bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inhibiting the system xC−/glutathione axis selectively targets cancers with mutant-p53 accumulation
Authors: Liu David S. , Duong Cuong P. , Haupt Sue , Montgomery Karen G. , House Colin M. , Azar Walid J. , Pearson Helen B. , Fisher Oliver M. , Read Matthew , Guerra Glen R. , Haupt Ygal , Cullinane Carleen , Wiman Klas G. , Abrahmsen Lars , Phillips Wayne A. , Clemons Nicholas J.
Published: March 2017

TP53, a critical tumour suppressor gene, is mutated in over half of all cancers resulting in mutant-p53 protein accumulation and poor patient survival. Therapeutic strategies to target mutant-p53 cancers are urgently needed. We show that accumulated mutant-p53 protein suppresses the expression of SLC7A11, a component of the cystine/glutamate antiporter, system xC−, through binding to the master antioxidant transcription factor NRF2. This diminishes glutathione synthesis, rendering mutant-p53 tumours susceptible to oxidative damage. System xC− inhibitors specifically exploit this vulnerability to preferentially kill cancer cells with stabilized mutant-p53 protein. Moreover, we demonstrate that SLC7A11 expression is a novel and robust predictive biomarker for APR-246, a first-in-class mutant-p53 reactivator that also binds and depletes glutathione in tumours, triggering lipid peroxidative cell death. Importantly, system xC− antagonism strongly synergizes with APR-246 to induce apoptosis in mutant-p53 tumours. We propose a new paradigm for targeting cancers that accumulate mutant-p53 protein by inhibiting the SLC7A11–glutathione axis.
Plasmonic hot electron transport drives nano-localized chemistry
Authors: Cortés Emiliano , Xie Wei , Cambiasso Javier , Jermyn Adam S. , Sundararaman Ravishankar , Narang Prineha , Schlücker Sebastian , Maier Stefan A.
Published: March 2017

Nanoscale localization of electromagnetic fields near metallic nanostructures underpins the fundamentals and applications of plasmonics. The unavoidable energy loss from plasmon decay, initially seen as a detriment, has now expanded the scope of plasmonic applications to exploit the generated hot carriers. However, quantitative understanding of the spatial localization of these hot carriers, akin to electromagnetic near-field maps, has been elusive. Here we spatially map hot-electron-driven reduction chemistry with 15 nm resolution as a function of time and electromagnetic field polarization for different plasmonic nanostructures. We combine experiments employing a six-electron photo-recycling process that modify the terminal group of a self-assembled monolayer on plasmonic silver nanoantennas, with theoretical predictions from first-principles calculations of non-equilibrium hot-carrier transport in these systems. The resulting localization of reactive regions, determined by hot-carrier transport from high-field regions, paves the way for improving efficiency in hot-carrier extraction science and nanoscale regio-selective surface chemistry.
A Pseudomonas T6SS effector recruits PQS-containing outer membrane vesicles for iron acquisition
Authors: Lin Jinshui , Zhang Weipeng , Cheng Juanli , Yang Xu , Zhu Kaixiang , Wang Yao , Wei Gehong , Qian Pei-Yuan , Luo Zhao-Qing , Shen Xihui
Published: March 2017

Iron sequestration by host proteins contributes to the defence against bacterial pathogens, which need iron for their metabolism and virulence. A Pseudomonas aeruginosa mutant lacking all three known iron acquisition systems retains the ability to grow in media containing iron chelators, suggesting the presence of additional pathways involved in iron uptake. Here we screen P. aeruginosa mutants defective in growth in iron-depleted media and find that gene PA2374, proximal to the type VI secretion system H3 (H3-T6SS), functions synergistically with known iron acquisition systems. PA2374 (which we have renamed TseF) appears to be secreted by H3-T6SS and is incorporated into outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) by directly interacting with the iron-binding Pseudomonas quinolone signal (PQS), a cell–cell signalling compound. TseF facilitates the delivery of OMV-associated iron to bacterial cells by engaging the Fe(III)-pyochelin receptor FptA and the porin OprF. Our results reveal links between type VI secretion, cell–cell signalling and classic siderophore receptors for iron acquisition in P. aeruginosa.
Chromatin marks shape mutation landscape at early stage of cancer progression
Authors: Ha Kyungsik , Kim Hong-Gee , Lee Hwajin
Published: March 2017

Somatic mutation rates in cancer differ across the genome in a cancer cell-type specific manner. Although key factors that contribute to the differences were identified, the major cancer progression stage when these factors associate with the mutation variance remained poorly investigated. Here, we analyzed whole-genome sequencing data of pre-cancerous and matching cancer tissues from 173 individuals and 423 normal tissue chromatin features to determine the critical stage of these features contributing to shaping the somatic mutation landscape. Our data showed that the establishment of somatic mutation landscape inferred by chromatin features occur early in the process of cancer progression, and gastric acid reflux environmental exposure-mediated epigenetic changes, represented as gastric metaplasia, at early stage can dramatically impact the somatic mutation landscape. We suggest a possible crucial role of chromatin features during the mutation landscape establishment at early stage of progression in a cancer-type specific manner.
Atmospheric Pressure Pulsed Plasma Induces Cell Death in Photosynthetic Organs via Intracellularly Generated ROS
Authors: Seol You-bin , Kim Jaewook , Park Se-hong , Young Chang Hong
Published: March 2017

The toxicity of atmospheric-pressure pulsed plasma on plant leaf tissues is studied. A nanosecond-pulsed plasma jet is applied to Arabidopsis thaliana leaves. In case of cotyledon, cell death is induced by treatment of only a few seconds. Cell death is also induced in the adult leaf by only 5 seconds of plasma treatment. Plasma induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation across the tissues within plasma-treated area. Plasma also induced direct physical damage to epidermis tissue of treated area but merely no damage to mesophyll. Thus, we propose direct physical damage in epidermis and ROS accumulation across the treated area induced cell death by plasma treatment. Plasma treatment with same duration in different organ also induced ROS accumulation but not plant death, suggests damage on photosynthetic organ by oxidative stress might be direct reason to induce cell death. We could also observe similar plasma induced death inSolanum esculentum,Petunia axillaris, andNicotiana benthamianabut death is induced only in treated area. Thus, we propose atmospheric plasma induce oxidative stress in photosynthetic organ to induce cell death in plants.
Polyfunctional natural killer cells with a low activation profile in response to Toll-like receptor 3 activation in HIV-1-exposed seronegative subjects
Authors: Lima Josenilson F. , Oliveira Luanda M. S. , Pereira Nátalli Z. , Duarte Alberto J. S. , Sato Maria N.
Published: March 2017

Natural killer (NK) cells are the main mediator of the cytotoxic response in innate immunity and may be involved in resistance to HIV-1 infection in exposed seronegative (ESN) individuals. Toll-like receptor (TLR) signalling is crucial for NK cell activation. Here, we investigated the polyfunctional NK cell response to TLR3 activation in serodiscordant couples. ESN subjects showed increased IFN-γ and CD107a expression in both NK subsets, CD56bright and CD56dim cells, in response to stimulation with a TLR3 agonist, while expression was impaired in the HIV-1-infected partners. TLR3-induced expression of IFN-γ, TNF and CD107a by polyfunctional CD56bright NK cells was more pronounced in ESN individuals than that in healthy controls. Activated NK cells, as determined by CD38 expression, were increased only in the HIV-1-infected partners, with reduced IFN-γ and CD107a expression. Moreover, CD38+ NK cells of the HIV-1-infected partners were associated with increased expression of inhibitory molecules, such as NKG2A, PD-1 and Tim-3, while NK cells from ESN subjects showed decreased NKG2A expression. Altogether, these findings indicate that NK cells of ESN individuals were highly responsive to TLR3 activation and had a polyfunctional NK cell phenotype, while the impaired TLR3 response in HIV-1-infected partners was associated with an inhibitory/exhaustion NK cell phenotype.
The role of three-dimensional printed models of skull in anatomy education: a randomized controlled trail
Authors: Chen Shi , Pan Zhouxian , Wu Yanyan , Gu Zhaoqi , Li Man , Liang Ze , Zhu Huijuan , Yao Yong , Shui Wuyang , Shen Zhen , Zhao Jun , Pan Hui
Published: March 2017

Three-dimensional (3D) printed models represent educational tools of high quality compared with traditional teaching aids. Colored skull models were produced by 3D printing technology. A randomized controlled trial (RCT) was conducted to compare the learning efficiency of 3D printed skulls with that of cadaveric skulls and atlas. Seventy-nine medical students, who never studied anatomy, were randomized into three groups by drawing lots, using 3D printed skulls, cadaveric skulls, and atlas, respectively, to study the anatomical structures in skull through an introductory lecture and small group discussions. All students completed identical tests, which composed of a theory test and a lab test, before and after a lecture. Pre-test scores showed no differences between the three groups. In post-test, the 3D group was better than the other two groups in total score (cadaver: 29.5 [IQR: 25–33], 3D: 31.5 [IQR: 29–36], atlas: 27.75 [IQR: 24.125–32]; p = 0.044) and scores of lab test (cadaver: 14 [IQR: 10.5–18], 3D: 16.5 [IQR: 14.375–21.625], atlas: 14.5 [IQR: 10–18.125]; p = 0.049). Scores involving theory test, however, showed no difference between the three groups. In this RCT, an inexpensive, precise and rapidly-produced skull model had advantages in assisting anatomy study, especially in structure recognition, compared with traditional education materials.
X-ray induced electrostatic graphene doping via defect charging in gate dielectric
Authors: Procházka Pavel , Mareček David , Lišková Zuzana , Čechal Jan , Šikola Tomáš
Published: March 2017

Graphene field effect transistors are becoming an integral part of advanced devices. Hence, the advanced strategies for both characterization and tuning of graphene properties are required. Here we show that the X-ray irradiation at the zero applied gate voltage causes very strong negative doping of graphene, which is explained by X-ray radiation induced charging of defects in the gate dielectric. The induced charge can be neutralized and compensated if the graphene device is irradiated by X-rays at a negative gate voltage. Here the charge neutrality point shifts back to zero voltage. The observed phenomenon has strong implications for interpretation of X-ray based measurements of graphene devices as it renders them to significantly altered state. Our results also form a basis for remote X-ray tuning of graphene transport properties and X-ray sensors comprising the graphene/oxide interface as an active layer.
The native state of prion protein (PrP) directly inhibits formation of PrP-amyloid fibrils in vitro
Authors: Honda Ryo P. , Kuwata Kazuo
Published: March 2017

The conversion of globular proteins into amyloid fibrils is associated with a wide variety of human diseases. One example is the prion protein (PrP), which adopts an α-helical structure in the native state but its amyloid form is implicated in the pathogenesis of prion diseases. Previous evidence has suggested that destabilization of the native state promotes amyloid formation, but the underlying mechanism remains unknown. In this study, we report that the native state of PrP serves as a potent inhibitor in the formation of PrP amyloid fibrils. By monitoring the time courses of thioflavin T fluorescence, the kinetics of amyloid formation was studiedin vitrounder various concentrations of pre-formed amyloid, monomer, and denaturant. Quantitative analysis of the kinetic data using various models of enzyme kinetics suggested that the native state of PrP is either an uncompetitive or noncompetitive inhibitor of amyloid formation. This study highlights the significant role of the native state in inhibiting amyloid formation, which provides new insights into the pathogenesis of misfolding diseases.
Correction: Corrigendum: Human behaviour can trigger large carnivore attacks in developed countries
Authors: Penteriani Vincenzo , Delgado María del Mar , Pinchera Francesco , Naves Javier , Fernández-Gil Alberto , Kojola Ilpo , Härkönen Sauli , Norberg Harri , Frank Jens , Fedriani José María , Sahlén Veronica , Støen Ole-Gunnar , Swenson Jon E. , Wabakken Petter , Pellegrini Mario , Herrero Stephen , López-Bao José Vicente
Published: March 2017

Scientific Reports 6: Article number: 20552; published online: 03 February 2016; updated: 28 March 2017 This corrigendum aims to correct errors detected in the outputs of the Extended Data Tables from our article Scientific Reports 6, 20552 (2016). A mistake occurred due to a failure in the conversion of the variable “species” from integer to a categorical (factor) variable.
SERS detection of the biomarker hydrogen cyanide from Pseudomonas aeruginosa cultures isolated from cystic fibrosis patients
Authors: Lauridsen Rikke Kragh , Sommer Lea M. , Johansen Helle Krogh , Rindzevicius Tomas , Molin Søren , Jelsbak Lars , Engelsen Søren Balling , Boisen Anja
Published: March 2017

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is the primary cause of chronic airway infections in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients. Persistent infections are seen from the first P. aeruginosa culture in about 75% of young CF patients, and it is important to discover new ways to detect P. aeruginosa at an earlier stage. The P. aeruginosa biomarker hydrogen cyanide (HCN) contains a triple bond, which is utilized in this study because of the resulting characteristic C≡N peak at 2135 cm−1 in a Raman spectrum. The Raman signal was enhanced by surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) on a Au-coated SERS substrate. After long-term infection, a mutation in the patho-adaptive lasR gene can alter the expression of HCN, which is why it is sometimes not possible to detect HCN in the breath of chronically infected patients. Four P. aeruginosa reference strains and 12 clinical P. aeruginosa strains isolated from CF children were evaluated, and HCN was clearly detected from overnight cultures of all wild type-like isolates and half of the later isolates from the same patients. The clinical impact could be that P. aeruginosa infections could be detected at an earlier stage, because daily breath sampling with an immediate output could be possible with a point-of-care SERS device.
Milk Fat Globule Membrane Supplementation in Formula Modulates the Neonatal Gut Microbiome and Normalizes Intestinal Development
Authors: Bhinder Ganive , Allaire Joannie M. , Garcia Cyrielle , Lau Jennifer T. , Chan Justin M. , Ryz Natasha R. , Bosman Else S. , Graef Franziska A. , Crowley Shauna M. , Celiberto Larissa S. , Berkmann Julia C. , Dyer Roger A. , Jacobson Kevan , Surette Michael G. , Innis Sheila M. , Vallance Bruce A.
Published: March 2017

Breast milk has many beneficial properties and unusual characteristics including a unique fat component, termed milk fat globule membrane (MFGM). While breast milk yields important developmental benefits, there are situations where it is unavailable resulting in a need for formula feeding. Most formulas do not contain MFGM, but derive their lipids from vegetable sources, which differ greatly in size and composition. Here we tested the effects of MFGM supplementation on intestinal development and the microbiome as well as its potential to protect against Clostridium difficile induced colitis. The pup-in-a-cup model was used to deliver either control or MFGM supplemented formula to rats from 5 to 15 days of age; with mother’s milk (MM) reared animals used as controls. While CTL formula yielded significant deficits in intestinal development as compared to MM littermates, addition of MFGM to formula restored intestinal growth, Paneth and goblet cell numbers, and tight junction protein patterns to that of MM pups. Moreover, the gut microbiota of MFGM and MM pups displayed greater similarities than CTL, and proved protective against C. difficile toxin induced inflammation. Our study thus demonstrates that addition of MFGM to formula promotes development of the intestinal epithelium and microbiome and protects against inflammation.
Will hypolimnetic waters become anoxic in all deep tropical lakes?
Authors: Fukushima Takehiko , Matsushita Bunkei , Subehi Luki , Setiawan Fajar , Wibowo Hendro
Published: March 2017

To elucidate trends of hypolimnetic oxygen concentrations, vertical distributions of dissolved oxygen were measured in eight deep tropical bodies of water (one natural lake with two basins, five natural lakes, and one reservoir) in Indonesia. A comparison of those concentrations with previously reported data revealed that shoaling of hypolimnetic oxygen-deficient (around a few decimeters to a few meter per year) water had occurred in all of the lakes. Calculated areal hypolimnetic oxygen depletion rates were 0.046–5.9 g m−2 y−1. The oligomictic or meromictic characteristics of the bodies of water suppressed circulation and mixing in the hypolimnions and thus resulted in continuous shoaling of the uppermost oxygen-deficient layers. In some lakes, millions of fish sometimes died suddenly, probably owing to upward movement of oxygen-deficient water to near the surface during periods of strong winds. In the future, the rate of shoaling will be accelerated by human impacts in the basins and by climate warming, the influence of which has already been manifested by rising water temperatures in these lakes. Appropriate monitoring and discussions of future restoration challenges are urgently needed to prevent the hypolimnions of the lakes from becoming completely anoxic.
Activation of ERK1/2 Causes Pazopanib Resistance via Downregulation of DUSP6 in Synovial Sarcoma Cells
Authors: Yokoyama Nobuhiko , Matsunobu Tomoya , Matsumoto Yoshihiro , Fukushi Jun-ichi , Endo Makoto , Hatano Mihoko , Nabeshima Akira , Fukushima Suguru , Okada Seiji , Iwamoto Yukihide
Published: March 2017

Synovial sarcoma (SS) is a rare high-grade malignant mesenchymal tumour with a relatively poor prognosis despite intensive multimodal therapy. Although pazopanib, a multi-kinase inhibitor, is often used for advanced SS, most cases eventually become resistant to pazopanib. In the present study, we investigated the mechanisms of acquired pazopanib resistance in SS. To examine acquired pazopanib resistance, two SS cell lines, SYO-1 and HS-SY-II, were isolated after multiple selection steps with increasing concentrations of pazopanib. SYO-1 was also used in vivo. Then, pazopanib-resistant clones were investigated to assess potential mechanisms of acquired pazopanib resistance. Stable pazopanib-resistant clones were established and exhibited enhanced cell cycle progression, cell growth with increased ERK1/2 phosphorylation, and higher sensitivity than parental cells to a MEK-inhibitor, trametinib, both in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, addition of low-dose trametinib partially reversed the pazopanib resistance. In the pazopanib-resistant clones, dual specificity phosphatase 6 (DUSP6) was downregulated. Inhibition of DUSP6 expression in parental HS-SY-II cells partially recapitulated acquired pazopanib resistance. Acquired pazopanib resistance in SS was associated with activation of ERK1/2 through downregulation of DUSP6 expression. Simultaneous treatment with pazopanib and a MEK inhibitor could be a promising strategy to overcome pazopanib resistance in SS.
Nine phenylethanoid glycosides from Magnolia officinalis var. biloba fruits and their protective effects against free radical-induced oxidative damage
Authors: Ge Lanlan , Zhang Wenhui , Zhou Gao , Ma Bingxin , Mo Qigui , Chen Yuxin , Wang Youwei
Published: March 2017

To systematically study the chemical constituents in Magnolia officinalis var. biloba fruits, nine phenylethanoid glycosides were isolated by solvent extraction, silica gel, and preparative high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Their structures were elucidated by 1D and 2D NMR analyses, including COSY, HMQC and HMBC correlations, and HPLC analysis of sugar residue. Nine phenylethanoid glycosides, namely, magnoloside Ia (1), magnoloside Ic (2), crassifolioside (3), magnoloside Ib (4), magnoloside IIIa (5), magnoloside IVa (6), magnoloside IIa (7), magnoloside IIb (8) and magnoloside Va (9), were first isolated from the n-butanol fraction of Magnolia officinalis var. biloba fruits alcohol extract. Free radical scavenging activities of the nine phenylethanoid glycosides were assessed using the DPPH, ABTS, and superoxide anion radical scavenging assays. Simultaneously, protective effects of all compounds against free radical-induced oxidative damage were evaluated by two different kinds of mitochondrial damage model. The protective effects were assessed by mitochondrial swelling, the formations of malondialdehyde (MDA) and lipid hydroperoxide (LOOH), the activities of catalase (CAT), glutathione reductase (GR) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). All phenylethanoid glycosides showed significant protective effects.
A canine model of tracheal stenosis induced by cuffed endotracheal intubation
Authors: Su Zhuquan , Li Shiyue , Zhou Ziqing , Chen Xiaobo , Gu Yingying , Chen Yu , Zhong Changhao , Zhong Minglu , Zhong Nanshan
Published: March 2017

Postintubation tracheal stenosis is a complication of endotracheal intubation. The pathological mechanism and risk factors for endotracheal intubation-induced tracheal stenosis remain not fully understood. We aimed to establish an animal model and to investigate risk factors for postintubation tracheal stenosis. Beagles were intubated with 4 sized tubes (internal diameter 6.5 to 8.0 mm) and cuff pressures of 100 to 200 mmHg for 24 hr. The status of tracheal wall was evaluated by bronchoscopic and histological examinations. The model was successfully established by cuffed endotracheal intubation using an 8.0 mm tube and an intra-cuff pressure of 200 mmHg for 24 hr. When the intra-cuff pressures were kept constant, a larger sized tube would induce a larger tracheal wall pressure and more severe injury to the tracheal wall. The degree of tracheal stenosis ranged from 78% to 91% at 2 weeks postextubation. Histological examination demonstrated submucosal infiltration of inflammatory cells, hyperplasia of granulation tissue and collapse of tracheal cartilage. In summary, a novel animal model of tracheal stenosis was established by cuffed endotracheal intubation, whose histopathological feathers are similar to those of clinical cases of postintubation tracheal stenosis. Excessive cuff pressure and over-sized tube are the risk factors for postintubation tracheal stenosis.
Origin of high oxygen reduction reaction activity of Pt12 and strategy to obtain better catalyst using sub-nanosized Pt-alloy clusters
Authors: Miyazaki Kasumi , Mori Hirotoshi
Published: March 2017

In the present study, methods to enhance the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) activity of sub-nanosized Pt clusters were investigated in a theoretical manner. Using ab initio molecular dynamics and Monte Carlo simulations based on density functional theory, we have succeeded in determining the origin of the superior ORR activity of Pt12 compared to that of Pt13. That is, it was clarified that the electronic structure of Pt12 fluctuates to a greater extent compared to that of Pt13, which leads to stronger resistance against catalyst poisoning by O/OH. Based on this conclusion, a set of sub-nanosized Pt-alloy clusters was also explored to find catalysts with better ORR activities and lower financial costs. It was suggested that Ga4Pt8, Ge4Pt8, and Sn4Pt8 would be good candidates for ORR catalysts.
Investigation on the plasmon Talbot effect of finite-sized periodic arrays of metallic nanoapertures
Authors: Li Wenli , Li Haoyong , Gao Bo , Yu Yiting
Published: March 2017

We present an in-depth and systematical investigation on the plasmon Talbot effect of finite-sized two-dimensional (2D) periodic metallic nanoaperture arrays. The nanoaperture shapes, fill factor, lattice distribution, array size, film thickness, material property and polarization state of the incident light are considered, and the inherent influencing rules are summarized via the three-dimensional (3D) finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) numerical simulations. The nanoaperture shapes, fill factor or array size seems to express a tiny influence on Talbot effect, which shows a good agreement with our previously reported experimental results. Besides, square lattice brings out a much more uniform Talbot pattern than the triangular distribution, and the smaller array period should be taken to estimate the Talbot distance when it comes to a rectangular distribution. Furthermore, the thickness of Au film is suggested to within the range of 50~100 nm, which gives a broadest Talbot contour. It is also found out that the elliptical shape of hotspots is closely related to the linearly polarization state of the light source, showing an asymmetric electromagnetic field. The research contributes to a better understanding of the optical transmission features through periodic metallic nanoaperture arrays, which provides opportunities for the potential applications such as nanofabrication, optoelectronics, and imaging.
Recent applications of the 1,2-carbon atom migration strategy in complex natural product total synthesis
Authors: Zhang Xiao-Ming , Tu Yong-Qiang , Zhang Fu-Min , Chen Zhi-Hua , Wang Shao-Hua
Published: March 2017

Here we demonstrate recent strategic applications of 1,2-carbon atom migration reactions in complex natural product assembly.
Water and catalytic isomerization of linear allylic alcohols by [RuCp(H2O-κO)(PTA)2]+(PTA = 1,3,5-triaza-7-phosphaadamantane)
Authors: Scalambra Franco , Serrano-Ruiz Manuel , Romerosa Antonio
Published: March 2017

The water soluble complex [RuCp(H2O-κO)(PTA)2]+showed to be an excellent catalyst for the isomerization of allylic alcohols from 3-buten-2-ol to 1-octen-3-ol in water, which was mandatory for obtaining the best conversion.
The effect of Isabel grape addition on the physicochemical, microbiological and sensory characteristics of probiotic goat milk yogurt
Authors: Silva Francyeli Araújo , de Oliveira Maria Elieidy Gomes , de Figueirêdo Rossana Maria Feitosa , Sampaio Karoliny Brito , de Souza Evandro Leite , de Oliveira Carlos Eduardo Vasconcelos , Pintado Maria Manuela Estevez , Ramos do Egypto Queiroga Rita de Cássia
Published: March 2017

The influence of Isabel grape addition on the quality characteristics of probiotic goat milk yogurt were evaluated during refrigerated storage.
Self-assembly generation, structural features, and oxidation catalytic properties of new aqua-soluble copper(ii)-aminoalcohol derivatives
Authors: Kirillova Marina V. , Santos Carla I. M. , André Vânia , Fernandes Tiago A. , Dias Sara S. P. , Kirillov Alexander M.
Published: March 2017

Multidentate aminoalcohols were applied as unexplored building blocks to generate two novel Cu(ii) coordination compounds that act as efficient catalysts for the mild and acid-promoter-free oxidation of C5–C8cycloalkanes.
Characterization of trimethoprim resistant E. coli dihydrofolate reductase mutants by mass spectrometry and inhibition by propargyl-linked antifolates
Authors: Cammarata Michael , Thyer Ross , Lombardo Michael , Anderson Amy , Wright Dennis , Ellington Andrew , Brodbelt Jennifer S.
Published: March 2017

Native mass spectrometry, size exclusion chromatography, and kinetic assays were employed to study trimethoprim resistance in E. coli caused by mutations P21L and W30R of dihydrofolate reductase.
Enhanced detection of quantum dots by the magnetohydrodynamic effect for electrochemical biosensing
Authors: Martín-Yerga Daniel , Fanjul-Bolado Pablo , Hernández-Santos David , Costa-García Agustín
Published: March 2017

Magnetoelectrochemistry support for screen-printed electrodes.
Rapid single-cell detection and identification of pathogens by using surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Dina N. E. , Zhou H. , Colniţă A. , Leopold N. , Szoke-Nagy T. , Coman C. , Haisch C.
Published: March 2017

For the successful treatment of infections, real-time analysis and enhanced multiplex capacity, sensitivity and cost-effectiveness of the developed detection method are critical.
New insights into supercritical fluid chromatography for chiral separations
Authors: Licea-Perez Hermes , Evans Christopher A.
Published: March 2017

Supercritical fluid chromatography in combination with chiral stationary phases has proven to be a great tool for chiral resolution, alleviating some of the challenges associated with bioanalysis of stereoisomers.
Electrochemiluminescent detection of glyphosate using electrodes modified with self-assembled monolayers
Authors: Marzari Gabriela , Cappellari Maria V. , Morales Gustavo M. , Fungo Fernando
Published: March 2017

The use of glyphosate (GlyP) in agriculture has caused environmental and health concerns in modern society. This paper presents a study of the electrochemiluminescence (ECL) behaviour of GlyP/Ru(bpy)32+system with the aim of applying such findings to the quantification of GlyP without previous chemical derivatization.
A porous porphyrin organic polymer (PPOP) for visible light triggered hydrogen production
Authors: Mukherjee Gargi , Thote Jayshri , Aiyappa Harshitha Barike , Kandambeth Sharath , Banerjee Subhrashis , Vanka Kumar , Banerjee Rahul
Published: March 2017

A porous porphyrin organic polymer (PPOP) in combination with TiO2 is demonstrated to act as an excellent photocatalyst for water splitting under visible light.
Formamidine and cesium-based quasi-two-dimensional perovskites as photovoltaic absorbers
Authors: Hamaguchi R. , Yoshizawa-Fujita M. , Miyasaka T. , Kunugita H. , Ema K. , Takeoka Y. , Rikukawa M.
Published: March 2017

Formamidine and Cs-based quasi two-dimensional perovskites were newly synthesized for photovoltaic solar cells.
Domino ring-opening cyclization (DROC) of activated aziridines and epoxides with nitrones via dual-catalysis “on water”
Authors: Wani Imtiyaz Ahmad , Sayyad Masthanvali , Ghorai Manas K.
Published: March 2017

A simple and green approach for the synthesis of non-racemic 1,2,4-oxadiazinanes and 1,4,2-dioxazinanes with excellent yields (up to 99%) and stereoselectivity (de/ee > 99%) in water has been described.
Atomistic non-adiabatic dynamics of the LH2 complex with a GPU-accelerated ab initio exciton model
Authors: Sisto Aaron , Stross Clem , van der Kamp Marc W. , O’Connor Michael , McIntosh-Smith Simon , Johnson Graham T. , Hohenstein Edward G. , Manby Fred R. , Glowacki David R. , Martinez Todd J.
Published: March 2017

We present GPU-accelerated ab initio molecular dynamics simulations of nonadiabatic dynamics in the LH2 complex in full atomistic detail.
Enhanced self-assembly for the solubilization of cholesterol in molecular solvent/ionic liquid mixtures
Authors: Jin Wenbin , Ke Yuqi , Liu Xianxian , Yang Qiwei , Bao Zongbi , Su Baogen , Ren Qilong , Yang Yiwen , Xing Huabin
Published: March 2017

Enhanced solute–solvent self-assembly arising from a synergistic effect between LCC-ILs and molecular solvents enables unprecedented solubility of sparingly soluble cholesterol.
Self-template synthesis of hollow ellipsoid Ni–Mn sulfides for supercapacitors, electrocatalytic oxidation of glucose and water treatment
Authors: Cheng Cheng , Kong Dechen , Wei Chengzhen , Du Weimin , Zhao Jianbo , Feng Yeqin , Duan Qingling
Published: March 2017

Hollow ellipsoid Ni–Mn sulfides have been successfully synthesized via a simple self-template method and exhibited good performance in supercapacitors, electrocatalytic oxidation of glucose and water treatment.
Organic layer formation and sorption of U(vi) on acetamide diethylphosphonate-functionalized mesoporous silica
Authors: Uribe Eva C. , Mason Harris E. , Shusterman Jennifer A. , Lukens Wayne W.
Published: March 2017

Solid-state NMR is used to connect the molecular structure of acetamide phosphonate-functionalized mesoporous silica with its macroscopic U(vi) extraction properties.
Organic–inorganic hybrid three-dimensional metal sulfite-oxalates with honeycomb-like structures
Authors: Tiwari Ranjay K. , Behera J. N.
Published: March 2017

The crystallographic signatures and characterization of two novel mixed metal hybrid open-frameworks [Na2Mn2(C2O4)(SO3)2(H2O)2], 1 and [NaEu(C2O4)(SO3)(H2O)3], 2 are reported for the first time; they are synthesized under hydrothermal conditions to generate 3D assemblies and honeycomb-like structures.
Synthesis of two titanosilicates with distinct interlayer connections from similar gels
Authors: Ji Peng , Lu Kun , Lu Xinqing , Xu Hao , Wu Peng
Published: March 2017

Ti-SSZ-70 and Ti-ECNU-6, with identical intralayer structure but distinct interlayer connections, were prepared from similar synthetic gels. These two titanosilicate catalysts exhibited outstanding catalytic activities in the liquid-phase epoxidation of alkenes.
pH-Dependent structural diversity of a 2-pyridinemethanol Cu complex and its relatively strong magnetic exchange coupling via hydrogen bonding
Authors: Hamaguchi Tomohiko , Nagata Tomoko , Hayami Shinya , Kawata Satoshi , Ando Isao
Published: March 2017

pH-Dependent structural diversity of a 2-pyridinemethanol Cu complex and its relatively strong magnetic exchange couplingviahydrogen bonding is reported.
Aluminum complexes derived from a hexadentate salen-type Schiff base: synthesis, structure, and catalysis for cyclic carbonate synthesis
Authors: Xu Ya , Yuan Dan , Wang Yaorong , Yao Yingming
Published: March 2017

The unexpected aluminum complex was synthesized and found to be active in the cycloaddition reaction of terminal epoxides and CO2 at atmospheric pressure.
Organomagnesium amide catalyzed cross-dehydrocoupling of organosilanes with amines
Authors: Baishya Ashim , Peddarao Thota , Nembenna Sharanappa
Published: March 2017

Heteroleptic organomagnesium complex pre-catalyzed cross-dehydrocoupling of silanes with amines.
Formation of mono- and binuclear neodymium(iii)–gluconate complexes in aqueous solutions in the pH range of 2–8
Authors: Kutus Bence , Varga Norbert , Peintler Gábor , Lupan Alexandru , Attia Amr A. A. , Pálinkó István , Sipos Pál
Published: March 2017

The structure and stability constants of four mononuclear and two, so far unknown and highly stable binuclear complexes have been determined.
Tuning the overpotential of electrocatalytically active cyclopentadienylnickel complexes containing 1,4-diaza-1,3-butadienes (DAB) for proton reduction
Authors: Sondermann Christina , Ringenberg Mark R.
Published: March 2017

The complexes [CpNi(DAB)]BF4, Cp = cyclopentadienyl, DAB = substituted 1,4-diaza-1,3-butadienes, undergo two reduction processes.
Rapid contrast matching by microfluidic SANS
Authors: Adamo Marco , Poulos Andreas S. , Miller Ruhina M. , Lopez Carlos G. , Martel Anne , Porcar Lionel , Cabral João T.
Published: March 2017

We report a microfluidic approach to perform small angle neutron scattering (SANS) measurements of contrast variation and matching, extensively employed in soft and biological matter research.
Novel chemoenzymatic oxidation of amines into oximes based on hydrolase-catalysed peracid formation
Authors: Méndez-Sánchez Daniel , Lavandera Iván , Gotor Vicente , Gotor-Fernández Vicente
Published: March 2017

The efficient transformation of benzylamines into the corresponding oximes has been described by means of a chemoenzymatic process.
A formal intermolecular [4 + 2] cycloaddition reaction of 1,3-disubstituted indoles and alkylquinones
Authors: Lin Chao , Du Hong-Jin , Zhao Hui , Yan Ding-Fei , Liu Nai-Xin , Sun Hongbin , Wen Xiaoan , Xu Qing-Long
Published: March 2017

A formal [4 + 2] cycloaddition reaction of 1,3-disubstituted indoles and alkylquinones was realized to afford polycyclic indolines in good yields.
A mechanistic investigation of Pickering emulsion polymerization
Authors: Lotierzo Andrea , Bon Stefan A. F.
Published: March 2017

Unravelling the mechanism of Pickering emulsion polymerization using silica nanoparticles as the stabilizer.
Nanoimprinting-induced molecular orientation in poly(3-hexylthiophene) nanogratings and its extraordinary retention after thermal annealing
Authors: Ding Guangzhu , Wang Kaixuan , Li Xiaohui , Wang Chao , Hu Zhijun , Liu Jieping
Published: March 2017

Face-on orientation of poly(3-hexylthiophene) nanogratings induced by nanoimprinting and its remarkable retention after thermal annealing.
Mechanistic study of graphitic carbon layer and nanosphere formation on the surface of T-ZnO
Authors: Jian Xian , Rao Gaofeng , Jiang Zhicheng , Yin Liangjun , Liu Shiyu , Xiao Xiangyun , Tian Wei , Mahmood Nasir , Tan Zhen , Kuang Fenghua
Published: March 2017

New vapour-deposition-solid (VDS) growth mechanism of graphitic carbon has been proposed and supported by both theoretical calculations and experimental evidence.
Visible light-induced tandem oxidative cyclization of 2-alkynylanilines with disulfides (diselenides) to 3-sulfenyl- and 3-selenylindoles under transition metal-free and photocatalyst-free conditions
Authors: Shi Qing , Li Pinhua , Zhang Yan , Wang Lei
Published: March 2017

A simple and efficient synthesis of 3-sulfenyl (3-selenyl) indoles via visible light-induced cyclization of 2-alkynylanilines with disulfides(diselenides) was developed under transition metal-free and photocatalyst-free conditions.
Hydrophosphorylation of aliphatic alkynes catalyzed by CuNPs/ZnO for the synthesis of vinyl phosphonates. A DFT study on the reaction mechanism
Authors: Fortunato Leandro , Moglie Yanina , Dorn Viviana , Radivoy Gabriel
Published: March 2017

A DFT study on the reaction mechanism for the synthesis of vinyl phosphonates catalyzed by CuNPs/ZnO. Essential role of the solvent and the catalyst support.
Poly-γ-glutamic acid coupled Pseudomonas putida cells surface-displaying metallothioneins: composited copper(ii) biosorption and inducible flocculation in aqueous solution
Authors: Hu Penggao , Zhang Zhongna , Shen Fei , Yu Xun , Li Mingshun , Ni Hong , Li Lin
Published: March 2017

Schematic illustration of the preparation, biosorption, and induced flocculation of the biocomposite MB546-PGA.
Cu-catalyzed aerobic oxidative C–CN bond cleavage of benzyl cyanide for the synthesis of primary amides
Authors: Chen Xiuling , Peng Yanhong , Li Yan , Wu Minghu , Guo Haibing , Wang Jian , Sun Shaofa
Published: March 2017

Cu-catalyzed oxidative amidation of benzyl cyanide for primary amides is successfully developed. Using readily available NH4Cl and Cu/O2 catalytic oxidation system offers new opportunities for C–CN bond cleavage and primary amides bond formation.
The historical or the contemporary context: which of the two ensures a deeper understanding of gas properties?
Authors: Milanovic Vesna D. , Trivic Dragica D.
Published: March 2017

The aim of this research was to explore the effects of two approaches, designated as the historical and the contemporary one, on the level of students' understanding of the properties and the practical use of gases. Our research hypothesis was that the historical context of the discovery of gases and the study of their properties would deepen students' understanding of the properties and the practical use of gases more than the contemporary context. A total of 129 students attending the eighth grade of primary school, aged 14, took part in the research project. After taking a pre-test, the students were divided into two groups (A and B respectively), equal in terms of their test scores. Group A (63 students) was exposed to the historical approach, whereas group B (66 students) was exposed to the contemporary approach. The students from group A individually dealt with a text that presented various episodes from the scientific-research work of Joseph Priestley, whereas the students from group B dealt with a text pertaining to the properties and the use of gases in contemporary society. Having been exposed to different approaches, all the students did a post-test. No statistically significant difference was established between the overall results of the students who had been exposed to the historical approach and those exposed to the contemporary approach, and the research hypothesis was rejected. However, one statistically significant better score in one of the post-test items in group A may be connected with the influence of the corresponding episode from the history of science.
Study of the enhancement on photogalvanics: solar energy conversion and storage in EDTA–safranine O–NaLS system
Authors: Gangotri Prerna , Koli Pooran
Published: March 2017

The study focused on exploiting modified cell fabrication parameters for enhancing the solar power generation and storage capacity of a photogalvanic ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid–safranine O–sodium lauryl sulphate chemical system.
Minimisation of electric field stress at triple junction of a functionally graded cone type spacer in a gas insulated busduct with metal inserts
Authors: Naidu Yerra Swamy , Nagesh Kumar Gundavarapu Venkata
Published: March 2017

Insulation integrity of supporting insulator plays a vital role for determining the continuity of service of the gas insulated substation which depends upon the electric field stress distribution on the surface of the spacer. Triple junction formed by the conductor, SF6 gas and support insulator is another critical area where the field stress is to be maintained at minimum value. Shape control is a technique employed for obtaining uniform field stress along the surface of the spacer but this technique may sometimes leads to very uneven shapes. In this study, a functional graded material is designed for the standard cone type spacer to obtain uniform field stress along the surface of spacer to overcome the above problem. The grading of spacer is done with different permittivities. Electric field is computed for three cases namely grading to high, grading to low and U Shape. The metal inserts were tuned and stress is obtained in account of lower fields at the triple point junction and an improved uniform field distribution along the surface is obtained.
Integration of solar photovoltaic with battery to single‐phase grid
Authors: Saxena Nupur , Singh Bhim , Vyas Anoop Lal
Published: March 2017

This work deals with the control of a solar photovoltaic array and a battery storage integrated into a grid. It has versatile control strategy as it provides with maximum power point tracking, battery charging/discharging and a grid current at unity power factor. This configuration along with its control helps in feeding a constant power to the grid and maintains the controlled power dynamics in the system. The control performs a voltage control of the boost converter, current control of grid and DC‐link voltage control along with current control of the battery and adapts itself according to the environmental conditions such as no/low solar insolation and absence of battery storage. The proposed system is designed for a maximum power of 5 kW and simulated in MATLAB‐based environment. Test results on a prototype developed in the laboratory verify the simulated results. Under steady‐state condition, the total harmonic distortions of grid voltage and current are within the range of an IEEE 519 standard. Simulations and experimental results of the proposed system are demonstrated for various dynamic changes.
Digital impedance pilot relaying scheme for STATCOM compensated TL for fault phase classification with fault location
Authors: Singh Arvind R. , Patne Nita R. , Kale Vijay S. , Khadke Piyush
Published: March 2017

This study presents calculation of fundamental frequency‐based per phase digital impedance pilot relaying (DIPR) scheme for static synchronous compensator (STATCOM) compensated transmission line (TL) using two end synchronised measurement. DIPR involves computation of absolute value of ratio of estimated phasor sum of voltages to the phasor sum of currents of both ends. DIPR inherently differentiate between internal and external faults on the line. For all internal faults, computed value of DIPR ratio is equivalent to system and TL impedance value whereas for external faults, it is equal to line capacitance impedance value. This novel pilot relaying scheme is easy to set once the system parameters are estimated and has the ability to detect all types of faults and correctly classify faulty phase with mid‐point connected STATCOM on TL. This scheme is immune to effect of STATCOM compensation mode, level of injection and its dynamic response. Also it is not affected by line charging capacitive current and fault transient resistance. The fault distance is estimated using the STATCOM current injection information for various types of fault with high accuracy, considering maximum fault resistance of 20 Ω. Accuracy and effectiveness of this scheme is evaluated in EMTDC/PSCAD simulation for 230 kV, 300 km, mid‐point STATCOM compensated TL and in hardware setup with mid‐point STATCOM on 100 V supply voltage having 200 km TL in offline mode. Results bring out the robustness, reliability and superiority of proposed novel pilot relaying scheme with fault location algorithm.
Fast electro‐thermal simulation of short‐circuit tests
Authors: Abomailek Carlos , Riba Jordi‐Roger , Capelli Francesca , Moreno‐Eguilaz Manuel
Published: March 2017

Low‐ and medium‐voltage connectors are designed for a service life of more than 30 years, during which they have to withstand extreme conditions, so it is primordial ensuring their thermal performance. Mandatory standardised short‐circuit tests are required to homologate electrical connectors which are conducted in singular and scarce laboratories, so it is essential to dispose of fast and accurate simulation tools to predict the thermal performance of the equipment during the design stage. This study focuses on the application of a fast and accurate simulation method to reproduce the transient thermal behaviour and to estimate the transient temperature rise and the subsequent cooling of power connectors during short circuits. To minimise the computational burden, this study proposes a fast finite‐difference method approach, based on one‐dimensional reduction of the analysed geometry. To improve accuracy, key three‐dimensional information is retained, such as the convective coefficients, the incremental resistance or the cross‐section of each node. Results attained by means of the proposed method are validated against experimental results conducted in a high‐current laboratory, thus corroborating the usefulness and accuracy of the proposed method. The methodology exposed in this study can be applied to many other hardware for power lines and substations.
Eighth mode substrate integrated waveguide dual band resonator antennas
Authors: Mujumdar Manisha , Alphones Arokiaswami
Published: March 2017

This study presents eighth mode substrate integrated waveguide (EMSIW)‐based dual band resonator antennas with two different types of slots etched on the top patch surface. Two types of slot structures have been discussed. This antenna resonates at dual band frequencies of 2.4 and 5.8 GHz. The proposed structure has been fabricated and the simulated and measured results seem to be in good agreement. Different variations of this slot have been studied and the simulated results have been presented. The second proposed design involves a triangular complementary triangular split ring resonator slot etched on the EMSIW. This structure operates below the original cut‐off frequency of the EMSIW at 1.8 GHz. The simulated and the measured results are shown to be in good agreement.