bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Pair distribution function analysis of sulfide glassy electrolytes for all-solid-state batteries: Understanding the improvement of ionic conductivity under annealing condition
Authors: Shiotani Shinya , Ohara Koji , Tsukasaki Hirofumi , Mori Shigeo , Kanno Ryoji 
Published: July 2017

AbstractIn general, the ionic conductivity of sulfide glasses decreases with their crystallization, although it increases for a few sulphide glasses owing to the crystallization of a highly conductive new phase (e.g., Li7P3S11: 70Li2S-30P2S5). We found that the ionic conductivity of 75Li2S-25P2S5 sulfide glass, which consists of glassy and crystalline phases, is improved by optimizing the conditions of the heat treatment, i.e., annealing. A different mechanism of high ionic conductivity from the conventional mechanism is expected in the glassy phase. Here, we report the glassy structure of 75Li2S-25P2S5 immediately before the crystallization by using the differential pair distribution function (d-PDF) analysis of high-energy X-ray diffraction. Even though the ionic conductivity increases during the optimum annealing, the d-PDF analysis indicated that the glassy structure undergoes no structural change in the sulfide glass-ceramic electrolyte at a crystallinity of 33.1%. We observed the formation of a nanocrystalline phase in the X-ray and electron diffraction patterns before the crystallization, which means that Bragg peaks were deformed. Thus, the ionic conductivity in the mixture of glassy and crystalline phases is improved by the coexistence of the nanocrystalline phase.
Bmal1 regulates inflammatory responses in macrophages by modulating enhancer RNA transcription
Authors: Oishi Yumiko , Hayashi Shinichiro , Isagawa Takayuki , Oshima Motohiko , Iwama Atsushi , Shimba Shigeki , Okamura Hitoshi , Manabe Ichiro 
Published: July 2017

AbstractBmal1 (encoded by Arntl gene) is a core circadian clock gene that regulates various genes involved in circadian rhythm. Although Bmal1 is expressed rhythmically in macrophages, the role of Bmal1 in the regulation of their cellular function remains insufficiently understood. Here, we report that Bmal1 regulates time-dependent inflammatory responses following Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) activation by modulating enhancer activity. Global transcriptome analysis indicated that deletion of Arntl perturbed the time-dependent inflammatory responses elicited by TLR4 activation by Kdo2-lipid A (KLA). Although the recruitment of NF-κB p65 was unaffected, the acetylation status of lysine 27 of histone 3, which correlates positively with enhancer activity, was globally increased at PU.1-containing enhancers in Arntl−/− macrophages as compared to wild-type cells. Expression of Nr1d1 and Nr1d2, encoding RevErb transcription factors, which repress enhancer RNA expression, was significantly decreased in Arntl−/− macrophages. Moreover, the level of H3K27 acetylation was increased by Arntl deletion at RevErb-dependent eRNA-expressing enhancers. These results suggest that Bmal1 controls KLA-responsive enhancers, in part by regulating RevErb-directed eRNA transcription. Taken together, the results of this study show that the clock transcription factor network containing Bmal1 controls the inflammatory responses of macrophages by regulating the epigenetic states of enhancers.
Carbon black as an alternative cathode material for electrical energy recovery and transfer in a microbial battery
Authors: Zhang Xueqin , Guo Kun , Shen Dongsheng , Feng Huajun , Wang Meizhen , Zhou Yuyang , Jia Yufeng , Liang Yuxiang , Zhou Mengjiao 
Published: July 2017

AbstractRather than the conventional concept of viewing conductive carbon black (CB) to be chemically inert in microbial electrochemical cells (MECs), here we confirmed the redox activity of CB for its feasibility as an electron sink in the microbial battery (MB). Acting as the cathode of a MB, the solid-state CB electrode showed the highest electron capacity equivalent of 18.58 ± 0.46 C/g for the unsintered one and the lowest capacity of 2.29 ± 0.48 C/g for the one sintered under 100% N2 atmosphere. The capacity vibrations of CBs were strongly in coincidence with the abundances of C=O moiety caused by different pretreatments and it implied one plausible mechanism based on CB’s surface functionality for its electron capturing. Once subjected to electron saturation, CB could be completely regenerated by different strategies in terms of electrochemical discharging or donating electrons to biologically-catalyzed nitrate reduction. Surface characterization also revealed that CB’s regeneration fully depended on the reversible shift of C=O moiety, further confirming the functionality-based mechanism for CB’s feasibility as the role of MB’s cathode. Moreover, resilience tests demonstrated that CB cathode was robust for the multi-cycles charging-discharging operations. These results imply that CB is a promising alternative material for the solid-state cathode in MBs.
Lagrangian dynamical geography of the Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Miron P. , Beron-Vera F. J. , Olascoaga M. J. , Sheinbaum J. , Pérez-Brunius P. , Froyland G. 
Published: July 2017

AbstractWe construct a Markov-chain representation of the surface-ocean Lagrangian dynamics in a region occupied by the Gulf of Mexico (GoM) and adjacent portions of the Caribbean Sea and North Atlantic using satellite-tracked drifter trajectory data, the largest collection so far considered. From the analysis of the eigenvectors of the transition matrix associated with the chain, we identify almost-invariant attracting sets and their basins of attraction. With this information we decompose the GoM’s geography into weakly dynamically interacting provinces, which constrain the connectivity between distant locations within the GoM. Offshore oil exploration, oil spill contingency planning, and fish larval connectivity assessment are among the many activities that can benefit from the dynamical information carried in the geography constructed here.
Hierarchy in the home cage affects behaviour and gene expression in group-housed C57BL/6 male mice
Authors: Horii Yasuyuki , Nagasawa Tatsuhiro , Sakakibara Hiroyuki , Takahashi Aki , Tanave Akira , Matsumoto Yuki , Nagayama Hiromichi , Yoshimi Kazuto , Yasuda Michiko T. , Shimoi Kayoko , Koide Tsuyoshi 
Published: July 2017

AbstractGroup-housed male mice exhibit aggressive behaviour towards their cage mates and form a social hierarchy. Here, we describe how social hierarchy in standard group-housed conditions affects behaviour and gene expression in male mice. Four male C57BL/6 mice were kept in each cage used in the study, and the social hierarchy was determined from observation of video recordings of aggressive behaviour. After formation of a social hierarchy, the behaviour and hippocampal gene expression were analysed in the mice. Higher anxiety- and depression-like behaviours and elevated gene expression of hypothalamic corticotropin-releasing hormone and hippocampal serotonin receptor subtypes were observed in subordinate mice compared with those of dominant mice. These differences were alleviated by orally administering fluoxetine, which is an antidepressant of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor class. We concluded that hierarchy in the home cage affects behaviour and gene expression in male mice, resulting in anxiety- and depression-like behaviours being regulated differently in dominant and subordinate mice.
In silico analyses of conservational, functional and phylogenetic distribution of the LuxI and LuxR homologs in Gram-positive bacteria
Authors: Rajput Akanksha , Kumar Manoj 
Published: July 2017

AbstractLuxI and LuxR are key factors that drive quorum sensing (QS) in bacteria through secretion and perception of the signaling molecules e.g. N-Acyl homoserine lactones (AHLs). The role of these proteins is well established in Gram-negative bacteria for intercellular communication but remain under-explored in Gram-positive bacteria where QS peptides are majorly responsible for cell-to-cell communication. Therefore, in the present study, we explored conservation, potential function, topological arrangements and evolutionarily aspects of these proteins in Gram-positive bacteria. Putative LuxI/LuxR containing proteins were retrieved using the domain-based strategy from InterPro v62.0 meta-database. Conservational analyses via multiple sequence alignment and domain showed that these are well conserved in Gram-positive bacteria and possess relatedness with Gram-negative bacteria. Further, Gene ontology and ligand-based functional annotation explain their active involvement in signal transduction mechanism via QS signaling molecules. Moreover, Phylogenetic analyses (LuxI, LuxR, LuxI + LuxR and 16s rRNA) revealed horizontal gene transfer events with significant statistical support among Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. This in-silico study offers a detailed overview of potential LuxI/LuxR distribution in Gram-positive bacteria (mainly Firmicutes and Actinobacteria) and their functional role in QS. It would further help in understanding the extent of interspecies communications between Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria through QS signaling molecules.
Antimicrobial spray nanocoating of supramolecular Fe(III)-tannic acid metal-organic coordination complex: applications to shoe insoles and fruits
Authors: Park Ji Hun , Choi Sohee , Moon Hee Chul , Seo Hyelin , Kim Ji Yup , Hong Seok-Pyo , Lee Bong Soo , Kang Eunhye , Lee Jinho , Ryu Dong Hun , Choi Insung S. 
Published: July 2017

AbstractNumerous coating strategies are available to control the surface properties and confer new properties to substrates for applications in energy, environment, biosystems, etc., but most have the intrinsic limitations in the practical setting: (1) highly specific interactions between coating materials and target surfaces are required for stable and durable coating; (2) the coating of bulk substrates, such as fruits, is time-consuming or is not achievable in the conventional solution-based coating. In this respect, material-independent and rapid coating strategies are highly demanded. We demonstrate spray-assisted nanocoating of supramolecular metal-organic complexes of tannic acid and ferric ions. The spray coating developed is material-independent and extremely rapid (<5 sec), allowing for coating of commodity goods, such as shoe insoles and fruits, in the controlled fashion. For example, the spray-coated mandarin oranges and strawberries show significantly prolonged post-harvest shelf-life, suggesting practical potential in edible coating of perishable produce.
Bacteriophages as potential new mammalian pathogens
Authors: Tetz George V. , Ruggles Kelly V. , Zhou Hua , Heguy Adriana , Tsirigos Aristotelis , Tetz Victor 
Published: July 2017

AbstractIncreased intestinal permeability and translocation of gut bacteria trigger various polyaetiological diseases associated with chronic inflammation and underlie a variety of poorly treatable pathologies. Previous studies have established a primary role of the microbiota composition and intestinal permeability in such pathologies. Using a rat model, we examined the effects of exposure to a bacteriophage cocktail on intestinal permeability and relative abundance of taxonomic units in the gut bacterial community. There was an increase in markers of impaired gut permeability, such as the lactulose/mannitol ratio, plasma endotoxin concentrations, and serum levels of inflammation-related cytokines, following the bacteriophage challenge. We observed significant differences in the alpha diversity of faecal bacterial species and found that richness and diversity index values increased following the bacteriophage challenge. There was a reduction in the abundance of Blautia, Catenibacterium, Lactobacillus, and Faecalibacterium species and an increase in Butyrivibrio, Oscillospira and Ruminococcus after bacteriophage administration. These findings provide novel insights into the role of bacteriophages as potentially pathogenic for mammals and their possible implication in the development of diseases associated with increased intestinal permeability.
Order-disorder transition in active nematic: A lattice model study
Authors: Das Rakesh , Kumar Manoranjan , Mishra Shradha 
Published: July 2017

AbstractWe introduce a lattice model for active nematic composed of self-propelled apolar particles, study its different ordering states in the density-temperature parameter space, and compare with the corresponding equilibrium model. The active particles interact with their neighbours within the framework of the Lebwohl-Lasher model, and move anisotropically along their orientation to an unoccupied nearest neighbour lattice site. An interplay of the activity, thermal fluctuations and density gives rise distinct states in the system. For a fixed temperature, the active nematic shows a disordered isotropic state, a locally ordered inhomogeneous mixed state, and bistability between the inhomogeneous mixed and a homogeneous globally ordered state in different density regime. In the low temperature regime, the isotropic to the inhomogeneous mixed state transition occurs with a jump in the order parameter at a density less than the corresponding equilibrium disorder-order transition density. Our analytical calculations justify the shift in the transition density and the jump in the order parameter. We construct the phase diagram of the active nematic in the density-temperature plane.
Pdx1-Cre-driven conditional gene depletion suggests PAK4 as dispensable for mouse pancreas development
Authors: Zhao Miao , Rabieifar Parisa , Costa Tânia D. F. , Zhuang Ting , Minden Audrey , Löhr Matthias , Heuchel Rainer , Strömblad Staffan 
Published: July 2017

AbstractConstitutive depletion of p21-activated kinase 4 (PAK4) in the mouse causes embryonic lethality associated with heart and brain defects. Given that conventional gene depletion of PAK1 or PAK3 caused functional deficits in the mouse pancreas, while gene depletion of PAK5 or PAK6 did not, we asked if PAK4 might have a functional role in pancreas development. We therefore introduced conditional, Pdx1-Cre-mediated, pancreatic PAK4 gene depletion in the mouse, verified by loss of PAK4 protein expression in the pancreas. PAK4 knock-out (KO) mice were born at Mendelian ratios in both genders. Further, morphological and immunohistochemical examinations and quantifications indicated that exocrine, endocrine and ductal compartments retained the normal proportions and distributions upon PAK4 gene depletion. In addition, body weight records and a glucose tolerance test revealed no differences between WT and PAK4 KO mice. Together, this suggests that PAK4 is dispensable for mouse pancreas development. This will facilitate future use of our Pdx1-Cre-driven conditional PAK4 KO mouse model for testing in vivo potential functions of PAK4 in pancreatic disease models such as for pancreatitis and different pancreatic cancer forms.
Lipid levels and new-onset diabetes in a hypertensive population: the China Stroke Primary Prevention Trial
Authors: Li Leliang , Li Ping , Yang Juan , Huang Xiao , Bao Huihui , Zhang Chunyan , Song Yun , Zhao Min , Ji Meng , Wang Yi , Qian Geng , Tang Genfu , Jiang Shanqun , Dong Qiang , Zhang Yan , Li Jianping , Xu Xiping , Wang Binyan , Huo Yong , Cheng Xiaoshu 
Published: July 2017

AbstractThis study aimed to provide insights into the relationship between lipid levels and new-onset diabetes (NOD) in 14,864 Chinese hypertensive patients without diabetes (6056 men and 8808 women) aged 45–75 years from the China Stroke Primary Prevention Trial (CSPPT, led by Nanfang Hospital, Guangzhou, China). NOD (defined as fasting plasma glucose (FPG) ≥ 7.0 mmol/L at the end of study or self-reported physician diagnosis of diabetes or self-reported use of hypoglycemic agents during follow-up) was analyzed using multivariate analysis. Follow-up was censored on August 24, 2014. Among the 14,864 subjects, 1615 developed NOD (10.9%, men = 10.8% and women = 10.9%). Increased triglycerides (TG) [odds ratio (OR) = 1.18; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.13–1.25, P < 0.001], TG/HDL (OR = 1.12; 95%CI: 1.08–1.17, P < 0.001), and decreased high density lipoprotein (HDL) (OR = 0.79; 95%CI: 0.67–0.93, P = 0.005) were associated with NOD, independently from age, gender, body mass index, clinical center, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, FPG, smoking, and drinking. Compared to subjects with the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) 677 CC and TT genotypes, those with the CT genotype had a higher risk of NOD (OR = 1.54; 95%CI: 1.30–1.81, P for interaction = 0.044) in subjects with high TG. These results suggested that TG and TG/HDL were independent risk factors for NOD in this Chinese hypertensive population. HDL was a protective factor for NOD.
The differentiation of ROR-γt expressing iNKT17 cells is orchestrated by Runx1
Authors: Thapa Puspa , Manso Bryce , Chung Ji Young , Romera Arocha Sinibaldo , Xue Hai-Hui , Angelo Derek B. Sant’ , Shapiro Virginia Smith 
Published: July 2017

AbstractiNKT cells are a unique lineage of T cells that recognize glycolipid presented by CD1d. In the thymus, they differentiate into iNKT1, iNKT2 and iNKT17 effector subsets, characterized by preferential expression of Tbet, Gata3 and ROR-γt and production of IFN-γ, IL-4 and IL-17, respectively. We demonstrate that the transcriptional regulator Runx1 is essential for the generation of ROR-γt expressing iNKT17 cells. PLZF-cre Runx1 cKO mice lack iNKT17 cells in the thymus, spleen and liver. Runx1-deficient iNKT cells have altered expression of several genes important for iNKT17 differentiation, including decreased expression of IL-7Rα, BATF and c-Maf and increased expression of Bcl11b and Lef1. However, reduction of Lef1 expression or introduction of an IL-7Rα transgene is not sufficient to correct the defect in iNKT17 differentiation, demonstrating that Runx1 is a key regulator of several genes required for iNKT17 differentiation. Loss of Runx1 leads to a severe decrease in iNKT cell numbers in the thymus, spleen and liver. The decrease in cell number is due to a combined decrease in proliferation at Stage 1 during thymic development and increased apoptosis. Thus, we describe a novel role of Runx1 in iNKT cell development and differentiation, particularly in orchestrating iNKT17 differentiation.
CD14 is critical for TLR2-mediated M1 macrophage activation triggered by N-glycan recognition
Authors: da Silva Thiago Aparecido , Zorzetto-Fernandes André L. V. , Cecílio Nerry T. , Sardinha-Silva Aline , Fernandes Fabrício Freitas , Roque-Barreira Maria Cristina 
Published: July 2017

AbstractAgonist interaction with Toll-like receptors (TLRs) induces T cell-mediated immunity, which is effective against intracellular pathogens. Consequently, TLR agonists are being tried as immunomodulatory agents. The lectin ArtinM targets TLR2 N-glycans on macrophages, induces cytokines production, and promotes T helper-1 immunity, a process that culminates in resistance to several parasitic and fungal infectionsin vivo. Because co-receptors influence agonist binding to TLRs, we investigated whether CD14 is required for macrophage activation induced by ArtinM. Macrophages from wild-type mice stimulated by ArtinM not only produced cytokines but also had the following activation profile: (i) expression of M1 polarization markers; (ii) nitrite oxide production; (iii) cellular migration; (iv) enhanced phagocytic and fungicide activity; (v) modulation of TLR2 expression; and (vi) activation of NF-κB pathway. This activation profile induced by ArtinM was evaluated in macrophages lacking CD14 that showed none of the ArtinM effects. We demonstrated by immunoprecipitation and sugar inhibition assays the physical interaction of ArtinM, TLR2, and CD14, which depends on recognition of the trimannoside that constitutes the core of N-glycans. Thus, our study showed that CD14 is critical for ArtinM-induced macrophage activation, providing fundamental insight into the design of anti-infective therapies based on carbohydrate recognition.
Unprecedented heat wave in December 2015 and potential for winter glacier ablation in the eastern Alps
Authors: Colucci Renato R. , Giorgi Filippo , Torma Csaba 
Published: July 2017

AbstractWe document the occurrence in December 2015 of unprecedented high monthly mean temperatures in the observational record of mountain sites in the eastern Alps. For the first time in the last 150 years mean December temperature exceeded 0 °C at elevations between 2100 and 2500 m, with December mean anomalies exceeding 6.5 °C with respect to the 1971–2000 mean. Along with the absence of snow cover, such temperatures might have lead to unprecedented winter ablation of glaciers in this elevation range. Smaller temperature anomalies occurred in surrounding low elevation sites, highlighting the key role of topography in this event. Specifically, strong inversions associated with the very stable synoptic conditions during the month amplified the anomalies at the high elevations of the mountain glacier sites. We analyze the processes underlying this exceptional event and place this anomaly within the context of future warming scenarios over the region.
Subthalamic nucleus stimulation and levodopa modulate cardiovascular autonomic function in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Li Kai , Haase Rocco , Rüdiger Heinz , Reimann Manja , Reichmann Heinz , Wolz Martin , Ziemssen Tjalf 
Published: July 2017

AbstractWe aimed to explore the effects of bilateral subthalamic nucleus stimulation and levodopa on cardiovascular autonomic function in Parkinson’s disease. Twenty-six Parkinson’s disease patients with bilateral subthalamic nucleus stimulation in a stable state were tested under stimulation off and dopaminergic medication off (OFF-OFF), stimulation on and dopaminergic medication off (ON-OFF), and stimulation on and medication (levodopa) on (ON-ON) conditions by recording continuously blood pressure, ECG, and respiration at rest, during metronomic deep breathing, and head-up tilt test. Thirteen patients were diagnosed as orthostatic hypotension by head-up tilt test. Baroreflex sensitivity and spectral analyses were performed by trigonometric regressive spectral analysis. Subthalamic nucleus stimulation and levodopa had multiple influences. (1) Systolic blood pressure during tilt-up was reduced by subthalamic nucleus stimulation, and then further by levodopa. (2) Subthalamic nucleus stimulation and levodopa had different effects on sympathetic and parasympathetic regulations in Parkinson’s disease. (3) Levodopa decreased baroreflex sensitivity and RR interval only in the orthostatic hypotension group, and had opposite effects on the non-orthostatic hypotension group. These findings indicate that subthalamic nucleus stimulation and levodopa have different effects on cardiovascular autonomic function in Parkinson’s disease, which are modulated by the presence of orthostatic hypotension as well.