bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CryoEM reveals how the complement membrane attack complex ruptures lipid bilayers
Authors: Menny Anaïs , Serna Marina , Boyd Courtney M. , Gardner Scott , Joseph Agnel Praveen , Morgan B. Paul , Topf Maya , Brooks Nicholas J. , Bubeck Doryen
Published: December 2018

The membrane attack complex (MAC) is one of the immune system’s first responders. Complement proteins assemble on target membranes to form pores that lyse pathogens and impact tissue homeostasis of self-cells. How MAC disrupts the membrane barrier remains unclear. Here we use electron cryo-microscopy and flicker spectroscopy to show that MAC interacts with lipid bilayers in two distinct ways. Whereas C6 and C7 associate with the outer leaflet and reduce the energy for membrane bending, C8 and C9 traverse the bilayer increasing membrane rigidity. CryoEM reconstructions reveal plasticity of the MAC pore and demonstrate how C5b6 acts as a platform, directing assembly of a giant β-barrel whose structure is supported by a glycan scaffold. Our work provides a structural basis for understanding how β-pore forming proteins breach the membrane and reveals a mechanism for how MAC kills pathogens and regulates cell functions.
Blood flow-induced Notch activation and endothelial migration enable vascular remodeling in zebrafish embryos
Authors: Weijts Bart , Gutierrez Edgar , Saikin Semion K. , Ablooglu Ararat J. , Traver David , Groisman Alex , Tkachenko Eugene
Published: December 2018

Arteries and veins are formed independently by different types of endothelial cells (ECs). In vascular remodeling, arteries and veins become connected and some arteries become veins. It is unclear how ECs in transforming vessels change their type and how fates of individual vessels are determined. In embryonic zebrafish trunk, vascular remodeling transforms arterial intersegmental vessels (ISVs) into a functional network of arteries and veins. Here we find that, once an ISV is connected to venous circulation, venous blood flow promotes upstream migration of ECs that results in displacement of arterial ECs by venous ECs, completing the transformation of this ISV into a vein without trans-differentiation of ECs. Arterial blood flow initiated in two neighboring ISVs prevents their transformation into veins by activating Notch signaling in ECs. Together, different responses of ECs to arterial and venous blood flow lead to formation of a balanced network with equal numbers of arteries and veins.
Publisher Correction: Tracing the transitions from pluripotency to germ cell fate with CRISPR screening
Authors: Hackett Jamie A. , Huang Yun , Günesdogan Ufuk , Gretarsson Kristjan A. , Kobayashi Toshihiro , Surani M. Azim
Published: December 2018

Ufuk Günesdogan was incorrectly associated with Center for Genetic Analysis of Behaviour, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, 5-1 Higashiyama Myodaiji, Okazaki, Aichi 444-8787, Japan and Toshihiro Kobayashi was incorrectly associated with Department of Developmental Biology, University of Göttingen, Göttingen Center for Molecular Biosciences, Justus-von-Liebig Weg 11, 37077 Göttingen, Germany. This has now been corrected in both the PDF and HTML versions of the Article.
Human sex reversal is caused by duplication or deletion of core enhancers upstream of SOX9
Authors: Croft Brittany , Ohnesorg Thomas , Hewitt Jacqueline , Bowles Josephine , Quinn Alexander , Tan Jacqueline , Corbin Vincent , Pelosi Emanuele , van den Bergen Jocelyn , Sreenivasan Rajini , Knarston Ingrid , Robevska Gorjana , Vu Dung Chi , Hutson John , Harley Vincent , Ayers Katie , Koopman Peter , Sinclair Andrew
Published: December 2018

Disorders of sex development (DSDs) are conditions affecting development of the gonads or genitalia. Variants in two key genes, SRY and its target SOX9, are an established cause of 46,XY DSD, but the genetic basis of many DSDs remains unknown. SRY-mediated SOX9 upregulation in the early gonad is crucial for testis development, yet the regulatory elements underlying this have not been identified in humans. Here, we identified four DSD patients with overlapping duplications or deletions upstream of SOX9. Bioinformatic analysis identified three putative enhancers for SOX9 that responded to different combinations of testis-specific regulators. All three enhancers showed synergistic activity and together drive SOX9 in the testis. This is the first study to identify SOX9 enhancers that, when duplicated or deleted, result in 46,XX or 46,XY sex reversal, respectively. These enhancers provide a hitherto missing link by which SRY activates SOX9 in humans, and establish SOX9 enhancer mutations as a significant cause of DSD.
Probing the energy gap of high-temperature cuprate superconductors by resonant inelastic x-ray scattering
Authors: Suzuki Hakuto , Minola Matteo , Lu Yi , Peng Yingying , Fumagalli Roberto , Lefrançois Emilie , Loew Toshinao , Porras Juan , Kummer Kurt , Betto Davide , Ishida Shigeyuki , Eisaki Hiroshi , Hu Cheng , Zhou Xingjiang , Haverkort Maurits W. , Brookes Nicholas B. , Braicovich Lucio , Ghiringhelli Giacomo , Le Tacon Matthieu , Keimer Bernhard
Published: December 2018

The determination of the symmetry of the energy gap is crucial for research on the microscopic mechanisms of unconventional superconductivity. Here, we demonstrate experimentally that high-resolution resonant inelastic X-ray scattering at the Cu L3 edge can serve as a momentum-resolved, bulk-sensitive probe of the superconducting gap. We studied two optimally doped cuprates Bi2Sr2CaCu2O8+δ and Bi2Sr2Ca2Cu3O10+δ, in which we observe a strongly momentum dependent reduction of the spectral weight upon entering the superconducting state, with a maximum for momenta connecting antinodal regions of the Fermi surface. Based on a comparison with the calculated charge susceptibility and electronic Raman scattering data, we interpret our observation as a renormalization of the non-local charge susceptibility due to the superconducting gap opening. Our data demonstrate the methodological potential of resonant inelastic X-ray scattering as a versatile probe of the energy gap of high-temperature superconductors, including buried interfaces in heterostructures which are inaccessible to angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy.
Occurrence and diversity of cyanotoxins in Greek lakes
Authors: Christophoridis Christophoros , Zervou Sevasti-Kiriaki , Manolidi Korina , Katsiapi Matina , Moustaka-Gouni Maria , Kaloudis Triantafyllos , Triantis Theodoros M. , Hiskia Anastasia
Published: December 2018

Toxic cyanobacteria occur in Greek surface water bodies. However, studies on the occurrence of cyanotoxins (CTs) are often limited to mainly microcystins (MCs), with use of screening methods, such as ELISA, that are not conclusive of the chemical structure of the CT variants and can be subject to false positive results. A multi-lake survey in Greece (14 lakes) was conducted in water and biomass, targeted to a wide range of multi-class CTs including MCs, nodularin-R (NOD), cylindrospermopsin (CYN), anatoxin-a (ANA-a) and saxitoxins (STXs), using multi-class/variant LC-MS/MS analytical workflows, achieving sensitive detection, definitive identification and accurate quantitation. A wide variety of CTs (CYN, ANA-a, STX, neoSTX, dmMC-RR, MC-RR, MC-YR, MC-HtyR, dm3MC-LR, MC-LR, MC-HilR, MC-WR, MC-LA, MC-LY, MC-LW and MC-LF), were detected, with MCs being the most commonly occurring. In biomass, MC-RR was the most abundant toxin, reaching 754 ng mg−1 dw, followed by MC-LR (458 ng mg−1 dw). CYN and ANA-a were detected for the first time in the biomass of Greek lakes at low concentrations and STXs in lakes Trichonis, Vistonis and Petron. The abundance and diversity of CTs were also evaluated in relation to recreational health risks, in a case study with a proven history of MCs (Lake Kastoria).
A novel Lab-on-Fiber Radiation Dosimeter for Ultra-high Dose Monitoring
Authors: Quero Giuseppe , Vaiano Patrizio , Fienga Francesco , Giaquinto Martino , Di Meo Valentina , Gorine Georgi , Casolaro Pierluigi , Campajola Luigi , Breglio Giovanni , Crescitelli Alessio , Esposito Emanuela , Ricciardi Armando , Cutolo Antonello , Ravotti Federico , Buontempo Salvatore , Consales Marco , Cusano Andrea
Published: December 2018

In this work, we report on the first demonstration of Lab on Fiber (LOF) dosimeter for ionizing radiation monitoring at ultra-high doses. The new dosimeter consists in a metallo-dielectric resonator at sub-wavelength scale supporting localized surface plasmon resonances realized on the optical fiber (OF) tip. The resonating structure involves two gold gratings separated by a templated dielectric layer of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA). Two LOF prototypes have been manufactured and exposed at the IRRAD Proton Facility at CERN in Geneva to 23 GeV protons for a total fluence of 0.67 × 1016 protons/cm2, corresponding to an absorbed dose of 1.8 MGy. Experimental data demonstrated the “radiation resistance” feature of the LOF devices and a clear dependence of the reflected spectrum versus the total dose, expressed by a cumulative blue-shift of ~1.4 nm of the resonance combined with a slight increase of 0.16 dBm in the reflected spectrum. The numerical analysis carried out to correlate the experimental results with the dimensional and physical properties of the resonator, expected to be tightly connected to the absorbed dose, suggests that the main phenomenon induced by exposure to proton beam and able to explain the measured spectral behavior is the reduction of the PMMA thickness, which is also consistent with past literature in the field. Preliminary results demonstrated the potentiality of the proposed platform as dosimeter at MGy dose levels for high energy physics experiments.
Niche Partitioning in Theropod Dinosaurs: Diet and Habitat Preference in Predators from the Uppermost Cedar Mountain Formation (Utah, U.S.A.)
Authors: Frederickson J. A. , Engel M. H. , Cifelli R. L.
Published: December 2018

We explore hypothetical ecologies to explain diversity among predatory dinosaurs in North America’s medial Cretaceous, based on occurrence, tooth morphology, and stable isotope analysis. The Mussentuchit local fauna, Utah, USA, is among the best-known terrestrial vertebrate assemblages from the Cretaceous. Study samples include teeth from six microvertebrate sites, ranging in depositional setting from distal floodplain to channel lags. We recognize four theropod morphotypes: a comparatively large theropod (morph 1), a medium-sized dromaeosaurid (morph 2), a small dromaeosaurid (morph 3), and a tooth-morph similar to the genus Richardoestesia (morph 4). These four morphotypes vary significantly in mean size, from 15.1 mm in the largest theropod to 3.7 mm in Richardoestesia. Further, tooth representation from two of the best-sampled microsites (representing a channel/splay and floodplain deposit) show differing patterns of abundances with morphs 1 and 3 having roughly the same abundance in both sites, while morph 2 was more abundant in the floodplain setting and morph 4 was more abundant in the channel/splay. Stable isotope analysis (δ13C; δ18O) of tooth carbonate from the theropod morphotypes, goniopholidid crocodilians, and matrix (to test for diagenesis) from these sites were also analyzed. The theropods show modest differences in δ13C values between each other, with carbonate from the teeth of morphs 1, 3, and 4 being enriched in 13C for the channel/splay relative to the floodplain environments, possibly indicative of dietary plasticity in these species. We hypothesize that these data indicate that the Mussentuchit theropods had different niches within the predator guild, suggesting plausible means by which ecospace was divided among the predatory dinosaurs of the Mussentuchit local fauna.
DEBIO 1143, an IAP inhibitor, reverses carboplatin resistance in ovarian cancer cells and triggers apoptotic or necroptotic cell death
Authors: Thibault Benoît , Genre Ludivine , Le Naour Augustin , Broca Clothilde , Mery Eliane , Vuagniaux Grégoire , Delord Jean Pierre , Wiedemann Norbert , Couderc Bettina
Published: December 2018

The poor prognosis of ovarian cancer (it is the leading cause of death from gynecological cancers) is mainly due to the acquisition of resistance to carboplatin. Among the possible resistance pathways, resistance to apoptosis and especially the overexpression of inhibitor of apoptosis proteins (IAP) cIAP1 and X-linked IAP (XIAP), have been implicated. DEBIO 1143, a SMAC (second mitochondria-derived activator of caspase) mimetic, belongs to a new class of targeted agents currently being evaluated in clinical trials, which activate apoptotic cell death and block pro-survival signaling in cancer cells. Here, we demonstrate that DEBIO 1143 in vitro inhibits the cell viability of two carboplatin-sensitive cell lines (IGROV-1 and A2780S) as well as three carboplatin-resistant cell lines (A2780R, SKOV-3 and EFO-21). Of note, DEBIO 1143 is able to reverse resistance to carboplatin by inducing cell death either by apoptosis or necroptosis depending on the cell lines. To identify a biomarker able to predict the sensitivity of the cell lines to DEBIO 1143 treatment we analyzed the expression of the DEBIO 1143 targets cIAP1 and XIAP, and one of their downstream targets, caspase 9. These proteins did not constitute a marker of DEBIO 1143 sensitivity/resistance. Importantly, we confirmed these findings in vivo in SKOV-3 xenograft models where DEBIO 1143 highly potentiated carboplatin treatment.
Distinct patterns of transcriptional and epigenetic alterations characterize acute and chronic kidney injury
Authors: Sharifian Roya , Okamura Daryl M. , Denisenko Oleg , Zager Richard A. , Johnson Ali , Gharib Sina A. , Bomsztyk Karol
Published: December 2018

Acute kidney injury (AKI) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) are considered early and late phases of a pathologic continuum of interconnected disease states. Although changes in gene expression patterns have recently been elucidated for the transition of AKI to CKD, the epigenetic regulation of key kidney injury related genes remains poorly understood. We used multiplex RT-qPCR, ChIP-qPCR and integrative analysis to compare transcriptional and epigenetic changes at renal disease-associated genes across mouse AKI and CKD models. These studies showed that: (i) there are subsets of genes with distinct transcriptional and epigenetically profiles shared by AKI and CKD but also subsets that are specific to either the early or late stages of renal injury; (ii) differences in expression of a small number of genes is sufficient to distinguish AKI from CKD; (iii) transcription plays a key role in the upregulation of both AKI and CKD genes while post-transcriptional regulation appears to play a more significant role in decreased expression of both AKI and CKD genes; and (iv) subsets of transcriptionally upregulated genes share epigenetic similarities while downregulated genes do not. Collectively, our study suggests that identified common transcriptional and epigenetic profiles of kidney injury loci could be exploited for therapeutic targeting in AKI and CKD.
Photochemically induced dynamic nuclear polarization NMR on photosystem II: donor cofactor observed in entire plant
Authors: Janssen Geertje J. , Bielytskyi Pavlo , Artiukhin Denis G. , Neugebauer Johannes , de Groot Huub J. M. , Matysik Jörg , Alia A.
Published: December 2018

The solid-state photo-CIDNP (photochemically induced dynamic nuclear polarization) effect allows for increase of signal and sensitivity in magic-angle spinning (MAS) NMR experiments. The effect occurs in photosynthetic reaction centers (RC) proteins upon illumination and induction of cyclic electron transfer. Here we show that the strength of the effect allows for observation of the cofactors forming the spin-correlated radical pair (SCRP) in isolated proteins, in natural photosynthetic membranes as well as in entire plants. To this end, we measured entire selectively 13C isotope enriched duckweed plants (Spirodela oligorrhiza) directly in the MAS rotor. Comparison of 13C photo-CIDNP MAS NMR spectra of photosystem II (PS2) obtained from different levels of RC isolation, from entire plant to isolated RC complex, demonstrates the intactness of the photochemical machinery upon isolation. The SCRP in PS2 is structurally and functionally very similar in duckweed and spinach (Spinacia oleracea). The analysis of the photo-CIDNP MAS NMR spectra reveals a monomeric Chl a donor. There is an experimental evidence for matrix involvement, most likely due to the axial donor histidine, in the formation of the SCRP. Data do not suggest a chemical modification of C-131 carbonyl position of the donor cofactor.
Fine mapping and discovery of candidate genes for seed size in watermelon by genome survey sequencing
Authors: Li Na , Shang Jianli , Wang Jiming , Zhou Dan , Li Nannan , Ma Shuangwu
Published: December 2018

Fine mapping and discovery of candidate genes underlying seed size are important for modern watermelon breeding. Here, by using a high-resolution genetic map and whole-genome genetic variation detection aided by genome survey sequencing, we fine mapped and discovered candidate genes for seed size in watermelon. QTL (quantitative trait locus) mapping identified two pleiotropic QTLs for seed size, namely, qSS4 and qSS6, using a high-density genetic map constructed by specific length amplified fragment sequencing. qSS6 explained 93.00%, 94.11% and 95.26% of the phenotypic variation in thousand-seed weight, seed length and seed width, respectively, and was defined as a major QTL. Then, high-coverage re-sequencing of two parental lines detected a total of 193,395 SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphisms) and 45,065 indels (insertions/deletions), which corresponded to a frequency of 534 SNPs/Mb and 124 indels/Mb. Based on the genetic variation in the two parental lines, newly developed PCR-based markers allowed the region of qSS6 to be narrowed to 55.5 kb. Three potential candidates were identified, including a known seed size regulator in rice, SRS3. Taken together, our results reveal successful rapid fine mapping and discovery of candidate genes for seed size in watermelon, which could be applied to many traits of interest in plants.
On the role of eye contact in gaze cueing
Authors: Kompatsiari Kyveli , Ciardo Francesca , Tikhanoff Vadim , Metta Giorgio , Wykowska Agnieszka
Published: December 2018

Most experimental protocols examining joint attention with the gaze cueing paradigm are “observational” and “offline”, thereby not involving social interaction. We examined whether within a naturalistic online interaction, real-time eye contact influences the gaze cueing effect (GCE). We embedded gaze cueing in an interactive protocol with the iCub humanoid robot. This has the advantage of ecological validity combined with excellent experimental control. Critically, before averting the gaze, iCub either established eye contact or not, a manipulation enabled by an algorithm detecting position of the human eyes. For non-predictive gaze cueing procedure (Experiment 1), only the eye contact condition elicited GCE, while for counter-predictive procedure (Experiment 2), only the condition with no eye contact induced GCE. These results reveal an interactive effect of strategic (gaze validity) and social (eye contact) top-down components on the reflexive orienting of attention induced by gaze cues. More generally, we propose that naturalistic protocols with an embodied presence of an agent can cast a new light on mechanisms of social cognition.
Plasmodium falciparum gametocyte-infected erythrocytes do not adhere to human primary erythroblasts
Authors: Neveu Gaëlle , Dupuy Florian , Ladli Meriem , Barbieri Daniela , Naissant Bernina , Richard Cyrielle , Martins Rafael M. , Lopez-Rubio Jose-Juan , Bachmann Anna , Verdier Frédérique , Lavazec Catherine
Published: December 2018

Plasmodium falciparumgametocytes, the sexual stages responsible for malaria parasite transmission, develop in the human bone marrow parenchyma in proximity to the erythroblastic islands. Yet, mechanisms underlying gametocytes interactions with these islands are unknown. Here, we have investigated whether gametocyte-infected erythrocytes (GIE) adhere to erythroid precursors, and whether a putative adhesion may be mediated by a mechanism similar to the adhesion of erythrocytes infected withP.falciparumasexual stages to uninfected erythrocytes. Cell-cell adhesion assays with human primary erythroblasts or erythroid cell lines revealed that immature GIE do not specifically adhere to erythroid precursors. To determine whether adhesion may be dependent on binding of STEVOR proteins to Glycophorin C on the surface of erythroid cells, we used clonal lines and transgenic parasites that overexpress specific STEVOR proteins known to bind to Glycophorin C in asexual stages. Our results indicate that GIE overexpressing STEVOR do not specifically adhere to erythroblasts, in agreement with our observation that the STEVOR adhesive domain is not exposed at the surface of GIE.
Isolation of Biopsy-Derived, Human Cervical Keratinocytes Propagated as Monolayer and Organoid Cultures
Authors: Villa Peter L. , Jackson Robert , Eade Statton , Escott Nicholas , Zehbe Ingeborg
Published: December 2018

The successful isolation and propagation of patient-derived keratinocytes from cervical lesions constitute a more appropriate model of cervical disease than traditional cervical cancer-derived cell lines such as SiHa and CaSki. Our aim was to streamline the growth of patient-obtained, cervical keratinocytes into a reproducible process. We performed an observational case series study with 60 women referred to colposcopy for a diagnostic biopsy. Main outcome measures were how many samples could be passaged at least once (n = 11), and where enough cells could be established, to precisely define their proliferation profile over time (n = 3). Altering cell culture conditions over those reported by other groups markedly improved outcomes. We were also successful in making freeze backs which could be resuscitated to successfully propagate multi-layered, organoids from cervical keratinocytes (n = 3). For best results, biopsy-intrinsic factors such as size and tissue digestion appear to be major variables. This seems to be the first systematic report with a well characterized and defined sample size, detailed protocol, and carefully assessed cell yield and performance. This research is particularly impactful for constituting a sample repository-on-demand for appropriate disease modelling and drug screening under the umbrella of personalized health.
Development of a highly sensitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) through use of poly-protein G-expressing cell-based microplates
Authors: Chen Yi-Jou , Chen Michael , Hsieh Yuan-Chin , Su Yu-Cheng , Wang Chang-Hung , Cheng Chiu-Min , Kao An-Pei , Wang Kai-Hung , Cheng Jing-Jy , Chuang Kuo-Hsiang
Published: December 2018

The sensitivity of traditional enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) is limited by the low binding avidity and heterogeneous orientation of capture antibodies coated on polystyrene-based microplates. Here, we developed a highly sensitive ELISA strategy by fixing poly-protein G-expressing cells on microplates to improve the coating amount and displayed orientation of capture antibodies. One or eight repeated fragment crystallisable (Fc) binding domains of protein G are stably expressed on the surface of BALB/c 3T3 cells (termed 1pG cells or 8pG cells), which then act as highly antibody-trapping microparticles. The 8pG cells showed higher antibody-trapping ability than the 1pG cells did. The antibody-coating amount of the 8pG cell-based microplates was 1.5–23 times and 1.2–6.8 times higher than that of traditional polystyrene-based and commercial protein G-based microplates, respectively. The 8pG cell-based microplates were then applied to an anti-IFN-α sandwich ELISA and an anti-CTLA4 competitive ELISA, respectively, and dramatically enhanced their detection sensitivity. Importantly, direct coating unpurified capture antibody produced by mammalian cells did not impair the antigen-capturing function of 8pG cell-based microplates. The 8pG cell-based microplates exhibited a significant improvement in antibody-coating amount and preserved the homogeneous orientation of capture antibodies, making them a potential replacement for traditional microplates in various formats of ELISAs.
Impact of ezetimibe on plasma lipoprotein(a) concentrations as monotherapy or in combination with statins: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Sahebkar Amirhossein , Simental-Mendía Luis E. , Pirro Matteo , Banach Maciej , Watts Gerald F. , Sirtori Cesare , Al-Rasadi Khalid , Atkin Stephen L.
Published: December 2018

The aim of this meta-analysis of randomized placebo-controlled clinical trials was to assess the effect of ezetimibe on plasma lipoprotein(a) concentrations. Only randomized placebo-controlled trials investigating the impact of ezetimibe treatment on cholesterol lowering that include lipoprotein(a) measurement were searched in PubMed-Medline, SCOPUS, Web of Science and Google Scholar databases (from inception to February 26th, 2018). A random-effects model and generic inverse variance method were used for quantitative data synthesis. Sensitivity analysis was conducted using the leave-one-out method. A weighted random-effects meta-regression was performed to evaluate the impact of potential confounders on lipoprotein concentrations. This meta-analysis of data from 10 randomized placebo-controlled clinical trials (15 treatment arms) involving a total of 5188 (3020 ezetimibe and 2168 control) subjects showed that ezetimibe therapy had no effect on altering plasma Lp(a) concentrations (WMD: −2.59%, 95% CI: −8.26, 3.08, p = 0.370; I2 = 88.71%, p(Q) < 0.001). In the subgroup analysis, no significant alteration in plasma Lp(a) levels was observed either in trials assessing the impact of monotherapy with ezetimibe versus placebo (WMD: −4.64%, 95% CI: −11.53, 2.25, p = 0.187; I2 = 65.38%, p(Q) = 0.005) or in trials evaluating the impact of adding ezetimibe to a statin versus statin therapy alone (WMD: −1.04%, 95% CI: −6.34, 4.26, p = 0.700; I2 = 58.51%, p(Q) = 0.025). The results of this meta-analysis suggest that ezetimibe treatment either alone or in combination with a statin does not affect plasma lipoprotein(a) levels.
Probing the dielectric, piezoelectric and magnetic behavior of CoFe2O4/BNT-BT0.08 composite thin film fabricated by sol-gel and spin-coating methods
Authors: Cernea Marin , Vasile Bogdan Stefan , Surdu Vasile Adrian , Trusca Roxana , Bartha Cristina , Craciun Floriana , Galassi Carmen
Published: December 2018

We investigated in this paper a novel bilayer composite obtained by sol-gel and spin coating of the ferroelectric 0.92Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3–0.08BaTiO3 (abbreviated as BNT-BT0.08) and ferromagnetic CoFe2O4 phases, for miniature low-frequency magnetic sensors and piezoelectric sensors. This heterostructure, deposited on Si-Pt substrate (Si-Pt/CoFe2O4/BNT-BT0.08), was characterized using selected method such as: X-ray diffraction, dielectric spectroscopy, piezoelectric force microscopy, SQUID magnetometry, atomic force microscopy/magnetic force microscopy, and advanced methods of transmission electron microscopy. CoFe2O4/BNT-BT0.08 ferromagnetic–piezoelectric thin films show good magnetization, dielectric constant and piezoelectric response. The results of analyses and measurements reveal that this heterostructure can have applications in high-performance magnetoelectric devices at room temperature.
Comparative metabolomics of scab-resistant and susceptible apple cell cultures in response to scab fungus elicitor treatment
Authors: Sarkate Amol , Saini Shashank Sagar , Teotia Deepa , Gaid Mariam , Mir Javid Iqbal , Roy Partha , Agrawal Pawan Kumar , Sircar Debabrata
Published: December 2018

Apple scab disease caused by the fungus Venturia inaequalis is a devastating disease that seriously affects quality and yield of apples. In order to understand the mechanisms involved in scab resistance, we performed gas chromatography-mass spectrometry based metabolomics analysis of the cell culture of scab resistant cultivar ‘Florina’ and scab susceptible cultivar ‘Vista Bella’ both prior -to and -following treatment with V. inaequalis elicitor (VIE). A total 21 metabolites were identified to be altered significantly in ‘Florina’ cell cultures upon VIE-treatment. Among 21 metabolites, formation of three new specialized metabolites aucuparin, noraucuparin and eriobofuran were observed only in resistant cultivar ‘Florina’ after the elicitor treatment. The score plots of principal component analysis (PCA) exhibited clear discrimination between untreated and VIE-treated samples. The alteration in metabolite levels correlated well with the changes in the transcript levels of selected secondary metabolite biosynthesis genes. Aucuparin, noraucuparin and eriobofuran isolated from the ‘Florina’ cultures showed significant inhibitory effect on the conidial germination of V. inaequalis. The results expand our understanding of the metabolic basis of scab-resistance in apple and therefore are of interest in apple breeding programs to fortify scab resistance potential of commercially grown apple cultivars.
Aluminum-ceramic composites for thermal management in energy-conversion systems
Authors: Park Jehong , Cho Seungchan , Kwon Hansang
Published: December 2018

The most important property of energy-conversion ceramics in high-power lighting devices based on laser diodes (LDs) is thermal durability because high-energy LDs act as excitation and heat sources for ceramics. Herein, aluminum-ceramic composites (ACCs) are introduced for the manipulation of heat generated during high-power lighting. The cerium-doped aluminum garnet (YAG:Ce) phosphor is selected as the energy-conversion ceramic material. The ACCs have an all-in-one structure bridged by a low-melting glass material. In ACCs, the heat flow from the ceramic to Al is manipulated by a heat-flux throttling layer (TL) comprised of Al and glass. During high-power lighting operation, the input-output temperature differences (Tin − Tout) between the ceramic layer (input heat) and end face of the Al layer (output heat) are 13 and 3.9 °C in the absence and presence of the TL, respectively. A lower Tin − Toutmeans less heat is loss during heat flow from the ceramic to the metal due to the temperature gradient created by inserting the TL. The results provide a potential application for multi-energy-conversion systems, i.e., optical to heat and heat to electric energy, in terms of heat flow manipulation.
Repeatability and Reproducibility of Quantification of Superficial Peri-papillary Capillaries by four Different Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography Devices
Authors: Lei Jianqin , Pei Cheng , Wen Chan , Abdelfattah Nizar Saleh
Published: December 2018

This study was performed to test the repeatability and reproducibility of measurements of peri-papillary capillaries from four optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) devices. 109 healthy eyes were imaged with four OCTA devices (Spectralis, Optovue, Triton and Cirrus). A 3 × 3 mm scan pattern centered on the disc was repeated twice by each device. En face images of superficial capillary plexus were screened and processed for calculation. Vessel length density (VLD) was calculated on four equally divided parts of a ring between two concentric circles manually centered on the disc. General linear model (GLM) was used to test the impact of device and location on VLD. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of VLD between repeated scans was calculated. Of 218 acquisitions, 36%, 92%, 76% and 88% were eligible for analysis from Spectralis, Optovue, Triton and Cirrus, respectively. ICC was 0.94, 0.90, 0.84 and 0.87 for the four devices. GLM showed measurements significantly varied among devices (P < 0.001) and locations (P < 0.001). Pairwise comparison showed Triton = Spectralis >Optovue >Cirrus, and temporal = nasal >superior = inferior in measuring capillary VLD. This study revealed the repeatability of measuring peri-papillary capillaries was high for all four devices, while the reproducibility among the machines was unfavorable.
Deep sequencing and transcriptome analysis to identify genes related to biosynthesis of aristolochic acid in Asarum heterotropoides
Authors: Wang Xiaohan , Hui Fang , Yang Yongcheng , Yang Shihai
Published: December 2018

Asarum spp. are important medicinal plants that have the potential for use in treating various types of fevers. Aristolochic acid is one of the main toxic compounds present in these plants. To improve our understanding of the biosynthetic pathway of aristolochic acid, we sequenced the transcriptome of the root and leaf tissues of Asarum heterotropoides and performed de novo sequence assembly. The data were stitched together to produce 468,357 transcripts with an N50 of 611 bp. The data were annotated with various databases (RefSeq non-redundant proteins [Nr], Swiss-Prot, Kyoto Encyclopaedia of Genes and Genomes [KEGG], Clusters of Orthologous Groups/EuKaryotic Orthologous Groups [COG/KOG], and Gene Ontology [GO]) and were annotated. There were 205,165 transcripts (43.81%) of differentially expressed genes in the roots and leaves, which were shown to be involved in biosynthesis, transport, and catabolism, and 100 genes in defence mechanisms. Three candidate transcripts (TyrDC1, TyrDC2, and TyrDC3) were discovered in these differential genes. TyrDC may be a key enzyme in the biosynthesis pathway of aristolochic acid identified using quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The transcriptome data and analysis presented here lay the foundation for further research into these important medicinal plants.
Liquid biopsy for pediatric central nervous system tumors
Authors: Bonner Erin R. , Bornhorst Miriam , Packer Roger J. , Nazarian Javad
Published: December 2018

Central nervous system (CNS) tumors are the most common solid tumors in children, and the leading cause of cancer-related death. Over the past decade, molecular profiling has been incorporated into treatment for pediatric CNS tumors, allowing for a more personalized approach to therapy. Through the identification of tumor-specific changes, it is now possible to diagnose, assign a prognostic subgroup, and develop targeted chemotherapeutic treatment plans for many cancer types. The successful incorporation of informative liquid biopsies, where the liquid biome is interrogated for tumor-associated molecular clues, has the potential to greatly complement the precision-based approach to treatment, and ultimately, to improve clinical outcomes for children with CNS tumors. In this article, the current application of liquid biopsy in cancer therapy will be reviewed, as will its potential for the diagnosis and therapeutic monitoring of pediatric CNS tumors.
High throughput screening of complex biological samples with mass spectrometry – from bulk measurements to single cell analysis
Authors: Kempa Emily E. , Hollywood Katherine A. , Smith Clive A. , Barran Perdita E.
Published: December 2018

We review the state of the art in HTS using mass spectrometry with minimal sample preparation from complex biological matrices. We focus on industrial and biotechnological applications.
Rapid and simple detection of ascorbic acid and alkaline phosphataseviacontrolled generation of silver nanoparticles and selective recognition
Authors: Chen Piaopiao , Yan Shixin , Sawyer Erica , Ying Binwu , Wei Xiawei , Wu Zhengzhi , Geng Jia
Published: December 2018

A simple and novel strategy for detection of AA and ALPviacontrolled generation of Ag NPs and selective recognition.
Direct analysis in real-time high-resolution mass spectrometry as a valuable tool for polyphenols profiling in olive oil
Authors: Farré Marinella , Picó Yolanda , Barceló Damiá
Published: December 2018

A fast and reliable method to characterize the polyphenolic compound profiles in extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) has been developed using direct analysis in real time (DART) and linear ion-trap Orbitrap mass spectrometry (LTQ-Orbitrap-MS).
Solvent-free lithium and sodium containing electrolytes based on pseudo-delocalized anions
Authors: Forero-Saboya Juan , Hosseini-Bab-Anari Elham , Abdelhamid Muhammad E. , Moth-Poulsen Kasper , Johansson Patrik
Published: December 2018

Synthesis and characterisation of super-cooled solvent-free liquid electrolytes for Li and Na batteries.
Synthesis of glycerolipids containing simple linear acyl chains or aromatic rings and evaluation of their Mincle signaling activity
Authors: Matsumaru Takanori , Ikeno Risa , Shuchi Yusuke , Iwamatsu Toshiki , Tadokoro Takashi , Yamasaki Sho , Fujimoto Yukari , Furukawa Atsushi , Maenaka Katsumi
Published: December 2018

The synthesized glycerolipid derivatives possessing simple alkyl chains can stimulate a Mincle-mediated signaling assay relevant for the innate immune system.
Regioselective cycloaddition of potassium alkynyltrifluoroborates with 3-azetidinones and 3-oxetanone by nickel-catalysed C–C bond activation
Authors: Elwrfalli Fathi , Esvan Yannick J. , Robertson Craig M. , Aïssa Christophe
Published: December 2018

The nickel-catalysed (4+2) cycloaddtion of potassium alkynyltrifluoroborates and 3-azetidinones and 3-oxetanone gives only one regioisomer for all alkyne substituents.
Reply to the ‘Comment on “Magnetostructural correlations in isolated trinuclear iron(iii) oxo acetate complexes”’ by M. Antkowiak, G. Kamieniarz and W. Florek, Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys., 2018, 20, DOI: 10.1039/C8CP04691C
Authors: van Wüllen Christoph , Lang Johannes , Niedner-Schatteburg Gereon
Published: December 2018

This reply acknowledges comments by Antkowiak et al. and it announces the outcome of new experiments which are in support of the initial findings by Lang et al.
Electrochemical characterisation and comparison of transport in Nafion films and particles
Authors: Chen Lifu , Lin Chuhong , Compton Richard G.
Published: December 2018

The diffusional transport of two ions of methyl viologen (MV) in Nafion particles is shown to be significantly faster than in thin films of similar thickness whilst the diffusion of MV2+ is faster than MV+.
Sulfation of a PdO(101) methane oxidation catalyst: mechanism revealed by first principles calculations
Authors: Arevalo Ryan Lacdao , Aspera Susan Meñez , Nakanishi Hiroshi
Published: December 2018

PdO efficiently catalyzes the oxidation of methane but suffers tremendously from sulfur poisoning that lowers its catalytic activity.
Mixed phononic and non-phononic transport in hybrid lead halide perovskites: glass-crystal duality, dynamical disorder, and anharmonicity
Authors: Zhu Taishan , Ertekin Elif
Published: December 2018

First-principles and classical modeling reveal a glass-crystal duality in the nature of vibrational transport in lead halide hybrid perovskites.
Effect of CeO2 nanomaterial surface functional groups on tissue and subcellular distribution of Ce in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum)
Authors: Li Jieran , Tappero Ryan V. , Acerbo Alvin S. , Yan Hanfei , Chu Yong , Lowry Gregory V. , Unrine Jason M.
Published: December 2018

Using recent advances in X-ray microscopy, this study aimed to elucidate mechanisms of uptake, subcellular distribution, and translocation of functionalized CeO2 MNM (manufactured nanomaterials), having different charges, by tomato plants (Solanum lycopersicum cv Micro-Tom).
Hot electron effects during reactive scattering of H2 from Ag(111): assessing the sensitivity to initial conditions, coupling magnitude, and electronic temperature
Authors: Maurer Reinhard J. , Zhang Yaolong , Guo Hua , Jiang Bin
Published: December 2018

We use an analytical representation of electronic friction for H2 on Ag(111) to assess the validity and robustness of the MDEF method based on TDPT.
Probing the selectivity of Li+and Na+cations on noradrenaline at the molecular level
Authors: Ishiuchi Shun-ichi , Wako Hiromichi , Xantheas Sotiris S. , Fujii Masaaki
Published: December 2018

Noradrenaline favors an extended conformation when coordinating to Li+when compared to Na+, which may explain the tranquilizing effect of Li+.
Electronic spectroscopy and nanocalorimetry of hydrated magnesium ions [Mg(H2O)n]+, n = 20–70: spontaneous formation of a hydrated electron?
Authors: Taxer Thomas , Ončák Milan , Barwa Erik , van der Linde Christian , Beyer Martin K.
Published: December 2018

The absorption spectra and photochemistry of [Mg(H2O)n]+, n = 20–70, resemble those of the hydrated electron (H2O)n−.
Development of a waste-derived lignin-porphyrin bio-polymer with enhanced photoluminescence at high water fraction with wide pH range and heavy metal sensitivity investigations
Authors: TSE Ho-Yin , Cheng Shun-Cheung , Yeung Chi Shun , Lau Chun-Yin , Wong Wing-Hei , Dong Chengyu , Leu Shao-Yuan
Published: December 2018

A new lignin-porphyrin bio-polymer (AL-CTPP) for potential bio-imaging and heavy metals sensing.
Textile strain sensors: a review of the fabrication technologies, performance evaluation and applications
Authors: Seyedin Shayan , Zhang Peng , Naebe Maryam , Qin Si , Chen Jun , Wang Xungai , Razal Joselito M.
Published: December 2018

Strain sensors that are made of textiles offer wearability and large strain sensing range. Recent exciting developments in material, structure, fabrication, performance, and application of textile strain sensors are evaluated and guidelines are provided to overcome the current challenges.
Hydrogel nanotubes with ice helices as exotic nanostructures for diabetic wound healing
Authors: Singh Aarti , Bhattacharya Rohan , Shakeel Adeeba , Sharma Arun Kumar , Jeevanandham Sampathkumar , Kumar Ashish , Chattopadhyay Sourav , Bohidar Himadri B. , Ghosh Sourabh , Chakrabarti Sandip , Rajput Satyendra K. , Mukherjee Monalisa
Published: December 2018

Hydrogel nanotubes with ice helices entrapped within their internal conduits are a promising material for diabetic wound healing.
Intracellular ratiometric temperature sensing using fluorescent carbon dots
Authors: Macairan Jun-Ray , Jaunky Dilan B. , Piekny Alisa , Naccache Rafik
Published: December 2018

A self-referencing dual fluorescing carbon dot-based nanothermometer can ratiometrically sense thermal events in HeLa cells with very high sensitivity.
Additive-manufacturing of 3D glass-ceramics down to nanoscale resolution
Authors: Gailevičius Darius , Padolskytė Viktorija , Mikoliūnaitė Lina , Šakirzanovas Simas , Juodkazis Saulius , Malinauskas Mangirdas
Published: December 2018

An approach enabling nanoscale-additive manufacturing of inorganics based on phase transition via calcination of laser structured hybrid resin is proposed.
Extremely elastic and conductive N-doped graphene sponge for monitoring human motions
Authors: Huang Jingxia , Liu Xiaohong , Yang Zhigang , Wu Xianzhang , Wang Jinqing , Yang Shengrong
Published: December 2018

The nitrogen-doped graphene sponge (NGS) material, with well-ordered, uniform macroscopic porous structure in long range is developed and presents an excellent compressible property and low-resistance. After being assembled into the piezoresistive sensor, it can be used for monitoring various human motions including bending of finger and the tiny pulse perturbation of the wrist.
Gd-Metallofullerenol nanoparticles cause intracellular accumulation of PDGFR-α and morphology alteration of fibroblasts
Authors: Tang Jinglong , Guo Mengyu , Wang Peng , Liu Jing , Xiao Yating , Cheng Wenting , Gao Jinling , Hu Wenquan , Miao Qing Robert
Published: December 2018

Gd@C82(OH)22 nanoparticles can attenuate the PDGF-stimulated phosphorylation of PDGFR-α in fibroblasts and suppress the fibroblast activation by interrupting endosomal recycling.
A low-temperature-annealed and UV-ozone-enhanced combustion derived nickel oxide hole injection layer for flexible quantum dot light-emitting diodes
Authors: Sun Yizhe , Chen Wei , Wu Yinghui , He Zhubing , Zhang Shengdong , Chen Shuming
Published: December 2018

A UV-ozone enhanced NiOx hole injection layer is realized via a low-temperature combustion method to configure high-performance QLEDs.
Synthesis of 3-substituted 3-fluoro-2-oxindoles by deacylative alkylation
Authors: Molina Cynthia , Ortega-Martínez Aitor , Sansano José M. , Nájera Carmen
Published: December 2018

Deacylative alkylation in the synthesis of pure 3-alkyl-3-fluoro-2-oxindoles.
A diversity of alkylation/acylation products of uracil and its derivatives: synthesis and a structural study
Authors: Michalak Olga , Cmoch Piotr , Krzeczyński Piotr , Cybulski Marcin , Leś Andrzej
Published: December 2018

New different acylation/alkylation products of three pyrimidine bases, 6-methyluracil, uracil and thymine, have been isolated and identified.
Hydroaminoalkylation of sterically hindered alkenes with N,N-dimethyl anilines using a scandium catalyst
Authors: Su Jianhong , Zhou Yiqun , Xu Xin
Published: December 2018

Atom-economical and regioselective C(sp3)–C(sp3) bond formation has been achieved by C(sp3)–H alkylation of N,N-dimethyl anilines with sterically demanding alkenes by scandium catalysis.
Biosynthesis of lagopodins in mushroom involves a complex network of oxidation reactions
Authors: Masuya Takahiro , Tsunematsu Yuta , Hirayama Yuichiro , Sato Michio , Noguchi Hiroshi , Nakazawa Takehito , Watanabe Kenji
Published: December 2018

Targeted gene knockout inCoprinopsis cinerea, yeastin vivobioconversion andin vitroassays elucidated the lagopodin biosynthetic pathway, including a complexity-generating network of oxidation steps.
I2/TBHP-Mediated tandem cyclization and oxidation reaction: Facile access to 2-substituted thiazoles and benzothiazoles
Authors: Liu Li , Tan Chen , Fan Rong , Wang Zihan , Du Hongguang , Xu Kun , Tan Jiajing
Published: December 2018

The efficient synthesis of 2-substituted thiazoles and benzothiazoles has been accomplished employing readily available cysteine esters and 2-aminobenzenethiols as N and S sources.
Formal [4 + 2] benzannulation of 2-alkenyl indoles with aldehydes: a route to structurally diverse carbazoles and bis-carbazoles
Authors: Banerjee Ankush , Guin Avishek , Saha Shuvendu , Mondal Anushree , Maji Modhu Sudan
Published: December 2018

Construction of structurally diverse carbazoles and bis-carbazoles by protecting-group-free formal [4 + 2]-benzannulation of 2-alkenyl indoles and aldehydes is demonstrated.
Efficient bifunctional vanadium-doped Ni3S2 nanorod array for overall water splitting
Authors: Guo Jinxue , Zhang Ke , Sun Yanfang , Liu Qingyun , Tang Lin , Zhang Xiao
Published: December 2018

A nickel foam-supported vanadium-doped Ni3S2 nanorod array electrode has been demonstrated as a robust bifunctional electrocatalyst for overall water splitting.
Synergistic effect of the Pd–Ni bimetal/carbon nanofiber composite catalyst in Suzuki coupling reaction
Authors: Bao Guangyang , Bai Jie , Li Chunping
Published: December 2018

A novel Pd1Ni4 bimetal nanocomposite catalyst was prepared and showed better performance than their monometallic counterpart. What's more, the catalyst could be reused ten times without significant change in catalytic activity, which met the request of sustainable chemistry.
One-pot sequential synthesis of 3-carbonyl-4-arylbenzo[f]indole and 3-carbonyl-4-arylnaphthofuran fluorophores
Authors: Supantanapong N. , Chuangsoongnern P. , Tummatorn J. , Thongsornkleeb C. , Ruchirawat S.
Published: December 2018

A robust synthetic method for the construction of valuable fluorophores, 3-carbonyl-4-arylbenzo[f]indoles and 3-carbonyl-4-arylnaphthofurans, has been developed. The strategy involved a one-pot domino process to achieve the products in moderate to excellent yields.
3,3-Diazidoenones – new types of highly reactive bis-azides. Preparation and synthetic transformations
Authors: Lemport Pavel S. , Smolyar Ivan V. , Khrustalev Victor N. , Roznyatovsky Vitaly A. , Popov Alexander V. , Kobelevskaya Valentina A. , Rozentsveig Igor B. , Nenajdenko Valentine G.
Published: December 2018

A new family of highly reactive 3,3-diazidoenones was obtained. Their chemistry was investigated by both experimental studies and DFT calculations.