bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vaccine-elicited receptor-binding site antibodies neutralize two New World hemorrhagic fever arenaviruses
Authors: Clark Lars E. , Mahmutovic Selma , Raymond Donald D. , Dilanyan Taleen , Koma Takaaki , Manning John T. , Shankar Sundaresh , Levis Silvana C. , Briggiler Ana M. , Enria Delia A. , Wucherpfennig Kai W. , Paessler Slobodan , Abraham Jonathan
Published: May 2018

While five arenaviruses cause human hemorrhagic fevers in the Western Hemisphere, only Junin virus (JUNV) has a vaccine. The GP1 subunit of their envelope glycoprotein binds transferrin receptor 1 (TfR1) using a surface that substantially varies in sequence among the viruses. As such, receptor-mimicking antibodies described to date are type-specific and lack the usual breadth associated with this mode of neutralization. Here we isolate, from the blood of a recipient of the live attenuated JUNV vaccine, two antibodies that cross-neutralize Machupo virus with varying efficiency. Structures of GP1–Fab complexes explain the basis for efficient cross-neutralization, which involves avoiding receptor mimicry and targeting a conserved epitope within the receptor-binding site (RBS). The viral RBS, despite its extensive sequence diversity, is therefore a target for cross-reactive antibodies with activity against New World arenaviruses of public health concern.
Minerals in the pre-settled coral Stylophora pistillata crystallize via protein and ion changes
Authors: Akiva Anat , Neder Maayan , Kahil Keren , Gavriel Rotem , Pinkas Iddo , Goobes Gil , Mass Tali
Published: May 2018

Aragonite skeletons in corals are key contributors to the storage of atmospheric CO2 worldwide. Hence, understanding coral biomineralization/calcification processes is crucial for evaluating and predicting the effect of environmental factors on this process. While coral biomineralization studies have focused on adult corals, the exact stage at which corals initiate mineralization remains enigmatic. Here, we show that minerals are first precipitated as amorphous calcium carbonate and small aragonite crystallites, in the pre-settled larva, which then evolve into the more mature aragonitic fibers characteristic of the stony coral skeleton. The process is accompanied by modulation of proteins and ions within these minerals. These findings may indicate an underlying bimodal regulation tactic adopted by the animal, with important ramification to its resilience or vulnerability toward a changing environment.
Two-photon imaging of neuronal activity in motor cortex of marmosets during upper-limb movement tasks
Authors: Ebina Teppei , Masamizu Yoshito , Tanaka Yasuhiro R. , Watakabe Akiya , Hirakawa Reiko , Hirayama Yuka , Hira Riichiro , Terada Shin-Ichiro , Koketsu Daisuke , Hikosaka Kazuo , Mizukami Hiroaki , Nambu Atsushi , Sasaki Erika , Yamamori Tetsuo , Matsuzaki Masanori
Published: May 2018

Two-photon imaging in behaving animals has revealed neuronal activities related to behavioral and cognitive function at single-cell resolution. However, marmosets have posed a challenge due to limited success in training on motor tasks. Here we report the development of protocols to train head-fixed common marmosets to perform upper-limb movement tasks and simultaneously perform two-photon imaging. After 2–5 months of training sessions, head-fixed marmosets can control a manipulandum to move a cursor to a target on a screen. We conduct two-photon calcium imaging of layer 2/3 neurons in the motor cortex during this motor task performance, and detect task-relevant activity from multiple neurons at cellular and subcellular resolutions. In a two-target reaching task, some neurons show direction-selective activity over the training days. In a short-term force-field adaptation task, some neurons change their activity when the force field is on. Two-photon calcium imaging in behaving marmosets may become a fundamental technique for determining the spatial organization of the cortical dynamics underlying action and cognition.
Indirect excitons in van der Waals heterostructures at room temperature
Authors: Calman E. V. , Fogler M. M. , Butov L. V. , Hu S. , Mishchenko A. , Geim A. K.
Published: May 2018

Indirect excitons (IXs) are explored both for studying quantum Bose gases in semiconductor materials and for the development of excitonic devices. IXs were extensively studied in III–V and II–VI semiconductor heterostructures where IX range of existence has been limited to low temperatures. Here, we present the observation of IXs at room temperature in van der Waals transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) heterostructures. This is achieved in TMD heterostructures based on monolayers of MoS2 separated by atomically thin hexagonal boron nitride. The IXs we realize in the TMD heterostructure have lifetimes orders of magnitude longer than lifetimes of direct excitons in single-layer TMD and their energy is gate controlled. The realization of IXs at room temperature establishes the TMD heterostructures as a material platform both for a field of high-temperature quantum Bose gases of IXs and for a field of high-temperature excitonic devices.
Hierarchical mechanism of amino acid sensing by the T-box riboswitch
Authors: Suddala Krishna C. , Cabello-Villegas Javier , Michnicka Malgorzata , Marshall Collin , Nikonowicz Edward P. , Walter Nils G.
Published: May 2018

In Gram-positive bacteria, T-box riboswitches control gene expression to maintain the cellular pools of aminoacylated tRNAs essential for protein biosynthesis. Co-transcriptional binding of an uncharged tRNA to the riboswitch stabilizes an antiterminator, allowing transcription read-through, whereas an aminoacylated tRNA does not. Recent structural studies have resolved two contact points between tRNA and Stem-I in the 5′ half of the T-box riboswitch, but little is known about the mechanism empowering transcriptional control by a small, distal aminoacyl modification. Using single-molecule fluorescence microscopy, we have probed the kinetic and structural underpinnings of tRNA binding to a glycyl T-box riboswitch. We observe a two-step mechanism where fast, dynamic recruitment of tRNA by Stem-I is followed by ultra-stable anchoring by the downstream antiterminator, but only without aminoacylation. Our results support a hierarchical sensing mechanism wherein dynamic global binding of the tRNA body is followed by localized readout of its aminoacylation status by snap-lock-based trapping.
Rapid labelling and covalent inhibition of intracellular native proteins using ligand-directed N-acyl-N-alkyl sulfonamide
Authors: Tamura Tomonori , Ueda Tsuyoshi , Goto Taiki , Tsukidate Taku , Shapira Yonatan , Nishikawa Yuki , Fujisawa Alma , Hamachi Itaru
Published: May 2018

Selective modification of native proteins in live cells is one of the central challenges in recent chemical biology. As a unique bioorthogonal approach, ligand-directed chemistry recently emerged, but the slow kinetics limits its scope. Here we successfully overcome this obstacle using N-acyl-N-alkyl sulfonamide as a reactive group. Quantitative kinetic analyses reveal that ligand-directed N-acyl-N-alkyl sulfonamide chemistry allows for rapid modification of a lysine residue proximal to the ligand binding site of a target protein, with a rate constant of ~104 M−1 s−1, comparable to the fastest bioorthogonal chemistry. Despite some off-target reactions, this method can selectively label both intracellular and membrane-bound endogenous proteins. Moreover, the unique reactivity of N-acyl-N-alkyl sulfonamide enables the rational design of a lysine-targeted covalent inhibitor that shows durable suppression of the activity of Hsp90 in cancer cells. This work provides possibilities to extend the covalent inhibition approach that is currently being reassessed in drug discovery.
Evolutionary instability of CUG-Leu in the genetic code of budding yeasts
Authors: Krassowski Tadeusz , Coughlan Aisling Y. , Shen Xing-Xing , Zhou Xiaofan , Kominek Jacek , Opulente Dana A. , Riley Robert , Grigoriev Igor V. , Maheshwari Nikunj , Shields Denis C. , Kurtzman Cletus P. , Hittinger Chris Todd , Rokas Antonis , Wolfe Kenneth H.
Published: May 2018

The genetic code used in nuclear genes is almost universal, but here we report that it changed three times in parallel during the evolution of budding yeasts. All three changes were reassignments of the codon CUG, which is translated as serine (in 2 yeast clades), alanine (1 clade), or the ‘universal’ leucine (2 clades). The newly discovered Ser2 clade is in the final stages of a genetic code transition. Most species in this clade have genes for both a novel tRNASer(CAG) and an ancestral tRNALeu(CAG) to read CUG, but only tRNASer(CAG) is used in standard growth conditions. The coexistence of these alloacceptor tRNA genes indicates that the genetic code transition occurred via an ambiguous translation phase. We propose that the three parallel reassignments of CUG were not driven by natural selection in favor of their effects on the proteome, but by selection to eliminate the ancestral tRNALeu(CAG).
Aurora kinase A (AURKA) interaction with Wnt and Ras-MAPK signalling pathways in colorectal cancer
Authors: Jacobsen Annika , Bosch Linda J. W. , Martens-de Kemp Sanne R. , Carvalho Beatriz , Sillars-Hardebol Anke H. , Dobson Richard J. , de Rinaldis Emanuele , Meijer Gerrit A. , Abeln Sanne , Heringa Jaap , Fijneman Remond J. A. , Feenstra K. Anton
Published: May 2018

Hyperactivation of Wnt and Ras-MAPK signalling are common events in development of colorectal adenomas. Further progression from adenoma-to-carcinoma is frequently associated with 20q gain and overexpression of Aurora kinase A (AURKA). Interestingly, AURKA has been shown to further enhance Wnt and Ras-MAPK signalling. However, the molecular details of these interactions in driving colorectal carcinogenesis remain poorly understood. Here we first performed differential expression analysis (DEA) of AURKA knockdown in two colorectal cancer (CRC) cell lines with 20q gain and AURKA overexpression. Next, using an exact algorithm, Heinz, we computed the largest connected protein-protein interaction (PPI) network module of significantly deregulated genes in the two CRC cell lines. The DEA and the Heinz analyses suggest 20 Wnt and Ras-MAPK signalling genes being deregulated by AURKA, whereof β-catenin and KRAS occurred in both cell lines. Finally, shortest path analysis over the PPI network revealed eight ‘connecting genes’ between AURKA and these Wnt and Ras-MAPK signalling genes, of which UBE2D1, DICER1, CDK6 and RACGAP1 occurred in both cell lines. This study, first, confirms that AURKA influences deregulation of Wnt and Ras-MAPK signalling genes, and second, suggests mechanisms in CRC cell lines describing these interactions.
Caveolin-3 differentially orchestrates cholinergic and serotonergic constriction of murine airways
Authors: Keshavarz M. , Skill M. , Hollenhorst M. I. , Maxeiner S. , Walecki M. , Pfeil U. , Kummer W. , Krasteva-Christ G.
Published: May 2018

The mechanisms of controlling airway smooth muscle (ASM) tone are of utmost clinical importance as inappropriate constriction is a hallmark in asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Receptors for acetylcholine and serotonin, two relevant mediators in this context, appear to be incorporated in specialized, cholesterol-rich domains of the plasma membrane, termed caveolae due to their invaginated shape. The structural protein caveolin-1 partly accounts for anchoring of these receptors. We here determined the role of the other major caveolar protein, caveolin-3 (cav-3), in orchestrating cholinergic and serotonergic ASM responses, utilizing newly generated cav-3 deficient mice. Cav-3 deficiency fully abrogated serotonin-induced constriction of extrapulmonary airways in organ baths while leaving intrapulmonary airways unaffected, as assessed in precision cut lung slices. The selective expression of cav-3 in tracheal, but not intrapulmonary bronchial epithelial cells, revealed by immunohistochemistry, might explain the differential effects of cav-3 deficiency on serotonergic ASM constriction. The cholinergic response of extrapulmonary airways was not altered, whereas a considerable increase was observed in cav-3−/− intrapulmonary bronchi. Thus, cav-3 differentially organizes serotonergic and cholinergic signaling in ASM through mechanisms that are specific for airways of certain caliber and anatomical position. This may allow for selective and site-specific intervention in hyperreactive states.
Author Correction: Femtosecond Laser Mass Spectrometry and High Harmonic Spectroscopy of Xylene Isomers
Authors: Alharbi Abdullah , Boguslavskiy Andrey E. , Austin Dane , Thiré Nicolas , Wood D. , Hawkins P. , McGrath Felicity , Johnson A. S. , Lopez-Quintas I. , Schmidt Bruno , Légaré Francois , Marangos J. P. , Le Anh-Thu , Bhardwaj Ravi
Published: May 2018

A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML and PDF versions of this paper. The error has been fixed in the paper.
Bioinspired detoxification of blood: The efficient removal of anthrax toxin protective antigen using an extracorporeal macroporous adsorbent device
Authors: Ingavle Ganesh , Baillie Les , Davies Nathan , Beaton Nigel , Zheng Yishan , Mikhalovsky Sergey , Sandeman Susan
Published: May 2018

Whilst various remedial human monoclonal antibodies have been developed to treat the potentially life-threatening systemic complications associated with anthrax infection, an optimal and universally effective administration route has yet to be established. In the later stages of infection when antibody administration by injection is more likely to fail one possible route to improve outcome is via the use of an antibody-bound, adsorbent haemoperfusion device. We report here the development of an adsorbent macroporous polymer column containing immobilised B. anthracis exotoxin-specific antibodies, PANG (a non-glycosylated, version of a plant-produced human monoclonal antibody) and Valortim (a fully human monoclonal N-linked glycosylated antibody), for removal of anthrax protective antigen (PA) from freshly frozen human plasma and human whole blood. In addition, we have demonstrated that continuous extracorporeal blood recirculation through a Valortim-bound haemoperfusion column significantly reduced the blood plasma concentration of anthrax PA over 2 hours using an in vivo PA rat infusion model. This work provides proof-of-concept evidence to support the development of such alternative detoxification platforms.
Author Correction: Decadal trends in Red Sea maximum surface temperature
Authors: Chaidez V. , Dreano D. , Agusti S. , Duarte C. M. , Hoteit I.
Published: May 2018

A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML and PDF versions of this paper. The error has not been fixed in the paper.
Roles of Enhancer RNAs in RANKL-induced Osteoclast Differentiation Identified by Genome-wide Cap-analysis of Gene Expression using CRISPR/Cas9
Authors: Sakaguchi Yukako , Nishikawa Keizo , Seno Shigeto , Matsuda Hideo , Takayanagi Hiroshi , Ishii Masaru
Published: May 2018

Bidirectional transcription has been proposed to play a role associated with enhancer activity. Transcripts called enhancer RNAs (eRNAs) play important roles in gene regulation; however, their roles in osteoclasts are unknown. To analyse eRNAs in osteoclasts comprehensively, we used cap-analysis of gene expression (CAGE) to detect adjacent transcription start sites (TSSs) that were distant from promoters for protein-coding gene expression. When comparing bidirectional TSSs between osteoclast precursors and osteoclasts, we found that bidirectional TSSs were located in the 5′-flanking regions of the Nrp2 and Dcstamp genes. We also detected bidirectional TSSs in the intron region of the Nfatc1 gene. To investigate the role of bidirectional transcription in osteoclasts, we performed loss of function analyses using the CRISPR/Cas9 system. Targeted deletion of the DNA regions between the bidirectional TSSs led to decreased expression of the bidirectional transcripts, as well as the protein-coding RNAs of Nrp2, Dcstamp, and Nfatc1, suggesting that these transcripts act as eRNAs. Furthermore, osteoclast differentiation was impaired by targeted deletion of bidirectional eRNA regions. The combined results show that eRNAs play important roles in osteoclastogenic gene regulation, and may therefore provide novel insights to elucidate the transcriptional mechanisms that control osteoclast differentiation.
Generation and characterisation of a parkin-Pacrg knockout mouse line and a Pacrg knockout mouse line
Authors: Stephenson Sarah E. M. , Aumann Timothy D. , Taylor Juliet M. , Riseley Jessica R. , Li Ruili , Mann Jeffrey R. , Tomas Doris , Lockhart Paul J.
Published: May 2018

Mutations in PARK2 (parkin) can result in Parkinson’s disease (PD). Parkin shares a bidirectional promoter with parkin coregulated gene (PACRG) and the transcriptional start sites are separated by only ~200 bp. Bidirectionally regulated genes have been shown to function in common biological pathways. Mice lacking parkin have largely failed to recapitulate the dopaminergic neuronal loss and movement impairments seen in individuals with parkin-mediated PD. We aimed to investigate the function of PACRG and test the hypothesis that parkin and PACRG function in a common pathway by generating and characterizing two novel knockout mouse lines harbouring loss of both parkin and Pacrg or Pacrg alone. Successful modification of the targeted allele was confirmed at the genomic, transcriptional and steady state protein levels for both genes. At 18–20 months of age, there were no significant differences in the behaviour of parental and mutant lines when assessed by openfield, rotarod and balance beam. Subsequent neuropathological examination suggested there was no gross abnormality of the dopaminergic system in the substantia nigra and no significant difference in the number of dopaminergic neurons in either knockout model compared to wildtype mice.
The electron distribution in the “activated” state of cytochrome c oxidase
Authors: Vilhjálmsdóttir Jóhanna , Gennis Robert B. , Brzezinski Peter
Published: May 2018

Cytochromecoxidase catalyzes reduction of O2to H2O at a catalytic site that is composed of a copper ion and heme group. The reaction is linked to translocation of four protons across the membrane for each O2reduced to water. The free energy associated with electron transfer to the catalytic site is unequal for the four electron-transfer events. Most notably, the free energy associated with reduction of the catalytic site in the oxidized cytochromecoxidase (stateO) is not sufficient for proton pumping across the energized membrane. Yet, this electron transfer is mechanistically linked to proton pumping. To resolve this apparent discrepancy, a high-energy oxidized state (denotedOH) was postulated and suggested to be populated only during catalytic turnover. The difference between statesOandOHwas suggested to be manifested in an elevated midpoint potential of CuBin the latter. This proposal predicts that one-electron reduction of cytochromecoxidase after its oxidation would yield re-reduction of essentially only CuB. Here, we investigated this process and found ~5% and ~6% reduction of hemea3and CuB, respectively, i.e. the apparent redox potentials for hemea3and CuBare lower than that of hemea.
Theory of Single-Impact Atomic Force Spectroscopy in liquids with material contrast
Authors: López-Guerra Enrique A. , Banfi Francesco , Solares Santiago D. , Ferrini Gabriele
Published: May 2018

Scanning probe microscopy has enabled nanoscale mapping of mechanical properties in important technological materials, such as tissues, biomaterials, polymers, nanointerfaces of composite materials, to name only a few. To improve and widen the measurement of nanoscale mechanical properties, a number of methods have been proposed to overcome the widely used force-displacement mode, that is inherently slow and limited to a quasi-static regime, mainly using multiple sinusoidal excitations of the sample base or of the cantilever. Here, a different approach is put forward. It exploits the unique capabilities of the wavelet transform analysis to harness the information encoded in a short duration spectroscopy experiment. It is based on an impulsive excitation of the cantilever and a single impact of the tip with the sample. It performs well in highly damped environments, which are often seen as problematic in other standard dynamic methods. Our results are very promising in terms of viscoelastic property discrimination. Their potential is oriented (but not limited) to samples that demand imaging in liquid native environments and also to highly vulnerable samples whose compositional mapping cannot be obtained through standard tapping imaging techniques.
Electron Information in Single- and Dual-Frequency Capacitive Discharges at Atmospheric Pressure
Authors: Park Sanghoo , Choe Wonho , Moon Se Youn , Shi Jian Jun
Published: May 2018

Determining the electron properties of weakly ionized gases, particularly in a high electron-neutral collisional condition, is a nontrivial task; thus, the mechanisms underlying the electron characteristics and electron heating structure in radio-frequency (rf) collisional discharges remain unclear. Here, we report the electrical characteristics and electron information in single-frequency (4.52 MHz and 13.56 MHz) and dual-frequency (a combination of 4.52 MHz and 13.56 MHz) capacitive discharges within the abnormal α-mode regime at atmospheric pressure. A continuum radiation-based electron diagnostic method is employed to estimate the electron density (ne) and temperature (Te). Our experimental observations reveal that time-averaged ne (7.7–14 × 1011 cm−3) and Te (1.75–2.5 eV) can be independently controlled in dual-frequency discharge, whereas such control is nontrivial in single-frequency discharge, which shows a linear increase in ne and little to no change in Te with increases in the rf input power. Furthermore, the two-dimensional spatiotemporal evolution of neutral bremsstrahlung and associated electron heating structures is demonstrated. These results reveal that a symmetric structure in electron heating becomes asymmetric (via a local suppression of electron temperature) as two-frequency power is simultaneously introduced.
Novel canine circovirus strains from Thailand: Evidence for genetic recombination
Authors: Piewbang Chutchai , Jo Wendy K. , Puff Christina , van der Vries Erhard , Kesdangsakonwut Sawang , Rungsipipat Anudep , Kruppa Jochen , Jung Klaus , Baumgärtner Wolfgang , Techangamsuwan Somporn , Ludlow Martin , Osterhaus Albert D. M. E.
Published: May 2018

Canine circoviruses (CanineCV’s), belonging to the genus Circovirus of the Circoviridae family, were detected by next generation sequencing in samples from Thai dogs with respiratory symptoms. Genetic characterization and phylogenetic analysis of nearly complete CanineCV genomes suggested that natural recombination had occurred among different lineages of CanineCV’s. Similarity plot and bootscaning analyses indicated that American and Chinese viruses had served as major and minor parental viruses, respectively. Positions of recombination breakpoints were estimated using maximum-likelihood frameworks with statistical significant testing. The putative recombination event was located in the Replicase gene, intersecting with open reading frame-3. Analysis of nucleotide changes confirmed the origin of the recombination event. This is the first description of naturally occurring recombinant CanineCV’s that have resulted in the circulation of newly emerging CanineCV lineages.
GBR membrane of novel poly (butylene succinate-co-glycolate) co-polyester co-polymer for periodontal application
Authors: Pajoumshariati Seyedramin , Shirali Hadi , Yavari Seyedeh Kimia , Sheikholeslami Sogol Naghavi , Lotfi Ghogha , Mashhadi Abbas Fatemeh , Abbaspourrad Alireza
Published: May 2018

In periodontics, osteoconductive biodegradable guided bone regeneration (GBR) membranes with acceptable physico-mechanical properties are required to fix alveolar bone defects. The objectives of the present study were to produce and characterize a novel co-polyester—poly (butylene succinate-co-glycolate) (PBSGL), and fabricate a PBSGL membrane by electrospinning. We then aimed to evaluate the in vitro effect of the glycolate ratio on the biocompatibility and osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), and evaluate in vivo bone regeneration using these membranes in rabbit calvarial defects by histology. Increasing the glycolate ratio of electrospun PBSGL membranes resulted in better cell attachment, greater cell metabolic activity, and enhanced osteogenic potential at both transcriptional and translational levels. Histologic and histomorphometric evaluations revealed further that bone defects covered with fibers of higher glycolate ratios showed more bone formation, with no adverse inflammatory response. These results suggest that novel PBSGL electrospun nanofibers show great promise as GBR membranes for bone regeneration.
Bioinspired construction of multi-enzyme catalytic systems
Authors: Shi Jiafu , Wu Yizhou , Zhang Shaohua , Tian Yu , Yang Dong , Jiang Zhongyi
Published: May 2018

Recent advances in bioinspired construction of multi-enzyme catalytic systems based on two complementary strategies, i.e., compartmentalization and substrate channeling, are reviewed and highlighted.
Binder-free Sn–Si heterostructure films for high capacity Li-ion batteries
Authors: Loveridge M. J. , Malik R. , Paul S. , Manjunatha K. N. , Gallanti S. , Tan C. , Lain M. , Roberts A. J. , Bhagat R.
Published: May 2018

This study fabricated and demonstrated a functional, stable electrode structure for a high capacity Li-ion battery (LIB) anode.
Dual functional PDMS sponge SERS substrate for the on-site detection of pesticides both on fruit surfaces and in juice
Authors: Sun Ji , Gong Lin , Lu Yuntao , Wang Dongmei , Gong Zhengjun , Fan Meikun
Published: May 2018

A versatile dual-functional polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) sponge Surface Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) substrate has been fabricated for the on-site detection of pesticide residues both on the surface and in solution with minimum or no sample pretreatment.
Cancer cell membrane-coated magnetic nanoparticles for MR/NIR fluorescence dual-modal imaging and photodynamic therapy
Authors: Li Jiong , Wang Xuandong , Zheng Dongye , Lin Xinyi , Wei Zuwu , Zhang Da , Li Zhuanfang , Zhang Yun , Wu Ming , Liu Xiaolong
Published: May 2018

A photosensitizer-loaded magnetic nanobead with surface coated with a cancer cell membrane to enhance MR/NIR fluorescence imaging and PDT efficacy.
Therapy for cartilage defects: functional ectopic cartilage constructed by cartilage-simulating collagen, chondroitin sulfate and hyaluronic acid (CCH) hybrid hydrogel with allogeneic chondrocytes
Authors: Jiang Xianfang , Liu Junting , Liu Qin , Lu Zhenhui , Zheng Li , Zhao Jinmin , Zhang Xingdong
Published: May 2018

Allogeneic chondrocytes were encapsulated with collagen, chondroitin sulfate and hyaluronic acid (CCH) hybrid hydrogel, constructing ectopic cartilage with a diffusion chamber system for cartilage repair.
The distinct structural preferences of tau protein repeat domains
Authors: Li Xuhua , Dong Xuewei , Wei Guanghong , Margittai Martin , Nussinov Ruth , Ma Buyong
Published: May 2018

Among the four bi-repeat protofilaments, only R3–R4 can maintain the C-shaped structure that can be stabilized by heparins, while R1–R2 tends to be linear in shape, and these two structural motifs appear in the most stable K18 protofilament.
Non-aqueous neptunium and plutonium redox behaviour in THF – access to a rare Np(iii) synthetic precursor
Authors: Pattenaude Scott A. , Anderson Nickolas H. , Bart Suzanne C. , Gaunt Andrew J. , Scott Brian L.
Published: May 2018

Redox stability of tetravalent Np and Pu in THF is explored, leading to facile access routes into anhydrous Np(iii) chemistry.
Incorporating spin–orbit effects into surface hopping dynamics using the diagonal representation: a linear-response time-dependent density functional theory implementation with applications to 2-thiouracil
Authors: Duan Jun-Xin , Zhou Yun , Xie Zhi-Zhong , Sun Tao-Lei , Cao Jun
Published: May 2018

Evaluation of SOC values employs Casida's wave functions and the Breit–Pauli spin–orbit Hamiltonian with effective charge approximation.
A multilayer assembly of two mixed-valence Mn16-containing polyanions and study of their electrocatalytic activities towards water oxidation
Authors: Du Yu , Yu Tian , Fu Zhijing , Bi Lihua
Published: May 2018

Electrocatalytic activities of two Mn16 cluster-containing polyanions towards water oxidation were comparatively studied in solution and composite films.
Stress resistance and lifespan extension of Caenorhabditis elegans enhanced by peptides from mussel (Mytilus edulis) protein hydrolyzate
Authors: Zhou Yue , Xu Qinggang , Zhou Xinghua , Song Shuang , Zhu Beiwei
Published: May 2018

Mussel (Mytilus edulis) peptides increased stress resistance and reduced endogenous ROS level and lipofuscin accumulation of C. elegans. Mussel peptides could contribute to healthspan extension of C. elegans through regulating the mRNA expression of daf-2 and daf-16.
The role of aryl-topology in balancing between selective and dual 5-HT7R/5-HT1Aactions of 3,5-substituted hydantoins
Authors: Kucwaj-Brysz Katarzyna , Kurczab Rafał , Żesławska Ewa , Lubelska Annamaria , Marć Małgorzata Anna , Latacz Gniewomir , Satała Grzegorz , Nitek Wojciech , Kieć-Kononowicz Katarzyna , Handzlik Jadwiga
Published: May 2018

Influence of aromatic rings topology on 5-HT7/5-HT1Aactivity, for novel hydantoin derivatives, was examined.
Synthesis and functionalisation of mesoporous materials for transparent coatings and organic dye adsorption
Authors: Nagappan Saravanan , Park Sung Soo , Kim Bo Kyung , Yoo Dae-Geon , Jo Nam-Ju , Lee Won-Ki , Ha Chang-Sik
Published: May 2018

The novel synthesis and functionalisation of mesoporous materials, which can be used to fabricate transparent hydrophobic coatings with temperature-sensitive surface properties, and also show excellent adsorption behavior to Rhodamine B dye in water.
Colorimetric and fluorometric turn-on sensor for selective detection of fluoride ions: sol–gel transition studies and theoretical insights
Authors: Pangannaya Srikala , Mohan Makesh , Trivedi Darshak R.
Published: May 2018

The sol–gel transition properties of receptor R1 aiding the selective detection of fluoride ions.
Deconstructing collagen piezoelectricity using alanine-hydroxyproline-glycine building blocks
Authors: Guerin Sarah , Syed Tofail A. M. , Thompson Damien
Published: May 2018

Amino acid-level barcoding of collagen piezoelectricity can be tuned using simple chemistry.
XPS experimental and DFT investigations on solid solutions of Mo1−xRexS2 (0 < x < 0.20)
Authors: Dalmatova Svetlana A. , Fedorenko Anastasiya D. , Mazalov Lev N. , Asanov Igor P. , Ledneva Alexandra Yu. , Tarasenko Mariya S. , Enyashin Andrey N. , Zaikovskii Vladimir I. , Fedorov Vladimir E.
Published: May 2018

The synthesis, characterization, experimental X-ray photoelectron spectra (XPS) and density-functional theory (DFT) investigations on solid solutions of Mo1−xRexS2 (x = 0.05, 0.10, 0.15 and 0.20) are reported herein.
3D nanostructured N-doped TiO2 photocatalysts with enhanced visible absorption
Authors: Cho Sumin , Ahn Changui , Park Junyong , Jeon Seokwoo
Published: May 2018

Our work introduces 3D nanostructured N-doped TiO2 with enhanced visible absorption for enhanced visible photocatalysis via PnP and ALD techniques.
LC-MS based cell metabolic profiling of tumor cells: a new predictive method for research on the mechanism of action of anticancer candidates
Authors: Wang Hua , Hu Jia-hui , Liu Cui-chai , Liu Min , Liu Zheng , Sun Li-xin
Published: May 2018

The comprehensive workflow of construction and evaluation of a predictive model based on cell metabolic profiling.
ε-Caprolactone-based solid polymer electrolytes for lithium-ion batteries: synthesis, electrochemical characterization and mechanical stabilization by block copolymerization
Authors: Bergfelt Andreas , Lacey Matthew J. , Hedman Jonas , Sångeland Christofer , Brandell Daniel , Bowden Tim
Published: May 2018

Three different polymers were synthesized and evaluated as solid polymer electrolytes: poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL), polystyrene-poly(ε-caprolactone) (SC), and polystyrene-poly(ε-caprolactone-r-trimethylene carbonate) (SCT).
A simple synthesis of transparent and highly conducting p-type CuxAl1−xSy nanocomposite thin films as the hole transporting layer for organic solar cells
Authors: Dai Xin , Lei Hongwei , Chen Cong , Guo Yaxiong , Fang Guojia
Published: May 2018

Inorganic p-type films with high mobility are very important for opto-electronic applications.
Modifying collagen with alendronate sodium for bone regeneration applications
Authors: He Yingcong , Zhu Ting , Liu Lei , Shi Xuetao , Lin Zhengmei
Published: May 2018

Efficient covalent bonding with phosphate-containing alendronate prompts the fast mineralization and osteoinduction of the collagen scaffold.
Template-assisted synthesis of NiCoO2 nanocages/reduced graphene oxide composites as high-performance electrodes for supercapacitors
Authors: Guan Xiao-Hui , Li Mu , Zhang Hai-Zhen , Yang Liu , Wang Guang-Sheng
Published: May 2018

Here we reported a coordinating etching and precipitating method to synthesize a complex binary metal oxides hollow cubic structure.
Dense, uniform, smooth SiO2/TiO2hard coatings derived from a single precursor source of tetra-n-butyl titanate modified perhydropolysilazane
Authors: Zhang Zongbo , Wang Dan , Xiao Fengyan , Liang Qianying , Luo Yongming , Xu Caihong
Published: May 2018

Dense, uniform, smooth SiO2/TiO2hard coatings derived from a single precursor source of tetran-butyl titanate modified perhydropolysilazane.
Room-temperature hydrogen sensing performance of Nb2O5nanorod arrays
Authors: Zou Yanan , He Jing , Hu Yongming , Huang Rui , Wang Zhao , Gu Qibin
Published: May 2018

A hydrogen sensor based on Nb2O5nanorod arrays was synthesized and exhibited a fast and highly-sensitive response at room temperature.
The preparation of oleylamine modified micro-size sphere silver particles and its application in crystalline silicon solar cells
Authors: Lan Feng , Bai Jintao , Wang Hui
Published: May 2018

In this paper, micro-sized silver particles were prepared using a simple chemical approach without adjusting the pH of the solution, and oleylamine as a capping agent was described to promote the dispersion of the silver particles.
Diastereoselective synthesis of novel spiro indanone fused pyrano[3,2-c]chromene derivatives following hetero-Diels–Alder reaction andin vitroanticancer studies
Authors: Panda Pravati , Nayak Sabita , Sahoo Susanta Ku. , Mohapatra Seetaram , Nayak Deepika , Pradhan Rajalaxmi , Kundu Chanakya Nath
Published: May 2018

Synthesis of novel spiro indanone fused pyrano[3,2-c]chromene derivatives following hetero-Diels–Alder reaction has been demonstrated and evaluated for theirin vitroanticancer activity.
pH-responsive molecular assemblies of pyridylbutadiene derivative with cucurbit[7]uril
Authors: Vasu Anuji K. , Khurana Raman , Mohanty Jyotirmayee , Kanvah Sriram
Published: May 2018

pH-responsive emission behavior of supramolecular complexes between pyridylbutadiene with CB7 and formation of molecular assemblies is described.
A three body problem: a genuine heterotrimetallic molecule vs. a mixture of two parent heterobimetallic molecules
Authors: Han Haixiang , Wei Zheng , Barry Matthew C. , Carozza Jesse C. , Alkan Melisa , Rogachev Andrey Yu , Filatov Alexander S. , Abakumov Artem M. , Dikarev Evgeny V.
Published: May 2018

Tetranuclear molecular precursor Li2CoNiL6 for oxide cathode materials has been shown to contain heterotrimetallic and both parent heterobimetallic molecules.
Catalysis by design: development of a bifunctional water splitting catalyst through an operando measurement directed optimization cycle
Authors: Kornienko Nikolay , Heidary Nina , Cibin Giannantonio , Reisner Erwin
Published: May 2018

Amorphous and bifunctional water splitting catalysts are probed with a novel spectroelectrochemical quartz crystal microbalance cell, then subsequently enhanced.
Mixing and demixing of binary mixtures of polar chiral active particles
Authors: Ai Bao-quan , Shao Zhi-gang , Zhong Wei-rong
Published: May 2018

We study a binary mixture of polar chiral (counterclockwise or clockwise) active particles in a two-dimensional box with periodic boundary conditions.
Probing the self-assembly dynamics and internal structure of amphiphilic hyaluronic acid conjugates by fluorescence spectroscopy and molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Svechkarev Denis , Kyrychenko Alexander , Payne William M. , Mohs Aaron M.
Published: May 2018

Side substituents on the hyaluronic acid backbone determine the morphology and hydration of the HA-derived nanoparticles hydrophobic domains.
Hyperfiltration in ubiquitin C-terminal hydrolase L1-deleted mice
Authors: Boisvert Naomi C. , Holterman Chet E. , Thibodeau Jean-François , Nasrallah Rania , Kamto Eldjonai , Comin Cesar H. , Costa Luciano da F. , Carter Anthony , Hébert Richard L. , Gutsol Alex , Cron Gregory O. , Lacoste Baptiste , Gray Douglas A. , Kennedy Chris R.
Published: May 2018

Neuronal ubiquitin C-terminal hydrolase L1 (UCHL1) is a deubiquitinating enzyme that maintains intracellular ubiquitin pools and promotes axonal transport. Uchl1 deletion in mice leads to progressive axonal degeneration, affecting the dorsal root ganglion that harbors axons emanating to the kidney. Innervation is a crucial regulator of renal hemodynamics, though the contribution of neuronal UCHL1 to this is unclear. Immunofluorescence revealed significant neuronal UCHL1 expression in mouse kidney, including periglomerular axons. Glomerular filtration rate trended higher in 6-week-old Uchl1-/- mice, and by 12 weeks of age, these displayed significant glomerular hyperfiltration, coincident with the onset of neurodegeneration. Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibition had no effect on glomerular filtration rate of Uchl1-/- mice indicating that the renin–angiotensin system does not contribute to the observed hyperfiltration. DCE-MRI revealed increased cortical renal blood flow in Uchl1-/- mice, suggesting that hyperfiltration results from afferent arteriole dilation. Nonetheless, hyperglycemia, cyclooxygenase-2, and nitric oxide synthases were ruled out as sources of hyperfiltration in Uchl1-/- mice as glomerular filtration rate remained unchanged following insulin treatment, and cyclooxygenase-2 and nitric oxide synthase inhibition. Finally, renal nerve dysfunction in Uchl1-/- mice is suggested given increased renal nerve arborization, decreased urinary norepinephrine, and impaired vascular reactivity. Uchl1-deleted mice demonstrate glomerular hyperfiltration associated with renal neuronal dysfunction, suggesting that neuronal UCHL1 plays a crucial role in regulating renal hemodynamics.
LNX1/LNX2 proteins: functions in neuronal signalling and beyond
Authors: Young Paul W.
Published: May 2018

Ligand of NUMB Protein X1 and X2 (LNX1 and LNX2) are E3 ubiquitin ligases, named for their ability to interact with and promote the degradation of the cell fate determinant protein NUMB. On this basis they are thought to play a role in modulating NUMB/NOTCH signalling during processes such as cortical neurogenesis. However, LNX1/2 proteins can bind, via their four PDZ (PSD95, DLGA, ZO-1) domains, to an extraordinarily large number of other proteins besides NUMB. Many of these interactions suggest additional roles for LNX1/2 proteins in the nervous system in areas such as synapse formation, neurotransmission and regulating neuroglial function. Twenty years on from their initial discovery, I discuss here the putative neuronal functions of LNX1/2 proteins in light of the anxiety-related phenotype of double knockout mice lacking LNX1 and LNX2 in the central nervous system (CNS). I also review what is known about non-neuronal roles of LNX1/2 proteins, including their roles in embryonic patterning and pancreas development in zebrafish and their possible involvement in colorectal cancer (CRC), osteoclast differentiation and immune function in mammals. The emerging picture places LNX1/2 proteins as potential regulators of multiple cellular signalling processes, but in many cases the physiological significance of such roles remains only partly validated and needs to be considered in the context of the tight control of LNX1/2 protein levels in vivo.
Endoscopic polymer injection and endoluminal plication in treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease: evaluation of long-term results
Authors: De Moura Eduardo , Sallum Rubens , Nasi Ary , Coronel Martin , De Moura Diogo , De Moura Eduardo , Minata Mauricio , Cury Marcelo , Falcão Angela , Cecconello Ivan , Sakai Paulo
Published: May 2018

Background and study aims Us of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) has made endoscopic treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) more efficient, with reduction in morbidity and complications. However, some patients persist with symptoms despite medical treatment and some are not compliant with it or cannot afford it for financial reasons, and thus they require non-pharmacological therapeutic options such as surgical fundoplication. Surgery may be effective in the short term, but there is related morbidity and concern about its long-term efficacy. The possibility of minimally invasive endoluminal surgeries has resulted in interest in and development of newly endoscopic devices. Good short-term results with surgical fundoplication lack of studies of is with long follow-up justify our interest in this study. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of endoscopic polymer injection and endoluminal full-thickness plication in the long-term control of GERD.

Patients and methods Forty-seven patients with GERD who underwent an endoscopic procedure were followed up for 60 months and evaluated for total response (RT), partial response (RP) and no response (SR) to endoscopic treatment with reintroduction of PPIs.

Results Twenty-one patients received polymer injection (G0) and 26 endoluminal plication (G1). The number of patients with no response to endoscopic treatment with reintroduction of PPIs increased in time for both techniques (G0 P = 0.006; G1 P < 0.001). There was symptomatic improvement up to 12 months, with progressive loss of this trending up to 60 months in G0 and G1 (P < 0.001). Health-related quality of life score (GERD-HRQL) demonstrated TR in G0 and G1 at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months. The 60-month analysis showed an increased number of patients with SR in both groups. The quality of life assessment (SF-36) showed benefit in G0 up to 3 months. G0 showed a higher rate of complications. There were no deaths. There was healing of esophagitis at 3 months in 45 % of patients in G0 and 40 % in G1. There was no improvement in manometric or pH findings.

Conclusion Endoscopic therapies were ineffective in controlling GERD in the long term.
Endoscopic submucosal dissection of early gastric cancer via inverted overtube in a patient with situs inversus totalis: a case report
Authors: Miyaoka Youichi , Suemitsu Shinsuke , Fujiwara Aya , Kotani Satoshi , Tsukano Kosuke , Yamanouchi Satoshi , Kusunoki Ryusaku , Miyake Tatsuya , Fujishiro Hirofumi , Kohge Naruaki , Yamamoto Tomohiko , Amano Yuji
Published: May 2018

Background and study aims A 72-year-old man with complete situs inversus presented with early gastric cancer on the lesser curvature wall of the antrum of the stomach. Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) was selected as a treatment. When the patient was positioned in the left decubitus position, the lesion was hidden by blood and gastric fluid because it was located on the gravitational side. Therefore, we decided to perform ESD with the patient in the right lateral decubitus position and use an inverted overtube, which provided a good endoscopic view without the need to rearrange the endoscopist, assistants, or endoscopic system. ESD was safe and feasible using the inverted overtube.
Konventionelle synthetische Immunsuppressiva (DMARDs) für die Therapie der nichtinfektiösen Uveitis
Authors: Tappeiner Christoph , Rath Thomas , Heiligenhaus Arnd
Published: May 2018

Die Initialtherapie von Uveitiden besteht aus einer topischen und/oder systemischen Kortikosteroidgabe. Zur Erzielung von dauerhafter Reizfreiheit, Prophylaxe von uveitischen Sekundärkomplikationen, Kortisoneinsparung und Vermeidung von kortikosteroidbedingten unerwünschten Arzneimittelwirkungen ist im weiteren Verlauf nicht selten der Einsatz einer krankheitsmodifizierenden Therapie (sog. disease modifying antirheumatic drugs, DMARDs) notwendig. Dieser Beitrag soll eine strukturierte Übersicht über die wichtigsten konventionellen synthetischen DMARDs, deren Indikation, mögliche unerwünschte Arzneimittelwirkungen und das interdisziplinäre Monitoring vermitteln.
Katarakt bei Uveitis
Authors: Heiligenhaus Arnd , Walscheid Karoline , Pleyer Uwe
Published: May 2018

Eine häufige Komplikation bei Uveitis ist die Katarakt, deren Management anspruchsvoll sein kann. Die Operationsplanung setzt eine Kenntnis von Ursache (z. B. infektiös versus nichtinfektiös) und Verlauf der Uveitis voraus, einschließlich aller intraokularen Komorbiditäten (z. B. Makulaödem). Die präoperative Patientenselektion ist bei Uveitispatienten zum Erzielen guter Operationsergebnisse bei Uveitis besonders bedeutsam. Mit steroidsparenden krankheitsmodifizierenden antirheumatischen Medikamenten (DMARDs) kann die Rate postoperativer Komplikationen reduziert und das Visusergebnis verbessert werden. Vor der Operation muss eine stabile Entzündungskontrolle erzielt werden. Die Operation sollte minimalinvasiv erfolgen. Eine IOL-Implantation sollte nicht bei Patienten mit unvorhersehbarem Entzündungsverlauf erfolgen. Durch die Verwendung von intraokularen Kortikosteroiden (z. B. Dexamethason-Azetonid-Implantat, Triamcinolon-Azetonid) kann die Komplikationsrate reduziert werden. Postoperativ sollte die entzündungshemmende Medikation intensiviert und diese bis zu 3 Monate lang fortgesetzt werden. Bei sorgsamer Patientenauswahl, Planung und Durchführung der Kataraktoperation sowie postoperativer Nachsorge können bei Uveitispatienten zufriedenstellende anatomische und visuelle Operationsergebnisse erzielt werden.
Endocytoscopic findings of colorectal neuroendocrine tumors (with video)
Authors: Takeda Kenichi , Kudo Shin-ei , Misawa Masashi , Mori Yuichi , Yamano Miki , Inoue Haruhiro
Published: May 2018

Background and study aims Gastrointestinal neuroendocrine tumors (NET) are generally submucosal in location. Because these tumors are covered with normal mucosa, biopsy is necessary to confirm histological diagnosis before treatment. We explored the diagnostic capabilities of the endocytoscope, which can perform ultra-high magnification in vivo, for staining and diagnosing submucosal tumors in situ.
Simple and Practical Real-Time Analysis of Solid-Phase Reactions by Thin-Layer Chromatography
Authors: Wang Cheng-Chung , Wu Chia-Hui , Chen Chun , Lin Su-Ching
Published: May 2018

Solid-phase synthesis is a practical approach for simplifying the time-consuming and routine purification steps in the preparation of numerous naturally occurring molecules; however, studying such reactions is difficult due to the lack of a convenient monitoring method. By using thin-layer chromatography in conjunction with a photolabile linker on a resin, we developed a convenient and simple method for monitoring solid-phase reactions in real time by thin-layer chromatography. This method provides a user-friendly protocol for examining reaction conditions for solid-state syntheses.