bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cognitive task information is transferred between brain regions via resting-state network topology
Authors: Ito Takuya , Kulkarni Kaustubh R. , Schultz Douglas H. , Mill Ravi D. , Chen Richard H. , Solomyak Levi I. , Cole Michael W.
Published: October 2017

Resting-state network connectivity has been associated with a variety of cognitive abilities, yet it remains unclear how these connectivity properties might contribute to the neurocognitive computations underlying these abilities. We developed a new approach—information transfer mapping—to test the hypothesis that resting-state functional network topology describes the computational mappings between brain regions that carry cognitive task information. Here, we report that the transfer of diverse, task-rule information in distributed brain regions can be predicted based on estimated activity flow through resting-state network connections. Further, we find that these task-rule information transfers are coordinated by global hub regions within cognitive control networks. Activity flow over resting-state connections thus provides a large-scale network mechanism for cognitive task information transfer and global information coordination in the human brain, demonstrating the cognitive relevance of resting-state network topology.
Evolution of drift robustness in small populations
Authors: LaBar Thomas , Adami Christoph
Published: October 2017

Most mutations are deleterious and cause a reduction in population fitness known as the mutational load. In small populations, weakened selection against slightly-deleterious mutations results in an additional fitness reduction. Many studies have established that populations can evolve a reduced mutational load by evolving mutational robustness, but it is uncertain whether small populations can evolve a reduced susceptibility to drift-related fitness declines. Here, using mathematical modeling and digital experimental evolution, we show that small populations do evolve a reduced vulnerability to drift, or ‘drift robustness’. We find that, compared to genotypes from large populations, genotypes from small populations have a decreased likelihood of small-effect deleterious mutations, thus causing small-population genotypes to be drift-robust. We further show that drift robustness is not adaptive, but instead arises because small populations can only maintain fitness on drift-robust fitness peaks. These results have implications for genome evolution in organisms with small effective population sizes.
Echinochloa crus-galli genome analysis provides insight into its adaptation and invasiveness as a weed
Authors: Guo Longbiao , Qiu Jie , Ye Chuyu , Jin Gulei , Mao Lingfeng , Zhang Haiqiang , Yang Xuefang , Peng Qiong , Wang Yingying , Jia Lei , Lin Zhangxiang , Li Gengmi , Fu Fei , Liu Chen , Chen Li , Shen Enhui , Wang Weidi , Chu Qinjie , Wu Dongya , Wu Sanling , Xia Chenyang , Zhang Yongfei , Zhou Xiaomao , Wang Lifeng , Wu Lamei , Song Weijie , Wang Yunfei , Shu Qingyao , Aoki Daisuke , Yumoto Emi , Yokota Takao , Miyamoto Koji , Okada Kazunori , Kim Do-Soon , Cai Daguang , Zhang Chulong , Lou Yonggen , Qian Qian , Yamaguchi Hirofumi , Yamane Hisakazu , Kong Chui-Hua , Timko Michael P. , Bai Lianyang , Fan Longjiang
Published: October 2017

Barnyardgrass (Echinochloa crus-galli) is a pernicious weed in agricultural fields worldwide. The molecular mechanisms underlying its success in the absence of human intervention are presently unknown. Here we report a draft genome sequence of the hexaploid species E. crus-galli, i.e., a 1.27 Gb assembly representing 90.7% of the predicted genome size. An extremely large repertoire of genes encoding cytochrome P450 monooxygenases and glutathione S-transferases associated with detoxification are found. Two gene clusters involved in the biosynthesis of an allelochemical 2,4-dihydroxy-7-methoxy-1,4-benzoxazin-3-one (DIMBOA) and a phytoalexin momilactone A are found in the E. crus-galli genome, respectively. The allelochemical DIMBOA gene cluster is activated in response to co-cultivation with rice, while the phytoalexin momilactone A gene cluster specifically to infection by pathogenic Pyricularia oryzae. Our results provide a new understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the extreme adaptation of the weed.
Second-order spectral lineshapes from charged interfaces
Authors: Ohno Paul E. , Wang Hong-fei , Geiger Franz M.
Published: October 2017

Second-order nonlinear spectroscopy has proven to be a powerful tool in elucidating key chemical and structural characteristics at a variety of interfaces. However, the presence of interfacial potentials may lead to complications regarding the interpretation of second harmonic and vibrational sum frequency generation responses from charged interfaces due to mixing of absorptive and dispersive contributions. Here, we examine by means of mathematical modeling how this interaction influences second-order spectral lineshapes. We discuss our findings in the context of reported nonlinear optical spectra obtained from charged water/air and solid/liquid interfaces and demonstrate the importance of accounting for the interfacial potential-dependent χ(3) term in interpreting lineshapes when seeking molecular information from charged interfaces using second-order spectroscopy.
Ferrotoroidic ground state in a heterometallic {CrIIIDyIII
6} complex displaying slow magnetic relaxation
Authors: Vignesh Kuduva R. , Soncini Alessandro , Langley Stuart K. , Wernsdorfer Wolfgang , Murray Keith S. , Rajaraman Gopalan
Published: October 2017

Toroidal quantum states are most promising for building quantum computing and information storage devices, as they are insensitive to homogeneous magnetic fields, but interact with charge and spin currents, allowing this moment to be manipulated purely by electrical means. Coupling molecular toroids into larger toroidal moments via ferrotoroidic interactions can be pivotal not only to enhance ground state toroidicity, but also to develop materials displaying ferrotoroidic ordered phases, which sustain linear magneto–electric coupling and multiferroic behavior. However, engineering ferrotoroidic coupling is known to be a challenging task. Here we have isolated a {CrIIIDyIII6} complex that exhibits the much sought-after ferrotoroidic ground state with an enhanced toroidal moment, solely arising from intramolecular dipolar interactions. Moreover, a theoretical analysis of the observed sub-Kelvin zero-field hysteretic spin dynamics of {CrIIIDyIII6} reveals the pivotal role played by ferrotoroidic states in slowing down the magnetic relaxation, in spite of large calculated single-ion quantum tunneling rates.
Ultrahigh thermoelectric power factor in flexible hybrid inorganic-organic superlattice
Authors: Wan Chunlei , Tian Ruoming , Kondou Mami , Yang Ronggui , Zong Pengan , Koumoto Kunihito
Published: October 2017

Hybrid inorganic–organic superlattice with an electron-transmitting but phonon-blocking structure has emerged as a promising flexible thin film thermoelectric material. However, the substantial challenge in optimizing carrier concentration without disrupting the superlattice structure prevents further improvement of the thermoelectric performance. Here we demonstrate a strategy for carrier optimization in a hybrid inorganic–organic superlattice of TiS2[tetrabutylammonium]
x
[hexylammonium]
y
, where the organic layers are composed of a random mixture of tetrabutylammonium and hexylammonium molecules. By vacuum heating the hybrid materials at an intermediate temperature, the hexylammonium molecules with a lower boiling point are selectively de-intercalated, which reduces the electron density due to the requirement of electroneutrality. The tetrabutylammonium molecules with a higher boiling point remain to support and stabilize the superlattice structure. The carrier concentration can thus be effectively reduced, resulting in a remarkably high power factor of 904 µW m−1 K−2 at 300 K for flexible thermoelectrics, approaching the values achieved in conventional inorganic semiconductors.
Demographic history and biologically relevant genetic variation of Native Mexicans inferred from whole-genome sequencing
Authors: Romero-Hidalgo Sandra , Ochoa-Leyva Adrián , Garcíarrubio Alejandro , Acuña-Alonzo Victor , Antúnez-Argüelles Erika , Balcazar-Quintero Martha , Barquera-Lozano Rodrigo , Carnevale Alessandra , Cornejo-Granados Fernanda , Fernández-López Juan Carlos , García-Herrera Rodrigo , García-Ortíz Humberto , Granados-Silvestre Ángeles , Granados Julio , Guerrero-Romero Fernando , Hernández-Lemus Enrique , León-Mimila Paola , Macín-Pérez Gastón , Martínez-Hernández Angélica , Menjivar Marta , Morett Enrique , Orozco Lorena , Ortíz-López Guadalupe , Pérez-Villatoro Fernando , Rivera-Morales Javier , Riveros-McKay Fernando , Villalobos-Comparán Marisela , Villamil-Ramírez Hugo , Villarreal-Molina Teresa , Canizales-Quinteros Samuel , Soberón Xavier
Published: October 2017

Understanding the genetic structure of Native American populations is important to clarify their diversity, demographic history, and to identify genetic factors relevant for biomedical traits. Here, we show a demographic history reconstruction from 12 Native American whole genomes belonging to six distinct ethnic groups representing the three main described genetic clusters of Mexico (Northern, Southern, and Maya). Effective population size estimates of all Native American groups remained below 2,000 individuals for up to 10,000 years ago. The proportion of missense variants predicted as damaging is higher for undescribed (~ 30%) than for previously reported variants (~ 15%). Several variants previously associated with biological traits are highly frequent in the Native American genomes. These findings suggest that the demographic and adaptive processes that occurred in these groups shaped their genetic architecture and could have implications in biological processes of the Native Americans and Mestizos of today.
Neomorphosis and heterochrony of skull shape in dog domestication
Authors: Geiger Madeleine , Evin Allowen , Sánchez-Villagra Marcelo R. , Gascho Dominic , Mainini Cornelia , Zollikofer Christoph P. E.
Published: October 2017

The overall similarity of the skull shape of some dog breeds with that of juvenile wolves begs the question if and how ontogenetic changes such as paedomorphosis (evolutionary juvenilisation) played a role in domestication. Here we test for changes in patterns of development and growth during dog domestication. We present the first geometric morphometric study using ontogenetic series of dog and wolf crania, and samples of dogs with relatively ancestral morphology and from different time periods. We show that patterns of juvenile-to-adult morphological change are largely similar in wolves and domestic dogs, but differ in two ways. First, dog skulls show unique (neomorphic) features already shortly after birth, and these features persist throughout postnatal ontogeny. Second, at any given age, juvenile dogs exhibit skull shapes that resemble those of consistently younger wolves, even in dog breeds that do not exhibit a ‘juvenilized’ morphology as adults. These patterns exemplify the complex nature of evolutionary changes during dog domestication: the cranial morphology of adult dogs cannot simply be explained as either neomorphic or paedomorphic. The key to our understanding of dog domestication may lie in a closer comparative examination of developmental phases.
Growth-Induced In-Plane Uniaxial Anisotropy in V2O3/Ni Films
Authors: Gilbert Dustin A. , Ramírez Juan Gabriel , Saerbeck T. , Trastoy J. , Schuller Ivan K. , Liu Kai , de la Venta J.
Published: October 2017

We report on a strain-induced and temperature dependent uniaxial anisotropy in V2O3/Ni hybrid thin films, manifested through the interfacial strain and sample microstructure, and its consequences on the angular dependent magnetization reversal. X-ray diffraction and reciprocal space maps identify the in-plane crystalline axes of the V2O3; atomic force and scanning electron microscopy reveal oriented rips in the film microstructure. Quasi-static magnetometry and dynamic ferromagnetic resonance measurements identify a uniaxial magnetic easy axis along the rips. Comparison with films grown on sapphire without rips shows a combined contribution from strain and microstructure in the V2O3/Ni films. Magnetization reversal characteristics captured by angular-dependent first order reversal curve measurements indicate a strong domain wall pinning along the direction orthogonal to the rips, inducing an angular-dependent change in the reversal mechanism. The resultant anisotropy is tunable with temperature and is most pronounced at room temperature, which is beneficial for potential device applications.
IRE1α/XBP1s branch of UPR links HIF1α activation to mediate ANGII-dependent endothelial dysfunction under particulate matter (PM) 2.5 exposure
Authors: Xu Xiuduan , qimuge Aodeng , Wang Hongli , Xing Chen , Gu Ye , Liu Shasha , Xu Huan , Hu Meiru , Song Lun
Published: October 2017

Short- and long-term exposure to particulate matter (PM) 2.5 instigates adverse health effect upon the cardiovascular (CV) system. Disclosing the molecular events by which PM2.5 evokes CV injuries is essential in developing effective risk-reduction strategy. Here we found that rats after intratracheally instillation with PM2.5 displayed increased circulating level of ANGII, the major bioactive peptide in renin-angiotensin-system (RAS), which resulted from the elevation of ANGII production in the vascular endothelium. Further investigations demonstrated that activation of IRE1α/XBP1s branch of unfolded protein response (UPR) was essential for augmented vascular ANGII signaling in response to PM2.5 exposure, whose effects strictly depends on the assembly of XBP1s/HIF1α transcriptional complex. Moreover, ablation of IRE1/XBP1/HIFα-dependent ACE/ANGII/AT1R axis activation inhibited oxidative stress and proinflammatory response in the vascular endothelial cells induced by PM2.5. Therefore, we conclude that PM2.5 exposure instigates endoplasmic reticulum instability, leading to the induction of IRE1α/XBP1s branch of UPR and links HIF1α transactivation to mediate ANGII-dependent endothelial dysfunction. Identifying novel therapeutic targets to alleviate ER stress and restore local RAS homeostasis in the endothelium may be helpful for the management of PM2.5-induced CV burden.
Impact of ocean warming on sustainable fisheries management informs the Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries
Authors: Serpetti N. , Baudron A. R. , Burrows M. T. , Payne B. L. , Helaouët P. , Fernandes P. G. , Heymans J. J.
Published: October 2017

An integrated ecosystem model including fishing and the impact of rising temperatures, relative to species’ thermal ranges, was used to assess the cumulative effect of future climate change and sustainable levels of fishing pressure on selected target species. Historically, important stocks of cod and whiting showed declining trends caused by high fisheries exploitation and strong top-down control by their main predators (grey seals and saithe). In a no-change climate scenario these stocks recovered under sustainable management scenarios due to the cumulative effect of reduced fishing and predation mortalities cascading through the food-web. However, rising temperature jeopardised boreal stenothermal species: causing severe declines in grey seals, cod, herring and haddock, while eurythermal species were not affected. The positive effect of a higher optimum temperature for whiting, in parallel with declines of its predators such as seals and cod, resulted in a strong increase for this stock under rising temperature scenarios, indicating a possible change in the contribution of stocks to the overall catch by the end of the century. These results highlight the importance of including environmental change in the ecosystem approach to achieve sustainable fisheries management.
Enhancement mechanisms of short-time aerobic digestion for waste activated sludge in the presence of cocoamidopropyl betaine
Authors: Xia Siqing , Zhou Yun , Eustance Everett , Zhang Zhiqiang
Published: October 2017

Cocoamidopropyl betaine (CAPB), which is a biodegradable ampholytic surfactant, has recently been found to dramatically enhance the aerobic digestion of waste activated sludge (WAS) in short-time aerobic digestion (STAD) systems. Therefore, it is important to understand the mechanisms in which CAPB enhances WAS aerobic digestion performance. Results showed that CAPB could dramatically enhance the solubilization of soluble proteins (PN), polysaccharides (PS), nucleic acids (NA) and humic-like substances (HS) in the STAD system within the initial 2 h. Then PN, PS and NA gradually decreased, while HS showed only minor decease. In addition, CAPB increased the proportion of low MW fractions (<20 kDa) from 4.22% to 39.4%, which are more biodegradable. Specific oxygen uptake rates and dehydrogenase enzyme activity results indicated that CAPB markedly improved the aerobic microorganism activities. Microbial community analyses and principle coordinate analyses (PCoA) revealed that CAPB increased the proportion of some functional microorganisms, including Proteobacteria, Planctomycetales, Acinetobacter, Pseudomonas and Aeromonas. The changes driven by CAPB could explain the enhanced performance of the STAD system for WAS aerobic treatment.
Transcription Factor CTIP1/ BCL11A Regulates Epidermal Differentiation and Lipid Metabolism During Skin Development
Authors: Li Shan , Teegarden Amy , Bauer Emily M. , Choi Jaewoo , Messaddeq Nadia , Hendrix David A. , Ganguli-Indra Gitali , Leid Mark , Indra Arup K.
Published: October 2017

The epidermal permeability barrier (EPB) prevents organisms from dehydration and infection. The transcriptional regulation of EPB development is poorly understood. We demonstrate here that transcription factor COUP-TF-interacting protein 1 (CTIP1/BCL11A; hereafter CTIP1) is highly expressed in the developing murine epidermis. Germline deletion of Ctip1 (Ctip1−/−) results in EPB defects accompanied by compromised epidermal differentiation, drastic reduction in profilaggrin processing, reduced lamellar bodies in granular layers and significantly altered lipid composition. Transcriptional profiling of Ctip1−/− embryonic skin identified altered expression of genes encoding lipid-metabolism enzymes, skin barrier-associated transcription factors and junctional proteins. CTIP1 was observed to interact with genomic elements within the regulatory region of the gene encoding the differentiation-associated gene, Fos-related antigen2 (Fosl2) and lipid-metabolism-related gene, Fatty acid elongase 4 (Elvol4), and the expression of both was altered in Ctip1−/− mice. CTIP1 appears to play a role in EPB establishment of via direct or indirect regulation of a subset of genes encoding proteins involved in epidermal differentiation and lipid metabolism. These results identify potential, CTIP1-regulated avenues for treatment of skin disorders involving EBP defects.
The soothing function of touch: affective touch reduces feelings of social exclusion
Authors: von Mohr Mariana , Kirsch Louise P. , Fotopoulou Aikaterini
Published: October 2017

The mammalian need for social proximity, attachment and belonging may have an adaptive and evolutionary value in terms of survival and reproductive success. Consequently, ostracism may induce strong negative feelings of social exclusion. Recent studies suggest that slow, affective touch, which is mediated by a separate, specific C tactile neurophysiological system than faster, neutral touch, modulates the perception of physical pain. However, it remains unknown whether slow, affective touch, can also reduce feelings of social exclusion, a form of social pain. Here, we employed a social exclusion paradigm, namely the Cyberball task (N = 84), to examine whether the administration of slow, affective touch may reduce the negative feelings of ostracism induced by the social exclusion manipulations of the Cyberball task. As predicted, the provision of slow-affective, as compared to fast-neutral, touch led to a specific decrease in feelings of social exclusion, beyond general mood effects. These findings point to the soothing function of slow, affective touch, particularly in the context of social separation or rejection, and suggest a specific relation between affective touch and social bonding.
The effect of insecticide synergist treatment on genome-wide gene expression in a polyphagous pest
Authors: Snoeck Simon , Greenhalgh Robert , Tirry Luc , Clark Richard M. , Van Leeuwen Thomas , Dermauw Wannes
Published: October 2017

Synergists can counteract metabolic insecticide resistance by inhibiting detoxification enzymes or transporters. They are used in commercial formulations of insecticides, but are also frequently used in the elucidation of resistance mechanisms. However, the effect of synergists on genome-wide transcription in arthropods is poorly understood. In this study we used Illumina RNA-sequencing to investigate genome-wide transcriptional responses in an acaricide resistant strain of the spider miteTetranychus urticaeupon exposure to synergists such as S,S,S-tributyl phosphorotrithioate (DEF), diethyl maleate (DEM), piperonyl butoxide (PBO) and cyclosporin A (CsA). Exposure to PBO and DEF resulted in a broad transcriptional response and about one third of the differentially expressed genes (DEGs), including cytochrome P450 monooxygenases and UDP-glycosyltransferases, was shared between both treatments, suggesting common transcriptional regulation. Moreover, both DEF and PBO induced genes that are strongly implicated in acaricide resistance in the respective strain. In contrast, CsA treatment mainly resulted in downregulation of Major Facilitator Superfamily (MFS) genes, while DEGs of the DEM treatment were not significantly enriched for any GO-terms.
Effect of surface and internal defects on the mechanical properties of metallic glasses
Authors: Kim Sunghwan , Ryu Seunghwa
Published: October 2017

Despite the significance of surface effects on the deformation behaviours of small-scale metallic glasses, systematic investigations on surface states are lacking. In this work, by employing atomistic simulations, we characterise the distributions of local inhomogeneity near surfaces created by casting and cutting, along with internal distributions in pristine and irradiated bulk specimens, and investigate the effects of inhomogeneity on the mechanical properties. The cast surface shows enhanced yield strength and degrees of shear localisation, while the cut surface shows the opposite effects, although the fraction of vibrational soft spots, known to indicate low-energy barriers for local rearrangement, is high near both surfaces. Correspondingly, plastic deformation is initiated near the cut surface, but far from the cast surface. We reveal that improved local orientational symmetry promotes strengthening in cast surfaces and originates from the effectively lower quenching rate due to faster diffusion near the surface. However, a significant correlation among vibrational soft spots, local symmetries, and the degree of shear localisation is found for the pristine and irradiated bulk materials. Our findings reveal the sensitivity of the surface state to the surface preparation methods, and indicate that particular care must be taken when studying metallic glasses containing free surfaces.
Fluorescence-coded DNA Nanostructure Probe System to Enable Discrimination of Tumor Heterogeneity via a Screening of Dual Intracellular microRNA Signatures in situ
Authors: Shin Seung Won , Lee Byoung Sang , Yang Kisuk , Amornkitbamrung Lunjakorn , Jang Min Su , Ku Bo Mi , Cho Seung-Woo , Lee Jung Heon , Bae Hojae , Oh Byung-Keun , Ahn Myung-Ju , Lim Yong Taik , Um Soong Ho
Published: October 2017

Since the delivery kinetics of different cell types are different, the signal from the target cell is greatly affected by the noise signal of the diagnostic system. This is a major obstacle hindering the practical application of intracellular diagnostic systems, such as tumor heterogeneity. To address these issues, here we present a microRNA detection platform using fluorescence-encoded nanostructured DNA-based probes. The nanostructured DNA was designed to include molecular beacons for detecting cytosolic microRNA as well as additional fluorophores. When the intracellular diagnostic system is delivered, fluorescence signals are generated by the molecular beacons, depending on the concentration of the target microRNA. The fluorescence signals are then normalized to the intensity of the additional fluorophore. Through this simple calculation, the concentration of intracellular microRNA can be determined without interference from the diagnosis system itself. And also it enabled discrimination of microRNA expression heterogeneity in five different breast cancer cell lines.
Understanding pup affective state through ethologically significant ultrasonic vocalization frequency
Authors: Boulanger-Bertolus Julie , Rincón-Cortés Millie , Sullivan Regina M. , Mouly Anne-Marie
Published: October 2017

Throughout life, rats emit ultrasonic vocalizations (USV) when confronted with an aversive situation. However, the conditions classically used to elicit USV vary greatly with the animal’s age (isolation from the dam in infancy, versus nociceptive stimulation in adults). The present study is the first to characterize USV responses to the same aversive event throughout development. Specifically, infant, juvenile and adult rats were presented with mild foot-shocks and their USV frequency, duration, and relationship with respiration and behavior were compared. In juvenile and adult rats, a single class of USV is observed with an age-dependent main frequency and duration (30 kHz/400 ms in juveniles, 22 kHz/900 ms in adults). In contrast, infant rat USV were split into two classes with specific relationships with respiration and behavior: 40 kHz/300 ms and 66 kHz/21 ms. Next, we questioned if these infant USV were also emitted in a more naturalistic context by exposing pups to interactions with the mother treating them roughly. This treatment enhanced 40-kHz USV while leaving 66-kHz USV unchanged suggesting that the use of USV goes far beyond a signal studied in terms of amount of emission, and can inform us about some aspects of the infant’s affective state.
Myosin V: Chemomechanical-coupling ratchet with load-induced mechanical slip
Authors: Sumi Tomonari
Published: October 2017

A chemomechanical-network model for myosin V is presented on the basis of both the nucleotide-dependent binding affinity of the head to an actin filament (AF) and asymmetries and similarity relations among the chemical transitions due to an intramolecular strain of the leading and trailing heads. The model allows for branched chemomechanical cycles and takes into account not only two different force-generating mechanical transitions between states wherein the leading head is strongly bound and the trailing head is weakly bound to the AF but also load-induced mechanical-slip transitions between states in which both heads are strongly bound. The latter is supported by the fact that ATP-independent high-speed backward stepping has been observed for myosin V, although such motility has never been for kinesin. The network model appears as follows: (1) the high chemomechanical-coupling ratio between forward step and ATP hydrolysis is achieved even at low ATP concentrations by the dual mechanical transitions; (2) the forward stepping at high ATP concentrations is explained by the front head-gating mechanism wherein the power stroke is triggered by the inorganic-phosphate (Pi) release from the leading head; (3) the ATP-binding or hydrolyzed ADP.Pi-binding leading head produces a stable binding to the AF, especially against backward loading.
Topological-insulator-based terahertz modulator
Authors: Wang X. B. , Cheng L. , Wu Y. , Zhu D. P. , Wang L. , Zhu Jian-Xin , Yang Hyunsoo , Chia Elbert E. M.
Published: October 2017

Three dimensional topological insulators, as a new phase of quantum matters, are characterized by an insulating gap in the bulk and a metallic state on the surface. Particularly, most of the topological insulators have narrow band gaps, and hence have promising applications in the area of terahertz optoelectronics. In this work, we experimentally demonstrate an electronically-tunable terahertz intensity modulator based on Bi1:5Sb0:5Te1:8Se1:2 single crystal, one of the most insulating topological insulators. A relative frequency-independent modulation depth of ~62% over a wide frequency range from 0.3 to 1.4 THz has been achieved at room temperature, by applying a bias current of 100 mA. The modulation in the low current regime can be further enhanced at low temperature. We propose that the extraordinarily large modulation is a consequence of thermally-activated carrier absorption in the semiconducting bulk states. Our work provides a new application of topological insulators for terahertz technology.
SQUID-based detection of ultra-low-field multinuclear NMR of substances hyperpolarized using signal amplification by reversible exchange
Authors: Buckenmaier K. , Rudolph M. , Back C. , Misztal T. , Bommerich U. , Fehling P. , Koelle D. , Kleiner R. , Mayer H. A. , Scheffler K. , Bernarding J. , Plaumann M.
Published: October 2017

Ultra-low-field (ULF) nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) is a promising spectroscopy method allowing for, e.g., the simultaneous detection of multiple nuclei. To overcome the low signal-to-noise ratio that usually hampers a wider application, we present here an alternative approach to ULF NMR, which makes use of the hyperpolarizing technique signal amplification by reversible exchange (SABRE). In contrast to standard parahydrogen hyperpolarization, SABRE can continuously hyperpolarize 1 H as well as other MR-active nuclei. For simultaneous measurements of 1 H and 19 F under SABRE conditions a superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID)-based NMR detection unit was adapted. We successfully hyperpolarized fluorinated pyridine derivatives with an up to 2000-fold signal enhancement in 19 F. The detected signals may be explained by two alternative reaction mechanisms. SABRE combined with simultaneous SQUID-based broadband multinuclear detection may enable the quantitative analysis of multinuclear processes.
QTL analysis of four main stem bark traits using a GBS-SNP-based high-density genetic map in ramie
Authors: Liu Chan , Zhu Siyuan , Tang Shouwei , Wang Hongwu , Zheng Xia , Chen Xiaorong , Dai Qiuzhong , Liu Touming
Published: October 2017

Ramie fiber extracted from ramie stem bark (RSB) is a highly important natural fiber, and therefore, RSB is an economically important plant organ. The genetic basis of RSB traits is poorly understood. In the present study, fiber yield and three RSB traits (bark thickness, bark weight, and fiber output ratio) were subject to quantitative trait locus (QTL) analysis using an F2 agamous line population derived from two ramie varieties (Qingdaye and Zhongzhu 1). A total of 4338 high-quality single nucleotide polymorphisms were identified using the genotyping-by-sequencing technique and were subsequently used to construct a high-density genetic map spanning 1942.9 cM. Thereafter, QTL analysis identified five, two, four, and four QTLs for bark thickness, bark weight, fiber output ratio, and fiber yield, respectively. A 5.1 cM region that corresponded to a QTL for bark thickness (qBT4a) contained 106 candidate genes, and the Zhongzhu 1 allele of one of the genes, a putative MYB gene (evm.model.scaffold7373.133_D1), included a 760-bp insertion that caused premature termination, thereby producing a protein that lacked part of the MYB domain. Because MYB transcription factors play central roles in regulating the development of secondary cellular walls and fiber biosynthesis, we propose evm.model.scaffold7373.133_D1 as a likely candidate gene for qBT4a.
In Vivo Neuromechanics: Decoding Causal Motor Neuron Behavior with Resulting Musculoskeletal Function
Authors: Sartori Massimo , Yavuz Utku Ş. , Farina Dario
Published: October 2017

Human motor function emerges from the interaction between the neuromuscular and the musculoskeletal systems. Despite the knowledge of the mechanisms underlying neural and mechanical functions, there is no relevant understanding of the neuro-mechanical interplay in the neuro-musculo-skeletal system. This currently represents the major challenge to the understanding of human movement. We address this challenge by proposing a paradigm for investigating spinal motor neuron contribution to skeletal joint mechanical function in the intact human in vivo. We employ multi-muscle spatial sampling and deconvolution of high-density fiber electrical activity to decode accurate α-motor neuron discharges across five lumbosacral segments in the human spinal cord. We use complete α-motor neuron discharge series to drive forward subject-specific models of the musculoskeletal system in open-loop with no corrective feedback. We perform validation tests where mechanical moments are estimated with no knowledge of reference data over unseen conditions. This enables accurate blinded estimation of ankle function purely from motor neuron information. Remarkably, this enables observing causal associations between spinal motor neuron activity and joint moment control. We provide a new class of neural data-driven musculoskeletal modeling formulations for bridging between movement neural and mechanical levels in vivo with implications for understanding motor physiology, pathology, and recovery.
Development of a multiplex probe combination-based one-step real-time reverse transcription-PCR for NA subtype typing of avian influenza virus
Authors: Sun Zhihao , Qin Tao , Meng Feifei , Chen Sujuan , Peng Daxin , Liu Xiufan
Published: October 2017

Nine influenza virus neuraminidase (NA) subtypes have been identified in poultry and wild birds. Few methods are available for rapid and simple NA subtyping. Here we developed a multiplex probe combination-based one-step real-time reverse transcriptase PCR (rRT-PCR) to detect nine avian influenza virus NA subtypes. Nine primer-probe pairs were assigned to three groups based on the different fluorescent dyes of the probes (FAM, HEX, or Texas Red). Each probe detected only one NA subtype, without cross reactivity. The detection limit was less than 100 EID50 or 100 copies of cDNA per reaction. Data obtained using this method with allantoic fluid samples isolated from live bird markets and H9N2-infected chickens correlated well with data obtained using virus isolation and sequencing, but was more sensitive. This new method provides a specific and sensitive alternative to conventional NA-subtyping methods.
Up-regulation of casein kinase 1ε is involved in tau pathogenesis in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Chen Caoyi , Gu Jianlan , Basurto-Islas Gustavo , Jin Nana , Wu Feng , Gong Cheng-Xin , Iqbal Khalid , Liu Fei
Published: October 2017

Hyperphosphorylation of tau and imbalanced expression of 3R-tau and 4R-tau as a result of dysregulation of tau exon 10 splicing are believed to be pivotal to the pathogenesis of tau pathology, but the molecular mechanism leading to the pathologic tau formation in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) brain is not fully understood. In the present study, we found that casein kinase 1ε (CK1ε) was increased significantly in AD brains. Overexpression of CK1ε in cultured cells led to increased tau phosphorylation at many sites. Moreover, we found that CK1ε suppressed tau exon 10 inclusion. Levels of CK1ε were positively correlated to tau phosphorylation, 3R-tau expression and tau pathology, and negatively correlated to 4R-tau in AD brains. Overexpression of CK1ε in the mouse hippocampus increased tau phosphorylation and impaired spontaneous alternation behavior. These data suggest that CK1ε is involved in the regulation of tau phosphorylation, the alternative splicing of tau exon 10, and cognitive performance. Up-regulation of CK1ε might contribute to tau pathology by hyperphosphorylating tau and by dysregulating the alternative splicing of tau exon 10 in AD.
Emergence of the Stoner-Wohlfarth astroid in thin films at dynamic regime
Authors: Cuñado José Luis F. , Bollero Alberto , Pérez-Castañeda Tomás , Perna Paolo , Ajejas Fernando , Pedrosa Javier , Gudín Adrian , Maldonado Ana , Niño Miguel Angel , Guerrero Rubén , Cabrera David , Terán Francisco J. , Miranda Rodolfo , Camarero Julio
Published: October 2017

The Stoner-Wohlfarth (SW) model is the simplest model that describes adequately the magnetization reversal of nanoscale systems that are small enough to contain single magnetic domains. However for larger sizes where multi-domain effects are present, e.g., in thin films, this simple macrospin approximation fails and the experimental critical curve, referred as SW astroid, is far from its predictions. Here we show that this discrepancy could vanish also in extended system. We present a detailed angular-dependent study of magnetization reversal dynamics of a thin film with well-defined uniaxial magnetic anisotropy, performed over 9 decades of applied field sweep rate (dH/dt). The angular-dependent properties display a gradual transition from domain wall pinning and motion-like behaviour to a nucleative single-particle one, as dH/dtincreases. Remarkably, in the high dynamic regime, where nucleation of reversed domains is the dominant mechanism of the magnetization reversal (nucleative regime), the magnetic properties including the astroid become closer to the ones predicted by SW model. The results also show why the SW model can successfully describe other extended systems that present nucleative regime, even in quasi-static conditions.
Impact of heavy metal lead stress on polyamine levels in Halomonas BVR 1 isolated from an industry effluent
Authors: Manasi  , Mohapatra Sridev , Rajesh N. , Rajesh Vidya
Published: October 2017

In living systems, environmental stress due to biotic and abiotic factors triggers the production of myriad metabolites as a potential mechanism for combating stress. Among these metabolites are the small polycationic aliphatic amine molecules - polyamines, which are ubiquitous in all living organisms. In this work, we demonstrate a correlation between cellular concentration of three major polyamines (putrescine, spermidine and spermine) with lead exposure on bacteria for a period of 6–24 h. We report that indigenously isolated Halomonas sp. strain BVR 1 exhibits lead induced fluctuations in their cellular polyamine concentration. This response to lead occurs within 6 h post metal treatment. During the same time interval there was a surge in the growth of bacteria along with an enhancement in the putrescine levels. We conclude that in Halomonas sp. strain BVR 1, an early response is seen with respect to modulation of polyamines as a result of lead treatment and hypothesize that endogenous polyamines contribute towards scavenging lead in these bacteria.
Cell-penetrating interactomic inhibition of nuclear factor-kappa B in a mouse model of postoperative cognitive dysfunction
Authors: Cheon So Yeong , Kim Jeong Min , Kam Eun Hee , Ho Chun-Chang , Kim Eun Jung , Chung Seungsoo , Jeong Ji-Hyun , Lee Diane Da-Hyun , Lee Sang-Won , Koo Bon-Nyeo
Published: October 2017

Some patients experience impaired cognitive functioning after surgery, a phenomenon referred to as postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD). Signs of POCD are closely associated with the development of systemic or hippocampal inflammation. However, the precise pathophysiological mechanisms of prevention/treatment options for POCD still remain unclear. After injury, the transcriptional factor nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) is thought to regulate or stimulate inflammation amplification. Therefore, we designed a cell-penetrating fusion protein called nt-p65-TMD, which inhibits NF-κB p65 activation by translocating into the nucleus. In the present study, we discovered that nt-p65-TMD exerted effects on surgery-induced cognitive impairment in mice. Specifically, nt-p65-TMD exhibited strong immunoregulatory properties that were able to reduce surgery-induced elevations in cerebrovascular integrity impairment, subsequent peripheral immune-cell recruitment, and inflammation amplification, which ultimately lead to cognitive decline. The nt-p65-TMD has the unique ability to regulate and reduce systemic inflammation and inflammation amplification, suggesting a new strategy for preventing development of cognitive decline that occurs in POCD.
Downregulation of miR-16 via URGCP pathway contributes to glioma growth
Authors: Hong Liang , Qing Ouyang , Ji Zhou , Chengqu Zhang , Ying Chen , Hao Cui , Minhui Xu , Lunshan Xu
Published: October 2017

Experimental and clinical evidence points to a critical role of Upregulator of cell proliferation (URGCP/URG4) in controlling the progression of multiple tumors. However, the oncogenic role of URGCP in glioma still remains elusive. In this study we tried to investigate the oncogenic roles and molecular mechanisms of URGCP in glioma. We found that the levels of URGCP were upregulated in glioma, and that the high-levels of URGCP indicated a worse prognosis in glioma patients. URGCP and miR-16 are critical for glioma growth: silencing URGCP (shURGCP) inhibited glioma growth, while, the shURGCP-mediated proliferative inhibition could be recovered by antagonizing miR-16 (anta-miR-16) in vivo and in vitro. Mechanically, URGCP repressed miR-16 expression via activating NF-κB/c-myc pathway in glioma; Cyclins D1 and Cyclin E1 were identified as the direct targets of miR-16, thus, URGCP-mediated miR-16 downregulation accelerated cell proliferation by upregulating Cyclin D1 and Cyclin E1 expression. All these results suggested that URGCP accelerates glioma growth through the NF-κB/c-myc/miR-16/Cyclin D1/E1 pathway, and both URGCP and miR-16 function as a novel cell cycle regulators in glioma and could be considered as potential targets for glioma therapy.
Ligand identification of the adenosine A2Areceptor in self-assembled nanodiscs by affinity mass spectrometry
Authors: Ma Jun , Lu Yan , Wu Dong , Peng Yao , Loa-Kum-Cheung Wendy , Peng Chao , Quinn Ronald J. , Shui Wenqing , Liu Zhi-Jie
Published: October 2017

The combination of nanodisc and affinity LC/MS techniques potentiates the high-throughput screening against GPCRs.
Catalytic properties of a cobalt metal–organic framework with a zwitterionic ligand synthesized in situ
Authors: Grigolo T. A. , de Campos S. D. , Manarin F. , Botteselle G. V. , Brandão P. , Amaral A. A. , de Campos E. A.
Published: October 2017

Highly stable Co-MOF with in situ synthesized ligand as heterogeneous catalyst.
Hydrophobic metallo-supramolecular Pd2L4 cages for zwitterionic guest encapsulation in organic solvents
Authors: Li Yu-Hao , Zhang Yan , Legrand Yves-Marie , van der Lee Arie , Jiang Ji-Jun , Chen Cheng-Xia , Su Cheng-Yong , Barboiu Mihail
Published: October 2017

Hydrophobic metallo-supramolecular cages are selectively encapsulating hydrophilic zwitterionic guests in organic solvents via synergetic multivalent recognition.
A potential strategy for counteracting age-related sarcopenia: preliminary evidence of combined exercise training and leucine supplementation
Authors: Xia Z. , Cholewa J. M. , Zhao Y. , Yang Y. , Shang H. , Jiang H. , Su Q. , Zanchi N. E.
Published: October 2017

Combined exercise and leucine supplementation exhibits protective effects on sarcopenia, and the mechanism correlates with elevated protein synthesis in muscle.
Unusual electromechanical response in rubrene single crystals
Authors: Matta Micaela , Pereira Marco José , Gali Sai Manoj , Thuau Damien , Olivier Yoann , Briseno Alejandro , Dufour Isabelle , Ayela Cedric , Wantz Guillaume , Muccioli Luca
Published: October 2017

Multiscale modeling and experimental measurements highlight the strong coupling between mechanical stress and mobility along the two in-plane orthogonal crystalline directions in rubrene FETs.
Sensitive and specific detection of explosives in solution and vapour by surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy on silver nanocubes
Authors: Ben-Jaber Sultan , Peveler William J. , Quesada-Cabrera Raul , Sol Christian W. O. , Papakonstantinou Ioannis , Parkin Ivan P.
Published: October 2017

Silver nanocubes give an order of magnitude enhancement for the SERS based detection of explosives, whilst maintaining high spectral fidelity.
Hydrogenated MoS2 QD-TiO2 heterojunction mediated efficient solar hydrogen production
Authors: Saha Arka , Sinhamahapatra Apurba , Kang Tong-Hyun , Ghosh Subhash C. , Yu Jong-Sung , Panda Asit B.
Published: October 2017

An efficient ‘noble metal free’ hydrogenated MoS2 QD-TiO2 heterojunction photocatalyst with a superior hydrogen production rate of 3.1 mmol g−1 h−1 is reported.
Arginine modification of lycosin-I to improve inhibitory activity against cancer cells
Authors: Zhang Peng , Ma Jing , Yan Yujie , Chen Bo , Liu Bobo , Jian Cui , Zhu Baode , Liang Songping , Zeng Youlin , Liu Zhonghua
Published: October 2017

Herein, arginine modification rendered Lycosin-I with higher anticancer activity, penetrability, and dissemination ability against solid tumor cells due to the optimized physicochemical properties and high serum stability.
Cu-Induced [H6W12O42]6− polyoxometalate-based bimetallic cluster formation for renewable biomass inulin hydrolysis toward fructose production
Authors: Chen Yongdong , Zhang Chaolei , Zhang Jiangwei , Ye Zhongbin , Zheng Kai , Fang Qihua , Li Gao
Published: October 2017

Cu3[H6W12O42] cluster heterogeneous catalysts for inulin hydrolysis towards fructose production with 100% conversion and 90% selectivity under aqueous condition are achieved.
Oxidant- and hydrogen acceptor-free palladium catalyzed dehydrogenative cyclization of acylhydrazones to substituted oxadiazoles
Authors: Jiang Qiangqiang , Qi Xinghui , Zhang Chenyang , Ji Xuan , Li Jin , Liu Renhua
Published: October 2017

An efficient method for the synthesis of 2,5-disubstituted 1,3,4-oxadiazoles has been developed through palladium(0) catalyzed dehydrogenative cyclization ofN-arylidenearoylhydrazides without oxidants and hydrogen acceptors.
Synthesis of sulfonated naphthols via C–H bond functionalization with the insertion of sulfur dioxide
Authors: Zhou Kaida , Chen Mo , Yao Liangqing , Wu Jie
Published: October 2017

A three-component reaction of naphthols, sulfur dioxide, and aryldiazonium tetrafluoroborates catalyzed by iron(iii) chloride through a radical process via direct C–H functionalization is developed, leading to diverse sulfonated naphthols in good yields.
DNA methylation differences of the BPI promoter among pig breeds and the regulation of gene expression
Authors: Wang HaiFei , Wu Jiayun , Wu Sen , Wu ShengLong , Bao WenBin
Published: October 2017

TheBPIpromoter methylation is distinct between different pig breeds and potentially associated with its expression and disease susceptibility.
Study on alterations of physiological functions in aged constipation rats with fluid-deficiency based on metabonomic and microbiology analysis
Authors: Liu Deliang , Li Tiantian , Zheng Haihui , Yin Xiquan , Chen Mingyi , Liao Ziqong , Hu Minghua , Luo Zhen , Lu Biyu , Li Yuan , Liao Qiongfeng , Xie Zhiyong , Wu Fuhai
Published: October 2017

To clarify how constipation interferes with the normal physiological function of organisms,1H NMR profiles combined with PCR-DGGE and 16s rRNA gene sequencing were used to investigate the relationship among constipation, metabolite and gut microbiota.
Analysis of the microscopic mechanism of coal wettability evolution in different metamorphic states based on NMR and XPS experiments
Authors: Xu Cuicui , Zhou Gang , Qiu Han
Published: October 2017

To investigate the evolution of carbon- and oxygen-containing groups during metamorphism and the influence of the structural variation of coal on its wettability, NMR and XPS were employed to study the two main elements, carbon and oxygen, in coal dust.
Study of the relationship between magnetic field and dielectric properties in two ferromagnetic complexes
Authors: Yang Li , Li Jing , Pu Tian-Cheng , Kong Ming , Zhang Jing , Song You
Published: October 2017

Two heterometallic niccolite structure frameworks [NH2(CH3)2][CrIIIMII(HCOO)6] (M = Fe, Ni) were reported and characterized by single crystal X-ray diffraction, dielectric and magnetic susceptibility measurement.