bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electricity Storage With High Roundtrip Efficiency in a Reversible Solid Oxide Cell Stack
Authors: Gan Li-zhen , Xie Kui
Published: September 2016

We theoretically investigate the electricity storage/generation in a reversible solid oxide cell stack. The system heat is for the first time tentatively stored in a phase-change metal when the stack is operated to generate electricity in a fuel cell mode and then reused to store electricity in an electrolysis mode. The state of charge (H2 frication in cathode) effectively enhances the open circuit voltages (OCVs) while the system gas pressure in electrodes also increases the OCVs. On the other hand, a higher system pressure facilitates the species diffusion in electrodes that therefore accordingly improve electrode polarizations. With the aid of recycled system heat, the roundtrip efficiency reaches as high as 92% for the repeated electricity storage and generation.
Line-Profile Analysis of Excitation Spectroscopy in the Even 3p5(2P1/2)nl′[K′]J(l′=1,3) Autoionizing Resonances of Ar
Authors: Li Chun-yan , Zhou Mei , He Zhi-wei , Zhang Jin-hong , Chen Yang
Published: September 2016

The even-parity autoionizing resonance series 3p5np′[3/2]1,2, 3p5np′[1/2]1, and 3p5nf′[5/2]3 of Ar have been investigated exciting from the two metastable states 3p54s[3/2]2 and 3p54s′[1/2]0 in the photon energy range of 32500–35600 cm−1 with an experimental bandwidth of ∼0.1 cm−1. The excitation spectra of the even-parity autoionizing resonance series show typical asymmetric line shapes. New level energies, quantum defects, line profile index and resonance widths, resonance lifetime and reduced widths of the autoionizing resonances are derived by a Fano-type line-shape analysis. The line profile index q and the resonance widths Γ are shown to be approximately proportional to the effective principal quantum number n*. The line separation of the 3p5np′ autoionizing resonances is discussed.
Effects of Activation Atmospheres on Structure and Activity of Mo-based Catalyst for Synthesis of Higher Alcohols
Authors: Zhou Ji-long , Xie Wei , Sun Song , Ji Li-li , Zheng Li-rong , Gao Chen , Bao Jun
Published: September 2016

Activated carbon supported Mo-based catalysts were prepared and reduced under different activation atmospheres, including pure H2, syngas (H2/CO=2/1), and pure CO. The catalysts structures were characterized by X-ray diffraction , X-ray absorption fine structure, and in situ diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy. The catalytic performance for the higher alcohol synthesis from syngas was tested. The pure H2 treatment showed a high reduction capacity. The presence of a large amount of metallic Co0 and low valence state Moφ+ (0<φ<2) on the surface suggested a super activity for the CO dissociation and hydrogenation, which promoted hydrocarbons formation and reduced the alcohol selectivity. In contrast, the pure CO-reduced catalyst had a low reduction degree. The Mo and Co species at the catalyst mainly existed in the form of Mo4+ and Co2+. The syngas-reduced catalyst showed the highest activity and selectivity for the higher alcohols synthesis. We suggest that the syngas treatment had an appropriate reduction capacity that is between those of pure H2 and pure CO and led to the coexistence of multivalent Co species as well as the enrichment of Moδ+ on the catalyst's surface. The synergistic effects between these active species provided a better cooperativity and equilibrium between the CO dissociation, hydrogenation and CO insertion and thus contributed beneficially to the formation of higher alcohols.
Raman Studies on Species in Single and Mixed Solutions of Molybdate and Vanadate
Authors: Zhang Jia-liang , Hu Jun-tao , Zhang Li-feng
Published: September 2016

Raman spectroscopy was applied to investigate the speciation in both single and mixed solutions of molybdate and vanadate at pH values from 10.0 to 1.0. Evidence was obtained for the difference of existing forms between these two elements. Vanadium mainly exists as (VO3)nn− while Mo is MoO42− in the pH range of 9.0–7.5. This difference is the theoretical basis for many available separation process. The species in the binary system was identified by comparing the Raman spectra with that in the single systems. Molybvanadates are formed below pH=6.5, which may partly be ascribed to the replacement of V atoms by Mo atoms in some V-O-V groups. Vanadium mainly exists as the decavanadate species in the pH range of 6.0–2.0. The predominant species of Mo are heteropolyanions having structural features of heptamolybdate rather than Mo8O264− and Mo36O1128− which are the predominant Mo species in single solution at pH=2.0–1.0.
Divergent breeding values for fatness or residual feed intake in Angus cattle. 4. Fat EBVs’ influence on fatness fluctuation and supplementary feeding requirements
Authors: Accioly J. M. , Copping K. J. , Deland M. P. B. , Hebart M. L. , Herd R. M. , Lee S. J. , Jones F. M. , Laurence M. , Speijers E. J. , Walmsley B. J. , Pitchford W. S.
Published: September 2016

The productivity of 500 Angus cows, divergently selected for either rib fat or residual feed intake (RFI) based on BREEDPLAN estimated breeding values (EBVs) and managed under two levels of nutrition (stocking rates), was evaluated. The study examined the effects of genetic line, nutrition and weaning history on profiles for weight, rib fat depth, fatness (rib fat depth adjusted for weight) and supplementary feed requirements from just before the first joining as heifers through to the weaning of their third calf. Cows gained both weight and fat as they grew older. Observed fluctuations in weight and rib fat depth, within each year, were associated with pasture availability and physiological demands. Cows that did not wean a calf in a given year became heavier and fatter than cows that did; and they remained so when they calved the following year. High-fat and High-RFI were always fatter and lighter than Low-fat and Low-RFI cows, respectively. The difference in rib fat and fatness between High- and Low-RFI lines (P < 0.001) was similar to, although slightly greater than, the difference between High- and Low-fat lines (P = 0.048) reflecting differences in rib fat EBVs between High-RFI (3.2 ± 1.47) and Low-RFI (–0.7 ± 1.3) compared with High-fat (1.1 ± 0.78) and Low-fat (–1.4 ± 0.67). Cows on High-Nutrition were heavier and fatter than those on Low-Nutrition (P < 0.001) but there were no significant interactions between genetic line and nutrition (P > 0.05). Supplementary feeding threshold was reached earlier by Low-fat and Low-RFI cows than their counterparts. Calculations based on the data in the present paper estimate that if cows lose condition at a rapid rate (1 condition score/month), then a cow with an extra 1 mm rib fat EBV would take 7.5 days longer to reach the same supplementary feeding threshold. Fat EBVs can, therefore, be a useful tool in assisting beef producers to match genotype to their production system.
Modelling systems to describe maternal productivity, with the aim of improving beef production efficiency by eliciting practice change
Authors: Walmsley B. J. , Oddy V. H.
Published: September 2016

The overall efficiency of beef production is considered more highly correlated with cow–calf efficiency, viz. maternal productivity (MP), than the efficiency of other segments of the beef production chain. Recently, concerns have been raised that improvements in feedlot and carcass performance have led to a decline in MP due to the uncertainty that surrounds the relationships between production and MP traits. The Beef Cooperative Research Centre ‘Maternal Productivity’ Project examined the impact of cow genotype and nutrient intake on breeding herd productivity. This experiment demonstrated that cow body composition is influenced by genetic differences in rib fat and residual feed intake, as well as nutrient availability. Genetic differences in rib fat were shown to influence heifer pregnancy rates, observed days to calving, MP when nutrient intake is restricted and ME intake by the cow–calf unit. Weaning rate was found to account for a large portion of the variation in MP, while cow genetic background and pre-weaning nutrient availability influenced the postweaning and carcass performance of progeny. These findings demonstrate that although balancing the requirements of MP with those of other traits is not straight forward, it is of critical importance. Incorporating modelling systems into decision-support systems (DSS) offers the opportunity to integrate fragmented knowledge into decision making. Unfortunately, previous DSS have gained little traction and limited adoption due to their perceived complexity, large input-data requirements, and mismatches between outputs and the decision-making styles of producers. The development of the BeefSpecs fat calculator provides an example of how producer-measurable inputs and simple user interactions can be combined using modelling systems to develop DSS to improve MP. No single model that addressed all issues affecting MP was found in the literature. Thus, it was concluded that previous modelling systems would need to be combined to develop a suite of DSS that target-specific components of MP, such as heifer pregnancy rates and interactions between the cow herd and the nutritional environment.
Preparation of CoWO4/g-C3N4 and its Ultra-Deep Desulfurization Property
Authors: Xing Pengfei , Zhao Rongxiang , Li Xiuping , Gao Xiaohan
Published: September 2016

The ultra-deep desulfurization of fuel oil has become inevitable for environmental protection. Here, CoWO4/g-C3N4 was used as a catalyst, H2O2 as an oxidant, and 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium ethylsulfate ([EMIM][EtSO4], IL) as an extractant for the oxidative desulfurization of model oil. Scanning electron microscopy, FT-IR spectroscopy, N2 adsorption isotherms, and X-ray diffraction were used to confirm the morphology, structure, and properties of the catalysts. The influence of calcination temperature, loading dose of cobalt, amount of H2O2, reaction temperature, and other parameters were investigated. The removal rate of sulfide in model oil could reach 92.9 % at 80°C in 180 min under the optimal operation conditions (V(oil) = 5 mL, T = 80°C, m(catalyst) = 0.03 g, V(H2O2) = 0.4 mL, t = 180 min, V(IL) = 1.0 mL). In addition, the catalyst was reused five times with no significant reduction in the catalytic activity.
Chloroplast retrograde signal regulates flowering
Authors: Feng Peiqiang , Guo Hailong , Chi Wei , Chai Xin , Sun Xuwu , Xu Xiumei , Ma Jinfang , Rochaix Jean-David , Leister Dario , Wang Haiyang , Lu Congming , Zhang Lixin
Published: September 2016

Significance

Proper timing of flowering transition is vital for the reproductive success of plants and orchestrated by endogenous and external factors; however, the mechanisms of how plants regulate flowering under high light are not well understood. In this study, we show that promotion of flowering by high light involves the coupling of chloroplast retrograde signals and transcriptional silencing of the floral repressor
FLOWERING LOCUS C
(
FLC
). In response to high light, a chloroplast envelope-localized transcription factor, PTM, releases its N-terminal fragment through processing to associate with the chromatin remodeler FVE and suppresses
FLC
transcription. This report describes the molecular basis for a unique intracellular signaling pathway derived from chloroplasts in which plants regulate the developmental timing of the flowering transition.
In B cells, phosphatidylinositol 5-phosphate 4-kinase–α synthesizes PI(4,5)P2to impact mTORC2 and Akt signaling
Authors: Bulley Simon J. , Droubi Alaa , Clarke Jonathan H. , Anderson Karen E. , Stephens Len R. , Hawkins Phillip T. , Irvine Robin F.
Published: September 2016

Significance

Investigating enzyme function by genetic knockout is often complicated by indirect and compensatory changes, whereas supraphysiological levels of protein can compromise overexpression. These pitfalls have made it difficult to understand the functions of the enigmatic phosphatidylinositol 5-phosphate 4-kinases (PI5P4Ks); we are not even sure what lipid phosphorylation they catalyze in vivo. Here, we have used the unique genetic power of DT40 cells to genomically delete PI5P4Kα or remove the endogenous protein acutely (within 60 min). We used similar approaches to manipulate the endogenous catalytic activity of the enzyme. From this approach, we have gained unique and unexpected insights into the physiological role of PI5P4Kα and the ways in which it interacts with the Akt signaling pathway.
Pathological Ace2-to-Ace enzyme switch in the stressed heart is transcriptionally controlled by the endothelial Brg1–FoxM1 complex
Authors: Yang Jin , Feng Xuhui , Zhou Qiong , Cheng Wei , Shang Ching , Han Pei , Lin Chiou-Hong , Chen Huei-Sheng Vincent , Quertermous Thomas , Chang Ching-Pin
Published: September 2016

Significance

Angiotensin-converting enzymes Ace and Ace2 counteract each other to control the metabolism of angiotensin peptides and heart function. When the heart is pathologically stressed, Ace is up-regulated whereas Ace2 is down-regulated, leading to a pathological Ace2-to-Ace switch and increased production of angiotensin II, which promotes hypertrophy and fibrosis. The mechanism of Ace2-to-Ace switch is unknown. In this study, we discovered that the Ace/Ace2 switch occurs at the transcription level and defined a chromatin-based endothelial mechanism that triggers Ace/Ace2 transcription switch and heart failure. Human tissue studies suggest that this mechanism is evolutionarily conserved. Our studies reveal a pharmacological method to simultaneously inhibit pathogenic Ace and activate cardioprotective Ace2. This finding provides new insights and methods for heart failure therapy.
Ammonium and nitrite oxidation at nanomolar oxygen concentrations in oxygen minimum zone waters
Authors: Bristow Laura A. , Dalsgaard Tage , Tiano Laura , Mills Daniel B. , Bertagnolli Anthony D. , Wright Jody J. , Hallam Steven J. , Ulloa Osvaldo , Canfield Donald E. , Revsbech Niels Peter , Thamdrup Bo
Published: September 2016

Significance

As an essential nutrient, nitrogen plays a critical role in regulating oceanic primary productivity. Nitrogen is cycled between bioavailable and nonavailable forms through a network of aerobic and anaerobic microbial processes. Expanding oxygen minimum zones are hot spots for such transformations. Using a highly sensitive oxygen-sensing technique, we demonstrate that two key aerobic processes, ammonium oxidation and nitrite oxidation, persist even at low oxygen levels of 5–30 nM (∼0.01% air saturation). Activity at these low oxygen concentrations allows ammonium and nitrite oxidation to persist at oxic/anoxic boundaries and within anoxic waters if oxygen intrudes at sufficient frequency. In such environments, ammonium and nitrite oxidizers compete with anaerobic organisms for ammonium and nitrite, and thus act to control nitrogen loss.
Influence of
IFNL3
and
HLA-DPB1
genotype on postpartum control of hepatitis C virus replication and T-cell recovery
Authors: Honegger Jonathan R. , Tedesco Dana , Kohout Jennifer A. , Prasad Mona R. , Price Aryn A. , Lindquist Tera , Ohmer Samantha , Moore-Clingenpeel Melissa , Grakoui Arash , Walker Christopher M.
Published: September 2016

Significance

Reversal of the “exhausted” phenotype of T-cells that target persistent viruses, such as HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C represents a potentially novel means to control persistent infections. Here we examined the drop in hepatitis C viral levels that often follows pregnancy as a potential model of T-cell restoration. We found that women with significant postpartum reductions in viremia had stronger postpartum T-cell responses against hepatitis C and were more likely to carry a favorable IFN-λ3 (
IFNL3
) genotype and high-expression
HLA-DPB1
(human leukocyte antigen DP β-chain) alleles than women with stable persistent viremia. These findings support the concept that the postpartum period may indeed serve as a unique model for identifying factors associated with immune restoration against persistent infections.
Infiltrating monocytes promote brain inflammation and exacerbate neuronal damage after status epilepticus
Authors: Varvel Nicholas H. , Neher Jonas J. , Bosch Andrea , Wang Wenyi , Ransohoff Richard M. , Miller Richard J. , Dingledine Raymond
Published: September 2016

Significance

Status epilepticus is a frequent neurological emergency. These unabated seizures reduce quality of life, promote the development of epilepsy, and can cause death. Activation of microglia, the brain’s resident immune cells, is an invariable feature of seizure activity. However, the involvement of blood-borne immune cells in the brain’s inflammatory reaction after seizures remains unresolved. Here we identify a blood cell not normally encountered in the healthy brain, called a monocyte, which invades brain tissue after seizures and contributes to inflammation. Blocking brain entry of the blood monocytes was beneficial, reducing neuronal damage and accelerating weight regain. Treatment strategies aimed at inhibiting peripheral immune cells from entering the brain after seizures could be beneficial.
Unique pH dynamics in GABAergic synaptic vesicles illuminates the mechanism and kinetics of GABA loading
Authors: Egashira Yoshihiro , Takase Miki , Watanabe Shoji , Ishida Junji , Fukamizu Akiyoshi , Kaneko Ryosuke , Yanagawa Yuchio , Takamori Shigeo
Published: September 2016

Significance

Neurotransmitters are stored in synaptic vesicles (SVs) depending on the energy provided by an H
+
gradient. The inhibitory transmitter GABA is critical for coordinated neuronal activity of the brain, and vesicular transport of GABA is essential for its release. However, the transport process has been characterized primarily in isolated or reconstituted vesicle preparations, and we know little about its properties at functional synapses. Here, by monitoring the pH of SVs in GABAergic neurons apart from excitatory glutamatergic neurons, we show that GABA transport into SVs is tightly coupled to SV alkalization in living neurons, which occurs at an unexpectedly slow rate, suggesting a possible contribution of incompletely filled vesicles during sustained stimulation at GABAergic synapses.
Configuration of the thermal landscape determines thermoregulatory performance of ectotherms
Authors: Sears Michael W. , Angilletta Michael J. , Schuler Matthew S. , Borchert Jason , Dilliplane Katherine F. , Stegman Monica , Rusch Travis W. , Mitchell William A.
Published: September 2016

Significance

Environmental temperatures drive major ecological processes, largely because the physiology of any organism depends on its temperature. For this reason, many animals behave in ways that prevent their body temperatures from fluctuating, even as climate changes dramatically. Using a combination of computer simulations and controlled experiments, we show that thermoregulation depends not only on the mean and variance of operative environmental temperatures but also on the spatial arrangement of these temperatures. Our results have further implications for ecological models that rely on estimates of activity to predict the responses to climatic change.
In-group defense, out-group aggression, and coordination failures in intergroup conflict
Authors: De Dreu Carsten K. W. , Gross Jörg , Méder Zsombor , Giffin Michael , Prochazkova Eliska , Krikeb Jonathan , Columbus Simon
Published: September 2016

Significance

Across a range of domains, from group-hunting predators to laboratory groups, companies, and nation states, we find that out-group aggression is less successful because it is more difficult to coordinate than in-group defense. This finding explains why appeals for defending the in-group may be more persuasive than appeals to aggress a rivaling out-group and suggests that (third) parties seeking to regulate intergroup conflict should, in addition to reducing willingness to contribute to one’s group’s fighting capacity, undermine arrangements for coordinating out-group aggression, such as leadership, communication, and infrastructure.
Emergent rules for codon choice elucidated by editing rare arginine codons in
Escherichia coli
Authors: Napolitano Michael G. , Landon Matthieu , Gregg Christopher J. , Lajoie Marc J. , Govindarajan Lakshmi , Mosberg Joshua A. , Kuznetsov Gleb , Goodman Daniel B. , Vargas-Rodriguez Oscar , Isaacs Farren J. , Söll Dieter , Church George M.
Published: September 2016

Significance

This work presents the genome-wide replacement of all rare AGR (AGA and AGG) arginine codons in the essential genes of
Escherichia coli
with synonymous CGN alternatives. Synonymous codon substitutions can lethally impact noncoding function by disrupting mRNA secondary structure and ribosomal binding site-like motifs. Here we quantitatively define the range of tolerable deviation in these metrics and use this relationship to provide critical insight into codon choice in recoded genomes. This work demonstrates that genome-wide removal of AGR is likely to be possible and provides a framework for designing genomes with radically altered genetic codes.
Mannose receptor induces T-cell tolerance via inhibition of CD45 and up-regulation of CTLA-4
Authors: Schuette Verena , Embgenbroich Maria , Ulas Thomas , Welz Meike , Schulte-Schrepping Jonas , Draffehn Astrid M. , Quast Thomas , Koch Katharina , Nehring Melanie , König Jessica , Zweynert Annegret , Harms Frederike L. , Steiner Nancy , Limmer Andreas , Förster Irmgard , Berberich-Siebelt Friederike , Knolle Percy A. , Wohlleber Dirk , Kolanus Waldemar , Beyer Marc , Schultze Joachim L. , Burgdorf Sven
Published: September 2016

Significance

Endocytic receptors regulate the internalization of extracellular antigens and are often targeted to induce a potent immune response (e.g., tumor vaccinations), albeit with limited success. Here, we describe a role of an endocytic receptor on the regulation of T-cell functionality. We demonstrate that the expression of the mannose receptor on antigen-presenting cells (APCs) impaired full activation of cytotoxic T cells by direct interaction with CD45 on the T-cell surface, resulting in CD45 inhibition, T-cell reprogramming, and the induction of T-cell tolerance. These findings demonstrate that the immune-regulatory properties of endocytic receptors expressed on APCs have an important impact on the potency of T-cell activation.
Covalent bonds against magnetism in transition metal compounds
Authors: Streltsov Sergey V. , Khomskii Daniel I.
Published: September 2016

Significance

A mechanism by which orbital degrees of freedom can strongly affect magnetic properties of systems with correlated electrons is proposed. Using analytical treatment and numerical simulations, both in general and for some particular substances, we show that the formation of covalent bonds on part of the orbitals may strongly reduce magnetic moments and explain magnetic properties of different 4
d
and 5
d
transition metal oxides. In particular, orbital-selective effects may result in suppression of double exchange—one of the main mechanisms of ferromagnetism in transition metals and compounds, such as colossal magnetoresistance manganites or CrO
2
—the materials used in many devices.
Energetics of side-chain snorkeling in transmembrane helices probed by nonproteinogenic amino acids
Authors: Öjemalm Karin , Higuchi Takashi , Lara Patricia , Lindahl Erik , Suga Hiroaki , von Heijne Gunnar
Published: September 2016

Significance

Membrane proteins are central players in all cells, and their structure and function are under intense study. However, we still lack a detailed understanding of the process whereby they are integrated into biological membranes. Most membrane proteins are integrated cotranslationally into the membrane bilayer. Although the energetics that drive membrane protein integration are known in outline, detailed studies are difficult because the naturally occurring amino acids represent only a limited set of side-chain chemistries. Here we use synthetic, nonproteinogenic amino acids engineered into a transmembrane segment to systematically probe the energetics of membrane insertion in a way not possible with the set of natural amino acids.
Structural mechanism for the recognition and ubiquitination of a single nucleosome residue by Rad6–Bre1
Authors: Gallego Laura D. , Ghodgaonkar Steger Medini , Polyansky Anton A. , Schubert Tobias , Zagrovic Bojan , Zheng Ning , Clausen Tim , Herzog Franz , Köhler Alwin
Published: September 2016

Significance

Histone H2B monoubiquitination is important for gene expression. It is mediated by the yeast E3 ligase Bre1 (human RNF20/40) and the E2 conjugating enzyme Rad6. These enzymes associate with RNA polymerase II and their activity is counteracted by the H2B deubiquitinase of the Spt–Ada–Gcn5 acetyltransferase (SAGA) complex. In contrast to many other E3 ligases, the Rad6–Bre1 machinery exclusively modifies a single lysine on the nucleosome. Given the number of other nearby lysines, it was unknown how such specificity could be achieved. Our study shows how Rad6–Bre1 recognition of the nucleosome is mechanistically coupled to ubiquitin transfer, how a single target lysine is chosen, and how Rad6–Bre1 compete with SAGA for regulatory access to a specific region on the nucleosome.
Whole-exome sequencing identifies recurrent
AKT1
mutations in sclerosing hemangioma of lung
Authors: Jung Seung-Hyun , Kim Min Sung , Lee Sung-Hak , Park Hyun-Chun , Choi Hyun Joo , Maeng Leeso , Min Ki Ouk , Kim Jeana , Park Tae In , Shin Ok Ran , Kim Tae-Jung , Xu Haidong , Lee Kyo Young , Kim Tae-Min , Song Sang Yong , Lee Charles , Chung Yeun-Jun , Lee Sug Hyung
Published: September 2016

Significance

This report is an in-depth genetic profiling of pulmonary sclerosing hemangioma (PSH). We have discovered that PSH harbor recurrent
AKT1
mutations (45.6%), most of which were
AKT1
p.E17K mutations. This mutation may be the single-most common driver alteration to develop PSHs. In contrast to lung adenocarcinoma, PSH genomes harbor only a single driver mutation (
AKT1
or
β-catenin
), which may provide clues to understanding the benign biology of PSH and for differential genomic diagnosis of lung tumors.
WD40 domain of Apc1 is critical for the coactivator-induced allosteric transition that stimulates APC/C catalytic activity
Authors: Li Qiuhong , Chang Leifu , Aibara Shintaro , Yang Jing , Zhang Ziguo , Barford David
Published: September 2016

Significance

The anaphase-promoting complex/cyclosome (APC/C) is a large E3 ubiquitin ligase that controls progression through mitosis and entry into G1. Its capacity to recognize and ubiquitinate substrates is dependent on coactivator subunits that interact with substrate degrons and promote a conformational change of the APC/C to increase its affinity for the priming E2 UbcH10. We show that the WD40 domain of anaphase-promoting complex subunit 1 (Apc1) is required for communicating the conformational change initiated by the binding of coactivator to the catalytic module. In contrast to UbcH10, binding of the elongating E2 Ube2S and its APC/C-stimulated activity does not require the active state of the APC/C. The work raises the possibility that conformational changes of the Apc1 WD40 domain may play a role in regulating UbcH10 binding to the APC/C.
Spiny plants, mammal browsers, and the origin of African savannas
Authors: Charles-Dominique Tristan , Davies T. Jonathan , Hempson Gareth P. , Bezeng Bezeng S. , Daru Barnabas H. , Kabongo Ronny M. , Maurin Olivier , Muasya A. Muthama , van der Bank Michelle , Bond William J.
Published: September 2016

Significance

Africa hosts contrasting communities of mammal browsers and is, thus, the ideal background for testing their effect on plant communities and evolution. In this study at the continental scale, we reveal which mammal browsers are most closely associated with spiny communities of trees. We then show a remarkable convergence between the evolutionary histories of these browsers (the bovids) and spiny plants. Over the last 16 My, plants from unrelated lineages developed spines 55 times. These convergent patterns of evolution suggest that the arrival and diversification of bovids in Africa changed the rules for persisting in woody communities. Contrary to our current understanding, our data suggest that browsers predate fire by millions of years as agents driving the origin of savannas.
Mutations in mitochondrial enzyme GPT2 cause metabolic dysfunction and neurological disease with developmental and progressive features
Authors: Ouyang Qing , Nakayama Tojo , Baytas Ozan , Davidson Shawn M. , Yang Chendong , Schmidt Michael , Lizarraga Sofia B. , Mishra Sasmita , EI-Quessny Malak , Niaz Saima , Gul Butt Mirrat , Imran Murtaza Syed , Javed Afzal , Chaudhry Haroon Rashid , Vaughan Dylan J. , Hill R. Sean , Partlow Jennifer N. , Yoo Seung-Yun , Lam Anh-Thu N. , Nasir Ramzi , Al-Saffar Muna , Barkovich A. James , Schwede Matthew , Nagpal Shailender , Rajab Anna , DeBerardinis Ralph J. , Housman David E. , Mochida Ganeshwaran H. , Morrow Eric M.
Published: September 2016

Significance

We report autosomal recessive mutations in the enzyme glutamate pyruvate transaminase 2 (GPT2) in a neurological syndrome involving intellectual disability, reduced brain growth, and progressive motor symptoms. We show that the mutations inactivate the enzyme. GPT2 catalyzes the reversible addition of an amino group from glutamate to pyruvate, yielding alanine and α-ketoglutarate. The
GPT2
gene demonstrates expression in brain postnatally, and the protein localizes to mitochondria. As in humans,
Gpt2
-null mice exhibit reduced brain growth. Furthermore, mutant mouse brains show abnormal metabolite levels, including in pathways involving amino acid metabolism, the TCA cycle, and neuroprotective mechanisms. Our study identifies GPT2 as an important mitochondrial enzyme in disease that has general relevance to developmental and potentially to neurodegenerative mechanisms.
SCAP/SREBP pathway is required for the full steroidogenic response to cyclic AMP
Authors: Shimizu-Albergine Masami , Van Yserloo Brian , Golkowski Martin G. , Ong Shao-En , Beavo Joseph A. , Bornfeldt Karin E.
Published: September 2016

Significance

Luteinizing hormone stimulates production of testosterone and other steroids largely through a surge in the second messenger cAMP and subsequent activation of protein kinase A (PKA) in target cells. Rates of steroidogenesis are also dependent on the availability of cholesterol, a steroid building block. We propose, based on our results, that cAMP/PKA coordinates the functions of multiple pathways to regulate cellular cholesterol handling and synthesis and downstream steroid output. Activation of the cholesterol-sensing SCAP–SREBP2 pathway plays an important role in cAMP/PKA coordination of steroidogenesis. These cAMP/PKA-induced pathways are likely to be major regulators of sterol biosynthesis and cholesterol recharging in steroid hormone synthetic and other tissues. Cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterases can be targeted to promote steroidogenesis and cholesterol metabolism.
Ultrathin two-dimensional superconductivity with strong spin–orbit coupling
Authors: Nam Hyoungdo , Chen Hua , Liu Tijiang , Kim Jisun , Zhang Chendong , Yong Jie , Lemberger Thomas R. , Kratz Philip A. , Kirtley John R. , Moler Kathryn , Adams Philip W. , MacDonald Allan H. , Shih Chih-Kang
Published: September 2016

Significance

By studying epitaxially grown Pb thin films, this paper explores a new regime in the physics of uniform 2D superconductivity, in which the spin–orbit coupling-induced Rashba splitting is larger than the superconducting gap. The first quantitative determination of superfluid rigidity in nearly atomically thin 2D superconductors was performed using measurement that covers microscopic to macroscopic length scales to establish uniformity. The extraordinarily strong parallel critical fields were discovered, which is greatly in excess of the normal Clogston–Chandrasekhar limit. Moreover, this remarkable behavior is theoretically explained as a consequence of strong spin–orbit coupling in 2D superconductors that are uniform but in the dirty limit.
CD4
+
T-cell–independent mechanisms suppress reactivation of latent tuberculosis in a macaque model of HIV coinfection
Authors: Foreman Taylor W. , Mehra Smriti , LoBato Denae N. , Malek Adel , Alvarez Xavier , Golden Nadia A. , Bucşan Allison N. , Didier Peter J. , Doyle-Meyers Lara A. , Russell-Lodrigue Kasi E. , Roy Chad J. , Blanchard James , Kuroda Marcelo J. , Lackner Andrew A. , Chan John , Khader Shabaana A. , Jacobs William R. , Kaushal Deepak
Published: September 2016

Significance

According to the World Health Organization, one in three humans is latently infected with
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
and 10% of these individuals risk developing active, clinical tuberculosis (TB) over their lifetimes. Coinfection with human immunodeficiency virus increases this risk substantially, with depletion of CD4
+
T cells believed to drive disease progression. Although a minority of coinfected individuals can control the infection, the mechanisms underlying this phenomenon remain unknown. Modeling coinfection using macaques, we discovered that one-third of the animals maintained latency despite complete ablation of lung CD4
+
T cells. We report that protective immune responses mediated by CD8
+
T cells and B cells correlate with TB control. These findings have important implications in development of both prophylactic and therapeutic measures against TB and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome.
Accelerated structure-based design of chemically diverse allosteric modulators of a muscarinic G protein-coupled receptor
Authors: Miao Yinglong , Goldfeld Dahlia Anne , Moo Ee Von , Sexton Patrick M. , Christopoulos Arthur , McCammon J. Andrew , Valant Celine
Published: September 2016

Significance

Chemical diversity has recently risen as key structural feature for the discovery of novel selective drugs of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). However, the traditional drug discovery technique of combinatorial chemistry coupled to high-throughput screening has become less attractive because of its immense financial impact. To address this problem, we implemented a computer-aided drug design approach, using the M
2
muscarinic acetylcholine receptor (mAChR) as a GPCR model, and performed computational enhanced sampling simulations to account for the receptor flexibility. Through iterative molecular docking and experimental testing, half of the 38 computationally selected National Cancer Institute compounds were validated as allosteric modulators of the M
2
mAChR. Our method successfully identified positive and negative allosteric modulators of M
2
mAChR with unprecedented chemical diversity.
Structure of Bor1 supports an elevator transport mechanism for SLC4 anion exchangers
Authors: Thurtle-Schmidt Bryan H. , Stroud Robert M.
Published: September 2016

Significance

The solute carrier (SLC) 4 transporters are membrane proteins that control bicarbonate transport in human red blood cells and regulate borate transport in plants and yeast. Previously, one member of the SLC4 family, human Band 3, had its crystal structure determined, which showed it in an outward-open state. We report here what is, to our knowledge, the second crystal structure of an SLC4 protein, the plant borate transporter Bor1. Critically, the structure is in an occluded state open to neither side of the membrane. Because it is in a new state, we are able to compare our model with other related structures and deduce structural transitions that provide alternating access to both sides of the membrane for Bor1 and related transporters.
Comparison in gas media (absolute and gauge mode)in the range from 25 kPa TO 200 kPa (EURAMET.M.P-K8)
Authors: Wuethrich C , Alisic S , Altintas A , Andel I van , Eltawil A A , Farár P , Hetherington P , Koçaş I , Lefkopoulos A , Otal P , Prazak D , Sabuga W , Salustiano R , Sandu I , Sardi M , Saxholm S , Setina J , Spohr I , Steindl D , Testa N , Vámossy C , Bermanec L Grgec
Published: September 2016

It was decided at the EURAMET TC-M meeting in Torino in 2006 to realize a comparison in gauge and absolute pressure up to 200 kPa as it would allow a link to the CCM.P-K6 and CCM.P-K2 comparisons to be established. This project interested a lot of laboratories from the beginning with 23 participants, 22 of which have submitted results. The circulation of the transfer standard began in July 2009 and lasted until January 2012. No major problems occurred during the transport.

The measurand of the comparison is the effective area of a piston-cylinder determined in gauge and absolute pressure from 25 kPa to 200 kPa with pressure steps of 25 kPa. The transfer standard is a gas lubricated tungsten carbide piston-cylinder with an effective area of ~9.8 cm2, fabricated by DH Instruments and compatible with a PG-7601 pressure balance. Some participants used their own pressure balance while a pressure balance with a reference vacuum sensor has been circulated for the participants not equipped with this system.

One participant (SMU, Slovakia) has never provided the measurement results and another participant (FORCE Technology, Denmark) submitted a revised set of measurement results after the pilot laboratory mentioned that the equivalence was not met.

After the determination of the reference value, all the 22 participants who delivered the results in gauge pressure demonstrated equivalence respective to the reference value on most of the range. In absolute pressure the equivalence is demonstrated, for all nominal pressures, by all 17 participants who submitted results.

The comparison is linked to the CCM.P-K6 for gauge pressure and to CCM.P-K2 for absolute pressure. The link does not strongly affect the equivalence of the results and an excellent degree of equivalence is achieved in gauge and absolute pressure.

Main text

To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database kcdb.bipm.org/.

The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCM, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).
International comparison CCQM-K101: oxygen in nitrogen—a track B comparison and that the matrix contains argon
Authors: Zhou Z , Han Q , Wang D , Macé T , Kipphardt H , Maiwald M , Tuma D , Uehara S , Akima D , Shimosaka T , Jung J , Oh S -H , Veen A van der , Wijk J I T van , Ziel P R , Konopelko L , Valkova M , Mogale David M , Botha A , Brewer P , Murugan A , Minnaro M Doval , Miller M , Guenther F , Kelly M E
Published: September 2016

This key comparison aims to assess the capabilities of the participants to determine the amount-of-substance fraction oxygen in nitrogen. The GAWG has classified this as a track B comparison, due to the unexpected 50 μmol/mol argon mole fraction content of the transfer standards, which effects the achievable performance of some measurement techniques such a GC-TCD. The separation of oxygen and argon is challenging, and not all systems in use are equally well designed for it. As this analytical challenge due to a substantial fraction of argon in the transfer standards became a reality, the Gas Analysis Working Group (GAWG) decided to qualify this key comparison as a regular key comparison and not as a core comparison, which may be used to support calibration and measurement capabilities (CMCs) for oxygen in nitrogen, or for oxygen in nitrogen mixtures containing argon only (see also the section on support to CMCs).

Main text

To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database kcdb.bipm.org/.

The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCQM, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).
Report on BIPM/CIPM key comparison CCAUV.U-K4: absolute calibration of medical hydrophones in the frequency range 0.5 MHz to 20 MHz
Authors: Rajagopal S , Fury C R , Zeqiri B , Brandt M , Wilkens V , Koch C , Matsuda Y , Yoshioka M , Ping Y , Yan Z , Wenping B , Costa-Felix R P B , Oliveira E G
Published: September 2016

The key compariosn CCAUV.U-K4 involved measurement of end-of-cable loaded sensitivity in units of volts/pascal of two travelling standards, 1 mm element diamater medical hydrophones at medical ultrasound frequencies. This is a repetition of key comparison CCAUV.U-K2 but the scope has been extended upwards to 20 MHz and downwards to 0.5 MHz. The reduction in the lower frequency provided an overlap with the underwater acoustics key comparison CCAUV.W-K1 which covers the range 1 kHz to 0.5 MHz. The results are analysed and presented in terms of degrees of equivalence, suitable for entry in the BIPM key comparison database.

Main text

To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database kcdb.bipm.org/.

The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCAUV, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).
Hydrogen Sulfide Improves Myocardial Remodeling via Downregulated Angiotensin Ⅱ/AT1R Pathway in Renovascular Hypertensive Rats
Authors: Liu Shang-Yu , Duan Xiao-Cui , Jin Sheng , Teng Xu , Xiao Lin , Xue Hong-Mei , Wu Yu-Ming
Published: September 2016

BACKGROUND

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is an important endogenous gaseous transmitter in many physiological functions. Plasma H2S decreased, and angiotensin II (Ang II) type 1 receptor (AT1R) increased in the myocardial tissues in 2-kidney 1-clip (2K1C) rats than in normotensive rats. Accumulating evidences suggest that H2S inhibited Ang II/AT1R pathway to regulate cardiovascular function. Therefore, we hypothesized that H2S may exert beneficial effects on myocardial remodeling in 2K1C rat models of renovascular hypertension.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Sodium hydrosulfide (NaHS, 56 µmol/kg/day) was administered intraperitoneally to the rats from the 7th day after 2K1C operation. Systolic blood pressure was significantly increased from the first week after the operation and was lowered after NaHS treatment for 4 weeks. H2S could also inhibit the ratio of left ventricle and septum weight to body weight, improve cross-sectional area, and ameliorate ventricular dysfunction. Additionally, the protein expression of AT1R and Ang II serum content were downregulated, whereas superoxide dismutase (SOD) protein was upregulated in 2K1C rats by NaHS treatment for 4 weeks. Furthermore, the reactive oxygen species level and AT1R protein were increased, whereas SOD protein was decreased in cardiomyocytes treated with Ang II compared with the control group. NaHS could reverse these changes. Losartan and N-acetylcysteine could also reverse Ang II-induced changes.

CONCLUSIONS

The protective effect of H2S is attributable to the suppression of oxidative stress. This process involves the inhibition of the Ang II/AT1R pathway and upregulation of antioxidant enzymes in 2K1C rats.
The Unintended Consequences of Organizational Citizenship Behaviors for Employees, Teams, and Organizations
Authors: Bolino Mark C. , Klotz Anthony C. , Turnley William H.
Published: September 2016

Researchers have identified a number of reasons why organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) should contribute to the effective functioning of workgroups and organizations, and many studies have found that OCB is indeed positively related to both workgroup-level and organizational-level indicators of effectiveness. Nevertheless, there is mounting evidence that OCBs can sometimes have negative consequences for employees, teams, and organizations. In this chapter, we review research that has focused on these unintended consequences and explain how these negative effects could potentially undermine the positive outcomes that are typically associated with OCB. We conclude our chapter by identifying directions for future research and discussing methodological considerations for investigations of OCB’s unintended consequences. Some practical implications about managing citizenship in the workplace are addressed as well.
Within-Person Approaches to the Study of Organizational Citizenship Behaviors: Antecedents, Consequences, and Boundary Conditions
Authors: Scott Brent A. , Matta Fadel K. , Koopman Joel
Published: September 2016

This chapter provides a review of the nascent (but growing) literature on organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) at the within-person level of analysis. We organize our review of the existing literature chronologically, discussing antecedents and consequences of within-person fluctuations in OCB. After providing a narrative review of the literature, we provide a quantitative summary of the literature via meta-analysis, summarizing the within-person relationships between OCB and its most common within-person correlates (i.e., positive affect, negative affect, job satisfaction, stressors, strain, and task performance). Looking to the future of OCB at the within-person level of analysis, we suggest that researchers can contribute to the domain by tailoring the measurement of OCB to the within-person level of analysis, better illuminating the causal direction between OCB and affect, clarifying the relationship between OCB and counterproductive work behavior at the within-person level, expanding the “dark side” of within-person OCB, exploring between-person differences in within-person OCB variability, and incorporating new theories.
Comparative Climate Change Policy Networks
Authors: Broadbent Jeffrey
Published: September 2016

This chapter explains the method of policy network (PN) analysis and its benefits (and limits) for cross-national comparative analysis. The purpose of the PN approach is to understand how the structure of relationships among organizations engaged in a policy domain affects the content of policy and outcomes. The chapter illustrates the use of the PN method with reference to the ongoing cross-national project Comparing Climate Change Policy Networks (Compon). Global climate change constitutes an (un)naturally occurring quasi-experiment; in the face of a common threat, the various societies have exhibited divergent responses to reducing the cause, carbon emissions. This research project and network method can provide knowledge helpful to global negotiations as well as open up new vistas on thorny theoretical questions about the behavior and outputs of political systems.
The Inheritance of Melodrama
Authors: Watt Stephen
Published: September 2016

Although many in the Irish national theatre movement rejected melodrama—‘we will show that Ireland is not the home of buffoonery and easy sentiment’, as Yeats put it—the form continued to be both popular and influential into the twentieth century. This chapter deals with the hugely successful genre of Irish plays associated with figures such as Dion Boucicault, Hubert O’Grady, and J. W. Whitbread, and the impact of the form on later playwrights including O’Casey. It will show that by staging what might be called ‘dramas of exteriority’, melodrama provided a form of theatre capable of social critique, and its persistence well into the twentieth century was something more than the survival of a residual theatrical form. Indeed, it could be argued that Irish melodrama as a theatrical form can be understood as a response to the shocks of modernity.
Missing Links
Authors: Kent Brad
Published: September 2016

Shaw, often marginalized within Irish theatre history as the author ofJohn Bull’s Other Island, his one play set in Ireland which was rejected by the Abbey, is a much more persistent and influential presence than has generally been acknowledged.John Bullitself, a pungent commentary on the politics of its times, was in fact often performed in Ireland, including at the Abbey, and it was followed by the one-actO’Flaherty VCand ‘The Tragedy of an Elderly Gentleman’, one of the parts ofBack to Methuselah, both of them with an Irish setting. Shaw’s form of discussion play of ideas had a notable impact on later Irish writers, particularly Seán O’Casey, but also Denis Johnston and Teresa Deevy, giving him a key role in the development of modern Irish theatre.