bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Behavioral and neurodevelopmental precursors to binge-type eating disorders: support for the role of negative valence systems
Authors: Vannucci A. , Nelson E. E. , Bongiorno D. M. , Pine D. S. , Yanovski J. A. , Tanofsky-Kraff M.
Published: June 2015

Background.

Pediatric loss-of-control (LOC) eating is a robust behavioral precursor to binge-type eating disorders. Elucidating precursors to LOC eating and binge-type eating disorders may refine developmental risk models of eating disorders and inform interventions.

Method.

We review evidence within constructs of the Negative Valence Systems (NVS) domain, as specified by the Research Domain Criteria framework. Based on published studies, we propose an integrated NVS model of binge-type eating-disorder risk.

Results.

Data implicate altered corticolimbic functioning, neuroendocrine dysregulation, and self-reported negative affect as possible risk factors. However, neuroimaging and physiological data in children and adolescents are sparse, and most prospective studies are limited to self-report measures.

Conclusions.

We discuss a broad NVS framework for conceptualizing early risk for binge-type eating disorders. Future neural and behavioral research on the developmental trajectory of LOC and binge-type eating disorders is required.
A parent-directed language intervention for children of low socioeconomic status: a randomized controlled pilot study
Authors: SUSKIND DANA L. , LEFFEL KRISTIN R. , GRAF EILEEN , HERNANDEZ MARC W. , GUNDERSON ELIZABETH A. , SAPOLICH SHANNON G. , SUSKIND ELIZABETH , LEININGER LINDSEY , GOLDIN-MEADOW SUSAN , LEVINE SUSAN C.
Published: June 2015

We designed a parent-directed home-visiting intervention targeting socioeconomic status (SES) disparities in children's early language environments. A randomized controlled trial was used to evaluate whether the intervention improved parents' knowledge of child language development and increased the amount and diversity of parent talk. Twenty-three mother–child dyads (12 experimental, 11 control, aged 1;5–3;0) participated in eight weekly hour-long home-visits. In the experimental group, but not the control group, parent knowledge of language development increased significantly one week and four months after the intervention. In lab-based observations, parent word types and tokens and child word types increased significantly one week, but not four months, post-intervention. In home-based observations, adult word tokens, conversational turn counts, and child vocalization counts increased significantly during the intervention, but not post-intervention. The results demonstrate the malleability of child-directed language behaviors and knowledge of child language development among low-SES parents.
Diphrastic Kennings on the Cascajal Block and the Emergence of Mesoamerican Writing
Authors: Carrasco Michael D. , Englehardt Joshua D.
Published: June 2015

This article examines a potential ‘throne–mat’ kenning in the Middle Formative period Olmec writing on the Cascajal Block, an incised serpentine slab dated to c. 900 bc. It is suggested that signs on the Cascajal Block are divorced from the Formative period representational canons in which they are usually contextualized. The organization of signs on the Cascajal Block thus de-emphasizes the connection between a depicted object and its iconographic frame of reference. Instead, the signs are recontextualized within a linguistic framework wherein they leverage their iconicity to denote a word, rather than functioning primarily as an iconographic element within a pictorial composition. It is argued that the throne–mat kenning explored here is one instance of such abstraction from ‘normative’ iconographic contexts and therefore offers potentially significant insights into the origin and development of writing in Mesoamerica.
Fusing Functional MRI and Diffusion Tensor Imaging Measures of Brain Function and Structure to Predict Working Memory and Processing Speed Performance among Inter-episode Bipolar Patients
Authors: McKenna Benjamin S. , Theilmann Rebecca J. , Sutherland Ashley N. , Eyler Lisa T.
Published: June 2015

Evidence for abnormal brain function as measured with diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and cognitive dysfunction have been observed in inter-episode bipolar disorder (BD) patients. We aimed to create a joint statistical model of white matter integrity and functional response measures in explaining differences in working memory and processing speed among BD patients. Medicated inter-episode BD (n=26; age=45.2±10.1 years) and healthy comparison (HC; n=36; age=46.3±11.5 years) participants completed 51-direction DTI and fMRI while performing a working memory task. Participants also completed a processing speed test. Tract-based spatial statistics identified common white matter tracts where fractional anisotropy was calculated from atlas-defined regions of interest. Brain responses within regions of interest activation clusters were also calculated. Least angle regression was used to fuse fMRI and DTI data to select the best joint neuroimaging predictors of cognitive performance for each group. While there was overlap between groups in which regions were most related to cognitive performance, some relationships differed between groups. For working memory accuracy, BD-specific predictors included bilateral dorsolateral prefrontal cortex from fMRI, splenium of the corpus callosum, left uncinate fasciculus, and bilateral superior longitudinal fasciculi from DTI. For processing speed, the genu and splenium of the corpus callosum and right superior longitudinal fasciculus from DTI were significant predictors of cognitive performance selectively for BD patients. BD patients demonstrated unique brain-cognition relationships compared to HC. These findings are a first step in discovering how interactions of structural and functional brain abnormalities contribute to cognitive impairments in BD. (JINS, 2015, 21, 330–341)
Stability and change in fruit and vegetable intake of Brazilian adolescents over a 3-year period: 1993 Pelotas Birth Cohort
Authors: Buffarini Romina , Muniz Ludmila C , Barros Aluísio JD , Araújo Cora L , Gonçalves Helen , Menezes Ana MB , Assunção Maria CF
Published: June 2015

Objective

To assess the stability and changes in fruit and vegetable (FV) consumption over a 3-year period during adolescence in a population-based birth cohort.

Design

Longitudinal descriptive study. FV consumption was collected in 2008 and 2011/12 using an FFQ. We conducted descriptive analyses of medians to assess the trends in FV intake over time. Stability of FV intake was assessed by percentage of agreement and kappa coefficients.

Setting

Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.

Subjects

Adolescents from 15 to 18 years of age (n 3915).

Results

We observed an overall slight decrease in FV consumption during adolescence and also a moderate stability, especially in those with higher socio-economic status (proportion of agreement 38·6 % and 40·5 % for boys and girls, respectively). About a half of those consuming low levels of FV at 15 years of age still consumed low levels 3 years later.

Conclusions

Our results showed that FV consumption presented a moderate stability across a 3-year period during adolescence, especially in those with higher socio-economic status. Given the great proportions of non-communicable diseases such as CVD, diabetes and obesity, knowledge about the patterns of FV consumption during adolescence has implications for health promotion interventions.
Coherent radiometric imaging using antennas with beam synthesizing
Authors: Lukin Konstantin A. , Kudriashov Volodymyr V. , Vyplavin Pavlo L. , Palamarchuk Volodymyr P. , Lukin Sergii K.
Published: June 2015

The paper is devoted to coherent radiometric imaging systems. The investigated systems may be considered as a version of bistatic noise waveform passive radar with synthetic aperture having external reference. Reference signal in this imaging system is received from the investigated emitting object using auxiliary receiver. Although a number of theoretical studies on aperture synthesis imaging algorithms exist, relatively few of them deal with experimental investigation. In particular, no information concerning range-azimuth coherent radiometric imaging has been found. In this paper, an experimental investigation of possibility to generate coherent radiometric images using two antennas with beam synthesizing is carried out. Indoor radiometric imaging has been validated using absorbers as the emitting objects. These experiments enabled to estimate range resolution of the radiometric system achieved by focusing antennas with beam synthesizing for range span limited by means about bistatic baseline.
Building Sandbars in the Grand Canyon
Authors: Grams Paul , Schmidt John , Wright Scott , Topping David , Melis Theodore , Rubin David
Published: June 2015

Annual controlled floods from one of America's largest dams are rebuilding the sandbars of the iconic Colorado River.
Chloride transporter KCC2-dependent neuroprotection depends on the N-terminal protein domain
Authors: Winkelmann A , Semtner M , Meier J C
Published: June 2015

Neurodegeneration is a serious issue of neurodegenerative diseases including epilepsy. Downregulation of the chloride transporter KCC2 in the epileptic tissue may not only affect regulation of the polarity of GABAergic synaptic transmission but also neuronal survival. Here, we addressed the mechanisms of KCC2-dependent neuroprotection by assessing truncated and mutated KCC2 variants in different neurotoxicity models. The results identify a threonine- and tyrosine-phosphorylation-resistant KCC2 variant with increased chloride transport activity, but they also identify the KCC2 N-terminal domain (NTD) as the relevant minimal KCC2 protein domain that is sufficient for neuroprotection. As ectopic expression of the KCC2-NTD works independently of full-length KCC2-dependent regulation of Cl− transport or structural KCC2 C-terminus-dependent regulation of synaptogenesis, our study may pave the way for a selective neuroprotective therapeutic strategy that will be applicable to a wide range of neurodegenerative diseases.
Microglia-derived IL-1β triggers p53-mediated cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in neural precursor cells
Authors: Guadagno J , Swan P , Shaikh R , Cregan S P
Published: June 2015

Neurogenesis persists in the adult brain and can contribute to learning and memory processes and potentially to regeneration and repair of the affected nervous system. Deregulated neurogenesis has been observed in neuropathological conditions including neurodegenerative diseases, trauma and stroke. However, the survival of neural precursor cells (NPCs) and newly born neurons is adversely affected by the inflammatory environment that arises as a result of microglial activation associated with injury or disease processes. In the present study, we have investigated the mechanisms by which microglia affect NPC proliferation and survival. Importantly, we demonstrate that interleukin-1β (IL-1β) produced by lipopolysaccharide/interferon-γ-activated microglia is necessary to induce cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in NPCs in vitro. Mechanistically, we show that IL-1β activates the tumor suppressor p53 through an oxidative stress-dependent mechanism resulting in p53-mediated induction of the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p21 and the proapoptotic Bcl-2 (B-cell lymphoma-2) family members Puma (p53-upregulated modulator of apoptosis) and Noxa. Furthermore, we demonstrate that cell cycle arrest and apoptosis induced by recombinant IL-1β or activated microglia is attenuated in p53-deficient NPCs. Finally, we have determined that IL-1β induces NPC death via the p53-dependent induction of Puma leading to the activation of a Bax (Bcl-2-associated X protein)-mediated mitochondrial apoptotic pathway. In summary, we have elucidated a novel role for p53 in the regulation of NPC proliferation and survival during neuroinflammatory conditions that could be targeted to promote neurogenesis and repair in a number of neurological conditions.
Biomimetic mineralization of metal-organic frameworks as protective coatings for biomacromolecules
Authors: Liang Kang , Ricco Raffaele , Doherty Cara M. , Styles Mark J. , Bell Stephen , Kirby Nigel , Mudie Stephen , Haylock David , Hill Anita J. , Doonan Christian J. , Falcaro Paolo
Published: June 2015

Enhancing the robustness of functional biomacromolecules is a critical challenge in biotechnology, which if addressed would enhance their use in pharmaceuticals, chemical processing and biostorage. Here we report a novel method, inspired by natural biomineralization processes, which provides unprecedented protection of biomacromolecules by encapsulating them within a class of porous materials termed metal-organic frameworks. We show that proteins, enzymes and DNA rapidly induce the formation of protective metal-organic framework coatings under physiological conditions by concentrating the framework building blocks and facilitating crystallization around the biomacromolecules. The resulting biocomposite is stable under conditions that would normally decompose many biological macromolecules. For example, urease and horseradish peroxidase protected within a metal-organic framework shell are found to retain bioactivity after being treated at 80 °C and boiled in dimethylformamide (153 °C), respectively. This rapid, low-cost biomimetic mineralization process gives rise to new possibilities for the exploitation of biomacromolecules.
Molecular architecture of native fibronectin fibrils
Authors: Früh Susanna Maria , Schoen Ingmar , Ries Jonas , Vogel Viola
Published: June 2015

Fibronectin fibrils within the extracellular matrix play central roles in physiological and pathological processes, yet many structural details about their hierarchical and molecular assembly remain unknown. Here we combine site-specific protein labelling with single-molecule localization by stepwise photobleaching or direct stochastic optical reconstruction microscopy (dSTORM), and determine the relative positions of various labelled sites within native matrix fibrils. Single end-labelled fibronectin molecules in fibrils display an average end-to-end distance of ∼133 nm. Sampling of site-specific antibody epitopes along the thinnest fibrils (protofibrils) shows periodic punctate label patterns with ∼95 nm repeats and alternating N- and C-terminal regions. These measurements suggest an antiparallel 30–40 nm overlap between N-termini, suggesting that the first five type I modules bind type III modules of the adjacent molecule. Thicker fibres show random bundling of protofibrils without a well-defined line-up. This super-resolution microscopy approach can be applied to other fibrillar protein assemblies of unknown structure.
High-performance ternary blend polymer solar cells involving both energy transfer and hole relay processes
Authors: Lu Luyao , Chen Wei , Xu Tao , Yu Luping
Published: June 2015

The integration of multiple materials with complementary absorptions into a single junction device is regarded as an efficient way to enhance the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of organic solar cells (OSCs). However, because of increased complexity with one more component, only limited high-performance ternary systems have been demonstrated previously. Here we report an efficient ternary blend OSC with a PCE of 9.2%. We show that the third component can reduce surface trap densities in the ternary blend. Detailed studies unravel that the improved performance results from synergistic effects of enlarged open circuit voltage, suppressed trap-assisted recombination, enhanced light absorption, increased hole extraction, efficient energy transfer and better morphology. The working mechanism and high device performance demonstrate new insights and design guidelines for high-performance ternary blend solar cells and suggest that ternary structure is a promising platform to boost the efficiency of OSCs.
Microporous metal–organic framework with dual functionalities for highly efficient removal of acetylene from ethylene/acetylene mixtures
Authors: Hu Tong-Liang , Wang Hailong , Li Bin , Krishna Rajamani , Wu Hui , Zhou Wei , Zhao Yunfeng , Han Yu , Wang Xue , Zhu Weidong , Yao Zizhu , Xiang Shengchang , Chen Banglin
Published: June 2015

The removal of acetylene from ethylene/acetylene mixtures containing 1% acetylene is a technologically very important, but highly challenging task. Current removal approaches include the partial hydrogenation over a noble metal catalyst and the solvent extraction of cracked olefins, both of which are cost and energy consumptive. Here we report a microporous metal–organic framework in which the suitable pore/cage spaces preferentially take up much more acetylene than ethylene while the functional amine groups on the pore/cage surfaces further enforce their interactions with acetylene molecules, leading to its superior performance for this separation. The single X-ray diffraction studies, temperature dependent gas sorption isotherms, simulated and experimental column breakthrough curves and molecular simulation studies collaboratively support the claim, underlying the potential of this material for the industrial usage of the removal of acetylene from ethylene/acetylene mixtures containing 1% acetylene at room temperature through the cost- and energy-efficient adsorption separation process.
Discovery and characterization of novel small-molecule inhibitors targeting nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase
Authors: Xu Tian-Ying , Zhang Sai-Long , Dong Guo-Qiang , Liu Xin-Zhu , Wang Xia , Lv Xiao-Qun , Qian Qi-Jun , Zhang Ruo-Yu , Sheng Chun-Quan , Miao Chao-Yu
Published: June 2015

Nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (NAMPT) is a promising anticancer target. Using high throughput screening system targeting NAMPT, we obtained a potent NAMPT inhibitor MS0 (China Patent ZL201110447488.9) with excellent in vitro activity (IC50 = 9.87 ± 1.15nM) and anti-proliferative activity against multiple human cancer cell lines including stem-like cancer cells. Structure-activity relationship studies yielded several highly effective analogues. These inhibitors specifically bound NAMPT, rather than downstream NMNAT. We provided the first chemical case using cellular thermal shift assay to explain the difference between in vitro and cellular activity; MS7 showed best in vitro activity (IC50 = 0.93 ± 0.29 nM) but worst cellular activity due to poor target engagement in living cells. Site-directed mutagenesis studies identified important residues for NAMPT catalytic activity and inhibitor binding. The present findings contribute to deep understanding the action mode of NAMPT inhibitors and future development of NAMPT inhibitors as anticancer agents.
TROL-FNR interaction reveals alternative pathways of electron partitioning in photosynthesis
Authors: Vojta Lea , Carić Dejana , Cesar Vera , Antunović Dunić Jasenka , Lepeduš Hrvoje , Kveder Marina , Fulgosi Hrvoje
Published: June 2015

In photosynthesis, final electron transfer from ferredoxin to NADP+ is accomplished by the flavo enzyme ferredoxin:NADP+ oxidoreductase (FNR). FNR is recruited to thylakoid membranes via integral membrane thylakoid rhodanase-like protein TROL. We address the fate of electrons downstream of photosystem I when TROL is absent. We have employed electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy to study free radical formation and electron partitioning in TROL-depleted chloroplasts. DMPO was used to detect superoxide anion (O2.−) formation, while the generation of other free radicals was monitored by Tiron. Chloroplasts from trol plants pre-acclimated to different light conditions consistently exhibited diminished O2.− accumulation. Generation of other radical forms was elevated in trol chloroplasts in all tested conditions, except for the plants pre-acclimated to high-light. Remarkably, dark- and growth light-acclimated trol chloroplasts were resilient to O2.− generation induced by methyl-viologen. We propose that the dynamic binding and release of FNR from TROL can control the flow of photosynthetic electrons prior to activation of the pseudo-cyclic electron transfer pathway.
Anomalies of a topologically ordered surface
Authors: Biswas Deepnarayan , Thakur Sangeeta , Ali Khadiza , Balakrishnan Geetha , Maiti Kalobaran
Published: June 2015

Bulk insulators with strong spin orbit coupling exhibit metallic surface states possessing topological order protected by the time reversal symmetry. However, experiments show vulnerability of topological states to aging and impurities. Different studies show contrasting behavior of the Dirac states along with plethora of anomalies, which has become an outstanding problem in material science. Here, we probe the electronic structure of Bi2Se3 employing high resolution photoemission spectroscopy and discover the dependence of the behavior of Dirac particles on surface terminations. The Dirac cone apex appears at different binding energies and exhibits contrasting shift on Bi and Se terminated surfaces with complex time dependence emerging from subtle adsorbed oxygen-surface atom interactions. These results uncover the surface states behavior of real systems and the dichotomy of topological and normal surface states important for device fabrication as well as realization of novel physics such as Majorana Fermions, magnetic monopole, etc.
Transmissible microbial and metabolomic remodeling by soluble dietary fiber improves metabolic homeostasis
Authors: He Baokun , Nohara Kazunari , Ajami Nadim J. , Michalek Ryan D. , Tian Xiangjun , Wong Matthew , Losee-Olson Susan H. , Petrosino Joseph F. , Yoo Seung-Hee , Shimomura Kazuhiro , Chen Zheng
Published: June 2015

Dietary fibers are increasingly appreciated as beneficial nutritional components. However, a requisite role of gut microbiota in fiber function and the overall impact of fibers on metabolomic flux remain unclear. We herein showed enhancing effects of a soluble resistant maltodextrin (RM) on glucose homeostasis in mouse metabolic disease models. Remarkably, fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) caused pronounced and time-dependent improvement in glucose tolerance in RM recipient mice, indicating a causal relationship between microbial remodeling and metabolic efficacy. Microbial 16S sequencing revealed transmissible taxonomic changes correlated with improved metabolism, notably enrichment of probiotics and reduction of Alistipes and Bacteroides known to associate with high fat/protein diets. Metabolomic profiling further illustrated broad changes, including enrichment of phenylpropionates and decreases in key intermediates of glucose utilization, cholesterol biosynthesis and amino acid fermentation. These studies elucidate beneficial roles of RM-dependent microbial remodeling in metabolic homeostasis and showcase prevalent health-promoting potentials of dietary fibers.
Flux balance analysis predicts essential genes in clear cell renal cell carcinoma metabolism
Authors: Gatto Francesco , Miess Heike , Schulze Almut , Nielsen Jens
Published: June 2015

Flux balance analysis is the only modelling approach that is capable of producing genome-wide predictions of gene essentiality that may aid to unveil metabolic liabilities in cancer. Nevertheless, a systemic validation of gene essentiality predictions by flux balance analysis is currently missing. Here, we critically evaluated the accuracy of flux balance analysis in two cancer types, clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) and prostate adenocarcinoma, by comparison with large-scale experiments of gene essentiality in vitro. We found that in ccRCC, but not in prostate adenocarcinoma, flux balance analysis could predict essential metabolic genes beyond random expectation. Five of the identified metabolic genes, AGPAT6, GALT, GCLC, GSS and RRM2B, were predicted to be dispensable in normal cell metabolism. Hence, targeting these genes may selectively prevent ccRCC growth. Based on our analysis, we discuss the benefits and limitations of flux balance analysis for gene essentiality predictions in cancer metabolism and its use for exposing metabolic liabilities in ccRCC, whose emergent metabolic network enforces outstanding anabolic requirements for cellular proliferation.
A RP-UFLC Assay for Protein Tyrosine Phosphatases: Focus on Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase Non-Receptor Type 2 (PTPN2)
Authors: Duval Romain , Bui Linh-Chi , Berthelet Jérémy , Dairou Julien , Mathieu Cécile , Guidez Fabien , Dupret Jean-Marie , Cools Jan , Chomienne Christine , Rodrigues-Lima Fernando
Published: June 2015

Protein tyrosine phosphatases (PTPs) are involved in numerous signaling pathways and dysfunctions of certain of these enzymes have been linked to several human diseases including cancer and autoimmune diseases. PTPN2 is a PTP mainly expressed in hematopoietic cells and involved in growth factor and JAK/STAT signaling pathways. Loss of function analyses in patients with mutation/deletion of the PTPN2 gene and knock-out mouse models indicate that PTPN2 acts as a tumor suppressor in T-cell malignancies and as a regulator of inflammation and immunity. The use of sensitive and quantitative assays is of prime importance to better characterize the biochemical properties of PTPN2 and its biological roles. We report a highly sensitive non-radioactive assay that allows the measurement of the activity of purified PTPN2 and of endogenous PTPN2 immunoprecipitated on agarose beads. The assay relies on separation and quantitation by reverse-phase ultra fast liquid chromatography (RP-UFLC) of a fluorescein-labeled phosphotyrosine peptide substrate derived from the sequence of STAT1. The applicability and reliability of this approach is supported by kinetic and mechanistic studies using PTP inhibitors. More broadly, our PTPN2 assay provides the basis for the design of flexible methods for the measurement of other PTPs.
Quality of life is associated with chronic inflammation in schizophrenia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: M. Faugere , J.A. Micoulaud-Franchi , M. Alessandrini , R. Richieri , C. Faget-Agius , P. Auquier , C. Lançon , L. Boyer
Published: June 2015

Inflammation may play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of schizophrenia. However, the association between chronic inflammation and health outcomes in schizophrenia remains unclear, particularly for patient-reported outcomes. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between quality of life (QoL) and chronic inflammation assessed using C -Reactive Protein (CRP) in patients with schizophrenia. Two hundred and fifty six patients with schizophrenia were enrolled in this study. After adjusting for key socio-demographic and clinical confounding factors, patients with high levels of CRP (>3.0 mg/l) had a lower QoL than patients with normal CRP levels (OR = 0.97, 95% CI = 0.94–0.99). An investigation of the dimensions of QoL revealed that psychological well-being, physical well-being and sentimental life were the most salient features of QoL associated with CRP. Significant associations were found between lower educational level (OR = 4.15, 95% CI = 1.55–11.07), higher body mass index (OR = 1.16, 95% CI = 1.06–1.28), higher Fagerström score (OR = 1.22, 95% CI = 1.01–1.47) and high levels of CRP. After replications with longitudinal approaches, the association between QoL and chronic inflammation may offer interesting interventional prospects to act both on inflammation and QoL in patients with schizophrenia.
Crystal structure of TRIM20 C-terminal coiled-coil/B30.2 fragment: implications for the recognition of higher order oligomers
Authors: Weinert Christopher , Morger Damien , Djekic Aleksandra , Grütter Markus G. , Mittl Peer R. E.
Published: June 2015

Many tripartite motif-containing (TRIM) proteins, comprising RING-finger, B-Box and coiled-coil domains, carry additional B30.2 domains on the C-terminus of the TRIM motif and are considered to be pattern recognition receptors involved in the detection of higher order oligomers (e.g. viral capsid proteins). To investigate the spatial architecture of domains in TRIM proteins we determined the crystal structure of the TRIM20Δ413 fragment at 2.4 Å resolution. This structure comprises the central helical scaffold (CHS) and C-terminal B30.2 domains and reveals an anti-parallel arrangement of CHS domains placing the B-box domains 170 Å apart from each other. Small-angle X-ray scattering confirmed that the linker between CHS and B30.2 domains is flexible in solution. The crystal structure suggests an interaction between the B30.2 domain and an extended stretch in the CHS domain, which involves residues that are mutated in the inherited disease Familial Mediterranean Fever. Dimerization of B30.2 domains by means of the CHS domain is crucial for TRIM20 to bind pro-IL-1βin vitro. To exemplify how TRIM proteins could be involved in binding higher order oligomers we discuss three possible models for the TRIM5α/HIV-1 capsid interaction assuming different conformations of B30.2 domains.
Programming cancer through phase-functionalized silicon based biomaterials
Authors: Premnath Priyatha , Venkatakrishnan Krishnan , Tan Bo
Published: June 2015

Applications of biomaterials in cancer therapy has been limited to drug delivery systems and markers in radiation therapy. In this article, we introduce the concept of phase-functionalization of silicon to preferentially select cancer cell populations for survival in a catalyst and additive free approach. Silicon is phase-functionalized by the interaction of ultrafast laser pulses, resulting in the formation of rare phases of SiO2 in conjunction with differing silicon crystal lattices. The degree of phase-functionalization is programmed to dictate the degree of repulsion of cancer cells. Unstable phases of silicon oxides are synthesized during phase-functionalization and remain stable at ambient conditions. This change in phase of silicon as well as formation of oxides contributes to changes in surface chemistry as well as surface energy. These material properties elicit in precise control of migration, cytoskeleton shape, direction and population. To the best of our knowledge, phase-functionalized silicon without any changes in topology or additive layers and its applications in cancer therapy has not been reported before. This unique programmable phase-functionalized silicon has the potential to change current trends in cancer research and generate focus on biomaterials as cancer repelling or potentially cancer killing surfaces.
Allocation Costs Associated with Induced Defense in Phaeocystis globosa (Prymnesiophyceae): the Effects of Nutrient Availability
Authors: Wang Xiaodong , Wang Yan , Ou Linjian , He Xuejia , Chen Da
Published: June 2015

Colony enlargement in Phaeocystis globosa has been considered as an induced defense strategy that reduces its susceptibility to grazers, but allocation costs inflicted by this plastic morphological defense are poorly understood. We conducted experiments in which P. globosa cultures were exposed to chemical cues from copepods, ciliates and heterotrophic dinoflagellates, respectively, under nutrient sufficient and deficient conditions to evaluate allocation costs associated with induced defense. Phaeocystis globosa responded to chemical cues from grazers by increasing colony diameter irrespective of nutrient conditions. We did not find trade-offs between induced defense and growth rate under nutrient sufficient conditions. Instead, induced defensive P. globosa had higher growth rates than non-induced P. globosa. When nutrient became limited, P. globosa exposed to grazing cues from copepods and dinoflagellates had significantly decreased growth rates when compared with non-induced P. globosa. We suggested that the decreased growth revealed allocation costs associated with induced defense that may influence on the trophic interactions between Phaeocystis and consumers.
GRK3 suppresses L-DOPA-induced dyskinesia in the rat model of Parkinson’s disease via its RGS homology domain
Authors: Ahmed Mohamed R. , Bychkov Evgeny , Li Lingyong , Gurevich Vsevolod V. , Gurevich Eugenia V.
Published: June 2015

Degeneration of dopaminergic neurons causes Parkinson’s disease. Dopamine replacement therapy with L-DOPA is the best available treatment. However, patients develop L-DOPA-induced dyskinesia (LID). In the hemiparkinsonian rat, chronic L-DOPA increases rotations and abnormal involuntary movements modeling LID, via supersensitive dopamine receptors. Dopamine receptors are controlled by G protein-coupled receptor kinases (GRKs). Here we demonstrate that LID is attenuated by overexpression of GRK3 in the striatum, whereas knockdown of GRK3 by microRNA exacerbated it. Kinase-dead GRK3 and its separated RGS homology domain (RH) suppressed sensitization to L-DOPA, whereas GRK3 with disabled RH did not. RH alleviated LID without compromising anti-akinetic effect of L-DOPA. RH binds striatal Gq. GRK3, kinase-dead GRK3 and RH inhibited accumulation of ∆FosB, a marker of LID. RH-dead mutant was ineffective, whereas GRK3 knockdown exacerbated ∆FosB accumulation. Our findings reveal a novel mechanism of GRK3 control of the dopamine receptor signaling and the role of Gq in LID.
Phase stability frustration on ultra-nanosized anatase TiO2
Authors: Patra Snehangshu , Davoisne Carine , Bouyanfif Houssny , Foix Dominique , Sauvage Frédéric
Published: June 2015

This work sheds light on the exceptional robustness of anatase TiO2 when it is downsized to an extreme value of 4 nm. Since at this size the surface contribution to the volume becomes predominant, it turns out that the material becomes significantly resistant against particles coarsening with temperature, entailing a significant delay in the anatase to rutile phase transition, prolonging up to 1000 °C in air. A noticeable alteration of the phase stability diagram with lithium insertion is also experienced. Lithium insertion in such nanocrystalline anatase TiO2 converts into a complete solid solution until almost Li1TiO2, a composition at which the tetragonal to orthorhombic transition takes place without the formation of the emblematic and unwished rock salt Li1TiO2 phase. Consequently, excellent reversibility in the electrochemical process is experienced in the whole portion of lithium content.
Tungsten Doped TiO2 with Enhanced Photocatalytic and Optoelectrical Properties via Aerosol Assisted Chemical Vapor Deposition
Authors: Sathasivam Sanjayan , Bhachu Davinder S. , Lu Yao , Chadwick Nicholas , Althabaiti Shaeel A. , Alyoubi Abdulrahman O. , Basahel Sulaiman N. , Carmalt Claire J. , Parkin Ivan P.
Published: June 2015

Tungsten doped titanium dioxide films with both transparent conducting oxide (TCO) and photocatalytic properties were produced via aerosol-assisted chemical vapor deposition of titanium ethoxide and dopant concentrations of tungsten ethoxide at 500 °C from a toluene solution. The films were anatase TiO2, with good n-type electrical conductivities as determined via Hall effect measurements. The film doped with 2.25 at.% W showed the lowest resistivity at 0.034 Ω.cm and respectable charge carrier mobility (14.9 cm3/V.s) and concentration (×1019 cm−3). XPS indicated the presence of both W6+ and W4+ in the TiO2 matrix, with the substitutional doping of W4+ inducing an expansion of the anatase unit cell as determined by XRD. The films also showed good photocatalytic activity under UV-light illumination, with degradation of resazurin redox dye at a higher rate than with undoped TiO2.
Evolutionary food web model based on body masses gives realistic networks with permanent species turnover
Authors: Allhoff K. T. , Ritterskamp D. , Rall B. C. , Drossel B. , Guill C.
Published: June 2015

The networks of predator-prey interactions in ecological systems are remarkably complex, but nevertheless surprisingly stable in terms of long term persistence of the system as a whole. In order to understand the mechanism driving the complexity and stability of such food webs, we developed an eco-evolutionary model in which new species emerge as modifications of existing ones and dynamic ecological interactions determine which species are viable. The food-web structure thereby emerges from the dynamical interplay between speciation and trophic interactions. The proposed model is less abstract than earlier evolutionary food web models in the sense that all three evolving traits have a clear biological meaning, namely the average body mass of the individuals, the preferred prey body mass and the width of their potential prey body mass spectrum. We observed networks with a wide range of sizes and structures and high similarity to natural food webs. The model networks exhibit a continuous species turnover, but massive extinction waves that affect more than 50% of the network are not observed.
Hydrazine solution processed Sb2S3, Sb2Se3 and Sb2(S1−xSex)3 film: molecular precursor identification, film fabrication and band gap tuning
Authors: Yang Bo , Xue Ding-Jiang , Leng Meiying , Zhong Jie , Wang Liang , Song Huaibing , Zhou Ying , Tang Jiang
Published: June 2015

Sb2(S1−xSex)3(0 ≤ x ≤ 1) compounds have been proposed as promising light-absorbing materials for photovoltaic device applications. However, no systematic study on the synthesis and characterization of polycrystalline Sb2(S1−xSex)3thin films has been reported. Here, using a hydrazine based solution process, single-phase Sb2(S1−xSex)3films were successfully obtained. Through Raman spectroscopy, we have investigated the dissolution mechanism of Sb in hydrazine: 1) the reaction between Sb and S/Se yields [Sb4S7]2-/[Sb4Se7]2-ions within their respective solutions; 2) in the Sb-S-Se precursor solutions, Sb, S and Se were mixed on a molecular level, facilitating the formation of highly uniform polycrystalline Sb2(S1−xSex)3thin films at a relatively low temperature. UV-vis-NIR transmission spectroscopy revealed that the band gap of Sb2(S1−xSex)3alloy films had a quadratical relationship with the Se concentration x and it followed the equation "Equation missing", where the bowing parameter was 0.118 eV. Our study provides a valuable guidance for the adjustment and optimization of the band gap in hydrazine solution processed Sb2(S1−xSex)3alloy films for the future fabrication of improved photovoltaic devices.
Quantitative enantioselective Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Kiefer J.
Published: June 2015

Analytical methods for quantitative enantioselective measurements are highly desirable in the life sciences. A Raman spectroscopy approach for the determination of concentration and enantiomer ratio is proposed.
One-pot synthesis of dual-emitting BSA–Pt–Au bimetallic nanoclusters for fluorescence ratiometric detection of mercury ions and cysteine
Authors: Ding Shou-Nian , Guo Yun-Xia
Published: June 2015

Dual-emitting bovine serum albumin-templated bimetallic platinum–gold fluorescent nanoclusters (BSA–Pt–Au NCs) have been used to detect Hg2+ions and cysteine with the ratio of two emission intensities (F405/F640) in ultra-sensitivity and selectivity with high accuracy.
A practical fluorogenic substrate for high-throughput screening of glutathione S-transferase inhibitors
Authors: Fujikawa Yuuta , Morisaki Fumika , Ogura Asami , Morohashi Kana , Enya Sora , Niwa Ryusuke , Goto Shinji , Kojima Hirotatsu , Okabe Takayoshi , Nagano Tetsuo , Inoue Hideshi
Published: June 2015

We report herein 3,4-DNADCF, a pH less sensitive new fluorogenic substrate, for high-throughput screening of GST inhibitors.
Lysine triggered ratiometric conversion of dynamic to static excimer of a pyrene derivative: aggregation-induced emission, nanomolar detection and human breast cancer cell (MCF7) imaging
Authors: Ghosh Abhijit , Sengupta Archya , Chattopadhyay Ansuman , Das Debasis
Published: June 2015

Dynamic to static excimer formation followed by lysine concentration dependent spectral shift of a single crystal X-ray structurally characterized pyrene based probe allows highly selective ratiometric detection of lysine at the nanomolar level.
KOtBu-mediated annulation of acetonitrile with aldehyde: synthesis of substituted dihydropyridin-2(1H)-ones, pyridin-2(1H)-ones, and thiopyridin-2(1H)-ones
Authors: Yadav Abhimanyu , Verma Ajay , Patel Saket , Kumar Amit , Rathore Vandana , Meenakshi  , Kumar Shailesh , Kumar Sangit
Published: June 2015

KOtBu-mediated annulation of acetonitrile with aldehyde was observed in which cleavage of four C(sp3)–H bonds occurred, and total eight new bonds formed.
Hybridization chain reaction engineered dsDNA for Cu metallization: an enzyme-free platform for amplified detection of cancer cells and microRNAs
Authors: Zhang Yan , Chen Zhaowei , Tao Yu , Wang Zhenzhen , Ren Jinsong , Qu Xiaogang
Published: June 2015

An enzyme-free platform composed of Cu metallization on hybridization chain reaction engineered dsDNA was fabricated for the amplified detection of cancer cells and microRNAs.
An asymmetric BODIPY triad with panchromatic absorption for high-performance red-edge laser emission
Authors: Duran-Sampedro Gonzalo , Agarrabeitia Antonia R. , Garcia-Moreno Inmaculada , Gartzia-Rivero Leire , de la Moya Santiago , Bañuelos Jorge , López-Arbeloa Íñigo , Ortiz María J.
Published: June 2015

From a judicious synthetic design based on BODIPY scaffolds UV-vis panchromatic absorption with valuable red laser emission is achieved.
An imine-based approach to prepare amine-functionalized Janus gold nanoparticles
Authors: Wu Shaojue , Tan Si Yu , Ang Chung Yen , Nguyen Kim Truc , Li Menghuan , Zhao Yanli
Published: June 2015

An imine-based approach was developed to prepare Janus gold nanoparticles having amine functionality on one patch of the surface and a polyethylene glycol unit on the other.
Hydroxylamine-O-sulfonamide is a versatile lead compound for the development of carbonic anhydrase inhibitors
Authors: Di Fiore Anna , Vergara Alessandro , Caterino Marco , Alterio Vincenzo , Monti Simona M. , Ombouma Joanna , Dumy Pascal , Vullo Daniela , Supuran Claudiu T. , Winum Jean-Yves , De Simone Giuseppina
Published: June 2015

Hydroxylamine-O-sulfonamide has been investigated as CA inhibitor by means of kinetic and structural studies clarifying its mechanism of action.
Support effects in the adsorption of water on CVD graphene: an ultra-high vacuum adsorption study
Authors: Chakradhar A. , Sivapragasam N. , Nayakasinghe M. T. , Burghaus U.
Published: June 2015

Experimental data for water adsorption on CVD (chemical vapor deposition) graphene/SiO2and graphene/Cu studied under ultra-high vacuum (UHV) conditions are discussed, focusing on support effects and hydrophobicity.
Single-step synthesis and catalytic activity of structure-controlled nickel sulfide nanoparticles
Authors: Karthikeyan Rajan , Thangaraju Dheivasigamani , Prakash Natarajan , Hayakawa Yasuhiro
Published: June 2015

Nanoparticle single-phase nickel sulfides such as NiS, NiS2, Ni3S4, and Ni7S6 were prepared from elemental sulfur and nickel nitrate hexahydrate, using a temperature-controlled precursor injection method.
Reactive organogels based on isoxazole esters: alkali metal ions selective gelation and crystallization
Authors: Jin Qingxian , Li Jing , Zhang Li , Fang Shaoming , Liu Minghua
Published: June 2015

A methanol solution of a series of simple esters exhibited a response to different alkali bases, which formed solutions, organogels and crystals, respectively, when LiOH, NaOH and KOH were separately introduced.
Tuning of the crystal engineering and photoelectrochemical properties of crystalline tungsten oxide for optoelectronic device applications
Authors: Zheng Jin You , Haider Zeeshan , Van Thanh Khue , Pawar Amol Uttam , Kang Myung Jong , Kim Chang Woo , Kang Young Soo
Published: June 2015

WO3crystals with {002} or {111} facets primarily exposed, WO3films with dominant orientations, doping and heterostructuring are highlighted.
Interfacial water at the trialanine hydrophilic surface: a DFT electronic structure and bottom-up investigation
Authors: Lanza Giuseppe , Chiacchio Maria Assunta
Published: June 2015

A model describing a network of hydrogen bonded water-trialanine has been developed to estimate hydration effects on various conformers of the peptide.
Study of photophysical properties of 5-deazaalloxazine and 1,3-dimethyl-5-deazaalloxazine in dependence of pH using different spectral techniques
Authors: Prukała Dorota , Gierszewski Mateusz , Karolczak Jerzy , Sikorski Marek
Published: June 2015

The acid–base equilibria of 5-DAll and 1,3-Me-5-DAll in the ground and in the excited states were studied using absorption, fluorescence, synchronous fluorescence and total fluorescence spectra.
Transport of photogenerated charges and photoelectric properties in two types of heterostructures with different ZnO microstructures
Authors: Liu Xiangyang , Cheng Xiuying , Wang Shun , Zhang Kun , Gu Yuzong
Published: June 2015

The separation and transport mechanism of photogenerated charges at an interface under zero and positive bias.
Intermolecular carbon–carbon, nitrogen–nitrogen and oxygen–oxygen non-covalent bonding in dipolar molecules
Authors: Remya Karunakaran , Suresh Cherumuttathu H.
Published: June 2015

Intermolecular X⋯X interaction between electron rich and electron deficient regions on chemically identical X atoms (X = C, N and O).
Relationship between low-Q peak and long-range ordering of ionic liquids revealed by high-energy X-ray total scattering
Authors: Fujii Kenta , Kohara Shinji , Umebayashi Yasuhiro
Published: June 2015

A new function, SQpeak(r); a connection between low-Q peak intensity with real space structure.
The impact of active site protonation on substrate ring conformation in Melanocarpus albomyces cellobiohydrolase Cel7B
Authors: Schutt Timothy C. , Bharadwaj Vivek S. , Granum David M. , Maupin C. Mark
Published: June 2015

Understanding how the protonation state of active site residues impacts the enzyme's structure and substrate conformation is important for improving the efficiency and economic viability of the degradation of cellulosic materials as feedstock for liquid fuel and value-added chemicals.
Investigation of the interaction between a novel unnatural chiral ligand and reactant on palladium for asymmetric hydrogenation
Authors: Jeon Eun Hee , Yang Sena , Kang Sung Ho , Kim Sehun , Lee Hangil
Published: June 2015

We report about the mechanistic studies of the reaction between a newly synthesized (S)-2-((R)-3H-dinaphtho[2,1-c:1′,2′-e]azepin-4(5H)-yl)-2-phenylethanol based on the binaphthyl skeleton and (E)-2-methyl-5-phenylpent-2-enoic acid for the asymmetric hydrogenation of α,β-unsaturated acids with heterogeneous palladium catalysts.
Redefining the established understanding of excitation dynamics of photochromic oxazines
Authors: Voiciuk V. , Redeckas K. , Martynaitis V. , Steponavičiūtė R. , Šačkus A. , Vengris M.
Published: June 2015

Transient absorption of fast photochromic oxazines is assigned to the triplet state, while light induced ring-opening does not occur.
Forth–back oscillated charge carrier motion in dynamically disordered hexathienocoronene molecules: a theoretical study
Authors: Navamani K. , Senthilkumar K.
Published: June 2015

The site energy difference in the dynamically disordered system controls the forth-back oscillation of charge carrier and facilitates the unidirectional charge transport mechanism along the sequential localized sites.
Reactive force fields made simple
Authors: Hartke Bernd , Grimme Stefan
Published: June 2015

Combining QMDFF with EVB allows to generate reactive force fields of useful quality for widely varying reactions with minimal effort.
An ethane-bridged porphyrin dimer as a model of di-heme proteins: inorganic and bioinorganic perspectives and consequences of heme–heme interactions
Authors: Sil Debangsu , Rath Sankar Prasad
Published: June 2015

A brief account of our recent efforts on how inter-heme interactions can possibly change the structure and functional properties of the individual heme centers in a highly flexible ethane-bridged porphyrin dimer has been presented.
Cyclometalation and coupling of a rigid 4,5-bis(imino)acridanide pincer ligand on yttrium
Authors: Wong Edwin W. Y. , Emslie David J. H.
Published: June 2015

The synthesis and reactivity of a rigid new pincer pro-ligand, 4,5-bis{(diphenylmethylene)amino}-2,7,9,9-tetramethylacridan, H[AIm2], with [Y(CH2SiMe3)3(THF)2] is reported, and the donor–π-acceptor dye-like properties of the resulting yttrium complexes, H[AIm2] and Lix[AIm2]x are described.