common wheat background on carotenoid composition, including xanthophylls esterified with fatty acids (monoesters and diesters). All of the genetic stocks carrying Psy1 from H. chilense increased their carotenoid content relative to common wheat. In addition, significant changes in the carotenoid profile were detected in different genetic stocks. The most relevant was the increase in content of lutein diesters when both 7Hch and 7D were present, which indicates the existence of genes involved in the esterification of xanthophylls in both chromosomes. Furthermore, our results suggest that 7Hch genes preferentially esterify lutein with palmitic acid, whereas 7D is either indifferent to the fatty acid or it prefers linoleic acid for lutein esterification. The involvement and complementarity of 7Hch and 7D are highly significant considering the scarcity of previous results on lutein esterification in wheat.
Dimethylsulfide model calibration in the Barents Sea using a genetic algorithm and neural network
Authors: Qu Bo , Gabric Albert J. , Zeng Meifang , Lu Zhifeng
Published: August 2015

Environmental context
Future changes in marine biogenic aerosol emissions in Arctic seas are likely to affect the radiative budget of the region. Here we employ a calibrated biogeochemical model to simulate change in sulfate aerosol emissions in the Barents Sea, and find strong increases occur by the late 21st century. If replicated across the Arctic Ocean, such increases in sulfate aerosol loading to the Arctic atmosphere may decrease the rate of warming at polar latitudes.

Abstract
Global warming of climate is connected to ecosystem change, especially in the polar oceans. Biogenic emissions of dimethylsulfide (DMS) are the main biogenic source of sulfate aerosols to the marine atmosphere and may change in the Arctic, where warming is currently very rapid. Here, we simulate DMS distribution and sea-to-air flux in the Barents Sea (30–40°E and 70–80°N) for the period 2003–05. A genetic algorithm is used to calibrate the key parameters in the DMS model. We use MODIS satellite chlorophyll-a data and regional DMS field data to calibrate the model. Owing to limited DMS observations in the Arctic Ocean, multiple data sources were used and compared. A back-propagation neural network is used for predicting regional DMS based on previous history time series. Parameter sensitivity analysis is done based on DMS flux output. Global climate model forcings for 1×CO2 to 3×CO2 conditions are used to force the biogeochemical model under future climate warming (c. 2080). The simulation results show that under tripled CO2, DMS flux would increase 168 to 279% from autumn through winter and would increase 112% during ice melting season. DMS flux would increase much more in ice-melt-affected water. The increased DMS flux under 3×CO2 indicates that regional warming could slow owing to the emission of DMS in the Arctic, if the increase in emissions of anthropogenic greenhouse gases is controlled.
A broadly neutralizing human monoclonal antibody is effective against H7N9
Authors: Tharakaraman Kannan , Subramanian Vidya , Viswanathan Karthik , Sloan Susan , Yen Hui-Ling , Barnard Dale L. , Leung Y. H. Connie , Szretter Kristy J. , Koch Tyree J. , Delaney James C. , Babcock Gregory J. , Wogan Gerald N. , Sasisekharan Ram , Shriver Zachary
Published: August 2015

Significance

Emerging influenza subtypes, such as the recently identified H7N9 strains, are of considerable public health concern. Although vaccines are an important countermeasure, influenza vaccines tend to be subtype- and strain-specific, such that they may not be widely available in the event of the human adaptation and spread of an unanticipated strain or subtype. Additionally, influenza strains have demonstrated the ability to develop resistance to existing antivirals, including oseltamivir. As such, there is a need for novel interventions that can treat and/or prevent serious influenza infection. We demonstrate that VIS410, a human mAb, neutralizes a wide range of influenza A viruses and effectively manages H7N9 infection.
LINE-1 expression and retrotransposition in Barrett’s esophagus and esophageal carcinoma
Authors: Doucet-O'Hare Tara T. , Rodić Nemanja , Sharma Reema , Darbari Isha , Abril Gabriela , Choi Jungbin A. , Young Ahn Ji , Cheng Yulan , Anders Robert A. , Burns Kathleen H. , Meltzer Stephen J. , Kazazian Haig H.
Published: August 2015

Significance

By studying premalignant conditions, we can gain a better understanding of the sources of genomic instability and improve cancer prevention and treatment. Because retrotransposition has been observed in many gastrointestinal epithelial cancer types, we focused on L1 mobilization as a source of instability in cancer. Here, we demonstrate that L1 retrotransposition is active in esophageal adenocarcinoma and its precursor, Barrett’s esophagus (BE). We detected clonal populations with precursor cells marked by L1 retrotransposition events either in the normal esophagus or BE. These clones expanded in the BE or esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC), indicating that somatic L1 insertions are not only potential mutagens in the development of EAC, but also useful markers of tumor clones as well.
Teaching critical thinking
Authors: Holmes N. G. , Wieman Carl E. , Bonn D. A.
Published: August 2015

Significance

Understanding and thinking critically about scientific evidence is a crucial skill in the modern world. We present a simple learning framework that employs cycles of decisions about making and acting on quantitative comparisons between datasets or data and models. With opportunities to improve the data or models, this structure is appropriate for use in any data-driven science-learning setting. This structure led to significant and sustained improvement in students’ critical thinking behaviors, compared with a control group, with effects far beyond that of statistical significance.
MutL traps MutS at a DNA mismatch
Authors: Qiu Ruoyi , Sakato Miho , Sacho Elizabeth J. , Wilkins Hunter , Zhang Xingdong , Modrich Paul , Hingorani Manju M. , Erie Dorothy A. , Weninger Keith R.
Published: August 2015

Significance

DNA mismatch repair is the process by which errors generated during DNA replication are corrected. Mutations in the proteins that initiate mismatch repair, MutS and MutL, are associated with greater than 80% of hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC) and many sporadic cancers. The assembly of MutS and MutL at a mismatch is an essential step for initiating repair; however, the nature of these interactions is poorly understood. Here, we have discovered that MutL fundamentally changes the properties of mismatch-bound MutS by preventing it from sliding away from the mismatch, which it normally does when isolated. This finding suggests a mechanism for localizing the activity of repair proteins near the mismatch.
Human hippocampus represents space and time during retrieval of real-world memories
Authors: Nielson Dylan M. , Smith Troy A. , Sreekumar Vishnu , Dennis Simon , Sederberg Per B.
Published: August 2015

Significance

The rodent hippocampus contains neurons that code for space on the scale of meters, a discovery that was recently awarded a Nobel Prize. However, it remains unclear whether humans harness similar representations for memory at the scale of their lives. Our results reveal that the human hippocampus represents the spatial and temporal location of memories for real-life events at scales of up to 30 km and a month of time. They further suggest that real-world representations of space and time are more intimately entwined in the hippocampus than previously thought, validating the relevance of decades of rodent studies for human memory and providing a potential mechanism for how we weave the episodic memories of our lives.
Transmembrane signaling in the sensor kinase DcuS of
Escherichia coli
: A long-range piston-type displacement of transmembrane helix 2
Authors: Monzel Christian , Unden Gottfried
Published: August 2015

Significance

Two-component systems represent the most common bacterial sensors for perceiving environmental stimuli. Extracytoplasmic sensing kinases of this type consist of an extracytoplasmic sensor domain, transmembrane helices (TMs), and a cytoplasmic His-kinase. Conformational changes in sensor domains upon ligand binding suggest transmembrane signal transduction by a piston-type displacement of TMs. Here, transmembrane signaling was probed for the C
4
-dicarboxylate sensor kinase (DcuS). Cysteine accessibility studies of TM2 showed fumarate-driven displacement of TM2 that is directly related to the activation of DcuS. TM2 repositioning is paralleled by corresponding energy optima for membrane insertion and effector-induced compaction of the corresponding binding domain. These experiments show signal transduction by a piston-type movement, which could be generally representative for bacterial sensor kinases.
Regulated proteolysis of a cross-link–specific peptidoglycan hydrolase contributes to bacterial morphogenesis
Authors: Singh Santosh Kumar , Parveen Sadiya , SaiSree L , Reddy Manjula
Published: August 2015

Significance

Peptidoglycan (PG) is a unique and essential cross-linked, bag-like macromolecule that completely encases the cytoplasmic membrane and confers shape and rigidity to a bacterial cell. Therefore, bacterial cell growth is tightly coupled to PG expansion, requiring the coordinate activity of hydrolases that cleave the cross-links and synthases that catalyze the cross-link formation. This study highlights the importance of cross-link cleavage and its regulation in PG biogenesis by demonstrating the modulation of a cross-link–specific PG hydrolytic enzyme, MepS, by a previously unidentified degradation system consisting of an outer membrane lipoprotein, NlpI and a periplasmic protease, Prc. These studies facilitate better understanding of bacterial cell wall synthesis, which is a target of several antimicrobial therapeutic agents.
Functional metagenomic discovery of bacterial effectors in the human microbiome and isolation of commendamide, a GPCR G2A/132 agonist
Authors: Cohen Louis J. , Kang Hahk-Soo , Chu John , Huang Yun-Han , Gordon Emma A. , Reddy Boojala Vijay B. , Ternei Melinda A. , Craig Jeffrey W. , Brady Sean F.
Published: August 2015

Significance

In this study, we demonstrate a method for rapidly identifying bacterial effector genes and gene products from human commensal bacteria. Identification of specific effector genes and small molecules improves our understanding of how bacteria might interact with human cells and contribute to both health and disease. The small molecules we isolated,
N
-acyl-3-hydroxyglycines, resemble endogenously produced
N
-acyl-amide signaling molecules and were found to activate the human G-protein–coupled receptor (GPCR) GPR132/G2A. G2A has potentially important implications for autoimmune disease and atherosclerosis. Finding commensal small molecules that appear to structurally mimic host signaling metabolites provides greater insight into how commensal bacteria may interact with human physiology and the methods required for future discovery of other commensal effectors.
Orchestration of three transporters and distinct vascular structures in node for intervascular transfer of silicon in rice
Authors: Yamaji Naoki , Sakurai Gen , Mitani-Ueno Namiki , Ma Jian Feng
Published: August 2015

Significance

Requirement of mineral elements differs with different organs and tissues; therefore, plants have developed systems for preferentially delivering mineral elements to tissues with high requirement. However, the molecular mechanisms for these systems are poorly understood. We took silicon (Si) as an example and revealed an efficient distribution system occurring in the node of rice, which is a hub for distribution. We found that hyperaccumulation of Si in the husk (more than 10%) is achieved by cooperation of three different Si transporters localized at the different cell layers in the node. Furthermore, mathematical modeling showed that an apoplastic barrier and development of enlarged vascular bundles are also required. Our work revealed a set of players for efficient distribution control in node.
Highly activated RNA silencing via strong induction of dicer by one virus can interfere with the replication of an unrelated virus
Authors: Chiba Sotaro , Suzuki Nobuhiro
Published: August 2015

Significance

RNA silencing-mediated virus interference or cross-protection generally occurs between closely related strains of a single virus species. Here, we show strong virus interference between unrelated RNA viruses in the filamentous ascomycetous fungus,
Cryphonectria parasitica
. Lateral transmission and replication of a totivirus with an undivided dsRNA genome was severely inhibited by a silencing suppressor deletion mutant of the prototype hypovirus with a positive-strand RNA genome or the prototype mycoreovirus with an 11-segmented dsRNA genome, and even by transgenic expression of hairpin RNA of an endogenous fungal gene. This interference required high-level expression of the key RNA silencing gene, dicer-like 2 (
dcl2
), but not necessarily argonaute-like 2 (
agl2
). This study provides insight into broad-spectrum virus control.
Transforming growth factor-β signaling is constantly shaping memory T-cell population
Authors: Ma Chaoyu , Zhang Nu
Published: August 2015

Significance

A persistent memory T-cell population is the basis for successful T-cell–based vaccine against pathogens. Numerous extracellular and intracellular molecules have been demonstrated to play critical roles in the differentiation of memory T cells; however, the mechanisms that control the long-term maintenance of memory T cells remain incompletely understood. Here we show that continuous transforming growth factor-β signaling is required to maintain the identity of memory T cells.
Antagonism screen for inhibitors of bacterial cell wall biogenesis uncovers an inhibitor of undecaprenyl diphosphate synthase
Authors: Farha Maya A. , Czarny Tomasz L. , Myers Cullen L. , Worrall Liam J. , French Shawn , Conrady Deborah G. , Wang Yang , Oldfield Eric , Strynadka Natalie C. J. , Brown Eric D.
Published: August 2015

Significance

Small molecule probes have proved indispensable in dissecting bacterial systems. Their combinations have further expanded their utility as tools by enabling the study of interacting pathways. As such, screens for synergy between compounds have been widely used to reveal functional connections among cellular components. The utility of antagonism, however, has largely been overlooked. This study highlights the value of antagonistic interactions in elucidating genetic networks and mechanisms of drug action. Herein, we report on the discovery of clomiphene, an inhibitor of bacterial cell wall synthesis, uncovered through a systematic screen for antagonism. The discovery of clomiphene shed light on the pathways of cell wall biogenesis and, importantly, represents a new promising lead for the fight against infection.
Talin determines the nanoscale architecture of focal adhesions
Authors: Liu Jaron , Wang Yilin , Goh Wah Ing , Goh Honzhen , Baird Michelle A. , Ruehland Svenja , Teo Shijia , Bate Neil , Critchley David R. , Davidson Michael W. , Kanchanawong Pakorn
Published: August 2015

Significance

Focal adhesions (FAs) mediate cell–extracellular matrix interactions and consist of integrin receptors linked to the actin cytoskeleton via multiprotein complexes organized into nanoscale strata. In this work, we sought to determine the molecular basis of FA nanostructure. Combining superresolution microscopy and protein engineering, we demonstrate the structural role of talin in regulating the nanoscale architecture of FAs. Talin specifies the dimension of the FA core, akin to a molecular ruler, in a remarkably modular manner. Our results define the molecular geometry of the integrin–talin–actin module that comprises the key mechanical linkage within FAs and elucidate how such interactions serve to integrate multiple cellular forces at adhesion sites.
Interleukin 27R regulates CD4+ T cell phenotype and impacts protective immunity during Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection
Authors: Torrado Egidio , Fountain Jeffrey J. , Liao Mingfeng , Tighe Michael , Reiley William W. , Lai Rachel P. , Meintjes Graeme , Pearl John E. , Chen Xinchun , Zak Daniel E. , Thompson Ethan G. , Aderem Alan , Ghilardi Nico , Solache Alejandra , McKinstry K. Kai , Strutt Tara M. , Wilkinson Robert J. , Swain Susan L. , Cooper Andrea M.
Published: August 2015

CD4+ T cells mediate protection against Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb); however, the phenotype of protective T cells is undefined, thereby confounding vaccination efforts. IL-27 is highly expressed during human tuberculosis (TB), and absence of IL-27R (Il27ra) specifically on T cells results in increased protection. IL-27R deficiency during chronic Mtb infection does not impact antigen-specific CD4+ T cell number but maintains programmed death-1 (PD-1), CD69, and CD127 expression while reducing T-bet and killer cell lectin-like receptor G1 (KLRG1) expression. Furthermore, T-bet haploinsufficiency results in failure to generate KLRG1+, antigen-specific CD4+ T cells, and in improved protection. T cells in Il27ra−/− mice accumulate preferentially in the lung parenchyma within close proximity to Mtb, and antigen-specific CD4+ T cells lacking IL-27R are intrinsically more fit than intact T cells and maintain IL-2 production. Improved fitness of IL-27R–deficient T cells is not associated with increased proliferation but with decreased expression of cell death–associated markers. Therefore, during Mtb infection, IL-27R acts intrinsically on T cells to limit protection and reduce fitness, whereas the IL-27R–deficient environment alters the phenotype and location of T cells. The significant expression of IL-27 in TB and the negative influence of IL-27R on T cell function demonstrate the pathway by which this cytokine/receptor pair is detrimental in TB.
Structural implications of weak Ca2+ block in Drosophila cyclic nucleotide–gated channels
Authors: Lam Yee Ling , Zeng Weizhong , Derebe Mehabaw Getahun , Jiang Youxing
Published: August 2015

Calcium permeability and the concomitant calcium block of monovalent ion current (“Ca2+ block”) are properties of cyclic nucleotide–gated (CNG) channel fundamental to visual and olfactory signal transduction. Although most CNG channels bear a conserved glutamate residue crucial for Ca2+ block, the degree of block displayed by different CNG channels varies greatly. For instance, the Drosophila melanogaster CNG channel shows only weak Ca2+ block despite the presence of this glutamate. We previously constructed a series of chimeric channels in which we replaced the selectivity filter of the bacterial nonselective cation channel NaK with a set of CNG channel filter sequences and determined that the resulting NaK2CNG chimeras displayed the ion selectivity and Ca2+ block properties of the parent CNG channels. Here, we used the same strategy to determine the structural basis of the weak Ca2+ block observed in the Drosophila CNG channel. The selectivity filter of the Drosophila CNG channel is similar to that of most other CNG channels except that it has a threonine at residue 318 instead of a proline. We constructed a NaK chimera, which we called NaK2CNG-Dm, which contained the Drosophila selectivity filter sequence. The high resolution structure of NaK2CNG-Dm revealed a filter structure different from those of NaK and all other previously investigated NaK2CNG chimeric channels. Consistent with this structural difference, functional studies of the NaK2CNG-Dm chimeric channel demonstrated a loss of Ca2+ block compared with other NaK2CNG chimeras. Moreover, mutating the corresponding threonine (T318) to proline in Drosophila CNG channels increased Ca2+ block by 16 times. These results imply that a simple replacement of a threonine for a proline in Drosophila CNG channels has likely given rise to a distinct selectivity filter conformation that results in weak Ca2+ block.
Positivity of Chern classes of Schubert cells and varieties
Authors: Huh June
Published: August 2015

We show that the Chern-Schwartz-MacPherson class of a Schubert cell in a Grassmannian is represented by a reduced and irreducible subvariety in each degree. This gives an affirmative answer to a positivity conjecture of Aluffi and Mihalcea.
Movement of centers with respect to various potentials
Authors: Sakata Shigehiro
Published: August 2015

We investigate a potential with a radially symmetric and strictly decreasing kernel depending on a parameter. We regard the potential as a function defined on the upper half-space

R

m

×
(
0
,
+
∞
)

\mathbb {R}^m \times (0,+\infty )

and study some geometric properties of its spatial maximizer. To be precise, we give some sufficient conditions for the uniqueness of a maximizer of the potential and study the asymptotic behavior of the set of maximizers.

Using these results, we imply geometric properties of some specific potentials. In particular, we consider applications for the solution of the Cauchy problem for the heat equation, the Poisson integral (including a solid angle) and

r

α
−
m

r^{\alpha -m}

-potentials.
The Impact of Perceptions in Averting‐decision Models: An Application of the Special Regressor Method to Drinking Water Choices
Authors: Bontemps Christophe , Nauges Céline
Published: August 2015

Households' monetary valuation of water quality is a prerequisite for efficient water resource management and the valuation of water quality protection policies. Individuals are commonly questioned about their perception of risk in valuation surveys based on stated‐preference methods and revealed‐preference methods such as averting‐behavior models. These subjective and often discrete measures are commonly used to explain individuals' actions to protect themselves against these risks. Perceptions appear as endogenous variables in traditional theoretical averting‐decision models but, quite surprisingly, endogeneity of perceived risk is not always controlled for in empirical studies. In this article, we argue that perceptions have to be treated as endogenous to averting decisions in order to produce accurate and reliable measures of households' valuation of water quality improvements. We present various binary averting decision models featuring an endogenous discrete variable (such as risk perception). In particular, we compare the traditional bivariate probit model with the special regressor model, which is less well‐known and relies on a different set of assumptions. In the empirical illustration using household data from Australia, Canada, and France, we study how the perceived health impacts of tap water affect a household's decision to drink water from the tap. Individuals' perceptions are found to be endogenous and significant for all models, but the estimated marginal effect is sensitive to the chosen model. Our empirical application also includes some tests of the special regressor estimator's sensitivity to underlying assumptions.
Semi-analytic model predictions of mass segregation from groups to clusters
Authors: Contini E. , Kang X.
Published: August 2015

Taking advantage of a high-resolution simulation coupled with a state-of-art semi-analytic model of galaxy formation, we probe the mass segregation of galaxies in groups and clusters, focusing on which physical mechanisms are driving it. We find evidence of mass segregation in groups and clusters up to the virial radius, both looking at the galaxy stellar mass and subhalo mass. The physical mechanism responsible for that is consistent with dynamical friction, a drag-force that brings more massive galaxies faster towards the innermost regions of the halo. At odds with observational results, we do not find the inclusion of low-mass galaxies in the samples, down to stellar mass M* = 109 M⊙, to change the overall trend shown by intermediate and massive galaxies. Moreover, stellar stripping as well as the growth of galaxies after their accretion, do not contribute either in shaping mass segregation or mixing the radial mass distribution. Beyond the virial radius we find an ‘antimass segregation’ in groups that progressively weakens in clusters. The continuous accretion of new objects and recent merger events play a different role depending on the halo mass on to which accreting material is falling.
Relationships Between Soybean 11S Globulin Content and Thermal and Retrogradation Properties of Nonwaxy Maize Starch
Authors: Yu Shifeng , Liu Jinling , Li Liang , Jiang Lian‐Zhou
Published: August 2015

In the present study, the relationships of soybean 11S globulin content, thermal properties, and retrogradation properties of nonwaxy maize starch in starch–globulin mixtures were investigated by differential scanning calorimetry. The onset and peak temperatures of maize starch were positively related to soybean 11S globulin content, whereas the thermal enthalpy was negatively related to it. However, the onset temperature, peak temperature, and thermal enthalpy of soybean 11S globulin were negatively related to maize starch content of mixtures. On the other hand, the onset and peak temperatures of retrograded maize starch were positively related to soybean 11S globulin content, whereas the retrogradation enthalpy was negatively related to it during storage. Therefore, adding soybean 11S globulin was an effective method to control maize starch gelatinization and retrogradation properties, which will be helpful for the food industry to produce high‐quality products based on starch and soybean protein.
Biodiversity of Dickeya spp. Isolated from Potato Plants and Water Sources in Temperate Climate
Authors: Potrykus Marta , Golanowska Malgorzata , Sledz Wojciech , Zoledowska Sabina , Motyka Agata , Kolodziejska Anna , Butrymowicz Janina , Lojkowska Ewa
Published: August 2015

Bacteria from the genera Dickeya (formerly Erwinia chrysanthemi) and Pectobacterium (formerly E. carotovora) are the agents of blackleg and soft rot on many important crops. In 2005, Dickeya solani was isolated for the first time in Poland from a symptomatic potato plant. To establish the presence and diversity of Dickeya spp. in Poland, we surveyed potato fields and water sources, including surface waters near potato fields and water from potato-processing facilities and sewage plants. Only D. dianthicola and D. solani were isolated from symptomatic potato, and only D. zeae and D. chrysanthemi were isolated from water sources. The Dickeya spp. isolated from potato formed a relatively homogenous group, while those from water sources were more diverse. To our knowledge, this is the first comprehensive characterization of Dickeya spp. isolated during several years from regions with a temperate climate in Central Europe.
Effect of Soil Moisture Management on the Development of Potato mop-top virus-Induced Tuber Necrosis
Authors: Domfeh O. , Gudmestad N. C.
Published: August 2015

Potato mop-top virus (PMTV), transmitted by Spongospora subterranea f. sp. subterranea, the causal agent of powdery scab in potato, has become one of the most important tuber necrosis viruses in the United States. The virus has been confirmed in six major potato-producing states in the United States since its identification in 2003. Currently, no control methods are available for PMTV or its vector. A growth-chamber experiment was conducted to investigate the potential of using moisture regime adjustments to manage tuber necrosis caused by PMTV. Two commercial potato cultivars with varying levels of sensitivity to PMTV, ‘Dakota Crisp’ and ‘Ivory Crisp’, were grown in soil obtained from a PMTV-infested field. Over the course of the plant growth cycle, plants of each cultivar were subjected to moisture regimes of wet throughout (WT), wet early/dry late (WEDL), dry early/wet late (DEWL), and dry throughout (DT). Soil moisture levels of 90 and 60% field capacity were considered wet and dry, respectively, while early and late refer to first and last 50 days after planting, respectively. Results of visual assessment conducted 3 months after storage showed significant differences in root gall formation, powdery scab on tubers, and PMTV tuber necrosis among moisture regimes. Powdery scab incidence was significantly higher in the WT and DEWL regimes than WEDL and DT regimes. PMTV tuber necrosis incidence did not differ between the WT and DEWL or between DEWL and WEDL moisture regimes. However, PMTV tuber necrosis incidence was significantly higher in WT than under WEDL and DT regimes. The incidence of PMTV tuber necrosis was significantly lower in the DT regime than in the other three moisture regimes. Severity of PMTV tuber necrosis was significantly higher in the WT than the other regimes, which did not differ statistically among themselves. A significant interaction was found between cultivar and moisture regime on root gall formation, with the highest number of galls found on Ivory Crisp grown in the WT moisture regime. A significant correlation was found between powdery scab incidence on tubers and PMTV-induced tuber necrosis incidence. The results of this study provide useful basic information upon which further work can be built for formulating irrigation management schemes that have the potential of reducing the likelihood of powdery scab infection and PMTV-induced tuber necrosis development in potato.
Short-Term Exposure to High CO2and O2Atmospheres to Inhibit Postharvest Gray Mold of Pomegranate Fruit
Authors: Palou Lluís , Rosales Raquel , Montesinos-Herrero Clara , Taberner Verònica
Published: August 2015

The effect of short-term exposure to high CO2or O2atmospheres, alone or in combination with heat (35°C), for the control of postharvest gray mold was evaluated on ‘Mollar de Elche’ pomegranate fruit artificially inoculated with Botrytis cinerea and stored at 20 or 5°C. Exposure to high CO2for 48 h at 20°C effectively reduced gray mold on pomegranate fruit incubated at 20°C for 5 days in a concentration-based manner. Furthermore, gaseous treatments with partial pressures of 95 kPa CO2or 30 kPa O2+ 70 kPa CO2for 48 h significantly reduced gray mold incidence and severity on fruit regardless of storage temperature. Moreover, for fruit receiving gaseous treatments at 20°C then cold stored for 12 weeks, there were no apparent negative effects of the treatments on their quality (weight loss, skin color, maturity index, pH, and sensory quality). In general, compared with those applied at 20°C, treatments at 35°C did not improve gray mold inhibition and adversely affected some quality parameters. In conclusion, 48-h exposures to specific atmospheres at 20°C may be a suitable treatment to extend pomegranate storage life and could be part of integrated control programs to control postharvest decay.