bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fe/MCSAC catalysts surface modified with nitrogen DBD non‐thermal plasma for carbonyl sulfide catalytic hydrolysis activity enhancement
Authors: Liu Gui , Ning Ping , Lu Feng , Li Kai , Tang Lihong , Song Xin , Guo Huibin , Wang Chi
Published: March 2017

The removal of carbonyl sulfide (COS or S=C=O) from gas streams over Fe/microwave coconut‐shell activated carbon (MCSAC) catalysts modified by dielectric barrier discharge non‐thermal plasma (NTP) were investigated. The properties of Fe/MCSAC catalysts modified by NTP in different conditions, included kinds of reactors, treatment times and input voltages. The surface properties were evaluated by means of energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectrometry, Brunauer Emmett Teller, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy methods and theoretical calculation, which could help us understand the effects of the plasma treatment. The experiments results showed that the COS hydrolysis activities of Fe/MCSAC catalysts were largely enhanced after NTP modification. And the optimal reactor type, treatment time and input voltage were plate‐plate type, 10 min and 35 V, respectively. The catalytic activity enhanced effectually due to the improvement of active component's dispersion after NTP modification. In addition, the extended oxygen functional groups on NTP‐modified catalyst's surface could contribute to a higher activity for COS catalytic hydrolysis at low temperature. The investigation results indicate that non‐thermal plasma treatment is an effective way to manipulate catalyst surface properties for COS catalytic hydrolysis reaction. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Can Fluorine form Halogen Bond? Investigation of Halogen Bonds through Steric Charge
Authors: Koohi Akram Mahmudi , Mahdavifar Zabiollah , Noorizadeh Siamak
Published: March 2017

Calculated steric charges (
, where
is steric potential) on the molecular surfaces are used to investigate the non‐covalent interactions formed between some R−X molecules (R= NC, NCCC, CF3CC, FCC, CF3, CH3, and X=F, Cl, Br) and ammonia, water as well as formaldehyde. It is shown that the formation of halogen‐bonded complexes could be regarded as the interaction between a negative steric charge (steric potential depletion) on the surface of halogen atom and a positive steric charge (steric potential accumulation) region of an electron‐donor site. But the evaluated positive steric charges on the surface of fluorine atoms in R−F molecules predict no halogen bonds for these compounds. Therefore, it is suggested that the
interactions should be renamed to “fluorine bond”, instead of halogen bond. The evaluated steric charges also successfully determine both the strength and direction of halogen bonds for those cases in which the σ‐hole concept fails.
Linear σ‐Hole Bonding Dimers and Trimers Between Dihalogen Molecules XY (X, Y=Cl, Br) and Carbon Monoxide
Authors: Yang Xing , Yan Chao‐Xian , Yang Fan , Zhou Da‐Gang , Zhou Pan‐Pan , Liu Shubin
Published: March 2017

Intermolecular interactions between CO and dihalogen molecules XY (X, Y=Cl, Br) were investigated at MP2/aug‐cc‐pVDZ level without and with counterpoise method, and single point calculations at CCSD(T)/aug‐cc‐pVDZ level were performed. XY can interact with one or two CO to form linear σ‐hole bonding dimer or trimer. Their optimized geometries, stretching modes and interaction energies were investigated. The X⋅⋅⋅C (or Y⋅⋅⋅C) interaction is stronger and more competitive than X⋅⋅⋅O (or Y⋅⋅⋅O) interaction, so the OC⋅⋅⋅X−Y⋅⋅⋅CO complex is stronger and more competitive than the CO⋅⋅⋅X−Y⋅⋅⋅OC complex. The interaction strengths of trimeric complexes are dependent upon the property of XY, andthe anticooperative or diminutive effects were observed for them. Electrostatic interaction is the dominant net driving force for the formation of these dimers based on EDA analysis. The formation of two linear halogen bonds in each trimer was identified by bond paths and green circle isosurfaces appearing between the halogen and C (or O) atoms. The results would provide valuable insight into the competition and cooperativity of linear halogen bonds.
The Thiel–Zsutty earthquake damage model, reformulated and extended
Authors: Thiel Charles C. , Zsutty Theodore C.
Published: March 2017

The Thiel–Zsutty (TZ) model predicts mean and the probability distribution function for earthquake damageability of building as a function of peak ground acceleration. ATC‐13‐1 provides an alternate damageability model based on modified Mercalli intensity characterization of ground motion and a beta distribution function for selected building types. This paper provides a reconciliation of the TZ and Applied Technology Council (ATC) methods. It is shown that the beta distribution can provide a continuous representation of the step‐wise TZ Markov distribution function. When the TZ model uses a compression factor for the standard deviation to represent the degree of uncertainty in the parameters, then the TZ results are found to be consistent with the ATC‐13‐1 distribution function for a specific compression factor of 0.40. This paper provides a new, simply applicable method to determine the damage distribution function for a given site, building type, and site conditions; using a beta distribution and allowing inclusion of the degree of confidence the assessor has in the determination of the parameters. New equations are provided to estimate the mean, standard deviation, and upper confidence limit of the damage ratio.
Academic Language in Preschool: Research and Context
Authors: Michael Luna Sara
Published: March 2017

Developing and scaffolding academic language is an important job of preschool teachers. This Teaching Tip provides five strategies that extend the topic of academic language by integrating previous research and field‐based data into classroom practice.
Solvent‐free Synthesis, Characterization and Solvent‐Vapor Interaction of Zinc(II) and Copper(II) Coordination Polymers containing Nitrogen‐donor Ligands
Authors: Tella Adedibu C. , Mehlana Gift , Alimi Lukman O. , Bourne Susan A.
Published: March 2017

Coordination polymers of [Zn(INA)2] (1) (INA = isonicotinate), [Cu2(mal)2(H2O)2(bipy)] (2) (mal = malonate, bipy = 4,4‐bipyridine), and [Zn2(OAC)4(bipy)2] (3) (OAC = acetate) were prepared using mechanochemical grinding and heating methods. The materials were characterized with elemental analysis, FT‐IR spectroscopy, TGA, SEM, EI‐MS, BET, and PXRD. Comparison of PXRD patterns of the materials with patterns simulated from single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction data allowed identification of the products. Compared to conventional synthetic techniques such as solvothermal/hydrothermal solvent‐based methods, solvent‐free method was found to be simple, highly efficient, and environmentally friendly especially for the preparation of these coordination polymers on a large scale. Solvent‐vapor interaction properties of 1, 2, and 3 were investigated by exposure of the compounds to water and methanol at room temperature.
Thermo‐analytical Investigations on the Superoxides AO2 (A = K, Rb, Cs), Revealing Facile Access to Sesquioxides A4O6
Authors: Merz Patrick , Schmidt Marcus , Felser Claudia , Jansen Martin
Published: March 2017

Rb4O6 and Cs4O6 represent open shell p electron systems, featuring charge, spin, orbital and structural degrees of freedom, which makes them unique candidates for studying the ordering processes related, otherwise exclusively encountered in transition metal based materials. Probing the physical responses has been restrained by the intricacy of synthesizing appropriate amounts of phase pure samples. Tracing the thermal decomposition of respective superoxides has revealed that at least the rubidium and cesium sesquioxides exist in thermodynamic equilibrium, appropriate p‐T conditions given. These insights have paved the way to highly efficient and convenient access to Rb4O6 and Cs4O6.
Porous Metal‐organic Framework based on Strip‐shaped Manganese(II) Chains: Synthesis, Structure, and Magnetic Properties
Authors: Liu Jian‐Jun , He Chi‐Xian , Cheng Fei‐Xiang , Huang Chang‐Cang
Published: March 2017

The MnII‐based porous metal‐organic framework, [Mn3(btca)2(HCOO)(μ3‐OH)(H2O)2]·2DMF (1) (H2btca = benzotriazole‐5‐carboxylate acid), was prepared by the solvothermal reaction of Mn(CH3COO)2·4H2O and H2btca, which was characterized by infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analyses, and X‐ray crystallographic study. 1 exhibits 3D framework with 1D rectangle channels constructed by the strip‐shaped chains containing [Mn5(μ3‐OH)2(btca)4]– pentaclusters subunits. Furthermore, the magnetic measures show that 1 exhibits weak ferromagnetic behavior at low temperature.
Reconstruction of the hydrologic history of a shallow Patagonian steppe lake during the past 700 yr, using chemical, geologic, and biological proxies
Authors: Coviaga Corina , Rizzo Andrea , Pérez Patricia , Daga Romina , Poiré Daniel , Cusminsky Gabriela , Ribeiro Guevara Sergio
Published: March 2017

The limnological conditions during the past 700 yr were reconstructed based on multiproxy analysis of a short sedimentary sequence from El Toro Lake (~40°S, 70°W). Mineralogical and geochemical features, as well as ostracods and chironomids, record hydrologic changes in the El Toro Lake basin. The ostracodLimnocythere rionegroensisvar. 1, a reliable indicator of high salinity, andEucypris fontana, a euryhaline species with preferences for moderate-salinity waters, are studied as paleolimnological proxies. The chironomid fauna indicates less saline conditions in the mid-twentieth century. These salinity changes are interpreted in terms of negative–positive hydrologic balance. High lake level and low salinity between AD 1500 and 1700 match with the wetter and colder climate during the second pulse of the Little Ice Age in northern Patagonia. High-salinity conditions occurred during the late nineteenth century, corresponding to the driest period during the past 400 yr in northeastern Patagonia. An increase in the precipitation around the middle of the twentieth century, in contrast to the records from the Chilean side of the mountains, correlates with a positive phase of the Southern Annular Mode. This is associated, in turn, with a strengthening, poleward shift of the midlatitude westerlies, possibly enhancing easterly moist air flows into central-north Patagonia.
An intriguing middle-sized horse from Coste San Giacomo (Anagni Basin, central Italy)
Authors: Palombo Maria Rita , Alberdi Maria Teresa , Bellucci Luca , Sardella Raffaele
Published: March 2017

Various species and ecomorphotypes of the genus Equus are recorded in several southern European Early Pleistocene local faunal assemblages (LFAs), though their taxonomy, phylogenetic relationships, and chronological distribution are still a matter of debate. This article aims to increase knowledge on the European pre-Olduvai stenonoid horses by describing and discussing the equid sample from the middle Villafranchian (Gelasian) Italian site of Coste San Giacomo (CSG; Anagni). Although horse remains from CSG are scanty, the morphological traits, dimensions, and proportions of teeth and some limb bones suggest some affinities with middle-sized European stenonoid horses, in particular with Equus senezensis, as supported by statistical analysis. This opens a new window on the possible phylogenetic relationships of the middle-sized, slender middle Villafranchian horses, although some questions about their actual taxonomic rank cannot be firmly answered based on available data. The complex relationship among environment, structure of the accompanying mammalian fauna, and the presence in the Early Pleistocene LFAs of only one equid, large or middle-sized, or even of more horse species with different size is briefly discussed.
Self-Referential Dysfunction and Default-Mode Hyperactivation in Psychophysiological Insomnia Patients
Authors: Marques Daniel Ruivo , Gomes Ana Allen , Clemente Vanda , dos Santos José Moutinho , Duarte Isabel Catarina , Caetano Gina , Castelo-Branco Miguel
Published: March 2017

Abstract. Psychophysiological insomnia (PI) is one of the most frequent sleep disorders. In this study we tested whether differences in terms of neural activation are present between a group of PI patients and a healthy-control group while they are exposed to idiosyncratic ruminations and worries, evoked visually by words, so as to explore their hypothetical link with default-mode network (DMN) dysfunction in PI. We recruited five PI patients diagnosed according to the International Classification of Sleep Disorders, version 2 (ICSD-2) of American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) and five age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Patients were recruited at the outpatient Sleep Medicine Centre of the Coimbra University Hospital Centre. We used a functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) block-design paradigm where the participants visualized lists of words related to past/present and future concerns and also emotionally neutral words. The results suggested that the PI patients showed a failure of the DMN to deactivate. Moreover, when these patients were exposed to words concerning both past/present ruminations and future worries, there was a pronounced and significant over-recruitment of brain areas related to DMN and self-referential processing when they were compared to healthy volunteers. The differences between the patient and control groups were also evident in self-report measures. In sum, despite the relatively small sample size, our study clearly suggests that in PI there is a dysfunction in brain regions pertaining to self-referential processing, which is corroborated by an overall pattern of hyperarousal in brain regions comprising the DMN. These data may be useful in the improvement of pathophysiological models, diagnostic and therapeutic interventions for insomnia.
“Drive the Lane; Together, Hard!”
Authors: Breuer Johannes , Velez John , Bowman Nicholas , Wulf Tim , Bente Gary
Published: March 2017

Abstract. As an entertainment technology, video games are a popular social activity that can allow for multiple players to cooperatively engage on-screen challenges. Emerging research has found that when people play together, the resulting teamwork can have beneficial impacts on their prosocial orientations after gameplay – especially when the players are cooperative with one another. The present study wanted to expand the scope of these beneficial interpersonal effects by considering both inter- and intrapersonal factors. In an experimental study (N = 115) we manipulated the difficulty of a game (easy or hard) and the behavior of a confederate teammate (supportive or unsupportive playing style). We found that neither coplayer supportiveness nor game difficulty had an effect on the expectations of a teammate’s prosocial behavior or one’s own prosocial behavior toward the teammate after the game (operationalized as willingness to share small amounts of money with one’s teammate after playing). Increased expectations of prosocial behavior from one’s teammate were related to one’s own prosocial behaviors, independent of our manipulations. Considering these results, we propose alternative theoretical approaches to understanding complex social interactions in video games. Furthermore, we suggest to explore other types of manipulations of game difficulty and cooperation between video game players as well as alternative measures of prosocial behavior.
Screening for immune response against Dengue virus in Vietnamese non‐human primates: implications for vaccine developers
Authors: Lazo Vázquez Laura , Suzarte Portal Edith , Castro Velazco Jorge , Yen Phuong , Dung Le Trung , Gil González Lázaro , Valdés Prado Iris , Marcos López Ernesto , Cobas Acosta Karem , Hien Nguyen Dang , Guillén Nieto Gerardo , Hermida Cruz Lisset
Published: March 2017

One of the major problems faced for the development of a vaccine against Dengue virus is the lack of a suitable animal model. Although non‐human primates do not show overt signs of disease, these animals develop viremia after the infection and are the best model to evaluate vaccine candidates against this pathogen. However, for that purpose, the screening of all animals is mandatory to discard those with previous natural immunity. The most common technique used in the screening is the plaque reduction neutralization test (PRNT). However, most recent studies points to the cell‐mediated immunity (CMI) as an important player in the process of controlling Dengue virus (DENV) infections. Here we presented the results from the screening of 55 rhesus monkeys housed in an animal breeding facility at Quang Ninh province, Vietnam. We evaluated the neutralizing antibody response by PRNT and determined the levels of interferon γ (IFNγ)‐secretion after the viral stimulation of monkey‐peripheral blood mononuclear cells, by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). We found no correspondence between PRNT and IFNγ‐ELISA. In fact, 19 animals were positive only by IFNγ‐ELISA. Moreover, to study the protective capacity of the CMI detected, three animals with positive response by IFNγ‐ELISA and negative by PRNT were inoculated with an infective preparation of DENV‐3 and, as a result, no viremia was detected during 10 days after the challenge. This fact points to the importance of screening non‐human primates through a CMI assay together with PRNT. This procedure should discard those false‐negative cases which would be protected after the viral challenge in the immunization schedule.
Progress of antibody-based inhibitors of the HGF–cMET axis in cancer therapy
Authors: Kim Ki-Hyun , Kim Hyori
Published: March 2017

Dysregulated receptor tyrosine kinase signaling in human cancer cells leads to tumor progression, invasion and metastasis. The receptor tyrosine kinase cMET is frequently overexpressed in cancer tissue, and activation of cMET signaling is related to drug resistance and the processes of carcinogenesis, invasion and metastasis. For that reason, cMET and its ligand, hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), are considered prime targets for the development of anticancer drugs. At least eight anti-cMET and four anti-HGF antibodies have been tested or are being tested in clinical trials. However, to date none of these HGF/cMET inhibitors have shown significant efficacy in clinical trials. Furthermore, no receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors primarily targeting cMET have been approved. Given that neutralization of HGF or cMET does not cause significant adverse effects, inhibition of the HGF/cMET signaling pathway appears to be safe. In this review, we summarized the completed and ongoing clinical trials testing antibody- or protein-based anticancer drugs targeting cMET and HGF.
Dirhamnolipids secreted from Pseudomonas aeruginosa modify anjpegungal susceptibility of Aspergillus fumigatus by inhibiting β1,3 glucan synthase activity
Authors: Briard Benoit , Rasoldier Vero , Bomme Perrine , ElAouad Noureddine , Guerreiro Catherine , Chassagne Pierre , Muszkieta Laetitia , Latgé Jean-Paul , Mulard Laurence , Beauvais Anne
Published: March 2017

Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Aspergillus fumigatus are the two microorganisms responsible for most of the chronic infections in cystic fibrosis patients. P. aeruginosa is known to produce quorum-sensing controlled rhamnolipids during chronic infections. Here we show that the dirhamnolipids secreted from P. aeruginosa (i) induce A. fumigatus to produce an extracellular matrix, rich in galactosaminogalactan, 1,8-dihydroxynaphthalene (DHN)- and pyo-melanin, surrounding their hyphae, which facilitates P. aeruginosa binding and (ii) inhibit A. fumigatus growth by blocking β1,3 glucan synthase (GS) activity, thus altering the cell wall architecture. A. fumigatus in the presence of diRhls resulted in a growth phenotype similar to that upon its treatment with anjpegungal echinocandins, showing multibranched hyphae and thicker cell wall rich in chitin. The diRhl structure containing two rhamnose moieties attached to fatty acyl chain is essential for the interaction with β1,3 GS; however, the site of action of diRhls on GS is different from that of echinocandins, and showed synergistic anjpegungal effect with azoles.
A chemical chaperone improves muscle function in mice with a RyR1 mutation
Authors: Lee Chang Seok , Hanna Amy D. , Wang Hui , Dagnino-Acosta Adan , Joshi Aditya D. , Knoblauch Mark , Xia Yan , Georgiou Dimitra K. , Xu Jianjun , Long Cheng , Amano Hisayuki , Reynolds Corey , Dong Keke , Martin John C. , Lagor William R. , Rodney George G. , Sahin Ergun , Sewry Caroline , Hamilton Susan L.
Published: March 2017

Mutations in the RYR1 gene cause severe myopathies. Mice with an I4895T mutation in the type 1 ryanodine receptor/Ca2+ release channel (RyR1) display muscle weakness and atrophy, but the underlying mechanisms are unclear. Here we show that the I4895T mutation in RyR1 decreases the amplitude of the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+ transient, resting cytosolic Ca2+ levels, muscle triadin content and calsequestrin (CSQ) localization to the junctional SR, and increases endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress/unfolded protein response (UPR) and mitochondrial ROS production. Treatment of mice carrying the I4895T mutation with a chemical chaperone, sodium 4-phenylbutyrate (4PBA), reduces ER stress/UPR and improves muscle function, but does not restore SR Ca2+ transients in I4895T fibres to wild type levels, suggesting that decreased SR Ca2+ release is not the major driver of the myopathy. These findings suggest that 4PBA, an FDA-approved drug, has potential as a therapeutic intervention for RyR1 myopathies that are associated with ER stress.
MicroRNA filters Hox temporal transcription noise to confer boundary formation in the spinal cord
Authors: Li Chung-Jung , Hong Tian , Tung Ying-Tsen , Yen Ya-Ping , Hsu Ho-Chiang , Lu Ya-Lin , Chang Mien , Nie Qing , Chen Jun-An
Published: March 2017

The initial rostrocaudal patterning of the neural tube leads to differential expression of Hox genes that contribute to the specification of motor neuron (MN) subtype identity. Although several 3′ Hox mRNAs are expressed in progenitors in a noisy manner, these Hox proteins are not expressed in the progenitors and only become detectable in postmitotic MNs. MicroRNA biogenesis impairment leads to precocious expression and propagates the noise of Hoxa5 at the protein level, resulting in an imprecise Hoxa5-Hoxc8 boundary. Here we uncover, using in silico simulation, two feed-forward Hox-miRNA loops accounting for the precocious and noisy Hoxa5 expression, as well as an ill-defined boundary phenotype in Dicer mutants. Finally, we identify mir-27 as a major regulator coordinating the temporal delay and spatial boundary of Hox protein expression. Our results provide a novel trans Hox-miRNA circuit filtering transcription noise and controlling the timing of protein expression to confer robust individual MN identity.
Monolayer optical memory cells based on artificial trap-mediated charge storage and release
Authors: Lee Juwon , Pak Sangyeon , Lee Young-Woo , Cho Yuljae , Hong John , Giraud Paul , Shin Hyeon Suk , Morris Stephen M. , Sohn Jung Inn , Cha SeungNam , Kim Jong Min
Published: March 2017

Monolayer transition metal dichalcogenides are considered to be promising candidates for flexible and transparent optoelectronics applications due to their direct bandgap and strong light-matter interactions. Although several monolayer-based photodetectors have been demonstrated, single-layered optical memory devices suitable for high-quality image sensing have received little attention. Here we report a concept for monolayer MoS2optoelectronic memory devices using artificially-structured charge trap layers through the functionalization of the monolayer/dielectric interfaces, leading to localized electronic states that serve as a basis for electrically-induced charge trapping and optically-mediated charge release. Our devices exhibit excellent photo-responsive memory characteristics with a large linear dynamic range of ∼4,700 (73.4 dB) coupled with a low OFF-state current (<4 pA), and a long storage lifetime of over 104 s. In addition, the multi-level detection of up to 8 optical states is successfully demonstrated. These results represent a significant step toward the development of future monolayer optoelectronic memory devices.
Thermoelectric and phonon transport properties of two-dimensional IV–VI compounds
Authors: Shafique Aamir , Shin Young-Han
Published: March 2017

We explore the thermoelectric and phonon transport properties of two-dimensional monochalcogenides (SnSe, SnS, GeSe, and GeS) using density functional theory combined with Boltzmann transport theory. We studied the electronic structures, Seebeck coefficients, electrical conductivities, lattice thermal conductivities, and figures of merit of these two-dimensional materials, which showed that the thermoelectric performance of monolayer of these compounds is improved in comparison compared to their bulk phases. High figures of merit (ZT) are predicted for SnSe (ZT = 2.63, 2.46), SnS (ZT = 1.75, 1.88), GeSe (ZT = 1.99, 1.73), and GeS (ZT = 1.85, 1.29) at 700 K along armchair and zigzag directions, respectively. Phonon dispersion calculations confirm the dynamical stability of these compounds. The calculated lattice thermal conductivities are low while the electrical conductivities and Seebeck coefficients are high. Thus, the properties of the monolayers show high potential toward thermoelectric applications.
Novel insights into the interaction of UBA5 with UFM1 via a UFM1-interacting sequence
Authors: Padala Prasanth , Oweis Walaa , Mashahreh Bayan , Soudah Nadine , Cohen-Kfir Einav , Todd Emily A. , Berndsen Christopher E. , Wiener Reuven
Published: March 2017

The modification of proteins by ubiquitin-fold modifier 1 (UFM1) is implicated in many human diseases. Prior to conjugation, UFM1 undergoes activation by its cognate activating enzyme, UBA5. UBA5 is a non-canonical E1 activating enzyme that possesses an adenylation domain but lacks a distinct cysteine domain. Binding of UBA5 to UFM1 is mediated via an amino acid sequence, known as the UFM1-interacting sequence (UIS), located outside the adenylation domain that is required for UFM1 activation. However, the precise boundaries of the UIS are yet not clear and are still under debate. Here we revisit the interaction of UFM1 with UBA5 by determining the crystal structure of UFM1 fused to 13 amino acids of human UBA5. Using binding and activity assays, we found that His 336 of UBA5, previously not reported to be part of the UIS, occupies a negatively charged pocket on UFM1’s surface. This His is involved in UFM1 binding and if mutated perturbs activation of UFM1. Surprisingly, we also found that the interaction between two UFM1 molecules mimics how the UIS binds UFM1. Specifically, UFM1 His 70 resembles UBA5 His336 and enters a negatively charged pocked on the other UFM1 molecule. Our results refine our understanding of UFM1-UBA5 binding.
Muscle-specific downregulation of GR levels inhibits adipogenesis in porcine intramuscular adipocyte tissue
Authors: Chu Weiwei , Wei Wei , Han Haiyin , Gao Ying , Liu Kaiqing , Tian Ye , Jiang Zaohang , Zhang Lifan , Chen Jie
Published: March 2017

Intramuscular adipose is conducive to good pork quality, whereas subcutaneous adipose is considered as waste in pig production. So uncovering the regulation differences between these two adiposes is helpful to tissue-specific control of fat deposition. In this study, we found the sensitivity to glucocorticoids (GCs) was lower in intramuscular adipocytes (IMA) compared with subcutaneous adipocytes (SA). Comparison of glucocorticoid receptor (GR) revealed that IMA had lower GR level which contributed to its reduced GCs sensitivity. Higher methylation levels of GR promotor 1-C and 1-H were detected in IMA compared with SA. GR expression decrease was also found in adipocytes when treated with muscle conditioned medium (MCM)in vitro, which resulted in significant inhibition of adipocytes proliferation and differentiation. Since abundant myostatin (MSTN) was detected in MCM by ELISA assay, we further investigated the effect of this myokine on adipocytes. MSTN treatment suppressed adipocytes GR expression, cell proliferation and differentiation, which mimicked the effects of MCM. The methylation levels of GR promotor 1-C and 1-H were also elevated after MSTN treatment. Our study reveals the role of GR in muscle fiber inhibition on intramuscular adipocytes, and identifies myostatin as a muscle-derived modulator for adipose GR level.
Interplay of DNA methyltransferase 1 and EZH2 through inactivation of Stat3 contributes to β-elemene-inhibited growth of nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells
Authors: Wu JingJing , Tang Qing , Yang LiJuan , Chen YuQing , Zheng Fang , Hann Swei Sunny
Published: March 2017

β-elemene, a compound extracted from Curcuma wenyujin plant, exhibits anticancer activity in many cancer types. However, the detailed mechanism by which β-elemene inhibits growth of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) cells remains unknown. We showed that β-elemene reduced phosphorylation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (Stat3), and protein expressions of DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1) and enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2). Exogenously expressed Stat3 antagonized the effect of β-elemene on DNMT1 and EZH2 expressions. Furthermore, overexpressions of DNMT1 and EZH2 reversed the effect of β-elemene on phosphorylation of Stat3 and cell growth inhibition. Intriguingly, exogenously expressed DNMT1 overcame β-elemene-inhibited EZH2 protein expression and promoter activity. On the contrary, silencing of EZH2 and DNMT1 genes feedback strengthened the effect of β-elemene on phosphorylation of Stat3. Consistent with this, β-elemene inhibited tumor growth, phosphorylation of Stat3, expressions of DNMT1 and EZH2 in a mouse xenograft model. Collectively, this study shows that β-elemene inhibits NPC cell growth via inactivation of Stat3, and reduces DNMT1 and EZH2 expressions. The interplay of DNMT1 and EZH2, and the mutual regulations among Stat3, EZH2 and DNMT1 contribute to the overall responses of β-elemene. This study uncovers a novel mechanism by which β-elemene inhibits growth of NPC cells.
The molecular determinants governing the immunogenicity of Japanese encephalitis live attenuated vaccines
Authors: Li Yuhua , Fu Yin , Liu Xinyu , Yang Huiqiang , Yu Yongxin , Jia Lili , Li Xuguang , Farnsworth Aaron , Wang Junzhi
Published: March 2017

In the course of isolating the attenuated Japanese encephalitis vaccine SA14-14-2, two attenuated strains SA14-9-7 and SA14-5-3 were also obtained that elicited low antibody responses in humans (<10% and 62%, respectively) and exerted much weaker immune protection in animal challenge experiments. However, the reason for these differences remains unknown. In order to understand why SA14-14-2 is superior to SA14-9-7 and SA14-5-3, we employed a reverse genetics method to identify the key mutations in the virus genome that determine the immunogenicity of live attenuated Japanese encephalitis viruses. We first sequenced the full genomic sequences of SA14-9-7 and SA14-5-3 and found mutations that changed four amino-acid base pairs when compared to the envelope gene of SA14-14-2. We mutated the genome of SA14-14-2 to generate these mutations both singly (E-177, E-264, E-279 and E-315) and in combination (E-177/264, E-279/315 and E-177/264/279/315) and tested these mutants along with parental strains SA14-14-2, SA14-9-7 and SA14-5-3 for their immunogenicity in vivo. When mice were immunized with SA14-9-7 and SA14-5-3, lower levels of neutralizing antibodies were generated compared with the immune response to SA14-14-2. Furthermore, SA14-5-3 was more immunogenic than SA14-9-7, which replicated the results previously seen in humans. Point mutations E-177, E-264, E-279 and E-315 diminished the immunogenicity of SA14-14-2 with E-264 and E-315, contributing the most to this phenotype. The mutant rJEV (E-177/E-264/E-279/E-315) containing all four point mutations exhibited the lowest immunogenicity with a seroconversion rate of 0 at an inoculation dose of 103 PFU (plaque-forming unit). We have identified the key amino acids in the envelope protein that account for the superior immunogenicity of SA14-14-2.
Directional Phonon Suppression Function as a Tool for the Identification of Ultralow Thermal Conductivity Materials
Authors: Romano Giuseppe , Kolpak Alexie M.
Published: March 2017

Boundary-engineering in nanostructures has the potential to dramatically impact the development of materials for high- efficiency conversion of thermal energy directly into electricity. In particular, nanostructuring of semiconductors can lead to strong suppression of heat transport with little degradation of electrical conductivity. Although this combination of material properties is promising for thermoelectric materials, it remains largely unexplored. In this work, we introduce a novel concept, the directional phonon suppression function, to unravel boundary-dominated heat transport in unprecedented detail. Using a combination of density functional theory and the Boltzmann transport equation, we compute this quantity for nanoporous silicon materials. We first compute the thermal conductivity for the case with aligned circular pores, confirming a significant thermal transport degradation with respect to the bulk. Then, by analyzing the information on the directionality of phonon suppression in this system, we identify a new structure of rectangular pores with the same porosity that enables a four-fold decrease in thermal transport with respect to the circular pores. Our results illustrate the utility of the directional phonon suppression function, enabling new avenues for systematic thermal conductivity minimization and potentially accelerating the engineering of next-generation thermoelectric devices.
Molecular heterogeneity in major urinary proteins of Mus musculus subspecies: potential candidates involved in speciation
Authors: Hurst Jane L. , Beynon Robert J. , Armstrong Stuart D. , Davidson Amanda J. , Roberts Sarah A. , Gómez-Baena Guadalupe , Smadja Carole M. , Ganem Guila
Published: March 2017

When hybridisation carries a cost, natural selection is predicted to favour evolution of traits that allow assortative mating (reinforcement). Incipient speciation between the two European house mouse subspecies,Mus musculus domesticusandM.m.musculus, sharing a hybrid zone, provides an opportunity to understand evolution of assortative mating at a molecular level. Mouse urine odours allow subspecific mate discrimination, with assortative preferences evident in the hybrid zone but not in allopatry. Here we assess the potential of MUPs (major urinary proteins) as candidates for signal divergence by comparing MUP expression in urine samples from the Danish hybrid zone border (contact) and from allopatric populations. Mass spectrometric characterisation identified novel MUPs in both subspecies involving mostly new combinations of amino acid changes previously observed inM.m.domesticus. The subspecies expressed distinct MUP signatures, with most MUPs expressed by only one subspecies. Expression of at least eight MUPs showed significant subspecies divergence both in allopatry and contact zone. Another seven MUPs showed divergence in expression between the subspecies only in the contact zone, consistent with divergence by reinforcement. These proteins are candidates for the semiochemical barrier to hybridisation, providing an opportunity to characterise the nature and evolution of a putative species recognition signal.
Quantum Capacitance of a Topological Insulator-Ferromagnet Interface
Authors: Siu Zhuo Bin , Chowdhury Debashree , Jalil Mansoor B. A. , Basu Banasri
Published: March 2017

We study the quantum capacitance in a topological insulator thin film system magnetized in the in-plane direction in the presence of an out-of-plane magnetic field and hexagonal warping. To first order, the modification in quantum capacitance due to hexagonal warping compared to the clean case, where both the in-plane magnetization and hexagonal warping are absent, is always negative, and increases in magnitude monotonically with the energy difference from the charge neutrality point. In contrast, the change in the quantum capacitance due to in-plane magnetization oscillates with the energy in general, except when a certain relation between the inter-surface coupling, out of plane Zeeman energy splitting and magnetic field strength is satisfied. In this special case, the quantum capacitance remains unchanged by the in-plane magnetization for all energies.
Brilliant petawatt gamma-ray pulse generation in quantum electrodynamic laser-plasma interaction
Authors: Chang H. X. , Qiao B. , Huang T. W. , Xu Z. , Zhou C. T. , Gu Y. Q. , Yan X. Q. , Zepf M. , He X. T.
Published: March 2017

We show a new resonance acceleration scheme for generating ultradense relativistic electron bunches in helical motions and hence emitting brilliant vortical γ-ray pulses in the quantum electrodynamic (QED) regime of circularly-polarized (CP) laser-plasma interactions. Here the combined effects of the radiation reaction recoil force and the self-generated magnetic fields result in not only trapping of a great amount of electrons in laser-produced plasma channel, but also significant broadening of the resonance bandwidth between laser frequency and that of electron betatron oscillation in the channel, which eventually leads to formation of the ultradense electron bunch under resonant helical motion in CP laser fields. Three-dimensional PIC simulations show that a brilliant γ-ray pulse with unprecedented power of 6.7 PW and peak brightness of 1025 photons/s/mm2 /mrad2 /0.1% BW (at 15 MeV) is emitted at laser intensity of 1.9 × 1023 W/cm2.
Effect of prolonged freezing of semen on exosome recovery and biologic activity
Authors: Welch Jennifer L. , Madison Marisa N. , Margolick Joseph B. , Galvin Shannon , Gupta Phalguni , Martínez-Maza Otoniel , Dash Chandravanu , Okeoma Chioma M.
Published: March 2017

Exosomes are important vehicles of intercellular communication that shape host responses to physiologic, tumorigenic, and pathogenic conditions. The composition and function of exosomes are dynamic and depends on the state and condition of the cellular source. In prior work, we found that semen exosomes (SE) from healthy donors who do not use illicit drugs potently inhibit HIV-1. Following semen donation, specimens are either used immediately or frozen for use at a later time. It has been shown that short-term freezing of semen has no effect on SE-mediated HIV-1 inhibition. However, the effect of illicit drugs and prolonged freezing on SE bioactivity is unknown. Here, we show preservation of SE physical properties, (morphology, concentration, intensity/size) irrespective of illicit drug use or duration of semen freezing. Interestingly, illicit drugs and prolonged freezing decreased the levels of SE-bound CD63/CD9 and acetylcholinesterase activity respectively. Furthermore, we show differential effects of illicit drug use and prolonged freezing on SE-mediated HIV-1 inhibition. Our results highlight the importance of the source of SE and condition of semen storage on SE content and function. In-depth evaluation of donor drug-use and duration of semen storage on SE cargo and bioactivity will advance our understanding of SE composition and function.
Superposition-free comparison and clustering of antibody binding sites: implications for the prediction of the nature of their antigen
Authors: Di Rienzo Lorenzo , Milanetti Edoardo , Lepore Rosalba , Olimpieri Pier Paolo , Tramontano Anna
Published: March 2017

We describe here a superposition free method for comparing the surfaces of antibody binding sites based on the Zernike moments and show that they can be used to quickly compare and cluster sets of antibodies. The clusters provide information about the nature of the bound antigen that, when combined with a method for predicting the number of direct antibody antigen contacts, allows the discrimination between protein and non-protein binding antibodies with an accuracy of 76%. This is of relevance in several aspects of antibody science, for example to select the framework to be used for a combinatorial antibody library.
Solitary perturbations in the steep boundary of magnetized toroidal plasma
Authors: Lee J. E. , Yun G. S. , Lee W. , Kim M. H. , Choi M. , Lee J. , Kim M. , Park H. K. , Bak J. G. , Ko W. H. , Park Y. S.
Published: March 2017

Solitary perturbations (SPs) localized both poloidally and radially are detected within ~100 μs before the partial collapse of the high pressure gradient boundary region (called pedestal) of magnetized toroidal plasma in the KSTAR tokamak device. The SP develops with a low toroidal mode number (typically unity) in the pedestal ingrained with quasi-stable edge-localized mode (QSM) which commonly appears during the inter-collapse period. The SPs have smaller mode pitch and different (often opposite) rotation velocity compared to the QSMs. Similar solitary perturbations are also frequently observed before the onset of complete pedestal collapse, suggesting a strong connection between the SP generation and the pedestal collapse.
A role of the SAM domain in EphA2 receptor activation
Authors: Shi Xiaojun , Hapiak Vera , Zheng Ji , Muller-Greven Jeannine , Bowman Deanna , Lingerak Ryan , Buck Matthias , Wang Bing-Cheng , Smith Adam W.
Published: March 2017

Among the 20 subfamilies of protein receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs), Eph receptors are unique in possessing a sterile alpha motif (SAM domain) at their C-terminal ends. However, the functions of SAM domains in Eph receptors remain elusive. Here we report on a combined cell biology and quantitative fluorescence study to investigate the role of the SAM domain in EphA2 function. We observed elevated tyrosine autophosphorylation levels upon deletion of the EphA2 SAM domain (EphA2ΔS) in DU145 and PC3 prostate cancer cells and a skin tumor cell line derived from EphA1/A2 knockout mice. These results suggest that SAM domain deletion induced constitutive activation of EphA2 kinase activity. In order to explain these effects, we applied fluorescence correlation spectroscopy to investigate the lateral molecular organization of EphA2. Our results indicate that SAM domain deletion (EphA2ΔS-GFP) increases oligomerization compared to the full length receptor (EphA2FL-GFP). Stimulation with ephrinA1, a ligand for EphA2, induced further oligomerization and activation of EphA2FL-GFP. The SAM domain deletion mutant, EphA2ΔS-GFP, also underwent further oligomerization upon ephrinA1 stimulation, but the oligomers were larger than those observed for EphA2FL-GFP. Based on these results, we conclude that the EphA2 SAM domain inhibits kinase activity by reducing receptor oligomerization.
Alizarin Red S for Online Pyrophosphate Detection Identified by a Rapid Screening Method
Authors: Fischbach Jens , Loh Qiuting , Bier Frank F. , Lim Theam Soon , Frohme Marcus , Glökler Jörn
Published: March 2017

We identified Alizarin Red S and other well known fluorescent dyes useful for the online detection of pyrophosphate in enzymatic assays, including the loop mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays. An iterative screening was used for a selected set of compounds to first secure enzyme compatibility, evaluate inorganic pyrophosphate sensitivity in the presence of manganese as quencher and optimize conditions for an online detection. Of the selected dyes, the inexpensive alizarin red S was found to selectively detect pyrophosphate under LAMP and PCR conditions and is superior with respect to its defined red-shifted spectrum, long shelf life and low toxicity. In addition, the newly identified properties may also be useful in other enzymatic assays which do not generate nucleic acids but are based on inorganic pyrophosphate. Finally, we propose that our screening method may provide a blueprint for rapid screening of compounds for detecting inorganic pyrophosphate.
Isolation and characterization of the E. coli membrane protein production strain Mutant56(DE3)
Authors: Baumgarten Thomas , Schlegel Susan , Wagner Samuel , Löw Mirjam , Eriksson Jonas , Bonde Ida , Herrgård Markus J. , Heipieper Hermann J. , Nørholm Morten H. H. , Slotboom Dirk Jan , de Gier Jan-Willem
Published: March 2017

Membrane protein production is usually toxic to E. coli. However, using genetic screens strains can be isolated in which the toxicity of membrane protein production is reduced, thereby improving production yields. Best known examples are the C41(DE3) and C43(DE3) strains, which are both derived from the T7 RNA polymerase (P)-based BL21(DE3) protein production strain. In C41(DE3) and C43(DE3) mutations lowering t7rnap expression levels result in strongly reduced T7 RNAP accumulation levels. As a consequence membrane protein production stress is alleviated in the C41(DE3) and C43(DE3) strains, thereby increasing membrane protein yields. Here, we isolated Mutant56(DE3) from BL21(DE3) using a genetic screen designed to isolate BL21(DE3)-derived strains with mutations alleviating membrane protein production stress other than the ones in C41(DE3) and C43(DE3). The defining mutation of Mutant56(DE3) changes one amino acid in its T7 RNAP, which weakens the binding of the T7 RNAP to the T7 promoter governing target gene expression rather than lowering T7 RNAP levels. For most membrane proteins tested yields in Mutant56(DE3) were considerably higher than in C41(DE3) and C43(DE3). Thus, the isolation of Mutant56(DE3) shows that the evolution of BL21(DE3) can be promoted towards further enhanced membrane protein production.
Absence of a gestational diabetes phenotype in the LepRdb/+ mouse is independent of control strain, diet, misty allele, or parity
Authors: Plows Jasmine F. , Yu XinYang , Broadhurst Ric , Vickers Mark H. , Tong Chao , Zhang Hua , Qi HongBo , Stanley Joanna L. , Baker Philip N.
Published: March 2017

Treatment options for gestational diabetes (GDM) are limited. In order to better understand mechanisms and improve treatments, appropriate animal models of GDM are crucial. Heterozygous db mice (db/+) present with glucose intolerance, insulin resistance, and increased weight gain during, but not prior to, pregnancy. This makes them an ideal model for GDM. However, several recent studies have reported an absence of GDM phenotype in their colony. We investigated several hypotheses for why the phenotype may be absent, with the aim of re-establishing it and preventing further resources being wasted on an ineffective model. Experiments were carried out across two laboratories in two countries (New Zealand and China), and were designed to assess type of control strain, diet, presence of the misty allele, and parity as potential contributors to the lost phenotype. While hyperleptinemia and pre-pregnancy weight gain were present in all db/+mice across the four studies, we found no consistent evidence of glucose intolerance or insulin resistance during pregnancy. In conclusion, we were unable to acquire the GDM phenotype in any of our experiments, and we recommend researchers do not use the db/+ mouse as a model of GDM unless they are certain the phenotype remains in their colony.
Effect of decomposition and organic residues on resistivity of copper films fabricated via low-temperature sintering of complex particle mixed dispersions
Authors: Yong Yingqiong , Nguyen Mai Thanh , Tsukamoto Hiroki , Matsubara Masaki , Liao Ying-Chih , Yonezawa Tetsu
Published: March 2017

Mixtures of a copper complex and copper fine particles as copper-based metal-organic decomposition (MOD) dispersions have been demonstrated to be effective for low-temperature sintering of conductive copper film. However, the copper particle size effect on decomposition process of the dispersion during heating and the effect of organic residues on the resistivity have not been studied. In this study, the decomposition process of dispersions containing mixtures of a copper complex and copper particles with various sizes was studied. The effect of organic residues on the resistivity was also studied using thermogravimetric analysis. In addition, the choice of copper salts in the copper complex was also discussed. In this work, a low-resistivity sintered copper film (7 × 10−6 Ω·m) at a temperature as low as 100 °C was achieved without using any reductive gas.