bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cancer Cell Mitochondria Targeting by Pancratistatin Analogs is Dependent on Functional Complex II and III
Authors: Ma Dennis , Pignanelli Christopher , Tarade Daniel , Gilbert Tyler , Noel Megan , Mansour Fadi , Adams Scott , Dowhayko Alexander , Stokes Kyle , Vshyvenko Sergey , Collins Jonathan , Hudlicky Tomas , McNulty James , Pandey Siyaram
Published: February 2017

Enhanced mitochondrial stability and decreased dependence on oxidative phosphorylation confer an acquired resistance to apoptosis in cancer cells, but may present opportunities for therapeutic intervention. The compound pancratistatin (PST) has been shown to selectively induce apoptosis in cancer cells. However, its low availability in nature has hindered its clinical advancement. We synthesized PST analogs and a medium-throughput screen was completed. Analogs SVTH-7, -6, and -5 demonstrated potent anti-cancer activity greater than PST and several standard chemotherapeutics. They disrupted mitochondrial function, activated the intrinsic apoptotic pathway, and reduced growth of tumor xenografts in vivo. Interestingly, the pro-apoptotic effects of SVTH-7 on cancer cells and mitochondria were abrogated with the inhibition of mitochondrial complex II and III, suggesting mitochondrial or metabolic vulnerabilities may be exploited by this analog. This work provides a scaffold for characterizing distinct mitochondrial and metabolic features of cancer cells and reveals several lead compounds with high therapeutic potential.
TWIST1 induces MMP3 expression through up-regulating DNA hydroxymethylation and promotes catabolic responses in human chondrocytes
Authors: Hasei Joe , Teramura Takeshi , Takehara Toshiyuki , Onodera Yuta , Horii Takuro , Olmer Merissa , Hatada Izuho , Fukuda Kanji , Ozaki Toshifumi , Lotz Martin K. , Asahara Hiroshi
Published: February 2017

The objective was to investigate the levels of TWIST1 in normal and OA cartilage and examine its role in regulating gene expression in chondrocytes. Human cartilage tissues and chondrocytes were obtained at autopsy from normal knee joints and from OA-affected joints at the time of total knee arthroplasty. TWIST1 expression was increased in human OA knee cartilage compared to normal knee cartilage. TWIST1 induced matrix metalloproteinase 3 (MMP3) expression without direct binding to MMP3 promoter and increased the 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC) level at the MMP3 promoter. The effect of TWIST1 on expression of TET family (TET1, 2 and 3) was measured in stable TWIST1 transfected TC28 cells, and TET1 expression was up-regulated. TWIST1 dependent upregulation of Mmp3 expression was suppressed in Tet triple KO fibroblast derived from mouse ES cells. Increased TWIST1 expression is a feature of OA-affected cartilage. We identified a novel mechanism of catabolic reaction where TWIST1 up-regulates MMP3 expression by enriching 5hmC levels at the MMP3 promoter via TET1 induction. These findings implicate TWIST1 as an important factor regulating OA related gene expression. Clarifying epigenetic mechanisms of 5hmC induced by TWIST1 is a critical molecule to understanding OA pathogenesis.
CMT-linked loss-of-function mutations in GDAP1 impair store-operated Ca2+ entry-stimulated respiration
Authors: González-Sánchez Paloma , Pla-Martín David , Martínez-Valero Paula , Rueda Carlos B. , Calpena Eduardo , del Arco Araceli , Palau Francesc , Satrústegui Jorgina
Published: February 2017

GDAP1 is an outer mitochondrial membrane protein involved in Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease. Lack of GDAP1 gives rise to altered mitochondrial networks and endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-mitochondrial interactions resulting in a decreased ER-Ca2+ levels along with a defect on store-operated calcium entry (SOCE) related to a misallocation of mitochondria to subplasmalemmal sites. The defect on SOCE is mimicked by MCU silencing or mitochondrial depolarization, which prevent mitochondrial calcium uptake. Ca2+ release from de ER and Ca2+ inflow through SOCE in neuroblastoma cells result in a Ca2+-dependent upregulation of respiration which is blunted in GDAP1 silenced cells. Reduced SOCE in cells with CMT recessive missense mutations in the α-loop of GDAP1, but not dominant mutations, was associated with smaller SOCE-stimulated respiration. These cases of GDAP1 deficiency also resulted in a decreased ER-Ca2+ levels which may have pathological implications. The results suggest that CMT neurons may be under energetic constraints upon stimulation by Ca2+ mobilization agonists and point to a potential role of perturbed mitochondria-ER interaction related to energy metabolism in forms of CMT caused by some of the recessive or null mutations of GDAP1.
Comparing the survival rate of juvenile Chinook salmon migrating through hydropower systems using injectable and surgical acoustic transmitters
Authors: Deng Z. D. , Martinez J. J. , Li H. , Harnish R. A. , Woodley C. M. , Hughes J. A. , Li X. , Fu T. , Lu J. , McMichael G. A. , Weiland M. A. , Eppard M. B. , Skalski J. R. , Townsend R. L.
Published: February 2017

Acoustic telemetry is one of the primary technologies for studying the behavior and survival of fishes throughout the world. The size and performance of the transmitter are key limiting factors. The newly developed injectable transmitter is the first acoustic transmitter that can be implanted via injection instead of surgery. A two-part field study was conducted to evaluate the performance of the injectable transmitter and its effect on the survival of implanted fish. The injectable transmitter performed well and similarly to the proceeding generation of commercially-available JSATS transmitters tested concurrently. Snake River subyearling Chinook salmon smolts implanted with the injectable transmitter had a higher survival probability from release to each of eleven downstream detection arrays, because reach-specific survival estimates were significantly higher for the injectable group in three of the eleven reaches examined. Overall, the injectable group had a 0.263 (SE = 0.017) survival probability over the entire 500 km study area compared to 0.199 (0.012) for the surgically implanted group. The reduction in size and ability to implant the new transmitter via injection has reduced the tag or tagging effect bias associated with studying small fishes. The information gathered with this new technology is helping to evaluate the impacts of dams on fishes.
Prognostic Value of Cancer Stem Cell Markers in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma: a Meta-analysis
Authors: Fan Zhaona , Li Mianxiang , Chen Xiaobing , Wang Juan , Liang Xueyi , Wang Hongfei , Wang Zhi , Cheng Bin , Xia Juan
Published: February 2017

Bmi-1, CD133, Nanog and Oct-4 have been reported as cancer stem cell (CSC) markers in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). However, the prognostic value of them in HNSCC remains controversial. Hence, this meta-analysis was conducted to access the association between the four CSC markers and survival outcome of HNSCC patients. A total of 22 articles with 27 studies met the inclusion criteria and the combined hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were calculated. Data analysis showed that high expression of CSC markers was associated with poor overall survival (OS) (HR = 1.93; 95% CI: 1.46–2.55, P < 0.001) and disease free survival (DFS) (HR = 4.78; 95% CI: 2.95–7.75, P < 0.001) but not disease specific survival (DSS) (HR = 1.17; 95% CI: 0.74–1.84, P = 0.50) of HNSCC patients. Subgroup analysis indicted that high expression of CD133 (HR = 2.33, 95%CI: 1.42–3.83, P < 0.001), Oct-4(HR = 2.10, 95%CI: 1.36–3.22, P = 0.007) and Nanog (HR = 2.49, 95%CI: 1.66–3.72, P < 0.001) could predict poor OS in HNSCC patients respectively whereas overexpression of Bmi-1 was not related to the reduced OS in HNSCC patients (HR = 1.32, 95%CI: 0.66–2.65, P = 0.43). Therefore, we concluded that CSC markers, especially CD133, Nanog and Oct-4, might be predictive factors in HNSCC patients.
A novel role of the organizer gene Goosecoid as an inhibitor of Wnt/PCP-mediated convergent extension in Xenopus and mouse
Authors: Ulmer Bärbel , Tingler Melanie , Kurz Sabrina , Maerker Markus , Andre Philipp , Mönch Dina , Campione Marina , Deißler Kirsten , Lewandoski Mark , Thumberger Thomas , Schweickert Axel , Fainsod Abraham , Steinbeißer Herbert , Blum Martin
Published: February 2017

Goosecoid (Gsc) expression marks the primary embryonic organizer in vertebrates and beyond. While functions have been assigned during later embryogenesis, the role ofGscin the organizer has remained enigmatic. Using conditional gain-of-function approaches inXenopusand mouse to maintainGscexpression in the organizer and along the axial midline, neural tube closure defects (NTDs) arose and dorsal extension was compromised. Both phenotypes represent convergent extension (CE) defects, arising from impaired Wnt/planar cell polarity (PCP) signaling. Dvl2 recruitment to the cell membrane was inhibited by Gsc inXenopusanimal cap assays and key Wnt/PCP factors (RhoA, Vangl2, Prickle, Wnt11) rescued Gsc-mediated NTDs. Re-evaluation of endogenousGscfunctions in MO-mediated gene knockdown frog and knockout mouse embryos unearthed PCP/CE-related phenotypes as well, including cartilage defects inXenopusand misalignment of inner ear hair cells in mouse. Our results assign a novel function toGscas an inhibitor of Wnt/PCP-mediated CE. We propose that in the organizerGscrepresses CE as well:Gsc-expressing prechordal cells, which leave the organizer first, migrate and do not undergo CE like theGsc-negative notochordal cells, which subsequently emerge from the organizer. In this model,Gscprovides a switch between cell migration and CE, i.e. cell intercalation.
PTEN status is a crucial determinant of the functional outcome of combined MEK and mTOR inhibition in cancer
Authors: Milella Michele , Falcone Italia , Conciatori Fabiana , Matteoni Silvia , Sacconi Andrea , De Luca Teresa , Bazzichetto Chiara , Corbo Vincenzo , Simbolo Michele , Sperduti Isabella , Benfante Antonina , Del Curatolo Anais , Cesta Incani Ursula , Malusa Federico , Eramo Adriana , Sette Giovanni , Scarpa Aldo , Konopleva Marina , Andreeff Michael , McCubrey James Andrew , Blandino Giovanni , Todaro Matilde , Stassi Giorgio , De Maria Ruggero , Cognetti Francesco , Del Bufalo Donatella , Ciuffreda Ludovica
Published: February 2017

Combined MAPK/PI3K pathway inhibition represents an attractive, albeit toxic, therapeutic strategy in oncology. Since PTEN lies at the intersection of these two pathways, we investigated whether PTEN status determines the functional response to combined pathway inhibition. PTEN (gene, mRNA, and protein) status was extensively characterized in a panel of cancer cell lines and combined MEK/mTOR inhibition displayed highly synergistic pharmacologic interactions almost exclusively in PTEN-loss models. Genetic manipulation of PTEN status confirmed a mechanistic role for PTEN in determining the functional outcome of combined pathway blockade. Proteomic analysis showed greater phosphoproteomic profile modification(s) in response to combined MEK/mTOR inhibition in PTEN-loss contexts and identified JAK1/STAT3 activation as a potential mediator of synergistic interactions. Overall, our results show that PTEN-loss is a crucial determinant of synergistic interactions between MAPK and PI3K pathway inhibitors, potentially exploitable for the selection of cancer patients at the highest chance of benefit from combined therapeutic strategies.
Other-regarding attention focus modulates third-party altruistic choice: An fMRI study
Authors: David Bastian , Hu Yang , Krüger Frank , Weber Bernd
Published: February 2017

Third-party altruistic decision-making has been shown to be modulated by other-regarding attention (e.g., focusing on the offender’s crime or the victim’s situation especially in judicial judgment). However, the neural mechanisms underlying this modulation remain poorly understood. In this fMRI study, participants voluntarily decided if they wanted to punish the first-party offender or help the second-party victim using their own monetary endowment in an unfair context. Particularly, before deciding they were asked to focus on the (un)fairness of the offender proposing the offer (offender-focused block, OB), the feeling of the victim receiving this offer (victim-focused block, VB), or without any specific focus (baseline block, BB). We found that compared to BB participants punished more frequently and prolonged help choices in OB, whereas they helped more frequently in VB. These findings were accompanied by an increased activation in the temporo-parietal junction (TPJ) during decision making in OB and VB. Moreover, regions relevant to cognitive control (esp. IFG/AI and the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex) were strongly recruited during specific choices conflicting the attention focus (e.g., choosing help in OB). Our findings revealed how other-regarding attention modulates third-party altruistic decision-making at the neural level.
Long-term use of ceftriaxone sodium induced changes in gut microbiota and immune system
Authors: Guo Yanjie , Yang Xuefei , Qi Yane , Wen Shu , Liu Yinhui , Tang Shaoying , Huang Rongsheng , Tang Li
Published: February 2017

Antibiotic administration, while facilitating clearance of targeted infections, also perturbs commensal microbial communities. Previous studies have all focused on the effects of short term use of antibiotics. Here, we focus on the effects of long term use of antibiotic on gut microbiota and immunity. BALB/c mice received saline or different doses of ceftriaxone sodium (100, 200 and 400 mg/mL) via daily gavage for 150 days. Alterations of fecal microbiota, small intestine histopathology, body weight, spleen index, serum IgG, mucus SIgA, IFN-γ/IL-4 ratio, CD4/CD8 ratio and CD4+CD25+ cells were evaluated. Long term ceftriaxone sodium administration resulted in gut microbiota dysbiosis, intestine histological lesions, growth inhibition, spleen index reducing. The immune defense ability reduced as serum IgG and mucus SIgA decreased significantly. Not only the immune defense, long term ceftriaxone administration also affected immune regulation. The IFN-γ/IL-4 and CD4/CD8 ratios increased, the CD4+CD25+ cells reduced on days 30 and 60 after ceftriaxone administration. However, after 90 days of ceftriaxone administration, the IFN-γ/IL-4, CD4/CD8 ratios and CD4+CD25+ cells restored, which indicated a new balance of immune regulation had been formed. Overall, these findings contribute to our understanding of long term antibiotic administration influencing gut microbiota and immunity.
Group A Streptococcal M1 Protein Provides Resistance against the Antimicrobial Activity of Histones
Authors: Döhrmann Simon , LaRock Christopher N. , Anderson Ericka L. , Cole Jason N. , Ryali Brinda , Stewart Chelsea , Nonejuie Poochit , Pogliano Joe , Corriden Ross , Ghosh Partho , Nizet Victor
Published: February 2017

Histones are essential elements of chromatin structure and gene regulation in eukaryotes. An unexpected attribute of these nuclear proteins is their antimicrobial activity. A framework for histone release and function in host defense in vivo was revealed with the discovery of neutrophil extracellular traps, a specialized cell death process in which DNA-based structures containing histones are extruded to ensnare and kill bacteria. Investigating the susceptibility of various Gram-positive pathogens to histones, we found high-level resistance by one leading human pathogen, group A Streptococcus (GAS). A screen of isogenic mutants revealed that the highly surface-expressed M1 protein, a classical GAS virulence factor, was required for high-level histone resistance. Biochemical and microscopic analyses revealed that the N-terminal domain of M1 protein binds and inactivates histones before they reach their cell wall target of action. This finding illustrates a new pathogenic function for this classic GAS virulence factor, and highlights a potential innate immune evasion strategy that may be employed by other bacterial pathogens.
Waist-to-height ratio is an effective indicator for comprehensive cardiovascular health
Authors: Shen Shiwei , Lu Yun , Qi Huajin , Li Feng , Shen Zhenhai , Wu Liuxin , Yang Chengjian , Wang Ling , Shui Kedong , Yao Weifeng , Qiang Dongchang , Yun Jingting , Zhou Lin
Published: February 2017

The aim of this study was to determine the associations between cardiovascular health and the waist circumference (WC) and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR). A cross-sectional study was performed recruiting 26701 middle-aged Chinese men. Of the seven ideal cardiovascular health metrics, body mass index (BMI), total cholesterol (TC), blood pressure (BP), and fasting blood glucose (FBG) were found to increase with an elevation of the mean WC and WHtR. The mean WC and WHtR were significantly lower in the subjects with intermediate or ideal cardiovascular health than those with poor or intermediate health. After adjustment for age, the mean WC and WHtR decreased by 1.486 cm and 0.009 per 1-point increase in the cardiovascular health score, and 2.242 cm and 0.013 per 1-point increase in the number of ideal cardiovascular health metrics, respectively. The cardiovascular health score was negatively correlated with the WC (r = −0.387) and WHtR (r = −0.400), while the number of ideal cardiovascular health metrics was negatively associated with the WC (r = −0.384) and WHtR (r = −0.395). The cardiovascular health is correlated negatively with the WC and WHtR, and a stronger correlation existed between the cardiovascular health and WHtR than WC.
Exploration of the role of gene mutations in myelodysplastic syndromes through a sequencing design involving a small number of target genes
Authors: Xu Feng , Wu Ling-Yun , He Qi , Wu Dong , Zhang Zheng , Song Lu-Xi , Zhao You-Shan , Su Ji-Ying , Zhou Li-Yu , Guo Juan , Chang Chun-Kang , Li Xiao
Published: February 2017

Novel sequencing designs are necessary to supplement the recognized knowledge of myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS)-related genomic alterations. In this study, we sequenced 28 target genes in 320 Chinese MDS patients but obtained 77.2% of recall factors and 82.8% of genetic abnormalities (including karyotype abnormalities). In addition to known relationships among mutations, some specific chromosomal abnormalities were found to link to specific gene mutations. Trisomy 8 tended to be linked to U2AF1 and ZRSR2 mutations, and 20q- exhibited higher SRSF2/WT1 and U2AF1 mutation frequency. Chromosome 7 involvement accounted for up to 50% of RUNX1 mutations and 37.5% of SETBP1 mutations. Patients carrying a complex karyotype were prone to present TP53 mutations (36.1%). However, individuals with normal karyotypes rarely possessed mutations in the TP53, RUNX1 and U2AF1. Moreover, DNMT3A, TP53, SRSF2, STAG2, ROBO1/2 and WT1 predicted poor survival and high AML transformation. By integrating these predictors into international prognostic scoring system (IPSS) or revised IPSS, we built a set of mutation-based prognostic risk models. These models could layer different degrees of risk in patients more satisfactorily. In summary, this sequencing design was able to detect a number of gene mutations and could be used to stratify patients with varied prognostic risk.
Homozygous carriers of the TCF7L2 rs7903146 T-allele show altered postprandial response in triglycerides and triglyceride-rich lipoproteins
Authors: Engelbrechtsen L. , Hansen T. H. , Mahendran Y. , Pyl P. , Andersson E. , Jonsson A. , Gjesing A. , Linneberg A. , Jørgensen T. , Hansen T. , Vestergaard H.
Published: February 2017

The TCF7L2 rs7903146 T-allele shows the strongest association with type 2 diabetes (T2D) among common gene variants. The aim of this study was to assess circulating levels of metabolites following a meal test in individuals carrying the high risk rs790346 TT genotype (cases) and low-risk CC genotype (controls). Sixty-two men were recruited based on TCF7L2 genotype, 31 were TT carriers and 31 were age- and BMI-matched CC carriers. All participants consumed a test meal after 12 hours of fasting. Metabolites were measured using proton nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. Metabolomic profiling of TCF7L2 carriers were performed for 141 lipid estimates. TT carriers had lower fasting levels of L-VLDL-L (total lipids in large very low density lipoproteins, p = 0.045), L-VLDL-CE (cholesterol esters in large VLDL, p = 0.03), and L-VLDL-C (total cholesterol in large VLDL, p = 0.045) compared to CC carriers. Additionally, TT carriers had lower postprandial levels of total triglycerides (TG) (q = 0.03), VLDL-TG (q = 0.05, including medium, small and extra small, q = 0.048, q = 0.0009, q = 0.04, respectively), HDL-TG (triglycerides in high density lipoproteins q = 0.037) and S-HDL-TG (q = 0.00003). In conclusion, TT carriers show altered postprandial triglyceride response, mainly influencing VLDL and HDL subclasses suggesting a genotype-mediated effect on hepatic lipid regulation.
Reducing luminance intensity can improve motion perception in noise
Authors: Allard Rémy , Arleo Angelo
Published: February 2017

Visual perception generally improves under brighter environments. For instance, motion sensitivity is known to improve with luminance intensity especially at high temporal frequencies. However, the current study counter-intuitively shows that increasing luminance intensity can impair motion sensitivity in noise. Motion sensitivity was measured with and without noise added to a drifting Gabor patch as a function of the temporal frequency and luminance intensity. As expected, motion sensitivity in absence of noise reached a ceiling performance at a relatively low luminance intensity (about 35 td) for low temporal frequencies and improved with luminance intensity up to the highest luminance intensity tested (353 td) for high temporal frequencies. In noise, reducing mean luminance intensity facilitated motion sensitivity (up to a factor of about 1.7) for temporal frequencies up to 7.5 Hz and impaired sensitivity at higher temporal frequencies (15 and 30 Hz). We conclude that reducing luminance intensity is effectively equivalent to applying a low-pass filter, which can improve motion sensitivity in noise to low and middle temporal frequencies. This counterintuitive facilitation effect can be explained by two known properties of the visual system: decreasing luminance intensity impairs the visibility of high temporal frequencies (equivalent to a low-pass filter) and motion detectors are broadly tuned.
Premature primary tooth eruption in cognitive/motor-delayed ADNP-mutated children
Authors: Gozes I , Van Dijck A , Hacohen-Kleiman G , Grigg I , Karmon G , Giladi E , Eger M , Gabet Y , Pasmanik-Chor M , Cappuyns E , Elpeleg O , Kooy R F , Bedrosian-Sermone S
Published: February 2017

A major flaw in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) management is late diagnosis. Activity-dependent neuroprotective protein (ADNP) is a most frequent de novo mutated ASD-related gene. Functionally, ADNP protects nerve cells against electrical blockade. In mice, complete Adnp deficiency results in dysregulation of over 400 genes and failure to form a brain. Adnp haploinsufficiency results in cognitive and social deficiencies coupled to sex- and age-dependent deficits in the key microtubule and ion channel pathways. Here, collaborating with parents/caregivers globally, we discovered premature tooth eruption as a potential early diagnostic biomarker for ADNP mutation. The parents of 44/54 ADNP-mutated children reported an almost full erupted dentition by 1 year of age, including molars and only 10 of the children had teeth within the normal developmental time range. Looking at Adnp-deficient mice, by computed tomography, showed significantly smaller dental sacs and tooth buds at 5 days of age in the deficient mice compared to littermate controls. There was only trending at 2 days, implicating age-dependent dysregulation of teething in Adnp-deficient mice. Allen Atlas analysis showed Adnp expression in the jaw area. RNA sequencing (RNAseq) and gene array analysis of human ADNP-mutated lymphoblastoids, whole-mouse embryos and mouse brains identified dysregulation of bone/nervous system-controlling genes resulting from ADNP mutation/deficiency (for example, BMP1 and BMP4). AKAP6, discovered here as a major gene regulated by ADNP, also links cognition and bone maintenance. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time that early primary (deciduous) teething is related to the ADNP syndrome, providing for early/simple diagnosis and paving the path to early intervention/specialized treatment plan.
Dynamical descriptors of bioactivity: a correlation between chemical durability and ion migration in biodegradable glasses
Authors: Tilocca Antonio
Published: February 2017

Molecular dynamics simulations reveal the importance of using dynamical descriptors to rationalize and predict the behavior of biomedical glasses.
Probing the shape of a graphene nanobubble
Authors: Jain Sandeep K. , Juričić Vladimir , Barkema Gerard T.
Published: February 2017

Universal shape behavior and ∼1 GPa vdW pressure in a small ∼10 nm graphene nanobubble.
Switchable divergent asymmetric synthesis via organocatalysis
Authors: Zhan Gu , Du Wei , Chen Ying-Chun
Published: February 2017

A variety of chiral organocatalysts, in addition to synergistic metal-based activation, were discussed in diverse switchable stereoselective reactions.
New, potentially chelating NHC ligands; synthesis, complexation studies, and preliminary catalytic evaluation
Authors: Ou Arnold , Wu Linglin , Salvador Alvaro , Sipos Gellert , Zhao Guangzhen , Skelton Brian W. , Sobolev Alexandre N. , Dorta Reto
Published: February 2017

Two new, potentially chelating NHC ligands are synthesised, characterised and their preliminary catalytic activity in NHC–Pd and NHC–Ru complexes is evaluated.
Design of porphyrin-based ligands for the assembly of [d-block metal : calcium] bimetallic centers
Authors: Koepf Matthieu , Bergkamp Jesse J. , Teillout Anne-Lucie , Llansola-Portoles Manuel J. , Kodis Gerdenis , Moore Ana L. , Gust Devens , Moore Thomas A.
Published: February 2017

A secondary binding-site for alkaline-earth cations is introduced on a porphyrin platform to obtain competent bitopicN,O-ligands.
Feasibility analysis and parameter optimization of organic steam to drive a MED system dealing with high salinity waste water
Authors: Xue Jianliang , Wu Yanan , Cui Qinqin , Gao Yu , Zhang Wenrui , Liu Bing , Li Lin
Published: February 2017

A MED system driven by organic steam for processing high salinity water was studied. The feasibility of organic steam as a heat resource was firstly studied. Additionally, key parameters of the MED system were optimized.
Toward practical application of paper-based microfluidics for medical diagnostics: state-of-the-art and challenges
Authors: Yamada Kentaro , Shibata Hiroyuki , Suzuki Koji , Citterio Daniel
Published: February 2017

The readiness of microfluidic paper-based analytical devices (μPADs) for real world diagnostic applications is described from various aspects.
Environmental factors and risk of aggressive prostate cancer among a population of New Zealand men – a genotypic approach
Authors: Vaidyanathan Venkatesh , Naidu Vijay , Kao Chi Hsiu-Juei , Karunasinghe Nishi , Bishop Karen S. , Wang Alice , Pallati Radha , Shepherd Phillip , Masters Jonathan , Zhu Shuotun , Goudie Megan , Krishnan Mohanraj , Jabed Anower , Marlow Gareth , Narayanan Ajit , Ferguson Lynnette R.
Published: February 2017

Genes with SNPs that were significantly associated with risk for aggressive and non-aggressive prostate cancer were identified.
Synthesis of Ru(ii)–benzene complexes containing aroylthiourea ligands, and their binding with biomolecules and in vitro cytotoxicity through apoptosis
Authors: Jeyalakshmi Kumaramangalam , Haribabu Jebiti , Balachandran Chandrasekar , Bhuvanesh Nattamai S. P. , Emi Nobuhiko , Karvembu Ramasamy
Published: February 2017

Ru(ii)(η6-benzene) complexes containing sulfur donor monodentate aroylthiourea ligands have been synthesized and evaluated for their biological applications.
CNT-enhanced amino-functionalized graphene aerogel adsorbent for highly efficient removal of formaldehyde
Authors: Wu Lirui , Qin Ziyi , Zhang Lanxin , Meng Tao , Yu Fei , Ma Jie
Published: February 2017

Graphene aerogels modified using two different methods were investigated for their capacities to adsorb gaseous formaldehyde.
Sensitive and selective ratiometric fluorescent detection of monosaccharides in aqueous solutions at physiological pH using self-assembled peptides with different aromatic side chains
Authors: Nath Neupane Lok , Kumar Mehta Pramod , Lee Keun-Hyeung
Published: February 2017

The control of disassembly of supramolecular nanostructures of the self-assembled peptides by monosaccharides was investigated for the fluorescent detection of monosaccharides in aqueous solutions.
Tetraalkynylstannanes in the Stille cross coupling reaction: a new effective approach to arylalkynes
Authors: Levashov Andrey S. , Buryi Dmitrii S. , Goncharova Olga V. , Konshin Valeriy V. , Dotsenko Victor V. , Andreev Alexey A.
Published: February 2017

The Stille-type cross coupling reaction with tetraalkynylstannanes was studied in detail for the first time.
Transition-metal-free synthesis of 3-(1-pyrrolidinyl)quinolines and 3-(1-pyrrolidinyl)quinoline 1-oxides via a one-pot reaction of 3-(1-pyrrolidinyl)crotonates with nitrobenzenes
Authors: Bujok Robert , Cmoch Piotr , Wróbel Zbigniew , Wojciechowski Krzysztof
Published: February 2017

20 examples oftert-butyl 3-(1-pyrrolidinyl)-quinoline-2-carboxylate/quinoline 1-oxides including optically pure derivatives.
Influence of denticity and combined soft–hard strategy on the interaction of picolinic-type ligands with NpO2+
Authors: Ling Hongcai , Xia Miaoren , Chen Wenkai , Chai Zhifang , Wang Dongqi
Published: February 2017

The denticity of the ligands and the combined hard–soft donor strategy work cooperatively in the coordination of NpO2+ with ligands.
Combating fuel-driven aqua-pollution using ”benzomagnets“
Authors: Seddigi Zaki S. , Ahmed Saleh A. , Sardar Samim , Yarkandi Naeema H. , Abdulaziz Mohammed , Pal Samir Kumar
Published: February 2017

”Benzomagnets“ were developed using protoporphyrin IX-sensitized TiO2 microspheres to monitor and combat fuel-driven aqua-pollution.
Copolymerization of Eu(TTA)3Phen doped styrene and methyl methacrylate nanoparticles and use in quantitative detection of pepsinogen
Authors: Wu Feng , Mao Mao , Cen Yu , Yang Hongtian , Qin Zhifeng , Ma Lan
Published: February 2017

High fluorescence intensity nanoparticles were prepared by copolymerization of Eu(TTA)3Phen doped styrene and methyl methacrylate.
A simple spray reaction synthesis and characterization of hierarchically porous SnO2 microspheres for an enhanced dye sensitized solar cell
Authors: Zhang Hui , Wu Rong , Xu Hong , Li Fan , Wang Shuo , Wang Jinshu , Zhang Tingting
Published: February 2017

Hierarchical SnO2 porous microspheres were synthesized by using a novel spray reaction technique. The efficiency of the SnO2 microspheres-based DSSCs reaches 6.0%.
Synthesis and characterization of a tin(iv) antimonophosphate nano-composite membrane incorporating 1-dodecyl-3-methylimidazolium bromide ionic liquid
Authors: Kaushal Sandeep , Singh Gurbir , Singh Pritpal , Kang Tejwant Singh
Published: February 2017

Ionic liquid doped PVC based nanocomposite membranes, with varying crystallinity that affects their physicochemical properties, are prepared and characterized.
An investigation of chitosan and its derivatives on red blood cell agglutination
Authors: Zhou Xuan , Zhang Xinshuo , Zhou Jianjun , Li Lin
Published: February 2017

RBC agglutination was determined by the number of protonated amine groups on chitosan and its derivatives.
A study on the synthesis, longitudinal optical phonon–plasmon coupling and electronic structure of Al doped ZnS nanorods
Authors: Gawai U. P. , Deshpande U. P. , Dole B. N.
Published: February 2017

First principles density functional theory (DFT) calculations were employed to study the structural and electronic properties of pure and Al doped ZnS nanorods.
Improved electron extraction by a ZnO nanoparticle interlayer for solution-processed polymer solar cells
Authors: Zhang Xuning , Yang Shuo , Bi Shiqing , Kumaresan Anbu , Zhou Jiyu , Seifter Jason , Mi Hongyu , Xu Yun , Zhang Yuan , Zhou Huiqiong
Published: February 2017

Solvent effect on hole-blocking layers based on ZnO nanoparticles is investigated for solution-processed polymer solar cells. Incorporation of the dense ZnO nanoparticle interlayer leads to enhanced PCEs in PTB7-Th:PC71BM solar cells from 8.4% to 9.2% with improved stability.
Fabrication of SiO2@silicalite-1 and its use as a catalyst support
Authors: Yang Xiaobing , Huang Liuqing , Li Jintang , Tang Xueyuan , Luo Xuetao
Published: February 2017

Schematic diagram of the synthestic procedure and the synthesized SiO2@silicalite-1.
Determination of amino groups on functionalized graphene oxide for polyurethane nanomaterials: XPS quantitation vs. functional speciation
Authors: Ederer Jakub , Janoš Pavel , Ecorchard Petra , Tolasz Jakub , Štengl Václav , Beneš Hynek , Perchacz Magdalena , Pop-Georgievski Ognen
Published: February 2017

Simple spectrophotometric method for the estimation of accessible amino groups and preparation of polyurethane nanocomposites.
Microwave-assisted hydrolysis of biomass over activated carbon supported polyoxometalates
Authors: Tsubaki S. , Oono K. , Onda A. , Ueda T. , Mitani T. , Hiraoka M.
Published: February 2017

Activated carbon supported polyoxometalates (AC-POMs) were used for acceleration of hydrolysis of biomass under microwave irradiation.
Manganese dioxide nanowires on carbon nanofiber frameworks for efficient electrochemical device electrodes
Authors: Saito Y. , Meguro M. , Ashizawa M. , Waki K. , Yuksel R. , Unalan H. E. , Matsumoto H.
Published: February 2017

Hierarchically nanostructured composite electrodes were prepared by the electrodeposition of manganese dioxide nanowires (MnO2 NWs) with 5–20 nm diameters on electrospun carbon nanofiber (CNF) webs with diameters of 250 and 650 nm.
A comparative analysis of the intended curriculum and its presentation in 10th grade chemistry textbooks from seven Arabic countries
Authors: Khaddoor Rouba , Al-Amoush Siham , Eilks Ingo
Published: February 2017

This study investigates the nature of intended secondary chemistry curricula, as they are represented by chemistry textbooks, from seven Arabic countries: Algeria, Egypt, Jordan, Kuwait, Palestine, Saudi Arabia and Syria. The curricula are evaluated through analysis of the officially approved 10th grade chemistry textbooks used nationwide in all of these countries. The textbooks were analysed by qualitative content analysis in three cycles. The cycles focused on technical characteristics, the representation of the content, and an overall rating of the intended curriculum based on the findings from the first two rounds in connection to the ideas of the curriculum emphasis and curriculum orientation. The overall rating focuses on the orientation of the intended curricula, the emphases behind them, and indicators of any student-centred pedagogy. Our findings show that the textbooks differ widely. Some textbooks from this sample proved to be very traditional and purely organized in terms of the chemistry content with very limited connections of the content to modern aspects or applications of chemistry. The curricula in Algeria, Kuwait and Palestine were found to be of this kind. The textbooks from these countries basically operate a fundamental chemistry and structure-of-the-discipline approach. Other textbooks actually represent more modern approaches in chemistry teaching by providing a recognizable degree of contextualisation or even societal orientation. This is the case for Egypt, Syria and Saudi Arabia and, to a lesser degree, for Jordan. In the case of Palestine, the textbook focuses almost exclusively on content in technical and engineering contexts. Our analysis shows that there is no clear relationship between the intended chemistry curricula and certain characteristics in the corresponding countries, namely the regional background, the level of economic strength, and the degree of traditionalism.
A microwave-assisted synthesis of CoO@Co core–shell structures coupled with N-doped reduced graphene oxide used as a superior multi-functional electrocatalyst for hydrogen evolution, oxygen reduction and oxygen evolution reactions
Authors: Liu X. X. , Zang J. B. , Chen L. , Chen L. B. , Chen X. , Wu P. , Zhou S. Y. , Wang Y. H.
Published: February 2017

CoO@Co with a core–shell structure coupled with N-rGO used as a superior multifunctional electrocatalyst was obtained using a convenient and controllable technique.
Morphology inherence from hollow MOFs to hollow carbon polyhedrons in preparing carbon-based electrocatalysts
Authors: Pei Yuchen , Qi Zhiyuan , Li Xinle , Maligal-Ganesh Raghu V. , Goh Tian Wei , Xiao Chaoxian , Wang Tianyu , Huang Wenyu
Published: February 2017

Direct transformation of hollow ZIFs into well-defined (Fe-doped) HCPs with superior ORR activities, benefiting from the morphology inherence during carbonization.
Charge carrier trapping controlled by polymer blend phase dynamics
Authors: Kunz A. , Blom P. W. M. , Michels J. J.
Published: February 2017

Blend phase composition governs electron trapping in insulator:semiconducting polymer mixtures used in organic light-emitting diodes.
Reaction of the thermo-labile triazenide Na[tBu3SiNNNSiMe3] with CO2: formation of the imido carbonate (tBu3SiO)(Me3SiO)CN-SitBu3and carbamine acid (tBu3SiO)CONH2
Authors: Lerner H.-W. , Bolte M. , Wagner M.
Published: February 2017

A one-pot synthesis of (tBu3SiO)(Me3SiO)CN-SitBu3and (tBu3SiO)CONH2was achieved by the reaction of Na[SitBu3] with Me3SiN3and subsequent CO2treatment.
A simple synthetic route to polyoxovanadate-based organic–inorganic hybrids using EEDQ as an ester coupling agent
Authors: Bayaguud Aruuhan , Li JianDa , She Shan , Wei Yongge
Published: February 2017

A simple synthetic strategy for the post-functionalization of organically derivatized hexavanadates is presented.
Ratiometric electrochemical detection of hydrogen peroxide and glucose
Authors: Goggins Sean , Apsey Ellen A. , Mahon Mary F. , Frost Christopher G.
Published: February 2017

Ferrocene-derived probes equipped with self-immolative linkers and boronic ester trigger moieties enable selective electrochemical detection of hydrogen peroxide, and glucose.
Gold/silver-catalyzed controllable regioselective vinylcarbene insertion into O–H bonds
Authors: Xu Guangyang , Liu Kai , Dai Zhenya , Sun Jiangtao
Published: February 2017

The controllable regioselective vinylcarbene insertion into O–H bonds of 2-pyridones/benzyl alcohols has been realized.
Novel valproic aminophenol amides with enhanced glial cell viability effect
Authors: Alpuche-García Andrea , Dávila-González Xochitl , Arregui Leticia , Beltrán Hiram I.
Published: February 2017

In this work, ortho-aminophenols were attached to valproic acid, resulting in seven novel anticancer drug prototypes.
Proximity correction and resolution enhancement of plasmonic lens lithography far beyond the near field diffraction limit
Authors: Luo Yunfei , Liu Ling , Zhang Wei , Kong Weijie , Zhao Chengwei , Gao Ping , Zhao Zeyu , Pu Mingbo , Wang Changtao , Luo Xiangang
Published: February 2017

The methods for resolution enhancement and proximity correction of plasmonic lens lithography far beyond near field diffraction limit are investigated.
Influence of sample preparation on IGC measurements: the cases of silanised glass wool and packing structure
Authors: Hadjittofis Eftychios , Zhang Geoff G. Z. , Heng Jerry Y. Y.
Published: February 2017

A high amount of silanised wool can influence IGC measurements, especially for low surface energy/area materials.
Comparative study of the photocatalytic performance for the degradation of different dyes by ZnIn2S4: adsorption, active species, and pathways
Authors: Liu Tingting , Wang Lei , Lu Xue , Fan Jiamin , Cai Xinxin , Gao Bo , Miao Rui , Wang Jiaxuan , Lv Yongtao
Published: February 2017

Comparative study of the photocatalytic performance for the degradation of different by ZnIn2S4 based on the adsorption of dyes, the active species and the degradation pathway.
Hyperbranched conjugated polymers containing 1,3-butadiene units: metal-free catalyzed synthesis and selective chemosensors for Fe3+ ions
Authors: Luo Chuxin , Liu Yating , Zhang Qi , Cai Xuediao
Published: February 2017

Hyperbranched polymers containing 1,3-butadiene units in main chain were synthesized by transition-metal-free catalysis and investigated as chemosensors for Fe3+ ions.
Accumulation of camptothecin and 10-hydroxycamptothecin and the transcriptional expression of camptothecin biosynthetic genes in Camptotheca acuminata cambial meristematic and dedifferentiated cells
Authors: Zhang Yuhua , Jiang Keming , Qing Degang , Huang Bing , Jiang Jiayi , Wang Shumei , Yan Chunyan
Published: February 2017

Cambial meristematic cells (CMCs) ofC. acuminatawere isolated and compared with dedifferentiated cells (DDCs). The expression levels of seven genes encoding key enzymes involved in CPT and HCPT biosynthesis was significantly upregulated in CMCs compared with DDCs.
High-yield colloidal synthesis of monometallic Au nanorod–Au nanoparticle dimers and their application in SERS
Authors: Chen Suli , Chen Lei , Hu Huicheng , Liu Qipeng , Xu Yong , Ji Fei , Bao Feng , Fan Jian , Zhang Qiao
Published: February 2017

Dimeric nanostructures have attracted much attention owing to their unique structure and excellent physiochemical properties.
Fabrication of a snail shell-like structured MnO2@CoNiO2 composite electrode for high performance supercapacitors
Authors: Reddy Araveeti Eswar , Anitha Tarugu , Gopi Chandu V. V. M. , Srinivasa Rao S. , Thulasi-Varma Chebrolu Venkata , Punnoose Dinah , Kim Hee-Je
Published: February 2017

MnO2@CoNiO2 snail shell-like structures exhibits superior specific capacitance and cyclic stability than the MnO2 and CoNiO2 electrodes.
Both degradation and AOX accumulation are significantly enhanced in UV/peroxymonosulfate/4-chlorophenol/Cl− system: two sides of the same coin?
Authors: Wang Zhaohui , Feng Min , Fang Changling , Huang Ying , Ai Luoyan , Yang Fei , Xue Ying , Liu Wenqian , Liu Jianshe
Published: February 2017

External chloride ion may lead to AOX accumulation in UV/PMS process, although 4-CP degradation was accelerated.
A novel one-pot process for the preparation of linear and hyperbranched polycarbonates of various diols and triols using dimethyl carbonate
Authors: Sun Jingjiang , Aly Kamal Ibrahim , Kuckling Dirk
Published: February 2017

A novel one-pot method for preparation of high molecular-weight linear and hyperbranched polycarbonates from diols and triols with dimethyl carbonate.
Novel bright-emission small-molecule NIR-II fluorophores for in vivo tumor imaging and image-guided surgery
Authors: Sun Yao , Ding Mingmin , Zeng Xiaodong , Xiao Yuling , Wu Huaping , Zhou Hui , Ding Bingbing , Qu Chunrong , Hou Wei , Er-bu AGA , Zhang Yejun , Cheng Zhen , Hong Xuechuan
Published: February 2017

This work presents the establishment of novel bright-emission small-molecule NIR-II fluorophores forin vivotumor imaging and NIR-II image-guided sentinel lymph node surgery.
Insight into the topological defects and dopants in metal-free holey graphene for triiodide reduction in dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Yang Wang , Xu Xiuwen , Hou Liqiang , Ma Xinlong , Yang Fan , Wang Ying , Li Yongfeng
Published: February 2017

Holey graphene with abundant edge-induced topological defects and nitrogen dopants acts as a durable metal-free cathode for dye-sensitized solar cells.
Remarkable electrochemical properties of novel LaNi0.5Co0.5O3/0.333Co3O4 hollow spheres with a mesoporous shell
Authors: Wang Ni , Yao Mengqi , Zhao Peng , Hu Wencheng , Komarneni Sridhar
Published: February 2017

Novel LaNi0.5Co0.5O3/0.333Co3O4 hollow spheres with a mesoporous shell are developed as hybrid supercapacitors which exhibit superior energy density and outstanding cycling stability.
Titanium mesh based fully flexible highly efficient quantum dots sensitized solar cells
Authors: Du Zhonglin , Liu Mingdian , Li Yan , Chen Yanxue , Zhong Xinhua
Published: February 2017

Benefiting from the in situ growth of ZnO/ZnSe/CdSe heterojunction photoanodes with effective light harvesting capacity and the highly catalytic activity of MC/Ti CEs, flexible Ti mesh-based QDSCs were assembled successfully and exhibited a new efficiency record for flexible QDSCs with champion PCE of 5.08%.
Freestanding highly defect nitrogen-enriched carbon nanofibers for lithium ion battery thin-film anodes
Authors: Tan Guoqiang , Bao Wurigumula , Yuan Yifei , Liu Zhun , Shahbazian-Yassar Reza , Wu Feng , Amine Khalil , Wang Jing , Lu Jun
Published: February 2017

To transform lithium ion batteries into large-scale energy storage technologies, high energy/power densities and long cycling life of carbon-based anodes must be achieved.
Janus nanoparticles for T cell activation: clustering ligands to enhance stimulation
Authors: Lee Kwahun , Yu Yan
Published: February 2017

Janus nanoparticles displaying clustered ligands enhance T cell activation by increasing the local surface density of ligand stimuli.
An extended π-conjugated area of electron-donating units in D–A structured polymers towards high-mobility field-effect transistors and highly efficient polymer solar cells
Authors: Cai Ping , Chen Zhenhui , Zhang Lianjie , Chen Junwu , Cao Yong
Published: February 2017

Two D–A conjugated polymers, FBT-DThDT-1T and FBT-DThDT-TT, were synthesized and applied in field-effect transistors and inverted polymer solar cells.
Peroxiredoxin 1 (Prx1) is a dual-function enzyme by possessing Cys-independent catalase-like activity
Authors: Sun Cen-Cen , Dong Wei-Ren , Shao Tong , Li Jiang-Yuan , Zhao Jing , Nie Li , Xiang Li-Xin , Zhu Guan , Shao Jian-Zhong
Published: February 2017

Peroxiredoxin (Prx) was previously known as a Cys-dependent thioredoxin. However, we unexpectedly observed that Prx1 from the green spotted puffer fish Tetraodon nigroviridis (TnPrx1) was able to reduce H2O2 in a manner independent of Cys peroxidation and reductants. This study aimed to validate a novel function for Prx1, delineate the biochemical features and explore its antioxidant role in cells. We have confirmed that Prx1 from the puffer fish and humans truly possesses a catalase (CAT)-like activity that is independent of Cys residues and reductants, but dependent on iron. We have identified that the GVL motif was essential to the CAT-like activity of Prx1, but not to the Cys-dependent thioredoxin peroxidase (POX) activity, and generated mutants lacking POX and/or CAT-like activities for individual functional validation. We discovered that the TnPrx1 POX and CAT-like activities possessed different kinetic features in the reduction of H2O2. The overexpression of wild-type TnPrx1 and mutants differentially regulated the intracellular levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the phosphorylation of p38 in HEK-293T cells treated with H2O2. Prx1 is a dual-function enzyme by acting as POX and CAT with varied affinities towards ROS. This study extends our knowledge on Prx1 and provides new opportunities to further study the biological roles of this family of antioxidants.
Wideband transition between rectangular waveguide and microstrip using asymmetric fin line probe
Authors: Li Jian , Huang Yongjun , Li Yi , Wen Guangjun , Xiao Fulin
Published: February 2017

A novel wideband waveguide‐to‐microstrip transition realised by inserting asymmetric fin line probe into metallic rectangular waveguide is presented. One back‐to‐back transition covering the Ka band is designed, fabricated and tested to show the advantages of such asymmetric fin line‐probe inspired transition structure, and measured results consist well with simulations. An insertion loss less than 0.8 dB and a return loss better than 15 dB over 24–40 GHz are obtained for the back‐to‐back structure. This broadband fin line‐probe transition between rectangular waveguide and microstrip can be used widely in microwave and millimetre‐wave circuit and system.