bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Different Patterns of Heart Rate Variability During Acute Withdrawal	in Alcohol Dependent Patients With and Without Comorbid Anxiety and/or	Depression
Authors: Chen Tien-Yu , Chang Chuan-Chia , Tzeng Nian-Sheng , Kuo Terry B. J. , Huang San-Yuan , Lu Ru-Band , Chang Hsin-An
Published: July 2015

Abstract. The aim of the present study was to examine cardiac autonomic function during acute alcohol withdrawal (AW) in two clinical subgroups with alcohol dependence. To this end we compared 24 patients with pure alcohol dependence (Pure ALC) with 24 alcohol-dependent patients who had comorbid symptoms of anxiety and/or depression (ANX/DEP ALC) on their mean heart rate and several (spectral) measures of heart rate variability (HRV) obtained from the patients when they were withdrawn from alcohol. To elucidate the contribution of anxiety and depression to the cardiac measures we moreover compared these groups to 120 non-comorbid patients with major depressive disorder (MDD), 24 patients with anxiety disorders and 120 matched controls. The Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D) and the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A) were employed for the clinical symptom ratings. The cardiac measures were found to significantly discriminate among the groups (Hotelling-Lawley F = 3.18, p < .001). Post hoc testing revealed that total HRV (variance in interbeat intervals) was reduced in Pure ALC (p = .033, Cohen’s d = −0.51), ANX/DEP ALC (p < .001, Cohen’s d = −1.33), MDD (p < .001, Cohen’s d = −0.66), and anxiety disorders (p = .002, Cohen’s d = −0.69), relative to controls. When these comparisons were adjusted for smoking history in pack-years, the results were unchanged. The ANX/DEP ALC patients showed significantly greater reduction in total HRV and high frequency (HF)-HRV compared with the Pure ALC patients. Both anxiety and depression moderated the influence of alcohol use and withdrawal on resting HRV. Our results suggest that compared to Pure ALC, ANX/DEP ALC presents a subtype of alcohol dependence with higher vulnerability to reduced HRV during acute AW. Implications for cardiovascular risk are discussed.
Future Directions for the World Climate Research Programme
Authors: Brasseur Guy , Carlson David
Published: July 2015

The worldwide climate research community has talent, dedication, and a clear sense of knowledge gaps. It needs to close those gaps and convey its messages effectively to user communities.
Anti-thymocyte globulin could improve the outcome of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in patients with highly aggressive T-cell tumors
Authors: Yang J , Cai Y , Jiang J L , Wan L P , Yan S K , Wang C
Published: July 2015

The early experiment result in our hospital showed that anti-thymocyte globulin (ATG) inhibited the proliferation of lymphoid tumor cells in the T-cell tumors. We used the ATG as the part of the conditioning regimen and to evaluate the long-term anti-leukemia effect, the safety and complication in the patients with highly aggressive T-cell lymphomas. Twenty-three patients were enrolled into this study. At the time of transplant, six patients reached first or subsequent complete response, three patients had a partial remission and 14 patients had relapsed or primary refractory disease. The conditioning regimen consisted of ATG, total body irradiation, toposide and cyclophosphamide. The complete remission rate after transplant was 95.7%. At a median follow-up time of 25 months, 16 (69.6%) patients are alive and free from diseases, including nine patients in refractory and progressive disease. Seven patients died after transplant, five from relapse and two from treatment-related complications. The incidence of grades II–IV acute graft-vs-host disease (GvHD) was 39.1%. The maximum cumulative incidence of chronic GvHD was 30%. The most frequent and severe conditioning-related toxicities observed in 8 out of 23 patients were grades III/IV infections during cytopenia. Thus, ATG-based conditioning is a feasible and effective alternative for patients with highly aggressive T-cell tumors.
Ultrafast photonic PCR
Authors: Son Jun Ho , Cho Byungrae , Hong SoonGweon , Lee Sang Hun , Hoxha Ori , Haack Amanda J , Lee Luke P
Published: July 2015

Nucleic acid amplification and quantification via polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is one of the most sensitive and powerful tools for clinical laboratories, precision medicine, personalized medicine, agricultural science, forensic science and environmental science. Ultrafast multiplex PCR, characterized by low power consumption, compact size and simple operation, is ideal for timely diagnosis at the point-of-care (POC). Although several fast/ultrafast PCR methods have been proposed, the use of a simple and robust PCR thermal cycler remains challenging for POC testing. Here, we present an ultrafast photonic PCR method using plasmonic photothermal light-to-heat conversion via photon–electron–phonon coupling. We demonstrate an efficient photonic heat converter using a thin gold (Au) film due to its plasmon-assisted high optical absorption (approximately 65% at 450 nm, the peak wavelength of heat source light-emitting diodes (LEDs)). The plasmon-excited Au film is capable of rapidly heating the surrounding solution to over 150 °C within 3 min. Using this method, ultrafast thermal cycling (30 cycles; heating and cooling rate of 12.79±0.93 °C s−1 and 6.6±0.29 °C s−1, respectively) from 55 °C (temperature of annealing) to 95 °C (temperature of denaturation) is accomplished within 5 min. Using photonic PCR thermal cycles, we demonstrate here successful nucleic acid (λ-DNA) amplification. Our simple, robust and low cost approach to ultrafast PCR using an efficient photonic-based heating procedure could be generally integrated into a variety of devices or procedures, including on-chip thermal lysis and heating for isothermal amplifications.
The iBeetle large-scale RNAi screen reveals gene functions for insect development and physiology
Authors: Schmitt-Engel Christian , Schultheis Dorothea , Schwirz Jonas , Ströhlein Nadi , Troelenberg Nicole , Majumdar Upalparna , Dao Van Anh , Grossmann Daniela , Richter Tobias , Tech Maike , Dönitz Jürgen , Gerischer Lizzy , Theis Mirko , Schild Inga , Trauner Jochen , Koniszewski Nikolaus D. B. , Küster Elke , Kittelmann Sebastian , Hu Yonggang , Lehmann Sabrina , Siemanowski Janna , Ulrich Julia , Panfilio Kristen A. , Schröder Reinhard , Morgenstern Burkhard , Stanke Mario , Buchhholz Frank , Frasch Manfred , Roth Siegfried , Wimmer Ernst A. , Schoppmeier Michael , Klingler Martin , Bucher Gregor
Published: July 2015

Genetic screens are powerful tools to identify the genes required for a given biological process. However, for technical reasons, comprehensive screens have been restricted to very few model organisms. Therefore, although deep sequencing is revealing the genes of ever more insect species, the functional studies predominantly focus on candidate genes previously identified in Drosophila, which is biasing research towards conserved gene functions. RNAi screens in other organisms promise to reduce this bias. Here we present the results of the iBeetle screen, a large-scale, unbiased RNAi screen in the red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum, which identifies gene functions in embryonic and postembryonic development, physiology and cell biology. The utility of Tribolium as a screening platform is demonstrated by the identification of genes involved in insect epithelial adhesion. This work transcends the restrictions of the candidate gene approach and opens fields of research not accessible in Drosophila.
Aversive learning shapes neuronal orientation tuning in human visual cortex
Authors: McTeague Lisa M. , Gruss L. Forest , Keil Andreas
Published: July 2015

The responses of sensory cortical neurons are shaped by experience. As a result perceptual biases evolve, selectively facilitating the detection and identification of sensory events that are relevant for adaptive behaviour. Here we examine the involvement of human visual cortex in the formation of learned perceptual biases. We use classical aversive conditioning to associate one out of a series of oriented gratings with a noxious sound stimulus. After as few as two grating-sound pairings, visual cortical responses to the sound-paired grating show selective amplification. Furthermore, as learning progresses, responses to the orientations with greatest similarity to the sound-paired grating are increasingly suppressed, suggesting inhibitory interactions between orientation-selective neuronal populations. Changes in cortical connectivity between occipital and fronto-temporal regions mirror the changes in visuo-cortical response amplitudes. These findings suggest that short-term behaviourally driven retuning of human visual cortical neurons involves distal top–down projections as well as local inhibitory interactions.
Infrared nanospectroscopy characterization of oligomeric and fibrillar aggregates during amyloid formation
Authors: Ruggeri F. S. , Longo G. , Faggiano S. , Lipiec E. , Pastore A. , Dietler G.
Published: July 2015

Amyloids are insoluble protein fibrillar aggregates. The importance of characterizing their aggregation has steadily increased because of their link to human diseases and material science applications. In particular, misfolding and aggregation of the Josephin domain of ataxin-3 is implicated in spinocerebellar ataxia-3. Infrared nanospectroscopy, simultaneously exploiting atomic force microscopy and infrared spectroscopy, can characterize at the nanoscale the conformational rearrangements of proteins during their aggregation. Here we demonstrate that we can individually characterize the oligomeric and fibrillar species formed along the amyloid aggregation. We describe their secondary structure, monitoring at the nanoscale an α-to-β transition, and couple these studies with an independent measurement of the evolution of their intrinsic stiffness. These results suggest that the aggregation of Josephin proceeds from the monomer state to the formation of spheroidal intermediates with a native structure. Only successively, these intermediates evolve into misfolded aggregates and into the final fibrils.
PTEN mediates Notch-dependent stalk cell arrest in angiogenesis
Authors: Serra Helena , Chivite Iñigo , Angulo-Urarte Ana , Soler Adriana , Sutherland James D. , Arruabarrena-Aristorena Amaia , Ragab Anan , Lim Radiance , Malumbres Marcos , Fruttiger Marcus , Potente Michael , Serrano Manuel , Fabra Àngels , Viñals Francesc , Casanovas Oriol , Pandolfi Pier Paolo , Bigas Anna , Carracedo Arkaitz , Gerhardt Holger , Graupera Mariona
Published: July 2015

Coordinated activity of VEGF and Notch signals guides the endothelial cell (EC) specification into tip and stalk cells during angiogenesis. Notch activation in stalk cells leads to proliferation arrest via an unknown mechanism. By using gain- and loss-of-function gene-targeting approaches, here we show that PTEN is crucial for blocking stalk cell proliferation downstream of Notch, and this is critical for mouse vessel development. Endothelial deletion of PTEN results in vascular hyperplasia due to a failure to mediate Notch-induced proliferation arrest. Conversely, overexpression of PTEN reduces vascular density and abrogates the increase in EC proliferation induced by Notch blockade. PTEN is a lipid/protein phosphatase that also has nuclear phosphatase-independent functions. We show that both the catalytic and non-catalytic APC/C-Fzr1/Cdh1-mediated activities of PTEN are required for stalk cells’ proliferative arrest. These findings define a Notch–PTEN signalling axis as an orchestrator of vessel density and implicate the PTEN-APC/C-Fzr1/Cdh1 hub in angiogenesis.
Single-atom electron energy loss spectroscopy of light elements
Authors: Senga Ryosuke , Suenaga Kazu
Published: July 2015

Light elements such as alkali metal (lithium, sodium) or halogen (fluorine, chlorine) are present in various substances and indeed play significant roles in our life. Although atomic behaviours of these elements are often a key to resolve chemical or biological activities, they are hardly visible in transmission electron microscope because of their smaller scattering power and higher knock-on probability. Here we propose a concept for detecting light atoms encaged in a nanospace by means of electron energy loss spectroscopy using inelastically scattered electrons. In this method, we demonstrate the single-atom detection of lithium, fluorine, sodium and chlorine with near-atomic precision, which is limited by the incident probe size, signal delocalization and atomic movement in nanospace. Moreover, chemical shifts of lithium K-edge have been successfully identified with various atomic configurations in one-dimensional lithium compounds.
[NiFe]-hydrogenase is essential for cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 aerobic growth in the dark
Authors: De Rosa Edith , Checchetto Vanessa , Franchin Cinzia , Bergantino Elisabetta , Berto Paola , Szabò Ildikò , Giacometti Giorgio M. , Arrigoni Giorgio , Costantini Paola
Published: July 2015

The cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 has a bidirectional [NiFe]-hydrogenase (Hox hydrogenase) which reversibly reduces protons to H2. This enzyme is composed of a hydrogenase domain and a diaphorase moiety, which is distinctly homologous to the NADH input module of mitochondrial respiratory Complex I. Hox hydrogenase physiological function is still unclear, since it is not required for Synechocystis fitness under standard growth conditions. We analyzed the phenotype under prolonged darkness of three Synechocystis knock-out strains, lacking either Hox hydrogenase (ΔHoxE-H) or one of the proteins responsible for the assembly of its NiFe active site (ΔHypA1 and ΔHypB1). We found that Hox hydrogenase is required for Synechocystis growth under this condition, regardless of the functional status of its catalytic site, suggesting an additional role beside hydrogen metabolism. Moreover, quantitative proteomic analyses revealed that the expression levels of several subunits of the respiratory NADPH/plastoquinone oxidoreductase (NDH-1) are reduced when Synechocystis is grown in the dark. Our findings suggest that the Hox hydrogenase could contribute to electron transport regulation when both photosynthetic and respiratory pathways are down-regulated and provide a possible explanation for the close evolutionary relationship between mitochondrial respiratory Complex I and cyanobacterial [NiFe]-hydrogenases.
Invasion Expansion: Time since introduction best predicts global ranges of marine invaders
Authors: Byers James E. , Smith Rachel S. , Pringle James M. , Clark Graeme F. , Gribben Paul E. , Hewitt Chad L. , Inglis Graeme J. , Johnston Emma L. , Ruiz Gregory M. , Stachowicz John J. , Bishop Melanie J.
Published: July 2015

Strategies for managing biological invasions are often based on the premise that characteristics of invading species and the invaded environment are key predictors of the invader’s distribution. Yet, for either biological traits or environmental characteristics to explain distribution, adequate time must have elapsed for species to spread to all potential habitats. We compiled and analyzed a database of natural history and ecological traits of 138 coastal marine invertebrate species, the environmental conditions at sites to which they have been introduced and their date of first introduction. We found that time since introduction explained the largest fraction (20%) of the variability in non-native range size, while traits of the species and environmental variables had significant, but minimal, influence on non-native range size. The positive relationship between time since introduction and range size indicates that non-native marine invertebrate species are not at equilibrium and are still spreading, posing a major challenge for management of coastal ecosystems.
Rechargeable magnesium-ion battery based on a TiSe2-cathode with d-p orbital hybridized electronic structure
Authors: Gu Yunpeng , Katsura Yukari , Yoshino Takafumi , Takagi Hidenori , Taniguchi Kouji
Published: July 2015

Rechargeable ion-batteries, in which ions such as Li+carry charges between electrodes, have been contributing to the improvement of power-source performance in a wide variety of mobile electronic devices. Among them, Mg-ion batteries are recently attracting attention due to possible low cost and safety, which are realized by abundant natural resources and stability of Mg in the atmosphere. However, only a few materials have been known to work as rechargeable cathodes for Mg-ion batteries, owing to strong electrostatic interaction between Mg2+and the host lattice. Here we demonstrate rechargeable performance of Mg-ion batteries at ambient temperature by selecting TiSe2as a model cathode by focusing on electronic structure. Charge delocalization of electrons in a metal-ligand unit throughd-porbital hybridization is suggested as a possible key factor to realize reversible intercalation of Mg2+into TiSe2. The viewpoint from the electronic structure proposed in this study might pave a new way to design electrode materials for multivalent-ion batteries.
The relationship between nociceptive brain activity, spinal reflex withdrawal and behaviour in newborn infants
Authors: Hartley Caroline , Goksan Sezgi , Poorun Ravi , Brotherhood Kelly , Mellado Gabriela Schmidt , Moultrie Fiona , Rogers Richard , Adams Eleri , Slater Rebeccah
Published: July 2015

Measuring infant pain is complicated by their inability to describe the experience. While nociceptive brain activity, reflex withdrawal and facial grimacing have been characterised, the relationship between these activity patterns has not been examined. As cortical and spinally mediated activity is developmentally regulated, it cannot be assumed that they are predictive of one another in the immature nervous system. Here, using a new experimental paradigm, we characterise the nociceptive-specific brain activity, spinal reflex withdrawal and behavioural activity following graded intensity noxious stimulation and clinical heel lancing in 30 term infants. We show that nociceptive-specific brain activity and nociceptive reflex withdrawal are graded with stimulus intensity (p < 0.001), significantly correlated (r = 0.53, p = 0.001) and elicited at an intensity that does not evoke changes in clinical pain scores (p = 0.55). The strong correlation between reflex withdrawal and nociceptive brain activity suggests that movement of the limb away from a noxious stimulus is a sensitive indication of nociceptive brain activity in term infants. This could underpin the development of new clinical pain assessment measures.
Draft genome of the most devastating insect pest of coffee worldwide: the coffee berry borer, Hypothenemus hampei
Authors: Vega Fernando E. , Brown Stuart M. , Chen Hao , Shen Eric , Nair Mridul B. , Ceja-Navarro Javier A. , Brodie Eoin L. , Infante Francisco , Dowd Patrick F. , Pain Arnab
Published: July 2015

The coffee berry borer, Hypothenemus hampei, is the most economically important insect pest of coffee worldwide. We present an analysis of the draft genome of the coffee berry borer, the third genome for a Coleopteran species. The genome size is ca. 163 Mb with 19,222 predicted protein-coding genes. Analysis was focused on genes involved in primary digestion as well as gene families involved in detoxification of plant defense molecules and insecticides, such as carboxylesterases, cytochrome P450, gluthathione S-transferases, ATP-binding cassette transporters and a gene that confers resistance to the insecticide dieldrin. A broad range of enzymes capable of degrading complex polysaccharides were identified. We also evaluated the pathogen defense system and found homologs to antimicrobial genes reported in the Drosophila genome. Ten cases of horizontal gene transfer were identified with evidence for expression, integration into the H. hampei genome and phylogenetic evidence that the sequences are more closely related to bacterial rather than eukaryotic genes. The draft genome analysis broadly expands our knowledge on the biology of a devastating tropical insect pest and suggests new pest management strategies.
Insulin-degrading enzyme prevents α-synuclein fibril formation in a nonproteolytical manner
Authors: Sharma Sandeep K. , Chorell Erik , Steneberg Pär , Vernersson-Lindahl Emma , Edlund Helena , Wittung-Stafshede Pernilla
Published: July 2015

The insulin-degrading enzyme (IDE) degrades amyloidogenic proteins such as Amyloid β (Αβ) and Islet Amyloid Polypeptide (IAPP), i.e. peptides associated with Alzheimer’s disease and type 2 diabetes, respectively. In addition to the protease activity normally associated with IDE function an additional activity involving the formation of stable, irreversible complexes with both Αβ and α-synuclein, an amyloidogenic protein involved in Parkinson’s disease, was recently proposed. Here, we have investigated the functional consequences of IDE-α-synuclein interactions in vitro. We demonstrate that IDE in a nonproteolytic manner and at sub-stoichiometric ratios efficiently inhibits α-synuclein fibril formation by binding to α-synuclein oligomers making them inert to amyloid formation. Moreover, we show that, within a defined range of α-synuclein concentrations, interaction with α-synuclein oligomers increases IDE’s proteolytic activity on a fluorogenic substrate. We propose that the outcomes of IDE-α-synuclein interactions, i.e. protection against α-synuclein amyloid formation and stimulated IDE protease activity, may be protective in vivo.
BaFe12O19-chitosan Schiff-base Ag (I) complexes embedded in carbon nanotube networks for high-performance electromagnetic materials
Authors: Zhao Jie , Xie Yu , Guan Dongsheng , Hua Helin , Zhong Rong , Qin Yuancheng , Fang Jing , Liu Huilong , Chen Junhong
Published: July 2015

The multiwalled carbon nanotubes/BaFe12O19-chitosan (MCNTs/BF-CS) Schiff base Ag (I) complex composites were synthesized successfully by a chemical bonding method. The morphology and structures of the composites were characterized with electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction techniques. Their conductive properties were measured using a four-probe conductivity tester at room temperature and their magnetic properties were tested by a vibrating sample magnetometer. The results show that the BF-CS Schiff base Ag (I) complexes are embedded into MCNT networks. When the mass ratio of MCNTs and BF-CS Schiff base is 0.95:1, the conductivity, Ms (saturation magnetization), Mr (residual magnetization) and Hc (coercivity) of the BF-CS Schiff base composites reach 1.908 S cm−1, 28.20 emu g−1, 16.66 emu g−1 and 3604.79 Oe, respectively. Finally, a possible magnetic mechanism of the composites has also been proposed.
Tunable Dipole Surface Plasmon Resonances of Silver Nanoparticles by Cladding Dielectric Layers
Authors: Liu Xiaotong , Li Dabing , Sun Xiaojuan , Li Zhiming , Song Hang , Jiang Hong , Chen Yiren
Published: July 2015

The tunability of surface plasmon resonance can enable the highest degree of localised surface plasmon enhancement to be achieved, based on the emitting or absorbing wavelength. In this article, tunable dipole surface plasmon resonances of Ag nanoparticles (NPs) are realized by modification of the SiO2dielectric layer thicknesses. SiO2layers both beneath and over the Ag NPs affected the resonance wavelengths of local surface plasmons (LSPs). By adjusting the SiO2thickness beneath the Ag NPs from 5 nm to 20 nm, the dipole surface plasmon resonances shifted from 470 nm to 410 nm. Meanwhile, after sandwiching the Ag NPs by growing SiO2before NPs fabrication and then overcoating the NPs with various SiO2thicknesses from 5 nm to 20 nm, the dipole surface plasmon resonances changed from 450 nm to 490 nm. The SiO2cladding dielectric layer can tune the Ag NP surface charge, leading to a change in the effective permittivity of the surrounding medium and thus to a blueshift or redshift of the resonance wavelength. Also, the quadrupole plasmon resonances were suppressed by the SiO2cladding layer because the dielectric SiO2can suppress level splitting of surface plasmon resonances caused by the Ag NP coupling effect.
Bi-photon spectral correlation measurements from a silicon nanowire in the quantum and classical regimes
Authors: Jizan Iman , Helt L. G. , Xiong Chunle , Collins Matthew J. , Choi Duk-Yong , Joon Chae Chang , Liscidini Marco , Steel M. J. , Eggleton Benjamin J. , Clark Alex S.
Published: July 2015

The growing requirement for photon pairs with specific spectral correlations in quantum optics experiments has created a demand for fast, high resolution and accurate source characterisation. A promising tool for such characterisation uses classical stimulated processes, in which an additional seed laser stimulates photon generation yielding much higher count rates, as recently demonstrated for a χ(2) integrated source in A. Eckstein et al. Laser Photon. Rev. 8, L76 (2014). In this work we extend these results to χ(3) integrated sources, directly measuring for the first time the relation between spectral correlation measurements via stimulated and spontaneous four wave mixing in an integrated optical waveguide, a silicon nanowire. We directly confirm the speed-up due to higher count rates and demonstrate that this allows additional resolution to be gained when compared to traditional coincidence measurements without any increase in measurement time. As the pump pulse duration can influence the degree of spectral correlation, all of our measurements are taken for two different pump pulse widths. This allows us to confirm that the classical stimulated process correctly captures the degree of spectral correlation regardless of pump pulse duration and cements its place as an essential characterisation method for the development of future quantum integrated devices.
Functional ferroelectric tunnel junctions on silicon
Authors: Guo Rui , Wang Zhe , Zeng Shengwei , Han Kun , Huang Lisen , Schlom Darrell G. , Venkatesan T. , Ariando  , Chen Jingsheng
Published: July 2015

The quest for solid state non-volatility memory devices on silicon with high storage density, high speed, low power consumption has attracted intense research on new materials and novel device architectures. Although flash memory dominates in the non-volatile memory market currently, it has drawbacks, such as low operation speed and limited cycle endurance, which prevents it from becoming the “universal memory”. In this report, we demonstrate ferroelectric tunnel junctions (Pt/BaTiO3/La0.67Sr0.33MnO3) epitaxially grown on silicon substrates. X-ray diffraction spectra and high resolution transmission electron microscope images prove the high epitaxial quality of the single crystal perovskite films grown on silicon. Furthermore, the write speed, data retention and fatigue properties of the device compare favorably with flash memories. The results prove that the silicon-based ferroelectric tunnel junction is a very promising candidate for application in future non-volatile memories.
Opening the conformation is a master switch for the dual localization and phosphatase activity of PTEN
Authors: Nguyen Hoai-Nghia , Yang Jr-Ming , Miyamoto Takafumi , Itoh Kie , Rho Elmer , Zhang Qiang , Inoue Takanari , Devreotes Peter N. , Sesaki Hiromi , Iijima Miho
Published: July 2015

Tumor suppressor PTEN mainly functions at two subcellular locations, the plasma membrane and the nucleus. At the plasma membrane, PTEN dephosphorylates the tumorigenic second messenger PIP3, which drives cell proliferation and migration. In the nucleus, PTEN controls DNA repair and genome stability independently of PIP3. Whereas the concept that a conformational change regulates protein function through post-translational modifications has been well established in biology, it is unknown whether a conformational change simultaneously controls dual subcellular localizations of proteins. Here, we discovered that opening the conformation of PTEN is the crucial upstream event that determines its key dual localizations of this crucial tumor suppressor. We identify a critical conformational switch that regulates PTEN’s localization. Most PTEN molecules are held in the cytosol in a closed conformation by intramolecular interactions between the C-terminal tail and core region. Dephosphorylation of the tail opens the conformation and exposes the membrane-binding regulatory interface in the core region, recruiting PTEN to the membrane. Moreover, a lysine at residue 13 is also exposed and when ubiquitinated, transports PTEN to the nucleus. Thus, opening the conformation of PTEN is a key mechanism that enhances its dual localization and enzymatic activity, providing a potential therapeutic strategy in cancer treatments.
Genome-wide whole blood microRNAome and transcriptome analyses reveal miRNA-mRNA regulated host response to foodborne pathogen Salmonella infection in swine
Authors: Bao Hua , Kommadath Arun , Liang Guanxiang , Sun Xu , Arantes Adriano S. , Tuggle Christopher K. , Bearson Shawn M.D. , Plastow Graham S. , Stothard Paul , Guan Le Luo
Published: July 2015

To understand the role of miRNAs in regulating genes involved in host response to bacterial infection and shedding of foodborne pathogens, a systematic profiling of miRNAs and mRNAs from the whole blood of pigs upon Salmonella challenge was performed. A total of 62 miRNAs were differentially expressed post infection (false discovery rate <0.1). An integrative analysis of both the differentially expressed miRNAs and mRNAs using sequence-based miRNA target prediction and negative correlation of miRNA-mRNA profiles helped identify miRNA-mRNA networks that may potentially regulate host response to Salmonella infection. From these networks, miR-214 and miR-331-3p were identified as new candidates potentially associated with Salmonella infection. An miRNA seed sequence analysis suggested that these miRNAs regulate several critical immune-related genes including SLC11A1, PIGE-108A11.3 and VAV2. We showed that challenged pigs had reduced miR-214 expression and increased miR-331-3p expression in the whole blood. Furthermore, the expression of the proposed targets of miR-214 (SLC11A1 and PIGE-108A11.3) increased while that of the proposed target of miR-331-3p (VAV2) decreased following challenge (expression changes confirmed by in vitro assays). Based on these observations, we propose potential roles for miR-214 and miR-331-3p in regulation of immune responses to Salmonella infection.
Colokinetic effect of noradrenaline in the spinal defecation center: implication for motility disorders
Authors: Naitou Kiyotada , Shiina Takahiko , Kato Kurumi , Nakamori Hiroyuki , Sano Yuuki , Shimizu Yasutake
Published: July 2015

Chronic abdominal pain in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) usually appears in combination with disturbed bowel habits, but the etiological relationship between these symptoms remains unclear. Noradrenaline is a major neurotransmitter controlling pain sensation in the spinal cord. To test the hypothesis that the descending noradrenergic pathway from the brain stem moderates gut motility, we examined effects of intrathecal application of noradrenaline to the spinal defecation center on colorectal motility. Colorectal intraluminal pressure and expelled volume were recorded in vivo in anesthetized rats. Intrathecal application of noradrenaline into the L6-S1 spinal cord, where the lumbosacral defecation center is located, caused propulsive contractions of the colorectum. Inactivation of spinal neurons by tetrodotoxin blocked the effect of noradrenaline. Pharmacological experiments showed that the effect of noradrenaline is mediated primarily by alpha-1 adrenoceptors. The enhancement of colorectal motility by intrathecal noradrenaline was abolished by severing of the pelvic nerves. Our results demonstrate that noradrenaline acting on sacral parasympathetic preganglionic neurons through alpha-1 adrenoceptors causes propulsive motility of the colorectum in rats. Considering that visceral pain activates the descending inhibitory pathways including noradrenergic neurons, our results provide a rational explanation of the concurrent appearance of chronic abdominal pain and colonic motility disorders in IBS patients.
Nanoscale Nitrogen Doping in Silicon by Self-Assembled Monolayers
Authors: Guan Bin , Siampour Hamidreza , Fan Zhao , Wang Shun , Kong Xiang Yang , Mesli Abdelmadjid , Zhang Jian , Dan Yaping
Published: July 2015

This Report presents a nitrogen-doping method by chemically forming self-assembled monolayers on silicon. Van der Pauw technique, secondary-ion mass spectroscopy and low temperature Hall effect measurements are employed to characterize the nitrogen dopants. The experimental data show that the diffusion coefficient of nitrogen dopants is 3.66 × 10−15 cm2 s−1, 2 orders magnitude lower than that of phosphorus dopants in silicon. It is found that less than 1% of nitrogen dopants exhibit electrical activity. The analysis of Hall effect data at low temperatures indicates that the donor energy level for nitrogen dopants is located at 189 meV below the conduction band, consistent with the literature value.
Simultaneously targeting inflammatory response and parasite sequestration in brain to treat Experimental Cerebral Malaria
Authors: Dende Chaitanya , Meena Jairam , Nagarajan Perumal , Panda Amulya K. , Rangarajan Pundi N. , Padmanaban Govindarajan
Published: July 2015

Malaria afflicts around 200 million people annually, with a mortality number close to 600,000. The mortality rate in Human Cerebral Malaria (HCM) is unacceptably high (15–20%), despite the availability of artemisinin-based therapy. An effective adjunct therapy is urgently needed. Experimental Cerebral Malaria (ECM) in mice manifests many of the neurological features of HCM. Migration of T cells and parasite-infected RBCs (pRBCs) into the brain are both necessary to precipitate the disease. We have been able to simultaneously target both these parameters of ECM. Curcumin alone was able to reverse all the parameters investigated in this study that govern inflammatory responses, CD8+T cell and pRBC sequestration into the brain and blood brain barrier (BBB) breakdown. But the animals eventually died of anemia due to parasite build-up in blood. However, arteether-curcumin (AC) combination therapy even after the onset of symptoms provided complete cure. AC treatment is a promising therapeutic option for HCM.
An invisible soil acidification: Critical role of soil carbonate and its impact on heavy metal bioavailability
Authors: Wang Cheng , Li Wei , Yang Zhongfang , Chen Yang , Shao Wenjing , Ji Junfeng
Published: July 2015

It is well known that carbonates inhibit heavy metals transferring from soil to plants, yet the mechanism is poorly understood. Based on the Yangtze River delta area, we investigated bioaccumulation of Ni and Cd in winter wheat as affected by the presence of carbonates in soil. This study aimed to determine the mechanism through which soil carbonates restrict transport and plant uptake of heavy metals in the wheat cropping system. The results indicate that soil carbonates critically influenced heavy metal transfer from soil to plants and presented a tipping point. Wheat grains harvested from carbonates-depleted (due to severe leaching) soils showed Ni and Cd concentrations 2–3 times higher than those of the wheat grains from carbonates-containing soils. Correspondingly, the incidence of Ni or Cd contamination in the wheat grain samples increased by about three times. With the carbonate concentration >1% in soil, uptake and bioaccumulation of Ni and Cd by winter wheat was independent with the soil pH and carbonate content. The findings suggest that soil carbonates play a critical role in heavy metal transfer from soil to plants, implying that monitoring soil carbonate may be necessary in addition to soil pH for the evaluating soil quality and food safety.
How Properties of Solid Surfaces Modulate the Nucleation of Gas Hydrate
Authors: Bai Dongsheng , Chen Guangjin , Zhang Xianren , Sum Amadeu K. , Wang Wenchuan
Published: July 2015

Molecular dynamics simulations were performed for CO2 dissolved in water near silica surfaces to investigate how the hydrophilicity and crystallinity of solid surfaces modulate the local structure of adjacent molecules and the nucleation of CO2 hydrates. Our simulations reveal that the hydrophilicity of solid surfaces can change the local structure of water molecules and gas distribution near liquid-solid interfaces and thus alter the mechanism and dynamics of gas hydrate nucleation. Interestingly, we find that hydrate nucleation tends to occur more easily on relatively less hydrophilic surfaces. Different from surface hydrophilicity, surface crystallinity shows a weak effect on the local structure of adjacent water molecules and on gas hydrate nucleation. At the initial stage of gas hydrate growth, however, the structuring of molecules induced by crystalline surfaces are more ordered than that induced by amorphous solid surfaces.
Asymmetric Cross-Dehydrogenative Coupling (CDC) Reactions
Authors: Wang Shou-Guo , You Shu-Li
Published: July 2015

Catalytic asymmetric cross-dehydrogenative coupling (CDC) reactions have been recognized as one of the most direct and efficient methods for the construction of C–C bonds. This chapter summarizes and discusses the outstanding achievements that have been made in the field of enantioselective CDC reactions, a powerful method to couple one C(sp3)–H bond α to a nitrogen, oxygen, or carbonyl group and various C(sp)–H, C(sp2)–H or C(sp3)–H bonds under oxidative conditions. Various catalytic systems including well-defined organometallic complexes, small organic molecules, and enzymes could be applied to promote this type of novel transformation. Undoubtedly, the asymmetric CDC reactions have attracted intensive attention because they provide waste-minimized access to construct versatile and useful enantioenriched frameworks rapidly and efficiently.
Asymmetric Oxidative Biaryl Coupling Reactions
Authors: Zheng Chao , You Shu-Li
Published: July 2015

This chapter gives an overview on the asymmetric oxidative biaryl coupling reactions which have emerged as powerful synthetic methods towards axially chiral biaryl compounds that are widely embedded in natural products and have also been applied in asymmetric synthesis as the chirality inducing elements. These reactions feature direct oxidation of aryl C–H bonds thus allowing simple arenes as the starting materials. The reactions can be promoted by various organometallic catalysts, including Cu-, V-, Ru-, or Fe-based chiral complexes, as well as some small molecule organocatalysts. The application of asymmetric oxidative biaryl coupling reactions in the syntheses of chiral conjugated oligomers and polymers and natural products will also be covered briefly by discussing some representative examples.
Electrochemical immunosensor for sensitive determination of the anorexigen peptide YY at grafted reduced graphene oxide electrode platforms
Authors: Guerrero S. , Martínez-García G. , Serafín V. , Agüí L. , Yáñez-Sedeño P. , Pingarrón J. M.
Published: July 2015

The first electrochemical immunosensor for the determination of the anorexigen peptide YY in human serum is reported.
Development of a reduced pressure headspace solid-phase microextraction-gas chromatography/mass spectrometric (rpHSSPME-GC/MS) method and application to aroma analysis
Authors: Lee Changgook , Lee Younghoon , Lee Jae-Gon , Buglass Alan J.
Published: July 2015

HSSPME at reduced pressure significantly enhances the GC\MS TIC peak intensities of volatiles from solid or liquid samples.
Cloud-point extraction followed by high pressure liquid chromatography with UV spectrophotometric detection for determination of permethrin in urine samples
Authors: Madej Katarzyna , Sekiewicz Agnieszka , Kalenik Tatyana K. , Piekoszewski Wojciech
Published: July 2015

A new, effective cloud-point extraction method for the determination of permethrin in human urine was developed.
Blue-green emissive cationic iridium(iii) complexes using partially saturated strongly-donating guanidyl-pyridine/-pyrazine ancillary ligands
Authors: Hasan Kamrul , Pal Amlan K. , Auvray Thomas , Zysman-Colman Eli , Hanan Garry S.
Published: July 2015

A new class of cationic iridium(iii) complexes of the form [(C∧N)2Ir(N∧N)][PF6] is reported, where C∧N = cyclometallating 2-phenylpyridinato, ppy, or 2-(2,4-difluorophenyl)-5′-methylpyridinato, dFMeppy, and N∧N = guanidyl-pyridine, gpy, or -pyrazine, gpz, as the ancillary ligand.
Assembling of a functional cyclodextrin-decorated upconversion luminescence nanoplatform for cysteine-sensing
Authors: Ni Jingkai , Shan Chongxin , Li Bin , Zhang Liming , Ma Heping , Luo Yongshi , Song Hang
Published: July 2015

Under 980 nm excitation, cysteine could be detected with high sensitivity based on the FRET process with donor UCNPs and acceptor rhodamine.
A fluorescent sensor with a detection level of pM for Cd2+ and nM for Cu2+ based on different mechanisms
Authors: Liu Zheng , He Wei , Pei Meishan , Zhang Guangyou
Published: July 2015

L showed excellent selectivity and sensitivity towards Cd2+ in acetonitrile–H2O buffer solution and towards Cu2+ in pure water.
Key factors in determining the arrangement of π-conjugated oligomers inside carbon nanotubes
Authors: Yumura Takashi , Yamashita Hiroki
Published: July 2015

Dispersion corrected DFT calculations found different arrangements of π-conjugated oligomers inside a carbon nanotube, dependent on the type of oligomer, which are responsible for determining the oligomers’ electronic properties.
Photolysis study of fluorinated ketones under natural sunlight conditions
Authors: Díaz-de-Mera Yolanda , Aranda Alfonso , Notario Alberto , Rodríguez Ana , Rodríguez Diana , Bravo Iván
Published: July 2015

UV and IR spectra of CF3COCH3 and CF3COC2H5 are provided, with photolysis being their dominant fate in the atmosphere.
Solid-state NMR as a probe of anion binding: molecular dynamics and associations in a [5]polynorbornane bisurea host complexed with terephthalate
Authors: Rawal Aditya , Hook James M. , Robson Ryan N. , Gunzelmann Daniel , Pfeffer Frederick M. , O'Dell Luke A.
Published: July 2015

A suite of solid-state NMR experiments is used to study a supramolecular complex consisting of a [5]polynorbornane bisurea host and terephthalate dianion guest, revealing information on the dynamics of both the host and guest species.
Deagglomeration of multi-walled carbon nanotubes via an organic modifier: structure and mechanism
Authors: Banerjee Joyita , Panwar Ajay S. , Mukhopadhyay Kingsuk , Saxena A. K. , Bhattacharyya Arup R.
Published: July 2015

Ultra-sonication and Li-AHA induced de-agglomeration of MWNTs agglomerates.
Highly electron-poor Buchwald-type ligand: application for Pd-catalysed direct arylation of thiophene derivatives and theoretical consideration of the secondary Pd0–arene interaction
Authors: Korenaga Toshinobu , Sasaki Ryo , Shimada Kazuaki
Published: July 2015

Highly electron-poor SPhos ligands stabilised the Pd complex by secondary Pd0–arene interaction.
Rare-earth metal π-complexes of reduced arenes, alkenes, and alkynes: bonding, electronic structure, and comparison with actinides and other electropositive metals
Authors: Huang Wenliang , Diaconescu Paula L.
Published: July 2015

Rare-earth metal complexes of reduced π ligands are reviewed with an emphasis on their electronic structure and bonding interactions.
Palladium(ii) mononuclear and palladium(ii)/ruthenium(ii) heterodinuclear complexes containing 2-quinolyl-substituted (pyridine-2-carbonyl)hydrazone
Authors: Mori Asami , Suzuki Takayoshi , Nakatani Yuichi , Sunatsuki Yukinari , Kojima Masaaki , Nakajima Kiyohiko
Published: July 2015

Two mononuclear PdII complexes and a heterodinuclear PdII/RuII complex bearing the hydrazone-derived ligand were prepared and their structures and properties were characterized.
Computational design of safer nanomaterials
Authors: Burello E.
Published: July 2015

Nanomaterials are expected to find applications in numerous consumer products, posing the challenge to guarantee their safety and environmental sustainability before they can be transferred from research labs to end-consumer products.
Direct asymmetric reduction of levulinic acid to gamma-valerolactone: synthesis of a chiral platform molecule
Authors: Tukacs József M. , Fridrich Bálint , Dibó Gábor , Székely Edit , Mika László T.
Published: July 2015

Biomass-originated levulinic acid was directly converted to optically active (S)-gamma-valerolactone, a proposed biomass-based chiral platform molecule.
Extracting keratin from wool by using l-cysteine
Authors: Wang K. , Li R. , Ma J. H. , Jian Y. K. , Che J. N.
Published: July 2015

In this work, l-cysteine was applied to the dissolution of wool keratin as a reducing agent. The dissolution time was 5 h at 75 °C, with 72% dissolubility. XRD, ATR-FTIR and 13C NMR showed that the content of α-helix structures in regenerated wool keratin was decreased compared with natural wool. The content of S–S crosslinkages for regenerated wool keratin significantly decreased and broke about 62% of the S–S crosslinkages in the natural wool, as observed from Raman spectra.
Copper(i)-catalyzed amidation reaction of organoboronic esters and isocyanates
Authors: Lew Tedrick Thomas Salim , Lim Diane Shu Wen , Zhang Yugen
Published: July 2015

A simple and efficient methodology for the preparation of amides from easily available organoboronic esters and isocyanates with a ligand-free copper(i) catalyst.
Organically doped palladium: a highly efficient catalyst for electroreduction of CO2to methanol
Authors: Yang Heng-Pan , Qin Sen , Wang Huan , Lu Jia-Xing
Published: July 2015

Electrochemical reduction of CO2to methanol with 35% Faradaic efficiency on organically doped palladium cathode in aqueous solution.
Novel peptidomimetics related to gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH)
Authors: Gelain Arianna , Rizzi Luca , Legnani Laura , Pacini Aurora , Spyridaki Katerina , Karageorgos Vlasios , Liapakis George , Villa Stefania
Published: July 2015

Novel GnRH I and II analogues were designed and synthesized by Solid Phase Peptides Synthesis (SPPS), since GnRH has antiproliferative properties, but poor metabolic stability.
Ultra-sensitive in situ detection of silver ions using a quartz crystal microbalance
Authors: Lee Sangmyung , Jang Kuewhan , Park Chanho , You Juneseok , Kim Taegyu , Im Chulhwan , Kang Junoh , Shin Haneul , Choi Chang-Hwan , Park Jinsung , Na Sungsoo
Published: July 2015

Label-free, ultra-sensitive and in situ detection of silver ion was achieved using a quartz crystal microbalance in laboratory conditions and drinking water.
The interface makes a difference: lanthanide ion coated vesicles hydrolyze phosphodiesters
Authors: Poznik Michal , Maitra Uday , König Burkhard
Published: July 2015

The absorption of lanthanide ions to the dynamic lipid–water interface of 100 nm vesicles enhances their hydrolytic activity towards activated phosphodiesters.
An efficient method for the synthesis of selenium modified nucleosides: its application in the synthesis of Se-adenosyl-l-selenomethionine (SeAM)
Authors: Kogami Masakazu , Koketsu Mamoru
Published: July 2015

A versatile method for the synthesis of 5′-selenium modified nucleosides has been explored on the basis of a 2-(trimethylsilyl)ethyl (TSE) selenyl group.
Novel insights into a major DNA oxidative lesion: its effects on Z-DNA stabilization
Authors: Wang Jiaqi , Wang Shaoru , Zhong Cheng , Tian Tian , Zhou Xiang
Published: July 2015

Here, we have provided novel insights into the effects of 8-oxodG substitutions on B–Z transitions of CpG dinucleotide DNAs.
Macrocyclic peptidomimetics with antimicrobial activity: synthesis, bioassay, and molecular modeling studies
Authors: Ibrahim Mohamed A. , Panda Siva S. , Oliferenko Alexander A. , Oliferenko Polina V. , Girgis Adel S. , Elagawany Mohamed , Küçükbay F. Zehra , Panda Chandramukhi S. , Pillai Girinath G. , Samir Ahmed , Tämm Kaido , Hall C. Dennis , Katritzky Alan R.
Published: July 2015

Novel, cyclic peptidomimetics were synthesized by facile acylation reactions using benzotriazole chemistry.