bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Severe hearing loss and outer hair cell death in homozygous Foxo3 knockout mice after moderate noise exposure
Authors: Gilels Felicia , Paquette Stephen T. , Beaulac Holly J. , Bullen Anwen , White Patricia M.
Published: April 2017

Noise induced hearing loss (NIHL) is a disease that affects millions of Americans. Identifying genetic pathways that influence recovery from noise exposure is an important step forward in understanding NIHL. The transcription factor Foxo3 integrates the cellular response to oxidative stress and plays a role in extending lifespan in many organisms, including humans. Here we show that Foxo3 is required for auditory function after noise exposure in a mouse model system, measured by ABR. Absent Foxo3, outer hair cells are lost throughout the middle and higher frequencies. SEM reveals persistent damage to some surviving outer hair cell stereocilia. However, DPOAE analysis reveals that some function is preserved in low frequency outer hair cells, despite concomitant profound hearing loss. Inner hair cells, auditory synapses and spiral ganglion neurons are all present after noise exposure in the Foxo3KO/KO fourteen days post noise (DPN). We also report anti-Foxo3 immunofluorescence in adult human outer hair cells. Taken together, these data implicate Foxo3 and its transcriptional targets in outer hair cell survival after noise damage. An additional role for Foxo3 in preserving hearing is likely, as low frequency auditory function is absent in noise exposed Foxo3KO/KOs even though all cells and structures are present.
Effects of porosity on dynamic indentation resistance of silica nanofoam
Authors: Zhao Cang , Zhong Ying , Qiao Yu
Published: April 2017

The dynamic indentation behaviors of monolithic silica nanofoams of various porosities are investigated. When the pore size is on the nm scale, as the porosity increases, despite the decrease in mass density, the resistance offered by silica nanofoam to dynamic indentation is maintained at a high level, higher than the resistance of solid silica or regular porous silica. This phenomenon is related to the fast collapse of nanocells, which produces a locally hardened region and significantly increases the volume of material involved in impact energy dissipation.
Genome-wide identification, characterization of the MADS-box gene family in Chinese jujube and their involvement in flower development
Authors: Zhang Liman , Zhao Jin , Feng Chunfang , Liu Mengjun , Wang Jiurui , Hu Yafei
Published: April 2017

MADS-box genes encode transcription factors that are involved in plant development control (particularly in floral organogenesis) and signal transduction pathways, though a comprehensive analysis of MADS-box family proteins in Chinese jujube (Ziziphus jujuba Mill.) is still missing. Here, we report a genome-wide analysis of the MADS-box gene family in Chinese jujube. Based on phylogenetic analyses, 52 jujube MADS-box genes were classified into 25 MIKCC-type, 3 MIKC*-type, 16 Mα, 5 Mβ and 3 Mγ genes. 37 genes were randomly distributed across all 12 putative chromosomes. We found that the type II genes are more complex than the type I genes and that tandem duplications have occurred in three groups of MADS-box genes. Meanwhile, some gene pairs in the same clade displayed similar or distinct expression profiles, suggesting possible functional redundancy or divergence. MIKCC-type genes exhibited typical temporal and spatial expression patterns in the four whorls of floral tissues. The expressions of B, C/D and E-type genes were significantly suppressed in phyllody as compared to flower, providing valuable evidence for their involvement in flower development. This study is the first comprehensive analysis of the MADS-box family in jujube, and provides valuable information for elucidating molecular regulation mechanism of jujube flower development.
White spot syndrome virus VP28 specific double-stranded RNA provides protection through a highly focused siRNA population
Authors: Nilsen Pål , Karlsen Marius , Sritunyalucksana Kallaya , Thitamadee Siripong
Published: April 2017

Several studies have demonstrated that injection of double-stranded RNAs (dsRNA) homologous to mRNA for the white spot syndrome virus (WSSV) viral protein 28 (VP28) can induce protection in shrimp against WSSV through RNA interference (RNAi). In comparison to shrimp injected with either PBS or a green fluorescent protein (GFP) nonspecific dsRNA, we obtained nearly complete protection against WSSV infection in shrimp injected with VP28 dsRNA. Upregulation of host genes associated with small RNA silencing was measured 48 hours post treatment in groups injected with dsRNA, and although the VP28-treated group remained moderately upregulated after challenge with WSSV, many-fold higher induction was observed in both control groups reflecting the ongoing viral infection. RNA sequencing of VP28-treated shrimp demonstrated a siRNA population dominated by high levels of 22 nt long molecules narrowly targeting the VP28 mRNA both before and after challenge with WSSV. Conversely, while no siRNAs targeting WSSV were detected before challenge, a broad response of 22 nt siRNAs mapping across the entire WSSV genome were found in both control groups after challenge. These results give detailed insight to how dsRNA targeting VP28 function to induce protection against WSSV, by generating a highly focused population of 22 nt long siRNA molecules.
Involvement of gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone in pubertal disorders induced by thyroid status
Authors: Kiyohara Mika , Son You Lee , Tsutsui Kazuyoshi
Published: April 2017

Thyroid disorders cause abnormal puberty, indicating interactions between the hypothalamus-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) and hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axes, which are important in pubertal development. The hypothalamic gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone (GnIH) was shown to be decreased in the early prepubertal stage, suggesting the role of GnIH on pubertal onset. Here, we investigated whether thyroid dysfunction affects pubertal onset in female mice via GnIH regulation. Hypothyroidism showed delayed pubertal onset with increased GnIH expression and reduced pituitary-gonadal activity. Remarkably, knockout of GnIH prevented the effect of hypothyroidism to delay the pubertal onset, resulting in indistinguishable pubertal timing in GnIH-knockout female mice between control and hypothyroidism-induced group, indicating that increased GnIH expression induced by hypothyroidism may lead to delayed puberty. In contrast, hyperthyroidism led to a decrease in GnIH expression, however pubertal onset was normal, implying further reduction of the inhibitory GnIH had little effect on the phenotypical change. Critically, thyroid hormone suppressed GnIH expression in hypothalamic explants and GnIH neurons expressed thyroid hormone receptors to convey the thyroid status. Moreover, the thyroid status highly regulated the chromatin modifications of GnIH promoter, H3acetylation and H3K9tri-methylation. These findings indicate a novel function of GnIH to mediate HPT-HPG interactions that contribute to proper pubertal development.
A role of human RNase P subunits, Rpp29 and Rpp21, in homology directed-repair of double-strand breaks
Authors: Abu-Zhayia Enas R. , Khoury-Haddad Hanan , Guttmann-Raviv Noga , Serruya Raphael , Jarrous Nayef , Ayoub Nabieh
Published: April 2017

DNA damage response (DDR) is needed to repair damaged DNA for genomic integrity preservation. Defective DDR causes accumulation of deleterious mutations and DNA lesions that can lead to genomic instabilities and carcinogenesis. Identifying new players in the DDR, therefore, is essential to advance the understanding of the molecular mechanisms by which cells keep their genetic material intact. Here, we show that the core protein subunits Rpp29 and Rpp21 of human RNase P complex are implicated in DDR. We demonstrate that Rpp29 and Rpp21 depletion impairs double-strand break (DSB) repair by homology-directed repair (HDR), but has no deleterious effect on the integrity of non-homologous end joining. We also demonstrate that Rpp29 and Rpp21, but not Rpp14, Rpp25 and Rpp38, are rapidly and transiently recruited to laser-microirradiated sites. Rpp29 and Rpp21 bind poly ADP-ribose moieties and are recruited to DNA damage sites in a PARP1-dependent manner. Remarkably, depletion of the catalytic H1 RNA subunit diminishes their recruitment to laser-microirradiated regions. Moreover, RNase P activity is augmented after DNA damage in a PARP1-dependent manner. Altogether, our results describe a previously unrecognized function of the RNase P subunits, Rpp29 and Rpp21, in fine-tuning HDR of DSBs.
Multiple clinical characteristics separate MED12-mutation-positive and -negative uterine leiomyomas
Authors: Heinonen Hanna-Riikka , Pasanen Annukka , Heikinheimo Oskari , Tanskanen Tomas , Palin Kimmo , Tolvanen Jaana , Vahteristo Pia , Sjöberg Jari , Pitkänen Esa , Bützow Ralf , Mäkinen Netta , Aaltonen Lauri A.
Published: April 2017

Up to 86% of uterine leiomyomas harbour somatic mutations in mediator complex subunit 12 (MED12). These mutations have been associated with conventional histology, smaller tumour size, and larger number of tumours within the uterus. Prior studies, with limited sample sizes, have failed to detect associations between other clinical features and MED12 mutations. Here, we prospectively collected 763 uterine leiomyomas and the corresponding normal myometrial tissue from 244 hysterectomy patients, recorded tumour characteristics, collected clinical data from medical records, and screened the tissue samples for MED12 mutations to assess potential associations between clinical variables and mutation status. Out of 763 leiomyomas, 599 (79%) harboured a MED12 mutation. In the analysis of tumour characteristics, positive MED12-mutation status was significantly associated with smaller tumour size, conventional histology, and subserous location, relative to intramural. In the analysis of clinical variables, the number of MED12-mutation-positive tumours showed an inverse association with parity, and the number of mutation-negative tumours showed a positive association with a history of pelvic inflammatory disease. This study confirmed the previously reported differences and discovered novel differentiating features for MED12-mutation-positive and -negative leiomyomas. These findings emphasise the relevance of specific driver mutations in genesis and presentation of uterine leiomyomas.
Created mangrove wetlands store belowground carbon and surface elevation change enables them to adjust to sea-level rise
Authors: Krauss Ken W. , Cormier Nicole , Osland Michael J. , Kirwan Matthew L. , Stagg Camille L. , Nestlerode Janet A. , Russell Marc J. , From Andrew S. , Spivak Amanda C. , Dantin Darrin D. , Harvey James E. , Almario Alejandro E.
Published: April 2017

Mangrove wetlands provide ecosystem services for millions of people, most prominently by providing storm protection, food and fodder. Mangrove wetlands are also valuable ecosystems for promoting carbon (C) sequestration and storage. However, loss of mangrove wetlands and these ecosystem services are a global concern, prompting the restoration and creation of mangrove wetlands as a potential solution. Here, we investigate soil surface elevation change, and its components, in created mangrove wetlands over a 25 year developmental gradient. All created mangrove wetlands were exceeding current relative sea-level rise rates (2.6 mm yr−1), with surface elevation change of 4.2–11.0 mm yr−1 compared with 1.5–7.2 mm yr−1 for nearby reference mangroves. While mangrove wetlands store C persistently in roots/soils, storage capacity is most valuable if maintained with future sea-level rise. Through empirical modeling, we discovered that properly designed creation projects may not only yield enhanced C storage, but also can facilitate wetland persistence perennially under current rates of sea-level rise and, for most sites, for over a century with projected medium accelerations in sea-level rise (IPCC RCP 6.0). Only the fastest projected accelerations in sea-level rise (IPCC RCP 8.5) led to widespread submergence and potential loss of stored C for created mangrove wetlands before 2100.
Aptamer- Based Label-Free Electrochemical Biosensor Array for the Detection of Total and Glycated Hemoglobin in Human Whole Blood
Authors: Eissa Shimaa , Zourob Mohammed
Published: April 2017

The increase of the level of glucose in blood leads to an increase in the fraction of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c). Therefore, the percentage of HbA1c in the blood can serve as a marker for the average glucose level over the past three months and thus, it can be used to diagnose diabetes. Here, we report the selection, identification and characterization of specific DNA aptamers against HbA1c- and total hemoglobin (tHb) and their integration into an electrochemical array sensing platform. High affinity and specificity aptamers were selected in vitro showing dissociation constants of 2.8 and 2.7 nM for HbA1c and tHb, respectively. Thiol-modified forms of the aptamers were then immobilised on gold nanoparticles (AuNPs)-modified array electrodes and used for the label-free detection of HbA1c and tHb using square wave voltammetry. The voltammetric aptasensors showed high sensitivity with detection limits of 0.2 and 0.34 ng/ml for HbA1c and tHb, respectively. This array platform is superior to the currently available immunoassays in terms of simplicity, stability, ease of use, reduction of sample volume and low cost. Moreover, this method enabled the detection of HbA1c % in human whole blood without any pre-treatment, suggesting great promise of this platform for the diagnosis of diabetes.
Hypermethylation of Interferon Regulatory Factor 8 (IRF8) Confers Risk to Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada Disease
Authors: Qiu Yiguo , Yu Hongsong , Zhu Yunyun , Ye Zi , Deng Jing , Su Wencheng , Cao Qingfeng , Yuan Gangxiang , Kijlstra Aize , Yang Peizeng
Published: April 2017

Aberrant methylation change of IRF8 confers risk to various tumors, and abnormal expression of IRF8 is involved in many autoimmune diseases, including ocular Behcet’s disease. However, whether the methylation change of IRF8 is associated with Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada (VKH) disease remains unknown. In the present study, we found a decreased IRF8 mRNA expression in association with a higher methylation level in monocyte-derived dendritic cells (DCs) from active VKH patients compared with the normal and inactive subjects. DCs incubated with cyclosporin a (CsA) or dexamethasone (DEX) showed a lower methylation and higher mRNA expression of IRF8 in active VKH patients. A demethylation reagent, 5-Aza-2′-deoxycytidine (DAC) showed a notable demethylation effect as evidenced by increasing the mRNA expression and reducing the methylation level of IRF8. It also suppressed the Th1 and Th17 responses through down-regulating the expression of co-stimulatory molecules (CD86, CD80, CD40), and reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-1β, IL-23, IL-12) produced by DCs. These findings shows that hypermethylation of IRF8 in DCs confers risk to VKH disease. Demethylation of IRF8 may offer a novel therapeutic strategy protect against VKH disease.
RRM domain of ALS/FTD-causing FUS characteristic of irreversible unfolding spontaneously self-assembles into amyloid fibrils
Authors: Lu Yimei , Lim Liangzhong , Song Jianxing
Published: April 2017

526-residue FUS functions to self-assemble into reversible droplets/hydrogels, which could be further solidified into pathological fibrils. FUS is intrinsically prone to aggregation, composed of N-terminal low-sequence complexity (LC); RNA-recognition motif (RRM) and C-terminal LC domains. Intriguingly, previous in vivo studies revealed that its RRM is required for manifesting FUS cytotoxicity but the underlying mechanism remains unknown. Here, we characterized solution conformations of FUS and its five differentially dissected fragments, followed by detailed investigations on thermal unfolding, NMR dynamics and self-assembly of RRM. The results decipher: (1) the N- and C-terminal LC domains are intrinsically disordered, while RRM is folded. Intriguingly, well-dispersed HSQC peaks of RRM disappear in the full-length FUS, reminiscent of the previous observation on TDP-43. (2) FUS RRM is characteristic of irreversible unfolding. “Model-free” analysis of NMR relaxation data decodes that RRM has high ps-ns conformational dynamics even over some residues within secondary structure regions. (3) RRM spontaneously self-assembles into amyloid fibrils. Therefore, in addition to the well-established prion-like region, FUS RRM is also prone to self-assembly to form amyloid fibrils. Taken together, FUS RRM appears to play a crucial role in exaggerating the physiological/reversible self-assembly into pathological/irreversible fibrillization, thus contributing to manifestation of FUS cytotoxicity.
T-Bet independent development of IFNγ secreting natural T helper 1 cell population in the absence of Itk
Authors: Kannan Arun K. , Mohinta Sonia , Huang Weishan , Huang Lu , Koylass Nicholas , Appleton Judith A. , August Avery
Published: April 2017

Th1, Th2, Th9 and Th17 cells are conventional CD4+ effector T cells identified as secretors of prototypical cytokines IFNγ, IL4, IL9, and IL-17A respectively. Recently, populations of natural Th17 and Th1 cells (nTh17 and nTh1) with innate-like phenotype have been identified in the thymus that are distinct from conventional Th17 and Th1 cells. The absence of the Tec family kinase Interleukin-2 inducible T cell kinase (Itk) results in T cell immunodeficiency in mice and humans. Here we show that Itk negatively regulates the development of nTh1 cells that express IFNγ in a Tbet independent manner, and whose expansion can be enhanced by IL4. Furthermore, we show that robust induction of IL4 responses during Trichinella spiralis infection enhance the presence of nTh1 cells. We conclude T cell receptor signaling via Itk controls the development of natural Th1 cells, which are expanded by the presence of IL4.
Inhibition of endocytic pathways impacts cytomegalovirus maturation
Authors: Archer Madeline A. , Brechtel Teal M. , Davis Leslie E. , Parmar Rinkuben C. , Hasan Mohammad H. , Tandon Ritesh
Published: April 2017

Endocytic processes are critical for cellular entry of several viruses; however, the role of endocytosis in cellular trafficking of viruses beyond virus entry is only partially understood. Here, we utilized two laboratory strains (AD169 and Towne) of human cytomegalovirus (HCMV), which are known to use cell membrane fusion rather than endocytosis to enter fibroblasts, in order to study a post-entry role of endocytosis in HCMV life cycle. Upon pharmacological inhibition of dynamin-2 or clathrin terminal domain (TD) ligand association, these strains entered the cells successfully based on the expression of immediate early viral protein. However, both the inhibitors significantly reduced the growth rates and final virus yields of viruses without inhibiting the expression of early to late viral proteins. Clathrin accumulated in the cytoplasmic virus assembly compartment (vAC) of infected cells co-localizing with virus tegument protein pp150 and the formation of vAC was compromised upon endocytic inhibition. Transmission electron micrographs (TEM) of infected cells treated with endocytosis inhibitors showed intact nuclear stages of nucleocapsid assembly but the cytoplasmic virus maturation was greatly compromised. Thus, the data presented here implicate endocytic pathways in HCMV maturation and egress.
Induced perpendicular magnetization in a Cu layer inserted between Co and Pt layers revealed by x-ray magnetic circular dichroism
Authors: Okabayashi Jun , Koyama Tomohiro , Suzuki Motohiro , Tsujikawa Masahito , Shirai Masafumi , Chiba Daichi
Published: April 2017

We used x-ray absorption spectroscopy and x-ray magnetic circular dichroism to investigate the effects of inserting Cu into Co/Pt interfaces, and found that a 0.4-nm-thick inserted Cu layer showed perpendicularly magnetized properties induced by the proximity effect through the Co and Pt layers. The dependence of the magnetic properties on the thickness of the Cu layers showed that the proximity effects between Co and Pt with perpendicular magnetic anisotropy can be prevented by the insertion of a Cu layer with a nominal threshold thickness of 0.7 nm. Element-specific magnetization curves were also obtained, demonstrating that the out-of-plane magnetization is induced in the Cu layers of the Co/Cu/Pt structures.
High-Q photonic resonators and electro-optic coupling using silicon-on-lithium-niobate
Authors: Witmer Jeremy D. , Valery Joseph A. , Arrangoiz-Arriola Patricio , Sarabalis Christopher J. , Hill Jeff T. , Safavi-Naeini Amir H.
Published: April 2017

Future quantum networks, in which superconducting quantum processors are connected via optical links, will require microwave-to-optical photon converters that preserve entanglement. A doubly-resonant electro-optic modulator (EOM) is a promising platform to realize this conversion. Here, we present our progress towards building such a modulator by demonstrating the optically-resonant half of the device. We demonstrate high quality (Q) factor ring, disk and photonic crystal resonators using a hybrid silicon-on-lithium-niobate material system. Optical Q factors up to 730,000 are achieved, corresponding to propagation loss of 0.8 dB/cm. We also use the electro-optic effect to modulate the resonance frequency of a photonic crystal cavity, achieving a electro-optic modulation coefficient between 1 and 2 pm/V. In addition to quantum technology, we expect that our results will be useful both in traditional silicon photonics applications and in high-sensitivity acousto-optic devices.
Prediction of regional functional impairment following experimental stroke via connectome analysis
Authors: Schmitt O. , Badurek S. , Liu W. , Wang Y. , Rabiller G. , Kanoke A. , Eipert P. , Liu J.
Published: April 2017

Recent advances in functional connectivity suggest that shared neuronal activation patterns define brain networks linking anatomically separate brain regions. We sought to investigate how cortical stroke disrupts multiple brain regions in processing spatial information. We conducted a connectome investigation at the mesoscale-level using the neuroVIISAS-framework, enabling the analysis of directed and weighted connectivity in bilateral hemispheres of cortical and subcortical brain regions. We found that spatial-exploration induced brain activation mapped by Fos, a proxy of neuronal activity, was differentially affected by stroke in a region-specific manner. The extent of hypoactivation following spatial exploration is inversely correlated with the spatial distance between the region of interest and region damaged by stroke, in particular within the parietal association and the primary somatosensory cortex, suggesting that the closer a region is to a stroke lesion, the more it would be affected during functional activation. Connectome modelling with 43 network parameters failed to reliably predict regions of hypoactivation in stroke rats exploring a novel environment, despite a modest correlation found for the centrality and hubness parameters in the home-caged animals. Further investigation in the inhibitory versus excitatory neuronal networks and microcircuit connectivity is warranted to improve the accuracy of predictability in post-stroke functional impairment.
Environmentally friendly synthesis of CeO2 nanoparticles for the catalytic oxidation of benzyl alcohol to benzaldehyde and selective detection of nitrite
Authors: Tamizhdurai P. , Sakthinathan Subramanian , Chen Shen-Ming , Shanthi K. , Sivasanker S. , Sangeetha P.
Published: April 2017

Cerium oxide nanoparticles (CeO2 NPs) are favorable in nanotechnology based on some remarkable properties. In this study, the crystalline CeO2 NPs are successfully prepared by an efficient microwave combustion (MCM) and conventional route sol-gel (CRSGM) methods. The structural morphology of the as-prepared CeO2 NPs was investigated by various spectroscopic and analytical techniques. Moreover, the XRD pattern confirmed the formation of CeO2 NPs as a face centered cubic structure. The magnetometer studies indicated the low saturation magnetization (23.96 emu/g) of CeO2 NPs for weak paramagnetic and high saturation magnetization (32.13 emu/g) of CeO2 NPs for super paramagnetic. After that, the oxidation effect of benzyl alcohol was investigated which reveals good conversion and selectivity. Besides, the CeO2 NPs modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE) used for the detection of nitrite with linear concentration range (0.02–1200 μM), low limit of detection (0.21 μM) and higher sensitivity (1.7238 μAμM−1 cm−2). However, the CeO2 NPs modified electrode has the fast response, high sensitivity and good selectivity. In addition, the fabricated electrode is applied for the determination of nitrite in various water samples. Eventually, the CeO2 NPs can be regarded as an effective way to enhance the catalytic activity towards the benzyl alcohol and nitrite.
Sensitivity and accuracy of high-throughput metabarcoding methods for early detection of invasive fish species
Authors: Hatzenbuhler Chelsea , Kelly John R. , Martinson John , Okum Sara , Pilgrim Erik
Published: April 2017

High-throughput DNA metabarcoding has gained recognition as a potentially powerful tool for biomonitoring, including early detection of aquatic invasive species (AIS). DNA based techniques are advancing, but our understanding of the limits to detection for metabarcoding complex samples is inadequate. For detecting AIS at an early stage of invasion when the species is rare, accuracy at low detection limits is key. To evaluate the utility of metabarcoding in future fish community monitoring programs, we conducted several experiments to determine the sensitivity and accuracy of routine metabarcoding methods. Experimental mixes used larval fish tissue from multiple “common” species spiked with varying proportions of tissue from an additional “rare” species. Pyrosequencing of genetic marker, COI (cytochromecoxidase subunit I) and subsequent sequence data analysis provided experimental evidence of low-level detection of the target “rare” species at biomass percentages as low as 0.02% of total sample biomass. Limits to detection varied interspecifically and were susceptible to amplification bias. Moreover, results showed some data processing methods can skew sequence-based biodiversity measurements from corresponding relative biomass abundances and increase false absences. We suggest caution in interpreting presence/absence and relative abundance in larval fish assemblages until metabarcoding methods are optimized for accuracy and precision.
Morphological Detection and Functional Assessment of Regenerated Nerve after Neural Prosthesis with a PGLA Nerve Conduit
Authors: Gao Dong , Jiang Jun-Jian , Gu Shi-Hui , Lu Jiu-Zhou , Xu Lei
Published: April 2017

This study aimed to observe the morphological characteristics of a PGLA [poly(glycolide-co-L-lactide)] nerve conduit and regenerated nerve bundle in the human body using high-frequency ultrasound and examine functional recovery of the regenerated nerve using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) after neural prosthesis with a PGLA nerve conduit. Thirty-nine patients underwent high-frequency ultrasound, and one patient with superficial radial nerve injury (27-mm defect) underwent fMRI at one, three, and six postoperative months. The fMRI examination results were compared with sensory detection and high-frequency ultrasound results during the same follow-up window period. The normal and regenerated nerve bundles had similar ultrasonic imaging features. At one postoperative month, fMRI displayed activeness of the normal cortex in the brain region corresponding to the contralateral superficial radial nerve, while no activeness was observed on the ipsilateral side. From three to six postoperative months, fMRI revealed gradually increasing activeness in the brain region corresponding to the ipsilateral superficial radial nerve, but the activation area on the ipsilateral side was smaller than that on the contralateral side. Combining morphological detection of the regenerated nerve using high-frequency ultrasound and functional detection of the regenerated nerve using fMRI may be a valuable method for evaluating repair of peripheral nerve injury.
Identification of proteins involved in the anti-inflammatory properties of Propionibacterium freudenreichii by means of a multi-strain study
Authors: Deutsch Stéphanie-Marie , Mariadassou Mahendra , Nicolas Pierre , Parayre Sandrine , Le Guellec Rozenn , Chuat Victoria , Peton Vincent , Le Maréchal Caroline , Burati Julien , Loux Valentin , Briard-Bion Valérie , Jardin Julien , Plé Coline , Foligné Benoît , Jan Gwénaël , Falentin Hélène
Published: April 2017

Propionibacterium freudenreichii, a dairy starter, can reach a population of almost 109 propionibacteria per gram in Swiss-type cheese at the time of consumption. Also consumed as a probiotic, it displays strain-dependent anti-inflammatory properties mediated by surface proteins that induce IL-10 in leukocytes. We selected 23 strains with varied anti-inflammatory potentials in order to identify the protein(s) involved. After comparative genomic analysis, 12 of these strains were further analysed by surface proteomics, eight of them being further submitted to transcriptomics. The omics data were then correlated to the anti-inflammatory potential evaluated by IL-10 induction. This comparative omics strategy highlighted candidate genes that were further subjected to gene-inactivation validation. This validation confirmed the contribution of surface proteins, including SlpB and SlpE, two proteins with SLH domains known to mediate non-covalent anchorage to the cell-wall. Interestingly, HsdM3, predicted as cytoplasmic and involved in DNA modification, was shown to contribute to anti-inflammatory activity. Finally, we demonstrated that a single protein cannot explain the anti-inflammatory properties of a strain. These properties therefore result from different combinations of surface and cytoplasmic proteins, depending on the strain. Our enhanced understanding of the molecular bases for immunomodulation will enable the relevant screening for bacterial resources with anti-inflammatory properties.
Spin-polarized Second Harmonic Generation from the Antiferromagnetic CaCoSO Single Crystal
Authors: Reshak A. H.
Published: April 2017

The spin-polarized second harmonic generation (SHG) of the recently synthesized CaCoSO single crystal is performed based on the calculated electronic band structure. The calculation reveals that the spin-up (↑) channel of CaCoSO possesses a direct energy gap (Γv-Γc) of about 2.187 eV, 1.187 eV (Kv-Kc) for the spin-down (↓) channel and an indirect gap (Γv-Kc) of about 0.4 eV for the spin-polarized CaCoSO single crystal. The linear optical properties obtained reveal that the recently synthesized crystal exhibits considerable anisotropy with negative uniaxial anisotropy and birefringence favor to enhance the SHG. We have calculated the three non-zero tensor components of the SHG and found the "Equation missing" is the dominat component, one with a large SHG of about (d33 = 6.936 pm/V at λ = 1064 nm), the half value of KTiOPO4 (KTP). As the values of (↑)"Equation missing" < (↓)"Equation missing" < spin-polarized "Equation missing" are related to the values of the energy gap of (↑) 2.187 eV> (↓) 1.187 eV> spin-polarized gap 0.4 eV; therefore, a smaller energy gap gives better SHG performance. Furthermore, the microscopic first hyperpolarizability, βijk, is calculated.
Office-based simple frailty score and central blood pressure predict mild cognitive impairment in an apparently healthy Japanese population: J-SHIPP study
Authors: Ohara Maya , Kohara Katsuhiko , Okada Yoko , Ochi Masayuki , Nagai Tokihisa , Ohyagi Yasumasa , Tabara Yasuharu , Igase Michiya
Published: April 2017

Frailty is associated with cognitive impairment and can be used to identify people at high risk for dementia. We developed a simple frailty (SF) score using a combination of low hand grip strength (<32.5 kg in men, <19.5 kg in women), and short one-leg standing time (<20 seconds). These can be easily measured in the clinician’s office when seeing patients. We investigated the possible association between SF score and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in a cross-sectional study with 838 independent middle-aged to elderly participants (319 men, mean age 65.1years). In total, 118 participants were diagnosed with MCI. A SF score of 2 was significantly associated with the presence of MCI (odds ratio 4.6, 95% confidence interval: 1.9–6.9, p = 0.0001) even after adjustment for age and sex. Stepwise regression analyses showed that a SF score of 2 was associated with the presence of MCI, independently of central pulse pressure and silent cerebral infarcts. These findings indicate that the SF score is a useful frailty parameter to predict MCI in an apparently independent population.
Stepwise cycloaddition reaction of N-phenacylbenzothiazolium bromides and nitroalkenes for tetrahydro-, dihydro- and benzo[d]pyrrolo[2,1-b]thiazoles
Authors: Jin Gong , Sun Jing , Yang Ren-Yin , Yan Chao-Guo
Published: April 2017

The triethylamine promoted stepwise 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition reaction of N-phenacylbenzothiazolium bromides with nitroalkenes in ethanol resulted in a mixture of two isomeric tetrahydrobenzo[d]pyrrolo[2,1-b]thiazoles with cis/trans/cis- and all-trans-configurations. More importantly, the corresponding dihydrobenzo[d]pyrrolo[2,1-b]thiazoles can be selectively prepared in refluxing ethanol and the benzo[d]pyrrolo[2,1-b]thiazoles can be obtained in satisfactory yields by sequential dehydrogenation with DDQ as oxidizer. On the other hand, the similar cycloaddition reaction of N-phenacylbenzothiazolium bromides with 1-methy-1-nitroalkenes in refluxing ethanol afforded benzo[d]pyrrolo[2,1-b]thiazoles with splitting out of nitro group. The stereochemistry of the spiro compounds was clearly elucidated on the basis of NMR spectra and sixteen single crystal structures.
Sensory defects and developmental delay among children with congenital rubella syndrome
Authors: Toizumi Michiko , Nguyen Giang Thi Huong , Motomura Hideki , Nguyen Thanh Huu , Pham Enga , Kaneko Ken-ichi , Uematsu Masafumi , Nguyen Hien Anh Thi , Dang Duc Anh , Hashizume Masahiro , Yoshida Lay-Myint , Moriuchi Hiroyuki
Published: April 2017

This study investigated the features of developmental difficulties combined with sensory defects in children with congenital rubella syndrome (CRS). Following a large rubella outbreak in Khanh Hoa Province, Vietnam, in 2011, we enrolled 41 children with CRS from September 2011 through May 2013. Fourteen participants died and six became untraceable by October 2013; the remaining 21 children were followed up from 2013 to 2015. Thirteen and seven participants had hearing and functional ophthalmological impairment, respectively. Developmental difficulties were suspected in 19 (95%) children who failed in at least one area of the Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ) and/or Denver II in 2013 and/or 2015. Developmental difficulties were frequently identified in the ASQ communication domain (n = 14 in 2013) and Denver II language area (n = 13 in 2013). Seven (41%) participants were suspected of having autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in 2013 by the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers. In 2015, proportions of children failing the problem-solving (62%) and personal–social (62%) domains had increased and two of 13 were diagnosed with ASD by the Childhood Autism Rating Scale, Second Edition. Developmental difficulties were suspected in most children with CRS, including autism largely combined with sensory dysfunction.
Unravelling mycorrhiza-induced wheat susceptibility to the English grain aphid Sitobion avenae
Authors: Simon Amma L. , Wellham Peter A. D. , Aradottir Gudbjorg I. , Gange Alan C.
Published: April 2017

Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi are root symbionts that can increase or decrease aphid growth rates and reproduction, but the reason by which this happens is unknown. To investigate the underlying mechanisms of this interaction, we examined the effect of AM fungi on the English Grain aphid (Sitobion avenae) development, reproduction, attraction, settlement and feeding behaviour on two naturally susceptible varieties Triticum aestivum (L.) variety Solstice and T. monococcum MDR037, and two naturally resistant lines, T. monococcum MDR045 and MDR049. Mycorrhizal colonisation increased the attractiveness of T. aestivum var. Solstice to aphids, but there was no effect on aphid development on this variety. Using the Electrical Penetration Graph (EPG) technique, we found that mycorrhizal colonisation increased aphid phloem feeding on T. monococcum MDR037 and MDR045, colonisation also increased growth rate and reproductive success of S. avenae on these varieties. Mycorrhizas increased vascular bundle size, demonstrating that these fungi can influence plant anatomy. We discuss if and how this could be related to an enhanced success rate in phloem feeding in two varieties. Overall, we present and discuss how mycorrhizal fungi can affect the feeding behaviour of S. avenae in wheat, inducing susceptibility in a resistant variety.
Meta-signature LncRNAs serve as novel biomarkers for colorectal cancer: integrated bioinformatics analysis, experimental validation and diagnostic evaluation
Authors: Dai Meiyu , Chen Xiaoli , Mo Shanying , Li Jinwan , Huang Zhizhuo , Huang Shifeng , Xu Junyi , He Baoyu , Zou Yan , Chen Jingfan , Dai Shengming
Published: April 2017

The aim of this study is to explore the differentially expressed lncRNAs, which may have potential biological function and diagnostic value in colorectal cancer (CRC). Through integrated data mining, we finally identified nine differentially expressed lncRNAs and their potential mRNA targets. After a series of bioinformatics analyses, we screened significant pathways and GO terms that are related to the up-regulated and down-regulated transcripts respectively. Meanwhile, the nine lncRNAs were validated in 30 paired tissues and cell lines by qRT-PCR and the results were basically consistent with the microarray data. We also tested the nine lncRNAs in the serum of 30 CRC patients matched with the CRC tissue, 30 non-cancer patients and 30 health controls. Finally, we found that BLACAT1 was significant for the diagnosis of CRC. The area under the curve (AUC), sensitivity and specificity were 0.858 (95% CI: 0.765–0.951), 83.3% and 76.7% respectively between CRC patients and health controls. Moreover, BLACAT1 also had distinct value to discriminate CRC from other non-cancer diseases. The results indicated that the differentially expressed lncRNAs and their potential target transcripts could be considered as potential therapeutic targets for CRC patients. Meanwhile, lncRNA BLACAT1 might represent a new supplementary biomarker for the diagnosis of CRC.
Enhanced antibacterial efficacy of nitric oxide releasing thermoplastic polyurethanes with antifouling hydrophilic topcoats
Authors: Singha Priyadarshini , Pant Jitendra , Goudie Marcus J. , Workman Christina D. , Handa Hitesh
Published: April 2017

Hydrophilic antifouling topcoat combined with nitric oxide releasing polymer to enhance antimicrobial efficacy and combat healthcare-associated infections caused by medical devices.
Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes enhance osteoclastogenesis during alveolar bone deterioration in rats
Authors: Xu Shuyu , Wang Zuolin
Published: April 2017

BMMSC-derived exosomes from rats with bone deterioration increased the osteoclastogenesis of the Raw264.7 cells, which suggests that BMMSC-derived exosomes could accelerate osteoclastogenesis in alveolar bone deterioration.
Graphene oxide supported titanium dioxide & ferroferric oxide hybrid, a magnetically separable photocatalyst with enhanced photocatalytic activity for tetracycline hydrochloride degradation
Authors: Wang Wenxia , Xiao Kaijun , Zhu Liang , Yin Yurong , Wang Zhaomei
Published: April 2017

A facile, robust approach to the synthesis of Fe3O4/rGO/TiO2nanocomposites is described.
Hollow selenium encapsulated into 3D graphene hydrogels for lithium–selenium batteries with high rate performance and cycling stability
Authors: Fan Shan , Zhang Yong , Li Shu-Hua , Lan Tian-Yu , Xu Jian-Li
Published: April 2017

Hollow selenium nanospheres encapsulated within 3D graphene hydrogels were prepared and researched as Li–Se battery cathode materials. It was shown that the hollow Se structure and 3D graphene were beneficial to the application Li–Se batteries.
Distinguishing between homogeneous and heterogeneous hydrogen-evolution catalysis with molecular cobalt complexes
Authors: Sconyers David J. , Blakemore James D.
Published: April 2017

An electrochemical quartz crystal microbalance can detect formation of heterogeneous material from molecular precursors, and thus provides rapid access to information on catalyst stability.
Cooperative carbon monoxide to formyl reduction at a trifunctional PBB frustrated Lewis pair
Authors: Wang Long , Zhang Senwang , Hasegawa Yasuharu , Daniliuc Constantin G. , Kehr Gerald , Erker Gerhard
Published: April 2017

Twofold hydroboration of the bulky Mes*P(vinyl)2phosphane with Piers’ borane [HB(C6F5)2] followed by C6F5/H exchange with 9-BBN generated a reactive P/B/BH FLP structure that cleanly reduced carbon-monoxide at the trifunctional frustrated Lewis pair framework to the [B]-formyl stage.
A topologically unique alternating {CoIII3GdIII3} magnetocaloric ring
Authors: Ojea María José Heras , Lorusso Giulia , Craig Gavin A. , Wilson Claire , Evangelisti Marco , Murrie Mark
Published: April 2017

A building block approach to molecule-based refrigerants: using diamagnetic Co(iii) to decrease the interaction between Gd(iii) ions and hence, enhance the adiabatic temperature change.
Foscarnet calcium microcrystals as the intravitreal drug depot
Authors: Sun Yuling , Tao Yong , Cao Qingchen , Huang Yanbin
Published: April 2017

Injectable foscarnet calcium microcrystals can maintain the intravitreal drug concentration for months.
The atmospheric oxidation of CH3OOH by the OH radical: the effect of water vapor
Authors: Anglada Josep M. , Crehuet Ramon , Martins-Costa Marilia , Francisco Joseph S. , Ruiz-López Manuel
Published: April 2017

The relative humidity can enhance the atmospheric oxidation of CH3OOH by OH into CH3O2 + H2O up to 19% whereas the formation of H2CO + OH + H2O is enhanced up to 5% only under the same conditions.
New insights into catalyst deactivation and product distribution of zeolites in the methanol-to-hydrocarbons (MTH) reaction with methanol and dimethyl ether feeds
Authors: Martinez-Espin Juan S. , Mortén Magnus , Janssens Ton V. W. , Svelle Stian , Beato Pablo , Olsbye Unni
Published: April 2017

The ability of a zeolitic catalyst to dehydrate methanol to dimethyl ether affects catalyst deactivation and product distribution during the methanol-to-hydrocarbons (MTH) reaction.
Storing solar energy with chemistry: the role of thermochemical storage in concentrating solar power
Authors: Peng Xinyue , Root Thatcher W. , Maravelias Christos T.
Published: April 2017

Concentrating solar power (CSP) with thermal energy storage has the potential for grid-scale dispatchable power generation.
Glycerol as a potential renewable raw material for acrylic acid production
Authors: Sun Daolai , Yamada Yasuhiro , Sato Satoshi , Ueda Wataru
Published: April 2017

Renewable glycerol has potential for use as an alternative raw material for the production of acrylic acid.
Characterization of oxidized Ni-based superalloys by GD-OES
Authors: Nowak W. J.
Published: April 2017

The significance of the GD-OES technique in the analysis of oxidized Ni-based superalloys and gas turbine components after the service is described in the present work.
Metabolic profiling of asthma in mice and the interventional effects of SPA using liquid chromatography and Q-TOF mass spectrometry
Authors: Su Li , Shi Lei , Liu Jian , Huang Lifei , Huang Yi , Nie Xiaomeng
Published: April 2017

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory lung disease that leads to 250 000 deaths annually.
A pH, glucose, and dopamine triple-responsive, self-healable adhesive hydrogel formed by phenylborate–catechol complexation
Authors: Shan Meng , Gong Chu , Li Bingqiang , Wu Guolin
Published: April 2017

A pH, glucose, and dopamine triple-responsive, self-healable and adhesive polyethylene glycol hydrogel was developed via the formation of phenylborate–catechol complexation.
6,6′,11,11′-Tetra((triisopropylsilyl)ethynyl)-anti-[2.2](1,4)tetracenophane: a covalently coupled tetracene dimer and its structural, electrochemical, and photophysical characterization
Authors: Bettinger Holger F. , Einholz Ralf , Göttler Andreas , Junge Marc , Sättele Marie-Sophie , Schnepf Andreas , Schrenk Claudio , Schundelmeier Simon , Speiser Bernd
Published: April 2017

[2.2]-Acenophanes are a class of compounds with two acene units interconnected by two ethano bridges.
Several orders of magnitude increase in the hydraulic permeability of flow-through capacitive deionization electrodes via laser perforations
Authors: Guyes Eric N. , Simanovski Anastasia , Suss Matthew E.
Published: April 2017

Laser perforation of a flow channel array in flow-through CDI electrodes dramatically increases electrode permeability while desalination performance is maintained.
Ultrasensitive hydrazine sensor fabrication based on Co-doped ZSM-5 zeolites for environmental safety
Authors: Rahman Mohammed M. , Abu-Zied Bahaa M. , Asiri Abdullah M.
Published: April 2017

Various Co-loaded ZSM-5 zeolites (Co-ZSM-5) were prepared and the details of their structural, morphological and elemental properties characterized by different conventional methods.
Magnetic metal–organic frameworks as scaffolds for spatial co-location and positional assembly of multi-enzyme systems enabling enhanced cascade biocatalysis
Authors: Chen Sijia , Wen Liyin , Svec Frantisek , Tan Tianwei , Lv Yongqin
Published: April 2017

Magnetic metal–organic frameworks have been prepared as scaffolds for spatial co-location and positional assembly of multi-enzymes enabling enhanced cascade biocatalysis.
Synergistic effect of ceria on the structure and hydrogen evolution activity of nickel nanoparticles grown on reduced graphene oxide
Authors: Zhiani Mohammad , Kamali Saeedeh
Published: April 2017

A facile chemical reduction procedure for the synthesis of nickel nanoparticles on a ceria–reduced graphene oxide composite (ceria–rGO) was reported and the rule of the ceria in HER was discussed.
Fabrication of homogeneously Cu2+/La3+-doped CeO2nanosheets and their application in CO oxidation
Authors: Zhou Xia , Ling Jun , Sun Weilin , Shen Zhiquan
Published: April 2017

Nanosheets of coordination polymers (CPs) were synthesizedviaa facile and one-step complexing-coprecipitation (CC) method.
How to make persistent micelle templates in 24 hours and know it using X-ray scattering
Authors: Sarkar Amrita , Stefik Morgan
Published: April 2017

The controlled fabrication of nanoscale materials can enable new behaviors and properties as well as improved performance.
Hybrid vertical graphene/lithium titanate–CNTs arrays for lithium ion storage with extraordinary performance
Authors: Yao Zhujun , Xia Xinhui , Zhong Yu , Wang Yadong , Zhang Bowei , Xie Dong , Wang Xiuli , Tu Jiangping , Huang Yizhong
Published: April 2017

In the present study, we report a synthetic strategy for the direct fabrication of hybrid vertical graphene/lithium titanate–CNTs arraysviaatomic layer deposition in combination with chemical vapor deposition.
NIR absorbing Au nanoparticle decorated layered double hydroxide nanohybrids for photothermal therapy and fluorescence imaging of cancer cells
Authors: Komarala EswaraVara Prasadarao , Tyagi Himanshu , Thiyagarajan Shankar , Pradhan Lina , Aslam Mohammed , Bahadur Dhirendra
Published: April 2017

The strong NIR absorbing LDH–Au nanohybrid exhibits efficient photothermal therapy and fluorescence imaging towards cancer cells.
A microreactor-based continuous process for controlled synthesis of poly-methyl-methacrylate-methacrylic acid (PMMA) nanoparticles
Authors: Dobhal Anurag , Kulkarni Amol , Dandekar Prajakta , Jain Ratnesh
Published: April 2017

We have developed a microreactor-based continuous process for synthesizing PMMA nanoparticles (NPs), based on the principle of nanoprecipitation.