bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Germline hemizygous deletion of CDKN2A–CDKN2B locus in a patient presenting with Li–Fraumeni syndrome
Authors: Chan Sock Hoai , Lim Weng Khong , Michalski Scott T , Lim Jing Quan , Ishak Nur Diana Binte , Met-Domestici Marie , Young Cedric Ng Chuan , Vikstrom Karen , Esplin Edward D , Fulbright Jennifer , Ang Mei Kim , Wee Joseph , Sittampalam Kesavan , Farid Mohamad , Lincoln Stephen E , Itahana Koji , Abdullah Syafiq , Teh Bin Tean , Ngeow Joanne
Published: June 2016

Li–Fraumeni syndrome (LFS) is a rare cancer predisposition syndrome usually associated with TP53 germline alterations. Its genetic basis in TP53 wild-type pedigrees is less understood. Using whole-genome sequencing, we identified a germline hemizygous deletion ablating CDKN2A–CDKN2B in a TP53 wild-type patient presenting with high-grade sarcoma, laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma and a family history suggestive of LFS. Patient-derived cells demonstrated reduced basal gene and protein expression of the CDKN2A-encoded tumour suppressors p14ARF and p16INK4A with concomitant decrease in p21 and faster cell proliferation, implying potential deregulation of p53-mediated cell cycle control. Review of 13 additional patients with pathogenic CDKN2A variants suggested associations of germline CDKN2A mutations with an expanded spectrum of non-melanoma familial cancers. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a germline gross deletion of the CDKN2A–CDKN2B locus in an LFS family. These findings highlight the potential contribution of germline CDKN2A deletions to cancer predisposition and the importance of interrogating the full extent of CDKN2A locus in clinical testing gene panels.
Sustained Resistive Switching in a Single Cu:7,7,8,8-tetracyanoquinodimethane Nanowire: A Promising Material for Resistive Random Access Memory
Authors: Basori Rabaya , Kumar Manoranjan , Raychaudhuri Arup K.
Published: June 2016

We report a new type of sustained and reversible unipolar resistive switching in a nanowire device made from a single strand of Cu:7,7,8,8-tetracyanoquinodimethane (Cu:TCNQ) nanowire (diameter <100 nm) that shows high ON/OFF ratio (~103), low threshold voltage of switching (~3.5 V) and large cycling endurance (>103). This indicates a promising material for high density resistive random access memory (ReRAM) device integration. Switching is observed in Cu:TCNQ single nanowire devices with two different electrode configuration: symmetric (C-Pt/Cu:TCNQ/C-Pt) and asymmetric (Cu/Cu:TCNQ/C-Pt), where contacts connecting the nanowire play an important role. This report also developed a method of separating out the electrode and material contributions in switching using metal-semiconductor-metal (MSM) device model along with a direct 4-probe resistivity measurement of the nanowire in the OFF as well as ON state. The device model was followed by a phenomenological model of current transport through the nanowire device which shows that lowering of potential barrier at the contacts likely occur due to formation of Cu filaments in the interface between nanowire and contact electrodes. We obtain quantitative agreement of numerically analyzed results with the experimental switching data.
Quantum uncertainty switches on or off the error-disturbance tradeoff
Authors: Zhang Yu-Xiang , Su Zu-En , Zhu Xuanmin , Wu Shengjun , Chen Zeng-Bing
Published: June 2016

The indeterminacy of quantum mechanics was originally presented by Heisenberg through the tradeoff between the measuring error of the observable A and the consequential disturbance to the value of another observable B. This tradeoff now has become a popular interpretation of the uncertainty principle. However, the historic idea has never been exactly formulated previously and is recently called into question. A theory built upon operational and state-relevant definitions of error and disturbance is called for to rigorously reexamine the relationship. Here by putting forward such natural definitions, we demonstrate both theoretically and experimentally that there is no tradeoff if the outcome of measuring B is more uncertain than that of A. Otherwise, the tradeoff will be switched on and well characterized by the Jensen-Shannon divergence. Our results reveal the hidden effect of the uncertain nature possessed by the measured state, and conclude that the state-relevant relation between error and disturbance is not almosteverywhere a tradeoff as people usually believe.
Threatened by mining, polymetallic nodules are required to preserve abyssal epifauna
Authors: Vanreusel Ann , Hilario Ana , Ribeiro Pedro A. , Menot Lenaick , Arbizu Pedro Martínez
Published: June 2016

Polymetallic nodule mining at abyssal depths in the Clarion Clipperton Fracture Zone (Eastern Central Pacific) will impact one of the most remote and least known environments on Earth. Since vast areas are being targeted by concession holders for future mining, large-scale effects of these activities are expected. Hence, insight into the fauna associated with nodules is crucial to support effective environmental management. In this study video surveys were used to compare the epifauna from sites with contrasting nodule coverage in four license areas. Results showed that epifaunal densities are more than two times higher at dense nodule coverage (>25 versus ≤10 individuals per 100 m2) and that taxa such as alcyonacean and antipatharian corals are virtually absent from nodule-free areas. Furthermore, surveys conducted along tracks from trawling or experimental mining simulations up to 37 years old, suggest that the removal of epifauna is almost complete and that its full recovery is slow. By highlighting the importance of nodules for the epifaunal biodiversity of this abyssal area, we urge for cautious consideration of the criteria for determining future preservation zones.
Enhanced immunoregulation of mesenchymal stem cells by IL-10-producing type 1 regulatory T cells in collagen-induced arthritis
Authors: Lim Jung-Yeon , Im Keon-Il , Lee Eun-Sol , Kim Nayoun , Nam Young-Sun , Jeon Young-Woo , Cho Seok-Goo
Published: June 2016

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) possess immunomodulatory properties and have potential, however, there have been conflicting reports regarding their effects in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), which causes inflammation and destruction of the joints. Through a comparative analysis of regulatory T (Treg) and IL-10-producing type 1 regulatory T (Tr1) cells, we hypothesized that Tr1 cells enhance the immunoregulatory functions of MSCs, and that a combinatorial approach to cell therapy may exert synergistic immunomodulatory effects in an experimental animal model of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). A combination of MSCs and Tr1 cells prevented the development of destructive arthritis compared to single cell therapy. These therapeutic effects were associated with an increase in type II collagen (CII)-specific CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ Treg cells and inhibition of CII-specific CD4+IL-17+ T cells. We observed that Tr1 cells produce high levels of IL-10-dependent interferon (IFN)-β, which induces toll-like receptor (TLR) 3 expression in MSCs. Moreover, induction of indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) by TLR3 involved an autocrine IFN-β that was dependent on STAT1 signaling. Furthermore, we observed that production of IFN-β and IL-10 in Tr1 cells synergistically induces IDO in MSCs through the STAT1 pathway. These findings suggest co-administration of MSCs and Tr1 cells to be a novel therapeutic modality for clinical autoimmune diseases.
Exploring ecological modelling to investigate factors governing the colonization success in nosocomial environment of Candida albicans and other pathogenic yeasts
Authors: Corte Laura , Roscini Luca , Colabella Claudia , Tascini Carlo , Leonildi Alessandro , Sozio Emanuela , Menichetti Francesco , Merelli Maria , Scarparo Claudio , Meyer Wieland , Cardinali Gianluigi , Bassetti Matteo
Published: June 2016

Two hundred seventy seven strains from eleven opportunistic species of the genus Candida, isolated from two Italian hospitals, were identified and analyzed for their ability to form biofilm in laboratory conditions. The majority of Candida albicans strains formed biofilm while among the NCAC species there were different level of biofilm forming ability, in accordance with the current literature. The relation between the variables considered, i.e. the departments and the hospitals or the species and their ability to form biofilm, was tested with the assessment of the probability associated to each combination. Species and biofilm forming ability appeared to be distributed almost randomly, although some combinations suggest a potential preference of some species or of biofilm forming strains for specific wards. On the contrary, the relation between biofilm formation and species isolation frequency was highly significant (R2 around 0.98). Interestingly, the regression analyses carried out on the data of the two hospitals separately were rather different and the analysis on the data merged together gave a much lower correlation. These findings suggest that, harsh environments shape the composition of microbial species significantly and that each environment should be considered per se to avoid less significant statistical treatments.
Electrocatalytic oxidation of Epinephrine and Norepinephrine at metal oxide doped phthalocyanine/MWCNT composite sensor
Authors: Mphuthi Ntsoaki G. , Adekunle Abolanle S. , Ebenso Eno E.
Published: June 2016

Glassy carbon electrode (GCE) was modified with metal oxides (MO = Fe3O4, ZnO) nanoparticles doped phthalocyanine (Pc) and functionalized MWCNTs and the electrocatalytic properties were studied. Successful synthesis of the metal oxide nanoparticles and the MO/Pc/MWCNT composite were confirmed using FTIR, Raman and SEM techniques. The electrodes were characterized using cyclic voltammetry (CV) technique. The electrocatalytic behaviour of the electrode towards epinephrine (EP) and norepinephrine (NE) oxidation was investigated using CV and DPV. Result showed that GCE-MWCNT/Fe3O4/2,3-Nc, GCE-MWCNT/Fe3O429H,31H-Pc, GCE-MWCNT/ZnO/2,3-Nc and GCE-MWCNT/ZnO/29H,31H-Pc electrodes gave enhanced EP and NE current response. Stability study indicated that the four GCE-MWCNT/MO/Pc modified electrodes were stable against electrode fouling effect with the percentage NE current drop of 5.56–5.88% after 20 scans. GCE-MWCNT/Fe3O4/29H,31H-Pc gave the lowest limit of detection (4.6 μM) towards EP while MWCNT/ZnO/29H,31H-Pc gave the lowest limit of detection (1.7 μM) towards NE. The limit of detection and sensitivity of the electrodes compared well with literature. Electrocatalytic oxidation of EP and NE on GCE-MWCNT/MO/Pc electrodes was diffusion controlled with some adsorption of electro-oxidation reaction intermediates products. The electrodes were found to be electrochemically stable, reusable and can be used for the analysis of EP and NE in real life samples.
Targeted next-generation sequencing reveals multiple deleterious variants in OPLL-associated genes
Authors: Chen Xin , Guo Jun , Cai Tao , Zhang Fengshan , Pan Shengfa , Zhang Li , Wang Shaobo , Zhou Feifei , Diao Yinze , Zhao Yanbin , Chen Zhen , Liu Xiaoguang , Chen Zhongqiang , Liu Zhongjun , Sun Yu , Du Jie
Published: June 2016

Ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament of the spine (OPLL), which is characterized by ectopic bone formation in the spinal ligaments, can cause spinal-cord compression. To date, at least 11 susceptibility genes have been genetically linked to OPLL. In order to identify potential deleterious alleles in these OPLL-associated genes, we designed a capture array encompassing all coding regions of the target genes for next-generation sequencing (NGS) in a cohort of 55 unrelated patients with OPLL. By bioinformatics analyses, we successfully identified three novel and five extremely rare variants (MAF < 0.005). These variants were predicted to be deleterious by commonly used various algorithms, thereby resulting in missense mutations in four OPLL-associated genes (i.e., COL6A1, COL11A2, FGFR1 and BMP2). Furthermore, potential effects of the patient with p.Q89E of BMP2 were confirmed by a markedly increased BMP2 level in peripheral blood samples. Notably, seven of the variants were found to be associated with the patients with continuous subtype changes by cervical spinal radiological analyses. Taken together, our findings revealed for the first time that deleterious coding variants of the four OPLL-associated genes are potentially pathogenic in the patients with OPLL.
Microbiological profiles of sputum and gastric juice aspirates in Cystic Fibrosis patients
Authors: Al-momani H. , Perry A. , Stewart C. J. , Jones R. , Krishnan A. , Robertson A. G. , Bourke S. , Doe S. , Cummings S. P. , Anderson A. , Forrest T. , Griffin S. M. , Brodlie M. , Pearson J. , Ward C.
Published: June 2016

Gastro-Oesophageal Reflux (GOR) is a key problem in Cystic Fibrosis (CF), but the relationship between lung and gastric microbiomes is not well understood. We hypothesised that CF gastric and lung microbiomes are related. Gastric and sputum cultures were obtained from fifteen CF patients receiving percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy feeding. Non-CF gastric juice data was obtained through endoscopy from 14 patients without lung disease. Bacterial and fungal isolates were identified by culture. Molecular bacterial profiling used next generation sequencing (NGS) of the 16S rRNA gene. Cultures grew bacteria and/or fungi in all CF gastric juice and sputa and in 9/14 non-CF gastric juices. Pseudomonas aeruginosa(Pa) was present in CF sputum in 11 patients, 4 had identical Pa strains in the stomach. NGS data from non-CF gastric juice samples were significantly more diverse compared to CF samples. NGS showed CF gastric juice had markedly lower abundance of normal gut bacteria; Bacteroides and Faecalibacterium, but increased Pseudomonas compared with non-CF. Multivariate partial least squares discriminant analysis demonstrated similar bacterial profiles of CF sputum and gastric juice samples, which were distinct from non-CF gastric juice. We provide novel evidence suggesting the existence of an aerodigestive microbiome in CF, which may have clinical relevance.
Orientation selectivity in a multi-gated organic electrochemical transistor
Authors: Gkoupidenis Paschalis , Koutsouras Dimitrios A. , Lonjaret Thomas , Fairfield Jessamyn A. , Malliaras George G.
Published: June 2016

Neuromorphic devices offer promising computational paradigms that transcend the limitations of conventional technologies. A prominent example, inspired by the workings of the brain, is spatiotemporal information processing. Here we demonstrate orientation selectivity, a spatiotemporal processing function of the visual cortex, using a poly(3,4ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) organic electrochemical transistor with multiple gates. Spatially distributed inputs on a gate electrode array are found to correlate with the output of the transistor, leading to the ability to discriminate between different stimuli orientations. The demonstration of spatiotemporal processing in an organic electronic device paves the way for neuromorphic devices with new form factors and a facile interface with biology.
The Sp1-mediaded allelic regulation of MMP13 expression by an ESCC susceptibility SNP rs2252070
Authors: Shi Meng , Xia Jianhong , Xing Huaixin , Yang Wenjun , Xiong Xiangyu , Pan Wenting , Han Sichong , Shang Jinhua , Zhou Changchun , Zhou Liqing , Yang Ming
Published: June 2016

Metallopeptidase 13 (MMP13), a well-known and highly regulated zinc-dependent MMP collagenase, plays a crucial part in development and progression of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). Therefore, we examined associations between ESCC susceptibility and four haplotype-tagging single nucleotide polymorphisms (htSNPs) using a two stage case-control strategy. Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were computed by logistic regression model. After analyzing 1588 ESCC patients and frequency-matched 1600 unaffected controls, we found that MMP13 rs2252070 G > A genetic polymorphism is significantly associated with ESCC risk in Chinese Han populations (GA: OR = 0.63, 95% CI = 0.54–0.74, P = 1.7 × 10−6, AA: OR = 0.73, 95% CI = 0.66–0.81, P = 1.8 × 10−6). Interestingly, the rs2252070 G-to-A change was shown to diminish a Sp1-binding site in ESCC cells. Reporter gene assays indicated that the rs2252070 A allele locating in a potential MMP13 promoter has low promoter activities. After measuring MMP13 gene expression in sixty-six pairs of esophageal cancer and normal tissues, we observed that the rs2252070 A protective allele carriers showed decreased oncogene MMP13 expression. Results of these analyses underline the support of the notion that MMP13 might function as a key oncogene in esophageal carcinogenesis.
Longitudinal, label-free, quantitative tracking of cell death and viability in a 3D tumor model with OCT
Authors: Jung Yookyung , Klein Oliver J. , Wang Hequn , Evans Conor L.
Published: June 2016

Three-dimensional in vitro tumor models are highly useful tools for studying tumor growth and treatment response of malignancies such as ovarian cancer. Existing viability and treatment assessment assays, however, face shortcomings when applied to these large, complex and heterogeneous culture systems. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a noninvasive, label-free, optical imaging technique that can visualize live cells and tissues over time with subcellular resolution and millimeters of optical penetration depth. Here, we show that OCT is capable of carrying out high-content, longitudinal assays of 3D culture treatment response. We demonstrate the usage and capability of OCT for the dynamic monitoring of individual and combination therapeutic regimens in vitro, including both chemotherapy drugs and photodynamic therapy (PDT) for ovarian cancer. OCT was validated against the standard LIVE/DEAD Viability/Cytotoxicity Assay in small tumor spheroid cultures, showing excellent correlation with existing standards. Importantly, OCT was shown to be capable of evaluating 3D spheroid treatment response even when traditional viability assays failed. OCT 3D viability imaging revealed synergy between PDT and the standard-of-care chemotherapeutic carboplatin that evolved over time. We believe the efficacy and accuracy of OCT in vitro drug screening will greatly contribute to the field of cancer treatment and therapy evaluation.
Association of Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease with Metabolic Syndrome Independently of Central Obesity and Insulin Resistance
Authors: Yang Kuen Cheh , Hung Hui-Fang , Lu Chia-Wen , Chang Hao-Hsiang , Lee Long-Teng , Huang Kuo-Chin
Published: June 2016

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is an emerging chronic liver disease that may lead to liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. We aimed to determine the association between the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and NAFLD severity using semi-quantitative ultrasonography (US). A total of 614 participants were recruited from the community. NAFLD was evaluated according to the ultrasonographic Fatty Liver Indicator (US-FLI), which is a semi-quantitative liver ultrasound score. Insulin resistance was estimated with the homeostasis model assessment index for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). NAFLD and MetS were found in 53.7 and 17.3% of the participants, respectively. Linear relationships were found between the severity of NAFLD and waist circumference, fasting glucose, HOMA-IR, triglycerides, HDL-C and blood pressure. After adjusting for confounding factors, i.e., body mass index and HOMA-IR, the odds ratios for MetS were 3.64 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.5–8.83) for those with mild NAFLD and 9.4 (95% CI: 3.54–24.98) for those with moderate-to-severe NAFLD compared to those without NAFLD. The combination of the HOMA-IR and US-FLI scores better differentiated MetS than the HOMA-IR alone. In addition to obesity, the severity of NAFLD and the HOMA-IR both play important roles in MetS. Whether NAFLD is a component of MetS warrants further research.
Identification of lesion subtypes in biopsies of ductal carcinoma in situ of the breast using biomarker ratio imaging microscopy
Authors: Clark Andrea J. , Petty Howard R.
Published: June 2016

Although epidemiological studies propose aggressive and non-aggressive forms of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), they cannot be identified with conventional histopathology. We now report a retrospective study of human biopsy samples using biomarker ratio imaging microscopy (BRIM). Using BRIM, micrographs of biomarkers whose expression correlates with breast cancer aggressiveness are divided by micrographs of biomarkers whose expression negatively correlates with aggressiveness to create computed micrographs reflecting aggressiveness. The biomarker pairs CD44/CD24, N-cadherin/E-cadherin and CD74/CD59 stratified DCIS samples. BRIM identified subpopulations of DCIS lesions with ratiometric properties resembling either benign fibroadenoma or invasive carcinoma samples. Our work confirms the existence of distinct subpopulations of DCIS lesions, which will likely have utility in breast cancer research and clinical practice.
Superior bit error rate and jitter due to improved switching field distribution in exchange spring magnetic recording media
Authors: Suess D. , Fuger M. , Abert C. , Bruckner F. , Vogler C.
Published: June 2016

We report two effects that lead to a significant reduction of the switching field distribution in exchange spring media. The first effect relies on a subtle mechanism of the interplay between exchange coupling between soft and hard layers and anisotropy that allows significant reduction of the switching field distribution in exchange spring media. This effect reduces the switching field distribution by about 30% compared to single-phase media. A second effect is that due to the improved thermal stability of exchange spring media over single-phase media, the jitter due to thermal fluctuation is significantly smaller for exchange spring media than for single-phase media. The influence of this overall improved switching field distribution on the transition jitter in granular recording and the bit error rate in bit-patterned magnetic recording is discussed. The transition jitter in granular recording for a distribution of Khard values of 3% in the hard layer, taking into account thermal fluctuations during recording, is estimated to be a = 0.78 nm, which is similar to the best reported calculated jitter in optimized heat-assisted recording media.
Non integrative strategy decreases chromosome instability and improves endogenous pluripotency genes reactivation in porcine induced pluripotent-like stem cells
Authors: Congras Annabelle , Barasc Harmonie , Canale-Tabet Kamila , Plisson-Petit Florence , Delcros Chantal , Feraud Olivier , Oudrhiri Noufissa , Hadadi Eva , Griscelli Franck , Bennaceur-Griscelli Annelise , Turhan Ali , Afanassieff Marielle , Ferchaud Stéphane , Pinton Alain , Yerle-Bouissou Martine , Acloque Hervé
Published: June 2016

The pig is an emerging animal model, complementary to rodents for basic research and for biomedical and agronomical purposes. However despite the progress made on mouse and rat models to produce genuine pluripotent cells, it remains impossible to produce porcine pluripotent cell lines with germline transmission. Reprogramming of pig somatic cells using conventional integrative strategies remains also unsatisfactory. In the present study, we compared the outcome of both integrative and non-integrative reprogramming strategies on pluripotency and chromosome stability during pig somatic cell reprogramming. The porcine cell lines produced with integrative strategies express several pluripotency genes but they do not silence the integrated exogenes and present a high genomic instability upon passaging. In contrast, pig induced pluripotent-like stem cells produced with non-integrative reprogramming system (NI-iPSLCs) exhibit a normal karyotype after more than 12 months in culture and reactivate endogenous pluripotency markers. Despite the persistent expression of exogenous OCT4 and MYC, these cells can differentiate into derivatives expressing markers of the three embryonic germ layers and we propose that these NI-iPSLCs can be used as a model to bring new insights into the molecular factors controlling and maintaining pluripotency in the pig and other non-rodent mammalians.
The origin of the cooperativity in the streptavidin-biotin system: A computational investigation through molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Liu Fengjiao , Zhang John Z. H. , Mei Ye
Published: June 2016

Previous experimental study measuring the binding affinities of biotin to the wild type streptavidin (WT) and three mutants (S45A, D128A and S45A/D128A double mutant) has shown that the loss of binding affinity from the double mutation is larger than the direct sum of those from two single mutations. The origin of this cooperativity has been investigated in this work through molecular dynamics simulations and the end-state free energy method using the polarized protein-specific charge. The results show that this cooperativity comes from both the enthalpy and entropy contributions. The former contribution mainly comes from the alternations of solvation free energy. Decomposition analysis shows that the mutated residues nearly have no contributions to the cooperativity. Instead, N49 and S88, which are located at the entry of the binding pocket and interact with the carboxyl group of biotin, make the dominant contribution among all the residues in the first binding shell around biotin.
HIF-1α and HIF-2α induced angiogenesis in gastrointestinal vascular malformation and reversed by thalidomide
Authors: Feng Nan , Chen Haiying , Fu Sengwang , Bian Zhaolian , Lin Xiaolu , Yang Li , Gao Yunjie , Fang Jingyuan , Ge Zhizheng
Published: June 2016

Thalidomide is used in clinical practice to treat gastrointestinal vascular malformation (GIVM), but the pathogenesis of GIVM is not clear. Hypoxia inducible factor 1 alpha (HIF-1α) and 2 alpha (HIF-2α/EPAS1) are in the same family and act as master regulators of the adaptive response to hypoxia. HIF-1α and HIF-2α are up-regulated in vascular malformations in intestinal tissues from GIVM patients, but not in adjacent normal vessels. Therefore, we investigated the role of HIF-1α and HIF-2α during angiogenesis and the mechanism of thalidomide action. In vitro experiments confirmed that vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) was a direct target of HIF-2α and that HIF-1α and HIF-2α regulated NOTCH1, Ang2 and DLL4, which enhanced vessel-forming of endothelial cells. Thalidomide down-regulated the expression of HIF-1α and HIF-2α and inhibited angiogenesis. In vivo zebrafish experiments suggested that HIF-2α overexpression was associated with abnormal subintestinal vascular (SIV) sprouting, which was reversed by thalidomide. This result indicated that thalidomide regulated angiogenesis via the inhibition of HIF-1α and HIF-2α expression, which further regulated downstream factors, including VEGF, NOTCH1, DLL4 and Ang2. The abnormally high expression of HIF-1α and HIF-2α may contribute to GIVM.
Label-free DNA hairpin probe for real-time monitoring of alkaline phosphatase activity
Authors: Du Junyan , Xiong Leqin , Ma Changbei , Liu Haisheng , Wang Jun , Wang Kemin
Published: June 2016

A simple fluorescence-based biosensor for the label-free, real-time detection of alkaline phosphatase activity is reported.
Self-validated detection of hydroquinone in medicated cosmetic products using a preanodized screen-printed ring disk carbon electrode
Authors: Yang Hsueh-Hui , Ting Hsiao-Han , Shih Ying
Published: June 2016

An anodically pretreated screen-printed ring disk carbon electrode (SPRDCE*) coupled with a flow injection analysis system was developed as a simple, rapid, sensitive, and self-validated hydroquinone (HQ) sensor.
A rapid method for evaluating the edible oil oxidative stability during ambient storage by FTIR spectroscopy using a mesh cell
Authors: Xu Lirong , Yu Xiuzhu , Liu Lei , Li Mengjun , Zhang Rui
Published: June 2016

Changes of functional group spectra of edible oils during oxidation on a mesh cell.
Self-discharge of electrochemical capacitors based on soluble or grafted quinone
Authors: Shul Galyna , Bélanger Daniel
Published: June 2016

The self-discharge of hybrid electrochemical capacitors based on the redox activity of electrolyte additives or grafted species to the electrode material is investigated simultaneously for the cell and each individual electrode.
Dynamic mechanoelectrochemistry of polypyrrole membranes via shear-force tracking
Authors: Northcutt Robert G. , Heinemann Christian , Sundaresan Vishnu Baba
Published: June 2016

Mechanoelectrochemistry is the study of elastic and plastic deformation of materials during reversible reduction and oxidation processes.
Structural and energetic characterization of the emissive RNA alphabet based on the isothiazolo[4,3-d]pyrimidine heterocycle core
Authors: Chawla Mohit , Poater Albert , Oliva Romina , Cavallo Luigi
Published: June 2016

We present theoretical characterization of fluorescent non-natural nucleobases,tzA,tzG,tzC, andtzU, derived from the isothiazolo[4,3-d]pyrimidine heterocycle.
Construction of magnet-type coordination polymers using high-spin {Ni4}-citrate cubane as secondary building units
Authors: Li Teng , Wang Yanyan , Qin Lei , Han Tian , Ding You-Song , Hu Yue-Qiao , Zheng Yan-Zhen
Published: June 2016

A robust ferromagnetic secondary building unit based on {Ni4}-citrate cubane is identified to be able to construct diverse structures while retaining the original magnetism.
MOF-derived hierarchical double-shelled NiO/ZnO hollow spheres for high-performance supercapacitors
Authors: Li Guo-Chang , Liu Peng-Fei , Liu Rui , Liu Minmin , Tao Kai , Zhu Shuai-Ru , Wu Meng-Ke , Yi Fei-Yan , Han Lei
Published: June 2016

The hierarchical double-shelled NiO/ZnO hollow spheres were obtained by calcination of nanorods-composed yolk–shell bimetallic organic frameworks and they exhibit a specific capacitance and an excellent cycling stability.
Amine-modified silica nanotubes and nanospheres: synthesis and CO2 sorption properties
Authors: Gunathilake Chamila , Manchanda Amanpreet S. , Ghimire Pramila , Kruk Michal , Jaroniec Mietek
Published: June 2016

Silica nanotubes (SNT) and silica nanospheres (SNS) were prepared in the presence of Pluronic F127 triblock copolymer.
Ultra-trace metallic element detection in liquid samples using laser induced breakdown spectroscopy based on matrix conversion and crosslinked PVA polymer membrane
Authors: Lin Qingyu , Han Xiaodan , Wang Jie , Wei Zhimei , Liu Kunping , Duan Yixiang
Published: June 2016

A novel, sensitive method based on crosslinked polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) was developed for determining trace-amounts of metallic elements in liquid samples using laser induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS).
Microfluidic systems for stem cell-based neural tissue engineering
Authors: Karimi Mahdi , Bahrami Sajad , Mirshekari Hamed , Basri Seyed Masoud Moosavi , Nik Amirala Bakhshian , Aref Amir R. , Akbari Mohsen , Hamblin Michael R.
Published: June 2016

Overall process of stem cell derivation and isolation, as well as microfluidic stem cell culture and neural tissue engineering.
Synthesis of benzothiadiazole-based molecules via direct arylation: an eco-friendly way of obtaining small semi-conducting organic molecules
Authors: Chen Chunxiang , Maldonado Daniel Hernández , Le Borgne Damien , Alary Fabienne , Lonetti Barbara , Heinrich Benoît , Donnio Bertrand , Moineau-Chane Ching Kathleen I.
Published: June 2016

Direct arylation proves to be a greener way than other classical methods for the coupling of benzothiadiazole with thiophene carboxaldehyde.
Microwave-assisted hydrothermal synthesis and spectroscopic characteristics of a Lu4Hf3O12:Pr scintillator
Authors: Trojan-Piegza J. , Zych E.
Published: June 2016

Microwave-assisted hydrothermal synthesis of Pr-doped Lu4Hf3O12 nanopowders fabricates the products of different morphology. PL and RL in ceramics shows the Pr3+ emission.
Retracted Article: Cell orientation, proliferation, and differentiation on poly(l-lactide) spherulites
Authors: Zou F. , Lu F. Z. , Ma X. S. , He D. W. , Tang T. T. , Xia X. L. , Jiang J. Y. , Niu Y. F.
Published: June 2016

We show cytoskeleton and nuclear alignment on PLLA crystallized at 140 °C. Cell proliferation and differentiation were also promoted significantly and we study the effect of polymer spherulites on cell orientation, proliferation and differentiation.
Promoted VOC oxidation over homogeneous porous CoxNiAlO composite oxides derived from hydrotalcites: effect of preparation method and doping
Authors: Li Shuangde , Mo Shengpeng , Li Jiaqi , Liu Haidi , Chen Yunfa
Published: June 2016

CoxNiAlO powdered and film catalysts derived from layered double hydroxide precursors are prepared with excellent catalytic activity, reproducibility, reversibility, and stability to water vapor in benzene oxidation.
Hierarchical hybrid nanostructures: controlled assembly of polymer-encapsulated gold nanoparticles via a Rayleigh-instability-driven transformation under cylindrical confinement
Authors: Ko Hao-Wen , Chang Chun-Wei , Chi Mu-Huan , Chu Chien-Wei , Cheng Ming-Hsiang , Fang Zhi-Xuan , Luo Ke-Hsuan , Chen Jiun-Tai
Published: June 2016

A novel method to fabricate hierarchical hybrid nanostructures assembled from polystyrene-encapsulated gold nanoparticles is developed.
Facile alkali-assisted synthesis of g-C3N4 materials and their high-performance catalytic application in solvent-free cycloaddition of CO2 to epoxides
Authors: Xu Jie , Shang Jie-Kun , Jiang Quan , Wang Yue , Li Yong-Xin
Published: June 2016

g-C3N4 materials have been prepared at lower temperatures (450–475 °C) by the aid of alkali treatment. In cycloaddition of CO2 to epoxides, the g-C3N4 materials demonstrated high and stable catalytic activities.
Quantum chemical studies on nucleophilic sites in calcium ion bound zwitterionic calmodulin loops
Authors: Sikdar Samapan , Ghosh Mahua , De Raychaudhury Molly , Chakrabarti J.
Published: June 2016

Quantum chemical calculation on Ca2+ bound zwitterionic calmodulin-loops shows terminal capping contributions localized near HOMO and LUMO, which decay exponentially and presence of nucleophilic site at the phenyl-ring Oh of Y99.
A strategy for rapid and facile fabrication of controlled, layered blood vessel-like structures
Authors: Wang Nuoxin , Tang Lixue , Zheng Wenfu , Peng Yunhu , Cheng Shiyu , Lei Yifeng , Zhang Lingmin , Hu Bingfeng , Liu Shaoqin , Zhang Wei , Jiang Xingyu
Published: June 2016

With the aid of fibrin glue, we wrap thin films into multi-layered tubes with a precisely-arranged cell distribution within 70 min.
The role of green chemistry activities in fostering secondary school students' understanding of acid–base concepts and argumentation skills
Authors: Karpudewan Mageswary , Michael Roth Wolff , Sinniah Devananthini
Published: June 2016

In a world where environmental degradation is taking on alarming levels, understanding, and acting to minimize, the individual environmental impact is an important goal for many science educators. In this study, a green chemistry curriculum—combining chemistry experiments with everyday, environmentally friendly substances with a student-centered approach that includes student–student discussion—was tested for its potential to increase the understanding of acid–base concepts and argumentative skills. A quasi-experimental design was chosen intended to take into account teacher/school nested effects. The study involved three classes of 150 16 year old Form Four students (1 experimental,N= 50; 2 control,N= 100) from two Schools A and B serving students from the same sociocultural and economic backgrounds taught by two teachers (Teacher A in School A taught 1 experimental and 1 control; Teacher B in School B taught 1 control). An ANCOVA with a pre-test as a covariate showed a statistically significant treatment effect as measured by an acid–base concept understanding test. Additionally, qualitative analysis of an Argumentation Skill Test (AST) shows that the experimental students used higher levels of argumentation skills following treatment than their peers in the two control classes. Implications are discussed for integrating green chemistry into the secondary school chemistry curriculum to teach the content on acid–base and green chemistry as a tool to assist the construction of arguments.
Ternary metal phosphide nanosheets as a highly efficient electrocatalyst for water reduction to hydrogen over a wide pH range from 0 to 14
Authors: Han Ali , Chen Huanlin , Zhang Hanyu , Sun Zijun , Du Pingwu
Published: June 2016

A novel ternary cobalt–nickel phosphide nanosheet with nanowire edges on 3D nickel foam (CoNiP@NF) was synthesized and used as an excellent cathode for the HER over a wide pH range from 0 to 14.
Cell-free macro-porous fibrin scaffolds for in situ inductive regeneration of full-thickness cartilage defects
Authors: Dai Yuankun , Liu Gang , Ma Lie , Wang Dongan , Gao Changyou
Published: June 2016

Macro-porous fibrin scaffold was fabricated and used to induce cartilage regenerationin situwithout pre-loaded cells or growth factors.
In situ fabrication of PHEMA–BSA core–corona biohybrid particles
Authors: Wang Jin-Tao , Hong Yanhang , Ji Xiaotian , Zhang Mingming , Liu Li , Zhao Hanying
Published: June 2016

Poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate)–bovine serum albumin core–corona particles were prepared usingin situactivators generated by electron transfer for atom transfer radical polymerizations of HEMA initiated by a BSA macroinitiator.
Tunable UV response and high performance of zinc stannate nanoparticle film photodetectors
Authors: Liu Caihong , Piyadasa Adimali , Piech Marcin , Dardona Sameh , Ren Zheng , Gao Pu-Xian
Published: June 2016

A robust, inexpensive, and scalable drop-casting process was successfully developed to fabricate highly efficient and robust UV photodetectors with uniform and continuous films of ZnSnO3 and Zn2SnO4–SnO2 nanoparticles for the first time. An extreme high responsivity of ∼0.5 A W−1 at 5.0 V bias was achieved with good visible-light rejection.
Air-stable n-channel organic field-effect transistors based on charge-transfer complexes including dimethoxybenzothienobenzothiophene and tetracyanoquinodimethane derivatives
Authors: Higashino Toshiki , Dogishi Masaki , Kadoya Tomofumi , Sato Ryonosuke , Kawamoto Tadashi , Mori Takehiko
Published: June 2016

Novel mixed stack charge-transfer complexes (DMeO-BTBT)(Fn-TCNQ) show air-stable n-channel transistor performance in the thin films and single crystals.
Solution-processed OLEDs based on phosphorescent PtAu2 complexes with phenothiazine-functionalized acetylides
Authors: Zeng Xian-Chong , Wang Jin-Yun , Xu Liang-Jin , Wen Hui-Min , Chen Zhong-Ning
Published: June 2016

Solution-processed OLEDs based on phosphorescent PtAu2 complexes with phenothiazine–acetylides give orange-emitting electroluminescence with external quantum efficiency of 18.7%.
Modulating electron injection from an organic dye to a titania nanoparticle with a photochromic energy transfer acceptor
Authors: Vamvounis George , Glasson Christopher R. , Bieske Evan J. , Dryza Viktoras
Published: June 2016

A diarylethene molecular switch has been used within an energy transfer scheme to affect the electron injection efficiency of an organic dye sensitiser attached to a titania nanoparticle.
Room temperature dielectric bistability in solution-processed spin crossover polymer thin films
Authors: Bovo Gianluca , Bräunlich Irene , Caseri Walter R. , Stingelin Natalie , Anthopoulos Thomas D. , Sandeman Karl G. , Bradley Donal D. C. , Stavrinou Paul N.
Published: June 2016

Optical and electrical studies reveal spin switching bistability from polymer thin films.
Acceleration effect of chlorine in the gas-phase growth process of CH3NH3PbI3(Cl) films for efficient perovskite solar cells
Authors: Liu Zhaofan , Luo Paifeng , Xia Wei , Zhou Shengwen , Cheng Jigui , Sun Lin , Xu Chenxi , Lu Yingwei
Published: June 2016

Here we report a low-temperature and rapid CVD method with the incorporation of NH4Cl for fabricating efficient PSCs, and also reveal the key role of Cl in the gas-phase growth process of perovskites.
Benzothiadiazole and its π-extended, heteroannulated derivatives: useful acceptor building blocks for high-performance donor–acceptor polymers in organic electronics
Authors: Wang Yang , Michinobu Tsuyoshi
Published: June 2016

Electron-deficient building blocks based on benzothiadiazole and its π-extended, heteroannulated derivatives for constructing high-performance semiconducting polymers are described.
New GroEL-like chaperonin of bacteriophage OBP Pseudomonas fluorescens suppresses thermal protein aggregation in an ATP-dependent manner
Authors: Semenyuk Pavel I. , Orlov Victor N. , Sokolova Olga S. , Kurochkina Lidia P.
Published: June 2016

Recently, we discovered and studied the first virus-encoded chaperonin of bacteriophage EL Pseudomonas aeruginosa, gene product (gp) 146. In the present study, we performed bioinformatics analysis of currently predicted GroEL-like proteins encoded by phage genomes in comparison with cellular and mitochondrial chaperonins. Putative phage chaperonins share a low similarity and do not form a monophyletic group; nevertheless, they are closer to bacterial chaperonins in the phylogenetic tree. Experimental investigation of putative GroEL-like chaperonin proteins has been continued by physicochemical and functional characterization of gp246 encoded by the genome of Pseudomonas fluorescens bacteriophage OBP. Unlike the more usual double-ring architecture of chaperonins, including the EL gp146, the recombinant gp246 produced by Escherichia coli cells has been purified as a single heptameric ring. It possesses ATPase activity and does not require a co-chaperonin for its function. In vitro experiments demonstrated that gp246 is able to suppress the thermal protein inactivation and aggregation in an ATP-dependent manner, thus indicating chaperonin function. Single-particle electron microscopy analysis revealed the different conformational states of OBP chaperonin, depending on the bound nucleotide.
Ion acceleration in multi-species cathodic plasma jet
Authors: Krasov V. I. , Paperny V. L.
Published: June 2016

A general expression for ion-ion coupling in a multi-species plasma jet was obtained. The expression is valid for any value of the inter-species velocity. This expression has enabled us to review a hydrodynamic problem of expanding the cathodic plasma microjet with two ion species within the respective charge states Z1 = +1 and Z2 = +2 into a vacuum. We were able to illustrate that in scenario when the initial (i.e., acquired during a process of emission from cathode's surface) difference for ion's species velocity exceeds a threshold value, the difference remains noticeable (roughly about 10% of the average jet's velocity) at a distance of a few centimeters from the emission center. At this point, it can be measured experimentally.
Scientists at US national labs thrive on discretionary funding
Authors: Feder Toni
Published: June 2016

The opportunity to follow their curiosity keeps researchers connected to the greater scientific community.
Why can’t you separate interleaved books?
Authors: Dalnoki-Veress Kari , Salez Thomas , Restagno Frédéric
Published: June 2016

Because of the way interpenetrating sheets deform, the harder you pull, the greater the friction force resisting separation.
Structural insight into photoactivation of an adenylate cyclase from a photosynthetic cyanobacterium
Authors: Ohki Mio , Sugiyama Kanako , Kawai Fumihiro , Tanaka Hitomi , Nihei Yuuki , Unzai Satoru , Takebe Masumi , Matsunaga Shigeru , Adachi Shin-ichi , Shibayama Naoya , Zhou Zhiwen , Koyama Ryuta , Ikegaya Yuji , Takahashi Tetsuo , Tame Jeremy R. H. , Iseki Mineo , Park Sam-Yong
Published: June 2016

Significance

Optogenetics is a rapidly growing field in which light is used to control biological systems. We show that
Oscillatoria acuminata
photoactivated adenylate cyclase (OaPAC) protein produces the fundamental second messenger cyclic-AMP (cAMP) in response to blue light, is stable and functional in different mammalian cell types, and can be used to trigger events by raising cAMP level. OaPAC consists of a catalytic domain controlled by a photosensitive blue light using flavin (BLUF) domain. We have solved the crystal structure to show how activity is triggered by light, and guide mutagenesis experiments. Although the catalytic domain resembles known cyclases, the BLUF domains form an unusual intertwined structure. The protein activity is the same in solution as in the crystal, showing that the activation mechanism involves only small molecular movements.
Decoupled evolution of soft and hard substrate communities during the Cambrian Explosion and Great Ordovician Biodiversification Event
Authors: Buatois Luis A. , Mángano Maria G. , Olea Ricardo A. , Wilson Mark A.
Published: June 2016

Significance

The majority of body plans were established during the Cambrian Explosion (CE), whereas the significant taxonomic increases during the Great Ordovician Biodiversification Event (GOBE) were manifest at lower taxonomic levels. Data on the diversity and disparity of bioturbation and bioerosion indicate that soft and hard substrate communities experienced decoupled evolution. Ichnofossil data indicate that rapid diversification of bioturbation occurred during the early early Cambrian (Fortunian) rather than during the late early Cambrian as indicated by shelly fossils. The first rapid increase in bioerosion took place during the GOBE approximately 80 My after the CE in bioturbation.
Credit assignment in movement-dependent reinforcement learning
Authors: McDougle Samuel D. , Boggess Matthew J. , Crossley Matthew J. , Parvin Darius , Ivry Richard B. , Taylor Jordan A.
Published: June 2016

Significance

Thorndike's Law of Effect states that when an action leads to a desirable outcome, that action is likely to be repeated. However, when an action is not rewarded, the brain must solve a credit assignment problem: Was the lack of reward attributable to a bad decision or poor action execution? In a series of experiments, we find that salient motor error signals modulate biases in a simple decision-making task. This effect is independent of the participant’s sense of control, suggesting that the error information impacts behavior in an implicit and automatic manner. We describe computational models of reinforcement learning in which execution error signals influence, or gate, the updating of value representations, providing a novel solution to the credit assignment problem.
Leveraging abscisic acid receptors for efficient water use in
Arabidopsis
Authors: Yang Zhenyu , Liu Jinghui , Tischer Stefanie V. , Christmann Alexander , Windisch Wilhelm , Schnyder Hans , Grill Erwin
Published: June 2016

Significance

Water is the major limiting factor for plant productivity in the field, and current water use in agriculture is not sustainable. Under water limitations, plants can ameliorate the carbon for water exchange leading to higher water use efficiencies. The plant hormone abscisic acid is activated in response to drought and regulates the water status and acclimation responses. Here we show in the model species
Arabidopsis
that abscisic acid receptors can be explored to constitutively increase the water use efficiency without impinging on growth potential. The finding may support future efforts to generate “more crop per drop” required for a more sustainable water use in agriculture.