bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exposure history determines pteropod vulnerability to ocean acidification along the US West Coast
Authors: Bednaršek N. , Feely R. A. , Tolimieri N. , Hermann A. J. , Siedlecki S. A. , Waldbusser G. G. , McElhany P. , Alin S. R. , Klinger T. , Moore-Maley B. , Pörtner H. O.
Published: June 2017

The pteropod Limacina helicina frequently experiences seasonal exposure to corrosive conditions (Ωar  < 1) along the US West Coast and is recognized as one of the species most susceptible to ocean acidification (OA). Yet, little is known about their capacity to acclimatize to such conditions. We collected pteropods in the California Current Ecosystem (CCE) that differed in the severity of exposure to Ωar conditions in the natural environment. Combining field observations, high-CO2 perturbation experiment results, and retrospective ocean transport simulations, we investigated biological responses based on histories of magnitude and duration of exposure to Ωar < 1. Our results suggest that both exposure magnitude and duration affect pteropod responses in the natural environment. However, observed declines in calcification performance and survival probability under high CO2 experimental conditions do not show acclimatization capacity or physiological tolerance related to history of exposure to corrosive conditions. Pteropods from the coastal CCE appear to be at or near the limit of their physiological capacity, and consequently, are already at extinction risk under projected acceleration of OA over the next 30 years. Our results demonstrate that Ωar exposure history largely determines pteropod response to experimental conditions and is essential to the interpretation of biological observations and experimental results.
9-cis retinoic acid induces neurorepair in stroke brain
Authors: Yu Seong-Jin , Airavaara Mikko , Wu Kuo-Jen , Harvey Brandon K , Liu H. S. , Yang Yihong , Zacharek Alex , Chen Jieli , Wang Yun
Published: June 2017

The purpose of this study was to examine the neurorestorative effect of delayed 9 cis retinoic acid (9cRA) treatment for stroke. Adult male rats received a 90-min right distal middle cerebral artery occlusion (dMCAo). Animals were separated into two groups with similar infarction sizes, based on magnetic resonance imaging on day 2 after dMCAo. 9cRA or vehicle was given via an intranasal route daily starting from day 3. Stroke rats receiving 9cRA post-treatment showed an increase in brain 9cRA levels and greater recovery in motor function. 9cRA enhanced the proliferation of bromodeoxyuridine (+) cells in the subventricular zone (SVZ) and lesioned cortex in the stroke brain. Using subventricular neurosphere and matrigel cultures, we demonstrated that proliferation and migration of SVZ neuroprogenitor cells were enhanced by 9cRA. Our data support a delayed and non-invasive drug therapy for stroke. Intranasal 9cRA can facilitate the functional recovery and endogenous repair in the ischemic brain.
E3 ubiquitin ligase Nedd4 inhibits AP-1 activity and TNF-α production through targeting p38α for polyubiquitination and subsequent degradation
Authors: Liu Qingjun , Zhang Shihui , Chen Gan , Zhou Hong
Published: June 2017

p38α plays an important role in many inflammatory diseases, such as skin inflammation, endotoxic shock and arthritis. Ubiquitination is a vital posttranslational modification of proteins and plays a crucial regulatory role in inflammatory cells. It has been reported that ubiquitination of Tak1 and TAB1 upstream of p38α can regulate p38α activation respectively. However, p38α ubiquitination is not yet clear. In this paper, we showed that E3 ubiquitin ligase Nedd4 is a regulatory component of the p38α pathway and is responsible for polyubiquitination of p38α through K48-linked and K63-linked polyubiquitination. The levels of p38α and its downstream target TNF-α were increased in Nedd4 deficient macrophages response to LPS compared with wild-type cells. AP-1 activity and degradation of p38α were induced by Nedd4 in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, we found that phosphorylation of p38α is involved in the interactions between p38α and Nedd4 and subsequently promotes polyubiquitination of p38α, especially K48-linked polyubiquitination by Nedd4. The different conformation of two p38α isoforms (p38αV1 and p38αV2) might be the cause of their different interactions with Nedd4 and their polyubiquitination sites by Nedd4. Thus, NEDD4 is a previously unknown component of the p38α signaling complex necessary for TNF-α activation.
Commensal-to-pathogen transition: One-single transposon insertion results in two pathoadaptive traits in Escherichia coli -macrophage interaction
Authors: Proença João T. , Barral Duarte C. , Gordo Isabel
Published: June 2017

Escherichia coli is both a harmless commensal in the intestines of many mammals, as well as a dangerous pathogen. The evolutionary paths taken by strains of this species in the commensal-to-pathogen transition are complex and can involve changes both in the core genome, as well in the pan-genome. One way to understand the likely paths that a commensal strain of E. coli takes when evolving pathogenicity is through experimentally evolving the strain under the selective pressures that it will have to withstand as a pathogen. Here, we report that a commensal strain, under continuous pressure from macrophages, recurrently acquired a transposable element insertion, which resulted in two key phenotypic changes: increased intracellular survival, through the delay of phagosome maturation and increased ability to escape macrophages. We further show that the acquisition of the pathoadaptive traits was accompanied by small but significant changes in the transcriptome of macrophages upon infection. These results show that under constant pressures from a key component of the host immune system, namely macrophage phagocytosis, commensal E. coli rapidly acquires pathoadaptive mutations that cause transcriptome changes associated to the host-microbe duet.
Syncytiotrophoblast derived extracellular vesicles transfer functional placental miRNAs to primary human endothelial cells
Authors: Cronqvist Tina , Tannetta Dionne , Mörgelin Matthias , Belting Mattias , Sargent Ian , Familari Mary , Hansson Stefan R.
Published: June 2017

During the pregnancy associated syndrome preeclampsia (PE), there is increased release of placental syncytiotrophoblast extracellular vesicles (STBEVs) and free foetal haemoglobin (HbF) into the maternal circulation. In the present study we investigated the uptake of normal and PE STBEVs by primary human coronary artery endothelial cells (HCAEC) and the effects of free HbF on this uptake. Our results show internalization of STBEVs into primary HCAEC, and transfer of placenta specific miRNAs from STBEVs into the endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria of these recipient cells. Further, the transferred miRNAs were functional, causing a down regulation of specific target genes, including the PE associated gene fms related tyrosine kinase 1 (FLT1). When co-treating normal STBEVs with HbF, the miRNA deposition is altered from the mitochondria to the ER and the cell membrane becomes ruffled, as was also seen with PE STBEVs. These findings suggest that STBEVs may cause endothelial damage and contribute to the endothelial dysfunction typical for PE. The miRNA mediated effects on gene expression may contribute to the oxidative and endoplasmic reticulum stress described in PE, as well as endothelial reprogramming that may underlay the increased risk of cardiovascular disease reported for women with PE later in life.
Conformable Holographic Metasurfaces
Authors: Burch James , Wen Dandan , Chen Xianzhong , Di Falco Andrea
Published: June 2017

Metasurface holograms are typically fabricated on rigid substrates. Here we experimentally demonstrate broadband, flexible, conformable, helicity multiplexed metasurface holograms operating in the visible range, offering increased potential for real life out-of-the-lab applications. Two symmetrically distributed holographic images are obtained when circularly polarized light impinges on the reflective-type metasurface positioned on non-planar targets. The two off-axis images with high fidelity are interchangeable by controlling the helicity of incident light. Our metasurface features the arrangement of spatially varying gold nanorods on a flexible, conformable epoxy resist membrane to realize a Pancharatnam-Berry phase profile. These results pave the way to practical applications including polarization manipulation, beam steering, novel lenses, and holographic displays.
Heterologous expression of the yeast Tpo1p or Pdr5p membrane transporters in Arabidopsis confers plant xenobiotic tolerance
Authors: Remy Estelle , Niño-González María , Godinho Cláudia P. , Cabrito Tânia R. , Teixeira Miguel C. , Sá-Correia Isabel , Duque Paula
Published: June 2017

Soil contamination is a major hindrance for plant growth and development. The lack of effective strategies to remove chemicals released into the environment has raised the need to increase plant resilience to soil pollutants. Here, we investigated the ability of two Saccharomyces cerevisiae plasma-membrane transporters, the Major Facilitator Superfamily (MFS) member Tpo1p and the ATP-Binding Cassette (ABC) protein Pdr5p, to confer Multiple Drug Resistance (MDR) in Arabidopsis thaliana. Transgenic plants expressing either of the yeast transporters were undistinguishable from the wild type under control conditions, but displayed tolerance when challenged with the herbicides 2,4-D and barban. Plants expressing ScTPO1 were also more resistant to the herbicides alachlor and metolachlor as well as to the fungicide mancozeb and the Co2+, Cu2+, Ni2+, Al3+ and Cd2+ cations, while ScPDR5-expressing plants exhibited tolerance to cycloheximide. Yeast mutants lacking Tpo1p or Pdr5p showed increased sensitivity to most of the agents tested in plants. Our results demonstrate that the S. cerevisiae Tpo1p and Pdr5p transporters are able to mediate resistance to a broad range of compounds of agricultural interest in yeast as well as in Arabidopsis, underscoring their potential in future biotechnological applications.
Pancreatic cancer: Circulating Tumor Cells and Primary Tumors show Heterogeneous KRAS Mutations
Authors: Kulemann Birte , Rösch Stephanie , Seifert Sindy , Timme Sylvia , Bronsert Peter , Seifert Gabriel , Martini Verena , Kuvendjiska Jasmina , Glatz Torben , Hussung Saskia , Fritsch Ralph , Becker Heiko , Pitman Martha B. , Hoeppner Jens
Published: June 2017

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a devastating disease. Circulating tumor cells (CTC) in the blood are hypothesized as the means of systemic tumor spread. Blood obtained from healthy donors and patients with PDAC was therefore subject to size-based CTC-isolation. We additionally compared Kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene homolog (KRAS) mutations in pancreatic CTC and corresponding tumors, and evaluated their significance as prognostic markers. Samples from 68 individuals (58 PDAC patients, 10 healthy donors) were analyzed; CTCs were present in patients with UICC stage IA-IV tumors and none of the controls (p < 0.001). Patients with >3 CTC/ml had a trend for worse median overall survival (OS) than patients with 0.3–3 CTC/ml (P = 0.12). Surprisingly, CTCs harbored various KRAS mutations in codon 12 and 13. Patients with a KRASG12V mutation in their CTC (n = 14) had a trend to better median OS (24.5 months) compared to patients with other (10 months), or no detectable KRAS mutations (8 months; P = 0.04). KRAS mutations in CTC and corresponding tumor were discordant in 11 of 26 “tumor-CTC-pairs” (42%), while 15 (58%) had a matching mutation; survival was similar in both groups (P = 0.36). Genetic characterization, including mutations such as KRAS, may prove useful for prognosis and understanding of tumor biology.
The impact of the butterfly effect on human parainfluenza virus haemagglutinin-neuraminidase inhibitor design
Authors: Dirr Larissa , El-Deeb Ibrahim M. , Chavas Leonard M. G. , Guillon Patrice , Itzstein Mark von
Published: June 2017

Human parainfluenza viruses represent a leading cause of lower respiratory tract disease in children, with currently no available approved drug or vaccine. The viral surface glycoprotein haemagglutinin-neuraminidase (HN) represents an ideal antiviral target. Herein, we describe the first structure-based study on the rearrangement of key active site amino acid residues by an induced opening of the 216-loop, through the accommodation of appropriately functionalised neuraminic acid-based inhibitors. We discovered that the rearrangement is influenced by the degree of loop opening and is controlled by the neuraminic acid’s C-4 substituent’s size (large or small). In this study, we found that these rearrangements induce a butterfly effect of paramount importance in HN inhibitor design and define criteria for the ideal substituent size in two different categories of HN inhibitors and provide novel structural insight into the druggable viral HN protein.
Element-Specific Orbital Character in a Nearly-Free-Electron Superconductor Ag5Pb2O6 Revealed by Core-Level Photoemission
Authors: Sinn Soobin , Lee Kyung Dong , Won Choong Jae , Oh Ji Seop , Han Moonsup , Chang Young Jun , Hur Namjung , Park Byeong-Gyu , Kim Changyoung , Kim Hyeong-Do , Noh Tae Won
Published: June 2017

Ag5Pb2O6 has attracted attentions due to its novel nearly-free-electron superconductivity, but its electronic structure and orbital character of the Cooper-pair electrons remain controversial. Here, we present a method utilizing core-level photoemission to show that Pb 6s electrons dominate near the Fermi level. We observe a strongly asymmetric Pb 4 f7/2 core-level spectrum, while a Ag 3d5/2 spectrum is well explained by two symmetric peaks. The asymmetry in the Pb 4 f7/2 spectrum originates from the local attractive interaction between conducting Pb 6s electrons and a Pb 4 f7/2 core hole, which implies a dominant Pb 6s contribution to the metallic conduction. In addition, the observed Pb 4 f7/2 spectrum is not explained by the well-known Doniach-Šunjić lineshape for a simple metal. The spectrum is successfully generated by employing a Pb 6s partial density of states from local density approximation calculations, thus confirming the Pb 6s dominant character and free-electron-like density of states of Ag5Pb2O6.
Empathy skill-dependent modulation of working memory by painful scene
Authors: Chen Mo , Wang Yuan-Zheng , Ma Chen-Chen , Li Qi-Ze , Zhou Han , Fu Jie , Yang Qian-Qian , Zhang Yong-Mei , Liu Yu , Cao Jun-Li
Published: June 2017

As an important online information retaining and processing function, working memory plays critical roles in many other cognitive functions. Several long-term factors, such as age, addiction and diseases, have been affirmed to impair working memory, but whether or how the short-term factors, like painful stimuli or emotions, regulate the human working memory ability is not well explored. Here we investigated the influences of empathic pain on upcoming working memory and existing working memory, by presenting human subjects with the pictures depicting painful or neutral scene. After separating the subjects into two groups, the more empathic group and relatively indifferent group, according to a well-accepted questionnaire (the Interpersonal Reactivity Index (IRI)), the modulatory effect emerged. Empathic pain might exerted either a facilitating effect or an impairing effect, which was closely correlated with the personal empathy skills. Meanwhile, different aspects of subjects’ empathy traits exerted distinct effects, and female subjects were more vulnerable than male subjects. Present study reveals a new modulatory manner of the working memory, via empathy skill-dependent painful experience.
Failure of phylogeny inferred from multilocus sequence typing to represent bacterial phylogeny
Authors: Tsang Alan K. L. , Lee Hwei Huih , Yiu Siu-Ming , Lau Susanna K. P. , Woo Patrick C. Y.
Published: June 2017

Although multilocus sequence typing (MLST) is highly discriminatory and useful for outbreak investigations and epidemiological surveillance, it has always been controversial whether clustering and phylogeny inferred from the MLST gene loci can represent the real phylogeny of bacterial strains. In this study, we compare the phylogenetic trees constructed using three approaches, (1) concatenated blocks of homologous sequence shared between the bacterial genomes, (2) genome single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) profile and (3) concatenated nucleotide sequences of gene loci in the corresponding MLST schemes, for 10 bacterial species with >30 complete genome sequences available. Major differences in strain clustering at more than one position were observed between the phylogeny inferred using genome/SNP data and MLST for all 10 bacterial species. Shimodaira-Hasegawa test revealed significant difference between the topologies of the genome and MLST trees for nine of the 10 bacterial species, and significant difference between the topologies of the SNP and MLST trees were present for all 10 bacterial species. Matching Clusters and R-F Clusters metrics showed that the distances between the genome/SNP and MLST trees were larger than those between the SNP and genome trees. Phylogeny inferred from MLST failed to represent genome phylogeny with the same bacterial species.
Chronic stress and intestinal barrier dysfunction: Glucocorticoid receptor and transcription repressor HES1 regulate tight junction protein Claudin-1 promoter
Authors: Zheng Gen , Victor Fon Gordon , Meixner Walter , Creekmore Amy , Zong Ye , K. Dame Michael , Colacino Justin , Dedhia Priya H. , Hong Shuangsong , Wiley John W.
Published: June 2017

Chronic stress and elevated glucocorticoid hormone are associated with decreases in the intestinal epithelial tight junction protein claudin-1 (CLDN1). Human/rat CLDN1 promoters contain glucocorticoid response elements (GREs) and adjacent transcription repressor HES1 binding N-boxes. Notch signaling target HES1 expression was high and glucocorticoid receptor (NR3C1) low at the crypt base and the pattern reversed at the crypt apex. Chronic stress reduced overall rat colon HES1 and NR3C1 that was associated with CLDN1 downregulation. Chromatin-immunoprecipitation experiments showed that HES1 and NR3C1 bind to the CLDN1 promoter in rat colon crypts. The binding of NR3C1 but not HES1 to CLDN1 promoter significantly decreased in chronically stressed animals, which was prevented by the NR3C1 antagonist RU486. We employed the 21-day Caco-2/BBe cell model to replicate cell differentiation along the crypt axis. HES1 siRNA treatment early in differentiation increased CLDN1. In contrast, stress levels of cortisol decreased CLDN1 in late differentiation stage but not in the early stage. HES1 was high, whereas NR3C1 and CLDN1 were low in the early stage which reversed in the late stage, e.g. HES1/NR3C1 binding to CLDN1 promoter demonstrates a dynamic and reciprocal pattern. These results suggest that chronic stress impairs colon epithelium homeostasis and barrier function via different mechanisms along the crypt axis.
Sea ice phenology and primary productivity pulses shape breeding success in Arctic seabirds
Authors: Ramírez Francisco , Tarroux Arnaud , Hovinen Johanna , Navarro Joan , Afán Isabel , Forero Manuela G. , Descamps Sébastien
Published: June 2017

Spring sea ice phenology regulates the timing of the two consecutive pulses of marine autotrophs that form the base of the Arctic marine food webs. This timing has been suggested to be the single most essential driver of secondary production and the efficiency with which biomass and energy are transferred to higher trophic levels. We investigated the chronological sequence of productivity pulses and its potential cascading impacts on the reproductive performance of the High Arctic seabird community from Svalbard, Norway. We provide evidence that interannual changes in the seasonal patterns of marine productivity may impact the breeding performance of little auks and Brünnich’s guillemots. These results may be of particular interest given that current global warming trends in the Barents Sea region predict one of the highest rates of sea ice loss within the circumpolar Arctic. However, local- to regional-scale heterogeneity in sea ice melting phenology may add uncertainty to predictions of climate-driven environmental impacts on seabirds. Indeed, our fine-scale analysis reveals that the inshore Brünnich’s guillemots are facing a slower advancement in the timing of ice melt compared to the offshore-foraging little auks. We provide a suitable framework for analyzing the effects of climate-driven sea ice disappearance on seabird fitness.
Increased methylation and decreased expression of homeobox genes TLX1, HOXA10 and DLX5 in human placenta are associated with trophoblast differentiation
Authors: Novakovic Boris , Fournier Thierry , Harris Lynda K. , James Joanna , Roberts Claire T. , Yong Hannah E. J. , Kalionis Bill , Evain-Brion Danièle , Ebeling Peter R. , Wallace Euan M. , Saffery Richard , Murthi Padma
Published: June 2017

Homeobox genes regulate embryonic and placental development, and are widely expressed in the human placenta, but their regulatory control by DNA methylation is unclear. DNA methylation analysis was performed on human placentae from first, second and third trimesters to determine methylation patterns of homeobox gene promoters across gestation. Most homeobox genes were hypo-methylated throughout gestation, suggesting that DNA methylation is not the primary mechanism involved in regulating HOX genes expression in the placenta. Nevertheless, several genes showed variable methylation patterns across gestation, with a general trend towards an increase in methylation over gestation. Three genes (TLX1, HOXA10 and DLX5) showed inverse gains of methylation with decreasing mRNA expression throughout pregnancy, supporting a role for DNA methylation in their regulation. Proteins encoded by these genes were primarily localised to the syncytiotrophoblast layer, and showed decreased expression later in gestation. siRNA mediated downregulation of DLX5, TLX1 and HOXA10 in primary term villous cytotrophoblast resulted in decreased proliferation and increased expression of differentiation markers, including ERVW-1. Our data suggest that loss of DLX5, TLX1 and HOXA10 expression in late gestation is required for proper placental differentiation and function.
Re-distribution of oxygen at the interface between γ-Al2O3 and TiN
Authors: Filatova E. O. , Konashuk A. S. , Sakhonenkov S. S. , Sokolov A. A. , Afanas’ev V. V.
Published: June 2017

Interface of TiN electrode with γ-Al2O3 layers was studied using near edge X-ray absorption fine structure, conventional X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and photoelectron spectroscopy with high energies. Despite the atomic-layer deposited Al2O3 being converted into thermodynamically-stable polycrystalline cubic γ-phase by high-temperature (1000 or 1100 °C) anneal, our results reveal formation of a thin TiNxOy (≈1-nm thick) interlayer at the interface between γ-Al2O3 film and TiN electrode due to oxygen scavenging from γ-Al2O3 film. Formation of the TiO2 was not observed at this interface. As environmental effect, a strong oxidation resulting in formation of a TiO2(1.4 nm)/TiNxOy(0.9 nm) overlayers on the top of the TiN electrode is traced. Development of O-deficiency of γ-Al2O3 is observed and related to the polarization anisotropy due to the preferential orientation of spin states involved in the X-ray absorption in the plane parallel to the surface. Investigation of the TiN electrode reveals the predominantly “stretched” octahedra in its structure with the preferential orientation relative the interface with γ-Al2O3. This anisotropy can be correlated with ≈200 meV electron barrier height increase at the O-deficient TiN/γ-Al2O3 interface as compared to the TiN/γ-Al2O3 barrier formed under abundant oxidant supply condition as revealed by internal photoemission of electrons from TiN into the oxide.
Investigation of multilevel data storage in silicon-based polycrystalline ferroelectric tunnel junction
Authors: Hou Pengfei , Wang Jinbin , Zhong Xiangli
Published: June 2017

Multilevel data ferroelectric tunnel junction is a breakthrough for further improving the storage density of ferroelectric random access memories. However, the application of these ferroelectric tunnel junctions is limited by high cost of epitaxial perovskite heterostructures, unsatisfactory retention and difficulty of exactly controlling the middle polarization states. In order to overcome the issues, we develop a ferroelectric tunnel junction with smooth ultrathin polycrystalline BiFeO3 (BFO) film. Through controlling the polarization state and oxygen vacancy migration using voltage pulses, we demonstrate that voltage-controlled barrier yields a memristive behavior in the device, in which the resistance variations exceed over two orders of magnitude. And we achieve multi logic states written and read easily using voltage pulses in the device. Especially the device is integrated with the silicon technology in modern microelectronics. Our results suggest new opportunity for ferroelectrics as high storage density nonvolatile memories.
On noise-resolution uncertainty in quantum field theory
Authors: Gureyev Timur E. , Kozlov Alexander , Nesterets Yakov I. , Paganin David M. , Quiney Harry M.
Published: June 2017

An uncertainty inequality is presented that establishes a lower limit for the product of the variance of the time-averaged intensity of a mode of a quantized electromagnetic field and the degree of its spatial localization. The lower limit is determined by the vacuum fluctuations within the volume corresponding to the width of the mode. This result also leads to a generalized form of the Heisenberg uncertainty principle for boson fields in which the lower limit for the product of uncertainties in the spatial and momentum localization of a mode is equal to the product of Planck’s constant and a dimensionless functional which reflects the joint signal-to-noise ratio of the position and momentum of vacuum fluctuations in the region of the phase space occupied by the mode. Experimental X-ray synchrotron measurements provide an initial verification of the proposed theory in the case of Poisson statistics.
Comparison of laboratory testing methods for the diagnosis of tuberculous pleurisy in China
Authors: Zhang Qing , Zhou Caicun
Published: June 2017

To evaluate the diagnostic utilities of different methods forMycobacterium tuberculosis(M. tuberculosis) detection in pleural fluid that represent potentially cost-effective measures for resource-limited settings in China. We compared diagnostic characteristics of the AmpSure simultaneous amplification and testing method, the BACTEC MGIT 960 system, and acid-fast bacilli staining of specimen smears for detection ofM. tuberculosisin pleural fluids of 438 patients with suspected tuberculous pleurisy. Chest radiographs, computed tomography scans and the results of sputum and pleural biopsy testing were used for confirmations of tuberculosis diagnoses. The sensitivity of the AmpSure test (21.2%) was significantly higher than that of smear analysis (3.1%; p < 0.001), but was similar to that of the BACTEC culture method (17.8%; p > 0.05). The specificity of the AmpSure, BACTEC, and smear tests were 100%, 96.4%, and 100%, respectively. The positive and negative predictive values of the AmpSure, BACTEC, and smear tests were 100%/23.1%; 78.6%/19.8%; and 100%/22.4%, respectively. The sensitivity of ADA, IFNγ and histopathological analyses of pleural biopsies were all 100%. The sensitivities of all three methods were suboptimal for the detection ofM. tuberculosisin pleural fluid. Future studies of a composite diagnostic index consisting of a combination of these tests are warranted.
Random lasing from structurally-modulated silk fibroin nanofibers
Authors: Kim Soocheol , Yang SungYeun , Choi Seung Ho , Kim Young L. , Ryu WonHyoung , Joo Chulmin
Published: June 2017

Structural arrangement and dimension play vital roles in wave transport and amplification as they can restrict the volume explored by the waves. However, it is challenging to systematically investigate the interplay among structural, optical, and mechanical properties, in part because of limited experimental platforms that modulate the structural arrangement in a continuous manner. We present light amplification action in Rhodamine B doped silk fibroin (SF) nanofibrous scaffolds and its modulation via the control of the alignment or directionality of SF nanofibers through an electrospinning procedure. Random lasing features of such scaffolds are examined as a function of structural arrangement of the SF nanofibers, and optical-structural-mechanical relationships of the SF-based structures are examined. As SF nanofibers are aligned parallel undergoing a transition from three to quasi-two dimension, light amplification features (e.g., lasing threshold and output power) enhanced, which also strongly correlated with mechanical characteristics (i.e., Young’s moduli) of the scaffolds. We confirm such optical characteristics using quasi-mode analyses based on the finite element method. We further demonstrate non-contact, in situ measurement of alternations in lasing features of the scaffolds while the specimens are under tensile loads. These results may highlight potential utility of the scaffolds as a flexible and biocompatible sensor.
Targeted metagenomic sequencing data of human gut microbiota associated with Blastocystis colonization
Authors: Siegwald Léa , Audebert Christophe , Even Gaël , Viscogliosi Eric , Caboche Ségolène , Chabé Magali
Published: June 2017

In the past decade, metagenomics studies have become widespread due to the arrival of second-generation sequencing platforms characterized by low costs, high throughput and short read lengths. Today, although benchtop sequencers are considered to be accurate platforms to deliver data for targeted metagenomics studies, the limiting factor has become the analysis of these data. In a previous paper, we performed an Ion Torrent PGM 16S rDNA gene sequencing of faecal DNAs from 48 Blastocystis-colonized patients and 48 Blastocystis-negative subjects, in order to decipher the impact of this widespread protist on gut microbiota composition and diversity. We report here on the Ion Torrent targeted metagenomic sequencing and analysis of these 96 human faecal samples, and the complete datasets from raw to analysed data. We also provide the key steps of the bioinformatic analyses, from library preparation to data filtering and OTUs tables generation. This data represents a valuable resource for the scientific community, enabling re-processing of these targeted metagenomic datasets through various pipelines and a comparative evaluation of microbiota analysis methods.
Montmorillonite/polyaniline/polyamide nanocomposite as a novel stir bar coating for sorptive extraction of organophosphorous pesticides in fruit juices and vegetables applying response surface methodology
Authors: Ayazi Zahra , Jaafarzadeh Raana , Matin Amir Abbas
Published: June 2017

A montmorillonite/polyaniline/polyamide nanocomposite was introduced as a novel stir bar coating which can overcome the drawbacks of commercial PDMS stir bars.
On the binding modes of metal NHC complexes with DNA secondary structures: implications for therapy and imaging
Authors: Karaca Özden , Meier-Menches Samuel M. , Casini Angela , Kühn Fritz E.
Published: June 2017

This perspective review aims at providing an overview of the most representative examples of bioactive metal NHC complexes reacting with nucleic acidsviadifferent binding modes.
Room-temperature growth of colloidal Bi2Te3 nanosheets
Authors: Sokolikova M. S. , Sherrell P. C. , Palczynski P. , Bemmer V. L. , Mattevi C.
Published: June 2017

Change of morphology of colloidal Bi2Te3 nanosheets upon increasing the growth temperature from 20 °C to 170 °C.
Multi-vinyl linked benzothiadiazole conjugated polymers: high performance, low crystalline material for transistors
Authors: Liang Xianfeng , Gu Shilei , Cai Zhengxu , Sun Wandong , Tan Luxi , Dong Lichun , Wang Lin , Liu Zitong , Chen Wei , Li Jing
Published: June 2017

A multi-vinyl linked conjugated polymerPTBTVexhibits a hole mobility of up to 3.2 cm2V−1s−1with relatively low crystallinity.
AgOTf-catalyzed dehydrative [3+2] annulation of aziridines with 2-naphthols
Authors: Kaicharla Trinadh , Jacob Anu , Gonnade Rajesh G. , Biju Akkattu T.
Published: June 2017

The reaction of 2-naphthols with aziridines in the presence of AgOTf proceeding in a dehydrative, [3+2] annulation leading to benzoindolines is reported.
Allosteric control of nanomechanical DNA origami pinching devices for enhanced target binding
Authors: Kuzuya Akinori , Sakai Yusuke , Yamazaki Takahiro , Xu Yan , Yamanaka Yusei , Ohya Yuichi , Komiyama Makoto
Published: June 2017

Significant enhancement of single-molecular binding of specific targets was achieved by allosterically controlling nanomechanical DNA origami pinching devices.
Isolation of single Pt atoms in a silver cluster: forming highly efficient silver-based cocatalysts for photocatalytic hydrogen evolution
Authors: Du Xu Lei , Wang Xue Lu , Li Yu Hang , Wang Yu Lei , Zhao Jun Jie , Fang Li Jun , Zheng Li Rong , Tong Hua , Yang Hua Gui
Published: June 2017

Ultra-small silver-based cocatalysts were loaded onto g-C3N4with atomic monodispersity and single-atom alloying, representing a novel photocatalytic system for H2evolution.
Re-clustering of neodymium ions in neodymium, buffer ion-codoped alkaline-earth fluoride transparent ceramics
Authors: Jiang Yiguang , Jiang Benxue , Jiang Nan , Zhang Pande , Chen Shuilin , Fan Jintai , Su Liangbi , Li Jiang , Zhang Long
Published: June 2017

We systematically present the relationship between the optical properties and deformation of Nd,B-codoped MF2 (B = buffer ions; M = alkaline earth metal ions) transparent ceramics.
Nonadiabatic dynamics simulation of keto isocytosine: a comparison of dynamical performance of different electronic-structure methods
Authors: Hu Deping , Liu Yan Fang , Sobolewski Andrzej L. , Lan Zhenggang
Published: June 2017

Different reaction channels are obtained in the nonadiabatic dynamics simulations of isocytosine at CASSCF and ADC(2) levels.
Structural assignment of small cationic silver clusters by far-infrared spectroscopy and DFT calculations
Authors: van der Tol Johan , Jia Dewei , Li Yejun , Chernyy Valeriy , Bakker Joost M. , Nguyen Minh Tho , Lievens Peter , Janssens Ewald
Published: June 2017

The structures of cationic silver clusters Agn+ (n = 3–13) are investigated by comparing measured far-IR photodissociation spectra of cluster–argon complexes with calculated harmonic vibrational spectra.
Combining additive manufacturing and catalysis: a review
Authors: Hurt C. , Brandt M. , Priya S. S. , Bhatelia T. , Patel J. , Selvakannan PR. , Bhargava S.
Published: June 2017

A review on additive manufacturing (AM) applied to heterogeneous catalysis reveals enabling power of AM and challenges to overcome in chemical interfacing and material printability.
Mechanistic study of the role of Au, Pd and Au–Pd in the surface reactions of ethanol over TiO2in the dark and under photo-excitation
Authors: Bashir Shahid , Idriss Hicham
Published: June 2017

In situinfrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and catalytic reactions are employed to explore the photo-oxidation and photo-reforming of ethanol over TiO2and M/TiO2(M = Au, Pd and Au–Pd) catalysts.
Strong spin frustration and negative magnetization in LnCu3(OH)6Cl3 (Ln = Nd and Sm) with triangular lattices: the effects of lanthanides
Authors: Sun Wei , Huang Ya-Xi , Pan Yuanming , Mi Jin-Xiao
Published: June 2017

New triangular lattices of LnCu3(OH)6Cl3 (Ln = Nd and Sm) feature canted antiferromagnetic ordering and negative magnetization.
Molecular scale structure and dynamics at an ionic liquid/electrode interface
Authors: Reichert Peter , Kjær Kasper Skov , Brandt van Driel Tim , Mars Julian , Ochsmann Jannis Walther , Pontoni Diego , Deutsch Moshe , Nielsen Martin Meedom , Mezger Markus
Published: June 2017

The structural arrangement and dynamics of ions near the IL/electrode interface during charging and discharging was studied by a combination of time resolved X-ray reflectivity and impedance spectroscopy.
Molecular dynamics simulations and in vitro analysis of the CRMP2 thiol switch
Authors: Möller Daniel , Gellert Manuela , Langel Walter , Lillig Christopher Horst
Published: June 2017

The collapsin response mediator protein CRMP2 (gene: DPYSL2) is crucial for neuronal development.
Ultrathin nickel boron oxide nanosheets assembled vertically on graphene: a new hybrid 2D material for enhanced photo/electro-catalysis
Authors: Yang Min-Quan , Dan Jiadong , Pennycook Stephen J. , Lu Xin , Zhu Hai , Xu Qing-Hua , Fan Hong Jin , Ho Ghim Wei
Published: June 2017

A spontaneous growth and assembly of non-layered Ni–Bi into 2D nanosheets onto a graphene support, which demonstrate superior photo and electro catalytic performance over pure Ni–Bi aggregates.
Atomic scale surface engineering of micro- to nano-sized pharmaceutical particles for drug delivery applications
Authors: Zhang D. , Quayle M. J. , Petersson G. , van Ommen J. R. , Folestad S.
Published: June 2017

Few atomic surface layers via atomic layer deposition under near ambient conditions significantly altered dissolution and dispersion of pharmaceutical particles.
Enhanced current rectification and self-powered photoresponse in multilayer p-MoTe2/n-MoS2 van der Waals heterojunctions
Authors: Wang Bin , Yang Shengxue , Wang Cong , Wu Minghui , Huang Li , Liu Qian , Jiang Chengbao
Published: June 2017

The vertically stacked MoTe2/MoS2 p–n heterojunctions have excellent electronic and optoelectronic characteristics with a type-II band alignment.
[18F]Fluoroalkyl azides for rapid radiolabeling and (Re)investigation of their potential towards in vivo click chemistry
Authors: Denk Christoph , Wilkovitsch Martin , Skrinjar Philipp , Svatunek Dennis , Mairinger Severin , Kuntner Claudia , Filip Thomas , Fröhlich Johannes , Wanek Thomas , Mikula Hannes
Published: June 2017

[18F]Fluoroalkyl azides were developed as efficient click agents for rapid radiolabeling, and (re)investigated towards application in pretargeted PET imaging.
Dual visible-light photoredox and palladium(ii) catalysis for dehydrogenative C2-acylation of indoles at room temperature
Authors: Manna Manash Kumar , Bairy Gurupada , Jana Ranjan
Published: June 2017

A mild protocol for direct C2-acylation of indoles with aldehydes is reported at room temperature through the merger of visible light photoredox and palladium(ii) catalysis. Late-stage acylation of tryptophan and selective mono-acylation of carbazoles are also demonstrated.
All-conjugated P3HT donor PCDTBT acceptor graft copolymers synthesised via a grafting through approach
Authors: Schiefer Daniel , Hanselmann Ralf , Sommer Michael
Published: June 2017

A generally applicable synthetic method for all-conjugated graft copolymers is presented.
Astaxanthin-based polymers as new antimicrobial compounds
Authors: Weintraub S. , Shpigel T. , Harris L. G. , Schuster R. , Lewis E. C. , Lewitus D. Y.
Published: June 2017

In this work, we describe the development of a library of polyastaxanthin, new polyester compounds with significant antimicrobial activity.
Facile construction of crosslinked anion exchange membranes based on fluorenyl-containing polysulfone via click chemistry
Authors: Hu Bo , Miao Luyang , Bai Yang , Lü Changli
Published: June 2017

Crosslinked fluorenyl-containing polysulfone based anion exchange membranes have been successfully synthesized via click chemistry with improved properties by controlling the crosslinking degree and micro-phase structure.
Evaluation of an external initiating Ni(ii) diimine catalyst for electron-deficient π-conjugated polymers
Authors: Pollit Adam A. , Obhi Nimrat K. , Lough Alan J. , Seferos Dwight S.
Published: June 2017

We have prepared, isolated, and evaluated the first Ni(ii) diimine catalyst able to externally initiate the Kumada catalyst transfer polymerization of an electron-deficient π-conjugated monomer.
Silver-mediated fluorination of alkyl iodides with TMSCF3 as the fluorinating agent
Authors: Wang Liyan , Jiang Xiaohuan , Tang Pingping
Published: June 2017

The first example of a silver-mediated fluorination of alkyl iodides with the Ruppert–Prakash reagent (TMSCF3) as the fluorinating agent is reported.
Simultaneous determination of parabens and inorganic anions in cosmetics by a two-dimensional ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography-ion chromatography valve-switching method
Authors: Wang Feng-Lian , Zhao Yong-Gang , Muhammad Nadeem , Wu Shu-Chao , Zhu Yan
Published: June 2017

Simultaneous determination of parabens and inorganic anions in cosmetics in a single injection was obtained in a two-dimensional UHPLC-IC valve switching system.
Microbeads preparation with reversed-phase microemulsion and ultraviolet light curing for digital encoding suspension array
Authors: He Q. H. , Li D. M. , He Y. H. , Zhang Y. L. , Shen Z. Y. , Zhu L. , Chen X. J. , Liu S. Y. , Chen F. Y.
Published: June 2017

Microbeads preparation with reversed-phase microemulsion and ultraviolet light curing for digital encoding suspension array.
Assembly of 1D coaxial nanoribbons into 2D multicolor luminescence array membrane endowed with tunable anisotropic electrical conductivity and magnetism via electrospinning
Authors: Shao Hong , Yu Wensheng , Ma Qianli , Wang Xinlu , Dong Xiangting , Liu Zhelin , Wang Jinxian , Liu Guixia , Chang Limin
Published: June 2017

A flexible 2D color-tunable coaxial nanoribbon array membrane with anisotropic electrical conductivity and magnetism is successfully fabricatedviaone-pot electrospinning.
Preparation, characterization and in vitro cell performance of anti-washout calcium phosphate cement modified by sodium polyacrylate
Authors: Li Xingmei , He Fupo , Ye Jiandong
Published: June 2017

The anti-washout ability of calcium phosphate cement (CPC) is essential for its application in massive hemorrhage regions. Sodium polyacrylate (PAAS) could be used to improve the anti-washout property of CPC paste.
Interface structure, precursor rheology and dielectric properties of BaTiO3/PVDF–hfp nanocomposite films prepared from colloidal perovskite nanoparticles
Authors: Hao Y. N. , Bi K. , O'Brien S. , Wang X. X. , Lombardi J. , Pearsall F. , Li W. L. , Lei M. , Wu Y. , Li L. T.
Published: June 2017

A novel and greatly simplified strategy was developed to fabricate high-permittivity dielectric nanocomposites. Interface structure, precursor rheology and dielectric properties of the 0–3 BaTiO3/PVDF–hfp nanocomposite film were investigated.
MEMS-based column coated with reduced graphene oxide as stationary phase for gas chromatography
Authors: Yuan Huan , Du Xiaosong , Tai Huiling , Yang Xiao , Xu Ming
Published: June 2017

Schematic diagram of single-layer stationary phase film (a) and two-step stationary phase film (b).
Fabrication of phytic acid-modified wheat straw platform and its pH-responsive release performance for the pesticide imidacloprid
Authors: Qin Peishan , Xu Xiaohui , Cai Yi , Bai Bo , Wang Honglun , Suo Yourui
Published: June 2017

For the effective utilization of pesticides and the treatment of abundant waste wheat straw (WS) resources, an eco-friendly composite PA-WS platform was prepared by modification of WS with phytic acid (PA).
A biomimetic ion-crosslinked layered double hydroxide/alginate hybrid film
Authors: Liang Ben-liang , Wang Jian-feng , Shu Ying-qi , Yin Peng-gang , Guo Lin
Published: June 2017

Inspired by the structure of nacre, a biomimetic Ca2+-crosslinked layered double hydroxide/alginate (LDH/ALG-Ca2+) hybrid film is prepared, which exhibits excellent mechanical property and high transparency.
An improved enzymatic method for the preparation of (R)-phenylacetyl carbinol
Authors: Li Heng , Liu Nan , Hui Xian , Gao Wen-Yun
Published: June 2017

(R)-Phenylacetyl carbinol (R-PAC) is one of the key chiral α-hydroxyketones utilized as a synthon in the synthesis of a number of pharmaceuticals having α- and β-adrenergic properties.
Antimicrobials tethering on suture surface through a hydrogel: a novel strategy to combat postoperative wound infections
Authors: Kalita Himadri , Hazarika Ankita , Kalita Sanjeeb , Kandimalla Raghuram , Devi Rajlakshmi
Published: June 2017

The present study aimed to develop a novel biocompatible suture biomaterial from Eri silk waste to avoid surgical site infections.
Influence of Mn dopants on the electrical properties of Pb(In0.5Nb0.5)O3–PbTiO3 ferroelectric single crystals
Authors: Qiao Huimin , He Chao , Wang Zujian , Pang Dongfang , Li Xiuzhi , Liu Ying , Long Xifa
Published: June 2017

Relaxor-based 0.68Pb(In0.5Nb0.5)O3–0.32Pb(Ti0.92Mn0.08)O3 (Mn-PIN–PT) ferroelectric single crystals with pseudo-cubic symmetry were grown via the conventional flux method, showing harden effect and enhanced thermal stability.
Convenient preparation of thioglycomimetics: S-glycosyl sulfenamides, sulfinamides and sulphonamides
Authors: Gucchait Arin , Jana Kuladip , Misra Anup Kumar
Published: June 2017

S-Glycosyl sulfenamide derivatives were rapidly prepared from glycosyl thiols using N-bromosuccinimide or N-chlorosuccinimide. Sulfenamide derivatives were oxidized to corresponding sulfinamides and sulfonamides.
Macroalgae-derived nitrogen-doped hierarchical porous carbons with high performance for H2 storage and supercapacitors
Authors: Wu Xingxing , Tian Zhongwei , Hu Langqing , Huang Sha , Cai Jinjun
Published: June 2017

Enteromorpha prolifera was converted into hierarchical carbons through the carbonization and activation with surface area and pore volume up to 3345 m2 g−1 and 1.94 cm3 g−1, showing excellent performance for H2 storage and supercapacitors.
Selective filtration of oil/water mixtures with bioinspired porous membranes
Authors: Zeiger Claudia , Kumberg Jana , Vüllers Felix , Worgull Matthias , Hölscher Hendrik , Kavalenka Maryna N.
Published: June 2017

Membranes inspired by special wetting properties of aquatic plant leaves enable selective removal of either oil or water from oil/water mixtures by filtration.
Two-step model for ultrafast interfacial electron transfer: limitations of Fermi’s golden rule revealed by quantum dynamics simulations
Authors: Liu Chang , Jakubikova Elena
Published: June 2017

A two-step model of interfacial electron transfer is proposed along with a practical approach to screening dye-sensitizers based on a calculation of the percentage of electron density on the linker group and the number of available semiconductor acceptor states.
Quinone-fused porphyrins as contrast agents for photoacoustic imaging
Authors: Banala Srinivas , Fokong Stanley , Brand Christian , Andreou Chrysafis , Kräutler Bernhard , Rueping Magnus , Kiessling Fabian
Published: June 2017

Naphthoquinone fused porphyrins showed higher photoacoustic signals than ‘standard’ indocyanine green (ICG). In this context, the insertion of Zn(ii) resulted in the most potent photoacoustic dye, which also proved to be biocompatible and stable in serum.
Unravelling the electronic structure and dynamics of an isolated molecular rotary motor in the gas-phase
Authors: Beekmeyer Reece , Parkes Michael A. , Ridgwell Luke , Riley Jamie W. , Chen Jiawen , Feringa Ben L. , Kerridge Andrew , Fielding Helen H.
Published: June 2017

Anion photoelectron spectroscopy and quantum chemistry calculations are employed to probe the electronic structure and dynamics of a unidirectional molecular rotary motor anion in the gas-phase.
Tuning phase and aging of DNA hydrogels through molecular design
Authors: Nguyen Dan T. , Saleh Omar A.
Published: June 2017

Using self-assembling, multi-valent DNA nanostars, we show that DNA hydrogel phase and structure can be controlled by tuning hydrogel aging kinetics through the rational design of gel-forming elements and solvent conditions.
Tailoring crack morphology in coffee-ring deposits via substrate heating
Authors: Lama Hisay , Basavaraj Madivala G. , Satapathy Dillip K.
Published: June 2017

Disordered and ordered cracks in particulate deposits by evaporating the droplet at substrates maintained at lower and higher temperatures.