bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heterogeneity in VEGFR3 levels drives lymphatic vessel hyperplasia through cell-autonomous and non-cell-autonomous mechanisms
Authors: Zhang Yan , Ulvmar Maria H. , Stanczuk Lukas , Martinez-Corral Ines , Frye Maike , Alitalo Kari , Mäkinen Taija
Published: April 2018

Incomplete delivery to the target cells is an obstacle for successful gene therapy approaches. Here we show unexpected effects of incomplete targeting, by demonstrating how heterogeneous inhibition of a growth promoting signaling pathway promotes tissue hyperplasia. We studied the function of the lymphangiogenic VEGFR3 receptor during embryonic and post-natal development. Inducible genetic deletion of Vegfr3 in lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs) leads to selection of non-targeted VEGFR3+ cells at vessel tips, indicating an indispensable cell-autonomous function in migrating tip cells. Although Vegfr3 deletion results in lymphatic hypoplasia in mouse embryos, incomplete deletion during post-natal development instead causes excessive lymphangiogenesis. Analysis of mosaically targeted endothelium shows that VEGFR3− LECs non-cell-autonomously drive abnormal vessel anastomosis and hyperplasia by inducing proliferation of non-targeted VEGFR3+ LECs through cell-contact-dependent reduction of Notch signaling. Heterogeneity in VEGFR3 levels thus drives vessel hyperplasia, which has implications for the understanding of mechanisms of developmental and pathological tissue growth.
Increased formate overflow is a hallmark of oxidative cancer
Authors: Meiser Johannes , Schuster Anne , Pietzke Matthias , Vande Voorde Johan , Athineos Dimitris , Oizel Kristell , Burgos-Barragan Guillermo , Wit Niek , Dhayade Sandeep , Morton Jennifer P. , Dornier Emmanuel , Sumpton David , Mackay Gillian M. , Blyth Karen , Patel Ketan J. , Niclou Simone P. , Vazquez Alexei
Published: April 2018

Formate overflow coupled to mitochondrial oxidative metabolism\ has been observed in cancer cell lines, but whether that takes place in the tumor microenvironment is not known. Here we report the observation of serine catabolism to formate in normal murine tissues, with a relative rate correlating with serine levels and the tissue oxidative state. Yet, serine catabolism to formate is increased in the transformed tissue of in vivo models of intestinal adenomas and mammary carcinomas. The increased serine catabolism to formate is associated with increased serum formate levels. Finally, we show that inhibition of formate production by genetic interference reduces cancer cell invasion and this phenotype can be rescued by exogenous formate. We conclude that increased formate overflow is a hallmark of oxidative cancers and that high formate levels promote invasion via a yet unknown mechanism.
Model evidence for a seasonal bias in Antarctic ice cores
Authors: Erb Michael P. , Jackson Charles S. , Broccoli Anthony J. , Lea David W. , Valdes Paul J. , Crucifix Michel , DiNezio Pedro N.
Published: April 2018

Much of the global annual mean temperature change over Quaternary glacial cycles can be attributed to slow ice sheet and greenhouse gas feedbacks, but analysis of the short-term response to orbital forcings has the potential to reveal key relationships in the climate system. In particular, obliquity and precession both produce highly seasonal temperature responses at high latitudes. Here, idealized single-forcing model experiments are used to quantify Earth’s response to obliquity, precession, CO2, and ice sheets, and a linear reconstruction methodology is used to compare these responses to long proxy records around the globe. This comparison reveals mismatches between the annual mean response to obliquity and precession in models versus the signals within Antarctic ice cores. Weighting the model-based reconstruction toward austral winter or spring reduces these discrepancies, providing evidence for a seasonal bias in ice cores.
Gender inequity in speaking opportunities at the American Geophysical Union Fall Meeting
Authors: Ford Heather L. , Brick Cameron , Blaufuss Karine , Dekens Petra S.
Published: April 2018

Implicit and explicit biases impede the participation of women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematic (STEM) fields. Across career stages, attending conferences and presenting research are ways to spread scientific results, find job opportunities, and gain awards. Here, we present an analysis by gender of the American Geophysical Union Fall Meeting speaking opportunities from 2014 to 2016. We find that women were invited and assigned oral presentations less often than men. However, when we control for career stage, we see similar rates between women and men and women sometimes outperform men. At the same time, women elect for poster presentations more than men. Male primary conveners allocate invited abstracts and oral presentations to women less often and below the proportion of women authors. These results highlight the need to provide equal opportunity to women in speaking roles at scientific conferences as part of the overall effort to advance women in STEM.
Single-site catalyst promoters accelerate metal-catalyzed nitroarene hydrogenation
Authors: Wang Liang , Guan Erjia , Zhang Jian , Yang Junhao , Zhu Yihan , Han Yu , Yang Ming , Cen Cheng , Fu Gang , Gates Bruce C. , Xiao Feng-Shou
Published: April 2018

Atomically dispersed supported metal catalysts are drawing wide attention because of the opportunities they offer for new catalytic properties combined with efficient use of the metals. We extend this class of materials to catalysts that incorporate atomically dispersed metal atoms as promoters. The catalysts are used for the challenging nitroarene hydrogenation and found to have both high activity and selectivity. The promoters are single-site Sn on TiO2 supports that incorporate metal nanoparticle catalysts. Represented as M/Sn-TiO2 (M = Au, Ru, Pt, Ni), these catalysts decidedly outperform the unpromoted supported metals, even for hydrogenation of nitroarenes substituted with various reducible groups. The high activity and selectivity of these catalysts result from the creation of oxygen vacancies on the TiO2 surface by single-site Sn, which leads to efficient, selective activation of the nitro group coupled with a reaction involving hydrogen atoms activated on metal nanoparticles.
ATAC-Seq analysis reveals a widespread decrease of chromatin accessibility in age-related macular degeneration
Authors: Wang Jie , Zibetti Cristina , Shang Peng , Sripathi Srinivasa R. , Zhang Pingwu , Cano Marisol , Hoang Thanh , Xia Shuli , Ji Hongkai , Merbs Shannath L. , Zack Donald J. , Handa James T. , Sinha Debasish , Blackshaw Seth , Qian Jiang
Published: April 2018

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a significant cause of vision loss in the elderly. The extent to which epigenetic changes regulate AMD progression is unclear. Here we globally profile chromatin accessibility using ATAC-Seq in the retina and retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE) from AMD and control patients. Global decreases in chromatin accessibility occur in the RPE with early AMD, and in the retina of advanced disease, suggesting that dysfunction in the RPE drives disease onset. Footprints of photoreceptor and RPE-specific transcription factors are enriched in differentially accessible regions (DARs). Genes associated with DARs show altered expression in AMD. Cigarette smoke treatment of RPE cells recapitulates chromatin accessibility changes seen in AMD, providing an epigenetic link between a known risk factor for AMD and AMD pathology. Finally, overexpression of HDAC11 is partially responsible for the observed reduction in chromatin accessibility, suggesting that HDAC11 may be a potential new therapeutic target for AMD.
'Exacerbation-free time' to assess the impact of exacerbations in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): a prospective observational study
Authors: Boer L. M. , Bischoff E. W. , Borgijink X. , Vercoulen J. H. , Akkermans R. P. , Kerstjens H. A. M. , Assendelft W. J. , Schermer T. R.
Published: April 2018

COPD exacerbations are commonly quantified as rate per year. However, the total amount of time a patient suffers from exacerbations may be stronger related to his or her disease burden than just counting exacerbation episodes. In this study, we examined the relationship between exacerbation frequency and exacerbation-free time, and their associations with baseline characteristics and health-related quality of life. A total of 166 COPD patients reported symptom changes during 12 months. Symptom-defined exacerbation episodes were correlated to the number of exacerbation-free weeks per year. Analysis of covariance was used to examine the effects of baseline characteristics on annual exacerbation frequency and exacerbation-free weeks, Spearman’s rank correlations to examine associations between the two methods to express exacerbations and the Chronic Respiratory Questionnaire (CRQ). The correlation between exacerbation frequency and exacerbation-free weeks was −0.71 (p < 0.001). However, among frequent exacerbators (i.e., ≥3 exacerbations/year, n = 113) the correlation was weak (r = −0.25; p < 0.01). Smokers had less exacerbation-free weeks than non-smokers (β = −5.709, p < 0.05). More exacerbation-free weeks were related to better CRQ Total (r = 0.22, p < 0.05), Mastery (r = 0.22, p < 0.05), and Fatigue (r = 0.23, p < 0.05) scores, whereas no significant associations were found between exacerbation frequency and CRQ scores. In COPD patients with frequent exacerbations, there is substantial variation in exacerbation-free time. Exacerbation-free time may better reflect the burden of exacerbations in patients with COPD than exacerbation frequency does.
The oscillation of intracellular Ca2+ influx associated with the circadian expression of Piezo1 and TRPV4 in the bladder urothelium
Authors: Ihara Tatsuya , Mitsui Takahiko , Nakamura Yuki , Kanda Mie , Tsuchiya Sachiko , Kira Satoru , Nakagomi Hiroshi , Sawada Norifumi , Kamiyama Manabu , Hirayama Yuri , Shigetomi Eiji , Shinozaki Youichi , Yoshiyama Mitsuharu , Nakao Atsuhito , Takeda Masayuki , Koizumi Schuichi
Published: April 2018

We previously showed that bladder functions are controlled by clock genes with circadian rhythm. The sensation of bladder fullness (SBF) is sensed by mechano-sensor such as Piezo1 and TRPV4 in the mouse bladder urothelium. However, functional circadian rhythms of such mechano-sensors remain unknown. To investigate functional circadian changes of these mechano-sensors, we measured circadian changes in stretch-evoked intracellular Ca2+ influx ([Ca2+]
i
) using mouse primary cultured urothelial cells (MPCUCs). Using Ca2+ imaging, stretch-evoked [Ca2+]
i
was quantified every 4 h in MPCUCs derived from wild-type (WT) and Clock
Δ19/Δ19
mice, which showed a nocturia phenotype. Furthermore, a Piezo1 inhibitor GsMTx4 and a TRPV4 inhibitor Ruthenium Red were applied and stretch-evoked [Ca2+]
i
in MPCUCs was measured to investigate their contribution to SBF. Stretch-evoked [Ca2+]
i
showed a circadian rhythm in the WT mice. In contrast, Clock
Δ19/Δ19
mice showed disrupted circadian rhythm. The administration of both GsMTx4 and Ruthenium Red eliminated the circadian rhythm of stretch-evoked [Ca2+]
i
in WT mice. We conclude that SBF may have a circadian rhythm, which is created by functional circadian changes of Piezo1 and TRPV4 being controlled by clock genes to be active during wakefulness and inactive during sleep. Abnormalities of clock genes disrupt SBF, and induce nocturia.
A Multi-scale Biophysical Approach to Develop Structure-Property Relationships in Oral Biofilms
Authors: Pattem J. , Davrandi M. , Aguayo S. , Allan E. , Spratt D. , Bozec L.
Published: April 2018

Over the last 5–10 years, optical coherence tomography (OCT) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) have been individually applied to monitor the morphological and mechanical properties of various single-species biofilms respectively. This investigation looked to combine OCT and AFM as a multi-scale approach to understand the role sucrose concentration and age play in the morphological and mechanical properties of oral, microcosm biofilms, in-vitro. Biofilms with low (0.1% w/v) and high (5% w/v) sucrose concentrations were grown on hydroxyapatite (HAP) discs from pooled human saliva and incubated for 3 and 5 days. Distinct mesoscale features of biofilms such as regions of low and high extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) were identified through observations made by OCT. Mechanical analysis revealed increasing sucrose concentration decreased Young’s modulus and increased cantilever adhesion (p < 0.0001), relative to the biofilm. Increasing age was found to decrease adhesion only (p < 0.0001). This was due to mechanical interactions between the indenter and the biofilm increasing as a function of increased EPS content, due to increasing sucrose. An expected decrease in EPS cantilever contact decreased adhesion due to bacteria proliferation with biofilm age. The application OCT and AFM revealed new structure-property relationships in oral biofilms, unattainable if the techniques were used independently.
Coarse particulate matter (PM2.5–10) in Los Angeles Basin air induces expression of inflammation and cancer biomarkers in rat brains
Authors: Ljubimova Julia Y. , Braubach Oliver , Patil Rameshwar , Chiechi Antonella , Tang Jie , Galstyan Anna , Shatalova Ekaterina S. , Kleinman Michael T. , Black Keith L. , Holler Eggehard
Published: April 2018

Air pollution is linked to brain inflammation, which accelerates tumorigenesis and neurodegeneration. The molecular mechanisms that connect air pollution with brain pathology are largely unknown but seem to depend on the chemical composition of airborne particulate matter (PM). We sourced ambient PM from Riverside, California, and selectively exposed rats to coarse (PM2.5–10: 2.5–10 µm), fine (PM<2.5: <2.5 µm), or ultrafine particles (UFPM: <0.15 µm). We characterized each PM type via atomic emission spectroscopy and detected nickel, cobalt and zinc within them. We then exposed rats separately to each PM type for short (2 weeks), intermediate (1–3 months) and long durations (1 year). All three metals accumulated in rat brains during intermediate-length PM exposures. Via RNAseq analysis we then determined that intermediate-length PM2.5–10 exposures triggered the expression of the early growth response gene 2 (EGR2), genes encoding inflammatory cytokine pathways (IL13-Rα1 and IL-16) and the oncogene RAC1. Gene upregulation occurred only in brains of rats exposed to PM2.5–10 and correlated with cerebral nickel accumulation. We hypothesize that the expression of inflammation and oncogenesis-related genes is triggered by the combinatorial exposure to certain metals and toxins in Los Angeles Basin PM2.5–10.
Formation of trihalomethanes as disinfection byproducts in herbal spa pools
Authors: Fakour Hoda , Lo Shang-Lien
Published: April 2018

Herbal spa treatments are favorite recreational activities throughout the world. The water in spas is often disinfected to control pathogenic microorganisms and guarantee hygiene. However, chlorinated water may cause the formation of disinfection byproducts (DBPs). Although there have been many studies on DBP formation in swimming pools, the role of organic matter derived from herbal medicines applied in herbal spa water has been largely neglected. Accordingly, the present study investigated the effect of herbal medicines on the formation of trihalomethanes (THMs) in simulated herbal spa water. Water samples were collected from a spa pool, and then, disinfection and herbal addition experiments were performed in a laboratory. The results showed that the organic molecules introduced by the herbal medicines are significant precursors to the formation of THMs in spa pool water. Since at least 50% of THMs were produced within the first six hours of the reaction time, the presence of herbal medicines in spa water could present a parallel route for THM exposure. Therefore, despite the undeniable benefits of herbal spas, the effect of applied herbs on DBP formation in chlorinated water should be considered to improve the water quality and health benefits of spa facilities.
Proteomic approach to understand the molecular physiology of symbiotic interaction between Piriformospora indica and Brassica napus
Authors: Shrivastava Neeraj , Jiang Li , Li Pan , Sharma Archana Kumari , Luo Xingyuan , Wu Sanling , Pandey Rashmi , Gao Qikang , Lou Binggan
Published: April 2018

Many studies have been now focused on the promising approach of fungal endophytes to protect the plant from nutrient deficiency and environmental stresses along with better development and productivity. Quantitative and qualitative protein characteristics are regulated at genomic, transcriptomic, and posttranscriptional levels. Here, we used integrated in-depth proteome analyses to characterize the relationship between endophyte Piriformospora indica and Brassica napus plant highlighting its potential involvement in symbiosis and overall growth and development of the plant. An LC-MS/MS based label-free quantitative technique was used to evaluate the differential proteomics under P. indica treatment vs. control plants. In this study, 8,123 proteins were assessed, of which 46 showed significant abundance (34 downregulated and 12 upregulated) under high confidence conditions (p-value ≤ 0.05, fold change ≥2, confidence level 95%). Mapping of identified differentially expressed proteins with bioinformatics tools such as GO and KEGG pathway analysis showed significant enrichment of gene sets involves in metabolic processes, symbiotic signaling, stress/defense responses, energy production, nutrient acquisition, biosynthesis of essential metabolites. These proteins are responsible for root’s architectural modification, cell remodeling, and cellular homeostasis during the symbiotic growth phase of plant’s life. We tried to enhance our knowledge that how the biological pathways modulate during symbiosis?
Visualizing the bidirectional optical transfer function for near-field enhancement in waveguide coupled plasmonic transducers
Authors: Otto Lauren M. , Ogletree D. Frank , Aloni Shaul , Staffaroni Matteo , Stipe Barry C. , Hammack Aeron T.
Published: April 2018

We report visualizations of the bidirectional near-field optical transfer function for a waveguide-coupled plasmonic transducer as a metrology technique essential for successful development for mass-fabricated near-field devices. Plasmonic devices have revolutionized the observation of nanoscale phenomena, enabling optical excitation and readout from nanoscale regions of fabricated devices instead of as limited by optical diffraction. Visualizations of the plasmonic transducer modes were acquired both by local near-field excitation of the antenna on the front facet of a waveguide using the focused electron beam of a scanning electron microscope as a probe of the near-field cathodoluminescence during far-field collection from the back facet of the waveguide, and by local mapping of the optical near-field for the same antenna design using scattering scanning near-field optical microscopy as a probe of the near-field optical mode density for far-field light focused into the back facet of the waveguide. Strong agreement between both measurement types and numerical modeling was observed, indicating that the method enables crucial metrological comparisons of as fabricated device performance to as-modeled device expectations for heat-assisted magnetic recording heads, which can be extended to successful development of future near-field-on-chip devices such as optical processor interconnects.
Unravelling the inhibitory activity of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii sulfated polysaccharides against α-Synuclein fibrillation
Authors: Choudhary Sinjan , Save Shreyada N. , Vavilala Sirisha L.
Published: April 2018

α-Synuclein (α-Syn) is an intrinsically disordered presynaptic protein, whose aggregation is critically involved in Parkinson’s disease (PD). Many of the currently available drugs for the treatment of PD are not sufficiently effective in preventing progress of the disease and have multiple side-effects. With this background, efficient drug candidates, sulfated polysaccharides from Chlamydomonas reinhardtii (Cr-SPs) were isolated and investigated for their effect on inhibition of α-Syn fibrillation and dissolution of preformed α-Syn fibrillar structures through a combination of spectroscopic and microscopic techniques. The kinetics of α-Syn fibrillation demonstrates that Cr-SPs are very effective in inhibiting α-Syn fibrillation. Sodium dodecyl sulphate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis gel-image shows presence of soluble protein in the presence of Cr-SPs after completion of the fibrillation process. The morphological changes associated with fibrillation monitored by transmission electron microscopy showed that Cr-SPs efficiently bind with α-Syn and delay the conversion of α-helical intermediate into β-sheet rich structures. Cr-SPs are also effective even if onset of α-Syn fibrillation has already started and they also have the ability to dissolve pre-formed fibrils. Thus, the current work has substantial therapeutic implications towards unlocking the immense potential of algal products to function as alternative therapeutic agents against PD and other protein aggregation related disorders.
Surface display of PbrR on Escherichia coli and evaluation of the bioavailability of lead associated with engineered cells in mice
Authors: Hui Changye , Guo Yan , Zhang Wen , Gao Chaoxian , Yang Xueqin , Chen Yuting , Li Limei , Huang Xianqing
Published: April 2018

Human exposure to lead mainly occurs by ingestion of contaminated food, water and soil. Blocking lead uptake in the gastrointestinal tract is a novel prevention strategy. Whole-cell biosorbent for lead was constructed with PbrR genetically engineered on the cell surface of Escherichia coli (E. coli), a predominant strain among intestinal microflora, using lipoprotein (Lpp)-OmpA as the anchoring protein. In vitro, the PbrR displayed cells had an enhanced ability for immobilizing toxic lead(II) ions from the external media at both acidic and neutral pH, and exhibited a higher specific adsorption for lead compared to other physiological two valence metal ions. In vivo, the persistence of recombinant E. coli in the murine intestinal tract and the integrity of surface displayed PbrR were confirmed. In addition, oral administration of surface-engineered E. coli was safe in mice, in which the concentrations of physiological metal ions in blood were not affected. More importantly, lead associated with PbrR-displayed E. coli was demonstrated to be less bioavailable in the experimental mouse model with exposure to oral lead. This is reflected by significantly lower blood and femur lead concentrations in PbrR-displayed E. coli groups compared to the control. These results open up the possibility for the removal of toxic metal ions in vivo using engineered microorganisms as adsorbents.
Ocular Blood Flow in Rabbits under Deep Anesthesia: A Real-Time Measurement Technique and Its Application in Characterizing Retinal Ischemia
Authors: Bhatti Mehwish Saba , Tang Tong Boon , Chen Hui Cheng
Published: April 2018

In this study, we reported a new technique based on laser speckle flowgraphy to record the ocular blood flow in rabbits under deep anesthesia, and proposed parameters to characterize retinal ischemia. We applied the proposed technique to study the correlation of blood flow between the eyes of normal non-anesthetized animals, and to characterize the occlusion of the internal carotid artery (ICA) and external carotid artery (ECA). We established a correlation in blood flow between the eyes of non-anesthetized animals, and derived two new parameters, namely, the laterality index and vascular perfusion estimate (VPE). Our experimental results from 16 eyes (of 13 New Zealand white rabbits) showed a reduction in ocular blood flow with a significant decrease in the VPE after the occlusion of the ECA (p < 0.001). A low/minimal effect on blood flow was observed with the occlusion of the ICA. In conclusion, we demonstrated a means for the real-time measurement of the ocular blood flow in rabbits under deep anesthesia by using laser speckle flowgraphy and the VPE as an indicator of successful occlusion. The proposed technique might be applicable in quantifying the efficacy of new drugs and interventions for the treatment of retinal ischemia.
Loss of MeCP2 in adult 5-HT neurons induces 5-HT1A autoreceptors, with opposite sex-dependent anxiety and depression phenotypes
Authors: Philippe Tristan J. , Vahid-Ansari Faranak , Donaldson Zoe R. , Le François Brice , Zahrai Amin , Turcotte-Cardin Valérie , Daigle Mireille , James Jonathan , Hen René , Merali Zul , Albert Paul R.
Published: April 2018

The 5-HT1A autoreceptor mediates feedback inhibition of serotonin (5-HT) neurons, and is implicated in major depression. The human 5-HT1A gene (HTR1A) rs6295 risk allele prevents Deaf1 binding to HTR1A, resulting in increased 5-HT1A autoreceptor transcription. Since chronic stress alters HTR1A methylation and expression, we addressed whether recruitment of methyl-binding protein MeCP2 may alter Deaf1 regulation at the HTR1A locus. We show that MeCP2 enhances Deaf1 binding to its HTR1A site and co-immunoprecipitates with Deaf1 in cells and brain tissue. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assays showed Deaf1-dependent recruitment of MeCP2 to the mouse HTR1A promoter, and MeCP2 modulated human and mouse HTR1A gene transcription in a Deaf1-dependent fashion, enhancing Deaf1-induced repression at the Deaf1 site. To address the role of MeCP2 in HTR1A regulation in vivo, mice with conditional knockout of MeCP2 in adult 5-HT neurons (MeCP2 cKO) were generated. These mice exhibited increased 5-HT1A autoreceptor levels and function, consistent with MeCP2 enhancement of Deaf1 repression in 5-HT neurons. Interestingly, female MeCP2-cKO mice displayed reduced anxiety, while males showed increased anxiety and reduced depression-like behaviors. These data uncover a novel role for MeCP2 in 5-HT neurons to repress HTR1A expression and drive adult anxiety- and depression-like behaviors in a sex-specific manner.
Prediction of spacer-α6 complex: a novel insight into binding of ADAMTS13 with A2 domain of von Willebrand factor under forces
Authors: Fang Xiang , Lin Jiangguo , Fang Ying , Wu Jianhua
Published: April 2018

Force-regulated cleavage of A2 domain of von Willebrand factor (vWF) by ADAMTS13 is a key event in preventing thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP). Recognition and cleavage depend on cooperative and modular contacts between several ADAMTS13 subdomains and discrete segments of vWF A2 domain. Spacer domain of ADAMTS13 contains an important exosite interacting with α6 helix of unfold A2 domain, but it remains unclear whether stretching of α6 regulates binding to spacer. To understand the molecular mechanism underlying the interactions between spacer and α6 under stretching, we successfully predicted spacer-α6 complex by a novel computer strategy combined the steered molecular dynamics (SMD) and flexible docking techniques. This strategy included three steps: (1) constant-velocity SMD simulation of α6; (2) zero-velocity SMD simulations of α6, and (3) flexible dockings of α6 to spacer. In our spacer-α6 complex model, 13 key residues, six in α6 and seven in spacer, were identified. Our data demonstrated a biphasic extension-regulated binding of α6 to spacer. The binding strength of the complex increased with α6 extension until it reaches its optimum of 0.25 nm, and then decreased as α6 extension further increased, meaning that spacer is in favor to binding with a partially extended α6, which may contribute to the optimal contact and proteolysis. Changes of interface area and intermolecular salt bridge may serve as the molecular basis for this characteristic. These findings provide a novel insight into mechano-chemical regulation on interaction between ADAMTS13 and vWF A2 domain under forces.
3D artificial round section micro-vessels to investigate endothelial cells under physiological flow conditions
Authors: Sfriso Riccardo , Zhang Shengye , Bichsel Colette Andrea , Steck Oliver , Despont Alain , Guenat Olivier Thierry , Rieben Robert
Published: April 2018

In the context of xenotransplantation, in ischemia/reperfusion injury as well as in cardiovascular research, the study of the fascinating interplay between endothelial cells (EC) and the plasma cascade systems often requires in vitro models. Blood vessels are hardly reproducible with standard flat-bed culture systems and flow-plate assays are limited in their low surface-to-volume ratio which impedes the study of the anticoagulant properties of the endothelial cells. According to the 3R regulations (reduce, replace and refine animal experimentation) we developed a closed circuit microfluidic in vitro system in which endothelial cells are cultured in 3D round section microchannels and subjected to physiological, pulsatile flow. In this study, a 3D monolayer of porcine aortic EC was perfused with human serum to mimic a xenotransplantation setting. Complement as well as EC activation was assessed in the presence or absence of complement inhibitors showing the versatility of the model for drug testing. Complement activation products as well as E-selectin expression were detected and visualized in situ by high resolution confocal microscopy. Furthermore, porcine pro-inflammatory cytokines as well as soluble complement components in the recirculating fluid phase were detected after human serum perfusion providing a better overview of the artificial vascular environment.
Genetic diversity and phylogenetic characteristics of Chinese Tibetan and Yi minority ethnic groups revealed by non-CODIS STR markers
Authors: He Guanglin , Wang Zheng , Zou Xing , Chen Xu , Liu Jing , Wang Mengge , Hou Yiping
Published: April 2018

Non-CODIS STRs, with high polymorphism and allele frequency difference among ethnically and geographically different populations, play a crucial role in population genetics, molecular anthropology, and human forensics. In this work, 332 unrelated individuals from Sichuan Province (237 Tibetan individuals and 95 Yi individuals) are firstly genotyped with 21 non-CODIS autosomal STRs, and phylogenetic relationships with 26 previously investigated populations (9,444 individuals) are subsequently explored. In the Sichuan Tibetan and Yi, the combined power of discrimination (CPD) values are 0.9999999999999999999 and 0.9999999999999999993, and the combined power of exclusion (CPE) values are 0. 999997 and 0.999999, respectively. Analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA), principal component analysis (PCA), multidimensional scaling plots (MDS) and phylogenetic analysis demonstrated that Sichuan Tibetan has a close genetic relationship with Tibet Tibetan, and Sichuan Yi has a genetic affinity with Yunnan Bai group. Furthermore, significant genetic differences have widely existed between Chinese minorities (most prominently for Tibetan and Kazakh) and Han groups, but no population stratifications rather a homogenous group among Han populations distributed in Northern and Southern China are observed. Aforementioned results suggested that these 21 STRs are highly polymorphic and informative in the Sichuan Tibetan and Yi, which are suitable for population genetics and forensic applications.
Effect of a text message intervention to reduce hazardous drinking among injured patients discharged from a trauma ward: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Sharpe Sarah , Kool Bridget , Whittaker Robyn , Lee Arier C. , Reid Papaarangi , Civil Ian , Walker Matthew , Thornton Vanessa , Ameratunga Shanthi
Published: April 2018

Screening and brief intervention for hazardous alcohol use in trauma care settings is known to reduce alcohol intake and injury recidivism, but is often not implemented due to resource constraints. Brief interventions delivered by mobile phone could overcome this challenge. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of a mobile phone text message intervention (YourCallTM) on hazardous drinkers admitted for an injury. The parallel two-group, single-blind, randomised controlled trial enrolled 598 injured patients aged 16–69 years identified as medium-risk drinkers at recruitment. The intervention group (n = 299) received 16 text messages incorporating brief intervention principles in the 4 weeks following discharge from hospital. Controls (n = 299) received usual care and one text message acknowledging participation in the trial. The primary outcome was the difference in hazardous alcohol use (assessed using AUDIT-C) between study groups at 3 months, with the maintenance of effect examined at 6 and 12 months’ follow-up. Data were analysed using a mixed-effects model for repeated measures. Both groups had similar baseline features. Compared to controls, hazardous drinking was significantly lower in the intervention group at 3 months and maintained over the 12-month follow-up period (least squares mean difference in AUDIT-C scores: −0.322; 95% CI: −0.636, −0.008; p = 0.04). The intervention effect was similar among Māori (New Zealand’s indigenous population) and non-Māori (interaction p = 0.59), and among younger (16–29 years) and older (30–69 years) patients (p = 0.77). The effectiveness of this intervention reflects the potential of low cost, scalable mobile health technologies to overcome common barriers in implementing alcohol harm reduction strategies following injury.
Comprehensive inventory of true flies (Diptera) at a tropical site
Authors: Brown Brian V. , Borkent Art , Adler Peter H. , Amorim Dalton de Souza , Barber Kevin , Bickel Daniel , Boucher Stephanie , Brooks Scott E. , Burger John , Burington Zelia L. , Capellari Renato S. , Costa Daniel N. R. , Cumming Jeffrey M. , Curler Greg , Dick Carl W. , Epler John H. , Fisher Eric , Gaimari Stephen D. , Gelhaus Jon , Grimaldi David A. , Hash John , Hauser Martin , Hippa Heikki , Ibáñez-Bernal Sergio , Jaschhof Mathias , Kameneva Elena P. , Kerr Peter H. , Korneyev Valery , Korytkowski Cheslavo A. , Kung Giar-Ann , Kvifte Gunnar Mikalsen , Lonsdale Owen , Marshall Stephen A. , Mathis Wayne , Michelsen Verner , Naglis Stefan , Norrbom Allen L. , Paiero Steven , Pape Thomas , Pereira-Colavite Alessandre , Pollet Marc , Rochefort Sabrina , Rung Alessandra , Runyon Justin B. , Savage Jade , Silva Vera C. , Sinclair Bradley J. , Skevington Jeffrey H. , Stireman III John O. , Swann John , Thompson F. Christian , Vilkamaa Pekka , Wheeler Terry , Whitworth Terry , Wong Maria , Wood D. Monty , Woodley Norman , Yau Tiffany , Zavortink Thomas J. , Zumbado Manuel A.
Published: April 2018

Estimations of tropical insect diversity generally suffer from lack of known groups or faunas against which extrapolations can be made, and have seriously underestimated the diversity of some taxa. Here we report the intensive inventory of a four-hectare tropical cloud forest in Costa Rica for one year, which yielded 4332 species of Diptera, providing the first verifiable basis for diversity of a major group of insects at a single site in the tropics. In total 73 families were present, all of which were studied to the species level, providing potentially complete coverage of all families of the order likely to be present at the site. Even so, extrapolations based on our data indicate that with further sampling, the actual total for the site could be closer to 8000 species. Efforts to completely sample a site, although resource-intensive and time-consuming, are needed to better ground estimations of world biodiversity based on limited sampling.
Quantitative analysis of multiple high-resolution mass spectrometry images using chemometric methods: quantitation of chlordecone in mouse liver
Authors: Mohammadi Saeedeh , Parastar Hadi
Published: April 2018

In this work, a chemometrics-based strategy is developed for quantitative mass spectrometry imaging (MSI).
Long-termC. elegansimmobilization enables high resolution developmental studiesin vivo
Authors: Berger Simon , Lattmann Evelyn , Aegerter-Wilmsen Tinri , Hengartner Michael , Hajnal Alex , deMello Andrew , Casadevall i Solvas Xavier
Published: April 2018

Microfluidics enables the interference free observation of sensitive developmental processes inC. elegans.
Synthesis and structural, photophysical, electrochemical redox and axial ligation properties of highly electron deficient perchlorometalloporphyrins and selective CN− sensing by Co(ii) complexes
Authors: Chaudhri Nivedita , Butcher Ray J. , Sankar Muniappan
Published: April 2018

Synthesis and characterization of MTPP(NO2)Cl7 have been reported. ZnII porphyrins exhibited higher Lewis acidity as compared to perbromoporphyrins. CoII porphyrins were utilized for the selective rapid visual detection of cyanide ions.
Controlled Zn1−xNixO nanostructures for an excellent humidity sensor and a plausible sensing mechanism
Authors: Sharma Alfa , Kumar Yogendra , Mazumder Kushal , Rana Amit Kumar , Shirage Parasharam M.
Published: April 2018

A Freundlich adsorption isotherm model confirms a plausible humidity sensing mechanism when using wet chemically prepared Zn1−xNixO nanostructures.
The influence of surface functionalization on thermal transport and thermoelectric properties of MXene monolayers
Authors: Sarikurt Sevil , Çakır Deniz , Keçeli Murat , Sevik Cem
Published: April 2018

The structural model (i.e.adsorption site of oxygen atom on the surface of MXene) has a paramount impact on the electronic and thermoelectric properties of MXene crystals, which can be exploited to engineer the thermoelectric properties of these materials.
Tuning the plasmonic response of TiN nanoparticles synthesised by the transferred arc plasma technique
Authors: Yick S. , Murdock A. T. , Martin P. J. , Kennedy D. F. , Maschmeyer T. , Bendavid A.
Published: April 2018

Titanium nitride is an emerging plasmonic material active in the visible and NIR region. In this work, we provide detailed analysis to correlate their optical properties with their morphology and surface composition.
Short-wave near-infrared emissive GdPO4:Nd3+theranostic probe forin vivobioimaging beyond 1300 nm
Authors: Yang Qiuhua , Li Xiaolong , Xue Zhenluan , Li Youbin , Jiang Mingyang , Zeng Songjun
Published: April 2018

A multifunctional theranostic nanoplatform based on GdPO4:Nd3+yolk–shell sphere was developed for dual-modalin vivoNIR-II/X-ray bioimaging and pH-responsive drug delivery.
Core–shell PdPb@Pd aerogels with multiply-twinned intermetallic nanostructures: facile synthesis with accelerated gelation kinetics and their enhanced electrocatalytic properties
Authors: Zhu Chengzhou , Shi Qiurong , Fu Shaofang , Song Junhua , Du Dan , Su Dong , Engelhard Mark H. , Lin Yuehe
Published: April 2018

Core–shell PdPb@Pd aerogels with multiply-twinned grains and an ordered intermetallic phase was synthesized, which exhibited good electrocatalytic activity towards ethanol oxidation.
Benzotriazole-based conjugated microporous polymers as efficient flame retardants with better thermal insulation properties
Authors: Wei Huijuan , Wang Fei , Sun Hanxue , Zhu Zhaoqi , Xiao Chaohu , Liang Weidong , Yang Baoping , Chen Lihua , Li An
Published: April 2018

The development of high performance flame retardant materials with better thermal insulation properties is of great importance for saving energy in modern building construction.
Chitosan-catechol: a writable bioink under serum culture media
Authors: Lee Daiheon , Park Joseph P. , Koh Mi-Young , Kim Pureum , Lee Junhee , Shin Mikyung , Lee Haeshin
Published: April 2018

Mussel-inspired adhesive polymers exhibiting rapid complexation with serum proteins are used as a direct writable bioink for additive techniques, 3D printing. The mussel-inspired bioinks would be a promising way to design a biocompatible 3D bioink cross-linked without any external stimuli.
The role of charge in 1,2,3-triazol(ium)-based halogen bonding activators
Authors: Dreger Alexander , Engelage Elric , Mallick Bert , Beer Paul D. , Huber Stefan M.
Published: April 2018

Monocationic halogen-bonding-based activators are equally potent as structurally related dicationic ones.
Ultra-thin wrinkled NiOOH–NiCr2O4 nanosheets on Ni foam: an advanced catalytic electrode for oxygen evolution reaction
Authors: Zhao Jinxiu , Ren Xiang , Han Qingzhi , Fan Dawei , Sun Xu , Kuang Xuan , Wei Qin , Wu Dan
Published: April 2018

NiOOH–NiCr2O4/NF shows high activity for the OER in alkaline media, achieving a catalytic current density of 20 mA cm−2 at an overpotential of 271 mV.
An MTH1-targeted nanosystem for enhanced PDT via improving cellular sensitivity to reactive oxygen species
Authors: Fan Huanhuan , Zhang Lili , Hu Xiaoxiao , Zhao Zilong , Bai Huarong , Fu Xiaoyi , Yan Guobei , Liang Li-Hui , Zhang Xiao-Bing , Tan Weihong
Published: April 2018

An MTH1-targeted nanosystem is developed for enhanced PDT through inhibiting MTH1 protein and improving cellular sensitivity to reactive oxygen species.
Different photoisomerization routes found in the structural isomers of hydroxy methylcinnamate
Authors: Kinoshita Shin-nosuke , Miyazaki Yasunori , Sumida Masataka , Onitsuka Yuuki , Kohguchi Hiroshi , Inokuchi Yoshiya , Akai Nobuyuki , Shiraogawa Takafumi , Ehara Masahiro , Yamazaki Kaoru , Harabuchi Yu , Maeda Satoshi , Taketsugu Tetsuya , Ebata Takayuki
Published: April 2018

Upon UV excitation, meta- and ortho-hydroxy methylcinnamate (m-, o-HMC) isomerize via a [trans-1ππ* → TS → cis-S0] route, while para-HMC (p-HMC) isomerizes via a [trans-1ππ* → 1nπ* → T1(3ππ*) → cis-S0] route.
Tailored photocleavable peptides: fragmentation and neutralization pathways in high vacuum
Authors: Debiossac M. , Schätti J. , Kriegleder M. , Geyer P. , Shayeghi A. , Mayor M. , Arndt M. , Köhler V.
Published: April 2018

Photocleavable tags (PCTs) have the potential for excellent spatio-temporal control over the release of subunits of complex molecules.
Laser-induced formation of bismuth nanoparticles
Authors: Assis Marcelo , Cordoncillo Eloísa , Torres-Mendieta Rafael , Beltrán-Mir Héctor , Mínguez-Vega Gladys , Gouveia Amanda Fernandes , Leite Edson , Andrés Juan , Longo Elson
Published: April 2018

In the current communication, the synthesis of metallic Bi nanoparticles with coexisting crystallographic structures (rhombohedral, monoclinic, and cubic) obtained via direct femtosecond laser irradiation of NaBiO3 is demonstrated for the first time.
Atomic-scale study of the formation of sodium–water complexes on Cu(110)
Authors: Shiotari Akitoshi , Okuyama Hiroshi , Hatta Shinichiro , Aruga Tetsuya , Hamada Ikutaro
Published: April 2018

In a sodium–water complex on a copper (110) surface, the ligand water rotates around a sodium adatom.
Revealing reaction mechanisms of nanoconfined Li2S: implications for lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Liu Zhixiao , Deng Huiqiu , Hu Wangyu , Gao Fei , Zhang Shiguo , Balbuena Perla B. , Mukherjee Partha P.
Published: April 2018

Using Li2S as an active material and designing nanostructured cathode hosts are considered as promising strategies to improve the performance of lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries.
Kinetics in the real world: linking molecules, processes, and systems
Authors: Kohse-Höinghaus Katharina , Troe Jürgen , Grabow Jens-Uwe , Olzmann Matthias , Friedrichs Gernot , Hungenberg Klaus-Dieter
Published: April 2018

This themed issue includes a collection of articles on Kinetics in the Real World. The image shows diagnostics of pattern-forming surface reactions using spatially resolved photoemission electron microscopy, for which the sample is illuminated with UV.
Tunable Prussian blue analogues for the selective synthesis of propargylamines through A3 coupling
Authors: Marquez Carlos , Cirujano Francisco G. , Van Goethem Cédric , Vankelecom Ivo , De Vos Dirk , De Baerdemaeker Trees
Published: April 2018

M1[Co(CN)6]2/3-type Prussian blue analogues (M1–Co PBAs) were studied as catalysts for the synthesis of propargylamines via A3 coupling of phenylacetylene, benzaldehyde and piperidine.
A PGM-free NOx adsorber + selective catalytic reduction catalyst system (AdSCR) for trapping and reducing NOx in lean exhaust streams at low temperature
Authors: Selleri Tommaso , Gramigni Federica , Nova Isabella , Tronconi Enrico , Dieterich Simone , Weibel Michel , Schmeisser Volker
Published: April 2018

Novel AdSCR systems are able to trap and reduce NOx in lean exhausts at low temperature.
Investigation of ternary metal dodecaborides (M1M2M3)B12(M1, M2and M3= Zr, Y, Hf and Gd)
Authors: Akopov Georgiy , Roh Inwhan , Sobell Zachary C. , Yeung Michael T. , Kaner Richard B.
Published: April 2018

Optical images of the surface patterns formed by hexaboride (MB6) and dodecaboride (MB12) phases.
Hydrogenolysis of methyl glycolate to ethanol over a Pt–Cu/SiO2single-atom alloy catalyst: a further step from cellulose to ethanol
Authors: Yang Chaojun , Miao Zhili , Zhang Fan , Li Lin , Liu Yanting , Wang Aiqin , Zhang Tao
Published: April 2018

The Pt–Cu single-atom alloy (SAA) catalyst showed significantly enhanced activity, selectivity, and stability for the hydrogenolysis of methyl glycolate to ethanol.
A facile synthesis strategy to couple porous nanocubes of CeO2 with Ag nanoparticles: an excellent catalyst with enhanced reactivity for the ‘click reaction’ and carboxylation of terminal alkynes
Authors: Das Subhasis , Mondal Paramita , Ghosh Swarbhanu , Satpati Biswarup , Deka Sasanka , Islam Sk. Manirul , Bala Tanushree
Published: April 2018

CeO2–Ag nanocomposite was synthesized by modifying the surface of CeO2 with DMP and its catalytic activity was shown for click reaction and carboxylation of terminal alkynes.
A solution-processed pillar[5]arene-based small molecule cathode buffer layer for efficient planar perovskite solar cells
Authors: Lei Hongwei , Chen Xiaofeng , Xue Lingwei , Sun Linhao , Chen Jianjun , Tan Zuojun , Zhang Zhi-Guo , Li Yongfang , Fang Guojia
Published: April 2018

A novel pillar[5]arene-based cathode buffer layer for efficient rigid and flexible planar perovskite solar cells has been demonstrated.
Carbon dots derived from tobacco for visually distinguishing and detecting three kinds of tetracyclines
Authors: Miao Hong , Wang Yingyi , Yang Xiaoming
Published: April 2018

Although a number of methods to perform assays of tetracyclines using fluorescent probes have been reported, approaches for discriminating and detecting tetracyclines are few.
The para-fluoro-thiol reaction as an efficient tool in polymer chemistry
Authors: Delaittre Guillaume , Barner Leonie
Published: April 2018

The current literature describing the application of the para-fluoro–thiol reaction in the realm of macromolecular chemistry and the future of this coupling strategy are discussed.
Click chemistry approaches to expand the repertoire of PEG-based fluorinated surfactants for droplet microfluidics
Authors: Scanga Randall , Chrastecka Lucie , Mohammad Ridhwan , Meadows Austin , Quan Phenix-Lan , Brouzes Eric
Published: April 2018

Click-synthesis of fluorinated surfactants for droplet microfluidics.
Dual nanocomposite carrier transport layers enhance the efficiency of planar perovskite photovoltaics
Authors: Lin Hsi-Kuei , Li Jia-Xing , Wang Hao-Cheng , Su Yu-Wei , Wu Kaung-Hsiung , Wei Kung-Hwa
Published: April 2018

In photovoltaic devices, more effective transfer of dissociated electrons and holes from the active layer to the respective electrodes will result in higher fill factors and short-circuit current densities and, thus, enhanced power conversion efficiencies (PCEs).
Epitaxial growth of ultrathin layers on the surface of sub-10 nm nanoparticles: the case of β-NaGdF4:Yb/Er@NaDyF4 nanoparticles
Authors: Su Yang , Hao Li-Na , Liu Kun , Zhang Jun , Dong Liang , Xu Yunjun , Lu Yang , Qian Hai-Sheng
Published: April 2018

In this work, a series of core–shell upconversion nanoparticles with uniform size doped with Yb3+, Er3+ and NaDyF4 shells with different thicknesses were synthesized by a facile sequential growth process.
Pressure-dependent branching in initial decomposition of gamma-valerolactone: a quantum chemical/RRKM study
Authors: Ye Lili , Li Wei , Qi Fei
Published: April 2018

Pressure has a remarkable effect on the branching fractions of primary decomposition products, and subsequent radical chemistry is expected to be affected accordingly.