bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Single atom tungsten doped ultrathin α-Ni(OH)2 for enhanced electrocatalytic water oxidation
Authors: Yan Junqing , Kong Lingqiao , Ji Yujin , White Jai , Li Youyong , Zhang Jing , An Pengfei , Liu Shengzhong , Lee Shuit-Tong , Ma Tianyi
Published: May 2019

Electrocatalytic water oxidation is a rate-determining step in the water splitting reaction. Here, we report one single atom W6+ doped Ni(OH)2 nanosheet sample (w-Ni(OH)2) with an outstanding oxygen evolution reaction (OER) performance that is, in a 1 M KOH medium, an overpotential of 237 mV is obtained reaching a current density of 10 mA/cm2. Moreover, at high current density of 80 mA/cm2, the overpotential value is 267 mV. The corresponding Tafel slope is measured to be 33 mV/dec. The d0 W6+ atom with a low spin-state has more outermost vacant orbitals, resulting in more water and OH− groups being adsorbed on the exposed W sites of the Ni(OH)2 nanosheet. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations confirm that the O radical and O-O coupling are both generated at the same site of W6+. This work demonstrates that W6+ doping can promote the electrocatalytic water oxidation activity of Ni(OH)2 with the highest performance.
IL-1β, IL-23, and TGF-β drive plasticity of human ILC2s towards IL-17-producing ILCs in nasal inflammation
Authors: Golebski Korneliusz , Ros Xavier R. , Nagasawa Maho , van Tol Sophie , Heesters Balthasar A. , Aglmous Hajar , Kradolfer Chantal M. A. , Shikhagaie Medya M. , Seys Sven , Hellings P. W. , van Drunen Cornelis M. , Fokkens Wytske J. , Spits Hergen , Bal Suzanne M.
Published: May 2019

Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) are crucial for the immune surveillance at mucosal sites. ILCs coordinate early eradication of pathogens and contribute to tissue healing and remodeling, features that are dysfunctional in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). The mechanisms by which ILCs contribute to CF-immunopathology are ill-defined. Here, we show that group 2 ILCs (ILC2s) transdifferentiated into IL-17-secreting cells in the presence of the epithelial-derived cytokines IL-1β, IL-23 and TGF-β. This conversion is abrogated by IL-4 or vitamin D3. IL-17 producing ILC2s induce IL-8 secretion by epithelial cells and their presence in nasal polyps of CF patients is associated with neutrophilia. Our data suggest that ILC2s undergo transdifferentiation in CF nasal polyps in response to local cytokines, which are induced by infectious agents.
Bacteroides fragilis polysaccharide A induces IL-10 secreting B and T cells that prevent viral encephalitis
Authors: Ramakrishna Chandran , Kujawski Maciej , Chu Hiutung , Li Lin , Mazmanian Sarkis K. , Cantin Edouard M.
Published: May 2019

The gut commensal Bacteroides fragilis or its capsular polysaccharide A (PSA) can prevent various peripheral and CNS sterile inflammatory disorders. Fatal herpes simplex encephalitis (HSE) results from immune pathology caused by uncontrolled invasion of the brainstem by inflammatory monocytes and neutrophils. Here we assess the immunomodulatory potential of PSA in HSE by infecting PSA or PBS treated 129S6 mice with HSV1, followed by delayed Acyclovir (ACV) treatment as often occurs in the clinical setting. Only PSA-treated mice survived, with dramatically reduced brainstem inflammation and altered cytokine and chemokine profiles. Importantly, PSA binding by B cells is essential for induction of regulatory CD4+ and CD8+ T cells secreting IL-10 to control innate inflammatory responses, consistent with the lack of PSA mediated protection in Rag−/−, B cell- and IL-10-deficient mice. Our data reveal the translational potential of PSA as an immunomodulatory symbiosis factor to orchestrate robust protective anti-inflammatory responses during viral infections.
A strongly adhesive hemostatic hydrogel for the repair of arterial and heart bleeds
Authors: Hong Yi , Zhou Feifei , Hua Yujie , Zhang Xianzhu , Ni Chengyao , Pan Dihao , Zhang Yiqing , Jiang Deming , Yang Long , Lin Qiuning , Zou Yiwei , Yu Dongsheng , Arnot David E. , Zou Xiaohui , Zhu Linyong , Zhang Shufang , Ouyang Hongwei
Published: May 2019

Uncontrollable bleeding is a major problem in surgical procedures and after major trauma. Existing hemostatic agents poorly control hemorrhaging from traumatic arterial and cardiac wounds because of their weak adhesion to wet and mobile tissues. Here we design a photo-reactive adhesive that mimics the extracellular matrix (ECM) composition. This biomacromolecule-based matrix hydrogel can undergo rapid gelling and fixation to adhere and seal bleeding arteries and cardiac walls after UV light irradiation. These repairs can withstand up to 290 mm Hg blood pressure, significantly higher than blood pressures in most clinical settings (systolic BP 60–160 mm Hg). Most importantly, the hydrogel can stop high-pressure bleeding from pig carotid arteries with 4~ 5 mm-long incision wounds and from pig hearts with 6 mm diameter cardiac penetration holes. Treated pigs survived after hemostatic treatments with this hydrogel, which is well-tolerated and appears to offer significant clinical advantage as a traumatic wound sealant.
Nucleoporin Nup155 is part of the p53 network in liver cancer
Authors: Holzer Kerstin , Ori Alessandro , Cooke Amy , Dauch Daniel , Drucker Elisabeth , Riemenschneider Philip , Andres-Pons Amparo , DiGuilio Amanda L. , Mackmull Marie-Therese , Baßler Jochen , Roessler Stephanie , Breuhahn Kai , Zender Lars , Glavy Joseph S. , Dombrowski Frank , Hurt Ed , Schirmacher Peter , Beck Martin , Singer Stephan
Published: May 2019

Cancer-relevant signalling pathways rely on bidirectional nucleocytoplasmic transport events through the nuclear pore complex (NPC). However, mechanisms by which individual NPC components (Nups) participate in the regulation of these pathways remain poorly understood. We discover by integrating large scale proteomics, polysome fractionation and a focused RNAi approach that Nup155 controls mRNA translation of p21 (CDKN1A), a key mediator of the p53 response. The underlying mechanism involves transcriptional regulation of the putative tRNA and rRNA methyltransferase FTSJ1 by Nup155. Furthermore, we observe that Nup155 and FTSJ1 are p53 repression targets and accordingly find a correlation between the p53 status, Nup155 and FTSJ1 expression in murine and human hepatocellular carcinoma. Our data suggest an unanticipated regulatory network linking translational control by and repression of a structural NPC component modulating the p53 pathway through its effectors.
Low-voltage high-performance flexible digital and analog circuits based on ultrahigh-purity semiconducting carbon nanotubes
Authors: Lei Ting , Shao Lei-Lai , Zheng Yu-Qing , Pitner Gregory , Fang Guanhua , Zhu Chenxin , Li Sicheng , Beausoleil Ray , Wong H.-S. Philip , Huang Tsung-Ching , Cheng Kwang-Ting , Bao Zhenan
Published: May 2019

Carbon nanotube (CNT) thin-film transistor (TFT) is a promising candidate for flexible and wearable electronics. However, it usually suffers from low semiconducting tube purity, low device yield, and the mismatch between p- and n-type TFTs. Here, we report low-voltage and high-performance digital and analog CNT TFT circuits based on high-yield (19.9%) and ultrahigh purity (99.997%) polymer-sorted semiconducting CNTs. Using high-uniformity deposition and pseudo-CMOS design, we demonstrated CNT TFTs with good uniformity and high performance at low operation voltage of 3 V. We tested forty-four 2-µm channel 5-stage ring oscillators on the same flexible substrate (1,056 TFTs). All worked as expected with gate delays of 42.7 ± 13.1 ns. With these high-performance TFTs, we demonstrated 8-stage shift registers running at 50 kHz and the first tunable-gain amplifier with 1,000 gain at 20 kHz. These results show great potentials of using solution-processed CNT TFTs for large-scale flexible electronics.
Phenomenological modelling of non-volatile memory threshold voltage shift induced by nonlinear ionization with a femtosecond laser
Authors: Chiquet Philippe , Chambonneau Maxime , Della Marca Vincenzo , Postel-Pellerin Jérémy , Canet Pierre , Souiki-Figuigui Sarra , Idda Guillaume , Portal Jean-Michel , Grojo David
Published: May 2019

The behaviour of semiconductor materials and devices subjected to femtosecond laser irradiation has been under scrutiny, for many reasons, during the last decade. In particular, recent works have shown that the specific functionality and/or geometry of semiconductor devices, among which non-volatile memory (NVM) devices hold a special place, could be used to improve the knowledge about ultrafast laser-semiconductor interactions. So far, such an approach has been applied to draw conclusions about the spatio-temporal properties of laser propagation in bulk materials. Here, by comparing the evolution of the electrical characteristics of Flash cells under the cumulative effect of repeated femtosecond laser pulses with first-order physical considerations and TCAD (Technology Computer Aided Design) simulations, we clearly establish the role of the carriers created by nonlinear ionization on the functionality of the structures. The complete electrical analysis informs indirectly on the energy of the laser-produced free-carriers which, to date, was almost inaccessible by an experimental method applicable to the bulk of a material. Establishing the link between the carrier energy and laser parameters is of major importance to improve the comprehension of the nonlinear ionization mechanisms associated to intense laser-semiconductor interactions and applied in various fields from microelectronics to laser micromachining.
Multiple Lineages of Dengue Virus Serotype 2 Cosmopolitan Genotype Caused a Local Dengue Outbreak in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China, in 2017
Authors: Yu Hua , Kong Qingxin , Wang Jing , Qiu Xiaofeng , Wen Yuanyuan , Yu Xinfen , Liu Muwen , Wang Haoqiu , Pan Jingcao , Sun Zhou
Published: May 2019

During July to November 2017, a large dengue outbreak involving 1,138 indigenous cases occurred in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China. All patients were clinically diagnosed as mild dengue. Epidemiology investigation and phylogenetic analysis of circulating viruses revealed that at least three lineages of dengue virus serotype 2 (DENV-2) Cosmopolitan genotype initiated the outbreak during a short time. The analysis of the time to most recent common ancestor estimated that the putative ancestor of these DENV-2 lineages might rise no later than March, 2017, suggesting independent introductions of these lineages into Hangzhou. We presumed that group travelers visiting dengue-endemic areas gave rise to multiple introductions of these lineages during so short a time. Co-circulating of multiple DENV-2 lineages, emerging of disease in urban areas, hot and humid weather in Hangzhou adequate for mosquito breeding, and limited dengue diagnosis abilities of local hospitals, were the reasons causing the large local outbreak in Hangzhou.
Retinal Defocus and Form-Deprivation Exposure Duration Affects RPE BMP Gene Expression
Authors: Zhang Yan , Phan Eileen , Wildsoet Christine F.
Published: May 2019

In the context of ocular development and eye growth regulation, retinal defocus and/or image contrast appear key variables although the nature of the signal(s) relayed from the retina to the sclera remains poorly understood. Nonetheless, under optimal visual conditions, eye length is brought into alignment with its optical power to achieve approximate emmetropia, through appropriate adjustment to eye growth. The retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), which lies between the retina and choroid/sclera, appears to play a crucial role in this process. In the investigations reported here, we used a chick model system to assess the threshold duration of exposure to lens-imposed defocus and form-deprivation necessary for conversion of evoked retinal signals into changes in BMP gene expression in the RPE. Our study provides evidence for the following: 1) close-loop, optical defocus-guided (negative and positive lenses) bidirectional BMP gene expression regulation, 2) open-loop, form-deprivation (diffusers)-induced down-regulation of BMP gene expression, and 3) early, transient up-regulation of BMP gene expression in response to both types of lens and diffuser applications. The critical exposure for accurately encoding retinal images as biological signals at the level of the RPE is in the order of minutes to hours, depending on the nature of the visual manipulations.
Comparative Analysis of Eleven Healthcare-Associated Outbreaks of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (Mers-Cov) from 2015 to 2017
Authors: Bernard-Stoecklin Sibylle , Nikolay Birgit , Assiri Abdullah , Bin Saeed Abdul Aziz , Ben Embarek Peter Karim , El Bushra Hassan , Ki Moran , Malik Mamunur Rahman , Fontanet Arnaud , Cauchemez Simon , Van Kerkhove Maria D.
Published: May 2019

Since its emergence in 2012, 2,260 cases and 803 deaths due to Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) have been reported to the World Health Organization. Most cases were due to transmission in healthcare settings, sometimes causing large outbreaks. We analyzed epidemiologic and clinical data of laboratory-confirmed MERS-CoV cases from eleven healthcare-associated outbreaks in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Republic of Korea between 2015–2017. We quantified key epidemiological differences between outbreaks. Twenty-five percent (n = 105/422) of MERS cases who acquired infection in a hospital setting were healthcare personnel. In multivariate analyses, age ≥65 (OR 4.8, 95%CI: 2.6–8.7) and the presence of underlying comorbidities (OR: 2.7, 95% CI: 1.3–5.7) were associated with increased mortality whereas working as healthcare personnel was protective (OR 0.07, 95% CI: 0.01–0.34). At the start of these outbreaks, the reproduction number ranged from 1.0 to 5.7; it dropped below 1 within 2 to 6 weeks. This study provides a comprehensive characterization of MERS HCA-outbreaks. Our results highlight heterogeneities in the epidemiological profile of healthcare-associated outbreaks. The limitations of our study stress the urgent need for standardized data collection for high-threat respiratory pathogens, such as MERS-CoV.
Temporal escalation of Pyrethroid Resistance in the major malaria vector Anopheles coluzzii from Sahelo-Sudanian Region of northern Nigeria
Authors: Ibrahim Sulaiman S. , Mukhtar Muhammad M. , Datti Jamila A. , Irving Helen , Kusimo Michael O. , Tchapga Williams , Lawal Nura , Sambo Fatima I. , Wondji Charles S.
Published: May 2019

Despite the highest global burden of malaria, information on bionomics and insecticide resistance status of malaria vectors is grossly lacking in the densely populated Sahelo-Sudanian region of Nigeria. To support evidence-based vector control we characterised transmission and resistance profiles ofAnopheles coluzziipopulations from three sites in northern Nigeria. High sporozoite infection (~19.51%) was found in theAn.coluzziipopulations. A high pyrethroid resistance was observed with only 1% mortality against deltamethrin, a high LD50(96.57 µg/ml), and a high LT50(170.27 min, resistance ratio of ~51 compared with the fully susceptible Ngoussou colony). Moderate carbamate resistance was observed. Synergist bioassays significantly recovered deltamethrin susceptibility implicating CYP450s (mortality = 85%, χ2 = 134.04, p < 0.0001) and esterases (mortality = 56%, χ2 = 47.31, p < 0.0001). Reduced bed net efficacy was also observed, with mortalities on exposure to the roof of PermaNet3.0 (PBO + deltamethrin) more than 22 times compared to the side panel (deltamethrin). TaqMan genotyping revealed a high frequency of 1014Fkdrmutation (82%) with significant difference in genotype distribution associated with permethrin resistance [OR = 4.69 (CI:1.53–14.35, χ2 = 8.22 p = 0.004]. Sequencing of exons 18–21 of the VGSC led to detection of two additional nonsynonymous mutations, Ile10148Asn and Ser1156Gly. These findings highlight the threats posed by the highly resistantAn.coluzziito malaria control in Nigeria.
Mass killing by female soldier larvae is adaptive for the killed male larvae in a polyembryonic wasp
Authors: Otsuki Takahiro , Uka Daisuke , Ito Hiromu , Ichinose Genki , Nii Momoka , Morita Satoru , Sakamoto Takuma , Nishiko Maaya , Tabunoki Hiroko , Kobayashi Kazuya , Matsuura Kenji , Iwabuchi Kikuo , Yoshimura Jin
Published: May 2019

Self-sacrifice is very rare among organisms. Here, we report a new and astonishing case of adaptive self-sacrifice in a polyembryonic parasitic wasp, Copidosoma floridanum. This wasp is unique in terms of its larval cloning and soldier larvae. Male clone larvae have been found to be killed by female soldier larvae, which suggests intersexual conflict between male and female larvae. However, we show here that mass killing is adaptive to all the killed males as well as the female soldiers that have conducted the killing because the killing increases their indirect fitness by promoting the reproduction of their clone sibs. We construct a simple model that shows that the optimal number of surviving males for both male and female larvae is very small but not zero. We then compare this prediction with the field data. These data agree quite well with the model predictions, showing an optimal killing rate of approximately 94–98% of the males in a mixed brood. The underlying mechanism of this mass kill is almost identical to the local competition for mates that occurs in other wasp species. The maternal control of the sex ratio during oviposition, which is well known in other hymenopterans, is impossible in this polyembryonic wasp. Thus, this mass kill is necessary to maximize the fitness of the female killers and male victims, which can be seen as an analogy of programmed cell death in multicellular organisms.
3,5-T2 and 3,3′,5-T3 Regulate Cerebellar Thyroid Hormone Signalling and Myelin Molecular Dynamics in Tilapia
Authors: Hernández-Linares Y. , Olvera A. , Villalobos P. , Lozano-Flores C. , Varela-Echavarría A. , Luna M. , Orozco A.
Published: May 2019

In contrast to mammalian adults, myelination in teleosts occurs throughout their lifespan and most of the progenitor cells are originated in the cerebellum. To understand the role that thyroid hormones (THs) play in juvenile cerebellar myelination in teleosts, we identified and localised the expression of genes involved in TH signalling (mct8, oatp1c1, dio2, dio3, thraa and l-thrb1) and analysed the effects of the two bioactive THs, T2 and T3, upon their regulation, as well as upon some structural components of the myelination process. Ex vivo approaches using organotypic cerebellar cultures followed by FISH and qPCR showed gene-specific localisation and regulation of TH signalling genes in the cerebellar nuclei. In vivo approaches using methimazole (MMI)-treated juvenile tilapias replaced with low doses of T3 and T2 showed by immunofluorescence that myelin fibres in the cerebellum are more abundant in the granular layer and that their visible size is reduced after MMI treatment but partially restored with TH replacement, suggesting that low doses of TH promote the re-myelination process in an altered condition. Together, our data support the idea that T2 and T3 promote myelination via different pathways and prompt T2 as a target for further analysis as a promising therapy for hypomyelination.
Activation of Th lymphocytes alters pattern expression and cellular location of VIP receptors in healthy donors and early arthritis patients
Authors: Villanueva-Romero R. , Gutiérrez-Cañas I. , Carrión M. , González-Álvaro I. , Rodríguez-Frade J. M. , Mellado M. , Martínez C. , Gomariz R. P. , Juarranz Y.
Published: May 2019

Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide (VIP) is an important immunomodulator of CD4+cells in normal and pathological conditions, which exerts its anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory actions through VPAC receptors, VPAC1and VPAC2. Only a decrease in the expression of VPAC1mRNA on Th cells upon activation has been reported. Thus, the deepening in the knowledge of the behavior of these receptors may contribute to the design of new therapies based on their activation and/or blockade. In this study, we describe the expression pattern, cellular location and functional role of VIP receptors during the activation of human Th cells in healthy conditions and in early arthritis (EA). The protein expression pattern of VPAC1did not change with the activation of Th lymphocytes, whereas VPAC2was up-regulated. In resting cells, VPAC1was located on the plasma membrane and nucleus, whereas it only appeared in the nucleus in activated cells. VPAC2was always found in plasma membrane location. VIP receptors signaled through a PKA-dependent pathway in both conditions, and also by a PKA-independent pathway in activated cells. Both receptors exhibit a potent immunomodulatory capacity by controlling the pathogenic profile and the activation markers of Th cells. These results highlight a novel translational view in inflammatory/autoimmune diseases.
Structure and tailspike glycosidase machinery of ORF212 from E. coli O157:H7 phage CBA120 (TSP3)
Authors: Greenfield Julia , Shang Xiaoran , Luo Heng , Zhou Yan , Heselpoth Ryan D. , Nelson Daniel C. , Herzberg Osnat
Published: May 2019

Bacteriophage tailspike proteins mediate virion absorption through reversible primary receptor binding, followed by lipopolysaccharide or exopolysaccharide degradation. The Escherichia coli O157:H7 bacteriophage CBA120 genome encodes four distinct tailspike proteins, annotated as ORFs 210 through 213. Previously, we reported the crystal structure of ORF210 (TSP1). Here we describe the crystal structure of ORF212 (TSP3) determined at 1.85 Å resolution. As observed with other tailspike proteins, TSP3 assembles into a trimer. Each subunit of TSP3 has an N-terminal head domain that is structurally similar to that of TSP1, consistent with their high amino acid sequence identity. In contrast, despite sharing a β-helix fold, the overall structure of the C-terminal catalytic domain of TSP3 is quite different when compared to TSP1. The TSP3 structure suggests that the glycosidase active site resides in a cleft at the interface between two adjacent subunits where three acidic residues, Glu362 and Asp383 on one subunit, and Asp426 on a second subunit, are located in close proximity. Comparing the glycosidase activity of wild-type TSP3 to various point mutants revealed that catalysis requires the carboxyl groups of Glu362 and Asp426, and not of Asp383, confirming the enzyme employs two carboxyl groups to degrade lippopolysaccharide using an acid/base mechanism.
An adjustable permeation membrane up to the separation for multicomponent gas mixture
Authors: Ye Hongfei , Li Dong , Ye Xin , Zheng Yonggang , Zhang Zhongqiang , Zhang Hongwu , Chen Zhen
Published: May 2019

The mixture separation is of fundamental importance in the modern industry. The membrane-based separation technology has attracted considerable attention due to the high efficiency, low energy consumption, etc. However, the tradeoff between the permeability and selectivity is a crucial challenge, which is also difficult to adjust during the separation process. Based on the salt water-filled carbon nanotubes, a separation membrane with the adjustable molecular channels by the electric field is proposed in this work. The separation mechanism is clarified on the basis of the characteristic size of the molecular channel and the overall effective diameter of gas molecules. The molecular dynamics simulation is performed to examine the feasibility and validity of the designed separation membrane. The simulations on the binary gas mixture (H2 and N2) reveal the flow control and high-purity separation as the electric field intensity varies. As for the mixed gas with the three components (H2, N2 and Xe), the successive separations and the switch between the high-efficiency and high-purity separation could be achieved only through adjusting the electric field intensity. This work incorporates the control into the membrane-based separation technology, which provides a novel solution for the complex industrial separation requirement.
In silico prediction of housekeeping long intergenic non-coding RNAs reveals HKlincR1 as an essential player in lung cancer cell survival
Authors: Memon Danish , Bi Jing , Miller Crispin J.
Published: May 2019

Prioritising long intergenic noncoding RNAs (lincRNAs) for functional characterisation is a significant challenge. Here we applied computational approaches to discover lincRNAs expected to play a critical housekeeping (HK) role within the cell. Using the Illumina Human BodyMap RNA sequencing dataset as a starting point, we first identified lincRNAs ubiquitously expressed across a panel of human tissues. This list was then further refined by reference to conservation score, secondary structure and promoter DNA methylation status. Finally, we used tumour expression and copy number data to identify lincRNAs rarely downregulated or deleted in multiple tumour types. The resulting list of candidate essential lincRNAs was then subjected to co-expression analyses using independent data from ENCODE and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). This identified a substantial subset with a predicted role in DNA replication and cell cycle regulation. One of these, HKlincR1, was selected for further characterisation. Depletion of HKlincR1 affected cell growth in multiple lung cancer cell lines, and led to disruption of genes involved in cell growth and viability. In addition, HKlincR1 expression was correlated with overall survival in lung adenocarcinoma patients. Our in silico studies therefore reveal a set of housekeeping noncoding RNAs of interest both in terms of their role in normal homeostasis, and their relevance in tumour growth and maintenance.
Cathelicidins and the Onset of Labour
Authors: Boeckel Sara R. van , Hrabalkova Lenka , Baker Tina L. , MacPherson Heather , Frew Lorraine , Boyle Ashley K. , McHugh Brian J. , Wilson Kirsten , Norman Jane E. , Dorin Julia R. , Davidson Donald J. , Stock Sarah J.
Published: May 2019

Preterm birth, defined as delivery before 37 weeks of gestation, is the leading cause of neonatal mortality and morbidity. Infection and inflammation are frequent antecedents of spontaneous preterm birth. Cathelicidin, an antimicrobial host defence peptide, is induced by infection and inflammation and although expressed in the reproductive tract and fetal tissues, its role in the pathogenesis of spontaneous preterm birth is unknown. Here we demonstrate that cathelicidin expression is increased at RNA and protein level in the mouse uterus in a model of inflammation-induced labour, where ultrasound guided intrauterine injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) at E17 stimulates preterm delivery within 24 hours. Cathelicidin-deficient (Camp−/−) mice are less susceptible to preterm delivery than wild type mice following intrauterine injection of 1 μg of LPS, and this is accompanied by a decrease in circulating IL-6, an inflammatory mediator implicated in the onset of labour. We also show that the proportion of cathelicidin expressing cells in the myometrium is higher in samples obtained from women in labour at term than pre-labour. Together, these data suggest that cathelicidin has roles in mediating pro-inflammatory responses in a murine model of inflammation-induced labour, and in human term labour.
High velocity domain wall propagation using voltage controlled magnetic anisotropy
Authors: Tan F. N. , Gan W. L. , Ang C. C. I. , Wong G. D. H. , Liu H. X. , Poh F. , Lew W. S.
Published: May 2019

The use of voltage-controlled magnetic anisotropy (VCMA) via the creation of a sloped electric field has been hailed as an energy-efficient approach for domain wall (DW) propagation. However, this method suffers from a limitation of the nanowire length which the DW can propagate on. Here, we propose the use of multiplexed gate electrodes to propagate DWs on magnetic nanowires without having any length constraints. The multi-gate electrode configuration is demonstrated using micromagnetic simulations. This allows controllable voltages to be applied to neighboring gate electrodes, generating large strength of magnetic anisotropy gradients along the nanowire, and the results show that DW velocities higher than 300 m/s can be achieved. Analysis of the DW dynamics during propagation reveals that the tilt of the DW and the direction of slanted gate electrode greatly alters the steady state DW propagation. Our results show that chevron-shaped gate electrodes is an effective optimisation that leads to multi-DW propagation with high velocity. Moreover, a repeating series of high-medium-low magnetic anisotropy regions enables a deterministic VCMA-controlled high velocity DW propagation.
The HuR CMLD-2 inhibitor exhibits antitumor effects via MAD2 downregulation in thyroid cancer cells
Authors: Allegri Lorenzo , Baldan Federica , Roy Sudeshna , Aubé Jeffrey , Russo Diego , Filetti Sebastiano , Damante Giuseppe
Published: May 2019

Hu antigen R (HuR) is indeed one of the most studied RNA-binding protein (RBP) since its fundamental role both in tumorigenesis and cancer progression. For this reason, downregulation in HuR protein levels or inhibition of HuR biological function are, nowadays, attractive goals in cancer research. Here, we examined the antitumor effects of CMLD-2 in four thyroid cancer cell lines (SW1736, 8505 C, BCPAP and K1). Indeed, CMLD-2 competitively binds HuR protein disrupting its interaction with RNA-targets. 35 μM CLMD-2 produced a significant downregulation in thyroid cancer cell viability, coupled to an increase in apoptosis. Moreover, CMLD-2 treatment hindered both migration and colony formation ability. MAD2 is a microtubules-associated protein known to be greatly overexpressed in cancer and correlating with tumor aggressiveness. Furthermore, MAD2 is known to be a HuR target. CMLD-2 treatment induced a strong MAD2 downregulation and rescue experiments depicted it as a key effector in HuR-mediated in cancer. Altogether, these data contributed to foster HuR inhibition as valid antineoplastic treatment in thyroid cancer, highlighting MAD2 as a novel therapeutic target.
Directional coupling of surface plasmon polaritons at complementary split-ring resonators
Authors: Hwang Yongsop , Yang Jin-Kyu
Published: May 2019

We propose a complementary split-ring resonator (CSRR) for a directional coupling of surface plasmon polaritons. An air-slot split-ring in a gold film is investigated using the finite-difference time-domain method. The normally incident light couples to either a monopole or a dipole SPP depending on the polarization of light. Adjusting the angle of the linear polarization of the incident light enables a one-way propagation of SPPs on the gold film. Theoretical analysis based on the propagation of cylindrical waves from the SPP point source is provided with Hankel function. The propagated power in one direction is obtained to be 30 times higher than the opposite direction with a coupling efficiency of 18.2% from the simulation for an array of the CSRRs. This approach to the directional coupling of SPPs will be advantageous for miniaturizing photonic and plasmonic circuits and devices.
Orientation-dependent conformational polymorphs in two similar pyridine/pyrazine phenolic esters
Authors: Samie Ali , Salimi Alireza
Published: May 2019

The ring orientations in the conformational polymorphs of two similar pyridine/pyrazine phenolic esters were investigated to explore the effect of supramolecular assemblies in the solid state.
Atomistic insights into cesium chloride solution transport through the ultra-confined calcium–silicate–hydrate channel
Authors: Wang Pan , Zhang Qingen , Wang Muhan , Yin Bing , Hou Dongshuai , Zhang Yue
Published: May 2019

A new capillary transport model is proposed by modifying the original Lucas–Washburn function.
Tools and rules for modelling uptake and bioaccumulation of nanomaterials in invertebrate organisms
Authors: van den Brink Nico W. , Jemec Kokalj Anita , Silva Patricia V. , Lahive Elma , Norrfors Karin , Baccaro Marta , Khodaparast Zahra , Loureiro Susana , Drobne Damjana , Cornelis Geert , Lofts Steve , Handy Richard D. , Svendsen Claus , Spurgeon Dave , van Gestel Cornelis A. M.
Published: May 2019

Quantification of the uptake and elimination of nanomaterials (NMs) by organisms is key in assessing the environmental risks of NMs.
Ion-chelation based digital barcodes for multiplexing of a suspension array
Authors: Feng Guangxia , Guan Tian , He Qinghua , Lu Bangrong , Chen Xuejing , Wang Bei , Zhou Xuesi , Ding Jiangfeng , He Yonghong
Published: May 2019

Our LIB-based metal ion encoding method can considerably expand coding capacity and ensure the accuracy of detection.
Calix[4]resorcinarene-based [Co16] coordination cages mediated by isomorphous auxiliary ligands for enhanced proton conduction
Authors: Guo Ting-Ting , Cheng Dong-Ming , Yang Jin , Xu Xianxiu , Ma Jian-Fang
Published: May 2019

Two remarkable calix[4]resorcinarene-based [Co16] coordination cages were assembled by a design approach, where the proton conductivity was enhanced drastically by carefully mediating the auxiliary ligands.
Self-assembly of a “cationic-cage” via the formation of Ag–carbene bonds followed by imine condensation
Authors: Modak Ritwik , Mondal Bijnaneswar , Howlader Prodip , Mukherjee Partha Sarathi
Published: May 2019

We develop a new strategy for the synthesis of a “cationic-cage” (CC-Ag) via metal–carbene (M–CNHC) bond formation followed by imine condensation. While the aldehyde alone doesn’t yield the desired cage with the amine, Ag–NHC bond formation allows such condensation, leading to the formation of a “cationic-cage”.
Ti cluster-alkylated hydrophobic MOFs for photocatalytic production of hydrogen peroxide in two-phase systems
Authors: Kawase Yudai , Isaka Yusuke , Kuwahara Yasutaka , Mori Kohsuke , Yamashita Hiromi
Published: May 2019

The photocatalytic activity of a cluster-alkylated MOF for H2O2 production far exceeded that of a linker-alkylated MOF in a benzyl alcohol/water two-phase system.
“Normal” and “reverse” spin crossover induced by two different structural events in iron(ii) coordination polymer
Authors: Weselski Marek , Książek Maria , Mess Pamela , Kusz Joachim , Bronisz Robert
Published: May 2019

Conformational changes of the bridging ligand and reorientation of the anions are associated with a sequence of HT(HS) ⇆ HT(HS/LS) ⇆ IP(HS) ⇆ LT(LS) transitions accompanied by existence of two hysteresis loops, “normal” and “reverse”, separated by a region of the stability of the HS form.
Viral capsid-like titania for selective enrichment of phosphorylated peptides
Authors: Cheng Panpan , Lin Jianjian , Qiu Xiaoyan , Zhang Wanna , Cheng Juan , Wang Yong , Li Nan , Yang Jingying , Yu Haizhou
Published: May 2019

Viral capsid-like titania (VCL-TiO2) bearing ordered mesoporous channels and protrusions was fabricated for selectively enriching phosphorylated peptides.
Ring-opening cyclization of spirocyclopropanes with stabilized sulfonium ylides for the construction of a chromane skeleton
Authors: Nambu Hisanori , Onuki Yuta , Ono Naoki , Tsuge Kiyoshi , Yakura Takayuki
Published: May 2019

A regioselective ring-opening cyclization of spirocyclopropanes with sulfonium ylides afforded 2,3-trans-hexahydrobenzopyran-5-ones in high yields without the formation of any diastereoisomers.
Synthesis of metallophosphaalkenes by reaction of organometallic nucleophiles with a phosphaethynolato-borane
Authors: Wilson Daniel W. N. , Goicoechea Jose M.
Published: May 2019

The inherent electrophilicity of a phosphaethynolato-borane is exploited as a novel method of generating metal–phosphorus bonds by reaction with organometallic nucleophiles.
Vacancy defective perovskite Na0.85Ni0.45Co0.55F3.56nanocrystal anodes for advanced lithium-ion storage driven by surface conversion and insertion hybrid mechanisms
Authors: Shi Wei , Ding Rui , Xu Qilei , Yan Tong , Huang Yuxi , Tan Caini , Sun Xiujuan , Gao Ping , Liu Enhui
Published: May 2019

A vacancy defective perovskite Na0.85Ni0.45Co0.55F3.56nanocrystal anode material constructs advanced lithium-ion storage devices with surface conversion and insertion hybrid mechanisms.
SbSI whisker/PbI2 flake mixed-dimensional van der Waals heterostructure for photodetection
Authors: Sun Lin , Wang Chunrui , Xu Liu , Wang Jiale , Liu Xiaoyun , Chen Xiaoshuang , Yi Gyu-Chul
Published: May 2019

Mixed-dimensional van der Waals heterostructure formed from an individual SbSI whisker and individual PbI2 flake for photodetection.
An XRD and NMR crystallographic investigation of the structure of 2,6-lutidinium hydrogen fumarate
Authors: Corlett Emily K. , Blade Helen , Hughes Leslie P. , Sidebottom Philip J. , Walker David , Walton Richard I. , Brown Steven P.
Published: May 2019

A crystallographic study highlighting the benefits of a combined XRD and NMR approach in investigating both stability and variation within an organic multicomponent crystal.
Carbon dioxide and water co-adsorption on the low-index surfaces of TiC, VC, ZrC and NbC: a DFT study
Authors: Quesne Matthew G. , Roldan Alberto , de Leeuw Nora H. , Catlow C. Richard A.
Published: May 2019

We present a theoretical DFT study into the activation of CO2and H2O by four low-index surfaces of TiC, VC, ZrC and NbC. Two distinct chemisorption pathways are found for CO2activation, whilst multiple surface mediated interactions between H2O and CO2are reported.
Understanding the interdependence of operating parameters in microbial electrosynthesis: a numerical investigation
Authors: Gadkari Siddharth , Shemfe Mobolaji , Modestra J. Annie , Mohan S. Venkata , Sadhukhan Jhuma
Published: May 2019

A mathematical model to predict the influence of system parameters such as substrate concentrations and operation cycle time on MES performance.
Impression of magnetic clusters, critical behavior and magnetocaloric effect in Fe3Al alloys
Authors: Dash Shubhra , Lukoyanov A. V. , Knyazev Yu. V. , Kuz’min Yu. I. , Baglasov E. D. , Weise Bruno , Kumar Pramod , Vasundhara M. , Patra Ajit K.
Published: May 2019

Chemical disordering in Fe3Al alloy induces magnetic clusters and the alloy shows a complex phase diagram and enhanced magnetocaloric effect.
Photochromic reaction in 3H-naphthopyrans studied by vibrational spectroscopy and quantum chemical calculations
Authors: Brazevic Sabina , Nizinski Stanislaw , Szabla Rafał , Rode Michał F. , Burdzinski Gotard
Published: May 2019

Time resolved mid-IR spectroscopy facilitates selective detection of transoid-cis and transoid-trans species.
Elusive hypervalent phosphorus⋯π interactions: evidence for paradigm transformation from hydrogen to phosphorus bonding at low temperatures
Authors: Sruthi P. K. , Sarkar Shubhra , Ramanathan N. , Sundararajan K.
Published: May 2019

A paradigm transformation from hydrogen to phosphorus bonding is found to depend on the proton affinity of the interacting π-systems.
Theoretical study of the F(2P) + NH3→ HF + NH2reaction on an accurate potential energy surface: dynamics and kinetics
Authors: Tian Li , Zhu Yongfa , Song Hongwei , Yang Minghui
Published: May 2019

Competition of the direct and indirect mechanisms in the hydrogen abstraction reaction between F and NH3.
Electrochemical performance of l-tryptophanium picrate as an efficient electrode material for supercapacitor application
Authors: Srinivasan Rajkumar , Elaiyappillai Elanthamilan , Gowri S. , Bella A. , Sathiyan A. , Meenatchi B. , Merlin Johnson Princy
Published: May 2019

l-Tryptophanium picrate was synthesized and evaluated for its supercapacitor behavior and a 263 F g−1 specific capacitance was achieved.
Potassium octahydridotriborate: diverse polymorphism in a potential hydrogen storage material and potassium ion conductor
Authors: Grinderslev Jakob B. , Møller Kasper T. , Yan Yigang , Chen Xi-Meng , Li Yongtao , Li Hai-Wen , Zhou Wei , Skibsted Jørgen , Chen Xuenian , Jensen Torben R.
Published: May 2019

Hydrogen storage properties and polymorphism in KB3H8. The order–disorder polymorphic transition results in disordered B3H8− anions, facilitating cation mobility.
A ligand strand that displays anion-dependant reactivity with acetonitrile; formation of either a mononuclear complex or head-to-tail circular helicate
Authors: Clemett Christopher J. , Faulkner Robert A. , Rice Craig R. , Slater Christopher , Wedge Christopher J. , Whitehead Martina
Published: May 2019

The ligand L2,2 contains two bidentate domains separated by a 3,3-diamino-2,2′-biphenyl spacer unit and with Cu(ClO4)2 a mononuclear species is formed (e.g. [Cu(L2,2)]2+).
Low-cost high-performance hydrogen evolution electrocatalysts based on Pt-CoP polyhedra with low Pt loading in both alkaline and neutral media
Authors: Jiang Zhigang , Ren Jincan , Li Yapeng , Zhang Xiaohua , Zhang Pengfei , Huang Junlin , Du Cuicui , Chen Jinhua
Published: May 2019

Low-cost Pt-CoP hollow polyhedra exhibited prominent performance for the HER in both basic and neutral solutions.
The first water-based synthesis of Ce(iv)-MOFs with saturated chiral and achiral C4-dicarboxylate linkers
Authors: Jacobsen Jannick , Achenbach Bastian , Reinsch Helge , Smolders Simon , Lange Florian-David , Friedrichs Gernot , De Vos Dirk , Stock Norbert
Published: May 2019

Six different chiral and achiral alkane dicarboxylic C4-acids resulted in the formation of Ce(iv)-MOFs crystallizing in three different framework topologies.
Platinum(ii) and palladium(ii) complexes with electron-deficient meso-diethoxyphosphorylporphyrins: synthesis, structure and tuning of photophysical properties by varying peripheral substituents
Authors: Volostnykh Marina V. , Borisov Sergey M. , Konovalov Mikhail A. , Sinelshchikova Anna A. , Gorbunova Yulia G. , Tsivadze Aslan Yu. , Meyer Michel , Stern Christine , Bessmertnykh-Lemeune Alla
Published: May 2019

The luminescence quenching by O2 and photodegradation of Pt(ii) and Pd(ii) phosphorylporphyrins are reported.
Chia seeds: an ancient grain trending in modern human diets
Authors: Melo Diana , Machado Thelma B. , Oliveira M. Beatriz P. P.
Published: May 2019

Currently, in order to ensure adequate intake of nutrients to complement the normal diet, the consumption of seeds such as Salvia hispanica L. (commonly known as chia seeds) is increasing.
Multi-component syntheses of diverse 5-fluoroalkyl-1,2,3-triazoles facilitated by air oxidation and copper catalysis
Authors: Zhu Anlian , Xing Xiaofang , Wang Shilei , Yuan Donghe , Zhu Gongming , Geng Mingwei , Guo Yuanyang , Zhang Guisheng , Li Lingjun
Published: May 2019

Air is an ideal oxidant due to its abundance, low cost and lack of toxic by-products.
Oxidation of a wood extractive betulin to biologically active oxo-derivatives using supported gold catalysts
Authors: Kolobova Ekaterina N. , Pakrieva Ekaterina G. , Carabineiro Sónia A. C. , Bogdanchikova Nina , Kharlanov Andrey N. , Kazantsev Sergey O. , Hemming Jarl , Mäki-Arvela Päivi , Pestryakov Alexey N. , Murzin Dmitry Yu.
Published: May 2019

Betulin is transformed into its oxo-derivatives by liquid-phase oxidation over Au catalysts in mild conditions.
Photosynthetic production of the nitrogen-rich compound guanidine
Authors: Wang Bo , Dong Tao , Myrlie Aldon , Gu Liping , Zhu Huilan , Xiong Wei , Maness PinChing , Zhou Ruanbao , Yu Jianping
Published: May 2019

Direct photosynthesis of the nitrogen-rich compound guanidine from CO2and N2.
Boosting the activity of catalytic oxidation of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural to 2,5-diformylfuran over nitrogen-doped manganese oxide catalysts
Authors: Ke Qingping , Jin Yangxin , Ruan Fei , Ha Minh Ngoc , Li Dandan , Cui Peixin , Cao Yali , Wang Hao , Wang Tongtong , Nguyen Van Noi , Han Xinya , Wang Xi , Cui Ping
Published: May 2019

Doping of nitrogen into MnO2 is employed as an efficient catalyst for the catalytic oxidation of HMF to DFF under an oxygen atmosphere.
Microfluidic droplet liquid reactors for active pharmaceutical ingredient crystallization by diffusion controlled solvent extraction
Authors: Tona Robert M. , McDonald Thomas A. O. , Akhavein Nima , Larkin Jonathan D. , Lai David
Published: May 2019

Microfluidic solvent/antisolvent droplet liquid reactors utilize diffusion-controlled extraction to tailor particle size and morphology to optimize drug manufacturability and bioavailability.
Synthesis and characterization of γ-Fe2O3@SiO2–(CH2)3–PDTC–Pd magnetic nanoparticles: a new and highly active catalyst for the Heck/Sonogashira coupling reactions
Authors: Tashrifi Zahra , Bahadorikhalili Saeed , Lijan Hossein , Ansari Samira , Hamedifar Haleh , Mahdavi Mohammad
Published: May 2019

A novel catalyst is synthesized based on the immobilization of palladium on γ-Fe2O3@SiO2–(CH2)3–PDTC nanoparticles and is used as a highly active catalyst for the Heck/Sonogashira coupling reactions.
Arsenic sensor development based on modification with (E)-N′-(2-nitrobenzylidine)-benzenesulfonohydrazide: a real sample analysis
Authors: Rahman Mohammed M. , Hussain Mohammad Musarraf , Arshad Muhammad N. , Awual Md. Rabiul , Asiri Abdullah M.
Published: May 2019

(E)-N′-(2-Nitrobenzylidene)-benzenesulfonohydrazide was prepared from 2-nitrobenzaldehyde and benzenesulfonylhydrazine by using a condensation method and applied as a selective As3+sensor.
Shifting of the band edge and investigation of charge carrier pathways in the CdS/g-C3N4 heterostructure for enhanced photocatalytic degradation of levofloxacin
Authors: Al Marzouqi Faisal , Kim Younghun , Selvaraj Rengaraj
Published: May 2019

We investigated charge carrier pathways and the generation of an electric field at the interface of a CdS/g-C3N4 heterojunction for better understanding of the photocatalytic mechanism and photocatalytic performance.
MoS2 versatile spray-coating of 3D electrodes for the hydrogen evolution reaction
Authors: Gusmão Rui , Sofer Zdeněk , Marvan Petr , Pumera Martin
Published: May 2019

A straightforward MoS2 spray-coating method was applied to rigid, flexible, porous and 3D-printed carbon-based surfaces, yielding improved performance for the hydrogen evolution reaction.
9-Borabicyclo[3.3.l]nonane-induced Friedel–Crafts benzylation of arenes with benzyl fluorides
Authors: Guo Jing , Bamford Karlee L. , Stephan Douglas W.
Published: May 2019

9-Borabicyclo[3.3.l]nonane dimer (9-BBN) mediates the Friedel–Crafts benzylation of arenes with benzyl fluorides, affording a series of 1,1-diarylmethanes under mild conditions.
Bio-inspired self-healing polyurethanes with multiple stimulus responsiveness
Authors: Yang Zhijun , Wang Fenfen , Zhang Chi , Li Jian , Zhang Rongchun , Wu Qiang , Chen Tiehong , Sun Pingchuan
Published: May 2019

High-performance stimuli-responsive polymers that exhibit spontaneous, sophisticated and reversible responses to a wide range of external stimuli are reported, adapting a stimuli-responsive dynamic covalent chemical crosslinker and a biomimetic modular polymer design.
Role of confining liquids on the properties of Cu@Cu2O nanoparticles synthesized by pulsed laser ablation and a correlative ablation study of the target surface
Authors: Baruah Prahlad K. , Sharma Ashwini K. , Khare Alika
Published: May 2019

Formation of insufficiently oxidized Cu nanoparticles by laser ablation in organic solvents is correlated with the ablation of the target surface.
Construction of novel multifunctional luminescent nanoparticles based on DNA bridging and their inhibitory effect on tumor growth
Authors: Pan Qiaobei , Zhang Jing , Li Xiang , Zou Qian , Zhang Peng , Luo Ying , Jin Yi
Published: May 2019

Cyclic RGD peptide was introduced onto the surface of silver nanoparticle (AgNP)-single strand DNA (ssDNA)-graphene quantum dots (GQDs) (ADG) after coating with a hybrid phospholipid material (ADG-DDPC) to be used for antitumor treatment.
Electrocarboxylation of 1-chloro-(4-isobutylphenyl)ethane with a silver cathode in ionic liquids: an environmentally benign and efficient way to synthesize Ibuprofen
Authors: Mena Silvia , Sanchez Jessica , Guirado Gonzalo
Published: May 2019

A new more environmentally friendly approach for synthesising Ibuprofen by using green technologies (electrochemistry and ionic liquids) and CO2 feedstock.
Rational re-design of Lactobacillus reuteri 121 inulosucrase for product chain length control
Authors: Charoenwongpaiboon Thanapon , Klaewkla Methus , Chunsrivirot Surasak , Wangpaiboon Karan , Pichyangkura Rath , Field Robert A. , Prousoontorn Manchumas Hengsakul
Published: May 2019

Blocking the binding track of inulosucrase to control the chain length of the products.