bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modulation of P2X4/P2X7/Pannexin-1 sensitivity to extracellular ATP via Ivermectin induces a non-apoptotic and inflammatory form of cancer cell death
Authors: Draganov Dobrin , Gopalakrishna-Pillai Sailesh , Chen Yun-Ru , Zuckerman Neta , Moeller Sara , Wang Carrie , Ann David , Lee Peter P.
Published: November 2015

Overexpression of P2X7 receptors correlates with tumor growth and metastasis. Yet, release of ATP is associated with immunogenic cancer cell death as well as inflammatory responses caused by necrotic cell death at sites of trauma or ischemia-reperfusion injury. Using an FDA-approved anti-parasitic agent Ivermectin as a prototype agent to allosterically modulate P2X4 receptors, we can switch the balance between the dual pro-survival and cytotoxic functions of purinergic signaling in breast cancer cells. This is mediated through augmented opening of the P2X4/P2X7-gated Pannexin-1 channels that drives a mixed apoptotic and necrotic mode of cell death associated with activation of caspase-1 and is consistent with pyroptosis. We show that cancer cell death is dependent on ATP release and death signals downstream of P2X7 receptors that can be reversed by inhibition of NADPH oxidases-generated ROS, Ca2+/Calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) or mitochondrial permeability transition pore (MPTP). Ivermectin induces autophagy and release of ATP and HMGB1, key mediators of inflammation. Potentiated P2X4/P2X7 signaling can be further linked to the ATP rich tumor microenvironment providing a mechanistic explanation for the tumor selectivity of purinergic receptors modulation and its potential to be used as a platform for integrated cancer immunotherapy.
Green tea inhibited the elimination of nephro-cardiovascular toxins and deteriorated the renal function in rats with renal failure
Authors: Peng Yu-Hsuan , Sweet Douglas H. , Lin Shiuan-Pey , Yu Chung-Ping , Lee Chao Pei-Dawn , Hou Yu-Chi
Published: November 2015

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major health problem worldwide. Indoxyl sulfate (IS) and p-cresyl sulfate (PCS) are highly protein-bound nephro-cardiovascular toxins, which are not efficiently removed through hemodialysis. The renal excretions of IS and PCS were mediated by organic anion transporters (OATs) such as OAT1 and OAT3. Green tea (GT) is a popular beverage containing plenty of catechins. Previous pharmacokinetic studies of teas have shown that the major molecules present in the bloodstream are the glucuronides/sulfates of tea catechins, which are putative substrates of OATs. Here we demonstrated that GT ingestion significantly elevated the systemic exposures of endogenous IS and PCS in rats with chronic renal failure (CRF). More importantly, GT also significantly increased the levels of serum creatinine (Cr) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) in CRF rats. Mechanism studies indicated that the serum metabolites of GT (GTM) inhibited the uptake transporting functions of OAT1 and OAT3. In conclusion, GT inhibited the elimination of nephro-cardiovascular toxins such as IS and PCS and deteriorated the renal function in CRF rats.
Interval analysis of interictal EEG: pathology of the alpha rhythm in focal epilepsy
Authors: Pyrzowski Jan , Siemiński Mariusz , Sarnowska Anna , Jedrzejczak Joanna , Nyka Walenty M.
Published: November 2015

The contemporary use of interictal scalp electroencephalography (EEG) in the context of focal epilepsy workup relies on the visual identification of interictal epileptiform discharges. The high-specificity performance of this marker comes, however, at a cost of only moderate sensitivity. Zero-crossing interval analysis is an alternative to Fourier analysis for the assessment of the rhythmic component of EEG signals. We applied this method to standard EEG recordings of 78 patients divided into 4 subgroups: temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE), frontal lobe epilepsy (FLE), psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) and nonepileptic patients with headache. Interval-analysis based markers were capable of effectively discriminating patients with epilepsy from those in control subgroups (AUC~0.8) with diagnostic sensitivity potentially exceeding that of visual analysis. The identified putative epilepsy-specific markers were sensitive to the properties of the alpha rhythm and displayed weak or non-significant dependences on the number of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) taken by the patients. Significant AED-related effects were concentrated in the theta interval range and an associated marker allowed for identification of patients on AED polytherapy (AUC~0.9). Interval analysis may thus, in perspective, increase the diagnostic yield of interictal scalp EEG. Our findings point to the possible existence of alpha rhythm abnormalities in patients with epilepsy.
Recurrent Coding Sequence Variation Explains Only A Small Fraction of the Genetic Architecture of Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Timofeeva Maria N. , Kinnersley Ben , Farrington Susan M. , Whiffin Nicola , Palles Claire , Svinti Victoria , Lloyd Amy , Gorman Maggie , Ooi Li-Yin , Hosking Fay , Barclay Ella , Zgaga Lina , Dobbins Sara , Martin Lynn , Theodoratou Evropi , Broderick Peter , Tenesa Albert , Smillie Claire , Grimes Graeme , Hayward Caroline , Campbell Archie , Porteous David , Deary Ian J. , Harris Sarah E. , Northwood Emma L. , Barrett Jennifer H. , Smith Gillian , Wolf Roland , Forman David , Morreau Hans , Ruano Dina , Tops Carli , Wijnen Juul , Schrumpf Melanie , Boot Arnoud , Vasen Hans F A , Hes Frederik J. , van Wezel Tom , Franke Andre , Lieb Wolgang , Schafmayer Clemens , Hampe Jochen , Buch Stephan , Propping Peter , Hemminki Kari , Försti Asta , Westers Helga , Hofstra Robert , Pinheiro Manuela , Pinto Carla , Teixeira Manuel , Ruiz-Ponte Clara , Fernández-Rozadilla Ceres , Carracedo Angel , Castells Antoni , Castellví-Bel Sergi , Campbell Harry , Bishop D. Timothy , Tomlinson Ian P M , Dunlop Malcolm G. , Houlston Richard S.
Published: November 2015

Whilst common genetic variation in many non-coding genomic regulatory regions are known to impart risk of colorectal cancer (CRC), much of the heritability of CRC remains unexplained. To examine the role of recurrent coding sequence variation in CRC aetiology, we genotyped 12,638 CRCs cases and 29,045 controls from six European populations. Single-variant analysis identified a coding variant (rs3184504) in SH2B3 (12q24) associated with CRC risk (OR = 1.08, P = 3.9 × 10−7) and novel damaging coding variants in 3 genes previously tagged by GWAS efforts; rs16888728 (8q24) in UTP23 (OR = 1.15, P = 1.4 × 10−7); rs6580742 and rs12303082 (12q13) in FAM186A (OR = 1.11, P = 1.2 × 10−7 and OR = 1.09, P = 7.4 × 10−8); rs1129406 (12q13) in ATF1 (OR = 1.11, P = 8.3 × 10−9), all reaching exome-wide significance levels. Gene based tests identified associations between CRC and PCDHGA genes (P < 2.90 × 10−6). We found an excess of rare, damaging variants in base-excision (P = 2.4 × 10−4) and DNA mismatch repair genes (P = 6.1 × 10−4) consistent with a recessive mode of inheritance. This study comprehensively explores the contribution of coding sequence variation to CRC risk, identifying associations with coding variation in 4 genes and PCDHG gene cluster and several candidate recessive alleles. However, these findings suggest that recurrent, low-frequency coding variants account for a minority of the unexplained heritability of CRC.
Fast ion conductivity in strained defect-fluorite structure created by ion tracks in Gd2Ti2O7
Authors: Aidhy Dilpuneet S. , Sachan Ritesh , Zarkadoula Eva , Pakarinen Olli , Chisholm Matthew F. , Zhang Yanwen , Weber William J.
Published: November 2015

The structure and ion-conducting properties of the defect-fluorite ring structure formed around amorphous ion-tracks by swift heavy ion irradiation of Gd2Ti2O7 pyrochlore are investigated. High angle annular dark field imaging complemented with ion-track molecular dynamics simulations show that the atoms in the ring structure are disordered and have relatively larger cation-cation interspacing than in the bulk pyrochlore, illustrating the presence of tensile strain in the ring region. Density functional theory calculations show that the non-equilibrium defect-fluorite structure can be stabilized by tensile strain. The pyrochlore to defect-fluorite structure transformation in the ring region is predicted to be induced by recrystallization during a melt-quench process and stabilized by tensile strain. Static pair-potential calculations show that planar tensile strain lowers oxygen vacancy migration barriers in pyrochlores, in agreement with recent studies on fluorite and perovskite materials. In view of these results, it is suggested that strain engineering could be simultaneously used to stabilize the defect-fluorite structure and gain control over its high ion-conducting properties.
Risperidone and NAP protect cognition and normalize gene expression in a schizophrenia mouse model
Authors: Vaisburd Sinaya , Shemer Zeev , Yeheskel Adva , Giladi Eliezer , Gozes Illana
Published: November 2015

Mutated disrupted in schizophrenia 1 (DISC1), a microtubule regulating protein, leads to schizophrenia and other psychiatric illnesses. It is hypothesized that microtubule stabilization may provide neuroprotection in schizophrenia. The NAP (NAPVSIPQ) sequence of activity-dependent neuroprotective protein (ADNP) contains the SxIP motif, microtubule end binding (EB) protein target, which is critical for microtubule dynamics leading to synaptic plasticity and neuroprotection. Bioinformatics prediction for FDA approved drugs mimicking SxIP-like motif which displace NAP-EB binding identified Risperidone. Risperidone or NAP effectively ameliorated object recognition deficits in the mutated DISC1 mouse model. NAP but not Risperidone, reduced anxiety in the mutated mice. Doxycycline, which blocked the expression of the mutated DISC1, did not reverse the phenotype. Transcripts of Forkhead-BOX P2 (Foxp2), a gene regulating DISC1 and associated with human ability to acquire a spoken language, were increased in the hippocampus of the DISC1 mutated mice and were significantly lowered after treatment with NAP, Risperidone, or the combination of both. Thus, the combination of NAP and standard of care Risperidone in humans may protect against language disturbances associated with negative and cognitive impairments in schizophrenia.
Immuno-analysis of microparticles: probing at the limits of detection
Authors: Latham Sharissa L. , Tiberti Natalia , Gokoolparsadh Naveena , Holdaway Karen , Olivier Couraud Pierre , Grau Georges E. R. , Combes Valery
Published: November 2015

Microparticle (MP) research is clouded by debate regarding the accuracy and validity of flow cytometry (FCM) as an analytical methodology, as it is influenced by many variables including the pre-analytical conditions, instruments physical capabilities and detection parameters. This study utilises a simplistic in vitro system for generating MP and through comparative analysis with immuno-electron microscopy (Immuno-EM) assesses the strengths and limitations of probe selection and high-sensitivity FCM. Of the markers examined, MP were most specifically labelled with phosphatidylserine ligands, annexin V and lactadherin, although only ~60% MP are PS positive. Whilst these two ligands detect comparable absolute MP numbers, they interact with the same population in distinct manners; annexin V binding is enhanced on TNF induced MP. CD105 and CD54 expression were, as expected, consistent and enhanced following TNF activation respectively. Their labelling however accounted for as few as 30–40% of MP. The greatest discrepancies between FCM and I-EM were observed in the population solely labelled for the surface antigen. These findings demonstrate that despite significant improvements in resolution, high-sensitivity FCM remains limited in detecting small-size MP expressing low antigen levels. This study highlights factors to consider when selecting endothelial MP probes, as well as interpreting and representing data.
Acetohydroxyacid synthase FgIlv2 and FgIlv6 are involved in BCAA biosynthesis, mycelial and conidial morphogenesis and full virulence in Fusarium graminearum
Authors: Liu Xin , Han Qi , Xu Jianhong , Wang Jian , Shi Jianrong
Published: November 2015

In this study, we characterized FgIlv2 and FgIlv6, the catalytic and regulatory subunits of acetohydroxyacid synthase (AHAS) from the important wheat head scab fungus Fusarium graminearum. AHAS catalyzes the first common step in the parallel pathways toward branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs: isoleucine, leucine, valine) and is the inhibitory target of several commercialized herbicides. Both FgILV2 and FgILV6 deletion mutants were BCAA-auxotrophic and showed reduced aerial hyphal growth and red pigmentation when cultured on PDA plates. Conidial formation was completely blocked in the FgILV2 deletion mutant ΔFgIlv2-4 and significantly reduced in the FgILV6 deletion mutant ΔFgIlv6-12. The auxotrophs of ΔFgIlv2-4 and ΔFgIlv6-12 could be restored by exogenous addition of BCAAs but relied on the designated nitrogen source the medium contained. Deletion of FgILV2 or FgILV6 also leads to hypersensitivity to various cellular stresses and reduced deoxynivalenol production. ΔFgIlv2-4 lost virulence completely on flowering wheat heads, whereas ΔFgIlv6-12 could cause scab symptoms in the inoculated spikelet but lost its aggressiveness. Taken together, our study implies the potential value of antifungals targeting both FgIlv2 and FgIlv6 in F. graminearum.
Phase diagram of the layered oxide SnO: GW and electron-phonon studies
Authors: Chen Peng-Jen , Jeng Horng-Tay
Published: November 2015

First-principles calculations are performed to study the electronic properties and the electron-phonon interactions of the layered oxide semiconductor SnO. In addition to the high hole mobility that makes SnO a promising material in electronics, it has recently been reported that the semimetallic phase under pressure is superconducting. The superconducting Tc curve exhibits a dome-like feature under pressure and reaches the maximum of 1.4 K at p = 9.2 GPa. Both its crystal structure and the dome-like Tc curve are reminiscent of the Fe-based superconductor FeSe. Motivated by this observation, we investigate the electronic, phonon and their interactions in SnO using first-principles schemes. GW approximation is adopted to correct the underestimated band gaps, including real and continuous band gaps in the semiconducting and semimetallic phases. The phase diagram showing the semiconductor-to-semimetal transition and the Tc curve has been successfully reproduced. Detailed analysis of the electron-phonon interactions demonstrate the importance of the out-of-plane motions of O atoms and the Sn-s lone pairs for the superconductivity to occur. Our method combining GW and e-ph calculations can be further extended to the study of other materials that undergo insulator-to-superconductor phase transition.
Cell-free plasma hemoglobin removal by dialyzers with various permeability profiles
Authors: Hulko Michael , Kunz Melanie , Yildirim Mehmet , Homeyer Sandra , Amon Oliver , Krause Bernd
Published: November 2015

The release of hemoglobin from mechanically stressed erythrocytes into plasma is a general side effect of extracorporeal therapies, such as extracorporeal membrane oxygenation or hemodialysis. In many reported cases dialysis patients showed elevated cell-free plasma hemoglobin (CPH) levels which are associated with pathophysiological effects. In this in vitro study, the CPH clearance capacity of various filters with different permeability profiles was measured. Simulated dialysis treatments were conducted and clearance was calculated from variations in CPH concentrations over time by measuring plasma absorbance at 405 nm. Conventional high-flux filters exhibited no detectable clearance of CPH. High-flux filters with extended permeability exhibited clearances between 5.8 ± 1.2 and 12.7 ± 1.7 ml/min when tested with plasma and between 5.8 ± 1.2 and 11.3 ± 1.6 ml/min when tested with whole blood. septeX high-cutoff filters had clearances between 13.8 ± 1.8 and 15.5 ± 1.7 ml/min when tested with plasma and of 22.6 ± 2.9 ml/min when tested with whole blood. This study demonstrated that filters with extended permeability and the septeX filter enable CPH removal when used as in chronic and acute settings.
New genetic regulators question relevance of abundant yolk protein production in C. elegans
Authors: Van Rompay Liesbeth , Borghgraef Charline , Beets Isabel , Caers Jelle , Temmerman Liesbet
Published: November 2015

Vitellogenesis or maternal yolk formation is considered critical to the reproduction of egg-laying animals. In invertebrates, however, most of its regulatory genes are still unknown. Via a combined mapping and whole-genome sequencing strategy, we performed a forward genetic screen to isolate novel regulators of yolk production in the nematode model systemCaenorhabditis elegans. In addition to isolating new alleles ofrab-35,rab-10andM04F3.2, we identified five mutant alleles corresponding to three novel regulatory genes potently suppressing the expression of a GFP-based yolk reporter. We confirmed that mutations invrp-1,ceh-60andlrp-2disrupt endogenous yolk protein synthesis at the transcriptional and translational level. In contrast to current beliefs, our discovered set of mutants with strongly reduced yolk proteins did not show serious reproduction defects. This raises questions as to whether yolk proteinsper seare needed for ultimate reproductive success.
Prediction of nested complementary pattern in argon dielectric-barrier discharge at atmospheric pressure
Authors: Jiang Weiman , Li Jing , Tang Jie , Wang Yishan , Zhao Wei , Duan Yixiang
Published: November 2015

A two-dimensional self-consistent fluid model was employed to investigate the spatiotemporal nonlinear behavior in an argon glow-like/Townsend-like dielectric-barrier discharge (DBD) at atmospheric pressure. The discharge is characterized by a major current pulse with a residual one ahead per half cycle of the external voltage. The two current pulses are operated in glow mode, but with Townsend mode between them. Contrasting spatial discharge structures are complementarily presented not only at two current pulses in the same half cycle but also during the discharge in the two adjacent-half cycles, resulting in the formation of a unique nested complementary pattern each cycle. This peculiar behavior mainly lies in the fact that sufficient charged particles are trapped in the gas gap due to the last discharge and able to dominate the subsequent discharge through the “spatial memory effect”. The charge transport regime reveals that this nested complementary pattern is presented only in a limited range of driving frequency.
Probing the interactions of CdTe quantum dots with pseudorabies virus
Authors: Du Ting , Cai Kaimei , Han Heyou , Fang Liurong , Liang Jiangong , Xiao Shaobo
Published: November 2015

Quantum dots (QDs) have become one of the most promising luminescent materials for tracking viral infection in living cells. However, several issues regarding how QDs interact with the virus remain unresolved. Herein, the effects of Glutathione (GSH) capped CdTe QDs on virus were investigated by using pseudorabies virus (PRV) as a model. One-step growth curve and fluorescence colocalization analyses indicate that CdTe QDs inhibit PRV multiplication in the early stage of virus replication cycle by suppressing the invasion, but have no significant effect on the PRV penetration. Fluorescence spectrum analysis indicates that the size of QDs is reduced gradually after the addition of PRV within 30 min. Release of Cd2+ was detected during the interaction of QDs and PRV, resulting in a decreased number of viruses which can infect cells. Further Raman spectra and Circular Dichroism (CD) spectroscopy analyses reveal that the structure of viral surface proteins is altered by CdTe QDs adsorbed on the virus surface, leading to the inhibition of virus replication. This study facilitates an in-depth understanding of the pathogenic mechanism of viruses and provides a basis for QDs-labeled virus research.
A simple and predictive phenotypic High Content Imaging assay for Plasmodium falciparum mature gametocytes to identify malaria transmission blocking compounds
Authors: Lucantoni Leonardo , Silvestrini Francesco , Signore Michele , Siciliano Giulia , Eldering Maarten , Dechering Koen J. , Avery Vicky M. , Alano Pietro
Published: November 2015

Plasmodium falciparum gametocytes, specifically the mature stages, are the only malaria parasite stage in humans transmissible to the mosquito vector. Anti-malarial drugs capable of killing these forms are considered essential for the eradication of malaria and tools allowing the screening of large compound libraries with high predictive power are needed to identify new candidates. As gametocytes are not a replicative stage it is difficult to apply the same drug screening methods used for asexual stages. Here we propose an assay, based on high content imaging, combining “classic” gametocyte viability readout based on gametocyte counts with a functional viability readout, based on gametocyte activation and the discrimination of the typical gamete spherical morphology. This simple and rapid assay has been miniaturized to a 384-well format using acridine orange staining of wild type P. falciparum 3D7A sexual forms and was validated by screening reference antimalarial drugs and the MMV Malaria Box. The assay demonstrated excellent robustness and ability to identify quality hits with high likelihood of confirmation of transmission reducing activity in subsequent mosquito membrane feeding assays.
Gapless quantum spin liquid ground state in the two-dimensional spin-1/2 triangular antiferromagnet YbMgGaO4
Authors: Li Yuesheng , Liao Haijun , Zhang Zhen , Li Shiyan , Jin Feng , Ling Langsheng , Zhang Lei , Zou Youming , Pi Li , Yang Zhaorong , Wang Junfeng , Wu Zhonghua , Zhang Qingming
Published: November 2015

Quantum spin liquid (QSL) is a novel state of matter which refuses the conventional spin freezing even at 0 K. Experimentally searching for the structurally perfect candidates is a big challenge in condensed matter physics. Here we report the successful synthesis of a new spin-1/2 triangular antiferromagnet YbMgGaO4 with "Equation missing" symmetry. The compound with an ideal two-dimensional and spatial isotropic magnetic triangular-lattice has no site-mixing magnetic defects and no antisymmetric Dzyaloshinsky-Moriya (DM) interactions. No spin freezing down to 60 mK (despite θw ~ −4 K), the power-law temperature dependence of heat capacity and nonzero susceptibility at low temperatures suggest that YbMgGaO4 is a promising gapless (≤|θw|/100) QSL candidate. The residual spin entropy, which is accurately determined with a non-magnetic reference LuMgGaO4, approaches zero (<0.6%). This indicates that the possible QSL ground state (GS) of the frustrated spin system has been experimentally achieved at the lowest measurement temperatures.
Uric acid enhances the antitumor immunity of dendritic cell-based vaccine
Authors: Wang Yihan , Ma Xuelei , Su Chao , Peng Bin , Du Jing , Jia Hongyuan , Luo Min , Fang Chunju , Wei Yuquan
Published: November 2015

Uric acid (UA) released from dying cells has been recognized by the immune system as a danger signal. In response to UA, dendritic cells (DC) in the immune system mature and enhance the T cell response to foreign antigens. It is conceivable that the antitumor immunity of a tumor vaccine could be promoted by the administration of UA. To test this concept, we applied UA as an adjuvant to a DC-based vaccine and discovered that the administration of UA as an adjuvant significantly enhanced the ability of the tumor lysate-pulsed DC vaccine in delaying the tumor growth. The antitumor activity was achieved with adoptively transferred lymphocytes and both CD8+ T cells and NK cells were required to achieve effective immunity. This resulted in an increased accumulation of activated CD8+ T cells and an elevated production of IFN-γ. Collectively, our study shows that the administration of UA enhances the antitumor activity of tumor lysate-pulsed DC vaccine, thus providing the preclinical rationale for the application of UA in DC-based vaccine strategies.
Ice nucleation active particles are efficiently removed by precipitating clouds
Authors: Stopelli Emiliano , Conen Franz , Morris Cindy E. , Herrmann Erik , Bukowiecki Nicolas , Alewell Christine
Published: November 2015

Ice nucleation in cold clouds is a decisive step in the formation of rain and snow. Observations and modelling suggest that variations in the concentrations of ice nucleating particles (INPs) affect timing, location and amount of precipitation. A quantitative description of the abundance and variability of INPs is crucial to assess and predict their influence on precipitation. Here we used the hydrological indicator δ18O to derive the fraction of water vapour lost from precipitating clouds and correlated it with the abundance of INPs in freshly fallen snow. Results show that the number of INPs active at temperatures ≥ −10 °C (INPs−10) halves for every 10% of vapour lost through precipitation. Particles of similar size (>0.5 μm) halve in number for only every 20% of vapour lost, suggesting effective microphysical processing of INPs during precipitation. We show that INPs active at moderate supercooling are rapidly depleted by precipitating clouds, limiting their impact on subsequent rainfall development in time and space.
Evolution of solidification texture during additive manufacturing
Authors: Wei H. L. , Mazumder J. , DebRoy T.
Published: November 2015

Striking differences in the solidification textures of a nickel based alloy owing to changes in laser scanning pattern during additive manufacturing are examined based on theory and experimental data. Understanding and controlling texture are important because it affects mechanical and chemical properties. Solidification texture depends on the local heat flow directions and competitive grain growth in one of the six <100> preferred growth directions in face centered cubic alloys. Therefore, the heat flow directions are examined for various laser beam scanning patterns based on numerical modeling of heat transfer and fluid flow in three dimensions. Here we show that numerical modeling can not only provide a deeper understanding of the solidification growth patterns during the additive manufacturing, it also serves as a basis for customizing solidification textures which are important for properties and performance of components.
Strain induced piezoelectric effect in black phosphorus and MoS2 van der Waals heterostructure
Authors: Huang Le , Li Yan , Wei Zhongming , Li Jingbo
Published: November 2015

The structural, electronic, transport and optical properties of black phosphorus/MoS2 (BP/MoS2) van der Waals (vdw) heterostructure are investigated by using first principles calculations. The band gap of BP/MoS2 bilayer decreases with the applied normal compressive strain and a semiconductor-to-metal transition is observed when the applied strain is more than 0.85 Å. BP/MoS2 bilayer also exhibits modulation of its carrier effective mass and carrier concentration by the applied compressive strain, suggesting that mobility engineering and good piezoelectric effect can be realized in BP/MoS2 heterostructure. Because the type-II band alignment can facilitate the separation of photo-excited electrons and holes and it can benefit from the great absorption coefficient in ultra-violet region, the BP/MoS2 shows great potential to be a very efficient ultra-violet photodetector.
Training of Working Memory Impacts Neural Processing of Vocal Pitch Regulation
Authors: Li Weifeng , Guo Zhiqiang , Jones Jeffery A. , Huang Xiyan , Chen Xi , Liu Peng , Chen Shaozhen , Liu Hanjun
Published: November 2015

Working memory training can improve the performance of tasks that were not trained. Whether auditory-motor integration for voice control can benefit from working memory training, however, remains unclear. The present event-related potential (ERP) study examined the impact of working memory training on the auditory-motor processing of vocal pitch. Trained participants underwent adaptive working memory training using a digit span backwards paradigm, while control participants did not receive any training. Before and after training, both trained and control participants were exposed to frequency-altered auditory feedback while producing vocalizations. After training, trained participants exhibited significantly decreased N1 amplitudes and increased P2 amplitudes in response to pitch errors in voice auditory feedback. In addition, there was a significant positive correlation between the degree of improvement in working memory capacity and the post-pre difference in P2 amplitudes. Training-related changes in the vocal compensation, however, were not observed. There was no systematic change in either vocal or cortical responses for control participants. These findings provide evidence that working memory training impacts the cortical processing of feedback errors in vocal pitch regulation. This enhanced cortical processing may be the result of increased neural efficiency in the detection of pitch errors between the intended and actual feedback.
Genome-wide analysis implicates microRNAs and their target genes in the development of bipolar disorder
Authors: Forstner A J , Hofmann A , Maaser A , Sumer S , Khudayberdiev S , Mühleisen T W , Leber M , Schulze T G , Strohmaier J , Degenhardt F , Treutlein J , Mattheisen M , Schumacher J , Breuer R , Meier S , Herms S , Hoffmann P , Lacour A , Witt S H , Reif A , Müller-Myhsok B , Lucae S , Maier W , Schwarz M , Vedder H , Kammerer-Ciernioch J , Pfennig A , Bauer M , Hautzinger M , Moebus S , Priebe L , Sivalingam S , Verhaert A , Schulz H , Czerski P M , Hauser J , Lissowska J , Szeszenia-Dabrowska N , Brennan P , McKay J D , Wright A , Mitchell P B , Fullerton J M , Schofield P R , Montgomery G W , Medland S E , Gordon S D , Martin N G , Krasnov V , Chuchalin A , Babadjanova G , Pantelejeva G , Abramova L I , Tiganov A S , Polonikov A , Khusnutdinova E , Alda M , Cruceanu C , Rouleau G A , Turecki G , Laprise C , Rivas F , Mayoral F , Kogevinas M , Grigoroiu-Serbanescu M , Propping P , Becker T , Rietschel M , Cichon S , Schratt G , Nöthen M M
Published: November 2015

Bipolar disorder (BD) is a severe and highly heritable neuropsychiatric disorder with a lifetime prevalence of 1%. Molecular genetic studies have identified the first BD susceptibility genes. However, the disease pathways remain largely unknown. Accumulating evidence suggests that microRNAs, a class of small noncoding RNAs, contribute to basic mechanisms underlying brain development and plasticity, suggesting their possible involvement in the pathogenesis of several psychiatric disorders, including BD. In the present study, gene-based analyses were performed for all known autosomal microRNAs using the largest genome-wide association data set of BD to date (9747 patients and 14 278 controls). Associated and brain-expressed microRNAs were then investigated in target gene and pathway analyses. Functional analyses ofmiR-499andmiR-708were performed in rat hippocampal neurons. Ninety-eight of the six hundred nine investigated microRNAs showed nominally significantP-values, suggesting that BD-associated microRNAs might be enriched within known microRNA loci. After correction for multiple testing, nine microRNAs showed a significant association with BD. The most promising weremiR-499,miR-708andmiR-1908. Target gene and pathway analyses revealed 18 significant canonical pathways, including brain development and neuron projection. FormiR-499, four Bonferroni-corrected significant target genes were identified, including the genome-wide risk gene for psychiatric disorderCACNB2. First results of functional analyses in rat hippocampal neurons neither revealed nor excluded a major contribution ofmiR-499ormiR-708to dendritic spine morphogenesis. The present results suggest that research is warranted to elucidate the precise involvement of microRNAs and their downstream pathways in BD.
Effects of deep brain stimulation on prepulse inhibition in obsessive-compulsive disorder
Authors: Kohl S , Gruendler T O J , Huys D , Sildatke E , Dembek T A , Hellmich M , Vorderwulbecke M , Timmermann L , Ahmari S E , Klosterkoetter J , Jessen F , Sturm V , Visser-Vandewalle V , Kuhn J
Published: November 2015

Owing to a high response rate, deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the ventral striatal area has been approved for treatment-refractory obsessive-compulsive disorder (tr-OCD). Many basic issues regarding DBS for tr-OCD are still not understood, in particular, the mechanisms of action and the origin of side effects. We measured prepulse inhibition (PPI) in treatment-refractory OCD patients undergoing DBS of the nucleus accumbens (NAcc) and matched controls. As PPI has been used in animal DBS studies, it is highly suitable for translational research. Eight patients receiving DBS, eight patients with pharmacological treatment and eight age-matched healthy controls participated in our study. PPI was measured twice in the DBS group: one session with the stimulator switched on and one session with the stimulator switched off. OCD patients in the pharmacologic group took part in a single session. Controls were tested twice, to ensure stability of data. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences between controls and (1) patients with pharmacological treatment and (2) OCD DBS patients when the stimulation was switched off. Switching the stimulator on led to an increase in PPI at a stimulus-onset asynchrony of 200 ms. There was no significant difference in PPI between OCD patients being stimulated and the control group. This study shows that NAcc-DBS leads to an increase in PPI in tr-OCD patients towards a level seen in healthy controls. Assuming that PPI impairments partially reflect the neurobiological substrates of OCD, our results show that DBS of the NAcc may improve sensorimotor gating via correction of dysfunctional neural substrates. Bearing in mind that PPI is based on a complex and multilayered network, our data confirm that DBS most likely takes effect via network modulation.
Isolation and enrichment of circulating biomarkers for cancer screening, detection, and diagnostics
Authors: Hyun Kyung-A , Kim Junmoo , Gwak Hogyeong , Jung Hyo-Il
Published: November 2015

A liquid biopsy is more practical for real-time monitoring of disease progression than tissue biopsy.
Analysis of latex protein content by liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC/MS/MS)
Authors: Witkowski Bartłomiej , Szabłowska Aneta , Malesa Monika , Ganeczko Monika , Biesaga Magdalena , Kalita Michał , Gierczak Tomasz
Published: November 2015

Quantification of raw latex and latex glove proteins was carried out by liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry.
Noninvasive imaging of embryonic stem cell cultures by multiphoton microscopy reveals the significance of collagen hydrogel preparation parameters
Authors: Lang Xuye , Spousta Matthew , Hwang Yu Jer , Lyubovitsky Julia G.
Published: November 2015

Imaging discovers implications for impaired collagen and other biomaterials' functions during culturing embryonic stem cells in and on them.
A dual thermal and photo-switchable shrinking–swelling supramolecular peptide dendron gel
Authors: Xie Fan , Qin Long , Liu Minghua
Published: November 2015

A dual thermal and photo-switchable shrinking–swelling supramolecular gel was fabricated through the co-assembly of an l-glutamic acid terminated amphiphilic dendron and a positively charged azobenzene derivative.
Porous cationic polymers: the impact of counteranions and charges on CO2capture and conversion
Authors: Buyukcakir Onur , Je Sang Hyun , Choi Dong Shin , Talapaneni Siddulu Naiudu , Seo Yongbeom , Jung Yousung , Polychronopoulou Kyriaki , Coskun Ali
Published: November 2015

Porous cationic polymers (PCPs) with surface areas up to 755 m2g−1bearing positively charged viologen units in their backbones and different counteranions have been prepared.
Mesoporous BaSnO3 layer based perovskite solar cells
Authors: Zhu Liangzheng , Shao Zhipeng , Ye Jiajiu , Zhang Xuhui , Pan Xu , Dai Songyuan
Published: November 2015

Perovskite oxide BaSnO3 with high electron mobility and a perovskite structure was first used as an electron-transporting layer in perovskite solar cells. After optimization, the resulting mp-BSO device can perform as well as the mp-TiO2 one and even better.
Electrical conductance and structure of copper atomic junctions in the presence of water molecules
Authors: Li Yu , Demir Firuz , Kaneko Satoshi , Fujii Shintaro , Nishino Tomoaki , Saffarzadeh Alireza , Kirczenow George , Kiguchi Manabu
Published: November 2015

We have investigated Cu atomic contacts in the presence of H2O both experimentally and theoretically.
The vibrational spectroscopy of the coordinated azide anion; a theoretical study
Authors: Diana Eliano , Gatterer Karl , Kettle Sidney F. A.
Published: November 2015

DFT has been used to model azide complexes and related model systems, in order to provide an understanding of azide vibrational spectra. The spectra are controlled by the charge distributions and the metal involved. This means that a group theory-based approach will seldom enable an interpretation, even though the azide groups are commonly vibrationally coupled.
Switchable Fe/Co Prussian blue networks and molecular analogues
Authors: Aguilà David , Prado Yoann , Koumousi Evangelia S. , Mathonière Corine , Clérac Rodolphe
Published: November 2015

Switchable Fe/Co Prussian blue compounds and their low dimensional analogues displaying thermally and photo-induced electron transfer phenomena are reviewed.
Direction to practical production of hydrogen by formic acid dehydrogenation with Cp*Ir complexes bearing imidazoline ligands
Authors: Onishi Naoya , Ertem Mehmed Z. , Xu Shaoan , Tsurusaki Akihiro , Manaka Yuichi , Muckerman James T. , Fujita Etsuko , Himeda Yuichiro
Published: November 2015

A Cp*Ir complex with pyridyl-imidazoline achieved the quantity production of 1 m3 of H2/CO2 gases from only HCO2H in water without any additives.
Synthesis and structures of mononuclear and dinuclear gallium complexes with α-diimine ligands: reduction of the metal or ligand?
Authors: Zhao Yanxia , Liu Yanyan , Li Qian-Shu , Su Ji-Hu
Published: November 2015

A series of gallium complexes with different oxidation states of ligand and metal were obtained, both monoanionic and dianionic ligands can be further reduced, where reduction of the radical monoanionic α-diimine ligand into dianion or of Ga (+3) into the lower oxidation state Ga (+2) or Ga (+1.5) takes place.
Unusual stability of dyads during photochemical hydrogen production
Authors: Prock J. , Strabler C. , Viertl W. , Kopacka H. , Obendorf D. , Müller T. , Tordin E. , Salzl S. , Knör G. , Mauro M. , De Cola L. , Brüggeller P.
Published: November 2015

Heterodimetallic dyads containing Os and Pd are connected by a bis(bidentate) phosphine and show an excellent stability for the water splitting application.
Identification, structural characterization and transformations of the high-temperature Zn9−δSb7 phase in the Zn–Sb system
Authors: He Allan , Svitlyk Volodymyr , Chernyshov Dmitry , Mozharivskyj Yurij
Published: November 2015

The Zn9Sb7 phase stable between 514 and 581 °C has structural features of both ZnSb and Zn13Sb10.
Reversible hydrogen activation by a bulky haloborane based FLP system
Authors: Courtemanche Marc-André , Rochette Étienne , Légaré Marc-André , Bi Wenhua , Fontaine Frédéric-Georges
Published: November 2015

The FLP species bis(2-(TMP)phenyl)chloroborane was prepared as a monomeric Frustrated Lewis Pair displaying no B–N interaction. Species 1 reacts with H2 to generate reversibly the zwitterionic H2 activation product.
Comparing gas separation performance between all known zeolites and their zeolitic imidazolate framework counterparts
Authors: Gómez-Álvarez Paula , Hamad Said , Haranczyk Maciej , Ruiz-Salvador A. Rabdel , Calero Sofia
Published: November 2015

Candidate structures for environmental and industrial gas separations. No correlation between zeolites and their respective Zeolitic Imidazolate framework counterparts.
A novel cross-linked nano-coating for carbon dioxide capture
Authors: Fu Qiang , Kim Jinguk , Gurr Paul A. , Scofield Joel M. P. , Kentish Sandra E. , Qiao Greg G.
Published: November 2015

Defect-free and cross-linked ultra-thin (sub 100 nm) film composite membranes have been prepared. The membrane materials formed exhibited significantly high CO2 permeances of over 1200 GPU as well as excellent CO2/N2 selectivity of over 40.
Effects of pH and dissolved oxygen on the photodegradation of 17α-ethynylestradiol in dissolved humic acid solution
Authors: Ren Dong , Huang Bin , Bi Tingting , Xiong Dan , Pan Xuejun
Published: November 2015

This study explored the mechanisms responsible for pH and dissolved oxygen (DO) affecting the photodegradation of EE2 in dissolved humic acid (HA) solution.
Enhancement of carotenoid bioaccessibility from carrots using excipient emulsions: influence of particle size of digestible lipid droplets
Authors: Zhang Ruojie , Zhang Zipei , Zou Liqiang , Xiao Hang , Zhang Guodong , Decker Eric Andrew , McClements David Julian
Published: November 2015

The influence of initial lipid droplet size on the ability of excipient emulsions to increase carotenoid bioaccessibility from carrots was investigated using a simulated gastrointestinal tract (GIT).
Oxidative “reverse-esterification” of ethanol with benzyl/alkyl alcohols or aldehydes catalyzed by supported rhodium nanoparticles
Authors: Guha Nitul Ranjan , Sharma Saurabh , Bhattacherjee Dhananjay , Thakur Vandna , Bharti Richa , Reddy C. Bal , Das Pralay
Published: November 2015

A very unusual role of polystyrene stabilized rhodium (Rh@PS) nanoparticles as a supported catalyst is described for “reverse-esterification” of ethanol with benzyl/alkyl alcohols or aldehydes.
Room temperature synthesis of flower-like CaCO3 architectures
Authors: Yang Lu-feng , Chu De-qing , Sun Hui-lou , Ge Ge
Published: November 2015

A proposed hierarchical self-assembly mechanism of the formation of flower-like vaterite superstructures.
Complexes of {Mo6I8} with nitrophenolates: synthesis and luminescence
Authors: Mikhailov Maksim A. , Brylev Konstantin A. , Virovets Alexandr V. , Gallyamov Marsel R. , Novozhilov Igor , Sokolov Maxim N.
Published: November 2015

New bright-red luminescent nitrophenolate complexes (Bu4N)2[{Mo6I8}(OR)6] (R = C6H4-p-(NO2), C6H3-2,4-(NO2)2) have been prepared from (Bu4N)2[{Mo6I8}I6] and AgOR, characterized by X-ray analysis, UV-Vis and IR spectroscopies and ESI-mass spectrometry.
Microwave-assisted synthesis of bovine serum albumin–gold nanoclusters and their fluorescence-quenched sensing of Hg2+ ions
Authors: Hsu Nai-Yue , Lin Yang-Wei
Published: November 2015

Fluorescence sensing of Hg2+ ions by BSA–Au NCs based on the metallophilic interaction between Hg2+ and Au+ ions.
Arylation of thiacalix[4]arenes using organomercurial intermediates
Authors: Botha F. , Eigner V. , Dvořáková H. , Lhoták P.
Published: November 2015

Direct mercuration of thiacalix[4]arenes immobilized in the cone or 1,3-alternate conformations followed by Pd-catalyzed arylation was applied to achieve either meta- or para-substitution of basic skeletons.
Facile preparation of supramolecular ionogels exhibiting high temperature durability as solid electrolytes
Authors: Zhou Tao , Gao Xinpei , Lu Fei , Sun Na , Zheng Liqiang
Published: November 2015

Facilely prepared supramolecular ionogels can remain in the gel state at high temperature and exhibit high conductivity and relatively low activation energy.
Enhanced polarization by the coherent heterophase interface between polar and non-polar phases
Authors: Kim Gi-Yeop , Sung Kil-Dong , Rhyim Youngmok , Yoon Seog-Young , Kim Min-Soo , Jeong Soon-Jong , Kim Kwang-Ho , Ryu Jungho , Kim Sung-Dae , Choi Si-Young
Published: November 2015

The electric polarization behavior of a Bi-based piezoelectric ceramic is tuned by building a polar (core)/non-polar (shell) heterostructure.
Mechanism of periodic height variations along self-aligned VLS-grown planar nanostructures
Authors: Steele J. A. , Horvat J. , Lewis R. A. , Henini M. , Fan D. , Mazur Yu. I. , Dorogan V. G. , Grant P. C. , Yu S.-Q. , Salamo G. J.
Published: November 2015

In this study we report in-plane nanotracks produced by molecular-beam-epitaxy (MBE) exhibiting lateral self-assembly and unusual periodic and out-of-phase height variations across their growth axes.
Exciton band structure in layered MoSe2: from a monolayer to the bulk limit
Authors: Arora Ashish , Nogajewski Karol , Molas Maciej , Koperski Maciej , Potemski Marek
Published: November 2015

Fano-resonance like shape of A-resonance in MoSe2 monolayer indicates the effects of interactions between A-exciton and excited states of trion.
Synthesis and anti-cancer activity of 1,4-disubstituted imidazo[4,5-c]quinolines
Authors: Thigulla Yadagiri , Akula Mahesh , Trivedi Prakruti , Ghosh Balaram , Jha Mukund , Bhattacharya Anupam
Published: November 2015

Synthesis of 4-substituted imidazo[4,5-c]quinolines using a Yb(OTf)3 catalyzed modified Pictet–Spengler reaction as the key final step.
Selective recognition of neutral guests in an aqueous medium by a biomimetic calix[6]cryptamide receptor
Authors: Lascaux Angélique , Leener Gaël De , Fusaro Luca , Topić Filip , Rissanen Kari , Luhmer Michel , Jabin Ivan
Published: November 2015

A hydrophilic calix[6]cryptamide decorated with oligo(ethylene glycol) units was synthesized. This compound behaves as a biomimetic receptor for neutral guests in an aqueous medium.
Correction: Synthesis and antibiotic activity of oxazolidinone–catechol conjugates against Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Paulen Aurélie , Gasser Véronique , Hoegy Françoise , Perraud Quentin , Pesset Bénédicte , Schalk Isabelle J. , Mislin Gaëtan L. A.
Published: November 2015

Correction for ‘Synthesis and antibiotic activity of oxazolidinone–catechol conjugates against Pseudomonas aeruginosa’ by Aurélie Paulen, et al., Org. Biomol. Chem., 2016, DOI: 10.1039/c5ob01859e.
Construction and thermal properties of nano-structured polymer bonded explosives with graphene
Authors: Lin Congmei , He Guansong , Liu Jiahui , Pan Liping , Liu Shijun
Published: November 2015

The addition of graphene is a simple and novel route for improving the thermal conductivity of polymer bonded explosives.
Tuning SEI formation on nanoporous carbon–titania composite sodium ion batteries anodes and performance with subtle processing changes
Authors: Lee Jeongwoo , Chen Yu-Ming , Zhu Yu , Vogt Bryan D.
Published: November 2015

SEI formation on porous TiO2–carbon composites is sensitive to the structure, which can be tuned by the composition of the precursor slurry or the molecular weight of the porogen polymer.
Hydrogen-bond assisted, aggregation-induced emission of digitonin
Authors: Mathew Meegle S. , Sreenivasan K. , Joseph Kuruvilla
Published: November 2015

Weakly luminescent glycoside digitonin luminesces strongly after treatment with strong base. This is attributed to the hydrogen bonding interaction between deprotonated digitonin molecules, which lead to restricted rotation around the single bond.
Influence of engine operating variable on combustion to reduce exhaust emissions using various biodiesels blend
Authors: Wakil M. A. , Masjuki H. H. , Kalam M. A. , Teoh Y. H. , How H. G. , Imtenan S.
Published: November 2015

This study focused mainly on the behavior of biodiesel operated under various operating conditions.
Polyimides as metal-free catalysts for organic dye degradation in the presence peroxymonosulfate under visible light irradiation
Authors: Tao Yufang , Wei Mingyu , Xia Dongsheng , Xu Aihua , Li Xiaoxia
Published: November 2015

Polyimide was demonstrated as a stable metal-free photocatalyst to activate peroxymonosulfate with visible light for the degradation of organic dyes.